What Is an Insurance Adjuster?
An adjuster is a licensed professional who investigates insurance claims to determine the extent of the insurance company’s liability. In roofing claims, adjusters assess damage to your property, review your policy coverage, and calculate what your insurance company should pay for repairs or replacement.
Understanding the adjuster’s role—and the type of adjuster you’re working with—can significantly impact the outcome of your roof claim.
Types of Insurance Adjusters
Company Adjuster (Staff Adjuster)
Company adjusters are employed directly by your insurance carrier. They work on behalf of the insurance company and handle claims exclusively for that insurer. While they’re professionals, remember that their employer is the insurance company, not you.
Key characteristics:
- Salaried employees of the insurance company
- Handle multiple claims simultaneously
- Follow company guidelines for damage assessment
- May have caseload pressures that affect claim thoroughness
Independent Adjuster
Independent adjusters are contracted by insurance companies to handle claims during high-volume periods, such as after major storms. They’re self-employed or work for adjusting firms but represent the insurance company on your specific claim.
Key characteristics:
- Hired on a per-claim basis
- Often used during catastrophic events
- Paid by the insurance company
- May be less familiar with your specific policy details
Public Adjuster
A public adjuster works exclusively for you, the policyholder. You hire them to advocate on your behalf and negotiate with the insurance company. Public adjusters typically charge a percentage of your claim settlement (usually 5-15%).
Key characteristics:
- Licensed advocates for policyholders
- Experienced in maximizing claim settlements
- Handle all documentation and negotiation
- Particularly valuable for complex or disputed claims
The Adjuster’s Role in Roof Claims
When you file a claim for roof damage, the adjuster’s inspection is a critical step in the claims process.
Initial Inspection
The adjuster will visit your property to:
- Document visible damage
- Take photographs and measurements
- Review your policy coverage
- Create a preliminary damage estimate
Pro tip: Having your roofing contractor present during this inspection can ensure nothing is overlooked. Contractors understand roof systems and can point out damage that may not be obvious to adjusters.
Assessment Process
During their evaluation, adjusters examine:
- Shingle damage (missing, cracked, or lifted shingles)
- Underlayment condition
- Flashing and penetrations
- Gutters and downspouts
- Interior damage (water stains, insulation issues)
- Structural concerns
They’ll also determine whether damage is covered under your policy or excluded as pre-existing wear and tear.
Estimate Preparation
The adjuster prepares an estimate that includes:
- Scope of necessary repairs
- Material costs
- Labor expenses
- Depreciation (if applicable to your policy)
- Your deductible
This estimate becomes the basis for your claim settlement.
Working Effectively with Your Adjuster
Before the Inspection
Document everything: Take your own photos and videos of damage before repairs or weather can worsen conditions.
Review your policy: Understand your coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions before the adjuster arrives.
Prepare questions: Write down specific concerns or areas of damage you want the adjuster to examine.
During the Inspection
Be present: If possible, be home during the inspection to answer questions and point out areas of concern.
Take notes: Document what the adjuster inspects and any comments they make about coverage.
Request clarity: If the adjuster mentions exclusions or limitations, ask for specific policy language that supports their assessment.
Have your contractor present: A professional roofing contractor can identify technical issues the adjuster might miss.
After the Inspection
Request a copy of the estimate: You’re entitled to see the adjuster’s scope of work and pricing.
Compare estimates: Have your roofing contractor review the adjuster’s estimate against their own assessment.
Ask questions: If something doesn’t make sense or seems low, request clarification in writing.
Common Adjuster Tactics to Watch For
While most adjusters are honest professionals, some use strategies that may undervalue your claim:
Low Initial Offers
Adjusters may present conservative first estimates, knowing many homeowners accept them without question. Remember that initial estimates are often negotiable.
Depreciation Manipulation
Some adjusters apply excessive depreciation to reduce payouts. Your policy determines how depreciation is calculated—review it carefully.
Narrow Damage Scope
Adjusters might focus only on obvious damage while missing hidden issues like underlayment damage or decking problems. This is why having a contractor present helps.
Quick Settlement Pressure
Pushing for rapid claim closure may prevent you from discovering additional damage. Don’t feel pressured to settle immediately if you’re uncertain.
When to Consider a Public Adjuster
Hiring a public adjuster makes sense in several situations:
Complex claims: Multi-building properties, commercial roofs, or extensive damage benefit from professional claim management.
Disputed claims: If your insurance company denies or significantly undervalues your claim, a public adjuster can fight on your behalf.
Time constraints: If you lack time to manage documentation, estimates, and negotiations, a public adjuster handles everything.
Large claims: Higher-value claims (typically over $25,000) often justify the public adjuster’s fee through increased settlement amounts.
Limited knowledge: If you’re unfamiliar with insurance processes and feel overwhelmed, professional advocacy helps level the playing field.
The Role of Your Roofing Contractor
Your roofing contractor serves as a valuable technical advisor during the claims process:
- Identifies all damage, including non-obvious issues
- Provides detailed estimates for comparison
- Explains technical roofing terms to you and the adjuster
- Documents damage with professional photography
- Negotiates directly with adjusters when appropriate
- Ensures code compliance in damage assessments
Important note: Reputable contractors advocate for you without unethical practices. Be wary of contractors who offer to “eat your deductible” or guarantee claim approval—these practices are often illegal and can void your coverage.
Questions to Ask Your Adjuster
During your interaction, consider asking:
- What specific policy provisions apply to my claim?
- How did you calculate depreciation on materials?
- What testing did you perform to check for underlayment or decking damage?
- Can you explain why certain damage isn’t covered?
- What is the timeline for claim resolution?
- How do I appeal if I disagree with your assessment?
- Will you provide your estimate in writing?
Understanding Adjuster Limitations
Adjusters are not roofing contractors. While they’re trained in damage assessment, they may not:
- Understand regional roofing practices
- Recognize manufacturer-specific installation requirements
- Detect hidden damage without invasive inspection
- Know current material costs in your market
- Be familiar with recent code changes
This is why involving a qualified roofing contractor is essential—they provide the technical expertise adjusters may lack.
Your Rights During the Claims Process
As a policyholder, you have specific rights:
Right to representation: You can have your contractor, public adjuster, or attorney present during inspections.
Right to a fair assessment: Your claim should be evaluated based on actual damage and policy coverage, not arbitrary limits.
Right to question decisions: You can request explanation and documentation for any coverage decisions.
Right to appeal: If you disagree with the adjuster’s determination, formal appeal processes exist.
Right to choose your contractor: Insurance companies cannot require you to use specific contractors.
Related Roofing Terms
- Claim: The formal request for insurance coverage of property damage
- Depreciation: The reduction in value applied to aged roofing materials
- Xactimate: Industry-standard estimating software used by most adjusters
- Supplement: An additional claim for damage discovered after the initial inspection
- RCV vs. ACV: Replacement Cost Value versus Actual Cash Value coverage types
Working With Professional Roof Consultants
Navigating insurance adjusters and claims processes can be overwhelming. Professional roof consultants understand adjuster methodologies, policy language, and damage assessment techniques. We can:
- Attend adjuster inspections on your behalf
- Review and challenge undervalued estimates
- Document all damage comprehensively
- Communicate with adjusters in industry terminology
- Ensure nothing is overlooked during the assessment
Need help with an upcoming adjuster inspection or a disputed claim? Contact our team for expert guidance through the insurance claims process.
