Roof Leaks & Defective Roofing
Few things alarm homeowners more than discovering water dripping from the ceiling or stains spreading across drywall after a rainstorm. Roof leaks are among the most common—and most frustrating—construction defects in Colorado homes. They often point to deeper problems with the way the roof was designed or installed, not simply a single missing shingle or sealant bead. What begins as a small leak can quickly lead to mold, structural damage, and costly interior repairs if not properly addressed.
How Roof Leaks Develop
A roof is more than shingles or tiles—it’s a complete system of layers that must work together to keep water out. When any layer is installed incorrectly, water will find a path inside. Many new-home roof leaks are caused by improper underlayment installation, missing flashing at valleys or transitions, or unsealed penetrations around vents and chimneys. Sometimes roofers fail to overlap materials correctly, leaving channels for wind-driven rain. Other times, poor design or rushed construction causes the entire roof slope to drain improperly.
Because Colorado’s weather includes heavy snow, hail, and rapid freeze-thaw cycles, roofs here face unique stresses. If the builder uses low-grade materials or skips key waterproofing steps, water intrusion is inevitable—and often shows up only after the first major storm season.
Common Signs of Roofing Defects
Ceiling stains or damp spots after rain or snow
Curling, loose, or missing shingles
Exposed nail heads or improperly sealed vents
Drips or water damage near chimneys, skylights, or valleys
Mold or musty odors in attic spaces
Uneven or sagging roof planes
Even when leaks appear localized, the underlying problem may extend across large portions of the roof system.
Why Roofing Defects Occur
In many cases, roof leaks are not “acts of nature” but the result of poor workmanship or design. Common causes include:
Improper flashing installation around roof penetrations and edges
Inadequate overlap or fastening of underlayment
Missing or defective ice and water shield membranes
Incorrect shingle patterning or attachment
Failure to slope roof planes or gutters to drain correctly
Use of incompatible or low-quality materials
Builders sometimes try to blame weather or homeowners’ maintenance, but most leaks trace directly to deviations from industry standards or building code requirements.
Who Is Responsible
Under Colorado law, builders, developers, and subcontractors are required to construct roofs in accordance with local building codes and accepted construction practices. When they fail to do so, they can be held accountable under the Colorado Construction Defect Action Reform Act (CDARA). Roofing manufacturers may also share responsibility if their products were defective or installed per misleading specifications.
How Hollington Law Firm Can Help
At Hollington Law Firm, we represent Colorado homeowners dealing with roof leaks and water intrusion caused by defective construction. We work with independent roofing experts and building envelope consultants to determine how the roof was built, where water is entering, and what must be done to fix it correctly. From there, we guide clients through Colorado’s Notice of Claim process and, when necessary, pursue recovery through settlement, arbitration, or litigation.
Our goal is simple: to ensure your home is properly repaired and that those responsible for the defective work—not you—bear the cost.
Contact Us
If your roof leaks or shows signs of water damage, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact Hollington Law Firm to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you understand the cause, evaluate your options under Colorado law, and take the steps needed to protect your home and investment.