How to Choose a Reputable Roofing Contractor After a Texas Storm

In the days following a severe North Texas hailstorm, neighborhoods often see an influx of unfamiliar trucks and door-to-door salespeople offering free roof inspections and promises of new roofs. While some may be legitimate, many are “storm chasers”—out-of-state companies that follow severe weather events, complete jobs quickly (often with subpar materials and workmanship), and leave town before the first leak appears.

When your home has suffered hail damage, you are vulnerable. Knowing how to choose a roofing contractor who is reputable, local, and trustworthy is essential to protecting your investment. As a staple in the Dallas-Fort Worth community for over 46 years, Lon Smith Roofing & Construction wants to equip you with the knowledge to make the right choice.

1. Verify Local Presence and History

The most important factor in choosing a contractor is their ties to the community. A local company has a reputation to uphold and will be there to honor their warranties long after the storm has passed.

• Physical Address: Ensure the company has a physical office in the DFW area, not just a P.O. Box.
• Years in Business: Look for a company with a proven track record. Lon Smith Roofing has been serving Texas since 1974. A company that has survived decades in the competitive roofing industry has done so by providing quality work and excellent customer service.
• Local References: Ask for references from recent jobs in your area and take the time to check them.

2. Check Certifications and Credentials

A reputable roofing contractor will have the credentials to back up their claims of expertise.

• Manufacturer Certifications: Leading roofing manufacturers (like GAF, CertainTeed, or Owens Corning) offer certification programs to contractors who meet stringent requirements for installation and financial stability. These certifications often allow the contractor to offer enhanced warranties.
• A1 Certified Inspectors: At Lon Smith, our inspectors undergo over 80 hours of rigorous training to earn their A1 Certification, ensuring they are experts in identifying storm damage and navigating the repair process.
• Better Business Bureau (BBB): Check the company’s rating with the BBB. Lon Smith Roofing proudly maintains an A+ rating.

3. Demand Proper Licensing and Verify Coverage

Never allow a contractor to work on your property without first verifying they carry proper coverage and credentials.

• General Liability Coverage: Ensure the contractor carries general liability coverage that protects your property in case of accidental damage during the project.
• Workers’ Compensation: Confirm the contractor carries workers’ compensation coverage, which protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property.
• Licensing: While Texas does not require a state license for roofing contractors, reputable companies will often hold voluntary credentials through organizations like the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT).

4. Beware of High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Storm chasers often use high-pressure tactics to get you to sign a contract immediately. They may offer “today only” discounts or pressure you to sign a contract before you have had a chance to do your research.

A reputable Dallas roofing contractor will never pressure you. They will provide a detailed, written estimate, explain your options clearly, and give you the time you need to make an informed decision.

5. Understand the Warranty

A new roof is a significant investment, and you need to know it is protected. There are two types of warranties you should understand:

• Manufacturer’s Warranty: This covers defects in the roofing materials themselves.
• Workmanship Warranty: This covers errors in the installation process. This is where local presence is crucial. A workmanship warranty is only as good as the company standing behind it. If an out-of-state storm chaser installs your roof and leaves town, your workmanship warranty is effectively void.

“We are proud of our legacy of excellence. It’s the foundation on which Lon Smith Roofing was built and it’s the foundation on which it continues to endure.”

Choose the Trusted Name in Texas Roofing

After a storm, you need a partner you can trust to restore your home safely and correctly. Lon Smith Roofing & Construction is consistently ranked as one of the Top 25 roofing contractors in America because of our unwavering “Commitment to Excellence.”

We don’t chase storms; we serve our community. When you choose Lon Smith, you are choosing decades of experience, superior craftsmanship, and a company that will be here for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

If you need a reliable contractor after a storm, call Lon Smith Roofing 24/7 at 800-317-4791 or contact us online to schedule your FREE, no-obligation A1 Certified inspection.