Can I record the adjuster inspection?

In most states yes, but disclose it. Two-party consent states (CA, FL, MD, MA, WA, and others) require the adjuster's verbal consent on the recording.

What if the adjuster and my roofer disagree?

Your roofer files a supplement with photos. If that fails, invoke the appraisal clause in your policy — a binding process that avoids court.

Insurance Adjuster Roof Inspection: The Homeowner's Checklist

The adjuster's on-site inspection determines your entire payout. Everything before is prep; everything after is arguing over what happened on the roof that day.

Use this checklist to walk in prepared and leave with a scope of loss that reflects the actual damage.

Before the visit

Have your roofer confirm they'll be on-site. Do not accept 'I'll email you my estimate later.' They need to be on the roof with the adjuster.

Print your photo log, the NOAA storm report, and any prior maintenance receipts (roof cleaning, prior repairs). These pre-empt the 'wear and tear' argument.

What to bring on the day

Your policy declarations page.

Your roofer's written inspection report.

Photos of debris in the yard, dented gutters, and any interior water stains.

A notebook. Write down the adjuster's name, license number, and every measurement they call out.

Watch for these tactics

Chalk-only test squares. If the adjuster marks a 10x10 square and finds fewer than 8 hail hits, they'll call the slope 'not damaged.' Your roofer should insist on multiple squares and full-slope evaluation.

'Cosmetic only' calls on metal or tile roofs. Most 2026 policies exclude cosmetic hail damage — dispute this only if the dents affect the paint system integrity.

Missing accessories on the estimate. Starter strip, ridge cap, ice-and-water shield, drip edge, and pipe boots should be line items.

Questions to ask before they leave

'Are you approving full replacement or repair?'

'Which slopes are you including in the scope?'

'Are you writing in code-upgrade items? My city requires ice-and-water shield to the wall line.'

'When will I receive the scope of loss in writing?'

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I record the adjuster inspection?: In most states yes, but disclose it. Two-party consent states (CA, FL, MD, MA, WA, and others) require the adjuster's verbal consent on the recording.
What if the adjuster and my roofer disagree?: Your roofer files a supplement with photos. If that fails, invoke the appraisal clause in your policy — a binding process that avoids court.