A new roof is a major investment, and unfortunately, there are dishonest contractors looking to take advantage of homeowners. Roofing scams are more common than you might think, and they can leave you with subpar workmanship, financial loss, or even an unfinished project. If you’re considering hiring roofing contractors in Grand Rapids, it’s important to know the warning signs of fraud and how to protect yourself. This guide will walk you through the most common roofing scams and how to avoid them.
1. The Storm Chaser Scam
How It Works:
After a major storm, scammers go door-to-door offering immediate roofing repairs. They claim to have leftover materials from another job and promise quick, cheap repairs. These contractors often perform low-quality work—or worse, take your money and disappear without doing any repairs at all.
How to Avoid It:
✔ Never hire a contractor who approaches you unsolicited after a storm.
✔ Research local roofing companies with established reputations.
✔ Check online reviews and ask for references before hiring.
2. The High-Pressure Sales Tactic
How It Works:
Some dishonest contractors will pressure you into signing a contract on the spot, claiming that their "special deal" is only available today. They may also try to get you to sign a contract with vague details, leaving room for unexpected price increases later.
How to Avoid It:
✔ Take your time when selecting a contractor—don’t let anyone rush you.
✔ Get at least three quotes from different roofing companies before making a decision.
✔ Read the contract thoroughly and make sure all terms, including costs and timelines, are clearly outlined.
3. The Upfront Payment Scam
How It Works:
Some scammers will ask for a large down payment before any work begins, then disappear without completing the job. While deposits are standard practice, excessive upfront payments are a red flag.
How to Avoid It:
✔ Never pay for the entire job upfront.
✔ Avoid contractors who demand more than 30% of the total cost before starting work.
✔ Pay using a check or credit card for a paper trail, rather than cash.
4. The “Cheap Materials” Scam
How It Works:
Some roofing contractors will provide you with a reasonable estimate but then use low-quality materials that won’t last. You might not notice the poor-quality workmanship until months or years later when leaks or damage start appearing.
How to Avoid It:
✔ Request details about the materials being used in your contract.
✔ Ask for manufacturer warranties and verify them with the supplier.
✔ Choose a contractor who is certified by reputable roofing material manufacturers.
5. The Unnecessary Repairs Scam
How It Works:
A roofer may inspect your roof and claim you need expensive repairs that aren’t actually necessary. They may even show you photos of damage that isn’t from your roof or exaggerate minor issues.
How to Avoid It:
✔ Get a second opinion from another contractor before agreeing to costly repairs.
✔ Ask for before-and-after photos of any damage they claim to find.
✔ Work with a roofing company that offers free, no-obligation inspections.
6. The “Disappearing Act” Scam
How It Works:
A contractor may start the job but then disappear for weeks, leaving you with an incomplete roof. This often happens when they take on too many projects at once or simply collect deposits without the intention of finishing the work.
How to Avoid It:
✔ Check the contractor’s track record and reputation before hiring.
✔ Make sure the contract includes a timeline for project completion.
✔ Avoid making final payments until the job is fully completed and inspected.
7. The Insurance Fraud Scam
How It Works:
Some shady roofers will offer to "cover your deductible" or submit fake insurance claims to maximize payouts. If caught, you could be held responsible for insurance fraud.
How to Avoid It:
✔ Never work with a contractor who offers to waive your insurance deductible—it’s illegal.
✔ Verify all claims with your insurance company before proceeding.
✔ Work with a licensed contractor who has experience handling legitimate insurance claims.
8. The No-Permit Scam
How It Works:
Some contractors skip the necessary permits to save time and money, leaving homeowners responsible for fines or failing inspections.
How to Avoid It:
✔ Check with your local building department to see if permits are required.
✔ Ensure your contractor pulls the correct permits before work begins.
✔ Avoid contractors who say permits aren’t necessary when they actually are.
How to Find a Trustworthy Roofing Contractor
Finding a reliable roofing contractor requires a bit of research, but it’s worth the effort. Here are some key steps to take:
✔ Check Licensing and Insurance – Make sure your contractor is licensed in Michigan and carries liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
✔ Read Reviews and Ask for References – Look for customer feedback on Google, the Better Business Bureau, and social media.
✔ Get a Written Estimate – A professional contractor should provide a detailed estimate with materials, labor costs, and timelines.
✔ Look for Manufacturer Certifications – Contractors with certifications from major roofing brands (like GAF or Owens Corning) have undergone extra training and quality checks.
✔ Trust Your Instincts – If something feels off, walk away and find another contractor.
Final Thoughts
Roofing scams can cost homeowners thousands of dollars and create long-term headaches. By staying informed and knowing the warning signs, you can protect yourself from dishonest contractors. Always work with reputable professionals, check credentials, and never feel pressured into making a quick decision. Taking these precautions will ensure you receive quality workmanship and a roof that lasts for years to come.