What to put on a roofing invoice
A roof is one of the biggest bills a homeowner pays, and it's often reviewed by an insurance adjuster too. Itemise it the way an estimate would be measured:
- Squares (100 sq ft of roof) for tear-off and new roofing, with the waste factor you allowed
- Each layer removed — a second layer of shingles is extra work
- Decking replaced, by the sheet, at the price agreed in the estimate
- Underlayment, ice and water shield, drip edge, flashing and vents as separate lines
- Permit and disposal costs
- Your license number and the property address
- Warranty — manufacturer and workmanship
Example roofing invoice
| Line item | Qty | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tear-off – remove 1 layer of asphalt shingles (squares) | 28 | $85.00 | $2,380.00 |
| Install architectural shingles, 30-year (squares, incl. 10% waste) | 31 | $340.00 | $10,540.00 |
| Synthetic underlayment and ice & water shield at eaves/valleys | 1 | $1,250.00 | $1,250.00 |
| Replace damaged roof decking – 7/16 in OSB (sheets) | 6 | $78.00 | $468.00 |
| Drip edge, step flashing and pipe boots | 1 | $685.00 | $685.00 |
| Ridge vent (linear feet) | 42 | $12.00 | $504.00 |
| Building permit | 1 | $350.00 | $350.00 |
| Dumpster and debris haul-away | 1 | $575.00 | $575.00 |
| Total | $16,752.00 |
If the homeowner paid a deposit, enter it under Amount already paid so the invoice shows the balance due.
Decking and other surprises
Rotten decking only shows up once the old roof is off. Agree a price per sheet in your roofing estimate before you start, and bill the actual number of sheets replaced on the invoice. Take photos — they answer most questions before they're asked.
Insurance roofing jobs
On storm-damage jobs, the homeowner's insurer often pays in two parts: the actual cash value first, then the "recoverable depreciation" once the work is finished and they see your final invoice. Make the final invoice match the scope the adjuster approved, list any approved supplements on their own lines, and send it promptly so the homeowner can claim the rest.
The homeowner is responsible for their deductible. Several states make it illegal for a contractor to waive, absorb or rebate it, so don't offer to.
Taxes for roofing contractors
Shingles, underlayment and other materials are taxed differently from state to state, and some states treat roofers as the end consumer of the materials. If you're self-employed, your trucks, ladders, safety equipment, nail guns, insurance and licensing are business expenses. Set aside part of every payment with the help of our 1099 tax calculator, and use the quarterly tax calculator after a big storm season.
Frequently asked questions
What is a roofing square?
A square is 100 square feet of roof surface. A 2,800 sq ft roof is 28 squares. Shingles are usually ordered with 10–15% extra for waste, cuts and ridge caps.
Should I bill by the square or as one price?
Many roofers quote one total but show the main parts — tear-off, roofing, decking, flashing, disposal — so the customer can see what they're paying for. Insurance jobs almost always need the itemised version.
How do I show the deposit?
Bill the full job, then enter the deposit under "Amount already paid". The invoice shows the total, the deposit and the balance due.
Can I add my roofing license number?
Yes — add it to your business details or the notes, as in the example. Many states require it on contracts and invoices.