After a severe storm blows through your area, you may find that several “roofers” reach out to you with great concern for the state of your roof. They may call or even knock on your door and offer a free roof inspection. Perhaps they claim to already see significant damage. Maybe they urge you to sign a contract immediately so they can get the repairs underway for you as quickly as possible!
This. Is. A. Scam.
These so-called “roofers” are storm chasers and, unfortunately, many of them are unlicensed, uninsured scam artists looking to make a quick buck. They provide cheap materials, shoddy workmanship, and no long-term guarantees on their work.
Fortunately, there are several ways to avoid falling victim to storm chasers and roofing scams.
First, never trust a storm chaser to go up on your roof. If the damage from a storm is not severe enough to warrant an insurance claim, a storm chaser might use a hammer or even cleated shoes to mimic wind and hail damage in hopes of tricking your insurance company. Most insurers don’t fall for it though, and it leaves you, the homeowner, with a damaged roof and all the out-of-pocket repair costs that go with it. If you’re concerned your roof has sustained wind or hail damage, call a reputable local roofing company and have them inspect it.
Second, never sign a contract with a storm chaser, no matter how urgent the situation may seem or how appealing their “special low prices” may sound. Take the time to do some research and get a few different estimates before selecting a roofer. Once you’ve chosen a roofer, make sure to get your contract in writing, specifying the cost, completion schedule, payment schedule, any guarantees, and all other expectations you’ve discussed with them. Don’t leave any part of the contract blank.
The third and perhaps most important way to avoid a roofing scam is to never pay a storm chaser upfront or in cash. Always wait to sign a completion certificate until the work has actually been completed to your satisfaction (and meets all local compliance codes). When you’re ready to pay them, always use a check or credit card that can be traced in the event of a dispute.
Finally, never allow a storm chaser to work with your insurance company – always call your agent directly. As the homeowner and named insured, you need to know what estimates and claim payments are being submitted and issued under your policy. You also need to ensure that a claims adjuster inspects the roof damage before repairs begin, or your claim could be denied. If a storm chaser tries to discourage you from contacting your agent, don’t hire them.
The simplicity of the storm chaser process is what makes it so appealing, but it’s also what makes it extremely risky. More and more homeowners are falling victim to these scams, but if you’re careful and always do your research, you’ll be protecting yourself and your home.