By: RM Construction Services posted (10/21/24)
Roof repairs and replacements are big investments for homeowners, and when you’re faced with hiring a contractor, you want to 100% sure you’re not falling victim to a scam. Unfortunately, the roofing industry has its share of dishonest contractors who take advantage of homeowners, especially during storm seasons or after severe weather events which can happen a few times a year in Iowa. Knowing the red flags can help you avoid falling into a trap of being scammed by a roofing contractor.
When receiving quotes from different roofing contractors, it’s tempting to go with the lowest bid and sometimes it can be the right decision. However, the lowest offer isn’t always the best deal and can sometimes be a sign of a scam. Unreasonably low estimates can indicate that the contractor is cutting corners by using subpar materials, or worse, they may disappear after receiving the down payment.
Reputable contractors will provide fair pricing based on the materials and labor required. If a bid seems too good to be true, it probably is. Remember, quality work comes at a price, and it’s worth investing in a durable & hight quality roof that will last for years.
Before hiring any contractor, ask to see their licenses and insurance documentation. A reputable & reliable roofing company will be licensed to operate in your state and will carry both liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage.
If a contractor can’t provide proof of insurance or proper licensing, that’s a huge red flag. Hiring an uninsured contractor puts you at risk if there’s an accident on your property. You could be held financially responsible for any injuries or damages that occur.
One of the best ways to vet a roofing contractor is by checking their Google Business Profile. This profile serves as a public record of their business, showcasing reviews from previous customers, business hours, and contact details. A legitimate company will have a strong online presence, including a verified Google Business Profile and website.
When reviewing contractors, pay close attention to their reviews. If a company has a significant number of negative reviews or a bunch of one-star ratings, it’s usually a sign to steer clear. If you were looking for a restaurant on a date night, you wouldn’t choose 3 3-star restaurant over a 4.8-star restaurant. On the other hand, a high volume of positive reviews from satisfied customers is a strong indicator of high-quality service. For instance, RM Construction, based in Iowa City, has 15 five-star reviews and a perfect rating on Google. This kind of feedback speaks volumes about their commitment to excellent workmanship and customer satisfaction in Johnson & Linn County.
In contrast, a contractor with minimal or no reviews could be a fly-by-night operation. Don’t hesitate to ask for references or speak with past customers about their experiences.
It’s fairly standard for contractors to ask for a deposit before starting work, but be cautious if a contractor demands a large upfront payment. According to Angie’s List, a typical down payment for a roofing project is around 15% or less of the total cost. If a contractor is asking for a much larger sum, this could be a warning sign that they intend to take the money and run without completing the job.
To protect yourself, never pay the full amount upfront, and ensure that you have a signed contract in place outlining payment terms. If the contractor doesn’t provide a written contract or avoids discussing specific terms, that should raise an immediate red flag.
A reasonable down payment is typically 15% or less of the total project price.
Before any work begins, make sure you have a comprehensive, written contract in place. This contract should outline the scope of the work, materials to be used, project timeline, and payment schedule. A reputable roofing contractor will have no problem providing these details in writing.
If a contractor refuses to provide a contract or wants to proceed with just a verbal agreement, walk away. Verbal agreements leave too much room for misunderstandings or disputes down the road. A written contract protects both you and the contractor, ensuring there’s no confusion about the work being done.
After a big storm like the 2020 derecho, it’s common to see contractors going door-to-door offering roofing services. While some of these companies may be legitimate, many are “storm chasers” looking to take advantage of vulnerable homeowners. These contractors often travel from state to state following severe weather events, and they may not be around to handle warranty issues or repairs if problems arise later.
Instead of hiring someone who shows up at your door, take the time to research local contractors in Iowa with a solid reputation in your community. Look for a business that’s been around for a while and has a proven track record of successful roofing projects.
Reliable roofing contractors stand behind their work. Always ask about warranties and guarantees before signing any agreement. A good contractor will offer both a manufacturer’s warranty for the roofing materials and a workmanship guarantee for the installation.
Be wary of contractors who don’t offer any kind of warranty. If they’re not willing to guarantee their work, it’s a sign they may not be confident in the quality of their service.
A legitimate roofing company should have a physical business address where they operate. If a contractor can’t provide an address or only has a P.O. Box, it’s a red flag. Fly-by-night operations often use P.O. Boxes to avoid being traced if something goes wrong.
Before hiring a contractor, take a few minutes to verify their address. Look them up online and visit their website. This step can help you avoid dealing with a contractor who may vanish after taking your downpayment.
Scam contractors often use high-pressure sales tactics to push homeowners into signing a contract or making a quick payment (usually in cash). They may tell you that their “special price” is only available for a limited time or that they need to start immediately to prevent further damage happening to your home.
Take your time when making a decision. A reputable roofing contractor will give you the necessary space to evaluate your options and make an informed choice about your new roof.
At the end of the day, trust your gut instincts. If something doesn’t feel right about a contractor or their off, it’s better to walk away and continue your search. Reliable contractors are transparent, communicate clearly, and respect your time and property. With the internet nowadays, its a lot easier to find a high-quality & reputable roofing company in the Iowa City area.
Roofing scams can cost homeowners thousands of dollars and leave them with substandard work or incomplete projects. By following these steps—checking for licenses, verifying their Google Business Profile, being cautious of the lowest bid, and insisting on a detailed contract—you can protect yourself from falling victim to unscrupulous contractors.
If you’re in the Iowa City or Cedar Rapids area and need a new roof, RM Construction Services offers trusted, top-rated roofing solutions. With 15 five-star reviews on Google, RM Construction has built a reputation for quality service and professionalism. Contact RM Construction today for a free estimate!
To remove snow from your roof safely, use a roof rake to pull snow downwards, rather than pushing it up. This minimizes the risk of damage to your shingles and prevents snow from building up, which could cause ice dams. Avoid using sharp tools or walking on the roof, as this can be dangerous. If the snow accumulation is too heavy, consider hiring a professional to remove it. Read our blog on more information 6 Tips on Winter Roof Maintenance in Iowa
If you live in the Iowa City and Cedar Rapids area need a new siding for your home, call RM Construction Services today at (319) 961-0541. With our five-star rating on Google, you can trust their team of experts to handle all aspects of siding, roofing and gutter installations, ensuring the job is done safely and efficiently to your needs.
RM Construction Services today at (319) 961-0541. With our five-star rating on Google, you can trust their team of experts to handle all aspects of siding, roofing and gutter installations, ensuring the job is done safely and efficiently to your needs.
Explore Our Roofing & Gutter Services:
225 Beaver Kreek Center, North Liberty, Iowa 52317
(319) 961-0541
RM Construction Services | Serving Iowa City, North Liberty, Tiffin, Oxford, Coralville, Swisher, Cedar Rapids, Marion, and surrounding areas.
