Spot Storm Chasers From A Mile Away

After a heavy storm, you may worry that your roof has suffered damage and needs repairs or a replacement. Usually, your homeowner’s insurance covers the cost of this kind of damage so you can fix the problem using a reputable contractor. Even if local roofing companies are overbooked following the inclement weather, it’s wise to wait for an opening rather than get ripped off by storm chasers. Find out how to spot storm chasers before they come knocking on your door.

What are Storm Chasers?

When you hear the term “storm chaser”, you probably think of someone who lives on the edge, following tornados, hurricanes, or other extreme weather. Well, the roofing business has its own version of storm chasers who are in it for quick money. These people, often from out-of-state, visit towns impacted by rough weather with the intention of scamming unsuspecting homeowners.

Here’s the scenario: A big storm has recently swept through town and your neighborhood took the brunt of it. You suspect your roof has sustained some damage, so you call a few local roofing companies to set up time for an inspection. The same day, a man comes to your house and hands you a flyer. He claims to be sent from your insurance company to do assessments, and he believes your roof has damage requiring repairs or a replacement. He offers to do a free inspection – you’ll just need to sign a paper so he can get on your roof. What many don’t realize is that signing that paper often locks you into working exclusively with that company.

After an assessment, the storm chaser will tell you that he can work with your insurance company to replace your roof for free or a very low cost and he can take care of the issue right away.

Does it sound too good to be true? That’s because it is.

Why Are Storm Chasers Unreliable?

Storm chasers are experienced salespeople who use scare tactics and a sense of urgency to persuade homeowners to work with them, even if the roof doesn’t actually need repairs. Once they get your money, they will move on to the next storm-swept town, leaving crews behind to replace the roof. Since they are from out-of-state, it is usually poor quality work without regard for local codes.

Once the roof is finished, storm chasers tend to “disappear” and not answer phone calls about poor work or warranty fulfillments. Homeowners are often left to deal with repairs or even full replacements out of pocket since the work is done with low quality materials and as cheaply as possible. Insurance has already paid for their new roof, so the homeowners have to fend for themselves with no further monetary support.

Don’t fall victim to storm chasers who come to your or your neighbors’ doors. By working with a reputable roofing company, you can set yourself and your roof up to get the job done right the first time.

Enterprise Roofing can help identify damage to your roof and work with your insurance company on your behalf. Request a free quote today or call us at 937-298-8664!