Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor in Lubbock, TX – 5 Red Flags to Avoid

You need a new roof. Maybe hail destroyed your shingles last month, or perhaps your 20-year-old roof is finally giving up. You've started getting quotes, and the numbers are all over the place—one contractor bid $9,500, another quoted $18,000, and a third came in at $14,500. They all claim to be the best choice, but how do you actually know who to trust with one of your biggest home investments?

Here's the uncomfortable truth: Lubbock has dozens of roofing contractors, and not all of them deserve your business. Some will do excellent work. Others will take shortcuts, disappear after storms, use inferior materials, or leave you fighting to get warranty work done. The wrong choice doesn't just cost you money—it can leave you with a roof that fails prematurely, insurance headaches, and endless frustration.

The good news? Dishonest or incompetent contractors usually reveal themselves if you know what to look for. They make predictable mistakes, cut obvious corners, and display clear warning signs during the bidding and sales process. You just need to know the red flags.

At America's General Contractors, we've seen countless homeowners who hired the wrong contractor and ended up calling us to fix the mess. We've also earned the trust of hundreds of Lubbock families by doing exactly what we promise—no games, no surprises, just quality roofing work backed by transparent business practices.

This guide reveals the five biggest red flags that signal a roofing contractor you should avoid, plus what to look for instead when choosing someone to protect your most valuable asset.

Red Flag #1: No Permanent Local Address or Established Presence

The Storm Chaser Problem

After every major hail event in Lubbock, they appear like clockwork: out-of-state contractors with temporary offices, unmarked trucks, and aggressive door-to-door sales tactics. They promise quick work, low prices, and easy insurance claims. Then they disappear the moment problems arise.

Warning Signs:

• Post office box instead of physical business address
• Out-of-state phone numbers (especially area codes from storm-prone regions)
• "Temporary office" set up in a hotel or short-term rental
• Can't provide local references from before the most recent storm
• No Google reviews or online presence older than a few months
• Company name that's generic or constantly changing

Why This Matters

When issues arise months or years later:

• Storm chasers have moved to the next disaster
• No way to enforce warranties or get callback service
• Your only recourse is expensive legal action
• Insurance companies won't work with vanished contractors on supplements

What to Look For Instead

A contractor with genuine local roots:

• Physical office or showroom you can visit
• Local phone number (806 area code for Lubbock)
• Years of online reviews spanning multiple years
• Community involvement and local reputation
• Established relationships with local suppliers
• History of past work you can drive by and see

The Question to Ask: "What's your physical office address? Can I stop by to see your operation?" Legitimate contractors welcome this. Storm chasers make excuses.

Red Flag #2: Pressure Tactics and "Too Good to Be True" Pricing

The High-Pressure Sale

You're talking with a contractor and suddenly you hear:

• "This price is only good if you sign today"
• "We have materials left over from another job—huge discount if you act now"
• "Insurance adjusters love us—we'll get your deductible waived" (illegal)
• "Don't bother getting other quotes; nobody can beat this"
• "We're only in the area this week"

Why This Is Dangerous

Legitimate contractors don't need pressure tactics because:

• Their work speaks for itself through references
• They're not trying to lock you in before you discover problems
• They respect that roof replacement is a major decision
• They're confident you'll choose them based on merit

Pressure usually means:

• They're overcharging and don't want you comparing prices
• They're undercharging because they cut corners you haven't discovered yet
• They're not licensed/insured and need to work fast before authorities catch up
• They won't be around when you need warranty work

The Suspiciously Low Bid

One quote comes in 30-40% below everyone else. Sounds great, right? Wrong.

How They Do It

Low-ball contractors save money by:

• Using cheapest available shingles (often builder-grade or discontinued)
• Skipping underlayment or using inadequate materials
• Not replacing damaged decking (hiding the cost until tear-off)
• Hiring unskilled labor or paying under the table
• Skipping permits and inspections
• Having no insurance (if someone gets hurt on your property, you're liable)
• Planning to demand more money mid-project

Real Example: Homeowner hired contractor for $8,500 when others bid $13,000-$15,000. After tear-off, contractor "discovered" $4,000 in decking repairs, claimed underlayment would be extra $1,200, and demanded $2,000 more for "code-required ventilation." Final cost: $15,700—more than the honest bids, with lower quality work.

