Xactimate Glossary

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Plain-English definitions of the terms you actually run into on an insurance claim — from ESX files and CAT/SEL codes to depreciation, O&P, and drip edge. Search, or browse by topic.

Showing 386 of 386 terms

1

15 felt: A lighter-weight roofing underlayment made from asphalt-saturated organic felt paper. It is rolled on over the roof deck and under the finished covering so the deck gets a second moisture barrier while the job is in progress. Felt underlayment comes in different weight classes, and 15 felt is the lighter grade used on many residential roofs.

3

3-tab shingles: A traditional asphalt shingle cut into flat rectangles with three tabs along the lower edge. When laid, each tab is offset from the row below, giving the uniform pattern found on many older homes. It is a standard replacement material when a hail or wind estimate calls for basic asphalt shingles rather than a thicker architectural style.
30 felt: A heavier asphalt-saturated organic felt underlayment, thicker than the lighter grade. It offers more tear resistance and more protection while work is underway, so it is often chosen for steeper roofs or where the deck will sit exposed longer before the finished covering is applied. It is measured and priced the same way as other felt underlayment.

A

Activity code: The marker that tells an estimate line what the work does: install, remove, replace, or adjust. In Xactimate, the activity code is part of the code string carried on the line item. Reading it correctly matters because the same product can appear several times in one scope, and each line needs the right activity to match the actual work.
Actual cash value: The value of damaged property after depreciation is deducted. A policy that pays actual cash value pays the old value of the item, not the cost of a brand-new replacement. Restoration work tends to be priced at replacement cost, and the gap between the two is often held back until the repair is finished and verified.
ACV: Actual Cash Value: replacement cost minus depreciation — what a policy pays when the policyholder does not repair.
ACV settlement: Accepting payment at Actual Cash Value (RCV minus depreciation) instead of replacing. If the policyholder elects an ACV settlement, they forgo the recoverable depreciation on the claim.
Additional insured: A person or business named on an insurance policy so the policy also covers them for the insured risks. Property managers, general contractors, and site owners are commonly named as additional insured on a restoration contractor's liability policy. It is usually arranged with an endorsement and changes who can claim under the policy.
Additional living expenses: A coverage that pays the extra cost of living away from home while a covered loss is being repaired. It covers hotel stays, dining out, and other costs the household would not have had otherwise. It is often called ALE, and it is part of many homeowners' policies after a fire or a major water loss.
Additional living expenses claim: A claim for the temporary housing and added living costs caused by a covered property loss. The contractor's repair timeline helps the adjuster estimate how long the household will need to stay out. Keeping receipts for lodging and meals makes the extra living cost amount easier to document and approve.
Adjuster: The insurance professional who investigates a loss, inspects the damage, and decides what the policy will pay. The adjuster reads the policy, reviews the contractor's written estimate, and agrees on a scope and price both sides can accept. Adjusters work for the carrier or as independent adjusters hired per claim.
Adjuster licensing: Most states require adjusters to be licensed to handle insurance claims. Licensing rules cover exams, education, and renewal requirements, and they differ from state to state. Public adjusters, who represent the policyholder rather than the insurer, usually need their own license in the states where they work.
Aggregate: A policy limit that applies to the total amount paid out over the policy period rather than to one single loss. Once that total is used up, remaining coverage for the period is reduced or gone. Contractors and policyholders both watch aggregate limits when a property has several claims in the same policy year.
AHJ: Short for authority having jurisdiction, the local agency that adopts and enforces building codes, issues permits, and runs inspections. On a roof or water-damage repair it is usually the city or county building department. When an estimate carries code-mandated work, the AHJ is the office that approves the permit and closes the final inspection.
Air mover: A high-volume fan used in water damage restoration to push air across wet surfaces so moisture moves into the air faster. Air movers work together with dehumidifiers, which pull the moisture back out, and the set runs until the materials reach the drying goal. They are priced as drying equipment in the restoration scope.
