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If you own or manage a commercial building, your roof is one of your biggest long-term investments. It protects everything inside and plays a major role in operating costs, energy use, and overall building health. Yet many property owners don’t look closely at their commercial roof warranty until a leak appears or storm damage becomes obvious.
By that point, the questions come fast. What does my warranty actually cover? Is labor included? Are there roof warranty exclusions I should know about? And what kind of roofing warranty coverage do I really have?
At AWS Restorations, we’ve been serving Northern Virginia and the DC area for over 30 years. We spend a lot of time reviewing warranties with property owners who were never clearly walked through the details. This article is meant to change that.
We’ll explain how commercial roof warranties work, what they usually cover, what they don’t, and how to keep yours valid so it actually does its job.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What a commercial roof warranty is and why it matters
- The main types of warranties you’ll see
- How inspections and maintenance affect coverage
- The difference between NDL and material-only warranties
- Common roof warranty exclusions to watch for
If you’d like a professional to take a look at your roof and walk through your options, you can request a free inspection.
Commercial Roof Warranty Basics
A good place to start is understanding what a roof warranty really is and what it is not.
What Is a Roof Warranty?
A roof warranty is a written agreement that outlines what will be repaired or replaced if certain problems occur within a specific time period. It may be backed by the manufacturer, the contractor, or both.
Most commercial roof warranties are centered around leak-related failures. They are not blanket protection for every possible issue. Think of a warranty as a safety net, not a maintenance plan.
Two things usually determine the strength of a warranty:
- The quality of the roofing materials
- The quality of the installation
If either one falls short, coverage can be limited.
Types of Roof Warranties
There are two primary categories.
Manufacturer’s Warranty
- Covers defects in the roofing materials
- Some system or NDL warranties include workmanship
- Typical length ranges from 5 to 30 years
Contractor’s Warranty
- Covers installation workmanship
- Addresses leaks caused by installation errors
- Typical length ranges from 1 to 5 years
Strong roofing warranty coverage often combines both.
How to Maintain a Commercial Roof Warranty
Many warranties are voided because simple requirements were not followed.
The Role of Routine Inspections
Most manufacturers require regular inspections.
- Once per year is common
- Some require inspections after major storms
These inspections document roof condition and catch small issues early.
Maintenance Requirements
Warranties usually expect basic upkeep such as:
- Clearing debris
- Keeping drains open
- Sealing minor cracks or seams
- Addressing small punctures
If an inspection notes a problem, it must be corrected. Ignoring it can jeopardize coverage.
Documentation and Record-Keeping
Keep copies of:
- Inspection reports
- Maintenance records
- Repair invoices
When a warranty claim is filed, these documents often determine whether it is approved.
Comparing No Dollar Limit (NDL) vs. Material Only Warranties
Not all warranties provide the same level of protection.
NDL Warranties
- Cover approved repair costs in full
- No proration as the roof ages
- Often include labor and materials
- Higher upfront cost
Material Only Warranties
- Cover materials only
- Labor is excluded
- Lower upfront cost
- Higher long-term financial risk
Choosing the Right Warranty Type
Consider:
- Your ownership timeline
- Building use
- Budget flexibility
- Long-term maintenance plans
NDL vs. Material Only Warranty Comparison
| Feature | NDL Warranty | Material Only Warranty |
| Materials Covered | Yes | Yes |
| Labor Covered | Yes | No |
| Prorated Over Time | No | Often Yes |
| Upfront Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Long-Term Risk | Lower | Higher |
What’s Covered And What’s Not
Understanding coverage limits helps avoid surprises.
Common Inclusions
- Defective materials
- Installation-related leaks (when workmanship is included)
- Covered system failures
Key Exclusions to Watch For
- Routine maintenance
- Unauthorized repairs or modifications
- Severe weather events
- Interior damage from leaks
- Normal aging and wear
Cold-weather issues are a real concern for commercial properties in our region. If you’re preparing your roof for winter, this guide to making your commercial roof winter-ready offers a helpful checklist.
How to Maximize the Value of Your Warranty
Ensure Timely Inspections
Work with a qualified roofer who understands manufacturer requirements and keeps proper documentation.
Follow Maintenance Protocols
Complete recommended maintenance promptly.
Avoid Unauthorized Changes
Coordinate rooftop work through approved contractors and get written approval for new penetrations or equipment.
Support Options for Long-Term Roof Protection
At AWS Restorations, we focus on long-term performance, not short-term fixes.
We provide:
- Free exterior inspections
- Clear explanations of findings
- GAF Certified installation practices
- Quality materials such as 50-year GAF shingles
- Workmanship warranties and documentation support
We also handle siding, gutters, windows, doors, and insurance-related restoration when storm damage affects more than just the roof. The goal is simple. Keep your building protected and help you avoid unnecessary expenses.
Commercial Roof Warranty Questions Property Owners Ask Most Often
If you’re responsible for maintaining a commercial building, these are some of the most common warranty questions we hear during inspections across Northern Virginia and the DC area.
What voids a commercial roof warranty?
A commercial roof warranty is usually voided by missed inspections, lack of maintenance, or unauthorized repairs. Using unapproved contractors or ignoring documented repair recommendations can also cancel coverage.
How often should I have my commercial roof inspected?
A commercial roof should be inspected at least once per year and after major storms. Many manufacturers require documented inspections to keep the warranty active.
Is storm damage covered under a commercial roof warranty?
Storm damage is typically not covered under a commercial roof warranty. Wind, hail, and hurricane-related damage are usually handled through insurance rather than warranty claims.
Can I transfer my commercial roof warranty to a new owner?
Many commercial roof warranties can be transferred to a new owner, but paperwork is often required within a specific timeframe. Skipping this step can result in lost coverage.
What’s the difference between an NDL and a pro-rated warranty?
The difference between an NDL and a pro-rated warranty is how coverage changes over time. An NDL warranty provides full coverage without depreciation, while a pro-rated warranty reduces coverage as the roof ages.
Take Control of Your Commercial Roof Protection
A commercial roof warranty only works if you understand it and maintain it. Taking a little time now can prevent costly surprises later.
If you’d like an experienced local contractor to review your roof and explain your options, schedule your free inspection today. We’ll give you straightforward answers so you can make the right decision for your building.
