sounds like there’s a difference in the scope of work or materials listed. maybe the roofer is charging a lower labor rate than insurance expected, but honestly, it’s usually the other way around where labor costs go up, not down.
basically, if the roofer’s price is lower, it might mean they’re planning to save on materials or some part of the work. you’re right that the total should match what’s being paid out, minus the deductible. something seems off here.
Fraser said: @Ming
should’ve mentioned that the roofer has no idea what the insurance is approving.
maybe the roofer only quoted the roof itself, and the insurance included other things like siding or gutters that also got damaged by hail. try comparing both estimates side by side to see any differences. if the insurance covered only the roof too, they might not release the full depreciation.
also, a lower quote doesn’t always mean the roofer is cutting corners. if he’s quoting a cash job, he might not want to deal with the insurance company. sometimes, roofers who regularly work with insurance add extra items to raise the estimate, but the actual work might cost closer to the cash price.