Introduction
Severe storms are a part of life in Texas. From hail and high winds to heavy rain, these weather events can cause serious roof damage in minutes. Unfortunately, they also attract something else—scammers.
After a major storm, many homeowners find themselves approached by “contractors” offering quick, cheap roof repairs. While some may sound convincing, not all have your best interests at heart. The reality is that roofing scams spike after Texas storms, leaving countless homeowners with unfinished work, denied insurance claims, and wasted money.
In this article, the experts at Tucker Roofing Systems explain the top five roofing scams to avoid after a Texas storm, and how to protect your home by choosing a trusted local contractor.
1. The “Storm Chaser” Roofing Scam
What it is:
“Storm chasers” are out-of-town roofing crews who travel across the country following major weather events. They show up in affected areas, going door-to-door offering fast, cheap repairs.
Why it’s dangerous:
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They often do poor-quality work using substandard materials.
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Once paid, they disappear—leaving you with no warranty or follow-up support.
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If future repairs are needed, you’ll struggle to reach them.
How to avoid it:
Always hire a local roofing company with a permanent address, a state license, and verified insurance. Tucker Roofing Systems proudly serves the DFW area and surrounding Texas communities, offering warranty-backed service you can trust.
2. The “Insurance Deductible” Scam
What it is:
Some contractors claim they can “waive” or “cover” your insurance deductible to make their offer more appealing.
Why it’s dangerous:
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It’s illegal in Texas under House Bill 2102, which prohibits contractors from absorbing or rebating deductibles.
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Contractors who engage in this practice often cut corners elsewhere to make up the cost difference.
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It may void your insurance claim or even lead to fraud charges for both parties.
How to avoid it:
Never trust a contractor who promises to handle your deductible for you. A legitimate roofing company will provide a clear, detailed estimate and work with your insurance.
3. The “Too-Good-to-Be-True” Low Estimate
What it is:
A contractor offers an extremely low estimate compared to others you’ve received.
Why it’s dangerous:
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Scammers may start work, request payment, and never finish.
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Low bids often exclude essential materials or labor, leading to surprise charges later.
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Cheap materials or improper installation can void your roof warranty.
How to avoid it:
Obtain multiple estimates and compare details carefully. If one quote is significantly lower than the rest, that’s a red flag. Remember, the cheapest bid rarely means the best value.
4. The “Upfront Payment” Scam
What it is:
A contractor demands full payment before starting work, promising to order materials or reserve a crew.
Why it’s dangerous:
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Once paid, they may vanish without ever showing up.
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You lose your money and still have a damaged roof.
How to avoid it:
Reputable roofing companies typically require a small deposit and collect the balance only after work is completed and approved. Tucker Roofing Systems always provides written contracts with clear payment schedules and project timelines.
5. The “No Written Contract” Trap
What it is:
A roofer insists on working without a formal contract, claiming it’s faster or “just paperwork.”
Why it’s dangerous:
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Without documentation, you have no proof of agreement or warranty coverage.
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Hidden costs and substandard materials can easily go unnoticed.
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Insurance companies require proof of work to process claims.
How to avoid it:
Never allow work to begin without a detailed written contract outlining scope, materials, warranty, and payment terms. A professional company like Tucker Roofing Systems ensures every client receives full transparency before the first shingle is removed.
Bonus Tip: Verify Before You Sign
Before hiring any roofing company after a storm, take a few minutes to verify:
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License and insurance information (request copies directly)
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Local references and online reviews
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Business longevity and local presence
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Manufacturer certifications (like GAF, Owens Corning, etc.)
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BBB accreditation and complaint history
A reputable contractor will gladly provide all of this information—no hesitation, no excuses.
Why Choose Tucker Roofing Systems
At Tucker Roofing Systems, we’ve seen the damage that storm chasers and scammers leave behind. That’s why we’re committed to being the trusted local roofing partner homeowners can depend on.
Our team provides:
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Honest, transparent inspections and estimates
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Assistance with legitimate insurance claims
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High-quality repairs using Texas-tested materials
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Workmanship warranties and ongoing support
We’ve proudly served the Dallas-Fort Worth community for years and understand what Texas homeowners demand from a roof, given the region's unique weather conditions.
Conclusion
Storm damage can be stressful, but rushing into a bad deal can make things far worse. By learning to spot these roofing scams in Texas, you can protect your home, your finances, and your peace of mind.
After the next big storm, trust the professionals at Tucker Roofing Systems for honest assessments, quality craftsmanship, and reliable customer service.
Tucker Roofing Systems is a leading provider of high-quality roofing solutions dedicated to excellence in craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. With over 60 years of experience, we specialize in installations, repairs, and replacements, serving both residential and commercial clients. Contact us at (972) 833-2271 to schedule a consultation.