Roofer Cracked My Skylight, Blamed “Pre-Existing,” and Left Me Holding the Bag for $200
We finally bit the bullet and hired a roofing crew for a full tear-off and replacement after some leaks. The quote was reasonable, crew seemed professional, and I was looking forward to a solid roof. Big mistake not being home the whole time. Came back one afternoon to find a hairline crack in the big skylight over the kitchen. Called the roofer — he denied it was new, said it must have been pre-existing and I just noticed it. No proof either way. Ended up buying a replacement polycarbonate panel for $200 and installing it myself. Could have been avoided if I’d stayed or had supervision. Learn from my frustration.
The Day It Happened
The crew arrived early, stripped the old shingles, and started installing new ones. I had to run to work for a few hours. When I got home, something looked off with the skylight. Closer inspection showed a clear impact crack — not the kind that develops slowly. The panel was polycarbonate, tough but not indestructible. A dropped tool, ladder slip, or bundle of shingles could easily do it.
The Dispute and Denial
Confronted the foreman. He claimed they were careful, offered to “look at it,” then said it was probably there before and weather/seal failure made it noticeable. No photos from before the job (my bad for not taking them). No accountability. Contract had vague language on damage. They finished the roof nicely but left me with the skylight issue.
The Fix and Out-of-Pocket Cost
Shopped around for a matching polycarbonate panel. Found one online for $180 plus shipping/tax to $200. Installed it myself over a weekend — not too bad but annoying. Could have been $50 if they owned up and fixed it.
Total extra cost: $200 cash + time. Could have been worse if it was glass or larger unit.
Why Being Present Matters on Roof Jobs
Roofers work fast. Tools drop, feet slip, materials get tossed. Skylights, solar panels, vents — all vulnerable. Crews are often subcontractors under pressure to move quick. Without eyes on site, damage gets denied.
I’ve heard similar stories: dented gutters, broken windows, scratched siding. Insurance claims are a hassle and may raise rates.
What I Should Have Done
Stayed home or had a trusted person supervise full time.
Taken detailed before photos of all roof penetrations.
Added specific damage clauses in the contract with photos.
Chosen a company with better reputation for accountability.
Been there for the critical phases around skylights.
Broader Roofing Traps and Advice
Get multiple bids, check licenses/insurance, read reviews for damage complaints. During the job, communicate clearly. Document everything. For future work, I’ll prioritize crews that offer daily progress checks.
This $200 lesson stings but could have been thousands if major damage occurred. Be present during roof work.
Anyone have similar contractor damage stories? Roofer, painter, or other trades? How did you handle denial and what was the cost? Tips for contracts or supervision? Share so we avoid these traps. What would you do differently next roof project?