Most problems in a new garage show up in the first wet season: hairline slab cracks, a leak at a roof joint, or water under the door. Many are small and normal; some need the builder back. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Every dollar figure on this page is a national figure published by HomeGuide, not a quote from us. HomeGuide publishes no garage price for Santa Rosa or for California, so we do not claim one. Clay soil, slope, fire zone rules, seismic bracing and access all move the price of a garage here. Figures read on HomeGuide in October 2026.
My new garage slab has cracks. Is that normal?
Hairline cracks are normal; concrete shrinks as it cures, and control joints are cut to guide where it cracks. Cracks that widen, shift up on one side or run across the slab in many places point to settling or swelling soil, which is common on Santa Rosa clay. Measure and photograph them over a season. Tell the builder in writing if they grow.
My new garage roof leaks. Who fixes it?
The builder should fix a leak caused by the work, under the terms of your contract. Leaks in a new garage are usually at flashing, the joint with the house on an attached garage, a vent or a skylight. Note when it leaks, take photos, and send the builder a written request. The first big winter storm is when most leaks show up.
The new garage door will not close right. What now?
A door that will not close all the way, reverses or rubs usually needs its tracks aligned, its springs adjusted, or its safety sensors cleaned or aimed. Do not adjust springs yourself; they are under high tension. Call the installer first. HomeGuide's opener page lists opener repairs at $150 to $350 nationally if the work is not covered.
What warranty should I get on a new garage?
Ask for any warranty in writing, in the contract, and read what it covers and for how long. Ask separately about the manufacturer warranties on the garage door, opener, roofing and windows, and keep the papers. You may also have rights under California law beyond any written warranty; a lawyer can explain them.
Water is coming in under the garage door. How do I stop it?
Water under the door usually means the bottom seal is worn or not touching the floor, the driveway slopes toward the door, or the slab is set too low. Try a new bottom seal or a threshold strip first. If the driveway slopes in, a trench drain across the apron is the lasting fix. Clay soil around Santa Rosa holds water at the surface, so this shows up in the wet season.
What if the builder will not come back to fix problems?
Write to the builder with photos, the contract terms and a reasonable deadline, and keep a copy. List every item on one punch list so nothing is lost. If they still do not respond, file a complaint with the Contractors State License Board. Withholding the final payment over unfinished items should follow what the contract says.
Where do I file a complaint against a contractor in California?
File with the Contractors State License Board, which takes complaints about licensed and unlicensed contractors and has the forms on its website. For a money dispute, small claims court is another path. Keep your contract, payment records, photos and messages.
Want a number for your own lot? We visit, measure and check the rules, then put the scope and price in a written quote. Call or text (707) 392-2557.