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How to Protect Against Potential Roof Scammers
Vigilance Against Roofing Fraud
Consider this a public service announcement to homeowners about potential roof scammers rather than an article on insurance policies and provisions.
All of us are concerned about the rising cost of insurance premiums, especially homeowners insurance, given the numerous rate increases over the last several years. We most commonly think these increases are due to weather, and that certainly plays a role.
However, other factors affect premiums, including fraud.
With so many options out there, how can you make sure you and your family are fully covered and properly insured?
It has become a standard practice in recent years for companies and individuals in the roofing business to canvass neighborhoods immediately after a weather event, offering to inspect the residents’ roofs for damage, free of charge.
Roof damage cannot always be seen from the ground, and since homeowners often are unable to inspect their roofs themselves, many are happy to accept a roofing company’s offer to do it for them. The roofing company may even go as far as filing an insurance claim on behalf of the homeowner.
Homeowners Beware of Potential Roof Scammers
While some of these services may be offered by credible individuals, others are not so trustworthy.
Here is some advice concerning potential roof claims and dealing with roofing companies:
If you think you may have roof damage, reach out to a local roofing company in your area, as they are often happy to provide a free inspection and quote for repairs or replacement if warranted.
Ask friends or family for a referral to a local roofer who does quality work and is trustworthy.
If someone stops by your house and offers their services, check the license plate on the vehicle to verify they are local, and ask for references of work they have completed in the area before committing to anything or signing a contract.
Ask yourself, do you see quality, credible roofing, plumbing, electrical, or carpentry businesses sending people out knocking on doors to grow their business?
Do your research, as a lot of information is available at your fingertips. Check Google reviews, feedback posted on company websites and social media pages, or check with your Better Business Bureau.
Carefully read any type of paperwork they ask you to sign. Many roofers will ask you to sign a contract, but in the fine print, you agree to turn over any insurance proceeds to them or pay a hefty penalty amount if you do not use them to replace the roof.
If the roofing company offers to “waive” your deductible, then they are not credible. It is against the law to rebate or waive a deductible in North Carolina.
If you ever have one of these types of solicitations and are unsure what to do, reach out to your local Farm Bureau agent for some helpful advice before making any commitments.