Beware of fraudulent roofers

Unfortunately, last Sunday's hail storms in North Texas have already brought out scam artists.  If you were in an area hit by hail, here are some tips to ensure you stay safe and do not get scammed:

• Use the internet to search your roofing company's name.  Reputable companies should have a professional site.
• Check to see if your roofer is RCAT certified (Roofing Contractors Association of Texas).  The roofing industry in Texas is not regulated.  Reputable companies will carry this certification as it is voluntary and shows they are a trusted contractor.
• Search your company's name on the Better Business Bureau website.  If you see a failing grade or bad reviews, that is a big red flag.  If you can not find a company's name, that is another red flag.
• If a roofer asks you to pay in advance, say "no thank you."  For no reason should you need to make any payments before work has started.
• Check your roofer's phone number.  Are they local?  Ensure that you hire someone who is local vs. someone who has popped into town to capitalize on the business.  Should anything go wrong with your roof, you will want someone local to call and handle.  
• Be careful working with door-to-door salesmen.  Reputable roofing companies are well-established and do not need to gain business by door knocking.