Roof Warranties Decoded: What Texas Homeowners Need to Know

Roof warranties can be a little tricky—especially in Texas, where the weather seems to test every roof’s limits. Most homeowners assume that a warranty means they’re fully protected, but not all coverage is created equal. Some warranties cover materials only, others include workmanship, and a few may even be voided by simple maintenance mistakes. Understanding how roof warranties actually work can help you avoid costly surprises down the road and make sure your investment is backed by the right protection.

Texas homeowners face heat, hail, and high winds that can shorten a roof’s lifespan if it’s not installed or maintained correctly. That’s why it’s crucial to know exactly what your warranty promises—and what it doesn’t. From manufacturer coverage to contractor guarantees, we’ll break down the fine print so you know how to keep your warranty valid, when to call your roofer, and how to make sure your roof stays protected for the long haul.

Key Takeaways

• Texas roof warranties typically include two main types: manufacturer warranties (20-50 years) covering material defects and workmanship warranties (1-25 years) covering installation errors
• Warranties exclude storm damage from hail, wind, and hurricanes – common in Texas – which requires separate homeowner’s insurance coverage
• Only certified contractors can provide extended manufacturer warranties and NDL (No Dollar Limit) coverage for complete protection
• Proper maintenance and timely warranty registration within 60-90 days are essential to keep Texas roof warranties valid
• Texas weather conditions make comprehensive warranty coverage especially important for protecting your roofing investment

Texas homeowners face some of the most challenging weather conditions in the country, from devastating hailstorms to scorching heat that can reach well over 100°F. When investing in a new roof, understanding roofing warranties becomes crucial for protecting what’s often your largest home improvement investment. Many Texas homeowners discover too late that not all warranties provide the protection they expected, especially when dealing with the unique challenges of Texas weather.

Understanding roofing warranties can mean the difference between thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs and complete peace of mind. This comprehensive guide will decode the complexities of roof warranty coverage, helping you make informed decisions about your roofing project and ensure your warranty remains valid when you need it most.

Understanding the Two Primary Warranty Types

When Texas homeowners invest in a new roof, they’re actually receiving two distinct types of protection that work together to safeguard their investment. Understanding these roofing warranty types is essential for comprehensive coverage.

Manufacturer Warranties: Protecting Your Roofing Materials

For more information about roofing materials and warranties, visit our roofing FAQs.

Manufacturer warranties cover defects in the roofing materials themselves, including asphalt shingles, metal panels, and tile systems popular throughout Texas. These warranties typically last 20-50 years, with some premium systems offering lifetime coverage. However, “lifetime warranties” in the roofing industry generally mean 40-50 years rather than the actual lifetime of your home.

Leading brands like GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning each offer different warranty structures in Texas markets. GAF’s System Plus warranty, for example, provides up to 50 years of coverage when their complete roofing system is installed by a certified contractor. CertainTeed’s Integrity Roof System offers similar comprehensive protection, while Owens Corning’s Total Protection Roofing System focuses on wind resistance – particularly valuable in Texas.

Workmanship Warranties: Covering Installation Quality

Contractor workmanship warranties protect against installation errors and typically range from 1-25 years depending on the roofing contractor. Since approximately 90% of premature roof failures result from poor installation rather than material defects, workmanship warranties often prove more immediately valuable than manufacturer coverage.

A reputable contractor will stand behind their work with substantial warranty protection. While some contractors offer minimal one-year coverage, industry leaders provide 10 years or more on labor costs and installation quality. This warranty ensures that if improper installation techniques cause leaks or other problems, you won’t face unexpected repairs.

Why Both Warranty Types Are Necessary

Both materials and installation must perform correctly for your roofing system to protect your home effectively. Manufacturer warranties won’t cover problems caused by improper installation, while workmanship warranties don’t address material defects. Only when both warranties work together do you have comprehensive coverage against the full range of potential roofing issues.

What Roof Warranties Cover in Texas

Roofing warranties cover specific types of defects and failures, but understanding exactly what’s included can prevent disappointment when filing warranty claims.

Material Defects and Manufacturing Flaws

Manufacturer warranties cover defects in roofing materials that cause premature failure. For asphalt shingles, this includes excessive granule loss, cracking, curling, or delamination that occurs due to manufacturing problems rather than normal wear. Metal roofing warranties typically cover premature corrosion, coating failures, or structural defects in metal panels.

