It was a difficult weekend for many Hoosier families and companies as high winds and tornadoes ravaged the region, so much damage that the Governor declared both Johnson and Sullivan counties as disasters. Our crews are already helping folks in Johnson County and getting word that neighborhoods are being canvassed by out-of-state roofers hoping to take advantage of the storms… and Hoosiers.
Disasters like this can wreak havoc on homes, leaving homeowners desperate for quick repairs to the hail, tornado, and wind damage. In the aftermath of wind storms, hail storms, and tornadoes, it’s common to see an influx of roofing companies swooping into affected areas to offer their services. Unfortunately, not all these companies are reputable, and many homeowners are left with shoddy work and worthless warranties. So we wanted to provide some tips on finding a good, local roofer.
Beware of Non-Regional Roofers
After a storm, out-of-town roofing companies often send teams into affected areas to capitalize on the high demand for repairs. Roofing companies from adjacent states will swoop in, stay at local hotels, get as many contracts as possible, and then disappear when the work is done. These companies may promise quick, cheap work with extended warranties, but they can be gone as quickly as they arrive. When their work doesn’t hold up, homeowners are left with no recourse and may pay more to fix the damage.
Verifying that a roofing company is locally owned and operated is essential to avoid such situations.
Verify a Roofing Business is Regionally Owned
Check your roofing contract, licensing, insurance, and the date the roofing company was established and operating legally in the state of Indiana.
- Check the company’s website: Look for an address and contact information on the company’s website. A regional business will have a local phone number and address. Be cautious of companies with only a toll-free number or an out-of-state address.
- Check the contract: Your contract with the roofer will define the state for which the contract is legally written. If it’s not Indiana, you have a difficult road ahead of you to try to hold them accountable for any contract violation. Keep in mind that this includes national businesses that are doing work in Indiana. If they were established in another state, it might require you to go to court and hire an attorney in that state.
- Verify licensing and insurance: Ask for proof of licensing and insurance coverage. A reputable roofer should have appropriate licenses for your area and sufficient insurance to cover any potential damages during the project. If they aren’t insured and licensed in Indiana, you could be liable if they are hurt on your property.
- Check the date they were established: Believe it or not, a company can buy a post office box and register an Indiana business in a few minutes online. That means a business can pop up, work a bunch of contracts, and disappear with no trail to track them down. It’s not enough to verify that they’re a legal business, verify that they’ve been around for years so you can hold them accountable to their contract and warranties.
Bauerle Roofing was established in 2001 and we operate our family-owned business right out of our home. We are working in and around Whiteland and can assist you in temporarily protecting your property, inspecting for visible and invisible damage, and coordinating with your insurance provider to repair your damage as quickly as possible.
Additional Tips on Finding a Reputable Roofer
- Don’t pay for estimates: Reputable roofers don’t take advantage of businesses and neighbors in this time of need. Our teams can come out quickly, inspect your property, and provide you with a damage report and estimate.
- Check for manufacturer certifications: Reputable roofing companies will have certifications from major manufacturers, ensuring their teams are trained in proper installation techniques and material handling.
- Inquire about warranties: A good roofer will provide a warranty on their workmanship and any manufacturer warranties on materials. Be cautious of companies that offer warranties that seem too good to be true.
- Review the contract: Before hiring a roofing company, thoroughly review the contract, including the scope of work, materials to be used, and payment terms. Ensure that cleaning up the job site is part of your contract. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request clarification on any unclear terms.
Choose Bauerle Roofing, LLC
For homeowners in central Indiana, Bauerle Roofing, LLC is a trusted choice for storm damage repairs. As a family-owned, small business, we have served the community since 2001, providing inspections and repair services after wind, hail, and tornadoes. We are committed to quality workmanship, reliable service, and honest communication. With a strong reputation and a long history in the area, you can trust our team to handle your roofing needs carefully and professionally.
After all, we’re your neighbor!
