How you can spot roofing scams:

Roofers who are contracting without a license are working illegally, and may under-perform or take your money and run. Normally a misdemeanor offense, the charge is a 3rd-degree felony because it occurred during a declared emergency (which most hurricanes are).

Residents seeking home repair work are urged to always hire a licensed contractor. Your best bet is to check license numbers with the state of Florida. Even license numbers that are listed in ads may be phony. According to the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), a contractor's license is required for any structural additions, roofing, air conditioning, plumbing, electrical or alarm work as well as any job requiring a building permit. Licenses can be verified by calling (850)487-1395 or by visiting the state's website. In the case of contractors who are issued a specialty roofing license permitted under the state's emergency declaration, DBPR recommends that consumers ask to see a copy of the license issued by the local jurisdiction and verify the licensure with the local building department.

What's the "M.O." of these con artists? Here are two real examples:

1. Your roof is damaged by a hurricane. A "contractor" knocks on your door and offers to fix it for a drastically discounted price. He says he's got some materials left over from other work he did in the neighborhood. He'll give you the low-ball price—if you sign the papers today.

2. People claiming to be local utility company workers or building or health inspectors appear at your door unannounced and point out "problems" such as shoddy roofing, a cracked driveway, or dangerous electrical wiring. They say you're in violation of some regulation and give you the name of someone who can fix the problem fast. Then that person overcharges, performs shoddy work, starts the job and then says it'll cost thousands more, or skips town with your $$ before finishing.

Sadly, home repair scams cost unsuspecting Americans billions of dollars a year. And crooks often target seniors, low-income families, and others who can least afford it. How can you protect yourself? Here are a few tips: 1. Be wary of contractors who go door-to-door and aren't listed in the phonebook; who talk very fast and pressure you to sign papers immediately; who offer unbelievably long guarantees; who ask you to pay the entire job up-front and accept only cash; or who suggest you borrow money from lenders they know.

2. Ask trusted friends or insurance agents to recommend a contractor; then check the firm's record with your local consumer organization or state attorney general.

3. Deal only with contractors who are licensed, bonded, and insured.

4. Get all estimates, guarantees, and work dates in writing. Make sure you get several estimates, and don't necessarily choose the lowest bidder.

The National Association of Home Builders Remodelors Council will provide a free copy of their brochure "How to Find a Professional Remodeler," if you send a self-addressed stamped envelope to:

NAHB Remodelors Council
Dept. FT
1201 15th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20005

If you suspect you're the victim of contractor fraud, you can file an online complaint with the FTC or call them at 1-877-FTC-HELP or 1-866-653-4261.

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