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By Kevin Reece
Hire someone insured and licensed to work on roofing. “And do your homework,” says Eric Wimpee, of Firehouse Roofing.
According to roofers, in Dallas-Fort Worth hail as large as baseballs have pounded shingles. Many warn to beware of contractors who are not licensed and offer quick fixes.
Eric Wimpee is the owner of Firehouse Roofing in DFW, a company that specializes in roof replacement, inspection and repair.
He showed WFAA the damage at Rockwall’s home on Tuesday. The hail was the size of golf balls and quarters on a cell phone video.
The shredded, decapitated and strewn leaves in the yard are another sign. Rain gutters with dents and metal flashings on roofs are other signs.
Wimpee, while inspecting the roof vent of the water heater, said “This has been completely destroyed by hail.”
Zippering is another term for the lifting and loosening of shingles by wind.
The seal is cracked and the shingles may come off during rainstorms.
Chalk marks were left on more than 12 hail strikes, leaving scars and indentations to the asphalt shingles.
Every time it rains there is an indentation on the shingle. Wimpee said that water soaks into this area and finds its way to the home.
He said that a homeowner would be wise to file an insurance claim when they need a roof replacement.
He said it was only a question of time until things got worse because of the shape of this roof and its zippering. My professional opinion is that it needs to be changed and he should do so as quickly as possible to avoid further damage.
Make sure that the person you hire to roof your home is licensed and insured. Do your homework. You can also check them on Google or the Better Business Bureau.
The Better Business Bureau also warns consumers to be wary of storm chasers, who are not necessarily local contractors. The BBB has some helpful tips:
Ask about the coverage of your policy and any filing requirements. All receipts for temporary housing, food and any other costs that might be covered should be kept. Contractors may be recommended by your insurance provider.
According to House Bill 2102, it is against the law in Texas for an insurance company to waive a deductible without consent from their insured. If a contractor offers to waive the deductible on your behalf, you should call your insurer to confirm that they have permission to do this.
BBB.org is a great resource to help you find trustworthy businesses. Consult your city’s government to determine if the contractor is registered or licensed. Ask family members and friends for references.
Do not give in to high-pressure tactics. Storm chasers will often try to convince you that they can offer a “good deal” if the contractor is hired immediately. Do not be reactive when salespeople call you on the telephone or go door to door to convince you to hire a contractor. Never put pressure on victims of disasters to make hasty decisions or choose an unidentified contractor.
Be especially careful when dealing with door-to-door companies. Many municipalities require a solicitation permit. Demand identification. Ask for identification.
Pay the invoice directly to the contractor (you can do this with your credit card if you prefer, as it offers more fraud protection than other payment methods). Do not sign anything that gives the contractor rights over your insurance claim. You can ask your insurance agent or company.
Even though most contractors will follow the laws, you should be cautious when allowing a stranger to examine your roof or other parts of your home. A contractor who is unethical may cause harm to get work. You should also be aware of the dangers in attics, crawlspaces, ducts and any other place you can’t see.
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