Why supplements exist
Insurance adjusters write initial scopes based on a single visual inspection — often photo-only or a brief on-site walk. Storm damage to roofs has features the initial inspection rarely captures fully:
- Code-required upgrades (current code may exceed when the original was built).
- Hidden damage under intact shingles, discovered during tear-off.
- Additional layers requiring removal that weren't visible from above.
- Complex flashings around chimneys, walls, skylights.
- Soft sheathing requiring replacement when crew gets to it.
Supplements bring these items into the carrier's payable scope after the work begins or completes.
Common supplement categories
- Code-required ice-and-water shield in valleys + 6 ft past the eave (cold climates).
- Drip edge at eaves + rakes (code in most jurisdictions).
- Ridge ventilation upgrade to code requirements.
- Double-layer tear-off when discovered.
- Damaged sheathing replacement per square footage uncovered.
- Chimney + skylight + wall flashings replacement (often missed in photo-only initial scopes).
- Damaged skylights themselves if hail-cracked.
- Gutter + downspout repair where storm-damaged.
Why supplement-writing competence drives roofing margin
Initial claim scopes routinely miss 15-40% of what the actual install requires. A roofer who can't write supplements eats that gap from labor + materials — the homeowner can't pay the difference (their deductible is fixed) so the contractor absorbs it.
A roofer who writes supplements well recovers the missed scope through additional carrier payments. The supplement gets approved, the carrier issues an additional check, and the install math works.
This is why insurance roofing margins (30-45% gross) exceed retail roofing margins (20-30%) — competent supplements unlock margin retail roofers can't capture.
The supplement workflow
- Initial inspection + adjuster meeting — adjuster writes initial scope in Xactimate.
- Contractor reviews scope against the actual work needed. Identifies gaps.
- Tear-off + initial install — additional gaps surface (sheathing, hidden damage).
- Contractor writes supplement in Xactimate for all missed items.
- Supplement submitted to carrier with photo documentation + code citations.
- Carrier approves supplement (typically 1-3 weeks).
- Additional payment issued via supplement check.
Generate the storm leads. Roof Launch + your supplement skill = high-margin work.
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