How to Spot a Storm Chaser: Red Flags After a Texas Hailstorm
After a Texas hailstorm, spotting a storm‑chaser means looking for shortcuts, missing paperwork, and pressure tactics. Real contractors will show a valid license, carry insurance, provide a written estimate, and respect the deductible you must pay under Texas law. Anything else raises a red flag.
Check the contractor's license and insurance
First step is to verify the license number on the Texas Department of Licensing website and confirm the policy covers general liability and workers' compensation. A legitimate roofer will gladly share proof and will not hide behind vague statements about coverage.
Ask for a copy of the certificate and compare the name on the document with the name on the invoice. If the contractor works in both Texas and Oklahoma, the same verification process applies in each state. Missing or mismatched information often means the crew is not properly registered.
Watch for unusual payment demands
Storm‑chasers frequently ask for large upfront cash, gift cards, or payment before any work starts. A reputable roofer will request a reasonable deposit, usually no more than 10 % of the total estimate, and will bill the remainder after the job is completed and inspected.
Texas law requires you to pay your insurance deductible yourself, so any offer to "cover the deductible" is illegal. If a contractor says they will handle the deductible for you, walk away. Legitimate businesses understand the law and will not promise to offset that cost.
Look for missing documentation
Every roofing job should begin with a written estimate that breaks down labor, materials, and any permits needed. If the contractor hands you a verbal quote or a handwritten note, that's a warning sign.
Ask for a detailed contract that includes start and finish dates, warranty terms, and a clause about how changes will be documented. Without a signed agreement, you have little recourse if the work is incomplete or substandard.
Assess their knowledge of local building codes
Texas cities have specific wind‑rating requirements, especially in the DFW hail corridor and the coastal Houston area. A qualified roofer will reference the appropriate code and can tell you which shingle class meets the local wind speed standards.
Confirm the information with your city's building department before signing anything. If the contractor cannot name the relevant code or dismisses the need for a permit, they likely lack the experience to handle the project correctly.
Notice their communication style
Storm‑chasers often rush conversations, use high‑pressure language, and avoid answering direct questions about licensing, insurance, or warranties. A trustworthy roofer will answer calmly, provide documentation, and give you time to review the details.
Take note of response times. If emails sit unanswered for days or phone calls are returned only after multiple attempts, you may be dealing with a fly‑by‑night operation. Clear, consistent communication is a hallmark of a professional crew.
- Requests cash payment before any inspection
- Offers to waive or pay your deductible
- Provides only a verbal estimate
- Cannot produce a current license number
- Refuses to discuss warranty terms
- Presses for immediate start without a written contract
- Fails to mention required permits or local code compliance
- Uses vague language about insurance claims
Frequently asked questions
Q: How can I verify a roofer's license quickly?
A: Visit the Texas Department of Licensing website, enter the license number, and check the status. The site shows whether the license is active, suspended, or expired. Doing this before any payment protects you from unqualified contractors.
Q: What should I expect during a free roof inspection?
A: A qualified inspector will walk the roof, note hail damage, check shingle condition, and look for water intrusion. They will provide a written report with photos and a clear estimate for repairs or replacement. No pressure to sign anything on the spot.
Q: Are hail‑damage repairs covered by my homeowner's insurance?
A: Most policies cover hail damage after you pay the deductible. The insurer will send an adjuster to assess the loss. Your contractor can help you document the damage, but the final decision rests with the insurance company.
Q: Do I need a permit for a roof replacement after a storm?
A: Many Texas cities require a permit for roof work, especially when changing materials or altering the roof's slope. Confirm with your local building department. A reputable roofer will handle the permit process for you.
Think your roof took a hit — or just overdue for a look? Call Select Roofing at (877) 997-4464 or book a free roof inspection from an established local roofer at selectroofing.com/free-inspection/ — straight answers, no pressure.
— Select Roofing · Texas & Oklahoma