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A new roof is one of the biggest cheques most Montreal homeowners will ever write for their house, and it usually happens only once or twice in a lifetime. That means most people have no idea what to ask when the first roofer shows up with a clipboard. The good news is that a handful of well-chosen questions will tell you almost everything you need to know about a contractor.

Here is the list we would hand to a friend or neighbour, along with the answers you should expect to hear.

Questions to ask before hiring a roofer: start with the licence

The first question is simple: what is your RBQ licence number? In Quebec, anyone doing roofing work for you must hold a licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ), with the right subclass for roofing. A serious contractor will give you the number without hesitation, and it should appear on the quote and the contract.

Don’t stop at hearing the number. Look it up yourself with the RBQ online licence search. You want to confirm that:

• the licence is valid and not suspended;
• the company name matches the one on the quote;
• the subclasses cover the roofing work being done.

RBQ licence holders must also provide a security bond, which may compensate clients in some situations. It is not a blanket guarantee, but it is one more layer of protection you lose completely if you hire someone unlicensed.

Are you insured, and can I see the certificate?

Roofing is risky work. Ask for proof of civil liability insurance in writing, ideally a certificate you can read with your own eyes, not just a verbal yes. If a worker drops a bundle of shingles through your neighbour’s windshield or water gets into your home during the tear-off, this is the policy that should respond.

Also ask whether their workers are covered by the CNESST. Roofing is a CCQ-regulated construction trade, so crews on your roof should be properly registered and covered. If someone gets hurt on a job with an off-the-books crew, things can get messy for everyone involved.

What exactly is included in your quote?

A one-line quote that says “new roof – price” is a red flag. Ask the roofer to walk you through every item. A good written estimate should spell out:

• removal of the old roofing and disposal (container included or not);
• how damaged plywood or decking will be handled and priced;
• the brand and model of shingles or membrane;
• underlayment, ice and water membrane, flashing and ventilation;
• clean-up, including magnet sweeping for nails;
• taxes, shown separately.

Say you own a duplex in Rosemont and you get three quotes that look wildly different. Nine times out of ten, the gap comes from what each contractor included or left out, not from one being a thief. Asking the same detailed questions to each one is what lets you compare apples to apples. Honestly, getting and comparing quotes from several licensed contractors is the best protection you have as a homeowner.

Ask about price ranges, but keep them in context

For an asphalt shingle replacement on a typical house in Quebec, many homeowners pay roughly $8,000 to $20,000 before taxes, often around $6 to $12 per sq ft installed. The final number varies with size, slope, access and the condition of what is underneath. GST (5%) and QST (9.975%) are usually added on top, for 14.975% in total.

What warranty do you offer?

There are two separate warranties to ask about:

1. The manufacturer’s warranty on materials, which may depend on the roofer following the installation instructions.
2. The contractor’s warranty on workmanship, which covers mistakes in the installation itself.

Ask how many years the workmanship warranty lasts, what it covers, and how you file a claim. Get it in writing. Keep in mind that, beyond any written warranty, the Civil Code of Québec makes the contractor liable for five years for loss of the work due to construction defects.

Who handles the permit, and what is the timeline?

Permit rules are set by each municipality or borough, and they are not the same in Plateau-Mont-Royal, Laval or Longueuil. Ask the roofer whether a permit is needed for your job and who will get it. Many contractors handle it, but you should know for sure.

Then ask about timing:

• When can you start, realistically?
• How many days will the job take on my roof?
• What happens if it rains halfway through the tear-off?
• Who is the foreman on site, and how do I reach them?

A roofer who has a clear plan for weather delays is a roofer who has done this many times.

How do payments work?

Ask about the deposit and the payment schedule before anything is signed. A reasonable deposit to secure materials is normal. Paying the full amount up front is not. Ideally, the final payment is due once the work is completed and you have inspected it.

Also ask how changes are handled. If the crew finds rotten plywood once the old shingles are off, how will they tell you, and how is that extra priced? You want a per-unit price written into the contract so there are no surprises.

Can you show me references and recent work?

Ask for a few addresses or contacts from jobs completed in the last year or two, ideally nearby. A quick drive-by in Villeray or on the South Shore tells you a lot about how their roofs look once the crew has left. You can also check the company’s record with the Office de la protection du consommateur (OPC) to see if there have been formal complaints or legal proceedings.

Red flags to watch for

Bottom line

The right questions before hiring a roofer protect your house and your wallet: licence, insurance, a detailed written quote, warranty, permit, timeline and payment terms. Verify what you are told on the RBQ and OPC websites, and don’t let anyone rush you into signing. Rules vary by municipality and every roof is different, so insist on written, detailed quotes and compare them carefully before you choose.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check if a roofer's RBQ licence is valid?

Use the RBQ online licence search with the licence number or company name. Confirm the licence is active, the name matches your quote, and the subclasses cover roofing work.

How much deposit should I give a roofer?

A reasonable deposit to order materials is common, but avoid paying the full amount before work starts. Tie the final payment to completion and your inspection of the job.

Do I need a permit to redo my roof in Montreal?

It depends on your borough or municipality, since each sets its own permit rules. Ask your roofer to confirm and to state in the contract who is responsible for getting it.

You may also search for:How Many Roof Repair Estimates Should I Get?Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring a RooferHow to Find Local Roofers Near You in MontrealAll Home Services

Estimations.pro is a referral service and does not perform the work. Prices are indicative only and vary with the size, slope, access and condition of your roof. Requirements (RBQ licence, municipal permits, programs) can change: check with the relevant organizations and get detailed written quotes.

Most homeowners only hire a roofer a few times in their lives, so it’s hard to know what “good” looks like. The price is easy to compare. Quality is not. Yet the difference between an average roofer and a great one shows up years later — in a roof that stays dry, or one that leaks every spring.

Here are the qualities that separate a reliable roofer from the rest, and how you can spot them before you sign anything.

The top qualities of a good roofer

Think of these as your checklist. A good roofer doesn’t need to be perfect on every point, but they should tick most of these boxes clearly.

• Properly licensed and insured
• Honest about what your roof actually needs
• Clear, detailed written quotes
• Strong attention to details like flashing and ventilation
• Safe work practices
• Written warranty on workmanship
• Good communication and respect for your property

They’re licensed and insured

In Quebec, this is the starting line. A roofing contractor must hold a licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) with the appropriate subclass. You can verify it yourself with the RBQ online licence search. Licence holders must also provide a security bond that may compensate clients in some cases.

Roofing is a CCQ-regulated trade in construction, and workers are covered by CNESST. A good roofer will also carry liability insurance and show you proof without hesitation. If they get vague when you ask, move on.

