Looks like rain and more rain this week. Nothing forecasted seems to include hail, thunderstorms, or heavy rains, but you know those severe spring storms are bound to hit before much longer.   But as storm season is about here, we wanted to remind homeowners around the area to be on the lookout for what could be the most dangerous things produced by severe weather: storm chasers. And we don't mean those guys you've seen on the TV reality shows that follow tornadoes with their video equipment.  These guys are unscrupulous contractors. After any severe storm, there are plenty of people knocking on doors trying to get some repair work out if it. (Mostly what they're looking for is money; some will take a deposit and you'll never see them again.) Before you begin any serious conversations, make sure you protect yourself first. Don't let anyone up on your roof until you make sure they are a real company, with REAL LIABILITY INSURANCE! The roof is still slippery after a storm like that, and if they fall off, you will be liable! Make sure they have a liability insurance policy. Failing to do so could cost you plenty. (You can verify their license and insurance on the State of Minnesota Department of Licensing website here.)

Check their experience and reputation. Make sure anyone who comes to you is a local company with at least 5 years in business. Storm chasers will sometimes rent office space for a while depending on how big the storm was, and stay only as long as the work holds out. While they may have a legitimate license, make sure it is local, and that the name corresponds to the individual at your door. It is too easy for contractors to hand around their MN license in order to cash in on a heavy storm. Times are hard, and people will do some strange things when they are desperate for work. Remote companies often have fine print in their contract that states you may only enter into legal action in the court closest to their home office, which could be Hawaii, or too far away to really do anything about it, so be careful before you sign up with someone you don’t know.

Most importantly, don’t sign anything until you have read it thoroughly. Far too many people have signed inspection forms only to find out it was really a contract. Once signed, you do have at least 24 hours to cancel it, but chances are it will not be a pleasant experience. And by all means, never pay the entire amount up front. In fact, if it is an insurance claim, you shouldn't be asked to pay anything in advance.

Avoid problems by using our professional team of licensed, insured Minneapolis storm damage repair professionals. We are a local, family-owned company, and chances are that we've done work for people who live in your neighborhood. Quarve Contracting has what you need, when you need it, and we are here to stay. Give us a call to set up your free inspection today. 763-785-1472