Beware of Out-of-Area Roofing Contractors and Insurance Fraud in Citrus County: What Every Florida Homeowner Needs to Know
When severe storms move through Citrus County, many homeowners immediately begin worrying about roof damage. Unfortunately, storms don't just bring wind and rain—they also attract out-of-area roofing contractors looking to make quick money before moving on to the next community.
If you live in Homosassa, Crystal River, Inverness, Lecanto, Beverly Hills, Citrus Springs, Hernando, or anywhere in Citrus County, knowing who you hire to inspect or replace your roof could save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches.
At Boulerice Roofing & Supply, Inc., we've proudly served Citrus County since 1986 and have been in business since 1967. Over the decades, we've seen countless homeowners become victims of storm chasers, unlicensed contractors, and fraudulent insurance schemes that leave families with unfinished work, denied insurance claims, or roofs that fail long before they should.
This guide explains the dangers of hiring out-of-area contractors, how roofing insurance fraud works, and why choosing an established local roofing company is one of the smartest decisions you can make.
What Is an Out-of-Area Roofing Contractor?
Out-of-area contractors—often called "storm chasers"—travel into communities after hurricanes, tropical storms, hail events, or severe windstorms.
Many are not based in Citrus County and may not even maintain a permanent Florida office.
Their business model often looks like this:
- Knock on hundreds of doors
- Claim they noticed roof damage
- Promise a "free roof"
- Pressure homeowners into signing contracts immediately
- Complete work as quickly as possible—or disappear altogether
- Leave town once insurance work slows down
- Are not competitive with pricing and guarantees offered
Some companies perform quality work, but many simply move from one storm-affected area to another with little accountability. Similar warnings are frequently shared by Florida homeowners and roofing professionals online, particularly after hurricane season.
Why Local Experience Matters in Citrus County
Florida roofing isn't the same as roofing in other states.
Citrus County homes face:
- Hurricane-force winds
- Intense UV exposure
- Heavy summer rainfall
- High humidity
- Salt air near the Gulf Coast
- Strict Florida Building Code requirements
An experienced local roofing contractor understands:
- Citrus County permitting requirements
- Local inspections
- Wind mitigation standards
- Proper ventilation for Florida homes
- Manufacturer installation specifications
- Local insurance requirements
Local contractors also have a reputation to protect.
If an issue arises years later, they're still here.
Storm chasers usually aren't.
The Risks of Hiring Out-of-Area Contractors
1. Poor Workmanship
Some contractors hire temporary labor with little roofing experience.
The result can include:
- Improper nailing
- Incorrect flashing installation
- Poor ventilation
- Roof leaks
- Premature shingle failure
- Failed inspections
Unfortunately, homeowners often don't discover these problems until months—or years—later.
2. Warranty Problems
Many manufacturer warranties require installation according to strict specifications.
Improper installation may void warranty coverage.
If the contractor has already left Florida, obtaining repairs can become nearly impossible.
3. Difficulty Getting Service
Roofs occasionally require adjustments after installation.
A reputable local contractor can quickly respond if needed.
An out-of-state company that has already moved to another storm market usually cannot.
Understanding Roofing Insurance Fraud
One of the fastest-growing problems in Florida roofing involves insurance fraud.
Many homeowners unknowingly become involved simply because they trusted the wrong contractor.
"We'll Get You a Free Roof"
One of the biggest red flags is hearing:
"Your insurance company will buy you a new roof."
No contractor can honestly promise that.
Insurance companies determine coverage—not roofing contractors.
Every claim depends on:
- Cause of damage
- Policy language
- Deductibles
- Inspection findings
- Age and condition of the roof
If someone guarantees claim approval before an inspection has even occurred, that's a major warning sign.
Waiving Deductibles
Another common scam involves contractors saying:
"Don't worry about your deductible—we'll take care of it."
Florida law generally prohibits contractors from offering to absorb or rebate insurance deductibles as an inducement to obtain work because doing so may constitute insurance fraud. Homeowners should be cautious of any contractor making these promises.
If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
Encouraging False Claims
Some unethical contractors encourage homeowners to file claims for:
- Normal aging
- Wear and tear
- Maintenance issues
- Old leaks
Insurance policies generally cover sudden accidental damage—not normal roof deterioration.
Submitting claims for damage that didn't occur during a covered event may expose homeowners to serious problems.
Contractors Cannot Be Public Adjusters
Florida law limits what roofing contractors may do regarding insurance claims.
