Ways to avoid roof-repair scams

Replacing a roof is expensive! It could run you 10-to-20-thousand dollars or more. Regular inspections can help you protect your investment, but it's still possible to develop a leak.

"The two main causes of leaks are generally an elevation change – valleys, walls, ceilings, like that on the roof – and then where non-like materials connect, so your pipe boots, your skylights, your flashing and your wall flashings," explained roofing professional Justin Vorbroker.

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While you can't do anything about the elevation changes, you can make sure that you keep your roof clear of debris from overhanging trees and that your gutter system is in good condition.

"Gutters is probably the top of my maintenance list around the house because if you're not taking care of your gutters properly, it can actually lead to roof damage, as well as water in the basement, so be sure that you're attending to them, cleaning them, because it can very much prevent big costly problems," said Angie Hicks, founder of Angie's List.

Even if you do everything right, a storm or an accident could require you to hire a professional. Find three local companies with solid reputations and ask for detailed quotes. Make sure you study each one carefully so you understand the scope of all three bids.

"You want an apples-to-apples estimate, so make sure you know exactly the type of material your roof is made of. Is it an asphalt shingle roof? Is it a tile roof? Also, you're going to need the full dimensions of your roof if you're going to get an accurate estimate," explained Hicks.

Some companies use aerial satellite imagery to get precise measurements of your roof, which should allow for a more accurate estimate on materials.

Hicks warns homeowners to steer clear of anyone going door-to-door in your neighborhood after a storm. They often do shoddy work and aren't around for any follow-up issues.

4 Common roofing scams

  • Disappearing down payment: This is when a company agrees to replace a roof, but requires a down payment before starting the work. Often, a company representative will say he/she needs the down payment to buy materials or to pay for labor and insist the homeowner sign over an insurance check or give cash. Once money is in hand, the homeowner never sees the contractor again.
  • The storm chaser: This scam involves people who literally follow storms to find areas with property damage. They pass out leaflets and knock on doors offering free or dramatically cheap work in exchange for cash. They rarely finish or do quality work once they get cash in hand.
  • The fluctuating bid: Sometimes referred to as the "elevator ride," contractors offer a bid dramatically lower than other companies in the area. Once the job begins, unexpected costs and unforeseen problems appear. The contractor might claim an increase in the cost of materials, or find damage that wasn't addressed when the contract was agreed upon. In some instances, the contractor will literally remove the old roof and threaten to leave if additional payments aren't made. By the time the job is finished, the bill is substantially more than what was initially agreed upon.
  • High-pressure sales: these tactics usually involve a contractor who shows up to a scheduled consultation, or unannounced in a neighborhood where other homes are having roofing work done. Promising a special deal or exceptionally low rate, the contractor will pressure the homeowner to sign a contract on the spot. If the homeowner puts up any kind of resistance to the sales pitch, the contractor will make dishonest claims or mislead the homeowner to enter a legally binding contract.