The day after a hailstorm, the knocking starts. A friendly stranger says your roof has “major damage,” they can “get it covered by insurance,” and you just need to sign today. Some of these crews are legitimate — many are not. Here's how to tell the difference before you sign anything.
What is a storm chaser?
A storm chaser is an out-of-town crew that follows severe weather from town to town, knocking doors to sign as many roofs as possible, then moving on. When a problem surfaces a year later, they're three states away.
The warning signs
- An unsolicited door-knock right after a storm, often claiming they “noticed damage from the street.”
- “We'll cover your deductible.” Waiving or absorbing your insurance deductible is a major red flag — and in many cases it's illegal insurance fraud that can put you at risk.
- High-pressure “sign today” tactics or a contract that authorizes them to deal with your insurer.
- A large upfront deposit before any work begins.
- No local address, no Tennessee license, out-of-state plates.
Why it's risky
If the work is sloppy or a leak shows up later, the crew is long gone and the warranty is worthless. Worse, deductible-waiving schemes can leave you exposed to an insurance-fraud claim. The savings that sounded great at the door can cost you far more down the road.
Questions that expose a storm chaser
What's your local address? What's your Tennessee license number? Do your own employees do the work? Will you be here in five years to honor the warranty? Can you show me recent jobs nearby? A local, established roofer answers easily; a chaser gets vague.
The local alternative
Blue Raider Roofing & Contracting lives here in Bell Buckle. We're licensed in Tennessee (#11802), insured, BBB A+ rated, and our name is on every roof across Middle Tennessee. If a storm hits, get an honest, documented inspection from a roofer who isn't going anywhere. Schedule your free inspection — no pressure, no gimmicks.