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How to Protect Yourself From Common Roofing Scams
Every year, thousands of unsuspecting homeowners fall victim to roofing scams. Shady contractors take advantage of budget-conscious families, senior citizens, and first time homeowners, often leaving them with empty wallets and poorly done work. Knowing how to protect yourself from common roofing scams is the best defense against losing your time, money, and peace of mind.
What Is a Roofing Scam?
A roofing scam is when an individual or company that takes advantage of homeowners by selling unneeded services, using low quality materials, or disappearing after taking payment.
They often target:
- Senior communities
- First time homeowners
- Neighborhoods hit by recent storms, hail, or hurricanes
The goal is simple: create fear, pressure homeowners, and profit quickly while providing little or no real value.
How Do I Know If I’m Being Scammed?
Follow your intuition, and look for these common red flags. If something feels off, it probably is.
1. Beware of Storm Chasers
Storm chasers travel from area to area after major storms. They usually offer:
- Free inspections
- Claims of severe damage
- Urgent pressure to repair quickly
- Large down payment requests
Ask for:
- Proof of licensing
- Proof of insurance
- Photo or video evidence of actual damage
Storm chasers disappear as quickly as they arrive. Once they realize you won’t fall for the scam, they move on.
2. Beware of Low Starting Bids
A scam contractor may offer the lowest bid in the area. Once work begins, they suddenly find:
- Unexpected damage
- New “required” materials
- Higher labor costs
Reputable contractors do not dramatically increase prices mid project. If the price sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
3. Beware of Assignment of Benefits (AOB) Agreements
This scam is especially common in Florida. An AOB agreement hands control of your insurance policy to a roofing contractor.
This means: a. The roofer can access your insurance rights. b. Your insurer deals only with the roofer, not you. c. You lose the ability to make decisions about your claim. d. The roofer can sue your insurance company without your consent. e. The roofer can endorse checks on your behalf.
Never sign an AOB. A reputable roofing company will never request it.
4. Beware of High Pressure Sales Tactics
Scammers often rely on urgency and fear. They may say:
- “This deal is available today only.”
- “Your roof is unsafe and must be fixed now.”
- “Sign right here so we can start immediately.”
You are in control. You have every right to:
- Get multiple quotes
- Ask questions
- Research the company
- Say no
Never sign anything on the spot unless you fully trust the contractor.
Len’s Roofing: A Trusted Roofing Contractor Serving Florida's Suncoast and Beyond
For more than thirty years, Len’s Roofing has been proudly serving the suncoast of Florida with professionalism, honesty, and superior workmanship. We do not pressure, mislead, or cut corners. Our thousands of satisfied clients speak to our commitment to quality and integrity.
If you want a free, no obligation quote from a contractor you can trust, reach out today.
📞 Call us at 1 (941) 896-7897 🌐 Visit www.lensroofing.com for affordable, reputable roofing options.
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