Red Flags for Roofing Companies: What to Watch Out For!

Having a quality roof protects your home and family, so you need a contractor you can trust. However, not all roofing companies are reputable. So how do you know which contractor won’t cut corners, use subpar materials, or disappear before completing the job?

To help you avoid a costly mistake, we’ve compiled a list of red flags to watch out for when evaluating roofing companies in Santa Rosa. If you encounter any of these warning signs, it’s best to look elsewhere for a reliable and professional roofer.

No License or Insurance

One of the biggest red flags is a roofing contractor that cannot provide proof of licensing or insurance. In California, roofing contractors are required to have a C-39 roofing contractor license issued by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). A lack of proper licensing means they may not meet state safety and quality standards.

Don’t risk it! Check licensin to find a reliable roofer you.

Extremely Low Estimates

If a roofing company provides a quote that’s significantly lower than others, be cautious. While everyone loves a good deal, an unusually low price could mean:

● Cheap or substandard materials that won’t last

● Lack of proper permits or cutting corners on building codes

● Hidden fees that will increase the cost later

● Poor workmanship that may lead to expensive repairs in the future

● Under paid workers: exploited, under the table, and/or failure to have proper

worker’s comp- potentially leaving you liable if someone gets hurt on your job.

No Written Contract or Warranty

A professional roofing company should always provide a detailed, written contract that outlines:

● Scope of work

● Materials to be used

● Timeline for completion

● Total cost and payment schedule

If a contractor refuses to give you a written agreement, walk away. Without a contract, you have no legal protection if something goes wrong.

Pushy Sales Tactics or High-Pressure Offers

If a roofer is pressuring you to sign a contract on the spot, be wary. Dishonest contractors often use scare tactics, such as claiming your roof is in immediate danger, to rush you into a decision. They may also offer "limited-time discounts" to pressure you into committing without proper research.

Unprofessional Behavior or Poor Communication

Pay attention to how a roofing contractor communicates with you from the start. Warning signs include:

● Not returning calls or emails promptly

● Showing up late or missing appointments

● Giving vague or inconsistent answers

● Being rude or dismissive of your concerns

No Local Reputation or References

A roofing contractor without a strong local presence is a major red flag. Scammers often move from town to town, collecting down payments before disappearing.

An out of town company will also have very little accountability if anything goes wrong with your roof.  And they know that, so they will not take as much care on your project as a local company with an established reputation in their own community.

Before hiring a roofing company, check their:

● Local address and phone number (Avoid companies that only provide a P.O. box or out-of-state contacts.)

● Online reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB)

● References from previous clients (A reputable roofer should gladly provide these.)

If a contractor has no verifiable local history or has many negative reviews, it’s best to look elsewhere.

Requesting Full Payment Upfront

Be cautious of any contractor demanding full payment before starting the job.  This is illegal. Reputable roofing companies have  reasonable payment structures. The maximum deposit allowed is 10% or $1,000, whichever is less. and then structured payments should follow project milestones.

Hire a Green Flag Company – Amy’s Roofing and Solar

Don’t risk your home by hiring the wrong contractor. Contact Amy’s Roofing & Solar today or give us a call at (707) 981-9801 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. Let’s ensure your roof is built to last!