A contractor may:
- Inspect damage
- Provide estimates
- Explain repair options
- Discuss roofing materials
They should not:
- Guarantee claim approval
- Misrepresent damage
- Negotiate claims unless properly licensed to do so
- Promise insurance outcomes
Understanding this distinction protects homeowners from misleading sales tactics.
Red Flags Every Citrus County Homeowner Should Watch For
If a roofing contractor does any of the following, proceed carefully.
High-pressure sales
"We're only in town today."
Immediate signature requests
“Sign this so I can inspect your roof.”
"Sign now before the insurance deadline."
Large cash deposits
Reputable contractors explain payment schedules clearly.
No physical office
Ask where they're actually located.
No Florida license number
Always verify licensing independently.
Insurance
Ask for a copy of their general liability and worker’s compensation.
Verify their coverage with the insurance companies listed.
No references
Established local companies should have years of satisfied customers.
Unrealistic promises
Nobody can promise:
- Insurance approval
- A free roof
- No deductible
- Same-day scheduling after a major storm
Why Local Companies Earn Community Trust
Local roofing companies survive because of reputation—not because they're chasing storms.
An established Citrus County roofing contractor depends on:
- Repeat customers
- Word-of-mouth referrals
- Positive reviews
- Long-term relationships
- Community involvement
That accountability benefits homeowners.
Why Citrus County Homeowners Choose Boulerice Roofing & Supply, Inc.
When selecting among Citrus County roofing contractors, experience matters.
Boulerice Roofing & Supply, Inc. has:
- Been in business since 1967
- Proudly served Citrus County since 1986
- Family-owned and operated
- Florida licensed and insured
- Residential and commercial roofing expertise
- GAF Master Elite Contractor status
- HydroStop Factory Trained and Certified professionals
Our team understands Florida's climate because we live and work here.
We don't arrive after storms and disappear afterward.
We're here before the storm, during the recovery, and years after your project is complete.
Our commitment is simple:
- Honest inspections
- Clear communication
- Quality workmanship
- Code-compliant installations
- Long-term customer relationships
We believe educated homeowners make better decisions, which is why we focus on explaining the roofing process instead of using pressure tactics.
Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask Before Hiring a Roofer
Before signing any contract, ask:
- How long have you been serving Citrus County?
- Are you licensed and insured in Florida?
- Will you obtain the county or city permits?
- Can I verify your license?
- Can you provide local references?
- What warranties do you offer?
- Who performs the work?
- Will the project be inspected?
- What happens if unexpected repairs are needed?
A reputable contractor welcomes these questions.
Protect Yourself After a Storm
If your home experiences storm damage:
- Stay off the roof if it is unsafe.
- Photograph visible damage.
- Contact your insurance company if appropriate.
- Schedule an inspection with a trusted local roofing contractor.
- Obtain a written estimate.
- Never feel pressured to sign immediately.
- Read every page of the contract.
Taking these simple steps can prevent costly mistakes.
Why Choosing Local Benefits Citrus County
Hiring a local contractor does more than protect your home.
It supports:
- Local jobs
- Local families
- Community businesses
- The Citrus County economy
When you hire an established local roofing company, your investment stays within the community.
Final Thoughts
A roof is one of the largest investments you'll make in your home. Choosing the right contractor is just as important as choosing the right roofing system.
Some contractors may promise quick fixes, "free roofs," or guaranteed insurance approvals, but those promises often come with significant risks. Taking the time to research a contractor's experience, verify licensing, and work with a trusted local company can protect both your home and your finances.
For nearly six decades, Boulerice Roofing & Supply, Inc. has built its reputation on quality craftsmanship, integrity, and dependable service. Since 1986, we've proudly helped homeowners throughout Homosassa, Crystal River, Inverness, Lecanto, Beverly Hills, Citrus Springs, and the surrounding Citrus County communities protect what matters most.
If you're looking for experienced Citrus County roofing contractors, whether you need a roof inspection, repair, replacement, preventative maintenance, or guidance after a storm, our team is here to help with honest advice and professional service.
Contact Boulerice Roofing & Supply, Inc. today for a free estimate:
Phone: (352) 628-7445
Address: 6735 S. Lewdingar Drive, Homosassa, FL 34446
Office Hours: 7 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday; 7 AM to 12 PM Saturday
Contact Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via our website, Facebook™ and Nextdoor™ messenger (Please allow some time for response)
Florida Licensed & Insured: CCC025464 | CCC1335571
Serving Citrus County and surrounding communities since 1986
When it comes to protecting your home, trust a roofing contractor that's been part of the community for generations—not one that's just passing through.














