Which roof warranty documents should you keep, with an example checklist?
Short answer. Keep the signed contract, the final invoice listing the exact products, proof of payment, the workmanship warranty, the manufacturer warranty registration, the permit and final inspection, and photos of the job. Together they prove what was installed, when, and by whom, which is what any warranty claim, insurance claim or home sale will ask for.
The checklist
- Signed contract with scope, products and warranty terms.
- Final invoice showing the shingle brand and line, accessories, decking sheets replaced and completion date.
- Proof of payment, plus any lien waivers the contractor provided once paid.
- Workmanship warranty document or certificate from the roofer.
- Manufacturer warranty registration certificate if an enhanced warranty was registered, or the standard limited warranty that applies to your product.
- Permit and final inspection record, where your city or county requires one.
- Photos: before, during tear-off showing the deck, and after.
- Insurance paperwork if a claim paid for the roof: the adjuster's estimate, any supplements, and the final invoice sent to the carrier.
Why each one matters
Warranty departments ask for proof of the product and install date. Insurers ask for the roof's age and type when you renew or file a future claim. Buyers ask for all of it at sale time. Photos settle arguments about what was under the shingles.
How to store them
Make one folder, paper or digital, labeled with the address and install year. Email yourself scans so they survive a move or a lost drawer. Add the shingle wrapper label if the crew leaves one; it shows the product and production code.
For background on each type of coverage, see roofing warranties explained, and for what happens on the day of the job, roof replacement day.