How to Spot a Storm Chaser

The pitch you will hear at the door

Any of these in the first 60 seconds means walk back inside.

• "I was working in the neighborhood and I noticed your roof has damage."
• "We can get you a new roof and your insurance will pay for the whole thing."
• "I can waive your deductible. We do it all the time."
• "Sign this so I can get on the roof and start the inspection."
• "This price is only good today."
• "I just need a small deposit to hold the spot."

The paperwork they hand you

• A contingent agreement that signs them onto the job before any inspection is done
• An "Assignment of Benefits" or "AOB" that hands them your insurance check directly. Never sign one of these.
• A blank or partial estimate that says "additional charges as needed"
• No license number, no insurance certificate, no manufacturer certification listed

The physical signs they are not from here

• A truck or van with out-of-state plates and a temporary logo
• A phone number with an area code that is not 252, 336, 704, 743, 828, 910, 919, or 980
• A business name you cannot find on Google with reviews more than 90 days old
• No physical address in NC. A PO box does not count.

If you have already signed something

• NC consumer protection gives you a 3-day "right to cancel" on door-to-door sales. Send written cancellation within 3 business days.
• If you signed an AOB, contact your insurance carrier and your attorney immediately. AOBs in NC can be unwound but it takes work.
• Call us if you want a second set of eyes. We will tell you straight, no charge.