In this guide
A clear quotation should let you explain the job to someone else without filling in the gaps yourself. Keep this checklist beside the quote and mark anything you still need to discuss.
The roof and the work
- Which roof slope, chimney, gutter run or flat roof is included?
- What problem is the work intended to resolve?
- Which materials will be removed, retained and replaced?
- Are flashing, edges, ridges, ventilation or drainage included where relevant?
- What falls outside the agreed work?
“Repair roof” is difficult to compare. “Replace the damaged tiles on the rear slope and repair the identified flashing junction” tells you much more. The final wording should describe the findings at your property.
Materials and appearance
Look for the proposed covering, profile or system, not simply “new tiles” or “rubber roof”. Where a repair meets an older roof, establish the likely visual match. If a product is unavailable, agree how any alternative will be discussed before installation.
Access and the days on site
Confirm who arranges scaffolding, deliveries and waste removal. Discuss parking, gates, shared passages and anything below the roof that needs protection. Establish who you will contact during the job, the expected working arrangements and how weather delays will be communicated.
Price and discoveries
The total should make clear any applicable tax, exclusions and payment stages. Concealed defects need a clear process: what evidence you will see, how extra work will be priced and how you will agree a change. A vague contingency should not replace an explanation of what is known and unknown.
Completion and any cover
Ask what you will receive when the work is complete, such as the invoice, photographs and relevant product information. If a guarantee is offered, request the written terms: who provides it, what it covers, its duration and exclusions, and how a concern would be raised. Do not assume a product warranty and workmanship cover are the same thing.
Before you accept
Read the business details and scope together, resolve unclear points in writing and retain the accepted version. The NFRC’s homeowner guidance is a useful independent reference when choosing a contractor.
Still deciding how much work is needed? Read repair or replacement, or send an enquiry.