When you’re dealing with an insurance claim—whether it’s from a storm, accident, or other damage—one of the first things on your mind might be:
“Do I need to use a specific roofer or body shop?”
At Sharp Family Insurance in Hot Springs, Arkansas, we get this question a lot. And the answer is… it depends.
Watch the full video below for more insight on making smart vendor choices after a claim.
Why We Don’t Recommend Specific Vendors
We typically avoid recommending specific contractors, roofers, or body shops. Not because we don’t want to help—but because we’ve seen how it can go sideways. Even reputable companies can have off days. If a vendor we recommend doesn’t meet your expectations, it reflects back on us.
Instead, we always encourage our clients to use local businesses with strong reputations, verified reviews, and a physical presence here in Hot Springs. Look for companies that:
- Have been around for years—not weeks
- Have plenty of Google reviews (and not just the 5-star ones with no detail)
- Are registered with the Better Business Bureau
- Are active in the community (like Chamber of Commerce members)
Beware of Storm Chasers
After hail or wind storms, we often see a flood of out-of-town roofers pop up. They may set up a temporary storefront and pressure you to file a claim quickly—often offering to “handle it all for you.”
Here’s the problem:
These companies sometimes collect the claim money and disappear before the repairs are done—or worse, never even start them. If you can’t reach them again, you’re stuck.
What About Body Shops for Auto Claims?
When it comes to auto claims, you can use any body shop you want. If you have a trusted one you’ve used for years—go for it!
However, many insurance carriers also have a preferred network of body shops. These preferred shops offer a few benefits, such as:
- Extended warranties on the repairs, backed by the insurance carrier
- Streamlined communication with your carrier, which can speed up the repair process
- Rental car benefits that may not apply at independent shops
Using a preferred body shop isn’t required, but it can simplify things in certain situations.
When In Doubt, Call Us
We’re always here to help guide you. While we won’t tell you exactly who to use, we can help you think through your options and offer tips to vet vendors the right way.
Bottom line?
Choose a vendor with a solid track record, stay cautious of storm chasers, and feel free to reach out to us if you need a second opinion. Contact us at (501)547-9474.