Roofing Scams Reveled in CT
Attention Homeowners!!
Do Not Purchase A New Roof Until You Read This Free Report.
The report most Roofing Contractors Hope You Never Read!!
How To Avoid The Shifty Shingler
You've heard of ambulance chasers and snake oil salesmen. And you might remember the "before/after" scammers in the movie Tin Men. If you put all these slimy types together, you come up with a new breed of unscrupulous opportunist: the aggressive roofing salesman. We'll call him the Shifty Shingler. Shifty prowls the streets most often after a big hail or windstorm, but he might come knocking at your door any time of year. If you're not home, he'll probably leave one of those annoying hanging flyers on your doorknob (reputable roofers may do the same, but it's still annoying).
What's the Scam?
Unfortunately, there is more than just one type of roof replacement scam, and some of the tactics favored by hucksters are also used by legit roofing contractors, but if you take your time and assess the situation, it's easy to tell the difference. Here are some of the most common roofing scams.
Free Roof Replacement
Any roofer claiming your new roof will be free—courtesy of your homeowner's insurer—is as oily as tar paper. The scam is to make you believe you won't pay a deductible for a new roof or that the roofing company will somehow "discount" the job or otherwise finagle the claim so someone other than you will cover the deductible (see No Such Thing As a Free Roof, below).
Low Bid, High Down Payment
Shifty Shingler may underbid everyone else to get the job, then ask for a large down payment, to cover "materials," etc., before starting the work. He takes the money but never buys materials or starts the job. Reputable roofers may ask for incremental payments according to a schedule (these details should be in a written contract), but they don't need cash upfront to buy materials.
Free Inspection
It's standard for roofing companies to perform free roof inspections, and this is commonplace after a destructive storm. But there are right and wrong ways to inspect a roof. The right way involves a representative from a licensed roofing company, a detailed report of the damage and an estimate in a format that you and your insurer can understand. The wrong way often starts with non-local contractors canvassing the neighborhood when no storm has occurred or when there was a storm but your area wasn't heavily hit. If you have a manufactured home, a Shifty Shingler might claim to be calling or visiting as part of a mandatory warranty inspection. An illegitimate roof inspection may exaggerate the damage or even create some (see Hammer Hail, below).
Hammer Hail
It’s hard to believe anyone gets away with this, but there are legitimate reports of Shifty Shinglers faking roof damage using ball peen hammers or simply ripping up some shingles while performing a roof "inspection." Real inspections don't involve repairs, so don't believe it if a roofer claims he was up there hammering loose nails.
Repair vs. Replace
If you're having your roof checked because you have some leaks and the roofer recommends full roof replacement, get a second—and third—opinion. Leaks don't necessarily mean the roofing is shot. They often result from failed flashing or sealant and require only local repairs. The age and general condition of roofing material are the only real indicators determining roof replacement. The same caution applies to replacement of the roof deck, or sheathing. Most homes, regardless of their age, have their original roof sheathing. This means complete replacement of sheathing seldom is necessary or advisable. Roof leaks can certainly damage decking and possibly some of the framing, but typically this can be remedied with localized repairs. Unless you've had a serious mold problem or the roof and its decking have been horribly neglected and/or exposed, wholesale replacement of the decking is not likely to be warranted.
No Such Thing As a Free Roof
Most standard homeowner's insurance policies include a deductible, a specific dollar amount that the homeowner pays before the insurer covers the rest of the claim. If you file a claim for a roof replacement, you'll be paying the deductible. Roofing companies should have nothing to do with paying your deductible or somehow reducing or eliminating the deductible amount. Always contact your insurance agent before signing any agreement with a roofer or even before deciding to file a claim. There's never a penalty for simply talking to an insurer, but if you file a claim, it's possible that your premiums will go up, among other potential consequences (a good agent will be honest and forthcoming regarding your options).
Protecting Yourself and Your Roof
The best protection against roofing scams is basic due diligence. Perform a thorough background check of any company you're considering hiring. Consult the local Better Business Bureau, get proof of the company's license and insurance coverage, check online reviews, and ask for references from local customers (and call those customers to hear their stories). As with most major home improvement jobs, the three-bid rule applies here, too: Getting multiple bids from legitimate local roofers informs you about current market rates as well as different services and charges offered by different companies. Roofers who aren't local, don't have offices, aren't licensed and insured, or don't have a long list of recent (satisfied) clients are likely to be Shifty Shinglers.
