Your roof is more than just shingles and nails; it’s the first line of defense that protects your family, your belongings, and the value of your home. That’s why choosing the right roofing contractor isn’t just a decision; it’s an investment in your home’s safety and future.
Unfortunately, not every roofer delivers on their promises. Hiring the wrong one can lead to poor workmanship, hidden costs, leaks, and even long-term structural damage. Homeowners across Cape Cod and Mashpee, MA, often share stories of roof repairs gone wrong simply because they trusted the wrong contractor.
The good news is, you don’t have to make that mistake. In this guide, we’ll share the most common warning signs of bad roofing contractors and provide a clear checklist for finding trusted, affordable roofers near you. With over 50 years of combined roofing experience, Corey and Corey the Roofers have seen it all, and we’ll help you spot the red flags before they cost you.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for, what to avoid, and how to choose a roofing company you can trust with your home.
Sign #1: No License or Insurance
This is the biggest red flag. It’s the most critical warning sign you can encounter. In our years serving homeowners across Cape Cod and Mashpee, we’ve seen too many people burned by unlicensed roofers who cut corners and disappeared when problems surfaced.
A valid license means your roofer has been vetted by state or local authorities. It’s the most basic proof that they’re trained, legitimate, and accountable. Insurance is equally vital. It’s not just paperwork, it’s your shield. If a roofer damages your home or if someone gets hurt on your property, you shouldn’t be left paying the bill.
At Corey and Corey Roofing, we’re fully licensed and insured because protecting your home and your peace of mind is non-negotiable. When you search online, don’t just look for “roofers near me.” Look for “licensed and insured roofing contractors near me.” Always ask for documentation and verify it with the issuing agency. A trustworthy roofer will never hesitate to provide it.
Sign #2: Extremely Low or Suspiciously High Quotes
Many Cape Cod homeowners tell us they’ve been caught by quotes that looked like a bargain but ended up costing double in surprise fees. That’s why we believe a roofer’s estimate should never just be a number; it’s a reflection of how that company operates.
A fair estimate should explain everything clearly
- cost of materials,
- Labor
- Tear-off
- Disposal
- Permits & warranties
When those details are missing, it’s usually a red flag. Some contractors use “too good to be true” pricing, but that often means cutting corners with cheap shingles, rushed workmanship, or surprise add-ons later. On the other hand, an unusually high quote could be simple price gouging, especially after a storm when homeowners are under pressure.
How to Find the Best Roofing Contractors
The best way to protect yourself is to get at least three written estimates from licensed and insured local roofing contractors. Don’t just compare the price; look at the quality of materials, the warranty offered, and the roofer’s reputation.
As affordable roofers on Cape Cod, we’ve built our name on transparent estimates, affordable pricing, and clear communication. When you call us for a free estimate, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for, no hidden costs, no surprises, just reliable roofing services you can trust.
Sign #3: No Written Contract or Warranty
We always tell homeowners on Cape Cod the same thing: if a roofer won’t give you a written contract or a warranty, that’s your signal to walk away immediately. It’s one of the clearest red flags in the roofing industry.
Why does this matter so much? Because a contract isn’t just “paperwork,” it’s your safety net. It protects you from surprises and makes sure everyone is on the same page. A solid contract should spell out:
- Total price (so it doesn’t “magically” change halfway through).
- Scope of work (materials, colors, cleanup, ventilation).
- Timeline (start and completion dates you can hold them accountable to).
Without a written contract, you’re vulnerable. We’ve seen homeowners stuck with unfinished jobs, cheap substitute materials, or extra bills they never agreed to, simply because nothing was in writing.
And then there’s the warranty. A new roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make in your home. A strong warranty is your guarantee that the roof will last:
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: Covers the roofing materials against defects.
- Workmanship Warranty: The roofer’s promise to fix any problems caused by improper installation.
If a contractor can’t offer both, that’s a serious problem. Reputable roofers put their promises in writing because they stand behind their work. The ones who don’t? Often, they won’t be around when problems show up.
As the best roofers on Cape Cod, we treat every roofing job like it’s our own home. That means clear, detailed contracts and warranties on every project. No hidden terms, no vague promises, just transparency and accountability you can rely on.
Sign #4: Poor Online Reviews or No References
In today’s world, checking online reviews is like asking your neighbors for advice; you want to know who they trust before you invite someone to work on your home. As someone who has seen both reliable roofers and not-so-great ones, I can tell you that reviews can save you from a lot of stress and wasted money.
How to Check Reviews (It’s Easy!)
- Google: Simply type in the company’s name. You’ll see their star rating and what real customers are saying. This is usually the most unfiltered place to start.
- BBB (Better Business Bureau): Their rating shows whether customers have filed serious complaints and how the company responded.
- Yelp & Facebook: These platforms give you an inside look at what it’s like to actually work with that roofer.
