Transferable Vs. Non-Transferable Remodeling Warranties Which Are Best?
When Transferable Remodeling Warranties Are Best And Why
When choosing the materials and products for your interior or remodeling project, whether the manufacturers provide a transferable (limited) or non-transferable (unlimited) warranty is essential to know, and here's why.
What is A Non-Transferable Warranty?
A limited or non-transferable warranty is an agreement between you, the purchaser, and the manufacturer stating that if the material or product does not function as it should (based on the specifications of the warranty), the manufacturer will compensate you by way of replacing the said item or a refund. They are limited to the purchaser and manufacturer.
You cannot transfer the warranty to the new owner when you sell or give a product with a limited warranty to someone else. If the products stop functioning, the manufacturer will not extend the same warranty protection to this new owner.
It may be helpful to think of non-transferable warranties as limited to the purchaser and manufacturer solely and not attached to the product or material.
Are Non-Transferable Warranties Bad?
Non-transferable or limited warranties are not all bad. Depending on the product, a limited warranty may be all that is needed. For example, batteries or other short-term or small-cost items or materials have limited warranties, and that is all that is necessary. Typically, you will know whether they function properly quickly, show your receipt and product warranty to a retailer or supplier, and get a replacement or refund.
Many consumer products and materials we buy - electronics, computers, disposable items, light bulbs, small appliances, furniture, and so forth, do not have transferable warranties, and that's okay. Even if we sell or give them to someone else, a limited warranty will not be a drawback or even something we concern ourselves with. Chances are, that warranty period has already passed anyway, so whether it's transferable or not is irrelevant.
What is a Transferable Warranty?
A transferable warranty is a warranty that the manufacturer stands by even if the original purchaser sells the product. Typically, long-lasting (have a lifetime or long-term warranty), and higher ticket products and materials have unlimited warranties.
For example, you have a professional roofing contractor replace your existing roof with a new roofing system. The roofing materials installed have an unlimited warranty which means that your roof is protected by the manufacturer warranty regardless of who owns the home. So when you sell your home, you can transfer the warranty to the buyer, so the roof is still protected.
Is A Transferable Warranty Better For Home Remodeling And Repairs?
A transferable or unlimited warranty is beneficial, particularly when it comes to any renovations, repairs, or remodeling you have done on your home or commercial property. Having transferable warranties on the building materials and products installed to update and enhance your property is both advantageous and an attractive feature if you ever sell your home.
Things That You Want A Transferable Warranty For
When it comes to renovating and remodeling your home or property, anything that promises to last longer than ten years should have a transferable or unlimited manufacturer warranty, including things like:
- Roofing Systems and Materials
- Shingles
- Siding
- Trim and fascia
- Gutters
- Vapor barriers
- Structural materials for home or building construction
- Flooring
- Large appliances
- HVAC systems
- Windows
- Doors (depending on the type)
- Water heaters
- Fireplaces
How Do I Find Out If The Warranty Is Transferable Or Not?
When you have a professional remodeling or construction contractor take care of your project, they should provide you with all the manufacturer warranties and explain them to you.
To find out if an unlimited warranty backs your home or business's existing products and materials, you can reach out to the manufacturer.
If you purchase an existing residential or commercial property, require the seller to provide you with all warranties and request that they transfer them to you upon sale.
When purchasing a new construction, the developer or construction company will provide you with all warranty documents upon possession. Have them explain each one and identify which ones are transferable and which or not transferable.
How Do I Make Sure The Unlimited Warranties Can Be Transferred?
If you want to ensure that your investment is protected even if you sell your home or business:
- complete all required warranty registrations,
- keep all warranty documents with purchase receipts attached in a safe place like a fire-proof safe or safety deposit box,
- And make sure that your contractor follows all manufacturer specifications and you follow or manufacturer care instructions and requirements.
Other Important Things To Know About Remodeling And Construction Manufacturer Warranties
Whether the manufacturer warranty is transferable or non-transferable, there are things you need to consider.
