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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in New London

Roofing projects are significant investments for your home or business. Unfortunately, scammers often target homeowners and business owners after storms or during peak seasons. Protecting yourself starts with knowing the warning signs and understanding how legitimate roofing professionals operate. This guide will help you spot red flags and take the right steps to verify roofing contractors in the New London area.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in New London

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scams

Contractors appear after storms offering 'free inspections' and claiming they can handle insurance claims. They often create damage to justify unnecessary repairs, then disappear with insurance money or deposits.

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Material Switching

Contractors quote premium materials but install cheaper, inferior products. They may show you quality samples but use different materials on your roof.

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Deposit Disappearance

Contractors demand large deposits (often 50% or more) for 'materials' but never return to do the work. They may provide fake receipts or claim materials are on order.

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Insurance Fraud Schemes

Contractors offer to 'handle everything' with your insurance, then inflate claims, create false damage, or pressure you to sign over insurance benefits.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Legitimate roofing contractors carry both liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Request certificates of insurance and verify them directly with the insurance company. Don't accept verbal assurances - get proof in writing.

2

Licensing

In Minnesota, roofing contractors must be licensed. Verify their license status through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. Ask for their license number and check it online to ensure it's current and in good standing.

3

References

Ask for recent references from projects in the New London area. Contact these references and ask about work quality, communication, timeline adherence, and whether there were any unexpected costs or issues.

Protection FAQs

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

Legitimate contractors typically require 10-30% as a deposit. Be wary of anyone demanding 50% or more upfront. The deposit should cover initial materials, with progress payments tied to completed work stages.

What should a roofing contract include?

A proper contract should include: contractor license number, insurance information, detailed scope of work, specific materials (brands and grades), start and completion dates, payment schedule, warranty details, cleanup procedures, and permit responsibility.

How can I verify a roofing contractor's license in Minnesota?

Visit the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry website or call their licensing division. Verify the license is current, in good standing, and matches the business name. Residential roofers need a Residential Roofing Contractor license.

What insurance should a roofing contractor have?

They should carry both general liability insurance (covers property damage) and workers' compensation insurance (covers worker injuries). Ask for certificates of insurance and verify them directly with the insurance provider.

Are permits required for roofing work in New London?

Yes, most roofing work requires permits through Kandiyohi County. Legitimate contractors will pull these permits. If a contractor suggests skipping permits to 'save money,' this is a major red flag.

What should I do if I suspect a roofing scam?

Stop all communication and payments. Contact the Minnesota Attorney General's Office, the Better Business Bureau, and local law enforcement. Document everything including contracts, communications, and payments made.

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