Is the roof for free real? After an extreme weather event, experts recommend getting an inspection from experienced roofing professionals. In this kind of situation, be careful of who you hire because it's when storm chasers are prevalent. They are unreliable individuals who try to take advantage of homeowners. It isn't uncommon for them to suddenly knock on your door and offer a "free roof." 

What Is a "Free" Roof?

Roofing projects are expensive, so an offer of a “free roof” can seem irresistible. In many of these cases the roofer isn’t being generous — they’re proposing to hide or falsify insurance details (for example “we’ll pay your deductible” or “we’ll increase the insurance invoice so it covers the deductible”). Those practices can amount to insurance fraud, and if you participate — even unknowingly — you could face civil penalties, criminal charges, higher premiums, or a denied claim.

Saying “yes” to a free roof can cost you far more than the deductible. When in doubt, slow down, verify everything with your insurer, and use licensed, reputable contractors who put agreements in writing. If you’d like, I can help you draft questions to ask contractors or a short checklist to carry when you get estimates.

Contractors participating in free roof scams are typically nowhere to be found after incorrectly installing your roof. Sometimes, they even disappear without completing the job. It's among the many reasons to work with a reputable local roofing company for your roof repair and replacement needs. 

How Do You Avoid a "Roof for free" Scams?

Before hiring a roofer, take time to verify who you’re dealing with. A new roof is a major investment, and a little due diligence can protect you from costly scams. Start by running background checks on any contractor you’re considering. Confirm that they hold the proper licenses, bonding, and insurance, and make sure those documents are current. Reading reviews on reputable sites and checking with your local Better Business Bureau or consumer protection office can reveal a history of complaints or unresolved disputes.

Whenever possible, ask friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers for recommendations. First-hand referrals often point you to trustworthy companies with proven track records in your community. Be especially cautious if someone shows up uninvited, going door to door with flyers or promising prices that seem too good to be true. These “storm chasers” often appear after bad weather, claiming they can start work immediately. A common tactic is to offer an extremely low estimate at first, then—once your project is underway—claim that material costs suddenly increased, forcing you to pay more.

Another red flag is high-pressure sales behavior: insisting that you sign a contract on the spot or saying the “special deal” expires today. Never sign anything until you’ve had time to research the company, compare multiple estimates, and read the contract carefully.

Taking these steps—checking credentials, reading reviews, and seeking trusted referrals—will help ensure you hire a reputable professional and avoid the headaches of roofing scams, especially during seasons when urgent repairs are common and unscrupulous contractors try to take advantage of homeowners.

Look out for individuals who go door to door, handing out fliers and offering prices too good to be true. In the middle of your project, they might claim that material prices have increased, meaning you end up paying a higher amount. They may also pressure you into signing a contract on the spot. You should never sign anything before doing your research.

roofingMake the most of your investment by working with a reputable roofing contractor. You can always count on State Roofing & Exteriors for superior roofing products and services. Call us or complete our online form to get a free estimate. We serve clients around Tacoma and Kirkland, WA.