Quick answer: Five questions to ask your insurance adjuster: (1) Is this estimate based on actual construction practices or just software defaults? (2) Can you show me the manufacturer installation guideline behind this decision? (3) Is local building code reflected in the estimate? (4) How was depreciation calculated? (5) What is the process if I disagree? Asking calmly and in writing creates accountability.
Your insurance adjuster might be friendly and even helpful. But they work within a system designed to control payouts, not maximize them. Not all adjusters are dishonest, but there are questions many hope you never ask. The moment you start asking them, the conversation changes.
An adjuster’s job is to assess the damage, write a report, and determine what the insurance company should pay under its rules. They’re not your enemy, but they’re not your advocate either. If you’re unsure what kind of adjuster you have, read the four types of insurance adjusters.
Most adjusters use estimating programs like Xactimate or Symbility, with carrier-controlled settings. Those settings can leave out common materials or assume ideal conditions: no steep slope, no extra labor, no decking issues. If the answer is “that’s just the system,” ask which line items reflect your actual roof.
Shingle manufacturers publish installation requirements for starter shingles, underlayment, fastening, ridge and hip treatment, and ventilation. If an item required by the manufacturer is denied, ask for the guideline that supports the decision.
If your policy includes ordinance or law coverage, code-required items like drip edge, ice and water shield and ventilation may be owed. If they’re denied, ask which code applies and why. See ordinance or law coverage explained.
Depreciation is a judgment based on age, condition, life expectancy and materials. It can be aggressive, sometimes 60% or more on a roof that still looks solid. Ask what lifespan they used and whether it reflects your roof’s actual condition.
Ask about reinspection, supervisor review, desk review, your policy’s appraisal clause, and how to contact the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance. Asking doesn’t make you difficult. It shows you understand the process.
This isn’t about confrontation. It’s about clarity. You’re the policyholder paying the premiums, and these questions help make sure your roof is evaluated accurately.
Ask how the estimate reflects real construction practices, whether manufacturer requirements and local code are included, how depreciation was calculated, and how to dispute the decision.
Usually, yes. Many homeowners have their roofer present to point out documented damage. Bold Roofing can be there if you’d like.
On many replacement cost policies, the insurer holds back depreciation until the work is completed, then releases it. Check your policy’s terms and deadlines.
Ask for a reinspection or supervisor review, review your policy’s appraisal clause, and keep your communication in writing.
Keep reading: Independent, Staff, Desk and Public Adjusters: Who Works for Whom · Roof Insurance Claim Checklist: How to Protect Your Claim
Dealing with a claim now? See how Bold Roofing helps with roof insurance claims, or call or text (417) 222-7535.
Call or text Bold Roofing for a free inspection with photos before your adjuster visit.
Texting? Msg & data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out.
A step-by-step roof insurance claim checklist: what to know before a storm, what to document…
Why the cheapest roofing quote often leads to change orders and hidden costs, and what…
How door-to-door storm roofing reps are paid, what 'insurance claim expert' really means, and the…
Why homeowners insurance rates rise even if you never file, what Missouri rules say about…
A former State Farm agent explains what agents do and don't do on roof claims,…
What an insurance preferred contractor is, what you may give up by using one, and…