Air sampling: A test that collects air from a space to measure airborne particles, spores, or other contaminants. The sample goes to a lab for analysis, and the result helps decide whether remediation is needed and whether it was effective afterward. Air sampling is used alongside moisture readings and surface checks.
Air scrubber: A portable filtration machine used during restoration and remediation to clean the air in the work area. It draws air through filters that trap dust, odors, and particles, and it is often run inside a sealed containment so contaminants do not travel to undamaged rooms. The equipment stays on the job until the space is cleared.
All-perils policy: An insurance policy that covers every cause of loss except those the policy names specifically. It works from the exclusion list inward, so a covered loss is a loss that no exclusion removes. It is the opposite of a named-perils policy, which lists only the causes it will pay for.
All-risk policy: Another name for an all-perils policy. It covers causes of loss broadly, leaving only the named exclusions uncovered. When a loss occurs, the first question is whether an exclusion applies, rather than whether the cause is listed. That coverage structure is one of the broadest homeowners' options.
Aluminum coil stock: Flat aluminum supplied in rolls so roofers can form flashing, trim, and gutter pieces on site. The metal is cut and bent to match the job instead of ordering pre-sized parts, which is why coil stock shows up as a shop-order material on exterior repair estimates. It is sold by weight and described by its thickness.
Anti-concurrent causation: A policy clause stating that when a covered cause and a non-covered cause together produce a loss, the loss may be treated as not covered. It matters when wind opens a roof and rain then soaks the house, because the policy may attribute the water to the excluded cause. Adjusters read the clause carefully before setting coverage.
Antimicrobial treatment: A coating applied to cleaned surfaces to limit mold, bacteria, and other microbial growth after a loss. It is used after fire or water damage on materials that will stay in place, and it supports the cleaning and drying rather than replacing them. It is applied under the steps a restoration protocol calls for.
Appraisal clause: A policy provision that lets the policyholder and the insurer each name an appraiser when they disagree on the value of a loss. The two appraisers then choose an umpire, and the majority decision sets the loss value. A complete estimate together with photographs and records supports the policyholder's side of the process.
Appraisal demand: A formal request to begin the appraisal process under the policy's appraisal clause. It tells the insurer that the policyholder does not accept the loss value and wants appraisers appointed. Because the demand triggers a timeline, the date it is made and the papers attached to it matter a great deal.
Appraisal process: The formal way an insurance policy resolves a value dispute. Each side names an appraiser, the two choose an umpire, and the majority of the three sets the value. It is not a lawsuit and often happens before litigation. The policyholder's appraiser relies on the estimate and records to support the value.
Appraiser: The professional each side names under the appraisal clause to value a loss. The insurer's appraiser and the policyholder's appraiser work with their own records, then meet with the umpire they choose together. Because the decision is binding on coverage, the documentation the policyholder's appraiser receives must be complete.
Apron flashing: A strip of metal set where a lower roof plane meets a wall or a higher roof plane. It bridges the transition and sheds water down over the covering below, so water does not work its way up behind the wall. It is a small but necessary piece of many roof repairs and a line item of its own.
Arbitration: A dispute resolution process where a neutral party hears both sides and issues a decision. Insurance policies sometimes direct coverage disagreements to arbitration instead of court. It tends to be faster than litigation and its result is usually harder to change, so both sides prepare their records carefully before the hearing.
Architectural shingles: A class of asphalt shingles also called laminated or dimensional shingles. They are built with a thicker base and multiple layers so they cast deeper shadows and hide their seams better than the flat tab style. They are often the covering an estimate provides when a home already has this heavier shingle look.
Asphalt shingles: Roof shingles made from a fiberglass or felt mat coated in asphalt and surfaced with mineral granules. They are produced in several styles and are the roof covering found on many residential homes. When a hail or wind loss is repaired, the estimate describes the shingle style and grade from the original home.
Assignment of benefits: An agreement that lets the policyholder assign the right to collect payment for a covered loss to a contractor. The contractor then deals with the carrier directly. States regulate these agreements and some restrict them, so the form and its disclosures have to be handled carefully before work begins.

