Missing Adjuster Items — What Homeowners Need to Watch For
Most homeowners assume their insurance adjuster’s estimate includes everything required to restore their home. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Adjusters often overlook essential line items that directly affect repair quality, safety, and final cost.
Below are the most common items adjusters miss—and how you can spot them before it costs you money.
Commonly Missed Line Items
1. Insulation Removal & Replacement
Insulation touched by water is rarely reusable. Adjusters often skip removal labor, bagging, disposal, and reinstalling.
2. Texture Matching
Matching existing wall or ceiling texture requires skill, multiple passes, and specialized materials—not just “paint.”
3. Baseboards & Trim
Adjusters frequently include removal but forget replacement, caulking, prepping, priming, and painting.
4. Content Manipulation (Both Ways)
Furniture and personal items must be moved out and back in for almost any repair—but this is often omitted.
5. HVAC & Duct Cleaning After Fire or Smoke Loss
Smoke moves through the entire system; cleaning is essential but often denied or overlooked.
Why Adjusters Miss These Items
• Limited time on-site
• Reliance on templates instead of real inspections
• Lack of construction background
• Pressure to keep claim costs low
• Misunderstanding of how trades sequence work
How Homeowners Can Spot Missing Scope
Use this quick checklist:
• Are all affected materials listed with proper quantities?
• Is labor included for both removal and reinstall?
• Are prep, protection, and cleanup included?
• Do line items match what your contractor says is required?
What to Do Next
If you find omissions, request a supplement. Or, if you’re unsure:
Upload your estimate and get a professional review.
We identify missing items and explain exactly what to request from your adjuster.
