Seasonal storms can bring with them great winds of varying speeds and rain or hail of different sizes and if you live in an area with these weather patterns you may have to perform home repairs as a direct result. Powerful storms can tear away the shingles and siding on a home and dangerous wind speeds can increase the damage from other factors such as hail and rain in devastating ways.
Tips to Avoid Storm Chasers
If you believe that the roof or other areas of your home have been damaged by recent storms you will be motivated to address these damages immediately as any area of a home that has been affected is more likely to be further damaged by other elements. Unfortunately, there are many individuals and fly-by-night businesses looking to take advantage of your eagerness to repair your home.
If you live in a state where storms are common, you may have even experienced the rush of door-knocking contractors that flood your neighborhood after a weather event. It can be tempting to hire one of these contractors as they often promise low prices and have even been known to offer illegal kickbacks and rebates. In the event that your home has been damaged by a recent storm the first step you should take is conducting proper research to find a licensed and trusted contractor to assess and address the damage.
A reputable contractor will be able to provide you with references from homeowners in your area and should be verified on referral websites such as Tom Martino’s and Angie’s List. Licensed professionals should also be able to show you proof of insurance, a rule in the event one of their employees is injured on your property.
Check to be sure the contractor you hire has a listed address in your area and does not sprovide a P.O. Box. Home repair is a stressful undertaking for anyone but rushing through the process can cause homeowners to make mistakes including the hiring of scam artists and incompetent contractors. Take your time and do your research to avoid these pitfalls and potential problems.