Soliciting, Scams, And Storm Chasers- How to Stay Safe and Protect What Matters Most
In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, it is of utmost importance that you and your family don’t fall prey to roofing scams or solicitation. Solicitors and storm-chasing roofing companies use bad weather for profit and to take advantage of the unsuspecting, unknowledgeable, and the vulnerable. Luckily, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a law in 2021 to try and prevent roofing scams.
Roofing scams and soliciting can look like any of the following:
“Door Knocking” – In these situations, roofers will go door-to-door (oftentimes on foot) and try to solicit business. They will often prey on the elderly population or new homeowners. Many will attempt to be extra personable in an effort to gain your trust. It is best to never open the door and engage with any individual who comes to your door unannounced.
Door Hangers – As of 2021, door hangers are not an appropriate means of advertising and are regarded as solicitation. A door hanger is a pamphlet in the shape of a “Do Not Disturb”-type sign that is placed most often around a homeowner’s front door handle. Many will have catchy slogans that are attention-grabbing, such as offering free products. Disregard any roofer that uses these as a form of advertising.
Flyers Attached to Mailboxes – Under the new law, roofing companies cannot walk around neighborhoods stuffing flyers or pamphlets into the outside of a mailbox. All advertising MUST be done through the United States Postal Service or reputable shipping company (FedEx, UPS, etc.) Leaving behind printed materials by hand is prohibited.
Unsolicited Email Correspondence – Roofing companies are no longer able to send emails to you without asking for permission firsthand. As a consumer, disregard any emails from roofing companies who you have not spoken with previously.
“Free Roof” Insurance Scams – Consumers should be especially wary of any company advertising they can get you a roof “for free” by filing an insurance claim. While your insurance company may be able to assist in paying for a significant part of your roofing contract after storm damage, etc., “free roofs” cannot be advertised as the standard.
As a consumer, if you are confronted by any of these scams, you can contact the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Code Red Roofers will never come to your residence without a pre-scheduled site visit or permission from the property owner. We have been in business since 2004 and follow the most rigid industry standards, as well as being fully licensed and insured in the state of Florida.
As a consumer, you have every right to get roofing work done without fear of roofing scams. In order to protect yourself, make sure to avoid solicitors and storm chasers, and report them when you see “scammy” roofing practices.
If you are in need of a roofing estimate ahead of storm season, please fill out our FREE ESTIMATE FORM.