When working insurance claims, the estimating platform you use can make a major difference in your payout. Savvy contractors know there’s a strategic advantage in transitioning estimates to Xactimate® and the numbers back it up.
The Real Difference in Xactimate Estimates
At a glance, Xactimate serves the purpose of estimating repair and restoration costs. In our experience, switching an exterior damage estimate to Xactimate increases the total by 15% to 20% on average even when using comparable line items.
This difference adds up quickly, especially in trades like roofing, gutters, siding, and exterior painting, where every detail counts.
Case Snapshot: A Texas Roof That Proves the Point
In a recent project near Dallas-Fort Worth:
- The original estimate for a 38-square roof came to $15,587.16
- The converted Xactimate estimate reached $18,514.04
- After adding missing but legitimate line items, the final total hit $21,766.75
That’s more than $6,000 in additional claim value — uncovered through a simple platform change and careful supplementing.
Key Considerations in Estimate Conversions
- The same repair task can be measured differently. For example, a rain diverter might be priced per linear foot versus per unit in Xactimate.
- Individual pricing lines may sometimes be lower in the original estimate, but the total almost always favors Xactimate.
- We’ve yet to encounter a conversion that reduced the estimated total.
Capture What You’re Owed
Contractors shouldn’t have to accept underpriced estimates. Converting to Xactimate ensures a more accurate, often higher, representation of the actual work needed.
Ready to increase your claim value? Reach out today to get started with estimated conversions or supplemental reviews. We’re here to help you maximize every job.
These decorative elements are often missed due to satellite measurement gaps. If they’re excluded, you’re losing money on both labor and materials. Use the appropriate one- or two-story rates in your cost estimator and photograph these items to support your claim.