If you’re offered a free roof inspection, the deal is likely too good to be true. Many scammers knock on doors and offer this service to take advantage of people, and you may find yourself footing the bill for unexpected repairs. It’s important to protect yourself, and the tips below will ensure you don’t become a victim of a false roofing contractor.

How to Prevent Roofing Scams

1. Always Question Free Services

Scammers will pose as roofing contractors offering free inspections. They’ll then climb onto a roof, remove shingles, and cause additional damage. They may also show homeowners a picture of roof damage from another home.

The homeowner is then encouraged to call their insurance company to secure coverage, resulting in a sale for the roofing contractor. Down the road, this can negatively affect your coverage, and your insurance company may not cover all of the costs. It’s best to request a later consultation so you can do research first.

2. Don’t Sign Any Paperwork 

Scammers often present an authorization form, claiming that you’re allowing them to get on the roof for a free inspection. These are sometimes binding contracts that could get you stuck with paying for more than you intended or even needed, so read everything carefully. Ideally, you shouldn’t sign anything right away if you don’t feel comfortable.

3. Ask for Qualifications

You want to be confident you’re dealing with a true roofing contractor, so ask for a card and details about their business. They should be able to provide the address of a permanent place of business, contact information, and a business license without hesitation. If they can’t provide this information, they may not be a licensed and qualified roofing contractor.

4. Get a Written Proposal

A roofing contractor will provide a proposal for their scope of work and costs before beginning any jobs, so you should ask for one. This will detail everything they are under contract to do and the cost of the services. A qualified company will usually return at a later date with a contract after having a lengthy discussion with the homeowner about their terms. 

 

For the best results, always work with a proven roofing contractor in your area. JS Exteriors, LLC is proud to serve Wentzville, MO, and offers a wide scope of services for residential clients. From basic roof inspections to replacements and repairs, they’ll ensure you get the most from your roofing. They also handle home siding needs, which you can learn about on their website. Connect on Facebook for more roofing tips and call (314) 477-4226 to speak with a representative.