Estimation of your damages is an extremely important skill that not many people do particularly well. A skilled estimator is akin to a modern-day artist, not many exist, and they are generally underappreciated. Insurance companies have implemented a system called Xactimate that utilizes market controlled estimating software to control the scope of work and the costs of restoration. This program is helpful in some ways, but certainly not as accurate as an estimate produced after physical property inspections by reputable local contractors and consultants. As a result of this software, insurance companies often undervalue the claim and underpay the policyholder after their initial investigation. Therefore, it is crucial for you as the policyholder to retain competent representation from insurance professionals who have your best interests in mind.

The process of estimating begins when an insurance company sends a field adjuster to your property to investigate the loss. After the inspection, the field adjuster will send the results to a desk adjuster. The desk adjuster is usually someone who has never worked in the field, never climbed a roof, and never investigated damages except by looking at a photograph on a computer screen. The desk adjuster’s job is to review the policy and review the findings of the field adjuster to produce an estimate to the policyholder, which may or may not accompany payment to the policyholder, depending on the results of the investigation. Due to the shortage of competent insurance professionals, and due to the high volume of claims they handle daily, insurance companies have an extremely difficult time accurately estimating losses or timely responding to communications. As such, the initial estimate from the insurance company is often deficient in some way, resulting in an underpayment. If you have competent representation to investigate your loss in accordance with your policy working for you, in the form of an attorney or a public adjuster, your likelihood of obtaining additional payments through the re-inspection process is increased.

If you would like more information on the estimating process, please reach out to me directly.