FAQs
Here are some of the common questions (FAQs) we receive at The Estimates Depot regarding Xactimate®, initial/supplement estimates, insurance claims processes, and our internal procedures. If you do not find your question answered here, please do not hesitate to reach out to us for further assistance.
We are always here to help!
- I am prepared to begin. What information or materials do you require from me?
To determine the necessary documentation for preparing your estimate, please complete the brief survey below. This will help save time and prevent potential delays or rejections due to insufficient information.
- What is the typical turnaround time for an estimate, and is it possible to expedite the process if I need it urgently?
In many instances, we can prepare your Preview Estimate (i.e., draft estimate) within one to three business days and finalize it on the same day you approve it. However, the turnaround time may vary based on the complexity of the order, the completeness of the Scope Sheet forms (applicable only to initial estimates), and our current order volume. If we anticipate that completing your Preview Estimate will take longer than three business days, we will inform you in advance and provide the option to withdraw your order if desired. For more specific and up-to-date information about turnaround times, please contact us.
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Additionally, if you require your estimate sooner than our current average turnaround time (please contact us anytime to inquire), you may request a “rush” service for an additional fee equal to 50% of the standard fees. While we cannot guarantee a specific turnaround time with this option, we will prioritize and complete your estimate as quickly as possible to the best of our abilities.
- For supplemental estimates, is the fee calculated based on the additional amount added to the estimate, or is it based on the final total of the estimate?
We charge 1% based on the final total of the approved estimate. ($124.99 deposit when order is accepted)
- When will the charges for my order be applied?
A deposit of $124.99 will be billed to your saved payment method when the assignment has been accepted.
- Would you be able to identify and add any items that may have been overlooked in my estimate?
Upon your request, we will review your Scope Sheet and/or the adjuster’s estimate for any overlooked or missing items. These items will be added to your Preview Estimate and highlighted for your review. You can then decide whether to include them in your finalized estimate. Please note that, as we are estimating your project remotely, we may not identify every overlooked or missing item. Your detailed Scope Sheet, list of missing items, photos, videos, and other documentation will greatly enhance our understanding of your project and improve our ability to identify any overlooked or missing items.
- May I provide you with an Eagleview™, HOVER, or other satellite measurement report to assist in preparing my estimate?
Yes, we highly recommend ordering satellite reports for any projects involving roofing, gutters, or siding. Even if an adjuster’s estimate claims to be based on a satellite report, we advise obtaining your own report if the adjuster has not provided a copy. We have frequently encountered inaccuracies and omissions in adjuster estimates that reference satellite reports. We can order satellite reports for roofing orders at an additional charge.
- Is it possible to cancel an order after it has been submitted?
Yes, if your order is still in our queue and has not yet entered the processing stage, you may cancel it without incurring any cancellation fees. However, if processing has commenced, a cancellation fee may be applicable. For further details, please contact us.
- Are post-finalization revisions included in my estimate?
Yes, even when an estimate appears perfect, revisions may be necessary to satisfy a customer or reach a compromise with an adjuster. We will accommodate a reasonable number of revisions to any finalized estimate, with ‘reasonable’ being determined at our discretion. If a revision results in an increased total estimate, the difference will be subject to additional billing based on the agreed pricing.
- How should I address the errors in my estimate?
We are committed to ensuring the highest level of accuracy in all our estimates. However, on rare occasions, errors may occur. Should this happen, we will promptly correct any mistakes at no additional cost. To avoid unnecessary charges, please do not use the order form for error corrections. Instead, kindly email your issue directly to us.
- Is The Estimate Depot capable of importing and exporting Xactimate ESX files?
Yes,
Submitting Your ESX File
Our estimate writers utilize Xactimate Version X1, ensuring compatibility with any version you may be using. Therefore, we can seamlessly import your ESX file.
Receiving Your ESX File
Our estimate writers generate ESX files using Xactimate Version X1, which are compatible only with that version and newer. If you are using an older version of Xactimate, you will be unable to import our ESX file. However, you can still receive your estimate in PDF format.