When your home is damaged by water, a storm, fire, or mold, the first instinct is to call a contractor and get things fixed fast. But the smartest first step is knowing exactly what needs to be done and what it should cost before anyone starts quoting you.
What is Xactimate?
Xactimate is the estimating software insurance adjusters and carriers use to price property damage. When your estimate is written in the same program, you can compare it side by side with the adjuster's numbers, line by line.
Why get your own estimate?
At Chairman Estimating, I come out to your property, look at everything in person, and write a detailed estimate in Xactimate. Here's what that gives you:
- A full, line-by-line scope of the damage, so you know exactly what needs to be repaired
- Detailed photos and documentation of accessible, observed conditions, so important details are less likely to be missed or forgotten
- A clear picture of what the repairs should really cost before work begins
- A way to compare your estimate directly with your adjuster's
Get it done while you look for a contractor
Having your estimate in hand while you shop for a contractor means you already know the real scope and cost before anyone quotes you. You can compare bids fairly and spot anyone padding the price or cutting corners. You don't have to show your contractor the estimate, but you can hold them to a fair number and the full scope that needs to be done.
Need a contractor too?
I work with contractors you can hire directly. Our estimating fee is explained on our pricing page, and we’ll go over it before I come out, so there are no surprises.
Houston estimates are done on site
In Houston, every job starts with an in-person visit so the scope is accurate and complete. For jobs outside my area, I can write the estimate remotely from plans, photos, video or a Matterport scan; see remote Xactimate estimating.
If your home has been damaged, call or text me at 346-680-8880 or visit chairmanestimating.com to schedule your on-site estimate.
Benny Mancillas
Chairman Estimating, Houston, TX