Storm Damage 101

Severe weather can strike without warning, leaving behind roof damage that isn’t always easy to spot. Understanding what to look for, and what steps to take, can save you time, money, and frustration. This guide walks you through how to assess potential storm damage, avoid common pitfalls, and work confidently with a qualified roofing contractor.

Hit with a storm? What next?

Not all storms and damage are created equal. Take a deep breath and collect yourself.

Safely assess your property for any life-threatening situations. If you find anything

dangerous, call 911 and ask for help. Check on your neighbors, friends, and family. Be calm.

Mitigate damages

Mitigation is required by most insurance polices. This can be done by the property owner or a professional. Some mitigation is quick and easy, and some takes a contractor with more materials and labor. Call your contractor to board up windows, or tarp roofs. Stopping more damage is crucial to protecting yourself from additional damages and costs.

Mistakes to avoid

There are many good contractors in Oklahoma however, many are not legitimate, and too many home and building owners have paid dearly for using them. Below are some situations to look out for. If you have questions or concerns about a roofing or restoration contractor, please contact the ORCA office, we will be glad to assist you. Contact info below.

Storm Chasers - here today, gone tomorrow

When storms hit in Oklahoma we see an influx of storm chasers working to capitalize on disasters. You will be inundated with calls from telemarketers and knocks on your door. Many of these companies are from out of state while other companies hire out of state salespeople to get contracts signed. Their primary goal is to profit from storms, and then quickly leave town, unwilling and incapable of servicing any type of "warranty" they promised. Similarly, we also see "in-town" storm chasers who may be from the area, but have no roofing expertise, yet suddenly jump into the business for an opportunity to make a quick buck. Do your research and Choose a company that is local and a member in good standing with ORCA.

Deductibles and Payments

In Oklahoma, it is against the law for a contractor to absorb or offer in any way to eat a deductible. Deductible fraud is a felony and one of the most discussed topics in storm restoration. Contractors that eat deductibles are not only fraudulent, but they are also cutting corners on your job to offset these costs. Don't cut corners when it comes to your home or business. If a contractor asks for money too early, that could be a sign of a potential scam. The elderly, in particular, are often targeted by scammers who get payment (partial or in full) upfront and then never return or complete the work. Homeowners should beware of paying anything too early or making a final payment before a job is complete. In some cases, a partial payment upfront is not cause for alarm, such as 1) when a partial payment is required for materials, after they have been delivered to the project location and 2) if a special order, custom made or high-end product is required.

If the bid is significantly lower than competitors

Why? If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Price is only one consideration when selecting a roofing contractor. Make sure you don’t pay more later by hiring a contractor that is uninsured, performs substandard work and/or leaves Oklahoma shortly after the storms do. Also, a low price that is below other contractors’ costs is an indicator that the roofing materials being used may be stolen goods, a growing problem that is a federal offense.

Contractor warning signs

To protect yourself and your family from inexperienced, uninsured contractors, and out-of-state contractors who may not be experienced repairing storm damage, or have your best interests in mind, watch out for the following warning signs: