Local Roofer vs Storm Chasers: How to Win Your Own Market

A hail storm hits. Within days, trucks with out-of-state plates are on every street. They knock on doors, sign contracts fast and leave. You are still here next year. That is your advantage, if homeowners can see it.

What homeowners fear

• Paying a deposit to someone who disappears.
• A roof that leaks with nobody to call.
• Insurance trouble after signing something they did not understand.

Your marketing should answer those three fears directly.

Eight ways to show you are local

1. 1A real address. Put your office on your website, trucks and ads.
2. 2Years in business. Say the number.
3. 3Local reviews. Reviews that name neighborhoods are strong proof.
4. 4Jobs on a map. "We have done 40 roofs in this ZIP code."
5. 5Your license and insurance. Easy to find, easy to check.
6. 6A written warranty you will be here to honor.
7. 7Faces. The owner and the crew, by name.
8. 8Local references. Offer to connect a homeowner with a past customer on their street.

Be fast as well as local

Storm chasers win on speed. Being local does not help if you call back in three days. Have a storm plan ready before the season:

• A message for your website and voicemail
• A text to past customers offering a free check
• Extra inspection slots on the calendar
• A clear way to handle emergency tarps

Educate, do not attack

Give homeowners a short checklist for choosing a roofer after a storm. Do not insult other contractors. A calm, helpful roofer looks more trustworthy than an angry one.

Know your state rules

Many states have laws on door-to-door sales, contract cancellation periods and how contractors may discuss insurance claims and deductibles. Learn your state's rules and follow them. It protects you and it is a selling point.

Questions roofers ask