In the wake of severe weather, roofing systems may need to be repaired or replaced. Unfortunately, people can try to take advantage of the situation and scam homeowners. Unfortunately, not all companies are trustworthy. In fact, some sweep in from out of town after a big storm and begin knocking on doors trying to pressure you.
If you’re concerned about roof damage, contact a reputable roofer to have your roof professionally inspected for issues. While reputable roofing companies may knock on doors from time to time, not everyone who comes to your front door can be trusted.
How to Recognize a Possible Scam
When you need a roof repair or replacement, it’s best to do your own research and find someone you can trust to fix your roof rather than placing your home’s protective layer in the hands of random people who knock on your door and claim they want to help. Unfortunately, you can’t trust just anyone. Have you ever opened your door to someone who said things that made sense, but in your gut you knew there was something wrong?
The opportunity a storm presents is for untrustworthy people to reach out to innocent homeowners in order to make some fast cash. You won’t be sucked into their tactics if you are armed with knowledge of how they often approach homeowners (whether there has been a recent storm or not!).
If someone knocks on your door, they may not have your best interest at heart. Here are some patterns that may indicate someone is trying to scam you.
1. They come to your house and offer you a free roof inspection
If someone approaches you (rather than you approaching them) and they want to climb on your roof to “check it for damage,” don’t let them. If they are not honest, they may get on your roof, damage it, take a picture of the damage, and then press you to file an insurance claim.
Smart homeowners: Most roofing companies inspect your roof for free, but when someone approaches you wanting to inspect your roof, and there wasn’t even a recent storm, that’s likely not legitimate. And if there was a recent storm, it’s still wise for you to go find your own roofer rather than responding to a person who knocked on your door.
2. They press you to sign a contract quickly
High pressure sales tactics never put a good taste in anyone’s mouth. Again, think about the danger of signing something a random person presented after they showed up at your door uninvited. They may ask you to “sign a waiver before they get on your roof for your free inspection.” You would be wise not to sign anything.
Smart homeowners: Avoid placing yourself in a risky position. Don’t sign anything a door knocker presents you with.
3. They try to get you to start an insurance claim quickly
People who initiate scams are always in a rush. Their tactics attempt to get you to do what they want—fast. While you can’t see someone’s motives, you can see their actions.
Smart homeowners: Reputable roofers don’t pressure people into doing anything, and they don’t try to rush you—particularly when initiating an insurance claim. If a dishonest person starts the insurance claim with you, it can give them the bid automatically. Yikes! Smart homeowners get a few bids and decide on the best fit for their needs. They open an insurance claim without pressure from someone else.
How to Spot a Trustworthy Roofer
When your roof needs to be repaired or replaced, look for a local roofer with a physical address, a good reputation, and a track record in the industry. Read online reviews, talk with your neighbors, friends and family, and ask for referrals for people they trust. Get multiple estimates (at least three) and read all the fine print before you sign a contract. Make sure the roofer is licensed and insured. (Honest roofers don’t mind showing you proof of this.)
At Craftsman Exterior Remodeling, we believe trust is earned. Our owner, Clayton, has taught thousands of contractors how to install products properly. He’s the only contractor in Indiana who has worked directly for the manufacturers that make roofing products, write installation specifications, and certify contractors. If you choose Craftsman Exterior Remodeling, you hire the company that trained the pros! Take a look at the reliable roof replacement services we offer.
