Too often when your home has damage due to a severe weather event, like many of us in Nashville just experienced, the first people to show up are the last people you want around – the Chasers. The terms “Storm Chasers” refer to restoration or roofing contractors who monitor scanners for weather alerts and emergency service communications and then rush out to our community and take advantage of vulnerable consumers. Unfortunately, catastrophes bring out opportunists who employ aggressive or unethical tactics to convince homeowners to use their services. You’ve already experienced a traumatic event; anxious to make repairs and get your life back to normal. But before you hire a contractor, use caution, to prevent further damage.
Get the contractor’s business card
and vet the company. See if they have a website and check reviews online. Ask for a list of recent projects they have completed in your area and if possible, talk to other homeowners who have worked with the contractors before to get their testimonials.
Buy locally. Hiring a local contractor not only supports local businesses, but it may save you headaches when “storm chasers” ultimately leave town for the next big disaster zone. Make sure trucks have local license plates as a quick tip.
Be wary of contractors who offer to do their work without a contract or pulling permits. Every professional homebuilder executes a contract and pulls permits. But before signing a contract, make sure you inquire about insurance policy coverage and filing a claim. Your agent can also verify the trustworthiness of a contractor. The insurance company will send an adjustor, who will inspect your home for damage and provide an estimate for how much the insurance company will cover. Keep copies of any receipts for reimbursement.
Be wary if the pricing is too good to be true, because it probably is. While many businesses may ask for a deposit, no more than 20% of the job should be paid up front. Avoid paying cash.
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