What is a supplement on a roof insurance claim?
A supplement is a request to your insurance company to cover work that was missed or underestimated in the adjuster’s original estimate. Supplements are a normal part of many roof insurance claims.
Why supplements happen
After a large storm, insurance adjusters inspect many properties in a short time. Some items are hard to see during that first inspection, and others only show up once the old roof is removed.
Insurance companies expect estimates to be updated when there is documentation to support the change.
Items that are commonly added
Extra layers of roofing. An estimate written for one layer of shingles may need to be updated if the roof has two.
Steep or high roofs. Roofs above a certain pitch or height take more equipment and labor, and those charges are sometimes left out.
Other structures. A detached garage, shed or patio cover may have been damaged by the same storm.
Code requirements. Local building codes may require items that the original roof did not have, and these may be covered under your policy.
How a supplement is filed
A supplement is supported with photos, measurements and a line-item estimate that can be compared with the adjuster’s original estimate.
Some supplements can only be filed after the old roof has been removed, such as when damaged decking is found during the tear-off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a supplement upset my insurance company?
No. Supplements are a normal part of the claim process, especially when they include clear documentation.
Does a supplement change my deductible?
No. Your deductible is set by your policy and does not change with a supplement.
How long does a supplement take?
It depends on the insurance company and how busy they are after a storm. Complete documentation helps the process move faster.
