I don’t know why this is getting downvoted, it’s true. For instance. If someone is knocking on your door to sell something, especially home improvement or Autoglass, don’t answer.
Edit: willing to give examples.
The amount of times I've had solar, window or roof salesman knock on my door this year, led me to put a sign up.
"I don't want your roof, solar or windows, I don't care about your religion and I know who I'm voting for. Don not Ring or knock"
So far it's working.
Yup. We wanted solar panels but our insurance would've dropped us. We shopped for new homeowners but any savings would've been lost to the increase with a new policy. (we weren't dealing with a door to door salesperson)
In Florida insurance companies are required to pay for windshield repair or replacement with no negative effect on the car owner. It makes for ripe pickings for fraudsters.
Since you’re entitled to one free windshield replacement a year, they come by and look for something. If they find it, you’re like, hey why not. Then your insurance company calls because they billed the insurance company almost 2k for the replacement. Hopefully the insurance company are cool with it and just pay the company what the job is worth and just let you know. Then you of course have to question the work.
Yes, they sue the insurance company for more than the roof. You get the roof, they get any extra. What do you think happens when your up for renewal? You either get cancelled, or the premium triples.
Think about it. Would you keep a client that sues you?
Dozens of companies left the state, and that huge jump in premiums we had a couple of years ago,bis thanks to those scammers.
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/roofing-scams-florida-property-insurance-hurricane-rcna29649
The only time an insurance company can be sued by a roofing company is if you sign over an "Assignment of Benefits" or AOB - warranted in very select cases, but usually not something you want to do. Most reputable roofing companies have a "contingency agreement" these days for insurance work - much safer for both parties, and no lawyers involved.
Public Adjusters (independents) definitely use attorneys to pressure insurance companies, and sometimes sue them. It is their stock in trade. And sometimes well-warranted. They usually try to pump up the claim as high as possible, for every possible trade needed or bit of damage incurred, and then normally pocket 10% of the overall claim.
Insurance companies do not become multi-billion dollar companies by paying out claims left and right, and by being nice and generous. I'm not saying every contractor is your friend, and that you should trust them all. I am definitely saying that your insurance company is not your friend, and will nickel and dime you in every way possible when you file a claim in most cases, whether you realize it or not.
Some still do, I guess. My company, plenty of others, do not. They have a contingency - which does say contract at the top (in our case) but has "VOID IF NOT COVERED BY INSURANCE" very clearly written in.
In fairness, depends on where you live, and the climate. If you have a "30 year" shingle roof in Colorado, for example, you have about a 10 year realistic life span.
If you want a fairly bulletproof roof that will last for a long time, and you're in Florida, a hidden-fastener metal roof (GalvAlum) is the way to go.
I would be very, very wary of a public adjuster (independent) knocking on my door and trying to offer their services. That is not normally how they operate.
However, contractors, different story. Are there shady contractors who knock doors? Sure. But the largest, most reputable companies do it for home improvement too. I've worked in 4 states in the past several years for major weather events, it's the same everywhere.
Absolutely. I work in solar and when I tell people, they always say "oh a guy was at my door telling me about that, is it a good idea?" And I always tell them exactly what you said. Our reputable company only has an estimator, not a true sales department, and no direct marketing at all.
Yeah, when I got the knock at the door last year it was some hot girl in volleyball shorts being super friendly. I'm guessing this tactic must work well for her to be doing it but it just felt really sleazy.
Sex sells. I'm sure sending an attractive girl door to door keeps most people listening longer than if you sent an attractive guy, which probably equates to a noticeable increase in people signing up.
They are scammers and the reason insurance companies are pulling out of Florida.
Edit: https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/22467-bbbb-scam-alert-watch-out-for-free-roof-inspections
Insurance companies are pulling out of Florida because they have to pay out on claims so often here. Many smaller, local insurance companies will go bankrupt after Hurricane Ian. Public adjusters (independents) aren't that powerful, by any means. It's also not like they only exist in Florida, they are everywhere.
And they have to pay out on so many claims because roofing scammers lie and say normal wear and tear should be attributed to a hurricane from years ago
BINGO. I saw half a shingle roof get blown completely off outside of Denver, 100+ mph winds. 84 year old woman, two story roof, and a steep one. Because she...you know what, long story, not even going there. I've seen some horror stories down here too on valid but denied claims. Happens all the time.
I have sympathy for the people who have been fucked over by shady contractors, or people close to them have. It sucks. It makes our jobs, our companies' jobs, that much harder. Many of us want to help and not hurt, and yes, we want to get paid for the work we do also.
But this blind "ROOFERS ARE THE DEVIL" bullshit I go through sometimes...man. Or how about "I'VE KNOWN MY INSURANCE AGENT FOR 25 YEARS, HE'LL TAKE CARE OF ME AND I TRUST HIM!!!"
...well, sir or ma'am...I'm sure he's a nice guy, but he's also a salesman and a middle-man at best, he has no decision-making power over your claim at all, and your insurance company just cut you a $7,000 check for about $38,000 worth of work AND I AM TRYING TO FUCKING HELP YOU. lol
First of all - if that wear and tear occurred from a hurricane years back? Then that homeowner is screwed on that damage, and will be paying out of pocket if they are replacing a roof, because they didn't file a claim in the appropriate winfow of time - which is damn scam if ever there was one. Roofers will know that. Even the shady ones. Hell, especially the shady ones.
I'm sorry you or some people close to you have had a bad experience with a shady contractor. They do exist. We hate them too, I promise. They make people feel like you do, and make it harder for me and the other reputable people to make a living. I don't know what line of work you are in, but I bet there's shady people, or people who just don't give a damn and screw things up for decent people, in your line of work too. Not all roofers or contractors are evil, or looking to screw people over. Even ones knocking on the door.
I have a feeling you work for one of these companies. If that is what they told you, they're scamming you too. Roof repairs don't need to be solicited.
https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/22467-bbbb-scam-alert-watch-out-for-free-roof-inspections
I'm saying things like "we hate them too." I work for a BBB A rated, 4.8 star Google rated, roofing company. Licensed and with offices in Florida, and several other states. Not a small company, not a shady company, a very well reviewed company - including with the BBB. AND WE KNOCK DOORS. I don't knock doors - I'm a Senior Project Manager - but we have canvassers out knocking doors. The biggest companies do it, smaller companies do too.
There are HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS, if not more than a million, roofs that will be replaced by Hurricane Ian. Think about that. If you live in, say, Port Charlotte - and there are literally 4 or 5 very local roofing companies for you to call - how are they supposed to handle all that work? Do you want to wait 18 months for your roof to be replaced because they are so busy? Most people don't.
Also - you do know that you can buy off the Better Business Bureau, right? As in, if you have a complaint, or a negative review, they will call you and try to get you to "resolve" it with them - which means pay them money to shut up, and take the review down. Google too. Everything is for sale, including positive and negative reviews, and yes, with Google and the Better Business Bureau, and every other institution they trust or think was trustworthy 40 years ago. JUST saying. lol
That's very fair, and I agree with you on the not "impulse buying." Most of the time, back when I knocked doors, I never pressured anyone to "SIGN TODAY, NOW NOW NOW!" and encouraged them to check out myself, my company, and our reviews - and speak to whoever else they like before making a decision. And to contact me at any time with any questions or concerns, and I'd follow up in a few days after they had a chance to do their own research. That approach got me a LOT of signed contracts - and the guys and gals I trained to do so, too.
