12 Siding Contractor Red Flags

Choosing the right contractor for your siding installation project is crucial to ensure that the project is done correctly and efficiently. We know it can be overwhelming to sort through the numerous contractors, so we’re here to help you spot major red flags when searching for the perfect contractor to work on your home. Read more about each of them below.

1. Lack of Proper Licensing and Insurance

When considering a siding contractor, one of the first things you should check is whether they have the proper licensing and insurance to perform siding installations and residential roofing. While it may be tempting to save a few bucks by hiring an unlicensed contractor, it can lead to serious consequences. If something goes wrong during the project, you could be liable for damages or injuries. Always ask for proof of licensing and insurance and verify their validity.

2. High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Some contractors might use high-pressure sales tactics to persuade you to make a quick decision. Warning signs of this behavior include offering a “limited-time offer” on their siding installation services or pressuring you to sign a contract before you’ve had time to research and compare other contractors properly. Remember, taking your time when choosing a siding contractor is important. If you feel uncomfortable or pressured during the sales process, it’s best to walk away and continue your search.

3. Incomplete or Vague Contract

A detailed contract is crucial for any siding installation or residential roofing project. It should clearly outline the scope of work, materials to be used, project timeline, payment schedule and warranty information. Be wary of contractors who provide incomplete or vague contracts, which could lead to miscommunication or disputes later on. Before signing anything, thoroughly read and understand the contract, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification on any ambiguous terms. Similarly, if a contractor is unwilling to provide a written agreement, it’s a red flag. 

4. Lack of Communication

Open communication between you and your siding contractor throughout the project is essential for a successful outcome. If a contractor is unresponsive or difficult to reach, it could indicate poor communication skills. Warning signs include not returning phone calls or emails, failure to provide updates on the project, or vague answers to your questions. To avoid potential problems, make sure to establish clear communication expectations with the contractor before any work begins.

5. Lack of Online Presence or Having Negative Reviews and Complaints

A lack of an online presence and negative reviews and references can indicate a contractor with a questionable track record. Always research contractors and check for reviews or testimonials before hiring them for your siding or gutter installation and other home improvement projects. Many online resources allow you to find and evaluate reviews and complaints from previous clients. Be cautious of contractors with a pattern of negative feedback or unresolved issues. While no contractor is perfect, and occasional negative feedback is expected, multiple complaints could indicate poor service or shoddy workmanship.

6. Inability to Provide References

A reputable siding contractor should be able to provide a list of references from past clients who can vouch for their work quality and professionalism. Consider it a major red flag if a contractor hesitates to give you references or claims they don’t have any. To further evaluate the contractor’s work, contact the references and ask about their experience, the quality of the work and the contractor’s adherence to the project timeline and budget.

7. Requesting Full Payment Upfront

While it’s standard for siding and gutter installation contractors to request a deposit before starting a project, be cautious of roofers who demand full payment before any work has begun. This could indicate that they are financially unstable or planning to cut corners on your project. To protect yourself, negotiate a payment schedule tied to project milestones and always hold on to the final payment until you are completely satisfied with the finished product.

8. Extremely Low Bids

While everyone loves a good deal, be cautious of siding contractors who offer significantly lower bids than their competitors. This could indicate that they plan to use subpar materials, cut corners or are desperate for work due to a poor reputation. Instead of focusing solely on the price, evaluate each bid based on the contractor’s experience, reputation and the quality of materials they plan to use.

9. Lack of Experience or Specialization

Hire a siding and residential roofing contractor with experience in siding installation for a successful project. Contractors without relevant experience might lack the knowledge and skills to install your siding materials properly. Before hiring a contractor, ask about their experience in the specific type of work you need and verify this with photos of past projects or references from clients who had similar jobs done. Also, check if they have proper certification from various manufacturers to ensure you can enjoy material warranties

10. Unprofessional Behavior

Unprofessional behavior from a siding contractor can cause delays and issues during your home improvement project. Examples of unprofessional behavior include showing up late or not at all, constant rescheduling, messy work sites or disrespect towards you or your property. If you experience any of these issues during the initial consultation or early stages of the project, consider it a red flag and look for another contractor.

11. No Warranties or Guarantees

A reputable residential roofing and siding contractor should offer warranties on their workmanship and materials. If a contractor is unwilling to provide guarantees, it’s a warning sign that they may not stand behind their work.

12. Door-to-Door Solicitation

Be cautious of contractors who approach you unsolicited, especially after a storm or severe weather event. Reputable contractors typically rely on referrals or advertise through traditional and online channels, with the would-be customer getting in touch with them for an initial estimate.

At Northeast Gutters and Remodeling, we strive to go above and beyond for our clients. Expect our team to provide honest, reliable services for all your siding, gutter and roofing needs. Have a question about our services? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly and responsive team! We would be happy to give you a complimentary inspection and estimate for your next project. Get started by calling (860) 899-7878 or filling out our contact form.