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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in Como, TX

Storm season in Hopkins County can bring out the best in neighbors — and the worst in shady contractors. After hail damage or high winds, storm chasers often roll through Como promising quick fixes and even quicker deals. A trustworthy roofer doesn't pressure you into signing anything same-day. They provide clear written estimates, carry proper insurance, and have a local track record you can verify. Here's how to spot the difference and protect your home or business.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in Como

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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Storm Chaser / FEMA Fraud

After a hailstorm or wind event, out-of-town contractors swarm Como neighborhoods offering to handle everything — inspection, insurance claim, and repairs. They often demand you sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) form, giving them direct control over your insurance payout. Once they get paid, they do shoddy work or disappear entirely.

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The Lowball Quote Bait-and-Switch

A roofer gives you an unusually low estimate to beat out competitors. Once they start the job — often after tearing off your old roof — they claim they found "unexpected damage" like rotted decking or structural issues that require immediate, costly add-ons. You're left paying far more than the original quote, often with no written authorization for the extras.

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Supplies Left on Your Driveway (Material Scam)

A contractor drops off roofing materials at your property and claims a "supplier mix-up" means they need payment immediately to release the crew to start work. In some variations, they claim they have leftover materials from another job and can offer a discount — but the materials are cheap, damaged, or stolen.

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The Disappearing Contractor

A roofer takes a deposit or partial payment, starts the job, then vanishes before completing the work. You're left with a torn-off roof, exposed decking, and no way to reach them. These scammers often use P.O. boxes, prepaid phones, and fake business names that change frequently.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

Ask for a certificate of insurance directly from their provider — not just a paper copy they hand you. Verify they carry both general liability insurance (to cover damage to your property) and workers' compensation insurance (to cover injuries to their crew). If they don't have workers' comp, you could be held liable for on-site injuries.

2

Licensing

Texas does not require a statewide license for roofers, but Hopkins County and the City of Como may have local permitting requirements. Ask for their Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) registration if they are handling insurance claims. Always confirm their business is registered with the Texas Secretary of State and check for any complaints through the Better Business Bureau.

3

References

Ask for at least three recent roofing jobs in or near Como, TX. Call those homeowners and ask about the quality of work, whether the crew was respectful, if cleanup was thorough, and if any issues came up after the job. A legitimate roofer with a local reputation will happily provide references — scammers will make excuses.

Protection FAQs

Do roofers in Texas need a state license?

No, Texas does not have a statewide licensing requirement for roofing contractors. However, roofers who handle insurance claims must register with the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI). Always check local requirements in Hopkins County and the City of Como, and verify the roofer is registered to do business with the Texas Secretary of State.

How can I check if a roofer has complaints against them?

Search the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for any complaints or ratings. You can also check with the Hopkins County Sheriff's Office or the Como city clerk's office for any local consumer complaints. Finally, search the roofer's name along with words like "complaint" or "scam" to see what comes up organically.

What should a roofing contract include?

A complete roofing contract should include: full scope of work, specific materials and brands, color and style selections, project start and completion dates, payment schedule, cleanup and debris removal terms, warranty information (both materials and workmanship), and a cancellation policy. Never sign a contract with blank spaces or vague language.

Is it normal for a roofer to ask for money upfront?

Some deposit is common — typically 10% to 15% of the total project cost — but never pay the full amount upfront. Be very cautious of anyone demanding 50% or more before work starts. Legitimate roofers have enough business credit to buy materials and pay their crews without collecting full payment from you first.

What is a storm chaser and how do I avoid them?

Storm chasers are out-of-town contractors who follow severe weather — like the hailstorms that hit Hopkins County — and pressure homeowners into quick contracts. They often lack local licensing, proper insurance, and disappear after payment. Avoid them by asking for local references, verifying their address, and never signing anything the day they knock on your door.

What insurance should a roofing contractor carry?

At minimum, they should carry general liability insurance (covers damage to your property) and workers' compensation insurance (covers injuries to workers on your property). Ask for a certificate of insurance and call the insurance company directly to verify it's active. Without workers' comp, you could be sued if a worker is injured on your property.

How long should a roof last after installation?

A properly installed asphalt shingle roof typically lasts 20 to 30 years. Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years. If a roofer promises a 50-year warranty on an asphalt shingle roof, be skeptical — many of those warranties have strict conditions that void coverage. Focus on the workmanship warranty, which should be at least 5 to 10 years from a reputable contractor.

Can I get a free roof through my insurance claim?

Roofing scammers often promise "free roofs" by claiming they'll handle your insurance deductible. This is illegal in Texas — waiving deductibles constitutes insurance fraud. Your insurance policy has a deductible you are legally required to pay. A legitimate contractor will provide an honest estimate and work with your insurance adjuster, but never promise to cover your deductible.

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