B

Back charge: A bill forwarded to the party responsible for added cost or delay. A contractor may back-charge a subcontractor for cleanup or a supplier for material ordered to the job but not used. The original estimate, change order, and time records decide who owes what when a back charge is raised.
Bad faith claim: A legal action claiming the insurer handled a covered claim unreasonably, by delaying it, underpaying it, or denying it without cause. If proven, the insurer can owe more than the policy benefits. The paper trail of the claim and the insurer's decisions is the evidence a bad faith case stands on.
Betterment: The value a policyholder receives when old damaged property is replaced with new material. Insurers deduct that value from the payment so the policyholder does not profit from the claim. Betterment shows up alongside depreciation on older items, and matching rules shape whether the newer material was required by the repair.
Betterment charge: The deduction on a claim because the replacement gives the policyholder newer materials than were lost. It is common on older roofs and finishes where the value worn away with age is not paid. The estimate shows the charge as its own line so the policyholder can see how the final payment was figured.
Blistering shingles: A roofing condition where raised pockets of air or moisture form under the surface of an asphalt shingle, showing as bumps or bubbles. Blisters are tied to moisture and manufacturing issues rather than impact, so an inspector checks function before deciding the shingles are damaged. Function, not just appearance, decides coverage.
Board-up: The work of securing a damaged building after fire, storm, or impact by covering windows and doors with plywood. It protects the building from entry and helps stop secondary damage when the roof or walls are open. Board-up is usually the first line item on a fire restoration estimate.
Box vent: A small covered roof vent installed over a cut in the deck near the top of the roof. It lets warm attic air move out when the intake vents let cooler air in. In a roof repair, vents damaged along with the shingles are replaced and listed on the estimate.
Builders risk: A policy that covers a building during construction or renovation. It protects the structure, materials, and equipment on site while work is underway and ends when the project is complete. It is a separate policy from the homeowner's coverage and is usually arranged by the builder or the owner.
Building permit: Approval from the local authority for construction work. The permit records that the plans were reviewed, and it sets up the required inspection when the work is done. Roof and water-damage repairs often need one, and the fee can appear as a line item on the repair estimate.
Built-up roofing: A flat or low-slope roof system built from several layers of roofing felt with alternating layers of hot or cold asphalt, finished with a coating or gravel. It is commonly called BUR. The layered system is repaired in sections or replaced when the plies begin to fail.

