Be careful the next time your door bell rings. The Better Business Bureau says scammers may try to take advantage of you by posing as roofing contractors.
The BBB says roofing contractor inquires have spiked up 45 percent from the same time period last year. According to the BBB, there have been nearly 8,000 injuries made by Upstate New Yorkers in the past two months alone.
Some consumers are concerned about door-to-door solicitation, with some posing as a reputable business, requesting a deposit on the spot and never returning to do the work.
"Roofing is not for amateurs or out-of-towners," said David Polino, Better Business Bureau President. "Professional businesses rarely go door-to-door and it should always be seen as a red flag. Senior citizens who own homes are particularly vulnerable. Since roof repair can run into thousands of dollars, a deal that sounds too good is rarely worth the risk."
The BBB reports out-of-town roofers have been spotted, some claiming to be BBB Accredited.
If you need roof repair or replacement, BBB recommends the following tips:
Start Your Search with BBB. You can rely on BBB's Accredited Business locator to find trustworthy roofers in your area. BBBs Accredited roofers have pledged to uphold BBB's Standards for Trust and are contractually obligated to resolve all complaints filed with the BBB.
Vet the Contractor Carefully. Verify the business is local, meets all state and local requirements including being licensed, insured and bonded. Also ask the business for references from recent jobs. Confirm whether or not the roofer will be subcontracting the job or relying on his or her own employees.
Beware of Storm Chasers. Fly-by-night repair businesses will solicit work, often door to door, and may have out of state license plates. They might require advance payment and make big promises that they won't deliver on. They sometimes collect homeowners' insurance claim checks as payment for shoddy work. If you were to sign a contract to allow the storm chaser to negotiate with your insurance company, you may be waiving your right to any decision making regarding your repairs or replacement and could lose control over the insurance settlement.
Get at least three bids. Beware of lowball estimates that may potentially balloon over time or foreshadow shoddy work to come.
Recognize Red Flags. Beware of any contractor that uses high pressure sales tactics or requires full payment upfront. Avoid contractors that require you to get the necessary permits.
Make sure everything is in writing. Make sure that the full scope of the work is explained in the contract including cleanup and disposal of waste. All verbal agreements need to be included in the written agreement. Pay close attention to the payment terms, estimated price of materials and labor and any warranties or guarantees.
Report a Violation. If you spot a BBB logo, but the business doesn't check out as BBB Accredited, contact the BBB and report it. We will investigate. Please email us information and documentation to info@upstatenybbb.org or call (716) 881-5222.
