Site inspection techniques vary with each individual but the basics remain the same. Because our experience is associated with providing insurance companies estimates as a part of direct repair provider programs, the use of the Sketch module in Xactimate ® was a requirement. The Sketch and the notes applied to the diagram gives insurance company estimate reviewers the added visual information to assist in thier review of the estimate. Our system employs the use of Sketch exclusively. For a ProDescs ® professional to provide an estimate for a homeowner, contractor or insurance representative, a diagram must be provided. Below is a sample field sketch that was completed on site. The basics are simple and include: a diagram of the floor plan; room dimensions that include ceiling height(s); notes about room specifics, such as, the length of a vanity cabinet or sliding closet doors as opposed to bi fold closet doors.
If you are a homeowner and are going to secure ProDescs ® to provide a Property Damage Estimate for you, don't fear. A ProDescs ® professional will be able to walk you through the information gathering phase for your estimate. Providing a diagram and notes for an estimate may seem a bit daunting but once you start you will find that it really isn't that tough. You will need the following: a pencil, clipboard with graph or copy paper, a tape measure and a digital camera.
The sketch below is how the above field diagram appears in the estimate:
The sketch below is a roof diagram created from the above floor plan:
