Why Your Carrier Estimate Is Incomplete
The average carrier Xactimate estimate is missing 6–12 line items. Not because the adjuster made a mistake — because the system is designed to write for visible damage, not code compliance.
Here are the 12 items most commonly missing from roofing insurance estimates.
1. Drip Edge (Eave Metal)
Code: IRC R905.2.8.5 Reason missed: Often omitted because it's not visible in aerial imagery Average value: $200–$600 depending on linear footage
Drip edge is required at eaves and rakes on new roof installations. Period.
2. Starter Strip Shingles
Reason missed: Adjusters sometimes fold it into field shingles Average value: $150–$400
Every major shingle manufacturer (GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed) requires starter strip as a separate material. Without it, the manufacturer warranty is void.
3. Ice and Water Shield
Code: IRC R905.1.2 (valleys); state-specific requirements vary Average value: $300–$1,200 depending on state and pitch
In cold climates, ice and water shield is required at eaves and valleys. In Florida, the secondary water barrier requirement adds additional coverage.
4. Ridge Cap Shingles
Reason missed: Carriers fold ridge cap into field shingle quantities Average value: $200–$500
Ridge cap is a separate product. You can't cut field shingles and call it done — not according to manufacturer installation requirements.
5. Overhead and Profit (O&P)
Industry standard: 10% overhead + 10% profit Average value: $800–$3,000+
O&P is the most argued line item in insurance claims. [Read the full O&P guide →](/blog/overhead-and-profit-roofing)
6. Permit Fees
Reason missed: Adjusters often exclude permit costs Average value: $150–$500 depending on jurisdiction
Every jurisdiction requires a permit for a roof replacement. This is a legitimate cost that belongs in the estimate.
7. Steep Slope Labor
Threshold: Typically kicks in at 7/12 pitch Average value: $300–$1,500
Steep slope work costs more. Xactimate has specific line items for steep slope charges at various pitch levels. If they're not in the estimate, they should be supplemented.
8. Pipe Boot Flashings
Reason missed: Not visible in aerial imagery Average value: $50–$200 per penetration
Every plumbing stack penetration needs a new pipe boot. On a typical house that's 2–5 items.
9. Detach and Reset Gutters
Reason missed: Adjusters often skip this if gutters aren't damaged Average value: $200–$600
If gutters must be removed to install drip edge correctly, that's a legitimate charge — even if the gutters themselves are not being replaced.
10. Chimney Flashing
Reason missed: Harder to document from aerial imagery Average value: $300–$800
Step flashing and counter flashing around chimneys must be replaced when the roof is replaced. Reusing old flashing with new shingles is not code-compliant.
11. Attic Ventilation Upgrades
Code: IRC R806 Average value: $400–$1,200
Some states and jurisdictions require upgraded ventilation ratios when a new roof is installed. This is a supplement opportunity in high-wind and high-humidity climates.
12. Low-Slope or Transition Areas
Reason missed: Flat areas often missed in slope-based aerial assessments Average value: Varies significantly
Any area below 2/12 pitch requires a different roofing system. If it's not in the carrier estimate, it needs to be supplemented.
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Find All 12 in Your Estimate Automatically
[EstimateDelta](/pricing) scans the carrier's Xactimate PDF for all 12 of these items and generates a supplement letter with code citations for every gap found.
[Analyze your estimate →](/pricing)