Roof Insurance Fraud: How Homeowners in Raleigh-Durham and Surrounding Areas Can Spot and Avoid It
In the Raleigh-Durham area and surrounding cities across North Carolina, storms, high winds, and hail are part of life—and unfortunately, they attract dishonest “storm chasers” who prey on homeowners with roof insurance fraud schemes. These scams cost thousands in fraudulent claims, drive up premiums for everyone, and can leave you with poor work, legal trouble, or even canceled insurance.
As a family-owned, local roofing company with over 400 five-star reviews, Artisan Quality Roofing sees this happen too often. We specialize in honest roof inspections, roof repairs, and full replacements using premium GAF and CertainTeed materials—no pressure, no shortcuts. We proudly serve Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Cary, Chapel Hill, Wake Forest, Garner, Clayton, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, and many surrounding cities throughout the greater Raleigh region and beyond.
Common Roof Insurance Fraud Tactics in North Carolina
Fraudsters target storm-affected areas with these tricks:
- Storm Chasers & Door-to-Door Pressure
Out-of-state or unlicensed crews knock on doors after bad weather, offering “free inspections” and promising a “free roof” or “insurance will pay everything.” They exaggerate or fabricate damage to push quick claims. - Deductible Waivers or Rebates
Any roofer who says they’ll “cover your deductible,” “pay it for you,” or give you cash back is committing illegal insurance fraud. - Assignment of Benefits (AOB) Abuse
Scammers push you to sign over your insurance rights (AOB), letting them file claims directly and potentially overbill or do subpar work. - Fake or Inflated Claims
They file for unnecessary full replacements, use cheap materials, or disappear after taking deposits—leaving you liable if fraud is discovered. - Manufactured Damage
Rare but serious—some create “evidence” of damage to justify claims.
North Carolina law is strict: The Department of Insurance (NCDOI) and authorities have run stings catching roofers fabricating damage, and fraud can lead to felony charges.
Examples of Suspicious (Manufactured) Roof Damage Used in Fraud
What Real Storm Damage Looks Like on North Carolina Roofs
How to Protect Yourself from Roof Insurance Fraud
Follow these steps to stay safe:
- Contact Your Insurance First
After a storm, call your insurer directly for an adjuster inspection—never let a roofer handle the claim alone. - Avoid Unsolicited Door-Knockers
Legitimate local roofers like us don’t need to chase storms door-to-door. - Get Multiple Quotes & Verify
Check licenses (NC requires for projects $30K+), insurance, references, and reviews. Use BBB, NCDOI license search, or ask for GAF/CertainTeed certifications. - No Deductible Deals
If they offer to waive or rebate your deductible—walk away. It’s fraud. - Read Contracts Carefully
No blanks, no pressure “today only” deals. Never sign AOB without understanding. - Handle Payments Yourself
Pay after work is done and inspected—never full upfront.
When looking for a roofer near me, choose Artisan Quality Roofing for trusted, family-owned expertise with over 400 five-star reviews. We offer honest roof leak repairs, emergency roof repair services in Raleigh and surrounding cities, and full replacements, and we coordinate with our sister company Quality Seamless Gutters for complete home protection without any shady tactics.
FAQs
Q: Is it illegal for a roofer to pay my deductible?
A: Yes—it’s insurance fraud under NC law. Always pay your deductible yourself.
Q: What if I suspect fraud?
A: Report to NCDOI Criminal Investigations (919-807-6840) or anonymously online. Your insurer can also help.
Q: When should I choose minor roof repairs vs a full replacement?
A: Minor roof repairs (like patching leaks or replacing a few shingles) work if the roof is under 15 years old and damage is isolated. If multiple issues exist, a full replacement is usually more cost-effective long-term.
Q: How do I know if damage is real?
A: Get an independent adjuster or trusted local inspection—avoid anyone promising guaranteed coverage.
Ready for a Free, Honest Roof Inspection?
Contact Artisan Quality Roofing today—no pressure, no games. We serve Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Cary, and many surrounding cities across the greater Raleigh region and beyond.
