Storm chaser red flags — Colorado

Out-of-state roofing contractors target Colorado neighborhoods after hail events. Here's how to identify them and protect yourself.

Why Colorado is a target

Colorado's Front Range is one of the most active hail corridors in the United States. After major storms, the combination of high home values, significant damage, and a complex insurance claims environment creates conditions that attract out-of-state contractors willing to cut corners.

The Colorado Attorney General's office and RCAT have both documented patterns of contractor fraud following major Front Range hail events.

Warning signs

Arrives unsolicited within 48 hours of a storm

Legitimate local contractors have full backlogs after a major storm. Crews that knock on your door within 24–48 hours are often out-of-state operations that follow storm tracks across the country.

Offers to cover your deductible

This is insurance fraud under Colorado law (C.R.S. 10-4-110.8). Any contractor offering to waive, absorb, or "work around" your deductible is breaking the law. This offer should immediately end the conversation.

Pressures you to sign before the adjuster visits

Signing an Assignment of Benefits or a roofing contract before your insurance adjuster has inspected can forfeit your right to negotiate your claim. A legitimate contractor will wait.

No local Colorado address

Post-storm crews frequently use PO boxes or temporary addresses. Ask for a physical business address and search it. An out-of-state address or residential address is a red flag.

Cannot provide proof of insurance immediately

A legitimate contractor has a current Certificate of Insurance they can produce on the spot. Hesitation, excuses, or promises to "get it to you later" are warning signs.

Requests large upfront payment

A standard payment structure for roofing is a deposit (typically 10–30%) at signing, with the balance due at completion. Requests for 50% or more upfront are unusual and risky.

No written contract or vague contract terms

Every legitimate roofing job should have a written contract specifying materials by manufacturer and product line, scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty terms.

If you've already signed

Colorado's Home Solicitation Sales Act gives homeowners a 3-day right to cancel any contract signed in your home following an unsolicited sales visit. If you've signed something you regret, send a written cancellation notice to the contractor immediately and contact your insurance company.

If you believe you've been defrauded, file a complaint with the Colorado Attorney General's office at coag.gov/office-of-the-attorney-general/ and contact RCAT at rcat.net.

Related guides

How to vet a Colorado roofer

Insurance claim process

What to do after hail

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