They diagnose honestly

A good roofer tells you what your roof needs — not what earns them the most. Sometimes that means a repair instead of a full replacement. Sometimes it means telling you the roof has a few years left and isn’t urgent yet.

Say you own a cottage in Ahuntsic with one leak near a plumbing vent. An honest roofer might suggest replacing the vent boot and checking nearby shingles, a small repair that often costs a few hundred dollars up to about $2,000 before taxes, depending on access and condition. A roofer who immediately insists on a full replacement without showing you evidence deserves a second opinion.

They show you, not just tell you

Many good roofers take photos of problem areas so you can see what they see. That transparency builds trust and helps you make a decision.

Their quotes are clear and complete

A good quote leaves little room for surprises. It should list:

1. The scope of work (repair, partial or full replacement)
2. Materials by brand and type
3. Membrane, flashing and ventilation details
4. How unexpected issues like rotten decking will be priced
5. Disposal and cleanup
6. Schedule and payment terms
7. Warranty terms
8. Whether taxes (GST and QST, 14.975% total) are included

Comparing quotes from several licensed contractors is the best protection you have. It quickly shows who’s thorough and who’s cutting corners.

They care about the details

Shingles are what you see, but most leaks start at the details: flashing around chimneys and walls, valleys, vents and the eaves where ice builds up in winter. A good roofer talks about these unprompted. They’ll ask about attic ventilation, because poor airflow can shorten a roof’s life and contribute to ice dams.

They work safely

Roofing is dangerous work. A good roofer uses proper fall protection, sets up safely and won’t work on a wet, icy or snow-covered roof just to keep a schedule. A safe crew is usually a careful crew, and that care tends to carry over into the quality of the work.

They communicate and respect your home

A good roofer returns calls, shows up when they say they will and keeps you informed if weather pushes the schedule. They protect your landscaping, clean up nails and debris, and leave your property the way they found it.

After the job, they should still be reachable. Under the Civil Code of Québec, a contractor is liable for five years for loss of the work due to construction defects. A good roofer stands behind their work well beyond that legal minimum where their warranty allows.

They don’t use pressure tactics

Be wary of anyone who knocks on your door after a storm, claims your roof is about to fail and asks for a big deposit right away. A good roofer respects that this is a major decision. If you do sign a contract at home with an itinerant merchant, the Consumer Protection Act generally lets you cancel within 10 days. You can also check a merchant’s record with the Office de la protection du consommateur (OPC).

They know your type of roof

One more quality often gets overlooked: relevant experience. A good roofer is honest about what they do best. Flat roofs on Montreal plexes, steep shingle roofs, metal installations and older homes with complicated chimneys each call for different skills and equipment. Ask how many jobs like yours they completed in the last year, and whether they use their own crew or subcontractors. If a roofer admits a job isn’t their specialty and suggests someone else, that’s a sign of integrity, not weakness. The best contractors would rather pass on a job than do it poorly and damage their reputation in the neighbourhood.

Bottom line

The best qualities of a good roofer are simple to describe and easy to test: a valid RBQ licence, honest diagnosis, detailed written quotes, attention to details, safe work and real communication. Take time to meet a few contractors and compare their quotes side by side. Warranty terms and permit requirements vary by contractor and municipality, so get everything in writing.

Frequently asked questions

How can I check if a roofer is licensed in Quebec?

Use the RBQ online licence search and enter the company name or licence number. Make sure the licence is active and includes the right subclass for roofing work.

Is the cheapest roofer ever the best choice?

Sometimes, but only if the quote covers the same scope as the others. A much lower price often means something like membrane, flashing or ventilation was left out.

What warranty should a good roofer offer?

Look for a written workmanship warranty in addition to the manufacturer’s material warranty. Terms vary, so compare them across quotes.

You may also search for:Can I Claim Roof Repairs on My Taxes in Quebec?What Is Included in a Roof Replacement Estimate?How to Verify a Roofer's Licence and ReferencesRoofing Quotes in Montreal

Estimations.pro is a referral service and does not perform the work. Prices are indicative only and vary with the size, slope, access and condition of your roof. Requirements (RBQ licence, municipal permits, programs) can change: check with the relevant organizations and get detailed written quotes.

You need a roofer. Your neighbour swears by the guy who did her roof three summers ago. Meanwhile, a quick search shows a different company with dozens of glowing reviews. Who do you call?

Both sources have real value, and both have blind spots. Here’s how to use each one wisely, from someone who’s seen plenty of roofing jobs go right and a few go very wrong.

Neighbour recommendations vs. online reviews: the short answer

When it comes to neighbour recommendations vs. online reviews, a recommendation from someone you know usually carries more weight, because you can see the finished roof and ask honest questions. But one happy neighbour is still just one job. Online reviews add volume and show patterns over time. The smartest move is to use both as leads, then verify the roofer yourself.

Why neighbour recommendations are so valuable

A recommendation from next door has advantages no website can match.

• You can see the work. Walk outside and look at the roof from the street: straight lines, tidy flashing, even ridge caps.
• Same conditions. Your neighbour’s house faces the same weather, the same winters and often the same type of roof.
• You can ask anything. Did they stay on budget? Did they clean up? Did they come back when there was a problem?
• Time has passed. A roof that still looks good after a few Montreal winters says more than a review written the day the crew left.

Say you live in a row of duplexes in Verdun and three neighbours on your street used the same roofer for their flat roofs. That’s a meaningful track record on exactly your type of building.

The limits of a neighbour’s opinion

• It’s usually one job, and one experience can be luck, good or bad.
• Your neighbour may not know what a good roof job looks like up close.
• The company may have changed owners, crews or prices since then.
• Friendship can soften the truth. People don’t love admitting they overpaid.
• A flat-roof specialist may not be the right choice for your steep shingle roof, and vice versa.

What online reviews do well

Reviews give you something a neighbour can’t: many experiences at once. Read enough of them and patterns appear.

• Consistent praise for communication and cleanup is a good sign.
• Repeated complaints about the same issue, like missed start dates or unanswered warranty calls, is a warning.
• How the company responds to negative reviews tells you how it treats unhappy clients.
• Recent reviews show what the company is like now, not five years ago.

The problems with online reviews

• Some reviews are fake, bought or written by friends and family.
• Businesses may ask only happy clients to post.
• Many reviews are written right after the job, before the roof has faced a single winter.
• Some negative reviews are unfair or come from misunderstandings.
• A handful of reviews is not a pattern.

