Give every company the same brief.
Share the same drawings, inspection reports, access information and project goals with each bidder. If the scope changes during discussions, ask for the revisions in writing so you can compare the same proposed work.
- Is the quote for a repair, a recover system, or removal and replacement?
- What is assumed about the condition of insulation and the roof deck?
- Which areas, penetrations, flashings and drainage details are included?
Make the unknowns visible.
Some conditions may not be known before inspection or opening the roof. Ask how concealed damage and other scope changes would be assessed, priced and approved. An allowance should be recognizable as an allowance, rather than appearing to be a confirmed part of the work.
- What investigation supports the recommendation?
- What is excluded from the price?
- How would additional work be documented and authorized?
Compare the whole proposal.
Look at the roof assembly and named products, work sequence, protection of the occupied building, disposal, cleanup and intended schedule. Clarify who coordinates access and how the team would handle a change in weather or building operations.
- Are the proposed system and installation details described clearly?
- Who is responsible for temporary protection, inspections and closeout documents?
- What payment, change-order and warranty terms are being proposed?
Resolve a major difference before choosing.
When one company recommends a small repair and another recommends replacement, ask what findings explain the difference. An independent roofing professional can help you understand competing scopes. A directory profile is useful for finding companies; it is not an assessment of your roof.
Sources and further reading.
General questions for a first conversation. The appropriate roof specification and work scope need assessment by qualified professionals familiar with your building.
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