Step flashing on a roof claim: why it must be replaced
Step flashing is woven into each shingle course where the roof meets a sidewall, so it comes out with the old shingles. IRC R905.2.8.3 requires it. When the carrier replaces the roof but has no step flashing line, the line belongs in the supplement.
Why it gets left off
- —The adjuster assumes existing flashing can be reused.
- —Sidewall length isn't on the estimate because it wasn't pulled from the measurement report.
- —Only chimney flashing is included.
The code or standard
IRC R905.2.8.3: base and cap flashing (step flashing) is required where the roof meets a sidewall.
How to measure it
Wall flashing LF (sidewalls) from the measurement report.
Typical value on a 30-square roof
40 LF of sidewall × $10.80/LF ≈ $432
National ballpark price. On a real claim ClaimGap uses the unit price from the carrier's own estimate.
What to put in the supplement
- Photos of each sidewall, ideally showing the flashing during or before tear-off.
- The step flashing length from the measurement report.
- A note that reusing bent or nailed step flashing is not workmanlike.
Questions
- Can I reuse step flashing?
- Pulling it without damage is rare, and most manufacturers and code officials expect new flashing. Document the condition with photos.
- Is headwall flashing the same line?
- No. Headwall (apron) flashing is where the roof meets a wall above it and is its own line under IRC R903.2.1.
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.