When severe weather strikes, whether it be hail, high winds, or flooding, homeowners are left picking up the pieces. In the immediate aftermath, it’s natural to want repairs done fast. Unfortunately, that urgency is exactly what some unscrupulous contractors count on to make a quick buck.
Known as “storm chasers” (not to be confused with those who track major severe storms professionally), these home repair scammers follow storms from town-to-town, targeting the neighborhoods hardest hit by damage. They offer quick fixes, promising to work with your insurance or even waive your deductible – but the result is often poor-quality work at inflated costs, or even no work at all.
If your home has recently been impacted by storm damage, here’s what you need to know to help protect yourself, your property, and your wallet.
How the scam works
Storm chasers often show up within days, or even hours, of a major weather event. They may knock on your door, leave flyers, or claim they’re already working with your neighbors. Their pitch is usually polished and reassuring (i.e. “We’re insurance-approved contractors offering a special rate for today only”)
But behind the friendly sales talk, many of these individuals are unlicensed, uninsured, and only interested in fast profits. Some perform substandard work that isn’t up to code, while others may take deposits or insurance payments and disappear without finishing the job.
In many cases, homeowners discover the issue months later – after the scammer has long since moved on to the next storm-struck town.
Common red flags
If you’re approached by a contractor after a storm, watch out for these warning signs:
- Unsolicited visits from people offering inspections or repairs
- Pressure to sign a contract immediately
- Requests for full payment up front, especially in cash
- Vague or incomplete written estimates
- Lack of a local address, business license, or proof of insurance
- Promises to “take care of everything with your insurance”
Even if the offer sounds good, it’s still worth slowing down. Reputable contractors will welcome questions, provide documentation, and offer validated references.
How to protect yourself
- Contact your insurance company first: before you agree to any work, speak to your insurer. They may have a list of vetted contractors or guidelines for claims processing.
- Research the contractor: look up their business through the better business bureau, verify their license with your state’s contractor board, and read other customer reviews.
- Ask for documentation: get a written estimate, a detailed scope of work, and proof of insurance and bonding. Don’t rely on verbal promises.
- Be cautious with signing: never sign over your entire insurance claim or allow a contractor to act as your legal representative without clear understanding.
- Don’t pay everything up front: a small deposit may be reasonable, but most contractors work in stages – with payment tied to progress.
What to do if you’ve been scammed
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by these home repair scammers, or have already paid for poor or unfinished work, take the following steps:
- File a police report and notify your insurance company immediately.
- Report the scam to your state attorney general’s office or consumer protection agency.
- Keep all documentation including receipts, contracts, and correspondence.
Taking quick action may help you recover some losses and protect others in your community from being taken advantage of.
When in doubt, slow down
In the wake of a damaging storm, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. But when the storm has come and gone, try not to let a sense of urgency override good judgement. A little patience and diligence can be the difference between a legitimate, quality repair, and a costly regret.
When possible, work with local, trusted professionals who are a part of your community – and always ask questions. Protecting your home starts with being informed.
