Avoiding Shady Roofing Contractors
There’s no doubting the fact that Nebraska weather coupled with roof and shingles can create home damage across the city and surrounding areas. Sadly, it’s not just the storm damage that homeowners have to contend with – it’s also the setting up and coordination of roofing inspections, insurance claims, and repair work.
Unfortunately, there’s also the trust issue that we all have to contend with. Because, as we all know, there is a tremendous amount of unscrupulous individuals out there who promise top notch work and then wind up delivering anything but. With that in mind, here are a few tips – courtesy of Angie’s List – on how to avoid any ‘fly-by-night’ roofing contractors out there:
Avoid any type of door-to-door and/or phone solicitations
These have a tendency to be ‘drifters’ that appear post-storm, offering free inspections and estimates. Granted, there’s a chance they could be legit. However, there’s definitely the potential that they’re anything but (trust us – when storms come through and cause damage, our phones are ringing off the hook – we don’t have time to pound the pavement!).
NEVER allow someone to inspect your home when you’re not there
Unfortunately, there are some less-than-reputable contractors out there who have been known to fake storm damage to roofs.
Do your best to always get multiple estimates
Even if it’s an emergent situation, don’t rush into anything and DON’T blindly sign contracts or provide down payments.
You are not required to relay claim information
It is NOT required to make the repairs.
Do your research
If you’re thinking about working with a company that you don’t have a history with, check with the state to make sure they’re licensed and bonded. Do your own ‘background check’ on any company you’re thinking of hiring; also, ask for local references and ALWAYS make sure you’ve got an address and phone number. Check with the Better Business Bureau, and search the company online – if complaints exist, it’s usually not difficult to find them.
Make sure that the company obtains all the necessary permits prior to starting any work. Always verify that the name on the permit matches that of the company.
Know your payment plan
Some contractors and companies may require a down payment, however, be wary if they’re asking for a large deposit – or cash payment – that’s more than a third of the total cost of the job. Avoid any companies that offer to help pay a portion – or all – of your insurance deductible as it’s considered insurance fraud in many states. Also, don’t sign over your insurance settlement – deposit it into your account, and then pay out on the actual cost.
Read the contract and document everything in writing
NEVER sign a contract that has blank spaces! ALWAYS make sure to get the original copy of any and all documents, showing signatures of all parties.
If you’re in need of a roofing company that treats our customers the way that we would want to be treated, Golden Rule Contractors is for you! Please don’t hesitate to give us a call and let us know what we can do to help you!
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