Heavy rains in Texas can lead to serious roof damage—missing shingles, water intrusion, sagging decking, and more. In the aftermath of a storm, many homeowners find themselves in urgent need of repairs. Unfortunately, this urgency can lead to rushed decisions and hiring unqualified or even fraudulent contractors.

Knowing how to choose a trustworthy, experienced roofing contractor after heavy rainfall is critical. At Montgomery Roofing, we believe in empowering homeowners with the knowledge they need to make the right decision. This guide walks you through everything you need to consider when choosing a roofing contractor in Texas after a storm.

1. Prioritize a Local, Established Roofing Company

After a major storm, Texas communities often see an influx of out-of-town “storm chasers”—contractors who temporarily set up shop to take advantage of urgent demand. Many disappear once the initial wave of work is done, making it difficult to get warranty support or follow-up service.

What to Look For:

  • A physical business address in your region
  • Local references and completed projects
  • Established presence and reputation in the community

Choosing a locally owned and operated roofing company ensures you’re working with a team that understands Texas weather conditions and will be available after the storm cleanup is over.

2. Verify Licensing, Insurance, and Credentials

In Texas, roofing contractors are not required by the state to carry a license, which makes it even more important for homeowners to verify professional qualifications independently.

Minimum Requirements You Should Demand:

  • General liability insurance
  • Workers’ compensation coverage
  • Proof of training or manufacturer certifications (e.g., GAF, Owens Corning)

Request physical or digital copies of these documents and confirm their validity. Contractors who hesitate or avoid providing them are a red flag.

3. Ask About Emergency Response Experience

Roof repairs after heavy rains often involve time-sensitive assessments and temporary protective measures, such as tarping or sealing exposed areas.

Key Questions to Ask:

  • “How quickly can your team be on-site?”
  • “Do you provide emergency tarping or water mitigation?”
  • “What is your process for assessing storm damage?”

Look for contractors who have a clear plan of action and experience dealing with post-storm situations. Fast response matters when water damage is at risk of spreading.

4. Get a Detailed, Written Estimate

Avoid vague verbal quotes or ballpark figures. A reputable contractor will provide a detailed written estimate that outlines:

  • Scope of work
  • Specific materials to be used
  • Labor costs
  • Timeline for completion
  • Payment terms

This documentation protects you from price changes, hidden fees, and misunderstandings down the line. Be wary of contractors who pressure you into signing quickly or paying upfront without a breakdown.

5. Avoid High-Pressure Sales Tactics

After a storm, homeowners may feel overwhelmed or unsure about the extent of damage. Some contractors exploit this uncertainty by using scare tactics, limited-time discounts, or claims that your roof is beyond repair—all designed to rush your decision.

Best Practices:

  • Get at least 2–3 estimates from different companies
  • Ask for photos or drone footage of the roof damage for clarity
  • Take time to review your insurance policy before committing

A reliable contractor will walk you through your options calmly and respectfully—without applying pressure.

6. Make Sure They Understand Insurance Claims

In Texas, roofing contractors cannot legally negotiate your insurance claim on your behalf unless they’re also licensed public adjusters. However, they should still be familiar with the insurance claims process and able to:

  • Provide inspection reports for your insurer
  • Offer guidance on supplement requests or scope disagreements
  • Help document damage thoroughly with photos and notes

Look for companies that can work professionally with your insurance provider to streamline your claim—without overstepping legal boundaries.

7. Confirm Warranty Coverage

A strong warranty gives you peace of mind long after the roofers have left. Make sure your contractor offers both:

  • Manufacturer Warranty: Covers defects in roofing materials.
  • Workmanship Warranty: Covers installation errors or issues due to poor labor practices.

Ask for these terms in writing, including the duration, exclusions, and how warranty claims are handled. A contractor who stands by their work will be happy to explain.

8. Check Reviews, Ratings, and References

Before hiring anyone, take time to research their reputation. Use multiple sources to get a well-rounded view:

  • Google reviews
  • Better Business Bureau (BBB)
  • Facebook or Nextdoor
  • Ask for 2–3 recent customer references

Pay close attention to how the company responds to negative feedback. A few bad reviews aren’t uncommon—but professionalism in response says a lot about their customer service.

9. Evaluate Materials and Options

Some contractors use the same material for every job regardless of the specific home, pitch, or climate exposure. A qualified roofer should be able to:

  • Recommend materials suited to Texas’s heavy rainfall and wind conditions
  • Explain the pros and cons of options like impact-resistant shingles, metal roofing, or synthetic underlayments
  • Provide product samples and brochures for comparison

Material choice affects not only durability but also energy efficiency and insurance premiums. Work with a contractor who tailors recommendations to your needs—not just their convenience.

10. Choose a Contractor Who Puts Safety and Cleanliness First

Roofing can be dangerous and disruptive. A professional contractor should maintain a clean, secure worksite and prioritize the safety of your family, property, and their crew.

Look for a contractor who:

  • Uses proper harnesses and fall protection
  • Cleans up nails and debris with magnetic rollers
  • Communicates clearly about start/end times and access restrictions

This attention to detail shows a commitment to professionalism.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right roofing contractor after heavy rains in Texas is about more than just speed—it’s about trust, expertise, and protection. Storm recovery is stressful enough without having to second-guess the people working on your home.

By taking the time to vet your roofing contractor properly, you can protect your property, ensure quality repairs, and avoid scams or substandard workmanship.

Need a reliable, experienced roofing contractor after a storm?

Montgomery Roofing has been serving Texas homeowners with honesty, professionalism, and quality craftsmanship for years. We’re locally based, fully insured, and experienced in handling post-storm repairs the right way.

Call Montgomery Roofing today at (254) 870-3074  or schedule your free inspection at RoofsTexas.com

We’ll assess your damage, provide a detailed plan, and help you restore your roof with confidence.