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    Estimate Templates · Roofing

    Insurance Roofing Estimate Template

    The insurance roofing estimate template — Xactimate line codes, RCV/ACV structure, and the documentation adjusters approve without pushback.

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    Your Company Name

    License #

    Estimate

    #0001

    Bill To / For

    Client Name

    Property Address

    DescriptionQtyPriceTotal
    RFG 300 — Tear-off architectural shingles27.5$68$1,870
    RFG UNDLAY — Synthetic underlayment27.5$42$1,155
    RFG IWS — Ice & water shield6.5$108$702
    RFG ARCH — Architectural shingles27.5$275$7,562.5
    RFG RIDGC — Ridge cap88$7.5$660
    RFG VENT — Ridge vent42$11$462
    RFG DRIP — Drip edge (code)210$3.2$672
    Subtotal$13,083.5
    Balance Due$13,083.5

    What is a insurance roofing estimate template?

    An insurance roofing estimate is a scope-and-price document formatted to match a carrier's Xactimate estimate. It uses Xactimate line codes, presents RCV and ACV separately, and includes photo documentation for every line item that isn't obvious from the roof itself.

    When to use

    • Any insurance claim inspection where the carrier hasn't yet issued their estimate
    • Rebuttal to a carrier's low estimate — supplement documentation
    • Second-opinion inspections for homeowners with a pending claim
    • Reference document for supplement submissions during the job

    What's included

    • Claim + policy details
    • Xactimate line items with codes
    • RCV / depreciation / ACV breakdown
    • Photo section for each damage type (hail hits per test square, wind lift, missing shingles)
    • Test square documentation (10x10 with damage count)
    • Code items (drip edge, ice & water where required)
    • Supplement candidates already flagged

    How it differs from generic

    • Xactimate line codes preloaded
    • Test square photo template for hail claims
    • Code upgrade line items surfaced (drip edge, ice & water)
    • Formatted for adjuster review, not homeowner sales

    Insurance estimate vs insurance invoice

    The estimate is the pre-work scope-and-price document. The invoice is the post-work billing document. They should match line for line — if they don't, the carrier will kick back the invoice and payment stalls another month.

    The estimate is also your negotiation tool. Every supplement you'll file later needs to be prefigured in the estimate: rotten decking allowance, code upgrades, ventilation improvements. If it's not on your estimate and not in the carrier's, it's harder to add later.

    The test square methodology

    For hail claims, adjusters count hail hits inside a 10x10 test square on each roof slope. Eight or more hits per square typically triggers a full replacement approval under most carriers' guidelines.

    Include test square photos on your estimate, with the hit count and the slope marked. Do this for every slope, not just the worst one. Adjusters are trained to look for this and it dramatically speeds approval.

    Code upgrade line items adjusters approve

    Every state has code requirements that apply to any roof replacement — even on an existing home. Common ones: drip edge on eaves and rakes, ice & water shield to the interior wall line in cold climates, minimum ventilation area (1:150 or 1:300), synthetic underlayment on steep pitches.

    Bill these separately as code items, not lumped into general scope. Carriers pay for code compliance without pushback when they're documented as code items.

    Legal & compliance notes

    • Never guarantee coverage or claim approval — that's the carrier's decision.
    • Some states require a contractor to be a licensed public adjuster to negotiate claims. Know your state.
    • Never rebate or waive the homeowner's deductible.

    These templates are provided for informational purposes and are not a substitute for legal advice from a licensed attorney in your state.

    Frequently asked questions

    Do I need Xactimate software to send an insurance estimate?

    No. You can use Xactimate line codes and pricing without owning the software — pricing is published quarterly. Full-time insurance restoration companies eventually license Xactimate, but you can start with the codes and a spreadsheet.

    Can I negotiate the carrier's estimate?

    In most states, yes — but only as the contractor performing the work, not as an advocate for the homeowner. Some states require a public adjuster license to negotiate claims. Check your state's rules.

    What if my estimate is higher than the carrier's?

    File a supplement with line-item justification and photo evidence. Legitimate supplements are usually approved when documented properly.

    How do I handle the deductible?

    The homeowner pays the deductible directly — you never waive it, reduce it, or absorb it into your price. Waiving deductibles is insurance fraud in most states.

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