The Dreste Guide: How to Hire a Contractor You Can Actually Trust
- drestecontracting
- May 9
- 3 min read
Protecting your home is about more than just high-quality shingles and sturdy siding; it’s about choosing a partner you can trust. Unfortunately, Missouri’s "Storm Alley" reputation makes us a prime target for unscrupulous individuals looking to make a quick buck.
At Dreste Contracting LLC, we want to make sure you have the tools to spot a scam before a single nail is driven. Here is what Missouri homeowners need to know about contractor fraud and how to stay safe.
🚩 Red Flags: How to Spot a "Storm Chaser"
"Storm chasers" are companies that follow severe weather patterns across the country. They show up within hours of a hail storm, offer quick fixes, and disappear just as fast. Watch for these warning signs:
"We’re in the neighborhood with leftover materials." A professional contractor quotes jobs precisely. They don't happen to have "extra" roofing or siding just sitting in the truck for a neighbor’s discount.
The "Free Inspection" Trap. While many legitimate companies offer inspections, be wary of anyone who claims to see severe damage from the street or pressures you to sign a contract immediately after climbing off your roof.
High-Pressure Scare Tactics. Statements like "your roof is about to cave in" or "you’ll lose your insurance coverage if you don't act now" are common tools of the trade for scammers.
Requests for Full Payment Upfront. This is the biggest red flag. A standard deposit (usually 10-33% for materials) is normal, but never pay the full amount before the work is completed to your satisfaction.
⚖️ Know Your Rights: Missouri Law is on Your Side
Missouri has specific laws designed to protect you from "fly-by-night" operations. Under the Missouri Home Improvement Fraud Act, it is illegal for a contractor to:
Damage your property intentionally to get a contract.
Misrepresent facts about the contract or the materials used.
Abandon a job after receiving payment.
The "Right to Cancel" Rule
In Missouri, if you sign a contract with a door-to-door solicitor in your home, you generally have three business days to cancel the agreement for any reason. Legitimate contractors will provide you with a written notice of this right. If they don't, or if they try to talk you out of it, walk away.
🛠️ The Homeowner’s Defense Checklist
Before you sign anything or hand over a check, run through this checklist to verify you are working with a local professional:
Check for a Missouri Address: Verify that the company has a permanent, local physical office—not just a PO Box or a hotel room.
Verify Licensing & Insurance: Ask for a certificate of insurance. In Missouri, local municipalities often require specific licenses; don't be afraid to ask for proof.
Check the "Hotline": If you suspect price gouging or fraud, you can contact the Missouri Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-392-8222.
Get a Written Contract: Ensure it includes a clear scope of work, the specific materials to be used, a payment schedule, and a completion date.
Why Choose a Local Contractor Like Dreste?
When you work with a local company, you aren't just a claim number on a map. You are our neighbor. At Dreste Contracting LLC, our reputation is built on the homes we’ve protected across Missouri. We don't use high-pressure sales tactics because we believe our work—and our transparency—speaks for itself.
Suspect storm damage? Don't let a scammer turn a bad storm into a financial disaster. Contact Dreste Contracting LLC today for an honest, professional inspection you can trust.
This video provides real-world examples of Missouri homeowners who were affected by contractor fraud and offers practical advice on how to avoid similar situations.
This video provides real-world examples of Missouri homeowners who were affected by contractor fraud and offers practical advice on how to avoid similar situations.
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