On April 4th, 2023, Barry County was hit by a hailstorm that left many residents surprised and caught off guard. The storm, which lasted for about half an hour, left a trail of damage in its wake. Large hailstones, some as big as golf balls, rained down on homes, businesses, and vehicles, causing significant damage to roofs, siding, and windows.
Residents across the county reported seeing the storm approach from the west, with dark clouds and strong winds preceding the hail. Many rushed to take shelter, while others watched in awe as the hailstones pelted the ground and rooftops.
The hailstorm was part of a larger system of severe weather that swept through West Michigan, with tornadoes touching down in some areas and high winds causing power outages. Despite the extensive damage caused by the hailstorm, thankfully, no injuries were reported.
In the aftermath of the storm, many homeowners and business owners were left wondering how to deal with the damage to their roofs. This is where the issue of roofing companies "storm chasing" comes in.
When a significant weather event like a hailstorm occurs, roofing companies often flock to the affected area, looking to capitalize on the damage by selling roofs and making insurance claims. These companies are known as "storm chasers" and are often from out of town or out of state.
While not all roofing companies that come into an area after a storm are unscrupulous, there are some that engage in shady practices. They may use high-pressure sales tactics, offer questionable warranties, or provide subpar workmanship. Homeowners and business owners need to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect themselves from being taken advantage of.
One way to avoid falling prey to roofing scams is to do your research and only work with local contractors with established reputations in the community. These contractors will have a better understanding of local building codes and regulations and will be more likely to stand by their work.
It's also important to be wary of contractors who ask for money upfront or pressure you to sign a contract on the spot. Legitimate contractors will provide a written estimate and won't pressure you to commit until you've had time to review it.
Homeowners and business owners should also be mindful of insurance fraud. Some storm chasers will encourage homeowners to file inflated insurance claims for work that is unnecessary or hasn't been completed. This can result in higher premiums or even legal trouble down the line.
To protect themselves from insurance fraud, property owners should always get multiple quotes for repairs and work with their insurance company directly. It's also a good idea to ask for references and check reviews before hiring a contractor.
In the aftermath of the hailstorm, many roofing companies have set up shop in Barry County, looking to sell roofs and make insurance claims. While some of these companies may be legitimate, it's important to be cautious and do your research before committing to any work.
As always, it's a good idea to get your roof inspected after any significant weather event. Even if you don't see visible damage, it's possible that your roof has been compromised in some way. Getting your roof checked out early can prevent more significant damage down the line.
The hailstorm that hit Barry County on April 4th was a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared. While many residents are still dealing with the aftermath of the storm, it's essential to be mindful of the risks posed by unscrupulous roofing companies looking to take advantage of the situation. By doing your research, asking the right questions, and working with reputable contractors, you can ensure that your home or business is repaired correctly and that you're not taken for a ride by unscrupulous contractors. Stay safe and informed, and remember to always prioritize your safety and the safety of your loved ones in any weather event.
Sources:
https://www.wzzm13.com/article/weather/large-hail-hits-west-michigan/69-678982fb-ca53-48f6-81de-b4ba40b44d4a
https://www.woodtv.com/weather/hail-storm-pelts-west-michigan/
https://www.woodtv.com/weather/hail-pictures-4-4-23/
https://wwmt.com/news/local/weather-alert-day-hail-high-wind-tornadoes-possible
https://www.visexterior.com/blog/avoid-roofing-scams-local-roofers-vs-storm-chasers
https://exovations.com/blog/roof-damage-dont-fall-prey-to-storm-chasers