Scoping and Estimating Challenges for Building Damage

The course, “Scoping and Estimating Challenges for Building Damage,” identifies the major obstacles faced by adjusters to establishing accurate scopes of building damage. The module is presented by Trent Massey, AIC, GRP, WRT, Property Programs Instructor for Vale Training Solutions. Trent is also a LEED Green Associate, Corporate Social Responsibility Practitioner, and an EPA Certified Renovator.

Four fundamentals of scoping/estimating are discussed – material identification, material task, material calculation, and input into software. The instructor also examines how motivation and good habits of adjusters impact scoping and estimating. Other variables covered include paint, HVAC, and lump sum estimates. Finally, the instructor outlines the important aspects of energy-star buildings, aerial imagery, building codes, and permits.

The goal of the course is to help adjusters accurately scope building damage. There are four main components of claim handling — fact gathering/ investigation, application of coverage, assessment of the covered damages, and claim resolution. This course focuses on fact gathering/investigation, which will ultimately result in effective claim resolution.

The course begins with a brief overview of the issues complicating scoping and estimating within the insurance industry. Next, the instructor discusses in detail the four fundamentals of scoping/estimating. Material identification explores the terminology, grade/quality, pricing factors, and the matching of the item to an item in the software being used. Material task considers the scoping terms of remove/replace, clean, seal/paint, remove/reset, or sand/refinish. Material calculation comprises drawings, dimensions, openings, and units of measurement. And input to software is a consideration of the use of estimating software as a tool. The instructor then outlines solutions for the adjuster who has weaknesses in any of the four elements.

The instructor describes how motivation can impact scopes/estimates and outlines how we can inspire adjusters to be their best. Similarly, the instructor describes how we develop good habits and how good habits impact scopes/estimates.

Finally, variables that impact scopes/estimates are discussed. These include grades, new building material products, trade technical issues, inspection challenges, and codes and permits. A breakdown of lump sum estimates with specialty trades (electrical, mechanical, plumbing, etc.) is also examined.

After completing the course, the attendee will be able to outline the complicating issues for the industry; identify the fundamentals of scoping and estimating – material identification, material task, material calculation, and input into software; describe the common mistakes in identifying materials; differentiate between the materials found in old homes and new homes; list the common mistakes in material tasks; identify the common mistakes in material calculations; estimate dumpster sizes accurately; note the challenges in using estimating software; describe how we can inspire adjusters to be their best; list how we develop good habits; explain the various variables that impact scopes/estimating including new building materials and building codes; outline the challenges with lump sum estimates; explain the pros and cons of using aerial imagery; and understand the value in providing an accurate estimate.

The course is designed for insurance claims professionals working in the area of loss investigation and insurance coverage analysis. Professionals in the property coverage arena will find this course beneficial.