What to Look For Instead

Competitive pricing that reflects reality:

• Multiple bids within 15-20% of each other likely reflect true costs
• Detailed written estimates showing exactly what's included
• Line-item pricing for materials, labor, permits, disposal
• Clear explanation if significantly lower (legitimate volume discounts, etc.)
• No pressure to decide immediately

Red Flag #3: Can't Provide Proof of Insurance and Licensing

The Liability Nightmare

This is non-negotiable, yet many homeowners skip verifying it. Here's what can happen:

Scenario 1: Worker Injury

Uninsured contractor's employee falls off your roof and breaks his back. Without workers' compensation insurance, he sues you. Your homeowner's insurance denies the claim because you hired an uninsured contractor. You're personally liable for medical bills and damages: potentially $100,000-$500,000+.

Scenario 2: Property Damage

Contractor damages your neighbor's car, fence, or home during work. No general liability insurance means you're financially responsible for repairs.

Scenario 3: Poor Workmanship

Roof fails within two years. Contractor has no bond, no insurance, and disappears. You're paying for complete replacement out of pocket.

What You Must Verify

General Liability Insurance:

• Minimum $1 million coverage
• Certificate of Insurance (COI) listing you as additional insured
• Verify directly with insurance company (contractors can fake certificates)
• Check expiration date

Workers' Compensation Insurance:

• Required by Texas law for most roofing companies
• Protects you from injury lawsuits
• Get certificate showing current coverage

Contractor License (if applicable):

• While Texas doesn't require state licensing for roofers, some cities do
• Check if Lubbock or your municipality requires local licenses
• Verify any claimed certifications (GAF Master Elite, etc.)

Warning Signs:

• "My insurance is at the office; I'll email it later" (then never does)
• Defensive or evasive when asked
• Offers to lower price if you "don't worry about insurance"
• Claims insurance isn't necessary for small jobs
• Certificate that's expired or from unknown insurance company

What to Do: "I need copies of your general liability and workers' comp insurance before we proceed. Please have your agent send me certificates showing current coverage." If they can't produce this within 24 hours, walk away.

Red Flag #4: Vague Contracts and No Written Warranty

The Handshake Deal Disaster

"Don't worry about all that paperwork—we'll take care of you." Famous last words before a contractor dispute.

What a Proper Contract Must Include

Scope of Work:

• Specific materials (brand, style, color of shingles)
• Complete tear-off specifications
• What's included: underlayment, drip edge, ventilation, flashing
• Number of layers being removed
• Decking repair policy (who pays for discovered damage)

Timeline:

• Start date (or within X days of insurance approval)
• Expected completion timeframe
• Weather delay provisions

Payment Schedule:

• Total cost broken down
• Deposit amount (should be 10-25%, never 50%+)
• Progress payment schedule
• Final payment terms (typically upon completion and your satisfaction)

Permits and Disposal:

• Who obtains permits
• Who pays permit fees
• Disposal method and dumpster rental

Warranty Information:

• Material warranty specifics
• Workmanship warranty duration and terms
• How to file warranty claims
• What voids the warranty

Warning Signs of Bad Contracts:

• Handwritten on scrap paper
• Vague language like "we'll fix your roof"
• No specific materials listed
• Large upfront deposit (50%+ is a red flag)
• No warranty mentioned
• Contractor resists putting agreements in writing
• "Standard contract—just sign here" with no time to review

The Warranty Shell Game

Material vs. Workmanship Warranties

Many homeowners don't realize these are separate:

Material Warranty: From shingle manufacturer (20-50 years typical)

• Covers defective shingles
• Doesn't cover poor installation
• Still valid even if contractor disappears

Workmanship Warranty: From contractor (should be 5-10 years minimum)

• Covers installation errors
• Covers leaks from improper flashing, etc.
• Only good if contractor is still in business

Red Flags:

• No workmanship warranty offered
• Workmanship warranty under 2 years
• Verbal warranty promises not in writing
• Warranty requires you to use specific contractor for all future repairs (trap clause)

What You Want: Written workmanship warranty of at least 5 years, ideally 10 years, with clear terms on what's covered and how to file claims.

