How to compare roofing quotes in Canada: a line-by-line checklist

To compare roofing quotes fairly, first make them describe the same job: the same roof area in squares, the same number of layers torn off, the same product line, the same underlayment and eave protection, the same flashing and ventilation work and a written unit price for replacing rotten decking. Only then compare totals. After price, compare the things that decide what happens when something goes wrong: the written workmanship warranty, the manufacturer warranty registration, licence and insurance, the payment schedule and how the contract handles the lien act holdback. A quote that is cheapest on paper is often cheapest because it leaves something out.

This is the overview for the worked estimates and checklists section and links to every guide in it. Prices are illustrative.

Step 1: get at least three written quotes

Ask each contractor to inspect the roof (including the attic, if accessible) and give a written quote. Verbal or text-message prices are hard to compare and hard to enforce. Give every contractor the same information: when you want the work done, which material you are considering, and any known issues such as leaks or ice dams.

Step 2: normalise the measurements

Quotes often state the number of squares. If they differ by more than a few percent, ask why: one contractor may have included waste and the garage roof, another not. You can check the measurement yourself with how to measure your roof in squares.

Step 3: compare scope line by line

Copy this into your notes and fill it from each quote. Blanks are questions to send back.

Step 4: put a price on what is missing

Once gaps are visible, price them so the totals are comparable.

Illustrative example:

• Quote A: $13,800, includes ice and water protection two rows up the eaves and in valleys, new step flashing, decking at $95 per sheet.
• Quote B: $12,400, no mention of ice and water protection, reuses existing step flashing, "decking extra if needed".

To make B comparable, ask B for prices. Suppose B quotes $600 for ice and water protection matching A, $450 for new step flashing, and $120 per sheet of decking. If eight sheets need replacing:

• A = $13,800 + 8 × $95 = $14,560
• B = $12,400 + $600 + $450 + 8 × $120 = $14,410

The difference shrinks from $1,400 to $150. Because B charges $25 more per sheet, each extra sheet narrows the gap further: the quotes are equal at 14 sheets ($13,800 + 14 × $95 = $15,130 and $13,450 + 14 × $120 = $15,130), and above that B is the more expensive quote. With a gap this small, warranty and track record should decide. Use the roof replacement cost estimator for the core range and the worked asphalt re-roof example for a complete breakdown.

Step 5: check the contractor, not just the price

• Licence where required: in Quebec, an RBQ licence with the right subclass; in Alberta, a prepaid contracting business licence if the business sells at your home and takes payment before finishing. See contractor licensing by province.
• Liability insurance: ask for a certificate naming the business.
• Workers' compensation: confirm the contractor is registered and in good standing with the provincial board (for example WSIB in Ontario, WorkSafeBC, WCB Alberta, CNESST in Quebec). Many boards offer a clearance certificate.
• Business address and history: a fixed business address and a track record in your area matter more than online star ratings, which can be manipulated.
• Subcontracting: ask whether the crew is the contractor's own or a subcontractor, and who is responsible for the warranty.

Step 6: read the contract and payment terms

Payment terms decide how much money is at risk if the job goes wrong. Keep the deposit modest, link later payments to completed stages and keep the holdback where your province's lien act requires it. The holdback guide and the holdback calculator explain how. The contents of a good contract are in what a roofing contract should include.

If you are borrowing to pay, compare the true cost of contractor financing with other options; see roof replacement financing.

Step 7: siding quotes work the same way

Siding quotes need the same normalisation: wall area, layers removed, sheathing price per sheet, barrier, insulation, trim and soffit, and access. The siding estimate worked example applies these steps to a two-storey house.

Red flags in a quote

• No company name, address or tax number.
• A price that is valid "today only".
• Large cash deposit requested before materials are ordered.
• Vague lines such as "roof as required".
• Warranty described verbally but not written.
• A contractor who knocked on your door after a storm and wants to deal with your insurer for you. See storm chasers and roofing scams.

FAQ

Should I always take the middle quote?

Not automatically. Choose the quote with the clearest complete scope at a reasonable price from a contractor you can verify. Sometimes that is the cheapest, sometimes not.

Is it rude to share one contractor's quote with another?

Sharing the scope to make quotes comparable is common. Sharing someone's exact pricing or documents is a courtesy issue; describe the scope instead.

How long is a quote valid?

Whatever the quote says. Material prices can change, so many quotes are valid for a limited time; get a revised quote in writing if it expires.

Sources

• Régie du bâtiment du Québec — licence register and consumer tools
• Government of Alberta — prepaid contracting business licence
• Association of Workers' Compensation Boards of Canada — links to provincial boards for clearance checks
• Ontario: Consumer Protection Ontario — renovation and contract rights
• Consumer Protection BC — contracts and complaints in British Columbia