Roof Contractor East Tennessee

Just To Make Sure You Know:  Signs of Dishonesty

Unsolicited Door-To-Door Offers

Scammers often follow storm paths, knocking on doors to exploit vulnerable homeowners with high-pressure tactics. 

Too-good-to-be-true prices:

Be suspicious of offers that are significantly lower than competitors, as they could be a sign of cut corners or a bait-and-switch scam. 

Large upfront payments:

A request for a large percentage of the total cost upfront, or for full payment before any work begins, is a major red flag. 

No written estimate or contract:

Legitimate roofers provide detailed written estimates that clearly outline the scope of work, materials, and costs. 

Lack of proper credentials:

A trustworthy roofer will readily provide proof of their license and insurance. 

Poor communication or unprofessionalism:

A contractor who is vague, unresponsive to calls, or does not clearly explain the project is a sign of potential trouble. 

Unrealistic warranties or guarantees:

Be wary of promises that sound too good to be true, as they may be a tactic to deceive you. 

Pushy sales tactics:

A high-pressure sales approach that insists on an immediate decision often signals that the contractor doesn't have your best interests in mind. 

How to Protect Yourself

Verify their credentials: Ask for proof of their license and insurance and check with your state's licensing authority or local Better Business Bureau to ensure they are legitimate. 

Get multiple written estimates: Obtain detailed written quotes from several reputable companies to compare costs and services. 

Check their reputation: Look for online reviews and ask for references from past clients, and check if they have a physical local business address. 

Insist on a detailed written contract: Read the contract carefully before signing, ensuring all details about the scope of work, materials, and payment terms are clearly defined. 

Avoid immediate decisions: Take your time to review proposals and don't feel pressured to sign on the spot. 

Be wary of storm chasers: These out-of-town roofers often target areas immediately after a storm and lack local knowledge and reliable references.

Make sure the contractor carries workers' compensation insurance and general liability insurance in case of accidents on the job. Ask to have copies of these policies for your job file. You should protect yourself from mechanics’ liens against your home in the event the contractor does not pay subcontractors or material suppliers. You may be able to protect yourself by having a "release of lien" clause in your contract. A release of lien clause requires the contractor, subcontractors and suppliers to furnish a "certificate of waiver of lien." If you are financing your project, the bank or lending institution may require that the contractor, subcontractors and suppliers verify that they have been paid before releasing funds for subsequent phases of the project.

Keep these points in mind if you plan to have your existing roofing materials replaced:

• Tile, metal, and slate are more expensive roofing materials, but if you need to replace your roofing anyway, it may be worthwhile to pay a little more for the added protection these materials provide. 

• Slate and tile can be much heavier than asphalt shingles or wood shingles. If you are considering switching to one of these heavier coverings, your roofing contractor should determine whether the framing of your roof is strong enough to support them. 

• If you live in an area where snow loads are a problem, consider switching to a modern standing-seam metal roof, which will usually shed snow efficiently.