What’s Covered Under a Structural Warranty in Texas?

When you buy a new construction home in Texas, one number stands out: 10 years. That’s the standard length of your structural warranty, the part designed to protect you from serious, expensive foundation or framing issues.

But what exactly does “structural” mean—and what does it not include?

Here’s a breakdown every Lubbock homeowner should know.

1. What the Structural Warranty Covers
A structural warranty protects your home’s load-bearing components—the parts that literally hold the house up.
That includes:

• Foundation and footings

• Load-bearing walls and beams

• Roof framing and trusses

• Floor framing systems

• Structural columns or lintels

If a covered component fails due to poor workmanship or materials, your builder (or their insurer) is required to repair or replace it.

Think of it as coverage for the bones of your home—not the skin.

2. What It Doesn’t Cover
Structural warranties don’t cover cosmetic issues or non-load-bearing elements. Exclusions often include:

• Cracks in drywall or concrete less than ¼ inch wide (considered normal settling)

• Roof leaks caused by flashing or shingles (that’s materials, not structure)

• Doors or windows sticking from humidity or minor foundation movement

• Drainage or grading issues unless they lead to structural failure

It’s designed for major failures, not everyday wear.

3. Why Texas Homes Need It
Lubbock’s clay soil expands and contracts dramatically with moisture changes, which can stress foundations over time.
That’s why Texas law mandates 10 years of structural coverage for all new residential construction under the state’s Residential Construction Liability Act (RCLA).

Builders can meet this requirement through in-house warranties or third-party providers like StrucSure, 2-10, or Centricity.

4. What to Do If You Suspect an Issue
If you notice wide cracks, sloping floors, or misaligned doors, document everything immediately—photos, dates, and measurements—and contact your builder or warranty company in writing.
The earlier you report it, the stronger your claim.

5. Keep Your Warranty Active
Routine maintenance still matters. Keep gutters clear, maintain consistent moisture around the foundation, and avoid large trees planted too close to the slab. Poor maintenance can void even valid claims.

A structural warranty isn’t something you’ll (hopefully) ever need—but if you do, it can save you from financial disaster.

When I help clients buy new construction, I make sure they understand what’s covered, what’s not, and who to call if cracks start to whisper.

— Insights from Tess Hernandez, Realtor | Reside Real Estate