Surprisingly, many people spend more time contemplating the purchase of a new car than they do reviewing and questioning their home’s roof estimate. A roof can last a lifetime – why decide in a couple of hours?
Contact multiple roofing contractors in your area offering free estimates; compare and contrast their written estimates to determine the best arrangement for repairs or replacement of your roof. Make sure that you never sign a contract or commit with a contractor that has not inspected your roof on-site and in person.
What Should Be Included in Your Roof Estimate?
Knowing what should be included in your roof estimate can help reveal those contractors that are not looking out for your best interest. Plus, you can save yourself from added costs and headaches later. Here are some of the things that should be included in your estimate:
- Make sure that the estimate clearly outlines price and payment Information. A thorough estimate will indicate what the homeowner is responsible for, as well as what costs are covered by the contractor. This includes the amount of down payment, dates/amounts of progress payments, and the final payment. The estimate should also mention methods of payment accepted, as well as a provision for customer satisfaction when the job is complete.
- The roof estimate should also contain a full description of the work intended to be done, that is, the repairs and replacement information. This needs to be clear and specific to prevent any misunderstandings or frustration later during the project.
- The estimate should provide an approximate timeline for the roofing project, including a completion date. Certainly, there should be some wiggle-room to allow for unforeseen situations and occurrences as the project unfolds. These are typically called provisions, and they make allowances and allotments for unexpected charges.
- The estimate should provide a list of costs and expenses related to materials and labor. Make sure that this estimate also mentions permits needed, if applicable, for the roofing project. Also, look for costs associated with the clean-up and removal after the roof is complete, and if it is the roofing contractor’s responsibility or yours.
- Work with a roofer that takes the time and makes the effort to explain your material options. You will have choices regarding shingles, flashing, ventilation, and underlayments, so you should know the distinctions and price differentials to make an informed decision. Watch for details on your estimate: you should expect to see specific brands, amounts, types, and sizes of fixtures and materials included on the estimate.
- Speaking of flashing, this is an often-overlooked element of a roofing estimate and cost breakdown. A good estimate includes specific details regarding your roof’s flashing and ventilation – many contractors are missing that on their estimate. When these specifics are excluded, it may interfere with or invalidate your roof’s extended warranty.
- Your estimate should offer some sort of guarantee regarding the quality and your expectations regarding the completed work. What if you are not pleased with the outcome? What are your options? Also, it merits repeating that there should be clearly defined roles regarding clean up and removal of debris during and after the project, too. Don’t get stuck with a mess!
- Regarding the roof’s warranty, make sure that the estimate reflects specific details regarding the warranty period and coverages that your roof comes with. That is, know how long your roof is protected under the warranty and what the lifespan of your roof is. It is common for warranties to be transferable in case you sell your home, so make sure this is clearly addressed in your estimate, too.
- What do you know about your roofing contractor’s insurance and licensure? Maybe not too much – make sure that this information is also highlighted on their written estimate, and no, you should not have to request that this information is included. Proof of licensure is vital before allowing any contractor on or near your roof. Without adequate insurance in place, you could be on the hook if the roofer is injured or if they damage your property. Look for a release that protects you in situations involving subcontractors, too. Never enter an agreement or sign a contract with a contractor that does not provide you with proof of insurance and licensure. It is that simple.
- There should be specific reasons why you or your contractor can exit the arrangement and end the contract. This is often called a Means of Exit or Notice of Cancellation and every roofing estimate should clearly outline their termination clause. This should define why the agreement can be nullified and what penalties exist. This is a very important part of your roof estimate.
Be wary of roofing estimates that seem too good to be true; they probably are. Make sure that the estimate considers your warranty, as cheap quotes could overlook key aspects that invalidate a warranty. Also, never agree to work with a contractor that offers to waive or reduce your insurance deductible – this is illegal.
So, what should your roof estimate include? Spicer Bros. Construction is happy to answer your questions! Call us today to schedule an appointment for your free, no-obligation roof estimate.
