Underpaid Roof Insurance Claim: How to Check the Insurer's Number
By Nick Shank, licensed Tennessee public adjuster
Most underpaid roof claims aren't about one big mistake. They come from a dozen small ones: a missing slope, low waste, no drip edge, or a "repair" where the shingles can't be matched. Here's how to check the estimate yourself before you accept it.
Start with measurements
Compare the estimate's squares, ridge, hip, valley and eave lengths to an aerial measurement report or your roofer's numbers. A small difference in squares multiplies across every line item.
Look for the commonly missed items
Insurer estimates often leave out items a proper roof replacement needs.
- Starter course and ridge cap as separate items
- Drip edge, ice and water shield, and underlayment required by local code
- Pipe jacks, vents, flashing and step flashing
- Steep and high-roof charges
- Removal and disposal, permits, and a reasonable waste factor
- Gutters, screens and soft metals damaged by the same storm
Partial repairs and matching
If the insurer pays to replace only some slopes, ask whether the new shingles can reasonably match the old ones in color, size and profile. Tennessee has no general matching statute, so the answer turns on your policy wording, the insurer's own guidelines and evidence such as discontinued-product letters and photos.
Keep a sample shingle and get a written statement from a supplier if the product line is discontinued.
Depreciation and recoverable amounts
Many Tennessee policies pay actual cash value first and the withheld depreciation after repairs are complete. Note the deadline for completing repairs and submitting the invoice — missing it can forfeit that money.
Next steps
Send the insurer a written supplement request with your roofer's scope, photos and measurements. If the difference is large or the insurer won't move, a licensed public adjuster can prepare an independent estimate and negotiate it. Every policy is different. This guide is general information, not legal advice or a promise of coverage.
Common questions
- Is it normal for the first roof estimate to be low?
- First estimates are often missing items or measurements. Reviewing it line by line before accepting is reasonable.
- What is a supplement?
- A request for additional payment for items missed in the original estimate or discovered during repairs, backed by documentation.
- Can I cash the check and still dispute it?
- Often yes, but read any language on the check or release carefully first. If it says "final" or "full settlement", ask before signing.