Large flat & low-slope roofs
Gravel-ballasted roof insurance claims.
A storm claim on a stone-covered roof starts with identifying the assembly and documenting what was actually inspected. Write It Right provides public adjusting for substantial commercial roof losses in Illinois and Wisconsin, with a focus on $500,000+ claims.
Browse commercial claim resources · Request a $500,000+ loss review
Know the roof beneath the stone
Ballasted membrane or gravel-surfaced built-up roof?
The terms “gravel roof” and “ballast roof” can describe different systems. In a ballasted single-ply assembly, loose stone or pavers hold the membrane in place. A gravel-surfaced built-up roof uses a different assembly, with layers of roofing material and bitumen beneath its surfacing. Existing specifications, installation records, and a qualified roofing professional's findings help establish what is present.
Identifying the system helps the claim discussion address the right materials, inspection limits, and proposed work. See Carlisle's explanation of ballasted systems and Johns Manville's built-up roofing information.
Hail, wind & reported leaks
Connect the claimed damage to documented findings.
Stone ballast covers much of the membrane. A useful inspection record states which areas were visible, which were examined more closely, and what remained inaccessible. The presence of hail nearby, a leak, or displaced stone does not by itself establish the cause or full extent of membrane damage.
Roof and event history
Record the reported storm date, roof age, known repairs, previous leaks, and when new conditions were first observed.
Inspection locations
Label roof sections and photograph the observations. Identify limits in access or visibility so the findings are not presented as a review of unexamined areas.
A supported repair scope
Compare quantities, materials, affected areas, and the reasons for proposed repairs or replacement. Connect each disputed item to the available evidence.
Repair estimate disagreements
Make the scope specific to the assembly.
Where relevant to the proposed work, estimates should explain handling and reinstatement of ballast, access to affected materials, membrane and flashing work, and any documented need to address materials below the surface. An allowance should have a clear scope and basis; it is not automatically covered simply because it appears in a contractor proposal.
Ask a qualified roofing professional to plan any investigation that requires moving ballast or opening the roof. Access, roof loading, weather protection, and restoration of investigated areas need to be considered for the actual system.
Our public adjusting work helps organize damage documentation, compare disputed estimate items, and present supported claim information on the property owner's behalf.
Prepare for a roof claim review
- Property location and approximate roof area
- Roof specifications or warranty documents, if available
- Carrier estimate and written claim position
- Contractor proposals and inspection reports
- Dated photographs labeled by roof area
- Maintenance, leak, and temporary repair records
Start with a brief summary. We can discuss documents during follow-up.
Ballasted roof claim questions
Can a ballasted roof have damage that is not visible from above the stone?
Some components are concealed by the ballast. A qualified inspection can identify what can be established and whether further investigation is appropriate. Concealed materials should not be described as damaged without supporting findings.
Does a storm claim require full roof replacement?
No automatic rule applies. The appropriate scope depends on the identified system, condition, damage, repair feasibility, and policy terms. We do not promise a replacement or a particular payment.
Can you review a repair estimate for an EPDM ballasted roof?
Yes. Tell us the roof type, approximate area, claim status, and the reason the repair scope is disputed. If the system is uncertain, provide the available records rather than guessing.
Who can request a review?
Commercial owners, authorized property managers, and school district representatives can begin a conversation. We clarify the property owner and authority to engage services before representation.
Related help for your property
Explore school district roof and property claims, claim support for property management companies, and underpaid commercial claim reviews.
Illinois & Wisconsin · $500,000+ loss focus
Request a ballasted roof claim review.
Tell us what happened, the roof type if known, the estimated damage range, and what is disputed. If the amount is unclear, select “Not sure yet” on the form.
Services and fees are explained before engagement. An inquiry does not create a representation agreement.