Step 1 — Within 24 hours: document everything
- Photograph all four sides of the home, even sides that look fine.
- Photograph the ground: where did the debris land?
- Photograph the interior of any room near the damage — especially ceilings and the attic.
- Save weather data. The National Weather Service publishes wind speeds for every Maryland county; print the report for your storm date.
Step 2 — Call your insurance carrier
You don't need an estimate to file a claim. Call the carrier first. They open the claim, assign an adjuster, and give you a deadline to submit documentation.
Step 3 — Get an independent inspection BEFORE the adjuster arrives
This is the step most homeowners skip — and the one that protects you most. A licensed local contractor will identify damage that an out-of-state adjuster might miss: lifted shingles, hairline siding cracks, kick-out flashing failures behind gutters, and damaged roof penetrations.
We do these inspections free across our Maryland service area, and we'll give you a written scope you can hand to your adjuster.
Step 4 — Walk the roof with the adjuster (or have your contractor present)
Adjusters are professionals, but they don't always know Maryland-specific failure modes. Your contractor's presence keeps the inspection thorough and reduces back-and-forth later.
Step 5 — Choose a contractor who works within the estimate
Ask three questions before signing:
- "Will you match this scope line for line, or will you propose a change order?"
- "Do you handle the supplement process directly with my carrier if hidden damage is found during work?"
- "Will you provide before-and-after photos of every covered item for my file?"
A reputable Maryland contractor says yes to all three in writing.
Step 6 — Match materials, not just colors
For siding, profile and color are both critical — current production may not match original perfectly. A good contractor sources the closest available match and explains any blending strategy in advance, not after the fact.
Step 7 — Keep your paper trail
Save the carrier's estimate, the contractor's scope, every photo, every receipt, and a final completion letter. If you sell the home in 5 years, this file proves the storm history was handled correctly.
When to call us
If your Maryland home took wind damage and you want a free, no-pressure inspection before the adjuster shows up, we cover Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George's Counties — usually within 24–48 hours of your call.
