Guarantees & compliance

How long should I keep roofing paperwork?

Short answer: Keep it for at least the life of the roof or your ownership, and pass relevant records to a buyer. Digital and paper copies reduce the risk of loss.

What this means in practice

A useful handover proves what was installed, who is responsible and how compliance was achieved. Product warranties, workmanship guarantees, insurance-backed cover and Building Regulations certificates are different documents and should not be presented as interchangeable.

What to check next

  • Store the accepted quote and final invoice
  • Keep certificates and guarantee terms
  • Retain dated photographs and maintenance records

When should you ask a roofer to inspect it?

Confirm the compliance and guarantee route before work starts, not after the scaffold comes down. At completion, check the property address, scope, dates, exclusions, transfer rules and issuing organisation, then retain the documents with the invoice and photographs.

Safety first: do not climb onto a roof without suitable access, training and protection. Keep clear of loose coverings, unstable ceilings and water near electrical fittings.

Technical content reviewJ & L Welch Roofing & Paving Services Ltd · Over 20 years of combined roofing experienceReviewed 28 August 2026 · How our answers are produced

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