How to choose a roofing contractor in Maryland (and avoid storm chasers)

A roof is one of the biggest purchases a homeowner makes, and the roofing industry attracts its share of bad actors — especially after storms. Here's exactly how to separate a real, accountable contractor from a fly-by-night crew.

The 7-point checklist

• Verify the license. In Maryland, every home-improvement contractor needs an MHIC number — look it up on the state site. (Ours: MHIC #111971; VA #2705183185; PA #192325.)
• Confirm insurance. Liability and workers' comp protect you if something goes wrong on your property. Ask for a certificate.
• Demand a local, permanent address. Storm chasers use PO boxes and disappear. A real local company answers for its work years later.
• Check manufacturer certification. GAF factory-certified contractors can register enhanced warranties most roofers can't offer.
• Read the reviews — and the responses. Look for volume, recency, and how they handle the rare unhappy customer.
• Get the full scope in writing. Underlayment, ice-and-water shield, drip edge, ventilation, flashing — the items cheap bids quietly omit.
• Scrutinize the payment schedule. Reasonable: first insurance check at start, balance at completion. Red flag: large cash deposit up front.

Red flags to walk away from

• High-pressure "sign today or the price goes up" tactics
• Asking you to pay your deductible "out of their pocket" (insurance fraud)
• No written contract or vague scope
• No verifiable license or local address
• Demanding a large deposit before any work

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