Whether you’re a seasoned roofing contractor or a New Jersey homeowner managing a major renovation, knowing how to write up a roofing estimate is essential. A well-prepared estimate can clarify expectations, establish trust, and even secure a contract. But crafting a clear, accurate roofing estimate involves more than just quoting a price—it requires detail, local insight, and professionalism.
With Charles Jimerson of CJ Commercial Roofing NJ, we’ll walk you through the process of writing a comprehensive roofing estimate that aligns with industry standards and is tailored specifically for the New Jersey roofing market. From required line items to regional pricing variables and legal requirements, this article breaks it all down step-by-step.
Why a Detailed Roofing Estimate Matters
In New Jersey’s competitive roofing industry—especially across areas like Jersey City, Newark, Trenton, and Toms River—a roofing estimate isn’t just a document. It’s a sales tool, a legal reference, and a client-facing commitment. Estimates help clients compare bids, understand labor and material costs, and foresee the project timeline.
Failing to provide a comprehensive and transparent roofing estimate can result in lost jobs, disputes, or even legal issues—especially given New Jersey’s consumer protection laws, which place a high burden on home improvement contractors to disclose terms clearly.
Step-by-Step: How to Write Up a Roofing Estimate in New Jersey
1. Start with Company Information
Your roofing estimate should begin with your company’s name, logo, license number, and contact information. In New Jersey, roofing contractor must be registered with the Division of Consumer Affairs. Always include your Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration number, as required by state law.
Include:
- Company name and logo
- Address
- Phone number and email
- Website (if applicable)
- NJ HIC license number
2. Customer Information
Include the full name of the client, the address of the property receiving service, and their contact information. Double-check these details for accuracy to avoid miscommunication or legal complications.
3. Scope of Work
This section is one of the most important. A clear scope of work outlines the full breadth of the project and sets expectations.
Be specific. Instead of saying “Replace roof,” say:
- Remove existing asphalt shingles
- Inspect and replace damaged decking
- Install new underlayment (e.g., synthetic felt or ice and water shield)
- Install new architectural shingles (e.g., GAF Timberline HDZ)
- Replace flashing around chimneys and skylights
- Install ridge vents and drip edge
In New Jersey’s coastal areas, such as Long Branch or Atlantic City, contractors should also address wind resistance, salt exposure, and state building code compliance in the scope.
4. Materials and Brands
Break down all materials by type and brand. This enhances transparency and credibility and helps the client understand what they’re paying for.
List:
- Roofing material (e.g., 30-year architectural shingles)
- Underlayment and moisture barriers
- Flashing, drip edge, venting systems
- Nails, fasteners, sealants
- Waste disposal (dumpster rental, etc.)
Popular shingle brands used in New Jersey include Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and GAF, many of which are manufactured regionally and offer extended warranties.
5. Labor Costs
New Jersey labor rates can vary significantly depending on the region. For example, labor in Hoboken or Montclair may be higher than in smaller towns like Barnegat or Hackettstown due to local cost of living and demand.
Include:
- Number of laborers
- Estimated hours/days
- Cost per hour or per day
- Overtime policy (if applicable)
6. Permits and Inspections
Every municipality in New Jersey has its own building code requirements. Make sure to list permit fees, and if your team is responsible for acquiring them, state it clearly.
Popular towns like Princeton, Cherry Hill, or Edison may require inspection at multiple phases of the job. Detail who will handle inspection scheduling and what the cost entails.
7. Cleanup and Disposal
Homeowners want to know their property won’t be left in disarray. Outline:
- What cleanup entails (e.g., magnetic nail sweep, debris removal)
- Who will remove waste
- Cost for dumpster rental or landfill fees
8. Warranty Information
Warranties are a big decision factor for New Jersey clients, especially in areas like Cape May County where wind and storm damage are common.
Include:
- Manufacturer warranty (materials)
- Workmanship warranty (labor)
- Terms of coverage (e.g., transferable, prorated, etc.)
9. Estimated Timeline
Homeowners are often juggling multiple contractors or trying to finish projects before New Jersey’s unpredictable winter season. Provide a realistic project timeline:
- Start date (weather permitting)
- Duration of work (typically 1–5 days for average homes)
- Any potential delays (e.g., rain, supply chain issues)
10. Total Cost and Payment Terms
Clearly list:
- Subtotal for materials
- Subtotal for labor
- Taxes (New Jersey state sales tax rules may apply depending on how materials are billed)
- Final total
Also specify:
- Payment schedule (e.g., 30% deposit, 40% mid-project, 30% upon completion)
- Accepted payment methods (check, credit card, financing)
- Late payment penalties (if applicable)
11. Terms and Conditions
Add standard legal language covering:
- Change order policies
- Cancellation terms
- Liability and insurance
- Dispute resolution
- Force majeure clause (weather-related delays)
Including this protects both parties and is often required under New Jersey consumer protection laws.
Bonus Tip: Use Estimate Software for Efficiency
Roofing professionals in New Jersey are increasingly using digital estimating tools like JobNimbus, AccuLynx, and RoofSnap. These platforms speed up quote creation, ensure legal compliance, and allow contractors to present polished, digital proposals that clients can sign electronically—particularly helpful in high-demand regions like Morristown, Red Bank, or Bridgewater.
Final Thoughts
Mastering how to write up a roofing estimate isn’t just about getting the job—it’s about doing the job right from the start. For contractors working across New Jersey’s diverse residential zones, accuracy, detail, and transparency build trust and help you stand out in a saturated market.
By including all essential components—material specs, labor costs, timelines, permits, and warranties—you not only boost your credibility, but also reduce the risk of conflict, delay, or legal trouble down the road.
So whether you’re quoting a flat roof replacement in Elizabeth, a storm damage repair in Seaside Heights, or a luxury slate installation in Summit, this guide gives you the tools to write a roofing estimate that impresses and converts.
✅ Looking to build trust and win more jobs in New Jersey? Start with a detailed, transparent roofing estimate—and let your professionalism do the rest.