Decatur warns of roofing scams after severe weather

Simmy Wood
·1 min read

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — The City of Decatur is advising people to be wary of recent roofing scams in the wake of the city’s recent hail storm.

Houses and business buildings across the community suffered some damage as a result of the weather. City officials said they’ve noticed several roofing service signs popping up and have heard about door-knocking solicitors offering potentially shady inspections.

The Better Business Bureau says roofing scams aren’t uncommon following severe weather. Usually, a fake roofer will offer on-the-spot roof repair or inspection. Upon the homeowner accepting their offer, the “roofer” may fabricate roof damage by tearing off shingles or by showing the resident pictures of another home’s damaged roof. Their goal is to get the vulnerable homeowner to contract them for further repairs, which will likely be costly and unreliable.

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To combat this and prevent oneself from getting scammed, Decatur officials provided the following advice:

  • Be cautious with solicitors and “free” roof inspections

  • Check what your insurance policy covers

  • Research the service company and ensure the roofer is both licensed with the State of Illinois and registered with the City of Decatur (or other appropriate city). Call the company to verify information.

  • Get at least two bids minimum.

For more tips on how not to get scammed and how to find a quality roofer, visit www.BBB.org/Roofing.

If you would like to get a required Decatur permit for roof work, use the city’s permits portal.

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