How to read reviews like a pro

What matters more than either

Recommendations and reviews tell you who to call. They don’t tell you whether a roofer is licensed, fairly priced or right for your specific job. That’s where your own checks come in.

1. Verify the RBQ licence. Use the RBQ online licence search and make sure the licence includes a subclass that covers roofing.
2. Check the OPC record. The Office de la protection du consommateur lets you look up a merchant’s record.
3. Call references from recent jobs similar to yours.
4. Get written, detailed quotes with scope, materials, warranty and taxes spelled out.
5. Compare. Comparing quotes from several licensed contractors is the best protection, whether they came from a neighbour, a review site or a referral service.

For context, small roof repairs often cost roughly a few hundred dollars up to about $2,000 before taxes, and asphalt shingle replacement on a typical Quebec house often lands roughly between $8,000 and $20,000 before taxes. It varies with size, slope, access and condition. A recommended roofer whose price is far outside the others deserves a few questions.

A simple way to combine both

Here’s a practical approach many homeowners use:

• Take one or two names from neighbours you trust.
• Add one or two names with solid, detailed, recent reviews.
• Verify all of them the same way.
• Get three or four comparable written quotes and decide on substance, not reputation alone.

Questions to ask your neighbour

A recommendation becomes far more useful when you dig a little. Instead of just asking “were you happy?”, try these:

• What exactly did they do, a repair or a full replacement?
• How long ago was it, and has the roof been through a few winters since?
• Was the final bill close to the written quote?
• Did they show up when they said they would?
• How did they handle surprises, like rotten decking?
• Did you need to call them back, and did they respond?
• Did you compare their quote with others?

If your neighbour got only one quote, their good experience still counts, but it doesn’t tell you whether the price was fair. That’s something only your own comparison can show.

Bottom line

A neighbour’s recommendation is often the most trustworthy starting point, and online reviews help you spot patterns. Neither replaces your own homework. Verify the RBQ licence and subclass, check the OPC record, call references and compare written, detailed quotes. Permit rules vary by municipality and borough, and insurance coverage varies by insurer, so confirm what applies to your home before work begins.

Frequently asked questions

Should I hire a roofer my neighbour recommended without other quotes?

It's still wise to get two or three other written quotes. Even a great roofer may not be the best fit or the fairest price for your particular roof.

How can I tell if online reviews are fake?

Watch for vague, repetitive praise, many reviews posted in a short burst, and profiles with no other activity. Detailed reviews spread over time are more reliable.

What if a roofer has bad reviews but a great recommendation?

Read what the complaints are about and how the company responded. Then verify the licence, call references and compare quotes before deciding.

You may also search for:How Much Should I Pay for a Roof Repair in Montreal?What Is the Average Cost to Replace a Roof in Montreal?How to Hire a Roofer: A Montreal Homeowner's GuideRoofing Quotes in Montreal

Estimations.pro is a referral service and does not perform the work. Prices are indicative only and vary with the size, slope, access and condition of your roof. Requirements (RBQ licence, municipal permits, programs) can change: check with the relevant organizations and get detailed written quotes.

A new roof is a big cheque, and it is natural to want it smaller. But negotiating with a roofer is not like haggling at a garage sale. Push too hard on the wrong number and you either lose a good contractor or get a job where corners quietly disappear.

Say you own a semi-detached house in Pointe-Claire and your three quotes for new shingles came in at different prices. Here is how to bring that cost down sensibly, without putting the quality of the roof at risk.

How to negotiate roof replacement costs: know the market first

You cannot negotiate well if you do not know what normal looks like. For asphalt shingles on a typical house in Quebec, replacement often runs roughly $6 to $12 per sq ft installed, and many homeowners pay roughly $8,000 to $20,000 before taxes. A steel roof often runs around $13 to $30 per sq ft, roughly double shingles upfront, but it lasts much longer. Prices vary with size, slope, access and condition.

Comparing quotes from several licensed contractors is the best protection you have, and it is also your strongest negotiating tool. Once you have three or four detailed quotes, you know where the middle sits, and you can have a real conversation instead of guessing.

Make sure you are comparing the same job

Quotes often differ because they describe different work. Before you ask anyone to lower a price, line up the details.

Often the lower quote is lower because it reuses flashing or skips ventilation work. That is not a discount, it is a different roof.

Negotiation levers that actually work

Instead of asking for a flat percentage off, ask questions that give the contractor room to find savings without cutting quality.

Timing and flexibility

Quebec’s roofing season is short and busy. If you are flexible on dates, say so. Some contractors can offer a better price for a job that fills a gap in their schedule, typically early or late in the season. Emergency, winter or after-hours work costs more, so if your roof is not leaking, avoid putting yourself in a rush.

Materials and product line

Ask whether a different product line within the same quality range would lower the price. Architectural shingles typically last around 25 to 30 years versus 15 to 20 for 3-tab, so the cheaper product is not always the better value. But there may be comparable options at a lower cost.

Fix the unknowns upfront

The biggest surprises usually come from rotten decking. Negotiate a clear per-sheet price for deck replacement in the contract, and ask to see photos before extra sheets are installed. That protects you more than shaving a few hundred dollars off the base price.

Bundle related work

If you also need gutters, a skylight replaced or a small flat section redone, asking for one combined quote can sometimes lower the total compared with hiring separately.

What you should never negotiate away

Some things are not worth saving money on. Treat these as non-negotiable:

• A valid RBQ licence with the right subclass
• Proof of liability insurance
• A permit, when your municipality or borough requires one
• A written workmanship warranty
• A proper invoice with GST and QST shown

A contractor who offers a lower price for cash without taxes is offering you less protection, not a deal. Without an invoice, your warranty, your insurer and your future buyer have nothing to rely on. Taxes of 14.975% are part of the real cost, so budget for them from the start.

How to ask without souring the relationship

Roofers are tradespeople running tight businesses. The tone of your question matters. A few phrases that work:

1. Ask what is driving the price: is it the tear-off, the slope, the access?
2. Tell them honestly where the other quotes landed, without inventing numbers.
3. Ask if there is any flexibility on timing, materials or scope.
4. Ask what they would recommend if your budget were a little lower.

If your preferred roofer will not move on price, but the quote is detailed and their reputation is strong, it may still be the best value. The cheapest roof is often the one you do not have to redo in ten years.

Watch out for offers that seem too good

Sometimes a contractor drops the price dramatically the moment you hesitate. That can be a sign the first number was inflated, or that something will be cut later. Before accepting a big last-minute discount, check that the scope in writing has not changed: same tear-off, same membranes, same flashing, same warranty. If a door-to-door salesperson pressures you to sign at home, remember that a contract signed with an itinerant merchant can generally be cancelled within 10 days under the Consumer Protection Act. A fair price you understand beats a bargain you cannot explain.

