As Central Ohio residents begin cleaning up after recent storms and damaging winds, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Central & Southeast Ohio, is urging homeowners to take their time and carefully vet any contractors before hiring them for repairs.
Storm damage often attracts out-of-town contractors, sometimes called “storm chasers,” who go door-to-door offering quick inspections or repairs.
Some of these contractors may not be licensed locally, pressure residents to sign contracts immediately, or make promises they cannot keep.
“People want to fix the damage and move on, and that’s exactly when bad actors show up,” said Judy Dollison, President & CEO of BBB, Central & Southeast Ohio. “You should never feel rushed to hire someone. Take the time to check them out first.”
BBB recommends that homeowners make temporary repairs if needed, but give themselves time to choose the right contractor. Rushing into a decision can turn storm damage into a much bigger problem.
What to Watch For
BBB reports a pattern of red flags after major storms, including:
- Unsolicited offers for “free roof inspections”
- Contractors claiming they are already working on a neighbor’s home
- Pressure to sign a contract immediately to secure a “deal”
- Vague or unclear business locations
In some cases, dishonest contractors may exaggerate or even create damage to justify repairs.
Steps to Take Before Hiring a Contractor
- Start with your insurance company: Contact your insurer first to understand your coverage and next steps.
- Document the damage: Take photos and videos. Make temporary repairs if needed to prevent further damage, and keep receipts. This provides a baseline if disreputable contractors cause additional problems.
- Do not rush into a contract: Reputable contractors will allow time to review estimates and ask questions.
- Check the business: Look up the company on BBB.org. Read reviews, check ratings, and see how complaints have been handled.
- Get multiple estimates: Compare at least three written quotes before making a decision.
- Protect your payment: Avoid paying in full up front. Do not pay cash. Use a credit card if possible, and never sign over your insurance check to a contractor.
BBB is also warning local contracting businesses to be cautious.
Some storm chasers attempt to use a local company’s name and reputation to secure work, then disappear after collecting payment, leaving the legitimate business to deal with complaints.
Others pose as subcontractors, leaving customers with questionable work or leaving the legitimate company responsible for cleanup.
Consumers can find BBB-accredited businesses, including storm damage repair and roofing contractors, and read reviews at BBB.org.
