Things You'll Need:
- home, apartment complex or commercial building
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Step 1
The cost of roof repair or replacement can be substantial. When a roof scammer is involved, it is likely the cost will be even greater. Scammers rarely complete the work they contract to perform or use sub-standard materials and workmanship. And shoddy work often compounds the problem. Further, there is the resulting psychological impact that can also endure.
To aid you in recognizing potential scams, we have identified some things you should look for when considering the use of a roofer.
Roofing scams are more prevalent after storms or in areas where there is a preponderance of senior citizens. -
Step 2
The elderly, as well as the handicapped, usually have difficulty assessing their roof condition. This is especially true after a storm when damages may be concealed. The homeowner is often at the mercy of the roofer to provide a truthful assessment of the roof's condition.
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Step 3
Roof scams frequently result right after a storm when trucks arrive in a neighborhood to conduct roof repairs. Contact is usually initiated by door-to-door salesmen offering to do roof repairs at extremely low prices. Often, they cite the reason for the low cost by stating their crew has left over materials and will pass the savings in materials along to the homeowner. Once the unsuspecting homeowner feels the salesman is legitimate, the salesman will usually ask for a substantial deposit before the work can commence. Should the homeowner ask for references, the scammer rarely provides adequate documentation or offers to provide it at the time the crew shows up to do the work.
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Step 4
Very often, the scammer obtains the deposit check then takes it to the bank, cashes it and goes on to the next victim. If the contractor shows up to complete the work, they often use a cosmetic treatment that appears attractive, on the surface but rarely takes care of the condition.
A frequent method to cosmetically "fix" the roof is accomplished by spraying used motor oil on the roof with water. The coating often creates a renewed appearance for a few days until the coating wears off. Long enough to collect the balance of the money and move on to another victim. -
Step 5
If you are considering the use of a roofing contractor, you should do a thorough job of checking them out.
Is the roofing contractor local? Upon initial contact, are you given a business card by the roofing contractor's representative? Is the representative professional in appearance and appear to be knowledgeable? Does the representative conduct a thorough and organized inspection of the roof prior to discussing cost? Is an estimate provided that clearly addresses all issues? Are the repairs thoroughly spelled out in the estimate? Does the roofing contractor provide a references, trade associations, membership in professional organizations such as the Better Business Bureau?
Though it is impossible to satisfy all people, does the roofing contractor have a reputation for satisfaction and resolving any disputes? Does the roofing contractor's representative produce evidence of a valid license? Is the roofing contractor bonded and insured?
Although it may take additional time and effort in checking references and verifying the character and reputation of the roofing contractor, it is essential to a pleasant experience, before the work is performed and for the future.
