In construction regulations, the roof is a vital component ensuring your home's structural integrity. That's why it's covered by the mandatory 10-year guarantee (garantie décennale). Your roofer's insurance protects you against defects or substandard workmanship.
French law requires roofers to provide this document when issuing quotes. Since July 2016, the certificate of insurance must accompany all quotes and invoices. As experts at Ladecennale.fr explain, it details contract references, the insurer's and roofer's identities, and warranty scope—including techniques used and geographical coverage.
Verify that it specifically covers roofing activities. You must receive this proof before work starts, and keep it for potential home sales within 10 years, as buyers will need it too.
If defects appear in roof installation, design, or materials, invoke the guarantee. This includes issues like condensation from poor construction of a cold flat roof.
Similarly, inadequate rainwater drainage due to improper insulation panel fixing on a warm flat roof qualifies. Faulty joints, tears, or cracks in materials like EPDM can compromise your home—assert your rights confidently.
If the roofing was done less than 10 years ago and you notice issues, act promptly, especially regarding your property damage insurance. First, send a registered letter to the roofer demanding repairs under the guarantee, attaching photos and evidence of the defect's 10-year relevance. They may fix it directly or involve their insurer. No response? Contact the insurer directly as an injured third party under Insurance Code Article L124-3.
