In the aftermath of severe storms, communities like Jonesboro, Arkansas, often experience an influx of roofing contractors looking to capitalize on the immediate need for storm damage roof repairs. Unfortunately, not all of these contractors have the best intentions, and homeowners must be vigilant to avoid falling victim to storm chaser scams.

How Storm Chaser Scams Work

Using Severe Weather Events:

Storm chasers prey on homeowners’ fears and urgency following severe weather events. They capitalize on the chaos and urgency to scare homeowners into hasty repairs, promising quick fixes to alleviate concerns about potential damage.

Pressure Sales Tactics:

Once they’ve caught a homeowner’s attention, storm chasers employ high-pressure sales tactics to push for immediate contracts. They may use scare tactics and exaggerated claims about storm damage to coerce homeowners into signing agreements on the spot.

Hasty Work with Subpar Materials:

After securing a contract, storm chasers often rush through the work, prioritizing speed over quality. They may use subpar materials and inexperienced labor to cut costs and maximize profits, putting homeowners at risk of shoddy repairs and future problems.

Disappearing Act:

Once the work is completed, the company may disappear without a trace, making it difficult for homeowners to address any issues or seek recourse for poor workmanship. By the time problems arise, the company is long gone, leaving homeowners stranded with no support.

Protecting Yourself From Storm Chaser Scams:

Verify Their Local Presence:

Research the contractor’s address and phone number to ensure they have a physical office and local presence in Jonesboro. A legitimate local roofing contractor will be more accountable and accessible for follow-up services and warranty claims.

Check Licenses, Certifications, and Insurance:

Ensure the contractor has all necessary licenses, certifications, and insurance required by the state of Arkansas. Request physical copies of certificates and verify their authenticity with the respective issuing authorities to protect against potential losses.

Push Back on Pressure Sales Tactics:

Be wary of contractors who pressure you to sign agreements on the spot, especially for inspections or assessments. Take the time to research and choose a reputable roofing company based on their credentials, reputation, and track record.

Don’t Sign Anything Immediately:

Avoid signing agreements or contracts hastily, especially in response to door-to-door solicitations or unsolicited offers. Take the time to review contracts carefully, ask questions, and seek second opinions before making any commitments.

Reach Out to Your Insurance and Local Roofers:

Contact your insurance company and established local roofers for assessments and quotes. Avoid making hasty decisions based on door-to-door solicitations and instead rely on trusted recommendations and referrals from reputable sources.

Additional Tips for Choosing a Roofing Contractor:

Be Skeptical of Door-to-Door Solicitations:

Storm chasers often use door-to-door solicitation as a way to reach homeowners directly. While not all door-to-door contractors are scams, it’s essential to approach such solicitations with caution.

Request References and Portfolio:

Before hiring a roofing contractor, request references from past clients and inspect the contractor’s portfolio of completed projects. Reputable Jonesboro roofing contractors will gladly provide references and showcase their work to demonstrate their expertise and reliability.

Verify Their Reputation Online:

Check online review platforms like Google Business Reviews, Yelp, and Angie’s List to see what previous clients have to say about their experiences.

Seek Multiple Quotes:

Don’t settle for the first contractor you come across. Instead, seek quotes from multiple roofing contractors to compare costs, materials, and project timelines.

Trust Your Instincts:

Ultimately, trust your instincts when evaluating roofing contractors. If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is.

By staying informed, exercising caution, and following these tips, homeowners in Jonesboro can avoid falling victim to storm chaser scams and ensure they hire a reputable roofing contractor for their repair or replacement needs. Remember to prioritize local presence, licensing and certifications, transparent communication, and written contracts to protect your home and investment. Don’t let the urgency of roof storm damage lead you to make hasty decisions—take the time to research and choose a contractor you can trust.