Should I get three roofing quotes?
For substantial work, comparing several written quotations is sensible. The objective is not simply to pick the cheapest price but to compare whether each contractor has diagnosed the same problem, specified similar work and clearly included access, materials, waste and guarantees.
Comparing quotations properly
Several quotations are only useful if they cover the same work. Differences in scope — access, underlay, battens, how details are formed, what happens to timber repairs — often explain most of the gap between prices.
Read the specifications side by side before comparing totals, and ask each contractor about anything one has included and another has not.
When fewer quotations makes sense
For genuinely urgent work, waiting to line up several visits can cost more in damage than it saves. Making the property safe first and comparing prices for the permanent repair afterwards is often the practical route.
The lowest figure is not automatically the best value; the most complete specification usually is.