Why This Matters
Think of reviews as a roofer’s report card. One or two bad grades? It happens. But if you see the same complaints over and over, like being late, leaving a mess, or surprise charges, that’s a big red flag. On the other hand, consistent positive reviews mean past customers were satisfied, trusted the company, and would hire them again. That’s exactly the kind of roofer you want on your side.
If you’re searching for the best roofers near me reviews or scrolling through top 10 roofers near me lists, don’t just stop at the name. Read what real people are saying. A company that consistently earns trust is one you can feel confident bringing onto your roof.
Sign #5: Pushy Sales Tactics
Have you ever had someone say, “This price is only good if you sign right now,” or call you every single day until you give in? That’s a classic high-pressure sales tactic, and when it comes to your roof, it’s a huge red flag. A trustworthy roofer doesn’t need to trick or scare you into making a quick decision.
Why This Is a Problem
Your roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your home. You deserve time to think, compare estimates, and read reviews before choosing the right contractor. Pushy salespeople don’t want that; they want you to sign before you realize their price is too high, their promises are empty, or there are better roofers out there.
How a Good Roofer Handles It
A reliable roofer will take the opposite approach. Instead of pushing, they’ll guide you by:
- Explaining your roof’s condition in clear, simple terms.
- Providing a detailed written estimate you can review at your own pace.
- Encouraging you to talk it over with your family or even get other quotes.
- Answering your questions without rushing you.
The difference is confidence. A good roofer knows their fair pricing, proven work, and honest approach are enough to earn your trust.
Sign #6: Lack of Local Presence
When you’re looking for roofing companies Cape Cod, it’s a major red flag if they can’t prove they’re from around here. Consider this: a roofer from another area can finish the job, get paid, and simply drive away. When a leak appears months later or you need to make a warranty claim, you could find their phone number out of service and have no way to reach them.
This is exactly why choosing a local roofer in Mashpee is the smarter decision. A local roofing company’s reputation depends on the trust of this community. Their business thrives on positive word-of-mouth and referrals from neighbors, which means they have a powerful incentive to ensure your complete satisfaction. They also have firsthand experience with our specific weather, from punishing nor’easters and strong winds to the salt air, and they use techniques and materials made to withstand it all.
Here’s my personal tip: always ask for a real, local address and examples of past projects in the area. A true Cape Cod roofer will have both, and that’s how you know they’ll be there when you need them.
Sign #7: No Portfolio or Past Projects
Let’s be real, when someone does a job they’re proud of, they usually can’t wait to show it off. Roofing contractors are no different. Reliable roofers almost always keep before-and-after photos because they want homeowners to see the quality of their work.
Now, if a roofing contractor has no photos, no references, or can’t point to projects they’ve completed, that should raise an eyebrow. It could mean they’re new to the trade, don’t have enough experience, or worse, they may be hiding past mistakes they don’t want you to know about.
What You Should Do
Don’t hesitate to ask for a portfolio of their past work. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy; it could be photos, short videos, or even a drive-by address of a home they’ve worked on (with the homeowner’s permission, of course).
The right roofer will actually be glad you asked, because good contractors take pride in their work and want you to feel confident about hiring them. On the other hand, if all they can show you are a couple of blurry phone pictures, or they start making excuses, it’s a clear sign you should keep looking for someone more experienced and transparent.
Sign #8: Poor Communication or Missed Appointments
Think about it this way: if a roofer is already difficult to reach before you’ve even hired them, just imagine how frustrating it will be once they have your money.
This is one of the biggest red flags homeowners overlook. I’ve seen it happen more than once: what starts as slow replies or missed calls turns into weeks of stress and unanswered questions during the project. Some signs to watch out for include
- Calls and emails are going unanswered.
- Showing up late for an estimate without giving you a heads-up.
- Missing scheduled appointments altogether.
- Brushing you off with “I’m too busy right now.”
Good roofers understand that communication is part of their job, not an afterthought. When a contractor respects your time, keeps you updated, and answers your concerns clearly, it shows they value you as a customer. On the flip side, poor communication often leads to delays, confusion, and a whole lot of unnecessary frustration down the road.
Sign #9: Unsafe or Unprofessional Work Practices
We believe you can tell a lot about a roofer by how they treat your property. A clean, safe job site isn’t just about appearances; it’s about respect for you and your home, and it’s a strong sign that the crew takes pride in their work.
Over the years, we’ve been called to fix jobs where the first warning sign was a chaotic, messy site. In our experience, a crew that doesn’t care about safety or cleanliness often cuts corners elsewhere too, and that’s a risk no homeowner should have to take.
Here’s what you should watch out for:
- No Safety Gear
- Trash Everywhere
- No Protection for Your Property
- Careless Handling of Materials
When you invite a contractor to work on your home, you deserve peace of mind, not stress about injuries, damage, or a mess left behind. A professional roofer should treat your home as if it were their own.
