5 Tips to Avoid Being Scammed by a Storm Chaser

The roofing industry has a notorious reputation to be full of less than desirable contractors who scam homeowners and leave town before the homeowners even know that they have been scammed. We at Mill Creek Roofing are trying to push for this to change and we want to give you all the tools so that you do not become these contractor’s next victim. Below we go through 5 tips to avoid being scammed. 
 
#1 Limited-Time Offer
Don’t be pressured by a “limited-time offer” to hire the roofing company, especially following a damaging storm in your area. High-pressure sales tactics are a tell-tale sign of storm chasers. 
 
#2 Non-Local Roofers 
Be leery of roofers from out of state. Storm chasers look for opportunities and conditions where they can prey upon homeowners who may be distracted or distressed by storm damage. Check for out of state tags, or if their contact information is a non-local phone number and/or a P.O. Box. 
 
#3 Paying Your Deductible 
It sounds good. Get insurance money, get your roof replaced, and never pay a deductible. Disreputable roofing storm chasers will offer to pay for or absorb the homeowner’s deductible to get the business. A homeowner is committing insurance fraud if the contractor pays for the deductible. 
 
#4 Fake Damage 
That “free inspection” from a non-reputable company can end up costing you more than you realize. Roofing storm chasers have a terrible reputation of faking damage in order to file a claim. This can carry large fines and cause them to deny coverage of your roof. 
 
#5 Do Your Research 
Visit BBB’s website to see if anyone has filed a complaint against the roofer. Always check the roofer’s references, insurance, and certifications. If asked, a legitimate roofing company should provide proof of credentials. 
 
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a free roof inspection with a local, reputable company call us today at 832-840-400!