How to Avoid Roofing Scams

Roofs are one of the most important parts of our homes. They protect us from the elements and ensure the safety and comfort of our families. When there is a problem with your roof, it should be fixed as soon as possible by a reputable contractor. However, finding a reputable contractor is difficult for most homeowners.

Unfortunately, the roofing industry is not immune to scams and unscrupulous individuals looking to take advantage of unsuspecting and desperate homeowners. That is why you need this article. It will explore all the information you need to ensure that your roofing project is in safe hands.

Reasons You May Need a New Roof

Roof replacements are usually a costly investment. But there are a lot of reasons why that investment may make sense for your home. Here are a few reasons why you may need a new roof.

1)    Old age: Many homeowners replace their roofs when they become old. The amount of time you can go between roof replacements depends on the type of shingle. For example, asphalt shingle roofs typically have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.

2)    Visible wear and tear: Every homeowner should inspect their roofs regularly for visible signs of wear and tear. Look for missing or damaged shingles, curling, or buckling, as well as granule loss. These are common indicators that your roof is aging and the protective layer of the shingles is breaking down, which means you may need a new roof.

3)    Energy concerns: Old roofs are not just prone to leaks. They can also negatively affect your home’s energy efficiency. Poor insulation and ventilation can result in higher energy bills as your HVAC system works harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Upgrading to a new roof with improved insulation materials can enhance energy efficiency and save you money in the long run.

4)    Storm damage: A final reason you may need a new roof is storm damage. Severe weather events, such as hailstorms or high winds, can cause significant damage to your roof. After any major storm, you should have a professional contractor examine your roof for damage to prevent further issues.

The Five Most Common Roofing Scams

Whether you experience one of the reasons for a new roof listed above or something else, you need to find the best contractor to complete the job. In Milwaukee and the surrounding areas, that contractor is Weather Tight. We are Wisconsin’s most recommended remodeler.

For those homeowners not in Wisconsin, you can still find a great roofer. There are many reputable and trustworthy roofing contractors out there. But it still behooves you to be aware of common roofing scams. These will help you protect yourself and ensure the people working on your roof will not take advantage of you.

 Here are five of the most common roofing scams to avoid.   

1)    Storm chasers

One of the most common roofing scams involves the storm chasers. These scammers appear in areas recently affected by severe weather, such as blizzards or hurricanes. They go door-to-door and offer quick repairs that often turn out to be subpar.

2)    Low-ball bidding

Another common roofing scam is the low-ball bid. These dishonest contractors intentionally underbid their competitors to win your business. While their low bid may seem attractive, it could be a red flag that they will cut corners by using substandard materials or shoddy workmanship. 

3)    Upfront payment

You should also beware of roofing contractors who demand a significant upfront payment before starting the work. Legitimate roofing professionals typically require a modest deposit, with the balance paid upon completion of the job. If someone is requiring the entire cost of the job upfront, they may be a scammer aiming to take your money and disappear.

4)    Bait and Switch

Contractors using this scam provide a low initial estimate to secure the job, only for the price to increase once they have begun the work. Fraudulent contractors often justify these increases by claiming to have discovered unforeseen issues or increased material costs. Sometimes, these justifications are legitimate, but any increases to the agreed-upon price should always be included in the contract. Scammers will not provide that protection.

5)    Insurance Fraud

In this scam, a dishonest contractor may encourage you to exaggerate or falsify damage to your roof to claim insurance money. They might promise to cover your deductible or provide discounts in exchange for your cooperation. Do not engage in this scam, as it can have serious legal consequences.

Tips to Avoid Roofing Scams

Knowledge is power when it comes to avoiding roofing scams. Therefore, keeping the common roofing scams in mind when choosing a contractor is an important first step. However, there are some other things you can do to protect yourself from roofing scams.

Here are a few more tips.  

1)    Do thorough research: Always do as much research as you can before hiring a roofer. You should begin by seeking recommendations from trusted friends, family, and neighbors. Then, verify the credentials of the contractors. They should have the proper insurance and licenses to operate in your area. Legitimate contractors will readily provide this information upon request.

2)    Get multiple quotes: Hiring a roofer after receiving only one quote can set you up for being scammed. Make sure to obtain quotes from at least three different roofing contractors to establish a fair market price. In general, you should stay away from contractors who provide quotes well below the market price, as this could be an important red flag.

3)    Ask for references: Always request references from potential contractors and contact their previous clients. When talking to the reference, inquire about their experiences with the roofer, including the quality of the work, adherence to timelines, and overall satisfaction.

4)    Demand a detailed, written contract: Insist on a comprehensive written contract that outlines all aspects of the roofing project, including the scope of work, materials, project timeline, payment terms, and any warranties or guarantees. The contract should also have clauses for any price increases.

5)    Do not accept unsolicited offers: Avoid contractors who show up at your doorstep unsolicited, especially after you have experienced severe weather. Reputable professionals rely on word-of-mouth and advertising rather than soliciting door-to-door. Say no to on-the-spot offers or offers of “free” inspections.

6)    Ensure insurance coverage: Finally, the roofing contractor should have adequate insurance coverage, including liability and worker’s compensation insurance. Lack of proper insurance could leave you liable for accidents or damage that occur during the project.

Not all roofing contractors are scammers. However, following the above tips and avoiding the common roofing scams will protect you from dishonest contractors and help you find the best roofer in your area.

For Southeastern Wisconsin residents, that contractor will be Weather Tight. Contact us today to learn about our roofing process and how it can make your home better than new.