Roof repairs or replacements are expensive home improvement projects that can leave homeowners with huge headaches should they be ripped off or scammed. While many roofers are honest, hard-working, and knowledgeable, the high costs incurred in roofing projects make it ideal for scammers to try and take advantage. Whether your roofer is professionally dressed and speaks intelligently, or shows up in dirty work gear, the appearance of a roofer won’t tell you everything. Following our 5 tips to help avoid roofing scams will help ensure you are not being swindled by a scammer rather than serviced by a professional roofer.
Repair vs. Replace
Repairing a roof is certainly the less expensive option as opposed to a full roof replacement, however, if your roof is old and in poor condition repairing it may not be enough. Additionally, because of the high cost, a roofer may unnecessarily recommend a full replacement when only minor repairs are needed. Be sure you are getting what you need. A second opinion never hurts.
Repair Only Roofers
Roofers that only do repairs as opposed to full replacements have an extra incentive to encourage you to repair your roof as opposed to replacing it. Be leery of repair-only roofers and ALWAYS research the roofing company you choose to utilize.
Fly-By-Nighters
Fly-by-nighters often show up after major storms or natural disasters such as hurricanes. An easy way to tell if your roofer is a fly-by-nighter is to request their license number.
Added Fees
A reputable roofer will not leave you in the dark regarding unforeseen damages or open-ended costs. If you find these items in your contract it is best to get further clarification on possible unforeseen damages; otherwise, send the roofer back up there to further survey the roof.
Payment Plans
The upper echelon of roofers will not ask for any type of payment before work begins. Be leery of any roofer that asks for a deposit as it is a red flag you may be getting ripped off. Many reputable roofers offer payment plans that involve paying for the roof in installments upon the completion of various stages of the project.
Because of the immense costs of replacing or repairing a roof, scammers and con artists will always be lurking. By following the above tips, you can reduce the chance you are their next victim.
Who to Call
If you are searching for a trustworthy local roofing contractor to provide services for your residential or commercial roof, Crown is the place to call. You can count on us to provide the highest quality of roof repair, re-roof, roof maintenance, or new construction roof for your home or business. There is no job that is too small and no task that is too big. Crown has offices in Central, South, and Southwest Florida. Call us today for a free estimate.