Class 3 vs. class 4 shingles: What do they mean?
December 20, 2024
Filing a roof insurance claim can be a daunting process, and homeowners often encounter terms they’re unfamiliar with. One term that frequently arises is an ITEL report. Understanding this report and its role in the insurance claim process can simplify your journey and help you secure fair compensation for roof repairs or replacements.
What is an ITEL report?
An ITEL report is a detailed analysis provided by the Insurance Technical Evaluation Laboratory (ITEL). This report identifies the material type, quality, and replacement cost of damaged roofing components, such as shingles, tiles, or other materials.
When you file a roof damage claim, the insurance company may request an ITEL report to ensure accurate assessment and fair reimbursement based on your roof’s existing materials.
How does ITEL testing work?
- Sample collection: A small piece of your roofing material, such as a shingle or tile, is collected and sent to ITEL for evaluation.
- Lab analysis: ITEL experts analyze the sample to determine its composition, brand, grade, and matchability.
- Report generation: ITEL generates a report with key details about the material, including cost and potential replacement options.
Read also: Things you need to know about roof inspections for insurance.
What Is ITEL used for in roofing claims?
An ITEL report ensures the insurer compensates you appropriately for replacing materials of equal quality and type. It prevents disputes about costs and guarantees you receive coverage for materials that align with the existing roof.
How do shingle matching laws affect the ITEL report process?
Shingle matching laws play a significant role in the ITEL report process, as these laws often require insurance companies to replace not just damaged shingles but also undamaged ones if a match cannot be found. Here’s how this ties into ITEL reports:
- Verification of matching: ITEL reports analyze the type, brand, color, and specifications of shingles. If the shingles on the roof are discontinued or no longer available, the report provides proof that matching replacements are not possible.
- Supporting insurance claims: When matching laws are in effect, an ITEL report can serve as documentation to justify replacing an entire roof or a larger section rather than just the damaged area.
- Cost impact: Matching laws can increase the scope and cost of roof repairs covered by insurance, and ITEL reports ensure that insurers have accurate data to comply with these regulations.
ITEL reports provide critical data to uphold shingle matching laws, ensuring proper resolution for homeowners under their insurance policies.
If replacement of items is required and the replaced items do not reasonably match in quality, color, or size, then the insurer shall replace all such items to conform with a reasonably uniform appearance. R.I. Admin. Code 11-5-73:9.
Rhode Island Regulation
You can check other states’ regulations here.
ITEL and shingles
For roofing shingles, ITEL reports include specifics about:
- The type of shingles (e.g., three-tab, architectural)
- The brand and grade
- Their age and condition
- Replacement availability
This detailed information helps determine whether exact replacements are possible or if comparable alternatives are required.
Read also: When to file a roof insurance claim?
ITEL process for roof damage
When your roof suffers damage, and matching the existing shingles becomes a challenge, the ITEL process can help. It’s a straightforward approach that ensures all possibilities for repairs or replacements are explored with your insurance company. Here’s how it works:
1. Submitting the ITEL report
Either you or your insurance company will fill out an ITEL report form, which includes key information about your roof. A physical shingle sample from your roof is also required. Your contractor carefully removes a shingle from an inconspicuous area and sends it to ITEL for analysis.
2. ITEL analysis
ITEL’s labs analyze the shingle sample to identify its brand, type, and color. This process usually takes about 7-10 days, and a detailed report is sent to both you and your insurer.
3. Matching the shingles
Your contractor uses the ITEL report to find matching shingles, if available. They test the new shingles on your roof, documenting any color or texture differences with photos for the insurance adjuster’s review.
3. Final decision
If the new shingles match, the insurance company will approve the repairs. But if they don’t, and matching laws apply in your state, your insurer may cover a full roof replacement. If no matching laws exist, the outcome will depend on your policy terms and the insurer’s discretion.
This process ensures accuracy in identifying materials and helps comply with shingle matching laws, where applicable. If you have any confusion or concerns, you can get help from their support.
