The Ultimate Guide to Roofing Warranties and What They Cover
When you invest in a new roof or repair, you want peace of mind that it will last. That’s where roofing warranties come in. They protect you if something goes wrong—but they can also be confusing, with terms like labour warranty, materials guarantee, and insurance-backed cover all used differently.
At Fix All Roofing, we believe every homeowner in High Wycombe and Buckinghamshire should understand exactly what’s covered. In this guide, we’ll explain the main types of roofing warranties, what they include (and don’t), and how to get the most out of them.
What Is a Roofing Warranty?
A roofing warranty is a written guarantee that protects you against problems with your roof for a set period of time. Depending on the type of warranty, it may cover:
- The roofing materials (like tiles, felt, or sealants).
- The labour and workmanship.
- Both, if insurance-backed.
A good warranty shows the roofer and manufacturer are confident in the quality of their work and products.
“A roofing warranty is more than just paperwork; it’s a pledge of quality from the contractor and a long-term promise that your investment is sound.”
The 3 Main Types of Roofing Warranties in the UK
1. Manufacturer’s Warranty (Materials Warranty)
Provided by the manufacturer of the roofing product. Covers defects in the materials themselves.
Usually covers:
- Cracks in tiles.
- Roofing membranes that fail too early.
- Faulty coatings or sealants.
Doesn’t cover:
- Poor installation.
- Storm or weather damage.
- Issues caused by neglect or poor ventilation.
📌 Tip: Always ask your roofer for a copy of the manufacturer’s warranty.
2. Workmanship / Labour Warranty
Provided by your roofing contractor. Covers the quality of the installation and labour.
Usually covers:
- Leaks caused by poor installation.
- Badly fitted flashing.
- Misaligned roof tiles.
Doesn’t cover:
- Material defects (that’s the manufacturer’s job).
- Damage from storms, pests, or age.
At Fix All Roofing, we provide strong labour warranties on every job we complete in High Wycombe and beyond.
3. Insurance-Backed Warranty (IBG)
An extra level of protection. If your roofer stops trading, the insurer steps in and honours the warranty.
Covers:
- Approved material defects.
- Installation faults, if within the warranty period.
For bigger jobs like new roofs or major repairs, it’s worth asking about IBGs. We can advise you when these apply.
What Affects Warranty Duration and Coverage?
Not every roof gets the same warranty. Factors include:
- Roof type:
Flat roofs often have shorter cover than pitched roofs.
- Material quality: Premium products last longer and usually come with longer warranties.
- Installation quality: Poor installation can void a warranty.
- Maintenance: If you don’t maintain your roof, claims can be denied.
This is why choosing a reputable local roofer is so important.
What Roofing Warranties Don’t Cover
Most roofing warranties exclude:
- General wear and tear after the warranty expires.
- Storm or extreme weather damage.
- Leaks caused by blocked gutters or poor maintenance.
- Structural shifts in the property.
- DIY fixes or unauthorised alterations.
To keep your warranty valid, always maintain your roof and arrange regular inspections.
How to Protect Your Warranty
- Choose a trusted roofer. Always work with qualified, insured roofers in your local area.
- Keep all paperwork. Save copies of quotes, invoices, and warranty documents.
- Register products. Some manufacturers require registration within 30 days.
- Book regular roof checks. Annual inspections keep your roof compliant and safe.
FAQs About Roofing Warranties
Do I pay extra for a warranty?
Labour warranties are usually included. Insurance-backed warranties may cost a little extra.
Can I transfer my warranty if I sell my house?
Sometimes yes—it depends on the warranty terms. A transferable warranty can even help you sell faster.
What if I spot a leak during the warranty?
Call your roofer immediately. Waiting may void your cover if the issue gets worse.
Why Fix All Roofing Is the Right Choice in High Wycombe
We’re a family-run, local roofing company with over a decade of experience serving High Wycombe, Beaconsfield, Gerrards Cross, the Chalfonts, and wider Buckinghamshire.
With Fix All Roofing, you get:
- Clear and honest warranties with every job.
- Fully insured, qualified local roofers.
- Fast response times across Bucks.
- Transparent pricing, no hidden extras.
- Work guaranteed to UK standards.
Conclusion: Warranties Protect More Than Just Your Roof
A roofing warranty is more than paperwork—it’s peace of mind. By choosing a trusted roofer like Fix All Roofing, you get a solid roof and the reassurance that your investment is protected for years to come.
"A great roof is built on a great foundation, but a true partnership is built on a solid warranty. Without one, you're not fully protected, no matter how good the job looks."
Contact Fix All Roofing in High Wycombe today for a free quote and details of our labour and manufacturer-backed warranties.
