How to Spot a Cowboy Roofer: Red Flags to Watch For
1. Cold Calling or Door-Knocking
Beware of roofers who show up uninvited, offering to fix “loose tiles” or damage they spotted from the street. Reputable firms don’t cold call.
2. Cash Only Payments or Demanding Full Payment Upfront
Professionals usually request staged payments. Cowboy roofers often demand full payment before the job even starts.
3. No Written Quotes or Contracts
Legitimate roofers provide clear, written quotes outlining the scope of work and costs. Cowboys keep it vague to add charges later.
4. No Company Details or Online Presence
If the roofer has no website, address, or online reviews — that’s a red flag. Check Companies House or Google for legitimacy.
5. No Insurance or Accreditation
Cowboy roofers often lack:
Public liability insurance
Manufacturer accreditations
Roofing association membership (e.g., NFRC, TrustMark, Checkatrade)
6. Pushy Tactics or Fearmongering
Using scare tactics like “your roof is about to collapse” to pressure you into fast decisions is a common scam approach.
Due Diligence: How to Avoid Cowboy Roofers
Protect yourself with these steps:
1. Check Credentials
Ask for:
Company registration number
Proof of public liability insurance
Roofing trade memberships (e.g. NFRC, TrustMark, Checkatrade)
2. Get at Least 3 Written Quotes
This helps you spot overpriced or underpriced work. A very low quote may signal corner-cutting.
3. Read Online Reviews and Ask for References
Look for consistent positive feedback on Google, Trustpilot, or Checkatrade. Ask for photos of recent work and past customer contact details.
4. Inspect Their Website and Branding
Reputable companies like Approved Roofing have a professional online presence, branding, and detailed service pages.
5. Never Pay in Full Upfront
Agree on a fair deposit and staged payments. Avoid handing over cash without a contract.
Why Choose a Professional Roofing Company Like Approved Roofing?
At Approved Roofing, we pride ourselves on being everything cowboy roofers are not. We’re committed to transparency, integrity, and high-quality workmanship across every job.
Here’s what you get with us:
Free, no-obligation written quotes
Fully insured and accredited roofing professionals
10–20 year guarantees on new roofs
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Detailed contracts and timelines
Hundreds of satisfied customers across London and the UK
24/7 emergency callouts
We understand that roofing is a major investment — and we treat your home with the care and respect it deserves.
Protect Your Home and Your Wallet
Choosing the wrong roofer can leave your home damaged and your budget stretched. By following the steps above, you can avoid cowboy roofers and make an informed choice.
When you work with Approved Roofing, you’re partnering with a trusted roofing specialist committed to delivering safe, reliable, and long-lasting results.
Contact us today to arrange your free roof survey and quote — and work with a roofing company you can count on.
