They say when it rains, it pours—but for some homeowners in Summerville, it wasn’t just water leaking through their roofs but trust and hard-earned money. Let’s dive into a story of heartbreak, resilience, and how a local business became a beacon of hope.
Homeowners in Summerville were left high and dry after paying Orange Elephant Roofing for roof replacements that never materialized. Enter Patriot Roofing, a local company offering to complete the work at cost, bringing relief to dozens of victims of this roofing scam.
How It Works:
The scam began when Orange Elephant Roofing, a now-defunct company, convinced homeowners to pay hefty deposits for roof replacements. After collecting the money, the company stopped responding to calls and ultimately lost its contractor’s license, leaving victims with no recourse and no roofs.
Who’s Targeted:
The scam targeted homeowners, especially those looking to repair or replace aging roofs. Victims ranged from families to seniors, many trusting the company to deliver on its promises.
Real-Life Example:
Brett Stephens, a Summerville homeowner, paid $6,300 to Orange Elephant Roofing, expecting his new roof to be installed by October. Instead, he faced silence from the company. "The one time I connected with someone, they hung up on me," he shared. Fortunately, after hearing about Patriot Roofing’s efforts to help, Stephens reached out and finally had his roof replaced.
Why You Should Care:
Frauds like these don’t just cost homeowners money—they shatter trust and derail plans. Victims like Stephens not only lost thousands of dollars but faced significant delays in necessary home improvements, forcing them to scramble for trustworthy contractors.
How to Protect Yourself:
Here’s how to shield yourself from similar scams:
- Verify Contractor Credentials: Always confirm that a contractor is licensed and in good standing with local or state authorities.
- Check Reviews and References: Look up reviews online and ask for references from previous clients.
- Avoid Large Upfront Payments: Reputable contractors usually require partial payments, not full or excessive deposits.
- Get Everything in Writing: Contracts should clearly state the scope of work, timelines, and payment schedules.
- Research Backup Options: Be prepared with a list of trusted local contractors in case something feels off.
Quick Tips & Updates:
- Quick Tip #1: Did you know? Most states have contractor licensing boards where you can verify a company’s credentials and any complaints against them.
- Pro Tip: Before signing a contract, consult trusted local organizations or community groups for recommendations.
Jason Dores and the Patriot Roofing team didn’t just repair roofs—they repaired trust. Their decision to step in, expecting no profit, highlights the best of what local businesses can offer. For Brett Stephens and over 30 other homeowners, their faith in their community has been restored, one shingle at a time.
Key Terms Explained:
- Reverse Mortgage: A loan that allows homeowners to convert part of their home equity into cash.
- Contractor’s License: A certification that a contractor is authorized to perform specific types of construction work.
- At Cost: Performing a service without profit, only charging for materials and labor.
To read more, kindly find source article here