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Navigating Commercial Roofing Warranties: What Property Managers Must Know to Protect Their Investment
A strong warranty backs up your roof and your budget. If you manage a property in Utah, start with expert help in Commercial Roofing Lehi. The right partner explains terms, handles paperwork, and keeps your warranty valid.
The Three Warranty Types You’ll See
Manufacturer material warranty
This covers defects in the membrane or panels. Common on TPO, PVC, EPDM, and metal systems. Terms range from 10 to 30 years. Some are prorated, which means coverage drops over time. A non-prorated term keeps full coverage for the period.
Workmanship warranty
Your contractor backs their labor. Typical terms run 2 to 10 years. It applies to seams, flashing, terminations, and details around skylights or HVAC curbs.
NDL system warranty
NDL means No Dollar Limit. If the failure is covered, the manufacturer pays the full repair cost, not a capped amount. To qualify, the roof must be installed to spec, with approved materials, and pass the final inspection.
What Is Usually Covered, and What Is Not
Covered items often include leaks from material failure, seam faults, poor adhesion, or flashing issues. Exclusions often include ponding water beyond the limit set in the spec, standing debris, abuse, foot traffic damage, new penetrations after install, acts of God, and work by unapproved contractors. Wind and hail coverage may have limits, for example up to a stated wind speed or hail size. Read the limits, then match them to your local risk.
How to Keep Your Warranty Valid
Document everything
Keep a roof file. Include the final spec, shop drawings, inspection reports, photos, invoices, and the signed warranty. Add a maintenance log with dates, notes, and images.
Schedule routine care
Plan semiannual roof inspections, plus checks after big storms. Remove debris, clear drains, and note ponding. Reseal pitch pans. Tighten or replace fasteners. Repair minor blisters or punctures fast.
Control access
Limit who goes on the roof. Use walkway pads to protect membranes near units and service paths. Require vendors to sign in and note any work near penetrations.
Follow the manufacturer’s rules
Use approved products for repairs. Hire certified crews for warranty work. If you change the roof, such as adding solar, get written approval first.
Key Terms That Matter
- Term length, for example 15, 20, or 30 years
- Prorated vs non-prorated coverage
- Wind, hail, and puncture riders
- Consequential damage clauses
- Leak response time and service rates
- Transferability if the building is sold
- Required maintenance schedule and proof
- Maximum ponding water time and depth
- Notice window for claims, often 30 days
Claim Process, Step by Step
- Confirm the leak source is within the roofing system. Photograph conditions.
- Check your warranty number, term, and coverage.
- Notify the manufacturer or contractor within the stated window.
- Protect the interior. Do temporary mitigation and document it.
- Allow inspection by the warranty holder. Do not make permanent repairs without approval if the term requires it.
- Keep all emails and reports in the roof file.
Picking Warranty Terms That Fit Your Roof
TPO or PVC
Great for white reflective roofs. Look for heat-welded seam coverage, uplift ratings, and chemical resistance if you have restaurants or labs.
EPDM
Strong against UV and weathering. Focus on puncture protection and flashing details. Ask about thicker membranes for high-traffic areas.
Metal roofing
Check panel finish warranty for chalk and fade, fastener coverage, and details at end laps, ridge caps, and penetrations.
Budgeting Tips for Long-Term Protection
- Ask for pricing on 20- vs 25-year options. The cost jump may be small.
- Add walkway pads and extra protection now to reduce leaks later.
- Build a yearly line item for inspections and minor repairs.
- Bundle maintenance visits into your service agreement for fixed costs.
- If you plan rooftop equipment changes, budget for a warranty re-inspection.
Quick Checklist for Property Managers
- Current warranty, term, and contact info on file
- Certified contractor list and access rules posted
- Semiannual inspection dates on the calendar
- Walkway pads at doors and service routes
- Drainage clear, no standing water after 48 hours
- Photo log before and after every vendor visit
A clear warranty, steady maintenance, and clean records protect your roof and cash flow. With the right plan, your commercial roofing system will deliver the full life you paid for, and your warranty will be there when you need it.
