What Are Storm Chasers?

Storm chasers are roofing contractors who travel from state to state after severe weather events, offering quick but often unreliable roof repairs. While their services may seem convenient, they often use cheap materials, cut corners, and disappear once the job is done—leaving homeowners with shoddy roofs and no warranty protection. Example:

After a hailstorm in Denver, a homeowner in Arapahoe County hired a contractor who promised a fast and affordable roof replacement. Within six months, the roof began leaking. When they tried to contact the company, they realized the contractor had left town—taking their warranty with them.

👉 Avoid this costly mistake by choosing a reputable local roofing company.

beware of storm chasers

Why You Should Avoid Storm Chasers

1. They Don’t Follow Colorado Roofing Codes

Colorado’s extreme weather—ranging from 110°F summers to 0°F winters—requires strict roofing codes. Storm chasers often don’t comply with local regulations, leading to premature roof failure.

If you suspect storm damage, schedule a professional roof inspection with our local experts to assess the condition of your roof before making any decisions.

2. Poor Workmanship & No Warranty

Storm chasers prioritize speed over quality, meaning your roof may develop leaks, cracks, or structural issues within a year.
If a problem arises, good luck tracking them down for warranty work—they’ve likely moved on to another storm-affected area.

3. Aggressive Sales Tactics & Insurance Scams

Storm chasers often pressure homeowners into signing contracts immediately, claiming their roof is dangerously damaged. Some even inflate insurance claims, leading to potential fraud issues.

🚨 Warning: If a contractor offers to “cover your deductible” or “handle the claim entirely for you,” this could be a sign of fraud.

Trusted local roofing company team working on a roof replacement to ensure compliance with Colorado building codes

How to Identify a Storm Chaser

Before hiring any roofing contractor, watch for these red flags:

🚩 Out-of-state license plates and phone numbers
🚩 No local business address or office
🚩 Unclear or non-existent warranty terms
🚩 Pushy sales tactics (e.g., “Sign now for a discount!”)
🚩 Requesting full payment before work begins

✅ Pro Tip: Verify the contractor’s business license, insurance, and reviews before hiring them.

The Benefits of Hiring a Local Roofing Contractor

Choosing a local roofing company ensures quality workmanship, code compliance, and long-term support.

1. They Understand Colorado’s Unique Weather & Roofing Needs

Extreme heat, heavy snowfall, and hailstorms require specialized roofing materials. Local roofers use materials suited to Colorado’s climate.

2. They Provide Reliable Warranty & Maintenance Services

Unlike storm chasers, local contractors don’t vanish after a storm. If your roof needs repairs or warranty work, they’re just a phone call away.

3. You’re Supporting Your Local Community

Hiring a local company boosts the local economy and helps small businesses thrive.

Unlike storm chasers, we provide long-term roof repair solutions backed by a warranty, ensuring your home stays protected for years to come

Roofing contractor inspecting storm damage on a house after a hailstorm in Colorado

Tips to Protect Yourself From Roofing Scams

✔ Do your research – Check reviews, verify business addresses, and ask for past project references.
✔ Ask for proof of licensing and insurance – A legitimate roofer will readily provide this information.
✔ Get multiple quotes – Compare at least three estimates before making a decision.
✔ Avoid high-pressure sales tactics – Take your time to review contracts.
✔ Read the contract carefully – Ensure the scope of work, warranty, and pricing are clearly defined.

Need more guidance? Check out this Colorado Roofing Code Guide for official state roofing regulations.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Storm chasers prey on homeowners after severe weather, offering quick fixes that often lead to expensive repairs later. Choosing a trusted, local roofing company ensures quality, reliability, and long-term protection for your home.

Want a free roof inspection from a local expert? Contact Rize Exteriors today!

Author

Jonathan Vieyra

Jonathan Vieyra, owner of Rize Exteriors Services LLC, has over 10 years of experience in the roofing industry. Known for his dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, Jonathan has built a reputation as a trusted leader in residential and commercial roofing across Colorado. Over the years, he honed his skills and gained certifications from renowned manufacturers like ASC and IKO, ensuring his expertise remains at the forefront of the industry.
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