Storm chasers are out-of-town contractors who flock to areas hit by severe weather, going door-to-door offering repair services. They use high-pressure sales tactics, demand large upfront payments, and often perform substandard work or disappear before finishing the job.
After a hailstorm or tornado in San Antonio, these contractors move in quickly. Knowing the warning signs and how to vet contractors will protect your home and your insurance claim.
Warning Signs of Storm Chasers
Storm chasers follow a predictable pattern. Recognizing the red flags early can save you thousands of dollars and years of headaches.
- Door-to-door solicitation: Legitimate local contractors rarely go door-to-door after a storm
- Out-of-state license plates and addresses: They arrive from other states after major weather events
- High-pressure tactics: "Sign today or the price goes up," "We can start tomorrow"
- Demanding large upfront payments: 50% or more of the total before any work begins
- Offering to pay your deductible: This is insurance fraud and illegal in Texas
- No local business license or permanent address: They cannot be found after the work is done
How to Protect Yourself
Taking a few simple precautions before hiring any post-storm contractor will protect your home and your claim.
- Get multiple written estimates from local contractors with established reputations
- Verify the contractor's Texas license through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)
- Check references from recent local projects, ideally neighbors or friends
- Confirm the contractor carries general liability insurance and workers compensation
- Read the contract carefully before signing, including the fine print
- Never pay more than 10% upfront or the full amount until the work is complete and inspected
- Confirm the contractor has a physical address in your area, not just a PO box
What to Do If You Suspect a Storm Chaser
If a contractor approaches you and something feels off, trust your instincts. Ask for their license information and tell them you will call them back after doing research. A legitimate contractor will respect your caution.
You can report suspected storm chasers to the Texas Department of Insurance at tdi.texas.gov or the Texas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division. Your local Better Business Bureau also tracks complaints against out-of-town contractors.
