When it comes to hiring a roofer, most homeowners in Camden and Gloucester County just want someone dependable, honest, and skilled. Yet far too many people have had the opposite experience—roofers who don’t show up, cut corners, or leave the job half-done. That’s why knowing the warning signs of a bad contractor can save you thousands in damage, delays, and stress.
Whether you’re in Cherry Hill, Washington Township, Deptford, or Voorhees, here are the roofer red flags you should never ignore.
Key Takeaways for Camden & Gloucester County Homeowners
- ✔ Unreturned calls, vague estimates, and lack of insurance are major roofer red flags.
- ✔ Poor communication is often the first sign of deeper issues.
- ✔ A reliable roofer will be licensed, local, and transparent about pricing and timelines.
- ✔ Homeowners in Camden and Gloucester Counties should vet roofers carefully due to frequent storm damage and fly-by-night contractors.
- ✔ RGB Construction offers reliable, professional roofing services backed by years of experience and community trust.
1. They Don’t Return Your Calls or Show Up On Time
What’s a major roof red flag? One that can’t respond to your messages within a timely manner. You wouldn’t accept that kind of behavior from a potential date; don’t tolerate it from a roofing company! Communication is the cornerstone of any kind of relationship, even one based on business. A professional roofing contractor should be able to get back to you in a timely manner, especially if they have emergency roofing services.
Delayed responses during the estimate phase can be dangerous, not only for the transaction but for your roof. A reliable roofer will call you back and show up when they say they will. No exceptions.
2. They Don’t Provide a Written Estimate
A verbal ballpark price is not a real estimate. If your roofer refuses to put their pricing in writing—or if the written estimate is vague and lacks detail—you could be hit with hidden fees later. A trustworthy contractor will give you a clear, itemized quote and take the time to walk you through it.
3. They Aren’t Licensed or Insured in New Jersey
Another roof red flag is when the roofer isn’t licensed or insured. There’s a very good reason for a contractor to have insurance. It protects you should they injure themselves. Any roofer working in New Jersey must be registered with the state and carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation. Therefore, you should always confirm that the roofing contractor is carrying their license and insurance certificate. RGB Construction will gadly provide documentation upfront.
4. They Want Full Payment Upfront
It’s standard for roofers to ask for a deposit, but if someone demands the entire payment before any work begins, that’s a serious red flag. In worst-case scenarios, you could lose your money without getting any work done at all. Even if the job is completed, paying too early eliminates your leverage if the quality doesn’t meet expectations.
Our tip? Stick with companies that follow industry norms, including reasonable deposits, progress payments, and a final payment.
5. They Pressure You Into Signing a Contract Immediately
No homeowner should feel rushed or cornered into signing a contract. High-pressure sales tactics—like saying “this offer is only good for today”—are common among roofers who prioritize closing deals over doing quality work. A reputable roofer will give you the space and information you need to make the best decision for your home.
6. Their Online Reviews Are Inconsistent or Nonexistent
In today’s digital age, reviews and testimonials are everything to a business. No contractor is going to have a perfect record (if they do, be suspicious), but if a roofer has a recent slew of negative reviews or no reviews, that’s not a good sign. Look for consistent feedback on reliability, communication, and workmanship. Even someone does give a negative review, consider how the contractor responds, too. Is it courteous? Do they try to make amends? Take these things to account.
7. They’re Not Local
After a major storm, it’s not unusual for “storm chasers” to flood into Camden and Gloucester County offering cheap roof repairs. The problem? Many of these companies disappear once the job is done, if they even do the job at all.
Avoid this roofer red flag by verifying the roofer’s permanent address, phone number, and license. A local company like RGB Construction is part of your community and will be there if you ever need follow-up service or warranty work.
Frequently Asked Questions from South Jersey Homeowners
1. What’s the biggest red flag when hiring a roofer in Gloucester County?
Unreturned phone calls and no-shows during estimates are common signs a contractor may not be reliable. Your time matters, and so does your roof.
2. Should I worry if a roofer doesn’t offer a written estimate?
Yes. Without a clear, written estimate, you may face unexpected charges. Always demand itemized pricing—RGB Construction provides it up front.
3. How do I know if my roofer is licensed in New Jersey?
Ask for proof. A New Jersey roofing contractor must be registered and insured. RGB Construction proudly provides all documentation for our Cherry Hill and South Jersey clients.
4. Why do some roofers ask for full payment upfront?
That’s a red flag. While deposits are standard, paying 100% upfront removes your leverage. Stick with contractors like RGB who follow industry norms and protect your investment.
5. I live in Voorhees—should I be concerned about storm chasers?
Absolutely. After major storms, out-of-town roofers often offer cheap repairs and disappear. RGB Construction is locally based and here to stay in Voorhees, Deptford, and across South Jersey.
6. Can I take time to decide on a roofing estimate?
Yes. Never feel pressured to sign on the spot. High-pressure tactics are a warning sign. We give Camden County homeowners the space and facts they need to make the right decision.
7. Why is it important to hire a local roofer in South Jersey?
Local roofers understand the building codes, weather challenges, and warranty follow-ups specific to South Jersey. RGB Construction is based in the community and ready to help long after the job is done.
8. How can I contact RGB Construction if I notice red flags with another roofer?
Call us at (856) 264-9093 or contact us online. We’ll provide a no-pressure, honest assessment of your roofing needs anywhere in Camden or Gloucester County.
Choose a Green Flag Roofer in South Jersey Like RGB Construction
Your roof protects everything underneath it, meaning you can’t just let any roofer work on it. Don’t leave the responsibility of repairing or installing your roof to someone who cuts corners, dodges your questions, and disappears when problems arise. If you notice any roofer red flags, avoid that company and try somewhere else.
At RGB Construction, we consider ourselves a green flag. We believe in professionalism and communication. Not only do we call you back, but we deliver on our promises of satisfaction. We’ll walk you through the process and provide you with a transparent estimate. Most of all, we will always treat your home with respect.
Ready to work with a roofer who puts your needs first? Contact RGB Construction today at 856-264-9093 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.
