One of the worst things that could happen to your roof is for it to get damaged during storms and severe weather. While it is really important to make sure that your roofing is protected during storm season, it is also important to make sure you are also protected.
Protect Yourself From Roofing Scams
Roofing services may present themselves to you and offer to help with your roofing repair or maintenance, especially during this season. Before you hire anyone, always ensure that you are cautious and take a second look so that you don’t get scammed.
At times it may be difficult to tell if something is legitimate or a scam; however, don't worry too much. We are here to help. Here are some of the most common roofing scams you should watch for.
A Salesman Offering Services
During the active storm season, there are salesmen going door to door claiming to represent a roofer. They may offer you services and press you to sign a contract.
Remember that the keyword here is ‘salesman’ – they are not roofing repair companies. They can promise you alluring deals or freebies like free inspections and "we'll pay your insurance deductive;" don't be deceived. Chances are when they do the inspection, they will find something wrong for sure.
Skilled and trustworthy companies do not solicit business this way, so beware of anyone who acts in this fashion.
Itinerant Roofers
Beware of roofers who go around from city to city following bad weather. They know that storms can wreak havoc on roofing and they also know that there will be fat insurance checks as well.
Instead of hiring one of these companies that pop up suddenly after some inclement weather, hire established local roofing services instead. That way if something goes wrong, you won’t need to go far to get help.
Sales Pitches and Demands
Sometimes when you are looking for estimates for your roofing repair, some companies will try to hard sell and push you to sign a contract right away. These too-eager roofers will ask you for deposits right then and there and to sign a contact ASAP.
Honest companies will give you time and space to make your decision, even encourage you to compare their quote and track record with other roofers.
Roofing Quotes That Keep Changing
A big scam for you to watch out for is a company that initially gives you a small quote for your roofing repair. This interests you as the quote is lower and more affordable than others. Then before you know it, the quote keeps going up higher and higher. The price of roofing materials went up. The price of labor went up. More damage was found on your roofing.
The list goes on. Ensure that your written contract includes all of the work to be done, the materials needed, and a clause on how other unseen circumstances are charged.
Aside from everything listed above, beware of roofing services that take your down payment check, deposit it, then leave you no work done and no money left for your roofing repair.
Before you hire any company, do a background check on them to make sure you are hiring someone reputable. Do your due diligence to ensure your roofing is in the right hands - and avoid scams!
