Texas is the only Gulf state with no protections for consumers against roofing scams. Over the last decade, efforts have been made to regulate the roofing industry. However, every attempt has unfortunately died in the legislature.
Among the most recent is the failure of House Bill 2101 to move on to the Senate as Texas lawmakers voted against it, 99 to 33. HB 2101, also known as the Re-Roofing Registration Bill, aimed to create a database of roofing businesses that would publish a roofer’s name, address, telephone number and disciplinary actions against the contractor.
To give you more insight on the bill, Texas Traditions Roofing, one of the area’s most trusted local residential and commercial roofing contractors, offers a brief background of HB 2101. We also share tips on how you can avoid roofing scams.
What Happened to the Re-Roofing Registration Bill?
The Re-Roofing Registration Bill, authored by Rep. Giovanni Capriglione of Southlake, would have created a government registry, which consumers could use to search for roofing contractors before hiring them. Also, it would have required roofing contractors to pay a $250 registration fee as well as a renewal fee not exceeding $100.
Rep. Briscoe Cain of District 128, who voted against the bill, said the database would be “an irresponsible waste of taxpayer resources” since private organizations, such as the Better Business Bureau, are already providing this service.
Rep. Michelle Beckley of District 65 also voted nay, saying HB 2101 “didn’t address real concerns that people have over roofing scams.” Moreover, she said that the “bill disproportionately benefits larger roofing companies and squeezes out smaller independent business owners.”
How Can Roofing Scams and Storm Chasers Be Avoided?
Homeowners need to be able to find trustworthy contractors to carry out roof repair. Unfortunately, some contractors are dishonest, and they take advantage of customers who badly need their roofing fixed.
As a consumer, there are some things you can do to avoid falling victim to unscrupulous roofers. Here are a few tips:
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Research the businesses you’re considering. Verify their information, such as their addresses and contact numbers.
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Choose local contractors as much as possible. This way, you can easily reach out to them even after the job has been completed. The Roofing Contractors Association of Texas offers a voluntary licensing and licensed members can be found on their website.
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Check if their insurances are valid, and read their warranties carefully.
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Familiarize yourself with some common tactics used by unscrupulous roofers.
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Never make a decision on the spot, especially when the roofer seems to be pressuring you to opt into their services.
Texas Traditions Roofing was established by roofing professionals with over 40 years of industry experience. We provide a range of services including roof replacement and roof maintenance. Call us at (512) 942-0427 or fill out our contact form to request a free consultation. We serve customers in Round Rock, TX, and the surrounding areas.