Your home has been through a weather event—heavy rain, wind, hail, tornado, or even more. Trucks with logos and names you’ve never seen are parked on your normally calm and predictable streets. Your mailbox and front door are littered with advertisements of roofing companies promising free inspections and no cost replacement. With a marketplace so inundated with roofing companies flocking to storm-damaged homes, how do you avoid the scams? Here are 10 tips to protect yourself:

1. Check Location and Duration of the Company: Choose a local company with an established track record and online presence. Compare reviews to include the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

2. Be Wary of High-Pressure Sales: Be wary of unsolicited offers from door-to-door salespeople, especially those who push you to make immediate decisions. Don’t be pressured to sign contracts or let anyone on your roof without proper verification and consultation.

3. Verify Licenses and Insurance: Check that the roofing company is licensed and insured, and that their license is valid. Request proof of liability insurance and ensure it’s still in effect.

4. Get a detailed written contract: The contract should outline the scope of work, materials, timelines, and payment terms.

5. Ask about warranties and guarantees: Reputable companies will offer warranties on their work and materials.

6. Check Reviews: Search for online reviews and ratings of the roofing company.

7. Coordinate with Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company before any work starts to ensure your claim is processed correctly. Get their adjuster to assess the damage before any repairs begin.

8. Never Sign Contracts with Blanks: Make sure all details are filled in before signing any contract. Avoid contracts with blank spaces that could be filled in later with unfavorable terms.

9. Be Wary of Claims such as “50-Year” Shingles: Be skeptical of free inspections, especially if they are offered by door-to-door salespeople. Avoid promises of “50-year” shingles, as this is a common scam. This shingle has a limited warranty against manufacturer defects for 50 years (if installed properly), but this does not mean the shingle will last the full 50 years.

11. Don’t Use Cash for Payments: If paying by check or with credit card, you      can dispute charges if necessary. Cash payments are difficult to track and can be a sign of a scam.

A roof is a significant investment and plays an integral role in your home’s comfort and functionality. Use the above tips to avoid getting scammed by less than reputable companies preying on unsuspecting homeowners. Lastly, to help your neighbors, if you suspect a scam, report it to your local consumer protection agency or the Better Business Bureau.