Beware When Roofers Tell You These Lies
When your home needs a new roof installation or a roof repair, one of the most important things you’re going to do is look for a qualified professional to take on the project. There are many reputable roofers out there, but it can still be challenging to find them if you’re also getting estimates from roofers that are less than reputable — and there are many of those too.
Sadly, there are contractors who will do whatever it takes to get your business, including lying about a few things. To avoid falling for their sweet but empty promises, take note of the lies some contractors tell:
“We’ve Been In Business for Over 30 Years.”
While this may be true for some, there is also a way for others to lie about it. The contractor can count the combined experience of their workforce and tell you that’s how long they’ve been in business, even if the truth is that they’ve only been working for a year or two. Make sure to ask them to clarify this. Their website might actually tell a different story, as well.
“We Have an Office Downtown.”
It’s easy to verify this. A Google or Google Earth search might be enough. Check if their website looks legitimate, with the contact details and all. If the location is not too far, schedule a drive there and look at their office. If this turns out to be a lie, then that’s enough reason to move on to another roof estimate from a different roofer.
“Our Lifetime Warranty Covers Anything and Everything.”
What if the cable guy damages your roof while installing a satellite dish, or the person cleaning your chimney or your gutters? A lifetime warranty is actually at best a limited lifetime warranty of 40-50 years. And no warranty can cover everything. This is an obvious lie.
Some warranties cover material only, while others cover material and workmanship. What’s important is that you know about the warranties and are fine with them before you work with that contractor.
“We Need a Deposit Upfront.”
Roofers shouldn’t pressure you to pay a deposit just so they can squeeze you into their busy schedule. Reputable roofers should be able to afford everything without cutting corners until you pay them at the end of the project. If they’re asking for a deposit or worse, the full amount, it might mean they’re going out of business or they probably don’t have any intention to work on your roof damage. They just want the money before they skip town. This is a common tactic among storm chasers and fly-by-night operators.
As a reputable roofing company, Mass-Tech Roofing and Building Co. recommend doing your homework before hiring a roofer. Google them, check their website, read the reviews, ask their past customers about their work ethic, etc. A roof is a considerable investment, so it pays to know the people who will be working on it. Call us today at (781) 826-7663 or leave a message here.
