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🛡️ Consumer Protection Guide

Avoid Roofing Scams in May, TX

Storm season in Brown County brings out plenty of honest roofing contractors — and unfortunately, it also brings out the scammers. Knowing what to look for can save you thousands of dollars and months of headaches. Here's how to spot the red flags and find a roofer who actually delivers on their promises.

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Common Residential & Commercial Roofing Scams in May

Be aware of these tactic used by unlicensed operators

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The Storm Chaser Trap

After a hailstorm or high winds roll through May, out-of-town contractors flood the area offering free inspections. They diagnose damage that may not exist, pressure you to sign an insurance assignment, then do shoddy work or disappear before the job is finished.

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The Insurance Assignment Scam

A roofer asks you to sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) form, giving them the right to deal directly with your insurance company and collect payment. They inflate the claim, and you're left holding the bag if the insurance company denies the inflated amount.

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The Materials Shell Game

A contractor quotes you for premium shingles or materials but installs cheaper, lower-grade products. They may show you samples of quality materials but deliver something entirely different. Some even take your deposit to "order materials" and never return.

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The Unfinished Job Walkaway

A roofer starts the job, does the tear-off, then demands more money to continue. If you refuse, they leave your home exposed to the elements with no roof. You're stuck paying another contractor more to finish the mess.

How to Verify a Professional

1

Insurance

A trustworthy roofer carries general liability insurance (minimum $1 million) and workers' compensation insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance and call the insurance company directly to verify it's active. If they can't provide proof, walk away — you could be liable if a worker gets hurt on your property.

2

Licensing

Texas does not have a statewide roofing license, but check that your contractor is registered with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) if they claim to be. Also verify their local business registration through Brown County. Ask for their TDLR number and confirm it online at www.tdlr.texas.gov.

3

References

Ask for at least three recent local references from jobs completed in or around May, TX. Call those homeowners and ask: Was the work on time? Did they stick to the estimate? Were there surprise costs? Also check Google Reviews, BBB ratings, and the Better Business Bureau of Central Texas.

Protection FAQs

Is it illegal for a roofer to ask for full payment upfront in Texas?

No, but it's a major red flag. Texas law doesn't prohibit upfront payment, but a reputable roofer will never ask for full payment before starting. A standard deposit is 10-30%. If a contractor demands 50% or more upfront, that's a strong warning sign of a potential scam.

How can I tell if a roofer is licensed in Texas?

Texas does not issue a statewide roofing license, but roofing contractors must register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) if they perform work over $2,000. You can verify their TDLR registration at www.tdlr.texas.gov. Also check their Brown County business registration and ask for local references.

What's a storm chaser and why should I avoid them?

Storm chasers are out-of-town contractors who follow severe weather patterns, including storms common in Brown County. They offer quick inspections, pressure you to sign contracts immediately, and often disappear once the job is paid for — leaving you with substandard work and no way to reach them. Always choose a roofer with a permanent local address in or near May, TX.

Should I let my roofer talk to my insurance adjuster?

Be very careful with this. While some legitimate roofers do help with the claims process, never sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) without consulting your insurance agent first. Scammers use AOBs to inflate claims, which can result in your insurance denying payment or dropping your coverage. It's safer to handle the claim yourself and hire the roofer separately.

How do I verify a roofer's insurance in Texas?

Ask the roofer for a certificate of insurance directly from their insurance provider. Call the insurance company listed on the certificate to confirm it's active and valid. Make sure the policy covers both general liability (for damage to your property) and workers' compensation (for injuries to workers). If they can't provide this, do not hire them.

What should be included in a roofing contract?

A solid roofing contract should include: the full scope of work, exact materials (brand, color, model, weight), start and completion dates, payment schedule tied to milestones, cleanup and disposal details, warranty information (manufacturer and workmanship), and a clause allowing you to cancel within 3 business days under Texas law. Never sign a blank or incomplete contract.

How do I report a roofing scam in May, TX?

If you suspect a roofing scam, contact the Brown County Sheriff's Office for local fraud reports, file a complaint with the Texas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-621-0508, and report to the Better Business Bureau serving Central Texas. Also alert your insurance company immediately if you've signed any documents.

Do roofers need a permit in Brown County, TX?

Yes, most roofing replacements in Brown County require a building permit. A trustworthy roofer will pull the permit themselves and include the permit fee in their estimate. If a contractor suggests skipping the permit to save money, that's a red flag — unpermitted work can cause issues with insurance claims and home resale value.

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Licensed & insured professionals CALL NOW: 1-866-674-2070