Common warning signs
- They knock uninvited and say they have spotted a problem with your roof, chimney or gutters.
- A small job quickly turns into a big one, often with photos of “rotten timbers” or “wet insulation” you cannot check yourself.
- You are pressured to decide today, or offered a big discount for starting immediately.
- They ask for cash, or a large payment upfront.
- There is no written quote, no landline and no business address.
What to do at the door
- You do not have to let anyone in or onto your roof. It is fine to say no and close the door.
- Ask yourself: would I have had this done if they had not knocked?
- If you think there is a problem, get at least three written quotes from roofers you have chosen and checked yourself.
- Never go to the bank or a cash machine with a trader.
Your right to cancel
If you agree a contract at home with a trader who visits you, the Consumer Contracts Regulations usually give you 14 days to cancel. The trader must give you written information about this right. Work should not start during the cancellation period unless you ask for it to; if you do, you may still have to pay for work already done. If you were never told about the right to cancel, get advice quickly.
Where to get help and report
- Citizens Advice consumer service: advice on your rights, and they pass reports to Trading Standards.
- Report Fraud (reportfraud.police.uk, which replaced Action Fraud in December 2025): report fraud and scams.
- Police: call 999 if you feel threatened or someone will not leave.
Finding a roofer you can trust
Choose a roofer yourself rather than responding to a knock on the door. Check trade body membership (for example the NFRC or TrustMark) on the organisation’s own website, look for independent reviews, and get a written contract. Our hiring guide covers the checks, and you can compare local roofers here.
Last updated: 14 October 2026