Payment terms are part of the deal

You can negotiate how you pay as well as how much. A reasonable deposit for materials is normal. The bulk should be tied to completion and a final walk-around. Put the payment schedule in the written contract. Remember that the Civil Code of Québec makes the contractor liable for 5 years for loss of the work due to construction defects, so keep every document.

Bottom line

The best way to negotiate roof replacement costs is to compare detailed quotes from licensed roofers, understand what drives each price, and adjust timing, materials or scope rather than asking for a blind discount. Keep the licence, permit, warranty and invoice off the table. Permit rules vary by municipality and insurer requirements vary too, so check your own situation and always get written, detailed quotes.

Frequently asked questions

Is it rude to tell a roofer about a cheaper quote?

Not at all, as long as you are honest about it. Sharing that another quote came in lower, and asking what explains the difference, often leads to a useful conversation about scope.

When is the cheapest time to replace a roof in Quebec?

There is no guaranteed cheap month, but flexibility helps. Avoiding emergency and winter work, and being open to early- or late-season dates, gives contractors more room on price.

Can I save money by keeping my old shingles and adding a layer?

An overlay can cost less upfront, but it can hide deck problems and may shorten the new roof's life. Ask each contractor whether it is suitable for your roof and how it affects the warranty.

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Estimations.pro is a referral service and does not perform the work. Prices are indicative only and vary with the size, slope, access and condition of your roof. Requirements (RBQ licence, municipal permits, programs) can change: check with the relevant organizations and get detailed written quotes.

Your roof is one of the biggest single expenses you will face as a homeowner, and you usually only buy one every twenty years or so. That means most people go into it with no practice. Say you own a duplex in Rosemont and the shingles on the back slope are curling: you call a couple of numbers, someone shows up, gives you a price on a scrap of paper, and wants a deposit by Friday. That is exactly the situation you want to avoid.

Hiring a roofer well mostly comes down to a handful of checks, done before you sign anything.

How to hire a roofer: start with the RBQ licence

In Quebec, anyone who does roofing work for you as a contractor must hold a licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ). It is not optional, and it is not just paperwork. The licence shows the company has met requirements for administration, safety and technical knowledge, and it comes with a security bond that may compensate clients in some situations.

Here is what to do:

• Ask for the RBQ licence number. A serious roofer will have it on the quote, the truck and the website.
• Look it up yourself in the RBQ online licence search. Confirm the name matches the company you are dealing with.
• Check that the licence is active and includes the subclass that covers roofing work, not just general renovation.
• Note any restrictions shown on the licence.

If someone hesitates to give you a licence number, or gives you someone else’s, you have your answer.

Check reputation and complaint history

A valid licence is the floor, not the ceiling. The Office de la protection du consommateur (OPC) lets you check a merchant’s record, including formal notices and certain legal proceedings.

Beyond that, ask the roofer for recent addresses of jobs in your area. A company that has done a dozen flat roofs in Villeray or shingle roofs in Ahuntsic should be happy to tell you about them.

Ask about insurance and workers

Roofing is a CCQ-regulated trade in construction, and workers are covered by CNESST. Ask the contractor to confirm their liability insurance in writing. If a worker damages your neighbour’s car or a ladder goes through a window, you want the contractor’s insurer handling it, not yours.

Get several detailed written quotes

Comparing quotes from several licensed contractors is the best protection you have, both on price and on scope. One quote tells you almost nothing. Three or four side by side show you what is normal and what is not.

A good quote should be written and itemized. It should include:

• The exact scope: tear-off or overlay, number of layers removed, deck repairs and how they are priced
• Materials by brand and product line, including underlayment, ice and water membrane, vents and flashing
• Disposal of old materials and site cleanup
• Price before taxes, with GST and QST shown separately
• Estimated start date and duration
• Workmanship warranty and how long it lasts

For reference, asphalt shingle replacement on a typical house in Quebec often runs roughly $6 to $12 per sq ft installed, and many homeowners pay roughly $8,000 to $20,000 before taxes. That varies with size, slope, access and condition, so a quote far outside the pack deserves a question, whether it is much higher or much lower.

Compare quotes the right way

The cheapest quote is not always the best deal, and the most expensive is not always the best work. Line them up and compare the same things.

Read the contract before you sign

Once you pick a roofer, get everything in a written contract. Verbal promises disappear when there is a disagreement. The contract should repeat what was in the quote and add the payment terms, who gets the permit, and what happens if they find more damage than expected.

Permits are set by each municipality and, in Montreal, by each borough. Some jobs need one, some do not. Ask the roofer who handles it and make sure it is written down.

Know your cancellation rights

If you sign a contract at home with an itinerant merchant, for example someone who knocked on your door after a windstorm, the Consumer Protection Act generally lets you cancel within 10 days. Keep that in mind if you feel rushed.

Red flags to watch for

Watch for these warning signs:

1. Door-to-door offers right after a storm, with pressure to sign today
2. No RBQ licence number, or a number that does not match the company name
3. Requests for a large cash deposit or payment in full before work starts
4. A quote with a single total and no details
5. Offers to skip the taxes if you pay cash

That last one is especially risky. Without an invoice, you have no warranty, no proof of the work for your insurer, and very little recourse if something goes wrong.

During and after the job

Stay reachable on the first day, when the old roof comes off and any deck problems show up. Ask for photos of hidden damage before extra work is approved. When the job is done, walk around the house and get a final invoice that matches the contract.

Keep the contract, invoices and warranty documents together. Under the Civil Code of Québec, the contractor is liable for 5 years for loss of the work due to construction defects, and you will need that paperwork if a problem appears. Never climb on the roof yourself to inspect it, especially when it is wet, icy or steep. Look from the ground or ask the roofer to send photos.

Bottom line

Knowing how to hire a roofer comes down to a few steady habits: verify the RBQ licence, check the OPC record, collect several detailed written quotes, and sign a clear contract before any real money changes hands. Rules vary by borough, municipality and insurer, so confirm permits and coverage for your own address. Take your time, ask questions, and choose the roofer who explains things clearly, not the one who rushes you.

Frequently asked questions

How many roofing quotes should I get in Montreal?

Three to four written quotes is a good target. It gives you enough to spot a price or scope that is out of line without dragging the process out.

How much deposit should a roofer ask for?

A modest deposit to order materials is normal, but you should not pay most of the job before work starts. Tie the bulk of the payment to completion and put the schedule in the contract.

