What questions should you ask about an insurance roof replacement?
Short answer. Ask your insurer about your deductible, settlement terms, and deadlines; ask the adjuster what was approved and why; and ask your roofer what the estimate is missing, what you will owe, and what the warranty covers. Getting those answers in writing prevents most claim surprises.
Questions for your insurer or agent
- What is my deductible for wind and hail, and is it a flat amount or a percentage?
- Is my roof settled at replacement cost, actual cash value, or on a payment schedule?
- How long do I have to finish repairs and claim withheld depreciation?
- Do I have ordinance or law coverage for code upgrades?
- Will my mortgage company be on the check, and how do I get it endorsed?
Questions for the adjuster
- Which slopes and items did you approve, which did you not, and why?
- How many hits did you count in each test square?
- What age and life expectancy did you use for depreciation?
- Is overhead and profit included?
- How do I request a reinspection if we disagree? See reinspection requests.
Questions for your roofer
- What does the estimate leave out that the job requires, such as drip edge, starter, ice and water barrier, or steep charges?
- What exactly will I owe, and when?
- What happens if you find rotted decking?
- Who pulls the permit, and how long will the install take?
- What workmanship warranty do you give in writing, and which manufacturer warranty applies?
- Will you meet the adjuster, and how do you handle supplements?
Questions to ask yourself
- Do I want upgrades, and how will I pay for them?
- Does my HOA need to approve the color?
For background on the answers, see ACV versus RCV and reading the estimate.