At Corey and Corey, our crews are trained to prioritize safety and cleanliness every single day. From protective tarps to end-of-day cleanups, we make sure your property is respected, and your family stays safe while we’re on the job. It’s just one of the ways we show our commitment to quality and care for Cape Cod homeowners.
Sign #10: Asking for Full Payment Upfront
We always remind Cape Cod homeowners: a trustworthy roofer will never ask you to pay for the entire job before a single shingle is delivered or a single nail is hammered. If a contractor pushes for full payment up front, it’s one of the biggest red flags you can encounter.
Why is this so risky?
- You lose all leverage. Once a roofer has all your money, you have no power to ensure they finish the job, fix mistakes, or even show up again. If they disappear or deliver poor workmanship, recovering your money can be almost impossible without a lawsuit.
- It’s a classic scam. Sadly, we’ve heard stories of dishonest contractors taking full payment and vanishing without ever touching the roof.
So what’s normal and fair?
A deposit is standard—and necessary. Reputable roofing companies may ask for a 10–30% deposit to secure your place on the schedule and order your materials. That’s completely reasonable.
The red flag comes when a contractor demands 50%, 75%, or even 100% upfront. If you hear that, our advice is simple: walk away.
How to Find the Best Roofing Contractors Near You
We know how overwhelming it can feel when you type “best roofing contractors near me” into Google and see dozens of options pop up. Who can you really trust with something as important as your roof?
We’ve worked with hundreds of Cape Cod homeowners, and the truth is, finding the right roofers isn’t about picking the cheapest or the flashiest ad. It’s about making sure your contractor checks all the right boxes. Here’s the exact checklist we recommend to our own neighbors and family members:
1. Proper Licensing & Insurance
Always ask to see proof of a valid license and insurance. A license ensures your roofer knows the local building codes and standards. Insurance protects you; if a worker gets hurt on your property or your home is accidentally damaged, you won’t be left with the bill.
2. Local Address & Reputation
Do not choose roofing companies that are not physically present in your community. A local roofer knows how to install roofs made to last on Cape Cod because they are familiar with its particular weather conditions, which include harsh winter storms and summer humidity. Additionally, a community-rooted roofer has a reputation to uphold, so if you require warranty service in the future, they will still be there.
3. Read Real Reviews
Don’t stop at the star rating. Take time to read actual customer feedback on Google, Facebook, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for patterns in how the company communicates, how clean they leave job sites, whether they finish on time, and how they handle problems. A trustworthy roofer welcomes reviews because they stand behind their work.
4. Get a Detailed, Written Estimate
A reputable company will provide a free estimation and give you a written estimate that’s crystal clear. It should list:
- The scope of work (tear-off, installation, cleanup)
- The materials and brands being used
- The project timeline
- The total cost with no hidden surprises
If a contractor is vague or refuses to put details in writing, that’s a major red flag.
Why Balancing Price and Trust Matters
It’s natural to search for “affordable roofers near me”—we all want to save money. But from what we’ve seen over the years, the cheapest price almost never equals the best deal. A lowball bid usually means something’s missing—quality materials, skilled labor, or even insurance coverage. And that “savings” can turn into leaks, mold, or repairs that cost thousands more later.
The right roofer offers fair value: a reasonable price, high-quality materials, and the peace of mind that comes with hiring a team that truly cares about your home.
At Corey and Corey, that’s exactly how we operate. We believe in clear communication, transparent pricing, and roofing systems built to last on Cape Cod homes. When you choose us, you’re not just hiring a contractor; you’re gaining a trusted partner who will be here long after the last shingle is nailed down.
Trusted Roofers on Cape Cod – Corey & Corey Roofing
Your roof isn’t just shingles; it’s your home’s first defense against Cape Cod’s tough coastal weather. That’s why choosing the right roofer matters so much. With over 50 years of combined experience, homeowners across Cape Cod and Mashpee have trusted Corey & Corey Roofing to protect their homes with honesty, skill, and care.
Why Homeowners Choose Corey & Corey Roofing
- 50+ Years of Hands-On Experience – From small leaks to full replacements, there’s no roofing issue we haven’t seen or solved. Our knowledge ensures your project is done right the first time.
- Fully Licensed & Insured – We carry HIC & CSL certifications, giving you peace of mind that your home and investment are always protected.
- Local Expertise – As Cape Cod roofers, we understand the unique challenges of salt air, storms, and coastal conditions.
- 5-Star Reputation
Our Roofing Services
- Emergency Roof Repair
- Roof Replacement and Installation
- Skylight Installation
- Siding & Trim Repair and Replacement
- Asphalt Roof Repair
- Commercial Roofing
- Residential Roofing
- Ridge Vents
- Cedar Roof Replacement
When you search for roofers in Cape Cod or roofing contractors near Mashpee, MA, you’ll find plenty of options, but not all bring the same level of trust and experience. At Corey & Corey, we’ve built our reputation by protecting Cape homes for decades, one roof at a time.
