Top 5 Mistakes DFW Homeowners Make When Hiring a Roofer
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Homeowners
May 10, 20255 min read

Top 5 Mistakes DFW Homeowners Make When Hiring a Roofer

Brandon Fletcher

S&B Roofing & Exteriors

Don't Learn These Lessons the Hard Way

Every storm season, DFW homeowners get burned by bad roofing contractors. Here are the five most common mistakes — and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Hiring a Storm Chaser

After every major hailstorm, out-of-state contractors flood the DFW market. They knock on doors, offer incredible deals, and disappear after cashing the insurance check.

Red flags:

  • Out-of-state license plates on trucks
  • No local office address
  • Pressure to sign immediately
  • They showed up uninvited after a storm
  • Only accepts cash or check (no credit card option)
  • What to do instead: Hire a local DFW contractor with a verifiable business address, established reputation, and track record in the community.

    Mistake #2: Not Verifying Insurance

    If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor doesn't have proper insurance, YOU could be liable.

    Always verify:

  • General liability insurance (minimum $1M)
  • Workers' compensation coverage
  • Request a Certificate of Insurance directly from their insurance provider
  • Make sure the policy is current (not expired)
  • Mistake #3: Choosing the Lowest Bid

    The lowest price usually means corners are being cut somewhere:

  • Thinner underlayment
  • Fewer nails per shingle
  • No starter strip or proper drip edge
  • Skipping ventilation improvements
  • Using subcontractor labor with no accountability
  • The real cost: A roof that fails in 5 years costs far more than paying a fair price for quality installation.

    Mistake #4: Not Getting Everything in Writing

    A verbal agreement is worthless when problems arise. Your contract should include:

  • Detailed scope of work (materials, brands, ventilation, flashing)
  • Total price and payment schedule
  • Start date and estimated completion
  • Warranty terms (both manufacturer and workmanship)
  • Cleanup and debris removal responsibilities
  • Permit information
  • What happens if decking needs replacement
  • Mistake #5: Paying Too Much Upfront

    Never pay more than 30% upfront. A reputable contractor has relationships with suppliers and doesn't need your full payment to buy materials.

    Healthy payment structure:

  • 10-30% at contract signing
  • Progress payments tied to milestones
  • Final payment at project completion and your satisfaction
  • If a contractor demands full payment upfront, run.

    How S&B Does It Different

  • Local DFW business since day one
  • Fully insured with coverage on file
  • Competitive pricing backed by quality materials and installation
  • Detailed written contracts for every project
  • Flexible payment schedules
  • Need a roofer you can trust? Get a free quote and see the S&B difference for yourself.

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    Ready to Get Started?

    Contact S&B Roofing for a free inspection and estimate.