For adjusters, roof inspections are part of the job — and one of the most hazardous parts, too. Whether you’re fresh out of boot camp or a seasoned CAT pro, staying safe on a roof isn’t optional — it’s essential.
At MileHigh Adjusters Houston, safety is baked into everything we do. We’ve trained thousands of adjusters on proper ladder usage, fall prevention, and inspection techniques because no claim is worth risking your life.
Here’s what every adjuster should know before climbing that next roof:
🪜 1. Use the Right Ladder — and Use It Right
Your ladder isn’t just a tool — it’s your lifeline.
✅ Choose the right type: A multi-position or extension ladder (Little Giant, Gorilla, or Werner) rated for your weight class.
✅ Inspect before use: Check for loose bolts, bent rungs, or damage.
✅ Set it up correctly:
- 1:4 angle ratio (1 foot out for every 4 feet up)
- At least 3 feet extending above the roofline
- On solid, level ground — avoid soft soil or gravel
✅ Secure it: Use ladder stabilizers or tie-offs if needed. And NEVER climb in high winds.
💡 Tip: Our boot camps include ladder safety training — including setup, takedown, and real climb practice.
👟 2. Dress for Safety (Not Style)
What you wear can literally save your life on steep or slippery surfaces.
👢 Footwear:
- Non-slip, roofing-approved boots with strong ankle support
- Steel toe is ideal for protection and durability
🧤 Gloves: For grip and protection from hot shingles or sharp materials
🧢 Clothing:
- Long sleeves for protection
- Lightweight, breathable, and flexible
- Reflective gear for visibility
🚧 Remember: Proper PPE isn’t optional when safety’s on the line.
🌦️ 3. Know When Not to Go Up
Roof safety starts with judgment. You are NOT required to inspect a roof in unsafe conditions — and IA firms won’t fault you for using good judgment.
🛑 Avoid climbing if:
- Roof is wet, icy, or slick
- Winds are 15+ mph
- You feel rushed or fatigued
- The roof has excessive pitch or visible structural damage
📸 Alternative: Use your camera, pole, or drone for photo documentation instead.
🧠 4. Learn Roof Types and Risk Levels
Not all roofs are created equal. Get familiar with different materials and their hazards:
- Asphalt shingles: Common, but hot surfaces can blister
- Tile/Slate: Slippery and fragile — best to avoid walking directly on them
- Metal: Very slick when wet or frosty
- Flat roofs: May have hidden weak spots or pooling water
⚠️ Warning: Adjuster injuries often occur when unfamiliar with roof types — always assess from the ground first.
📸 5. Use Tech to Minimize Risk
You don’t always need to be on the roof to document damage.
🔍 Drone inspections: Great for steep, high, or unstable roofs (just make sure you’re FAA certified!)
📱 Telescoping camera poles: Allow for high-angle photos while staying on the ground
📷 Zoom lenses: Get clear detail shots from a ladder or neighboring structure
✅ We cover these alternative inspection tools in our training — because safety should never limit your effectiveness.
📋 6. Document Everything (Especially Safety Concerns)
If you decide not to climb a roof due to safety, document it. Take wide-angle shots, note the reason in your report, and explain your alternative method.
This protects you from liability and shows that you exercised professional judgment.
🧰 7. Train Like It’s Real — Because It Is
At MileHigh Adjusters Houston, our adjuster boot camps simulate real inspection scenarios — including safe ladder use, PPE requirements, and situational awareness.
We don’t just teach theory — we prepare you to safely navigate rooftops, basements, crawlspaces, and more so you’re confident and cautious when it counts.
🔚 Final Thoughts: Safety Is Professionalism
Rushing, guessing, or improvising on a roof isn’t brave — it’s reckless. The best adjusters are the ones who go home safe every day and still get the job done right.
Want to gain confidence and skill with roof inspections?
Join one of our Adjuster Boot Camps — where safety meets real-world experience.
📍 MileHigh Adjusters Houston
🎓 Online & In-Person Adjuster Boot Camps
💡 Career Support, Real-World Training, and Ongoing Guidance
🌐 www.milehighadjustershouston.com
📞 281-741-8505
📣 Training the Special Forces of Adjusters!