C

Cant strip: A triangular strip, often of wood or foam, fitted where a low roof deck meets a wall. It turns the sharp corner into a gradual slope so the roof membrane can be laid over it without a hard fold. Cant strips are part of the perimeter build of many commercial roof systems.
Carrier: The insurance company that underwrites the policy, collects the premium, and pays the covered claims. Carriers range from national companies to regional mutual insurers. In a restoration job, the carrier is the party the adjuster represents and the one whose coverage decision sets the scope that gets repaired.
Carrier response time: How quickly an insurer reacts after a claim is filed, by assigning the adjuster, scheduling the inspection, and making the first coverage decision. Response differs by carrier and by the size and urgency of the loss. Delays matter because they can let secondary damage develop while the property sits open.
CAT/SEL: The two-part code Xactimate assigns to every line item: the category (CAT) groups the item by trade, and the select (SEL) identifies the exact item. Together they tell Xactimate how to price the line. Read the guide →
Catastrophe adjuster: An adjuster deployed to an area hit by a major storm, fire, or other disaster. They handle a high volume of claims in a short window while the emergency response is in motion. They may work across state lines, which is why licensing rules are part of how catastrophe adjusters are assigned.
Catastrophe team: A group of adjusters, examiners, and support staff deployed to a disaster zone as a unit. Working as a team lets the carrier respond to a concentrated wave of claims faster than a single adjuster could. The team size follows the scale of the event, and members may come in from other regions.
Category 3 water: The most contaminated water classification in restoration, often called black water. It can carry sewage, bacteria, and other harmful contaminants, so it needs protective gear and trained handling. Materials that absorb it are usually removed rather than cleaned when they cannot be dried and disinfected safely.
Category selector: The part of the estimating environment where a product category is chosen before a specific code is picked. Narrowing to roofing, painting, or contents keeps the search on the right codes and the estimate organized. The category stays with the line item once the code is placed.
Cause of loss: The peril that produced the damage, such as wind, hail, fire, or water. A policy covers only the causes that its terms allow, so the cause of loss decides whether a claim is payable at all. The adjuster records the cause on the report and the estimate, and it shapes the rest of the claim.
Certificate of completion: A document the contractor signs stating that the repair work in the estimate is finished. It is often countersigned by the owner or the project representative. The certificate confirms the scope was performed, and it supports final payment or the release of a holdback at the end of the claim.
Certificate of insurance: A summary sheet from the contractor's agent that shows the coverage in force, the policy limits, and the effective dates. Property managers and owners ask for it before work starts so they can see there is liability coverage on the job. It is not the policy itself, and it can name an additional insured.
Change order: A written change to the agreed scope of work, with its own price. One is needed when hidden damage is found, when the owner asks for more work, or when code requires extra repair. The change order records the new work and its price before it is performed, so the estimate can be updated cleanly.
Chimney cap: A protective cover fitted on top of a chimney. It keeps rain, debris, and animals out of the flue and usually carries a spark-arresting screen. A missing cap lets water enter the home, and a chimney cap is a common line item on roof and masonry repairs after a storm.
Chimney cricket: A small saddle built on the upper side of a chimney to divert water and debris around it. Code may require a cricket for chimneys wider than 30 inches, and it is a commonly missed line item.
Chimney flashing: The metal flashing that seals where a chimney passes through the roof.
Claim adjuster: The person who inspects the damage and prepares the carrier's estimate of the loss.
Claim documentation: The photographs, estimate, invoices, and correspondence that support a claim as it moves. It tells the damage story from the loss date through the finished repair, and the adjuster uses it to approve the scope and price. Documenting at each step makes the final claim file complete and easy to review.
Claim lifecycle: The path a claim takes from first report to final payment and closure: intake, assignment, inspection, estimate, decision, repair, and closeout. Each stage carries its own documents and timeline. Knowing where a claim sits in the lifecycle helps a contractor hand over the right information at the right moment.
Claim payment: The money a carrier pays toward a loss — typically replacement cost minus the deductible and depreciation, with depreciation recovered later where the policy allows.
Claim reserve: The amount the insurer sets aside on its books when a claim is reported, as its expected cost. It is an internal estimate, not a payment, and it can be raised or lowered as the scope is confirmed. The reserve reflects what the carrier expects as the documentation arrives.
Claim severity: A measure of how large or costly a loss is, judged from the amount of damage and the resulting repair work. A small localized repair is lower severity than a full-system replacement. Severity usually affects how a claim is staffed and how much documentation the carrier asks for.
Claims examiner: The office-side insurance employee who handles the paperwork of a claim while the field adjuster inspects. The examiner reviews the estimate, applies the coverage terms, and coordinates payment. On many claims the examiner and the field adjuster work as a pair and share the same documentation.
Claims process: The sequence a claim follows from report to payment: intake, assignment, inspection, estimation, coverage decision, repair, and close. Each step has its own documents and timing, and the contractor's estimate arrives in the middle of it. Understanding the process keeps the right information moving to the right step.
