Checklists
Roof replacement checklist
A short working checklist for the weeks before, the day of and the day after a roof replacement.
Hire Best Pros Editorial Team · Updated August 24, 2026
Work through this checklist in three stages: confirm the paperwork and the scope before you sign, prepare the property in the days before the crew arrives, and inspect the finished job before you release the final payment.
Before you sign
- Written scope listing material, underlayment, flashing, ventilation and disposal
- Decking allowance and the price per additional sheet
- Permit responsibility named in the contract
- Payment schedule tied to milestones, with a final payment after your walkthrough
- Workmanship warranty terms, in writing and separate from the material warranty
- Proof of liability and workers compensation insurance, confirmed with the carrier
The week before
- Move vehicles, trailers and anything fragile away from the drip line
- Take down wall hangings and shelf items on upper floors, since tear-off shakes the house
- Cover stored items in the attic and garage against falling debris and dust
- Cut back branches that block roof access if the contractor asks
- Tell neighbors the date, because roofing days are loud and start early
- Plan for pets and anyone who works from home
The day of
- Confirm who the on-site contact is
- Check that landscaping, gutters, pool areas and driveways are protected
- Keep children and pets away from the work zone and the dumpster
- Ask to be shown any decking replacement before it is covered up, and get photos
Before final payment
- Walk the perimeter and check the yard and gutters for nails and debris
- Look for a magnet sweep of the driveway and lawn
- Inspect flashing at chimneys, walls, valleys and vents from the ground with binoculars
- Confirm ridge and soffit ventilation was completed as described
- Collect the warranty documents, the final invoice, permit closeout and photos
Still comparing roofers for the job?
Find roofing helpCommon questions
- Do I need to be home during the roof replacement?
- Not usually, but someone should be reachable by phone. Decisions about unexpected decking damage often come up mid-job and holding up the crew costs you time.
- What should I do about nails in the yard?
- Ask that a magnet sweep be part of the cleanup and written into the scope, then do your own pass a few days later. Nails work their way up after rain.