Foundation
How Adjusters Calculate
The methods and tools insurance adjusters use to estimate damage and determine claim payouts.
Definition
An adjuster is a representative of the insurance carrier responsible for inspecting damage, determining the scope of covered repairs, and generating the claim estimate.
How It Works
Xactimate
Industry-standard estimating software used to generate line-item repair costs based on local pricing databases.
CCC / Mitchell
Valuation platforms used primarily in auto claims to determine vehicle repair costs or total loss values.
Desk Adjusting
Remote estimate review without a physical inspection. Common for smaller claims but may miss damage.
Field Inspection
In-person inspection of the damaged property. The adjuster documents damage and creates a scope of work.
What to Check
- Request the full itemized estimate, not just the summary page.
- Compare every line item against your contractor's estimate.
- Verify the pricing reflects current local market rates.
- Check whether all damaged areas were included in the scope.
What Should Happen Next
If you believe the estimate is inaccurate or incomplete, you have the right to submit a supplement request with supporting documentation, photos, and a contractor's counter-estimate.
Upload your documents for a structured claim analysis.
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