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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Fort Washington

Roofing scams can hit hard in Fort Washington, especially after storms when roofs are vulnerable. Unscrupulous folks might show up at your door promising miracle fixes, but leave you high and dry. Stick with me—I'll show you the red flags and smart steps to keep your home safe.

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✓ Verify contractors • ✓ Spot red flags • ✓ Avoid common schemes

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Fort Washington

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser Scams

Out-of-town crews swarm after storms, inflate minor damage, collect hefty deposits, then disappear without fixing anything.

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Deposit and Dash

Contractor starts with a small job or inspection, demands 50%+ payment, then ghosts you mid-project.

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Bait-and-Switch Pricing

Ultra-low initial bid to win the job, then 'discovers' issues requiring thousands more, or swaps cheap materials.

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Shoddy Work Shortcuts

Rips off old roof but skips underlayment, proper flashing, or ventilation—leading to leaks soon after.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Insist on a certificate of insurance for general liability (at least $50K per occurrence) and workers' compensation. Call the listed insurance provider directly using the number on their website (not the contractor's copy) to confirm coverage dates and limits.

2

Licensing

Maryland requires roofers to hold a MHIC (Maryland Home Improvement Commission) license for residential and commercial work. Verify it free on the DLLR website: dllr.state.md.us/license/mhic/. Search by contractor name or license number—never hire without confirming it's active.

3

References

Request contact info for at least 3 recent Fort Washington-area clients. Call them to ask about work quality, timeliness, and if they'd hire again. Cross-check reviews on BBB.org, Angi, or Google.

Protection FAQs

Do roofers need a license in Fort Washington, MD?

Yes, Maryland law requires a MHIC license for any home improvement work over $500, including roofing. Unlicensed work is illegal—check dllr.state.md.us/license/mhic/.

How do I check a roofer's insurance?

Get a digital or paper certificate naming you as additional insured. Verify directly with the insurer to ensure it's not expired or fake.

Is it normal to pay a roofing deposit upfront?

A small deposit (10-30%) after contract signing is common, but never full payment. Pay progressively as work advances.

What if a roofer knocks on my door uninvited?

Politely decline and call local licensed pros instead. Door-to-door sales are a huge red flag in roofing.

How many roofing quotes should I get?

At least 3 from verified, local contractors. Compare apples-to-apples on materials, scope, and warranties.

What permits are needed for roofing in Prince George's County?

Most roof replacements require a building permit. Trustworthy roofers handle this—confirm with the county at princegeorgescountymd.gov.

Can I spot fake roof damage myself?

Look for missing granules, cracked shingles, or interior stains. But get a professional inspection from a licensed roofer before repairs.

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