How to Read a Roofing Estimate in California.

A roofing estimate is a sales document. A signed home improvement contract is a legal one. This page walks through what to look for in each, using the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) as the main source. We do not write, review or price estimates for anyone.

Estimate vs. contract

An estimate tells you what a roofer proposes to do and for how much. CSLB says that in California, a written contract is required for all home improvement projects over $500. Before you sign, the contract should contain everything the estimate promised, and more. CSLB puts it simply: "If you are promised something verbally, make sure that it is also included in writing."

Line 1: Who the contractor is

CSLB says the contract should identify the contractor, their business address and their contractor license number. Check that number yourself on the CSLB website before you sign. See How to check a CSLB license.

Line 2: Scope of work

CSLB says the contract should describe "in detail" the products to be used and how the work will be performed. For a roof, a good scope answers these questions:

• Tear-off or not? The Cost vs. Value model job removes the old roof "to bare wood sheathing." If your bid does not say, ask.
• How much roof? Roof area is usually stated in squares. One square is 100 square feet.
• Deck repair. How will damaged sheathing found after tear-off be handled and priced?
• Underlayment. What type and weight? The model job uses 30-lb. felt or an equal synthetic.
• Edges and flashing. Drip edge, valley, wall, chimney, skylight and vent flashing. The model job lists galvanized drip edge, aluminum flashing and custom flashing at two skylights.
• Ventilation and ridge. The model job includes a vented ridge with a custom cap.
• Cleanup. CSLB's guidance mentions work "up to and including complete cleanup and removal of debris and materials."

Line 3: Materials, named exactly

CSLB says the contract "should be as specific as possible regarding all materials to be used," including quality, quantity, weight, color, size and brand name. For roofing, that means the product line and the color, not just "architectural shingles."

The exact color matters for cool roof rules. Only aged values in the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) directory count toward California's energy code. If your reroof must meet those rules, ask for the CRRC product ID of the exact color. See Cool roofs in California.

Line 4: Accessories and warranty

If the bid promises a manufacturer warranty, check what that warranty requires. For example, GAF says its 15-year WindProven limited wind warranty requires GAF starter strips, roof deck protection, ridge cap shingles, and leak barrier or attic ventilation. Those items should appear on the bid. Ask for the warranty document itself.

Also ask about the contractor's own workmanship warranty, and get its terms in writing.

Line 5: Permits

CSLB says the contract needs "written direction as to who will get the necessary permits." Permit rules and fees differ by city. See Reroof permit basics.

Line 6: Dates

CSLB says the contract must provide a date of completion. Ask for a start date too, so you can tell if the job is on track.

Line 7: Price and payment schedule

CSLB says "there must be a detailed, written payment schedule in the contract." California also limits the down payment on a home improvement job. That rule is explained in Roofing contracts and down payments.

Line 8: Changes

If the price or scope changes during the job, CSLB says it must be done with a written change order, signed by you and the contractor before the change. Deck repair after tear-off is a common reason for a change. Agreeing on a unit price for it ahead of time can help.

Line 9: Your right to cancel

CSLB says the contract must inform you of your rights to cancel or rescind it. Read that section before you sign.

Comparing two or more bids

Bids are only comparable if they cover the same scope. Put them side by side and check each line above. A bid that leaves out tear-off, flashing or deck repair may look cheaper but cover less.

For price context, the Cost vs. Value report notes that its own estimates cannot predict "an individual remodeling project for a particular address." Its advice is to get estimates from reputable local remodelers. Our Roof replacement cost factors page lists what moves a price.

A short checklist

1. License number on the contract, and checked on cslb.ca.gov.
2. Tear-off, deck repair, underlayment and flashing spelled out.
3. Exact product and color, plus CRRC ID if needed.
4. Who pulls the permit.
5. Completion date.
6. Written payment schedule and a legal down payment.
7. Change order process.
8. Cancellation rights.
9. Warranty documents.

Back to Roof costs.

This is general information, not legal advice. Contract rules can change. Check cslb.ca.gov for the current rules.