By Steve Patterson
MARYLAND HEIGHTS, MO (KSDK) - After all the damage from last weekend's storm, the Better Business Bureau is warning homeowners to be careful especially when it comes to hiring a contractor for home repair.
The BBB says the number of out-of-town contractors seeking accreditation in St. Louis has spiked. A representative says they've seen more than 20 requests since last weekend's storm.
It's common for these out-of-town roofers and repair contractors to chase storms.
The BBB sent NewsChannel 5 a statement on their accrediation process:
"The Better Business Bureau has received numerous requests from roofing companies for BBB Accreditation as the companies come to the area following the hail storms of last week. In order to be a BBB accredited roofer with the St. Louis BBB these companies must meet BBB standards-including proof that they have had a physical business location in this area for the past 12 months."
In the past, these companies have used pressure tactics to get you to sign a contract quickly and in some cases for more than you should.
They've often pay six figures to local companies for their local name and phone number. And if you have a problem with the job or looking to make due on an offered guarantee, out-of-town company can leave the area before a claim can be made.
"it's about the money. What else can you say? They're here to do business but they're trying to maximize the profits and the dollars that they have," said local roofer Jim Compton. "So if they use somebody else's name, and they sign off on that, and they do poor workmanship and leave, actually what happens to the guy who allowed them to use his name... I see it as a liability."
The BBB recently put out a link for hiring a roofing contractor.
KSDK