What Happens When Your Roofing Contractor and Insurance Adjuster Don’t Agree

We value insurance carriers and adjusters. We need them as much as they need roofing companies. And for the most part, we usually all work well together. We can both agree on what needs to be replaced and how much things will cost.

However, there are times when we don’t see eye-to-eye. So what happens?

Step 1: Request a Second Inspection

As a roofing contractor, there have been a handful of instances where our interpretation of the homeowner’s damage strongly went against that of the adjusters. Even though they’re required to treat the policyholder’s interest with equal regard as their own, this doesn’t always happen.

Our first step is to recommend the homeowner request for a second inspection. Insurance companies are legally obligated to adhere to your request of a second adjuster without any recourse (increasing you premiums, etc.) And while you can request for a different person, the insurance carrier does not have to fulfill that request.

Step 2: Hire Independent Adjuster

If during the second inspection, the property assessment matches that of the roofing contractor then we proceed with the claim and get everything repaired.

Otherwise, if there still isn’t a consensus between the roofing contractor and insurance company then you can hire an independent, public adjuster to represent you. At Mutual Roofing, we will only push for you to take this step if we feel confidently that your property damages warrant a claim. You’ll need to realize that the insurance carrier will also do the same.

Side Note: Sometimes your roofing contractor will pay for a third party adjuster. Other times the homeowners foots the bill.

Step 3: Duel in Court

If the independent adjuster can make a case for a new roof and your insurance carrier approves, life is good. However, if there continues to be a disagreement then it will go to court.

Much like a court case, this really becomes a duel between two adjusters and who can bring the most valid evidence to support their point-of-view. In the end, a judge will determine the ultimate outcome and dish out the verdict. We’ve rarely heard or seen it come to this point.

Summary

Mutual Roofing is the roofing contractor that works on your behalf. We maintain a business relationship with several independent adjusters so we can make recommendations when needed. While this situation doesn’t happen often, we are always prepared to work with you if it does. As stated before, we have a great relationship with most insurance companies and adjusters in Omaha and we would prefer to keep it that way.

Call us at (402) 889-3381 if you need a FREE roof inspection!