Supplemental Claims: Adding Items After the Initial Insurance Estimate

What is a supplemental claim?

A supplemental claimWhat Is a Supplemental Claim and When to File OneA supplemental claim is a request to add items to your existing insurance estimate after the original scope was written. Supplements are standard i...
Read more → (or supplement) is a request to add items to your existing insurance estimate after the initial scope was written. This happens when additional damage is discovered during demolition or construction, when code upgradesBuilding Code Upgrades in Insurance ClaimsWhen your home is opened up for repairs, existing construction that does not meet current building codes may need to be upgraded. This is covered u...
Read more → are identified by the building inspector, when material matching requires a larger scope than initially estimated, or when the original estimate missed items that were always needed.

When are supplements needed?

Supplements are extremely common, especially in water damage claims. Hidden damage behind walls (mold, rotted framing), subfloor damage found after removing flooring, code upgrades required by the building inspector, and appliance or fixture issues discovered during reconnection are all typical supplement items. Your contractor should document each discovery with photos and measurements as soon as it is found.

How to submit a supplement

Your contractor or public adjusterWhen Should You Hire a Public Adjuster for Your Insurance Claim?A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents you, the homeowner, in your insurance claim. Unlike the company adjuster who works for ...
Read more → prepares a supplemental XactimateHow Insurance Estimates Work: Xactimate Explained for HomeownersNearly every insurance repair estimate in the United States is created using Xactimate, a specialized software program. Understanding how Xactimate...
Read more → estimate that includes only the new or additional items not covered in the original estimate. Each item should be accompanied by photos showing the condition and a brief explanation of why it is needed. The supplement is submitted to your claim adjuster by email with a request for review and approval.

How long does approval take?

Supplement approval typically takes 7-21 days, though it can take longer during busy periods or if the items are disputed. Some insurers have a desk review process where the supplement is approved without a site visit. Others require the adjuster to inspect the additional damage in person.

If your supplement is time-sensitive (for example, mold discovered during demolition), communicate the urgency to your adjuster.

What to do

Tell your contractor to stop work and document immediately when they discover additional damage. Take photos from multiple angles and close-up. Have your contractor prepare the supplemental estimate promptly.

Submit the supplement to your adjuster and follow up if you do not receive a response within two weeks. Keep a record of all supplements submitted and their approval status. Do not let the contractor proceed with unapproved supplemental work without understanding the financial risk.