Protect Your Home: Spotting and Avoiding Storm Chasers After Wind Damage

TL;DR: Western Washington homeowners are urged by the BBB to be vigilant against dishonest contractors following wind damage, focusing on due diligence before hiring.

Last updated: October 4, 2026

Recent windstorms have left a trail of damage across Western Washington, and with that comes a familiar warning from the Better Business Bureau: beware of storm chasers. These opportunistic contractors often appear after natural disasters, promising quick fixes and too-good-to-be-true deals. However, many lack proper licensing, insurance, or the skills to complete the job correctly, leaving homeowners with shoddy work and potential further damage. The BBB's advisory is a crucial reminder for residents to prioritize caution and thorough vetting. This week, the most practical step homeowners can take is to resist the urge for immediate repairs from unsolicited offers. Instead, focus on documenting any damage with clear photos and videos. This documentation will be essential when you eventually contact legitimate professionals. Another critical action is to research any contractor before signing any contract. Look for established local businesses with verifiable addresses and a history of positive reviews. A quick online search for their business name, combined with terms like 'complaints' or 'reviews,' can reveal a lot. Before agreeing to any work, insist on seeing proof of licensing and insurance. Legitimate professionals will readily provide this information. Without it, you risk being held liable for accidents or subpar work. For homeowners in San Jose facing similar weather-related concerns, when you speak with a licensed, insured drywall professional about storm damage, ask: 'What is your process for assessing and repairing wind-related drywall damage?' and 'Can you provide references from recent clients with similar repair needs?'

Based on reporting by katu.com. This is an original Drywall Solutions summary — full details at the source.