The Omaha Metro area could potentially see the first severe storm of the season at the end of the week, and forecasters are warning about the potential for damaging hail with this storm.

Broken and missing roof shingles, and dents or holes in siding and gutters can be expected on homes and buildings in the path of a severe storm.

There are a few simple things you can do to minimize the impact of a severe storm:

• Park your vehicle in the garage if you can to avoid hail damage.
• Bring potted plants or outdoor furniture indoors if possible.
• Shelter your pets and animals.
• Prepare for a potential power outage with flashlights or a generator.

Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do to protect your roof, siding, and gutters from hail damage. After a severe storm, homeowners are typically anxious to assess damage, file insurance claims, gather estimates, and begin the restoration process.

Here are a few words of advice from the Rooferees as you choose a contractor for your roof or siding project:

• Do your research. Ask for license and insurance, and make sure the company is an established, local company with an office in town.
• Be leery of a door-to-door salesman. They canvas neighborhood that have been recently hit by a storm, offering a free inspection, and sometimes fabricating the extent of the damage.
• Don’t be pressured by a high-pressure salesman. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Some contractors will bid the job much lower than everyone else, only to add more costs after the job has started. Material costs should never rise after the job has started.
• Don’t sign any paperwork with a contractor before your insurance adjustor has inspected the damage first.
• Always ask for an estimate that includes the total cost of labor and materials. If a contractor doesn’t want to give you an estimate before the insurance adjustor assesses the damage, they are likely trying to scam you.

A reputable local company should not expect any payment before materials have been delivered and work has begun on your project. Choose a local company with a solid reputation and avoid stormchasers! Our advice – Make the right call and contact the Rooferees!