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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in New Albany, OH

Roof repairs and replacements are major investments. Unfortunately, storm chasers and unlicensed contractors often target New Albany homeowners after bad weather. Knowing what to look for can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of headaches. Here's how to spot the red flags and find a roofer you can trust.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in New Albany

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser / FEMA Fraud

After severe weather, out-of-state contractors flood areas like New Albany offering quick roof repairs. They collect a deposit, do shoddy work or no work at all, and leave town before you can file a complaint.

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The Insurance Assignment Scam

A roofer pressures you to sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) form, giving them the right to deal directly with your insurance company. They inflate the claim, you get stuck with higher premiums, and if the claim is denied, you owe them out of pocket.

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Lowball Bid / Bait-and-Switch

A contractor gives a suspiciously low quote to beat competitors, then starts finding "unforeseen issues" like rotten decking or inadequate ventilation once the job starts — driving the final price way up.

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Payoff & Walk Away

The roofer demands full payment upfront or in large installments. After cashing the check, they work slowly or not at all, then disappear before finishing.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Request a certificate of insurance directly from their insurance provider, not a paper copy they hand you. Look for general liability (at least $1M) and workers' compensation coverage. If they don't carry workers' comp, you could be liable for injuries on your property.

2

Licensing

Ohio does not have a statewide contractor license, but the City of New Albany and Franklin County may require local registrations or permits. Ask for their Ohio Secretary of State business registration and check with the Franklin County Building Department to confirm permit history.

3

References

Ask for at least three recent local references from jobs completed in New Albany or nearby Franklin County. Drive by the sites if possible. Read Google and BBB reviews, but take overly generic 5-star reviews with a grain of salt.

Protection FAQs

Do roofing contractors need to be licensed in New Albany, OH?

Ohio does not have a statewide roofing license, but New Albany and Franklin County may require local permits and business registrations. Always verify with the Franklin County Building Department that the contractor is registered to work in your area.

How can I tell if a roofer is a 'storm chaser'?

Storm chasers show up uninvited after severe weather, often from out of state. They pressure you to sign paperwork immediately, lack a local address, and may offer deals that expire 'today only.' Trustworthy local roofers have a verifiable presence in the community.

What is an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) and why is it risky?

An AOB lets a contractor step into your shoes and deal directly with your insurance company. While not always a scam, it can lead to inflated claims, loss of control, and higher premiums. It's safer to work with your own adjuster and pay the roofer directly.

Should I pay a roofing deposit upfront?

Be wary of any contractor demanding more than 10% or a few thousand dollars upfront. Scammers collect large deposits and disappear. A reputable roofer ties payments to completed work milestones, not promises.

How many quotes should I get before hiring a roofer?

At least three written quotes from different, locally established contractors. Be suspicious of one quote that's drastically lower than the others — it's often a loss leader that balloons once work begins.

What insurance should a roofing contractor carry?

A legitimate roofer carries both general liability insurance (minimum $1 million) and workers' compensation insurance. Ask for a certificate from their insurance company, not just a photocopy they hand you.

Hire with Confidence

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

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