Do Roofers Need to Attend Homeowners Insurance Claim Adjustments?

In recent years, it has become a common question whether roofers need to be present during homeowners insurance claim adjustments. This article explores the necessity of their presence, the role of an insurance adjuster, and the benefits of having a roofer involved in the process.

Is It Necessary for Roofers to Attend?

Seemingly, it is not mandatory for roofers to attend insurance claim adjustments. However, it can be beneficial for several reasons. Some years ago, I requested roofers to attend when inspecting particularly high roofs to ensure the adjuster had safe access. While roofers can provide valuable insights, no official requirement exists for their presence.

Insurance Adjuster’s Role

Insurance adjusters act on behalf of the insurance carrier to evaluate the damage and assess the claim accurately. They gather evidence supporting a covered loss and present it to the carrier while maintaining a balanced view. Providing a "benefit of the doubt" helps ensure fair compensation. However, if the insured feels that someone is advocating for them, a roofer can play that role effectively.

The Benefits of Having a Roofer Present

When a roofer is present during the inspection and discussion, several advantages emerge. Together, they can walk the roof, address any observed damage, and ensure mutual agreement on the scope of repairs. This approach can avoid potential re-inspections, giving the insured peace of mind knowing the full extent of the damage was assessed comprehensively.

Diverse Roles of Roofers

Roofers fall into several categories: competent, ignorant, or deceptive. Competent roofers can significantly influence the outcome of the claim. For example, they can highlight damage that may borderline on whether it is covered, turning "not covered" into "should be covered." They can also advocate for full replacement over attempting repairs, as some damage might not fully reflect the pre-loss condition.

Addressing Ignorance and Deception

Ignorant roofers may learn from the experience and improve their practice, while deceptive ones face refutation. During the inspection, we can refute their claims and clarify all points in front of the insured. This ensures transparency and leaves no room for misunderstandings. Insureds can then make informed decisions based on the truth of the matter.

Conclusion

While not a legal requirement, the presence of a roofer during an insurance claim adjustment can be highly advantageous. They can provide critical insights, advocate for the insured's best interest, and ensure a comprehensive understanding of the damage. Ultimately, the insured should decide based on what they feel comfortable with and what best serves their needs.