Protect Your Gulf Coast Roof From Storm Chasers: 6 Red Flags To Watch For

Norman Roofing • September 18, 2025
Two roofers in safety gear working on a rooftop under a blue sky.

Storm damage can strike quickly and leave businesses facing costly repairs, so choosing the right contractor is crucial. Unfortunately, not every roofer operates with honesty and professionalism, and falling for common pitfalls can turn a necessary repair into a major headache. 


From unexpected costs to incomplete work, there are warning signs that business owners should watch for. Here are six red flags Gulf Coast businesses should be aware of when hiring contractors for storm repairs.


1. No Local References 


It’s not uncommon for roofers to work in neighboring states, especially if their business lies between borders. However, if you’re contacted by an out-of-town roofer with no local references, that could be a problem. 


If this roofer is coming from several states away and appears right after the storm, it’s likely that they're a fly-by-night roofer. These types of contractors are storm chasers that prey on communities recovering from storm damage, oftentimes providing shoddy work before taking off with your hard-earned money. To avoid being scammed, here are a couple more things you should look out for:


2. High-Pressure Sales Tactics


In some cases, fly-by-night roofers will try to pressure you into making a decision before you’ve had the chance to think about it. Professional roofers will walk you through the process and take the time to ensure that you understand the services being provided to you. 


3. Incredibly Low Bids


As the old adage goes, “if it’s too good to be true, it probably is” – and that’s especially true in roofing. Some contractors lure business owners with rock-bottom pricing, but these deals often lead to poor workmanship, hidden costs or the need for additional repairs down the road. 


If a bid seems too low, it’s a smart move to seek a second opinion. Choosing a roofer based on their quality, reputation and reliability will always deliver better value and peace of mind in the long run.


4. Large Upfront Payments


When it comes to storm repairs, a professional roofer will never require full payment up front. Instead, reputable contractors will ask for a deposit or incremental payments as the work progresses. Asking for large upfront sums can be a red flag that the contractor may cut corners or fail to complete the job.


5. Refuses To Provide License


A roofing contractor who refuses to provide proof of a valid license is a serious red flag. Licensing ensures the contractor meets local regulations, carries the necessary insurance and has the training needed to perform quality work.


Without a license, business owners risk hiring someone who may deliver substandard workmanship, cause damage or leave them liable for accidents. If a contractor hesitates or refuses to show you their license, it’s a clear sign to walk away and find a professional you can trust.


6. Doesn’t Provide A Written Estimate


A contractor who refuses to provide a written estimate should raise immediate concern. A detailed, written estimate protects business owners by clearly outlining:

  • The scope of the work
  • Materials 
  • Costs 
  • Project timelines


Estimates help prevent misunderstandings or unexpected charges. Without it, there’s no formal record of what was promised, leaving you vulnerable to inflated bills, incomplete work or disputes. To protect yourself, always  insist on a written estimate before any storm repair project begins.


Signs You’re Working With a Professional


  • They are known locally – They’ve been reviewed by other local businesses
  • Provides their credentials – Can give you their license number and show proof of insurance
  • Clear contracts and estimates – Ensures both parties understand the services being provided
  • Reasonably priced – Offers fair rates that reflect quality workmanship 
  • Showcases previous projects – Demonstrates experience and reliability by providing examples of completed work
  • Accepts incremental payments – Uses a payment schedule tied to project milestones, protecting homeowners from paying large sums up front


Looking for Dependable Roofers? Contact Norman Roofing Today!

Looking for experienced roofers who can rebuild your roof? Our team at Norman Roofing can help! Based in Meridian, we’ve proudly served communities across Mississippi and Alabama for 48 years.


We specialize in commercial roof repairs, installations and provide emergency roofing services. Ready to partner with roofing experts who put quality and results first? Give us a call today at 601-483-4079. To explore all of our roofing options, visit our website by clicking the link here.



By Norman Roofing October 28, 2025
For industrial buildings in Mississippi, a reliable roof is essential for success. Roofs must withstand the state’s humid climate, heavy rainfall and occasional storms without compromising safety or durability. While a variety of roofing options are available, four materials dominate the industrial roofing market: metal, EPDM, TPO and PVC. So, which roofing material is the best fit for your business? In this guide, we’ll break down the options that perform most effectively in Mississippi, helping you make an informed choice for your facility. Metal Designed to last anywhere between 40 and 70 years, metal roofs are incredibly durable. They’re able to withstand Mississippi’s harsh weather and are fire-resistant. For industrial buildings, this is a great advantage when it comes to safety. Plus, metal roofs are lightweight and require fewer support structures than traditional materials. However, it’s important to note that they typically cost more than other materials since they require specialized skill and labor for installation. Plus, added insulation may be needed to keep energy costs down. EDPM Made from synthetic rubber, EDPM is another ideal option for industrial buildings. The roofing material is resistant to UV rays, harsh weather and a variety of chemicals that are commonly used in industrial work. Typically, this material lasts for about 20 to 30 years and is easy to install. While EPDM offers excellent chemical resistance, it is prone to tearing from foot traffic and debris. Additionally, you may want to consider a lighter-colored EPDM. While lighter colors are more expensive, they absorb less heat than the traditional black color. TPO Similarly, TPO is resistant to both UV rays and chemicals. Its flexibility allows it to withstand the intense heat of Mississippi summers. While this material typically lasts 15 to 30 years, it's easier to install than other roofing materials and can lower energy costs. While TPO can be used on a variety of industrial buildings, it’s not as resistant to grease and chemicals as EPDM. Prolonged exposure may cause this roofing material to degrade over time, potentially leading to leaks. PVC This single-ply membrane is often used in chemical processing plants for its ability to withstand harsh chemicals. PVC roofs are also moisture-resistant, which is beneficial for roofs in the southeast that are exposed to constant humidity. Typically, PVC roofs can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years. While PVC is a viable option, it tends to cost more than other materials. This is largely due to the special skills needed to install the material safely and efficiently. What Material Should MS Industries Use? Often, roofing material is selected based on the specific requirements of the industry. Here are some common industries where material selection plays a critical role: Automotive manufacturing – Requires a material that’s able to withstand chemicals, intense heat and humidity. While EPDM is popular in older facilities, TPO is ideal for newer ones due to its ability to reflect light. Textile mills – For the most chemical resistance, EPDM is often used in textile mills, where frequent exposure to dyes and other chemicals can wear down other roofing materials. Shipbuilding – Since these facilities cover lots of ground, it's not uncommon to see metal roofing in shipbuilding facilities. However, metal roofs must have a protective coating to prevent corrosion from salt air and excessive humidity. Distribution centers – TPO is commonly used for newer facilities since it reflects light and stands up well against harsh weather. EPDM and BUR are commonly found in older facilities. Agricultural buildings – Metal is typically used since it’s exceptionally durable and resistant to pests. Since farms are especially vulnerable to pests, metal roofing is a practical choice for buildings that house feed and livestock. Looking for a Commercial Roofer? Norman Is Here To Help! Whether you’re upgrading your roof or installing one from scratch, Mississippi businesses can rely on a trusted partner. For over 40 years, Norman Roofing has provided the Southeast with expert roofing solutions designed to withstand harsh weather, debris and everyday wear. If you’re looking for honest roofers, call Norman Roofing today at 601-483-4079 to get started on your next project. To explore our other services, including metal panel installation, visit our website by clicking the link here .
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