Roof Insurance, Warranty and Job Terms

Key terms in this topic

Actual Cash Value (ACV)

What the roof is worth today, after depreciation.

Adjuster

The insurance company's representative who inspects damage and sets the claim amount.

Certificate of Completion

A document confirming the job is finished.

Change Order

A written change to the scope or price once work has started, like extra decking replacement.

Date of Loss

The day the storm or damage happened. It affects whether a claim is covered and how long you have to file.

Deductible

The amount you pay before insurance pays the rest.

Depreciation

The drop in value an insurer subtracts for the roof's age and wear.

Final Walkthrough

The check at the end of the job to confirm the work matches the scope.

Insurance Claim

Your request to your insurance company to pay for covered damage.

Magnetic Sweep

Running a magnet over the yard and driveway to pick up stray nails.

Manufacturer Warranty

Coverage from the shingle maker for product defects.

Prorated Coverage

Warranty coverage that shrinks over time, so you pay a growing share of a claim.

Replacement Cost Value (RCV)

What it costs to replace the roof with new materials, with no deduction for age.

Roof Certification

A written statement of a roof's condition, often requested during a home sale.

Roof Estimate

A written price for the work based on roof size, materials and conditions.

Roof Inspection

A check of the roof surface, edges, flashing, vents and attic for damage and wear.

Roof Repair

Fixing a specific problem, like a leak or damaged flashing, without replacing the whole roof.

Roof Replacement

Removing the old roofing and installing a new roof system.

Roofing Permit

Approval from the local building department to do the work.

Scope of Work

The written list of exactly what will be done and which materials will be used.

Supplement

A request for additional payment when the true cost of repairs is higher than the first estimate.

Tear-Off

Removing the existing roofing down to the deck.

Transferable Warranty

A warranty that can pass to the next owner of the home.

Workmanship Warranty

The contractor's coverage for installation mistakes.

See Insurance, Warranty & Process terms in the A to Z glossary