Understanding Warranty Transfer for a Morton Buildings 50×80 Structure
When you own a Morton Buildings 50×80 pole barn, the warranty is one of its most valuable assets. However, transferring that warranty to a new owner isn’t always a straightforward process. This article explores the key aspects of warranty transferability for this specific building size, focusing on troubleshooting common issues that can complicate a transfer.
Whether you’re planning to sell your property or have recently purchased one with an existing building, knowing the fine print can save thousands in potential repair costs. The Morton Buildings 50×80 warranty typically covers materials and workmanship for up to 50 years on certain components, but transfer conditions vary by region and original contract details.
Is the Morton Buildings 50×80 Warranty Transferable After a Sale?
Yes, the warranty is transferable, but only under specific conditions. Morton Buildings allows one transfer of the original warranty to a subsequent owner within the first 10 years of the structure’s life. After that period, the warranty becomes non-transferable and applies only to the original owner.
To initiate a transfer, the new owner must submit a formal request to Morton Buildings within 30 days of closing the sale. A transfer fee, typically ranging from $150 to $300 depending on the region and building configuration, is required. Additionally, the building must pass a basic inspection to confirm no unauthorized modifications or neglect have occurred.
Common issues that void transferability include unapproved structural changes, such as adding a loft without engineered plans, or failing to maintain the building’s foundation system. If you’re considering a purchase, always request the original warranty documentation and verify the building’s age with the serial number plate typically located near the main entry door.
What Documentation Is Needed for a Warranty Transfer?
Proper documentation is critical for a smooth transfer. Morton Buildings requires the following items:
- A completed Warranty Transfer Request form, which can be downloaded from their website or obtained from the local sales office.
- A copy of the original purchase agreement or sales contract for the building.
- Proof of property ownership transfer, such as the deed or settlement statement.
- Photographs of the building’s exterior and interior, including the foundation, roof, and door assemblies.
- A $200 non-refundable transfer fee, payable by check or credit card.
Missing any of these documents can delay the process by weeks or even result in denial. The inspection that accompanies the transfer focuses on common trouble spots: the pressure-treated skids or post-in-ground system, overhead door tracks, and roof truss connections. For a deeper look at foundation options, see our guide on Morton Buildings 50×80: Pressure-Treated Skids vs Post-in-Ground Foundation.
Can a Warranty Be Voided by DIY Modifications?
Yes, unauthorized DIY modifications are a leading cause of warranty voidance on Morton Buildings 50×80 structures. The warranty explicitly states that any alteration not pre-approved in writing by Morton Buildings will nullify coverage for the affected components and potentially the entire building.
Common problematic modifications include:
- Cutting or drilling into structural columns or trusses to install electrical wiring or shelving.
- Adding lean-to roofs or awnings without engineered drawings.
- Replacing overhead door springs or tracks with non-Morton parts.
- Installing a concrete floor that does not comply with original foundation specifications.
If you are planning a DIY assembly of a new Morton 50×80, note that the warranty only applies when the building is installed by a Morton certified crew. For our stance on owner-led construction, read DIY Metal Building Assembly: Is It Feasible for a Morton 50×80?.
How Does Snow Load Affect Warranty Coverage for the Roof?
Snow load is a significant factor for any pole barn in colder climates, and the Morton 50×80 warranty covers roof sagging or failure only if the building is maintained properly. The warranty excludes damage from snow loads exceeding the design specifications for your geographic region, which are outlined in the original contract.
If you experience roof sagging, the first step is to determine whether the issue is covered. Morton will typically inspect the roof trusses and purlins to see if the damage resulted from exceeding the rated load or from material defects. A common troubleshooting tip is to measure the roof slope at several points; a difference of more than one inch over a 10-foot span often indicates structural issues.
For comprehensive troubleshooting of sagging roofs, see Troubleshooting Snow Load on Morton 50×80 Roof: Sagging Prevention. Remember that regular snow removal can mitigate risk, but improper removal methods (such as using a metal shovel) can damage standing seam panels and void the roof warranty.
| Component | Warranty Period | Transferable? | Typical Repair Cost (Out of Warranty) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel siding and roofing panels | 50 years (fade/peel) | Yes (within 10 years) | $2,500 – $5,000 for partial replacement |
| Structural columns (treated posts) | 40 years | Yes (within 10 years) | $800 – $1,500 per column replacement |
| Overhead doors and openers | 5 years | No | $1,200 – $3,000 for complete unit |
| Warranty transfer fee | N/A | N/A | $200 (one-time) |
What Owners Say About Transferring a Morton 50×80 Warranty
Owners who have successfully transferred their Morton Buildings 50×80 warranty often emphasize the importance of timing and documentation. One owner in Illinois noted that their transfer was denied initially because they missed the 30-day deadline by just two weeks. Another owner in Ohio reported that the inspection revealed a slight lean in one post, which required an $800 repair before the transfer could proceed.
Conversely, smooth transfers typically involve properties where the building is less than five years old and has not undergone any modifications. “We closed on the house and submitted the paperwork the next day,” said a Michigan owner. “The inspector came out within a week, and everything was approved. It gave the new buyer peace of mind.”
Common frustrations include the non-refundable fee and the strict documentation requirements. Several owners recommend contacting the local Morton sales office before listing the property to request a pre-transfer inspection. This proactive step can identify issues like frost heave or cracked footings before they become deal-breakers. Refer to Morton 50×80 Pole Barn: Frost Protection for Footings for maintenance tips that preserve warranty coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I transfer my Morton 50×80 warranty if I sell the property after 10 years?
No. The warranty transfer option is only available within the first 10 years from the original purchase date. After that, the warranty remains valid but only for the original owner and is non-transferable.
2. Does the warranty cover damage from high winds or tornadoes?
Yes, but only if the building was constructed with the wind bracing package specified for your region. Morton Buildings offers optional wind bracing upgrades. If your building lacks retrofitted cable or rod bracing, coverage may be limited. See Morton Buildings 50×80 Wind Bracing: When to Retrofit with Cable or Rod for details.
3. What happens if I can’t find the original warranty paperwork?
You can request a duplicate from Morton Buildings using the building’s serial number (usually stamped on a metal plate near the main door). There is a $50 administrative fee for this service, and processing can take up to 4 weeks.
4. Are overhead door issues covered under the building warranty?
Overhead doors have a separate, shorter warranty (typically 5 years) and are not transferable. Separate warranties apply to the door opener and tracks. For sizing and style recommendations, read Morton 50×80: Choosing the Right Overhead Door Size and Style.
5. Can I still get repairs if my warranty transfer was denied?
Yes, but you will pay out of pocket. Morton Buildings may still offer repair services at standard rates, but no warranty discounts apply. Typical roof panel replacement costs $500 to $1,000 per panel, depending on the type and length.
6. Does the warranty cover my concrete floor or foundation work?
The standard Morton 50×80 warranty does not cover concrete floors or footings that were installed by a third-party contractor unless explicitly stated in your contract. Only the building structure itself (posts, trusses, steel panels) is covered. For frost-related foundation issues, see Morton 50×80 Pole Barn: Frost Protection for Footings.
