Drip Edge, Ice Barrier and Decking: How to Get Code Upgrades Paid on Roof Claims

Code is about the new roof, not the old one

A lot of roofs were built before current code requirements existed, or were installed without them. When that roof is replaced after a storm, the new installation generally has to meet the code in force where the property sits. Those differences, like drip edge, ice barrier, underlayment, ventilation or decking, are what we call code upgrades. They're also among the line items most often left off carrier estimates.

Getting paid for them comes down to three things: knowing the code that applies at the address, understanding the coverage, and documenting both.

Step 1: Find the adopted code for the address

Building codes aren't the same everywhere. Each state adopts a residential code, usually a version of the International Residential Code (IRC), sometimes with its own amendments. Some states let cities and counties add local amendments, and some leave residential adoption largely to local governments. The edition matters too, because section numbers and wording can change between editions.

A few practical rules:

• Don't trust the mailing city. A ZIP code or USPS city name doesn't always match the jurisdiction that issues permits. Use the county parcel or GIS record to confirm whether the property is inside city limits or in unincorporated county.

• Use a code lookup service as a starting point. Services such as OneClick Code let you enter a property address and get the authority having jurisdiction, the adopted code book and cited answers on common roofing items. They're a fast first step. Confirm anything contested against the source.

• Check the state agency. In Indiana, the Department of Homeland Security and the Fire Prevention and Building Safety Commission publish the adopted code. The 2020 Indiana Residential Code (675 IAC 14-4.4) adopts and amends the 2018 IRC and applies statewide to one- and two-family homes.

• Check local ordinances. City and county codes are often published on sites like Municode. Search for "building code," "residential code" and "roofing."

• Call the building department when it matters. Ask which edition they enforce, whether there are local roofing amendments and whether a re-roof needs a permit. Ask for the answer by email.

Step 2: Know what the code actually says

Pull the exact section text for the edition in force. In Indiana, two common examples come straight from the state's 2020 guidance memo on ice/water shield and drip edge:

• Drip edge (R905.2.8.5) is required at eaves and rakes of shingle roofs, statewide.

• Ice barrier (R905.1.2) is required where Table R301.2(1) designates it. In Indiana, that's set county by county.

The same memo makes a key point: the code requires roofing to be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions (R903.1, R904.1 and R905.1). So even where a code table doesn't require an item, the shingle manufacturer's installation sheet might. Keep a copy.

Step 3: Understand ordinance or law coverage

Here's the distinction that trips people up: code tells you what has to be built, and the policy decides who pays for it. Indiana's own guidance memo says that who pays for code-required items is not a matter governed by the department or building officials.

Many homeowners policies include ordinance or law coverage, which can pay the added cost of meeting current codes when damaged property is repaired or replaced. The details vary a lot. It may be a limited additional coverage, often expressed as a percentage of the dwelling limit. It may be increased by endorsement, or it may be excluded. Check the declarations page and endorsements before you assume anything.

Step 4: Document it so it gets paid

A code item supported only by "it's code" usually gets denied. A documented one is much harder to dispute. For each code upgrade line, include:

1. Jurisdiction proof: the authority having jurisdiction for the address, from a lookup report, parcel record or the building department

2. The code edition and section, with a screenshot or excerpt of the text and the date you checked it

3. Local amendment check: what you searched and what you found, including "none found" with the date

4. Manufacturer instructions where they apply

5. Photos of current conditions, such as no drip edge, deteriorated decking or missing ventilation

6. Clear quantities with the math shown

7. Permit requirements and fees from the building department

In Xactimate, code-driven items can be flagged as code upgrades and grouped, which helps the adjuster apply the right coverage. Keep the tone neutral: state the code, the source and the date. If the carrier thinks a different edition or amendment applies, ask them to identify it.

Let us handle the code research

Aftermath Claims writes carrier-ready Xactimate estimates and supplements from your photos, measurements and the adjuster's report, with a 48-hour average turnaround. We build code items into the file with the documentation carriers expect to see.

This post is general information for contractors and is not legal advice. Code adoption, local amendments and policy coverage vary by jurisdiction and policy. Confirm requirements with the local building department and the policy itself.

Submit a claim at aftermath.claims/submit or call 833-4AM-ROOF.