Did you know that many unreliable roofing contractors prey on unsuspecting homeowners in storm areas?

We’ve been seeing more and more of this disturbing trend, especially after major storms that leave homeowners with costly roof damage in need of repair. These contractors, known as “storm chasers” often do not carry insurance policies, product warranties, or construction license numbers. Their goal is to make a quick buck by exploiting homeowners without regard to the safety and quality requirements of the industry. Most are not local and travel to the area looking for homeowners who have been affected by hail or wind damage, never to be seen again until the next major storm happens.

Homeowners should be cautious before hiring the first installer that knocks on the door. Some tell-tale signs of a storm chaser include:

  • Promises of no insurance deductible (aka insurance fraud)
  • Requires cash up-front
  • Requires homeowner to obtain the building permit
  • Asks for authorization to be the sole contact with homeowner’s insurance company

Storm chasers have no reason or incentive for producing high-quality work and are long gone before any problems arise. The best way to avoid this roofing scam is to do your own research before hiring a contractor. Educating yourself on the qualities of a licensed, reliable contractor will benefit you greatly the next time you are in need of immediate repairs.

Check out these blog posts to help guide you the next time you’re ready to hire a contractor:

Exterior Source is a locally owned and operated company that has served the and Tidewater areas since 1993. As a GAF Factory-Certified Master Elite Contractor, we are licensed by our state, trained to install quality roofs, required to maintain insurance, and established in the local community. We are experienced in insurance claims and can help homeowners with storm-damaged roofs, gutters, siding or windows.