Red flags when hiring a roofing contractor from Matlock Roofing and Construction. In the roofing market, you have good contractors, terrible contractors, and those that fall somewhere in between. Typically, homeowners must research and select contractors themselves. It might be tempting to go with the least expensive option.
But, strong workmanship and the correct materials are necessary when you live in a humid climate. In areas like this, humidity can wreak havoc on a bad roofing installation.
So, here are the seven greatest red flags to look for when hiring a roofing contractor.
Storm chasers
These individuals are out-of-town roofers who look for storm-hit areas. They go over the city hunting for unsuspecting neighbors desperate for roofing repairs to scam them. They perform subpar work quickly and then swiftly depart town. So, they will not honor any form of guarantee they provided previously.
Most storm chasers do not provide roofing knowledge, nor do they have the required certifications to work in a certain location. They go into the roofing business because they see a huge possibility to make some fast bucks before leaving out of town. When selecting a roofing contractor, always choose specialists that are present in your region and are recognized for the quality of their work.
No Portfolio or References.
Are you dealing with hot and unpredictable weather? Also, you will deal with specialists seeking to take advantage of a big number of roofs requiring repairs in the neighborhood. Warm weather places tend to see a significant number of “fly-by-night” roofing enterprises seeking to score some fast cash-off susceptible clients.
Hence, a significant red flag when selecting a roofing contractor is no prior work to speak of. Remind that a good roofing contractor will always have references or a portfolio of past projects.
Contractors Who Ask for Money up Front
If a contractor requires money beforehand, it might be a possible red sign. Commonly, scam organizations target elderly homes asking for payment up front and then never actually coming to complete the service.
Normally, a partial payment is not a reason for panic, since many contractors require this to get materials delivered to the project location. However, if a contractor requires full payment prior to conducting any work, you may want to look for another one. Remember, never hand over a complete payment or an insurance check to any roofing company.
Pressure to Sign the Dotted Line
A respectable company recognizes that making a significant repair purchase takes time. A homeowner needs the time and space to study, budget, and plan for the investment. A skilled contractor will always allow you the freedom to figure out whether you are ready to start the project. Thus, a contractor that aggressively presses you to move forward, sign on the dotted line, or make any commitment is a significant red flag.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Dishonest roofing contractors employ deceptive strategies and techniques to be hired. Some red flag organizations may want you to sign a contract before making a thorough offer and some may promise to start right away, so long as you make a deposit. If you smell high-pressure sales methods at play, run the other way. Instead, attempt to identify local roofing contractors in your region who can show an Owens Corning certification.
Bids Too Low to Be Real
There is no such thing as working for free when it comes to hiring a roofer. Low and inaccurate estimates are a common tactic of dishonest roofers. Prices that look too good to be true are almost always a swindle. The goal is to get you to sign a contract quickly.
With this approach, homeowners are deprived of sufficient time to identify any flaws or limitations in the job. You shouldn’t be surprised if these awful companies discover additional “damage” after tearing off your roof.
Damage Claims Significantly Overstated
Poorly vetted roofing companies will overstate the degree of the damage to your roofing to convince you that a complete replacement is necessary. Regardless of how old your roof is or how bad it is, a reputable roofing contractor will always offer you an honest assessment and make recommendations.
Red Flags When Hiring a Roofing Contractor
Keep an eye out for any of these warning signs while looking for a roofing contractor, and always hire local reputable contractors. Local roofing companies are familiar with the local climate. So, they will know to repair or replace your roofing in a cost-effective manner.
Matlock Roofing and Construction services areas in Hattiesburg, Sumrall, Petal, Purvis, and New Albany, MS. No matter where you are located, you can obtain a roof service quote by calling 601-299-4048. Call Matlock Roofing for quality and prompt service!
