Hiring a roofing company is a major decision that affects your home’s safety and value. Unfortunately, not all roofing contractors are legitimate, and falling victim to a scam can cost you thousands of dollars. So, how do you ensure you’re working with a trustworthy company? Follow these essential steps to verify a roofing company’s legitimacy before signing any contracts.
1. Verify Licensing and Insurance
A professional roofing company in Cedar Park TX should have the proper licenses and insurance to operate legally in your area. Licensing requirements vary by state, but you can check with your local government or state licensing board to confirm if the contractor is registered.
What You Should Look For:
✅ Business License – Confirms the company is legally authorized to operate.
✅ Contractor’s License – Some states require a special license for roofing work.
✅ Liability Insurance – Covers any damage to your property caused by the contractor.
✅ Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property.
How to Verify:
- Ask the company for proof of insurance and licensing.
- Contact your local licensing board or insurance provider to verify the documents.
- Avoid companies that refuse to provide these documents.
🚩 Red Flag: A company that hesitates or refuses to show proof of insurance is likely not legitimate.
2. Research Online Reviews & Ratings
In today’s digital world, a legitimate business should have a strong online presence. Reviews from past customers can give you a good idea of the company’s reliability, workmanship, and professionalism.
Where to Check Reviews:
- Google Reviews – Search the company name and read customer feedback.
- Better Business Bureau (BBB) – A legitimate company should be accredited or have a rating on BBB.
- Yelp, Facebook, and Nextdoor – See what local customers say.
- Angi (formerly Angie’s List) – Offers verified contractor reviews.
What to Watch For:
🚩 No reviews or an overwhelming number of negative reviews.
🚩 Only 5-star reviews with no details (they could be fake).
🚩 Multiple complaints about the same issue (poor workmanship, unfinished jobs, etc.).
Pro Tip: Check if the company responds professionally to negative reviews. A good company will try to resolve complaints instead of ignoring them.
3. Verify Their Business Address and Contact Information
A trustworthy roofing company should have a physical address, phone number, and email. Be cautious of companies that only list a P.O. Box or a personal phone number.
How to Check:
- Look up their business address on Google Maps – does it exist?
- Call the listed phone number – do they answer professionally?
- Visit their website – does it have complete contact information?
🚩 Red Flag: If they only communicate through social media or text messages, they may not be a real business.
4. Ask for References and Proof of Previous Work
A reputable roofing company should be proud to show their past work. If they hesitate to provide references or photos of completed projects, consider it a red flag.
How to Verify Their Work:
✅ Ask for 3-5 references from recent customers.
✅ Request before-and-after photos of previous projects.
✅ If possible, drive by a completed project to inspect the quality of work.
🚩 Red Flag: If they can’t provide references or their past customers report issues with leaks or poor workmanship.
5. Get a Detailed Written Estimate and Contract
Never agree to work without a written contract! A legitimate roofing company will provide a detailed estimate and written agreement outlining the project scope, materials, timeline, and payment terms.
What Your Contract Should Include:
✔ Total cost and payment schedule.
✔ Materials to be used.
✔ Project start and completion dates.
✔ Warranty details.
✔ Cleanup and disposal process.
🚨 Warning: Never pay 100% upfront. A small deposit (10-30%) is normal, but full payment before the job starts is a scam warning.
6. Beware of Storm Chasers & High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Scammers often show up after storms, offering “quick and cheap” repairs. They may even claim to work with your insurance company to pressure you into signing a contract.
How to Spot a Storm Chaser:
- Knocks on your door uninvited after a storm.
- Offers a too-good-to-be-true deal.
- Pushes you to sign a contract on the spot.
- Uses high-pressure tactics like “limited-time offers.”
🚩 Red Flag: If they demand full payment upfront or insist you sign something immediately, walk away!
7. Check for Manufacturer Certifications
Many reputable roofing companies are certified by roofing material manufacturers, which means they have met high industry standards.
Look for Certifications From:
🏆 GAF Master Elite® Contractor
🏆 Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
🏆 CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster™
These certifications indicate proper training, quality workmanship, and extended warranty options.
8. Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, if something feels off, don’t ignore your instincts. A legitimate roofing company will:
✅ Answer your questions honestly.
✅ Provide all necessary documentation.
✅ Not rush or pressure you into a decision.
🚩 Red Flag: If the company is avoiding your questions, being vague, or pushing you to make a quick decision, be cautious.
Need a Trusted Roofing Company? Contact Duration Roofing & Construction LLC!
At Duration Roofing & Construction LLC, we take pride in our professionalism, transparency, and high-quality workmanship. We are fully licensed, insured, and manufacturer-certified to give you peace of mind.
📞 Call us today at (512) 643-5255 for a free consultation and estimate!
🔹 Quality Work. Honest Pricing. Guaranteed Satisfaction.
