Are Roof Warranties Transferable? Everything Homeowners Need To Know About Roofing Warranty Transferability In The U.S.

When investing in a new roof, understanding your warranty rights is crucial—especially if you plan to sell your home. Transferable roof warranties can significantly enhance property value and peace of mind for future buyers. This article explains whether roof warranties are transferable, the types of warranties available, common conditions, and how to navigate the process in the United States.

Warranty Type	Transferability	Typical Transfer Conditions	Potential Fees
Manufacturer’s Material Warranty	Often transfer once	Notification and proof	$0 – $250
Workmanship/Labor Warranty	Sometimes, by installer	Installer consent, inspection	Usually free
System/Enhanced Warranty	High transferability	Strict notice timelines	$50 – $200

What Is A Roof Warranty?

A roof warranty is a binding agreement offered by either the roofing material manufacturer, the contractor, or both. It guarantees repair or replacement coverage for your roof due to proven material defects or workmanship issues within a specified period. Warranties are key for homeowners seeking long-term protection and increased property value.

Main Types Of Roof Warranties

Manufacturer’s Material Warranty

This warranty covers defects in shingles or other roofing materials. Coverage time frames range from 20 years to lifetime and do not cover roofing installation errors. It typically kicks in only when a product fails under normal conditions due to a defect from the factory.

Workmanship (Labor/Installation) Warranty

A roofing contractor may offer a workmanship warranty that covers errors or poor installation. This is independent of the manufacturer’s policy and varies greatly in length, coverage, and transferability. Some range from 1-25 years or even lifetime, depending on the contractor’s commitment and reputation.

Enhanced And System Warranties

Enhanced warranties combine materials and labor coverage, often underwritten by the manufacturer and only available through certified contractors. These may also include coverage for tear-off, disposal, and accessory materials, and are generally more comprehensive and transferable.

Are Roof Warranties Transferable?

Many roof warranties are transferable, at least once, but not universally. Transferability depends on the manufacturer’s or installer’s policy. Typically, standard material warranties allow a one-time transfer, while enhanced warranties may offer more flexibility. Always request warranty documents before installation.

Why Transferability Matters To Homeowners And Buyers

Transferable warranties add significant value to a home sale. Prospective buyers appreciate the assurance that roof defects or premature failure are covered, lowering their risk. Sellers can market transferable roof warranties as a premium feature, making the property stand out and supporting a higher asking price or smoother sale.

Typical Transfer Conditions And Steps

• Notification Deadline: Most warranties require formal written notice of the transfer, often within 30-60 days of property sale.
• Proof Of Sale: A copy of the settlement statement or deed may need to accompany the transfer request.
• Transfer Fee: Some manufacturers or installers require payment of a transfer fee, which can range from free up to $250.
• Inspection: Certain warranties may require a roof inspection to confirm that the roof meets maintenance and installation standards at the time of transfer.
• Warranty Documentation: The original warranty certificate and all maintenance records should be provided to the new owner.

Examples Of Major Roof Warranty Transfer Policies

Brand	Type	Transferability	Key Transfer Steps
GAF	Material, Enhanced	One-time	Written notice, within 60 days, $100 fee
Owens Corning	Material, System Protection	One-time (lifetime to 40 years)	Notice in 60 days, proof of purchase
CertainTeed	Material, SureStart Plus	One-time	Written transfer request, $100 transfer fee
IKO	Material	One-time	Within 60 days, $100 fee, proof of transfer
Malarkey	Material	Once in first 10 years	Written request within 60 days, no fee

Does A Transfer Reduce Warranty Coverage Or Duration?

Transferred warranties often reduce from “lifetime” to a fixed period—typically 10, 15, or 20 years from installation. It’s common for “lifetime” warranties to only apply to the original property owner, with limited protection for second owners. Always clarify with the manufacturer or installer whether any coverage limitation occurs upon transfer.

What Homebuyers Should Ask About Roof Warranty Transferability

• Is the warranty transferable, and how many times?
• What are the requirements to complete a transfer?
• Is there a transfer fee, and who pays it?
• Does the transferable warranty require roof inspection?
• Will coverage or duration change after ownership changes?
• Are full warranty documents and maintenance records available?

What Home Sellers Should Know About Roof Warranties

Sellers should collect all warranty paperwork, receipts, and records of roof maintenance or repairs. They should initiate the transfer process immediately after a sale, informing both the warranty provider and the buyer of necessary steps, deadlines, and documentation. Marketing the property with a transferable roof warranty can attract more buyers and yield better offers.

