NC Department of Insurance: steps to take after storm damage, and how to spot fly-by-night contractors
After the October 11 tornadoes, the NC Department of Insurance advised homeowners to prevent further damage and keep receipts for temporary repairs, and the BBB warned about door-to-door contractors.
· RoofingGreensboro.com news desk
After the remnants of Hurricane Isaias brought tornadoes and wind damage to North Carolina on October 11, the North Carolina Department of Insurance advised homeowners to report losses promptly and take reasonable steps to prevent more damage, WRAL reported on October 12. Reasonable costs to protect the property, such as tarping, are part of the loss, so keep receipts. Permanent repairs made before the insurer inspects may not be covered.
The Better Business Bureau warned about contractors who knock on doors claiming leftover materials or damage they just noticed, push you to sign on the spot, want large upfront or cash-only payments, or won't give you a written contract.
What this means for homeowners
North Carolina has no roofing-specific contract law, so the written contract matters. Get the scope, materials, price and what happens if the claim is denied in writing, and check any general contractor license with the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors for jobs of $40,000 or more. See storm chasers and how to hire a roofer.