Clearance testing: Verification work done after a remediation or drying job to confirm the space is safe to reoccupy. It may include visual checks, air samples, surface samples, or moisture readings before the work is closed up. Clearance testing shows the job met the stated protocol before the barriers come down.
Code compliance: Meeting the rules the current building code sets for materials and methods. An older home may no longer meet today's code, so a repair can require bringing the damaged area up to the standard in force now. Code compliance is a main reason a repair scope costs more than simple replacement.
Code upgrade: Work added to a repair to meet the current building code rather than the standard from the original build. It is common when a roof, electrical, or structural repair opens an area that has changed in code since it was built. The upgrade adds its own scope over the like-kind repair. Read the guide →
Code upgrade supplement: A separate document listing the work required to bring a repair up to current code, priced on its own. Insurers often ask for the supplement so the code-mandated costs sit beside the covered repair instead of being mixed into it. It shows each upgrade and the difference from a like-kind replacement.
Coinsurance: A policy condition requiring the insured property to be covered for at least a stated percentage of its replacement value. If the coverage is lower, the payment on a loss is reduced in the same ratio. Underinsured properties feel the effect when a total loss is measured against the actual value.
Collateral damage insurance: Coverage for damage to property that happens as a side effect of the main covered event. The loss that brought the crew in can touch an unowned part of the building or a neighbor's property. Policy language decides whether that side damage is inside the coverage, and policies differ on it.
Comparative negligence: A legal principle that reduces a person's recovery by their own share of fault for the loss. If both sides contributed, the damage is split by the percentages of responsibility. Some states apply it in full and others cut off recovery at a threshold, and it applies when negligence caused or added to the loss.
Containment area: A sealed zone within a building where remediation work happens, usually under negative pressure. Plastic sheeting and tape keep dust, spores, and odors from moving into undamaged rooms. The containment is built before work and removed only after the job passes clearance testing.
Content cleaning: The professional cleaning and deodorizing of personal belongings damaged by fire, smoke, or water. Items are cleaned, dried, and returned, or packed out for off-site work. Content cleaning is itemized separately from the building repair, and it is usually one of the first scopes discussed after a property loss.
Contents category: The part of an estimate that covers personal property rather than the building itself. Contents can be packed, cleaned, stored, and returned as part of a loss. In an estimate, contents are usually grouped in their own category so they can be separated from the structural repair work in the scope.
Contingency fee: A fee paid only when the claim or the work succeeds, usually a percentage of what is recovered. Public adjusters commonly work on contingency, and some states cap the amount. The arrangement must be written and disclosed before the work starts so the percentage and its basis are clear.
Coping: The cap along the top of a parapet or freestanding wall. It sheds water off the top of the wall so weather cannot get into the masonry body. Coping comes in metal, stone, and precast forms, and it is listed separately when a parapet is repaired after storm damage.
Copper flashing material: Sheet copper used to protect the joints and transitions of a roof where water could enter. It is a premium flashing metal that weathers to a green finish over time, and it is chosen on architectural and high-end roofs. It is laid in sheets and formed to the job the same way as aluminum flashing.
Core sample: A small plug cut out of a roof to reveal the actual build underneath. It shows how many layers are present and whether moisture sits between them, and it is documented with measurements and photographs. Inspectors use the sample to confirm what cannot be seen from the surface, and it may be sent to a lab.
Cosmetic damage: Damage that changes a surface's appearance without stopping it from doing its job. A scuffed panel or a curled edge that still sheds water can be described as cosmetic only. Coverage language decides the outcome, so a determination of function usually comes before a discussion of appearance.
Cosmetic damage exclusion: A policy clause that removes coverage for loss that is only appearance-based. The exclusion typically turns on whether the material still performs, so function decides the claim. A lightly dented panel or a tiny color mismatch can fall under this exclusion even when the item is no longer flawless.
Counter-flashing: The upper piece of flashing that overlaps the base flashing at a wall-to-roof joint. It is embedded into the wall so water running down cannot get behind the lower metal. Counter flashing keeps the whole joint sealed as the building moves and the materials settle.
Coverage A: The part of a homeowners policy that covers the dwelling structure, including its roof. Coverage A limits and roof-replacement terms vary widely by policy.
Creased shingle: A shingle that has been folded or bent so it no longer lies flat. A crease can bother appearance without stopping the shingle from shedding water, so the inspection looks at whether it sealed down and still functions. Cause is recorded separately from impact damage because the two fall differently under coverage.
Cricket: A small peaked structure built behind a chimney or other obstacle on a roof. It lets water shed to the sides instead of pooling against the obstruction. A cricket is usually flashed in the same metal as the roof transitions, and it is part of the repair when the roof around a chimney is opened.
Cut-up roof: A roof with many valleys, hips, and intersecting planes — it needs a higher waste factor than a simple gable roof. Read the guide →

