Storm ChaserS
Roof Repair After a Storm: How to Avoid Scams & Find a Reliable Contractor
The Vanishing Roofer:
A Costly Mistake
After a powerful hailstorm rolled through North Texas, homeowners scrambled to get their roofs inspected. Sarah, a homeowner in Frisco, received a knock on her door the very next morning. The contractor claimed to have “extra materials from a nearby job” and could fix her roof immediately for a low cost.
The offer sounded too good to pass up. She handed over a deposit, and the crew started working within hours. But a few weeks later, she noticed shingles falling off and water stains on her ceiling. When she tried to call the company, the number was disconnected. The business had no website, no local office—nothing.
Sarah was left with a poorly repaired roof and no way to recover her money. This is the harsh reality of hiring an unverified contractor.
Beware of Fly-By-Night Roofers
Following severe storms, some contractors travel from city to city chasing insurance work. While not all out-of-town roofers are scammers, many engage in questionable practices, such as:
🚩 Using Inferior Materials – They may use the cheapest available shingles, which can fail within months.
🚩 Providing No Warranty – Once the job is done, they leave town, making warranty claims impossible.
🚩 Demanding Large Deposits – Some request hefty upfront payments and never return.
🚩 Operating Without a License – Many bypass local permitting laws, leaving you with non-compliant repairs.
The Benefits of Choosing a Local Roofing Company
Instead of taking a risk with a traveling contractor, hire a roofer who is part of your community. Here’s why working with a local company is the safest choice:
🏡 Established Reputation – A local business has a proven track record in your area, with real reviews and references.
📜 Knowledge of Local Regulations – Each city has different building codes, and local roofers ensure your roof meets all necessary requirements.
🛠 Long-Term Reliability – A reputable contractor provides warranties and ongoing support if issues arise.
📞 Easily Reachable – If you have concerns or need future repairs, a local roofer is just a phone call away.
Signs of a Roofing Scam & How to Stay Safe
Some scam artists use high-pressure tactics to convince homeowners to sign contracts on the spot. Here’s how to recognize a shady contractor:
🔴 Warning Signs:
🚩 Offers to waive or absorb your insurance deductible (this is illegal in many states).
🚩 Pushes for an immediate decision or requires full payment upfront.
🚩 Has no verifiable local address, website, or customer reviews.
🚩 Fails to provide proof of insurance or licensing.
✅ Protect Yourself:
✔ Always request proof of local licensing and insurance.
✔ Check customer reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.
✔ Get multiple estimates before committing.
✔ Never pay the full cost upfront—a legitimate roofer will structure payments fairly.
FAQs About Hiring a Roofer After a Storm
- What should I do if a contractor offers to cover my deductible?
Decline the offer and report them. In states like Texas, this practice is considered insurance fraud and can get you into legal trouble. - How can I verify if a roofing company is reputable?
Look for an established local address, online reviews, and a history of serving your area. Ask for references from past customers. - Will my insurance cover poor-quality work?
No. If your insurance company finds out a contractor cut corners or committed fraud, they may deny your claim or refuse future coverage. - Why choose a trusted local roofer like McAdams Roofing?
We follow all state and local regulations, provide quality workmanship, and stand behind every repair.
Don’t Risk Your Home—Hire a Trusted Local Roofer
After a storm, your roof is your first line of defense. Work with a licensed, insured, and community-trusted contractor to ensure high-quality, lasting repairs.
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- Serving DFW
- 940-222-1034
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