Don’t Fall For These Common Roofing Scams in Texas

Look, nobody likes having work done on their roof. It's expensive, time-consuming, and not something you ever plan on. What's worse is when you are approached by people who claim they can fix your problems in a pinch, but the usual stench of a scam is all over them.

So, what can you do to protect yourself from roofing scams? Well, thanks to the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT), we can learn how to spot them and what we can do to avoid falling victim.

Common Roofing Scams in Texas

Severe weather can really put a beating on your roof in Texas. It's important to spot some red flags when looking for reliable roofing companies to tend to your needs.

For instance, scammers will often take advantage of homeowners who are in need of roof repair after a major storm has swept the area. These are often referred to as "fly-by-night" contractors who are conveniently there when you need them.

These roofers, often unlicensed, offer homeowners sweet deals that seem too good to be true, promising quick repairs at attractively low prices.

Another form of roofing scams includes high-pressure sales tactics. These are the ones that aggressively approach homeowners about their roof and seek a deal without allowing them to properly research the company or look for other options.

These scammers also instill fear in their victims by convincing them that they must act now or else their roof will be beyond repair when another storm sweeps through.

How To Spot A Roofing Scam in Texas

RCAT includes some red flags to look for that can serve as indicators that you are dealing with a scammer. These include the following:

• Lack of insurance
  • Legitimate roofing companies should offer insurance coverage
• High-pressure sales tactics
  • Homeowners should be able to take their time and do their research before signing anything
• Too-good-to-be-true deals
  • Prices should look realistic, not suspiciously cheap
• Lack of online presence
  • Reputable companies should have a website with client testimonials or other feedback
• No written contracts or physical address
  • Contractors should always provide a written agreement on paper
  • Roofing companies should be able to be found at a physical address in or near the city

So, stay alert and use common sense when speaking with a contractor who wants to repair your roof. Keep these common red flags in mind before you sign any contract, and make sure you trust who you are paying.