Contractor identification
Confirm legal business name, contact information, licensing information where required, insurance verification, and who is responsible for the project.
Roofing material
- Manufacturer
- Exact product line
- Color
- Starter components
- Hip/ridge products
- Fastening method where relevant
Removal and disposal
- Number/type of existing layers included in tear-off
- Debris hauling
- Dumpster/trailer placement
- Disposal fees
- Property-protection procedures
Decking
Ask how the deck will be evaluated after tear-off and obtain the price basis for replacing deteriorated sheets or boards. Confirm how additional work is approved.
Underlayment and water protection
- Underlayment product/type
- Special membrane locations when included
- Valley treatment
- Roof-edge details
Flashing and penetrations
- Chimneys
- Walls
- Skylights
- Plumbing vents
- Other roof penetrations
- Existing flashing: replace, reuse, or modify?
Ventilation
Identify intake and exhaust components included in the proposal. Ask why changes are recommended and whether manufacturer or code requirements apply.
Permits and inspections
Determine whether permits are required, who obtains them, who pays fees, and who schedules inspections.
Cleanup
Ask how old roofing, packaging, debris, and loose fasteners will be addressed and what the final walkthrough includes.
Warranties
Separate manufacturer coverage from contractor workmanship coverage. Obtain written terms and understand registration, exclusions, transfer provisions, and claim procedures.
Payments and changes
The agreement should state deposit/payment timing, final payment, and the process for approving and pricing change orders.
Final comparison
Compare scope to scope—not just total to total. If one proposal is much lower, identify exactly which materials or tasks differ before deciding.