How to Bid a Roofing Job in New Jersey: A Complete Contractor’s Guide

Bidding on a roofing job—especially in a competitive market like New Jersey—is not just about throwing out a number and hoping for the best. It’s a calculated blend of precision estimating, local knowledge, legal compliance, and relationship-building. Whether you’re a seasoned contractor in Newark, a solo roofer in Cherry Hill, or a project manager overseeing multiple bids in Jersey City, with Charles Jimerson of CJ Commercial Roofing NJ, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how to bid a roofing job successfully and profitably.

Understanding the Local Landscape in New Jersey

Before we get into line items and estimating software, let’s talk regional context. New Jersey’s weather patterns, municipal building codes, and competitive labor market all affect roofing costs and bid strategies.

• Climate considerations: From the snowy winters in North Jersey to humid summers in Atlantic City, local climate impacts material choices and installation techniques.
• Permit requirements: Most counties like Bergen or Middlesex require roof permits and inspections. Factoring in local timelines for approvals is critical.
• Local competition: With over 1,000 licensed roofing contractor in New Jersey, standing out means offering detailed, transparent, and competitive bids.

Step 1: Conduct a Thorough Roof Inspection

Never bid blindly. An accurate bid starts with a meticulous inspection. Use tools like drones for steep pitches, moisture meters for checking insulation, and infrared cameras for detecting leaks.

During inspection, make note of:

• Roof size (square footage)
• Slope and pitch
• Existing material removal
• Structural repairs
• Ventilation needs
• Flashing and gutter condition

In New Jersey, older homes in areas like Montclair or Princeton often have legacy systems that require more labor to upgrade or replace—don’t underestimate these.

Step 2: Calculate Material and Labor Costs

Materials

Base your estimate on material type (e.g., asphalt shingles, EPDM rubber, metal roofing) and quantity. Factor in waste percentages, delivery fees, and potential price fluctuations—especially in light of supply chain trends affecting northeastern U.S. markets.

• Asphalt shingles: $100–$150 per square (100 sq ft)
• Metal roofing: $300–$800 per square
• Flat roofs (TPO, EPDM): $250–$500 per square

Labor

New Jersey labor costs average $60–$100 per hour depending on crew size, union status, and job complexity. Include line items for:

• Tear-off and disposal
• Decking repair
• Installation time
• Clean-up and haul-away

⚠️ Pro Tip: Don’t forget to factor in subcontractors if you’re outsourcing aspects like gutter installation or chimney flashing—common in Trenton and Elizabeth.

Step 3: Add Overhead, Equipment, and Profit Margin

Your bid should cover more than just material and labor. Add the following:

• Overhead: Office rent, insurance, marketing, fleet costs (average 10–15%)
• Equipment use: Rentals for scaffolding, dumpsters, safety gear
• Profit margin: Aim for 20–35% depending on market saturation and job scope

For example, in high-income neighborhoods like Short Hills or Alpine, you may be able to factor in a slightly higher margin for premium services.

Step 4: Review Local Building Codes and Compliance

New Jersey follows the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) with state-specific amendments. Ensure your bid reflects:

• Proper underlayment installation
• Ice and water shield in colder regions
• Ventilation requirements per attic space
• Adherence to New Jersey Division of Codes and Standards

Non-compliance can result in rework, fines, or job rejection during inspection, especially in counties like Somerset and Union, known for stricter enforcement.

Step 5: Prepare a Professional, Transparent Roofing Estimate

A successful roofing bid in New Jersey isn’t just about numbers—it’s about presentation and trust. Your estimate should be:

• Digitally formatted (PDF or via apps like Jobber or RoofSnap)
• Branded with your company logo, license, and contact
• Broken down into line items: labor, materials, equipment, overhead, taxes
• Include scope of work, estimated timeline, payment terms, and warranty info

🏘️ Local Bonus: Reference previous work in neighborhoods like Hoboken, Paramus, or Asbury Park to boost credibility.

Step 6: Account for Seasonal Scheduling and Timelines

New Jersey’s roofing season typically peaks between April and October. Scheduling a job in off-peak months can impact availability, material delays, and crew efficiency.

Include timeline buffers in your bid:

• Bad weather delays
• Permit waiting periods
• HOA approvals (especially in developments across Monmouth County)

Also, consider offering flexible scheduling discounts to clients looking to save or fill your slower months.

Step 7: Include Optional Upgrades and Add-Ons

Upselling isn’t shady—it’s smart. Most homeowners in New Jersey suburbs are open to improvements that increase energy efficiency and curb appeal. Offer line items like:

• Solar-ready underlayment
• Architectural shingles
• Copper flashing
• Seamless gutter installation

💡Insight: Homes along the Jersey Shore may be open to wind-resistant materials or enhanced waterproofing—upsells that also reduce insurance premiums.

Step 8: Follow Up with the Client (and Track Your Bid)

Your bid isn’t the finish line—it’s part of your sales process. After submission:

• Follow up within 24–48 hours
• Be ready to explain line items clearly
• Offer payment plans or financing options
• Address any competing bids respectfully and knowledgeably

Tools like HubSpot, Buildertrend, or AccuLynx can help you manage bid pipelines and automate follow-ups.

Final Thoughts: What Makes a Winning Roofing Bid in New Jersey?

In short, knowing how to bid a roofing job in New Jersey means mastering the art of accurate estimates, local knowledge, and professional presentation. Homeowners and property managers in the Garden State value transparency, timeliness, and trust.

If you can provide a detailed, tailored, and professionally backed estimate—while showcasing your knowledge of towns from Hackensack to Cape May—you’re already ahead of the pack.

🎯 Remember: The goal isn’t to be the cheapest bid. It’s to be the clearest, most reliable, and most local-savvy choice. That’s how you land more contracts—and build a reputation that travels faster than a Jersey Turnpike tailwind.