Here are the key signs that an offer is either too good to be true:
They Offer Repairs at No Cost
The #1 roofing scam is when some workers show up at your door and offer you free repairs after a rain storm. They tell you that your insurance company will pay for the job and reimburse you later because the damage was from severe weather.
This is probably not true. A random roofer off the street can’t possibly know of the details of your insurance policy, so you shouldn’t trust their opinion. You should contact your insurance company directly.
They Ask to Inspect Your Roof
It’s a definite sign of a roofing scam when a “professional” asks to take a look at your roof. Do not allow any roofing contractor on your roof unless you have first verified their references and qualifications.
Some bad contractors may damage your roof on purpose to convince you to hire them for the repair.
They Ask for Your Insurance Information
Never agree when a contractor asks you to sign over your insurance benefits. They may claim that this will make the entire process easier for you since you won’t have to deal with the insurance company.
While this sounds like it would save you time, they could easily leave town after collecting the insurance claim, without finishing your roof repairs.
They Want You to Sign a Contract Today
No one should have to make a quick decision on whether to get a roof replacement. It’s one of the most expensive investments you will pay for as a property manager or homeowner, and you will only have to do it a few times in your life.
Some dishonest contractors use pressure, convincing property managers and homeowners to put down a sizeable deposit right away.
If you have never replaced a roof before, you won’t have any experience to determine if their business practices are solid, and scammers prey upon inexperienced property managers and homeowners. If you give in to the pressure, you may never see them again and your money will be gone.
Roofing scams can be avoided when you do research to find a professional roofer with a good reputation, such as ourselves.