What happens during an insurance adjuster's roof inspection?
Short answer. The adjuster usually starts on the ground photographing the house and collateral damage, then gets on the roof, or uses a ladder assist crew or drone, to measure, inspect each slope, and mark hail or wind damage with chalk. Many adjusters write the estimate afterward, so the visit itself rarely ends with a final number.
- Arrival and front photo. Most adjusters photograph the front of the house with the address visible to anchor the file.
- Ground walk. They circle the home and photograph gutters, downspouts, screens, siding, the AC unit, fences and anything else the storm could have hit. Dents in soft metals help confirm hail size and direction.
- Roof access. On walkable roofs the adjuster climbs. On steep roofs many insurers send a ladder assist company or use a drone.
- Measurements. The adjuster measures by hand or relies on an aerial measurement report, and records pitch, the number of layers, and features like valleys, hips and dormers.
- Slope by slope review. Test squares for hail, creased or missing shingles for wind, and damage to vents, pipe boots, flashing, skylights and ridge.
- Interior. If water came in, ceilings and walls get photographed and measured.
- Wrap up. The adjuster may share initial findings, then writes the estimate, often later.
Questions to ask before the adjuster leaves
- Which slopes did you test, and how many hits did you count on each?
- Are you recommending repair or replacement, and why?
- How many layers did you find, and did you note the drip edge and other code items?
- When will I receive the written estimate and photos?
The estimate will come in a standard format with line items, quantities and depreciation, and how to read an Xactimate roof estimate helps you check it. For the full list of what gets evaluated, see what roof adjusters look for, and get ready with the inspection prep guide.