AAA warns about roofing repair scams

AUSTIN (KXAN) - On a sunny July morning, you likely aren't thinking about the damage hailstones and heavy wind pounding your home. A coalition of groups think you should, or else you could be fleeced by scammers.

On Friday, the Roofing Contractor Association of Texas joined AAA of Texas and the Office of Public Insurance Counsel talked about how consumers can be safe from dishonest contractors.

Texas led the country when it came to hail damage claims in 2012, making the Lone Star State a prime target.

After severe weather in 2009, Round Rock homeowner Mary Tempelmeyer became a victim to such a scam. Hail damaged her roof, and when she hired a contractor, she thought she was getting a good deal.

"He was just posing as a regular roofer. My friend was driving by and saw his sign," said Tempelmeyer. "His price was right on, even par with someone else, but he was going to repair something else on my gutters for me. I decided let's go with him."

In 2011 she told KXAN, she was asked to pay the contractor, 5 Star Roofing half of the repair costs up front. The contractor she worked with never did the work, and four years later, Tempelmeyer is out $6,287.50 and her roof still needs repair.

Vera Samperi with the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas said consumers need to spot potential scammers and call police.

"Unfortunately you have to take the time, not panic, and just make sure you're biggest investment you're putting on your home is warranted and is going to a good reputable contractor," said Samperi.

AAA Of Texas, which provides home insurance as part of its service hosted the event Friday about roofing contract scams.

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AAA warns about roofing repair scams