As a homeowner, your roof is one of the most critical components of your house. Unfortunately, not all roofers have your best interests at heart, and falling victim to a roofing scam can be costly and stressful. Here are some key signs to watch out for to recognize if a roofer is trying to scam you.

TL;DR Version (too long; didn’t read)

When hiring a roofer, be cautious of:

• High-pressure sales tactics
• Lack of Honest Documentation
• Unusually low bids
• High down payment requirements
• Cash-only transactions
• Absence of references or reviews (especially local)
• Inadequate licensing and insurance
• Unexpected material surcharges
• Unprofessional behavior
• Unnecessary repairs or upgrades
• Shoddy workmanship

High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Beware of roofers who use high-pressure sales tactics to push you into making a decision on the spot. Reputable contractors understand that replacing a roof is a significant investment and will provide you with ample time to consider your options. They will attempt to rush a decision by adding artificial time constraints and a false sense of urgency. 

Lack of Honest Documentation

A trustworthy roofing contractor will provide you with written estimates, contracts, and warranties detailing the scope of work, materials used, and project timelines. If a roofer refuses to provide written documentation or asks for payment upfront without a contract, ditch them now. A trustworthy roofer provides a detailed, written contract outlining the scope of work, materials, timeline, and costs. Avoid any contractor who refuses to provide a written agreement or pushes for verbal agreements only. Having a written contract protects both parties and ensures clarity throughout the project. A contract is not just a legal document, but a communications tool between the parties involved!

Unusually Low Bids

While everyone wants to save money, be wary of roofers offering significantly lower bids than their competitors. Often, these “too good to be true” offers are a red flag for subpar workmanship, low-quality materials, or hidden fees that may surface later in the project. Scammers wow you with the low price tag, but will either charge you more as the project unfolds or cut corners that no homeowner can afford. Obtain multiple quotes from reputable contractors to establish a realistic budget for your roofing needs.

High Down Payment Requirements

Beware of roofers asking for more than 20% as a down payment, a sign they may be prioritizing profit over quality work. Typically, reputable roofers charge 10-15% to secure quality materials. An excessive down payment might indicate a potential scam, where the roofer intends to take your money without fulfilling the agreed-upon job. Stay cautious and opt for contractors with reasonable payment terms for a secure roofing project.

Cash-Only Transactions

Be wary of roofers who demand cash-only transactions. Legitimate contractors offer multiple payment options and provide receipts for all transactions. Using cash without proper documentation can leave you vulnerable to potential disputes or complications down the road.

No References or Reviews

A reputable roofing contractor will have a track record of satisfied customers and positive reviews. Before hiring a roofer, ask for references and take the time to research their reputation online. Also, make sure some of those references and reviews are LOCAL to you. If a contractor cannot provide references or has negative reviews, it may be a sign to look elsewhere. At Petrus, we even have reviews of people who didn’t go with us because we weren’t the lowest offer and expressed their regret! Check out our Google Reviews! 

Lack of Proper Licensing and Insurance

Always verify that the roofer is properly licensed and insured to perform roofing work in your area. Ask for proof of insurance and check with your local licensing board to ensure their credentials are up to date. Roofers who are hesitant to provide this information may not be legitimate. Do you think scammers and storm chasers who have no insurance will take care of your property, or their employees, if something happens on the job? No way! Petrus Roofing is right here in town and we all live in Montgomery County. 

Unexpected Material Surcharges

Some scammers may introduce unexpected material surcharges after starting the project, claiming unforeseen issues or cost increases. A reliable roofer thoroughly inspects the roof before providing an estimate, and any additional charges should be discussed and agreed upon in advance. You need to know why something changed and it should be documented and communicated clearly to you. 

Unprofessional Behavior

Pay attention to the demeanor and professionalism of the roofing contractor. Legitimate contractors will arrive on time, dress appropriately, and communicate clearly about the project. If a roofer is unresponsive, disrespectful, or unwilling to answer your questions, it’s a warning sign to proceed with caution. Ask the doorknocker specifics about the options of roofing shingles or what manufacturer they use and why. If you see blank expressions or get nonsense answers, you’ll know the sales guys are not supporting the install team and will not be supporting you!

Unnecessary Repairs or Upgrades

Be wary of roofers who insist on unnecessary repairs or upgrades that inflate the project’s cost. A reputable contractor will conduct a thorough inspection of your roof and provide honest recommendations based on its condition, without trying to upsell you on unnecessary services. Every company should know what “Good, Better, Best” is for your home. No salesperson should push a homeowner into an upgrade that does not make sense. Some will do this by assuming the upgrade, making you think the premium product is your only option. The best manufacturers offer a wide array of products. Petrus Roofing uses GAF, one of the biggest and oldest roofing material manufacturers in the world. They have about 11 different shingle products! Style and type can raise the price and your roofer should clearly differentiate what you need from what’s nice, but not necessarily in your budget. 

Shoddy Workmanship

Inspect the quality of completed projects in your area before hiring a roofer. Scammers often leave behind shoddy work, and a lack of pride in craftsmanship is a clear warning sign. Ask for a portfolio of completed projects and seek testimonials from satisfied customers. Petrus Roofing goes the extra mile with our new Catch-It All system of nets, tarps, and gutter-guards that protect your home, plants, and pools from debris and nails from the construction process. We use over 10,000 nails to install a roof!

Conclusion

While most roofing contractors are honest and trustworthy, it’s essential to remain vigilant and educated when hiring a roofer for your home. By recognizing the signs of a roofing scam and taking proactive measures to protect yourself, you can ensure a smooth and successful roofing project that safeguards your home for years to come. Remember, your peace of mind and the integrity of your home are worth the extra effort to find a reputable and reliable roofing contractor.