Hello!
Just wanted to pop in to wave my arms around and make my presence known. I know this isn't a classified ad, but I figure I may be able to help some of the folks in here.
Estimators on Call is an EagleView partner. We can take an EagleView (or order one for you) and write an estimate in Xactimate so that you have something to work with when you are meeting with an adjuster.
With 40+ years in the construction and insurance adjusting world, we find that most folks are missing things on their estimates.
We offer free reviews if you are interested... We charge $99.95 for an EagleView and Xactimate write up should you be interested.
We also can train you on the how to effectively and quickly document damage, and how to speak the insurance language.
If you are interested, feel free to give us a call. 1-877-407-4044 or check us out at www.estimatorsoncall.com
We also write water, lead, mold, and on large scale losses.
Regards,
EoC
Just to put my 2 cents worth in - I can provide you accurate Material Quantity Estimates for Metal / Tile / Shingle, but you will need to get price estimates from the supplier of your choice. Go to metalroofestimating.com for more info.
There is a huge load of times when Xactimate is far antiquated with costing. A value change and provider statement can help in those cases.
The fact that it is such a pain is exactly why we are in business. The reality is that most days for contractors are spent selling and installing all day and their night is shot trying to get it all in Xactimate to supplement. We can take the stack of paperwork down to nothing for these guys.
There are thousands of line items too, so picking the right one can be tricky. My recommendation, if you are going to use it, is to set up macros.(a predetermined list of materials.)
It isn't impossible. There are plenty of folks using it, it just takes some time to learn, and experience knowing what you should stuff in there. It has a bit f a learning curve, but it can be done. BTW, there are a bunch of keystroke shortcuts that make drawing faster too. You may be able to find them published on-line or in Xactimate's help forum.
I downloaded the free trial of Xmate 27. I don't know how in the hell you guys learned to use the drawing and other features. I got it to draw the house but then I couldnt put valleys where I needed them. Think I need a class to learn!
Most Adjusters have little experience when dealing with lead, mold, or asbestos. When you start writing things in Xactimate (and you can adjust the price, or make it a misc. charge) they start to want to work a little better.
There are a ton of times when Xactimate is way behind the times with costing. A price change and supplier quote can help in those cases.
Windows are alright, writing them up can be tricky. The problem is that often the adjuster assumes that every step is written in... It's not.
I did a flat roof on a shingled roof a month or so ago and Xactimate pricing was way way way off. When punched up at 4 sq it was $2,500. I got a bid from a large flat roofing company at $8,500. I ended up writing my own estimate for $7,000. Luckily it was Chubb one of the best insurers out there so they didn't sweat the price!
There are a few things Xactimate is off on, Windows and flat roofs are first that come to mind.
Finaly they have a line item for custom bent fascia.
Also, They have a mere $80 for testing for lead. Been getting $420 for the service since the law took place.
Xactimate doesn't have a code for everything. You have to create it yourself by using a misc. item.
Once you explain what it is and put the price on it, you get to define it.
If you would like help doing it, we can help.