Hail Season Is Here: Colorado Roofing Association Warns Against “Storm Chasers” and Untrustworthy Door-to-Door Roofers
FRONT RANGE, COLORADO – – As hail season strikes Colorado during the summer months of May through August, the Colorado Roofing Association (CRA) urges homeowners and commercial property owners to proceed with caution when hiring roofing contractors after a storm. With recent and likely upcoming hailstorms impacting several Front Range communities, unlicensed or deceptive contractors—often referred to as “storm chasers”—can take advantage of unsuspecting residents.
Storm chasers frequently travel from state to state following major weather events. They may present themselves as local businesses, but in many cases, they offer subpar workmanship, require payment in advance, and leave town before completing the job. These practices can lead to costly and unsafe roofing problems for consumers.
In addition to storm chasers, door-to-door roofing contractors—some legitimate, others not—become more active during storm season. The CRA encourages homeowners to distinguish between reputable roofers and opportunistic scammers.
How to Identify a Trustworthy Roofing Contractor
- Local Presence: Reliable contractors will have a physical office in Colorado and a history of completed work in your community. Always verify the address online.
- Proper Licensing and Insurance: Although Colorado does not issue a statewide roofing license, contractors must be registered with the Colorado Secretary of State and follow licensing requirements in each city or county where they work. Always ask for documentation.
- Written Proposals: Legitimate roofers will provide a clear, detailed proposal outlining costs, materials, and the scope of work. Avoid those who offer verbal estimates or informal agreements.
- No Pressure Tactics: Reputable contractors allow time for decision-making. Avoid anyone who urges you to sign a contract immediately.
- Positive Reviews and References: Look for consistent, favorable reviews on platforms such as Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. Ask for local references and follow up with them.
- Compliance with State Roofing Laws: Trustworthy contractors will follow Colorado roofing laws, including honoring the 72-hour right-to-cancel policy and never offering to waive insurance deductibles.
Warning Signs of Roofing Scams
- The contractor appears immediately after a storm and urges fast action
- Offers to waive or pay your insurance deductible (this is illegal in Colorado)
- Requests full payment before work begins
- Refuses to provide a written contract or presents misleading paperwork
- Attempts to lock you into exclusive agreements
- Lacks local references or a verifiable track record
- Uses vague terminology like “agreement” or “authorization” that may be legally binding without your knowledge
Tips to Protect Yourself
- Verify Credentials: Contact your city or county licensing office to confirm licenses and insurance.
- Research the Business: Avoid companies that only list a P.O. Box or lack an online presence.
- Get Multiple Proposals: Obtain at least three estimates to compare pricing, quality, and service.
- Read Before Signing: Never sign documents you haven’t fully reviewed or understood. Ask if the paperwork is a binding contract.
- Report Suspicious Behavior: Contact the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, the BBB, or your local consumer protection agency to report potential scams.
Not all door-to-door roofers are dishonest, but caution is essential—especially in the aftermath of a storm. Take your time, verify credentials, and ensure you’re working with a reputable, locally established roofing professional. A careful decision now can prevent serious issues later.
For more resources and to find CRA-member roofing contractors, visit: www.coloradoroofing.org
Visit the Colorado Roofing Association website for tips on selecting a professional contractor, a ‘no soliciting’ door sign and a copy of the “Residential Roofing Bill of Rights” at www.coloradoroofing.org.
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The Colorado Roofing Association is a non‐profit organization established in 1978. Our continued commitment is to promote the ethics, education, and image of the roofing industry throughout the State of Colorado. The Colorado Roofing Association is dedicated to helping homeowners and commercial building owners and managers make informed decisions about replacing and maintaining their roof systems and in helping give back to the community though our charitable contributions. Visit coloradoroofing.org for more information.