If you’re thinking about replacing your roof, one of the first things you’ll want is a clear, detailed quote. But not all roof quotes are created equal. Some contractors give you a rough number with no breakdown. Others use confusing terms that make it hard to compare offers.
At Roofing Newcastle, we believe in complete transparency. A roof is a major investment, and you deserve to know exactly what you’re paying for.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what should be included in a professional roof quote, what to watch out for, and how to make sure you’re comparing like-for-like when reviewing multiple quotes.
Why Roofing Quotes Matter
A good quote does more than tell you the price. It tells you:
- What work is being done
- What materials will be used
- How long it will take
- What is and isn’t included
- Whether the company is professional and trustworthy
If a quote is vague or missing key details, it’s a red flag. It may lead to hidden charges later or poor-quality workmanship.
Let’s break down what you should expect from a detailed new roof quote.
1. A Full Roof Inspection First
Before you even get a quote, a reputable roofing company will carry out a full inspection of your roof. This may involve:
- Checking the tiles or slates
- Inspecting the underlay and battens
- Assessing the structural timber
- Looking at gutters, chimneys, and flashing
- Measuring the total roof area
At Roofing Newcastle, we never quote over the phone or by email without seeing the roof. A proper inspection helps avoid unexpected problems once work starts.
2. Itemised Labour and Materials
A clear quote should include a breakdown of both labour and materials. This helps you understand what you’re paying for.
Here’s what that typically looks like:
Labour
- Stripping off the old roof covering
- Preparing the surface and structure
- Installing underlay and battens
- Laying new tiles or slates
- Fixing ridge tiles, hips, and verges
- Installing flashing, vents, or roof windows
- Final clean-up and inspection
Materials
- Breathable underlay
- Treated timber battens
- Roof tiles or slates
- Ridge and verge fixings
- Lead or metal flashing
- Fixings, sealants, and adhesives
Some quotes also list the brand of materials being used. This is helpful because quality can vary significantly between products.
At Roofing Newcastle, we only use trusted UK roofing suppliers and are happy to provide samples during the quoting process.
3. Scaffolding and Waste Removal
Don’t forget the extras. A proper roof replacement often requires scaffolding, especially for two-storey homes.
Your quote should include:
- Scaffolding hire (with how many levels)
- Skip hire or waste removal
- Protective sheeting for gardens or paths
These can add hundreds of pounds to the total cost, so make sure they’re clearly listed.
We include scaffolding, skips, and site protection in every quote at Roofing Newcastle so there are no surprise charges later.
4. Optional Add-Ons or Upgrades
Depending on your needs, your quote might include optional extras. These could be:
- Upgraded tiles (such as clay instead of concrete)
- Additional insulation
- Dry ridge or hip systems
- New gutters or fascia boards
- Roof windows or skylights
- Solar panel readiness
It’s a good idea to ask for these as separate line items. That way, you can decide what fits your budget and what’s worth investing in.
We always offer optional upgrades on our quotes so homeowners can make informed choices.
5. Timeline and Project Schedule
A professional roof quote should also tell you:
- When the work can start
- How long it will take
- What the daily schedule will look like
This helps you plan ahead and understand how much disruption to expect. A typical roof replacement takes two to five days, depending on the size and complexity of the job.
At Roofing Newcastle, we include a start date and estimated duration on every quote. If delays happen due to weather, we keep you informed right away.
6. Guarantees and Certification
One of the most overlooked parts of a roof quote is the guarantee. A good roofing company will offer both:
- A workmanship guarantee
- A product warranty from the material manufacturer
For example, your new tiles might come with a 30-year manufacturer’s warranty, while the workmanship guarantee could be ten years.
You should also check if your roofer is part of a Competent Person Scheme. This means they can self-certify the work under building regulations and issue the correct paperwork.
Roofing Newcastle is registered with an approved scheme, so our clients get official certificates without having to contact the council.
7. Insurance and Safety Information
Any reputable roofer should be fully insured. Your quote should confirm that the company holds:
- Public liability insurance (in case of damage to your home or neighbouring properties)
- Employers’ liability insurance (if they have a team)
Some quotes may also mention health and safety procedures. For example, if your home is on a busy road or near overhead power lines, special safety measures may be required.
At Roofing Newcastle, we provide proof of insurance with every quote upon request.
8. Payment Terms
Don’t sign anything until you understand how and when you’ll be expected to pay. Your quote should include:
- Total price including VAT
- Deposit amount (if required)
- When balance payments are due
- Accepted payment methods
- Any late payment fees or cancellation terms
Be wary of roofers who ask for full payment upfront. Most reputable companies take a small deposit and request final payment once the job is complete.
We never ask for full payment before the work begins. At Roofing Newcastle, payment is due when the work is finished and you’re satisfied.
9. What’s Not Included
Some roof quotes only tell you what’s included. But it’s just as important to know what isn’t.
A professional quote should mention if the following are excluded:
- Internal repairs (ceilings, lofts, etc.)
- Asbestos removal (requires specialist service)
- Electrical or solar panel work
- Additional repairs if hidden damage is found
We include a list of exclusions on every Roofing Newcastle quote so clients know exactly where they stand.
Comparing Roof Quotes the Right Way
If you’re getting multiple quotes, don’t just look at the price. Compare:
- Scope of work
- Material types and brands
- Labour and timeline
- Guarantees
- Safety and insurance cover
- Communication and clarity
A cheaper quote that cuts corners will cost you more in the long run. It’s better to invest in a company that’s transparent, experienced, and trusted locally.
Final Thoughts: What Makes a Good Roof Quote?
In summary, a professional new roof quote should include:
- A clear breakdown of labour and materials
- Scaffold, waste removal, and site protection
- Optional upgrades and add-ons
- Project timeline and duration
- Guarantees and certifications
- Insurance and health and safety info
- Full payment terms
- List of exclusions or potential extra costs
At Roofing Newcastle, we pride ourselves on clear, honest quoting. We’ll explain every part of the quote before you agree to anything. No pressure, no confusion, no surprise fees.
Thinking about replacing your roof? Use our free new roof calculator for an estimate or get in touch using the information below.
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