D

Date of loss: The date the damage-causing event occurred (e.g. the storm). It matters for coverage (whether the policy was in force), for the statute of limitations, and for matching the correct price list.
Decking: The wood or OSB surface the roof covering attaches to — also called sheathing.
Deductible: The amount the policyholder pays before the insurer pays on a covered loss. The deductible is subtracted from what the policy pays on the loss, not from the job on the roof; on a replacement-cost claim only the recoverable depreciation is released later. On a roof loss it may be a flat dollar amount or a share of the insured dwelling value, and the policy wording states which.
Dehumidifier: A machine that pulls water vapor out of the air so wet materials can finish drying. Air movers push the moisture into the air and the dehumidifier collects it, and the set runs together until the drying goal is met. The size and number of units are part of the restoration equipment scope.
Denied claim: An insurer's decision that a loss is not covered or not payable under the policy. It can follow from an exclusion, a lapse in coverage, or a limit that is already used. A denial can often be challenged through a policy appeal, an appraisal process, or a complaint to the state regulator, and documentation carries the challenge.
Deodorization: The removal of smoke, mold-related, or other chemical smells from a building and its contents after a loss. It uses treatments like fogging or hydroxyl equipment along with cleaning of the affected surfaces. Deodorization is done before finish work so the odor is not sealed into the new material.
Depreciation: The drop in value an item takes from age, wear, and condition. Insurers apply depreciation to calculate actual cash value, and on replacement-cost policies they may hold back the depreciated portion until the repair is done. The age and state of the damaged material decide how much depreciation applies.
Depreciation holdback: The portion of a replacement-cost payment the insurer keeps until the repair is finished and verified. The policyholder collects it after the work is complete, generally with the paid invoices and other closing documents. The holdback keeps the claim from paying the full replacement value before the repair is performed.
Depreciation schedule: The table an insurer uses to figure how much value an item has lost by age and condition. It shows expected service life and the remaining value, and it is the basis for the actual cash value on a loss. It is one of the figures an adjuster applies when the policy pays actual cash value rather than replacement cost.
Desiccant dehumidification: A drying technique that pulls moisture out of the air with a desiccant dehumidifier instead of a refrigerant-based unit. Restoration contractors use it after water damage when temperatures are low or when a room needs steady, low-humidity drying. The machine draws damp air across a moisture-absorbing material and returns drier air to the space, helping to dry walls, floors, and contents as part of an organized drying plan.
Desk adjuster: An insurance adjuster who handles claims from an office rather than visiting the property. Desk adjusters review the claim file, photos, and estimates, then communicate with the policyholder and the contractor by phone or email. They often handle smaller or more straightforward claims, while field adjusters inspect damage on site. Estimates prepared for a desk adjuster still need accurate line items and supporting documentation so the review can be completed remotely.
Documentation: The photos, measurements, notes, and code references that prove an item belongs in the estimate.
Documentation package: The bundle of records a contractor, policyholder, or adjuster assembles to support an insurance claim. It typically includes the scope of work, photos, measurements, invoices, and the estimate file. A complete documentation package makes an estimate easier to review and helps the field adjuster confirm what was damaged and what was repaired. Restoration contractors use it when submitting supplements or when negotiating changes to an approved estimate.
