What To Do If Your Insurance Company Denies Your Roof Damage Claim

If you’re a Maryland homeowner who recently filed an insurance claim for roof damage—only to have it denied—you’re not alone. Roof damage is one of the most common reasons homeowners turn to their insurance providers, especially after severe weather events like windstorms, hail, or even hurricane remnants that sweep through the Mid-Atlantic. Unfortunately, denials happen more often than many expect, leaving families scrambling for solutions while still facing a leaky or compromised roof. At Roof Right, based in Hampstead, MD, we regularly help homeowners across Carroll County, Baltimore County, and the surrounding regions navigate the frustrations of denied roofing claims. Here’s what you need to know—and most importantly, what steps you can take next—to fight for the coverage you may still be entitled to.

Answering The Question: What To Do If Your Insurance Company Denies Your Roof Damage Claim 

Why Are Roof Damage Claims Denied?

Before diving into what you should do, it’s important to understand why insurers commonly deny roof damage claims in Maryland. These are the most frequent reasons:

1. Wear and Tear: Many insurance policies don’t cover general deterioration. If your roof is older, the insurer might claim the damage was due to age rather than a specific event. In Maryland, where temperature fluctuations and wet seasons can age a roof faster than average, this is a frequent point of contention.
2. Pre-Existing Conditions: If an inspector finds evidence of prior damage that wasn’t addressed, your claim might be denied. This is why routine inspections and maintenance records are critical.
3. Improper Maintenance or Installation: If the insurance company believes the damage was caused by improper roof installation or a lack of upkeep, they might use this as a basis to deny the claim.
4. Exclusions in Policy Language: Sometimes, the fine print excludes certain weather events or types of damage. In some Maryland policies, for instance, wind damage under a certain threshold might not be covered unless there’s clear proof of storm impact.

Step-by-Step: What To Do After a Denied Roof Damage Claim

If your claim has been denied, don’t panic. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you take action and potentially reverse the decision:

Step 1: Read the Denial Letter Carefully

Start by thoroughly reviewing the explanation your insurance company provided. This letter should detail why your claim was denied, referencing the specific policy language. Cross-check the denial against your policy’s terms to identify if their decision is truly justified.

Step 2: Request a Full Copy of the Adjuster’s Report

You have the right to request a copy of the insurance adjuster’s assessment. This document outlines the damage they found—or didn’t find—and how they evaluated the loss. Getting a second opinion can help you dispute inaccuracies in this report.

Step 3: Gather Documentation

This is one of the most important steps if you intend to appeal.

• Take detailed, high-resolution photos of all damage, preferably from multiple angles.
• If possible, include photos taken before the storm or incident to show the damage is new.
• Keep any maintenance or repair receipts from previous roofing work.
• Obtain a detailed inspection from an independent, licensed Maryland roofing contractor (like Roof Right).

Step 4: Get a Second Inspection

Hiring a trusted local roofer can make all the difference. At Roof Right, our team provides professional, unbiased roof assessments that can support your claim appeal. A reputable roofer will check for signs of wind uplift, hail impact, broken flashing, and other damage insurance adjusters often overlook.

Step 5: File a Formal Appeal

Most Maryland insurance providers offer a formal appeals process. Prepare a professional appeal letter that includes:

• Your claim number and contact information
• A detailed explanation of why you’re contesting the denial
• Supporting documents (photos, inspection reports, contractor assessments)

Make sure to send this via certified mail or another method that provides confirmation of receipt.

Step 6: File a Complaint with the Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA)

If your appeal is still denied, you can file a complaint with the Maryland Insurance Administration. The MIA protects Maryland policyholders from unfair insurance practices and can investigate your case. Visit insurance.maryland.gov for forms and instructions.

Step 7: Consult with an Attorney (if necessary)

In complex cases—especially when significant damage is involved—consider consulting a lawyer who specializes in homeowner’s insurance. Legal counsel can evaluate your policy language, represent you in disputes, and ensure your rights are protected.

Common Mistakes Maryland Homeowners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Many homeowners inadvertently hurt their chances of receiving insurance coverage. Here are a few key mistakes and tips:

• Waiting Too Long to File: Most policies require timely reporting of roof damage. In Maryland, claims delayed beyond a few weeks could be denied outright.
• Fixing the Roof Before Inspection: Don’t start repairs before the insurance adjuster sees the damage, unless it’s a temporary fix to prevent further harm (like a tarp).
• Not Using a Local Roofing Contractor: Local contractors like Roof Right understand Maryland’s weather patterns and code requirements, making them more effective advocates during the claim process.
• Ignoring Annual Maintenance: Keeping up with yearly roof inspections not only extends the life of your roof but also provides a paper trail that supports your insurance claims.

Contact Roof Right for Roof Repair Services in Maryland

If you’re facing a denied roof insurance claim or need professional assistance with roof repairs, Roof Right is here to help. Based in Hampstead, MD, we specialize in comprehensive roofing services tailored to Maryland homeowners. Our experienced team can provide thorough inspections, detailed documentation, and expert repairs to ensure your roof is in top condition. We understand the complexities of insurance claims and can guide you through the process to maximize your chances of a successful outcome. Don’t let a denied claim leave your home vulnerable. Contact Roof Right today to schedule an inspection and discuss your roofing needs.

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If you're looking for a roof contractor in Maryland, give Roof Right a call today at (410)-374-5923 to schedule an appointment!