When a storm damages your roof, you will likely want to fix it as quickly as possible but you should use caution when hiring contractors. Scammers often appear in the aftermath of severe weather, hoping to exploit homeowners dealing with storm damage and insurance claims.
The storm chasers will solicit door-to-door and pressure homeowners into signing contracts and demand a full payment upfront. They may also convince homeowners to file unnecessary insurance claims.
Homeowners should take the following steps:
Research contractors fully and hire local. Verify that the company is a member of the BBB, local roofing association and call their references. Hiring a local business will also ensure they are still around should a problem arise later.
Insist on a written contract. All agreements should be in writing and including the scope of work, payment terms, and project timelines. Add any verbal promises to the contract before you sign it.
Do NOT be pressured into signing a contract on the spot. Avoid contractors who pressure you to sign a contract immediately. Take the time to do your research before contractually obligating yourself - in Texas you only have three (3) days to cancel a contract. It is also considered best practice to get more than one bid.
Ask for proof of insurance from the contractor. Be sure to obtain proof that the contractor carries the necessary liability and/or workers compensation insurance before allowing any work to be performed on your home. Call their carrier to verify the insurance coverage. If they are not properly insured, you are now also responsible for any property damage they may cause, or for any worker that may be injured while working on your property.
Do NOT pay the contractor in full until the work is completed. Avoid contractors demanding payment in full up front as you may never see them again. Payment in full prior to the work being completed also leaves you with no leverage should the project not be completed as promised.
There is no such thing as a “free roof.” Avoid any contractor offering to waive your deductible as this is against the law. They will either commit insurance fraud by overinflating your insurance claim to cover the deductible or cut corners on repairs/replacements which will cause you problems down the road.
Review your insurance policy. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report damage and learn how your claim will be handled. Take photos or videos of all damage that you can.
Find a voluntarily licensed contractor here: https://web.rcat.net/search
HOW TO SPOT A SCAMMER
Fraudulent roofers look just like the real thing but often offer promises of a “free roof” or extremely cheap repairs with quick turnarounds. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. A contractor may be fraudster if he/she:
Is going door to door offering services;
Offers a particularly good deal or claims to be able to waive your deductible;
Only provides out-of-state references;
Requires a payment in full, or all cash payment;
Requests a signature immediately or on an incomplete or blank contract; or
Is uninsured.