Dormer: A windowed structure that projects from a sloped roof, creating light and usable space in an attic or upper room. Dormers add complexity to a roof system because they introduce valleys, flashing, and transition points where the dormer walls meet the main roof planes. When damage occurs, an estimator has to account for the extra framing, roof covering, and flashing work needed to repair or replace the dormer.
Downspout: A vertical pipe that carries rainwater from the gutter system down to the ground or a drainage point along the building. Downspouts protect siding, foundations, and landscaping from running water. When storm or hail damage affects the gutters, the attached downspouts are often damaged as well, so they are included in an estimate for roof-adjacent repairs. Estimators measure the downspout length and note the material and color for the replacement work.
Drip edge: A metal trim installed along the edges of a roof to channel water off the roof covering and away from the fascia. It is fitted over the underlayment and under the first course of shingles, with its lower leg over the fascia so water sheds clear of the fascia and into the gutter. Damaged drip edge is replaced as part of the edge work, and estimators itemize it separately under the roof covering line items and its Xactimate code. Read the guide →
Drip edge profile: The shape or profile of the trim installed at a roof edge. Different profiles exist, and each one directs water off the roof in a slightly different way. The profile matters during repair because a replacement piece should match the existing edge trim and the manufacturer specifications. An estimator notes the profile when writing line items so the roofer orders the correct material and the adjuster can verify the scope.
Dry-in: The stage of a roofing job where the roof is covered with a water-resistant material so the interior stays dry while the work continues. Roofers apply a layer of felt or synthetic underlayment to the deck as a temporary or permanent dry-in. After dry-in, the roof protects the house against rain before the final covering is installed. In emergency repair work, dry-in is a common first step after storm damage.
Drying goal: The target condition that guides a water-damage restoration job, usually expressed as a specific moisture level in the affected materials. The drying team monitors the structure with moisture meters and compares the readings against the drying goal to decide when a wall, floor, or ceiling is dry enough. When the goal is met, drying equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers can be removed and the structure can be repaired or rebuilt.
Duty to cooperate: A condition in most homeowner insurance policies that requires the policyholder to help the insurance company during the claims process. In practice, it means providing access for inspection, answering questions, producing requested records, and acting in good faith while the claim is handled. A policyholder who refuses to cooperate may weaken the claim, which is why contractors often advise documenting everything and responding promptly to the adjuster's requests.
Duty to mitigate: The obligation under most insurance policies for the policyholder to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage after a loss. After a storm or a burst pipe, that usually means covering the roof, boarding up windows, or shutting off water. Carriers may reduce a payment if the policyholder fails to mitigate, so restoration contractors document every mitigation action, including temporary tarping, as part of the claim file.
Dwelling coverage: The part of a homeowners policy that pays for repairs to the physical structure of the insured house, including the roof, walls, floors, and attached structures. Dwelling coverage is based on the replacement cost of the home, and it does not include personal belongings or additional living expenses, which are separate coverages. When a contractor prepares an estimate after a loss, the dwelling coverage is the portion that pays for the structural repair work.

