Field Adjuster
A field adjuster is an insurance claims professional who physically inspects damaged properties, documents conditions on site, and writes or verifies the initial scope of loss estimate.
The Person on the Roof
A field adjuster is the insurance professional who physically visits the damaged property, inspects the damage firsthand, and produces or verifies the scope of loss that drives the claim. Unlike a desk adjuster who works from photos, the field adjuster walks the property, climbs the roof, photographs every affected area, and writes the initial Xactimate estimate based on what they see. Their assessment is the starting point for the entire claim.
The quality of the field adjuster's work directly affects the accuracy of the initial estimate and how much supplementing will be needed.
What Happens During the Inspection
A thorough field inspection starts with an overview of the property and a discussion with the homeowner about the loss event. The adjuster then systematically inspects each affected area, photographing damage, noting material types, measuring dimensions, and identifying the cause of loss. On a roof claim, this includes walking or droning the roof, checking each slope for damage, inspecting all penetrations and flashings, and examining gutters, siding, and any interior damage caused by water intrusion.
The field adjuster also evaluates pre-existing conditions, prior repairs, and maintenance issues that might affect coverage. Their notes on these items appear in the claim file and can be used by the carrier to reduce or deny portions of the claim.
Maximizing the Field Inspection
Being present during the field inspection is one of the highest-value activities a contractor can do. Walk the property with the adjuster. Point out damage they may overlook. Discuss manufacturer requirements and code upgrades that affect the scope. Take your own photos alongside the adjuster's documentation. A collaborative inspection produces a more complete initial scope, which means fewer supplements and faster payment.
Frequently asked questions
A field adjuster photographs all damage, takes measurements, identifies material types and ages, assesses the cause of damage, checks for pre-existing conditions, and writes or begins the Xactimate estimate on site. The inspection typically takes one to three hours depending on damage complexity.
Yes, whenever possible. Being present allows you to point out damage the adjuster might miss, discuss line items in real time, and establish a professional rapport. It also gives you the opportunity to take your own documentation for comparison.
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