For tile systems popular in Texas, manufacturer coverage includes cracking due to material defects, color fading beyond specified limits, and premature deterioration. However, these warranties require that roofing materials be installed correctly according to manufacturer standards.

Installation Errors and Workmanship Issues

Workmanship warranties address installation errors that compromise your roof’s performance. Common covered issues include improper nailing patterns, inadequate ventilation that causes moisture problems, and flashing failures around chimneys, vents, and roof penetrations.

Poor installation can void manufacturer warranties, making contractor workmanship warranties your primary protection against installation-related problems. Quality contractors will repair leaks caused by their work at no cost, including any resulting interior damage.

Coverage Differences Across Roofing Systems

Different roofing materials offer varying warranty coverage. Asphalt shingle warranties typically focus on granule retention and weather resistance, while metal roofing warranties emphasize corrosion protection and paint adhesion. Tile warranties usually cover structural integrity and color consistency.

Prorated vs. Non-Prorated Coverage

Many warranties include prorated coverage that reduces benefit over time. During the non-prorated period (typically 10-15 years), you receive full coverage for covered defects. After this period, your coverage percentage decreases annually, meaning you’ll pay a portion of replacement costs even for legitimate warranty claims.

Premium systems often offer longer non-prorated periods, providing better long-term value. Some extended warranties eliminate proration entirely, ensuring full coverage throughout the entire warranty term.

Critical Warranty Exclusions Texas Homeowners Must Know

Understanding what roofing warranties don’t cover prevents costly surprises and helps you distinguish between warranty issues and problems requiring insurance claims.

Storm Damage Exclusions

Despite Texas experiencing frequent hailstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes, roofing warranties specifically exclude damage from these weather events. Hail damage, wind uplift, and storm-related roof destruction fall under your homeowner’s insurance policy, not warranty coverage.

This distinction is crucial for many Texas homeowners who mistakenly believe their roof warranty will cover storm damage. When severe weather damages your roof, contact your insurance company first, not the manufacturer or contractor for warranty claims.

Normal Wear and Tear

Texas heat creates thermal cycling that expands and contracts roofing materials daily. UV exposure from intense Texas sun gradually degrades all roofing materials over time. These normal aging processes aren’t covered under roofing warranty coverage, as they represent expected material behavior rather than defects.

Similarly, normal wear from wind, rain, and temperature fluctuations doesn’t qualify for warranty protection. Warranties cover premature failure, not the natural aging process that occurs over decades of exposure.

Maintenance-Related Damage

Damage from poor maintenance voids warranty coverage. Clogged gutters that cause water backup, overhanging tree branches that scrape roofing materials, and accumulated debris that retains moisture can all void your warranty protection.

Regular maintenance requirements vary by manufacturer, but most require annual inspections and prompt attention to minor issues. Neglecting repairs or allowing problems to worsen can void both manufacturer and workmanship warranties.

Unauthorized Repairs and Modifications

Unauthorized repairs by non-certified contractors immediately void warranty coverage. Installing satellite dishes, solar panels, or additional vents without following manufacturer protocols can also eliminate your warranty protection.

If repairs become necessary, always use certified contractors who can maintain your warranty coverage. Even minor repairs by unqualified workers can void comprehensive warranty protection.

Distinguishing Warranty Issues from Insurance Claims

Regular roof inspections help distinguish warranty-eligible problems from insurance-covered damage. Gradual shingle deterioration or installation-related leaks typically qualify for warranty coverage, while sudden damage from identifiable weather events requires insurance claims.

When in doubt, document the problem thoroughly and consult both your contractor and insurance company to determine the appropriate claim process.

Texas Weather and Your Roof Warranty

Texas weather creates unique challenges that affect both roof performance and warranty coverage. Understanding how extreme conditions impact your warranty helps maintain protection and avoid coverage voids.

Extreme Heat and Thermal Expansion

Texas summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, creating significant thermal expansion in roofing materials. This daily expansion and contraction cycle can stress fasteners, cause shingle curling, and lead to premature material failure.

Most manufacturer warranties account for normal thermal cycling, but extreme heat combined with improper installation can void coverage. Adequate attic ventilation becomes critical in Texas heat, as poor ventilation can create attic temperatures exceeding 140°F that damage roofing materials from below.

