DisputeVoice · Consumer Protection
10 Red Flags of a Roofing Scam After a Storm
The first disaster is the storm. The second arrives within hours. Know the warning signs before the knock comes.
After every hurricane, hailstorm, or tornado, predatory contractors flood affected neighborhoods. They travel across state lines, use high-pressure tactics, and exploit the urgency homeowners feel after a disaster. FEMA does not hire, endorse, or certify any private contractor. You have time. Use it.
The 10 Warning Signs
01
Unsolicited Door-Knocking Within 48 Hours
Legitimate local contractors are busy checking on their own customers. The first knock is almost always an out-of-town operation.
Ask: "What is your permanent local office address?"
02
"Free Roof — Zero Out of Pocket"
Deductible waivers are illegal in most states. In Texas: criminal offense. In Florida: a felony. This is insurance fraud for both you and the contractor.
Ask: "How exactly will you cover my deductible?"
03
"Sign Today — This Price Expires"
Fake urgency prevents you from researching the company, getting competing bids, or exercising your 3-day FTC cancellation right.
Say: "I'll review this and get back to you Friday."
04
Demands Large Upfront Payment
50%+ before materials arrive is a collection-and-disappear signal. Legitimate contractors ask for 10–33% at signing with milestone payments.
Ask: "What's your payment schedule tied to milestones?"
05
Cash-Only or Untraceable Payment
Cash payments eliminate your ability to dispute charges or prove payment. Legitimate contractors accept checks and credit cards.
Say: "I'll pay by check or credit card for my records."
06
"FEMA Sent Us" or "FEMA Certified"
FEMA does not hire, endorse, certify, or recommend any private contractor. Ever. This claim is federal fraud. Period.
Call FEMA Fraud Hotline: 866-720-5721
07
Out-of-State Plates, No Local Address
Storm chasers follow weather across state lines. Their trucks, plates, and phone numbers are from somewhere else. They won't be here next month.
Ask: "Can I visit your local office this week?"
08
Wants You to Sign Before the Inspection
An "inspection authorization" may actually be a binding contract or assignment of benefits. Once signed, you may be legally locked in.
Read EVERY document. Have someone else read it too.
09
Vague or Incomplete Contract
Blank spaces, missing material specs, no timeline, no warranty. These gaps let the contractor change terms after you sign.
Compare: Does the contract match the verbal promises?
10
"Your Insurance Will Cover Everything"
No contractor can guarantee your coverage. This promise either means they'll inflate the claim (fraud) or you'll be stuck with the balance.
Ask: "Have you spoken with my insurance adjuster?"
Critical Fact
FEMA Does Not Endorse Any Contractor
FEMA inspectors verify damage — they do not perform repairs, refer contractors, or ask for money. Anyone claiming "FEMA sent them" or displaying "FEMA Certified Contractor" signage is committing fraud. Report to FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline: 866-720-5721 or disaster@leo.gov
What to Do Instead
Step 1
Document & Call Insurance First
Photograph all damage. Contact your insurer before hiring anyone. Do not allow permanent repairs until your adjuster assesses.
Step 2
Vet Before You Sign
Verify license, insurance certificates, permanent local address, references from 2+ years ago. Get 3 written bids minimum.
Step 3
Report Scams Everywhere
State AG, FTC (reportfraud.ftc.gov), FEMA hotline, state licensing board, local police, BBB, and DisputeVoice.
Been scammed? Build the public record.
A DisputeVoice Lighthouse Report creates a permanent, searchable record that appears when the next homeowner researches the same contractor. Your experience protects someone else. → disputevoice.com
