Homeowner guide · 9 min read
Roof replacement checklist: scope, bids, installation, and closeout
Use this roof replacement checklist to compare tear-off, decking, underlayment, flashing, ventilation, materials, permits, warranties, protection, and final records.
Published by Local Renovation Pros · Updated
Before requesting proposals
- Gather leak, repair, warranty, and solar records
- Photograph interior stains and known trouble spots
- Note roofing layers if known
- List skylights, chimneys, vents, gutters, and attached structures
- Ask whether attic access is needed
- Confirm whether an insurance claim or lender has documentation requirements
Define removal and deck work
The proposal should state how many layers are removed, what reaches the deck, and how waste is handled. Because some deck damage appears only after tear-off, ask how replacement sheathing or boards will be documented and priced.
- Tear-off limits and disposal
- Deck inspection responsibility
- Included allowance or unit price
- Approval process for added deck work
- Photographs before the deck is covered
Specify the complete water-management scope
Compare underlayment, edge metal, valleys, wall and chimney flashing, pipe penetrations, skylights, low-slope transitions, and manufacturer-required accessories. Reusing existing flashing should be an explicit, justified decision rather than an unspoken assumption.
Coordinate ventilation and adjacent systems
Roof work can interact with attic ventilation, bath and kitchen exhaust terminations, gutters, solar attachments, satellite equipment, electrical service clearances, and wildfire-related requirements. Identify who coordinates each item and whether another trade is required.
Compare products and warranties precisely
- Manufacturer and exact product line
- Color and availability
- Accessory components required for the proposed warranty
- Product warranty registration responsibility
- Contractor workmanship coverage
- Transfer, maintenance, and claim limitations
Plan property protection and daily operations
- Driveway, landscaping, siding, windows, and attic protection
- Debris and magnetic nail collection
- Weather contingency and temporary dry-in
- Work hours, access, and material placement
- Daily cleanup and final hauling
- Interior vibration precautions for fragile items
Final walkthrough and roof file
Ask for overview and detail photos, especially of components hidden by the finished covering. Collect the contract, changes, invoices, permit record, final inspection, warranty documents, product identifiers, maintenance instructions, and information about future penetrations or solar work.
Frequently asked questions
What if rotten roof decking is found after tear-off?
The contract should explain documentation, approval, and pricing for concealed deck repairs before work begins. Ask for photographs and quantities.
Should roof flashing be replaced with the roof?
Flashing condition and configuration are location-specific. The proposal should identify what will be replaced, what may remain, and how reused components affect warranty or leak responsibility.
When should solar be coordinated with roof replacement?
Before the roofing contract is finalized. Coordinate remaining roof life, attachments, penetrations, flashing, warranties, and responsibility between roofing and solar contractors.