After the Hail Storm: 4 Tips to Avoid Scams
Posted on: 20 February 2018
Depending on where you live and how severe the storm is, hail can be minor or it can be devastating. Hail can be very tiny pieces of ice, or they can be very large in size, such as the size of a baseball! Hail can cause serious damage to the roof of your home. While it is true that shingles are designed to withstand significant weather elements, they can sustain damage from substantial hail storms.
After a hail storm, you will need to perform a visual inspection of the roof to look for signs of hail damage, such as bruising, dents and chips in the shingles as well as missing shingles, etc. If you notice these signs of damage, here are a few tips to help you avoid scams from roofing contractors:
1. Watch Out for Door-to-Door Contractors
It isn't uncommon for some contractors to solicit their services door-to-door after a significant storm has blown through a town. They try to pressure homeowners into making quick (and usually expensive) decisions regarding repair work. When these contractors come to your door, verify their information. If they don't have a physical phone number and address, tread carefully.
2. Work with Contractors Who Are Licensed, Bonded & Insured
When considering contractors, request documentation that proves they are professionally licensed, bonded and insured. Once you receive this information, go a step further and verify the license through the necessary licensing board. It also doesn't hurt to check with the Better Business Bureau for consumer complaints.
3. Ask for References
If the contractor is reputable and legitimate, he or she should have no problem providing you with references when asked. Don't just take this list, though; call the references. You should be able to reach the majority of the references that are provided to you. If you are unable to, let this be a red flag for you.
4. Read the Contract Before Signing
If a contractor does not provide you with a contract, or tries to hand you a blank contract to sign, be wary. It is very important that you have a written contract that outlines the payment schedule, scope of work, start date, end date, list of project materials, necessary permits, post-construction clean-up, etc. Make certain that all of the contact information for the contractor is included as well. Read through the contract thoroughly before signing it and having the contractor sign it too.
Before storm season arrives, make sure that your homeowners' insurance is all up to date. Contact services to learn more Boone Ritter Insurance.
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