BLOG Common Roofing Scams and How to Protect Yourself as a Homeowner Apr 11, 2025

As a homeowner, maintaining your roof can be a daunting task filled with potential pitfalls. Among these, roofing scams are a prevalent threat that can lead to unnecessary expenses and inferior workmanship. At Extreme Roofing, we understand the importance of safeguarding your home and your investment. This article will shed light on common roofing scams and provide actionable advice to protect yourself from these frauds.

In the world of roofing, there are a few scams that are notoriously widespread. Understanding these can empower you as a homeowner to make informed decisions. One of the most common scams involves door-to-door salespeople offering repair services after a storm. These individuals, often referred to as storm chasers, prey on vulnerable homeowners. They might use high-pressure sales tactics, suggesting that urgent repairs are necessary and offering discounts for quick decisions. Unfortunately, many of these supposed discounts lead to subpar and incomplete work.

Another prevalent scam is the demand for large upfront payments. Some unscrupulous contractors might ask for significant deposits before they begin any work. While down payments are standard in many industries, a reputable roofing contractor should never require more than 10-30% upfront. Large initial payments can leave you at risk, as some scammers might take the money and disappear without laying a single shingle.

Moreover, be wary of contractors who offer to handle your roofing insurance claim. While this might seem convenient, it can lead to unethical practices. These contractors might inflate damage reports or charge excessively, resulting in higher premiums or even denial of legitimate insurance claims in the future.

To protect yourself from these scams, there are several precautionary steps you can take. First, conduct thorough research before choosing a contractor. Look for established businesses, like Extreme Roofing, with verifiable track records and positive customer reviews. Ensure they are licensed and insured, which lends credibility and legal protection to the services they provide.

Request a written contract detailing all the agreed-upon services, materials, timelines, and costs before any payment is made or work begins. A transparent contract protects both you and the contractor, providing a clear framework for the project at hand.

Another key protective measure is to get multiple estimates. By comparing quotes from different contractors, you can better understand the market rates for roofing services and avoid overpriced scams. Remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it likely is.

Finally, communication is crucial. A reliable contractor will willingly answer your questions and offer clarifications on any aspect of the project. If a contractor is evasive, fails to provide straightforward answers, or pushes you for rapid decision-making, it might be wise to reconsider engaging their services.

In conclusion, while roofing scams are an unfortunate reality, equipping yourself with knowledge and vigilance can go a long way in protecting your home. At Extreme Roofing, our commitment is to transparency and quality, ensuring that all customers receive the superior service they deserve. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can safeguard your home, your investment, and ensure that your roofing project is completed with integrity and professionalism.