The Adjustor Can Do It All

It’s not uncommon to get calls from adjustors late at night or on weekends and holidays. Why? Because they have so much on their plate some of them are working 16-18 hour days, six and seven days a week on a regular basis, just to keep up with the workload. Several of these adjustors were sent out by their employer for formal training on estimating software. The employer theorized the adjustor would no longer need building consultants and could do the estimates themselves. Ignoring the fact the adjustor has no training or education in structural issues or mechanical systems where are they supposed to find the time?

Estimating Software is a Database

While all the estimating programs have calculating elements the basis for all the cost calculations is a database of past costs and inputs from subscribers. The estimate is only as good as the data. Many factors can influence the accuracy of that data.

Adjustments have to be made for location of the loss. This includes not only the construction materials and labor costs but also travel distance and availability of contractors, changes in structure for snow load, or hurricane force winds, or earthquake movements. Specific requirements for fire prevention may also be required. What is the business? A programming company will have significantly different requirements than a smelting facility.

Adjustments need to be made for the structure. Is it a double loaded high rise hotel? How high is the building? Will scaffolding be required or cranes or helicopters? Have adjustments been made so square foot calculations don’t double the number of studs and create an estimate 30-50% over the actual costs?

Is it a building that is 120 years old with a bow-truss roof and an electrical system a kin to mice holding hands? Is it a designer building with upscale finishes?

Does the building meet current code requirements or will it need upgrades requiring demolition of areas not damaged in the event?

This information is seldom in the databases. It takes a trained building consultant to identify these potential issues and see that they are addressed so the building owner gets back into business and the insurance company can deal with real and accurate costs.

Building Consultants Are a Cost Effective Tool for the Adjustor

Technacon Company Inc. building consultants are trained and experience to spot all these ramifications and more. They can provide an estimate in most major software programs quickly and accurately. This allows the adjustor to do what they have been trained to do best; adjust the lose, create a happy client, and move on swiftly and efficiently to the next loss. Who knows, they might even have time to sleep.