How to read an adjuster's roof estimate

The parts of the estimate

1. Measurements. Roof area in squares (100 square feet each), pitch, and lengths of ridges, hips, valleys, eaves and rakes. Check the pitch and the number of stories; both change labor.
2. Waste. Shingles cut at hips and valleys are thrown away, so estimates add a waste percentage. A roof with many hips and valleys needs more than a simple gable.
3. Tear-off per square, and per layer if there is more than one.
4. Shingles, starter strip, and ridge cap, which are often separate lines.
5. Underlayment, ice and water barrier, and drip edge.
6. Flashing: step flashing, counterflashing, chimney flashing, pipe boots.
7. Vents: ridge vent, box vents, turbines, exhaust caps.
8. Gutters and other exterior items damaged in the same storm.
9. Overhead and profit, when a general contractor is needed to coordinate several trades.
10. Totals: replacement cost, minus depreciation and the deductible, which leaves the net payment. ACV vs RCV.

Common gaps to ask about

• Drip edge or starter strip missing.
• Only one layer of tear-off when the roof has two.
• Pipe boots, vents or flashing marked "reset" when they need replacing.
• No decking line, even as an allowance.
• Gutters or soft metals damaged but not listed.

Anything the current code requires for the replacement may matter too. Oklahoma's adopted residential code (IRC 2018, section R908.3.1.1) does not allow a new layer of asphalt shingles over an existing asphalt shingle roof, or a re-cover over two or more existing layers.

Comparing it with the roofer's quote

Lay the two side by side, line by line. A roofer can point out items the roof needs that the estimate missed and send that documentation for you to submit. In a 2010 bulletin, the Oklahoma Insurance Department said a roofer must be licensed as a public adjuster to negotiate your claim or act as a go-between with your insurer. A roofer may give you an estimate to submit and may be present when the adjuster inspects.

If the claim is denied after you signed with a roofer: If your roofing contract will be paid from an insurance claim, you may cancel it within 72 hours after you receive written notice from your insurer that all or part of the claim was denied (59 O.S. 1151.21).