Roofer and Insurance Adjuster: Your Complete Guide to Storm Damage Claims from a 15-Year Roofing Contractor
I have been installing and repairing roofs in Texas for over fifteen years. My team has completed more than two thousand roofing projects. We hold certifications from major manufacturers like GAF and Owens Corning. I have worked with hundreds of insurance adjusters on storm damage claims. This experience gives me a unique perspective on the process. I want to share that knowledge with you today.
This article exists to solve a major problem for homeowners. That problem is the confusion between roofers and insurance adjusters. Many homeowners feel lost after a storm damages their roof. They do not know who to trust or what steps to take. They worry about being taken advantage of during a stressful time. This guide will answer all your questions clearly and honestly.
The information here comes from real customer projects and industry data. I have gathered insights from working directly with adjusters from State Farm, Allstate, and USAA. I reference manufacturer specifications and local building codes. My recommendations are based on proven methods that get roofs repaired properly. My goal is to give you the knowledge to protect your home and your wallet.
Understanding the Key Players: Roofer vs. Insurance Adjuster
After storm damage, you will work with two main professionals. The roofer and the insurance adjuster have very different roles. Knowing these roles is the first step to a successful claim. A roofer is a contractor who repairs or replaces your roof. An insurance adjuster represents your insurance company. The adjuster assesses the damage and determines the claim payout.
The Roofing Contractor's Role and Responsibilities
A quality roofing contractor does more than just nail down shingles. We are your advocate and technical expert. Our first job is to perform a thorough inspection. We look for hail hits, wind damage, and broken seals. We document all damage with detailed photos and measurements. We then provide you with a detailed repair estimate. This estimate is based on current material and labor costs in your area.
We also help you understand your policy coverage. We can review the insurance adjuster's report with you. We look for missing items or underestimated costs. A good roofer communicates clearly with the adjuster on your behalf. We explain the technical reasons why certain repairs are necessary. Our goal is to ensure the insurance settlement covers a complete, code-compliant repair.
The Insurance Adjuster's Role and Limitations
The insurance adjuster works for the insurance company. Their job is to investigate your claim. They determine if the damage is covered under your policy. They also calculate the amount the company will pay. It is important to remember they are not roofing experts. Many adjusters handle claims for many types of damage, not just roofs.
Adjusters use software like Xactimate to create estimates. This software has preset prices for labor and materials. Sometimes these prices are lower than local market rates. The adjuster's estimate is their assessment of the cost to repair the damage. It is not a binding contract for a roofer. You have the right to hire a contractor of your choice.
The Step-by-Step Storm Damage Claim Process
Navigating an insurance claim can feel overwhelming. Following a clear process reduces stress and improves outcomes. This is the same process I guide my customers through every storm season. It works for hail, wind, and fallen tree damage.
Step 1: Initial Damage Assessment and Safety
Your safety is the top priority after a storm. Do not go on your roof if it is wet or steep. Look for signs of damage from the ground. Check for missing shingles, dented gutters, or granules in downspouts. Inside your home, look for water stains on ceilings or walls. Take photos and videos of any visible damage. This creates a record of the initial condition.
Next, call a reputable local roofing contractor for a professional inspection. Choose a contractor with strong reviews and proper licensing. A good roofer will provide a free inspection. They should explain their findings in simple terms. They will tell you if they believe the damage meets your insurance deductible. Do not sign any paperwork that assigns your benefits until you understand it fully.
Step 2: Filing the Insurance Claim and the Adjuster's Inspection
If your roofer confirms significant damage, file a claim with your insurance company. You can usually do this online or by phone. Provide your policy number and a basic description of the damage. The insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. The adjuster will contact you to schedule an inspection.
It is highly beneficial to have your roofing contractor present for the adjuster's inspection. Your roofer can point out subtle damage the adjuster might miss. They can explain why a full repair is needed. This collaboration often leads to a more accurate and complete insurance estimate. Be present to ask questions and take notes during the inspection.
