Avoid Roofing Scams in Mims, FL
Your roof is one of the most important investments you'll make for your Mims home. Unfortunately, roofing scams spike after storms and throughout Brevard County. Knowing how to spot a bad actor before you sign a contract can save you thousands of dollars and serious headaches. Here's what every Mims homeowner needs to know to stay protected.
✓ Verify contractors • ✓ Spot red flags • ✓ Avoid common schemes
Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Mims
Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators
The Storm Chaser
After a hailstorm or hurricane, out-of-town contractors flood into Mims offering 'free inspections' and storm damage claims. They pressure you into signing an insurance assignment of benefits (AOB), then do shoddy work or disappear before the job is done. Many leave town before warranty issues arise.
The Low-Ball Bid Switch
A roofer gives you an extremely low quote to beat out competitors. After you sign and pay a deposit, they claim they 'found serious structural issues' and demand thousands more to continue. You're stuck — either pay up or lose your deposit and start over.
The Insurance Deductible Fraud
A roofer offers to 'waive' or 'absorb' your insurance deductible, claiming they'll work with your insurance to cover everything. This is illegal in Florida. It's insurance fraud, and you could be held liable or have your claim denied.
The Vanishing Warranty
A contractor promises a '20-year workmanship warranty' but is out of business within a year or two. Their phone number is disconnected, their office is empty, and you're left with a leaky roof and no recourse.
How to Verify a Professional
Insurance
Ask for a Certificate of Insurance directly from their insurance agent, not just a paper they hand you. Verify they carry both general liability insurance (to cover damage to your property) and workers' compensation insurance (to cover injuries to workers on your property). Call the insurance company listed to confirm the policy is active.
Licensing
In Florida, roofing contractors must be licensed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Visit the DBPR website and search for the contractor's license number. Verify the license is active, in good standing, and covers roofing specifically — not just a general contractor license. Also check with Brevard County for any additional local licensing requirements.
References
Ask for at least three recent references from jobs completed in Mims or nearby Brevard County communities. Call those homeowners and ask: Was the job finished on time? Did the crew clean up daily? Were there any surprise charges? Also check online reviews on Google and the Better Business Bureau — but be skeptical of reviews that sound overly generic or fake.
Protection FAQs
What is the first thing I should check before hiring a roofer in Mims, FL?
Is it normal for a roofer to ask for money upfront in Florida?
How can I tell if a roofing company is local to Mims?
What should be included in a roofing contract in Florida?
What is a 'storm chaser' roofer and why should I avoid them?
What should I do if I suspect a roofing scam in Mims?
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