Ghosted by Your Roofing Contractor? Here’s What to Do

Hiring a roofing contractor is a significant investment for any homeowner. Unfortunately, sometimes things don’t go as planned. One of the most frustrating experiences you can have is being ghosted by your contractor—left with an unfinished roof, mounting stress, and a feeling of helplessness. If you’ve hired a roofing company and now find yourself in this situation, here’s what you can do.

Understanding the Problem

First, it’s important to understand why contractors might ghost their clients. Common reasons include:

• Overcommitting to too many projects.

• Running out of funds or facing financial difficulties.

• Poor project management skills.

• Personal issues affecting their professional life. 

It's also important to recognize that contractors are currently experiencing delays due to material shortages. Lead times for certain roofing products can range from 2-3 weeks to 2-3 months. As long as your contractor communicates these delays up front and keeps you informed, you should still be in good hands.

Regardless of the reason, if you are not getting a response from your roofing contractor, it’s essential to address the issue promptly to minimize damage and find a resolution.

Steps to Take When Your Contractor Ghosts You

1. Document Everything

Keep detailed records of all communications, contracts, payments, and any work that has been done. This documentation will be crucial if you need to escalate the situation.

2. Attempt to Re-Establish Contact

Send a polite but firm email or letter outlining your concerns. Request a specific timeline for the completion of the project. Sometimes, a clear reminder of the contract terms can prompt the contractor to resume communication.

3. Send a Formal Notice

If your initial attempts to contact the contractor fail, send a formal notice via certified mail. This should outline the agreed-upon work, the current status, and your expectations for completion. Make sure to include a deadline for the contractor to respond.

4. Contact Relevant Authorities

If there’s still no response, it’s time to report the contractor. Here’s who you can contact:

• The Better Business Bureau (BBB): File a complaint to help warn other consumers and possibly get a resolution.

• The Colorado Roofing Association (CRA): If the contractor is a member, the CRA can mediate and offer support.

• Local Consumer Protection Agency: They can provide advice and sometimes intervene on your behalf.

• The Colorado Attorney General’s Office: If you suspect fraud, report the contractor to the Consumer Protection Section.

5. Leave a Review

Share your experience on review platforms like Google, Yelp, and the BBB. This not only helps others avoid similar issues but also puts pressure on the contractor to address your concerns.

6. Consider Legal Action

If all else fails, you might need to consult with an attorney. Legal action can help you recover lost funds or enforce the completion of the project. Small claims court is an option for smaller amounts, while larger claims may require more extensive legal proceedings.

Preventing Future Issues

To avoid being ghosted by a contractor in the future, consider these tips:

• Thoroughly Vet Contractors: Check reviews, ask for references, and verify their credentials. Check out our guide, Selecting a Professional Roofing Contractor for more tips. 

• Have a Detailed Contract: Ensure it includes clear deadlines, payment schedules, and terms for dispute resolution.

• Make Incremental Payments: Avoid paying large sums upfront. Instead, make payments based on milestones or completed work.

• Stay Involved: Regularly check in on the progress and maintain open communication.

Being ghosted by a contractor is a stressful experience, but by taking these steps, you can work towards a resolution and protect yourself in the future. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Colorado Roofing Association for support and guidance.