How to Get and Compare Contractor Quotes

For any significant home improvement project—especially roofing—getting multiple quotes is one of the smartest things you can do. But not all quotes are created equal, and comparing them effectively requires more than just looking at the bottom line. Understanding how to request detailed quotes and evaluate them properly helps you make informed decisions and avoid costly surprises.

Why Multiple Quotes Matter

Getting multiple quotes serves several purposes:

Price Validation

Without comparison, you have no way to know if a price is fair:

• Market prices vary based on materials, labor, and demand
• Single quotes may be high (or suspiciously low)
• Comparison reveals typical price ranges for your project

Scope Verification

Different contractors may see different things:

• One may identify issues others missed
• Scope discrepancies reveal important questions
• Ensures complete understanding of what's needed

Contractor Evaluation

The quote process reveals contractor quality:

• How they communicate and respond
• Their thoroughness and professionalism
• Whether they answer questions clearly
• How they handle the sales process

Negotiating Position

Multiple quotes strengthen your position:

• Knowledge of market rates
• Ability to discuss competitive pricing
• Leverage for better terms

How Many Quotes to Get

The right number depends on the project:

For Major Projects (Roof Replacement, Large Repairs)

Minimum: 3 quotes

Ideal: 3-5 quotes

More quotes provide better comparison and confidence. However, beyond 5 quotes, you often see diminishing returns and decision paralysis.

For Minor Work (Small Repairs, Maintenance)**

1-2 quotes may suffice

For small jobs, the cost of your time gathering quotes may exceed potential savings. Establish relationships with trusted contractors for routine work.

For Emergency Situations**

Get help quickly, but verify reasonableness later

In true emergencies, getting multiple quotes isn't practical. Get the emergency addressed, but verify pricing was reasonable and discuss future work competitively.

Requesting Quotes Effectively

How you request quotes affects what you receive:

Provide Complete Information

Give each contractor the same information:

• Property address and description
• Specific concerns or problems
• What you're trying to accomplish
• Timeline requirements
• Any constraints or requirements

Be Specific About Scope

If you know what you want:

• Describe the work clearly
• Mention specific materials if preferred
• Include all areas to be addressed
• Note any special requirements

Allow Site Visits

Accurate quotes require site evaluation:

• Don't expect accurate quotes over the phone for complex work
• Allow contractors time for thorough inspection
• Provide access to attic and other relevant areas
• Be present to answer questions

See our consultation guide for more on what to expect during site visits.

Request Written Quotes

Always get quotes in writing:

• Verbal quotes are worthless when disputes arise
• Written quotes allow detailed comparison
• Documents become contract basis

Set Clear Response Timeline

Let contractors know your timeline:

• When you need quotes returned
• When you plan to make a decision
• Project timing requirements

What Should Be in a Quote

A complete quote includes several elements:

Scope of Work

Detailed description of what will be done:

• Specific work items listed
• Areas to be addressed
• What's included (and what's not)
• Preparation and cleanup

Materials Specification

Clear material descriptions:

• Brand and product names
• Quality grades or ratings
• Colors or styles
• Quantities

Pricing Breakdown

How costs are organized:

• Labor costs
• Material costs
• Itemized by work area (ideal)
• Total cost clearly stated

Timeline

When work will happen:

• Estimated start date
• Duration of project
• Work schedule (days, hours)
• Completion target

Terms and Conditions

Business details:

• Payment terms (deposit, progress payments, final)
• Warranty information
• What happens if additional work is needed
• Cancellation policy

Contractor Information

Business credentials:

• Company name and address
• License number
• Insurance information
• Contact information

Comparing Quotes Effectively

When quotes arrive, compare systematically:

Normalize the Scope

First, ensure you're comparing the same work:

• List all items in each quote
• Identify differences in scope
• Note what one includes that others don't
• Ask about discrepancies

Example: One roofer includes gutter replacement; another doesn't. Before comparing prices, you need to account for this difference.

Create a Comparison Matrix

Organize information for easy comparison:

Categories to compare:

• Total price
• Materials specified
• Scope items included
• Warranty terms
• Timeline
• Payment terms
• License/insurance confirmed

Evaluate Materials

Don't assume all quotes use equivalent materials:

• Same material type? (e.g., architectural shingles vs. 3-tab)
• Same brand and quality grade?
• Same warranty coverage?
• Same accessories and components?

Lower prices often reflect lower-quality materials. Make sure you're comparing equivalent specifications.

