How to Avoid Roofing Scams & High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Our Tips for Finding a Dependable Roofer
If you need to repair or replace your roof, it’s crucial to find a dependable roofer who can provide high-quality workmanship. Unfortunately, roof repair scams are a big problem. According to the Better Business Bureau, roofing scams are one of the most common home improvement scams costing American consumers millions of dollars annually.
So how do you know which roofing companies to avoid? Check out our list of the most common roofing scams, along with our best tips for finding a dependable roofer.
4 Common Roof Repair Scams to Avoid
Roof repair scams can be costly and stressful, but by being aware of these common roofing scams and doing your due diligence when hiring a contractor, you can protect yourself and your home from unscrupulous contractors.
- 1. The “Storm Chaser” Roofing Scam: After a major weather event like a hailstorm or tornado, you may receive a knock on your door from a roofer offering to repair your roof. While some of these contractors may be legitimate, many are what’s known as “storm chasers” – unethical contractors who follow severe weather events and take advantage of vulnerable homeowners.These contractors often use high-pressure tactics to get you to sign a contract quickly, and they may ask for a large deposit upfront. They may also use subpar materials or perform shoddy work, leaving you with a roof that’s still in need of repair and a lighter wallet.
- 2. The “Freebies” Roofing Scam: Beware of companies offering freebies – like free gutters or upgrades. At the end of the day, there is no such thing as free. These contractors are building the cost of the “freebies” into the job, so it’s just a gimmick. If it seems too good to be true, then it probably is.
- 3. The “Low Bid” Roofing Scam: If you receive a bid that’s significantly lower than other quotes you’ve received, it could be a sign of a roofing company to avoid. Some contractors may lowball their bids to win the job, only to tack on extra charges once the work is underway.They may also use inferior materials or perform subpar work to keep their costs low. To avoid this scam, always get multiple quotes from reputable contractors and make sure to compare them.
- 4. The High Low Switch Roofing Scam: Another sign of a roofing company to avoid is the high low switch roof scam. The salesperson might initially come to you with a super-high price quote, then say they are going to contact their boss to see what they can do. After the “talk” with their boss, they may return with a much lower and more reasonable quote. It’s a deceitful tactic that a reputable roofer would never employ.
Signs of a Dependable Roofer
Now that we’ve highlighted some of the most common roofing repair scams, you should know which roofing companies to avoid. So how do you recognize a dependable roofer? Here are some tips to find a trusted roofer for your next roofing project.
1. Local Contractor with an Established ReputationIt’s best to start your search for a roofer in your local area. You may have a problem with your roof in the future that is covered under warranty. In many cases, it is more difficult to get a non-local company to come back and fix it.
Find a roofer with an established reputation. Look for reviews on their website, social media, or review sites like Google, Yelp, or Angie’s List. You can also ask the roofer for references from previous clients and call them to inquire about their experience working with the roofer.
Looking for a reliable roofer in the Maryland area? Check out our testimonials from satisfied homeowners.
2. Licensed and CertifiedA trusted roofer will have the necessary licenses, insurance, and certifications to perform roofing work in your area – any contractor that is not licensed is a roofing company to avoid! You can check a contractor’s credentials by visiting their website or contacting their office. If a contractor does not share this information on their site or is reluctant to provide it on request, consider working with a different contractor.
At Mid-Shore Exteriors we are licensed to perform roofing projects throughout the state of Maryland. We are also a GAF Master Elite contractor, Certainteed Select Shingle Master, Preferred Owens Corning Contractor and Tamko Pro certified contractor. Find out what sets Master Certified roofers apart.
3. ExperiencedExperience is a crucial factor in determining the quality of work a roofer can provide. A roofer with years of experience will have encountered a wide range of roofing problems and know the best solutions to fix them. Look for a roofer who has been in business for at least five years and has a portfolio of completed projects to showcase their expertise.
4. Provides Written EstimatesAny dependable roofer should provide you with a written estimate that outlines the scope of work, materials to be used, and the total cost of the project. The estimate should also include a timeline for the completion of the work. Be wary of roofers who give you verbal estimates or refuse to provide a written estimate.
Reach Out to the Trusted Roofers at Mid-Shore Exteriors
While it can be a hassle to research potential roofing companies before deciding, it’s a critical step to ensure you don’t waste your hard-earned money.
Whether you’re looking for a trusted roofer to handle a roof repair or you need a brand-new roof, Mid-Shore Exteriors is here to help! As a trusted roofer throughout the state of Maryland, we provide residential and commercial roofing services, including repairs and new roof installations.
