Choosing a Storm Damage Contractor in Chicagoland

Navigating the Post-Storm Landscape in Chicagoland

The winds have died down, the thunder has rolled away, and the sun might even be peeking through the clouds. After a severe storm sweeps through Chicagoland, bringing hail, high winds, or heavy rain, your first instinct is to assess the storm damage to your home. But just as you’re starting to process the chaos, a new wave of activity often begins: contractors, seemingly from nowhere, knocking on doors and offering immediate “free inspections.”

While many reputable local contractors are ready to help, unfortunately, severe weather also attracts “storm chasers” – transient businesses that follow extreme weather patterns, capitalize on homeowner panic, and often disappear as quickly as they arrive, leaving behind shoddy work, warranty nightmares, and even unfinished projects.

At Seidel Exterior Group, we’ve been a trusted part of the Illinois community since 1970. We’ve seen the aftermath of countless storms and the unfortunate consequences of homeowners falling prey to unscrupulous contractors. We believe in empowering our Chicagoland neighbors with the knowledge to make smart, safe decisions when facing storm damage. This article outlines 7 critical red flags to watch out for, helping you distinguish legitimate, trustworthy professionals like Seidel Exterior Group from those you should avoid at all costs.

The Allure of the Storm Chaser (And Why They’re Dangerous)

Storm chasers thrive on urgency, storm damage, and homeowner stress. They often arrive quickly after a disaster, offering seemingly attractive deals or promising to handle everything with your insurance. Their goal is often to secure a quick profit, do minimal work (or shoddy work), and then move on to the next storm-hit area, leaving you with:

• Substandard Workmanship: Poor quality materials and rushed installation lead to premature failure, more leaks, and ultimately, higher repair costs down the line.
• No Warranty Support: Once they’ve left town, good luck getting them back to honor a warranty or fix issues. You’re left with no recourse.
• Insurance Fraud Complications: Some tactics (like offering to waive your deductible) are illegal and can put you in legal jeopardy.
• Unfinished Projects: They may take your money and vanish before completing the job.
• Voided Manufacturer Warranties: Improper installation by an uncertified contractor can void the valuable product warranties from reputable manufacturers.

Protecting your home and your investment starts with recognizing these warning signs.

7 Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing a Storm Damage Contractor in Chicagoland

Be vigilant and discerning. If a contractor exhibits any of these behaviors, it’s a major red flag, and you should proceed with extreme caution or walk away entirely.

Red Flag 1: They Show Up Unsolicited, Especially After a Storm

• The Tactic: Someone knocks on your door shortly after a storm, claiming to be “in the area” or “working on your neighbor’s house,” and offers a “free inspection” for storm damage.
• Why It’s a Red Flag: Reputable, established local contractors in Chicagoland typically have enough business through referrals and existing clients. While they might engage in local marketing, aggressive, unsolicited door-to-door solicitation immediately after a widespread storm is a hallmark of storm chasers. They are often from out of state and are just passing through.
• The Seidel Difference: We are deeply rooted in the Illinois community. While we respond swiftly to local storm events, our primary focus is on serving our long-standing client base and new referrals within the communities we’ve built trust with over decades. We don’t rely on high-pressure, unsolicited tactics.

Red Flag 2: They Lack Local Presence and Verifiable Information

• The Tactic: They give you a P.O. Box address, an out-of-state phone number, a generic website, or their vehicles have out-of-state license plates. They can’t provide verifiable references from recent local jobs.
• Why It’s a Red Flag: Storm chasers operate on the move. They don’t have a vested interest in a local reputation because they won’t be around to suffer the consequences of bad work. A lack of a physical, local office or verifiable local presence is a huge indicator they’re not here to stay.
• The Seidel Difference: Seidel Exterior Group has been physically based and operating in the Chicago Metro Area since 1970. We have a solid local reputation built over 50 years, verifiable local references, and a clear, established presence. We’re your neighbors.

Red Flag 3: They Pressure You for an Immediate Decision or Offer “Today Only” Deals

• The Tactic: “Sign this contract today, or this incredible discount disappears!” or “Your insurance claim needs to be filed immediately, and we’re the only ones who can do it this fast!”
• Why It’s a Red Flag: High-pressure sales tactics are designed to prevent you from doing your due diligence (getting multiple estimates, checking references, verifying credentials). Reputable contractors understand that storm damage is stressful and give you time to make an informed decision.
• The Seidel Difference: We understand you’re under stress after a storm. We provide clear, detailed estimates and allow you the time and space to review them, ask questions, and compare our services. Our focus is on providing thorough, honest information, not on high-pressure sales.

