A lower total can describe a smaller job
Roof replacement quotes can differ because one includes a complete strip, disposal, access equipment and new flashings while another prices only the new roof covering. There can also be genuine differences in roof measurements, product selections, access assumptions and repair allowances.
Do not assume that a low quote is automatically poor—or that a high quote is automatically complete. Ask each contractor to clarify the same scope in writing, then compare like with like.
Line-by-line comparison checklist
- Steel grade and finish
- Record the exact product and coating. For marine exposure, ask whether COLORBOND Ultra or another appropriate coastal specification is suitable for this site's distance and conditions; confirm with the manufacturer and contractor rather than relying on a generic 'coastal' label.
- Anticon blanket and sarking
- Check whether either is included, identify the product and coverage, and distinguish an insulation blanket from a membrane. Clarify overlaps, detailing and any exclusions.
- Flashings and gutters
- List valleys, ridges, barges, wall junctions, penetrations, box gutters, fascia gutters and downpipes. Confirm what is new, reused, repaired or excluded.
- Tile removal and disposal
- Confirm whether all existing tiles and battens are stripped, removed from site and disposed of, and what happens if suspect asbestos-containing material is identified.
- Scaffolding and safety
- Check access equipment, edge protection, duration and whether hire costs are included or an allowance subject to change.
- Battens, timber and concealed damage
- Look for inspection method, quantities or provisional rates, how variations are authorised, and whether photographic evidence is provided.
- Solar, skylights and penetrations
- State who disconnects/reinstalls solar and who supplies new flashing kits or coordinates other specialist trades.
- Clean-up, handover and warranties
- Confirm magnetic sweep/site clean, completion documents, written workmanship terms and the applicable manufacturer's product warranty.
Check NSW contract and insurance requirements
NSW residential building work has formal contract requirements. NSW Government guidance says a written contract is required for work over $5,000, Home Building Compensation cover is generally required for residential building work over $20,000, and the maximum deposit is 10% of the contract price. There are exceptions and detailed rules, so confirm how the current requirements apply to your particular contract and work.
Before paying a deposit, read the contract, check the contractor's licence and ask for the required insurance certificate where applicable. Do not treat an email estimate or a verbal assurance as a substitute for the required contract documents.
- NSW Government: Contracts with builders and tradespeople
Contract requirements, deposits and consumer guidance.
- NSW Government: Home Building Compensation
When cover is required and what to check.
- NSW legislation: Home Building Act 1989
Primary legislation; check the current in-force text.
A practical decision sequence
- 1
Align the scope
Give every roofer the same information about material, roof access, solar, gutters and known concerns.
- 2
Resolve gaps
Ask each contractor to mark every item included, excluded or provisional. Request the unit rate and approval process for provisional work.
- 3
Verify the paperwork
Check licence details, contract terms, deposit, insurance requirements and written warranty documentation.
- 4
Compare value and risk
Compare the materials, workmanship scope, likely variations and communication—not just the headline number.
Should I choose the cheapest roofing quote?
Not from the total alone. Compare the same scope and material, ask about allowances and verify contract and insurance paperwork. If two quotes differ substantially, ask both contractors to explain the gap.
Can a quote exclude scaffold or gutters?
A quote can define its own scope, but exclusions should be explicit. Confirm whether access equipment, gutters and disposal are included before comparing or signing.