6 Red Flags of an Unreliable Roofing Contractor

A new roof is one of the biggest investments you can make in your home, but choosing the wrong contractor can lead to costly mistakes and stress.

At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate estimates, inspections, and warranties while protecting your home.

In this article, we’ll walk you through six red flags of unreliable roofing contractors and provide practical tips to spot (and avoid) them, so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind:

1. They Don’t Inspect Your Roof or Attic
2. Lack of Proper Licensing or Insurance
3. Vague or Unclear Estimates
4. Poor Communication or Unresponsiveness
5. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
6. Negative Reviews or No References

1. They Don’t Inspect Your Roof or Attic

A thorough inspection is the first step to a successful roofing project. If a contractor does not initiate getting on your roof or checking your attic, they may miss potential problems. Issues like deteriorating decking, improper ventilation, or hidden damage can significantly affect your project’s cost and longevity.

What Happens Without This Step:

• Hidden damage could go unnoticed, leading to costly repairs during construction.
• You risk installing a new roof over compromised decking or poor ventilation.

Actionable Tips:

• Ask contractors to provide a detailed inspection report with photos.
  • Note: Some contractors may charge for an inspection report, so it’s best to ask ahead if this service has a fee attached to it. Finding a contractor who charges for detailed inspection reports can be a very positive sign. Those contractors will likely give you more detailed information during and after their inspection time.
• Confirm they check the attic, decking, and ventilation, not just the exterior shingles.
• Consider getting a second opinion if the contractor skipped that step.

2. Lack of Proper Licensing or Insurance

Hiring a contractor who isn’t licensed or insured is risky. Licensing ensures they can pull permits and meet local building codes, while insurance protects you if an accident happens on your property. Skipping this step might save a few dollars upfront, but could cost tens of thousands later.

What Happens Without This Step:

• You could be liable for accidents or damages.
• Your project might not pass inspections, delaying completion.

Actionable Tips:

• Verify licensing and insurance through state or local databases.
• Ask for proof of insurance and confirm coverage dates.
• Never sign a contract with a contractor who can’t provide these credentials.

3. Vague or Unclear Estimates

A contractor who provides a pencil-written estimate without specifying brands or materials is a major red flag. Your roof’s materials, including shingles, underlayment, and decking, should be clearly listed. Without these details, the estimate could balloon as the project progresses.

What Happens Without This Step:

• Hidden costs may arise mid-project.
• You won’t know what you’re paying for until problems occur.

Actionable Tips:

• Request a detailed, written estimate listing all materials, brands, and quantities.
• Ask how changes to materials or unexpected repairs would affect the total cost.
• Compare multiple estimates to ensure pricing and inclusions are consistent.

4. Poor Communication or Unresponsiveness

Timely communication is essential. If a contractor doesn’t return calls, answer questions, or respond promptly, it signals potential issues down the line. Clear communication from start to finish is a cornerstone of a smooth roofing project.

What Happens Without This Step:

• Misunderstandings and delays become common.
• You may be left in the dark about progress or issues.

Actionable Tips:

• Pay attention to early communication. Noting how promptly a contractor responds can help you gauge how they prioritize client communication.
• Align on communication expectations upfront. Agreeing on update frequency and preferred methods early helps everyone stay on the same page.
• Choose a partner who communicates consistently. If communication doesn’t feel like a good fit, it’s okay to keep looking for a contractor whose style aligns better with yours.

5. High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Pressure to make quick decisions, unusually long in-home consultations, or constant “sharpening the pencil” to prolong initial meetings are warning signs. A reputable contractor respects your time and decisions and will provide guidance without pushing you into choices that may not fit your needs or budget.

What Happens Without This Step:

• You might commit to materials or services that aren’t right for your home.
• Stress increases during a process that should be manageable and clear.

Actionable Tips:

• Take your time reviewing estimates and materials; don’t be rushed.
• Ask clarifying questions about pricing and alternatives.
• Trust your instincts. If it feels pushy, it probably is.

More Examples of High-Pressure Sales Tactics:

• Bundling Services Unnecessarily: Pressuring you to buy extra services you don’t need.
• Overstating Urgency: Suggesting your roof is in immediate danger without evidence.
• Ignoring Questions: Avoiding or deflecting your concerns to maintain control of the conversation.
• Discount Games and Unnecessary Bundling: Offering “negotiated” pricing only if you commit on the spot.
• Threatening Price Increases and Fear-Based Language: Claiming materials or labor costs will skyrocket tomorrow. Pushing you to make decisions while you’re busy or distracted.

6. Negative Reviews or No References

Always check reviews and ask for past project references. Low star ratings (4.4 stars or lower), consistent negative feedback, or a lack of verifiable references can indicate poor workmanship or customer service. Look for contractors with multiple positive reviews and a track record of completing roofs that last.

What Happens Without This Step:

• You risk hiring someone whose work may fail prematurely.
• Poor service or quality could lead to ongoing headaches and costs.

Actionable Tips:

• Read reviews on Google, Facebook, and other platforms. Focus on trends, not single complaints.
• Ask for references from projects similar to yours and call them.
• Verify how long past clients’ roofs have lasted and ask about any post-installation issues.

Next Steps to Hiring Your Roofing Contractor

Hiring the right roofing contractor is key to protecting your home and avoiding costly mistakes. By spotting red flags like vague estimates, poor communication, or missing licenses, you can confidently identify trustworthy contractors.

At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we guide homeowners through every step, ensuring your roof is installed correctly and built to last.

Schedule a consultation with our team today to discuss your roofing project and get expert guidance tailored to your home.

Now that you know more about red flags of an unreliable roofing contractor, let’s explore a deeper look into common roofing materials, the signs you may need a replacement, and roof design types to complement your home:

• Comparing Roofing Materials for Your Michigan Home - Learn more about the various roofing materials you can incorporate into your replacement project.
• 8 Signs You May Need a Roof Replacement in Michigan -  Discover the key warning signs that indicate it’s time to replace your roof before small issues turn into costly problems.
• Comparing 3 Michigan Roof Design Types for Your Home -  Explore the pros and cons of three popular roof styles to find the best fit for your Michigan home’s style, durability, and performance.