How to Request a Reinspection on a Roof Claim (and When a Supplement Fits Better)
Kelvin Spratt
Founder, Supplement Snap · October 25, 2026 · Updated October 25, 2026
Key Takeaways
How to ask an insurer for a roof reinspection, what to prepare, and how a reinspection differs from a supplement. Processes vary by carrier and policy.
Preparing a supplement? Use the free checklist so nothing is missing when you submit.
The short answer
A reinspection is a second inspection of the roof by the insurance carrier, usually requested when the first inspection missed damage or the scope or measurements are disputed. A supplement is a request for additional payment for items found after work starts. They are different tools, and some claims use both. To request a reinspection, ask the adjuster or claims contact how the carrier handles it, send a short written request with your evidence, and offer times when the roof can be seen.
Disclosure: we make Supplement Snap, which helps roofing crews document damage found at tear-off and export a report. It does not decide coverage, negotiate claims or guarantee approval. This page is general guidance, not legal or claims advice.
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Roof damage report template
Job details, roof summary, numbered findings, recommendations, a photo index and a photo checklist.
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No email or sign-up needed. General guidance, not legal advice. Adjust it to your carrier's, client's and state's requirements.
Reinspection vs supplement
The table shows the difference. If damage was visible on the roof but not counted, a reinspection is usually the better fit. If the issue is something hidden that appeared during tear-off, such as soft decking, a supplement fits. See what a supplemental roofing estimate is and the supplement process.
| Feature | Reinspection | Supplement |
|---|---|---|
| When it fits | Damage that was visible but missed, disputed or measured differently | Damage found after work begins that could not be seen before |
| What you ask for | A second look at the roof by the carrier | Payment for the additional items you documented |
| What backs it up | Photos, measurements and notes showing the roof as it is | Photos, quantities and notes tied to each finding |
| Who usually starts it | The policyholder or contractor through the claim contact | The contractor, with the documentation |
Bring evidence to the reinspection.
Supplement Snap helps your crew capture photos, notes and measurements on the roof and export one PDF you can bring or send. Your first project is free.
When a reinspection makes sense
The adjuster did not inspect a slope, a structure or an area where you found damage
The counts or measurements in the estimate do not match what you measured
New damage appeared after the first inspection, such as a leak
The first estimate left out items that were visible before work started
If the roof has already been torn off, there may be little left to reinspect, which is why documenting before removal matters.
How to ask for one
Contact the adjuster or the carrier's claims contact and ask how to request a reinspection and whether the carrier allows the contractor to attend.
Send a short written request that includes the claim number, the address, what you believe was missed or measured differently, and the dates the roof can be seen.
Attach your evidence: dated photos with locations and scale, your measurements, and a roof diagram if you have one.
Keep a record of when you asked and what was said. Our <a href='/blog/roofing-supplement-follow-up-log'>follow-up log</a> is a simple format.
The homeowner is the policyholder, so check how the carrier wants to receive the request. See what contractors may and may not do on a claim.
Follow the carrier's process
Carriers handle reinspections differently, and the policyholder is the person with the claim. Ask the adjuster or claims contact how to request one, and put the request in writing.
What to prepare for the visit
Have the photos printed or on a tablet, a list of the specific items you want looked at, and the measurements. Walk the roof with the adjuster if allowed, point to each item, and stay factual. Our guides to documenting hail damage and how adjusters determine roof damage explain what they look for.
After the reinspection
Ask when you can expect a revised estimate and send a short thank-you that restates what was reviewed. If the carrier still disagrees, see what to do when a supplement is denied. Your policy may also describe other options, and a licensed professional can advise on them.
Where Supplement Snap fits
Supplement Snap helps your crew capture photos with a typed or voice note, tag each finding and roof area, and export a PDF you can bring to a reinspection or attach to an email. It does not request reinspections or decide coverage. Your first project is free. See the pricing page.
Frequently asked questions
What is a roof reinspection?
A second inspection of the roof by the insurance carrier, usually requested when the first inspection missed damage or the scope or measurements are disputed.
How do I request a reinspection on a roof claim?
Ask the adjuster or claims contact how the carrier handles it, then send a short written request with the claim number, what you believe was missed and your evidence. Processes vary by carrier.
What is the difference between a reinspection and a supplement?
A reinspection is a second look at the roof, usually for damage that was visible but missed. A supplement is a request for payment for additional items found after work starts.
Can a contractor request a reinspection?
Often the policyholder or the contractor can ask through the claim contact, but rules vary by carrier and state. Check how your carrier handles it and what contractors may do where you work.
What if the roof has already been torn off?
A reinspection may no longer be useful, so documentation taken before and during tear-off matters. A supplement may fit better for hidden items.
References & Resources
Free tools and resources
Ready to streamline your supplement process?
Supplement Snap helps your crew capture hidden damage during tear-off and generate adjuster-ready reports in minutes.
Written by
Kelvin Spratt
Founder, Supplement Snap
Kelvin builds software for roofing contractors who are tired of leaving supplement money on the table. His background in software development and insurance restoration workflows drives everything Supplement Snap does.