As a roofing contractor, your profit margin lives and dies by the accuracy of your estimates. Unfortunately, the initial Xactimate estimate provided by the insurance carrier is almost never comprehensive. Adjusters are trained to write for the visible damage, often omitting critical code-required items, complex labor charges, and necessary materials.
Over years of analyzing estimates, we've found that the average carrier estimate is missing between 6 and 12 line items. This isn't just a few dollars—it often amounts to thousands of dollars left on the table per claim.
Here are the top 10 most missed Xactimate line items in roofing claims, and how you can ensure they make it into your final approved supplement.
1. Starter Course Shingles (RFG 220)
Carriers frequently argue that starter strips are included in the waste factor of the field shingles. However, most shingle manufacturers explicitly require a distinct starter course for the warranty to be valid. You must separate this line item and cite the manufacturer's installation instructions.2. Drip Edge and Eave Metal (RFG 175 / RFG 176)
The International Residential Code (IRC) section R905.2.8.5 mandates drip edge on all eaves and gables of shingle roofs. Despite this being a national standard, it is routinely omitted. Always include both eave and rake edge metal in your supplements.3. Ridge Cap Shingles (RFG 240)
Similar to starter strips, carriers often try to bury ridge caps in the general waste percentage. Ridge caps are a specific material with a specific labor cost. They must be line-itemed separately.4. Overhead and Profit (O&P) (OHO)
O&P is the lifeblood of a general contractor. Carriers often deny O&P by claiming the job isn't "complex" enough or doesn't involve three or more trades. However, if you are coordinating the project, pulling permits, and managing the site, you are acting as a General Contractor and are entitled to O&P.5. Steep Slope Charges (RFG STEEP)
Working on a 10/12 pitch is significantly more dangerous and time-consuming than a 4/12 pitch. Xactimate has specific line items for steep (7/12 to 9/12) and high steep (10/12 to 12/12) roofs. Ensure your roof measurements are accurate and these charges are applied.6. Ice and Water Shield (RFG 190 / RFG 191)
In regions prone to ice damming, the IRC requires ice barrier underlayment extending at least 24 inches inside the exterior wall line. Even in warmer climates, it's often required in valleys. Carriers often miss this or under-measure the required amount.7. Dumpster and Debris Removal (DUMPSTER)
Tearing off a roof generates a massive amount of debris. While some tear-off codes include basic disposal, they rarely cover the actual cost of a roll-off dumpster and the associated tonnage fees.8. Permit Fees (PRMT)
If your municipality requires a permit for roof replacement, the carrier owes for it. This is a hard cost incurred to comply with local laws. Always include the exact cost of the permit in your supplement.9. Detach and Reset Gutters (GTR D&R)
You cannot properly install drip edge or ice and water shield at the eaves without detaching the gutters. Carriers often omit this labor charge, expecting your crews to work around the gutters for free.10. Multi-Story / High Roof Charges (RFG STORY)
Hauling materials up two or three stories takes more time and effort. Xactimate accounts for this with specific multi-story charges. If the eave height is above a certain threshold, this charge applies.How to Stop Missing These Items
Knowing these items are missing is only half the battle. The real challenge is documenting them, citing the correct building codes, and writing a professional supplement letter to force the carrier's hand.
Doing this manually takes hours per claim. That's why we built EstimateDelta.
With EstimateDelta, you simply upload the carrier's PDF estimate. Our AI engine instantly cross-references every line item against IRC building codes, state adoptions, and manufacturer requirements. In less than two minutes, you get a comprehensive Gap Report, a professional Supplement Letter complete with code citations, and a Photo Checklist.
Stop letting carriers dictate your margins. [Analyze your first estimate with EstimateDelta today](/pricing) and see exactly what you've been missing.