Free Roofer Change Order Template
This free roofing change order template includes fields for the original contract reference, description of scope changes, reason for the modification, cost impact with itemized materials and labor, timeline adjustments, revised contract total, and dual authorization signatures. Download the PDF to document every roofing change professionally and protect your business.
What's Included
- Reference to original contract or estimate number
- Sequential change order number for tracking
- Description of roofing scope changes with affected areas
- Reason for the change (rotted decking, code requirement, client upgrade)
- Cost impact with itemized materials and labor
- Original contract amount and revised total
- Timeline impact and revised completion date
- Warranty implications of changes
- Authorization signatures for contractor and client
- Date of approval
How to Use This Template
- 1
Roofing change orders are almost guaranteed once tear-off begins because damage to decking, underlayment, and flashing is invisible until the old roof is removed. Number each change order sequentially and reference the original contract so every modification is traceable.
- 2
Describe roofing changes with precise measurements and locations. "Replace rotted decking" is vague; "Replace 3 sheets (96 sq ft) of 1/2-inch CDX plywood decking on the south-facing slope adjacent to the chimney flashing" gives the client confidence that you’re not inflating the scope.
- 3
Include material specifications in every change order: shingle brand and color, underlayment type, flashing material, and decking grade. If the client upgraded from 3-tab to architectural shingles mid-project, document the price difference per square and the total impact clearly.
- 4
Take photos of the damage or condition that triggered the change order before making any repairs. Send these to the client along with the change order document. Roofers who show evidence of rotted decking or deteriorated flashing get faster approvals than those who just quote a number.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggers a change order on a roofing project?
The most common trigger is rotted or damaged decking discovered during tear-off — this happens on the majority of re-roofing jobs. Other triggers include additional flashing requirements around penetrations, ice and water shield installation in valleys or eaves, client-requested upgrades to premium shingles, and structural issues like sagging rafters that need sistering.
How do I price rotted decking replacement on a change order?
Price by the sheet of plywood (typically 4×8 CDX) plus labor per sheet. Many roofers include a per-sheet price in the original contract as a pre-approved change order rate. If you didn’t, price at your standard materials markup plus labor. Always specify the number of sheets and their locations.
Should I include a pre-approved decking rate in my roofing contracts?
Yes. Including a pre-approved rate for decking replacement (e.g., $85 per sheet installed) in your original contract speeds up the process dramatically. The client has already agreed to the unit price, so you just need to document how many sheets were replaced. This avoids project delays while waiting for change order approval.
How do change orders affect roofing warranties?
Document any warranty implications in the change order. If the client declines recommended changes (like replacing damaged decking), note that the warranty may not cover failures in that area. If an upgrade extends the warranty (e.g., moving to a manufacturer’s complete system), highlight that benefit to help justify the additional cost.
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Roofer Estimating Guide
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