Here in Minnesota, we know how rough storms can be. Hail, wind, and heavy rain often leave behind a mess—damaged shingles, cracked siding, and leaky roofs. And while you’re trying to figure out repairs, unfortunately some contractors see an opportunity.
They’re called “storm chasers.” These are out-of-town crews who roll in after big weather events. They knock on doors, hand out flyers, and make big promises: quick repairs, low prices, and “we’ll deal with your insurance.” The problem? Too often, they take a deposit and disappear—or do just enough work to get paid, leaving you with poor-quality repairs that don’t hold up.
What Exactly Is a Storm Chaser?
Think of them as contractors who follow the weather instead of performing honorable work and building a reputation. They drive in from out of state, go door-to-door, and push homeowners or property managers to sign on the spot. Their goal is speed; be the first “door knocker”, make loose promises, collect as many checks as possible and move on before anyone realizes the work is sloppy—or never done at all.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Out-of-state plates – Trucks with no local ties.
- Pushy sales tactics – “Sign today or miss out” pressure.
- No local references – Unable to demonstrate past work in Minnesota.
- Big upfront payments – Asking for more than a small deposit.
- Shady contracts – Vague details, missing warranties, or blank sections.
- No license or insurance – Always check with the MN Department of Labor & Industry.
- Waived deductibles – Offering to “cover” your insurance deductible is not just shady, it’s flat-out illegal.
Why Hiring a Storm Chaser Backfires
- Cheap fixes don’t last – Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycle exposes bad workmanship and cheap materials, fast.
- No warranty backup – When they’re gone, your warranty is gone too.
- Insurance headaches – Incomplete or noncompliant work may not be covered.
- Lost money – Deposits often vanish along with the contractor.
How to Protect Yourself
- Check licenses: Use the Minnesota DLI lookup tool.
- Ask for local projects: A good contractor should have countless, nearby references.
- Confirm insurance: Don’t just take their word—ask for proof.
- Read before signing: Never agree to vague or blank contracts.
- Stick with local pros: A Minnesota-based contractor will still be here when the next storm hits.
Final Word
Storm damage is stressful enough—you don’t need a contractor scam making it worse. If you know the warning signs and work with established local companies, you’ll save yourself time, money, and headaches.
At Stonewing Builders, we’ve been helping Minnesota schools, cities, and property owners with quality upgrades and repairs for over 20 years. We’re here for the long haul—before, during, and after the storm.
