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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in Onward

Roofing projects are significant investments, and unfortunately, scammers often target homeowners and business owners after storms or during peak seasons. In Onward and throughout Cass County, it's crucial to know how to spot red flags and protect yourself from dishonest contractors. This guide helps you recognize common roofing scams and provides actionable steps to verify professionals before hiring. Think of it as advice you'd give a family member about protecting their home and wallet.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Onward

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scams

Contractors travel to areas recently hit by storms, offering quick inspections and claiming extensive damage that needs immediate repair. They often use high-pressure tactics and may even cause additional damage to justify unnecessary work.

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Material Deposit Scams

Contractors demand large upfront deposits for 'special order materials' that never arrive. They may disappear with your money or use cheap, substandard materials instead of what was promised.

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Insurance Fraud Schemes

Contractors offer to handle your insurance claim and promise to cover your deductible. They then inflate the claim amount, use cheaper materials, or perform incomplete work while billing your insurance company for premium materials.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Always request proof of both liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Contact the insurance company directly to verify the policy is current and adequate. Without proper insurance, you could be liable for accidents or damage 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. Ask for their license number and check it yourself—don't just take their word for it.

3

References

Ask for recent local references from projects similar to yours. Contact these references directly and ask about work quality, timeliness, communication, and whether the project stayed within budget. Visit completed projects if possible to see the work firsthand.

Protection FAQs

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

Politely decline any immediate offers and take their business card if they have one. Contact your insurance company first to start the claims process. Then research local, established roofing companies with verifiable credentials and reviews.

How much should I pay upfront for a roofing project?

Reputable contractors typically require a small deposit (10-15% maximum) to schedule the work and order materials. Payments should be tied to project milestones, with final payment due only after you're satisfied with the completed work and have received all warranties.

What roofing licenses are required in Indiana?

Indiana requires roofing contractors to be registered with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. They must also comply with local business licensing requirements in Cass County. Always verify both state registration and local business licenses before hiring.

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

Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) that shows both liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Contact the insurance company directly using the phone number from their official website—not the number on the certificate—to verify the policy is current and adequate for your project.

What should be included in a roofing contract?

A proper contract should include: complete project description, specific materials (brands, colors, weights), start and completion dates, payment schedule tied to milestones, warranty details, cleanup procedures, and procedures for handling unexpected issues or changes.

Are there red flags in roofing estimates I should watch for?

Yes. Beware of estimates that are significantly lower than others (may indicate cutting corners), vague descriptions of materials, pressure to sign immediately, refusal to provide references, or estimates provided without a physical inspection of your roof.

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