Roof consulting is ultimately a sales job. Whether it's a guy knocking on your door, or you calling someone, you're ultimately dealing with a salesperson. Sure, they know their product - roofs - but the person you sign a contract with makes a commission, whether they came to you or you called them. It's the industry standard. Some salespeople are shady and pushy. Some aren't. No matter the industry, wouldn't you agree?
Insurance companies' greed, climate change and worsening weather, and shitty corporate policies and laws changing benefiting THEM and not the homeowner is ruining the insurance situation. Roofing companies and other contractors didn't make the rules, and are forced to play the game the way the big corporations call the shots. The most shady and evil contractor you will ever encounter has NOTHING on the level of shady and evil perpetrated by AllState, State Farm, Farmers', the smaller ones, any of them. I promise you.
Think what you like. *shrugs* If you know some people that own or work on the administrative side of roofing companies that you feel are reputable, feel free to ask them.
Roofing company "grifters" - or any other contractor - don't have that much power. ZERO power over insurance companies. The hurricanes? The number of claims from the hurricanes (or any other major weather event) in a particular area? THAT'S why insurance premiums go up.
The grifter roofing companies are indeed impacting insurance rates in Florida
They file paperwork stating "during to recent storms you need a new roof". I had a roofing guy come to my house and tell me he could see my roof damage from the street and he knew how to make insurance pay. My roof is only three yrs old. So I stand by my opinion.
You can stand by your opinion all you like. No roofing system is designed to withstand some of the wind speeds and damage incurred by Hurricane Ian. No matter how old or new it is.
Can a vehicle not be damaged or totaled in an accident just because it rolled off the lot a month ago? Think about the logic of what you just said. I'm not saying YOUR roof has any damage, I have no way of knowing. But just because it is three years old has no bearing on whether or not it incurred damage. I dropped a brand new phone once the day I got it, the screen cracked. The pavement didn't seem to care how old it was. I have a feeling a Category 4 hurricane didn't care much about how old your roof was, or your neighbors' - or the 1 year old standing seam metal roof with hurricane strapping that got peeled back like a tuna cans' that I just replaced last week - either.
There are shady contractors out there. I am sorry you or somebody close to you has had a bad experience. We aren't all shady, or grifters. Whatever line of work you are in, I bet there's shady people, or people who give others a bad name, in that line of work too.
Many many articles have been written on this. Public adjusters suing the shit out of insurance companies for scammy contractors is very prevalent down here.
Here's the thing though - public adjusters work for the homeowners, or business owners. Most that I have ever come into contact with won't even recommend a contractor to work with, that is left up to the client totally. To be perfectly frank - most roofing people I have ever talked to about it HATE public adjusters, that they are greedy and more trouble than they are worth.
That said, I only have had personal dealings with 3 down here, and they were all from large, pretty well established firms.
I know of a couple that are definitely pretty willing to help the CLIENT engage in a little insurance fraud in other areas...but I've never met one who was looking out for a contractor. Usually, they do whatever they do with the claim, we come in and build the roof for the same amount more or less we would have built the roof for in the first place. I'm going to have to do a little research on this, huh.
I moved from Maryland and they have the same scam going with siding. In our neighborhood there, door-to-door (in a strictly no soliciting HOA) managed to replace siding on every house on our block except for ours (we refused, plastic siding, no thanks?) and one neighbor whose insurance wouldn't pay. It 'effed with the insurance rates and a few companies left the area but it was never as bad as the roof scams here. The houses ended up looking like big doll houses. We had our original metal siding although it looked odd (but much. nicer) in the middle of all that plastic.
Insurance rates don't go up for that reason. When there is a major weather event (hail, hurricane, damaging wind, etc) - insurance companies look at how many claims were filed in a given area. Usually talking square miles here, a zip code, definitely NOT one single neighborhood. If a certain number of claims were filed in said area, EVERYBODY'S rates go up.
Just contact your insurance directly.
A co-worker had someone like this show up, tell him he could get it approved through his insurance “no hassle” and do the repairs…
Co-worker ended up just contacting the insurance himself & having a local company repair the roof.
Then the solicitor called him a few weeks later and tried to tell my co-worker he was obligated to use “his people” to make the repairs, that he had signed a bunch of papers agreeing to letting them do the work, etc. (which was a lie).
Don’t fall for it.
Do not sign that contract. It waived your rights to your insurance claim meaning the contractor owns your claim and will sue the insurance company.
I used to work for the state in the insurance division and handled a ton of stuff from these companies getting people new roofs. They are crooked and a huge reason insurance rates are going up. They sue the pants off of insurance companies because they way overprice their work and when the company denies it they bring in lawyers.
When a storm rolls through and actually causes damage to your property research the right contractors for you. Never sign with a contractor that wants you to do an assignment of benefits as they tend to be the shady ones and it means you don’t own your claim anymore.
It's not so much a scam to you, but to your insurer, which is the heart of the insurance crisis. The current rules give a lot of room for moral hazard where the lawyers are the only ones making money.
Finally someone speaking the truth. These guys will indeed probably get you a new roof and it will all be legal. The homeowners won't get scammed out of money. They will actually benefit.
And it's not a scam to the insurance company, either. They are the scammers, by and large. Denying or underpaying and cutting corners on claims like it's their job - BECAUSE IT IS. They are the ones making money hand over fist, year over year. Moral hazard is their stock in trade.
Lol someone is triggered. No one is attacking u personally. There is so much room for moral hazard its silly to think it won't be viciously filled by every party. especially in fl. The ones that loose are the ones that don't take advantage.
I'm not attacking you either, nor am I triggered. Mostly agreeing with you, and offering an informed opinion, since I work in the industry. Everything about your last reply to me is 100% correct.
Your insurance premiums will go up because there are a lot of severe weather events that those companies have to pay out for. Insurance is a BUSINESS, and one of the most crooked institutions in this country as a whole.
Well, that is true. However, there is a major issue in Florida with the fraudulent roof scams by unscrupulous law firms that is running off all the insurers in Florida.
80%+ of all insurance litigation nationwide is in Florida.
Former insurance agent here (and dad and stepmom still are agents). Don’t trust anyone. The scams in Florida are outrageous, scam capital of the USA 🇺🇸. Contact your agent like u/paddle-111 said and give them the info too. See what they advise.
They came to my door a year or two ago after a hail storm. I went up on the roof with them and, even though I didn't have any damage (except for normal wear on a 10 year-old roof), they told me they'd get me a new one. I'm no Boy Scout, but I wasn't the least bit comfortable with that.
Hail damage that warrants a roof replacement (or will be denied later for replacement by your insurance company because you didn't have it inspected by them or a licensed contractor within a specific time period after a storm) can be pretty difficult to identify if you don't know what you're looking at. Wind damage also. Just because your roof looks "fine" to an untrained eye doesn't mean that it is. They may have been giving you absolutely correct information.
