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When a Storm Hits Frederick: What to Do Before Your Ceiling Starts Leaking
Frederick, MD residents are no strangers to summer storms — and when hail or high winds blow through, your roof usually takes the first hit. At AWS Restorations, we’ve seen everything from lifted shingles to full structural failures after heavy windstorms. But often, the most stressful part for homeowners isn’t the damage itself — it’s trying to figure out how to file a roof insurance claim.
If you’ve found yourself asking, “Where do I even begin?” — this guide is for you. We’ve broken down the roof claim process into clear, manageable steps, from inspection to repair.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this blog:
- How to assess and document storm-related roof damage
- The exact steps to follow for filing a successful roof insurance claim
- What to expect from your insurance adjuster
- How working with AWS Restorations simplifies the entire process
- The local roofing FAQs every Frederick homeowner should know
Need help right away? AWS Restorations can help — we offer free exterior inspections within 24 hours, and no payment is required until the work is complete (upon approval).
Why Roof Insurance Claims Matter in Frederick, MD
Storms aren’t just a seasonal nuisance in Frederick — they’re a serious threat to your home. Hail, high winds, and driving rain can cause both visible and hidden damage to your roofing system. Left unaddressed, these problems lead to leaks, rot, and expensive repairs later.
Understanding your homeowners insurance policy and the roof claim process can save you money, stress, and time. But insurance paperwork, inspection reports, and approval timelines can get overwhelming fast — especially if you’re navigating it for the first time.
A few terms to know:
- Storm damage restoration: Repairs or roof replacement after weather-related damage.
- Roof insurance claims assistance: Help from contractors or advisors to file, document, and communicate with your insurer.
- Roof claim process: The step-by-step procedure for getting insurance approval and funding to repair storm damage.
Local Tip: Frederick County requires permits for full roof replacements, and not every contractor handles this. AWS Restorations does — start to finish.
Before You File a Roof Insurance Claim: What to Do Right After the Storm
Before you make a call to your insurance company, take a few smart steps to prep.
Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy
Understand what’s covered and what isn’t. Most policies protect against “sudden and accidental damage,” which includes hail and wind.
Document Everything
Take clear, dated photos of your roof, gutters, siding, and even the attic or ceilings (if water stains are visible).
Book a Professional Roof Inspection
Don’t try to get on the roof yourself. Instead, request a free inspection from AWS Restorations. We’ll document every point of damage and provide a detailed report to back up your claim.
Know Your Deductible
Check how much your deductible is — usually between $500 and $2,500 — and understand that you’ll need to pay that out of pocket before insurance pays the rest.
Act Fast
Insurance companies often have strict deadlines for storm-related claims — typically within 14 days of the damage.
Step-by-Step: How to File a Roof Insurance Claim After Storm Damage
This is the heart of the blog — here’s exactly how to navigate the roof claim process confidently.
Step 1: Schedule a Roof Inspection and Damage Assessment
After any major storm, your first move should be booking an inspection with a trusted local roofing contractor. At AWS Restorations, we provide free, no-pressure exterior inspections to identify storm damage.
We’ll look for:
- Lifted, cracked, or missing shingles
- Exposed underlayment or decking
- Dented flashing or metal components
- Water damage or staining inside your home
Step 2: Document All Damage Thoroughly
We help homeowners take detailed photos and notes of all affected areas. These become key parts of your insurance claim.
Tip: Include close-ups and wide-angle shots with date stamps. Keep a written log, too.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurer and tell them you need to file a claim for storm damage. Provide:
- Policy number
- Date and time of the storm
- AWS’s inspection findings (we’ll provide a report)
Some insurers may have an online portal or app to streamline this process.
Step 4: Meet the Insurance Adjuster (with Your Contractor Present)
Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to evaluate the damage. You should always have your contractor present during this inspection.
Why? Because we speak the adjuster’s language. We ensure nothing gets missed or undervalued, and we can challenge any discrepancies in real time.
Step 5: Review the Claim Estimate
After the adjuster visit, you’ll receive a scope of work and an initial payout offer. Our team reviews this document with you to make sure it’s accurate — and negotiates if needed.
Step 6: Schedule the Repairs
Once your claim is approved, we’ll schedule your roof repair or replacement. Most jobs are completed in 1–2 days, depending on material availability and weather.
We handle all permits, materials, and cleanup — and you don’t pay until the work is finished (upon approval).
Deep Dive: Why Local Experience Matters in Storm Damage Restoration
Frederick’s unique weather patterns — frequent hailstorms, microbursts, and heavy snowfall — create recurring risks for roofs.
Here’s what sets AWS Restorations apart:
- We’re GAF-certified: We install GAF Ultra HD shingles with 50-year warranties.
- We’ve been local for 31+ years: We know the building codes, insurance timelines, and what local adjusters expect.
- We give honest advice: Not every roof needs replacing — and we’ll tell you that if it’s true.
- We offer architectural shingles at no extra cost: Every job includes a free upgrade to architectural shingles, not just basic 3-tabs.
Pros and Cons of Common Roofing Materials
| Material | Pros | Cons |
| Architectural Shingles | Durable, wind-resistant, look great | Slightly higher cost than 3-tab |
| Metal Roofing | Excellent wind/hail resistance, long-lasting | Can be noisy, higher initial cost |
| Cedar Roofing | Natural aesthetic, long lifespan | Requires more maintenance |
| Flat Roofing (EPDM/PVC) | Ideal for additions or porches | Can pool water if not installed properly |
Our job is to help you choose the right materials for your home and climate — and to ensure the roof insurance claims assistance you receive covers what you actually need.
Frederick Roofing FAQs Regarding Storm Damage and Insurance Claims
How do I know if my roof has storm damage after a storm in Frederick?
You know your roof has storm damage if you notice missing shingles, dented gutters, or water stains inside your home. A professional inspection from AWS Restorations can confirm whether the damage qualifies for a claim.
How long do I have to file a roof insurance claim in Maryland?
You typically have up to one year to file a roof insurance claim in Maryland, but most insurers require notification within 14 days. Prompt action helps ensure a smoother process.
Will filing a roof claim increase my insurance premium?
Filing a roof insurance claim due to storm damage usually does not raise your premium, as it’s considered an “Act of God.” However, confirm this with your insurer.
Do I need multiple contractor estimates to file a claim?
You do not need multiple estimates to file a roof insurance claim. Your insurance provider bases the payout on their adjuster’s findings. Choosing a contractor like AWS Restorations ensures the scope of work is accurate and comprehensive.
Does Frederick County require a permit for roof replacement?
Yes, roof replacement in Frederick County requires a permit. AWS Restorations pulls all necessary permits and ensures the work is fully code-compliant.
What if the insurance company denies part of my claim?
If part of your roof insurance claim is denied, AWS Restorations can help you appeal. We’ll provide additional documentation and negotiate directly with your insurer.
Can I upgrade my roofing materials during the claim process?
Yes, you can upgrade your materials when filing a claim. AWS Restorations offers a free architectural shingle upgrade on all jobs — no extra paperwork needed.
Take Control of the Roof Claim Process
When your home is hit by a storm, don’t wait for a small leak to become a major problem. Filing a roof insurance claim doesn’t have to be stressful — especially when you have a trusted, local expert by your side.
At AWS Restorations, we bring 31 years of storm restoration experience to every job. We’ve earned an A+ BBB rating, GAF certification, and a reputation for honest inspections and pressure-free service.
Schedule your free inspection today — and let us help you handle the roof claim process from start to finish.
Contact us to get started.