What Happens If Your Roofer Finds Hidden Damage or Rotted Decking?

This is the most common source of disputes between homeowners and roofing contractors. It's also entirely preventable — if you handle it before work begins.

Why hidden damage is so common

Storm damage often penetrates into the decking — the plywood or OSB layer beneath the shingles. From the outside, the shingles may look manageable. Only during tear-off is the full extent visible.

What to establish upfront

Before signing anything, ask specifically:

• How is additional decking priced? (Per sheet? Per linear foot?)
• What is the markup on materials vs. the base estimate?
• Do I need to authorize each change order in writing before work proceeds?
• Is there a cap on how much the total can increase without additional approval?

Change orders must be written

Every change to the scope of work should require a written change order that you sign before that work is done — not after. "We'll figure it out at the end" is not a process. It's a recipe for disputes.