Do I need a permit to redo my roof in Montreal?

It depends on your borough and the type of work. Call your borough or ask the roofer to confirm, and write down who is responsible for getting the permit.

You may also search for:How Many Roof Repair Estimates Should I Get?How to Find Local Roofers Near You in MontrealCan I Hire a Roofing Subcontractor Directly Instead of a Company?Roofing Quotes in Montreal

Estimations.pro is a referral service and does not perform the work. Prices are indicative only and vary with the size, slope, access and condition of your roof. Requirements (RBQ licence, municipal permits, programs) can change: check with the relevant organizations and get detailed written quotes.

It is a fair question. You hear that roofing companies subcontract half their jobs anyway, so why not skip the middleman and hire the crew directly? Maybe a cousin’s friend does roofs on weekends and offers to redo your bungalow in Saint-Léonard for a lot less than the quotes you received.

In Quebec, the answer depends almost entirely on one thing: whether the person you hire holds the right licence. Let’s walk through how it works and where the real risks sit.

Can you hire a roofing subcontractor directly in Quebec?

You can hire a roofing subcontractor directly, as long as that person or their business holds a valid licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) with the subclass that covers roofing. At that point, they are not really a subcontractor anymore: they are your contractor, with all the responsibilities that come with it.

What you cannot safely do is hire a worker who has no licence and treat them as a contractor. In Quebec, anyone who carries out construction work for you, or organizes it, must hold the appropriate RBQ licence. Being skilled with a nail gun is not the same thing.

Subcontractor vs contractor: what is the difference?

When a roofing company subcontracts, the company signs your contract, holds the licence for your job, and stays responsible for the result. The subcontractor answers to them. If you hire the subcontractor directly, they must take on that role themselves, including the licence, the insurance and the warranty.

How CCQ rules come into play

Roofing is a CCQ-regulated trade in construction. The Commission de la construction du Québec oversees things like worker qualifications and working conditions on construction sites. Workers are also covered by CNESST for workplace injuries.

For you, the practical takeaway is simple: a legitimate roofing business works within this framework. Someone working off the books usually does not, which means nobody is checking qualifications, and nobody is reporting the hours that keep injury coverage in place.

The real risks of cash or under-the-table work

The appeal is obvious. No taxes on the invoice, a lower total, a handshake deal. On asphalt shingles, where many homeowners pay roughly $8,000 to $20,000 before taxes depending on size, slope, access and condition, skipping the 14.975% in GST and QST looks like real money. Here is what you give up in exchange.

• No warranty you can enforce. Without a contract and an invoice, a workmanship warranty is a promise you cannot prove.
• No recourse. If the roof leaks in the spring, you may have no way to bring the worker back or claim against them. The RBQ security bond that may compensate clients in some cases only applies to licence holders.
• Insurance problems. If a worker falls, or damages your property or a neighbour’s, you may end up exposed. Your home insurer may also question a claim tied to work done without a licensed contractor or proper documentation.
• No paper trail when you sell. Buyers and their inspectors ask when the roof was done and by whom. A receipt from a licensed contractor carries weight. A story about a cash job does not.
• No Civil Code protection in practice. The Civil Code of Québec makes a contractor liable for 5 years for loss of the work due to construction defects. That protection is far easier to use when you can identify a licensed business and show a contract.

When hiring a smaller roofer directly makes sense

None of this means you have to go with a big company. Plenty of excellent roofers are small, owner-operated businesses with a licence, a small crew and a strong local reputation. Hiring one of them directly is often a great choice.

Say you have a flat roof on a triplex in Verdun and a small two-person outfit gave you a clear quote. If they have an active RBQ licence with the right subclass, proof of liability insurance, and a written contract, you are dealing with a proper contractor, regardless of size.

How to check who you are really hiring

Before you agree to anything, take these steps:

1. Get the RBQ licence number and look it up in the RBQ online licence search.
2. Make sure the name on the licence matches the name on the quote and the contract.
3. Check the business’s record with the Office de la protection du consommateur.
4. Ask for proof of liability insurance in writing.
5. Get a detailed written quote and contract, with taxes shown separately.

Comparing quotes from several licensed contractors is the best protection here too. You quickly see what a fair price looks like, which makes an unusually cheap cash offer easier to judge for what it is.

What about helping out yourself?

Some homeowners want to do part of the work to save money, like tear-off or cleanup. Talk to your contractor first: it affects their schedule, their warranty and safety on site. And never climb on a wet, icy, snowy or steep roof yourself. Falls from roofs are serious, and no saving is worth that.

Bottom line

You can hire a roofing subcontractor directly instead of a company, as long as they hold the right RBQ licence and give you a proper contract, invoice and proof of insurance. What you should avoid is unlicensed, cash-only work: the savings look good on day one and can cost you dearly later. Insurance terms and permit rules vary by insurer and municipality, so confirm the details for your own home and always get written, detailed quotes.

Frequently asked questions

Is it illegal to hire an unlicensed roofer in Quebec?

Construction work done for you as a contractor must be carried out by someone holding the appropriate RBQ licence. Hiring someone without one exposes you to real risks, including no recourse and possible insurance issues, so it is best avoided.

Can a roofer give me a discount for paying cash?

Paying cash is fine, but skipping the invoice or the taxes is not. Without a proper invoice, you lose your proof of the work for warranty, insurance and resale.

Does the RBQ bond protect me if the roofer disappears?

RBQ licence holders must provide a security bond that may compensate clients in some cases. It does not apply at all if the person you hired was never licensed.

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Estimations.pro is a referral service and does not perform the work. Prices are indicative only and vary with the size, slope, access and condition of your roof. Requirements (RBQ licence, municipal permits, programs) can change: check with the relevant organizations and get detailed written quotes.

When your roof is leaking, calling roofer after roofer is the last thing you want to do. Voicemails, callbacks that never come, explaining the same problem five times. Meanwhile, the bucket in the attic keeps filling up.

There’s a faster way. With the right approach and the right information ready, you can have several roofers looking at your job within days instead of weeks.

How to get multiple roof repair quotes fast

The quickest way to get multiple roof repair quotes is to describe your job once and send it to several licensed roofers at the same time. That’s how Estimations.pro works: you fill out one free request, and it’s sent to up to four licensed contractors who serve your area, whether you’re in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil and the South Shore, or the North Shore.

Estimations.pro doesn’t do the roofing work itself. It connects you with contractors, and you deal with them directly. You stay free to compare, ask questions and choose, or not choose anyone at all.

Why four? Because three to four comparable quotes is usually enough to see the fair price range and spot an outlier, without drowning in visits.

