How to Spot a Roofing Scam: 5 Red Flags
Roofing scams cost homeowners hundreds of millions of dollars every year. They spike after storms when desperation meets opportunity. Here are the 5 red flags that should make you walk away.
1. They Show Up Uninvited After a Storm
Legitimate contractors are busy with existing clients after storms. The ones knocking on your door are often "storm chasers" who follow weather systems from state to state. They do the work (sometimes poorly), collect the insurance check, and disappear before problems surface.
2. They Want a Large Deposit or Cash Only
A reasonable deposit is 10-20% to secure materials. If someone asks for 50%+ upfront or insists on cash only, that is a major warning sign. Legitimate businesses accept checks, credit cards, and have invoicing systems.
3. They Offer to Waive Your Insurance Deductible
This is not a favor. It is insurance fraud. When a contractor says "we'll cover your deductible," they are either inflating the claim to the insurance company or they plan to cut corners on the actual work to make up the difference. Both are illegal.
4. No Written Contract or Vague Scope
Every roofing job should have a written contract that specifies: materials to be used, scope of work, timeline, total price, payment schedule, and warranty terms. A contractor who says "don't worry, we'll take care of everything" without putting it in writing is a contractor who can change the terms later.
5. They Cannot Provide License, Insurance, or References
If a contractor hesitates when you ask for their license number, proof of insurance, or references from recent jobs, that tells you everything. Legitimate contractors are proud of their credentials and happy to share them.
How to Protect Yourself
- Always verify license and insurance independently (call the state board)
- Check Google reviews (look for 50+ reviews, 4.5+ stars)
- Get 3 quotes minimum
- Never sign anything under pressure
- Pay by check or card, never cash
Search our directory for verified roofers with real Google reviews.