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Spring Roof Repair: Don't Get Conned
By Wendy Croix
Home Improvement Ideas Columnist
They only come out in the spring--unless, of course--you live in a state ravaged by Hurricane Katrina. They are the roof repair scam artists, who offer repairs at rock bottom prices but bring little experience and no professional qualifications to the job.
Hurricane damage this year has been so widespread this year that officials have had to lift some restrictions on who's allowed to perform roof repair. As a result, the burden is on you, the customer, to make sure your roofer is qualified. An unlicensed 'roofer'--blogger José Lourenço labels them "roofers without ladders"--should send you running to a trustworthy roof repair company.
Danger Signs of Roof Repair Scam Artists
Though the Irish Travelers are legendary for roaming the country pulling off roof repair scams, they've got lots of company today. Look for these warning signs the next time a stranger offers to shore up your shingles or reseal your coating.
- Watch out for anyone who comes to your door and insists on giving you a "free roof inspection." This goes double if you're a retiree.
- Word of mouth agreements for services aren't worth the air they're made of. Get it in writing.
- Leak repair is tricky, for professionals only. Don't trust your roof to an amateur.
- Roof coating provides necessary protection for your roof--but roof repair scam artists are apt to paint or tar, then take your money and run. Remember, disastrous repairs can void your roof's warranty.
How to Get Quality Roof Maintenance and Repair
Common sense should tell you that you don't get roof repair for next to nothing.
- Look for licensed roof repair specialists. Reputable roofers expect to offer proof of license and insurance. Don't be afraid to ask. Or check with your state's housing officials.
- To get an idea of the going roof repair rates in your area, get several estimates and compare.
- Once you've found a roofing company you trust, make an ongoing roof maintenance agreement. Roof cleaning and repair should be, at the very least, an annual affair. Fixing or replacing roof tile, repairing shingles, or adding protective roof coating keeps your home warm and dry in foul weather and cool and comfortable in the heat.
Sources
- "Adjusters, contractors sometimes at odds in assessing home damage," by Dan Mearns. The Sun (Port Charlotte, FL) (Aug 31, 2004).
- "Learn About Roofing." GAF Materials
- "Roofing Scams Are Among Top Tampa, Fla.-Area Repair Frauds," by Valerie Kalfrin. Tampa Tribune (FL) (Apr 14, 2004).
- "Travelers roam the nation for jobs and, sometimes, home-repair scams." USA Today (Sep 24, 2002).
About the Author
Wendy Croix, Ph.D. is a freelance writer, cultural critic and self-confessed home improvement junkie. She's also a university professor.
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