Red Flag 4: They Ask for a Large Upfront Payment, Especially in Cash

• The Tactic: They demand a substantial down payment (often 50% or more) or even full payment in cash before any work begins.
• Why It’s a Red Flag: While a reasonable deposit (e.g., 10-30%) is common for materials, demanding a large sum upfront, especially cash, is a classic scammer move. They take your money and vanish, leaving you with no work done and no recourse. Cash payments also leave no paper trail.
• The Seidel Difference: We operate with transparent payment schedules that are tied to project milestones. We typically require a reasonable deposit to secure materials, with the balance due upon satisfactory completion of the work. We provide clear, written contracts for all payments.

Red Flag 5: They Promise to Pay or Waive Your Insurance Deductible

• The Tactic: “We’ll cover your deductible!” or “Don’t worry about the deductible, we’ll find a way around it.”
• Why It’s a Red Flag: In most states, including Illinois, offering to pay or waive an insurance deductible is illegal and constitutes insurance fraud. This puts you, the homeowner, at risk of legal repercussions. These contractors often make up the difference by inflating the claim or using inferior materials and labor.
• The Seidel Difference: We operate with complete transparency and integrity. We help you understand your insurance policy, provide accurate estimates, and work with your insurance company to ensure your claim is handled legally and fairly. We would never engage in fraudulent practices.

Red Flag 6: They Are Not Properly Licensed and Insured

• The Tactic: They can’t or won’t provide proof of a current state contractor’s license (if required, which it is for roofing in Illinois), general liability insurance, or workers’ compensation insurance.
• Why It’s a Red Flag:
  • Licensing (Illinois): In Illinois, all roofing contractors must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). An unlicensed contractor is operating illegally, and you have little protection.
  • Liability Insurance: Without general liability insurance, if they damage your property (or a neighbor’s) during the project, you could be held financially responsible.
  • Workers’ Compensation: If a worker gets injured on your property and the contractor doesn’t have workers’ compensation, you could be liable for their medical bills and lost wages.
• The Seidel Difference: Seidel Exterior Group is fully licensed by the State of Illinois (ask to see our license!). We carry comprehensive general liability insurance and workers’ compensation, providing you with complete protection and peace of mind throughout the entire project.

Red Flag 7: They Lack Manufacturer Certifications (Like GAF Master Elite or James Hardie Elite Preferred)

• The Tactic: They claim to install a specific brand of roofing or siding but can’t provide proof of certification from that manufacturer.
• Why It’s a Red Flag: Top manufacturers like GAF (for roofing) and James Hardie (for siding) offer exclusive certification programs (e.g., GAF Master Elite, James Hardie Elite Preferred). These programs require contractors to meet rigorous standards for training, experience, reputation, and proper installation techniques. Without these certifications, you won’t have access to the manufacturer’s strongest warranties, and the quality of installation may be compromised.
• The Seidel Difference: Seidel Exterior Group is proud to be a GAF Master Elite Contractor and a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor. These elite certifications mean we meet the highest industry standards, receive continuous factory training, and can offer you the best, manufacturer-backed warranties, providing unparalleled protection for your investment. This is a key trust signal that separates true experts from amateurs.

Your Best Defense: Research and Trust Local Experts Like Seidel Exterior Group

Storm damage is stressful enough. Don’t let the rush and pressure of “storm chasers” add to your burden. Your best defense is to remain calm, do your research, and choose a contractor with a proven, local track record.

At Seidel Exterior Group, we’ve built our reputation over more than 50 years by prioritizing:

• Honesty & Transparency: Clear communication and no hidden fees.
• Exceptional Workmanship: Delivering durable, beautiful, and long-lasting results.
• Customer Satisfaction: Our goal is your complete peace of mind, evidenced by our numerous positive local reviews.
• Full Licensing & Insurance: Protecting you and your property at every stage.
• Elite Manufacturer Certifications: Providing access to the best materials and warranties.

When a storm hits your Chicagoland home, you need a partner you can trust – a contractor who will be here today, tomorrow, and for decades to come.

If your Chicagoland home has sustained storm damage, don’t fall for the red flags. Contact Seidel Exterior Group today for a free, comprehensive inspection. Let us show you the difference that true professionalism, local roots, and elite certifications make.