Introduction: Warranties Are Only Valid If You Comply

A warranty is worthless if it's voided by improper installation or lack of maintenance. This guide explains exactly what you need to do to maintain full warranty coverage on your roof.

INSTALLATION COMPLIANCE

Licensed Contractor Requirement

Most Manufacturers Require:

• Licensed contractor: Must be properly licensed in BC
• Insurance: Liability insurance and WorkSafeBC coverage
• Training: Some manufacturers require certified installers

DIY Installation:

• Warranty impact: May void workmanship warranty
• Material warranty: Usually still valid (material defects only)
• Recommendation: Hire professional for full warranty protection

Following Manufacturer Specifications

Critical Requirements:

• Nailing: Correct number, type, and placement
• Underlayment: Proper type and coverage
• Ventilation: Adequate airflow (1:300 minimum)
• Flashing: Proper installation at all penetrations
• Accessories: Starter strip, ridge cap per specs

Documentation:

• Keep installation photos (before shingles cover deck)
• Save all receipts and invoices
• Get written confirmation contractor followed specs

WARRANTY REGISTRATION

Why Registration Matters

Registered vs. Unregistered:

• Unregistered: Basic warranty (10-15 years typical)
• Registered: Enhanced warranty (30-50 years or "lifetime")
• Deadline: Usually 60-90 days from installation

How to Register

Process:

• Online: Manufacturer website (easiest)
• Mail: Registration card (included with shingles)
• Information needed:
  • Homeowner name and address
  • Installation date
  • Product name and color
  • Contractor information
  • Proof of purchase (invoice)

Contractor Should Help:

• Provide all necessary information
• Some contractors register on your behalf
• Confirm registration completed

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS

What Manufacturers Require

"Reasonable Maintenance":

• Annual inspection: Check for damage, debris
• Gutter cleaning: Twice per year minimum
• Moss/algae removal: As needed (every 2-3 years typical)
• Debris removal: Remove leaves, branches promptly
• Tree trimming: Keep branches from touching roof

What Voids Warranty:

• Neglect: Allowing moss to accumulate for years
• Pressure washing: Damages granules, voids warranty
• Walking on roof: Excessive foot traffic (damage)
• Modifications: Unauthorized penetrations (satellite dishes, etc.)

Documentation of Maintenance

Keep Records:

• Annual inspection reports
• Moss removal invoices
• Gutter cleaning receipts
• Photos of roof condition over time

Why It Matters:

• Proves you maintained roof if warranty claim denied
• Shows due diligence
• Helps fight warranty denial

COMMON WARRANTY EXCLUSIONS

What's NOT Covered

1. Acts of God:

• Hurricane, tornado, earthquake
• Lightning strikes
• Hail damage (unless impact-resistant shingles)
• Falling trees

2. Normal Wear and Tear:

• Gradual granule loss over time
• Color fading (unless excessive)
• Weathering

3. Improper Installation:

• Wrong number of nails
• Improper flashing
• Inadequate ventilation
• Deck issues (not manufacturer's fault)

4. Modifications:

• Satellite dish installation
• Solar panel installation (unless approved)
• Skylights added later
• HVAC penetrations

5. Lack of Maintenance:

• Moss buildup
• Clogged gutters
• Debris accumulation

FILING A WARRANTY CLAIM

When to File

Valid Claims:

• Premature granule loss: Excessive loss before expected
• Cracking/splitting: Due to material defect
• Manufacturing defects: Visible defects in shingles
• Adhesive failure: Shingles don't seal properly

How to File

Step 1: Contact Contractor First

• They can determine if it's installation or material issue
• May be covered by workmanship warranty
• Contractor can help file manufacturer claim

Step 2: Document the Problem

• Take photos from multiple angles
• Note when problem first appeared
• Gather installation documentation
• Collect maintenance records

Step 3: Contact Manufacturer

• Call warranty department (number on website)
• Provide warranty registration number
• Describe problem and provide photos
• They may send inspector

Step 4: Inspector Visit

• Manufacturer sends independent inspector
• Inspector examines roof, takes samples
• Determines if defect is material or installation
• Report sent to manufacturer

Step 5: Claim Decision

• Approved: Manufacturer provides replacement shingles (prorated)
• Denied: Explanation provided, can appeal
• Timeline: 2-6 months typical

PRORATED WARRANTIES EXPLAINED

How Proration Works

Example: 50-Year Warranty

• Years 1-10: 100% coverage (free replacement)
• Years 11-50: Prorated coverage

Proration Calculation:

• Year 20 failure: 20 years ÷ 50 years = 40% used
• Coverage: 60% of replacement cost
• You pay: 40% of replacement cost

What's Covered:

• Materials only: Replacement shingles
• NOT covered: Labor, disposal, accessories
• Example: $15,000 roof, 60% coverage = $9,000 in shingles
  • You pay: $6,000 for shingles + $8,000 for labor = $14,000 total

TRANSFERRING WARRANTIES

When You Sell Your Home

Transferability:

• Most warranties: Transferable once
• Process: Notify manufacturer, pay transfer fee ($25-100)
• Deadline: Usually within 60 days of sale
• New owner: Gets remaining warranty period

Non-Transferable Warranties:

• Some "lifetime" warranties are non-transferable
• New owner gets standard warranty (10-15 years)
• Check warranty terms before selling

BEST PRACTICES FOR WARRANTY PROTECTION

During Installation

Verify Compliance:

• Ask contractor to confirm they're following manufacturer specs
• Request photos of underlayment, ice shield before shingles
• Verify proper ventilation installed
• Get written confirmation of compliance

After Installation

Immediate Actions:

• Register warranty: Within 60-90 days
• Save documentation: Invoice, photos, warranty certificate
• Schedule first inspection: 1 year after installation

Ongoing

Annual Maintenance:

• Professional inspection every 1-2 years
• Clean gutters twice per year
• Remove moss every 2-3 years
• Document all maintenance

The Bottom Line

Warranties protect your investment, but only if you comply with requirements. Proper installation, timely registration, and regular maintenance are essential.

At RJ Roofing Bros, we ensure warranty compliance from day one. We follow manufacturer specs exactly, help you register warranties, provide documentation, and offer annual inspection services. Your warranty is protected.

Questions about warranty compliance? Call (604) 997-1292