If it sounds too good to be true; usually it is.  Just ask anyone who’s had to deal with a roofer knocking on their door and claiming to be able to save them thousands of dollars.  They usually take your money, start the job, and then leave you with a little less money and a roofing mess.  Roofing scams are popular in many suburban towns; the groups of thieves usually attack one area at a time until the local police get wind, and then they’re off to their next victims.  But even some established roofer’s can scam you; take your money, and leave you up a creek without a paddle.  It’s a good idea to investigate any roofing company; even those that look and sound like legitimate businesses; they could a wolf in sheep clothing.

Starting your search, look for a roofer that is registered at city hall; licensed contractors must obtain a business licenses in order to operate in most towns.  As well, many towns and larger cities require them to have a special building or contractor’s license; you can check with your local government offices to see if this applies in your area.  Contractors should always be able to supply you with an up-to-date copy of this license; as well as, a copy of their insurance coverage.  Anyone that is not an owner in the company will need to be covered by worker’s compensation insurance; this is the law.  So ask your contractor to present you with copies of this, as well.  Then call the provider and verify the coverage is paid and up-to-date.  As well, the contractor will need to have liability insurance.  Any professional roofer will have at least a $50,000 to $100,000 dollar policy to protect his investment and business.  Ask for copies of this and be sure to call and check verification with the insurance company.

Qualified roofer’s should also be able to supply you with information on their work crews.  You should know who will be at your home performing the job and you should be familiar with their experience; as well.  Ask the contractor to supply you with references of previous jobs.  If a roofer is a professional at his job; he should be able to supply you with various names and addresses for you to review.  You should contact these individuals and drive by their homes and see the work, if possible.  Ask them questions with open ended answers; that way they can elaborate and pass-on needed information.  Another great way to find a qualified roofer is by asking your friends and family; as well as, your neighbors.  These types of references are usually best because they offer you honest and forthright information; they won’t hesitate to tell you the good or the bad.

Roofer’s are usually on the job for several days or weeks depending upon several factors like the weather, the size of your home, the size of their crew, and the size of the job scope.  Prepare to ask your roofer questions regarding this information.  You need to know how long they will be at your home, you will need to know if they protect your roof from unexpected weather changes, and you need to know the cost of the job; as well as, payment terms and warranties. 

Most homeowner’s will get at least 3 bids prior to making a decision; and these bids should be within a couple of hundred dollar’s from each other.  If not, you may need to ask questions and be leery of a scam.