After a severe hailstorm in the Twin Cities, many homeowners find themselves scrambling to assess the damage. Unfortunately, this is also when disreputable contractors try to take advantage of people in need of roof repairs. At Right Now Roofing, we’ve heard the horror stories, and we want to make sure you’re informed and protected. Here are 10 steps you can take to safeguard your home and avoid being scammed.

1. Understand the Scope of Damage to Your Home

In Minnesota, severe hail can damage your roof, siding, and windows. Before calling in an insurance claim, inspect the damage yourself or have a reputable contractor provide photo documentation. Make sure you agree with their findings. Filing unnecessary claims could harm you in the future and raise your premiums.

2. Verify the Company You’re Considering

Do a quick Google search and check reviews for any roofing company you’re considering in the Twin Cities. Look them up on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to check for complaints or negative history. If they’re not a member of the BBB, that’s a red flag. Additionally, platforms like Angi and Nextdoor can provide valuable local insights from your neighbors.

3. Ask for Local References

Be sure to ask for references specific to the Twin Cities area and take the time to contact them. Ask about their experience, the quality of the work, and if the company fulfilled their promises. A company that regularly works in your local area should have plenty of references.

4. Clarify the Role of the Salesperson

In Minnesota’s storm restoration industry, it’s common for salespeople to serve multiple roles, such as job supervisor or production manager. Ask your salesperson what their role will be during your project and ensure there’s clear accountability for overseeing the work.

5. Carefully Read Contracts

Never feel pressured into signing an “insurance proceeds agreement” without fully understanding it. In Minnesota, you have the legal right to cancel any contract within three days of signing. Make sure you take the time to read the contract thoroughly and don’t be rushed by any high-pressure tactics.

6. Confirm Insurance Coverage

Ensure that the roofing company and any subcontractors have both workers’ compensation and liability insurance. This protects you as a homeowner if accidents occur on your property. You can ask for proof of insurance and verify it before any work begins.

7. Review Your Insurance Loss Statement

Your insurance loss statement will detail what’s covered, but sometimes items can be left off that are necessary for code compliance in Minnesota. Contractors may need to supplement for these items. Make sure you understand what is being covered and ask questions if anything is unclear.

8. Don’t Pay Until Materials Are Delivered

In Minnesota, it’s not uncommon for roofing projects to be delayed due to weather. Don’t hand over your Actual Cash Value (ACV) check before materials arrive on your property. The safest approach is to provide a down payment on the day the project starts, after confirming that materials are on-site and work has begun.

9. Secure Lien Waivers Before Final Payment

Before making your final payment, ensure you receive unconditional lien waivers from both the material suppliers and subcontractors. These waivers guarantee that all bills have been paid, protecting you from future legal claims on your property.

10. Ensure Supervision Throughout Installation

A reputable roofing company will have a supervisor present throughout the project. This person should:

• Be there at the start of the tear-off to inspect the decking.
• Oversee the installation of the ice and water shield, especially important for Minnesota’s harsh winters.
• Perform a final inspection upon completion to ensure the job was done to code and no property was damaged.

Having a dedicated supervisor helps identify underlying issues and ensures proper communication with your insurance company.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you’ll protect yourself from scammers and ensure your roofing project goes smoothly. Right Now Roofing is proud to serve homeowners in the Twin Cities area with integrity and professionalism. If you’ve been affected by a recent storm, contact us today for a free consultation.

FAQs

Q: What is an “insurance proceeds agreement”?
A: An insurance proceeds agreement allows the contractor to manage the insurance claim process on your behalf. However, it’s essential to fully understand the terms before signing to avoid surprises down the road.

Q: How do I check a roofing company’s reputation in Minnesota?
A: Look up the company on Google, the BBB, and ask for local references. Platforms like Angi and Nextdoor can also provide insights from other Minnesota homeowners.

Justin Hansen

Justin Hansen is a seasoned professional in the roofing and siding industry, boasting over 15 years of hands-on experience. Starting his career in residential roofing, Justin quickly established a reputation for meticulous attention to detail and superior craftsmanship. His commitment to quality and excellence propelled him into more complex commercial projects, where he consistently delivered outstanding results.