What to include in your request

The more useful details you give, the faster roofers can decide whether the job fits them and how to price it. A vague request like “roof leak, need help” gets slower and less accurate replies.

The essentials

• Location: your city or borough, so the right local roofers see it.
• Type of building: bungalow, cottage, duplex, triplex, semi-detached.
• Type of roof: sloped with asphalt shingles, metal, or flat with a membrane.
• The problem: leak, missing shingles, ice dam damage, flashing, general wear.
• When it started: after a storm, slowly over months, after snow melt.
• Approximate age of the roof, if you know it.
• Urgency: active leak today, or a repair you want done this season.
• Access notes: narrow lane, no driveway, shared wall, high building.

Nice-to-have details

• Whether you’ve filed or plan to file an insurance claim.
• Any past repairs on the same spot.
• Your preferred timing and the best way to reach you.

What photos to take, and how to take them safely

Good photos save everyone time. A roofer can often tell from a picture whether you’re dealing with a vent boot, a flashing or a worn-out section. But please, do not climb on the roof, especially if it’s wet, icy, snowy or steep. Everything below can be done from the ground, a window or the attic.

1. Wide shot of the house from the street, so they see the roof shape and height.
2. Zoomed shot of the problem area from the ground, using your phone’s zoom.
3. Interior damage: ceiling stains, drips, wet walls, with a light on.
4. Attic photos, if you can safely reach it: wet insulation, stained wood, daylight through boards.
5. Gutters and downspouts if they’re overflowing or damaged.
6. Ice dams or icicles along the edge in winter.

Say you own a triplex in Villeray with a flat roof. A photo of the ceiling stain in the top unit, plus one of the parapet from the lane, already tells a roofer a lot about where to look.

How to speed up the replies

Once your request is out, a few habits help keep things moving:

• Answer your phone and check your messages, including spam folders, for the next few days.
• Be flexible with visit times. Roofers often schedule estimates early morning or late afternoon.
• Group the visits on the same day or two if you can, so the comparison is fresh in your mind.
• Ask for the quote in writing by email after the visit.

Keep in mind that spring and fall are busy seasons. Replies can be a bit slower then, so send your request as soon as you notice a problem.

Comparing the quotes you receive

Speed is good, but the goal is a good decision. Comparing quotes from several licensed contractors is the best protection you have against overpaying or getting the wrong repair.

For a sense of scale, small roof repairs such as a few shingles, a flashing or a boot often cost roughly a few hundred dollars up to about $2,000 before taxes, and it varies with size, slope, access and condition. Emergency or winter work costs more.

Mistakes that slow you down

• Sending the request without photos, then waiting for each roofer to ask for them.
• Leaving out your location or roof type.
• Waiting until the leak becomes an emergency in January.
• Accepting the first quote under pressure, then regretting it.

A quick checklist before you hit send

Take two minutes to review your request before submitting it. It’s the easiest way to avoid a round of back-and-forth messages.

• City or borough is filled in.
• Roof type and building type are clear.
• The problem is described in one or two plain sentences.
• Three to six photos are attached, taken safely from the ground or indoors.
• Urgency and preferred timing are stated.
• Your phone number and email are correct.

Say you live in a semi-detached in Longueuil and noticed missing shingles after a windstorm. A request with the address area, a wide photo of the house, a zoomed photo of the bare patch and a note that it’s not leaking yet tells roofers exactly what they’re walking into.

Bottom line

To get multiple roof repair quotes fast, prepare your details and safe photos, send one clear request to several licensed roofers at once, and stay reachable for visits. Then compare written, detailed quotes on scope, materials, warranty and price, not just the total. Permit rules vary by municipality and borough, and insurance coverage varies by insurer, so confirm those details for your own home before work begins.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Estimations.pro request really free?

Yes, sending a request is free and there's no obligation to hire anyone. You deal directly with the contractors who contact you.

Can a roofer give me a price from photos alone?

Photos help a roofer understand the job and sometimes give a rough idea, but most will want to see the roof before giving a firm written quote.

How soon will roofers contact me?

It varies with the season and how busy local contractors are. Including clear details and photos and staying reachable usually speeds things up.

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Estimations.pro is a referral service and does not perform the work. Prices are indicative only and vary with the size, slope, access and condition of your roof. Requirements (RBQ licence, municipal permits, programs) can change: check with the relevant organizations and get detailed written quotes.

When your roof starts leaking, the first instinct is to call whoever answers the phone. That’s understandable, but it’s also how a lot of homeowners end up with a rushed job or a contractor who disappears after the deposit. Finding a good local roofer takes a little more effort — though not as much as you might think.

Whether you live on the Plateau, in Laval, on the South Shore or up on the North Shore, the process is the same: find a few candidates, verify them, and compare their quotes carefully.

Why hiring local roofers matters

A roofer based near you has real advantages. They know the housing stock — flat roofs on Montreal plexes, sloped shingle roofs on suburban bungalows in Laval or Brossard, older homes with tricky chimneys. They’re familiar with local permit requirements, and they can come back quickly if something needs attention under warranty.

Local roofers also tend to rely on their reputation in the neighbourhood. A contractor who has done a dozen roofs on your street has every reason to do yours well.

Where to start your search

Ask your neighbours

The best leads usually come from people around you. If a neighbour had their roof redone last summer, ask how it went: Was the crew on time? Did they clean up? Were there surprise charges? Any problems since? A firsthand account is worth more than any advertisement.

Look around your area

Pay attention to contractor signs on lawns and trucks parked in your neighbourhood. If you see the same company working on several homes in Longueuil or Terrebonne, that’s a sign they’re active and established locally.

Use a referral service

A free referral service can send your request to a few licensed contractors at once, which saves you from calling around. You still choose who to hire — the service simply connects you.

Check reviews carefully

Online reviews help, but read them critically. Look for detailed reviews that describe the type of job, and pay attention to how the company responds to complaints.

How local roofing coverage differs across the region

Most roofers serve a defined area. Knowing this helps you focus your search.

Verify every roofer before you hire

This step is non-negotiable in Quebec. Here’s what to check:

1. RBQ licence. Every roofing contractor must hold a licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec with the appropriate subclass. Use the RBQ online licence search and make sure the name and number match the quote.
2. OPC record. The Office de la protection du consommateur lets you check whether a merchant has a history of complaints or legal action.
3. Insurance. Ask for proof of liability insurance. Roofing is a CCQ-regulated construction trade and workers are covered by CNESST, but you want to know the company itself is insured for damage to your property.
4. Physical address. A real business address and a working landline or office number are good signs.

