“After a major storm, contractors – including some scam artists – are quick to arrive on the scene. This leads to shoddy repairs, fake contracts, and other problems.” That’s the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) discussing the very real threat of roof scams, the prevalence of which led to the TDI’s creation of a special fraud unit to protect consumers after storms.
It also led to the introduction of a new state law that clearly defines the waiving of deductibles by contractors as illegal.
In other words, it’s widely recognized that homeowners, in the confusion and stress of recent property damage, and their insurers can be taken advantage of. In this guide, we’re going to explain why, warning signs you can look out for, and the importance of working with a reputable and honest contractor.
What’s the Story Behind Texas’ Shady Roofing Market?
As the TDI indicated, Texan homeowners need to be vigilant of shady activities in the roofing market. But why? On one hand, it’s underregulated and doesn’t enforce a licensing requirement for contractors. As a result, inexperienced “contractors” can oversell their expertise, get access to a homeowner’s insurance, and then overcharge (and often under-repair) the damage.
That’s why it’s so important that homeowners know how to spot suspicious behavior, avoid being involved in insurance fraud, and ensure that the repair was done right to protect their property in the years to come.
These Red Flags Could be Signs of Fraud
Door-to-Door Contractors: If you see someone knocking on doors through your neighborhood the second a storm subsides, it’s ok to be suspicious. Don’t sign anything, don’t be enticed by gifts or waived deductible, and always thoroughly check their reputation through reviews, references, and industry certifications before committing. Or, if they’re asking to put a sign in your yard before you’ve reviewed the scope of work and the insurance assessment, you should think twice.
Waiving Deductibles: Be wary of any contractor offering to waive your deductible. This practice not only breaks the law but also signals that the contractor isn’t trustworthy. Legitimate contractors will always require you to pay your deductible, as mandated by your insurance policy and Texas law. Waivers, “gifts,” or other clever methods of absorbing the deductible to entice you are big red flags.
Inflated Claims: The purpose of waiving a deductible is to access a homeowner’s insurance. At that point, contractors inflate repair costs by exaggerating damage and then cutting corners and using cheap materials to keep as much of the difference as possible. A reputable contractor, on the other hand, will file accurate claims, use good materials, and properly repair the damage.
Rushed, Low-Quality Work: As mentioned previously, fraudulent contractors might use lower-quality materials or rush through repairs. This can lead to more significant problems down the line, costing you more in repairs and potentially compromising the safety of your home.
There’s No Alternative to a Reputable Roofer
There’s a big difference between trying to get access to funds from a homeowner’s insurance and trying to provide a service to a household affected by a storm. Reputable contractors won’t display the red flags discussed in the earlier section. Rather, they will provide:
Experience and Expertise: Reputable roofers bring years of experience and technical knowledge to the table. They can walk you through the insurance claims process and follow best practices for installation and repair, ensuring that your roof will withstand the test of time.
Quality Materials: Trusted contractors use high-quality materials that meet industry standards. Because they provide accurate estimates, accept fair pay for labor, and depend on their reputation, they never cut corners or use cheap materials.
Accurate Estimates: An experienced contractor can provide precise estimates, due to extensive training, which reflect the true scope of the damage. They avoid inflating costs or cutting corners, ensuring that you get what you pay for.
Customer Reviews and References: Any experienced roofer will have a track record of satisfied customers. Checking reviews and asking for references can provide insights into their reliability and quality of work.
We’re Here to Help
Want to learn more? You can read our comprehensive insurance guide and click through the links within to explore the full series.
The Texas roofing market can be a minefield of fraudulent practices, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can protect yourself and ensure your home is properly repaired. If you have any questions or need assistance with damage, contact DFW Roofers at (469) 751-4018 or schedule an appointment through our online appointment form.
