Roofing scams are rampant, and customers are particularly vulnerable to them after large storms when roof repairs are urgently needed. That is why it is crucial to properly survey roofing contractors before ordering a service.
Without knowledge of the standards, it is easy to fall victim to unethical roofers. Some will perform poor quality work, give overpriced materials, or charge unnecessary fees.
To avoid becoming a victim of roofing scams, learn how to spot red flags. Here, we are going to help you avoid any rushed decisions and falling victim to scammers.
How can you identify roofing scams?
If you do not pay close attention, you may not even notice the scams going on. Here are some signs of contractor scams:
- The roofing contractor will offer roofing services at your door, without them being at the office, this will excuse them from providing references or credentials.
- The roofing contractor will force you to decide and sign an agreement immediately.
- Will trick you to accept “special deals” and pressure you to pay upfront.
- Offers roof repair prices far below other roofing companies.
- Ask you to take care of the permits.
- The contractor uses a generic-sounding roofing company name.
- The scammer provides vague information about the business.
Many of these red flags will show up the first time you meet the contractor. Do not take these warning signs lightly.
What are the most common contractor scams?
It is important to know the lengths a scammer will go to deceive homeowners. Often, most scams are designed to pressure homeowners into paying large amounts of money upfront.
Storm chasers
Storm chasers usually come knocking at the door after a storm. And they play on the homeowner’s stress, vulnerability, and urgency. Seeing that the roof has some damage, they will insist on doing an immediate repair.
Be wary. Scammers will demand upfront payment. If you agree to their offers, they might start working on your roof immediately but do shoddy work, or worse, they will leave it unfinished. Have a roof inspection done by a vetted and researched professional before agreeing to any re-roofing job.
Overcharging on roof installation, repair, or replacement
Aside from asking for upfront payment, many contractor scammers will ask for a hefty bill. Yes, a complete renovation and roof replacement requires an enormous amount of money. However, it is customary and safer that payment be made upon completion of the job.
Always check the details of the contract. Compare the quality and price of services being offered to that of other roofing contractors.
Pressuring the homeowner
Some crooks are more aggressive. They use psychological tactics to manipulate their targets such as charming the homeowner with a believable pitch and driving them to agree to their deals.
Due to the pressure of uncertainty or perhaps the excitement of having one’s home repaired, homeowners often give in to the contractor’s terms and conditions, furthering their vulnerability. Being aware of this tactic will help you avoid getting tricked. Do not be afraid to say no and to ask more questions.
Inadequate roof services
Inadequate roof repairs are difficult to spot. Sometimes, you won’t notice it until there is a roof leak or if the ceiling has collapsed. Get approval from regulators and surveyors to prevent falling into this roofing scam.
Taking before- and after pictures or videos of the property is also a good idea. The images will be your reference for whether the roof project was complete. It also helps to employ a professional inspector to find problems and issues with the roofing work.
Unnecessary roof work or mystery roof damage
Contractor scammers also insist on necessary roofing work. Sometimes, they will even just do something just to make the homeowner pay for it. They force homeowners to deal with the unforeseen costs and upgrades they either did not sign up for or were not aware of in the original contract due to small print. That is why it is critical to have an agreement, one that you have scrutinized yourself, so you can refute issues or unnecessary roof jobs.
Avoid the common roofing scams
Watch out for the roofing scams in Hartford, CT. Here is what you need to remember to protect yourself from fraudulent contractors:
- Do not be afraid to say no to unwanted door-to-door soliciting.
- Do not sign any contract or take any action immediately.
- Know what roofing service you need beforehand.
- Make sure to have a detailed agreement that covers the scope of work and specific prices for labor and roof materials.
- Talk to your family or people you trust about your plan to hire a roofing company.
- Check the licenses of the roofing contractors.
- Ask for references and past roofing jobs.
- Do not give any information you do not feel comfortable providing. Where necessary, ask the contractor why they need certain information.
- Get roof repair estimates from multiple Hartford roofing companies.
- Always verify the roof contractors by searching for them online or asking your community.
- Be aware if the contractor is asking for a substantial amount in cash
If you think you are dealing with a contractor scammer, talk to either a professional, or someone you trust, and report to authorities.
Find A Reputable Hartford Roofing Contractor
Avoid falling into roofing scams. When you need a roofing service, find a reputable roofing contractor in Hartford.
There are several ways to find the best roofing contractor in CT. You can get referrals from trusted family and friends, records from contractor agencies, or get information from online reviews.
CT Exterior Pros is a reliable roofing company, local to Hartford, CT, and the surrounding areas, and have been operating for years. Our expert roofers have delivered tons of successful roofing jobs and we will be happy to help you too.