On October 21, 2026, the National Weather Service named Sun City in a severe thunderstorm warning for 60 mph gusts and hail. In the days after a warning like that, people may knock offering a free roof check. Some are local, licensed and honest. Some are not. You do not have to decide on the doorstep.
In August, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes warned Arizonans about storm-related repair scams. Her advice fits this week just as well.
What the Attorney General advises
- Call your insurance company first and confirm what your policy covers.
- Ask for referrals from friends, family or neighbors who have used someone before.
- Get more than one written bid. A legitimate contractor gives you a written contract with the scope of work, cost and timeline.
- Check the license. Arizona law requires most contractors to be licensed through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. You can check a license and complaint history at roc.az.gov or by calling (602) 542-1525.
- Watch how you pay. Never pay by gift card or cryptocurrency. Do not pay the full amount up front. A reasonable down payment may be requested, with final payment once the work is done and checked.
- Ask for identification from anyone who says they are an inspector or official, and call the agency to confirm.
A Sun City resource worth using
The Sun City Home Owners Association has run a Business Partner Referral Program since July 2010. SCHOA says it lists more than 260 businesses. It checks references, reviews Registrar of Contractors licenses where they apply, looks at Better Business Bureau status, and requires proof of general liability insurance. The list is for SCHOA members. Membership is $25 a year and is separate from your RCSC fees.
SCHOA is careful to say its partners are referrals, not recommendations. Checking the contractor is still your job. The SCHOA office is at 10401 W. Coggins Drive, (623) 974-4718.
A simple plan for the doorstep
- Say, “Please leave your card. I will call after I check your license.” A good contractor will be fine with that.
- You do not have to let anyone on your roof the day they knock.
- Do not sign anything that day, including any form that mentions your insurance claim.
- If someone says your roof is damaged, ask to see the photos. Ask what they are basing it on. This week the Weather Service logged hail reports in Glendale, Peoria and Deer Valley, but none from Sun City itself.
- If you feel pressured, close the door. You can report it to the Attorney General’s office at (602) 542-5763.
Ask us the same questions. We expect them. Our guide to trusted roofing companies in Arizona lists more red flags, and our page on roof insurance claims explains the claim process.
A free inspection, no pressure
Apex Roofing Systems will inspect your Sun City roof for free, put the findings in writing with photos, and leave the decision with you. Request a free roof inspection or call (480) 808-ROOF (7663).
Sources: Arizona Attorney General, storm-related repair scams alert, Aug. 12, 2026; SCHOA, Business Partner Referral Program; SCHOA home page; NWS Phoenix, Severe Thunderstorm Warning, 3:04 p.m. Oct. 21, 2026; NWS Phoenix local storm reports, Oct. 20 to 22.