A good roofing quote is written, itemised and specific. It should name the materials, the scope of work, the price, the timeline, the payment schedule and the warranty, so you can compare quotes fairly and avoid surprises.
The 12 things to look for
- Business details. Name, licence number, ABN and contact details.
- Scope of work. A clear description of the work and the roof area covered.
- Materials. Brand, type, colour and thickness.
- Removal and disposal. Including how asbestos will be handled if found.
- Cyclone rated parts. Fixings, battens and flashings.
- Roof plumbing. Gutters, fascia and downpipes, either included or listed as excluded.
- Insulation or sarking, if relevant.
- Timing. Start date and expected duration.
- Payment schedule. Tied to stages, not a large upfront deposit.
- Warranty. Details for both workmanship and materials.
- Insurance information.
- Exclusions and variations. What is not covered and how extra work will be priced.
Red flags to watch for
- A single total with no breakdown
- Pressure to pay a large deposit upfront
- Vague wording like "supply and fit roof"
- No licence number or insurance details
- A price far below every other quote
Comparing quotes
Line up the same items side by side. A cheaper quote often leaves things out.
Frequently asked questions
How many quotes should I get?
Two or three is usually enough to see a fair range.
How long is a quote valid?
Commonly 30 days, but check the date on yours.