Hail Damage vs. Warranty Coverage

Texas leads the nation in hail damage claims, but this frequent weather hazard isn’t covered under roofing warranties. Hail impact creates distinctive damage patterns that clearly differentiate it from warranty-eligible material defects.

After severe weather events, it’s crucial to have your roof inspected for both immediate damage requiring insurance claims and any underlying warranty issues that storm exposure might have revealed. Some manufacturers offer impact-resistant shingles with enhanced hail warranties, but these still don’t cover direct hail damage.

Ventilation Requirements in Texas Heat

Proper attic ventilation protects warranty validity by preventing excessive heat buildup that can void manufacturer coverage. Texas building codes require specific ventilation ratios, and manufacturers often mandate even stricter requirements for warranty compliance.

Inadequate ventilation can cause shingle deterioration, ice dam formation in rare Texas freezes, and moisture problems that void warranty coverage. certified contractors understand these requirements and ensure installation quality meets both code and warranty standards.

Coastal Considerations

Coastal Texas areas face additional challenges from salt air and high humidity that can accelerate material degradation. Some manufacturers offer enhanced warranties for coastal installations, while others exclude salt air exposure from standard coverage.

If you live within 10 miles of the Gulf Coast, verify that your roofing warranty specifically covers coastal exposure. Metal roofing warranties often include enhanced corrosion protection for coastal installations, while shingle warranties may require upgraded materials for salt air exposure.

Extended Warranties and NDL Coverage

Extended warranties and No Dollar Limit (NDL) coverage provide enhanced protection beyond standard manufacturer warranties, offering comprehensive coverage that many Texas homeowners find valuable.

No Dollar Limit (NDL) Warranties

If you need rapid assistance due to storm or weather damage, Austin emergency roofers are available for fast, professional roof repair and free estimates.

NDL warranties eliminate coverage caps, ensuring full repair costs regardless of expense. Instead of receiving partial coverage or material credits, NDL warranties pay complete replacement costs including labor, permits, and disposal. To ensure you understand the true condition of your roof before considering warranty options, you may want to review roof inspection reports for a detailed assessment.

For Texas homeowners, NDL coverage proves especially valuable given the high cost of roofing work and frequent need for complete roof replacement rather than partial repairs. Premium systems from leading brands often include NDL options when installed by certified contractors.

System Warranties and Component Matching

System warranties require complete roofing systems with matching components from a single manufacturer. This includes shingles or roofing material, underlayment, starter strips, ridge cap, and ventilation components all from the same brand.

While system requirements limit material choices, they provide the most comprehensive coverage available. GAF’s Golden Pledge warranty, CertainTeed’s Integrity warranty, and Owens Corning’s Platinum warranty all require system installation but offer enhanced protection including transferable coverage and non-prorated benefits.

Certified Contractor Requirements

Extended manufacturer warranties are only available through certified contractors who meet specific training, insurance, and performance requirements. These certifications ensure installation quality that protects both the manufacturer’s and homeowner’s interests.

GAF Master Elite contractors, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster contractors, and Owens Corning Preferred contractors have demonstrated expertise in proper installation techniques. They can offer extended warranties unavailable through non-certified contractors.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Extended warranties typically add 10-20% to your roofing project cost but provide significantly enhanced protection. For a $20,000 roof replacement, extended warranty costs of $2,000-4,000 can provide decades of comprehensive coverage including full replacement protection.

Consider your home’s value, local weather risks, and long-term ownership plans when evaluating extended coverage. Homes in high-risk areas or premium properties often justify extended warranty investment through enhanced protection and transferable coverage benefits.

Manufacturer Comparison in Texas Markets

Different manufacturers offer varying extended warranty options suited to Texas conditions. GAF warranties emphasize wind resistance and transferability, while CertainTeed focuses on comprehensive system protection. Owens Corning warranties often include enhanced impact resistance valuable in hail-prone areas.

Research each manufacturer’s specific extended warranty terms, as coverage details and requirements vary significantly between brands and warranty levels.

Choosing Certified Contractors for Maximum Protection

Selecting certified contractors is essential for accessing extended warranties and ensuring installation quality that maintains warranty validity throughout the coverage period.

Understanding Contractor Certifications

Manufacturer certifications require contractors to meet strict standards for training, insurance coverage, business stability, and customer satisfaction. GAF Master Elite certification requires extensive training, $2 million in liability insurance, and demonstrated installation expertise.

CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster contractors must complete comprehensive training programs and maintain excellent customer satisfaction ratings. Owens Corning Preferred contractors undergo rigorous qualification processes and ongoing education requirements.

These certifications aren’t just marketing tools – they represent genuine qualification standards that ensure proper installation and warranty compliance.

Impact on Warranty Transfer Rights

Certified contractor installation often enables warranty transfer rights valuable when selling your home. Many extended warranties can transfer to new homeowners, providing a valuable selling point and potential premium recovery.

Standard warranties from non-certified contractors typically don’t include transfer rights, limiting your options when selling your home. For Texas homeowners in growing markets, transferable warranties can provide competitive advantages and faster sales. Additionally, properly addressing missing roof shingles can prevent long-term damage and add peace of mind for potential buyers.

Verification Process

Always verify contractor certifications directly with manufacturers rather than relying solely on contractor claims. Most manufacturers maintain online directories of certified contractors with current status verification.

Check certification dates, insurance requirements, and any special qualifications relevant to your roofing project. Some contractors may have basic certification but lack advanced qualifications needed for premium warranty options.

Red Flags Indicating Non-Certified Contractors

Be wary of contractors who can’t provide current certification documentation, offer warranties they can’t actually provide, or pressure you to sign contracts without verification time. Door-to-door contractors following storms often lack proper certifications and insurance coverage.

Legitimate certified contractors willingly provide references, insurance documentation, and certification verification. They understand that informed customers make better long-term clients and don’t pressure quick decisions.

Benefits Beyond Warranty Access

Certified contractors typically provide superior customer service, follow proper installation procedures, and maintain business practices that ensure long-term availability for warranty service. Their ongoing relationship with manufacturers creates accountability that benefits homeowners.

Many certified contractors also offer additional services like free inspection programs, maintenance reminders, and priority scheduling that enhance your overall roofing experience beyond basic warranty coverage.

Warranty Registration and Maintenance Requirements

Proper warranty registration and ongoing maintenance are essential for keeping your roofing warranties valid and ensuring coverage when you need warranty claims processed.

Registration Deadlines and Requirements

Most manufacturers require warranty registration within 60-90 days of installation to activate full coverage. This registration process documents your installation details, contractor information, and material specifications needed for future warranty claims.

Late registration often limits coverage options or voids extended warranty benefits entirely. Some manufacturers allow registration up to one year after installation but with reduced coverage levels or elimination of premium benefits.

Required Documentation

Maintain comprehensive documentation including installation photos, material receipts, contractor certifications, and warranty registration confirmations. These documents prove compliance with manufacturer requirements and support warranty claims.

Digital photos showing installation progress, material deliveries, and completed work help document proper installation procedures. If your records indicate issues caused by storm damage, consider seeking a professional inspection. Keep multiple copies of all documentation in both physical and digital formats for long-term accessibility.

Annual Inspection Requirements

Many warranties require annual professional inspections to maintain validity. These inspections identify minor issues before they become major problems and document ongoing maintenance compliance.

Some manufacturers provide inspection services through certified contractors, while others accept inspections from qualified roofing professionals. Document all inspections and address any identified issues promptly to maintain warranty protection.

Maintenance Documentation

Keep detailed records of all maintenance activities including gutter cleaning, debris removal, and minor repairs. This documentation proves compliance with warranty maintenance requirements and supports future warranty claims.

Create maintenance schedules that address manufacturer requirements and Texas-specific needs like frequent debris removal and storm damage assessments. Regular maintenance often prevents problems that could void warranty coverage.

Online Registration Systems

Most major manufacturers offer online warranty registration systems that streamline the process and provide immediate confirmation. These systems often include maintenance reminders and warranty status tracking that help maintain compliance.

GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning all provide user-friendly online portals for warranty registration and management. Take advantage of these tools to ensure proper documentation and ongoing compliance.

Filing Warranty Claims: A Step-by-Step Guide

When warranty issues arise, following proper claim procedures ensures prompt resolution and maximizes your chances of successful warranty coverage.

Immediate Assessment Steps

When you discover potential warranty issues, document the problem immediately with detailed photographs showing the defect, surrounding areas, and overall roof condition. Note the date, weather conditions, and any circumstances that might have contributed to the problem.

