Why Written Guarantees Matter
A verbal guarantee from a roofer is worth nothing if the company has dissolved three years after your roof was done and water is coming through the ceiling. Written guarantees with clear terms, a specific duration, and a named guarantor are the only useful form. We provide written guarantees on all work — signed, dated, specifying what is covered.
Before agreeing to any roofing work, ask: Is the guarantee written? What specifically does it cover? Is it insurance-backed if the company ceases trading? What voids the guarantee? A contractor who can't answer these clearly is not providing a meaningful guarantee.
The Two Guarantees You Need on a Re-Roof
| Guarantee Type | Covers | Duration | Provided by |
|---|---|---|---|
| Workmanship guarantee | Installation defects | Minimum 10 years | The roofing contractor |
| Material guarantee | Product defects | 20–30 years depending on product | The tile/membrane manufacturer |
| Insurance-backed guarantee | Both, if contractor ceases trading | Matches workmanship period | Third-party insurer |
Both workmanship and material guarantees should be provided in writing on completion. If a contractor provides only one or offers only verbal assurance on the other, request the documentation in writing before releasing final payment.
What Voids a Roofing Guarantee — And What Doesn't
Common grounds for voiding a guarantee: modifications to the roof without the contractor's knowledge; damage from storm, impact or third parties; failure to carry out the maintenance specified (typically annual gutter clearing); or claims made after the guarantee period has expired.
What doesn't void a guarantee: the property changing hands (guarantees should transfer with the property, though check the terms); minor maintenance work by another contractor that doesn't affect the guaranteed elements; or fair wear and tear within the guarantee period.
Our guarantees transfer to new owners and are documented on our standard form. We provide copies to solicitors on request during property transactions. Call 01249 247 076 for any guarantee query.