Roof planning guide
Roofing Contractor Interview & Quote Checklist
A lower number is not a lower price when the scope omits decking, flashing, ventilation, disposal, permits, protection, or closeout. Use this page to make every bidder price the same roof system.
Contractor interview
Eight conversations before you compare price.
Measured scope
What measured roof area, pitch, access, stories, and existing layers does this price assume?
Exact system
Name the covering, starter, underlayment, ice protection, flashing, ventilation, fasteners, and ridge/edge components.
Decking
What decking condition is included, what is the per-sheet replacement price, and who approves an overage?
Water details
How will valleys, sidewalls, chimneys, skylights, penetrations, and kick-out flashing be handled?
Ventilation
Who evaluates intake and exhaust ventilation, and what calculation or manufacturer requirement supports the plan?
Permit and inspections
Who confirms the enforcing agency, applies, pays, schedules inspections, corrects issues, and delivers final approval?
Protection and cleanup
How are landscaping, siding, gutters, windows, driveway, attic, and magnetic nail cleanup protected and documented?
Warranty and closeout
What workmanship and manufacturer coverage applies, who registers it, and what records do I receive before final payment?
Whole-system comparison
A roof is more than the visible shingle.
Project sequence
Plan milestones—not promised calendar days.
Measure and diagnose
Confirm roof area, slopes, layers, access, visible damage, attic ventilation, penetrations, and special details.
Normalize bids
Issue one written scope, compare exact systems, verify credentials, references, insurance, warranty terms, and exclusions.
Confirm permit path and products
Resolve the enforcing agency, application or inspection steps, material availability, colors, dumpster and delivery placement.
Tear off, inspect, and approve changes
Document concealed conditions. Require written quantity and price approval before decking or structural overages proceed.
Install the complete system
Coordinate water protection, covering, flashing, ventilation, edges, penetrations, and weather protection.
Inspect and close out
Complete required inspections, cleanup, attic and exterior review, punch list, warranties, photos, receipts, and final records.
Weather, inspection availability, concealed damage, product availability, roof complexity, crew size, and change orders can alter elapsed time. Obtain a written sequencing and communication plan instead of relying on a universal duration.
Quote-comparison template