A supplement is a request to add items to your insurance estimate that the first estimate missed or that only showed up once work began. On roof claims, supplements are normal. They're about getting the estimate to match the real job.
Why first estimates come up short
An adjuster often writes the first estimate after a single visit, sometimes on a busy day after a big storm. It's easy to miss items, and some things can't be seen until the old roof comes off. The first estimate is a starting point, not the final word.
Items that are commonly missed
- Drip edge, starter strip and ridge cap, which are separate materials from the main shingles
- Ice and water barrier, where local building code requires it
- Flashing around chimneys, walls, skylights and vents
- Roof vents, pipe jacks and exhaust caps damaged by hail
- Steep or high roof charges for roofs that need extra safety equipment
- Extra layers of old shingles that have to be torn off
- Damaged decking found during tear-off
- Waste that's too low for the roof's shape. Roofs with many hips and valleys need more extra material.
- Gutters, downspouts, window screens and siding damaged by the same storm
- Permits and code upgrades required by your city
How a supplement works
- Your roofer documents the missing items with photos, measurements and the code requirement where one applies.
- The supplement is sent to your insurance company as added line items, usually in the same estimating format insurers use.
- The insurer reviews it. It may approve it, ask for more information or send someone to look again.
- If approved, you get a revised estimate and an updated payment.
Colorado law allows a roofing contractor with a signed contract to discuss the scope of the roofing work with your insurance company. Roofers can't act as public adjusters, so you stay in charge of your claim. Keep copies of every estimate and letter you receive.
What you can do
- Ask for a copy of the full estimate with every line item, not just the summary page.
- Compare it with your roofer's measurements and photos.
- Don't assume a low first estimate is final.
- Answer your insurer's requests for information quickly.
This guide is general information for Colorado homeowners, not legal advice. Your policy's wording controls your coverage, so read it or ask your agent about your specific situation.