Chesapeake storms can take a roof from fine to leaking in one afternoon. What you do in the first 48 hours makes the difference between a smooth repair and a months-long headache. Here is the checklist we give Severna Park homeowners.
Hour 1: Safety First
- Stay off the roof. Wet, damaged roofs are dangerous, and walking on them can worsen damage.
- If water is entering near electrical fixtures, shut off power to that area.
- Move furniture and valuables away from active leaks; catch water in containers and puncture sagging ceiling bubbles carefully to drain them.
Hours 1–12: Document Everything
- Photograph interior damage: stains, drips, wet insulation, damaged belongings.
- From the ground, photograph the roof, downed shingles in the yard, dented gutters and vents.
- Note the date and time of the storm — your insurer will ask.
Hours 12–24: Stop Further Damage
If the roof is open to weather, call for emergency tarping — 410-793-9516, any hour. Insurers expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, and tarping costs are typically claimable. Keep every receipt.
Hours 24–48: Get a Professional Assessment
Much storm damage is invisible from the ground: lifted shingles that lost their seal, bruised mats from hail, torn flashing. A professional inspection with photo documentation gives you the full picture — and the evidence your claim needs.
Filing Your Insurance Claim
- Report the claim promptly — policies have time limits.
- Share your contractor’s documentation with the adjuster; better yet, have your contractor present at the adjuster meeting.
- Do not sign over your claim benefits to any contractor, and be wary of anyone who asks.
Magothy Roofing and Exteriors provides 24/7 storm response, emergency tarping, full photo-documented assessments, and insurance claim support throughout Anne Arundel County. Save our number before you need it: 410-793-9516.