How To Transfer A Roof Warranty: Step-By-Step Guide

1. Locate Warranty Documents: Find all paperwork, including the original warranty certificate, installation invoice, and any supplemental agreements.
2. Contact Manufacturer Or Installer: Reach out via contact details in the warranty paperwork to request specific transfer procedures.
3. Submit Transfer Form: Complete and mail, email, or fax the appropriate transfer form provided by the warranty provider. Attach proof of home sale (settlement statement, deed, or closing documents).
4. Pay Any Required Fee: Arrange payment of required transfer fees if applicable, per provider’s instructions.
5. Confirm Transfer Completion: Get written confirmation that the warranty is now registered in the new owner’s name.
6. Advise New Owner On Maintenance: Let the new homeowner know if further roof maintenance is required to keep the warranty valid.

Common Reasons Roof Warranties Aren’t Transferable

• Expired Notification Deadline: The time limit for initiating the transfer was missed.
• Incomplete Documentation: Lack of original paperwork or proof of sale slows or voids the process.
• Unapproved Installations: The roof installation was not completed by a certified contractor, making the warranty void for second owners.
• Multiple Previous Transfers: Many warranties allow only a one-time transfer.
• Outstanding Warranty Claims: Unresolved warranty claims can sometimes freeze transferability.

Best Practices For Maintaining Transferable Roof Warranties

• Timely Roof Maintenance: Schedule recommended inspections, repairs, and keep detailed records.
• Authorized Repairs Only: Use certified contractors for all work to prevent voiding coverage.
• Register Products: Officially register your warranty online post-installation to simplify any future transfer.
• Keep Clear Records: Document every repair, invoice, inspection, and product registration.

Roof Warranty Transferable FAQs

Can Enhanced Warranties Be Transferred More Than Once?

Generally, enhanced or system warranties are only transferable once, maintaining the same transfer rules as standard warranties. Always check your warranty’s fine print for any exceptions.

Who Pays The Transfer Fee?

This is negotiable in the real estate process. Either buyer or seller can pay, but it’s often part of closing negotiations or seller closing costs if marketed as a benefit.

What Happens If You Fail To Transfer On Time?

If the deadline for transfer passes, coverage for the new homeowner is likely void. No coverage applies unless a late transfer is explicitly granted by the manufacturer—in rare cases as a goodwill exception.

Is A Transferable Warranty The Same As An “Extended” Warranty?

No, transferability is distinct from extended duration. Transferable simply means future owners can inherit coverage within the preset period, not that coverage time is lengthened.

Comparing Roof Warranty Transfer Policies — Major U.S. Brands

Brand	Standard Transfer Policy	Transfer Fees/Deadlines
GAF	One-time, Lifetime becomes 40 years	$100, 60 days from sale
Owens Corning	One-time, Lifetime becomes 40 years	None, 60 days from sale
CertainTeed	One-time, Lifetime becomes 50 years	$100, 60 days
IKO	One-time transfer permitted	$100, 60 days

Key Takeaways For Homeowners: Roof Warranties And Transferability

• Always check if your roof warranty is transferable before installation, especially if resale is a possibility.
• Retain every piece of warranty, proof of purchase, and service record to avoid disputes or lost coverage when the time to transfer arrives.
• Know your rights and deadlines—missing the transfer window can cost thousands in lost coverage.
• Factor transferability into home sale negotiations to maximize property value and buyer confidence.
• For buyers, verify transfer completion post-closing to secure all promised coverage under the roof warranty.

Resources And Where To Check Roof Warranty Transferability

• Manufacturer Websites: Visit official pages for brands like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Malarkey, and IKO for up-to-date warranty transfer guidelines and forms.
• Certified Roofing Contractors: Ask for warranty status checks or transfer help from your installer, especially if they’re manufacturer-certified.
• National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA): Offers consumer guidelines for roof maintenance and warranty best practices: https://www.nrca.net/
• State Attorney General Consumer Protection Offices: For warranty dispute resolution and advice.

Summary: Is Your Roof Warranty Transferable?

The transferability of a roof warranty cannot be assumed—always check the fine print. While U.S. warranty policies tend to support one-time transfers with clear documentation and deadlines, differences exist between brands, installers, and warranty tiers. Homeowners who take the time to understand their policy, document installation, and complete required paperwork maximize peace of mind and enhance their investment in one of their home’s most essential features.