Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, providing protection and peace of mind for your family. Unfortunately, unscrupulous contractors often target homeowners who need roofing services, leaving them with subpar work or even financial loss. At Kavlan Contracting, we believe in protecting our community by raising awareness of common roofing scams and how to avoid them.
1. The Storm Chaser Scam
Storm chasers are contractors who show up in neighborhoods after severe weather events, offering quick fixes or free inspections. While they may seem helpful, these contractors are often unlicensed and use low-quality materials, leaving you with additional repairs down the road. They tend to disappear as quickly as they arrived, making follow-ups impossible.
How to avoid it:
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Verify their credentials and ask for a physical address.
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Request local references and follow up on them.
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Work with a trusted local company that has a solid reputation in the community.
2. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Some contractors use high-pressure tactics to push you into signing a contract immediately. They may claim their offer is only available for a limited time or that immediate action is necessary to prevent further damage. These tactics are designed to prevent you from researching their reputation or comparing estimates.
How to avoid it:
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Take your time to evaluate your options.
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Get at least three estimates from different contractors.
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Trustworthy contractors won’t rush you into a decision.
3. Upfront Payment Scams
In this scam, contractors demand a large deposit or even full payment upfront. Once they’ve received the money, they may vanish without completing the work or provide substandard service.
How to avoid it:
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Avoid contractors who ask for full payment upfront.
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Reputable companies typically use staged payment plans tied to project milestones.
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Always get a written contract outlining payment terms and project details.
4. The Mystery Damage Trick
Some contractors will claim to find urgent or hidden damage during their inspection, often exaggerating the extent of the issue to inflate costs. Without evidence, it can be hard to know whether the damage is real.
How to avoid it:
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Ask for photos or videos of the damage they’re describing.
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Get a second opinion from another contractor.
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Avoid anyone who refuses to provide evidence or explanations for their findings.
5. Insurance Fraud Scams
Some contractors might offer to cover your insurance deductible or inflate your claim to get more money from your insurer. While this might sound like a good deal, it’s illegal and can lead to severe consequences, including voided policies or legal action.
How to avoid it:
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Work only with contractors experienced in legitimate insurance claims processes.
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Report any suspicious practices to your insurance company.
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Remember, reputable contractors follow the law and won’t jeopardize your coverage.
How Kavlan Contracting Protects You
At Kavlan Contracting, we’re committed to providing transparency, quality workmanship, and exceptional customer service. Here’s how we protect homeowners:
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Clear, detailed estimates: We’ll explain every aspect of your project so you know exactly what to expect.
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Verified credentials: We’re a licensed, insured, and local company with a proven track record.
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No high-pressure sales: We give you the time and space to make informed decisions.
Protect Your Investment
Don’t let roofing scams compromise your home or your finances. By staying vigilant and working with a trusted contractor like Kavlan Contracting, you can ensure your roofing project is completed safely and professionally.
Think you might have roofing damage? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation inspection. Let us show you why homeowners in Lebanon, Indiana, and beyond trust Kavlan Contracting for all their roofing needs.
