10 Red Flags to Watch Out for When Hiring a Roofer

1. No License or Insurance
A reputable roofer should always be licensed to operate in your state and carry both liability and workers’ compensation insurance. If they can’t provide proof of either, walk away. Without insurance, you could be liable for any injuries that occur on your property.

2. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
If a roofer is pushing you to sign a contract immediately or offering “today only” pricing, that’s a huge red flag. A trustworthy contractor will give you time to review your options and won’t try to rush your decision.

3. No Written Estimate
Always ask for a detailed, written estimate. If the contractor refuses or gives you a vague verbal quote, that’s a sign of unprofessionalism and a possible setup for hidden fees later.

4. Too-Good-To-Be-True Prices
We all love a good deal, but if the price seems way lower than other estimates, be cautious. Cheap bids often mean corners are being cut on labor, materials, or safety protocols.

5. Poor Online Reviews or No Online Presence
Check their reviews on Google, Yelp, BBB, and social media. If you can’t find much about them online or they have consistently poor reviews, it may be best to move on.

6. No Local References or Portfolio
If a roofer can’t provide references from local customers or examples of nearby completed projects, it’s a red flag. At Andrews Roofing, we proudly showcase hundreds of real addresses and photos of roofs we’ve installed across Florida.

7. No Contract or a One-Page Contract
Your contract should include the scope of work, payment terms, timeline, warranties, and cleanup process. If the contractor gives you a short, vague contract or insists on working without one, that puts your project at risk.

8. Requires Full Payment Up Front
A professional roofer will typically ask for a deposit, but never full payment before the work begins. Be cautious if someone demands 100% payment before materials are even delivered.

9. Out-of-Town Contractors After a Storm
Storm chasers often flood into town after hurricanes or hailstorms, offering fast fixes and disappearing just as quickly. Always choose a local, established company like Andrews Roofing, with a proven track record and ties to the community.

10. No Physical Office or Address
A trustworthy roofer should have a physical business location—not just a P.O. box or a phone number. If something goes wrong, you want to know exactly where to find them. Lack of a physical address often means the company isn’t established or may disappear after collecting payment.