Roofing Scams in Boise: How to Spot a Storm Chaser and Protect Your Home
After a heavy storm rolls through the Treasure Valley, it’s not unusual to see trucks and door-knockers popping up in neighborhoods, offering “free roof inspections” or fast repairs. While some contractors may be legitimate, others are what the roofing industry calls storm chasers — out-of-town crews who follow bad weather and take advantage of unsuspecting homeowners.
At Madison Roofing, we’ve been serving Boise and the surrounding area for over 50 years. We’ve seen firsthand how homeowners can fall victim to roofing scams — and we’re here to help you avoid becoming the next target.
What Is a Roofing Storm Chaser?
A storm chaser is a contractor — often from out of state — who arrives in a community after a hail, wind, or rainstorm. They typically go door to door offering quick roofing services, promising to work with your insurance company, and pushing you to sign a contract on the spot.
The problem? Many of these contractors:
- Do poor-quality work with cheap materials
- Disappear after payment with no follow-up or warranty
- Leave behind unpermitted or non-code-compliant repairs
- Can’t be reached when something goes wrong
Common Roofing Scams After Boise Storms
Here are some tactics storm chasers and scam contractors often use:
- High-pressure sales: “Sign today to lock in this deal.”
- Suspiciously low bids: Cutting corners on labor or materials.
- Demanding full payment up front: Then disappearing before or during the job.
- Fake damage claims: Inventing problems that don’t exist to get an insurance payout.
- Out-of-state license plates: With no Boise-area business address.
If it sounds too good to be true — it probably is.
Red Flags: How to Spot a Scam
Boise homeowners should stay alert for these warning signs:
- The contractor won’t provide a written estimate.
- No proof of insurance, licensing, or local references.
- They ask you to pay your insurance deductible directly to them (this is illegal in Idaho).
- The company has no online reviews or a suspiciously new website.
- They try to file a claim on your behalf without your knowledge.
A good rule of thumb: if someone knocks on your door after a storm and offers to “inspect your roof for free,” do your homework before you say yes.
How to Verify a Roofing Contractor’s Credentials
Before you hire anyone to inspect or repair your roof, take these steps:
- Ask for proof of local licensing and insurance.
- Check reviews on Google, BBB, and the Idaho Contractors Board.
- Ask for a written estimate — and compare it with at least one other bid.
- Get clear details on warranties and who will perform the work.
- Never feel rushed. A reputable roofer will give you time to decide.
Why Working with a Local Roofer Like Madison Roofing Matters
We’ve been part of the Boise community for over five decades — long before roofing scammers knew where Idaho was on a map. Madison Roofing offers:
- Fully licensed and insured crews
- A proven reputation and local references
- In-depth knowledge of Boise’s climate and building codes
- Workmanship warranties you can actually use
- A permanent office — not a truck parked in front of your house
Stay Protected After the Storm
If you think your roof may have storm damage, call someone you trust. Madison Roofing offers honest assessments, detailed estimates, and no-pressure consultations. We’ll tell you exactly what your roof needs — and just as importantly, what it doesn’t.
Need help with your spring roof maintenance? Contact us by filling out our online form or call (208) 344-5379 to schedule an inspection and experience the benefits of working with a trusted local roofer.
