Oklahoma is part of the “Tornado Alley” region in the United States, which experiences a high frequency of severe weather events, including hailstorms. Hailstorms can cause significant damage, particularly to vehicles and buildings. The damage to roofs can be particularly severe and often requires repair or replacement. After these hailstorms, homeowners often need urgent repairs to prevent further damage to their homes (from rainwater leaks, for example).
This creates a business opportunity for storm chasers – individuals tracking these severe weather events – and “storm chaser” roofers. Storm chasers (the ones interested in meteorology) might go to Oklahoma to study the hailstorms, gather data, or capture dramatic footage. On the other hand, storm chaser roofers might offer their repair services to homeowners whose properties have been damaged by the hail. While some of these contractors may be legitimate, some exploit the situation, performing subpar work or scamming homeowners.
Understanding Storm Chasers
Storm-chasing roofers are a well-known phenomenon in places like Tulsa, Oklahoma, where severe weather is not uncommon. These individuals or companies follow the trail of storm-damaged regions, offering roofing repair and replacement services to homeowners in need. While some storm chasers are legitimate contractors, many are opportunistic entities that may provide subpar workmanship or even perpetrate scams.
Storm-chasing roofers are a well-known phenomenon in places like Tulsa, Oklahoma, where severe weather is not uncommon. These individuals or companies follow the trail of storm-damaged regions, offering roofing repair and replacement services to homeowners in need. While some storm chasers are legitimate contractors, many are opportunistic entities that may provide subpar workmanship or even perpetrate scams.
As a homeowner, protecting your home starts with the quality and integrity of your roofing system and the contractor who installs it. Established in 1987, Arrowhead Roofing has served the Tulsa community for over three decades. We are a GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor, a designation that separates us from 98% of all roofing contractors in the United States. Our dedication to quality and customer service is reflected in our 300+ 5-star Google reviews.
We understand the specific challenges that Tulsa weather can bring and what roofing materials suit homes in this area best. We reside in and are accountable to the communities we serve, which is reflected in both the quality of our work and our commitment to customer satisfaction.
Avoiding Storm Chasers: Red Flags
Here are some signs to help you identify and avoid storm chasers:
Unsolicited Approach: Storm chasers often show up uninvited right after a severe weather event. Be cautious if someone comes knocking at your door offering repair services.
Pressure Tactics: Storm chasers may use high-pressure sales tactics, urging you to sign a contract quickly. A professional roofer in Tulsa, like Arrowhead Roofing, will always give you time to make an informed decision.
Request for Full Payment Upfront: Be wary if a contractor demands full payment upfront. It’s a common scam tactic where they take your money and disappear.
Lack of Local References: A local roofer like Arrowhead Roofing can provide plenty of local references. Storm chasers usually can’t, as they move around frequently.
Vetting a Roofing Contractor in Oklahoma: Steps for Assurance
Before signing a contract with a roofer for your roof replacement project, it’s important to conduct due diligence. Here are steps to ensure you choose a reliable, professional roofing contractor in Oklahoma.
1. Check for Licensing and Insurance
Roofing contractors in Oklahoma are required to be licensed by the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board. Ask to see the license, and verify it at the Oklahoma CIB’s website. In addition, the contractor should carry both workers’ compensation and liability insurance to protect their clients.
2. Look for Local References
A reputable roofing contractor will have established relationships within the community and should be able to provide local references. Speak to some of these previous clients to understand their experience and satisfaction level.
3. Verify Experience and Certifications
Ask about the contractor’s experience and any additional certifications they hold. Certifications from manufacturers, like being a GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractor, indicate a higher level of professionalism and adherence to best practices.
4. Evaluate Communication
A reliable contractor will be responsive, answer your questions clearly, and keep you informed throughout the process. This is a good indicator of their customer service approach.
5. Review Online Reviews and Ratings
Check online reviews on platforms such as Google, BBB, and Angie’s List. Consistently high ratings and positive reviews are a good sign.
6. Get a Detailed, Written Proposal
A professional contractor will provide a proposal that includes detailed descriptions of the work to be done, materials to be used, and a breakdown of costs. Be wary of vague proposals or those that don’t offer a fixed price for the services.
7. Inquire about Financing
Even if you choose not to finance your roof replacement, check if the contractor offers financing through major banking institutions. Legitimate contractors almost always do, and their financing application portal will usually be found right on their website, like ours.
By following these steps, homeowners can better ensure they choose a reputable, professional roofer who will do the job right. Remember, a reliable contractor like Arrowhead Roofing will meet all these qualifications and exceed expectations with their high-quality workmanship and excellent customer service.
Arrowhead Roofing: Quality Service, Unmatched Expertise
For the safety and longevity of your home, trust only a local, experienced roofing contractor like Arrowhead Roofing. We have a proven track record of high-quality workmanship and a deep commitment to customer satisfaction, as evidenced by our numerous 5-star reviews.
The next time you need a roofer in Tulsa, remember: a trusted, local contractor is the safest bet. You can always count on Arrowhead Roofing to provide superior service and quality work. For more information about our services or any questions about storm chasers, contact us today.
Keep your home safe, and remember: when it comes to roofing, choose local, choose trusted, and choose Arrowhead Roofing.
For more information about storm chasers, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s advice on disaster and emergency scams.
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