It’s a sad fact that when doing construction, you might encounter unethical contractors who attempt to scam you. Unfortunately, the roofing industry is no exception due to roofing scammers known as “storm chasers.”
“Storm chasing” might call to mind thrill-seekers pursuing severe weather in tornado intercept vehicles. However, in the roofing world, storm chasers are contractors trying to make a quick buck off unsuspecting homeowners.
Like all scammers, storm chasers only succeed when you don’t know their tricks of the trade.
So, keep reading to learn our tips for identifying and dealing with a storm chaser.
Looking for a Flagstaff-based roofer you can count on? Call Polaris Roofing Systems at (928)-699-4840 to connect with one of our friendly contractors. We perform top-standard roofing services at competitive price points.
What Are Storm Chasers?
Like their better-known counterparts, roofing storm chasers track areas of severe weather activity. Then immediately following the weather event, they contact homeowners living within the affected region. The storm chaser’s goal is to convince homeowners they urgently need roof repairs.
These contractors then proceed to:
- Tell the homeowner they have a crew ready to repair the damaged roof
- Claim they can complete the repair job quickly
- Make outsized promises, such as performing free roof repairs
- Try to persuade the homeowner to sign documentation
If hired, storm chasers take further advantage of homeowners by performing minimal, shoddy repairs to the roof. Then, once they’ve collected payment, they flee the scene.
How to Recognize Storm Chasers
Storm chasers rely on pushy sales tactics to convince you to do business with them. These strategies might include:
- Calling you constantly
- Stopping by your home
- Leaving flashy brochures and other marketing materials at your door
- Insisting your roof needs immediate repairs or making otherwise dramatic statements
- Requiring an upfront payment for all their repairs
Perhaps the quickest way to spot a storm chaser is noticing that they reach out to you immediately following a severe weather event. In Flagstaff, that event usually means a snow or ice storm. So, Flagstaff homeowners should be especially wary of storm chasers during those times.
How to Distinguish a Storm Chaser From a Trustworthy Contractor
If a contractor fits any of the aforementioned descriptors, you should suspect they are a storm chaser. But how do you know for sure?
First, run an exhaustive internet search on the company’s name. The internet search should tell you:
- If the company is licensed and insured
- If the company is local (most storm chasers are not local and are based out of state)
- If the company operates a professional-looking website
- If the company has received Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation
- If the company has received positive or negative reviews from third-party outlets like Yelp or Google Reviews
The answers you unearth will almost certainly reveal whether the roofing company is legitimate or not.
Lastly, know that a reputable roofing company never contacts homeowners until a homeowner initiates contact with them. Only then will the contractor set up a time to inspect your roof, provide a free estimate, and establish a payment schedule.
How to Handle a Storm Chaser
Once you’ve identified a storm chaser, you must keep your wits about you. Storm chasers are con artists who aggressively push their services. For instance, they may try to hand you paperwork to sign or insist that they inspect your roof immediately.
You should respond by not signing any paperwork under any circumstances. Furthermore, do not give them any personal information, allow them into your home, or otherwise engage with them.
What You Should Do After Storm Damage
If you suspect you have roof damage, call your insurance company to review your homeowner’s policy and coverage. Then start researching Flagstaff-area roofing companies that do free roof inspections and provide quotes for repairing the damage. By choosing a licensed, accredited, and recommended roofer, you’ll mend your roof damage with peace of mind.
Call a Reliable Roofing Company in Flagstaff Today
Polaris Roofing Systems has served Flagstaff and surrounding areas for over 25 years. Our experienced, client-focused team performs the highest quality roof repairs and installations. Call us at (928)-699-4840 to schedule a free inspection.