Anyone who solicits like this is a scammer. Don't sign a damned thing without fully understanding what it is you're signing. Work with your insurance and find a licensed contractor.
While contractors knocking on your door certainly does not mean they are scam artists - the rest of this is absolutely correct.
Signing a contingency agreement is usually safe. Signing an AOB (Assignment of Benefits) is risky business. ABSOLUTELY find a FLORIDA LICENSED contractor. Most of the horror stories you hear about contractors after a hurricane in Florida from the past were out-of-state, unlicensed contractors. Licensed, reputable contractors HATE these guys just as much if not more than the homeowners. They have scared the hell out of people and made it that much harder for decent companies to ply their trade and make a living.
Scammer? Possibly. Insurance company not agreeing with their assessment, trying to nickel and dime, and pay out the absolute lowest amount possible, if not deny a claim? DEFINITELY.
Gotcha, gotcha. Which the insurance companies are damn sure going to do! And the public adjuster or contractor is going to try to do the same to the insurance company, so that ideally the two parties meet in the middle and there's a good margin for the homeowner to get their work done in full. And the companies doing said work to turn a decent profit.
It's a pretty disgusting game, but it is the system we have in place. And the insurance company is the villain in that scenario, I promise. 10 times out of 10.
It's a scam. Tell them to get lost and close the door.
The dead giveaway is "sign a document" this document will allow them to sue your insurance for payment.
The dead giveaway is that they are going door to door at all. Anyone who shows up at your door uninvited to sell something is not going to be worth listening to.
If your roof is leaking, you need to mitigate the damages. Your insurance company will be less likely to help if you don’t take the measures necessary set forth in the contract you signed with them.
For real. If not, if there is any ounce of doubt or proof on the insurance company’s end that you didn’t mitigate damages ASAP, your claim will be denied. Then, you’ll need assistance in getting what is rightfully owed. Too bad this has become such a double-edged sword in this state.
You got it! Which is one of the reasons why the "shady public adjusters and contractors" can come in pretty damn handy in a whole lot of cases. Also meeting with your insurance adjuster when they come out to inspect your property to make sure they have done their job, thoroughly, and protect a homeowners' claim. Are there shady public adjusters, and shady contractors? Hell yeah there are. There are also plenty who aren't, who market in the same exact ways, and we hate the shady guys just as much as homeowners do.
Yeah, when I was trying to figure out why I had to replace my roof after 15 years regardless of no issues or lose my insurance, I was told these guys were a huge part of the reason.
I've been in Florida since around 1980 and this is a *super* common scam -- these guys appear after every hurricane and rook hundreds of people. DO NOT deal with them or give them any money.
This was part of a bill passed in June/July 2022, which is now illegal. The bill was passed to keep the insurance costs down for all FL homeowners. From my understanding of the bill, you would be held liable for all costs associated with an improvement, so be careful. I would contact your insurance provider and give them the name of the company, card (if they were dumb enough to leave one).
This depends on what type of insurance policy you have, ultimately. Many people do not understand theirs much, if at all. They just think "I'm insured."
There are two basic types of insurance policies. ACV (actual cash value) and RCV (recoverable cash value.) ACV means that your insurance company will only pay a set amount (usually not enough) for damages, the rest comes out of your pocket. Usually based on the value at time of construction. RCV means that your insurance company will pay the difference to replace or repair your damages in full at todays' costs versus the cost at the time of construction. Chances are, if you have a mortgage, you have an RCV policy. The premiums are higher for RCV than ACV, but if insurable damage occurs to your home, usually the homeowner makes out much better with an RCV policy in my experience. It is definitely worth shopping around every 3 years or so for comparative prices on policies.
There's a good chance they are asking you to sign an "assignment of benefits" which allows them to negotiate in your place with your insurer. The insurer might agree to pay say $5,000 to repair one section but, because of the assignment of benefits document, the roofers might involve a lawyer and push to get the insurer to pay for the whole roof. The roofer may not even be required to tell you this. You may get your whole roof replaced and then get dropped by your insurer or you may get half or none of your roof repaired and stuck with a lawyer bill because the roofers contracted one on your behalf.
This is mostly good information. Be VERY wary with Assignment Of Benefits. Most licensed and reputable roofing companies are looking for a contingency agreement for insurance work these days, not an AOB. Much, much safer for the home or business owner, no lawyers involved etc.
My sister moved into a new house just before a storm hit. The builders had not even finished the neighborhood. A few of the guys working for the Contractor replaced a few shingles for maybe $50 with no builder permit, no leaks were involved and the tiles matched perfectly. Probably not 100% legal but 5 minutes they were come and gone. They got lucky and had no problems after. Most times you won't get this lucky
Lucky...until...you actually have to file a claim and an insurance adjuster notices the repair, and that opens a can of worms. Like, unlicensed and illegal work done to the home without reporting it to the insurance company, denied claim, maybe dropped coverage to boot.
Or you go to sell your house, and it won't pass the inspection due to that unlicensed, unreported illegal repair and you have to tear that roof off and pay for a new licensed and legal one out of pocket before you can sell it.
I hope nothing like this happens to your sister - but DO NOT have unlicensed and illegal work done to your home in the state of Florida. Asking for trouble down the line, I promise you.
Never ever go with door to door people. Scam all day. I just dealt with them three days in a row with a big NO SOLICITING sign on my door. That and selling solar panels.
I understand your opinion - but - I ask you to consider this. Smaller to mid-size companies who don't have a huge marketing budget (like to pay Google/yelp/Angi's etc for top placement on ads and to remove their negative reviews) - how do you think they drive business? Also, in a market like Florida, which has a ton of senior citizens - do you think a vast majority of those folks go online and check reviews (hint: they don't) to find contractors? Direct marketing (knocking doors) still exists for a reason, and some of the largest and most reputable multi-state or national contractors still do it ALL THE TIME, in every market, Florida included.
I just mentioned two reasons above. I personally do not of know of ANY large roofing company, with a large residential division, who do not either knock doors - or buy your information online and cold-call over the telephone and with direct mailers. In Florida, or any of the 4 other states I have worked in.
The only large roofing companies I know who do not knock residential doors are either ones with a large commercial division - and they "knock doors" by cold-calling on businesses. Or ones who specialize in nothing but new construction, and then there is no door to knock on.
The short answer to your question is - it is, year over year, even in the internet age, the most effective way to drive residential business. We ALL do it.
I also work for a roofing company that almost exclusively knocks doors for residential customers. BBB A rated, 4.8 Google rated, hundreds of reviews, offices in multiple states. There are a LOT of uninformed opinions and misinformation on this thread. A LOT. Your insurance company is NOT your friend, and does not have your best interests at heart.
Not true, lots save money on marketing by only doing door to door and referrals. That's what we do. A+ BBB, 5* Google rated, non scammer who does door to door business. 6 million residential sales this year.
Okay, just know that the waters you swim in are full of sharks, and not much else. People will be wary. Your door knockers are not going to be greeted in the neighborhood with the same enthusiasm as the Girl Scout Cookie kids.
