The day after a big windstorm, roofs all over Middlesex County have missing shingles, and some neighborhoods also get visitors: crews and salespeople going door to door offering to fix the roof, often with talk of insurance. Some are legitimate local companies. Some are not. The way to tell is the same either way: slow down and check.
Why It Happens
After a widespread storm, a lot of homeowners need repairs at once, local roofers get busy, and insurance claims are on everyone's mind. That combination draws out-of-area crews and high-pressure sales. New Jersey's consumer protection rules still apply to them, but only if you insist on them.
The Checklist
- Don't sign anything at the door. Take a card and say you'll call back.
- Photograph the damage yourself from the ground: every side of the house, any shingles in the yard, any stains inside.
- Look up the company's NJ registration in the state's search. See checking an NJ roofer's registration.
- Check for a local address, not just a phone number and a truck.
- Call your insurance company yourself before anyone else does it for you.
- Get at least one other opinion from a roofer you contacted, not one who contacted you.
- Read every document, especially anything that mentions your claim, an assignment of benefits or a direction to pay the contractor.
Want a roofer you called, not one who knocked?
A Middlesex County roofer, one call: (848) 212-8655.
Call (848) 212-8655Red Flags at the Door
| What they say or do | Why it's a concern |
|---|---|
| "We're working on your neighbor's roof and have leftover material." | A classic pressure line |
| "Sign now so we can get you on the schedule." | Legitimate roofers give you time |
| "Your insurance will cover it all, we'll handle the claim." | Contractors can't promise what an insurer pays |
| "We need cash up front for materials." | Large cash deposits are a risk |
| They climb your roof before you agree | Unsafe and may create damage |
| No registration number on the paperwork | New Jersey requires it |
Temporary Repairs
If a storm has opened the roof and rain is coming, a temporary cover is reasonable. Agree to that, and only that, in writing, with a price. Keep the receipt for your insurer. A temporary repair shouldn't commit you to the full job.
Insurance Basics
Read your policy or call your agent about wind damage, and keep the photos, the damaged shingles and any receipts. Be cautious with any document that transfers your claim rights or insurance payments to a contractor. The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance handles complaints about insurers, and the Division of Consumer Affairs handles complaints about contractors.
What a Legitimate Roofer Does After a Storm
A roofer you've called after a storm should be willing to look from the ground and the attic first, explain what they see with photos, and put any temporary cover and any permanent repair in writing as separate items. They should give you their registration number without being asked twice, let you take time to decide, and leave insurance conversations to you and your insurer. If the damage is minor, they should say so. That restraint is one of the best signs you're dealing with a company that plans to be around next year.
Questions
Are all storm-chasers scammers?
No. Some are legitimate companies from other areas. The point is to check them the same way you'd check any roofer.
Can I cancel a contract I signed at the door?
New Jersey home improvement contracts must tell you about your right to cancel within three business days. Do it in writing, and keep a copy.
Should I let them climb up and look?
Anyone climbing your roof should be someone you've chosen and checked. A roofer you call can look at it when they price the job.
Around Edison
Storm visits are common after wind in exposed areas like Sayreville and Bonhamtown. Storm repairs are covered on roof leak and storm repair.
Checking an NJ Roofer's Home Improvement Contractor Registration
The state lookup, and what to ask for in writing.
What a Roof Replacement Costs Depends On
Everything that moves the number, minus the number.