Unfortunately some roofing contractors find it necessary to deceive or mislead their potential customer for one reason or another. Below are some common practices that have cropped up in recent years as well as some tell tale signs you may be dealing with a less than acceptable contractor.
Top 5 Roofing Scams Below1) “Free Roof Inspection” Some companies will use telemarketing for an entire area warning them of severe weather that affected a lot of roofs in their neighborhood. Somehow they always find damage on your roof and tell you to open an insurance claim in the hope an adjuster will find damage or simply take their word for it. While there are acceptable and legitimate companies doing free roof inspections make sure to do your homework and get a few opinions before committing to anything. Of course of the roofing scams this one is the most in your face but also easy to verify with other contractors. Do be appreciative though if the damage ends up being real this is a legitimate way to get business as well and we hope you give them a fair shot.
2) “Storm Chaser” Beware of out of state or area companies that set up shop in an area of a large hail or wind storm. There are some national companies that simply sub out work to local contractors or workers when a storm hits. They will set up large signs and a trailer. This is one sign of roofing scams to come. The problem is these people LEAVE. Most roofing problems described in sections on this site come down to workmanship issues and often don’t show up for several years.
3) “Buy Now!” A high pressure roofing scams sales tactic used to take advantage of people and CONVINCE them to sign the contract immediately. Legitimate contractors can afford to wait while you make an informed and intelligent decision. They tell you today is when you must sign the contract “or else” Ignore high pressure sales tactics and ask the contractor to leave.
4) “Low Price Guarantee” While this may seem like a good thing on the surface it always ends up costing you in the long run. A contractor who simply lowers his/her bid to get the job isn’t doing you any favors! There was a reason for the higher price and you should ask them to explain it. The roofing field is FILLED with underground contractors, not properly licensed, insured, who don’t pull permits. They often aren’t factory trained and improperly install products. Don’t use the cheapest you’ll regret it. It’s better to pay too much than too little!
5) “Limited Time Discount” To be clear there are occasionally manufacturers discounts or incentives to urge homeowners to use their products. However, some contractors have resorted to telling prospects of non existent deals in order to get them to make a decision quickly. This is a popular roofing scam because it uses a great psychological effect. The roofer wants you to think “oh how nice of him to let me know about this special offer” . Ask for documentation of the supposed limited time deal and if possible get verification from involved third parties.
Don’t be scammed, deceived or tricked into buying a roof!If the “deal” or contract doesn’t feel right it’s probably a one of the roofing scams! Trust yourself.
Do Not Purchase A New Roof Until You Read This Free Report.
The report most Roofing Contractors Hope You Never Read!!
How To Avoid The Shifty Shingler
You've heard of ambulance chasers and snake oil salesmen. And you might remember the "before/after" scammers in the movie Tin Men. If you put all these slimy types together, you come up with a new breed of unscrupulous opportunist: the aggressive roofing salesman. We'll call him the Shifty Shingler. Shifty prowls the streets most often after a big hail or windstorm, but he might come knocking at your door any time of year. If you're not home, he'll probably leave one of those annoying hanging flyers on your doorknob (reputable roofers may do the same, but it's still annoying).
What's the Scam?
Unfortunately, there is more than just one type of roof replacement scam, and some of the tactics favored by hucksters are also used by legit roofing contractors, but if you take your time and assess the situation, it's easy to tell the difference. Here are some of the most common roofing scams.
Free Roof Replacement
Any roofer claiming your new roof will be free—courtesy of your homeowner's insurer—is as oily as tar paper. The scam is to make you believe you won't pay a deductible for a new roof or that the roofing company will somehow "discount" the job or otherwise finagle the claim so someone other than you will cover the deductible (see No Such Thing As a Free Roof, below).
Low Bid, High Down Payment
Shifty Shingler may underbid everyone else to get the job, then ask for a large down payment, to cover "materials," etc., before starting the work. He takes the money but never buys materials or starts the job. Reputable roofers may ask for incremental payments according to a schedule (these details should be in a written contract), but they don't need cash upfront to buy materials.
Free Inspection
It's standard for roofing companies to perform free roof inspections, and this is commonplace after a destructive storm. But there are right and wrong ways to inspect a roof. The right way involves a representative from a licensed roofing company, a detailed report of the damage and an estimate in a format that you and your insurer can understand. The wrong way often starts with non-local contractors canvassing the neighborhood when no storm has occurred or when there was a storm but your area wasn't heavily hit. If you have a manufactured home, a Shifty Shingler might claim to be calling or visiting as part of a mandatory warranty inspection. An illegitimate roof inspection may exaggerate the damage or even create some (see Hammer Hail, below).
