BBB Finds Ties Between Griffin Roofing And Construction And Texas 'Storm Chaser'

The hailstorm on April 28 left many homeowners needing repairs of roofs and other parts of their homes. It also attracted “storm chasers” – contractors seeking to cash in on repairs in the days after the storm.

The Better Business Bureau has fielded hundreds of calls from homeowners wanting to check out companies before they hire them and - unfortunately – calls from homeowners who lost money to companies who did shoddy repairs or failed to do any work.

Today’s BBB press release outlines an investigation of Griffin Roofing and Construction of Maryland Heights, which has ties to companies and owners who have spawned complaints and government action in several states. Homeowners in Florissant and other parts of the area have complained about poorly executed repairs or a failure to do any work at all.

A common link between the companies is Steven Anderson, who formerly lived in Texas but recently has been living in the St. Louis area.

One Florissant woman paid Griffin $4,100 to repair her roof, but the major leaks developed after the job was completed, and the company has failed to make further repairs.

More details are in our news center.

The BBB recommends that consumers check BBB Business Reviews before hiring any business. The reviews will show whether the company has a history of complaints and how those complaints have been addressed. Other tips for hiring contractors:

1. Beware of possible scams. Watch out for contractors in unmarked trucks or for companies requiring advance payment.  Don’t succumb to high-pressure techniques, such as notices that the price is good for one day only.
2. Try to verify the company’s true identity.  Get a business card and a physical location of the company.  It is always better to deal with well-established businesses.
3. Ask for references.  Make sure the company that wants your business has satisfied other customers.
4. Make sure you get a written contract in advance of approving any work.  Read it thoroughly and make sure you understand everything before signing it.
5. Be sure the contract includes a start date and a completion date for the work to be performed.
6. Do not be coerced into paying for work that you did not approve. If you feel pressured or if a contractor will not leave your home when asked, contact police.
7. Do not pay the full amount in advance of the work being completed.  You may need to make a down payment in advance if there are materials that need to be purchased, but always wait to pay in full until the job is completed to your satisfaction.

For more information or consumer tips, go to the BBB website.

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