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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in Snellville

Roofing projects are significant investments that can attract dishonest contractors. In Snellville and throughout Gwinnett County, homeowners and business owners need to be vigilant against roofing scams that can cost thousands and leave you with substandard work. This guide helps you recognize red flags and take protective steps before hiring a roofing contractor. Think of it as advice you'd give a family member about protecting their home and investment.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Snellville

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scams

Contractors appear after storms offering 'free inspections' and claim extensive damage that requires immediate repair. They often overstate damage to maximize insurance payouts and may disappear with deposits before completing work.

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Insurance Fraud Schemes

Contractors offer to handle your insurance claim and suggest inflating damage or adding unrelated repairs to maximize payout. They may ask you to sign over insurance benefits or assignment of benefits forms.

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Material Switching

Contractors quote premium materials but install cheaper, inferior products. They may show you quality samples but use different materials on your roof that won't last as long or meet warranty requirements.

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Permit Avoidance

Contractors suggest skipping permits to 'save money and time.' This leaves you with unpermitted work that may not meet building codes and could cause problems when selling your property.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Always request certificates of liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Call the insurance company directly to verify the policy is current and adequate. Without proper insurance, you could be liable for accidents on your property.

2

Licensing

In Georgia, roofing contractors must be licensed. Verify their license through the Georgia Secretary of State's Professional Licensing Boards Division. Ask for their license number and check its status online. Gwinnett County may have additional local requirements.

3

References

Ask for 3-5 recent local references in Snellville or nearby areas. Contact these references and ask about work quality, communication, cleanup, and whether the project stayed on budget. Visit completed projects if possible.

Protection FAQs

What percentage deposit should I pay for roofing work?

Legitimate roofing contractors typically require 10-15% deposit to secure materials. Be wary of demands for 50% or more upfront. Payments should be tied to project milestones, with final payment only after satisfactory completion and cleanup.

How can I verify a roofing contractor's license in Georgia?

Visit the Georgia Secretary of State's Professional Licensing Boards website and search by license number or business name. Verify the license is current and in good standing. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints.

What should I do if a contractor pressures me to sign immediately?

This is a major red flag. Thank them for their time and end the conversation. Legitimate contractors understand you need time to make informed decisions. Never sign contracts under pressure or without proper review.

Are free roof inspections legitimate?

Many reputable companies offer free inspections, but be cautious of inspectors who immediately find extensive damage. Get a second opinion from an independent inspector or another contractor. Your insurance company can also provide their own assessment.

What insurance coverage should my roofing contractor have?

They must carry general liability insurance (minimum $1 million) and workers' compensation insurance. Request certificates of insurance and verify directly with the insurance company. Without proper coverage, you could be liable for accidents or injuries on your property.

How do I handle payment for roofing work?

Use checks or credit cards (never cash) and get receipts for all payments. Tie payments to project milestones: deposit for materials, progress payments as work advances, and final payment only after complete satisfaction, cleanup, and passing all inspections.

Hire with Confidence

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

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