Drew Roofing, St. Petersburg, Florida, How To Avoid Roofing Scams

Common Roofing Scams in Florida and How to Avoid Them

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Protect Yourself from Costly Roofing Scams: Learn How to Spot Common Frauds, Understand Florida Laws and Keep Your Home Safe from Unlicensed Contractors and Digital Scams

As one of St. Petersburg’s trusted family-owned roofing companies, Drew Roofing is committed to not only protecting your home, but also protecting you from roofing scams that have become all too common across Florida. Between aggressive “storm chasers,” text scams, and even insurance fraud, it’s critical for South Pinellas County residents and business owners to know the warning signs before hiring any roofing contractor.

The Most Common Roofing Scams in Florida

1. Storm Chaser and Door-to-Door Scams

After severe weather, such as when hurricanes hit the area, “storm chasers” often flood Florida neighborhoods. They may knock on your door or leave flyers promising fast repairs and often use scare tactics:

  • High-pressure sales (“Spots are filling up, act now!”)

  • Demanding large cash deposits up-front or full payment before work begins

  • Vague business addresses or only a temporary phone number

As a reminder, Florida law requires roofing contractors to be licensed and insured. Accepting roofing work or payment from an individual or company posing as a contractor without a valid license is a crime.​

2. Insurance Deductible Fraud

Some scammers offer to “cover your deductible” or ask you to exaggerate the insurance claim to get a new roof “for free.” This is not just dishonest, it’s insurance fraud. The punishment for insurance fraud in the state of Florida can result in felony indictments for the homeowner and possible prison time. If a contractor asks you to manipulate or exaggerate an insurance claim or waive your deductible, it can make you liable for insurance fraud.

3. Unlicensed or Uninsured Contractors

Unlicensed roofers may promise cheaper rates but produce poor quality work, void warranties and leave homeowners legally responsible. They may also lack proper insurance, putting you at financial risk if an accident occurs during your project. When hiring any roofing company, always verify contractors with the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation before signing a contract.

4. Lowball Estimates and “Bait-and-Switch” Tactics

Scammers may offer an unusually low bid, then start adding on extra costs once the work begins. Others may swap promised high-quality materials for cheaper, less durable alternatives. Homeowners can avoid this scam, by getting multiple quotes and always requiring a detailed contract specifying materials, timeline, and payment schedule.​

5. Warranty and Fake Damage Scams

Beware of anyone who claims you have roof damage after a “free inspection,” especially if you didn’t request one. Some fabricate or exaggerate damage to create unneeded repairs, leaving you with the bill and no recourse.

6. Text and Digital Roofing Scams

Florida residents are also seeing a rise in digital scams. Homeowners may see some common text messages from unknown numbers with offers like:

  • “We’re working in your area! Free roof inspection—reply Y to schedule.”

  • “Your neighbor just filed a roof claim, get yours before it’s too late!”

As a licensed and insured professional roofing company, Drew Roofing recommends that homeowners never click on any suspicious links or respond to any of these unknown senders. These phishing attempts can lead to fraud, identity theft or unwanted solicitation.

Drew Roofing, St. Petersburg, Florida, Avoid Roofing Scams Sent Via Text

How to Protect Yourself From Roofing Scams

Before hiring anyone to repair or replace your roof, take a cautious and informed approach. Scammers often take advantage of stressful situations by rushing homeowners into quick decisions with high-pressure tactics and empty promises. By following a few clear steps and knowing what to look for, you can protect your home, avoid fraud, and ensure your roof is in the hands of a reputable, licensed professional, such as Drew Roofing.

  • Always verify licenses with the Florida DBPR.

  • Request proof of insurance and check the Better Business Bureau or online reviews.

  • Get multiple written quotes for your project.

  • Don’t respond to unsolicited text messages.

  • NEVER pay a large deposit or the full amount up front.

  • Insist on a detailed contract specifying materials, costs, and scope of work.

  • Avoid feeling pressured. It is important to take your time to do the research.

If You Need Repairs To Your Roof, Call The Licensed Experts At Drew Roofing Today

At Drew Roofing, honesty and quality are at the heart of everything we do. If you need a trustworthy roof inspection or roof replacement service in St. Petersburg, call us today at 727-522-3739 or contact us on our website. We’ll always provide credentials that you can verify upon request. If you feel suspicious about a contractor, don’t ever let them touch your roof. Only choose local experts that put your safety first!

Contact Drew Roofing today for a free, licensed, and professional roof assessment today and get your roof, done right.