Retail vs. Insurance Roofing Jobs: What Homeowners Need to Know

May 28, 2025

When it comes to roofing or siding repairs or replacements, the process can vary significantly depending on whether you’re paying out of pocket (a retail job) or going through your insurance provider (an insurance job). At 360 Builders, we want to ensure homeowners understand the difference, so they feel confident and informed every step of the way.

What is a Retail Roofing or Siding Job?

A retail job means you, the homeowner, are covering the full cost of the project yourself. This might be the case if:

  • You’re upgrading the look of your home
  • Your roof or siding has aged naturally and needs replacement
  • You want to improve energy efficiency or resale value

How the Retail Process Works:

  1. Initial Consultation – We inspect your property, discuss your goals, and present material options.
  2. Estimate and Proposal – You receive a detailed written estimate outlining scope, materials, timeline, and pricing.
  3. Project Scheduling – Once the contract is signed and deposit received, we schedule the job.
  4. Installation – Our crew completes the project efficiently and professionally.
  5. Final Walkthrough and Payment – We ensure you’re satisfied, and you submit the final payment.

Retail jobs give you more flexibility in choosing materials and timing but require you to manage your own budget.

What is an Insurance Roofing or Siding Job?

An insurance job occurs when your roof or siding has been damaged by a covered event like a storm, hail, or wind. In this case, your homeowners insurance may cover part or all of the cost.

How the Insurance Process Works:

  1. Damage Inspection – After a storm or suspected damage, we inspect your property to assess potential insurance-related issues.
  2. File a Claim – If damage is found, you file a claim with your insurance provider.
  3. Insurance Adjuster Visit – Your insurance company sends an adjuster to assess the damage. We often meet with them to ensure nothing is missed.
  4. Scope of Work and Settlement – Once approved, your insurance issues a report and estimate. We review it to ensure accuracy and fairness.
  5. Supplementing (if needed) – If something was overlooked or underbid, we’ll submit a supplement request with documentation to get it corrected.
  6. Work Begins – With the scope approved, we schedule and complete the work.
  7. Final Paperwork and Payment – After completion, you submit the final invoice to your insurer, and any remaining funds (like depreciation) are released.

Insurance jobs can take a bit longer due to the claim and approval process, but we’re here to guide you through each step.

Which One Do I Have?

Not sure if your project qualifies for insurance? Start with a free inspection from our team. We can help determine the extent of the damage and advise on whether it’s worth pursuing a claim—or if a retail job makes more sense.

At 360 Builders, we work hard to make both retail and insurance jobs simple, transparent, and stress-free. No matter how you fund your project, we’re committed to delivering top-quality workmanship and customer service.

Need help with a roofing or siding project? Contact us today for a free inspection or consultation!

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