The Rockland County Department of Consumer Protection is warning residents about a rise in roofing and paving scams targeting homeowners throughout the county. According to officials, scammers are impersonating legitimate contractors and using high-pressure, deceptive tactics to trick homeowners into agreeing to expensive and often unnecessary repairs.
Recent reports indicate that these individuals pose as reputable companies, claiming urgent structural issues in order to rush homeowners into signing costly contracts. In one case, scammers pretended to represent Gikas Roofing and convinced a homeowner to sign a $78,000 contract for fake roof repairs. In another disturbing incident, an elderly woman paid $60,000 for a roof replacement she didn’t need. The scammers caused additional damage to her home and then disappeared without completing any legitimate work.
“These scams follow a troubling pattern,” said Kimberly Von Ronn, Director of Rockland County Consumer Protection. “Unlicensed contractors use scare tactics to pressure residents into making quick, expensive decisions. We’ve already impounded a vehicle connected to one case and are working closely with the real company that was impersonated, along with the Orangetown Building and Police Departments. Still, public awareness is the best line of defense.”
Von Ronn urges residents to always ask for proof of a Rockland County license and insurance, noting that a New Jersey license does not authorize work in Rockland. Homeowners should take time to research and compare contractors instead of making snap decisions under pressure. Additionally, payments should never be made in full upfront; legitimate contractors will offer a written contract and reasonable payment schedule.
Anyone approached by an unsolicited contractor or suspecting fraud is encouraged to report the incident to the Rockland County Department of Consumer Protection immediately.