Consider the Full Picture

Price isn't everything. Evaluate:

Value Factors:

• Warranty coverage and duration
• Company reputation and reviews
• Communication quality during quote process
• Responsiveness and professionalism
• Experience with your type of project

Risk Factors:

• Very low prices (why are they cheaper?)
• New companies without track record
• Poor communication during quote process
• Vague scope or material specifications
• Reluctance to provide documentation

Ask Clarifying Questions

Resolve uncertainties before deciding:

• Why is this quote significantly higher/lower?
• What's included that others omitted?
• What happens if problems are discovered?
• Can you match this specification from another quote?

Red Flags in Quotes

Watch for warning signs:

Pricing Concerns

Way Below Others:

• May indicate inferior materials
• Could mean inexperienced workers
• Might lead to "surprise" additional charges
• Could indicate unlicensed or uninsured contractor

Way Above Others:

• May be overcharging
• Could indicate misunderstanding of scope
• Might include unnecessary work
• Worth asking for explanation

Documentation Issues

Vague Scope:

• "Roof repair as needed"
• "Materials TBD"
• No specific quantities
• No clear deliverables

Missing Information:

• No license number
• No address for business
• No warranty terms
• No payment terms

Process Red Flags

Pressure Tactics:

• "Price only good today"
• Refusing to leave written quote
• Excessive urgency on non-emergencies
• Discouraging other quotes

Poor Communication:

• Delayed response without explanation
• Won't answer questions clearly
• Evasive about details
• Unprofessional interactions

Negotiating After Quotes

You can often negotiate, but do so appropriately:

When Negotiation Is Appropriate

• Price seems high relative to market
• You have lower quotes for equivalent work
• Scope can be adjusted to meet budget
• Long-term relationship potential

How to Negotiate Effectively

Be Honest:

• Share that you have other quotes
• Explain your budget constraints
• Don't fabricate competing offers

Be Reasonable:

• Don't expect massive discounts
• Understand contractors have costs
• Value quality over minimal savings

Consider Trade-offs:

• Flexible timing may reduce costs
• Material alternatives might save money
• Removing scope items if budget is tight

When Not to Negotiate

• Quote is already competitive
• Contractor is clearly the best choice
• Small savings aren't worth relationship damage
• You're asking for below-market pricing

Making Your Decision

After gathering and comparing quotes, decide thoughtfully:

Beyond Price

Consider all factors together:

• Confidence in contractor: Do you trust them?
• Communication quality: Will they be responsive?
• Value offered: Not just price, but complete package
• Risk assessment: What could go wrong with each choice?
• Gut feeling: Your instincts matter

The Value of Reputation

Established contractors often cost more, but:

• They'll be around to honor warranties
• They have reputations to protect
• They've survived by doing good work
• References are verifiable

Decision Framework

When quotes are close, choose based on:

1. Communication and professionalism during quote process
2. Warranty and guarantee terms
3. Specific material quality proposed
4. References and reputation verification
5. Your confidence level with each contractor

Don't Default to Cheapest

The lowest price isn't always the best value:

• You often get what you pay for
• Problems from poor work cost more to fix
• Warranties are only valuable if company exists
• Middle-range quotes often represent best value

After Choosing a Contractor

Once you've decided:

Get Everything in Writing

Before work begins:

• Signed contract with detailed scope
• Material specifications confirmed
• Timeline documented
• Payment terms clear
• Warranty terms specified
• Change order process defined

Notify Others

Professional courtesy:

• Thank other contractors for their quotes
• Brief explanation if asked ("went with another company")
• Keep contact info for future projects

Set Expectations

Clear communication prevents problems:

• Confirm start date and schedule
• Understand daily work expectations
• Know who to contact with questions
• Discuss how changes will be handled

The Bottom Line

Getting and comparing contractor quotes is an essential skill for homeowners. Request detailed, written quotes from multiple contractors. Compare them systematically, looking beyond just price to scope, materials, warranty, and contractor quality. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, and don't automatically choose the cheapest option.

The goal isn't finding the lowest price—it's finding the best value from a contractor you trust to do quality work. Take your time, ask questions, and make an informed decision.

At Pro Specialty Services, we provide detailed, transparent quotes that clearly explain what we'll do, what materials we'll use, and what it will cost. We welcome comparison with other contractors and are happy to answer questions about our proposals. Contact us for a consultation and quote on your roofing project.

For more guidance on contractor selection, check out our articles on choosing a reliable roofing contractor, general contractor hiring tips, and costly mistakes to avoid. Also see our guide on choosing roofing materials before getting quotes.