Hammer Hail
It’s hard to believe anyone gets away with this, but there are legitimate reports of Shifty Shinglers faking roof damage using ball peen hammers or simply ripping up some shingles while performing a roof "inspection." Real inspections don't involve repairs, so don't believe it if a roofer claims he was up there hammering loose nails.
Repair vs. Replace
If you're having your roof checked because you have some leaks and the roofer recommends full roof replacement, get a second—and third—opinion. Leaks don't necessarily mean the roofing is shot. They often result from failed flashing or sealant and require only local repairs. The age and general condition of roofing material are the only real indicators determining roof replacement. The same caution applies to replacement of the roof deck, or sheathing. Most homes, regardless of their age, have their original roof sheathing. This means complete replacement of sheathing seldom is necessary or advisable. Roof leaks can certainly damage decking and possibly some of the framing, but typically this can be remedied with localized repairs. Unless you've had a serious mold problem or the roof and its decking have been horribly neglected and/or exposed, wholesale replacement of the decking is not likely to be warranted.
No Such Thing As a Free Roof
Most standard homeowner's insurance policies include a deductible, a specific dollar amount that the homeowner pays before the insurer covers the rest of the claim. If you file a claim for a roof replacement, you'll be paying the deductible. Roofing companies should have nothing to do with paying your deductible or somehow reducing or eliminating the deductible amount. Always contact your insurance agent before signing any agreement with a roofer or even before deciding to file a claim. There's never a penalty for simply talking to an insurer, but if you file a claim, it's possible that your premiums will go up, among other potential consequences (a good agent will be honest and forthcoming regarding your options).
Protecting Yourself and Your Roof
The best protection against roofing scams is basic due diligence. Perform a thorough background check of any company you're considering hiring. Consult the local Better Business Bureau, get proof of the company's license and insurance coverage, check online reviews, and ask for references from local customers (and call those customers to hear their stories). As with most major home improvement jobs, the three-bid rule applies here, too: Getting multiple bids from legitimate local roofers informs you about current market rates as well as different services and charges offered by different companies. Roofers who aren't local, don't have offices, aren't licensed and insured, or don't have a long list of recent (satisfied) clients are likely to be Shifty Shinglers.
Unfortunately some roofing contractors find it necessary to deceive or mislead their potential customer for one reason or another. Below are some common practices that have cropped up in recent years as well as some tell tale signs you may be dealing with a less than acceptable contractor.
Top 5 Roofing Scams Below1) “Free Roof Inspection” Some companies will use telemarketing for an entire area warning them of severe weather that affected a lot of roofs in their neighborhood. Somehow they always find damage on your roof and tell you to open an insurance claim in the hope an adjuster will find damage or simply take their word for it. While there are acceptable and legitimate companies doing free roof inspections make sure to do your homework and get a few opinions before committing to anything. Of course of the roofing scams this one is the most in your face but also easy to verify with other contractors. Do be appreciative though if the damage ends up being real this is a legitimate way to get business as well and we hope you give them a fair shot.
2) “Storm Chaser” Beware of out of state or area companies that set up shop in an area of a large hail or wind storm. There are some national companies that simply sub out work to local contractors or workers when a storm hits. They will set up large signs and a trailer. This is one sign of roofing scams to come. The problem is these people LEAVE. Most roofing problems described in sections on this site come down to workmanship issues and often don’t show up for several years.
3) “Buy Now!” A high pressure roofing scams sales tactic used to take advantage of people and CONVINCE them to sign the contract immediately. Legitimate contractors can afford to wait while you make an informed and intelligent decision. They tell you today is when you must sign the contract “or else” Ignore high pressure sales tactics and ask the contractor to leave.
4) “Low Price Guarantee” While this may seem like a good thing on the surface it always ends up costing you in the long run. A contractor who simply lowers his/her bid to get the job isn’t doing you any favors! There was a reason for the higher price and you should ask them to explain it. The roofing field is FILLED with underground contractors, not properly licensed, insured, who don’t pull permits. They often aren’t factory trained and improperly install products. Don’t use the cheapest you’ll regret it. It’s better to pay too much than too little!
