Hale Hail...tiz the season...spring storms in many parts of the country bring these frozen gems with them..pelting everything in sight. It is also like many other "natural disasters" offers an invitation for contractors to scam homeowners. There is nothing you can do to prevent hail damage other 
than taking that glass top patio table and other outdoor things to the shelter of the garage.
In a hailstorm, ice particles form and collect rain or cloud water and form irregular spheres or "hail stones" which can be as large as one pound though more commonly 4 to 8 ounces. The icey balls pelt and dent siding and can cause damage to roofs, cars and anything in its destructive path.
Unscrupulous roofers...sometimes called "Storm Chasers" go door to door after a storm preaching the "Replace the roof, your insurance company will get you a free one" gospel. The work is often less than professional and not "free" ...insurance companies are wise to these contractors.
"Chasers" often begin with a very low price...and it escalates...with "unforeseen problems" explained as the cause of greater expense. Some 
roofers claim there is damage to your roof but from your vantage point...especially if the home is two or more stories..you just can't see it. You may even be shown pictures that are not even of YOUR roof as "proof" of the damage that the scammer will repair....just sign here and begin the contract he will say...so no further damage is caused.
The fraud can continue...with the roofer promising he will pay your deductible for your insuramce claim...and in reality, submits one invoice to you and a higher one to the insurance company.
PROTECT YOURSELF...Never hire a "door to door chaser"...if you suspect your roof has sustained storm damage..ask your Real Estate agent or someone you know who has had a roof replaced, for a reliable contractor. The Better Busiess bureau is not always a source...Scammers often change their company names and travel from place to place.
This has been a pro active alert post brought to you by Sally K.& David L. Hanson, Broker Associates with EXP Realty, honored to be of service for all things real estate in southeastern Wisconsin.
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