How to Navigate Roof Insurance Claims i…

Imagine this: A severe thunderstorm rolls through Anne Arundel County, battering your home with hail and high winds. The next morning, you find shingles scattered across your lawn in Severna Park or a water stain spreading on your ceiling in Pasadena. Panic sets in. Will your insurance cover this? How do you even start a claim?

Navigating the roof insurance claims process can be daunting, but understanding the steps specific to our region can make the difference between a denied claim and a fully funded roof replacement. At Great Oak Roofing, we've helped hundreds of local homeowners successfully manage this process. Here is your comprehensive guide.

Step 1: Assess and Document the Damage

Before calling your insurance company, you need to know what you’re dealing with.

Safety First: Do not climb on a damaged roof. Use binoculars from the ground to inspect for missing shingles, dents on vents, or large debris.
Take Photos: Document everything. Photos of shingles on the ground, water spots on your ceiling, and any exterior damage to siding or gutters are crucial evidence.
Note the Date: Insurance policies require you to file within a specific timeframe (usually one year) from the "date of loss." Pinpoint the exact storm date using local weather reports if needed.

Step 2: Call a Local Roofing Professional

This is the most critical step that homeowners often skip. Call a reputable local roofer before you call your insurance agent. Why?

Professional Assessment: A roofer can identify damage that isn't obvious to the untrained eye, such as "bruised" shingles from hail that will lead to future leaks.
Avoid Frivolous Claims: Filing a claim for damage that is below your deductible (e.g., a $300 repair when you have a $1,000 deductible) can still raise your premiums. A roofer will tell you if it's worth filing.
Advocacy: Your roofer works for you, not the insurance company. They can meet the adjuster on-site to point out all damages.

Step 3: File the Claim

If your roofer confirms significant storm damage, it's time to file.

Contact Your Carrier: Call your insurance provider's claims department. Be prepared to provide the date of loss and a description of the damage.
Get a Claim Number: Write this down immediately. You will need it for every interaction moving forward.
Ask About Your Policy: confirm your deductible amount and whether you have "Replacement Cost Value" (RCV) or "Actual Cash Value" (ACV) coverage. RCV covers the full cost to replace the roof today, while ACV only pays the depreciated value based on the roof's age.

Step 4: The Adjuster Meeting

Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the property.

The "Tag Team" Approach: Ask your Great Oak Roofing representative to be present during this inspection. We speak the adjuster's language and can ensure they see every damaged area, from the ridge vent to the gutters.
Don't Be Intimidated: Adjusters are busy and may overlook subtle damage. Having your contractor there ensures a fair and thorough assessment.

Step 5: Reviewing the Scope of Loss

After the inspection, you will receive a "Scope of Loss" or estimate from the insurance company. This details what they agree to pay for.

Compare Estimates: Does the insurance estimate match your roofer's quote? Often, insurance initial offers are low.
Supplements: If the insurance estimate is missing items (e.g., code upgrades, ice and water shield, steep roof charges), your contractor can file a "supplement" with documentation to get these costs covered.

Step 6: Getting the Work Done

Once the claim is approved and you have the initial check (often called the ACV check), work can begin.

Choose Your Contractor: You are not required to use the insurance company's "preferred" vendor. You have the right to hire the contractor you trust.
Pay Your Deductible: It is illegal for a contractor to "waive" or "absorb" your deductible. This is insurance fraud. You are responsible for paying this amount.

Step 7: Final Payment and Warranty

After the roof is installed, your contractor will send a final invoice to the insurance company stating the work is complete.

Recoverable Depreciation: If you have an RCV policy, the insurance company will release the "recoverable depreciation" check—the remaining funds needed to pay the contractor in full.
Warranty: Ensure you receive all warranty documentation from your contractor and the shingle manufacturer.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid in Anne Arundel County

Storm Chasers: Beware of out-of-state roofing companies that knock on doors after a big storm. They often do subpar work and vanish. Stick with established local businesses like Great Oak Roofing.
Waiting Too Long: Maryland statutes of limitation on insurance claims vary, but most policies require filing promptly. Waiting months allows damage to worsen and gives the insurer grounds to deny the claim due to "neglect."
Ignoring Small Leaks: A small leak from a storm can rot your roof deck over time. If you suspect damage, get it checked immediately.

Trust Great Oak Roofing with Your Claim

We have extensive experience working with all major insurance carriers in Maryland. We don't just replace roofs; we guide you through the entire claims process to ensure you get the coverage you deserve.

Suspect storm damage? Contact us today for a free, honest roof inspection.