CBS News Protecting Your Ministry After a Storm: How to Avoid Deceptive Contractor Practices

Protecting Your Ministry After a Storm: How to Avoid Deceptive Contractor Practices

When a major storm hits, whether from hail, wind, or hurricanes—the immediate concern for Catholic organizations is always the safety of their people and the protection of their property. But in the days that follow, another threat often appears: a surge of unsolicited contractors offering “no cost” inspections, quick fixes, and promises that seem too good to pass up.

In stressful moments, when roofs are leaking or buildings are disrupted, it can feel comforting to accept help right away. Yet across the country, organizations are being pressured into signing documents that compromise their claims, inflate repair costs, or expose them to significant financial and legal risk.

At Christian Brothers Services (CBS), our mission is to protect the ministries you protect. That includes helping members recognize red flags, understand their rights, and take steps that safeguard their organization after a storm.

Why Your Ministry May Be Targeted

After severe weather, certain contractors, often known as storm chasers, quickly enter affected communities. They present themselves as helpful experts but are primarily focused on securing contracts fast. Their pitch may sound reassuring, but their business model often relies on securing legal control over your claim before you fully understand what you are signing.

One common tactic is asking a member to sign what appears to be a simple inspection authorization or “waiver.” In reality, this document may be an Assignment of Benefits (AOB), a contract that transfers your rights, claim proceeds, and decision-making authority directly to the contractor. Once signed, you lose control of key parts of the claim process.

A Real Example: How One Member Was Nearly Caught in a Costly Trap

Recently, a Trust member did what most of us would do: they called a trusted local roofer after a storm. The roofer provided a fair and reasonable estimate.

Soon after, an outside contractor arrived, identifying themselves as an “engineering firm,” and offered to “handle everything” for the member. They insisted the original estimate needed to be run through their process, assuring the member that they could still use the same roofer.

When the new estimate came back, it was hundreds of thousands of dollars higher, even though the work hadn’t changed.

Why? Because the contractor took a percentage of the claim amount. By inflating the estimate, they increased their own payout, potentially leaving the member and the Trust to absorb unnecessary financial loss.

These firms often appear helpful, professional, and knowledgeable, but their financial incentives don’t align with the best interests of an organization. And when these inflated claims go through, the higher costs ultimately impact every member of the Trust community.

This is exactly the type of situation CBS can help members avoid. We are not an average insurance company. CBS’s claims team works actively to prevent these scenarios, protect ministries, and ensure fair, honest, and mission aligned recovery after a loss. Our goal is to ensure you receive honest guidance, fair pricing, and the support you need to recover after a loss. We are here to do what is right and help ensure you receive every dollar you need.

Sidebar: Red Flags to Watch For
Contractor Red Flags

Unsolicited contractors knocking on your door after a storm
Out of state contractors are suddenly working in your area
Promises such as “You won’t pay a dime” or “We’ll take care of everything”
Pressure to sign anything before contacting CBS
Anyone offering to work directly with your insurance before a claim is filed
Documents labeled as “waivers,” “authorizations,” or “work orders” that may actually be AOBs

What to Do After Storm Damage

Your first call should always be to Christian Brothers Services. Early involvement allows us to advocate for your organization from the very beginning and ensure the claim is handled properly.

We will:

Help you avoid signing harmful or misleading documents
Send trusted field adjusters to inspect the property
Protect the Trust and your organization from inflated or inappropriate costs
Ensure repairs are necessary, appropriate, and cost effective

Emergency Mitigation Assistance

If you need immediate emergency mitigation (such as water extraction, tarping, or securing the property) and are unsure who to contact, CBS recommends our long-standing partner, Belfor Property Restoration. Christian Brothers Services has worked with Belfor for decades and has an established, trusted relationship. Following major catastrophic events, Belfor reserves manpower and equipment specifically for Christian Brothers Services members.

Belfor Property Restoration
800-856-3333

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

Storm recovery is already stressful—navigating aggressive contractor tactics shouldn’t be.

If your organization experiences storm damage or needs guidance on preparing for severe weather, CBS is here to help every step of the way.

Christian Brothers Services is committed to fairness, stewardship, and protecting your organization. In a time when the unexpected happens, we are here to do the right thing.