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SEO Blog: How Do You Not Get Scammed By a Roofer?
Meta Description: Protect your home and your wallet. Discover 8 common roofing scams and learn how to avoid getting ripped off with expert tips from S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC—trusted roofers serving Northeast Ohio.
When a storm rolls through or your roof starts to show its age, it’s natural to want quick and affordable help. But not every roofer has your best interests at heart. Roofing scams are a growing concern, especially in areas prone to severe weather like Youngstown, Cleveland, and surrounding Northeast Ohio communities. At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we believe in transparency and trust—and we want you to feel confident when hiring a roofing contractor.
In this complete guide, we’ll break down 8 common roofing scams and show you exactly how to protect yourself from getting scammed.
Table of Contents
- Storm Chasing Roof Scams
- Extremely Low Bid
- Large Down Payment
- Discounted Materials
- They Ask You to Get the Permits
- They Ask to Be Paid in Cash
- How to Avoid Roofing Scams
- Why Choose S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC
1. Storm Chasing Roof Scams
These scammers strike after storms, especially hail or wind events. They often go door-to-door, promising quick and cheap repairs.
Red Flags:
- Out-of-state license plates
- High-pressure sales tactics
- No local references
- Unmarked vehicles or temporary signage
Why It’s a Scam: Storm chasers do shoddy work, disappear after getting paid, or vanish entirely before starting. They may even file insurance claims fraudulently in your name.
How to Avoid It:
- Never sign a contract under pressure
- Ask for local references and verify licenses
- Work with a locally established contractor like S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, who understands Ohio’s building codes and weather conditions
2. Extremely Low Bid
If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Red Flags:
- Significantly cheaper than other quotes
- Lack of detailed materials list
- No written warranty or vague timeline
Why It’s a Scam: Cheap bids often mean corners will be cut. You may end up paying more later for repairs or full replacements due to subpar work.
How to Avoid It:
- Get 3–5 written estimates from reputable contractors
- Compare not just price, but materials, timeline, and warranties
3. Large Down Payment
Asking for a huge down payment upfront is a major warning sign.
Red Flags:
- Demands for 50% or more before any work begins
- Refusal to create a payment schedule
Why It’s a Scam: Once the money is in their hands, scammers may never show up again—or disappear after barely starting.
How to Avoid It:
- Most reputable companies ask for 10–30% down
- Never pay the full amount until the work is complete and inspected
4. Discounted Materials
“Leftover materials” from another job are not a bargain—they’re usually a red flag.
Red Flags:
- Claims of having leftover shingles “just for you”
- Offering a significant discount for using second-hand products
Why It’s a Scam: The materials could be outdated, damaged, or not suited to your home. This results in poor durability and appearance.
How to Avoid It:
- Always ask for the brand, warranty, and spec sheet of the materials being used
- Choose Owens Corning Preferred Contractors like S&K to ensure top-quality roofing materials
5. They Ask You to Get the Permits
Getting the permits should always be the contractor’s job—not yours.
Red Flags:
- The roofer insists you handle city or county permits
- They say it will save time or money
Why It’s a Scam: This shifts liability and responsibility to you. If work isn’t up to code, you’ll be held accountable.
How to Avoid It:
- Legitimate contractors always secure the proper permits
- Ask for permit numbers and confirm them with your city if needed
6. They Ask to Be Paid in Cash
Cash-only payments leave no paper trail—and no recourse.
Red Flags:
- Demands to be paid entirely in cash
- Won’t accept checks or credit cards
Why It’s a Scam: Once the money’s gone, you can’t prove payment or dispute charges. It’s also a tactic to avoid taxes or legal responsibilities.
How to Avoid It:
- Always use a traceable payment method (check, credit card, digital transfer)
- Get a signed receipt for every transaction
7. How to Avoid Roofing Scams
Protect yourself by being proactive:
Check Their Licenses and Insurance
- Always ask for proof of state license, liability insurance, and workers’ comp
- Verify with your state or city licensing board
Watch Out for the “Good Samaritan”
- Be wary of contractors who “just noticed” a problem with your roof while driving by
- Always do your own inspection or request a second opinion
Listen Carefully to What’s Being Offered
- Vague language and a lack of written estimates are red flags
- A good contractor will explain materials, timelines, warranties, and costs clearly
Don’t Be Afraid to Say NO!
- Walk away from any contractor who pressures you to sign on the spot
- Take time to research, get referrals, and read reviews
8. Why Choose S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC
S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC is a fully licensed and insured roofing contractor proudly serving homeowners across Northeast Ohio—from Twinsburg and Medina to Lakewood, Willoughby, and Pepper Pike.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
- Decades of combined experience
- Transparent estimates and written contracts
- High-quality materials and craftsmanship
- Local references and glowing reviews
We believe roofing should be honest, affordable, and stress-free. No gimmicks, no shortcuts—just top-tier roofing done right.
Final Thoughts
Your roof is one of the most important investments you’ll make in your home—and it deserves the care and professionalism of a trustworthy contractor. Unfortunately, roofing scams are all too common. But armed with the knowledge from this guide, you can confidently hire a roofing company that has your best interest in mind.
If you’re in Youngstown, Cleveland, or anywhere in Northeast Ohio, contact S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC for a free, no-obligation roof inspection or quote. We’re proud to serve as your go-to, scam-free roofing experts.
Protect your home and your wallet—choose roofing professionals you can trust.
Tags: Roofing Scams, Roof Repair Tips, Licensed Roofers Ohio, Avoiding Roofing Fraud, Homeowner Tips, Northeast Ohio Roofing, S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, Roofing Estimates, Owens Corning Contractors
