Understanding what is covered under your homes warranty and how to proceed if a roof leak occurs.
Roofs are one of the most essential components of a home, providing critical protection from the elements and contributing significantly to the overall structural integrity and energy efficiency of the house. A well-built roof shields the interior from rain, snow, wind, sun, and extreme temperatures, helping to prevent water damage and insulation issues. Because it bears the brunt of environmental exposure, routine maintenance and timely repairs are vital to ensure its long-term performance and to avoid costly damage to other parts of the home.
Warranty Expectations
What’s Covered: Leaks caused by defects in materials or workmanship within the first year after settlement. [Van Metre Life]
What to Expect: Your roof and flashing are designed to keep water out under normal weather conditions. Leaks should not occur unless there’s a severe weather event, excessive ice buildup, or modifications to the roof (such as satellite dish installation).
How We’ll Help: If a leak is caused by a construction issue, we’ll repair it to meet performance standards. Leaks due to homeowner modifications, storm damage, or ice damming are not covered.
How You Can Help: Keep gutters and downspouts clear, check for signs of ice buildup in winter, and avoid unnecessary modifications to the roof. If you notice a leak, report it as soon as possible. [Understanding My Gutters and Downspouts]
Other Considerations
Shingles Blown Off
What’s Covered: Shingles that come off due to improper installation within the first year after settlement.
What to Expect: Shingles should be installed per building code and manufacturer guidelines, and rated for the wind zone in your area. It’s important to know that shingles may not be fully sealed until they’ve reached high temperatures for extended periods—typically 135°F for at least 18 hours, which means they’re more vulnerable to wind shortly after installation.
How We’ll Help: If shingles were not installed properly and blow off as a result, we’ll repair or replace them to meet the correct installation standards.
How You Can Help: After move-in, keep an eye on your roof following high winds and storms. If any shingles appear loose or missing, let us know promptly. Please note that replacement shingles may not match the originals exactly in color or texture.
Standing Water on the Roof
What’s Covered: Water that does not properly drain and leads to roofing issues within the first year after settlement. [Van Metre Life]
What to Expect: On sloped roofs, water should run off efficiently. Flat roofs may retain small amounts of water after rainfall, but excessive or long-standing ponding should not occur.
How We’ll Help: If ponding water is due to a construction defect and leads to leaks, we’ll correct the issue.
How You Can Help: Regularly check gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. If you notice excessive standing water on a flat roof, contact us for an evaluation. [Understanding My Gutters and Downspouts]