Supplement Claims Explained: How to Get Paid for What Your Adjuster Missed

What Adjusters Commonly Miss on Texas Roof Claims

Adjusters use Xactimate software to generate line-item estimates. The software has hundreds of line items and the adjuster selects which ones apply. Items that get missed most frequently on DFW residential claims: drip edge metal (required by code on all eaves and rakes), ice and water shield at eaves and penetrations (required by code in climate zone 3), starter strip shingles (manufacturer requirement to maintain warranty), proper ventilation upgrades when existing ventilation was substandard, pipe boot replacement at penetrations, and haul-off and disposal fees at current market rates. On larger jobs, overhead and profit for general contractors managing the project also gets missed. None of these are manufactured items — they're either code requirements or manufacturer requirements for the warranty you're paying for.

How the Supplement Process Works

When JRH reviews an adjuster's estimate and identifies missing items, we prepare a supplement document that lists each item, the quantity required, the Xactimate price code, and the code or manufacturer reference requiring it. We submit this to the insurance carrier's supplement desk — most carriers have a dedicated department. The carrier reviews, sometimes requests additional documentation or photos, and either approves, partially approves, or denies the supplement. Most code-required items get approved. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks. We don't start the job until the supplement is resolved so you know exactly what the coverage will be before we order materials.

ACV vs RCV: The Other Piece Homeowners Miss

Many homeowners don't realize their policy pays in two stages. The first check is ACV — Actual Cash Value — which is replacement cost minus depreciation. If your roof is 10 years old and the full replacement value is $20,000, the ACV check might be $12,000. The remaining $8,000 (the recoverable depreciation) is released when you complete and document the work. If you don't complete the replacement or don't submit the completion paperwork, you never get the second check. JRH helps homeowners understand this process and submits the completion documentation to recover the held depreciation. It's your money — you paid for that coverage.

What We Can and Can't Do for You

JRH documents and supplements for all items within our roofing scope — this is standard contractor practice, not acting as a claims adjuster. What we can't do in Texas without a public adjuster license: act as your representative on non-roofing portions of the claim, negotiate broader policy interpretation questions, or charge a percentage of the settlement. If your claim involves more complex advocacy — disputes about coverage interpretation, claims that were denied entirely, or claims involving interior damage beyond the roof — a licensed public adjuster is the right resource. We can refer you to trusted public adjusters in DFW. Call us at (469) 888-6903and we'll start by reviewing your adjuster's estimate and telling you honestly what we see.