What Could Cause My Roof Repair Cost to Exceed the Estimate?

Cost overruns are common in roofing — especially in storm damage work where hidden damage is the norm. But there's a right way and a wrong way to handle them.

Legitimate reasons for overruns

• Hidden decking damage — rotted or water-damaged plywood found during tear-off
• Code upgrades — work required to bring the roof to current code that wasn't anticipated
• Material price changes — legitimate increases between estimate and installation
• Additional flashings — skylights, chimneys, or transitions that needed replacement

What to establish before work begins

Every change to the original scope requires a written change order that you sign before that work is performed. The change order should specify: exact work to be done, materials needed, price, and your signature authorizing it. No change order = no additional payment obligation.

Warning signs of price manipulation

Legitimate overruns are specific and documentable. Vague overruns — "we found more damage" with no photos, no measurements, no itemized pricing — are a manipulation tactic.