After every major KC hail storm, out-of-state "storm chasers" flood the metro. Most disappear before warranty work is needed. Here's how to avoid them.

The classic KC gutter scams

1. Door-knocker post-hail "free inspection"

Someone shows up at your door 2-3 days after a storm offering a "free roof and gutter inspection." They climb up, come down with a grim face, show you a photo of "damage" (often staged), and tell you to file an insurance claim immediately.

Red flags: Out-of-state license plate, generic uniform, no local office, only takes cash or insurance check, won't wait for you to call your insurance company first.

2. "Insurance specialist" who handles everything

Contractor offers to "take care of the whole claim" including the deductible. This is INSURANCE FRAUD in Missouri and Kansas. Eating the deductible is illegal because the deductible exists to keep the homeowner partly responsible.

Red flag: Anyone who says "we'll waive your deductible" or "we'll work it into the claim" is committing fraud. You can be charged as a co-conspirator.

3. The "today only" pricing

In-home sales rep gives you a quote with two prices: "regular" and "if you sign today." Often a $3,000 discount for same-day signature.

Red flag: Legitimate contractors don't operate this way. Real prices are based on materials + labor + overhead, not on sales psychology. National franchise brands (you know who) are notorious for this.

4. The unmarked truck and "starter" payment

Contractor asks for 50% upfront in cash. No license number on the truck. No company shirt or invoice on letterhead.

Red flag: Standard deposit is 10-25% by check or card. Cash-only is a major warning sign.

5. The "we found more damage" upsell

Mid-project, contractor "discovers" additional damage that doubles the bill. By then, half the gutters are off and you're stuck.

Defense: Get the scope in writing before any work starts. Any "found" damage should be photographed and approved by you in writing before added to the bill.

How to verify a contractor is legitimate

  1. Verify the license. In Missouri, check the Missouri Division of Professional Registration. In Kansas, check the Kansas Department of Revenue. Premier Gutters KC is licensed in both.
  2. Verify insurance. Ask for current Certificate of Liability + Workers' Comp. Call the carrier to verify it's active.
  3. Local physical address. Drive by their office. Premier Gutters KC is at 305 SE Jackson St, Lee's Summit, MO.
  4. Real reviews. Google reviews dated over multiple months. Avoid contractors with 50 reviews all dated within one week.
  5. Written line-item quote. Avoid lump-sum quotes that hide where the money goes.
  6. BBB profile. Check the Better Business Bureau for complaints.
  7. Time in business. 5+ years is a reasonable minimum. We've been in KC for years with 35+ years of crew experience.

What to do if you got scammed

  • File a complaint with the Missouri Attorney General (or Kansas AG)
  • File with the Better Business Bureau
  • Stop payment on any checks not yet cashed
  • If insurance was involved, notify your insurer immediately
  • Call us — we've helped multiple KC homeowners recover from bad-contractor situations

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