Fake Contractors in New Jersey: How to Spot and Avoid Them
They show up with smiles, business cards, and big promises — but fake contractors are everywhere in New Jersey. Some take deposits and disappear. Others perform half-finished work and vanish before you notice the damage. The problem is, they often look convincing at first glance.
Here’s how to recognize the fakes before they cost you time, money, and stress.
1. No License Number or Business Registration
Every legitimate roofer or contractor in New Jersey must be registered with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. If they don’t provide a license number, or if their number doesn’t check out online, they’re not the real deal.
2. No Proof of Insurance
Fake contractors rarely carry liability or workers’ compensation insurance. That means if they get hurt on your property, you could be liable. Always ask for insurance certificates and verify them with the provider.
3. Unmarked or Out-of-State Vehicles
Real contractors operate with branded trucks, uniforms, and consistent contact info. Scammers often drive unmarked vans or vehicles with temporary magnets. If you can’t trace their company, don’t hire them.
4. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Fake contractors thrive on urgency. They’ll say things like, “This deal is only good today” or “Your roof could collapse any minute.” Real professionals give you space to make informed decisions.
5. Cash-Only or Large Upfront Payments
Scammers love cash because it leaves no paper trail. Legitimate companies like Tetti Roofing accept secure payment methods and only require modest deposits before work begins.
6. No Physical Address or Local Reviews
If the business has no verifiable address, website, or local reviews — that’s a problem. Fake contractors often use temporary phone numbers and disappear after scamming a few homeowners.
7. Poor or Generic Contracts
Legitimate contracts include detailed breakdowns of materials, costs, timelines, and warranty information. If you’re handed a vague, one-page “agreement,” walk away immediately.
How to Protect Yourself
- Verify contractor licenses through the NJ Consumer Affairs website.
- Ask for at least three local references and call them.
- Check for a physical office location — not a P.O. box.
- Search the company name plus “scam” or “complaint” on Google.
Why New Jersey Homeowners Choose Tetti Roofing
Tetti Roofing is a fully licensed and insured New Jersey roofing company with a real office, verified credentials, and a long list of satisfied customers. We’re here year-round — not just after storms — and we take pride in doing the job right.
Call us: (908) 617-1544
Visit us: 350 Grove St Suite 205, Bridgewater, NJ 08807
Request a Free Estimate: Instant Quote
Final Takeaway
Fake contractors count on panic and trust. Verify everything, ask tough questions, and don’t hand over money until you’re confident in who you’re hiring. For licensed, reliable roofing work in New Jersey, call Tetti Roofing.