PONCA CITY – In the wake of recent severe weather in Ponca City, Newkirk, Braman and other parts of northern Oklahoma, Sen. Bill Coleman, R-Ponca City, is urging residents to be wary of roofing contractors knocking on doors across Senate District 10.
While many homeowners are understandably eager to make repairs after storm damage, Coleman encouraged constituents to do their due diligence before choosing a contractor. He added that a Ponca City investigator for the Construction Industries Board has found unregistered roofers from Kansas, Arkansas, Michigan and other states in the area following recent storms.
“After major storms, we often see unlicensed, out-of-state roofers come into Oklahoma looking to take advantage of homeowners,” Coleman said. “Don’t be fooled by their high-pressure tactics or promises that sound too good to be true. Take your time and make sure you’re working with a contractor you can trust.”
Coleman, who has spent years working on legislation to crack down on illegitimate roofers looking to scam Oklahomans, also urged residents to be skeptical of roofers promising $10,000 state grants for roof replacements.
While the Oklahoma Insurance Department does have a successful roof replacement grant initiative through the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes program, there are restrictions involved, and savings are not guaranteed for all homeowners.
Coleman stressed that applying for the grant to supplement the costs of a Fortified roof and receiving confirmation from the Insurance Department that an individual is eligible can be a months long process that takes into account household income, existing home condition and more. The program also requires individuals to select a “Fortified Certified” contractor, someone who is highly specialized in their field.
“If a contractor is promising a $10,000 grant within days or weeks, homeowners should proceed with caution,” Coleman said. “The Strengthen Oklahoma Homes program is a great resource, but the process takes time and there are specific requirements to qualify. Replacing a roof after a storm can be a costly, stress-inducing expense. Don’t let the roofers going door-to-door pressure you into making a quick decision. Before agreeing to anything, take the time to understand the Strengthen Oklahoma Homes program and make sure you’re working with a reputable company.”
Coleman encouraged residents to keep these tips in mind when hiring a roofing contractor:
-Make sure the contractor has a valid license to do business in Oklahoma through the Construction Industries Board.
-Check their references and review contractor complaints through the Better Business Bureau.
-Always solicit bids from multiple contractors and be skeptical of bids that sound too good to be true.
-Never pay in advance, and don’t make a final payment until the job is complete.
-Don’t trust contractors who offer to waive your deductible or promise a rebate, both of which are against the law.
For more information, contact: Sen. Bill Coleman at (405) 521-55 or email [email protected].
