Consumer protection guide
Storm Chaser Scams:
Protect Yourself
After severe weather, door-to-door crews sweep through damaged neighborhoods pressuring homeowners into signing repair contracts on the spot. Some are legitimate. Many follow the storm out of town — along with your deposit and your warranty. Here's how to tell the difference.
Six Red Flags to Watch For
They showed up uninvited after a storm
Door-to-door canvassing right after severe weather is the classic storm-chaser play — sell fast, move to the next zip code.
"We'll cover your deductible"
Offering to eat your deductible is insurance fraud in Minnesota. A contractor who starts the relationship with fraud won’t get more honest later.
Out-of-state plates or temporary decals
A magnetic sign and a fresh wrap don’t make a local company. Ask where the office is — then verify it exists.
Local area code, no local history
Cell numbers can be set up with any area code. Check how long the company has actually operated in Central Minnesota.
Pressure to sign today
"This price is only good right now" is a sales tactic, not a construction practice. Legitimate scopes of work don’t expire overnight.
Big down payment up front
We’ve heard from homeowners who paid deposits to door-knockers who never came back. Be careful with any large upfront payment.
The Vetting Checklist
That doesn't mean every traveling contractor is dishonest — but it does mean you should verify before you sign. Run any contractor (including us) through this list:
Verify licensing — ours: MN Building Contractor BC570468
Confirm workers’ compensation insurance (legally required in Minnesota)
Check the BBB record and local Google reviews going back years
Ask for local references — jobs in your neighborhood, not another state
Get the scope of work in writing before signing anything
Never sign an assignment-of-benefits or contingency agreement under pressure
Why Local Wins
A 10-year workmanship warranty is only as good as the company standing behind it in year nine. Zablocki Roofing has operated from St. Cloud for 25+ years — same owner, same office, 161+ public Google reviews.
When the storm crews leave town, we're still here — fixing some of what they left behind.
Storm Damage PlaybookGet a Second Opinion Before You Sign
Free hail damage assessments, honest scope, no pressure. (320) 203-1297.