After a strong storm or unexpected roof damage in Gaithersburg, MD, many homeowners are left wondering, “Do I contact insurance first or contact a roofing company?” It’s a stressful situation, especially when your home’s protection is on the line. Making the wrong decision could delay repairs or complicate your claim.
In this local guide, we’ll help you take the right first step after roof damage so you can get your home and peace of mind restored quickly.
Assess Roof Damage Safely
Whether it’s hail, high winds, or fallen branches, severe weather in Gaithersburg can take a toll on roofs. Before calling anyone, do a safe walk-around of your home. Check for missing shingles, visible holes, or leaks without climbing the roof. This gives you a clear picture of the damage before calling your insurer or a local roofer.
Do I Contact Insurance First or a Roofing Company?
After a storm in Gaithersburg, many homeowners ask this common question. If the damage is severe, contact your insurance company first, as most require a claim before repairs. Still, many choose to call a local roofer first for an inspection and estimate, which can help support the claim and speed up the process.
What to Know Before Filing an Insurance Claim for Roof Damage
Before you file a roof damage claim with your insurance company, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
Understand Your Coverage
Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to know what’s covered. Damage from sudden events like storms, hail, or fallen trees is typically covered, but wear and tear may not be.
Document the Damage
Take clear photos and videos of any visible damage. This documentation will help you document the damage, support your claim, and speed up the process.
Get an Estimate
Consider having a roofing company inspect the damage and provide an estimate. Some insurance companies may require this as part of the claim process.
Policy Limits
Know your deductible and policy limits. Your payout will be reduced by the deductible amount, so make sure it’s worth filing the claim.
Timeline
File your claim as soon as possible. Insurance companies often have time limits for reporting roof damage, especially after a storm.
Step-by-Step: What to Do After Roof Damage in Gaithersburg
If your roof has been damaged by a storm in Gaithersburg, MD, following a clear process can reduce stress and speed up repairs:
Step 1: Ensure Safety
Don’t attempt to climb onto your roof. Instead, walk around your home to assess visible damage, like missing shingles, debris, or water leaks.
Step 2: Document the Damage
Take photos and videos from the ground of all visible signs of damage. If water is entering your home, document that as well. These will be useful whether you call insurance or a roofer first.
Step 3: Prevent Further Interior Damage
If safe to do so, use buckets or tarps to contain water leaks inside the home and prevent worsening conditions.
Step 4: Review Your Insurance Policy
Quickly check what types of roof damage are covered and whether you need to notify your insurer before any inspections or repairs.
Step 5: Decide Who to Call First
- Call insurance first if the damage is extensive or clearly covered.
- Call a roofing company first if you’re unsure how bad the damage is or need help gathering information for your claim.
Step 6: Keep All Records
Save all estimates, inspection reports, receipts, and communications to support your insurance claim and protect yourself during the process.
When to Call a Roofing Company First in Gaithersburg
Here’s when reaching out to a Gaithersburg roofing contractor makes sense:
- You’re unsure how bad the damage is
- You want documentation to support your insurance claim
- You need a repair estimate before filing the claim
Many reputable Gaithersburg roofing companies offer free inspections and are familiar with working alongside insurance providers. Their reports can streamline your claim and help ensure you receive fair coverage.
When to Call Your Insurance Company First
Choose this route if:
- The damage is severe and urgent
- Your policy requires filing a claim before repairs begin
- You want to confirm coverage details before hiring a contractor
Your insurance company may even recommend local, vetted contractors in the Gaithersburg area they’ve worked with before. This can make the process faster, but you’re not required to use them.
Gaithersburg Tips to Avoid Roof Repair Delays
- Take clear photos of the damage right after the storm
- Don’t authorize repairs until your claim is approved
- Work only with licensed, insured Gaithersburg roofers
- Keep a record of all estimates, reports, and invoices
Following these tips ensures your repairs go smoothly—and your insurance claim stays on track.
Conclusion
After roof damage in Gaithersburg, MD, knowing whether to contact your insurance or a roofing company first can save time and stress. If the damage is severe and clearly covered, call your insurer. If you’re unsure, a roofing inspection can help guide your next steps.
The most important thing is to act quickly, document everything, and work with trusted professionals to keep your claim and repairs on track.
