After a big hailstorm in North Texas, the door knocks start within days. Some are local companies. Many are storm chasers: crews that follow hail across the country, sign as many contracts as they can, and move on. Here is how to tell the difference.
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The tactics to watch for
Pressure to sign today
"We have a crew in the neighborhood this week." "The price is only good today." A reputable roofer will give you a written estimate and time to think.
An offer to cover your deductible
Waiving, absorbing or "working with" your deductible is insurance fraud under Texas law. It can void your claim and leave you responsible for the whole cost.
Asking you to sign before the adjuster comes
Some contracts signed at the door give the contractor rights to your insurance proceeds, or lock you in at whatever price the insurer approves. Read anything you sign carefully, and do not sign before you have seen a written scope.
Big payments up front
A large deposit before any material is delivered is a risk. If the company disappears, so does the money.
No local address
A temporary office, out-of-state plates, a phone number that goes to voicemail. If they cannot be found next year, neither can your warranty.
No written contract or vague estimate
A one-line price with no detail about tear-off, underlayment, flashing, vents or decking leaves room for shortcuts and surprise charges.
Damage they "found" that you cannot see
Some storm chasers have been known to create damage to make a claim look bigger. Ask for photos of every damaged area, and check them against the photos you took yourself.
How to check a roofer
Texas does not require a state license for residential roofers, so this checking falls to you.
If you already signed
The federal Cooling-Off Rule generally gives you three business days to cancel a contract signed at your home with a door-to-door seller, and the seller is supposed to give you a cancellation form. Read your contract's cancellation terms, and talk to an attorney if you are unsure where you stand.
We are based at 9738 Industrial Rd in Justin and have been BBB accredited since 2018. Call (855) 741-ROOF for a second opinion.