With hurricane season upon us and a report of home repair scams up 60 percent over the past five years, now is the time to be wary of the old roofing repair scam. According to this page, roofing contractor scammers often target the elderly. They also heighten their activity before and during hurricane season when homeowners are most likely to question the integrity of the roof over their head.
The best bet to prevent being taken:
- Only employ licensed contractors. Verify the contractor’s license number with the state.
- Insist on a written contract and have an attorney look it over.
- Never pay in cash.
- Don’t provide a down payment greater than 10 percent of the total estimated cost.
- Be wary of door-to-door roofing contractors.
Credit: How to Spot a Roofing Contractor Scam
