How to Protect Yourself From Roofing Scams After a Storm

Within hours of a major storm, they arrive. Trucks with out-of-state plates. Friendly faces at your door. "We just finished a job down the street and noticed your roof looks damaged — we can give you a great deal."

They're called storm chasers, and they cost American homeowners millions of dollars every year. The Better Business Bureau reports over 15,000 roofing complaints annually, with roughly 60% of roofing scams occurring after severe weather events.^[1] Average losses per victim range from $9,000 to $18,000.

Here's how to spot the scams and protect yourself.

What Are Storm Chasers?

Storm chasers are roofing companies — sometimes legitimate-looking operations, sometimes one-person outfits — that travel from city to city following severe weather. They flood storm-affected areas, knock on doors, and pressure homeowners into signing contracts while emotions and urgency are high.

Some do acceptable work. Many don't. And almost all of them will be gone from your area long before any warranty issues arise.

Storm chaser activity increases approximately 400% after major hail or wind events.^[1]

The Red Flags

Learn these warning signs. If a roofing contractor does any of the following, walk away:

The Real Cost of Storm Chaser Work

Even when storm chasers do complete the job, homeowners often face problems down the road:

• Substandard materials — cheaper products that fail faster, voiding manufacturer warranties
• Poor workmanship — shortcuts on flashing, underlayment, and ventilation that lead to leaks within years
• No warranty support — the company is in another state by the time problems appear
• Insurance complications — inflated invoices or improper documentation can create problems with your insurer
• Code violations — work that doesn't meet local building codes can result in fines, and insurance may deny future claims on non-compliant roofing^[4]

How to Choose a Legitimate Roofer

After a storm, take a breath. You have time. Emergency tarping can protect your home while you make a careful decision about permanent repairs. Here's how to find the right contractor:

1. Verify Credentials

Before you even talk pricing, confirm these basics:

• Business license — valid and current in your state
• General liability insurance — protects you if something goes wrong
• Workers' compensation insurance — protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property
• Physical office — a real local address, not just a P.O. box
• Manufacturer certifications — look for Owens Corning, GAF, or CertainTeed certifications, which indicate training and unlock extended warranty options

2. Check Their Track Record

• Read online reviews — Google, BBB, and industry-specific platforms
• Ask for local references — recent jobs in your area that you can verify
• Check the BBB — look for complaint history and resolution patterns
• Verify with your state licensing board — confirm no disciplinary actions

3. Get Everything in Writing

A legitimate roofer's contract should clearly state:

• Total cost of labor and materials
• Specific scope of work (what's being done and what's not)
• Payment schedule (deposit, milestones, final payment upon completion)
• Project timeline with start and completion dates
• Warranty details — both workmanship warranty and manufacturer warranty
• Materials to be used (brand, product line, color)

4. Get Multiple Bids

Always get at least 3 written estimates. This helps you:

• Understand the fair market price for your job
• Identify outliers — extremely low bids are a warning sign, not a bargain
• Compare scope of work, materials, and warranty terms

5. Trust Your Gut

If something feels off, it probably is. A reputable roofer will:

• Give you time to decide — no high-pressure sales tactics
• Provide clear, detailed documentation
• Encourage you to check their references
• Never ask you to sign something you don't fully understand

State-Specific Protections

Many states have enacted laws specifically to protect homeowners from storm-related roofing fraud:

What to Do If You've Been Scammed

If you've already signed a contract with a questionable contractor:

1. Review your contract for cancellation terms — many states require a 3-day "cooling off" period for door-to-door sales
2. Document everything — photos of the work, all communications, contracts, and payment receipts
3. File a complaint with your state Attorney General's office
4. Report to the BBB — your complaint helps protect other homeowners
5. Contact your insurance company if the contractor submitted claims on your behalf
6. Consult an attorney if you've suffered significant financial loss

The Bottom Line

After a storm, your roof might need work — but it doesn't need to be done in the next 10 minutes by the guy who just knocked on your door. Take your time. Emergency tarping buys you the breathing room to make a careful, informed decision. Choose a local, licensed, insured roofer with a verifiable track record. Get multiple bids. Read every word before you sign anything.

The best defense against a roofing scam is simply slowing down.

Find verified, top-rated local roofers you can trust. Search your city on IKnowARoofer.com and get free quotes from reputable roofing companies.