This is part 1 of a 2-part series: Top 10 reasons you should NOT a storm-chasing contractor
FOR REASONS 1-5 [Read Part 2 here]
Scenario: After a significant storm passes through an area there could hail damage, wind damage or damage caused by fallen objects. Sometimes the damage is obvious but in many cases the damage isn’t noticeable unless it is pointed out. A good example of this is hail damage to a roof or aluminum siding.
Immediately after such a storm you can expect your neighbourhood to be heavily canvassed by local and out-of-state contractors (storm chasers). These contractors are very aggressive in their efforts to convince you to place a claim with your insurance company for the potential damage to your home. They will explain to you that they will help you with your insurance claim in exchange for you to agree to let them do the renovation to your home. In many cases they will ask you to sign a contract for their services WITHOUT GIVING YOU A PRICE. They tell you they will do “the work” for the amount of the insurance companies estimate. After you sign the contract the contractors will take measurements of your home and prepare to meet with your insurance adjuster after a claim has been placed with your insurance company. The contractor will then meet with your insurance company adjuster and attempt to get them to pay for a new roof or siding. If the insurance company approves the damage the contractor will expect to perform the work outlined in the insurance companies estimate for THE AMOUNT OF THE INSURANCE ESTIMATE. Keep in mind the contractor has NEVER given you a price yet.
The following are the TOP 10 reasons you should not use the services of a contractor (storm chasers) like the one outlined above:
10: The people performing the work are normally “sub-contractors” disguised to look like employees of the contractor. These “sub-contractors” are generally poorly insured or completely uninsured. If a worker gets injured on your property you could have a MAJOR liability exposure. Make sure your contractor shows you proof of liability insurance AND workers compensation insurance for ALL the workers AND subcontractors. Have the contractor list you as an ADDITIONAL INSURED on all of their insurance policies.
9: The contracts that you are talked into signing generally don’t meet all the requirements of your state attorney generals office. Please refer to your state attorney generals website for information regarding contractor contracts. Most contractor contracts must include the name and address of all “sub-contractors” that will perform work under the contract.
Attorney General for Pennsylvania: Helpful Consumer tips (read this)
Attorney General Press Release 8/12/2011: Be wary of traveling contractors
New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs: Home Improvement Contractors
New Jersey Home Improvement Contractor: Contractor Registration Act
8: In many cases the contractors (storm chasers) are out of state and are only in your area for a short while. What will you do if you have a problem with the work they perform?
7: The contractor (storm chaser) doesn’t provide a price upfront for their services. Have you ever done business like this before? How do you know if their price is fair? Shouldn’t you have the opportunity to shop the insurance estimate around?
6: The building materials they use could be of lessor quality or second run. Make sure you research all the material they are using.
FOR REASONS 1-5 [Read Part 2 here]
This is part 1 of a 2-part series: Top 10 reasons you should NOT a storm-chasing contractor
If you see contractors (storm chasers) in your neighborhood like the one described above – it is likely your home sustained damage from a storm. Call Resolve Adjustment today for a FREE home inspection. 215-352-5202
