5 Red Flags That Your Roofing Contractor Is Scamming You
Roofing scams cost Central Texas homeowners millions every year. Learn how to spot dishonest contractors before they damage your home and your bank account. Advice from HAAG-certified roofing experts.
Every year, Central Texas homeowners lose millions to roofing scams. After 10+ years inspecting roofs and hearing horror stories from our clients, I've seen every type of roofing fraud imaginable.
The scariest part? Most victims don't realize they've been scammed until it's too late. The damage is done, the money is gone, and they're stuck with a worthless "repair" job.
As HAAG-certified roofing inspectors, we're committed to educating homeowners. Here's how to spot the warning signs before you get burned.
The 5 Red Flags of Roofing Scams
Door-to-Door Solicitation
The Scam: Someone knocks on your door offering to "inspect your roof for free" or claiming they "happened to notice damage" while driving by.
Why It's a Scam: Legitimate roofing companies don't cold-call homeowners. They get business through referrals, advertising, and reputation.
What Happens Next:
They'll pressure you into signing a contract on the spot, often requiring a large deposit. They might even start "emergency repairs" without proper permits or insurance.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics
The Scam: "Your roof will collapse tomorrow!" or "This is a limited-time offer - sign now or lose out!" They create artificial urgency to prevent you from getting second opinions.
Why It's a Scam: Quality contractors don't use fear tactics. They want you to make informed decisions and often encourage you to get multiple estimates.
What Happens Next:
You'll sign a contract without proper time to review it, often agreeing to unnecessary work or inflated prices.
Upfront Deposit Required
The Scam: Demands cash deposits, large down payments, or payment in full before starting work. Often claims it's for "materials" or "permits."
Why It's a Scam: Licensed contractors typically require deposits of 10-30% at most, and reputable companies often work directly with insurance for storm damage claims.
What Happens Next:
They take your money and disappear, or do substandard work and demand more money to "fix" problems they created.
No License or Insurance
The Scam: Can't provide proof of licensing, insurance, or references. Might claim they "don't need" a license or that it's "optional."
Why It's a Scam: Roofing contractors in Texas are required to be licensed and insured. Legitimate companies proudly display their credentials.
What Happens Next:
If they damage your property or get injured, you're responsible for the costs. You have no legal recourse if they do poor work.
Unrealistically Low Prices
The Scam: Quotes that seem too good to be true - often 40-60% below market rate. They might claim to use "surplus" or "wholesale" materials.
Why It's a Scam: Quality roofing work with proper materials and skilled labor costs money. Cutting corners leads to poor workmanship and early failures.
What Happens Next:
You get substandard materials and workmanship. The roof fails prematurely, costing you more money to fix it properly later.
How to Protect Yourself from Roofing Scams
Get Multiple Estimates
Never hire the first contractor you talk to. Get at least 3 estimates from licensed companies. Compare apples-to-apples.
Check Credentials
Verify licensing through TDLR. Check insurance and BBB ratings. Ask for references from recent projects.
Read Contracts Carefully
Never sign under pressure. Understand payment terms, warranties, and what's included. Don't pay large deposits upfront.
Trust Your Gut
If something feels off, walk away. High-pressure tactics are a major red flag. Good contractors respect your decision-making process.
Why Central Texas Homeowners Choose Hive
HAAG Certified
Top 3% of roofing inspectors nationwide
Licensed & Insured
General contractor with full insurance coverage
Fair Pricing
Transparent estimates, no hidden fees
Protect Your Home with Confidence
Don't fall victim to roofing scams. Get honest, expert advice from HAAG-certified professionals who put your interests first.
Download Your Free Roofing Scam Protection Checklist
Protect yourself from roofing scams with our comprehensive checklist. Learn exactly what to look for and how to verify contractor credibility.
Complete Scam Detection Guide
15 warning signs to watch for
Contractor Verification Steps
How to check licenses and insurance
Emergency Response Checklist
What to do after storm damage
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