11November 2024
Homeowners in New Jersey need to be vigilant when choosing roofing contractors, especially given the rise in home improvement scams. Roofing scams are something you do not want to fall for, as they lead to substandard work, financial loss, and even unaddressed damage that worsens over time. Knowing the red flags can help you avoid falling victim to a roofing scam and instead select a reputable contractor who will get the job done right. Here are the common signs of roofing scams and how you can protect yourself.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics
When it comes to any scam, a red flag is high-pressure sales tactics. When you answer the phone or the door, the scammer may pressure you to respond to their questions. Someone who is scamming you may also push you to sign a contract immediately or make a large upfront payment, claiming that it’s a “limited-time offer” or that they’re “just in the neighborhood.” Reputable contractors allow homeowners time to consider their options and compare quotes rather than pushing for an immediate commitment.
Qualifying roofing companies understand that an investment requires careful consideration. They will not pressure you to make a quick decision. If a company does, walk away.
“Free” Roof Inspection Scams
Some roofing scams involve offering a “free inspection,” during which they claim to find significant damage that may not actually exist. These scammers may even damage your roof themselves to “prove” the need for repairs, hoping to convince you to pay for unnecessary work.
One way to subvert this is to not allow unsolicited roof inspections. If you’re unsure about your roof’s condition, contact a trusted local roofing company for an inspection. A reputable roofer will provide an honest assessment without pressuring you into repairs.
Unusually Low Bids
Another telltale sign of a roofing scam is an estimate that’s significantly lower than other quotes. Lowball offers may sound appealing, but they often come with hidden costs or result in substandard work. Some scammers use low estimates to attract customers and then hike up the price once work begins, citing “unexpected issues” or inflated material costs.
This is one of the many reasons why it’s recommended to get more than one quote. Also, research the average price of the project beforehand, so you know what is considered an average cost. If a bid seems too good to be true, it probably is. Opt for a contractor who offers a reasonable, transparent estimate and includes detailed pricing in their contract.
Lack of License, Insurance, or Credentials
Reputable roofing contractors will readily provide proof of licensing, insurance, and any relevant certifications. Scammers, however, may avoid answering questions about these qualifications or claim they don’t need them. A lack of proper licensing and insurance not only puts you at risk but can also leave you financially liable if an accident occurs on your property.
If you believe the contractor you’re speaking with is trying to scam you, ask to see their contractor’s license and insurance. Confirm their insurance includes both general liability and workers’ compensation.
Storm Chasers
After a big storm, “storm chasers” often appear in neighborhoods offering roofing services. While some may be legitimate, many of these contractors are scammers who take advantage of homeowners in urgent need of repairs. They often disappear as quickly as they appeared, leaving behind poor-quality work or incomplete projects.
Although you may want to get work done on your roof as soon as possible, you still need to vet any contractor who comes knocking. Verify the contractor’s business address, contact information, and local references. Ask how long they’ve been working in the area and check reviews. If they aren’t local or don’t have a lot of reviews, they may be trying to scam you.
No Written Contract
Don’t make a verbal agreement with someone who don’t wholeheartedly trust. If a contractor avoids providing a written contract or offers vague descriptions of the work, they may be trying to avoid accountability. Contracts provide clear terms regarding project scope, costs, timelines, and warranties, so lack of a contract is a major red flag.
In other words, you need to insist on a written contract. Review the details of the contract before the work begins to ensure all aspects are outlined, including material specifications, payment terms, and warranties. Reputable contractors will have no problem providing a thorough contract.
Upfront Payment Requirements
It’s normal for a reputable roofing contractor to ask for a deposit on the job, but they will never ask for one that is unusually large, and they will never ask for complete payment upfront. Typically, a reputable roofing contractor will ask for a small deposit (usually 10-20%) before starting work, with remaining payments tied to milestones or project completion. This structure protects both parties and ensures work is completed before full payment.
Scammers, on the other hand, ask for abnormally large upfront payments. This is a tactic to take your money without delivering quality work—or, in some cases, without doing any work at all.
No Local References or Online Presence
In today’s world, businesses need an online presence, whether that is a website with testimonials or a Facebook or Instagram page. Scammers won’t have a credible online presence, and their claims of experience may go out the window when you realize there aren’t any reviews online. Without online reviews or past customers you can contact, it’s hard to verify their reliability and the quality of their work.
If you suspect a scam, ask the contractor for references from recent local projects. Check online reviews from trusted sources, like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Google Reviews. A reputable roofing company will have a strong local reputation and verified client feedback.
Failure to Provide a Warranty
Legitimate roofing companies stand by their work and materials, offering warranties to give you peace of mind. Scammers, however, may avoid offering warranties or provide unclear terms, as they have no intention of honoring any follow-up issues.
Regardless of who you are speaking with, ask about warranties for both materials and workmanship. A reputable roofer will outline the warranty terms in writing and explain how to make a claim if needed.
Inadequate Communication and Professionalism
Lastly, scammers may exhibit unprofessional behavior, such as being difficult to contact, failing to show up on time, or making excuses for delays. Poor communication and lack of transparency are often indicative of a scammer who doesn’t have your best interests at heart.
Observe how the contractor communicates with you from the start. Do they respect you and your property? Choose a roofer who is responsive, provides clear answers, and shows up when they say they will. Professionalism is a key indicator of reliability.
Protect Your Roof with a Reputable South Jersey Roofing Contractor
Roofing scams are unfortunately common, but by being aware of these red flags, you can protect yourself from dishonest contractors. Don’t fall for the ploy. Trust in a reputable roofing contractor in South Jersey like TA Hughes. The team at TA Hughes has over 35 years of experience in South Jersey, dedicated to quality and trustworthiness. We provide clear contracts, transparent pricing, and warranties on all our work, ensuring your roof is in safe hands. Contact TA Hughes today at 856-845-8505 for reliable roofing services you can count on.