Read also: How do you get roof replacements from your insurance company?
How much does an ITEL report cost?
The cost of an ITEL report typically ranges from $125 to $200, depending on the insurance provider or contractor submitting the sample. In most cases, your insurance company will cover this cost as part of the claims process.
Benefits of an ITEL report
- Accurate replacement: Ensures damaged roofing materials are replaced with similar-grade options.
- Fair compensation: Helps avoid underpayment or overpayment by the insurer.
- Simplified disputes: Resolves disagreements between homeowners, contractors, and insurers regarding material replacement.
When is an ITEL report necessary?
An ITEL report is often required in cases where:
- Roofing materials are older or discontinued, making it harder to determine their value.
- The homeowner disputes the insurer’s initial assessment.
- The replacement materials need to match the existing roof for aesthetic or structural reasons.
How ITEL reports impact insurance claims
- Verification: Confirms the material type and value to ensure proper compensation.
- Documentation: Provides objective proof that helps streamline the claim approval process.
- Replacement options: Identifies whether exact matches are available or substitutes are necessary.
Read also: Main reasons for denying roof insurance claims and solution.
How to request an ITEL report for roofing
- Contact your contractor or adjuster to collect and submit a material sample.
- Ensure ITEL receives sufficient information, including the claim number and damage specifics.
- Review the ITEL report to verify its findings and use it to support your claim.
Is ITEL testing only for shingles?
No, ITEL testing applies to various roofing materials, including tiles, metal roofing, and underlayment. It’s also used for flooring, siding, and other building materials in insurance claims.
This process usually takes about 7-10 days. In a few cases, this might take several weeks.
ITEL (Insurance Technical Evaluation Laboratory) is generally accurate and widely trusted by insurance companies for evaluating materials like roofing, siding, and flooring. However, its accuracy depends on several factors:
→Advantages of ITEL
Scientific Testing: ITEL uses precise laboratory testing to match materials, such as shingles or tiles, ensuring their report is data-driven.
Detailed Reports: Their analysis includes material composition, manufacturer, and potential matches, which are valuable for claims.
Industry Acceptance: Most insurance companies recognize ITEL reports, making them a standard reference for claims.
→Limitations of ITEL
Sample Quality: The accuracy of results depends on the quality of the sample submitted. Poor samples may lead to inconclusive or incorrect matches.
Limited Manufacturer Data: If ITEL lacks sufficient data about a specific product or brand, the results may not be exact.
Human Interpretation: The report might still require interpretation by the adjuster or contractor, which could introduce discrepancies.
While ITEL is a reliable tool, it’s wise to combine their analysis with professional input from your roofing contractor.
When finding a roofing contractor to assist with an insurance claim, consider the following tips:
→Choose a Contractor with Experience in Insurance Claims: Look for contractors who are familiar with the insurance process. They should know how to work with adjusters and understand the documentation required for claims.
→Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance: Verify that the contractor is licensed and insured.
→Ask About Insurance Claim Assistance: Ensure the contractor is willing to help with the claims process, including handling paperwork and communicating with your insurer.
→Avoid Contractors Who Pressure You: Be cautious of contractors who push you to sign a contract quickly or ask for large upfront payments.
→Review the Contract Carefully: Before signing, review the contract details, especially regarding the terms of payment, warranties, and what the insurance claim covers.
These steps can help you find a reliable roofing contractor who can assist you in navigating the insurance claim process smoothly and not only walking through the ITEL process. Not to mention, we also help homeowners in this process.
An ITEL report is a vital tool in roofing insurance claims, offering detailed information about your roof’s materials and ensuring fair compensation for repairs or replacement. By accurately identifying the type and value of roofing components, it protects both homeowners and insurers from disputes. If your roof has been damaged and you’re navigating an insurance claim, consider requesting an ITEL report to make the process smoother and more transparent.
If you’re in Rhode Island, we can help with ITEL reporting and any insurance-related concerns.
