Frequently Asked Questions

OtterQuote is 100% free for homeowners. You will never pay us a dime. Contractors pay a small platform fee when you sign their contract. That's how we make money — by making contractors earn your business.

You may have been referred by your insurance agent, realtor, or contractor who trust us to help you find the best solution. Or you found us on your own. Either way, we're here to help whether you're working with insurance or paying out-of-pocket.

No, not necessarily. OtterQuote works for both insurance-backed projects and cash/retail projects. If you're working with insurance, we help after you've filed your claim and an adjuster has inspected your property. If you're paying out-of-pocket, you can get started right away. We do not file claims on your behalf or represent you to your insurance company — we help you get the best contractor deal on your terms.

Just your name, email, phone number, and address. That's it to create an account. After that, we'll walk you through gathering what contractors need — your project scope, property measurements, and material preferences. If you have an insurance estimate, that helps too. For anything you don't have, our "Help Me" tools will guide you through getting it.

For each document we need, you'll see two buttons: "Upload" (if you already have it) or "Help Me" (if you don't). The Help Me tools walk you through getting what you need. For example, if you're working with insurance and don't have your insurance estimate yet, we can send a professional email to your adjuster requesting it — and automatically capture their response when they reply.

A professional measurement report uses aerial imaging technology to create an accurate model of your property — giving contractors precise measurements for their quotes. You take a few photos from your smartphone and the report comes back within 24-48 hours. It's optional but gives you more accurate quotes. If you use an OtterQuote contractor, we rebate the measurement fee. Either way, you keep the report forever for future projects.

Up to 5-6 contractors will see your project and have the opportunity to quote. Not every contractor quotes on every job, but competition is the whole point — more quotes means a better deal for you.

Most quotes come in within 24-48 hours. The quoting window stays open until you select a contractor — there's no deadline. Take your time and compare. We'll text you every time a new quote arrives.

Yes. If you've filed an insurance claim and received an adjuster's estimate, OtterQuote helps you find the best contractor to handle the work. We handle the claim process with your contractor and insurance company. We never collect insurance proceeds — your contractor coordinates that directly with your insurance company.

You sign the contractor's agreement electronically (e-sign). Your contractor is required to contact you within 48 hours. After signing, you'll pick your shingle or metal color — we'll show you the manufacturer's color options and you can even see them on your actual house using their visualization tools. Or you can request a contractor visit with physical color boards.

Yes — within the OtterQuote network. Up to 3 days before your scheduled installation, you can switch to a different OtterQuote contractor at no cost. The first contractor is rebated, and the replacement contractor takes over. However, if you leave the OtterQuote platform entirely, you are bound by the contract you signed with your chosen contractor.

No. You sign the contract first with your material type selected (e.g., architectural shingle, Class 4 impact resistant). Color is picked separately afterward — no rush. The contractor will work with you on timing, but the contract doesn't depend on your color choice.

Yes. Every contractor in our network provides proof of licensing, workers' compensation insurance, and general liability insurance. We display verification badges so you can see their credentials before you choose. You'll also see their years in business, customer reviews, and ratings.

Your data is stored securely with enterprise-grade encryption. Your information is only shared with contractors you approve — and only what they need to prepare a quote for your specific project. We never sell your personal information.