Storm chasers are scam artists who roll into town in the aftermath of natural disaster to prey on those affected. Oftentimes these said professionals are in the roofing business, and they are particularly skilled at taking your money. To be sure that the company that you are hiring is legitimate, there are a few simple rules to follow.
Always be wary of someone who solicits you. These scammers know that hundreds of people in your area are waiting for insurance checks and vying for the services a handful of local roofing companies. It is indicative of a fraudulent company to show up at your door with a low cost deal to offer. They may say that they have remaining materials from a previous job and would like to pass the savings on to you, or they may empathize that you are waiting on an insurance check to cover the costs and offer to absorb your deductible if you are willing to pay all or half of the costs upfront. Storm chasers will usually be pushy about beginning right away not allowing you anytime to research and find them out. Some will take your money and leave never to begin working, while some will create the look of work being done by hauling materials to your property and "working" on your roof before abruptly disappearing.
If you want to give someone the benefit of the doubt, check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for complaints against the company, ask for local references, and insist on seeing a license. Take note, however, that a professional scammer may anticipate these moves and be able to placate your demands. The safest way to find a legitimate contractor is to do the foot work yourself.
Start with your insurance company who may have recommendations of contractors they have worked with in the past and asking friends and neighbors for references if usually a safe bet. Some otherwise legitimate companies can create scam-like nightmares by significantly underbidding to lure your business, but insisting that incidental costs accrued during the repair and ultimately charging you more money, so it is suggested ask for references and to check credentials with the BBB before hiring anyone. Before any work begin, detail clear expectations in a contract including when and how much you will pay. It is reasonable for a contractor to require some upfront money, but be suspicious if all, most or even half of the agreed costs. Not all out of town businesses are con-artists on the hunt, but most sting attempts will made by those claiming to be in town to help out.
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