LocalServicesMatcher Logo
LocalServicesMatcher Find vetted local pros fast
🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in Colorado Springs

Roofing work is one of the biggest investments you'll make in your home, and unfortunately, Colorado Springs sees its share of contractors who don't deliver on their promises. After major hailstorms or severe weather, storm chasers and unlicensed operators often flood the area looking to take advantage of homeowners. This guide helps you spot the warning signs of roofing scams before you lose money or end up with shoddy work. Knowing what to look for can make the difference between a solid roof and a costly headache.

Licensed & insured professionals CALL NOW: 1-866-674-2070

✓ Verify contractors • ✓ Spot red flags • ✓ Avoid common schemes

✓ Licensed & Insured Pros
✓ Scam-Aware Screening
✓ No Obligation Call
✓ Scam-Aware Tips

Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Colorado Springs

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

🚫

The Storm Chaser Scam

Out-of-town contractors descend on Colorado Springs after hailstorms, going door-to-door offering 'free inspections.' They claim damage that doesn't exist or is exaggerated, take large deposits, and disappear before completing the work—or return with subpar materials.

🚫

The Insurance Deductible Fraud

A contractor offers to 'cover' your insurance deductible or claims they can work with your adjuster to waive it. This is insurance fraud in Colorado—a Class 4 felony. These contractors often inflate their estimates to compensate, leaving you with legal exposure.

🚫

The Phantom Damage Inspection

A roofer climbs onto your roof for a 'free inspection' and comes down claiming there's extensive damage from hail, wind, or aging. They show you photos of 'damage' that may be from another property or completely fabricated. They pressure you to file an insurance claim immediately.

🚫

The Low-Ball Quote & Change Order Trap

A contractor gives you a suspiciously low estimate to win your business, then hits you with expensive 'unforeseen issues' once they start tearing off the old roof. You're already committed, so you pay the inflated price or get left with a half-done roof.

🚫

The Materials Scam

The contractor agrees on premium shingles and materials in your contract, but installs cheaper, lower-grade materials that look similar. You pay for architectural shingles but get budget three-tab shingles. The difference can cost thousands in value and longevity.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Ask for a certificate of insurance directly from the contractor's insurance provider, not just a photocopy. Verify they carry both general liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage is typical) and workers' compensation insurance. Without workers' comp, you could be held liable if a worker is injured on your property.

2

Licensing

Colorado requires roofing contractors to be licensed through the Colorado Springs Building Division and the state. Verify a contractor's license by searching the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) database or contacting the El Paso County Building Department. Legitimate roofers will provide their license number without hesitation.

3

References

Ask for at least three recent Colorado Springs roofing projects you can contact. Look for projects completed in the last 6-12 months, and ask homeowners about the contractor's communication, timeline, cleanup, and whether any issues arose after completion. Check Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau for patterns of complaints.

Protection FAQs

Is roofing contractor licensing required in Colorado Springs?

Yes. Colorado Springs requires roofing contractors to be licensed through the City's Building Division. Additionally, Colorado state law requires all contractors who perform work valued at $1,000 or more to be registered with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). You can verify a license through the DORA online database or by calling the Colorado Springs Building Division directly.

How can I tell if a roofer is a 'storm chaser'?

Storm chasers typically have out-of-state license plates, use temporary phone numbers, have no permanent Colorado Springs address, and show up uninvited after severe weather. They often pressure you to sign contracts quickly. A legitimate local roofer has a verifiable business history in El Paso County, a local office, and doesn't need to go door-to-door to find work.

Should I pay the full roofing cost upfront?

No. This is a major red flag. Reputable roofing companies typically require a small deposit (10-20% or as agreed in contract) with the balance due upon completion and your satisfaction. Never pay the full amount upfront. In Colorado, paying a contractor more than 20% down for a home improvement project without proper disclosure can be risky.

What should a Colorado Springs roofing contract include?

A proper contract should include the contractor's full business name, license number, and physical address; detailed material specifications (brand, color, grade of shingles); start and completion dates; payment schedule; cleanup and debris removal terms; warranty information for both materials and workmanship; and a process for handling unforeseen damage discovered during the job.

How do I handle a roofing contractor's insurance claim advice?

A trustworthy roofer will explain the process without pressuring you. They should encourage you to have your own insurance adjuster inspect the damage. Never sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) allowing the contractor to deal directly with your insurance company. And never agree to have a contractor 'cover' or 'waive' your deductible—that's illegal in Colorado.

What warranties should a reputable roofer offer?

Look for two types of warranties: a manufacturer's warranty on the shingles and materials (typically 25-50 years for quality asphalt shingles), and a workmanship warranty from the contractor (typically 3-10 years covering installation defects). A trustworthy roofer will provide both in writing and explain what is and isn't covered.

How do I check a roofing company's reputation in Colorado Springs?

Start with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for complaints and resolution history. Check Google Reviews and Yelp for recent customer experiences. Ask the contractor for three to five references from jobs completed in the last year in Colorado Springs. Drive by completed projects if possible, and don't hesitate to call past customers.

What should I do if I think I've been scammed by a roofer?

Contact the Colorado Springs Police Department's non-emergency line and file a report. Also file a complaint with the Colorado Attorney General's Office and the Better Business Bureau. If the contractor is unlicensed, report them to DORA. For insurance fraud concerns, contact the Colorado Division of Insurance. Act quickly while evidence and records are fresh.

Hire with Confidence

Don't take risks with your property. We connect you with pre-screened, licensed professionals in Colorado Springs.

Licensed & insured professionals CALL NOW: 1-866-674-2070