Knock knock! Who’s there? A roof inspector? Offering a free roof inspection? While this may be quite tempting, especially if a storm recently passed through your area, you should know that an unsolicited roof inspection is often a red flag that you’re being targeted by a predatory and unethical business. Don’t fall for the scam. Let’s explore why door-to-door roof inspections are typically bad news.
Why You Should Be Wary of Door-to-Door Roof Inspections
They may actually be a sleazy salesman.
If someone unexpectedly knocks on your door offering a complimentary service, it might seem like they’re being charitable and kind. But it’s important to look past their friendly demeanor and realize that in actuality, they’re likely a talented and aggressive salesperson. After the “free inspection,” they may claim your roof has severe damage. They may recommend immediate repairs, and they might use their charm and professional aura to pressure you into signing a contract on the spot.
They may invent or exaggerate roof damage.
Unscrupulous, predatory roofers might fabricate damage to convince you that repairs are necessary. Or, they might exaggerate the effects of the damage, making you believe that your home is in imminent danger and costly repairs are necessary to save it. In rare and extreme cases, they may even cause damage during the inspection — unbeknownst to you — to convince you to hire them.
They may be a “storm chaser.”
Did a storm recently wreak havoc on your neighborhood? Scammers might have heard the news, packed their bags, and started going door to door to offer immediate, inexpensive repairs. While they would be fixing legitimate damage, the issue is that once they complete the job, these roofers will typically flee, seeking more work in another area. That means they have fewer qualms about performing subpar work, and you might be left high and dry, unable to contact them for help with a repair or warranty.
They might encourage you to commit insurance fraud.
Insurance covers some roofing repairs. Knowing this and assuring you you’ll be paying nothing out of pocket, a dishonest roofer might convince you to file false insurance claims, inflating the damage for a bigger payout. This is illegal and could have serious legal consequences.
They might not be properly licensed or insured.
When someone shows up on your doorstep, you don’t have time to look into their reputation properly. They may lack proper credentials, which could lead to all sorts of negative repercussions. They might do shoddy work. They might injure themselves, leaving you vulnerable to potential liability because the injury occurred on your property. This is why it’s so crucial that you do your homework and find an established local business that is licensed, insured, and well-respected in your community.
How to Protect Yourself
Door-to-door roof inspections can be disorienting and intimidating, so if a roofer knocks on your door, try to keep these facts top of mind:
- You don’t have to make an immediate decision.
- A reputable roofer would never rush you into signing a contract.
- You should do your own research to find a reputable local roofer.
- It’s always smart to get a second opinion from a well-respected, experienced roofing company.
- You can’t always trust someone who randomly knocks on your door claiming to be an expert.
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Now that you know why you ought to be wary of door-to-door roof inspections, if your roof is due for a check-up, find an experienced and reputable local roofer to get the job done right.
If you live in southwest Missouri, contact Taylor-Made Roofing. With over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, Taylor-Made Roofing is a company that you can trust with all of your roofing needs. Our family-owned business offers quality services, a reassuring warranty, and free estimates. For more information, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!