How to Spot Cowboy Roofers: 8 Signs To Look Out For

You may live in Texas but you really don’t want a roofer that is a cowboy.  “Cowboy roofers” are unscrupulous individuals or companies that engage in dishonest or illegal business practices, often at the expense of homeowners. They may be inexperienced or unqualified to perform roofing work, use subpar materials or cut corners to save costs, and may engage in high-pressure sales tactics or outright scams.

Unfortunately, cowboy roofers can be difficult to spot, and homeowners may not realize they’ve been scammed until it’s too late. Therefore, it’s essential for homeowners to be aware of the warning signs of “cowboy roofers”, so they can avoid hiring them and protect themselves and their property. By understanding these warning signs and taking steps to hire a professional, licensed (where required), and reputable roofing contractor, homeowners can ensure that their roofing projects are completed safely, efficiently, and with high-quality materials and workmanship.

Check out our post, What Color Roof Lasts the Longest, if you’re interested in learning more about how the color you choose influences other aspects. The color of your roof may seem unimportant, but it has a bigger impact than you might realize. Of course, the aesthetic appeal of a roof is affected by its hue.

Here are some things to look out for:

1. 1. Plain vehicles or white vans: Professional roofers typically have branded vehicles with their company name and logo displayed prominently, often in full vehicle wraps. If a roofer arrives in an unmarked or plain vehicle, it may be a sign that they are not a legitimate business or are trying to operate under the radar.  Do your due diligence an ask plenty of questions if you are suspicious.
   2. No online presence: Most legitimate businesses have an online presence, including a website, social media profiles, and online reviews. If a roofer has no online presence or lacs a professional looking website, it may be a sign that they are not a professional business or have something to hide.
   3. A lack of knowledge: Experienced roofers have a vast knowledge of roofing materials, techniques, and industry best practices. If a roofer seems unsure about the roofing project or cannot answer basic questions about the materials or processes, it may be a sign that they lack the necessary knowledge and experience to do the job properly.
   4. Poor personal appearance: Professional roofers typically wear uniforms or company-branded clothing and have a professional appearance. If a roofer shows up to your property in casual clothing or appears unkempt and unprofessional, it may be a sign that they do not take their work seriously, and their lack of professionalism could extend to their work quality.
   5. Lack of insurance and licensing (where required): Professional roofers are typically licensed and insured to operate in their respective states or regions. Licensing ensures that the roofer has met the necessary requirements to operate a roofing business, and insurance protects both the roofer and the homeowner in the event of accidents or damage. If a roofer cannot provide proof of insurance, it may be a sign that they are not a legitimate business or lack the necessary qualifications to do the job.
   6. High-pressure sales tactics: If a roofer is pressuring you to sign a contract or make a quick decision, it may be a sign that they are trying to scam you. Professional roofers should provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your roofing project, and they should never pressure you into signing a contract.
   7. Extremely low estimates: While it may be tempting to go with the lowest bidder, be cautious of estimates that are significantly lower than others you’ve received. This may be a sign that the roofer is cutting corners, using subpar materials, or may not be fully licensed and insured. Professional roofers will provide you with a detailed estimate that includes all the necessary work and materials needed to complete the project.
   8. Lack of references or reviews: Professional roofers should be able to provide references or have reviews online. If a roofer cannot provide either, it may be a sign that they are not a legitimate business or lack experience. References and reviews allow you to see the quality of work the roofer has done in the past and can help you make an informed decision about hiring them.

By being aware of these signs, homeowners can take steps to ensure that they hire a legitimate, professional roofer and avoid the pitfalls of dealing with a cowboy roofer.

Don’t Take a Chance with your Roof

T2K Roofing Temple TX, located in the heart of Temple is an professional, established team of roofing experts, with over 30 combined years of experience in the industry. We use the highest of quality materials and never take shortcuts.  We look at your roof as a major investment and strive to identify root causes of any problems and provide long-lasting solutions.  Contact T2K Roofing for a  comprehensive level of residential roofing services.