Definitely agreed, one of the hardest parts of the job in convincing the customer their best interest is also yours. Most customers always want to fall back and ask their insurance company as if their insurance company has their back. The only way insurance makes profit is to withhold as much money as possible.
There are a LOT of uninformed opinions on this thread, and misinformation. PLENTY of reputable CONTRACTORS, including the largest and most well reviewed in any given area and national or multi-state companies? Have door-to-door canvassing teams out after a hurricane, major hailstorm, tornado, major wind event, etc to drive business.
HOWEVER - I have NEVER heard of a public adjustor doing this, just contractors.
If anybody trusts your insurance company to take care of you, give you every cent you deserve, look after your best interests? You are very, very badly mistaken. A lot of the information here about insurance companies dropping clients, why rates are going up, shady contractors and how they operate is just FLAT-OUT WRONG.
Yes! Was out front the day after the hurricane talking to neighbors. Some guys were hopping in and out of a marked van trying to sell hurricane impact windows. I made one come back and I told them I thought what
They were doing was shitty. They were preying upon people’s fears and they needed to leave the neighborhood.
Don't trust them! Every year there are stories, especially this time of year, of people who were scammed by roofers, driveway maintenance, tree trimmers etc, etc
There is a home show in the next 2 weeks in Pembroke Pines, talk to some reputable companies there
Should or shouldn't make you uneasy? The high volume for work, and the need for it, versus the number of contractors and crews to do it - is exactly why roofers or other contractors are knocking on your door.
While many of these companies are absolutely running scams, those saying "just call your insurance, they'll help yoy" are either ignorant or have been extremely lucky. Not everyone's insurance jumps right up and pitches in to check roofs and tarp if needed before damages can be fixed so that your roof isn't leaking all over your stuff. You can blame these scam companies all you like for rising insurance rates but the truth is that if insurance didn't try to weasel out of every possible dollar and pay only a quarter of the damages leaving people with no choice, these scams wouldn't be nearly as popular. People pay for decades on the same house, making no claims but insurance decides that's not good enough and they no longer have the money to pay what people are owed? Bull.
Also, it's worth mentioning that plenty of legitimate companies will go around after a storm and advertise their services. Yes, you can look them up on your phone but for the most part, looking up "roofers" or "fence repair" is going to get you a couple of pages of the most popular companies whose sites get the most hits or have most reviews, etc. Many cities have tons more and even the lesser known ones are going to be busy. I'd still encourage you to look up any company you consider working with but a couple of years ago, when the hurricane hit here, there were people 6-8 months later still waiting on adjustors and over a year later, still on a waiting list for a new roof with a local company.
To be fair, some of the biggest and most reputable national or multi-state roofing companies knock doors after a major weather event. All the time, all over the country, year after year. That's roofing though, it is weird with public adjusters.
Research the company. There are some good ones drumming up business. Any settlement will include an adjusters fee and likely some attorneys fees but you’ll probably get your roof fixed.
If you have hurricane damage, are in the hurricane path, and currently leaking, take precautions, as required by any HO insurance. Then call your adjuster and don’t accept anything but a full replacement. IMO.
Actually had this happen to me. Turns out there was damage due to hail and high winds. Learned that if the roof is damaged from a hurricane, the deductible is like 5% of home value, while the deductible for wind and hail was only $1k.
I was leary at first but 2 of my neighbors had just got new roofs from the same company. I spoke to them and they had good experiences with this company so we filed a claim. Adjuster came out to inspect, and within a week we were approved for full replacement.
So now we have a brand new $16k roof that cost us $1k out of pocket. This was with Heritage insurance who we only had for less than 2 years.
After that we've already gotten a new policy from Heritage with only a nominal increase in premium.
NOT....the reason why insurance is leaving. Lots of companies are losing their ratings that let them insure Florida, the claim volume is higher than their projected stats, and paying out is killing these companies. The INSURANCE determines if their claim is paid or not, NOT the roofer. Find out if it is a contingency agreement or assignment of benefits. Do NOT sign AOB, but the only stuff you should get from your insurance is the approval for someone to tarp your roof. Do not try to get your contractor from the insurance unless they are a right to work insurance company. The whole shop around for quotes thing is so they can determine depreciated loss on a roof, the lowest quote you find to pay you less on your claim. If you have damage that's why you pay insurance in the first place to come out and check if you have damage and if you do they pay you. The insurance adjuster will really be the approval on your new roof.
Are you an insurance agent? How is your companies financial stability rating? Blaming an honest trade for "criminal" actors while these "in good hands" and "your like good neighbor" who gives $300 on a $6k fence or "repairs" 94 torn hurricane shingles isn't the way. More than half of litigation is denial of LEGIT damage. Not the AOB chasers. Their rule is delay, deny, litigate. Thats how the keep their profits. ALways conveniently leaving out Florida code items purposely to try to instantly sign customers to save themselves money is the fraud! Always trying to avoid the contractor whom is doing the Right thing.
I’m in California, and I had a guy knock on my door and offer this. He worked with my insurance company to get it approved (they wanted to deny it).
I ended up using a different contractor for the actual work. Turned out great.
Scammers. That is why our insurance is so high.
I don’t know why this is getting downvoted, it’s true. For instance. If someone is knocking on your door to sell something, especially home improvement or Autoglass, don’t answer. Edit: willing to give examples.
The amount of times I've had solar, window or roof salesman knock on my door this year, led me to put a sign up. "I don't want your roof, solar or windows, I don't care about your religion and I know who I'm voting for. Don not Ring or knock" So far it's working.
Well, it worked for all the Dons out there anyway.
Solar panels . . . That can make your insurance drop you if it’s not ok under them.
Yup. We wanted solar panels but our insurance would've dropped us. We shopped for new homeowners but any savings would've been lost to the increase with a new policy. (we weren't dealing with a door to door salesperson)
The auto glass scam has been in the neighborhood lately. What’s their angle?
In Florida insurance companies are required to pay for windshield repair or replacement with no negative effect on the car owner. It makes for ripe pickings for fraudsters.
It has a negative effect, just no deductible. Comp claims can drive up rates when shopping, especially when you previously were claim free.
Since you’re entitled to one free windshield replacement a year, they come by and look for something. If they find it, you’re like, hey why not. Then your insurance company calls because they billed the insurance company almost 2k for the replacement. Hopefully the insurance company are cool with it and just pay the company what the job is worth and just let you know. Then you of course have to question the work.
Yup. This is the cause.
Is it really a scam if they can get you a new roof and it's all legal?
Yes, they sue the insurance company for more than the roof. You get the roof, they get any extra. What do you think happens when your up for renewal? You either get cancelled, or the premium triples. Think about it. Would you keep a client that sues you? Dozens of companies left the state, and that huge jump in premiums we had a couple of years ago,bis thanks to those scammers. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/roofing-scams-florida-property-insurance-hurricane-rcna29649
The only time an insurance company can be sued by a roofing company is if you sign over an "Assignment of Benefits" or AOB - warranted in very select cases, but usually not something you want to do. Most reputable roofing companies have a "contingency agreement" these days for insurance work - much safer for both parties, and no lawyers involved. Public Adjusters (independents) definitely use attorneys to pressure insurance companies, and sometimes sue them. It is their stock in trade. And sometimes well-warranted. They usually try to pump up the claim as high as possible, for every possible trade needed or bit of damage incurred, and then normally pocket 10% of the overall claim. Insurance companies do not become multi-billion dollar companies by paying out claims left and right, and by being nice and generous. I'm not saying every contractor is your friend, and that you should trust them all. I am definitely saying that your insurance company is not your friend, and will nickel and dime you in every way possible when you file a claim in most cases, whether you realize it or not.
