The Truth About Storm-Chasing Roofing Contractors (And How to Avoid Them)

When a severe weather event moves through Texas, homeowners are in need of immediate help to repair the damage. Unfortunately, these urgent situations can open the door for homeowners to be taken advantage of, especially when storm chaser roofing contractors come into the area. These crews are based out of state, but they move to the affected markets to follow the storms and start knocking on doors. The goal is to collect as many jobs as possible so that they can maximize the available work after the storm.

One of the biggest issues with these storm chasing contractors is that they aren’t local businesses, which means they don’t have reputations to protect. Their business model is based on volume and speed…and they often sacrifice the things that matter most, such as quality and accountability.

Here in DFW, our area is one of the most targeted markets because of the heavy storms and hail that come through on a regular basis. Also, there are a lot of homes here, providing quick opportunities for contractors who are looking for a fast way to make money.

Not only is there a risk of poor workmanship from these roofing scams after storm damage, but the storm chasers are often gone when the roofing issues are discovered.

The Playbook: What You Need to Know About Roofing Scams After Storm Damage

While storm chasing roofing contractors have different approaches, the overall strategy is often similar. Here’s what usually happens:

• Within 24-48 hours after the storm, there is a knock at the door. Homeowners haven’t had time to assess the damage or get an estimate at this point. Storm chaser roofing contractors use urgency as their strategy.
• A contractor scam after hailstorms always starts with a “free inspection” that includes a pre-written contract the homeowner is asked to sign before the inspection occurs. This paperwork is done before the contractor even gets onto the roof.
• One of the common tactics is to have you waive your insurance deductible. But this is actually illegal under Texas Insurance Code. If you have a roofing contractor who makes this offer, then it’s a big red flag that they are running a sketchy operation.

Storm Chaser Roofing Contractor Red Flags to Know Before You Sign

Other common warning signs to watch out for that might indicate that you’re talking to storm chaser roofing contractors include:

• Door knock immediately after a storm: Someone knocks on your door within 24-48 hours after the storm is over.
• Large upfront cash deposits: The contractor is asking you to pay a lot of money before the work starts.
• Blank spaces on the contract: Never sign a contract with blank spaces, because additional information could be added to the contract after you sign.
• High-pressure sales: For example, the roofing contractor might be offering “today only” pricing to build in urgency and get you to move forward as quickly as possible.
• No business address: Always ask for the business information. If there is no verifiable business address, then it’s likely that you are talking to a storm chasing roofing contractor.
• Offer to waive the insurance deductible: One of the ways a storm chaser tries to sweeten the deal is by offering to waive the insurance deductible.
• No Texas license or insurance certificate: Always ask for proof of the contractor’s TDLR license and certificate of insurance before the work commences, because these documents will help you distinguish between a local roof vs. a storm chaser.
• Lack of online business information: Search the company name on Google. If you can’t find a Google Business profile, reviews, or a BBB history, then there’s a high likelihood you are talking to a storm-chasing roofing contractor.
• Asking you to sign the Assignment of Benefits: Every homeowner needs to understand how to avoid roofing scams by not transferring their insurance claim to the contractor.
• Unprofessional vehicle: Pay attention to the truck the contractor is driving. If it is unbranded and has out-of-state plates, then there’s a good chance they are a storm chaser.

What the Work Actually Looks Like 6 Months Later

A lot of issues can pop up if you choose to work with storm chaser roofing contractors. Too often, these contractors skip permits, which means that the work doesn’t go through the inspection process (and installation errors go undetected).

These roofing scammers often cut corners or make mistakes that wouldn’t happen with a professional, reputable roofing crew. Mistakes might include improper nail placement, not enough underlayment, or even skipped flashing in the critical areas. The roof might look great when the installation is done, but these issues make themselves known in the coming months when the roof starts to leak…and the contractor has already left town by this point.

FAQs

Is it illegal for a roofer to waive my deductible in Texas?

Yes, these deductible waivers are in violation of Texas Insurance Code. So, if you are asked to waive the deductible, then it’s a red flag that you are talking to a storm chaser roofing contractor.

Can I cancel a roofing contract I signed at my door in Texas?

In the state of Texas, you have the legal right to cancel a door-to-door contract within three business days after signing.

How do I verify if a Texas roofing contractor is licensed?

Go to tdlr.texas.gov and search the contractor’s name or license number. Always confirm the roofer’s credentials before moving forward with a project. A legitimate roofing contractor will always provide their license number immediately when asked.

How to Find a Reputable Roofing Contractor in Texas: Call Infinite Roofing

When you need roofing repairs after a storm, do your due diligence before signing any contract or paperwork with a roofing repair team. Research the contractor to make sure that you are working with a local, legitimate company that has a verifiable history in the community.

It’s smart to get several written estimates so that you can compare your options. Make sure that these estimates are itemized so that you can see everything that is included in the proposal. Never make a same-day decision, especially if the contractor is pressuring you to sign the contract right away.

Our team at Infinite Roofing is here to help with your storm damage and all other roofing services. We always offer other exterior repairs and installation, including solar panels, windows, gutters, and more. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate and to learn more about available services.