WEIRTON – After recent hail storms to the area, one local insurance agency warns homeowners to exercise caution when dealing with out-of-town contractors claiming to represent their homeowners insurance carrier.
Homeowners are reminded not to sign any unsolicited repair offers without having their insurance agent or attorney review the contract, according to an official with Assure America.
“We have had a number of policy holders call us informing that an out-of-town contractor solicited them to repair hail damage to their roof. These contractors typically have the homeowners sign a binding contract that allows them to file a claim with the homeowner’s insurer and obligates the homeowner to penalty fees if they cancel the contract,” said Angela Frazier, vice president of personal lines for Assure America.
“Insurance companies do not directly approach any policyholders after inclement weather, so these companies do not represent your insurer,” Frazier added.
“They follow weather patterns then visit those areas looking to generate work. If you suspect weather damage to your home, we advise our clients to call your insurance agent to have an adjuster inspect your home and discuss whether or not it makes sense to file a claim,” she said.
“In short, accepting any unsolicited offers from an unknown contractor to repair your home after a storm is generally a bad idea.”
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