Don't Get Ripped Off: The Austin Homeowner's Guide to Hiring Roofers

Written By Cody Profitt

Why Austin Homeowners Get Targeted by Roofing Scams

Austin’s crazy weather and booming growth make it a goldmine for both honest roofers and smooth-talking scammers. After every hailstorm, out-of-state contractors flood our neighborhoods like vultures, promising miracle fixes and “special deals.”

Here’s the truth: Good roofers don’t need to knock on doors. They’re already swamped with work from happy customers who refer them

Red Flags That Scream "SCAM!"

The Door Knocker

They show up uninvited claiming they “noticed damage” while “working in the neighborhood.” Real talk: This is how 90% of roofing scams start.

The Pressure Cooker

“This price is only good TODAY!” or “Sign now or lose this deal forever!” Legitimate contractors give you time to think. Scammers create fake urgency.

The Cash Grabber

They want full payment upfront or only accept cash. Nope. Real contractors take small deposits and offer multiple payment options.

The Insurance “Helper”

They promise to waive your deductible (that’s insurance fraud!) or guarantee your claim will be approved. Run.

What Legit Roofers Must Have (No Exceptions!)

Texas License

Every roofer must have a current Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation license. Check it yourself online – don’t just trust their word.

Insurance That Actually Exists

They need both liability insurance AND workers’ comp. Get the certificates directly from the insurance company, not photocopies.

Real Address

Visit their actual office. If it’s a P.O. box or empty lot, that’s a hard no.

Manufacturer Certifications

Look for certifications from GAF, CertainTeed, or Owens Corning. These mean the roofer has real training and can offer better warranties.

How to Research Like a Detective

Start with Real People

Ask neighbors, friends, and your local hardware store. Real recommendations beat fake online reviews every time.

Check Multiple Websites

Don’t just look at Google reviews. Check Angie’s List, Better Business Bureau, and manufacturer websites.

Look Up Their Legal History

Travis County’s online records show if they’ve been sued or had liens filed against them. Patterns of lawsuits = big red flag.

Getting Quotes That Actually Mean Something

Get At Least 3 Estimates

This gives you a real sense of fair pricing. If one is way higher or lower, ask why.

Demand Details

Vague estimates are useless. You need specific materials, labor descriptions, timelines, and warranty info.

Don’t Auto-Pick the Cheapest

The lowest bid often means corner-cutting or cheap materials. Look for the best value, not the lowest price.

Make Them Explain Everything

Good contractors can explain their pricing and methods. If they get defensive or can’t answer questions, keep shopping.

Contract Must-Haves

Specific Materials List

Brand names, model numbers, quantities – everything detailed so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Clear Timeline

Start and finish dates with weather allowances. Include penalties for unreasonable delays.

Smart Payment Schedule

Payments tied to completed work, not random dates. Small deposit to start, majority due when finished.

Warranty Details

What’s covered, for how long, and what voids it. Get both material and labor warranties in writing.

Insurance Claims: Don't Get Played

They Can Help, But You’re in Charge

Good contractors assist with paperwork and damage documentation. They don’t take over your claim.

Stay in the Loop

Don’t let contractors handle all insurance communication. It’s your policy and your claim.

Understand the Numbers

If contractor pricing is way above insurance estimates, ask why. Discuss differences upfront to avoid nasty surprises.

Managing Your Project Like a Pro

Set Communication Rules

How often will you get updates? Phone, text, or email? Who’s your main contact? Nail this down first.

Plan for Problems

Weather delays happen. Unexpected damage gets discovered. Agree upfront how these situations get handled.

Realistic Timelines

Quality work takes time. Contractors promising impossibly fast completion are probably cutting corners.

Before You Pay: The Final Checklist

Walk-Through Inspection

Check everything with the contractor present. Take photos of any issues and get written promises to fix them.

Warranty Registration

Make sure all manufacturer warranties are registered within required timeframes. Keep all paperwork.

Document Everything

Contracts, permits, inspections, warranties – store them safely. You’ll need them later.

Building a Relationship That Lasts

The best contractors become long-term partners for your home. They provide ongoing support, annual inspections, and priority service for future needs.

Look for contractors who offer maintenance programs and can match materials for future repairs. This relationship is worth more than saving a few bucks upfront.