# Storm chasers: how to spot a roofing scam

Updated: 2026-10-24 · https://pros411.com/en/guides/roofers/roofing-scam-storm-chasers

## Short answer

Storm chasers are crews that follow big storms and go door to door. Do not sign anything at the door or let them on the roof alone. Check for a local address, a license where your state requires one, and insurance. Get two or three written estimates. Be wary of anyone who offers to cover your deductible or wants full payment upfront, and pay as the work gets done.

## How to spot a storm chaser roofing scam

![Cartoon house looking worried as a TODAY ONLY roofing van parks out front](https://pros411.com/img/guias/roofing-scam-storm-chasers.webp)

1. **A crew knocks right after the storm.** They say they saw damage on your roof and the deal ends today. Real damage can wait a few days for a second opinion.
2. **Do not sign anything at the door.** Some papers that look like an inspection form let the crew deal with your insurer for you. Read every word, or show it to someone you trust.
3. **Check the license, insurance and address.** Ask for their license where your state requires one, proof of insurance and a local office you can visit. Look up their reviews.
4. **Get two or three written estimates.** Each one should list the materials, the work, the cleanup and the warranty. A price far below the rest is a warning sign.
5. **Never pay the whole job upfront.** A fair deposit, then the rest as the work gets done. Pay by check or card, never cash.

## Red flags

- They showed up uninvited right after the storm and push you to decide today.
- They offer to pay or "waive" your deductible. In many states that is illegal.
- Out-of-state plates, no local address, or a phone number that only works during this storm.
- They ask for full payment, or a big cash deposit, before any materials arrive.
- They want to go on the roof alone, then show you photos of damage you cannot see from the ground.

## If you already signed

A federal rule often gives you three business days to cancel a sale made at your home, and many states add their own rules for roofing contracts. Cancel in writing and keep a copy. If you were pressured, or paid and nothing happened, report it to your state attorney general and tell your insurer.

## When to call a roofer

- You want a second opinion on damage a door-to-door crew showed you.
- Your insurer approved the claim and you need a local roofer to do the work.
- A crew started the job and disappeared, or the new roof leaks.

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## Frequently asked questions

### What is a storm chaser roofer?

A contractor who follows big storms from town to town, knocks on doors and leaves when the work dries up. Some do fine work, but warranty problems and scams are common.

### Is it illegal for a roofer to waive my deductible?

In many states, yes, because it means billing the insurer for more than the real price. Even where it is not illegal, it can put your claim at risk.

### How do I check if a roofing contractor is legit?

Ask for a local address, proof of insurance and a license where your state requires one, then look up reviews and complaints. Ask for neighbors they have worked for.

### How much should I pay a roofer upfront?

Only a deposit, and some states limit how much a roofer can ask before work starts. Pay the rest as the work gets done, by check or card.

### Can I cancel a roofing contract I signed at my door?

Often, yes. A federal rule usually gives you three business days for sales made at your home, and some states give more for roofing. Cancel in writing.

### Should I let a door-to-door roofer inspect my roof?

Better to say no and call a local roofer you chose yourself. Some dishonest crews fake damage, or cause it, while they are up there.