The roof of your home needs some work. Who are you going to call? Sure, you could just point your finger at any listing that shows up online, but that does not mean the roofing company has your best interests in mind. There are many fraudulent roofing contractors out there who would love nothing more than to take advantage of your situation. Knowing how to spot red flags when searching for roofing companies in Delaware will not only ensure that you find a skilled contractor but also means you will get better quality in the end.
How to Spot Red Flags When Searching for Delaware Roofing Companies
There are many red flags that may show up when searching for a Delaware roofing company to fix your roof. Do not fall for the following:
Lack of Insurance and Licensing
Any roofing company that is not insured, licensed, and bonded should not be a candidate for your project. Roofing is a risky job; accidents may happen. If the roofing company is not insured, then those injuries or damages could make you, the homeowner, liable. As for licensing, that is also essential. Licenses ensure that the contractor in question has met certain standards and requirements set by the state and/or local government. Plus, licensing tells you that the business is operating legally.
Next, bonding is a type of insurance that provides financial protection in case the roofing company does not fulfill its contractual obligations, such as completing the project on time or to the agreed-upon quality standards. Bonding helps to ensure that the homeowner is protected in case the roofing company fails to deliver on its promises.
In short, you should ask to see proof of insurance and licensing before hiring a contractor. If a company is not licensed or insured, it’s a major red flag and you should avoid working with them.
No References or Portfolio
What’s one way to spot a red flag when searching for roofing companies in Delaware? Asking a company for references or a work portfolio only for them to not have any or to refuse. For roofers, having references and a portfolio is important to securing new clients. As such, a business without them may be illegitimate.
References provide an opportunity to get feedback from past clients about their experience working with the roofing company. By speaking with past clients, you can get a sense of the quality of the work, how professional the company was, how easy they were to work with, and whether they completed the project on time and within budget. This information can help you make a more informed decision about whether the company is a good fit for your needs.
A portfolio of previous work can give you a sense of the roofing company’s experience and expertise. A reputable company should be proud to show off its work and demonstrate the quality of its craftsmanship.
If a roofing company is unable or unwilling to provide references or a portfolio of work, it could be a red flag. It may indicate that they have limited experience or that they have had negative experiences with past clients. It’s important to work with a company that you feel confident in, and having access to references and a portfolio of work can help you make a more informed decision.
Negative Reviews or Complaints
Negative reviews and comments can be a red flag for a roofing company because they may indicate a pattern of poor workmanship, customer service, or communication. If a company has multiple negative reviews, it suggests that there may be a systemic issue with the way they operate, and you should proceed with caution.
Pay attention to what people are saying. Also, if you are still not sure about the reputation of a company, consider checking other rating websites, like Angi, Better Business Bureau, and Yelp.
Poor responses to criticism can also be a red flag. If a company responds defensively or dismissively to negative reviews, it suggests that they are not taking feedback seriously and may not be committed to improving its service. On the other hand, a company that responds thoughtfully and professionally to negative reviews demonstrates that they are committed to listening to feedback and addressing any issues that arise.
It’s important to note that not all negative reviews are created equal. Some negative reviews may be the result of misunderstandings or unrealistic expectations on the part of the customer. However, if a company has a pattern of negative reviews that mention similar issues (such as poor workmanship, communication, or customer service), it’s worth paying attention to.
When evaluating a roofing company, it’s a good idea to read a variety of reviews, both positive and negative, to get a balanced view of their reputation. Look for patterns in the reviews, and pay attention to how the company responds to criticism. A company that takes customer feedback seriously and is committed to improving its service is more likely to provide a positive experience for its clients, even if they have a couple of poor reviews.
The Roofer Does Not Get a Permit
If a roofer tells you that you don’t need a permit for roofing repairs and replacement in Delaware, they are wrong. Don’t trust them.
If a roofing contractor does not obtain the necessary permits before working on your home, it is a red flag because it could indicate that they are not following local building codes and regulations. These codes and regulations are put into place for a couple of reasons. The main one is to keep you and your family safe. Furthermore, there is a legal liability when working without a permit. Should the contractor not follow local building codes and regulations, you could be held responsible for their actions. Clearing this problem will only incur more legal fees and expenses.
