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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in Upper Falls

Roofing scams hit hard in Upper Falls, especially after storms when roofs are vulnerable. These crooks push urgent fixes to grab deposits and vanish, leaving you with shoddy work or nothing at all. Listen up—like I'm telling my own family—here's how to spot trouble and hire solid pros who'll protect your home.

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

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Upper Falls

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scam

Out-of-town crews flood the area after bad weather, claim hidden roof damage, pressure you for a big deposit, then ghost after starting shoddy work.

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Deposit Disappearing Act

Contractor takes a hefty upfront payment for materials, orders nothing or cheap substitutes, starts the job poorly, then vanishes when you complain.

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Bait-and-Switch Upsell

Lowball quote gets you hooked, but once ladders are up, they 'discover' major issues needing twice the price in 'upgrades.'

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Fake License Fraud

Show forged or borrowed credentials, do subpar install, skip permits, and leave you liable for code violations.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) proving general liability (at least $1 million coverage) and workers' compensation. Contact the insurance carrier listed on the COI to confirm it's current—no relying on the contractor's word alone.

2

Licensing

In Maryland, roofers need a MHIC (Maryland Home Improvement Commission) license for residential and commercial work. Always ask for the license number and verify it yourself on the official MHIC search tool at dllr.state.md.us/license/mhic. Unlicensed work is illegal and risky.

3

References

Insist on 3-5 recent local references from Upper Falls or Baltimore County jobs. Call each one: ask about work quality, timeliness, cleanup, and if they'd hire again. Check for any liens on the properties too.

Protection FAQs

How do I verify a roofer's MHIC license in Maryland?

Go to the MHIC license verification page at dllr.state.md.us/license/mhic. Enter the license number or business name—it's free and quick. If it's not listed, walk away.

Should I ever pay a full deposit for roofing upfront?

No—reputable roofers take small deposits (under 20%) or bill after material delivery and progress. Tie payments to completed work stages.

What insurance does a good roofer carry?

General liability, workers' comp, and possibly commercial auto. Get the COI and call the insurer to confirm coverage dates and limits.

How can I tell if reviews are fake?

Check multiple sites like Google, BBB, Angi. Look for detailed, varied reviews over time—not all 5-stars posted same day. Ask for local references.

What to do right after a storm damages my roof?

Tarp it temporarily, document damage photos, contact your insurance before any contractor. Avoid unsolicited door-knockers promising miracles.

I've been scammed—what now?

Report to MHIC (they can revoke licenses), Maryland Attorney General, and Baltimore County consumer protection. Dispute charges with credit card, consult a lawyer for recovery.

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