A proper roofing contract protects both you and your roofer. Understanding what should be included, important terms, and red flags helps you avoid problems and ensures you get what you pay for. This guide explains essential contract elements, terms to understand, what to watch for, and how to protect yourself when signing a roofing contract.
Essential Contract Elements
Every roofing contract should include:
Project Details
- Complete description of work
- Materials to be used (brand, model, specifications)
- Square footage
- Scope of project
Cost Information
- Total project cost
- Cost breakdown (materials, labor, permits, etc.)
- Payment schedule
- What's included and excluded
Timeline
- Start date
- Expected completion date
- Weather delay provisions
Warranties
- Material warranties
- Workmanship warranty
- Warranty terms and coverage
Licensing and Insurance
- Contractor license number
- Insurance information
- Verification of credentials
Payment Terms
Payment terms should be clearly defined:
Payment Schedule
- Deposit amount (typically 10-30%)
- Progress payment milestones
- Final payment amount and timing
Payment Methods
- Accepted payment methods
- Check, credit card, financing options
Lien Waivers
- Lien waivers with each payment
- Protects you from liens
- Essential for protection
Red Flags
- Large upfront payments (50%+)
- Cash-only requirements
- Full payment before completion
Never pay in full before work is complete.
Material Specifications
Contract should specify exact materials:
What Should Be Specified
- Brand names
- Model numbers
- Color and style
- Quality or grade
- Warranty information
Not Acceptable
- Vague descriptions ("shingles" or "metal")
- "Or equal" without specifications
- Unclear material quality
Substitutions
- Policy on material substitutions
- Require approval for changes
- Ensure equal quality
Specific materials protect you from substitutions.
Warranty Information
Contract should detail warranties:
Material Warranties
- What's covered
- Warranty period
- Transferability
- How to file claims
Workmanship Warranties
- What's covered
- Warranty period
- What's excluded
- How to file claims
Get in Writing
- All warranty promises in writing
- Don't rely on verbal promises
- Keep warranty documents
Understand all warranty terms before signing.
Red Flags in Contracts
Watch for these warning signs:
Vague Language
- Unclear descriptions
- Missing specifications
- Ambiguous terms
Unfavorable Terms
- Large upfront payments
- Unreasonable cancellation clauses
- Waivers of your rights
Missing Information
- No license number
- No insurance information
- Missing warranty details
- Unclear payment terms
Pressure to Sign
- Pressure to sign immediately
- "Limited time" offers
- Unwillingness to allow review
These are warning signs—don't sign if you see them.
Important Terms to Understand
Understand these contract terms:
Change Orders
- How changes are handled
- Approval process
- Cost adjustments
Cancellation
- Cancellation policy
- Time limits for cancellation
- Refund policies
Dispute Resolution
- How disputes are resolved
- Mediation or arbitration clauses
- Legal recourse
Completion
- What constitutes completion
- Inspection requirements
- Final payment conditions
Read and understand all terms before signing.
Protecting Yourself
Protect yourself when signing contracts:
Read Everything
- Read entire contract carefully
- Don't sign if you don't understand
- Ask questions
Get Everything in Writing
- All promises in writing
- No verbal agreements
- Amendments in writing
Keep Copies
- Keep signed contract
- Keep all amendments
- Keep warranty documents
Don't Feel Pressured
- Take time to review
- Don't sign under pressure
- Get legal advice if needed
Never sign a contract you don't understand or aren't comfortable with.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be included in a roofing contract?
A proper contract should include: complete project description, specific materials (brand, model), total cost and breakdown, payment schedule, timeline, warranty information, contractor license and insurance info, and what's included/excluded. Vague contracts are a red flag.
Should I sign a contract with vague material descriptions?
No, never sign a contract with vague material descriptions. The contract should specify exact brands, models, colors, and quality. Vague descriptions allow substitutions you may not want. Insist on specific material specifications before signing.
What payment terms are reasonable?
Reasonable payment terms typically include: 10-30% deposit upon signing, progress payments tied to completion milestones, and 10-20% final payment upon completion and inspection. Never pay 50%+ upfront or in full before work is complete.
Can I cancel a roofing contract after signing?
Cancellation rights depend on contract terms and state law. Many contracts have cancellation clauses with time limits (often 3 days). Review cancellation terms before signing. If you have concerns, don't sign until you understand all terms.
What if a roofer won't put promises in writing?
This is a major red flag. Legitimate roofers put all promises in writing. If a roofer won't put important promises (materials, warranties, timelines) in writing, don't work with them. Verbal promises don't protect you—get everything in the contract.
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