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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Lansing

Roofing work is essential, especially with Lansing's harsh winters and storms, but scammers love targeting homeowners. Think of this as advice from a friend who's seen too many ripped-off roofs and wallets. Spot the red flags, verify everything, and connect with legit pros to keep your home safe.

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

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Lansing

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scams

Out-of-town crews swarm after Michigan storms, knocking on doors claiming roof damage. They push quick fixes, take a big deposit, do shoddy work or none, then disappear.

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Deposit Disappearing Act

Contractor takes a hefty upfront payment for materials, starts work minimally, then ghosts you or declares bankruptcy. Common with unlicensed operators.

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Bait-and-Switch Materials

Quotes cheap but installs inferior shingles or skips underlayment. Later, leaks prove the scam, but they're long gone.

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Fake Insurance Filing

Claims they'll handle your insurance claim for free, pockets the payout minus minimal work, leaving you with liens or poor repairs.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) listing general liability (at least $1M) and workers' compensation. Always call the insurance company directly using the number on their policy (not the contractor's info) to ensure it's current and covers your Lansing job.

2

Licensing

Michigan requires a Residential Builder License from LARA for residential roofing jobs over $600. Search the official LARA lookup at https://aca.michigan.gov/lara/#! to confirm their license status and check for complaints. For commercial work or local rules, call Lansing Building Division at (517) 483-4195 to verify registration and permit history.

3

References

Insist on 3-5 recent references from Lansing or Ingham County jobs like yours. Contact each one to ask about work quality, cleanup, timeliness, and if they'd rehire. Check online reviews on BBB.org, Angi, or Google for patterns.

Protection FAQs

Do roofers need a license in Lansing, MI?

Michigan requires Residential Builder Licenses from LARA for jobs over $600. Commercial may need additional local approvals. Always verify via LARA lookup and call Lansing Building Division.

How much upfront payment is normal for roofing?

10-20% max as deposit after contract. Never pay full amount or large sums before materials arrive and work starts. Progress payments tied to milestones protect you.

What if a roofer shows up after a storm?

Don't panic – get on your insurance first. Avoid unsolicited offers. Get 3 local bids, verify credentials, and document your roof damage yourself.

How do I check if their insurance is real?

Get COI, then call the insurer (use their website number). Ask if policy covers roofing in MI, is active, and lists you as additional insured for the job.

What should be in a good roofing contract?

Scope of work, material specs, start/end dates, payment schedule, warranty details, lien waivers, and cleanup terms. No verbal promises – get it written.

What if I think I've been scammed?

Stop payments, document everything, file complaint with LARA, Michigan AG, and Lansing PD. Contact your credit card/ bank for disputes. Seek legal aid via Michigan Legal Help.

Hire with Confidence

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

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