Common Roofing Terms Explained for Homeowners

Filing a Claim – Notifying your insurance company that your roof has damage.

Adjuster Appointment – A scheduled inspection by your insurance company’s adjuster.

Appeal – A request for the insurance company to review a denied or underpaid claim.

Estimate – A written calculation of the cost to repair or replace a roof.

Insurance Authorization Form – A document allowing your roofer to speak with your insurer.

Depreciation – The loss of value as your roof ages.

Recoverable Depreciation – Funds you get back after the work is completed.

Non-Recoverable Depreciation – Value of your roof that the insurance company will not reimburse.

Supplement – An added request for insurance money if hidden damage is found.

Scope of Loss – Insurance report describing approved repair work.

Like-Kind-and-Quality (LKQ) – Replacement materials must match what’s already installed.

Public Adjuster – Licensed professional representing the homeowner in a claim.

ACV (Actual Cash Value) – Roof’s value minus depreciation.

RCV (Replacement Cost Value) – The full cost to replace your roof.

Deductible – The out-of-pocket cost you pay before insurance covers the rest.

Acts of God – Policy term for natural events (hail, wind, tornadoes).

Endorsement – A change or add-on to your insurance coverage.

Exclusion – Specific types of damage your policy won’t cover.

Arbitration – Third-party review when there’s a dispute with insurance.

Umbrella Policy – Additional insurance coverage beyond standard limits.