Roofing Scope of Work Examples and Templates

The article offers practical guidance and ready-to-use examples for creating a clear roofing scope of work document that contractors, property owners, and project managers can use to define roofing projects accurately and avoid disputes.

Scope Type	Best For	Key Elements
Full Roof Replacement	Old/damaged roofs	Demolition, decking, underlayment, shingles, flashing
Roof Repair	Localized leaks	Leak source, materials, repair method, testing
Maintenance/Inspection	Preservation	Inspection checklist, cleaning, minor repairs, schedule

What Is A Roofing Scope Of Work And Why It Matters

A roofing scope of work is a detailed document that defines the tasks, materials, timeline, and responsibilities for a roofing project.

It matters because it reduces misunderstandings, clarifies costs, and provides a basis for change orders, payments, and project acceptance.

Key Components Of A Clear Roofing Scope Of Work

A comprehensive scope includes sections for project overview, site conditions, materials and specifications, work sequence, safety and cleanup, quality control, and payment terms.

• Project Overview: Address, owner, contractor, purpose of work.
• Site Conditions: Existing roof type, access, obstructions.
• Materials & Specifications: Brands, product numbers, warranties.
• Work Sequence: Demolition, installation steps, inspections.
• Safety & Cleanup: Fall protection, dumpster placement, daily cleanup.
• Testing & Acceptance: Water testing, punch list, final approval.

Example: Full Asphalt Shingle Roof Replacement Scope

This example shows a typical residential full roof replacement scope for architectural asphalt shingles with plywood decking replacement as needed.

Project Overview

Replace existing roof at 123 Main St. Remove all roofing to deck and install new underlayment, ice and water shield, drip edge, starter, architectural shingles, ridge vents, and flashing; includes disposal of debris.

Demolition And Preparation

Remove existing roofing to sound decking, roof system components, and rooftop debris. Protect landscaping and install roof protection around perimeter. Dispose of all roofing materials off-site in approved landfill; include dumpster rental and permit fees.

Decking Repair

Replace damaged or rotted decking with 5/8″ CDX plywood at locations identified during tear-off. Contractor to notify owner and provide pricing for decking beyond an agreed allowance; no hidden decking replacement will proceed without written approval.

Flashing, Underlayment, And Ventilation

Install self-adhering ice and water shield at eaves and valleys 6 feet up roofline. Install synthetic underlayment over entire roof deck. Replace all step and counter flashing in new lead-coated copper or galvanized steel per local code. Install ridge vents to provide continuous ventilation; ventilation to meet ASHRAE/IRC guidelines.

Shingles And Accessories

Install manufacturer-specified architectural shingles with 110 mph wind rating. Use starter shingles at eaves and rakes, match shingle color to selection, and install metal drip edge at eaves and rakes. Provide manufacturer’s 30-year limited warranty and contractor’s workmanship warranty for 5 years.

Site Safety And Cleanup

Comply with OSHA fall protection requirements, use tarps to protect landscaping, and perform daily cleanup of nails and debris using magnetic sweepers. Final cleanup includes hauling away dumpster and leaving site broom-clean; nail sweeps and magnet passes daily.

Inspection And Acceptance

Contractor to perform interim and final inspections. Owner to receive manufacturer warranty, invoice, and maintenance recommendations. Final payment contingent on completion of punch list and delivery of warranties and lien releases.

Example: Roofing Repair Scope For Leak And Flashing

This repair scope targets localized leaks caused by failed flashing and damaged shingles around penetrations.

Problem Identification

Investigate leak at second-floor bedroom ceiling. Use interior moisture mapping and infrared scan if needed to identify source before repairs.

Repair Actions

Remove damaged shingles around the penetration, replace or reflash roof penetration with new lead-coated copper flashing, install new sealant rated for roof applications, and replace adjacent shingles for a watertight patch. Include materials, labor, and a 1-year workmanship warranty; no full roof replacement unless concealed damage is discovered.

Verification

Perform a 30-minute water test or equivalent flooding test to confirm repair integrity. Document the test with photos or video and provide owner with a repair report and warranty certificate.

Templates And Checklists To Streamline Scope Creation

Templates ensure consistency across projects. A good scope template includes fields for site photos, material specifications, allowances, exclusions, and signature lines.

• Checklist Items: Roof measurements, tear-off count, underlayment type, ventilation strategy, flashings, gutters, permits, schedule.
• Exclusions To State: Hidden damages, structural repairs, mold remediation, paint, interior repairs.
• Allowances: Decking replacement allowance, plumbing boot allowance, skylight flashing allowance.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Writing A Roofing Scope

Ambiguous language, missing exclusions, and vague material specifications frequently cause disputes. A strong scope uses measurable specifications and clear acceptance criteria.

• Avoid Vague Terms: Replace “repair as needed” with specific actions.
• List Exclusions: State clearly what is not included to prevent scope creep.
• Include Change Order Process: Define how unseen conditions will be priced and approved.

How To Estimate Time And Costs Accurately

Accurate estimates rely on measured roof area, pitch, tear-off complexity, decking condition, and local labor rates. Use measured squares (1 square = 100 sq ft) for shingle projects.

Factors Affecting Cost: Pitch over 7:12, multiple layers, complex roof lines, steep slopes, and accessibility all increase labor and safety costs.

Legal, Permits, And Insurance Considerations

Include permit responsibilities, required inspections, and insurance requirements in the scope. Require contractors to carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance and to provide certificates of insurance before work begins.

Permit Responsibility: Specify whether owner or contractor will obtain and pay for permits to avoid delays or unpermitted work.

Quality Control, Inspections, And Acceptance Criteria

Define interim inspections and final acceptance tests. Use a punch list with clear items such as “no loose shingles” and “all flashing sealed.” Include photographic documentation for warranty support.

Acceptance Tests: Water testing, visual inspection, and measurement of ventilation rates when applicable ensure workmanship meets the scope.

Change Orders And Handling Unforeseen Conditions

Provide a documented change order process requiring written estimates, owner approval, and revised schedule before additional work begins. This prevents unauthorized extras and payment disputes.

Unforeseen Conditions: Specify an allowance for concealed damage and how hourly or unit rates will be applied if additional work is required.

Sample Clause Language For Common Scope Items

Use precise language such as: “Contractor Shall Remove Existing Roofing To Deck, Replace Damaged Decking Up To 200 Sq Ft Included In Base Bid, Install Synthetic Underlayment Per Manufacturer Recommendations, And Provide 5-Year Workmanship Warranty.”

Clarity In Contract Language reduces ambiguity and speeds dispute resolution if issues arise.

Templates And Resources To Download

Several industry resources offer downloadable scope templates and checklists including manufacturers, trade associations, and local building departments; these templates can be customized for residential and commercial projects.

• Manufacturer Guidelines: Provide product-specific installation requirements that should be referenced in the scope.
• Trade Associations: Offer best-practice templates and standard contract language.
• Local Building Codes: Check local code requirements and include code compliance statements in the scope.

Final Tips For Writing An Effective Roofing Scope Of Work

Keep the scope concise, measurable, and illustrated with photos or sketches where helpful. Require signatures from both owner and contractor to confirm acceptance.

Best Practice: Attach product data sheets, warranty forms, and a simple site map to the scope to make expectations explicit and enforceable.

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