When it comes to investing in a new roof in New Jersey, one question echoes louder than the banging of hammers: how many quotes should you get for a roof? This isn’t just a budgeting exercise—it’s a strategic move that affects quality, longevity, and even your property value. Whether you’re in Jersey City, Newark, or Cherry Hill, understanding how to approach roofing quotes can save you thousands in hidden costs and headaches.
With Charles Jimerson of CJ Commercial Roofing NJ, we will unpack why getting multiple roofing estimates matters, how many quotes are ideal, what red flags to watch out for, and how to ensure you’re comparing apples to apples—not apples to hammers.
🏠 Why Roofing Quotes Matter More Than You Think
In a high-stakes investment like roofing, you’re not just paying for shingles—you’re buying workmanship, materials, warranties, and peace of mind. The roofing industry in New Jersey, especially in areas like Trenton, Hoboken, and Paterson, is diverse in pricing and quality. One contractor might offer a roof replacement for $7,000, while another could quote $14,000 for the same project.
Quotes provide a window into a roofer’s:
- Pricing structure
- Scope of work
- Warranty terms
- Installation standards
- Credibility and professionalism
Getting multiple quotes helps weed out overpriced bids, underqualified contractors, and too-good-to-be-true deals that might lead to shortcuts.
📊 So, How Many Quotes Should You Get for a Roof?
Three is the magic number.
Industry experts—including organizations like the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)—recommend getting at least three detailed quotes before making a decision.
Here’s why:
- Benchmarking – With three quotes, you can spot outliers and determine the fair market rate in your part of New Jersey, whether you’re in Princeton or Atlantic City.
- Clarity – Each contractor may suggest slightly different materials or methods. Reviewing multiple quotes helps you learn what’s standard versus optional.
- Negotiation Leverage – Having competing bids can give you leverage in negotiations, especially if a trusted local roofer knows others are also in the running.
That said, more than five quotes can lead to decision fatigue. If you’re buried in proposals, you’re likely to overanalyze or delay the project unnecessarily.
📍Local Market Insight: Roofing in New Jersey
The roofing market in New Jersey is unique due to:
- Harsh winters and humid summers, which demand durable roofing materials like architectural shingles and metal roofing systems
- Local building codes that vary by municipality (e.g., Essex County has different regulations than Ocean County)
- A large number of licensed but unregulated contractors, making homeowner diligence essential
These regional variables make it even more critical to compare multiple quotes—not just on cost, but also on knowledge of local code compliance, permit requirements, and weather-adaptive solutions.
🛠️ What to Look for in a Roofing Quote
Not all quotes are created equal. A proper roofing estimate in New Jersey should include:
- Breakdown of materials (e.g., GAF Timberline HDZ shingles, underlayment, drip edges)
- Labor costs
- Disposal and cleanup fees
- Warranty details (manufacturer and workmanship)
- Estimated project duration
- License and insurance credentials
If a roofer hands you a vague, one-line price, that’s a red flag 🚩.
Also, look for local references. A solid contractor in Edison or Bayonne should have a portfolio of completed jobs nearby, along with testimonials from New Jersey homeowners.
❗Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Lowball Bids – Quotes that seem too cheap often hide poor workmanship or inferior materials.
- High-Pressure Sales – Legitimate roofers won’t pressure you into signing on the spot.
- Missing Licenses or Insurance – In New Jersey, roofing contractor must be registered with the Division of Consumer Affairs.
- No Written Estimate – Always get it in writing, with clear itemization.
- Upfront Payments – Avoid contractors who demand full payment before any work begins.
🧠 How to Compare Roofing Quotes Like a Pro
When comparing quotes, ask:
- Are the materials the same brand and type?
- Is the warranty duration and coverage equal?
- What is included in labor, and is clean-up covered?
- Are there exclusions or fine print you missed?
- Are timeline estimates realistic for your climate?
Use a comparison matrix or spreadsheet to line up features side-by-side. Don’t just go for the cheapest; go for the best value.
Pro tip: Check their Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating and read Google reviews from New Jersey customers. Local insight beats generic promises.
💬 Real Talk: What New Jersey Homeowners Say
In towns like Montclair and Freehold, homeowners report a wide variation in pricing and professionalism among roofers.
One homeowner in Toms River noted, “We got five quotes, and the range was wild—from $9,000 to over $20,000. The guy we picked wasn’t the cheapest, but his quote was the most detailed. That made all the difference.”
Another in Paramus shared, “The third quote we got was actually from a roofer who fixed our neighbor’s place. His local experience and upfront approach sealed the deal.”
🧾 Don’t Forget: Ask These Questions During the Estimate
- Do you handle permits in my town?
- Are your crews in-house or subcontracted?
- What happens if the forecast turns during the project?
- Do you offer a no-leak guarantee?
In New Jersey, where the weather can go from sunny to sideways in a day, roofing project timing and materials matter. Ask how they account for local seasonal patterns in Springfield or Hackensack.
✅ Final Take: The Smart Roofing Quote Strategy
So—how many quotes should you get for a roof in New Jersey?
🎯 Three to five, max.
💰 Compare more than just price.
📍 Make sure they’re local pros who understand New Jersey codes and climate.
By being strategic—not reactive—you’ll land a contractor who’s not only affordable but reliable, licensed, and experienced in your zip code.
Your roof protects everything beneath it. Treat it like the serious investment it is.