Meeting the Insurance Adjuster on the Roof: What to Bring and Do

An adjuster visit is a chance to show the roof as you found it. Arrive early, bring organized photos and measurements, be polite and take notes. Avoid arguing coverage. Your job is to make the condition of the roof clear. The homeowner is the policyholder, and in many states rules limit what a contractor may do on a claim.

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.

The table lists the basics. Add a ladder or access plan so the adjuster can see the roof safely, and have the homeowner's permission for you to be there.

Walk the roof the way you would for your own estimate. Point out each area of concern, show photos taken before the visit, and let the adjuster look for themselves. Keep your comments factual.

Write the date, the adjuster's name and company, who was present, and what was inspected. Note any item the adjuster agrees to include or declines, in their words. Send a short written summary afterward.

A calm, helpful visit helps everyone. If you disagree about something, record it and follow up in writing with documentation rather than arguing on the roof. Policy wording, state rules and carrier practice vary, so confirm the details for your job.

Compare the carrier's estimate to your scope when it arrives. If items are missing, document them and send a supplement or a reinspection request.

The day before: confirm the time with the homeowner and adjuster, charge your phone and tablet, print or load your photos and measurements, and check the weather. On the day: arrive early, walk the roof yourself first, and make a short list of the items you want the adjuster to see. After: send a thank-you and a summary within a day.

Say what you see and where, such as the decking at this corner is soft and the chimney flashing has separated. Avoid saying what the carrier must pay, who is at fault or what the policy covers. If asked a coverage question, say that is a question for the homeowner and the carrier. Rules about what contractors may say vary by state.

Provide a ladder the adjuster can use safely, or offer to take photos of areas the adjuster cannot reach. Adjusters have their own safety policies, and some use drones or limit roof access. Do not pressure anyone to climb.

A short email works: thank you for meeting today, here is a summary of the areas we discussed, attached are the photos taken that day, and please let me know if you need anything else. Keep it factual and keep a copy.