Getting Quotes

Force Every Roofer To Price the Same Problem

Three written quotes is a strong target. But the number matters less than the discipline behind it.

Send every roofer the same roof brief. Same photos, same leak history, same questions. This sounds obvious. It is the difference between a clean comparison and a pile of unrelated estimates.

Each quote should answer six questions clearly: What job are you pricing — repair, overlay, or full tear-off? What materials and components are included? What is excluded? Who handles permits and inspections? Who will be on the roof — employees, subcontractors, or both? And how are change orders handled if hidden damage is found?

That last question matters more than most homeowners realize. Roofing often uncovers hidden decking damage, flashing failures, or ventilation problems that were invisible from the ground. A professional roofer should be able to explain, before the job starts, how those discoveries will be documented, approved, and priced.

Permits should also be settled before you compare totals. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation renovation guide cautions that failing to obtain required permits can create problems later, including when selling the home. Your quote should state whether the contractor will confirm the requirement, who applies if one is needed, and whether the fee is included.

Ask each roofer to be specific about materials. "Architectural shingles" is not enough. You want the roofing system: shingle brand and model, underlayment type, ice-and-water membrane placement, flashing treatment, ventilation components, and cleanup expectations. If your quotes mention ventilation work, our guide to roof ventilation and attic insulation explains why this scope item matters for long-term roof performance.