5) “Limited Time Discount” To be clear there are occasionally manufacturers discounts or incentives to urge homeowners to use their products. However, some contractors have resorted to telling prospects of non existent deals in order to get them to make a decision quickly. This is a popular roofing scam because it uses a great psychological effect. The roofer wants you to think “oh how nice of him to let me know about this special offer” . Ask for documentation of the supposed limited time deal and if possible get verification from involved third parties.
Don’t be scammed, deceived or tricked into buying a roof!If the “deal” or contract doesn’t feel right it’s probably a one of the roofing scams! Trust yourself.
The Replacement Window Industry is an easy target for scam artists because there are no regulations placed on the industry and it is easy for anyone to call themselves a window contractor.
There are many tricks of the trade and window and siding contractors have replaced the old tin men of the aluminum siding era. By learning the most common Scams and Misconceptions listed below you can prevent yourself from getting Ripped Off by this type of contractor.
There are many tricks of the trade and window and siding contractors have replaced the old tin men of the aluminum siding era. By learning the most common Scams and Misconceptions listed below you can prevent yourself from getting Ripped Off by this type of contractor.
Telemarketing & Canvasing Companies
Companies that call you or knock on your door trying to setup an appointment for an Estimate on Windowswill tell you they are in the area giving Free Estimates, they are trying to appeal to your impulsiveness to get an appointment and chances are you will not get the best deal.
These type of companies depend on you not shopping around and not doing your homework. Salespeople are trained for a “One Night Close.” If you agree to this type of appointment, be prepared to get harassed by a skilled salesman for 2-3 hours before they will leave.
These type of companies depend on you not shopping around and not doing your homework. Salespeople are trained for a “One Night Close.” If you agree to this type of appointment, be prepared to get harassed by a skilled salesman for 2-3 hours before they will leave.
Don't Assume a Low Bid Is a Bargain.
The lowest bidders are usually the ones that have the most complaints and will be out of business when you need them in the future.
A perfect example of this is the $189 or $199 window ads.
The problem with these type of ads are; if you read the fine print closely, the window is for a window up to 73 united inches. What people don’t understand is that windows are sized based on the united inch; that is the height plus the width, therefore a 73 united inch window is very small.
The majority of windows in an average home are much larger than that..
This type of advertising is called “bait & switch.” Typically the company will come in with an extremely low offer in their ad and then will add on different costs to give you a window that will fit into your opening or to install the window properly.
You can’t get a replacement window installed properly by a reputable company for $189 a window.
A perfect example of this is the $189 or $199 window ads.
The problem with these type of ads are; if you read the fine print closely, the window is for a window up to 73 united inches. What people don’t understand is that windows are sized based on the united inch; that is the height plus the width, therefore a 73 united inch window is very small.
The majority of windows in an average home are much larger than that..
This type of advertising is called “bait & switch.” Typically the company will come in with an extremely low offer in their ad and then will add on different costs to give you a window that will fit into your opening or to install the window properly.
You can’t get a replacement window installed properly by a reputable company for $189 a window.
Trade-In Special Such as The $110 Super Sale.
The deception here is to hope when the ad is seen; the consumer thinks the windows are only $110.
The same deception here also lies with the “Save $99 per window” sale. Face it Folks! You always get what you pay for. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is.
The same deception here also lies with the “Save $99 per window” sale. Face it Folks! You always get what you pay for. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Companies That Advertise On TV
How much do you think it costs to run these ads? And do you really believe that a company can give you ten or more FREE windows just because you purchased vinyl
siding? There is always a catch.
Folks, Lets get real! Someone is paying for the window and the
TV ads….YOU!
siding? There is always a catch.
Folks, Lets get real! Someone is paying for the window and the
TV ads….YOU!
Window Financing Scams
Also, beware of all the“Financing Offers.”The bigger companies with the high-pressured salespeople always offer financing with deferred or low monthly payments. Big Rip Off!
Everything is built into the sale; high interest rates, points, deferred payments,
etc. Go to your bank or credit union and get your own financing. If you can’t afford it,
wait till you can…but don’t fall for financing that accepts poor credit and no equity
because you are going to overpay for the product, and the financing terms will be
unfavorable.
Chances are the company will try to have you consolidate other bills too.
This seems attractive in the short run but will cost more over time, guaranteed.
Everything is built into the sale; high interest rates, points, deferred payments,
etc. Go to your bank or credit union and get your own financing. If you can’t afford it,
wait till you can…but don’t fall for financing that accepts poor credit and no equity
because you are going to overpay for the product, and the financing terms will be
unfavorable.