RBQ licence holders must also provide a security bond that may compensate clients in some cases. An unlicensed roofer offers no such protection.

Comparing quotes from local roofers

Once you have a few candidates, ask each for a written, detailed quote. Comparing quotes from several licensed contractors is the best protection you have against overpaying or hiring the wrong crew.

Make sure every quote covers the same scope: tear-off, materials, membrane, flashing, ventilation, disposal and warranty. Say you own a bungalow in Chomedey and get three quotes — one looks much cheaper. Look closely: it may leave out the ice and water membrane or new flashing. Price differences often come from what’s included, not just the rate.

For a typical asphalt shingle roof, many homeowners pay roughly $8,000 to $20,000 before taxes, though it varies with size, slope, access and condition. GST and QST (14.975% total) are usually added on top.

Red flags to watch for

• Door-to-door sellers pushing you to sign today
• A large cash deposit requested before any materials are ordered
• No RBQ licence number on the quote or business card
• A vague one-line quote with no material details
• Reluctance to put the warranty in writing

If you do sign a contract at home with an itinerant merchant, the Consumer Protection Act generally lets you cancel within 10 days.

Timing your search

Good local roofers get busy, especially from late spring to early fall. If your roof is ageing but not leaking, start your search a few months ahead. Contact roofers in late winter or early spring, get your quotes, and book a date before the schedules fill up. You’ll have more choice, more time to check each contractor and less pressure to accept whoever is free. If you’re on the North Shore or in the outer suburbs, ask early whether the roofer regularly works in your municipality, since some crews prefer to stay closer to their base. A short, honest conversation about timing at the start saves a lot of frustration later.

Bottom line

Finding good local roofers in Montreal, Laval, the South Shore or the North Shore comes down to three things: gather a few solid candidates, verify their RBQ licence and OPC record, and compare written, detailed quotes. Take your time unless it’s a genuine emergency. Permit rules vary by municipality and borough, so confirm what applies to your address before work begins.

Frequently asked questions

How many roofers should I get quotes from?

Three is a good number for most jobs. It gives you a clear sense of fair pricing without dragging the process out for weeks.

Is it a problem if a roofer is based in another city?

Not necessarily, as long as they’re licensed and actually serve your area. Ask whether they charge travel fees and how quickly they can return for warranty work.

What if I need a roofer urgently for a leak?

Ask for a temporary repair or tarp to stop the damage first, then take time to compare quotes for the permanent fix. Emergency and after-hours work usually costs more.

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Estimations.pro is a referral service and does not perform the work. Prices are indicative only and vary with the size, slope, access and condition of your roof. Requirements (RBQ licence, municipal permits, programs) can change: check with the relevant organizations and get detailed written quotes.

Roof emergencies rarely happen on a sunny Tuesday afternoon. They happen at 11 p.m. in January, when water starts dripping from a light fixture or a chunk of ice tears off the gutter. In Montreal, winter is when most homeowners discover what an emergency roof repair really involves.

Here is how to tell a true emergency from a problem that can wait a few days, what a roofer can actually do in the cold, and how the cost usually compares to regular work.

What counts as an emergency roof repair

An emergency roof repair is work that cannot wait without causing more damage or creating a safety risk. In practice, that usually means:

• Water actively coming into the house, especially near electrical fixtures
• A section of roof torn open by wind or a fallen tree
• Ice dams forcing water under the shingles and into walls or ceilings
• A heavy snow load causing sagging, cracking sounds or doors that suddenly stick
• Broken flashing around a chimney letting water pour in during a storm

On the other hand, a few missing shingles with no leak, a small stain that is not growing, or a gutter that is loose but not falling can usually wait for a regular appointment. That alone can save you money.

Winter emergencies in Montreal

Montreal winters bring their own type of roof trouble. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snowfalls and long cold spells all put stress on roofs, especially older ones.

Ice dams

Ice dams form when heat from the house melts snow on the roof, the water runs down and refreezes at the colder edge. The ridge of ice traps more water behind it, which can back up under shingles. Say you own a 1950s bungalow in Ahuntsic with limited attic insulation: that is a classic setup for ice dams along the eaves.

In an emergency, a roofer may remove part of the ice dam or create channels to let water drain. The long-term fix usually involves insulation and ventilation in the attic, which is a separate conversation.

Snow load

Flat roofs on duplexes and triplexes, common in Rosemont, Villeray and the Plateau, can accumulate heavy, wet snow. If you notice sagging, cracking sounds or new cracks in interior walls, treat it seriously and call a professional. Clearing snow from a roof is dangerous work; do not go up yourself.

Tarping

When a roof is damaged and a permanent repair is not possible in the cold, tarping is the standard temporary fix. A crew secures a heavy tarp over the damaged area to keep water and snow out until weather allows a proper repair. It is meant to buy time, not to last for months.

How much emergency roof repair costs

Emergency work costs more than the same job booked in advance. The crew drops other work, may come in the evening or on a weekend, and has to work safely on a cold, slippery surface.

The final price varies with size, slope, access and condition. GST and QST (14.975% total) are usually added on top.

Even in an emergency, ask for a written price before work starts, or at least a clear written description of how the visit will be billed. And when the permanent repair comes up, comparing quotes from several licensed contractors is still the best protection, even if the first emergency visit was with whoever could come fastest.

What to do while you wait for the roofer

You can limit the damage safely from inside the house:

1. Move furniture, electronics and valuables away from the leak.
2. Place buckets or containers under drips and protect the floor.
3. If water is near light fixtures or outlets, turn off power to that area at the panel if you can do it safely.
4. If a ceiling is bulging with water, keep people away from underneath.
5. Take photos and videos of the damage for your insurer.
6. Call your insurer to report the situation and ask about next steps.

Never climb on a wet, icy, snowy or steep roof. Most serious roof injuries happen exactly in these conditions.

Will insurance cover an emergency roof repair?

Home insurance usually covers sudden and accidental damage, such as storm, wind or a fallen tree. It generally does not cover wear and tear or lack of maintenance. Ice dam damage can fall in a grey zone depending on your policy and the cause, so read your wording or call your insurer.

Deductibles apply. Many insurers also expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, which is one reason emergency tarping makes sense. Keep every invoice and photo.

Hiring a roofer in an emergency

Emergencies are when people make rushed decisions. Even under pressure, check that the contractor holds a valid licence from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) with the right subclass, avoid large cash payments and get a written description of the work. Be cautious with anyone who knocks on your door right after a storm.

