Getting at least three quotes before choosing a roofer is the widely recommended starting point in New Zealand. Three quotes gives you a realistic sense of the market rate, helps you spot outliers (too cheap or too expensive), and gives you enough information to make a confident, informed decision.
Why Three Quotes Is the Magic Number
One quote leaves you with no frame of reference. Two quotes can still leave you wondering. Three or more quotes let you:
- Compare pricing across a realistic range
- Spot inconsistencies in scope — if one roofer is quoting far less, find out why
- Assess communication and professionalism before any work begins
- Negotiate with confidence, knowing what the job is genuinely worth
For larger or more complex jobs — full re-roofs, significant structural repairs, or heritage homes — it's worth getting four or five quotes. The extra time spent upfront can save you thousands.
What to Look for in Each Quote
Not all quotes are created equal. A low price can be tempting, but a vague or incomplete quote is a red flag. Ask each roofer to provide a written, itemised quote that clearly covers:
| Item | What to check |
|---|---|
| Materials | Brand, product type, colour, and quantity specified |
| Labour | Breakdown of what's included |
| Removal & disposal | Old roofing material removal costs |
| Flashings & fixings | Often overlooked but critical for weathertightness |
| Warranties | Both product and workmanship warranties |
| Timeline | Estimated start and completion dates |
| Payment terms | Deposit amount and payment schedule |
If a quote arrives as a single lump sum with no detail, ask for a breakdown. A professional roofer will have no problem providing one.
Checking Credentials and Licensing
In New Zealand, roofing itself is not a licensed trade in the same way as electrical or plumbing work — but that doesn't mean credentials don't matter. Look for roofers who:
- Are members of the Roofing Association of New Zealand (RANZ)
- Hold a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) licence if the work involves restricted building work (such as work affecting the weathertightness of the building envelope). You can verify LBP status at Licensed Building Practitioners
- Carry public liability insurance and have current ACC cover for their workers
- Can provide references from recent local jobs
Always ask to see proof of insurance. If a roofer can't provide it, walk away.
Understanding NZ Building Code Requirements
Roofing work in New Zealand must comply with the NZ Building Code, particularly Clause E2 (External Moisture), which sets out requirements for keeping water out of the building. Depending on the scope of work, a building consent may be required — for example, if you're changing the roof cladding type or making structural alterations.
Schedule 1 of the Building Act lists some exemptions (such as like-for-like repairs), but the rules can be nuanced. Always check with your local council before starting any significant roofing work to confirm whether consent is needed. MBIE Building Performance has useful guidance on when consents apply.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When comparing quotes, keep an eye out for these warning signs:
- Unusually low quotes — cheap materials, unlicensed labour, or cut corners on flashings can lead to leaks and costly repairs down the track
- Pressure to sign quickly or pay a large deposit upfront
- No written quote or vague scope of work
- No physical address or verifiable business history
- Reluctance to provide references or proof of insurance
A reputable roofer will welcome your questions and be happy to explain their quote in detail.
Getting the Most Out of the Quoting Process
To make comparing quotes easier, give every roofer the same brief. Walk each one around the roof, point out any known issues, and ask them to quote on the same scope of work. This apples-to-apples comparison makes your decision much clearer.
Also ask each roofer:
- What roofing products do you recommend, and why?
- How will you protect my home during the job?
- Who will actually be on site — your own crew or subcontractors?
- What happens if unexpected issues are found once work begins?
When to Call a Professional
All significant roofing work — re-roofing, replacing flashings, repairing structural roof elements, or any work affecting weathertightness — should be carried out by a qualified, experienced roofer. Attempting roofing work yourself carries serious fall risks (roofing is one of the higher-risk activities covered by WorkSafe NZ) and can void your home insurance or product warranties if work isn't done to the required standard.
If your roofing work involves restricted building work under the Building Act, it must be carried out or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner. Check LBP to verify any tradesperson's licence.
You can find qualified, local roofers in your area right here on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Roofing Association of NZ (RANZ)
Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP)
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