Contact your original contractor first if the issue appears installation-related, or the manufacturer directly for material defect concerns. Many contractors provide initial assessment services that help determine appropriate claim procedures.

Documentation Requirements

Successful warranty claims require comprehensive documentation including original installation records, maintenance logs, and clear evidence of the defect. Gather your warranty registration confirmation, contractor certifications, and any previous inspection reports.

Take multiple photos from different angles showing the problem clearly. Include photos of related areas that demonstrate proper installation or maintenance to support your claim that the defect isn’t due to neglect or unauthorized modifications.

Contacting Procedures

For workmanship issues, contact your original contractor first to assess the problem and potentially resolve it under their workmanship warranty. For material defects, contact the manufacturer’s warranty department directly using contact information from your warranty documentation.

Have your warranty registration information, installation details, and documentation ready when making contact. Many manufacturers offer online claim submission systems that streamline the process and provide status tracking.

Inspection and Evaluation Process

Most warranty claims require professional inspection by manufacturer representatives or approved contractors. These inspections determine whether the problem qualifies for warranty coverage and assess the scope of necessary repairs.

Cooperate fully with inspection requirements and provide requested documentation promptly. The inspection process typically takes 1-2 weeks for initial assessment, with additional time needed for repair authorization and scheduling.

Claim Processing Timelines

Warranty claim processing varies by manufacturer and claim complexity, but most manufacturers complete initial reviews within 2-4 weeks. Complex claims requiring multiple inspections or engineering analysis may take longer.

Material warranty claims often result in material credits or replacement materials, while workmanship warranty claims typically include labor costs and complete repair services. Understand your specific warranty terms to set appropriate expectations.

Appeal Procedures

If your warranty claim is denied, most manufacturers provide appeal procedures that allow additional evidence submission or independent review. Gather any additional documentation that supports your claim and addresses the denial reasons.

Consider hiring independent roofing consultants for complex warranty disputes, especially for high-value claims where professional expertise can strengthen your appeal. Some warranty disputes may require legal assistance for resolution.

Maximizing Your Warranty Investment

Proactive maintenance and proper warranty management help maximize the value of your roofing warranty investment and ensure long-term protection for your home.

Preventive Maintenance Schedules

Develop maintenance schedules that address both manufacturer requirements and Texas-specific needs. Spring inspections before storm season help identify and address minor issues before severe weather exposure.

Fall maintenance should focus on gutter cleaning, debris removal, and preparation for winter weather. Even in Texas, occasional freezing temperatures can stress roofing systems, making pre-winter maintenance valuable.

Professional Inspection Programs

Many certified contractors offer annual inspection programs that ensure warranty compliance while identifying potential problems early. These programs often cost $200-400 annually but can prevent thousands in warranty-voiding damage.

Professional inspections document maintenance compliance and provide expert assessment of roof condition. This documentation supports warranty claims and helps distinguish warranty issues from normal wear or storm damage.

Addressing Minor Issues Promptly

Small problems like loose flashing, minor granule loss, or damaged caulking can escalate into major warranty-voiding issues if ignored. Address minor problems promptly using certified contractors to maintain warranty validity.

Even minor repairs can void warranties if performed incorrectly or by unqualified workers. Always use certified contractors for any roof work to preserve your warranty protection.

Warranty Transfer Considerations

If you plan to sell your home, understand your warranty transfer procedures and requirements. Some warranties transfer automatically while others require formal transfer processes and fees.

Transferable warranties can provide selling advantages and justify premium pricing. Document transfer procedures in your home sale materials to demonstrate this valuable benefit to potential buyers.

Documentation and Record Keeping

Maintain organized records of all warranty documentation, maintenance activities, and correspondence with manufacturers or contractors. Digital storage with backup copies ensures long-term accessibility.

Create annual warranty reviews that assess compliance, identify needed maintenance, and plan upcoming warranty-related activities. This proactive approach maximizes warranty value and prevents coverage loss through neglect.

Common Texas Roof Warranty Mistakes to Avoid

Understanding frequent warranty mistakes helps Texas homeowners avoid costly errors that can void coverage or limit protection when problems arise.

Assuming Storm Damage Coverage

The most common mistake among many Texas homeowners is assuming their roofing warranties cover storm damage from hail, wind, or hurricanes. These events specifically fall under insurance coverage, not warranty protection.