- When it comes to unlimited manufacturer warranties for home remodeling, repairs, and renovations, you must hire a reputable contractor recognized by the materials manufacturer or meets their requirements in terms of licensing, insurance, and experience.
Failing to do so puts you at risk of having any warranties considered null and void as many building material manufacturers require that their products be installed in a precise way by a licensed, often certified, remodeling or construction contractor.
For example, roof materials manufacturers like Owens Corning state in their warranties that all materials used must be Owens Corning products installed by an approved contractor in a specific way, or they will not guarantee your roof.
The same applies to most remodeling product manufacturer warranties (limited and unlimited) where proper installation is crucial to their structural integrity, such as siding, home additions, tiling, cabinets, and countertops.
2. Mixing manufacturers when installing a system to save money can void any manufacturer warranties.
Manufacturers stipulate how they must be installed to offer you the protection they promise in terms of function and warranty when it comes to roofing systems, exterior siding and protection, and window installations. The warranty will state explicitly what materials and products are to be used and how.
Manufacturers like James Hardie, Marvin, and more, require that their products and materials be the only ones used. Suppose you or your contractor chooses to substitute any materials (including fasteners) to save money. In that case, chances are the manufacturer will not stand by their warranty upon inspection of the damaged or improperly functioning product.
3. DIYer BEWARE. Many manufacturers state that the warranty is void if their products are installed by an unlicensed contractor or one that is not recognized/approved by them.
When deciding to DIY, most homeowners do not consider how that impacts any warranties. DIY is a trendy way to handle all kinds of home remodeling, renovation, and repair projects — even complex projects that require a high level of skill, expertise, and certification like electrical, plumbing, structural engineering, tiling, roofing, and beyond.
In truth, the cost savings you think a DIY remodeling gives you come at a potentially very high price. Not only do manufacturers not guarantee their products and materials if they are being used or installed by an unlicensed contractor or as part of a DIY remodeling or repair project, but you also
- jeopardize your insurance coverage
- risk your safety
- risk the safety of your loved ones, customers, and guests
- risk damaging the structural integrity of your home or business depending on the complexity of your project
Remodeling and construction contractors make what they do look easy because they have countless hours of experience, are highly trained and skilled. So much thought, design, and care go into even the most seemingly simple repair project to ensure you get the lasting results you expect. Manufacturers know this.
Many manufacturers require contractors and builders to participate in training and certification programs to ensure you are getting the most out of their products. Requiring certification also ensures that their products are used correctly. Only then are they comfortable standing by their warranty.
For help finding a contractor you can trust, read 5 Expert Tips Choosing A Reputable Contractor Near Me For Any Project.
Transferable Vs. Non-Transferable Warranties - Which Are Better When Remodeling My Home?
To sum up, transferable or unlimited warranties are best for significant investments meant to last for a decade or longer or remodeling projects done to sell your home or business. Warranties for substantial investment features on a property are attractive to buyers and can often increase the value of your home.
Non-transferable warranties are excellent for most remodeling projects because they offer you the protection you need for the expected lifetime of that product. If they fail to function, the manufacturer is more than happy to rectify the situation.
Regardless of the warranty, you must read the policy carefully, meet all the manufacturer's requirements from installation to care, and store the documentation securely.
If you have any further questions about manufacturer warranties and how they relate to remodeling and repairs, Callaway Construction is happy to help.
Callaway Construction is a top-rated remodeling and construction contractor serving South Dakota communities from Beresford to Sioux Falls. We provide superior quality residential and commercial exterior remodeling, interior remodeling, home additions, and new construction services. Our team is approved and recognized by Owens Corning, James Hardie, and Marvin Windows & Doors, so you can be confident that your home or business is protected by the best manufacturer warranties in the industry.
Callaway Construction is your Roofing, Siding, Windows, Doors, and Deck Contractor serving from Beresford to the Sioux Falls area.
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