A roofing quote is a legal document once accepted. Most homeowners sign it without understanding what the line items mean or what is absent. This guide explains what every element of a well-written Devon roofing quote should contain and what gaps should prompt a question before you agree the work.
A proper roofing quote specifies the tile or slate product, underlay type, fixing specification, lead code, scaffold cost as a fixed line item, and a written guarantee. Vague terms like 'like-for-like' without named materials, or scaffold marked 'TBC', are warning signs before signing.
The most important part of any roofing quote is the material specification. A complete specification names: the tile or slate product (not just 'matching tile' — the specific make and model, or the quarry region for reclaimed slate); the underlay type (breathable membrane or non-breathable felt); the batten specification (treated softwood, size); the fixing specification (stainless ring-shank nails, gauge and length); and the ridge and hip mortar specification (lime mortar NHL strength or polymer mortar product).
A quote that says 're-roof in matching tile' without these specifics has not specified the job. You cannot hold a contractor to 'matching tile' if they interpret it differently from you. A quote that names the tile profile, colour code and manufacturer is a contract with defined deliverables.
Scaffolding must appear in the quote as a fixed line item — not as 'plus scaffold TBC' or 'to be confirmed on commencement'. Scaffold for a standard 3-bed Exeter semi costs £600–£1,200 depending on configuration. A quote that leaves this open cannot be compared to a fixed-price quote from another contractor.
The Consumer Rights Act 2015 requires that where a price is not fixed in advance, the consumer pay only a reasonable amount — making fixed itemised quotes the safer basis for roofing contracts.
Source: Consumer Rights Act 2015
For smaller repairs, the access method should be stated: scaffold tower, lean-to ladder, or mobile elevated working platform. Any work at height requires appropriate access equipment — a contractor who does not specify how they will access the roof safely has not planned the job properly.
Lead work is where under-specification most commonly occurs in Devon roofing quotes. A complete lead work specification states the lead code (Code 4 for step and apron flashings; Code 5 for valleys and back gutters), the fixing method (stainless clips, not mortar tuck alone on exposed faces), and whether the back gutter is included.
A quote that specifies 'lead flashing replacement' without code number is not a complete specification. Lead Code 3 (1.32mm) costs less than Code 4 or 5 and fails faster in Devon's thermal cycling. If the quote doesn't specify the code, ask before signing.
Every Exeter Roofing Experts quote is written, itemised and specifies materials, fixings, access and guarantee. Call 01392 759 295 for a free survey and proper quote.
📞 Call 01392 759 295A 10-year workmanship guarantee should be stated in the quote and the document that proves it should be specified: 'written guarantee certificate issued on completion' is the correct language. A vague 'guaranteed work' without specifying the document, the period, and what it covers is not a guarantee — it is marketing copy.
Payment terms for large jobs: a materials deposit of 20–30% on commencement is normal. 50%+ upfront before work starts is above the norm. No deposit required for smaller repairs — payment on satisfactory completion is standard.
Stage payments for large re-roofs are reasonable: 30% on commencement, 40% on tiling completion, 30% on full completion and handover. This protects both parties.
Ask about any of the following if they are absent or vague:
'Like-for-like' without material specification — ask for the tile product name and fixing type.
Scaffolding as 'TBC' — ask for a confirmed scaffold cost included in the total.
'Batten replacement where necessary' without a surveyed scope — ask how the batten condition was assessed and what percentage is covered.
'Lead flashing' without code number — ask for code specification and whether the back gutter is included.
'10-year guarantee' without specifying it as a written document — ask what document will be provided.
Any quote that is defensive about providing specific answers to these questions tells you something about how the job will be managed.
“Detailed written quote with every material named. No vague line items. Exactly what you need to compare contractors fairly.”
“Asked the right questions about lead code and got immediate clear answers. The other quote didn't even specify the code.”
“Written guarantee certificate issued on completion as quoted. Professional approach throughout.”
Material specification (tile product, underlay, fixing type), access method and scaffold cost, lead code for any flashing work, guarantee period and document, and payment terms.
No — like-for-like should be backed by a specific material name or product code. Vague 'matching tile' is not a contractual specification.
20–30% materials deposit is standard for large jobs. 50%+ before commencement is above the norm.
Yes — as a fixed line item, not 'TBC'. If it is absent, ask for it to be confirmed before signing.
Code 4 for step and apron flashings. Code 5 for valleys and back gutters. If the quote just says 'lead flashing', ask for the code.
A written document issued on completion that specifies the workmanship guarantee period and what it covers. 'Guaranteed work' in marketing copy is not a guarantee.
Call 01392 759 295. We provide written, itemised quotes with full material specification, fixed scaffold cost, lead code specification and written guarantee.
No call-out fee. No obligation. Local Devon roofers who turn up when they say they will.
01392 759 295Last reviewed: 21 July 2026
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