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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Steele

Roofing scams hit hard in areas like Steele, AL, especially after storms sweep through Saint Clair County. Unscrupulous folks show up promising quick fixes but leave you with leaks, liens, or empty pockets. Think of this as advice I'd give my own family—stay smart and safe.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Steele

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scams

Out-of-state crews flood Steele after storms, offering 'emergency' repairs door-to-door. They take big deposits, do shoddy patch work (or none), then vanish.

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Fake Inspection Scams

Contractor 'inspects' your roof for free, declares major hidden damage needing full tear-off. Pressures immediate payment with scare tactics about leaks or collapse.

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Bait-and-Switch Materials

Quotes premium shingles at low price, but delivers/installs cheap imports. Bills extra for 'upgrades' or claims shortages forced changes.

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Phantom Liens

Contractor paid but subs/material suppliers file liens on your property for non-payment, even if you paid the main guy.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) listing general liability (at least $1M) and workers' comp. Call the insurer directly using the contact on the COI—not the contractor's word—to verify coverage dates and limits.

2

Licensing

Alabama roofers need a license from the Licensing Board for General Contractors (LBGCA) for most jobs. Visit lbgca.alabama.gov to search by name or license number. Confirm it's active and covers residential/commercial roofing.

3

References

Request 3-5 recent jobs in Steele or nearby Saint Clair County. Call each reference to ask about work quality, timeliness, cleanup, and if they'd hire again. Check online reviews on BBB or Google for patterns.

Protection FAQs

Do all roofers in Alabama need a license?

Most residential and commercial roofing jobs over $50,000 require a General Contractor license from Alabama's LBGCA. Always verify online, even for smaller jobs—unlicensed work voids insurance claims.

What insurance should a roofer carry?

General liability ($1M+), workers' compensation (required if employees), and commercial auto. Get the COI and call to confirm—no shortcuts.

How soon after a storm should I get my roof fixed?

Tarps for immediate protection, but wait 1-2 days for licensed locals. Avoid chasers—your insurance won't cover unlicensed work.

Is a verbal agreement enough for roofing?

No—always get written contract. It protects against changes, disputes, and ensures warranties.

What if I spot a scam after paying?

Contact Steele PD or Saint Clair Sheriff non-emergency. File with AL Attorney General, FTC, and BBB. Dispute charges if credit card used.

How can I tell good workmanship?

Check for proper underlayment, flashing, ventilation. No shortcuts like nail-only valleys. Ask for photos of attic/inside work.

Hire with Confidence

Don't take risks with your property. We connect you with pre-screened, licensed professionals in Steele.

Licensed & insured professionals CALL NOW: 1-866-674-2070