In the world of Phoenix roofing, storm chasers are a major problem. Storm chasers are individuals who travel from area to area, looking for people and businesses in need of roof repair services due to natural disasters such as hail, wind, or rainstorms. Unfortunately, they often use these desperate circumstances to their advantage by charging exorbitant fees and providing sub-par workmanship that often does more damage than good.
Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself from falling victim to a storm chaser. The most important thing is to thoroughly research any roofer before hiring them for your repair or replacement needs. When seeking an affordable roofing contractor in Phoenix, look for references and reviews from past customers, as well as make sure that the company has proper licensing and insurance. Additionally, make sure that any contracts you sign with a storm chaser are in writing and provide detailed information about the scope of work, materials used, and costs.
By doing your homework ahead of time and keeping an eye out for suspicious sales tactics or excessive prices, you can rest assured that your roof repair needs are being handled responsibly and professionally. Storm chasers may sound like an attractive option, but in the end, they can lead to more headaches and higher costs. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to making sure your roof is properly repaired or replaced. Taking the time to vet contractors thoroughly will help you avoid any potential problems that could come from hiring storm chasers.
Next, remember that reputable companies will NOT normally knock on your door or call you unsolicited. It’s still important to do your research and get an estimate from a variety of contractors, but if someone comes knocking wanting to repair your roof for an unusually low price, they are probably not legitimate storm chasers. A good rule of thumb is that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
If someone does come to your door claiming to be a reputable roofer, ask for their contact information and do some research. Storm chasers sometimes don’t have the proper licensing or insurance needed to do roof repairs and some have even been known to take money without completing the job. If they refuse to show you proof of their business credentials, don’t work with them.
Always have a written contract for any roofing repairs that go beyond basic maintenance. Make sure your contractor guarantees the quality of their work and offers a warranty for their services. Check the Better Business Bureau to make sure there are no complaints about the contractor before hiring them.
Preparing for a Storm
While on the topic of storms, a good tip is to be prepared for the storm. You can’t always predict or prevent a hurricane or tornado from hitting, but you can take steps to protect your home before the storm comes. Before a storm, inspect your roof for any loose shingles or other damages that could compromise its structure during the storm. Furthermore, it’s important to trim trees near your home so they don’t become projectiles in high winds.
During a storm, stay away from windows and exterior doors and ensure that everyone is in a safe spot. It’s also important to stay informed about the weather, as you will then know when storm chasers are likely to knock.
After a storm, contact a reputable roofer to inspect and repair any damage. If the damage is too severe, you may need to replace the entire roof instead of just making repairs. Furthermore, if you find storm chasers knocking on your door after a storm, politely direct them away from your home and don’t let them up onto your roof without proper certification and insurance.
