When a severe storm hits your area and causes damage to your home, the last thing you want is to fall victim to storm chasers. These are contractors who follow severe weather patterns and prey on vulnerable homeowners, promising quick and cheap repairs. However, many storm chasers are unlicensed and uninsured, and their shoddy work can lead to further damage and financial loss. In this blog, we’ll explore how storm chasers operate and how you can avoid falling for their tricks to protect your home.
Who are Storm Chasers?
Storm chasers are unscrupulous contractors who travel to areas that have been hit by severe weather, such as hailstorms or hurricanes. They often go door-to-door and offer quick and cheap repairs to homeowners, claiming that they can fix the damage quickly and save them money. However, many storm chasers lack proper licensing and insurance, and their work is often of poor quality, leading to more extensive damage and more expensive repairs in the long run.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
If you’ve been hit by a storm and are in need of repairs, it’s important to watch out for the following red flags that may indicate that you’re dealing with storm chasers:
- Unsolicited offers: If a contractor comes to your door unsolicited and offers to repair your roof, it’s likely that they’re a storm chaser.
- High-pressure sales tactics: Storm chasers often use high-pressure sales tactics to convince homeowners to hire them quickly. If you feel like you’re being pressured to make a quick decision, it’s best to walk away.
- Lack of proper licensing and insurance: Always ask for proof of licensing and insurance before hiring a contractor. Storm chasers often lack proper credentials, which should be a red flag.
- Lack of local references: If a contractor can’t provide local references, it’s likely that they’re not a legitimate local business.
How to Protect Your Home
To protect your home from storm chasers, it’s important to take the following steps:
- Do your research: Always do your research before hiring a contractor. Look for local businesses with a solid reputation and check their credentials before hiring them.
- Get multiple quotes: Don’t just go with the first contractor you find. Get multiple quotes from different contractors to ensure that you’re getting a fair price.
- Don’t pay upfront: Never pay for repairs upfront. Legitimate contractors will never ask for payment before the work is completed.
- Read contracts carefully: Always read contracts carefully before signing them. If you’re unsure about any part of the contract, ask for clarification before signing.
- Contact your insurance company: If your home has been damaged in a storm, contact your insurance company first. They can recommend legitimate contractors and help you avoid storm chasers.
Roof repairs are often a major part of storm damage repairs, and storm chasers may try to convince you that you need a new roof when repairs are all that’s necessary. If you’re not sure about the extent of damage to your roof, it’s best to have a reputable local contractor inspect it. They can provide you with an accurate assessment and recommend the necessary repairs. Always be wary of contractors who try to convince you to replace your roof without a proper inspection. A new roof is a major investment, and it should only be considered if it’s truly necessary to ensure the safety and longevity of your home.
In conclusion, storm chasers are a real threat to homeowners who have been hit by severe weather. By being aware of their tactics and taking steps to protect yourself, you can ensure that your home is repaired properly and avoid falling victim to their scams. If you need repairs to your home after a storm, always do your research and hire a reputable local contractor. Contact us today to learn more about our storm damage repair services.
