Avoid Roofing Scams in Selma
Roofing work is essential, but scams are all too common in Selma, especially after storms. Shady operators might promise quick fixes door-to-door, take your deposit, and vanish, leaving you worse off. Listen up—here's how to spot trouble and protect your home like I would for family.
✓ Verify contractors • ✓ Spot red flags • ✓ Avoid common schemes
Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Selma
Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators
Storm Chaser Scam
Out-of-town 'roofers' flood the area after storms, offering cheap repairs. They collect large deposits then disappear or do subpar work.
Upfront Payment or Cash-Only Demand
Scammers insist on full payment or large sums in cash before starting, claiming it's for materials. They take the money and ghost.
Fake Damage or Upsell Scam
They claim urgent issues like 'asbestos shingles' or hidden leaks to jack up costs, using scare tactics.
Phantom Crew Scam
A 'supervisor' shows up briefly, takes payment, but no real work crew ever arrives or they use untrained laborers.
How to Verify a Professional
Insurance
Always request a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for general liability and workers' compensation. Call the listed insurance provider directly using a number from their official website—not from the contractor's docs—to confirm coverage is active and adequate (at least $1M liability recommended).
Licensing
Alabama requires contractors for jobs over $50,000 to be licensed by the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors (ALBGC). Visit their website (lbgc.alabama.gov) or call to verify the contractor's license number and status. For smaller jobs, check with Selma or Dallas County building department for local requirements.
References
Ask for 3-5 recent references from Selma or Dallas County jobs. Contact them personally to verify work quality, completion on time, cleanup, and if they'd recommend the roofer again.
Protection FAQs
Do roofers need to be licensed in Selma, AL?
What if a roofer demands payment upfront?
How do I verify roofing insurance?
Are door-to-door roofers legitimate?
What permits are needed for roofing in Selma?
How can I find reliable roofers in Selma?
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