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Get all 25 questions as a printable PDF checklist
The contract is your only protection if something goes wrong. A vague or incomplete contract protects the contractor — not you.
What every roofing contract must include
- Exact materials with manufacturer name, product line, and specifications
- Full scope of work — what is included and what is explicitly excluded
- Payment schedule with amounts tied to milestones, not arbitrary dates
- Start and estimated completion dates with weather delay policy
- Change order process — written authorization required before additional work
- Workmanship warranty terms — duration, coverage, and claim process
- Permit responsibility — who pulls it and when
- Cleanup responsibilities
- Contractor's license number and insurance certificate numbers
Never sign same-day
Take the contract home. Read every line. Any contractor who expires their estimate in 24 hours to pressure you into signing is using a manipulation tactic. Legitimate contractors don't need to manufacture urgency.
🚩 Red flag
A blank contract, a contract with TBD fields, or any pressure to "just sign and we'll fill in the details later." This is how fraud happens.