Permits also ensure that roofing companies are building according to a certain standard. Should a contractor choose to ignore these codes and regulations, it may indicate that they are not focused on the quality of their work.
No Written Estimate
Here is one thing those fraudulent roofing companies will never do: Provide you with an upfront written estimate without any prompting. Those who aim to scam you will provide you with as little evidence as possible. If they refuse to provide or draft up a written estimate or contract, run away. Roofing companies of ill repute will leave as little of a paper trail as possible because they do not want to be held accountable when they do not deliver on their promises.
A green flag is when the roofing company provides you with a written estimate that outlines the scope of the project, the materials to be used, and the total cost. You will also have time to review the written estimate and ask questions about the pricing.
Unprofessional Behavior
Does the roofing company promise to be there at noon only to arrive two hours later? Do they come unprepared or lack the appropriate equipment? Are the laborers dirtying your property? Do you hear foul language? The best roofing companies in Delaware will treat your home like it was their own, meaning that they clean up after themselves, arrive promptly to scheduled appointments, and behave respectfully around you and your property. Anything other than professional behavior should be seen as a red flag.
One of the most important aspects of a company—in any industry—is that the team conducts themselves professionally and treats you and your property with respect. If you observe any behavior that you do not find professional, do not hesitate to find another company to fulfill your roofing needs.
Poor Communication
Poor communication between a roofing company and you, their client, can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and frustration for both parties. Some examples of poor communication include a failure to return any correspondence, whether it is an email or a phone call, or a text message. A business that does not prioritize its clients when you need them is not going to consider your needs.
Similarly, reputable roofing contractors are transparent. They let you know the general timeline, and they stay organized throughout the project. You will know about all changes, delays, and mishaps. Everything, from the consultation to when you read and sign the contract, should be clear and understandable.
A good roofing company will also follow up with you after the project is complete. If a company does not reach out, it may be a sign that it cannot be trusted.
Lacks a Website
Let’s say you spot a roofing contractor driving around and go to check their name on the internet. If you do not find a professionally made website (or one at all), it is a massive red flag. In today’s digital age, not having a website is a lack of credibility and presence. Whether a business does not have a website or it is poorly designed, it shows that it is not trustworthy enough. Additionally, outdated and amateurish websites may indicate that the business is not serious about the impression that they make on potential customers.
If you want to read into the red flag a little further, the lack of a website screams that they do not truly care about their customers.
Unsure of what a reputable roofing company would have on its website? Look for the following:
- Contact information, including the name of the company, phone, email address, and business hours.
- Detailed descriptions of the services offered.
- Testimonials and reviews from past clients.
- Frequently asked questions that help you understand what the company does and its policies.
- A blog full of helpful information on roofing maintenance, repair, and installation.
- Certifications and licenses, such as GAF Master Elite certifications.
- About Us section that tells you the company’s values, mission, and history.
Cutting Corners on Materials and Installation
Roofing projects are expensive; there is no getting around that. However, if a roofing company claims that they could save you some money by cutting corners or using a less expensive material, be wary. Instead, they should talk to you about ways to balance the quality of your roof while making it more affordable through possible payment options, like financing. Otherwise, cutting corners on materials and installation is never a good idea, because it compromises the safety, durability, and performance of your roof.
A roof is critical to the safety of your home. Installing incorrectly or without the correct materials could potentially shorten the lifespan of the roof and make it much less secure. For example, a roof that is not installed properly may be more prone to leaks, which can damage your home or building and lead to costly repairs.
Keep in mind that most shingle manufacturers will not honor warranties if the roof has been installed without the proper attic ventilation and accessories. A good contractor will never opt for shoddy work.
Only Green Flags with RGB Construction
Now that you know how to spot red flags when searching for roofing companies in Delaware, it’s time to look for green flags. Seek out experienced roofing contractors who are licensed, bonded, and understand what you need to get the job done right. If something seems off during the consultation, you do not have to use them.
Reach out to RGB Construction today to learn more about how we can help solve your roofing problems. Our team has the skills, knowledge, and experience to handle any roofing project. We guarantee our work because we want you to have peace of mind and total satisfaction with your roof. Schedule a consultation today by calling 856-264-9093 or by filling out the contact form.
