There's a particular helpless feeling that comes with the adjuster's visit. This one person, up on your roof for twenty minutes, is going to decide what your insurance pays — and you're not a roofer, you can't see what they're seeing, and you have no way to know if they caught everything or missed half of it. It can feel like the outcome of a five-figure decision is entirely out of your hands.
It doesn't have to be. You can't control the adjuster, but you can control how prepared you are — and preparation is most of the game. Here's how to make sure your assessment is complete and fair.
First, understand who the adjuster works for
This isn't cynical, just important: a company adjuster is paid by the insurance company, not by you. Plenty are fair, professional people. But their job is to assess damage and apply your policy on the insurer's behalf — which means the completeness of that assessment can depend a lot on what's pointed out to them and what's documented. That's not a reason for suspicion; it's a reason to come prepared.
How to prepare for the visit
Before and during the adjuster meeting
- Have your own inspection and documentation ready — photos, dates, and a roofer's assessment of the damage
- Be present for the visit, and stay professional and factual, not emotional
- Have your roofer meet the adjuster on site — this is the single biggest thing you can do
- Make note of what's discussed and what the adjuster does and doesn't look at
- Don't feel rushed to agree to anything on the spot — you can review the estimate afterward
Why your roofer meeting the adjuster matters so much
Here's the move that changes outcomes. When a roofing professional is on the roof alongside the adjuster, someone who does this every week is there to point out the wind-creased shingles, the damaged flashing, the code-required items a Maine roof needs, and the damage that's easy to miss from a quick look. It's not about pressure or conflict — it's about making sure the assessment reflects the real scope of the work. Two sets of trained eyes catch what one set in a hurry can miss.
Don't let your roof be walked alone.
We meet adjusters on Maine rooftops all the time. Have us document your damage first and stand with you at the assessment, so nothing legitimate gets overlooked. Free inspection to start.
If the assessment comes back short
Sometimes the first estimate misses things — it happens, even with fair adjusters, especially on a fast inspection. You're not stuck with it. Review the settlement against your roofer's assessment, and if items were overlooked or underpriced, your roofer can submit a supplement: documentation asking the insurer to reconsider specific items. Legitimate missed damage and code-required work are exactly what supplements are for. If things still aren't right, homeowners can bring in a public adjuster or contact the Maine Bureau of Insurance.
Keep it professional — it works better
One honest tip from 25 years of these meetings: calm, factual, and documented beats loud and frustrated every time. Adjusters respond to evidence. A homeowner with clear photos and a knowledgeable roofer making a reasonable case gets a fair hearing far more reliably than one who comes in hot. Let the documentation do the arguing.
"Having them there when the adjuster came made all the difference. They pointed out damage we'd never have caught, and the assessment came back fair. We felt like we finally had someone in our corner."
Frequently asked questions
What does an insurance adjuster do?
They inspect your damage on the insurer's behalf and estimate what the company will pay, applying your policy's terms. Because they represent the insurer, it helps to be prepared with documentation and a roofer present.
Can my roofer meet the adjuster?
Yes — and it's one of the smartest things you can do. A roofing pro on site points out legitimate damage and code items so the assessment reflects the true scope.
What if the adjuster misses damage or underpays?
Request a re-inspection and submit a supplement with documentation for missed or underpriced items. A reputable roofer can identify them, and you can escalate to a public adjuster or the state insurance bureau if needed.
Should I accept the first estimate?
Not automatically. Review it against your roofer's assessment. If it's fair, proceed; if items are missing, a supplement can correct it before work begins.
Is the adjuster on my side?
A company adjuster works for the insurer, not you. Many are fair, but that's why preparation, documentation, and your own roofing expert help ensure a complete, fair assessment.
This article is general guidance, not insurance or legal advice. Every claim is different — follow your policy's terms and consult your insurer, a licensed public adjuster, or the Maine Bureau of Insurance for your specific situation.