Common Roofing Scams and How to Avoid Them

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, providing protection from the elements and ensuring your family’s safety. However, the roofing industry is not immune to scams, and unsuspecting homeowners can easily fall victim to dishonest contractors looking to make a quick buck. Knowing the common roofing scams and how to avoid them can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches.

The “Storm Chaser” Scam

How It Works: After a major storm, you may receive a knock on your door from a contractor offering a free roof inspection. These so-called “storm chasers” travel to storm-affected areas, targeting vulnerable homeowners. They might claim your roof has severe damage and pressure you into signing a contract immediately. Often, they’ll demand upfront payment and either perform substandard work or disappear without completing the job.

How to Avoid It:

• Always verify a contractor’s credentials, including licenses and insurance.
• Avoid contractors who appear unannounced and use high-pressure sales tactics.
• Get multiple inspections and quotes from local, reputable roofing companies.

The “Low-Bid” Scam

How It Works: A contractor offers an exceptionally low bid to win your business. However, after starting the project, they claim additional “unexpected” repairs are needed, significantly increasing the cost. Alternatively, they may cut corners by using inferior materials or unskilled labor to keep costs low, leaving you with a roof that needs repairs much sooner than expected.

How to Avoid It:

• Be wary of bids that are significantly lower than others; if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Ask for a detailed, written estimate that outlines materials, labor, and potential additional costs.
• Research the contractor’s reputation online through reviews and testimonials.

The “Phantom Damage” Scam

How It Works: During an inspection, the contractor claims to find severe damage that doesn’t actually exist. They might even create damage themselves by pulling up shingles or causing small leaks to justify repairs or replacements. Once you’ve signed a contract, you’re stuck paying for unnecessary work.

How to Avoid It:

• Always accompany the contractor during the inspection and ask them to show you the damage they find.
• Take photos of your roof before the inspection for comparison.
• Get a second opinion from another roofing professional if you’re unsure about the findings.

The “Upfront Payment” Scam

How It Works: The contractor demands a large upfront payment before beginning any work. Once the payment is made, they either perform substandard work or vanish entirely, leaving your roof unfinished and your money gone.

How to Avoid It:

• Never pay the full amount upfront. A reputable contractor may ask for a deposit, but it shouldn’t exceed 30% of the total cost.
• Use a payment method that offers buyer protection, such as a credit card, rather than cash.
• Verify the contractor’s business address, phone number, and online presence to ensure they are legitimate.

The “Insurance Fraud” Scam

How It Works: The contractor offers to “work with your insurance company” to cover the cost of repairs or a new roof. They may ask you to sign over your insurance claim or suggest inflating the claim amount. This is not only unethical but also illegal, and it could leave you liable for insurance fraud.

How to Avoid It:

• Never sign over your insurance claim to a contractor.
• Communicate directly with your insurance company and hire a contractor only after your claim is approved.
• Choose a contractor experienced in handling insurance claims but who operates transparently.

The “Unlicensed Contractor” Scam

How It Works: A contractor who lacks proper licensing and insurance offers to perform the work at a lower cost. While the initial savings may seem appealing, unlicensed contractors often provide poor-quality work and leave you with little recourse if something goes wrong.

How to Avoid It:

• Always ask for proof of licensing and insurance before hiring a contractor.
• Verify the contractor’s credentials with your state’s licensing board.
• Avoid hiring anyone who cannot provide documentation or who makes excuses about their qualifications.

The “Disappearing Act”

How It Works: The contractor starts the job but leaves it unfinished, often disappearing without a trace. This leaves you with a partially completed roof and the added expense of hiring another contractor to finish the work.

How to Avoid It:

• Avoid paying in full until the project is complete and you are satisfied with the work.
• Work only with contractors who provide a clear timeline and contract.
• Check reviews and references to ensure the contractor has a history of completing projects.

How to Find a Trustworthy Roofing Contractor

The best way to avoid roofing scams is to do your homework before hiring a contractor. Here are some tips to ensure you work with a reputable professional:

• Ask for Referrals: Get recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had roofing work done recently.
• Check Online Reviews: Look for contractors with positive reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Verify Credentials: Ensure the contractor is licensed, insured, and bonded. Request proof of these credentials and verify them independently.
• Request a Written Contract: A detailed contract should include the scope of work, materials to be used, start and completion dates, payment terms, and warranties.
• Avoid High-Pressure Tactics: Reputable contractors will give you time to make an informed decision without pressuring you to act immediately.
• Visit Completed Projects: If possible, visit previous jobs the contractor has completed to assess the quality of their work.

Final Thoughts

Roofing scams are unfortunately common, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can protect yourself and your home. Always take the time to research contractors, ask questions, and verify credentials before committing to any roofing project. By staying informed and vigilant, you can ensure your roof is in good hands and avoid costly mistakes.

If you’re looking for a trusted roofing company in Ohio, contact us today. Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality service, transparent pricing, and peace of mind for all your roofing needs.