Hiring a roofing contractor is a significant decision that impacts the safety, value, and longevity of your home. While many contractors are reputable professionals, others may not have your best interests at heart. Understanding the red flags associated with unscrupulous contractors can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your roofing project is completed successfully.
๐ซ Lack of Proper Licensing and Insurance
A legitimate roofing contractor should possess the necessary licenses and insurance to operate in your area. Licensing ensures they meet local requirements, while insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or damage during the project. Always ask for proof of both and verify their validity with local authorities.
Why it matters:
- Valid licensing ensures the contractor meets state and local requirements.
- Insurance protects you from liability in case of property damage or injuries on-site.
Red flags to watch for:
- They canโt produce a valid license or claim itโs โnot required.โ
- Their insurance documents are expired or unverifiable.
- They ask you to pull the permit yourself (which places legal liability on you).
Example:
A homeowner in Missouri hired a contractor without verifying licensing. The city stopped work mid-project due to code violations, delaying repairs for months.
๐ Still unsure why licensing and insurance are non-negotiable? Learn more about Why Contractor Credentials Matter before making your decision.
๐ฉ High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Be wary of contractors who pressure you into making immediate decisions or signing contracts on the spot. Reputable professionals understand the importance of giving homeowners time to consider their options and will not rush you into commitments. High-pressure tactics are often used to prevent you from seeking other opinions or discovering potential issues.
Why itโs a concern:
- Ethical contractors let their work and reputation speak for themselves.
- Pressure to “sign now” often means they don’t want you comparing offers.
Common tactics:
- โThis deal is only available today.โ
- โWeโre doing a neighborโs roof and can offer you a big discount if you decide now.โ
- Showing up uninvited and insisting your roof needs urgent replacement.
Tip:
Always take time to research and compare. A professional will respect your timeline.
๐ธ Unusually Low Bids
While a low estimate might seem appealing, it can be a red flag. Contractors offering significantly lower bids than others may cut corners, use subpar materials, or lack experience. Such practices can lead to poor workmanship and additional costs down the line. It’s essential to compare multiple quotes and understand the scope of work each includes.
Why this is suspicious:
- Low bids can mean low-quality materials or unskilled labor.
- It may also indicate that the contractor doesnโt plan to finish or honor a warranty.
What to look for:
- Quotes that are 30โ50% lower than competitors.
- โToo good to be trueโ pricing with vague descriptions like โroofing system install โ $3,500.โ
Example:
One customer accepted a $4,000 bid for a full roof replacement, only to discover later that no underlayment was installedโresulting in leaks and mold.
โ No Written Contract
A detailed written contract is crucial for any roofing project. It should outline the scope of work, materials to be used, timelines, payment schedules, and warranty information. Avoid contractors who refuse to provide a written agreement or offer vague terms, as this can lead to misunderstandings and disputes.
Why a contract is essential:
- Protects both parties by defining scope, timeline, and responsibilities.
- Aids in resolving disputes and ensures legal enforceability.
Risks of skipping it:
- Miscommunication about the type or quality of materials.
- Surprise charges or unclear deadlines.
- No documentation to reference in case of poor work.
Contract should include:
- Scope of work
- Payment terms
- Materials
- Warranties
- Timeline
- Signatures
โ ๏ธ Large Upfront Payments
While it’s common for contractors to request a deposit before starting work, be cautious if they demand a substantial portion of the total cost upfront. A reasonable down payment is typically around 10-20% of the total project cost. Excessive upfront payments can be a sign of financial instability or potential fraud.
Warning signs:
- Requests of 50% or more before work begins.
- Full payment demanded before any materials are delivered or work is started.
Why itโs risky:
- You have no leverage if the contractor disappears.
- Many scam artists use this method to fund unrelated jobsโor just vanish.
๐ No Physical Address or Online Presence
A reputable contractor should have a physical business address and an established online presence. This includes a professional website, customer reviews, and listings on business directories. Contractors without these may be fly-by-night operators who are difficult to track down if issues arise.
What to expect from a trustworthy business:
- A verifiable address and a functioning website.
- Social media presence, online reviews, or a BBB profile.
Red flags:
- No business listing on Google or business directories.
- A Gmail or Yahoo email address instead of a company domain.
- No customer reviews or a recently created profile.
Tip:
Use Google Street View to confirm the physical address.
๐งพ Lack of References or Negative Reviews
Always ask for references from previous clients and take the time to read online reviews. Consistent negative feedback or a lack of verifiable references can indicate poor workmanship or unethical practices. Engaging with past clients can provide insights into the contractor’s reliability and quality of work.
Why reviews matter:
- They reflect real customer experiences.
- They help identify patterns of behaviorโgood or bad.
What to ask for:
- At least 3 references from recent jobs.
- Projects similar to yours (e.g., asphalt shingles, metal roof).
Check platforms like:
- Google Reviews
- Yelp
- Angi/HomeAdvisor
- BBB
Red flags:
- Overwhelmingly negative reviews.
- Reviews that mention the same issues repeatedly.
๐ ๏ธ No Warranty Offered
A trustworthy contractor stands behind their work by offering warranties on both materials and labor. If a contractor does not provide any warranty, it may suggest a lack of confidence in their work or an unwillingness to address potential issues after project completion.
What you should expect:
- A workmanship warranty (typically 1โ10 years).
- Manufacturer warranty (typically 20โ50 years, depending on materials).
What to avoid:
- Contractors who say, โWe donโt offer warranties, but we do great work.โ
- Warranty promises that are not in writing.
Tip:
Ask if theyโre certified by the manufacturer (e.g., GAF Master Elite), which usually extends warranty coverage.
๐ช๏ธ Storm Chasers
After severe weather events, some contractors, known as “storm chasers,” travel to affected areas offering quick fixes. While some may be legitimate, others exploit homeowners’ urgency, providing substandard work and disappearing once paid. Always verify the contractor’s credentials and local reputation before proceeding.
Who they are:
- Contractors who move from town to town after storms, targeting urgent repairs.
Risks:
- Often lack local licenses and knowledge of local codes.
- Disappear after completing substandard work.
- Hard to contact for follow-up service or warranty claims.
How to spot one:
- Unsolicited visits after a storm.
- Out-of-state license plates.
- No ties to the community or verifiable local work.
๐ Make sure youโre asking the right questions. Our guide on What to Research When Choosing a Roofing Contractor lays it all out.
๐ Poor Communication
Effective communication is essential for a successful roofing project. Contractors who are difficult to reach, fail to return calls, or provide unclear information can cause unnecessary stress and project delays. Choose a contractor who is responsive, transparent, and willing to address your concerns promptly.
Why this is a dealbreaker:
- Timely and clear communication is key to any successful project.
Warning signs:
- Calls or emails go unanswered for days.
- Unclear pricing, scheduling, or explanations.
- Changing project details without notifying you.
Tip:
Track their communication during the estimate phaseโit often reflects how theyโll handle the job.
Protect Your Home by Choosing Wisely
Your home is one of your most significant investments, and ensuring its protection starts with selecting the right roofing contractor. By being aware of these red flags, you can make informed decisions, avoid potential pitfalls, and ensure your roofing project is completed to the highest standards.
At Gorilla Roofing, we pride ourselves on our transparency, professionalism, and commitment to quality. Our team is fully licensed and insured, offering comprehensive warranties and clear communication throughout every project.
๐ Call us today at (636) 295-1212
๐ Request a FREE roofing estimate
Choose Gorilla Roofing for peace of mind and exceptional service.