07/23/2026
KNOCK KNOCK….WHO’S THERE? AN EDUCATION IN HAIL DAMAGE
If someone you don’t know, heard of, or have ever seen before randomly knocked on your door asking to come inside, would you let them in? For most people, the answer is a quick “No Way!” But when they suddenly appear in your neighborhood after a hail event, and ask to get on your roof because “you have hail damage” or “we’re working with some of your neighbors in the area who have hail damage” - - - should you let them up there? What’s the harm anyway, it’s outside and it’s “only the roof”. Better them going up there than you, right?
It’s a question we get asked a lot, especially after storm events like this last one. And here’s how we recommend handling the situation every time.
First and most importantly, never let anyone on your roof without observing from the ground at all times. Why? It only takes a basic internet search to know not all people are honest or trustworthy in these situations. Plenty of stories where damage was created or enhanced by someone to further their chances of being awarded the work to repair it. Not making this up, Google it.
Second: Never sign any contract or work order without first getting a second opinion and quote from someone else. Especially the same day they knock on your door. Common sense right? Any pressure or urgency to sign papers is always a red flag, no matter how convincing they make it.
After those considerations, here are some questions you may find helpful to ask:
1) Where is your physical location? How many years have you been in business in this area? You should always want a local, reputable and trusted contractor. If they’re from out of town another question to ask yourself would be if something went wrong days, months or even years after they left, how comfortable would you be with them honoring their work and making it right? Or would they even still be in business at that point?
*Note: If you needed future repairs, some contractors opt to not repair other contractors roofing work. Or they put their own clients ahead of you in line. Something to keep in mind.
2) Are the people who will be doing the physical work employees of their company (W2 Employees) or are they 1099 subcontractors? And if they’re 1099 , are they putting your job out to the lowest bidder or someone who may or may not be around later to honor their work?
*Disclaimer: some local, long tenured and very reputable contractors use 1099 subcontractors. I’m not saying all 1099 situations are bad. If they’re local, vetted and use the same subcontractors over time, that’s consistency and that’s what you’re looking for. That makes sense. But if the workers are coming from long distances or several states away where vetting them or their reputation is difficult to impossible, that should give you pause every time. Even in the quiet, normal times outside of a major storm event, most area contractors are booked weeks or even months out. Especially the best ones. So the fact someone has “immediate availability” is another consideration.
We’re fortunate the Erie area has a lot of great contractors to choose from. Still, in my 35-year insurance career I’ve seen it all and advise our clients to be vigilant and informed early and often when it comes to any work being done on their homes. That’s why choosing a respected independent agency like ours to advise and keep you informed can make a difference! Please feel free to pass this information to friends and family, especially our elderly population who are the most trustworthy - - - and unfortunately the ones most taken advantage of.
I hope you enjoy the rest of your summer. Take care!
Erik Cronk, Owner
Cronk Insurance Inc.
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