What's Included in a Roof Replacement Quote
A complete roof quote lists more than shingles. Here is what each line should cover, so you can spot a quote that is missing pieces.
The line items
| Item | Guidance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tear-off and disposal | Removing old shingles, dumpster, haul-away | Overlays skip this and hide decking problems |
| Decking inspection and repair | Per-sheet price for replacing rotted plywood | Should be priced before the job starts |
| Underlayment | Synthetic or felt over the whole deck | Synthetic is standard on quality jobs |
| Ice and water shield | Self-adhering membrane at eaves, valleys, penetrations | Required by code in cold climates |
| Drip edge and starter strip | Metal edge and first course of shingles | Cheap items that prevent early failures |
| Shingles | Brand, product line, color, warranty tier | Compare like for like across quotes |
| Flashing | New step, counter and chimney flashing | Reusing old flashing is a shortcut |
| Ventilation | Ridge vent, soffit vents, pipe boots | Affects shingle life and warranty |
| Permit and inspection | Pulled by the contractor | Never let this be skipped |
| Cleanup | Magnet sweep for nails, debris removal | Ask specifically |
| Warranty | Workmanship years plus manufacturer registration | In writing |
What a typical job costs
A 2,000 sq ft roof in architectural shingles runs about $9,400 to $15,200 installed with tear-off, disposal and permit. Decking replacement, steep pitches and multiple stories push the total higher.
Red flags
No mention of permits, no line for disposal, reused flashing, no decking price, or a demand for most of the payment before materials arrive.
Common questions
What is a fair price for a roof replacement?
For a standard asphalt roof, use our calculator range as a benchmark and compare quotes line by line.
Should the quote include a permit?
Yes. The contractor should pull it and the cost should be listed.
Why do roof quotes vary so much?
Different scopes. One quote may include tear-off, ice barrier and new flashing while another quietly leaves them out.