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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Saint Matthews

If you're a homeowner or business owner in Saint Matthews needing roofing work, scammers love targeting you—especially after storms. They promise quick fixes but often leave you with leaks, shoddy work, or empty pockets. Follow these simple steps to spot red flags and protect your investment, just like I'd tell my own family.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Saint Matthews

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scams

After heavy rain or hurricanes, out-of-town crews knock on doors offering 'emergency' cheap roofs. They collect big deposits, do minimal or fake work, then vanish.

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Lowball Bid Upsell

Contractor quotes an unrealistically low price to win the job, then 'discovers' expensive issues on-site demanding more money—or walks away.

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Fake Material Replacement

They remove your good shingles, replace with cheap junk, pocket the difference, and claim it's 'matching' your roof.

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Phantom Foreman Scam

Crew shows up without the quoted foreman, does subpar work, and disappears when issues arise.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Always request a certificate of insurance (COI) for general liability (at least $500K) and workers' compensation. Contact the listed insurance carrier directly to confirm it's active and covers the job scope—don't trust just the document.

2

Licensing

South Carolina requires residential specialty contractors (like roofers) for jobs over $5,000 to hold a license from the South Carolina Contractor's Licensing Board (SCCLB). Use their online license lookup or call (803) 896-4686 to verify the contractor's status and any complaints.

3

References

Ask for 3-5 recent references from jobs in Saint Matthews or nearby Calhoun County. Call them to ask about work quality, timeliness, cleanup, and if they'd hire again. Hang up if they dodge this.

Protection FAQs

Do all roofers need a license in South Carolina?

Yes, for residential roofing jobs over $5,000 or commercial over $10,000, they need a Residential Specialty Contractor license from SCCLB. Always verify—no license means big risk.

What should I pay upfront for a roofing job?

Never more than 10-30% as a deposit. Payments should be milestone-based: after materials delivered, tear-off complete, etc. Full payment only after final inspection.

How do I know if their insurance is real?

Get a COI naming you as additional insured. Call the insurer to confirm coverage dates and limits. Expires soon? Red flag.

Should I get a permit for roof replacement in Saint Matthews?

Yes, Calhoun County requires permits for most re-roofs. Legit contractors pull them—ask to see it. Check with Calhoun County Building Department.

What if they offer a 'cash discount'?

Scam alert—it's to avoid taxes/insurance. Insist on check/credit card and a contract. Discounts are fine if documented.

How can I check online reviews?

Look at BBB, Angi, Google for Saint Matthews locals. Beware fake reviews—cross-check with references and licensing board complaints.

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