Risks of Using Out-of-Town Roofers
Spring is here and storms have arrived early with strong winds, hail, and even tornados. When your roof needs repair or replacement, choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While out-of-town roofing contractors, especially those who appear after storms—might offer tempting deals, working with local professionals offers significant advantages and protections. At 1st Choice Construction, we believe homeowners should understand the risks of hiring contractors from outside your community.
The “Storm Chaser” Phenomenon
After major storms or weather events, you might notice an influx of out-of-town contractors knocking on your door and telemarketers calling your cellphone saying they will be in your neighborhood checking for storm damage. They are often called “storm chasers,” and follow severe weather across regions, preying on homeowners in need of immediate repairs or replacements. While some may be legitimate businesses, many present risks to St. Louis homeowners.
Limited Accountability
One of the biggest concerns with out-of-town contractors is their lack of local accountability. They can be gone tomorrow. If problems arise weeks or months after completion, out-of-town roofers may be nowhere to be found. They’ve moved on to the next storm-affected area. They don’t face the same consequences for poor workmanship and can’t be held accountable. And in the case of making a warranty claim, tracking down a contractor from another city or state can be nearly impossible.
Quality and Insurance Concerns
Roofing isn’t one-size-fits-all across different regions. In St. Louis, our local climate presents unique roofing challenges. Local contractors understand which materials and techniques work best. Out-of-town contractors also may not have adequate insurance. It’s easy to market in the state of Missouri, because roofers BY LAW are not required to be licensed and insured. That’s why you should always ask for a COI (Certificate of Insurance) before hiring a roofer. And without that, you could be liable for accidents or damages that occur during the project build. Did you know that you can be named as a certificate holder and additional insured on some certificates? That way you can guarantee coverage at your property, and the ability to add yourself as a certificate holder is ONLY possible if the contractor’s insurance payments are up to date. Always make sure that your trusted contractor has both workers’ compensation AND general liability. Here at 1st Choice Construction, you have peace of mind because we are fully licensed and insured with all the coverage you need.
The Value of Local Relationships
When you choose a local roofing contractor, you’re investing in a relationship:
- Ongoing support: Here at 1st Choice Construction, we are available for future maintenance, inspections, and repairs.
- Community investment: Local companies employ local workers!
- Personalized service: We understand your neighborhood. We’ve probably worked in it before, with many happy customers around town, and can provide customized solutions.
How to Protect Yourself
If you’re approached by an out-of-town contractor, here are some protective steps:
- Verify credentials: Request insurance certificates and local references.
- Check reviews: Look for reviews from customers in your specific area.
- Avoid high-pressure tactics: Be wary of contractors pushing for quick decisions or unusual payment terms.
- Research the company: Verify how long they’ve been in business and if they have a physical location near you.
Choose 1st Choice Construction for Peace of Mind
At 1st Choice Construction, we’ve proudly served St. Louis for over 15 years. Our team lives and works here, and we stand behind every project with our local reputation. We offer:
- Full insurance coverage
- Extensive local references
- Manufacturer-certified installation
- Comprehensive warranties we’ll be here to honor
- Year-round availability for all your roofing needs
When storms hit, we understand the urgency of roof repairs. But making a hasty decision can lead to costly mistakes. Choose a roofing contractor who will be here long after the work is complete—choose local!
Contact us for a free, no-obligation inspection and estimate from a neighbor you can trust.
