How to Spot a Dodgy Roofer in Hampshire

To spot a dodgy roofer in Hampshire, check for missing insurance, no fixed address, pressure to pay cash upfront, and no written quote. Reputable roofer contractors carry public liability insurance, provide a documented survey, offer a workmanship guarantee, and never demand full payment before work begins. Always ask to see certifications first.

Warning Signs of a Dodgy Roofer

Most roofing problems start with the wrong contractor, not the wrong materials. Below are the signals we see most often when homeowners across Hampshire call us to correct someone else’s work.

They cold-call or knock on your door

Legitimate roofers rarely need to tout for work door-to-door. If someone claims to have “spotted a problem” on your roof while passing, treat it with caution. Genuine roofer contractors respond to enquiries and book scheduled surveys – they do not manufacture urgency on your doorstep.

They cannot show insurance or certifications

Ask directly for proof of public liability insurance and safety training. Our team holds £5 million public liability insurance and certification in asbestos awareness, working at height, and manual handling. A roofer who hesitates or deflects when you ask for documents is a clear warning sign.

They demand large cash payments upfront

A reputable roofer will discuss staged payments and provide a written quote first. Requests for full payment in cash before any work begins are a common tactic used by rogue traders. Honest roofers repair and replace on agreed, documented terms.

They have no fixed local base

A mobile number and no address is a red flag. We are based in Portsmouth and serve Hampshire and the South of England, including Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Waterlooville, Southampton and Eastleigh. A local base means you can find us, and we are accountable to the community we work in.

How to Check a Roofer Before You Hire

A few simple checks separate trustworthy roofer contractors from the ones you should avoid. Work through this list before agreeing to any work.

• Confirm insurance: Ask for their public liability cover and check the certificate is current.
• Request a written survey: A proper roofer inspects, then quotes in writing – not from the pavement.
• Ask about guarantees: We provide a 10-year workmanship guarantee on new installations.
• Read genuine reviews: Look for verified Google reviews from customers in your area.
• Check certifications: Working-at-height and asbestos awareness training matter on real roofs.

Questions to Ask a Roofer Contractor

The right questions expose a dodgy trader quickly. When you speak to any roofer, ask the following:

• Are you insured, and can I see your public liability certificate?
• Will you provide a written quote after a site survey?
• What guarantee do you offer on the work?
• Where are you based, and how long have you traded locally?
• Can you share reviews or examples of similar work in Hampshire?

Honest answers come easily to established firms. Vague or evasive responses tell you what you need to know.

Why Local Matters in Hampshire

Hampshire roofs face driving coastal rain, salt exposure near Portsmouth and Hayling Island, and older timber structures inland around Petersfield and Alton. A local roofer understands these conditions and can be reached if a question arises after the job. We offer free director-led site surveys, so an owner – not a salesperson – assesses your roof.

If your survey shows the covering has reached the end of its life, we explain your options plainly. For the full process of stripping back to rafters and rebuilding, see our Roof Replacement service page.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if roofer contractors are legitimate?

Legitimate roofer contractors carry public liability insurance, hold safety certifications, and provide written quotes after a proper survey. They have a fixed local base and verifiable reviews. If any of these are missing, treat the trader with caution and seek a second opinion.

Should a roofer give a quote without inspecting the roof?

No. A reliable roofer inspects the roof before quoting, either from a ladder or scaffold and inside the loft. Quotes given from the ground or over the phone without a survey are unreliable and often signal a rushed or dishonest job.

What insurance should roofers who repair or replace hold?

Roofers who repair or replace roofs should hold public liability insurance to cover damage or injury during the work. We carry £5 million public liability insurance and can show proof on request, alongside working-at-height and asbestos awareness certification.

Get an Honest Assessment

If you are unsure about a roof, a quote you have received, or advice from another trader, we are happy to give a straight second opinion. Book a free director-led site survey and get a written quote with no pressure. Call us on 02393873756 for a free quote. We respond within 48 hours.

Posted by: Connor Stanley
Date: 6 August 2026