Residential Estimating

This two-week class teaches students how to scope and prepare thorough and accurate estimates on residential dwelling damage using their choice of leading automated estimating systems.  All phases of residential construction are introduced including framing, windows and doors, interior and exterior finishes, roofing and mechanical systems.  Class discussion includes material identification, nomenclature, measurement, damages, repair versus replacement and unit cost analyses.  Hands-on scoping and estimating exercises are incorporated into the instruction. 

The emphasis is on learning to prepare complete, detailed and accurate estimates on damaged dwellings. Topics covered are detailed in the syllabus below.  

Beginning with orientation to computerized estimating systems and then framing on the first day, students learn in the classroom and quickly apply scoping, identification and measurement knowledge to produce their own automated estimates of damages using the Vale House located at each campus.  During the following days, we concentrate on interior items including windows and doors, restoration and painting, plaster, drywall, flooring, trim, cabinets, etc. Estimate exercises follow each unit of instruction.  Following interior damage analysis and scoping and estimating exercises, exterior damages are emphasized. Topics covered include roofing, siding, masonry, fences, etc., followed by electrical systems and plumbing. 

Hands-on scoping and estimating exercises are thoroughly reviewed and discussed so students can improve their skills daily. The exercises emphasize writing estimates for damages resulting from fire, water, wind, hail, and collision.  Graded scoping and estimating exercises, quizzes and tests monitor the progress of each student. 

After successfully completing this course, the student will have the skills and knowledge to prepare a complete and accurate electronic estimate for minor to moderate interior and exterior residential dwelling damage.

Continuing Education Units:

This course may be available for Continuing Education credits, please contact Vale for details.

Audience:

Handling residential dwelling losses in the 21st Century will require different tools and skills to be effective. Electronic information systems will be the tools of technology used to produce damage estimates. Claims handlers will need to be proficient in analyzing the scope of damages and then using electronic tools to produce estimates. 

This two-week course is designed for the field adjuster, desk examiner and restoration contractor handling all levels of dwelling damage estimating

Prerequisites:

Attendees must be capable of operating Windows-based programs. Sponsors will need to indicate estimating program selection at the time of Registration.

Syllabus:

Introduction 
Definitions, Estimating, Scoping 
Diagramming, Trades, Tools 

Rough Carpentry 
Floors, Walls, Roofs 

Interior 
Plaster, Drywall, Ceilings, Paneling 

Millwork 
Trim, Cabinets, Countertops, Stairs

Doors, Windows, Glass 
Types and Materials 

Flooring 
Wood, Tile, Vinyl, Carpet 

Decorating 
Paint, Wallpaper 
Restoration, Deodorizing 

Exterior 
Siding, Trim, Soffits 
Gutters, Fences 

Roofing 
Roof Styles, Materials 
Measurements 

Masonry 
Concrete, Block, Brick 
Chimneys, Stucco 

HVAC 
Types, Insulation, Ductwork 

Plumbing 
Rough and Finish 
Water Heaters 
Supply, Containment, Drain 

Electrical 
Service, Fixtures 

Damages 
Estimating exercises that cover damages resulting from fire, water, wind, hail, hurricanes, collision and ensuing losses. 

This course uses the latest versions of: 

PowerClaim
Simsol
Symbility
Xactimate