How do I know if my roofing quote is at a fair price?
Written by Marc D., GCT Expert Analyst · Updated March 2026 · 2 min read
A roofing quote is fair when it sits inside the 2026 Québec market range AND covers every essential scope item. Here is how to verify it.
Direct answer
A Québec roofing quote is considered fairly priced in 2026 when it sits within the regional market range for the chosen covering, covers the 12 essential scope items of a roofing project, and the contractor holds an active RBQ licence in the correct subcategory. A quote 25% below the market median almost always hides a major exclusion.
The 4-step method
1. Compute the price per roof square foot
Divide the total before tax by the actual roof surface (not the floor surface). Compare to the market range:
| Type | 2026 range |
|---|---|
| Standard asphalt shingle | $6.50 – $9.50 / sq ft |
| Architectural shingle | $8.50 – $12.50 / sq ft |
| Elastomeric membrane | $11 – $17 / sq ft |
| Pre-painted steel | $13 – $20 / sq ft |
2. Check the 12 essential scope items
A complete quote explicitly details:
- Tear-off and disposal
- Decking inspection and replacement rate
- Self-adhered membrane at eaves and valleys
- Synthetic underlayment
- Exact shingle or membrane brand + model
- Edge, chimney and valley flashings
- Roof vents (type and quantity)
- Attic ventilation
- Written installation warranty (years)
- Municipal permit
- Schedule and payment terms
- RBQ number and proof of insurance
3. Analyze exclusions
A quote may look low because it excludes the eave membrane, the municipal permit or decking replacement. Ask in writing: "What is not included in this price?"
4. Compare scope, not just price
Two quotes at $12,000 and $9,500 are not comparable if one uses a 30-year shingle and the other a 20-year one. Cost per year of useful life reveals the real difference.
Quick checklist
- [ ] Price per sq ft within market range
- [ ] Exact brand and model of material
- [ ] Eave membrane included
- [ ] Municipal permit included or clearly quoted
- [ ] Decking replacement rate stated
- [ ] Installation warranty distinct from manufacturer's
- [ ] RBQ number + correct subcategory
- [ ] No deposit greater than 10%
Signs the price is too low
- 20 to 35% below the median of other quotes
- Refusal to specify the material brand
- No mention of an eave membrane
- Deposit demanded above 25%
- Pressure to sign on the spot
Signs the price is inflated
- More than 25% above the median without written justification
- Vague extra lines ("miscellaneous", "contingencies")
- Project-management margins above 15%
- Unjustified mobilization fees
FAQ — Roofing quote at a fair price
How many quotes should I get?
Three to five quotes on the same written scope to get a reliable median.
Is a very low quote always a scam?
Not always, but it requires a rigorous analysis of exclusions and RBQ status.
Can GCT Expert validate my price?
Yes. Our independent service benchmarks your quote against the Québec market database and verifies each of the 12 essential items.
Received a roofing quote?
Have your quote reviewed before signing. GCT Expert helps Québec homeowners better understand prices, contracts and risks tied to roofing work.
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