Is it normal for a new roof to leak?

Generally no. A properly installed new roof should keep water out, but a brief leak during the first heavy rain can occur as materials settle and shingles seal. If water continues to enter, it needs prompt attention under warranty and from the contractor.

This article explains why a new roof might leak, how to tell whether it’s a temporary issue or a sign of a larger problem, and what steps to take to protect your home and secure a proper repair under warranty.

Why leaks can happen on a new roof

Leaks in the first year are more often related to installation quality, flashing, or weather conditions encountered during construction. Attic conditions and ventilation can also influence whether moisture finds its way inside, even with a new roof.

Common causes of leaks on a new roof

Before listing the most frequent culprits, note that diagnosing a leak requires looking at roof components, attic ventilation, and the contractor’s warranty terms.

• Missing, damaged, or misaligned shingles that expose underlayment


• Poorly installed flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and transitions to walls


• Damaged or improperly installed underlayment (roof felt or synthetic underlayment)


• Nails that missed framing, overdriven nails, or nail heads that allow water entry


• Improperly installed ridge, hip, or vent components that affect seal and drainage


• Inadequate attic ventilation or excessive humidity leading to condensation on the roof deck


• Weather during installation (high winds, rain) dislodging components or affecting seals

Most of these issues can be resolved under warranty, often by the original installer, without needing a full roof replacement.

What to do if you notice a leak on a new roof

If you detect water intrusion, act quickly to minimize interior damage and to support a proper repair under warranty.

1. Ensure safety: avoid climbing onto a wet roof; keep children and pets away from the affected area; if conditions are dangerous, postpone inspection.


2. Protect the interior: place buckets under drips, move valuables, and cover furnishings with plastic or tarps to limit damage until a repair can be performed.


3. Document the issue: take clear photos of leaks, ceiling stains, attic conditions, and any visible roof area; log dates and rainfall amounts if possible.


4. Contact the installer and review warranties: notify the roofing contractor about the leak and reference your workmanship and manufacturer warranties; have your contract and photos ready.


5. Request a professional assessment: ask for a written inspection and repair plan, with a timeline and cost estimate if applicable.


6. Follow up and monitor: if leaks persist after a repair, seek a second opinion or escalation under warranty; maintain records of all communications and work performed.

Warranty coverage can vary by contractor and product. Workmanship warranties generally cover installation issues for a defined period, while manufacturer warranties cover defects in materials and may have longer terms. Review both to determine who should perform repairs and what is covered.

Warranty coverage and contractor responsibilities

Understanding your protections helps you respond appropriately when a leak occurs. Here are the two main types of coverage to consider.

Workmanship warranty

This protects against issues caused by the installation itself for a defined period, often ranging from one to several years depending on the contractor. Repairs under this warranty are typically performed by the original installer.

Manufacturer warranty

Shielding against defects in shingles and some components, manufacturer warranties vary widely in duration and coverage. Common shingle warranties span 20 to 50 years, with some coverage for manufacturing defects, color fading, and curling; terms may be prorated over time and may require proper installation to remain valid.

Summary

A new roof should keep your home dry. If leaks appear in the first year, they are usually due to installation issues, flashing problems, or weather-related factors during construction. Act quickly and safely: protect the interior, document the leak, and contact the installer to arrange a warranty-covered repair. Regular maintenance and proper attic ventilation can help prevent future leaks.

Should a new roof have a guarantee?

Guarantees matter not just for peace of mind, but to protect your investment (and they impress future buyers). Here's what to remember: Aim for at least 10 years of workmanship cover for a pitched roof, and 20–40 years on the materials.

What to do if roof still leaks after roof replacement?

Contact the Roofing Company That Installed Your Roof
If the damage was from the work of the roofing company itself, such as not properly securing shingles, improperly flashing a penetration, or forgetting to nail down certain shingles, then it is likely covered under warranty.

Why would a new roof leak?

A new roof can leak due to improper installation, which is the most common cause, or defective materials. Other potential causes include damaged or improperly installed flashing around penetrations like chimneys or vents, and issues with seams or gutters. In some cases, problems like insufficient attic ventilation can lead to premature damage and leaks. 
This video explains why new roofs leak due to bad installation and other factors: 58sGrand Roofing Inc.YouTube · Aug 10, 2022
Common causes for a new roof leak

• Improper installation: This is the most frequent reason for leaks in new roofs and can result from cutting corners, using shortcuts to save time or money, or a general lack of attention to detail during the installation process. 
• Flashing issues: Flashing is used to waterproof areas where the roof meets a wall, chimney, or other vertical structures. If it is improperly installed, damaged, or sealed incorrectly, it can allow water to penetrate the roof. 
• Defective materials: While less common than installation errors, it's possible for a new roof to leak if it was manufactured with defective materials. 
• Poor workmanship: Mistakes can happen, such as incorrect screw placement, loose fasteners, or inadequate sealing, which can lead to leaks. 
• Insufficient attic ventilation: A lack of proper ventilation can cause heat to build up in the attic, which can deteriorate shingles and other roofing materials over time, leading to leaks even on a new roof. 
• Seam and valley problems: In some types of roofing, seams where large sheets of material are joined are weak points. If these seams are not properly sealed or if the roof's valleys are installed incorrectly, they can fail and cause leaks. 
• Other penetrations: Skylights, vents, and chimneys can be points of failure if they are not installed correctly, leading to leaks. 
• External factors: Sometimes, other construction work on the house can damage a new roof. For example, if scaffolding is attached to the roof for siding installation, the holes left behind can become entry points for water if not properly repaired. 

You can watch this video to learn about roof leaks caused by bad roof installation: 59sGrand Roofing Inc.YouTube · Apr 6, 2022
What to do if your new roof is leaking

• Contain the leak: Place a bucket or towels under the leak to contain the water and prevent further damage to your home's interior. 
• Check your warranty: Your new roof is likely still under warranty. Contact the original installer and review your warranty documents to understand your rights and how to proceed with a claim. 
• Contact a professional: A professional roofing contractor can inspect the roof to pinpoint the exact cause of the leak and perform the necessary repairs. 

This video demonstrates how to find a roof leak caused by bad nail placement: 1mGrand Roofing Inc.YouTube · Jul 30, 2024

Are leaks common in new builds?

Although new homes must meet strict building codes, leaks can occur due to construction or material defects. This isn't unusual, so it's important to stay alert for signs of leakage.