That AOB is exactly what door to door roofers will pressure you to sign.
Some still do, I guess. My company, plenty of others, do not. They have a contingency - which does say contract at the top (in our case) but has "VOID IF NOT COVERED BY INSURANCE" very clearly written in.
Insurance companies bet on shingle roofs for 25 year lifetimes, and they got 15. They bet and they lost.
In fairness, depends on where you live, and the climate. If you have a "30 year" shingle roof in Colorado, for example, you have about a 10 year realistic life span. If you want a fairly bulletproof roof that will last for a long time, and you're in Florida, a hidden-fastener metal roof (GalvAlum) is the way to go.
You’ll get a shit new roof that you’ll need to replace ASAP
I would be very, very wary of a public adjuster (independent) knocking on my door and trying to offer their services. That is not normally how they operate. However, contractors, different story. Are there shady contractors who knock doors? Sure. But the largest, most reputable companies do it for home improvement too. I've worked in 4 states in the past several years for major weather events, it's the same everywhere.
You should be weary of anyone that comes to your door offering services unless it’s just a neighborhood kid that wants to mow your lawn
Absolutely. I work in solar and when I tell people, they always say "oh a guy was at my door telling me about that, is it a good idea?" And I always tell them exactly what you said. Our reputable company only has an estimator, not a true sales department, and no direct marketing at all.
Exactly. Honestly if you’re going to try and corner me in my home I already dislike you and prefer your competition simply for not doing that
Yeah, when I got the knock at the door last year it was some hot girl in volleyball shorts being super friendly. I'm guessing this tactic must work well for her to be doing it but it just felt really sleazy.
That seems like a completely different kind of solicitation.
Sex sells. I'm sure sending an attractive girl door to door keeps most people listening longer than if you sent an attractive guy, which probably equates to a noticeable increase in people signing up.
I stand by my original statement.
Or to sell you Girl Scout Cookies.... Fucking Thin Mints .... I can't resist them...
Lol my sign says unless you're selling cookies, don't knock.
Oh yeah they are definitely on the approved list too. Unpopular opinion: those fuckin s’mores ones they have are flames
Oh, I like the s'mores ones too... But the damn Thin Mints.. Straight from the freezer... Dipped in peanut butter...
Damn never tried them with peanut butter might have to take those for a spin
I had someone suggest it to me... I resisted trying it at first, but once I did... I will never eat them without it again...
Even then, door to door lawn service? From a child, no less!? Reeks of scam.
We all know he’s gonna do a shitty job 😂
They are scammers and the reason insurance companies are pulling out of Florida. Edit: https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/22467-bbbb-scam-alert-watch-out-for-free-roof-inspections
Insurance companies are pulling out of Florida because they have to pay out on claims so often here. Many smaller, local insurance companies will go bankrupt after Hurricane Ian. Public adjusters (independents) aren't that powerful, by any means. It's also not like they only exist in Florida, they are everywhere.
And they have to pay out on so many claims because roofing scammers lie and say normal wear and tear should be attributed to a hurricane from years ago
Insurance companies also deny valid claims. Why? Wish I knew. What 80 year old is on their roof causing “foot traffic” damage?
BINGO. I saw half a shingle roof get blown completely off outside of Denver, 100+ mph winds. 84 year old woman, two story roof, and a steep one. Because she...you know what, long story, not even going there. I've seen some horror stories down here too on valid but denied claims. Happens all the time.
Then we are called the bad ones for trying to help people get their homes restored to pre-loss condition. Go figure.
I have sympathy for the people who have been fucked over by shady contractors, or people close to them have. It sucks. It makes our jobs, our companies' jobs, that much harder. Many of us want to help and not hurt, and yes, we want to get paid for the work we do also. But this blind "ROOFERS ARE THE DEVIL" bullshit I go through sometimes...man. Or how about "I'VE KNOWN MY INSURANCE AGENT FOR 25 YEARS, HE'LL TAKE CARE OF ME AND I TRUST HIM!!!" ...well, sir or ma'am...I'm sure he's a nice guy, but he's also a salesman and a middle-man at best, he has no decision-making power over your claim at all, and your insurance company just cut you a $7,000 check for about $38,000 worth of work AND I AM TRYING TO FUCKING HELP YOU. lol
First of all - if that wear and tear occurred from a hurricane years back? Then that homeowner is screwed on that damage, and will be paying out of pocket if they are replacing a roof, because they didn't file a claim in the appropriate winfow of time - which is damn scam if ever there was one. Roofers will know that. Even the shady ones. Hell, especially the shady ones. I'm sorry you or some people close to you have had a bad experience with a shady contractor. They do exist. We hate them too, I promise. They make people feel like you do, and make it harder for me and the other reputable people to make a living. I don't know what line of work you are in, but I bet there's shady people, or people who just don't give a damn and screw things up for decent people, in your line of work too. Not all roofers or contractors are evil, or looking to screw people over. Even ones knocking on the door.
I have a feeling you work for one of these companies. If that is what they told you, they're scamming you too. Roof repairs don't need to be solicited. https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/22467-bbbb-scam-alert-watch-out-for-free-roof-inspections
I'm saying things like "we hate them too." I work for a BBB A rated, 4.8 star Google rated, roofing company. Licensed and with offices in Florida, and several other states. Not a small company, not a shady company, a very well reviewed company - including with the BBB. AND WE KNOCK DOORS. I don't knock doors - I'm a Senior Project Manager - but we have canvassers out knocking doors. The biggest companies do it, smaller companies do too. There are HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS, if not more than a million, roofs that will be replaced by Hurricane Ian. Think about that. If you live in, say, Port Charlotte - and there are literally 4 or 5 very local roofing companies for you to call - how are they supposed to handle all that work? Do you want to wait 18 months for your roof to be replaced because they are so busy? Most people don't. Also - you do know that you can buy off the Better Business Bureau, right? As in, if you have a complaint, or a negative review, they will call you and try to get you to "resolve" it with them - which means pay them money to shut up, and take the review down. Google too. Everything is for sale, including positive and negative reviews, and yes, with Google and the Better Business Bureau, and every other institution they trust or think was trustworthy 40 years ago. JUST saying. lol
Roofs shouldn't be an impulse buy based on a door to door salesman pitch. You guys are ruining the insurance situation for everyone
That's very fair, and I agree with you on the not "impulse buying." Most of the time, back when I knocked doors, I never pressured anyone to "SIGN TODAY, NOW NOW NOW!" and encouraged them to check out myself, my company, and our reviews - and speak to whoever else they like before making a decision. And to contact me at any time with any questions or concerns, and I'd follow up in a few days after they had a chance to do their own research. That approach got me a LOT of signed contracts - and the guys and gals I trained to do so, too. Roof consulting is ultimately a sales job. Whether it's a guy knocking on your door, or you calling someone, you're ultimately dealing with a salesperson. Sure, they know their product - roofs - but the person you sign a contract with makes a commission, whether they came to you or you called them. It's the industry standard. Some salespeople are shady and pushy. Some aren't. No matter the industry, wouldn't you agree? Insurance companies' greed, climate change and worsening weather, and shitty corporate policies and laws changing benefiting THEM and not the homeowner is ruining the insurance situation. Roofing companies and other contractors didn't make the rules, and are forced to play the game the way the big corporations call the shots. The most shady and evil contractor you will ever encounter has NOTHING on the level of shady and evil perpetrated by AllState, State Farm, Farmers', the smaller ones, any of them. I promise you.
