Looking to improve your estimate writing skills? If so, you’re in luck! In this guide, we’ll take a look at the top 10 secret line items that estimators often miss when creating an estimate using the popular software program Xactimate.
Whether you’re a restoration professional looking to get more accurate estimates or someone new to the industry just starting out, these tips will help ensure that your estimate is as accurate and thorough as possible. Let’s get started!
When writing an estimate for restoration work, it’s crucial to account for all of the waste materials that will need to be removed from the site. This may include things like drywall and flooring, as well as larger items like furniture and appliances. To estimate for this properly, be sure to take careful measurements of the area that needs to be cleaned and look up average weights for common debris types online.
Another important line item is structural drying. This refers to the process of removing excess moisture from walls, floors, ceilings, and other structural elements in order to prevent damage and ensure safety. If you’re not experienced in restoration work, it’s a good idea to consult with an expert or hire a professional crew who can handle this crucial step in the estimate process.
Alongside these two main line items are several others that are often overlooked when writing estimates using Xactimate or similar software programs. These include things like content cleaning, mold removal, and water damage repair. Take a look at the list of 10 items below.
- Clean- When you paint the walls you have to clean them first, don’t you?
- RFG LAB-Labor isn’t free.
- O&P-don’t let anyone tell you you don’t deserve to be profitable no matter how many ‘trades’ are involved in what you do.
- TMP POWHU-We all need to see what we are doing.
- PLM TLTS- Toilets don’t come with seats.
- CAB KNPL- How else do you open it.
- FNH DORHRS – Why is door knob and lock set not with DOR.
- LAB SUPERR – If a job has a supervisor at it and you pay that supervisor to be there it should be in your estimate.
- RFG ASTR – Can’t start a roof without it.
- And most importantly… Write for the item that is actually there. The difference between a Freestanding range and Slide in range can be hundreds of dollars.
Whether you’re an experienced restoration professional or just starting out in this field, it’s essential to be aware of the many line items that can go into an estimate. By taking the time to understand all aspects of the estimate process, from structural drying to content cleaning, you can create more accurate estimates and provide your clients with the highest quality service possible.
Some of the top line items that estimators often miss include damage to flooring and furniture, structural drying, environmental cleaning, and mold remediation. These can all be vital components of a successful restoration project, so it’s crucial to understand their impact on the estimate process and how to account for them accurately.
If you’re looking to improve your estimating skills and ensure that your estimates are as accurate as possible, be sure to research these critical line items and consult with industry experts for guidance. With a thorough understanding of restoration work and strong estimating skills, you can provide your clients with the best service available in this field.
Spending most of his career in restoration, 31 year old Matt Gregory knew the pain points that we find most common within the industry. Leaving his job as a project manager and estimator he took to solving some of those issues using the most recent advancements in AI technologies. Paired with software engineer and Stanford Alumni Max Freundlich they have developed 
