Storm Damage

Do You Have Storm Damage? Play It Safe! Stay Local and Don’t Get Burned

After a storm, it is common for out-of-town contractors to flood the area to try and solicit work. These companies are called “storm chasers”. 99% of these types are law breakers. Although it sounds like a good deal, don’t get burned. Stay local and make sure your contractor is around after the storm!

What to Look for in a Trustworthy Roofing Contractor

When choosing a roofing contractor, make sure they check all the boxes below to protect your home and your investment:

Written Estimate: Always get a clear, written estimate outlining exactly what work will be done. Without it, the contract may not be legally binding.
Firm Contract Price: The price must be set in the contract — phrases like “per insurance proceeds” are red flags and often illegal.
Written Warranties: Reputable contractors stand by their work and always provide written warranties.
See Them in Action: Ask for addresses of current job sites. Watch for out-of-state license plates — they can signal storm chasers.
Local Expertise: Choose Chicago area roofers who understand the region’s harsh winters and how to build roofs that last.
Facility Tour: A tour of their local office and operations can speak volumes. Ask how long they’ve been at that location.
No Unannounced Visits: A reputable, local contractor won’t show up at your door without notice. That’s a common tactic of out-of-town crews.

Know Your Rights: Illinois Roofing Laws & Red Flags

Protect yourself by understanding these key laws and best practices when hiring a roofing contractor in Illinois:

Roofing License Required: By law, all roofing contractors in Illinois must list their license number on every document, including contracts.
No Waiving Deductibles: It’s illegal for a contractor to offer to pay, waive, or rebate your insurance deductible — this is considered insurance fraud.
Check Local History: Call your municipality to confirm the contractor has a history of working in your town. Be cautious of those who’ve only recently appeared.
Marked Commercial Vehicles: All contractor trucks must legally display the company name and roofing license number.
Permits Are Their Job: The contractor — not the homeowner — must pull all necessary permits. If you pull a permit for an unlicensed roofer, you could face steep fines.
No Money Upfront: A reputable contractor won’t ask for a deposit. Pay only after the work is complete and you’re fully satisfied.
Claims Are Your Responsibility: It’s unlawful for a contractor to file an insurance claim on your behalf — that’s your job as the homeowner.
Don’t Sign Too Soon: Never sign a contract until after your insurance company has approved your claim.

Take the Right Steps After Storm Damage

If your roof has storm damage and insurance is covering the cost, now is the perfect time to choose a contractor you can trust:

Do It Right the First Time: Insurance is paying for the repairs — don’t cut corners or support shady “storm chasers” who often break the law and leave town.
Talk to a Local Expert: Call today to speak with a Peterson Professional and see the Peterson Difference for yourself.

Experience the Peterson Difference

See our skilled crews in action—call us for job locations and witness our top-quality work firsthand. Need references? Browse our customer files dating back to 1978. Owner James W. Peterson personally guarantees our work, ensuring lasting reliability. Our in-house training keeps crews up-to-date on safety and installation, and our design center helps you choose the perfect materials for your project.

Learn About Us

Storm Damage Solutions You Can Trust

At Peterson Roofing, we understand how severe weather can cause unexpected damage to your home’s roof. Storms, high winds, hail, and heavy rain can lead to leaks, missing shingles, and structural issues that compromise the integrity of your roof.

Our experienced technicians can provide emergency repairs and thorough estimates after a storm, ensuring that any damage is addressed promptly to prevent further issues.