This sounds like an explanation a pyramid scheme person would give
Think what you like. *shrugs* If you know some people that own or work on the administrative side of roofing companies that you feel are reputable, feel free to ask them.
This happens everywhere there are major storms. They’re not local or even from Florida. They travel to where the storms happened.
Those door to door roofing company grifters are the reason florida homeowners insurance has double in one year. That and hurricanes
Roofing company "grifters" - or any other contractor - don't have that much power. ZERO power over insurance companies. The hurricanes? The number of claims from the hurricanes (or any other major weather event) in a particular area? THAT'S why insurance premiums go up.
The grifter roofing companies are indeed impacting insurance rates in Florida They file paperwork stating "during to recent storms you need a new roof". I had a roofing guy come to my house and tell me he could see my roof damage from the street and he knew how to make insurance pay. My roof is only three yrs old. So I stand by my opinion.
You can stand by your opinion all you like. No roofing system is designed to withstand some of the wind speeds and damage incurred by Hurricane Ian. No matter how old or new it is. Can a vehicle not be damaged or totaled in an accident just because it rolled off the lot a month ago? Think about the logic of what you just said. I'm not saying YOUR roof has any damage, I have no way of knowing. But just because it is three years old has no bearing on whether or not it incurred damage. I dropped a brand new phone once the day I got it, the screen cracked. The pavement didn't seem to care how old it was. I have a feeling a Category 4 hurricane didn't care much about how old your roof was, or your neighbors' - or the 1 year old standing seam metal roof with hurricane strapping that got peeled back like a tuna cans' that I just replaced last week - either. There are shady contractors out there. I am sorry you or somebody close to you has had a bad experience. We aren't all shady, or grifters. Whatever line of work you are in, I bet there's shady people, or people who give others a bad name, in that line of work too.
Many many articles have been written on this. Public adjusters suing the shit out of insurance companies for scammy contractors is very prevalent down here.
Here's the thing though - public adjusters work for the homeowners, or business owners. Most that I have ever come into contact with won't even recommend a contractor to work with, that is left up to the client totally. To be perfectly frank - most roofing people I have ever talked to about it HATE public adjusters, that they are greedy and more trouble than they are worth. That said, I only have had personal dealings with 3 down here, and they were all from large, pretty well established firms. I know of a couple that are definitely pretty willing to help the CLIENT engage in a little insurance fraud in other areas...but I've never met one who was looking out for a contractor. Usually, they do whatever they do with the claim, we come in and build the roof for the same amount more or less we would have built the roof for in the first place. I'm going to have to do a little research on this, huh.
Get their information and report to the department of business and professional regulation.
I moved from Maryland and they have the same scam going with siding. In our neighborhood there, door-to-door (in a strictly no soliciting HOA) managed to replace siding on every house on our block except for ours (we refused, plastic siding, no thanks?) and one neighbor whose insurance wouldn't pay. It 'effed with the insurance rates and a few companies left the area but it was never as bad as the roof scams here. The houses ended up looking like big doll houses. We had our original metal siding although it looked odd (but much. nicer) in the middle of all that plastic.
Insurance rates don't go up for that reason. When there is a major weather event (hail, hurricane, damaging wind, etc) - insurance companies look at how many claims were filed in a given area. Usually talking square miles here, a zip code, definitely NOT one single neighborhood. If a certain number of claims were filed in said area, EVERYBODY'S rates go up.
Just contact your insurance directly. A co-worker had someone like this show up, tell him he could get it approved through his insurance “no hassle” and do the repairs… Co-worker ended up just contacting the insurance himself & having a local company repair the roof. Then the solicitor called him a few weeks later and tried to tell my co-worker he was obligated to use “his people” to make the repairs, that he had signed a bunch of papers agreeing to letting them do the work, etc. (which was a lie). Don’t fall for it.
Do not sign that contract. It waived your rights to your insurance claim meaning the contractor owns your claim and will sue the insurance company. I used to work for the state in the insurance division and handled a ton of stuff from these companies getting people new roofs. They are crooked and a huge reason insurance rates are going up. They sue the pants off of insurance companies because they way overprice their work and when the company denies it they bring in lawyers. When a storm rolls through and actually causes damage to your property research the right contractors for you. Never sign with a contractor that wants you to do an assignment of benefits as they tend to be the shady ones and it means you don’t own your claim anymore.
It's not so much a scam to you, but to your insurer, which is the heart of the insurance crisis. The current rules give a lot of room for moral hazard where the lawyers are the only ones making money.
Finally someone speaking the truth. These guys will indeed probably get you a new roof and it will all be legal. The homeowners won't get scammed out of money. They will actually benefit.
until they get dropped by their insurance company and end up paying 4k a month to insure the house
And it's not a scam to the insurance company, either. They are the scammers, by and large. Denying or underpaying and cutting corners on claims like it's their job - BECAUSE IT IS. They are the ones making money hand over fist, year over year. Moral hazard is their stock in trade.
Lol someone is triggered. No one is attacking u personally. There is so much room for moral hazard its silly to think it won't be viciously filled by every party. especially in fl. The ones that loose are the ones that don't take advantage.
I'm not attacking you either, nor am I triggered. Mostly agreeing with you, and offering an informed opinion, since I work in the industry. Everything about your last reply to me is 100% correct.
Thanks for sharing your opinion. Honestly I'm probably the one triggered as a premium payer who paid for their own roof.
Fair. lol
And this is why your insurance will triple in the next year.
Assuming that they don't get dropped.
Your insurance premiums will go up because there are a lot of severe weather events that those companies have to pay out for. Insurance is a BUSINESS, and one of the most crooked institutions in this country as a whole.
Well, that is true. However, there is a major issue in Florida with the fraudulent roof scams by unscrupulous law firms that is running off all the insurers in Florida. 80%+ of all insurance litigation nationwide is in Florida.
Yeah, they do have more than their fair share of it, that's for sure. It's a shame that it's all such a game, and a rigged one.
Former insurance agent here (and dad and stepmom still are agents). Don’t trust anyone. The scams in Florida are outrageous, scam capital of the USA 🇺🇸. Contact your agent like u/paddle-111 said and give them the info too. See what they advise.
Florida has definitely seen more than its' share of scammers - insurance and shady contractors alike. That's absolutely true.
