Avoid Roof Repair Scams and Insurance Fraud in Florida
Your roof is one of the most critical and expensive parts of your home. After a storm, it’s also one of the most vulnerable – and when dishonest actors may strike. Florida homeowners need to be especially cautious, since roof repair scams in Florida are among the most common forms of fraud after hurricanes. Below, we'll explain the difference between contractor fraud and insurance fraud, what your insurance policy actually covers, and how you can protect yourself from becoming a victim.
What Is Insurance Fraud?
Insurance fraud happens when someone deceives an insurance company to receive compensation they are not entitled to. It’s a serious crime in Florida, punishable by fines, probation, or even jail time.
In roofing cases, fraud can look like:
- Claiming storm damage when the roof is simply old and worn.
- Inflating repair or replacement costs on an insurance claim.
- Misidentifying flood damage as wind damage so it falls under a homeowners policy.
If you unknowingly hire a contractor who files a false claim on your behalf, you as the homeowner can still be held responsible.
Contractor Fraud vs. Roof Insurance Fraud
It’s easy to confuse the two, but they’re not the same.
Often, they overlap. For example, a storm chaser might pressure you to file an exaggerated claim for a “free roof,” combining both types of fraud.
What Homeowners Insurance Covers for Roofs
Your homeowners insurance typically pays for roof damage caused by covered perils – such as hurricanes, wind, hail, fire, or lightning. It does not cover normal wear and tear, neglect, or age-related breakdown.
If a contractor tells you insurance will pay for a brand-new roof simply because yours is old, it’s a red flag.
Common Roof Repair Scams in Florida
There’s no single playbook for roof repair scams in Florida, but here are the most common:
1. Large or Full Payment Up Front
Fraudulent contractors often demand most or all of the payment before work begins. In Florida, there is no flat cap on deposits – but if a contractor takes 10% or more, state law requires them to pull permits within 30 days and start work within 90 days of permits being issued. If they don’t, they risk criminal penalties.
Tip: Never sign over your entire insurance check before work begins.
2. Storm Chasers
These are contractors who follow disasters, moving from one hard-hit area to the next. They knock on doors, promise quick or “free” repairs, then either disappear after taking your deposit or leave you with poor-quality work.
Tip: Always verify the contractor’s license with the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR).
3. Inflated Insurance Claims
A contractor may exaggerate storm damage or bill for premium materials but use lower-quality substitutes. In some cases, homeowners later find themselves entangled in lawsuits when insurers dispute the false claims.
Tip: Get multiple estimates, compare them, and be wary of anyone who insists you don’t need to involve your insurer directly.
How to Avoid Roof Repair Scams in Florida
By taking a few proactive steps, you can reduce your risk of falling victim to roof repair scams in Florida and make sure your home is in trustworthy hands.
- Verify licensing: Use the DBPR license search to confirm a contractor is properly licensed in Florida.
- Get everything in writing: Your contract should describe the full scope of work, start and completion dates, and payment schedule.
- Check insurance: Confirm your contractor carries liability (workers compensation) insurance.
- Ask about warranties and quality control: Who supervises the job? What warranty is provided, and what might void it?
- Look for reputable ties: Membership in local or national roofing associations is a good sign.
- Get multiple estimates: Don’t rush into an agreement just because of post-storm urgency.
Resources to Report Fraud
If you suspect roof repair scams in Florida, you are not alone. You have resources:
Florida Peninsula’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU)
- Fraud hotline: 866-923-2920
- Email: reportfraud@windwardrisk.com
Florida Department of Financial Services (DFS)
- Insurance Fraud Hotline: 800-378-0445
- Report online: www.fraudfreeflorida.com
- DFS also offers up to a $25,000 fraud-fighter reward for valid tips leading to convictions.
- Learn more: Demolish Contractor Fraud
Protect Yourself From Roof Repair Scams in Florida
The most effective way to avoid becoming a victim of roof repair scams in Florida is to slow down, do your homework, and trust your instincts. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Florida Peninsula Insurance Company is committed to protecting policyholders – we’ll continue to fight fraud through our SIU team and support you in the event of damage to your home.
If you need coverage or have questions about protecting your property, contact your Florida Peninsula agent now. You can also
get a quote online anytime.