Which states require it?

It is set locally. It is common across the northern half of the country, including CO, IA, IL, MI, MN, NE, NY, OH, PA, SD and WI. ClaimGap applies the rule in those states and marks it medium confidence so you confirm with the building department.

What about Texas or Oklahoma?

Most jurisdictions there do not require an eave ice barrier, but valley lining under manufacturer instructions still applies.

Ice and water shield on an insurance roof claim: when it's required

In jurisdictions with a history of ice forming at the eaves, the IRC requires an ice barrier from the lowest edge of the roof to at least 24 inches inside the exterior wall. Valleys also need lining per manufacturer instructions. Carrier estimates often include felt only, with no ice and water line at all.

Why it gets left off

—The adjuster writes felt over the whole deck and stops there.
—Eaves are covered but valleys are not.
—The estimate uses one 3 ft course where the overhang plus 24 in. inside the wall needs two.

The code or standard

IRC R905.1.2: in areas with a history of ice forming along the eaves, an ice barrier shall extend from the lowest edges of all roof surfaces to a point at least 24 in. inside the exterior wall line.

How to measure it

Eaves LF times the width needed (overhang plus 24 in. inside the wall, usually two 3 ft courses), plus valleys LF times 3 ft. Priced in square feet.

Typical value on a 30-square roof

900 SF at eaves and valleys × $2.10/SF ≈ $1,890

National ballpark price. On a real claim ClaimGap uses the unit price from the carrier's own estimate.

What to put in the supplement

Your local building department's code adoption, showing R905.1.2 is in effect.
Eave and valley lengths from the measurement report, and the overhang depth.
Shingle manufacturer instructions for valley lining.

Questions

Which states require it?: It is set locally. It is common across the northern half of the country, including CO, IA, IL, MI, MN, NE, NY, OH, PA, SD and WI. ClaimGap applies the rule in those states and marks it medium confidence so you confirm with the building department.
What about Texas or Oklahoma?: Most jurisdictions there do not require an eave ice barrier, but valley lining under manufacturer instructions still applies.

This guide is general information for roofing contractors documenting their scope of work. It is not legal advice. Code adoption varies by jurisdiction, and some states restrict contractors from negotiating claims on a homeowner's behalf.