Bottom line

An emergency roof repair is about stopping water and keeping people safe, not about a perfect fix at midnight. Expect to pay more than for regular work, especially in winter or after hours, and plan for a temporary repair followed by a permanent one. Document everything, call your insurer, verify the RBQ licence and get written, detailed quotes for the final repair. Coverage and practices vary by insurer and situation, so ask questions before you sign.

Frequently asked questions

Can a roof be repaired in winter in Montreal?

Some repairs can be done in winter, but cold and snow limit what materials can be installed properly. Often a roofer will make a temporary repair or tarp the area and return for the permanent fix when weather allows.

Should I remove snow from my roof myself?

No. Climbing on a snowy or icy roof is dangerous, and aggressive scraping can damage shingles or membranes. Call a professional if you are worried about snow load.

Is ice dam damage covered by home insurance?

It depends on your policy and the cause of the damage. Sudden water damage may be covered while issues linked to lack of maintenance may not, so check your wording with your insurer.

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Estimations.pro is a referral service and does not perform the work. Prices are indicative only and vary with the size, slope, access and condition of your roof. Requirements (RBQ licence, municipal permits, programs) can change: check with the relevant organizations and get detailed written quotes.

A drip in the ceiling has a way of ruining your whole week. You put a bucket down, you look up, and the first thing that comes to mind is: how much is this going to cost me?

The honest answer is that it depends on what’s actually causing the leak. A loose plumbing boot is a very different job from a worn-out roof. Here’s how roofers in the Montreal area usually price leak repairs, and what you can do to keep the bill reasonable.

How much does it cost to fix a leaking roof?

For most common leaks, the cost to fix a leaking roof falls somewhere between roughly a few hundred dollars and about $2,000 before taxes. That covers typical small repairs: replacing a few shingles, resealing or replacing a flashing, changing a plumbing vent boot, or patching a small area of flat-roof membrane.

The final number varies with the size of the repair, the slope of the roof, how easy it is to access, and the general condition of what’s already there. Emergency calls, winter work and after-hours visits cost more, because they’re harder and riskier for the crew.

Remember that GST (5%) and QST (9.975%) are usually added on top, for 14.975% in total.

What usually causes a roof leak

Before anyone can give you a fair price, they need to find the source. Water travels, so the stain on your ceiling is often a few feet away from the actual entry point.

• Damaged or missing shingles after a windstorm.
• Failed flashing around chimneys, skylights, walls or parapets.
• Cracked plumbing boots around vent pipes, a very common culprit.
• Ice dams in winter, when meltwater backs up under the shingles.
• Worn flat-roof membranes on duplexes and triplexes, especially at seams and drains.
• Clogged gutters or drains that let water pool where it shouldn’t.

Typical leak repairs and what affects the price

Every roof is different, so treat this as a general guide rather than a price list. All of these often fall within the small-repair range mentioned above, roughly before taxes, depending on size, slope, access and condition.

Hidden damage can change the estimate

Sometimes a roofer opens up the area and finds soft, rotted decking or soaked insulation. That’s extra work. A good contractor will explain in the quote how they handle surprises, for example a price per sheet of plywood replaced, so you’re not caught off guard.

When a repair isn’t worth it anymore

If your shingles are curling, losing granules and leaking in more than one spot, patching may be throwing money at a roof that’s done. At some point, replacement is the smarter investment.

For reference, asphalt shingle replacement on a typical house in Quebec often runs around $6 to $12 per square foot installed, and many homeowners pay roughly $8,000 to $20,000 before taxes. Steel roofing often costs around $13 to $30 per square foot, roughly double shingles upfront, but it lasts much longer. Again, it all varies with size, slope, access and condition.

Say you own a bungalow in Laval with 22-year-old 3-tab shingles and a leak by the chimney. Fixing the flashing might stop the drip, but those shingles are near the end of their typical lifespan. Ask your roofer for both options in writing so you can weigh them.

Will insurance pay for the leak?

It depends on why the roof leaked. Home insurance in Quebec usually covers sudden and accidental damage, like a storm tearing off shingles or a tree falling on the roof. It usually does not cover wear and tear or problems caused by lack of maintenance. Your deductible applies either way.

Call your insurer before major repairs if you think the damage is sudden. Take photos from the ground and inside the house, and keep receipts for any emergency tarp work. If you have a dispute with your insurer, the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) regulates insurers in Quebec.

How to keep the cost under control

1. Act fast. A small leak left alone soaks insulation and rots wood, and the bill grows.
2. Don’t go up there yourself. Never climb on a wet, icy, snowy or steep roof. A fall costs far more than any repair.
3. Get several written quotes. Comparing quotes from several licensed contractors is the best protection against overpaying or getting the wrong fix.
4. Check the RBQ licence. Every roofer should hold a Régie du bâtiment du Québec licence with the right subclass.
5. Book outside emergencies when you can. Planned repairs in good weather are usually cheaper than urgent winter calls.

What a good leak repair quote includes

When you compare prices, make sure each roofer is quoting the same thing. A proper written quote should describe where the leak is coming from, exactly what will be repaired or replaced, the materials used, how hidden damage like soft decking will be handled and priced, and whether cleanup is included. It should also show the contractor’s RBQ licence number, the warranty on workmanship and whether taxes are included.

Say you own a triplex in Saint-Laurent and two roofers quote very different prices for the same leak. Often, one has included replacing the flashing along the whole parapet while the other only plans to reseal one corner. Neither is automatically wrong, but you need to know which fix you’re paying for and how long it’s expected to hold.

Bottom line

Most roof leaks can be fixed for roughly a few hundred dollars up to about $2,000 before taxes, but the real cost depends on the cause, the access and the condition of your roof. Emergency and winter work costs more, and an old roof may call for replacement instead. Permit rules vary by municipality and borough, and insurance coverage varies by insurer. Get written, detailed quotes from licensed roofers, compare them carefully, and fix leaks early before they get expensive.

Frequently asked questions

Can I just put a tarp on a leaking roof?

A tarp can be a temporary fix to limit damage until a roofer arrives, but it isn't a repair. Have a professional install it if the roof is wet, icy or steep.

Why is winter roof repair more expensive?

Cold, snow and ice make the work slower and riskier, and some materials don't seal well in the cold. Roofers often charge more for winter and emergency calls.

Do I need a permit to fix a roof leak?

Small repairs often don't need one, but permit rules are set by each municipality or borough. Check with your city or ask your roofer before work starts.

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Estimations.pro is a referral service and does not perform the work. Prices are indicative only and vary with the size, slope, access and condition of your roof. Requirements (RBQ licence, municipal permits, programs) can change: check with the relevant organizations and get detailed written quotes.