Denver, CO – September 8th, 2010 – Summer is winding down and though Colorado didn’t see as many storms as it did in 2009, roofers have still been busy all season. There is a good possibility that contractors might make one last surge to solicit jobs while the weather is still decent.
Complaints against roofers filed with the BBB Serving Denver/Boulder have gone up 247 percent when compared to year-to-date 2009 data with a total of 528 complaints filed so far in 2010. Nationally, BBBs have received more than 7,600 roofer complaints in the last year.
One of the most problematic companies was F-rated American Shingle which had several locations across the U.S., including one in Lakewood, CO. The BBB received several complaints that alleged the company took payment up front and didn’t finish or even start the job, in some cases.
If you are looking for a roofer or if they contact you, take the following advice:
• Start your search with the BBB. Check out the company with your BBB first at www.denver.bbb.org or by calling (303) 758-2100. The last thing you want to do is not check and end up hiring an F-rated company.
• Recognize the red flags. Beware of any contractor that uses high pressure sales tactics or requires full payment upfront. Also avoid contractors that require you to get the necessary permits.
• Vet the contractor carefully. Verify the business meets all state and local requirements including being insured and bonded. Confirm whether or not the roofer will be subcontracting the job or relying on his or her own employees. Also make sure the roofer pulls the applicable city permit to perform the job.
• Beware of storm chasers. They have come and gone since last summer. They often solicit work usually by going door-to-door, in unmarked trucks. They might require advance payment and make big promises that they won’t deliver on. Be wary of these people.
• Get at least three bids. Beware of lowball estimates that may potentially balloon over time or foreshadow shoddy work to come.
• Make sure everything is in writing. Make sure that the full scope of the work is explained in the contract including cleanup and disposal of waste. All verbal agreements need to be included in the written agreement. Pay close attention to the payment terms, estimated price of materials and labor and any warranties or guarantees.
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About the BBB
The BBB is an unbiased nonprofit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB Accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. The BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Reliability ReportsTM on businesses and BBB Wise Giving ReportsTM on charities, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. To further promote trust, your BBB also offers dispute resolution services for consumers and businesses. The first BBB was founded in 1912. Today, 125 BBBs serve communities across the U.S. and Canada. Please visit www.denver.bbb.org for more information.
