The short answer
To get a meaningful roofing quote, tell roofers your roof type, approximate size or pitch, the covering material, the age and condition of the roof, and whether you want a repair, a re-cover or a full replacement. Always get at least three itemised quotes from accredited roofing contractors who have inspected the roof in person. See the new roof cost guide to understand what each element should cost.
Getting roofing quotes is one of those tasks that is easy to do badly — accepting the first price you are given, comparing quotes that cover different scopes of work, or choosing on headline price without checking what the job actually includes. This guide walks through how to prepare a proper quote request, what to expect from a good roofer’s response, and how to compare proposals on a like-for-like basis.
Getting quotes at a glance
- Minimum quotes Three (ideally four)
- Roofer should be NFRC, CompetentRoofer or TrustMark registered
- Quote format Itemised, in writing
- What to provide Roof type, size or pitch, covering, age and condition
- Inspection Insist on one — avoid quotes given without seeing the roof
- Comparison method Same scope; same material; check guarantee
What information to give roofers when requesting quotes
The more information you provide upfront, the more accurate and comparable your quotes will be. At a minimum, tell each roofer:
- Property type and size: number of bedrooms, house or flat, terrace, semi or detached, and approximate age.
- Roof type and covering: pitched or flat, and the current material (slate, clay tile, concrete tile, felt, EPDM, GRP).
- Age and known issues: the approximate age of the roof, and any leaks, slipped tiles, sagging or damp you are aware of.
- What you want: a repair, a re-cover (new covering on existing structure), or a full replacement including new battens and felt.
- Access notes: height, scaffolding needs, conservatories or extensions, and whether neighbours’ access is required.
Always invite the roofer to inspect the roof rather than quoting from a photo or phone call. A proper inspection allows the roofer to see the condition of the timbers, battens and covering, identify any complications, and give you a far more accurate price. A quote given without an inspection often changes once work begins.
What a good quote looks like
A properly itemised quote should set out: the scope of work; the covering material make, type and colour; new battens, membrane and fixings; any structural or timber repairs; scaffolding; removal and disposal of the old covering; ridge, hip and flashing work; and the guarantee. If a roof is being re-covered rather than fully replaced, the quote should state clearly what is being kept and what is being renewed. Any provisional sums for unforeseen timber repairs should be flagged separately, so you understand what could trigger additional charges. A reputable roofer will also confirm whether the work needs to comply with Building Regulations and how that will be certified.
| Item | Should be in the quote? |
|---|---|
| Scope of work (repair / re-cover / replace) | Yes — stated clearly |
| Covering material (type, make, colour) | Yes — specified exactly |
| New battens, membrane and fixings | Yes |
| Scaffolding and access | Yes |
| Removal and disposal of old covering | Yes |
| Flashings, ridge and hip work | Yes |
| Building Regulations certification | Yes — where the work requires it |
| Guarantee / workmanship warranty | Yes — years and conditions |
How to compare quotes fairly
Once you have three quotes in hand, line them up item by item. A price difference may be entirely explained by what is included: one roofer at £8,500 may include new battens, breathable membrane, scaffolding and a 10-year workmanship guarantee; another at £7,800 may re-use the old battens and offer a shorter guarantee. Adjust the prices to a comparable basis by adding the cost of any missing items. Then consider the less-quantifiable factors: reviews, communication, willingness to answer questions, and whether they carried out a proper inspection. The right choice is rarely the lowest figure on paper if that figure covers a narrower job. See our how to choose a roofer guide for the full set of checks to run before deciding. This is general information; actual costs and scope will vary with your property and chosen contractor.
When to use a quote comparison service
Quote comparison services can save time by gathering several quotes from local accredited roofers at once. When using one, make sure the service passes your request to contractors who will carry out a proper roof inspection rather than generating an automated online price. The most useful service connects you to real local roofers who assess the job on site — that is closer to getting three independent quotes than an instant online calculator. Always check trade accreditation (NFRC, CompetentRoofer or TrustMark) independently of the service, regardless of what the platform says about vetting. This page is general information; quotes are estimates and the actual cost depends on your specific property, roof condition and chosen contractor.
Compare roofing quotes now
Use our service to compare itemised quotes from accredited roofing contractors in your area. Free to use, no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
How many roofing quotes should I get?
At least three. This gives you a realistic price range, helps you spot outliers in either direction, and is the most reliable way to confirm you are being charged a fair market rate for a properly specified job.
What should I tell roofers when requesting a quote?
Give your property type and size, the roof type and covering material, the approximate age and any known issues, and what you want — a repair, a re-cover or a full replacement. A proper roof inspection is far more accurate than a quote given from a photo or phone call.
Is the cheapest roofing quote always the worst?
Not always, but the lowest quote is often lowest because it covers a narrower scope: re-using old battens, a shorter guarantee, or omitting scaffolding or disposal. Itemise and compare before deciding, rather than choosing on headline price alone.
How long does it take to get a roofing quote?
An online request for quotes typically generates responses within 24–48 hours. An inspection can usually be arranged within a few days. Most roofers aim to quote within a day or two of inspecting the roof. Allow a week or two for the comparison process if you are not in a hurry — rushing produces worse outcomes.
Sources & further reading
- NFRC (National Federation of Roofing Contractors) — finding and checking member contractors, consumer guidance
- CompetentRoofer — Government-licensed competent person scheme for roof refurbishment and self-certification
- TrustMark — Government-endorsed quality scheme, checking registered tradespeople
- GOV.UK / Building Regulations Approved Documents L and A — thermal and structural requirements for roof work
This is general information, not advice for your specific property or roof. Costs, timescales and outcomes vary with your home, roof condition and chosen contractor.