During a hailstorm, your roof is vulnerable to damage and future repairs. Just how much damage depends on multiple factors including wind, size and density of the hail, and the type of roof covering. Continue reading “Recognizing Hail Damage”
We’ll Tell You the Truth About Your Roof
With El Niño causing multiple tornados and severe storms, this winter proved to be a turbulent one for Florida residents. Not to mention, the state kicked off the spring season with a string of storms that brought hail to some parts of Central Florida.
After a severe storm, it is always important to have your roof inspected for damage. In addition, homeowners need to be on the look out for roofing scammers, most often known as storm chasers. Storm chasers are notorious for following the path of a storm looking for homeowners to exploit. Because they’ll be leaving the area soon after putting on your roof, there is no incentive for these “contractors” to do the job the right way. By the time you notice that there’s a problem, they will be long gone!
In order to avoid being caught in a storm chaser situation, or even an insurance scam, Gulf Western Roofing suggests that every homeowner take the following steps:
- Do the Proper Research
Go online and look through the reviews on the contractor. Be immediately wary of anyone with multiple complaints. Don’t be afraid to ask around either. At times, word of mouth can be the best source of information. Seek recommendations from friends, neighbors, or relatives.
- Get Everything in Writing
Make sure to have a detailed list of the work that is to be done. Always read the fine print and never sign the contract unless you understand all of the details. A good roofing contractor should be able to explain the entire process without leaving any holes.
- Beware of Red Flags
If a contractor is not affiliated with any recognized trade association, such as the Florida Association of Roofing Professionals (FRSA) and the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), you cannot be absolutely sure that will have high standards for business practice. Also look out for contractors that are asking you to pay in full before doing the job or making any repairs. Finally, NEVER, under any circumstances, should you hire a contractor whose license or insurance information cannot be verified nor can they provide any references for similar jobs.
Gulf Western Roofing understands how stressful it can be to have to file an insurance claim. Yet the unfortunate circumstance is that there are roofing contractors who will use scare tactics to pressure homeowners into signing a contract with them. All too often have we been called out to a residence with minimal damages, only needing a small repair, yet another roofing company has told the homeowner that their entire roof needs replacement.
In addition to being licensed and insured, Gulf Western Roofing is locally owned and operated, doing business for over 17 years. We are also NRCA and FRSA affiliated and Better Business Bureau accredited. We’re in this for the life of your roof. At Gulf Western Roofing, we value our customer loyalty as well as our integrity. We’ll always tell you the truth about your roof!