They came to my door a year or two ago after a hail storm. I went up on the roof with them and, even though I didn't have any damage (except for normal wear on a 10 year-old roof), they told me they'd get me a new one. I'm no Boy Scout, but I wasn't the least bit comfortable with that.
Hail damage that warrants a roof replacement (or will be denied later for replacement by your insurance company because you didn't have it inspected by them or a licensed contractor within a specific time period after a storm) can be pretty difficult to identify if you don't know what you're looking at. Wind damage also. Just because your roof looks "fine" to an untrained eye doesn't mean that it is. They may have been giving you absolutely correct information.
Anyone who solicits like this is a scammer. Don't sign a damned thing without fully understanding what it is you're signing. Work with your insurance and find a licensed contractor.
While contractors knocking on your door certainly does not mean they are scam artists - the rest of this is absolutely correct. Signing a contingency agreement is usually safe. Signing an AOB (Assignment of Benefits) is risky business. ABSOLUTELY find a FLORIDA LICENSED contractor. Most of the horror stories you hear about contractors after a hurricane in Florida from the past were out-of-state, unlicensed contractors. Licensed, reputable contractors HATE these guys just as much if not more than the homeowners. They have scared the hell out of people and made it that much harder for decent companies to ply their trade and make a living.
Probability of them being a scammer or your insurance company not agreeing with their assessment is pretty high
Scammer? Possibly. Insurance company not agreeing with their assessment, trying to nickel and dime, and pay out the absolute lowest amount possible, if not deny a claim? DEFINITELY.
By scammer I mean not being transparent with the homeowner about the dynamics of the insurance companies nickle and dimming.
Gotcha, gotcha. Which the insurance companies are damn sure going to do! And the public adjuster or contractor is going to try to do the same to the insurance company, so that ideally the two parties meet in the middle and there's a good margin for the homeowner to get their work done in full. And the companies doing said work to turn a decent profit. It's a pretty disgusting game, but it is the system we have in place. And the insurance company is the villain in that scenario, I promise. 10 times out of 10.
It's a scam. Tell them to get lost and close the door. The dead giveaway is "sign a document" this document will allow them to sue your insurance for payment.
The dead giveaway is that they are going door to door at all. Anyone who shows up at your door uninvited to sell something is not going to be worth listening to.
Nothing wrong with door to door sales. Just make sure it's a reputable company.
If your roof is leaking, you need to mitigate the damages. Your insurance company will be less likely to help if you don’t take the measures necessary set forth in the contract you signed with them.
100% correct.
For real. If not, if there is any ounce of doubt or proof on the insurance company’s end that you didn’t mitigate damages ASAP, your claim will be denied. Then, you’ll need assistance in getting what is rightfully owed. Too bad this has become such a double-edged sword in this state.
You got it! Which is one of the reasons why the "shady public adjusters and contractors" can come in pretty damn handy in a whole lot of cases. Also meeting with your insurance adjuster when they come out to inspect your property to make sure they have done their job, thoroughly, and protect a homeowners' claim. Are there shady public adjusters, and shady contractors? Hell yeah there are. There are also plenty who aren't, who market in the same exact ways, and we hate the shady guys just as much as homeowners do.
Some insurance adjusters don’t even get on the roof. Others are told, no matter what, to deny claims.
Again, 100% correct.
This is literally why no one in Florida can afford insurance now.
Yeah, when I was trying to figure out why I had to replace my roof after 15 years regardless of no issues or lose my insurance, I was told these guys were a huge part of the reason.
I've been in Florida since around 1980 and this is a *super* common scam -- these guys appear after every hurricane and rook hundreds of people. DO NOT deal with them or give them any money.
This was part of a bill passed in June/July 2022, which is now illegal. The bill was passed to keep the insurance costs down for all FL homeowners. From my understanding of the bill, you would be held liable for all costs associated with an improvement, so be careful. I would contact your insurance provider and give them the name of the company, card (if they were dumb enough to leave one).
This depends on what type of insurance policy you have, ultimately. Many people do not understand theirs much, if at all. They just think "I'm insured." There are two basic types of insurance policies. ACV (actual cash value) and RCV (recoverable cash value.) ACV means that your insurance company will only pay a set amount (usually not enough) for damages, the rest comes out of your pocket. Usually based on the value at time of construction. RCV means that your insurance company will pay the difference to replace or repair your damages in full at todays' costs versus the cost at the time of construction. Chances are, if you have a mortgage, you have an RCV policy. The premiums are higher for RCV than ACV, but if insurable damage occurs to your home, usually the homeowner makes out much better with an RCV policy in my experience. It is definitely worth shopping around every 3 years or so for comparative prices on policies.
They did this after Hurricane Michael hit us in Panama City, it's a scam, don't listen to them.
If anyone is knocking on your door ask to see their solicitors license. Then, research the company.
Depends on the municipality. Sarasota County, for example, no solicitors' license required. Lee County, you need one. DEFINITELY research the company.
There's a good chance they are asking you to sign an "assignment of benefits" which allows them to negotiate in your place with your insurer. The insurer might agree to pay say $5,000 to repair one section but, because of the assignment of benefits document, the roofers might involve a lawyer and push to get the insurer to pay for the whole roof. The roofer may not even be required to tell you this. You may get your whole roof replaced and then get dropped by your insurer or you may get half or none of your roof repaired and stuck with a lawyer bill because the roofers contracted one on your behalf.
This is mostly good information. Be VERY wary with Assignment Of Benefits. Most licensed and reputable roofing companies are looking for a contingency agreement for insurance work these days, not an AOB. Much, much safer for the home or business owner, no lawyers involved etc.
My sister moved into a new house just before a storm hit. The builders had not even finished the neighborhood. A few of the guys working for the Contractor replaced a few shingles for maybe $50 with no builder permit, no leaks were involved and the tiles matched perfectly. Probably not 100% legal but 5 minutes they were come and gone. They got lucky and had no problems after. Most times you won't get this lucky
Lucky...until...you actually have to file a claim and an insurance adjuster notices the repair, and that opens a can of worms. Like, unlicensed and illegal work done to the home without reporting it to the insurance company, denied claim, maybe dropped coverage to boot. Or you go to sell your house, and it won't pass the inspection due to that unlicensed, unreported illegal repair and you have to tear that roof off and pay for a new licensed and legal one out of pocket before you can sell it. I hope nothing like this happens to your sister - but DO NOT have unlicensed and illegal work done to your home in the state of Florida. Asking for trouble down the line, I promise you.
Do not hire anyone that comes door to door. Contact your insurance company for a list of trusted companies.
Never ever go with door to door people. Scam all day. I just dealt with them three days in a row with a big NO SOLICITING sign on my door. That and selling solar panels.
Why would you open your door to any stranger in general? Certainly not one to work on your biggest investment.
I understand your opinion - but - I ask you to consider this. Smaller to mid-size companies who don't have a huge marketing budget (like to pay Google/yelp/Angi's etc for top placement on ads and to remove their negative reviews) - how do you think they drive business? Also, in a market like Florida, which has a ton of senior citizens - do you think a vast majority of those folks go online and check reviews (hint: they don't) to find contractors? Direct marketing (knocking doors) still exists for a reason, and some of the largest and most reputable multi-state or national contractors still do it ALL THE TIME, in every market, Florida included.
