What Insurance Adjusters Often Miss on Roof Claims (And How to Get It Corrected)

Insurance adjusters commonly miss kick-out flashing, code-required upgrades, and general contractor overhead & profit (GC O&P) on initial roof claim estimates. These omissions can cost homeowners thousands of dollars in coverage they’re actually entitled to—but they can often be corrected through a supplement.

WHY INITIAL ESTIMATES COME IN LOW

Carrier estimates are often generated quickly using standardized software during a single site visit. That process is designed for speed, not precision, which means it regularly overlooks details that a roofing specialist would identify during a more thorough inspection.

THE MOST COMMONLY MISSED LINE ITEMS

Many homeowners assume the first insurance estimate is complete, but important items are frequently omitted, including:

  1. Kick-out flashing — A code-required component that redirects water away from siding at roof-to-wall intersections.
  2. General Contractor Overhead & Profit (GC O&P) — Commonly required on complex claims but often excluded from the initial estimate.
  3. Code-required upgrades — Building code requirements that may not have existed when the original roof was installed.
  4. Ice and water shield activation — Additional protection that may qualify based on the roof’s condition but isn’t always included in the first scope.
WHAT IS A SUPPLEMENT, AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

A supplement is a formal request submitted to your insurance carrier asking them to revise their estimate based on documented items that were missed during the initial inspection.

At EB Custom Exteriors, we review carrier estimates line by line, identify missing items, and submit supplement requests with the documentation needed to support them.

DO I NEED A PUBLIC ADJUSTER TO GET A FAIR SETTLEMENT?

Not necessarily. A contractor experienced in supplement work can identify and document many of the commonly missed items directly with your insurance carrier.

This varies by insurance carrier.

Typical processing time: [X days/weeks]

Often yes, especially when the damage is tied to the same wind or hail event as roof damage. We can document and include it in your claim.

If your insurance company’s roof estimate feels low, EB Custom Exteriors can review it and identify what may be missing. Contact us for a free scope review.

Written by the EB Custom Exteriors team — MHIC-licensed contractor (#146150) serving Laurel, Glenarden, and the greater Maryland/DC area, specializing in residential roofing, siding, and insurance-funded storm damage claims.