What are storm chaser contractors, and why should I avoid them?

Storm chaser contractors are out-of-town contractors who follow severe weather events like hailstorms, windstorms, or ice storms into Ottawa and surrounding areas, aggressively soliciting door-to-door for immediate roofing and exterior repairs.

These contractors typically arrive in Ottawa within days of major weather events - like the devastating May 2022 derecho or significant hail storms that hit areas like Kanata, Orleans, and Barrhaven. They drive through neighborhoods looking for visible damage and knock on doors offering "free inspections" and immediate repairs.

Why Storm Chasers Are Dangerous in Ottawa

Storm chasers exploit the urgency homeowners feel after storm damage. They pressure you to sign contracts immediately, often claiming they can "deal directly with your insurance company" or that they have "materials on the truck right now." However, these contractors typically lack proper Ontario licensing, aren't familiar with Ottawa's permit requirements, and often disappear once they collect payment.

In Ontario, roofing contractors should be registered with WSIB and carry proper liability insurance. Storm chasers frequently can't provide valid WSIB clearance certificates or proof of Ontario-based insurance coverage. They may not understand City of Ottawa permit requirements - while minor roof repairs under 10 square meters typically don't need permits, larger repairs or full replacements do require permits from Building Code Services (613-580-2424).

Red Flags to Watch For

Storm chasers often use high-pressure tactics like claiming your "insurance claim will expire" or offering to waive your deductible (which is actually insurance fraud). They may quote prices significantly higher than local Ottawa contractors, claiming materials are scarce due to storm damage. Many demand large upfront payments or full payment before starting work.

Legitimate Ottawa-area contractors will provide local references, proper licensing documentation, and detailed written estimates. They understand that insurance claims in Ontario can take time to process and won't pressure you to sign immediately.

Protecting Yourself in Ottawa

After storm damage, contact your insurance company first to report the claim. Get multiple quotes from established Ottawa-area contractors - check their WSIB clearance at wsib.ca/clearances and verify they have a local business address. For roofing work, ensure they're familiar with Ontario Building Code requirements for wind and snow loads specific to our climate.

If you need emergency tarping or temporary repairs, local Ottawa contractors understand the urgency but will still provide proper documentation and fair pricing. The City of Ottawa Building Code Services can confirm permit requirements for your specific repair at ottawa.ca/building.

Never sign contracts with door-to-door solicitors immediately after storm damage. Legitimate contractors will give you time to review contracts and get multiple opinions. Report aggressive storm chasers to the City of Ottawa at 311 or Ontario's consumer protection office.

Remember: the best time to identify quality contractors is before you need them, not in the chaos following storm damage.