After a hail or wind event, the “storm chasers” show up fast. Some are real professionals. Others are sales outfits with a ladder and a logo who disappear the moment the claim gets complicated.
If you’re a homeowner, property manager, or business owner dealing with storm damage, this guide breaks down what legitimate storm restoration companies do differently—so you can hire the right team and avoid costly mistakes, delays, or claim issues.
1) They document damage like it’s going to be reviewed line-by-line (because it will)
Legit restoration companies don’t just “take a few pics” and send a quote. They build a clear file that stands up to scrutiny from adjusters, desks, and (if needed) consultants.
Expect:
- Date-stamped photos of elevations, slopes, collateral, and detail shots
- Measurements and slope counts (roof, siding, gutters, windows, exterior metals)
- Notes tied to each repair recommendation (what’s damaged, where, and why it requires replacement/repair)
- Interior documentation if there’s water intrusion (staining, wet materials, meter readings where appropriate)
Red flag: “Trust me, it’s totaled” with no organized documentation.
2) They know building code and manufacturer requirements—and build scopes around them
A reputable storm restoration company doesn’t guess. They scope repairs to meet code minimum requirements and manufacturer installation standards so the finished work is defensible and insurable.
Examples of what this affects:
- Underlayment and ice & water membrane requirements
- Starter and ridge system requirements
- Ventilation calculations and intake/exhaust balance
- Fastening patterns, accessory components, and flashing details
- Detach/reset needs (satellite dishes, solar, gutters, downspouts, window wrap, etc.)
Why it matters: If a contractor ignores requirements to “make the number fit,” the homeowner can be left with:
- Failed inspections
- Warranty issues
- Leaks and premature failures
- Coverage disputes later
Red flag: “Code doesn’t matter—insurance won’t pay it anyway.”
3) They give transparent estimates—line item detail, not mystery totals
Legit contractors write estimates that can be reviewed, audited, and compared. That usually means standardized line items and clear quantities—not a one-page number that’s impossible to validate.
Expect:
- Quantity-based scope (squares, LF, SF, each)
- Materials, labor, and required accessories included
- Clearly stated assumptions (layers, deck condition, access constraints)
- Separate identification of supplements (items discovered after tear-off)
Red flag: A vague “roof replacement: $18,500” with no breakdown.
4) They don’t “fight the adjuster”—they support the claim with facts
Good storm restoration companies understand the claim process. They don’t rely on pressure tactics. They build a file that makes it easy for the carrier to approve what’s actually required.
What this looks like in real life:
- Submitting missing items with documentation (photos + notes + quantities)
- Explaining why certain repairs are required (not just “we always do it”)
- Keeping communication professional and in writing
- Requesting reinspections when justified by evidence
Red flag: The contractor’s whole strategy is yelling, blaming, or promising they’ll “get you a bigger check” with no documentation.
5) They explain the “sequence” so you aren’t stuck mid-project
Storm work isn’t just demo → install. A legitimate company can clearly explain:
- What happens first (temporary repairs, tarp, mitigation if needed)
- When materials are ordered
- When permits are required (and who pulls them)
- What happens if hidden damage is found
- How final invoicing and depreciation recovery works (if applicable)
Red flag: No timeline, no permit plan, and no explanation of what happens if the carrier is short on scope.
6) They protect your property during the work—not just the finished product
The best companies act like your home is a high-value asset (because it is).
Expect:
- Site protection (landscaping, entrances, driveway)
- Magnet sweeps and cleanup standards
- Debris management plan
- Weather contingency plan (especially during roof tear-off)
Red flag: “We’ll figure it out” on cleanup and protection.
7) They are properly licensed, insured, and willing to prove it
A legitimate restoration contractor can provide:
- License information (where applicable)
- Proof of general liability and workers’ comp
- Written contract terms you can understand
- Warranty language in writing
Red flag: They get defensive when you ask for insurance certificates or licensing details.
8) They don’t trap you with shady paperwork
Ethical companies use clear agreements that explain scope, payment terms, change orders, and cancellation rights. They don’t rely on confusion.
Look for clarity on:
- What happens if the insurer underpays the scope
- What’s included vs. excluded
- How supplements are handled
- Who the point of contact is
- How disputes are handled
Red flag: High-pressure signing, unclear “assignment” language, or a refusal to give you time to read terms.
Quick checklist: How to spot a legit storm restoration company in 10 minutes
Before you hire anyone, ask these questions:
- Can you show me photo documentation of the damage you’re recommending repairs for?
- Will your scope meet code minimum requirements and manufacturer installation requirements?
- Is your estimate quantity-based and line-item detailed?
- Who pulls permits if required?
- What happens if hidden damage is found after tear-off?
- Can you provide proof of insurance and licensing?
- What’s your written warranty?
- Who will be my point of contact from start to finish?
If they answer clearly and confidently—with paperwork to match—you’re likely dealing with a legitimate operator.
Need help evaluating a storm damage scope or estimate?
If you’re unsure whether your property is being scoped correctly—or you want a second set of eyes on an estimate, denial, or low payment—get in touch. A quick review can prevent months of delays and thousands in out-of-pocket surprises.
Allied Emergency Services, Inc.
📞 800-792-0212
✉️ info@alliedemergencyservices.com
If this is an emergency (active leak, interior water intrusion, or structural risk), call right away so a qualified team can help stabilize the damage and document conditions properly.
