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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in New Salisbury

Roofing is a significant investment for any homeowner or business owner in New Salisbury. Unfortunately, storm-chasing contractors and dishonest operators sometimes target our community after severe weather. This guide helps you recognize red flags and connect with verified professionals who follow ethical practices. Protecting your home starts with knowing what to look for and asking the right questions before signing any contracts or making payments.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in New Salisbury

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scams

Contractors from outside the area arrive after storms, offering 'free inspections' and claiming to find extensive damage. They often use high-pressure sales tactics and promise to handle insurance claims, then disappear with deposits or do shoddy work.

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Upfront Payment Scams

Contractors demand large deposits (often 50% or more) before starting work, claiming they need the money to purchase materials. They may disappear with your money or use inferior materials while keeping the difference.

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Insurance Fraud Schemes

Contractors offer to 'handle everything' with your insurance company, sometimes suggesting you should claim unrelated damage or exaggerate losses. They may pressure you to sign over insurance benefits or assignment of benefits forms.

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Material Switching Scams

Contractors quote premium materials but install cheaper, inferior products. They may show you samples of high-quality shingles but actually install lower-grade materials that won't last as long.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Always request a Certificate of Insurance showing both liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Contact the insurance company directly to verify the policy is current and adequate for roofing work. This protects you from liability if workers are injured on your property.

2

Licensing

In Indiana, roofing contractors must be registered with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. Verify their license status online through the state's licensing board. Also check for Harrison County business registration and any required local permits.

3

References

Ask for recent local references in the New Salisbury area and actually contact them. Visit completed projects if possible. Check online reviews across multiple platforms, but beware of fake reviews that sound too similar or appear in clusters.

Protection FAQs

What roofing licenses are required in Indiana?

In Indiana, roofing contractors must register with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. While Indiana doesn't require a specific roofing license, contractors must have proper business registration and insurance. Always verify their registration status with the state and check for any required Harrison County business licenses.

How much should I pay as a deposit for roofing work?

Reputable roofing companies typically require 10-30% as a deposit, with the balance paid upon completion or tied to specific milestones. Be extremely cautious of contractors demanding 50% or more upfront. Never pay the full amount before work begins.

What should a roofing contract include?

A proper roofing contract should include: complete scope of work, specific materials (brand, type, color), project timeline, payment schedule, warranty details (both manufacturer and workmanship), cleanup procedures, permit responsibility, and insurance information. Never sign a contract with blank spaces or vague language.

How can I verify a roofer's insurance is legitimate?

Request a Certificate of Insurance directly from their insurance provider, not just a copy from the contractor. Contact the insurance company to verify the policy is current and includes both liability coverage and workers' compensation. Adequate liability coverage should be at least $1 million for residential work.

What should I do if a roofer shows up unannounced after a storm?

Politely decline any immediate inspections or estimates. Take their business card if offered, but do not sign anything or agree to work. Research them thoroughly later if interested. Always get multiple estimates from established local companies you've researched independently.

How long should a roofing warranty last?

Manufacturer warranties on materials typically range from 20-50 years depending on the product. Workmanship warranties from reputable contractors usually range from 5-10 years. Be wary of contractors offering 'lifetime' warranties that may not be backed by proper documentation or company stability.

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