I posted this is R/legaladvice but it didnt get much traction.

This is in Illinois

We had a storm in February with hail. A company came to our door offering to do a roof inspection. An adjuster came out for an inspection, with the contractor. We were approved for a new roof.

The problem is after looking into the company, they have not so good reviews. We don’t want to use them but are outside of the three days to cancel. The contractor now wants 15% of the value of the claim. Do I have any grounds to not pay that since no additional work was done?

As part of the paperwork to authorize the inspection, this would be the relevant provision in the terms and conditions:

“If homeowner cancels this agreement after an insurance settlement for the work described in this agreement is procured, but before the delivery of materials or actual commencement of the roof/siding replacement work, homeowner will be responsible for unrecoverable costs of material, and will pay [company] 15% of the contract price as liquidated damages, and it is declared and agreed by homeowner and company that this sum, without proof, be deemed to represent the damages sustained by [company] by reason of homeowners termination”

There has not been any additional signed contract for work or materials

Is this common practice and is there any way to get of this or am I out 15%? I do not want this company working on my house

Thank you