Storm chasers follow hail maps across state lines. Most are gone long before a workmanship problem shows up. These are the warning signs worth walking away over.
High-pressure door-to-door sales
Legitimate local roofers have a backlog after a storm. A crew that needs your signature today is selling urgency, not roofing.
Large upfront payment demands
Materials are typically ordered on the contractor's account. A demand for half the job in cash before work starts is a common disappearing-act setup.
No verifiable local address
A P.O. box, a hotel, or a truck is not an address. If there is no local office, there is nobody to call when the roof leaks next spring.
Refusal to provide insurance certificates
Without general liability and workers' comp, an injury on your property can become your financial problem. Ask for the certificate directly from their insurer.
Vague or blank contract terms
Missing scope, materials, brand, color, start date, or price means anything can be renegotiated later — always upward.
Promising to "waive" your deductible
In many states, including Texas, absorbing a homeowner's insurance deductible is illegal and can constitute insurance fraud for both parties.
No written workmanship warranty
Manufacturer warranties cover the shingle, not the installation. Most storm-damage leaks come from workmanship.
No local references or recent addresses
A real local contractor can name streets in your area they worked on last month. Drive by one.
Asking you to sign an "inspection authorization"
These forms are often a contingency contract in disguise, locking you into the contractor whatever the insurer decides.