When Your Insurance Adjuster and Roofer Disagree
Your adjuster says repair. Your roofer says replace. You're stuck in the middle with a damaged roof and a claim that isn't moving. Burchfield Roofing helps St. Augustine homeowners navigate these disputes — and we attend your insurance inspection at no cost.
Call 904-829-7782After a Florida storm, one of the most frustrating moments a homeowner can face is the phone call after the adjuster leaves: the claim is being denied, partially covered, or approved only for a repair when a roofing professional can clearly see replacement is warranted. You are not imagining the gap. Insurance adjusters and independent roofing contractors often reach different conclusions about the same roof — and when they do, your policy, your property, and your peace of mind are on the line.
At Burchfield Roofing Services, we've worked with St. Augustine homeowners for more than 30 years. We've sat in on hundreds of adjuster inspections, documented damage the first walkthrough missed, and helped homeowners get claims reopened when the initial determination didn't match what was on the roof.
Why Adjusters and Roofers Often See Things Differently
A disagreement doesn't mean anyone is lying. It usually means two professionals are looking at the same roof through very different lenses.
Different Training
An insurance adjuster is a generalist trained to assess many types of property claims. A roofing contractor spends every day on roofs and can identify damage, code issues, and failure patterns that aren't always obvious from a brief inspection.
Different Incentives
Adjusters work for the insurance carrier. Their job is to evaluate the claim against policy language — not to advocate for the homeowner. A roofer you hire works for you.
Limited Inspection Time
Adjusters often have dozens of claims in a rotation, especially after a storm. An inspection may last 20 minutes. Hidden damage, lifted shingles, and wind-compromised areas can easily be missed without a closer look.
Policy Interpretation
Two people can read the same policy differently. Questions about "wear and tear" versus storm damage, matching requirements, or code upgrades are frequent sources of disagreement — and they often favor the carrier until someone pushes back with documentation.
You Shouldn't Face the Adjuster Alone
Most homeowners meet their insurance adjuster alone, without anyone in their corner who understands roofing or the claims process. That's the moment disputes get decided — and it's the moment you have the most to gain from having experienced professionals at your side.
Burchfield Roofing has built its insurance-claim process around this exact gap.
What to Do When You Disagree With Your Adjuster's Decision
If the adjuster's report doesn't match what you've been told by a qualified roofer, you have options — but they're time-sensitive. Here's how to protect your claim.
Don't Sign or Accept the Settlement Yet
Accepting an initial offer can limit your ability to dispute the claim later. Review everything carefully before agreeing.
Get an Independent Roof Inspection
A licensed roofing contractor should walk the roof, document damage with photos, and provide a written scope of work.
Document Everything
Photos, dates, carrier correspondence, and the adjuster's written report. Keep a running file — you'll need it if the claim escalates.
Request a Re-Inspection With Your Roofer
You have the right to ask for another walkthrough. Having your roofer on the roof during this inspection is often the single most effective step.
Consider a Licensed Public Adjuster
A public adjuster is licensed by the state and works for the homeowner, not the insurer. For larger claims, this can significantly change the outcome.
Know Your Florida Deadlines
Florida law gives homeowners a limited window to file and dispute roof claims. Don't wait — act while the evidence and your options are still fresh.
Common Roof Claim Disputes We See
After 30+ years of working with St. Augustine homeowners and carriers, certain disagreements come up again and again. If any of these match your situation, you're not alone.
"Wear and Tear" vs. Storm Damage
Carriers sometimes attribute storm damage to normal aging to reduce payouts. A qualified roofer can distinguish wind-lifted shingles from natural wear.
Partial Repair vs. Full Replacement
An adjuster may approve replacing a few damaged shingles when matching, underlayment, or code issues actually require a full replacement.
Matching Shingle Disputes
Florida has specific rules about matching materials. When discontinued shingles can't be matched, a partial repair may not be compliant — a point carriers don't always raise.
Hidden or Underlayment Damage
Water infiltration, damaged decking, and compromised underlayment often aren't visible from a surface inspection but change the scope of work entirely.
Wind Uplift and Seal Failure
Shingles that look fine can have broken seals from high winds. This type of damage shortens roof life but is frequently missed in initial inspections.
Code Upgrade Coverage
Florida Building Code has evolved. If your roof needs upgrades to meet current code, Ordinance or Law coverage may apply — but only if it's properly invoked.
Florida-Specific Considerations
Florida has some of the most specific roofing claim rules in the country. St. Augustine homeowners should understand a few key points before disputing a claim.
Florida's Claim Filing Deadline
Florida law sets strict deadlines for filing and reopening property damage claims from a hurricane or windstorm event. Missing these deadlines can bar the claim entirely. Don't wait to get a second opinion.
Matching Statute
Florida rules address what happens when damaged roofing materials can't be matched with the existing roof. This can affect whether a partial repair is acceptable or whether full replacement is required.
Wind Mitigation Credits
A proper wind mitigation inspection can reduce your homeowner's insurance premium and impact how claims are evaluated. We document wind-related features during every inspection.
Florida Building Code Compliance
St. Johns County roofing work must meet current FBC requirements for wind uplift, underlayment, and secondary water barriers. Replacement scopes that ignore code upgrades often fall short.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Burchfield Roofing charge to attend my adjuster's inspection?
No. A Burchfield representative will meet your insurance adjuster at your home at no cost to you. We believe homeowners shouldn't face the adjuster alone, and attending inspections is part of how we advocate for fair outcomes.
What if my adjuster has already denied the claim?
A denial isn't the end of the road. You can request a re-inspection, submit additional documentation, or involve a licensed public adjuster. We've helped St. Augustine homeowners reopen claims successfully after initial denials.
Can I get a second opinion from a roofer?
Yes — and you should. Florida homeowners have every right to obtain an independent inspection and written estimate from a licensed contractor. Burchfield Roofing provides free roof inspections for homeowners dealing with a disputed claim.
What is a public adjuster, and how are they different from my insurance adjuster?
An insurance adjuster works for the carrier. A public adjuster is licensed by the state of Florida to represent the homeowner during a claim. Public adjusters typically work on a percentage of the settlement and can be especially valuable on larger disputes.
How long do I have to dispute a roof insurance decision in Florida?
Florida law sets specific deadlines depending on the type of event and the claim status. Because these windows can be short and complex, we recommend acting quickly and consulting both a licensed roofer and, if warranted, an attorney or public adjuster familiar with Florida property claims.
Does Burchfield Roofing provide written reports I can submit to my insurance company?
Yes. We provide detailed written reports with photos, damage notes, and scope-of-work documentation that can be submitted directly to your carrier or public adjuster to support your claim.
Get a Free Roof Inspection — And Someone in Your Corner
If you're dealing with an adjuster decision that doesn't feel right, don't face it alone. Burchfield Roofing provides free inspections and will meet your adjuster on your roof at no charge. Let's make sure your claim is handled the way it should be.
Call 904-829-7782