Recently in Oklahoma, a woman was nearly killed when a “roofer” scammed her out of $6000. This thief took her money and ran, but not before he covered her exhaust vents, trapping carbon monoxide inside of her home.
Incidents such as this have led to a new Roofing Contractor Registration Act in the state of Oklahoma. The act aims to protect homeowners and prevent future scams. The new law requires contractors to register with the state every year, prove they have workers’ compensation insurance and at least a half a million in liability insurance.
We normally frown upon regulation, but legitimate roofers welcome this new law. The qualified contractors will now be able to differentiate themselves from the “fly by night” scam artists. Hopefully, this will lead to a more professional image for roofers and rebuild trust between contractors and homeowners.
Unfortunately, Texas has no regulations what so ever, when it comes to roofing and roofing contractors. Anyone can grab a ladder and call themselves a roofing contractor in Texas! No insurance required, no workers comp, no testing of any kind. This is why there are so many homeowners and building owners get ripped off by unscrupulous people that call themselves roofing contractors. There is no oversight! Even a barber needs a license to handle a $12 haircut. Thousands of dollars are involved in roofing jobs and we don’t even know how to get a hold of the person besides a cell phone number. It’s crazy!!
We now have a bill in the state legislature regarding licensing. The RCAT and NTRCA are in support of this bill. We are urging everyone to call, write, email their state congressman and senators and express their support for this bill. It is in your best interest as a homeowner or building owner. Help bring Texas into the 21st century. Let’s get the scam artist and crooks out of the roofing business. Their next victim may be your neighbor, parents, friend, or YOU.
PLEASE call, write, email YOUR state congressman and senator TODAY and express your support for this bill. Please forward this on to as many people as you know. We can do this if everyone bands together.
