What does an insurance adjuster look for on a roof?
The adjuster is checking whether a covered storm caused the damage, how much of the roof it affected, and what it will cost to put right under your policy. They look for hail strikes and wind damage on each slope, dented metal and gutters, and signs of age or wear that the policy excludes. Having the damage documented beforehand, and a roofer there during the visit, makes it far less likely that something is missed.
Before the visit
Once you file a claim, the carrier assigns an adjuster and schedules an inspection. Some are staff adjusters who work for the insurance company, and after a large storm many are independent adjusters brought in from other states to handle the volume.
Use the time before the visit well. Find your declarations page and note your deductible and whether the policy pays replacement cost or actual cash value. Gather any photos you took after the storm, and the date it hit. If a roofer has already inspected the roof, have their photos ready.
During the inspection
Most adjusters start on the ground, looking at gutters, downspouts, window screens, siding and the air conditioner for hail marks that confirm the storm reached the house. Then they get on the roof, if it is safe to walk, and mark test squares on each slope to count hail hits. On a steep or tall roof, some use a drone or a ladder-mounted camera.
They are also looking for reasons damage might not be covered: worn granules from age, blistering, poor installation, or damage from an earlier storm. That is where a roofer on site helps. A roofer who has already walked the roof can point out hits the adjuster has not reached, and discuss borderline areas on the spot, where a disagreement is easiest to settle.
After the inspection
The adjuster writes an estimate, usually in software called Xactimate, listing the work the carrier will pay for and the price for each item. You receive it with a first payment, which on an actual cash value policy has depreciation and your deductible subtracted.
Read the estimate against what the roof needs. If it leaves out a slope, the gutters, drip edge, or code-required items such as ice and water membrane in valleys, those can be raised with the carrier. Extra damage found once the old roof is off, such as rotten decking, is usually added later through a supplement.
If you disagree with the result, ask for a re-inspection, and read your policy for the appraisal process. Texas homeowners can also file a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance.
Related questions
Do I need to be home for the adjuster?
It helps. You can show them anything you noticed inside, such as a ceiling stain, and hear what they find.
Can my roofer be there?
Yes. Homeowners commonly have their roofer meet the adjuster, and it is a good way to make sure damage is not missed.
How long does the insurance payment take in Texas?
Texas prompt payment rules set deadlines for carriers to acknowledge, decide and pay claims, generally measured in days to weeks once they have what they need, though a large storm can stretch the process.
