It seems that in every type of natural disaster and other calamities that there are always disreputable people trying to take advantage of the victims. Storm chasers are the bottom-feeders of the contractor industry, preying on those that have had extensive roof and home damage from hail or other types of storms. They sweep into an area after a storm, offering quick and cheap repairs, but the only thing they leave behind is more damage to the victims that give them their money.

Spotting a Storm Chaser

Storm chasers are notorious for blanketing neighborhoods where storms hit and offering their services. They may show up and knock on your door, giving you a flyer or business card with a smile, claiming they can fix your roof damage right away. When storms hit an area, the legitimate roofing contractors are often swamped with calls for quotes, estimates and repairs. Having someone show up to your door can be a relief, but if it seems too good to be true, it often is.

There are a few notable differences that you can spot with storm chasers. For one, they are rarely from the area. They may have a 1-800 number or a phone number from out of state. This is your first clue to do a little more research. Check to see if they are even licensed or insured in your state by making a quick call. Check the Better Business Bureau and see if they are listed at all or have previous complaints.

Storm chasers often take a down payment for roof repairs, then disappear without doing any work. Or, they do repair the roof, but use shoddy materials and methods that do not last. When a leak occurs months down the road, they are long gone, and you are stuck with the repair bill.

Avoid storm chasers by sticking with a local roofing contractor with a solid reputation in your community. You may need to wait a little longer, but it worth the inconvenience to ensure your roof repair is done by someone you can trust.

Posted on behalf of:
Atwood Home Builders
227 W 8^th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120
(412) 638-1262