After severe weather, contact your insurance company for damage assessment rather than expecting warranty coverage. Attempting to file warranty claims for storm damage wastes time and can complicate legitimate insurance claims.

Hiring Unlicensed or Non-Certified Contractors

Using contractors who aren’t properly licensed or manufacturer-certified immediately voids extended warranty options and can compromise basic warranty coverage. Texas’s lack of statewide contractor licensing makes contractor verification even more critical.

Always verify contractor certifications, insurance coverage, and business credentials before signing contracts. The savings from using unqualified contractors rarely justify the loss of warranty protection and potential quality issues.

Missing Registration Deadlines

Failing to register warranties within required timeframes eliminates extended coverage options and can reduce basic warranty benefits. Many homeowners discover this mistake only when filing warranty claims years later.

Set calendar reminders for warranty registration deadlines and complete registration immediately after installation completion. Late registration often provides reduced coverage that doesn’t justify the original warranty investment.

Inadequate Maintenance Documentation can leave homeowners vulnerable, especially after severe storms. Learn how to protect yourself from predatory roofers by recognizing warning signs and taking preventive measures.

Poor maintenance records can void warranty coverage even for legitimate material defects or installation errors. Many warranty denials result from inability to prove compliance with maintenance requirements rather than actual coverage exclusions.

Maintain detailed maintenance logs with dates, activities, and contractor information for all roof-related work. This documentation supports warranty claims and demonstrates proper care that protects coverage validity.

Confusion Between Warranty and Insurance Claims

Many Texas homeowners struggle to distinguish between warranty-eligible problems and insurance-covered damage, leading to delayed repairs and claim complications. Understanding this distinction prevents coverage gaps and ensures prompt problem resolution.

When damage occurs, assess whether it resulted from material defects, installation errors, or external events. This assessment determines appropriate claim procedures and prevents filing claims with the wrong coverage provider.

DIY Repairs and Modifications

Attempting DIY repairs or installing accessories like satellite dishes without manufacturer approval can void comprehensive warranty coverage. Even minor modifications performed incorrectly can eliminate protection for unrelated warranty issues.

Always consult certified contractors before making any roof modifications or repairs. The cost of professional work is minimal compared to the value of maintaining warranty protection.

FAQ

How long do I have to register my roof warranty after installation in Texas?

Most manufacturers require warranty registration within 60-90 days of installation to activate full coverage benefits. Some manufacturers allow registration up to one year after installation but with reduced coverage levels. GAF requires registration within 60 days for Golden Pledge warranties, while CertainTeed allows 90 days for Integrity warranties. Missing these deadlines often eliminates extended warranty benefits and may reduce basic coverage options.

Will my roof warranty cover damage from Texas hailstorms?

No, roofing warranties specifically exclude storm damage including hail, wind, and hurricane damage common in Texas. These weather events fall under your homeowner’s insurance policy coverage. Warranties only cover manufacturing defects and installation errors, not damage from external weather events. After hailstorms, contact your insurance company for damage assessment and claims processing.

What happens to my warranty if I sell my house?

Warranty transferability depends on your specific warranty type and manufacturer. Many extended warranties from certified contractors can transfer to new homeowners, often for a small administrative fee ($50-200). Standard basic warranties may not include transfer rights. GAF Golden Pledge and CertainTeed Integrity warranties typically transfer once to new owners, while basic manufacturer warranties often don’t transfer. Check your warranty documentation for specific transfer procedures and requirements.

Can I file both a warranty claim and insurance claim for the same damage?

Generally no, because warranties and insurance cover different types of damage. Insurance covers storm damage, fire, and external events, while warranties cover material defects and installation errors. However, storms sometimes reveal underlying warranty issues that existed before the weather event. In such cases, you might file separate claims for storm damage (insurance) and pre-existing defects (warranty), but each claim must address distinctly different damage causes.

How often should I inspect my roof to maintain warranty coverage?

Most manufacturers recommend annual professional inspections to maintain warranty validity, though specific requirements vary by warranty type. Many Texas homeowners benefit from bi-annual inspections – spring inspections before storm season and fall inspections after summer heat exposure. Document all inspections and address identified issues promptly using certified contractors to maintain warranty compliance. Some premium warranties require annual inspections by certified contractors as a coverage requirement.