BDR
Big Dog Roofing Team
Licensed roofing professionals • Fort Wayne, IN • 15+ years experience

After every major storm in Fort Wayne, two things happen simultaneously: your roof gets damaged, and a wave of contractors descend on the area looking for work. Some are legitimate local roofers. Others are storm chasers who will be gone before your warranty card arrives.

The 48-Hour Rule

If a contractor knocks on your door within 48 hours of a storm, be extremely cautious. Legitimate local roofers are busy responding to calls from existing customers and referral networks. Door-knockers are almost always storm chasers or subcontractors working for out-of-state companies.

Five Questions That Expose Storm Chasers

  1. What is your physical business address in Fort Wayne? Not a P.O. box. If they cannot provide one, walk away.
  2. What is your Indiana contractor license number? Verify it on the Indiana Secretary of State website.
  3. Can you provide three Fort Wayne references from the past 12 months?
  4. Who handles warranty claims? Storm chasers often subcontract the work and have no presence for warranty follow-up.
  5. Will you provide a written estimate before I sign any contract?

Red Flags That Should End the Conversation

  • Offers to waive or cover your insurance deductible (insurance fraud in Indiana)
  • Asks you to sign anything before an inspection
  • Claims your roof needs replacement without getting on it
  • Pressures you with limited time offers
  • Asks for a large upfront deposit
  • Cannot provide proof of liability and workers comp insurance

What a Good Fort Wayne Roofer Looks Like

A contractor worth hiring will have a verifiable physical address in Fort Wayne, carry both general liability and workers comp insurance, provide a free written damage assessment, be willing to meet the insurance adjuster on-site, and have documented reviews on Google or the BBB. They will never ask you to sign a contract before providing a detailed scope and estimate.

Get It Right the First Time

Your roof is a $15,000-$25,000 asset. Take the extra day to verify credentials, check references, and get a written estimate. Request a free assessment or call (260) 255-4551.