If you have a construction project lined up and you’re planning to work with a contractor, you’re probably wondering: “What warranties do contractors offer for their work?” Understanding your contractor’s warranty is like having a safety net for your construction projects—it guarantees that specific standards, conditions, or promises will be met during the construction and after the completion of the project.

Whether you’re interested in home warranties or commercial warranties, knowing the coverage and limitations is the best way to make sure you’re protecting your investments. Let’s dive into everything you need to familiarize yourself with regarding construction warranties.

What Is a Construction Warranty?

three architects and engineers signing

Basically, when you engage in a construction project with a contractor, the general contractor warrants that the project will meet certain standards. The written contract (usually part of construction contracts) tells you what you can expect in terms of quality standards, labor scope, time frame, and materials, and outlines the contractor’s responsibilities.

Most contractors like our team of foundation repair specialists at Powelift provide warranties for their clients’ peace of mind. Should anything go wrong during and after the construction process (e.g. defective materials, defective work, and other major defects), or if the contractor fails to meet those terms in any way, the contractor will address them at no additional cost to you since the contractor has them covered.

What Types of Construction Warranties Do Contractors Offer?

building under construction

Implied Warranties

An implied warranty refers to terms that aren’t explicitly stated in contract documents but are assumed to be understood. Additionally, these are the warranties provided by state law. This helps guarantee clients’ protection by making sure certain assurances about the construction service are upheld, even if they’re not expressly written on any warranty document.

Express Warranties or Explicit Warranties

In contrast, express or explicit warranties are promises or assurances that are clearly written and outlined in the prime contract between the contractor warrants and the client. This includes details like the warranty period and the manner in which they will address, fix, or replace defects in the project.

Statutory Warranty

Statutory warranties are guarantees that the service or work performed by a contractor or subcontractor meets minimum standards of both labor quality and performance. It doesn’t matter if these promises aren’t written in contracts and other documents; contractors are liable under statutory warranties and they will fulfill their obligations in accordance with the law.

While statutory warranties across the US differ, most states have statutory warranty protections in place to ensure contractors and subcontractors deliver quality services.

Types of Implicit Warranties

two construction workers reading a piece of paper

1. Workmanship Warranty

A workmanship warranty promises that the project will be completed in a good or workmanlike manner. It’s not always explicitly stated in the contract, but it’s an assurance that the client can expect acceptable standards of workmanship throughout the completion of the project.

If there’s a workmanship defect or issue, contractors and subcontractors typically provide replacement and repair within the given warranty period and in accordance with the details under the workmanship warranty.

Warranty Period: Typically, contractors provide a one-year warranty to a five-year warranty period for this type of warranty.

2. Habitability Warranty

After the completion of a construction project (particularly a residential one), the habitability warranty assures that the structure is habitable for the owner and safe to live in. This implies the new structure meets structural, sanitary, and code requirements. Additionally, it warrants the availability and functionality of necessary systems like electricity and proper plumbing.

Types of Express or Explicit Warranties

two people wearing hard hats reading blueprint

1. Callback (Repair) Warranty

A callback warranty specifies that the contractor is liable for the repair or replacement of defects and workmanship flaws within the given warranty period. The contractor shoulders the cost of repairs and ensures that any defect is addressed promptly.

2. Structural Warranty

A structural warranty means the client can expect a strong and stable structure for an extended period. The contractor warrants secure, defect-free, and well-built building components such as the foundation, beams, columns, and load-bearing walls.

Warranty Period: Typically, contractors provide ten-year warranties or an even longer period depending on local regulations and the specific agreements.

3. Design-Build Warranty

This typically applies to projects where a single contractor is responsible for the construction and design or architecture of a structure. It’s an assurance that the design and construction of the project meet the specific standards discussed in the contract. It guarantees that the final product will appear and function as intended and that any defects will be addressed as needed.

4. Materials and Equipment Warranty

In construction projects, material suppliers provide a warranty that promises the effectiveness, functionality, and quality of the materials or equipment they’re manufacturing or selling. It’s a legal assurance that the materials provided and equipment furnished meet quality standards, protecting clients from defective materials that can compromise the integrity of the building.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Generally, the warranty length depends on the specifics of the project as well as your agreement with the contractor. However, workmanship warranty ranges from a one-year period to a five-year period, while material warranty coverage can last 15 to 30 years (e.g. roofing materials).

You can get an extended warranty or coverage plan beyond the standard warranty period (the industry standard is a one-year warranty) by purchasing it separately. This means you’ll be covered for a longer period than the initially offered warranty length.

Yes, there is usually a time limit to file a claim. For example, if you have a one-year warranty, you’ll have to file a warranty claim within that time frame.

Review your construction warranty documents and contract for more information and details on the duration of coverage and deadlines for filing a claim. If you’re still unsure, feel free to reach out to your contractor and clarify the details.

Apparent defects refer to defective work or flaws that are evidently and immediately apparent after the construction and completion of a project. These defects are quickly discovered upon inspection.

On the other hand, latent defects refer to defects that aren’t immediately visible or obvious. It can take years before latent defects are discovered. Typically, these flaws are uncovered through more than routine inspections.

Substantial completion means the project is in its final stages and nearly completed aside from a few minor aspects. When projects reach this stage, the application of construction warranties begins. It’s the point where both the contractor and property owner start watching for any problems covered by these warranties.

If problems or concerns come up after substantial completion, that’s when warranty claims can be made to start repairs and replacements as agreed on in the warranty.

Powerlift Foundation Repair: Trusted Foundation Repair Services With Reliable Warranty Coverage

powerlift foundation services

If you’re looking for a reputable contractor in the foundation repair industry, look no further than Powerlift Foundation Repair. With extensive experience and a well-trained staff dedicated to delivering only the best commercial and residential foundation repair services in Oklahoma, Arkansas, North Carolina, and Tennessee, we lead the industry in foundation repair.

Call us at 1-800-562-5438 today for a free quote!