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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in Bradley

Roofing scams can cost homeowners and business owners thousands of dollars and leave them with shoddy work or no work at all. In Bradley and throughout Greenwood County, storm-chasing roofers and dishonest contractors often target vulnerable property owners. This guide helps you recognize the warning signs and take protective steps. Think of it as advice you'd give a family member about protecting their home investment.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Bradley

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scams

Contractors appear after storms claiming to be 'insurance specialists' who can handle everything. They often exaggerate damage, pressure you to sign assignment of benefits forms, then disappear with insurance money or do minimal work.

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Upfront Payment Scams

Contractors demand large deposits (often 50% or more) claiming they need money for materials. They may take the money and never return, or do partial work and disappear.

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Material Switching

Contractors quote premium materials but install cheaper, inferior products. They may use incorrect underlayment, wrong shingle types, or skip essential components like ice and water shield.

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Permit Avoidance

Contractors suggest skipping permits to 'save you money' or 'speed up the process'. This leaves you with unpermitted work that can cause problems during property sales and may not meet building codes.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Always ask for proof of both liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. Request certificates directly from their insurance provider. Without proper insurance, you could be liable for accidents or injuries on your property.

2

Licensing

In South Carolina, roofing contractors must be licensed. Verify licensing through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR). Ask for their license number and check it online. Greenwood County may have additional local requirements.

3

References

Ask for recent local references in Bradley or nearby areas. Contact these references and ask about work quality, timeliness, communication, and whether the job was completed as promised. Visit completed projects if possible.

Protection FAQs

What should I do if a roofer shows up unannounced at my door?

Politely decline any immediate offers. Never let them inspect your roof without verification. Tell them you'll research their company and get back to them if interested. Always initiate contact with contractors you've researched yourself.

How much should I pay upfront for a roofing job?

A reasonable deposit is typically 10-15% of the total cost to secure materials. Never pay 50% or more upfront. Establish a payment schedule with milestones: deposit, progress payment when materials arrive, payment when work is halfway done, and final payment after completion and inspection.

What insurance should a roofing contractor have?

They must have both liability insurance (covers property damage) and workers' compensation insurance (covers worker injuries). Ask for certificates of insurance and verify them directly with the insurance company. Without workers' comp, you could be liable if a worker gets injured on your property.

How do I verify a roofing contractor's license in South Carolina?

Visit the South Carolina LLR website or call their licensing board. Ask the contractor for their license number and verify it matches their business name. Also check for any complaints or disciplinary actions against their license.

What should be included in a roofing contract?

A proper contract should include: contractor's license number, start and completion dates, detailed material specifications (brand, type, color), payment schedule, warranty information, cleanup procedures, permit responsibility, and procedures for handling unexpected issues or changes.

What if I've already been scammed by a roofing contractor?

Document everything: contracts, payments, communications, and photos. File a complaint with the South Carolina LLR, the Better Business Bureau, and local law enforcement. Contact your bank or credit card company if payments were recent. Consider consulting with an attorney about your options.

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