As Baltimore residents know all too well, the Chesapeake Bay region experiences its fair share of severe weather, from summer thunderstorms to winter nor’easters. When these powerful storms strike, your roof is often the first line of defense—and unfortunately, sometimes the first casualty. Here’s what to do when storm damage compromises your roof and threatens your home.
Assess the Damage Safely
Safety comes first. After a storm passes:
- Wait until daylight hours to inspect your roof, if possible
- Never climb onto a damaged roof
- Use binoculars to spot missing shingles, dents, or debris from ground level
- Look for water stains on ceilings and walls inside your home
- Check your attic for signs of water intrusion or daylight showing through the roof
Immediate Emergency Measures
If you discover roof damage allowing water into your home:
- Move valuables: Relocate furniture, electronics, and important documents away from leaking areas
- Contain water: Place buckets under active leaks and use towels to absorb standing water
- Tarp the roof: If weather permits and it’s safe to do so, cover damaged areas with a properly secured tarp
Contact Your Insurance Company
Maryland homeowners should:
- Document all damage with photos and videos
- Review your homeowner’s policy for storm damage coverage details
- Contact your insurance provider’s emergency claims hotline
- Ask about emergency repair coverage before authorizing work
- Keep all receipts for emergency repairs and temporary accommodations
Choose a Reputable Baltimore-Area Contractor
Unfortunately, “storm chasers”—opportunistic contractors who appear after storms—are common in Maryland. Protect yourself by:
- Selecting locally established roofing companies with Baltimore addresses
- Verifying Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC) licensing
- Checking Better Business Bureau ratings and online reviews
- Getting multiple written estimates
- Never paying the full amount upfront
Understand Maryland’s Building Codes
Baltimore homes must meet specific building codes when making repairs:
- Roof replacements must comply with Baltimore City or County wind resistance requirements
- Historic districts in Baltimore have additional regulations governing repairs
- Permits are typically required for structural repairs, but emergency temporary measures can usually proceed immediately
Prepare Before the Next Storm
Once your emergency repairs are complete, consider these preventative measures:
- Schedule annual roof inspections, especially before hurricane season
- Trim overhanging tree branches away from your roof
- Clean gutters regularly to prevent water backup
- Consider impact-resistant roofing materials common in the Mid-Atlantic region
- Create an emergency kit with plastic sheeting, duct tape, and tools
Weather in Maryland can be unpredictable, but your response to roof damage doesn’t have to be. By following these steps, Baltimore homeowners can minimize damage, navigate insurance claims effectively, and restore the safety and integrity of their homes after storm damage occurs.
When You Need Help
For Baltimore residents requiring professional assistance with emergency roof repairs or a full assessment of storm damage, Park Heights Roofing has served the local community through all kinds of weather events. Their experienced team can guide you through the repair process and help restore your home’s protection. Keep their contact information handy as part of your storm preparedness plan.