Step 3: Reviewing the Insurance Estimate and Scope of Work
The adjuster will send you a document called a claim summary or estimate. This document lists the line items they are approving for payment. It includes amounts for materials, labor, and waste removal. Review this document carefully with your roofing contractor. Compare it to the contractor's detailed estimate.
Look for common missing items. These often include proper starter shingles, ridge vent replacement, or code-required underlayment. The insurance estimate may also use depreciated material costs. Your roofer can help you write a formal letter to the insurance company. This letter is called a supplement request. It asks for additional funds for missed items.
How to Choose the Right Roofer for an Insurance Job
Not all roofing contractors are equal, especially for insurance work. The wrong choice can lead to poor workmanship and denied warranties. Follow these steps to find a qualified partner.
Essential Credentials and Red Flags
A trustworthy roofer will have proper credentials. They should be licensed in your state. In Texas, check for a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) license. They should carry both general liability and worker's compensation insurance. Ask for proof of insurance certificates. Look for manufacturer certifications like GAF Master Elite or Owens Corning Platinum. These require rigorous training and background checks.
Be wary of major red flags. Avoid contractors who ask for full payment upfront. Avoid those who only accept cash. Be cautious of door-to-door salespeople after a storm. Do not work with a company that pressures you to sign an assignment of benefits (AOB) form immediately. A reputable contractor will give you time to decide.
Questions to Ask During the Estimate
Prepare a list of questions for your potential roofer. Their answers will reveal their expertise and integrity. Ask how long they have been in business locally. Ask for references from recent insurance claim jobs. Inquire about their warranty coverage for both materials and labor. Ask who will be your main point of contact during the project. Find out how they handle supplement requests with the insurance company.
Also, ask specific technical questions. Will they replace all roof penetrations like pipe boots? Will they install ice and water shield in critical areas as required by code? What brand and type of shingles do they recommend and why? A confident expert will answer these questions clearly and without hesitation.
Navigating Common Disputes and Supplement Requests
Disagreements between the roofer's estimate and the insurance estimate are common. This is a normal part of the process. Do not panic if the numbers do not match initially.
When the Adjuster's Estimate is Too Low
Insurance software estimates can be outdated. They may not account for local labor rates or specific building codes. For example, many policies cover repairing a roof to current International Residential Code (IRC) standards. If your roof decking is damaged, code may require thicker plywood than you currently have. The insurance estimate should cover this upgrade.
Your roofing contractor should prepare a detailed supplement package. This includes photos, diagrams, and manufacturer installation instructions. It shows why certain items are necessary. The contractor submits this to the adjuster for review. Most reputable insurance companies have a process for reviewing supplements. Patience and clear documentation are key.
Understanding Depreciation and Recoverable Depreciation
Many insurance policies pay claims in two parts. The first check is for the Actual Cash Value (ACV). This is the replacement cost minus depreciation for the age of your roof. The second payment is for Recoverable Depreciation. You receive this after the work is complete and you submit the final invoice.
For example, your roof replacement may cost $15,000. The insurance company might hold back $3,000 as depreciation. They issue an ACV check for $12,000. Once the job is done and you prove it, they release the final $3,000. Your roofing contract should clearly state the total cost. It should explain how depreciation payments work.
Real Project Case Studies and Outcomes
Let me share two real examples from our work. These show how the process works in practice.
Case Study 1: Hail Damage in Kingwood
A homeowner called us after a severe hailstorm. We found significant bruising on their 20-year-old asphalt shingles. The granules were knocked off, exposing the matting. The adjuster initially approved only for a repair of the worst slopes. We provided close-up photos showing uniform damage across the entire roof. We cited the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) guidelines on functional hail damage.
We submitted a supplement with this evidence. The insurance company reviewed it and agreed to a full roof replacement. The final settlement allowed the homeowner to install a modern, impact-resistant shingle. This improved their home's value and future insurability. The project was completed on time and within the supplemented budget.
Case Study 2: Wind Damage and Missing Shingles
Another client had shingles torn off by straight-line winds. The insurance adjuster's estimate only included replacing the missing shingles. However, matching discontinued shingles is nearly impossible. The color difference would be very noticeable. Most insurance policies have a "matching" clause for situations like this.
