Roof replacement estimate comparison worksheet

Roof profile

Item	Notes
Roof type	Asphalt shingle / metal / tile / slate / flat or low-slope / other
Approximate age
Known layers	One / two / unknown
Leaks or stains
Skylights, chimneys, valleys, or dormers
Attic ventilation type	Ridge / soffit / gable / powered / unknown
Storm, hail, or insurance claim involved?
Photos or inspection report available?

Estimate comparison

Estimate item	Contractor 1	Contractor 2	Contractor 3
Total price
Tear-off included
Number of layers removed
Decking replacement allowance
Underlayment type
Ice/water barrier location
Drip edge included
Flashing replacement included
Valley treatment
Ventilation changes
Starter shingles or edge details
Pipe boots and vents
Gutters affected
Cleanup and magnetic nail sweep
Permit included
Labor warranty
Material warranty
Work schedule

Materials and resilience questions

• What product line, color, and warranty tier are listed?
• Are accessories from the same system required for warranty eligibility?
• Will flashing be replaced, reused, or evaluated case by case?
• How will bad decking be priced if discovered after tear-off?
• Is upgraded wind, hail, or sealed-deck performance available or required by the insurer?
• Are attic intake and exhaust ventilation balanced?
• Are local code, HOA, wildfire, hurricane, or historic-district requirements relevant?

Documentation to request

Document	Received?	Notes
Written scope of work
Proof of license where required
Insurance certificate
Permit plan
Product names and warranty documents
Change-order pricing for decking
Payment schedule
Cleanup and property protection plan

Red flags to slow down

• The estimate says “replace roof” but does not list tear-off, flashing, underlayment, and ventilation details.
• The contractor says permits are unnecessary without explaining local requirements.
• Rotten decking pricing is open-ended or missing.
• The bid relies on reusing old flashing without inspection notes.
• Warranty language is verbal only.
• You are asked to sign over insurance benefits without understanding the contract.
• The contractor pressures you to climb onto the roof or inspect unsafe areas yourself.