Most Common Items Missing from Insurance Roof Estimates

All existing layers of roof coverings must be removed where any existing flashing is damaged or deteriorated, or where two or more applications of roof covering exist. Many insurance estimates only include an overlay, ignoring the labor and dumpster costs for full tear-off.

Underlayment is required beneath all asphalt shingle roof coverings. Insurance estimates frequently omit this entirely or include only 15 lb felt when the contractor scope calls for synthetic.

A drip edge is mandatory at all eaves and gables of shingle roofs. It must extend minimum 0.25 inches below sheathing and 2 inches back on the roof. This is one of the most commonly omitted items despite being code-required.

In areas where the average daily temperature in January is 25°F or less, an ice barrier is required extending from the eave edge to 24 inches inside the exterior wall line. Many adjusters skip this in cold climate states.

Starter strips are required at all eave and rake edges per manufacturer installation instructions. Failure to install starter strips voids the manufacturer warranty. Often omitted because adjusters assume it is included in the shingle cost.

Manufacturer specifications require purpose-built hip and ridge cap shingles. Cut-from-field shingles are not acceptable for most manufacturer warranties. Insurance estimates often price this as field-cut, saving on material cost but voiding the warranty.

Flashings are required at wall and roof intersections, changes in slope or direction, and around roof openings. Must be corrosion-resistant metal of minimum 0.019-inch thickness. Insurance estimates frequently reuse existing flashing, which may not meet code.

All roof penetrations including plumbing vents, exhaust vents, and conduit require new flashing boots during re-roof. Reusing old pipe boots risks leaks and does not meet standard installation practices.

Enclosed attics require cross ventilation with a minimum net free ventilating area of 1/150 of the vented space. If existing ventilation does not meet code, it must be addressed during re-roof. Commonly excluded from insurance estimates.

Waste removal and debris disposal are necessary components of every roof replacement. Some insurance estimates include only a nominal disposal fee that does not cover actual dumpster rental and landfill tipping fees.

Building permits are required for roof replacement in most jurisdictions. Permit fees are a legitimate project cost that insurance should cover. Many initial estimates omit this entirely.

Where gutters must be removed for roof replacement, re-installation or replacement costs should be included. Many jurisdictions require gutter and downspout systems to direct water away from foundations.