Why an estimate review comes first
Insurance estimates are written in specialized software, with codes, unit prices, line items and depreciation schedules that are hard to read if you don’t work with them every day. A low number might be fair, or it might be missing whole parts of the job. A review tells you which, before you sign anything or commit to the cost of appraisal.
For many people, an estimate review from North Dakota Insurance Appraiser is the right first step. Sometimes it confirms the carrier’s estimate is reasonable. Sometimes it identifies specific gaps you can raise with your adjuster. And sometimes it shows the difference is large enough that appraisal makes sense.
What we check
Scope
- Does the estimate include every damaged area, elevation and room?
- Are cold-climate components like ice and water shield, drip edge and proper underlayment included where needed?
- Are matching and continuity problems acknowledged where materials are discontinued?
- Are tear-out, disposal, protection and cleanup included?
- Are code-required items identified, such as ventilation, detectors or electrical work?
Quantities
Roof squares, waste factors, wall areas and linear footage are easy to get wrong. A small error in measured area repeats through every related line.
Pricing
We compare unit prices against current local costs, considering the region, the season and how a surge of storm work can affect labor and materials. Rural jobs often have travel and mobilization costs that a default price list may not reflect.
Overhead and profit
When a project reasonably needs a general contractor to coordinate several trades, overhead and profit may belong in the estimate. We note whether it was included and whether the job’s complexity supports it.
Depreciation and payment terms
We look at how depreciation was applied, whether it is recoverable under your policy, and whether any roof payment schedule or actual cash value endorsement changes what you will receive.
Contents and additional living expense
If your claim includes personal property or temporary housing costs, we can note whether those parts of the estimate appear complete, though contents valuation usually depends on an inventory you prepare.
What you get
You receive a written summary that lists each significant issue, explains why it matters and, where useful, gives an approximate value range. Illustrative example only: a review might find missing ice and water shield, an undercounted waste factor and omitted gutter work, and list each with its effect on the total. We explain everything in plain language and answer your questions.
What a review isn’t
An estimate review is an independent professional opinion on the cost of repairs. It is not legal advice and not representation in negotiations with the carrier. We are not public adjusters and do not negotiate claims on your behalf. If the dispute is about coverage or how the claim was handled, a North Dakota attorney is the right resource. North Dakota law recognizes claims against insurers for bad-faith conduct, and the insurance code addresses unfair claim settlement practices, but whether either applies to you is a legal question.
What to send us
- The carrier’s complete estimate, ideally in PDF with all pages
- Photos the carrier took, if you have them, plus your own
- Your declarations page and the policy
- Any contractor bids you’ve received
Frequently asked questions
How long does an estimate review take?
It depends on the size of the claim and whether an inspection is needed. We give you a timeline when we receive your documents.
Do you need to inspect my property?
Not always. Some reviews can be done from the estimate and photos. Larger or disputed losses usually benefit from an on-site inspection.
If the review finds gaps, what are my options?
You can share the findings with your adjuster, ask for a reinspection, or consider appraisal if your policy has the clause and the gap is significant.