In the wake of Hurricane Milton, our community in Sarasota and Manatee counties is coming together to rebuild, restore, and support each other. As a trusted local company, Southeastern Roofing & Construction is deeply saddened by the news that, along with all the support flooding in, there are also those looking to take advantage of our neighbors’ losses. We want to ensure that every homeowner can rebuild safely and wisely—without falling victim to the predatory practices that often surface after a disaster.
At Southeastern Roofing & Construction, our commitment goes beyond roofing; it’s about building genuine relationships and supporting our community every step of the way. That’s why we’re sharing these critical tips to help you spot potential roofing scams and feel confident in your decisions moving forward.
1. Look Out for Out-of-Town Contractors without Local Permits
After a big storm, it’s common for contractors from out of town to show up, but not all come with good intentions. Local, reputable companies like Southeastern Roofing & Construction know the local building codes, permitting processes, and the exact needs of your neighborhood. Contractors who don’t have permits or can’t prove they understand local requirements may be cutting corners that could compromise your roof’s longevity and safety.
2. Review Their Contract for a 10-Day Cancellation Clause
Florida law now allows homeowners to cancel a contract to replace or repair a roof without penalty or obligation within 10 days after signing, or by the official start date, whichever comes first, if the contract was entered into based on events that are the subject of a state of emergency declared by the Governor. Source: Florida Roof
Ensure this clause is included in any contract before signing. If it’s missing, consider it a red flag. A legitimate company should be transparent and supportive of your decision-making process.
3. Examine the Warranty Offer and Its Support Plan
A trustworthy contractor will offer a clear, realistic warranty. Ask them how long the warranty lasts, what it covers, and how they’ll honor it if they’re based out of state or county. If they can’t give you a clear answer, this could mean you’ll have little recourse if problems arise. Local companies are best positioned to honor warranties in your area.
4. Be Wary of Unsolicited Door-Knockers Claiming to Spot Damage
After a storm, some people may show up at your door claiming they “noticed damage” to your roof. While some legitimate companies may canvass neighborhoods, unsolicited visits can be a red flag. Take time to verify the company, check for a local office, and research their reputation online before signing anything.
5. Beware of Roof Financing that Feels Tied to Solar Loans
In recent years, we’ve seen an alarming trend: contractors offering to finance roofs by bundling them into solar loans. While solar may be a great choice for many homeowners, combining roof financing with a solar loan often adds complexity and costs that aren’t always in the customer’s favor. Make sure you fully understand the terms of any financing and don’t feel pressured to add more than what you need.
6. Be Cautious of Inflated Pricing Due to High Demand
In the aftermath of disasters, some contractors may exploit the situation by significantly increasing their prices, a practice known as price gouging. For instance, reports have surfaced of companies charging as much as $750 for a roof inspection, which is exorbitant. Florida law prohibits unconscionable pricing during a declared state of emergency. Source: My Florida Legal
At Southeastern Roofing & Construction, we uphold fair and sustainable pricing and will never take advantage of our neighbors in their time of need.
7. Exercise Patience and Conduct Thorough Research
We understand that everyone wants their projects completed promptly, but it’s crucial to be patient and diligent in your research. Ensure you’re working with a reputable, local, and trustworthy company. Look for authentic reviews, ask for local neighborhood references, verify their license number online, and confirm their physical address. Be patient with the people you speak to, but hold them accountable to get back to you and fulfill their commitments as promised.
As your trusted roofing professionals in Sarasota and Manatee counties, we’re here to support and guide you through this challenging time. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns about potential roofing scams or if you need a reputable second opinion. Your safety, satisfaction, and peace of mind are our top priorities.
Contact Southeastern Roofing & Construction today and let’s rebuild our community together—honestly and safely.