Storm damage and insurance paperwork rarely happen at a convenient time. If your roof just took a hit, here's a straightforward walk-through of how the claims process typically works in Maryland, and where homeowners most often lose money without realizing it.
Document Everything Immediately
Before any repairs, before cleanup, before anything else: take dated photos and video of the damage from multiple angles, including anything on the ground like shingles, granules, or flashing pieces the storm knocked loose. Note the date of the storm itself. This documentation is what ties the damage to a specific covered event rather than ordinary wear and tear.
Know Your Filing Window
Most Maryland homeowners insurance policies give you 60 to 90 days to report storm damage, but filing within 24 to 48 hours is strongly recommended. The sooner you file, the stronger your case that the damage is storm-related and not something that developed gradually beforehand.
Get an Independent Inspection Before the Adjuster Arrives
Schedule your own roofing contractor to inspect the damage before the insurance adjuster's visit. Having your contractor present during the adjuster's inspection is also worth arranging when possible — they can walk the adjuster through the full scope of damage, flag anything that looks undervalued, and help make sure storm damage doesn't get misclassified as routine wear and tear.
Review the Scope of Loss Carefully
Once the adjuster finishes, the insurer issues an estimate called a Scope of Loss. Compare it line by line against your contractor's own assessment. If there's a gap — missing flashing, incomplete decking replacement, mismatched material pricing — your contractor can help supplement the claim with additional documentation and photos to support a revised estimate.
What Happens After Approval
Most valid claims in Maryland are resolved within two to six weeks once approved. Your insurer will release payment according to your policy's terms (often in two installments: an initial payment and a final one after the work is complete and verified).
We Handle the Insurance Side With You
Magothy Roofing and Exteriors provides free damage assessments, helps document storm damage for your claim, and can meet your adjuster on-site to make sure nothing gets missed. Call 410-793-9516 or request an assessment online — 24/7 for storm emergencies.