What happens when an insurance adjuster comes to inspect my roof?
The adjuster checks the roof and the rest of the exterior for damage from the storm you reported, usually by looking at soft metals first, then counting hail hits on each roof slope and measuring the roof. They write a scope of loss that lists what the policy will pay to repair or replace. Having your roofer there means the damage gets looked at together, in person.
The adjuster starts on the ground
Gutters, downspouts, window screens and AC fins show hail clearly and help confirm that the storm reached the property. An adjuster usually walks the outside of the house before going up.
On the roof they look at vents, flashing and ridge caps, then mark test squares on each slope and count the hits inside them. They also take measurements so the scope can be priced.
Your roofer can be there
You are allowed to have your contractor present when the adjuster inspects. Walking the roof together means both people are looking at the same shingles, and a question about whether a mark is hail, wear or a blister gets answered while they are standing on it.
Texas law does not allow a contractor to negotiate your claim for you as a public adjuster would. What a roofer can do at the inspection is point out damage, share documentation and answer the adjuster’s questions about the roof.
The scope of loss comes afterwards
Within a few weeks the carrier sends a scope of loss, an itemized estimate of what it will pay, and usually a first check. Read it with your roofer. Missing items such as code-required drip edge, starter strip, decking or a second layer can be submitted as a supplement.
If the claim is denied or the scope looks too small, you can ask the carrier for a re-inspection.
Related questions
Do I need to be home for the adjuster?
It is a good idea, so you can hear what they find and ask questions. Your roofer can meet them on the roof.
Can the adjuster and my roofer disagree?
Yes, and that is the reason to have both there. Most disagreements are about whether specific marks are hail or wear, which is easier to settle in person.
