Consumer Protection Guide 2026
Storm chasers target Houston after every hurricane and severe weather event. Here's how to spot them, verify legitimate contractors, and protect your home — and your wallet.
NOAA forecasts an above-average 2026 hurricane season with 17–21 named storms. Every major storm that hits the Texas Gulf Coast is followed by an invasion of unlicensed, out-of-state contractors — "storm chasers" — who prey on desperate homeowners.
After Hurricane Harvey (2017), the Texas Attorney General's office received over 4,000 complaints of contractor fraud in the Houston area alone. After Hurricane Beryl (2024), that number was over 2,500. The scams are real, and they're coming again.
They knock on your door unsolicited
Legitimate local contractors don't go door-to-door after storms. If someone shows up saying they "were in the neighborhood" or "have leftover materials from a job down the street," close the door.
They pressure you to sign immediately
"This price is only good for today" or "I have 3 more houses waiting." Real contractors give you time to think, get other estimates, and verify their credentials.
They demand large upfront payments
More than 10–20% down is a massive red flag. Texas law limits upfront payments for residential construction. If they ask for 50% or full payment upfront, walk away.
Out-of-state license plates, phone numbers, or addresses
Check their business address. If it's a P.O. box, a hotel, or out of state — they're not local. Local contractors have permanent business addresses in your community.
They offer to "waive your insurance deductible"
This is illegal in Texas. It's insurance fraud. Any contractor offering this is already breaking the law — what else are they dishonest about?
They can't provide verifiable local references
Ask for 3+ recent local references — and actually call them. Ask to see completed projects in your area. A contractor who's really local can show you 10+ jobs they've done within 20 miles.
They "find" damage you can't see
Storm chasers love to "discover" hidden damage — often by creating it themselves. Get an independent assessment from your insurance adjuster first. Then have a trusted local contractor inspect.
Vague contract with blank spaces
Never sign a contract with blank spaces. The scope of work should be itemized. Materials should be specified by brand and model. Timeline should be in writing. Payment schedule should be clear.
No TDLR license or unverifiable insurance
In Texas, many trades require licensing through TDLR. Ask for their license number and verify it at tdlr.texas.gov. Call their insurance company directly — don't accept a certificate at face value.
They want you to sign over your insurance check
Never sign your insurance check over directly to a contractor. The check should be in your name. Pay the contractor based on completed, verified work — not before.
Burton Residential Services has served Montgomery County for over 40 years. We're licensed, insured, locally owned — and we'll never pressure you. See why your neighbors choose us.
Serving Montgomery, Magnolia, The Woodlands, Conroe, Tomball & all of Greater North Houston