What each one does
A roofer specializes in the construction work — measuring damage, scoping the repair or replacement, and executing the build. A public adjuster specializes in the insurance side — interpreting your policy, negotiating the scope and dollars with the carrier's adjuster, and handling supplements. They're different professions even though they sometimes overlap.
When a good roofer is enough
For straightforward claims, a competent storm-damage roofer can handle everything. Hire a roofer-only if:
- Damage is clear and well-documented (NOAA-confirmed storm event)
- Carrier's first offer is reasonable (within 80% of contractor estimate)
- Your roof is under 12 years old (less depreciation fight)
- You can be present and engaged during the adjuster meeting
- The total claim is under $20,000
When you need a public adjuster
Hire a PA when the claim is complex, contested, or large:
- Carrier denied your claim or offered far below your estimate
- Multiple structures damaged (roof + siding + interior)
- Total claim exceeds $25,000
- Cosmetic-damage exclusion is being used to deny valid damage
- You don't have time or energy to manage the back-and-forth
- This is a complete-replacement claim with significant code-upgrade exposure
How they get paid
Both roles are paid out of your settlement, but the structures differ:
- Roofer: paid for the build out of your insurance settlement (you sign the check over). No fee for advocacy work — they make their margin on the construction. This creates an incentive to push for a full replacement (more revenue) even when a repair would suffice
- Public adjuster: typically 10-15% of the total settlement. Strong incentive to maximize the dollar value of the claim. No incentive on the construction side — you're free to choose any contractor after they win the settlement
- Hybrid: some companies offer roofer + PA together. This raises a conflict-of-interest concern — the same entity advocating for the claim AND building the work has incentives to over-scope. Be wary
Red flags in both
Whichever you hire, walk away if you see these:
- Door-knocking after a storm without you contacting them first ('storm chaser' pattern)
- Pressure to sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) — it gives them control of your claim payout
- 'We'll waive your deductible' — this is insurance fraud and you'll be on the hook
- Refuses to provide written contract or fee structure upfront
- Out-of-state contractor address — they'll disappear after the job
- No verifiable license, insurance, or local references
The hybrid: roofer who manages the claim for you
Some local roofers will handle the claim communication for you without charging extra (they're paid via the construction). This is the sweet spot for most homeowners — you get advocacy without paying a separate PA fee. Look for roofers who specifically advertise insurance-claim support, who employ a dedicated claim coordinator (not just the salesperson), and who have a documented multi-year track record in your specific carrier's claim processes.