Chances are the company will try to have you consolidate other bills too.
This seems attractive in the short run but will cost more over time, guaranteed.
''Today Only'' Offers
Any tactic that requires you to make a large financial decision that day with NO TIME to think about it or compare products and their different values should not be considered.
You cannot make an intelligent decision while under pressure.
REMEMBER! The salesman’s job is to get the order processed that night. They will try to appeal to your sense of greed and urgency that you will lose something if you don’t make the decision now!
BS, if it’s good today, it will be good tomorrow.
Believe me, We all want your business and there is not a company out there that won’t cut the same deal with you if you call them back in a couple of days, or next week.
Take all the time you need to evaluate the company and products before you make a decision.
You cannot make an intelligent decision while under pressure.
REMEMBER! The salesman’s job is to get the order processed that night. They will try to appeal to your sense of greed and urgency that you will lose something if you don’t make the decision now!
BS, if it’s good today, it will be good tomorrow.
Believe me, We all want your business and there is not a company out there that won’t cut the same deal with you if you call them back in a couple of days, or next week.
Take all the time you need to evaluate the company and products before you make a decision.
Beware Of The Price Drop Scam
When a company is willing to offer a large discount; “The Drop”…BEWARE!
A company that quotes a price and is firm with it or negotiates slightly, is likely to be more credible than others.
- How honest is that company if they could offer thousands off the actual price?
- Why didn't they quote you that lower price to begin with ?
- And if you agreed to the higher price…would they have told you about the discount?
A company that quotes a price and is firm with it or negotiates slightly, is likely to be more credible than others.
The Phone Scam Drop
After quoting the final price and exhausting all efforts to close the sale, the salesman will ask to use the phone to check in with the office to see when the next appointment is or to report the outcome of the estimate. He will start to discuss the details of the job with the person on the phone; usually the sales manager.
He will say something like “these are nice people and they really like the window but it is just more than they wanted to spend at this time.”
The salesman will then put you on a phone with his highly skilled sales manager so he can beat you up some more and offer you the one-time deal of the century.
This is usually the final drop in the home; but rests assure someone will call you in a couple days and attempt a re-hash of the sale.
You have to remember, salespeople don’t get paid unless they SELL. There’s nothing wrong with that and there are plenty of salespeople who really care about the customer, but many are trained by less scrupulous people and will do anything to get the sale.
A trained salesperson will try to pin you down as to why you are not buying today and will do everything possible to rebut all your objections so you have to say “YES” or look like your lying.
This can be a very uncomfortable situation and make you feel like you’re being interrogated.
He will say something like “these are nice people and they really like the window but it is just more than they wanted to spend at this time.”
The salesman will then put you on a phone with his highly skilled sales manager so he can beat you up some more and offer you the one-time deal of the century.
This is usually the final drop in the home; but rests assure someone will call you in a couple days and attempt a re-hash of the sale.
You have to remember, salespeople don’t get paid unless they SELL. There’s nothing wrong with that and there are plenty of salespeople who really care about the customer, but many are trained by less scrupulous people and will do anything to get the sale.
A trained salesperson will try to pin you down as to why you are not buying today and will do everything possible to rebut all your objections so you have to say “YES” or look like your lying.
This can be a very uncomfortable situation and make you feel like you’re being interrogated.
How To Control A High Pressure Salesman
Reverse the Salesman’s Strategy
Many salespeople will ask you if you will give them a YES or NO answer at the
end of the presentation or say something like,
“If I can show you a product you will like; that will solve your problem and make it affordable to you, are you able to make a decision today?”
Tell the salesperson that you understand he is here to sell you windows and that you will evaluate everything he is telling you. Let him know you are getting estimates and you would like to take time to consider the offer.
If they need to have an answer today, they shouldn’t waste their time or yours. You need time to gather estimates and evaluate other contractors.
Many salespeople will ask you if you will give them a YES or NO answer at the
end of the presentation or say something like,
“If I can show you a product you will like; that will solve your problem and make it affordable to you, are you able to make a decision today?”
Tell the salesperson that you understand he is here to sell you windows and that you will evaluate everything he is telling you. Let him know you are getting estimates and you would like to take time to consider the offer.
If they need to have an answer today, they shouldn’t waste their time or yours. You need time to gather estimates and evaluate other contractors.
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