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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in Clarkston, MI

Your roof is one of the most important investments you'll make for your Clarkston home or business. Unfortunately, storm chasers and unlicensed contractors target our community after severe weather, hoping to pressure homeowners into quick, costly decisions. Knowing the warning signs and how to verify a roofer's credentials is your best defense. This guide walks you through the red flags and the steps you can take to find a trustworthy roofing professional in Oakland County.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Clarkston

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser / Disaster Tourist Scam

After a hailstorm or high winds in Clarkston, out-of-town contractors swarm the area offering 'free roof inspections.' They claim they can get your insurance to cover a full replacement, then demand a large deposit, do shoddy work or no work at all, and leave town before the job is done.

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The 'Leftover Materials' Pitch

A roofer claims they just finished a job nearby and have leftover materials they can use on your roof at a steep discount. They pressure you to pay in cash for this 'deal of a lifetime,' then either do poor work or don't finish the job.

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Phantom Damage & Insurance Fraud

A contractor 'inspects' your roof and claims there's storm damage you can't see from the ground. They offer to handle the insurance claim directly, often inflating the damage estimates. You're left with higher premiums, potential claim denial, or even legal trouble if fraud is discovered.

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Upfront Payment & Disappearing Act

The contractor demands 50% or more of the total cost upfront — often in cash — claiming they need to order materials. After collecting payment, they delay, make excuses, and eventually disappear without completing the work.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Never skip this step. Ask for a certificate of insurance directly from the contractor's insurance agency, not a photocopy they hand you. Verify they carry both general liability insurance (to cover damage to your property) and workers' compensation insurance (to protect you if a worker is injured on your roof). Call the insurance company listed on the certificate to confirm the policy is active.

2

Licensing

Michigan does not have a statewide roofing license, but Clarkston is in Oakland County where contractors must register with the state. Ask for their Michigan Contractor Registration number and verify it through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) online database. Also check if the contractor holds any relevant specialty licenses.

3

References

Ask for at least three recent roofing projects in Clarkston or nearby Oakland County communities. Call each reference and ask about the quality of work, whether the project stayed on budget and on schedule, and how the crew handled cleanup. Drive by completed jobs if possible to see the work firsthand.

Protection FAQs

Do roofing contractors need a license in Clarkston, Michigan?

Michigan does not have a statewide roofing license, but all contractors performing residential or commercial work must register with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Clarkston is in Oakland County, where building permits and inspections are required for most roofing projects. Always verify a contractor's registration and permit status before hiring.

How can I check if a roofer has valid insurance?

Ask the roofer for their certificate of insurance and call the insurance company listed to confirm the policy is active. You want to see both general liability insurance (covers damage to your property) and workers' compensation insurance (covers injuries to workers). Never rely on a photocopy the contractor hands you — verify directly with the insurer.

What should a roofing contract include in Clarkston?

A trustworthy contract should include: the full scope of work, specific materials and shingle brands to be used, total price with a detailed breakdown, payment schedule (deposit amount and final payment terms), project start and completion dates, cleanup plan, warranty information, and the contractor's Michigan registration number and physical address.

Is it normal for a roofer to ask for payment upfront?

A small deposit of 10-25% is standard to cover material ordering, but never pay more than that upfront. Beware of any contractor demanding 50% or more before work begins, especially if they ask for cash. Legitimate roofers structure payments around project milestones with final payment due after completion and your approval.

What are storm chasers and how do I avoid them?

Storm chasers are out-of-town contractors who flood areas like Clarkston after severe weather, offering quick fixes at 'discount' prices. They often have temporary phone numbers, out-of-state plates, and no permanent local address. Avoid them by working only with established local companies, getting multiple quotes, and never signing anything during the initial visit.

How do I know if a roofing company is reputable in Clarkston?

Check for a local physical address, verify their Michigan registration through LARA, ask for recent references in Oakland County, and read reviews on Google, Angi, and the Better Business Bureau. Reputable companies will have a consistent history of satisfied customers, provide written estimates, and encourage you to take your time making a decision.

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