Choosing a roofer
How to Read a Roofing Estimate Line by Line
Two estimates for the same roof can look very different. Here is what a good one should include, what to question, and what Indiana requires in writing.
The short answer: If your roof has years left and the damage is in one area, repair it. If shingles are failing across the roof or the same leaks keep returning, a replacement saves money over time. We tell you which one applies, with photos.
Why the details matter
A roofing estimate with a single number and a one-line description tells you almost nothing. You cannot compare it to another bid, and you cannot hold anyone to it. A good estimate is itemized, so you can see what you are paying for and ask questions before work starts.
Compare at least two or three itemized written estimates, as we explain in our guide on how to choose the best roofing company in Indianapolis.
What a good estimate should list
- Scope of work. Which part of the roof, and whether it is a repair or a full replacement. Our repair vs replacement guide explains the difference.
- Tear-off. Whether old roofing is removed down to the decking, and how many layers.
- Decking repairs. How rotted or damaged boards will be handled and priced, for example per sheet, so a hidden problem does not become a surprise bill.
- Underlayment and water barriers. The type used, and where, such as along eaves and valleys.
- Flashing. Chimneys, skylights, walls, valleys and roof edges. See our chimney flashing repair page for why flashing matters.
- Shingles or other roofing. The manufacturer, product line and color, not just “architectural shingles.”
- Ventilation. Ridge or other vents, and whether existing vents will be replaced. See our ventilation and ice dam page.
- Cleanup. Disposal of debris and a magnet sweep for nails.
- Permits. Who pulls them. See our roof permit guide.
- Timeline and payment terms. Start and finish dates, the payment schedule, and what happens if weather delays the job.
- Warranty. What the contractor covers and what the manufacturer covers. See our roof warranties explained.
What Indiana requires in writing
Indiana’s Home Improvement Contracts Act applies to home improvement contracts over $150, excluding financing costs, taxes and government fees. Based on the 2013 version of the code (check the current text), a written contract must include:
- The homeowner’s name and the property address
- The contractor’s name and address, with phone numbers and the names of any agents who handle problems or questions
- The date the contract was given to you and any deadline to accept it
- A reasonably detailed description of the proposed work
- Approximate start and completion dates, and a statement of anything that could materially change them
- The total contract price
- Signature lines for the contractor and each homeowner, with printed names
The same chapter says the contractor must sign first and before any down payment, and that you must get a fully signed copy right away. A change to the contract is not enforceable against you unless it is in a writing you signed. This is general information, not legal advice.
Red flags
- A price with no breakdown
- Pressure to sign today, or a large down payment up front
- No written contract, or a contract that does not match the estimate
- Vague materials, such as “good shingles”
- No mention of decking, flashing or ventilation
- A refusal to put verbal promises in writing
Questions to ask
- Is this price for repair or replacement, and why?
- How will you handle damaged decking, and what does it cost per sheet?
- Which manufacturer and product line are you using?
- Who pulls the permit and cleans up?
- How do change orders work?
- Can I see your insurance certificate?
For a rough idea of costs, read our roof replacement cost guide.
Sources
Roofing estimate questions
What should a roofing estimate include?
Scope, tear-off, decking repair pricing, underlayment, flashing, named shingles, ventilation, cleanup, permits, timeline, payment terms and warranty details.
Does Indiana require a written roofing contract?
Indiana’s Home Improvement Contracts Act requires a written contract for home improvement jobs over $150 with specific contents. Check the current text or ask an attorney how it applies.
Related:
Roof trouble in Indianapolis? Get a written estimate.
Serving homeowners across Marion County and the suburbs since 2019. No contracts, no pressure.
R&R Roofing
Roofing contractor serving Indianapolis, Indiana and the surrounding suburbs.
(317) 555-0142
123 Main Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204
License #RR-2019-4821, fully insured
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