Roof Replacement Estimate Checklist

Overview

A roofing estimate should do more than show a total price. It should give you enough detail to understand the proposed roofing system, compare competing bids, identify exclusions, and know how unexpected work will be handled.

1. Contractor and project information

Confirm the contractor’s legal business name, contact information, project address, proposal date, and the person responsible for the job. Verify applicable licensing and insurance requirements independently.

2. Tear-off and disposal

The estimate should state how many existing roof layers are being removed, what materials are included in tear-off, and whether hauling, disposal, dump fees, and site cleanup are included.

Key comparison point: If one proposal includes a clear decking price and another says only “extra if needed,” the totals are not yet directly comparable.

3. Roof decking terms

Decking is often a major variable because concealed damage may not be visible until tear-off. Look for the included allowance, unit price, or other method used to price replacement decking if additional work becomes necessary.

4. Underlayment and leak protection

Look for the specific underlayment being proposed and where leak-protection materials will be installed. Avoid relying on vague descriptions such as “standard underlayment” when comparing bids.

5. Shingles or primary roof covering

The proposal should identify the manufacturer, product line, style or profile, and other relevant product details. Confirm whether starter materials and matching hip-and-ridge components are included where applicable.

6. Flashing and roof penetrations

The estimate should explain how flashing at walls, chimneys, valleys, skylights, plumbing vents and other penetrations will be handled. Ask which flashing is being replaced and whether any existing components are intended to remain.

7. Ventilation

A replacement proposal should explain whether attic ventilation was evaluated and what intake or exhaust changes, if any, are included. Ventilation should be considered as a system rather than as a single vent product.

8. Edges, accessories and finish details

Confirm drip edge, pipe boots, vents, ridge components, sealants and other accessories included in the proposed system. Small omitted components can make two estimates look more comparable than they really are.

9. Property protection and cleanup

Ask how landscaping, siding, windows, driveways and other areas will be protected. The proposal should also address debris removal and final cleanup.

10. Permits, inspections and code-related work

Requirements vary by location. The agreement should clarify who is responsible for applicable permits and inspections and how required scope changes would be handled.

11. Warranties

Separate manufacturer product coverage from contractor workmanship coverage. Ask what documentation you will receive, the stated coverage periods, important exclusions, and any registration requirements.

12. Payment and change orders

The contract should state the price or pricing method, payment schedule, and how additional work is authorized. Do not rely on verbal agreements for material changes to scope or price.