Be Cautious in Storm-Damaged Houston: 5 Red Flags from Unreliable Roofers

Storm Chasers Alert: 5 Red Flags That a Roofer Is Trying to Scam You After a Storm

As a homeowner in Houston, I've seen my fair share of storm damage. And let me tell you, it's not just the wind and rain that can cause problems – it's also the scammers who come out of the woodwork looking to take advantage of you.

Unlicensed Contractors Are a Red Flag

TDLR licenses specific trades — electricians and air conditioning contractors among them — but Texas does not license roofing contractors or contractors in general.

• Texas issues no state roofing license, so a TDLR lookup will not show one for a roofer — check instead for proof of general liability insurance, a local address, and BBB history before you hire.
• Beware of roofers who want cash payments or are offering prices that seem too good to be true – they're probably trying to scam you;
• Don't be afraid to ask for references from previous customers in your area.

Be Wary of High-Pressure Sales Tactics

I've lost count of how many homeowners I've worked with who got taken advantage of by storm chasers. They'll show up at your door, make a bunch of promises, and try to get you to sign on the dotted line without giving you time to think it through. Don't let them bully you into making a hasty decision – take your time and do your research.

Documentation Is Key

When dealing with a roofer, make sure they provide detailed documentation of their work. This includes before-and-after photos and a comprehensive repair plan. It's like doing your taxes – you want to be able to keep track of everything so you can see what's going on.

What to Do Right Now

To avoid falling prey to these scammers, follow these steps:

1. Research local roofing contractors and read reviews from other homeowners in your area;
2. Beware of roofers who show up uninvited or insist on working without a permit – that's just a recipe for disaster; and
3. Don't be afraid to ask for references or proof of insurance and liability coverage.

The bottom line is this: when dealing with storm damage, take your time and do your research. Don't let scammers like these take advantage of you – it's just not worth the risk.