How to Protect Yourself from Unscrupulous Contractors & Scams
If you have found yourself in need of roof repair in Miami, you need to know how to avoid some of the most common roofing contractor scams. The sad fact is that not all companies are reliable. We know that you have a lot of different options, and we aren’t here to discourage you from any particular roofing company, but we can give you a couple of pointers to help you avoid being taken for a ride along the way.
Things to Keep in Mind When You Choose a Roofing Contractor
Especially as we enter peak hurricane season in Miami, it is important that you take care of any roofing problems before they become a significant issue. If you have anything that you aren’t sure about, get it checked out. Because once a storm hits, you will have a lot of problems finding a reliable Miami roofing contractor that isn’t a storm chaser from another part of the country.
Unfortunately, Florida is rife with storm chasers even though the state government has taken a lot more precautionary measures than most other states.
How Can You Tell If Your Roofing Contractor is Scamming You?
One of the most common times for scams is after a storm. You may or may not have roof damage, but you can guarantee that if you get a dishonest company, you will after they get off the roof. It is not unheard of for roofers to kick up a few shingles and report damage after they get back on the ground.
If you can give your roof a once-over before they get there, it’s probably a good idea. Sadly, the demographic that is scammed the most is the handicapped or elderly. If there is anyone you can ask before they get there or while they are checking it out, do so.
Some Other Common Roofing Scams
-Most roofing scams are perpetrated by door–to-door salesmen.
-If the price seems remarkably low, be wary. They may take a deposit and never return again.
-Never give cash up front.
-Always verify that they have a valid contractor license
-Never do business with someone that doesn’t provide contact information, workers comp info, or insurance info for their company.
-Ask if they have a guarantee. If they can’t provide a guarantee, they may either be long gone after the storms or they don’t take pride in their work and don’t want to be called out in a few years for repairs.
Before we go, we’d like to leave you with our most important recommendation. Check with the BBB. Did you know that roofing contractor scams are considered one of the top ten scams reported to the Better Business Bureau with over 8,478 scams reported in 2010 and approximately 32% of them left unsettled? Good luck in your search for a Miami roofing contractor!