A storm has passed and your roof doesn’t look right. Maybe shingles are in the yard, or a ceiling stain appeared overnight. Your homeowners policy may help pay for repairs, but the claims process can feel confusing the first time. This guide explains the steps in plain language so you know what to expect.

One thing to keep in mind from the start: your insurance company decides what is covered. A contractor can inspect, document and explain the damage, but no contractor can promise that a claim will be approved. Be wary of anyone who does.

What homeowners insurance usually covers

Most standard homeowners policies cover sudden, accidental damage from events like wind, hail and falling trees, minus your deductible. They usually don’t cover damage from wear and tear, age or lack of maintenance. That’s why the cause of the damage matters so much, and why good documentation is the core of any claim.

Policies differ a lot. Before you file, read the «Coverages» and «Exclusions» sections of your policy, or ask your agent:
– What is my deductible for wind or hail damage?
– Is my roof covered at replacement cost or actual cash value?
– Is there a time limit for reporting a loss?
– Are emergency repairs, like tarping, reimbursed?

Step 1: Make sure your home is safe and prevent more damage

If water is coming in, protect your belongings and stop the water if you can do it safely. Most policies expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, such as an emergency tarp. Keep every receipt. Don’t make permanent repairs before the damage has been documented and, if possible, seen by the adjuster.

Step 2: Document the damage

Good documentation makes the rest of the process easier:
– Photos and video of the roof (from the ground), gutters, siding, windows, interior stains and any debris. Turn on the date stamp.
– The date and time of the storm. Save a weather alert or news report if you have one.
– A list of damaged items inside the house, if water got in.
– Receipts for emergency repairs, tarps or hotel stays.

Not sure what to look for? Our guide to the signs of storm damage on your roof covers the most common ones.

Step 3: Get a professional roof inspection

A licensed roofer can get on the roof safely and document things you can’t see from the ground: broken shingle seals, hail bruises, damaged flashing and soft spots in the decking. Ask for photos and a written summary. This gives you a clear picture before you talk to your insurer, and it can help you decide whether the damage is likely to exceed your deductible.

At Aitana’s Home LLC, we provide a free inspection and give you photos of what we find.

Step 4: File the claim with your insurer

Call your insurance company or use its app or website. Have your policy number, the date of the storm and your photos ready. You’ll get a claim number. Write it down, because you’ll use it in every conversation. Keep notes of every call: the date, the name of the person you spoke with and what they said.

Step 5: Meet the insurance adjuster

The insurer will usually send an adjuster to inspect the property. A few tips:
– Be there for the inspection. Point out every area of damage, inside and out.
– Have your documentation ready, including your contractor’s photos.
– You can ask your contractor to be present so the adjuster and the roofer can look at the same damage together.
– Ask questions if something isn’t clear, and ask when you’ll receive the estimate.

Step 6: Review the insurance estimate

The adjuster’s estimate lists what the insurer will pay and how. Compare it with your contractor’s estimate. If items are missing, for example damaged flashing, vents or gutters that were part of the same storm, you can ask your insurer how to request a review, usually by sending more documentation.

If your policy pays actual cash value first, you may receive an initial payment and a second payment (often called recoverable depreciation) after the work is completed. Ask your insurer exactly how this works for your policy.

Step 7: Choose a licensed contractor and schedule the work

In Maryland, home improvement contractors must hold a license from the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). Before you sign:
– Look up the license on the Maryland Department of Labor website. Aitana’s Home LLC is licensed under MHIC #146911.
– Get a written contract with the scope of work, materials, timeline and payment schedule.
– Avoid large deposits and same-day pressure.
– Make sure your deductible is part of the plan. Paying your deductible is your responsibility under your policy.

If you disagree with your insurer’s decision

Ask your insurer for the decision in writing and for an explanation of the policy language they relied on. You can provide more documentation and ask for a review. If you believe your claim wasn’t handled properly, the Maryland Insurance Administration accepts consumer complaints about insurers.

How Aitana’s Home LLC helps with roof insurance claims

We’re a licensed Maryland contractor (MHIC #146911) based at 16701 Melford Blvd, Suite 400, in Bowie. Our roof insurance claim help includes:
– A free inspection with photos of the damage
– Emergency tarping and board-up to prevent more damage
– Being present during the adjuster’s visit when you ask us to
– A clear written estimate for the repair or replacement
– The work itself: roofing, siding, gutters and interior repairs through our storm damage restoration service

Call (410) 320-3560 or request your free inspection.

Frequently asked questions

Will filing a roof claim raise my insurance premium?

It depends on your insurer and your claims history. Ask your agent before filing. A free inspection can help you understand whether the damage is likely to be above your deductible.

Can I choose my own roofing contractor?

In most cases, yes, you can choose the licensed contractor you want to work with. Check your policy and ask your insurer if you’re unsure.

How long do I have to file a roof insurance claim in Maryland?

Time limits are set by your policy. Report damage as soon as reasonably possible and check your policy documents for specific deadlines.

Do I have to pay my deductible?

Yes. The deductible is your share of the cost under your policy, and it’s paid to the contractor as part of the project.

Can a contractor guarantee my claim will be approved?

No. Only your insurance company can approve a claim. A good contractor documents the damage clearly and explains the findings honestly.