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What to Do When Your Insurance Estimate Is Lower Than Your Contractor’s Quote
A Guide by S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC
If you’ve recently filed an insurance claim for roof damage, you might be shocked to see that your insurance estimate is much lower than the quote provided by your contractor. This can be frustrating, leaving you wondering who’s right and how to cover the cost difference.
At S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC, we’ve helped homeowners in Youngstown, Ohio navigate insurance claims and get the roofing repairs they need. As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, we specialize in roof replacements, storm damage repairs, and insurance claim assistance.
In this guide, we’ll explain why insurance estimates are often lower than contractor quotes, what to do if your claim is underpaid, and how to work with your insurer to ensure your roof gets properly repaired.
Why Is My Insurance Estimate Lower Than My Contractor’s Quote?
It’s common for homeowners to be surprised when their insurance company’s estimate doesn’t match the contractor’s bid. There are several reasons why this happens:
1. The Insurance Adjuster May Have Missed Damage
Insurance adjusters conduct a quick inspection and may overlook hidden damage that a contractor would catch during a thorough roof assessment.
✅ Adjusters work for the insurance company, not the homeowner.
✅ Their goal is to minimize the payout, not necessarily cover all damage.
✅ Contractors spend more time inspecting the roof and checking for hidden damage.
2. Insurance Uses Different Pricing Software
Most insurance companies use Xactimate or similar software to determine repair costs. These programs rely on average pricing for labor and materials, which may not reflect real-time costs in your area.
✅ Roofing material costs fluctuate due to inflation and supply chain issues.
✅ Contractors provide real-world pricing, including up-to-date labor and material costs.
✅ The insurance company’s pricing software may undervalue the actual work needed.
3. Adjusters May Apply “Depreciation” to Your Claim
Many insurance policies pay for roof repairs using Actual Cash Value (ACV) instead of Replacement Cost Value (RCV). This means they depreciate the value of your roof based on its age, lowering the payout.
✅ If your roof is over 10 years old, insurers may reduce your claim amount significantly.
✅ Contractors provide quotes based on full replacement costs, not depreciated values.
✅ If you have RCV coverage, you may be eligible for the depreciation amount after completing repairs.
4. The Insurance Estimate May Not Include Code Upgrades
If your roof needs to be updated to meet Ohio building codes, your insurance company may not include these costs in their estimate.
✅ If your policy doesn’t include Ordinance & Law coverage, you may have to pay out of pocket for upgrades.
✅ Contractors factor in code-compliant materials and installation, which may raise their quote.
✅ S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC ensures all work is up to code to protect your home.
What to Do If Your Insurance Estimate Is Too Low
If your insurance company’s estimate is significantly lower than your contractor’s quote, don’t panic. There are steps you can take to get a fair settlement:
1. Get a Detailed Estimate from Your Contractor
Your contractor should provide a detailed, itemized estimate that breaks down:
✔️ Cost of materials
✔️ Cost of labor
✔️ Any code upgrade requirements
✔️ Explanation of hidden damage found
At S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC, we provide comprehensive roof assessments with photos and documentation to support your claim.
2. Request a Supplement from Your Insurance Company
A supplement is an additional payment request when the initial insurance estimate is too low.
✔️ Your contractor submits documentation proving additional damage.
✔️ Insurance reviews the claim and may approve the extra cost.
✔️ The adjuster may conduct a second inspection.
3. Ask for a Reinspection
If the adjuster missed damage, you can request a reinspection. Your contractor can be present to ensure that:
✔️ All damage is documented properly.
✔️ The adjuster includes hidden damage in their report.
✔️ The insurance company pays for necessary repairs and replacements.
4. Provide Market-Based Pricing Evidence
If your insurer argues that your contractor’s estimate is too high, your contractor can provide proof of market pricing:
✔️ Local material supplier invoices showing current costs.
✔️ Quotes from other contractors in the area confirming pricing.
✔️ Documentation proving that labor costs have increased.
5. Check Your Policy for Additional Coverage
Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if you have:
✔️ Replacement Cost Coverage (RCV) – Ensures you get full value for your repairs.
✔️ Ordinance & Law Coverage – Covers building code upgrades.
✔️ Matching Coverage – Ensures shingles and materials match existing ones.
What If the Insurance Company Won’t Budge?
If your insurance company refuses to adjust your claim, you have options:
1. Use a Public Adjuster
Public adjusters work for homeowners, not insurance companies. They can:
✔️ Conduct an independent inspection.
✔️ Negotiate a higher payout on your behalf.
✔️ Ensure all damage is accounted for.
2. File a Formal Appeal
Most insurance companies allow appeals if you disagree with their estimate.
✔️ Submit a written appeal with contractor documentation.
✔️ Request a formal review of your claim.
✔️ Keep all correspondence in writing.
3. Seek Legal Advice
If your insurer is acting in bad faith, a lawyer specializing in insurance claims can help you fight for the coverage you deserve.
Why Choose S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC?
At S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners get the insurance coverage they need for roof repairs and replacements.
✅ Owens Corning Preferred Contractor – We use high-quality materials backed by warranties.
✅ Experienced in Insurance Claims – We work with adjusters to ensure fair payouts.
✅ Comprehensive Roof Inspections – We provide detailed reports and photo documentation.
✅ Local & Trusted in Youngstown, Ohio – We understand Ohio building codes and pricing.
Need Help with an Insurance Claim? Contact Us Today!
If your insurance estimate is lower than your contractor’s quote, don’t settle for less! Let S&K Construction And Remodeling LLC help you navigate the claims process and get the fair payout you deserve.
📞 Call us today for a FREE roof inspection!
🌐 Visit our website to schedule an appointment.
💡 We fight for YOU – not the insurance company. Let’s get your roof fixed the right way! 💡