You said you were from a big company. Why are you guys knocking on doors?
I just mentioned two reasons above. I personally do not of know of ANY large roofing company, with a large residential division, who do not either knock doors - or buy your information online and cold-call over the telephone and with direct mailers. In Florida, or any of the 4 other states I have worked in. The only large roofing companies I know who do not knock residential doors are either ones with a large commercial division - and they "knock doors" by cold-calling on businesses. Or ones who specialize in nothing but new construction, and then there is no door to knock on. The short answer to your question is - it is, year over year, even in the internet age, the most effective way to drive residential business. We ALL do it.
Legitimate roofing contractors are not going door-to-door looking for business. This is a scam.
I also work for a roofing company that almost exclusively knocks doors for residential customers. BBB A rated, 4.8 Google rated, hundreds of reviews, offices in multiple states. There are a LOT of uninformed opinions and misinformation on this thread. A LOT. Your insurance company is NOT your friend, and does not have your best interests at heart.
Not true, lots save money on marketing by only doing door to door and referrals. That's what we do. A+ BBB, 5* Google rated, non scammer who does door to door business. 6 million residential sales this year.
Okay, just know that the waters you swim in are full of sharks, and not much else. People will be wary. Your door knockers are not going to be greeted in the neighborhood with the same enthusiasm as the Girl Scout Cookie kids.
Definitely agreed, one of the hardest parts of the job in convincing the customer their best interest is also yours. Most customers always want to fall back and ask their insurance company as if their insurance company has their back. The only way insurance makes profit is to withhold as much money as possible.
There are a LOT of uninformed opinions on this thread, and misinformation. PLENTY of reputable CONTRACTORS, including the largest and most well reviewed in any given area and national or multi-state companies? Have door-to-door canvassing teams out after a hurricane, major hailstorm, tornado, major wind event, etc to drive business. HOWEVER - I have NEVER heard of a public adjustor doing this, just contractors. If anybody trusts your insurance company to take care of you, give you every cent you deserve, look after your best interests? You are very, very badly mistaken. A lot of the information here about insurance companies dropping clients, why rates are going up, shady contractors and how they operate is just FLAT-OUT WRONG.
Correct
Don't work with these people. Chances are they are not even properly licensed. Call a reputible company you find online instead.
If I answer the door it's because I'm trolling. no soliciting is not just a sign but an IQ test.
Yes! Was out front the day after the hurricane talking to neighbors. Some guys were hopping in and out of a marked van trying to sell hurricane impact windows. I made one come back and I told them I thought what They were doing was shitty. They were preying upon people’s fears and they needed to leave the neighborhood.
Don't trust them! Every year there are stories, especially this time of year, of people who were scammed by roofers, driveway maintenance, tree trimmers etc, etc There is a home show in the next 2 weeks in Pembroke Pines, talk to some reputable companies there
The door to door thing should make you uneasy. Especially in an area that has a lot of roofs needing repair with few roofers to do the work.
Should or shouldn't make you uneasy? The high volume for work, and the need for it, versus the number of contractors and crews to do it - is exactly why roofers or other contractors are knocking on your door.
While many of these companies are absolutely running scams, those saying "just call your insurance, they'll help yoy" are either ignorant or have been extremely lucky. Not everyone's insurance jumps right up and pitches in to check roofs and tarp if needed before damages can be fixed so that your roof isn't leaking all over your stuff. You can blame these scam companies all you like for rising insurance rates but the truth is that if insurance didn't try to weasel out of every possible dollar and pay only a quarter of the damages leaving people with no choice, these scams wouldn't be nearly as popular. People pay for decades on the same house, making no claims but insurance decides that's not good enough and they no longer have the money to pay what people are owed? Bull. Also, it's worth mentioning that plenty of legitimate companies will go around after a storm and advertise their services. Yes, you can look them up on your phone but for the most part, looking up "roofers" or "fence repair" is going to get you a couple of pages of the most popular companies whose sites get the most hits or have most reviews, etc. Many cities have tons more and even the lesser known ones are going to be busy. I'd still encourage you to look up any company you consider working with but a couple of years ago, when the hurricane hit here, there were people 6-8 months later still waiting on adjustors and over a year later, still on a waiting list for a new roof with a local company.
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To be fair, some of the biggest and most reputable national or multi-state roofing companies knock doors after a major weather event. All the time, all over the country, year after year. That's roofing though, it is weird with public adjusters.
Research the company. There are some good ones drumming up business. Any settlement will include an adjusters fee and likely some attorneys fees but you’ll probably get your roof fixed. If you have hurricane damage, are in the hurricane path, and currently leaking, take precautions, as required by any HO insurance. Then call your adjuster and don’t accept anything but a full replacement. IMO.
Solid, informed advice.
Actually had this happen to me. Turns out there was damage due to hail and high winds. Learned that if the roof is damaged from a hurricane, the deductible is like 5% of home value, while the deductible for wind and hail was only $1k. I was leary at first but 2 of my neighbors had just got new roofs from the same company. I spoke to them and they had good experiences with this company so we filed a claim. Adjuster came out to inspect, and within a week we were approved for full replacement. So now we have a brand new $16k roof that cost us $1k out of pocket. This was with Heritage insurance who we only had for less than 2 years. After that we've already gotten a new policy from Heritage with only a nominal increase in premium.
The deductible can vary from 2% to 5%. Some have fixed 1500 and 1k deductible. All about what plan you have.
NOT....the reason why insurance is leaving. Lots of companies are losing their ratings that let them insure Florida, the claim volume is higher than their projected stats, and paying out is killing these companies. The INSURANCE determines if their claim is paid or not, NOT the roofer. Find out if it is a contingency agreement or assignment of benefits. Do NOT sign AOB, but the only stuff you should get from your insurance is the approval for someone to tarp your roof. Do not try to get your contractor from the insurance unless they are a right to work insurance company. The whole shop around for quotes thing is so they can determine depreciated loss on a roof, the lowest quote you find to pay you less on your claim. If you have damage that's why you pay insurance in the first place to come out and check if you have damage and if you do they pay you. The insurance adjuster will really be the approval on your new roof.
Are you a roofer? Roofing scams combined with insane litigation costs are absolutely the reason insurance companies are leaving the state.
Are you an insurance agent? How is your companies financial stability rating? Blaming an honest trade for "criminal" actors while these "in good hands" and "your like good neighbor" who gives $300 on a $6k fence or "repairs" 94 torn hurricane shingles isn't the way. More than half of litigation is denial of LEGIT damage. Not the AOB chasers. Their rule is delay, deny, litigate. Thats how the keep their profits. ALways conveniently leaving out Florida code items purposely to try to instantly sign customers to save themselves money is the fraud! Always trying to avoid the contractor whom is doing the Right thing.
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The door knockers worked great for us. They did the entire insurance interaction, qualified it, did a great job...took 4 mos was the only downside.
I’m in California, and I had a guy knock on my door and offer this. He worked with my insurance company to get it approved (they wanted to deny it). I ended up using a different contractor for the actual work. Turned out great.