After a severe storm hits Western Pennsylvania, homeowners are often left with damage, stress, and a flood of knock-on-the-door contractors promising fast repairs. While most contractors are honest, a few take advantage of the chaos. These are commonly known as “storm chasers” — out-of-town crews who swoop in, pressure homeowners into quick decisions, and sometimes disappear before completing the work.
At Bella Construction, we’ve spent decades helping local homeowners safely restore their homes after storms. We know what to look for — and we want you to, too. Here are five red flags of storm chaser contractors to watch out for so you don’t get scammed.
1. Out-of-State License Plates or No Local Presence
Storm chasers often come from outside the area, traveling from state to state after major storms. You may notice:
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Vehicles with out-of-state plates parked in your driveway
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No local business address, only a PO box or temporary office
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Limited proof of insurance or licensing for Pennsylvania
Local contractors like Bella Construction are rooted in the community. We’ve been serving Western PA for over 30 years, with a permanent office, local staff, and hundreds of completed projects in the area. When something goes wrong, we’re right here to make it right.
2. High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Storm chasers rely on urgency to close deals quickly, often using statements like:
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“The insurance company will deny your claim if you don’t sign today.”
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“We have materials ready for only the next 24 hours.”
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“You must act now or risk more damage.”
These tactics are designed to push homeowners into signing contracts without proper consideration.
Reliable contractors, like Bella, never pressure you. We provide free inspections, clear estimates, and time to make informed decisions, ensuring you know exactly what work is necessary before any contract is signed.
3. Asking for Large Upfront Payments
Storm chasers often request full payment upfront or unusually large deposits, leaving homeowners vulnerable if the work is incomplete. Signs to watch for:
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Requests for cash-only payments
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Deposits exceeding 30% of the total project cost
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Promises of massive discounts if you pay immediately
Bella Construction follows industry-standard payment schedules: small deposits for materials, incremental payments as milestones are completed, and final payment only when the work is done to your satisfaction. This protects you and ensures the project is completed properly.
4. Lack of Proper Documentation or Warranty
A common scam tactic is skipping permits, inspections, or written contracts. Storm chasers may:
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Avoid providing a written contract
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Skip local building permits
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Offer no warranty on labor or materials
With Bella Construction, everything is documented:
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We pull all necessary permits
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Provide a detailed contract outlining scope, materials, and timeline
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Back our work with a 2-Year Labor Warranty and manufacturer warranties on materials
This transparency gives homeowners peace of mind that their home is protected for years to come.
5. Inflated Estimates or “Free” Roof Replacements
Storm chasers often exaggerate damage to maximize insurance payouts, sometimes claiming:
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Minor cosmetic issues are major structural damage
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The entire roof needs replacement when only small sections are affected
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“Free” roof replacement if you sign immediately
These inflated claims can jeopardize your insurance and leave you responsible for repairs not covered or improperly completed. Bella Construction takes a truth-first approach, identifying only legitimate storm-related damage and working directly with your insurance company to ensure proper coverage.
How Bella Construction Stands Apart
Unlike storm chasers, Bella Construction is a local, family-owned business with:
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30+ years of experience in Western PA
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Over 13,000 successful projects completed
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Full licensing, insurance, and a permanent office
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Experienced teams for roofing, siding, gutters, and exterior restoration
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A commitment to honesty, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction
When you choose Bella, you’re choosing a contractor who answers calls after the job is done, not one who disappears once payment is received.
Protect Yourself from Storm Chasers
Here are a few quick tips to stay safe:
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Check licenses and insurance. Verify the contractor is registered in Pennsylvania.
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Ask for references. Speak with past customers in your area.
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Get multiple estimates. Compare scopes, materials, and pricing.
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Never pay in full upfront. Use phased payments tied to completed work.
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Read contracts carefully. Make sure all work, materials, and warranties are included.
Final Thoughts
After a storm, it’s natural to want repairs done quickly. But rushing into a contract with the wrong company can cost you thousands — or worse, leave your home in worse condition than before.
Bella Construction has spent decades helping Western Pennsylvania homeowners safely restore their homes after hail, wind, or storm damage. We provide free inspections, clear estimates, and quality craftsmanship—all without high-pressure sales tactics or hidden fees.
If you want to protect your home and avoid storm chasers, call Bella Construction at 724-515-5163 or visit www.mybellaroof.com today. Our team will inspect your roof, document storm damage, and guide you through insurance claims with confidence and honesty.