Choosing a contractor after storm damage hits your home is one of the most consequential decisions you'll make during the recovery process. The right contractor ensures quality repairs, fair insurance claim handling, and lasting protection for your home. The wrong choice can lead to substandard work, warranty issues, insurance complications, and thousands of dollars in additional costs. At Weatherguard Construction, we've been the trusted choice for storm damage repairs in Stillwater, Woodbury, Minneapolis, and throughout the Twin Cities metro for over 25 years.
What to Look for in a Storm Damage Contractor
Local Presence and History
The most important criterion is an established local presence:
- Permanent local office — Not a hotel room, rental, or PO Box
- Years in business locally — Look for 10+ years serving your area
- Community involvement — Active in local organizations, events, and business networks
- Local references — Homeowners in your area who can share their experience
Weatherguard Construction has been headquartered in Stillwater, MN for over 25 years, serving communities across Minnesota as well as Schaumburg, IL and Centennial, CO.
Proper Licensing and Insurance
Verify these credentials before signing anything:
- State contractor's license — Required in Minnesota; verify with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry
- General liability insurance — Minimum $1 million; ask for a Certificate of Insurance
- Workers' compensation insurance — Protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property
- Bonding — Additional financial protection for homeowners
Manufacturer Certifications
Certifications from major manufacturers indicate training, expertise, and access to premium warranties:
- Owens Corning Preferred Contractor — Weatherguard Construction holds this elite certification
- LP SmartSide Certified Installer — Ensures proper installation of engineered wood siding
- Window manufacturer certifications — Andersen, Marvin, Pella, Kolbe for window installations
- Other brand certifications — GAF, CertainTeed, and other leading manufacturers
Insurance Claims Experience
Storm damage repair is as much about the insurance process as it is about construction. Your contractor should:
- Understand the claims process and Xactimate estimating software
- Be willing to meet with your insurance adjuster
- Have experience filing supplemental claims for hidden damage
- Know how to document damage to support your claim
- Communicate clearly about insurance vs. out-of-pocket costs
Questions to Ask Every Storm Damage Contractor
Ask these questions before making your decision:
- How long have you been in business locally? — Look for established companies, not newcomers following storms
- Can you provide your license number, insurance certificates, and bond information? — Legitimate contractors provide these readily
- Do you have manufacturer certifications? — Certifications ensure expertise and warranty access
- Will you provide a detailed written estimate? — Estimates should itemize materials, labor, and all costs
- Do you handle insurance claims? — Your contractor should support (not control) your claims process
- What warranty do you offer on your work? — Look for both manufacturer warranties and contractor workmanship warranties
- Can you provide references from recent storm damage projects? — Call references and verify the experience
- What is your typical project timeline? — Get realistic expectations based on current demand
- What is your payment schedule? — Reasonable payment terms (not full payment upfront)
- Will you assign a dedicated project manager? — You should have one point of contact throughout the project
Red Flags to Avoid
Storm Chaser Warning Signs
- Door-to-door solicitation immediately after storms
- No local address or verifiable history in your community
- Pressure to sign immediately — legitimate contractors give you time
- Offers to pay or waive your deductible — this is illegal insurance fraud
- Requests for full payment upfront or cash-only payment
- No written contract or vague contract terms
- Out-of-state vehicle plates and unfamiliar business names
Learn more about recognizing and avoiding storm chaser scams.
Other Warning Signs
- Unusually low estimates — May indicate corner-cutting on materials or installation
- No physical inspection before providing an estimate
- Resistance to providing credentials or references
- Pressure to use specific insurance companies or public adjusters
- No workmanship warranty or vague warranty terms
Why Homeowners Choose Weatherguard Construction
Our homeowners choose us for storm damage repairs because:
- 25+ years of family-owned service in Minnesota
- Permanent headquarters in Stillwater with established community roots
- Full licensing, insurance, and bonding — all credentials readily available
- Manufacturer certifications from Owens Corning, LP SmartSide, and premium window brands
- Dedicated insurance team experienced in claims, supplements, and adjuster negotiations
- Complete exterior services — roofing, siding, gutters, windows, and trim
- Hundreds of verified reviews from satisfied homeowners across the metro
Book your free storm damage inspection or call (651) 439-4320 today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many estimates should I get after storm damage?
We recommend getting at least 2-3 estimates from reputable, established contractors. This helps you understand the scope, pricing, and options for your project. Be cautious of any estimate that's dramatically higher or lower than the others.
Should I choose the cheapest contractor?
Price should be one factor but not the deciding factor. The cheapest estimate often means lower-quality materials, shortcuts on installation, or insufficient scope of work. The best value comes from a contractor who delivers quality work at a fair price with proper warranties and insurance support.
How soon after a storm should I contact a contractor?
Contact a reputable contractor within the first week after storm damage. Early scheduling gives you priority placement in the repair queue, which is critical after widespread events when contractor demand far exceeds supply. Don't wait for a storm chaser to knock on your door.
Can my contractor handle both the repair and insurance claim?
Your contractor should assist with your insurance claim by providing documentation, estimates, meeting with the adjuster, and filing supplements. However, you should maintain control of your claim and communicate directly with your insurance company. Beware of any contractor who insists on controlling the entire claim process.
