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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in Los Altos

Roofing work is essential for protecting your home in Los Altos, but scammers target homeowners, especially after storms. Listen up—like I'd tell my own family—spot the red flags early and verify everything before handing over a dime. This guide helps you stay safe and connect with reliable pros.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Los Altos

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scam

Out-of-town crews swarm after rain or wind, exaggerating minor damage with ladders or drones to push 'emergency' repairs and a big deposit.

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Upfront Payment Disappearance

Contractor takes a large deposit (often half or more) for materials, starts shoddy work, or vanishes entirely.

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Subpar Materials Swap

Quotes cheap but installs low-quality shingles, skips underlayment, or uses mismatched materials that fail quickly.

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Unlicensed Operator

Fake 'handyman' claims no license needed for small jobs, underbids to win, but lacks skills or insurance, leading to code violations and injuries.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Always request a certificate of insurance for general liability and workers' comp. Call the insurer to verify coverage and ask to be named as an additional insured on the policy for your project.

2

Licensing

California requires roofing contractors to have a C-39 license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Search the license number on the CSLB website or call (800) 321-2752 to confirm it's active and the contractor has no complaints.

3

References

Request 3-5 recent clients in Santa Clara County. Call them to discuss work quality, cleanup, and if they'd hire again. Check reviews on Google, Yelp, or BBB for consistency.

Protection FAQs

How do I check if a roofer is licensed in California?

Use the CSLB license lookup on their website or app. Enter the license number from their business card and confirm status, bond, and complaints.

What should I do right after storm damage to my roof?

Document damage with photos. Call your insurance before any contractor. Avoid unsolicited repair offers and get 3 licensed bids.

Is a large upfront payment normal for roofing?

No—stick to 10% max deposit. Pay progressively as work completes, with final payment after inspection and walkthrough.

How can I verify a roofer's insurance?

Get a certificate naming you as additional insured. Call the listed insurer to confirm active coverage amounts.

What permits are needed for roofing in Los Altos?

Most re-roofs require Santa Clara County or Los Altos building permits. Trustworthy pros handle this and show copies.

Where do I report a suspected roofing scam?

File with CSLB online, local police, and FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Share details to protect others.

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