5 Tips to Avoid Storm Chaser Scams

By Paula Conroy on October 23, 2019

Major storms, wildfires, tornados and other natural disasters have been known to bring out the best in people. Virtual strangers will oftentimes reach out to help one another in times of need. However, natural disasters also bring a surge of contractors looking taking advantage of one’s tragedy. As a home or business owner affected by a storm, it’s vital to beware of “storm chasers” and some out-of-town contractors looking for your business. According to the Better Business Bureau, not all storm chasers are scammers, but they may lack the proper licensing for your area, make promises they can’t deliver or not hold up to their agreements.

5 Tips to Avoid Storm Chasers:

1. Avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Some storm chasers push a “good deal” you’ll get only if you hire them on the spot.
2. People who say your insurance company sent them. Insurance companies will always tell you before they send anyone to your property to access damage or perform work.
3. Someone calling to claim they represent your insurance company. Be sure to obtain proper identification before providing information to them.
4. Door-to-door contractors. Always ask for identification. Check their vehicle for a business name, phone number, and business license number and license plates for your state.
5. Be wary of contractors inspecting areas you can’t see. While most contractors abide by the law, be mindful of allowing someone you aren’t familiar with inspecting your roof and other areas of your property. For instance, a scammer or ‘storm chaser’ may create damage to get work.

Hire a Trustworthy Contractor

Do Your Research. Find businesses you can trust by searching for A+ rated businesses on the Better Business Bureau website: BBB.org. Search the Arizona registrar of contractors, go to https://roc.az.gov/ for contractors licensed in your area. Look at the company’s website and online reviews such as www.canyonlakeconstruction.com (most reputable companies have a website and a few reviews). Finally, ask friends and family for recommendations.

Hire a Local and Fairly Priced (Not Cheap) Company. Look for a local company that is priced according to the market you live in. Storm chasers move in and out of areas at record speed. If you have issues with work performed, you have no recourse to when hiring a storm chaser. A good company stands by their work for up to two years and typically offer that in writing. Also, be wary of companies much lower priced than other contractors. “Low-ball” contractors may be cheaper because they are inexperienced in bidding and missing items to complete the project. They may also use poor quality materials, hire inexperienced labor, or leave your job incomplete. The lowest priced contractors usually cost the most in the long run.

A Construction Company you can Trust

Canyon Lake Construction, an outstanding general contracting construction company, in the west valley of Phoenix, AZ, has provided top-notch services to our clients for nearly 20 years. See our interview with ABC 15 news in Phoenix regarding storm chasers above. With a proven track record of satisfied clients, you can count on Canyon Lake Construction to protect you and your interests when natural disaster strikes. Avoid falling victim a storm chaser by calling Canyon Lake Construction at 623-215-2127 or complete the online form on our website: www.canyonlakeconstruction.com. Serving Greater West Phoenix, Buckeye, Glendale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Surprise and Waddell.