​There's been a natural disaster (examples: storm, hurricane, tornado, hail, flood) and you have damage to your home or vehicle - now what? The Maryland Insurance Administration can assist you by providing contact information for your insurer or by helping you with questions about how to file a claim. You can reach us at 800-492-6116 or please see resources below: ​​

Quick Tips if you have damage after a storm: 

• Make sure your adjuster and insurer have your current phone number. 
• Make sure your address is visible from the street. You may need to post a sign with your address in the yard. 
• Try to be there when the adjuster visits and point out all damage. 
• Get multiple bids from contractors and compare them with the adjuster’s report before settling the claim. 
• Save proof that you paid the deductible on the claim. State law makes it illegal for contractors or roofers to offer to waive a deductible or to promise a rebate for your deductible. It also allows your insurer to request proof, such a receipt or canceled check, that you paid the deductible. Read more about contractor fraud by clicking here.
  
• In the event a federal disaster declaration is issued, Marylanders can apply for federal aid for damage not covered by insurance at DisasterAssistance.gov​.  
  
• Report price gouging. It’s illegal to charge excessive prices for building materials and necessities to take advantage of a disaster. You ca​n report suspected price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General or the Maryland Department of Labor. 
  

Tips for when you need to file a claim: ​

• Call your insurance producer (agent or broker) or insurer as soon as possible to report property damage.  
• Keep a record of everyone you talk with about the damage, including your insurer, insurance adjuster and contractors. 
  
• Be ready to answer questions about the damage. 
  
• Ask your insurer about an advance payment if you need help quickly.   
• Ask about living expenses. Most policies will cover some of the costs you have if you are unable to live in your home because of damage that is covered by your insurance policy. It is a good idea to keep your receipts for these costs since your insurer may ask for proof.​  
  

For additional tips on homeowner’s claims, visit our website​.

Here are even more resources:

Consumer Advisories: 

• After a Storm - The Maryland Insurance Administration is here to help (Spanish)
• Need to Make Repairs? Be Sure to Protect Yourself.
• Should I hire a Public Adjuster to Help Me Settle My Claim?
  
• Understanding the Difference Between Flood and ​Water Damage (Spanish, Korean)
• Contractors or Individuals that Offer to Help You with your Insurance Claim
  
• Will My Insurance Company Pay for a Place to Live If My Home Is Damaged by a Storm?​
• If a Tree Falls on Your Property (Spanish​)
• Insurance Advisory for Home Improvement Contractors and Salesmen
  
• What Is My Insurance Compan​y Required to Cover if My Siding Is Damaged by Hail or Wind?
• Coverage for Water that Backs Up Through Sewers or Drains (Spanish​)
  

Post-Disaster Cards
Flood Damage: Visit our webpage on Flood Insurance​