Hiring the wrong roofing contractor isn’t just inconvenient—it can lead to poor workmanship, unnecessary costs, and major headaches down the track. Whether you’re replacing your roof or scheduling minor repairs, being aware of the warning signs can save you from dealing with unreliable or even fraudulent operators.
At Sydney Discount Roof Repair, we’ve seen the damage caused when corners are cut. So, we’ve compiled a list of common red flags to help you steer clear of trouble and choose the right contractor with confidence.
If you’re just starting the process, we also recommend reading our guide to choosing a roofing contractor to help you build a strong foundation.
1. No Licence or Proof of Insurance
This is a deal-breaker. A roofing contractor who can’t (or won’t) provide a valid licence or up-to-date insurance should not be trusted with your home.
A properly licensed roofer meets legal and safety standards in NSW. Insurance protects you and the workers if something goes wrong. If you’re unsure what documents to ask for, our breakdown of licensing and insurance explains what’s required and how to verify them.
2. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
If a contractor insists that you “sign today for a better price” or pressures you to skip due diligence, that’s a serious warning sign. Reliable contractors give you space to consider your options, compare quotes, and ask questions.
High-pressure tactics are often used to distract from missing credentials, hidden costs, or poor workmanship. Take your time and trust your instincts—any contractor worth hiring will respect your decision-making process.
3. Vague or Incomplete Quotes
A proper roofing quote should be detailed and transparent. It should include material types, labour costs, estimated timelines, and warranty information. If a contractor hands you a one-line estimate or avoids questions about pricing, be cautious.
Unclear quotes often lead to surprise costs later. Before you commit, make sure you know how to compare roofing quotes effectively so you’re getting value—not just a low price.
4. No References or Portfolio
Good contractors are proud to share their work. If someone can’t provide a list of satisfied customers or show examples of past jobs, ask yourself why. It may be because they don’t have the experience—or because past clients weren’t happy with the results.
You should always ask for references and check reviews online. Avoid contractors who hesitate or get defensive about this step.
5. Unwilling to Put It in Writing
Always insist on a written contract. It should outline the scope of work, payment schedule, materials used, and expected completion date. A handshake deal or vague verbal agreement leaves you with no protection if something goes wrong.
To ensure you cover every important detail, refer to our roofing contractor checklist, which walks you through the hiring process from the first call to the final inspection.
6. Cash-Only Deals or Strange Payment Terms
If a contractor demands full payment upfront or insists on cash-only, be very wary. Most reputable roofers ask for a reasonable deposit (typically no more than 10%) and accept traceable payments.
Strange payment terms are a major red flag, especially if they come with no paper trail or invoice.
7. Lack of Communication
If it’s hard to get a contractor to return your call before the job starts, things will unlikely improve once work begins. Timely, professional communication is a sign of a business that values its clients and takes the job seriously.
Clear updates, responses to emails, and straightforward answers should be expected from the very first interaction.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the wrong roofer can lead to stress, delays, and costly repairs down the line. But by keeping an eye out for red flags—like lack of licensing, vague quotes, and high-pressure tactics—you’ll put yourself in a stronger position to make the right call.
At the end of the day, trust matters. A roofing contractor should earn your confidence, not demand it. If something feels off, it probably is—and there are always better options out there.
