Avoiding These 3 Common Roofing Scams

During the winter months, storms are expected, and roof damage may be imminent. Should your commercial or residential roof need repair, make sure to keep an eye out for roofing scammers ready to prey on innocent owners wanting a repair on their property.
Aside from checking a license and making sure they have an excellent portfolio, there are other steps that you can take to ensure that you don’t fall into the trap with one of these 3 common roofing scams.

The Door-to-Door Salesman

From senior citizens to people who may just seem desperate for a new roof after an accident, some door-to-door salesmen pose a real threat to the credibility of a roofing job. What makes these scammers so dangerous is that they approach their victims with the offer of a free roof inspection.
Once this offer is taken, the “inspector” will make their way to the roof and create their own damage that will justify immediate repairs. Another thing to look out for is potential photographs of already damaged roofs they may show, insisting that it is your own.
Keep in mind that most honest roofing companies do, in fact, practice door-to-door sales. All you need to do to keep your finances safe is to ensure the legitimacy of the company and not to sign any contracts until your home insurance agent comes out to inspect the roof on their own.

Your Roofing Deposit Disappears

If you see flashy advertisements for a “new” roofing company in the area that doesn’t seem familiar. Be wary before hiring them. While some businesses may, in fact, be legitimate sources of repair, some newer businesses can be the culprits of the popular deposit scam.
Most companies will require a deposit for roofing repairs that usually land around 30 percent of what the job would cost. The scammers in these situations will ask for “parts and labor cost” up front as an entire down payment, then disappear once the money goes through.
To prevent falling for this scam, never pay a dime for a job until the project supplies have been delivered and you have a legitimate, estimated date of completion.

Taking a Ride on the “Elevator”

The “Elevator Ride” is a scheme that revolves around fluctuating bids. These jobs usually start out great with the promise of a bid, far beneath that of any local competitors. At this point, you should be wary, because you may start to find “hidden costs” or “unexpected problems” with the job. In the end, the job would cost you more than it would have, had you gone with a trusted roofing company that offers all bids up-front.

Contract with Anderson Industrial Roofing for an Efficient and Insured Job Well-Done

Your roof repair is a process that should be handled with care by a trusted professional. The next time you need a roof inspection or replacement, let Anderson Industrial Roofing lend our expertise. We specialize in repairing and replacing both commercial and residential roofs. Contact us today to find out more about the services we offer in your area.