Beware of Roofing Scams: Protect Your Home and Wallet
Roof repair and roof replacement can be overwhelming, especially for homeowners who aren't experts in roofing. Unfortunately, scammers often target homeowners in need of roof repairs, particularly after severe weather or during routine maintenance. These unscrupulous contractors can end up costing homeowners thousands of dollars in unnecessary repairs or damage.
At Nest Egg Roofing, we are committed to transparency and protecting our community. Here's a breakdown of common roofing scams and how to avoid falling victim to them.
1. The "Storm Chaser" Scam 🌪️
After severe weather events, you might notice out-of-town roofing companies suddenly appearing, offering fast repairs and "too-good-to-be-true" deals. These storm chasers rush through jobs using subpar materials and vanish before problems arise, leaving homeowners with shoddy work and no way to contact them.
🔍 How to Avoid It:
✅ Always hire licensed, local contractors with a physical presence in your area. Check their contractor licensing status.
✅ Check online reviews, ask for referrals, and verify business credentials, including the BBB Accredited Business Seal.
✅ Be cautious of anyone pressuring you to sign a contract on the spot.
2. The "Free Roof" Insurance Fraud 💰
Some dishonest roofers may offer you a "free roof" by claiming they can cover your insurance deductible illegally. This can involve inflating repair costs, committing fraud, or submitting false claims—putting you at risk of legal trouble.
🔍 How to Avoid It:
✅ If a contractor offers to waive or "cover" your deductible, it's likely a scam—this is illegal in Ohio.
✅ Review your insurance policy to understand what's covered. Consider consulting a public adjuster for complex claims.
✅ Work with a contractor who is transparent about costs and insurance claims, including any Assignment of Benefits.
3. The "High-Pressure Sales" Tactic ⏳
Some roofing contractors use scare tactics to pressure homeowners into signing contracts immediately. They may claim your roof is on the verge of collapsing or offer a "one-day-only" special deal to get you to commit right away. Be wary of unusually low bids or pressure to accept roofing estimates on the spot.
🔍 How to Avoid It:
✅ Always get multiple roofing estimates before making a decision.
✅ Never feel rushed—legitimate roofing companies will give you time to think.
✅ Read and understand the contract details fully before signing anything.
4. The "Upfront Payment" Scam 🚨
A scammer might demand full payment upfront, then disappear or leave the job incomplete, forcing you to chase them down or pay another company to fix their mistakes. This is one of the most common deposit scams in the roofing industry.
🔍 How to Avoid It:
✅ Never pay the full amount upfront—legitimate companies provide clear payment schedules.
✅ Use checks or credit cards to keep track of payments. Avoid cash payments for large jobs.
✅ Choose a contractor with a solid reputation and strong roofing warranty.
5. The "Mystery Damage" Scam 🔨
Unethical roofers may create roof damage themselves or exaggerate existing damage, showing fake photos to convince you that urgent repairs are necessary.
🔍 How to Avoid It:
✅ Always get a second opinion from another roofing professional before committing to major repairs.
✅ Ask for photos and video evidence of the roof damage.
✅ Work with a company offering free roof inspections with no pressure to commit.
How to Protect Yourself
1️⃣ Research your roofer – Verify their reviews, licensing, and BBB accreditation.
2️⃣ Get everything in writing – Ensure contracts are clear and detailed.
3️⃣ Work with a local contractor – Choose a company with a strong local reputation.
4️⃣ Ask for proof of insurance – A reliable contractor will carry worker's comp and liability insurance.
5️⃣ Trust your instincts – If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't!
6️⃣ Check subcontractors – If the company uses subcontractors, ensure they're also licensed and insured.
Need a Trustworthy Roofing Contractor? We've Got You Covered!
At Nest Egg Roofing, we are dedicated to providing honest, reliable service and have built a reputation as one of the most legitimate roofing companies in Northeast Ohio.
Don't let scammers take advantage of you—trust Nest Egg Roofing to get your roof repair or replacement done right! ✅