We helped the homeowner reference this clause in their policy. We explained that a partial repair would create an unsightly patchwork roof. The insurance company agreed that aesthetics were a valid concern. They approved a replacement of all shingles on the affected plane to ensure a uniform appearance. This is a common and often successful argument.
Practical Homeowner Tips from 2,000+ Projects
Here is my best advice, distilled from thousands of interactions with homeowners and adjusters.
- Document Everything: Keep a dedicated folder for all claim documents. Save emails, photos, estimates, and claim numbers. This keeps the process organized.
- Know Your Policy: Understand your deductible and coverage limits before a storm hits. Know if you have Replacement Cost Value (RCV) or Actual Cash Value (ACV) coverage.
- Get Everything in Writing: Do not rely on verbal promises from the adjuster or contractor. All agreements about scope, price, and changes should be documented.
- Do Not Cash the Final Check Too Soon: The insurance check may say "final payment." Do not deposit it until you are sure all work is covered. Cashing it can sometimes close the claim.
- Communicate Professionally: Be polite but persistent with all parties. Keeping a calm, factual tone leads to better results than getting angry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can my insurance company force me to use their preferred contractor?
No, they cannot force you. You have the right to choose your own licensed and insured roofing contractor. A preferred vendor program is often a suggestion, not a requirement. You should always select a contractor based on their reputation and your comfort level.
What if my roof is old and already has some wear?
Insurance covers sudden, accidental damage from a covered peril like a storm. It does not cover wear and tear or lack of maintenance. However, if a storm damages an old roof, the policy should still cover the repair of that specific damage. The age of the roof affects the depreciation calculation, not necessarily the coverage.
Should I get multiple estimates from roofers?
Yes, it is wise to get at least two or three detailed estimates. This helps you understand the market rate and scope of work. However, for insurance jobs, the focus should be on the scope and quality of materials, not just the lowest price. The insurance company's payment is based on their estimate, not yours.
What is an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) and should I sign one?
An AOB is a legal document that assigns your insurance benefits to the contractor. This allows them to deal directly with the insurance company and collect payment. Be very careful. While convenient, it also gives the contractor significant control over your claim. Only sign one if you fully trust the contractor and understand the implications.
How long does the entire insurance claim process take?
The timeline varies. From filing the claim to final payment can take several weeks to a few months. The inspection usually happens within a week or two. The supplement negotiation can add time. The actual roofing work itself typically takes 1-3 days for a standard home. Weather and material availability can also cause delays.
Will filing a claim make my insurance rates go up?
Filing a claim for a legitimate, weather-related event is your right as a policyholder. A single claim may not automatically raise your rates. However, multiple claims in a short period can affect your premiums or even your ability to renew. Discuss this concern with your insurance agent directly.
What happens if my insurance claim is denied?
First, ask for a detailed explanation in writing. Review your policy to see if the denial理由 aligns with the exclusions. You can request a re-inspection with your contractor present. If you still disagree, you can file an appeal with the insurance company. Your final option is to contact your state's department of insurance to file a complaint.
Conclusion: Your Path to a Successful Roof Repair
Dealing with roof damage and insurance is challenging. Remember that you are not alone. A qualified, local roofing contractor can be your greatest ally. They provide the technical expertise to ensure your home is repaired correctly. They can help you communicate effectively with the insurance adjuster. Their goal is to restore your home's safety and integrity.
Your next step is to be proactive. Review your insurance policy now, before storm season. Research and identify a reputable roofing contractor in your area. Save their contact information. If damage occurs, you will be prepared to act quickly and confidently. Your home is your most valuable investment. Protecting it requires a good team: you, your roofer, and a fair insurance adjuster.
Use the knowledge in this guide to ask the right questions and make informed decisions. A well-managed insurance claim results in a quality roof that will protect your family for years to come. Do not settle for less than a complete, code-compliant repair. You have the right to restore your home to its pre-storm condition.