Hearing “We’re going with someone else” stings—especially when you’ve done a solid inspection, took great photos, and presented a clean scope.
But in roofing (especially storm restoration), that phrase often means one of these things:
- they’re still deciding and using it to end the conversation
- they found a lower price and want to avoid conflict
- they trust someone else more (relationship > numbers)
- they’re overwhelmed and want to reduce options
Your job is to respond in a way that:
- stays professional and calm
- protects your reputation
- gives you one last chance to win—or exits cleanly
Here’s how to handle it in 2026.
Step 1: Don’t argue. Validate and slow it down.
The best 10-second response
“Totally understand. Before I close this out—can I ask one quick question so I can improve? What was the main reason you chose them?”
Why it works:
- it’s respectful
- it lowers defenses (“so I can improve”)
- it gets you the real objection
If you argue or pressure, you become the reason they feel good about switching.
Step 2: Identify which “bucket” you’re in
Most answers fall into one of four buckets:
- Price (“They’re cheaper.”)
- Trust/relationship (“They’re a friend / referral / we like them.”)
- Speed (“They can start tomorrow.”)
- Confusion/overwhelm (“We’re just not sure / need time.”)
Your next line depends on the bucket.
Word-for-word scripts for each situation
A) If it’s price: “They’re cheaper.”
Response:
“Got it—price matters. Just so you’re protected, can I ask: are you comparing the same scope and materials, or is theirs a different scope?”
If they’re open to it:
“I’m not trying to talk you out of it—just want to make sure you’re not losing key items that show up later as change orders.”
Then give a simple offer:
“If you want, I can do a quick apples-to-apples check. It takes 5 minutes. If they truly match scope and quality, I’ll tell you that.”
What you’re doing: shifting the conversation from “cheaper” to “equal scope?”
B) If it’s trust: “We know them / we like them.”
Response:
“That makes sense—if you trust them, that’s important.”
Soft win attempt:
“Would it help if I emailed you the photo summary and scope notes we documented? Even if you use them, you’ll have a record in case anything gets missed.”
Why this wins sometimes: you stay helpful and professional, and they often circle back when the other contractor gets sloppy.
C) If it’s speed: “They can start faster.”
Response:
“I get it—everyone wants it done quickly.”
Clarify calmly:
“Are they starting actual production, or just getting you on the calendar?”
Then:
“If timing is the only issue, we may be able to adjust scheduling. If you give me your ideal window, I’ll see what’s realistic.”
Important: don’t promise immediate start if you can’t deliver.
D) If it’s overwhelm: “We’re just going with someone else.”
Response:
“Totally understand—this can get overwhelming.”
One question that cuts through:
“On a scale of 1–10, how confident do you feel that their scope and warranty fully cover what you need?”
If <8:
“Fair. Would it be helpful if I sent you a one-page checklist to compare bids—scope, ventilation, drip edge, flashing, permits, cleanup, warranty? No pressure.”
This positions you as the professional, not the salesman.
Step 3: Use the “two-try rule” (then exit clean)
Don’t drag it out. You get two respectful attempts:
- One question to identify the reason
- One helpful offer to solve that reason
If they still say no, close with class:
“No problem. If anything changes, I’m here. I’ll send you my contact info and the inspection photos we took so you have them for your records. Either way, I appreciate your time.”
That’s how you keep your reputation—and often get referrals later.
The follow-up message that wins “lost” deals back
If they choose someone else, send this within 24 hours:
Subject: Roof inspection photos for your records
“Hi ___, thanks again for your time. As promised, here are the photos and notes from our inspection so you have them for your records. If you want a quick apples-to-apples scope review of bids, I’m happy to do it—no pressure. Wishing you a smooth project.”
This works because it’s helpful and low pressure.
Why homeowners say “someone else” (and what to fix)
If you hear this often, your process may have one of these issues:
- You didn’t clearly explain scope (they’re comparing only price)
- You didn’t build enough trust early
- You didn’t set a clear next step (“When should we decide?”)
- Your proposal wasn’t easy to understand
- Your follow-up wasn’t structured
Fixing those increases closes without being pushy.
Quick checklist: “Did we lose it for a real reason?”
Before you blame price, check:
- did you speak to the decision-maker?
- did you explain what could be omitted?
- did you show photos clearly?
- did you review warranty + workmanship standards?
- did you set a decision time?
Want a custom response script for your market?
Allied Emergency Services, Inc.
📞 800-792-0212
📧 info@alliedemergencyservices.com
