Compare roofing quotes: a like-for-like homeowner checklist

1. Put every contractor on the same scope

Start a comparison with one column per contractor. Copy the exact wording rather than interpreting a blank as included. Mark each item as included, excluded, an allowance or awaiting confirmation. Send the unresolved items back for written clarification.

A partial repair, an overlay and a complete strip-and-renew are different proposals. Compare those options separately before comparing the contractors offering each option.

• Roof areas included, including porches and extensions
• Strip-off, retained layers and disposal
• Named covering, underlay, battens and fixings
• Insulation, ventilation, ridges, verges and eaves
• Chimneys, valleys, flashings, rooflights and solar coordination

2. Compare the amount you will actually pay

Record the quoted total, VAT treatment, fixed-price inclusions and provisional allowances. Check scaffold, protection, delivery, waste removal and any access licences. Do not compare a VAT-inclusive figure with one that excludes VAT.

For example, if Quote A is £8,000 including VAT and Quote B is £7,000 plus £1,400 VAT, Quote B is £8,400 before any exclusions. This is an arithmetic illustration, not a roof price guide or a statement of the VAT treatment of your work.

• Total payable and VAT stated clearly
• Scaffold elevations and hire period
• Protection and temporary weatherproofing
• Hidden timber or deck allowance and approval process
• Any work the homeowner must arrange separately

3. Control unknown work before the roof is opened

A sensible quotation acknowledges what cannot be seen. Ask what evidence triggers a variation, how labour and materials will be priced and who approves it. Avoid an unlimited commitment to replace anything the contractor later considers necessary.

Ask for photographs and a written price before additional non-emergency work proceeds. Also agree how the roof will be kept safe while a decision is made and what happens if weather delays the programme.

4. Judge the complete proposal

Check who contracts with you, what insurance and relevant registration can be verified, and who is responsible for compliance and the guarantee. The shortest programme or longest guarantee is not automatically the best offer: the written scope, exclusions and responsible organisation matter.

Choose the proposal that explains the problem, provides a credible solution and makes the financial responsibilities clear. If a material question remains unanswered, resolve it before accepting.

• Contracting business and contact details
• Programme, payment terms and exclusions
• Building Regulations route where applicable
• Workmanship versus manufacturer or insurance-backed cover
• Completion documents and snagging process