Red Flag #5: Poor Communication and Unprofessional Behavior

Early Warning Signs of Future Problems

How a contractor behaves during sales predicts how they'll act when problems arise:

Communication Red Flags:

• Takes days to return calls or texts
• Shows up late (or not at all) for appointments without notice
• Gives different information each time you talk
• Can't answer basic questions about materials or process
• Becomes defensive when you ask legitimate questions
• Pressures you to not contact references
• Badmouths other contractors excessively

Professionalism Red Flags:

• Arrives in unmarked personal vehicle (no company branding)
• No business cards or marketing materials
• Can't provide references from last 2-3 years
• References are all from one neighborhood (could be family/friends)
• Estimate written on random paper without company letterhead
• Demands cash payment only
• Won't meet with insurance adjuster
• Suggests insurance fraud ("I can help you get your deductible waived")

The Logic: If they're disorganized, evasive, or unprofessional while trying to earn your business, imagine how they'll act once they have your money.

The Reference Check Nobody Does (But Should)

Most homeowners ask for references. Few actually call them. Contractors know this and exploit it.

What to Ask References:

1. "When was your roof completed?" (Recent work matters more)
2. "Did the crew show up on time and finish when promised?"
3. "How did they handle cleanup?" (Shows attention to detail)
4. "Were there any issues after completion? How did they respond?"
5. "Did the final cost match the estimate, or were there surprise charges?"
6. "Would you hire them again?"
7. "Can I see photos of the completed work?"

Better Yet: Ask to see completed jobs in person. Drive by 2-3 recently completed homes. Look for quality workmanship, clean job sites, professional appearance.

What Good Contractors Do Differently

Signs You've Found the Right Contractor

Professional Presentation:

• Clean, branded vehicle
• Professional website with portfolio
• Detailed written estimates on company letterhead
• Business cards, brochures, material samples

Transparent Process:

• Answers all questions patiently
• Explains options without pressure
• Provides multiple references across several years
• Shows proof of insurance immediately
• Walks you through contract thoroughly

Realistic Expectations:

• Honest about timeline (especially post-storm)
• Upfront about potential additional costs (decking, etc.)
• Doesn't promise to "waive your deductible" (illegal)
• Realistic about what insurance will cover

Quality Focus:

• Discusses material options and differences
• Explains installation process
• Shows manufacturer certifications
• Offers strong workmanship warranty
• Will meet with insurance adjuster to document damage

Your Roofing Contractor Checklist

Before signing any contract, verify:

☐ Physical local address (visited in person)

☐ Valid general liability insurance (verified with carrier)

☐ Workers' compensation insurance (current certificate)

☐ Written contract detailing all work and materials

☐ Clear payment schedule (no more than 25% deposit)

☐ Written workmanship warranty (5+ years minimum)

☐ Called at least 3 references from past 2 years

☐ Checked online reviews across multiple platforms

☐ Competitive pricing (within 20% of other estimates)

☐ No pressure tactics or "sign today" demands

☐ Professional communication throughout

If any box remains unchecked, keep looking.

Why Homeowners Choose America's General Contractors

We know you have options. Here's why Lubbock homeowners trust us:

Established Local Presence

• Serving Lubbock and South Plains communities
• Physical location you can visit
• Deep roots in the community

Full Transparency

• Detailed written estimates
• Clear contract terms
• Proof of insurance provided immediately
• No pressure tactics—ever

Quality Workmanship

• Certified installation crews
• 10-year workmanship warranty
• Manufacturer-certified for major brands
• Insurance claim expertise

Professional Process

• Prompt communication
• On-time arrivals
• Clean job sites
• Respect for your property and time

Get Your Free, No-Pressure Estimate

Choosing a roofing contractor shouldn't feel like a gamble. Work with a company that earns your trust through transparency, professionalism, and proven results.

Schedule Your Consultation:

✓ Detailed written estimate

✓ Material options explained clearly

✓ Insurance documentation provided

✓ References from recent projects

✓ No pressure—just honest information

Serving These Communities:

Lubbock, TX | Wolfforth, TX | Shallowater, TX | Slaton, TX | Levelland, TX | Littlefield, TX

Call America's General Contractors today. Get the roofing contractor you can trust—not the one you'll regret.

About America's General Contractors

America's General Contractors is Lubbock's trusted roofing company, serving South Plains homeowners with integrity, quality workmanship, and transparent business practices. We believe choosing a contractor should be straightforward—based on proven results, not sales pressure.