Summer Roofing Scams: How to Spot Red Flags and Choose a Trusted Contractor

Summer Roofing Scams: How to Spot Red Flags and Choose a Trusted Contractor

Every summer, as storms roll across Colorado, roofing contractors hit the road to respond to homeowner emergencies. Some of these contractors are local professionals with years of experience. Others? Not so much.

Unfortunately, the aftermath of a summer storm is prime time for roofing scams. Hail damage, wind destruction, and sudden leaks create a perfect storm for opportunists who want to make a quick buck. They show up at your door, promise too-good-to-be-true prices, and disappear before the job is done—or even started.

As a homeowner, it’s important to be prepared not just for the weather but for the shady sales tactics that sometimes follow it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common red flags, what you should look for in a trusted contractor, and how to protect yourself from roofing fraud.

1. Storm Chasers: The Drive-By Contractors

“Storm chasers” are contractors who follow extreme weather events across the country. They often drive unmarked trucks, hand out vague flyers, and promise deep discounts for fast work. While not all out-of-town contractors are scammers, many don’t carry proper licenses, don’t understand local building codes, and vanish once your check clears.

The biggest issue with storm chasers is accountability. If problems arise months later—like a leak or poor installation—they’re long gone, and you’re left footing the repair bill.

Tip: Always ask if the contractor is local. Check their business license, physical address, and how long they've been operating in your area.

2. High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Another hallmark of a roofing scam is the hard sell. Scammers often use fear to push homeowners into making decisions before they’re ready. They may say things like:

• “This offer is only good today.”

• “Your insurance won’t cover it if you wait.”

• “You could have mold or water damage already!”

While roofing issues can be serious, a trustworthy contractor will educate you—not scare you. They’ll give you time to review your options and won’t pressure you to sign on the spot.

Tip: If someone is rushing you to sign a contract or give a deposit immediately, take a step back. You have the right to compare bids, ask questions, and sleep on your decision.

3. Unusually Low Bids

We all love a good deal—but in roofing, you get what you pay for. Scammers often lure homeowners with bids that are significantly lower than other contractors. What they don’t tell you is that they cut corners by:

• Using substandard materials

• Hiring untrained labor

• Skipping essential steps like underlayment or ventilation

  
  

Worse, some will take your deposit and never return. Others start the job and walk away before it’s done.

Tip: If a bid seems suspiciously low, ask for a detailed scope of work and materials list. Compare it to other estimates and watch for inconsistencies.

4. Lack of Licensing and Insurance

Legitimate roofing contractors in Colorado are required to carry a business license and liability insurance. Many counties and cities also require additional certifications or permits.

Scammers avoid these requirements. They may tell you it’s not necessary, or that they’re “working under someone else’s license.” That’s a huge red flag.

Tip: Ask for proof of licensing, general liability insurance, and workers’ compensation. A trustworthy contractor will happily provide documentation—and may even post it on their website.

5. No Written Contract or Warranty

If a roofer tells you a handshake is good enough, walk away. Reputable contractors always provide a detailed written contract that outlines:

• The full scope of work

• Estimated timeline

• Payment schedule

• Types of materials used

• Warranty information

A lack of documentation leaves you unprotected if things go wrong. Scammers often take advantage of this by changing the terms later or refusing to honor verbal promises.

Tip: Never start work without a signed contract. And make sure it includes warranty details for both labor and materials.

6. “We’ll Cover Your Deductible” Scams

Some roofing scammers promise to “cover” your insurance deductible or work the estimate to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. This may sound appealing, but it’s actually insurance fraud—and illegal in Colorado.

These schemes may involve inflating repair costs or falsifying invoices, which can result in denied claims or legal trouble for the homeowner.

Tip: Be wary of anyone offering to manipulate your insurance paperwork. Honest contractors will work with your insurer—not around them.

7. No Online Presence or Poor Reviews

In the digital age, a legitimate business should have a website, verified reviews, and a consistent presence on platforms like Google, Facebook, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB). If a contractor has no online footprint—or worse, bad reviews across multiple platforms—that’s a sign something’s not right.

Scammers often change company names or create new websites to escape bad reputations. Do your research before signing anything.

Tip: Look for consistent reviews across Google, Yelp, BBB, and Angi. Be cautious if reviews seem fake, overly generic, or all posted around the same time.

8. Large Upfront Payments

While a small deposit is common, scammers often ask for 50% or more upfront. They may claim it’s needed for materials or scheduling—but once they have your money, they disappear or delay endlessly.

Colorado law limits how much contractors can require upfront, and reputable roofers usually break payments into milestones.

Tip: Never pay more than 30% upfront. And never pay in full until the job is completed to your satisfaction and passes inspection.

9. No Permit, No Problem? Think Again

Some shady contractors will tell you a permit isn’t necessary for roofing work. In most cases, that’s false. Colorado municipalities require permits for roof replacements and many major repairs. This ensures that work meets code and passes inspection.

Skirting the permit process can lead to fines, denied insurance claims, and serious safety issues down the road.

Tip: Always verify that your contractor will pull the proper permits. You can also call your city’s building department to double-check.

10. How to Choose a Contractor You Can Trust

Now that you know what to watch for, here’s what to look for in a reputable roofing company:

• Local and Established: They’ve worked in your area for years and are familiar with local codes, climate, and common roof issues.

• Licensed and Insured: They carry all required credentials and are happy to show them.

• Transparent Pricing: Estimates are clear, itemized, and competitive—but not suspiciously low.

• Strong Reputation: They have positive, authentic reviews and high ratings on Google, BBB, and other platforms.

• Insurance Knowledge: They help you navigate the claims process without encouraging fraud.

• Written Contract & Warranty: Every job is backed by a signed agreement and a workmanship warranty.

• No Pressure: They respect your time, answer your questions, and never rush your decision.

Why Trust All In One Contractors?

At All In One Contractors, we’ve served Colorado homeowners for over 25 years. We’re local, licensed, insured, and proud to be A+ rated with the Better Business Bureau. We work with over 25 major insurance companies and are trusted to get the job done right—especially after a storm.

Whether you need an emergency roof repair, full replacement, or storm damage inspection, we’re here to help—no pressure, no shortcuts, and no surprises.

Don’t Let Scammers Win

After a summer storm, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, and quick action is essential. But rushing into a deal with the wrong contractor can cost you far more in the long run.

Take a breath, do your homework, and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. And if you’re ever in doubt, call a contractor with a proven track record—like All In One Contractors.

Need a free inspection or second opinion? Call All In One Contractors today at 303-663-5615 or visit us online to schedule your estimate.