E

Eave: The lower edge of a roof that overhangs the exterior wall of a building. The eave includes the fascia, the soffit, and often the gutter system, and it protects the wall from rain. Because the eave is exposed to weather, it is frequently included in storm and roofing estimates. Damage to the eave, such as rot, paint peeling, or pulled gutters, is itemized separately from the roof covering work.
Eaves: The lower horizontal edges of a roof that overhang the exterior walls. Drip edge runs along eaves and rakes, and ice-and-water shield is required at the eaves in cold climates.
Emergency services: Urgent work to stop ongoing damage right after a loss — temporary tarp, debris removal, or tree service. Coverage and limits vary by policy and should be scoped as a separate line item.
Emergency tarping: A temporary protective cover placed over an open or damaged roof after a storm. Tarping, along with board-up of broken windows and doors, is one of the first steps in emergency mitigation because it stops rain from entering the building and causing further damage. Insurance carriers typically reimburse reasonable tarping expenses, and contractors document the placement, the material used, and the date to support the claim.
Encrypted ESX file: A .esx file that is locked so it can only be opened inside Xactimate itself. Structural checks still work on locked files, which is why a file can be validated before import. Read the guide →
Endorsement: A written addition to an insurance policy that changes its terms, risks covered, or limits. Homeowners policies commonly carry endorsements for items such as replacement cost on roof shingles, water backup, or ordinance or law coverage for code upgrades. When a policyholder files a claim for a loss covered by an endorsement, the endorsement determines whether extra work such as code-required upgrades is included in the payment.
EPDM: A single-ply synthetic rubber roofing membrane (ethylene propylene diene monomer) used on flat and low-slope roofs. Usually black, adhered or ballasted.
EPDM roofing: A type of synthetic rubber roofing membrane, usually black, used on flat or low-slope roofs. EPDM stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer. The membrane is installed in large sheets and sealed at the seams, making it flexible and weather resistant. When an EPDM roof is damaged, the repair may involve patching the membrane or replacing whole sections, and the estimator bills the membrane, adhesive, and seam work as separate line items.
Equilibrium moisture content: The moisture level at which a building material stops gaining or losing moisture and stays stable in the surrounding air. Restoration contractors use this as a reference when drying a structure after water damage. Once materials reach equilibrium moisture content, the drying equipment is removed and the structure can be rebuilt. Knowing the target also tells the drying team whether a wall or floor is truly dry or still holding water.
Estimate: The priced breakdown of a scope of loss: line items, quantities, and totals.
Estimate revision: An updated version of a claim estimate written after the original scope changes. Revisions happen when additional damage is found, a hidden condition is corrected, or the policyholder makes different choices about the repair. In restoration work, the revised estimate is produced as a supplement and referenced to the original approved estimate, so the insurance carrier can see what changed and why. Every change is documented with photos, measurements, and the adjusted line items.
Estimating best practices: The habits and procedures that keep a construction estimate accurate and defensible. They include measuring areas before writing line items, using the correct trade codes, noting materials and quantities exactly, and keeping photos that support each repair. In insurance restoration, good estimating practice also means documenting the site conditions and preparing estimates that a field adjuster can review without reinspecting everything.
Estimator: The person responsible for calculating the cost of a repair or restoration job. In insurance restoration, the estimator measures the damage, writes the line items, chooses the product codes, and builds the estimate file that goes to the adjuster. The estimator has to balance accuracy with speed, because the estimate sets the scope of work, and a correct estimate prevents disputes later in the claims process.
ESX: The file format Xactimate uses to save and exchange estimates. An .esx file holds every line item, quantity, price, and detail of an estimate so it can be imported, reviewed, and re-priced in Xactimate. Read the guide →
ESX file: The native estimate file format used by Xactimate, the estimating software common in property insurance work. An ESX file carries the line items, quantities, measurements, and unit prices of an estimate. ESXPress converts an insurance carrier's estimate PDF into an ESX file, keeping the price from the customer's PDF as the source of truth and flagging any product codes it cannot match.
Examination under oath: A formal interview, conducted under oath, where the insurer questions the policyholder about a claim. It is typically used when a carrier needs answers about the cause and details of a loss or suspects misrepresentation. The policyholder answers questions through an attorney, and the testimony can be used later. Restoration contractors prepare for it by keeping thorough records of the loss date, scope, and repair costs.
Exclusion: A condition in an insurance policy that states what is not covered. Exclusions commonly include flood, earth movement, and gradual wear and tear. When a claim is denied because of an exclusion, the contractor or policyholder should confirm the policy wording, because coverage for certain losses can be added through an endorsement. Understanding the exclusions helps set expectations about which repair work an estimate will cover.
Export: Saving an estimate out of Xactimate as an ESX file so it can be shared or moved between systems.

F

F9 notes: Notes attached to a line item in Xactimate — F9 opens the notes field. They document why an item is included, which is often the difference between an approved item and a denied one. Read the guide →
Fascia: The trim board or metal piece along the eaves of a roof, installed directly below the roof edge. The fascia gives the roof a finished edge and usually carries the gutter system. When gutters pull down or storm damage strikes, the fascia is often bent, split, or rotted, and it must be replaced or straightened. It appears as a separate line item in roof and exterior repair estimates.
Felt paper: A traditional roofing underlayment made from asphalt-saturated paper, installed on the roof deck beneath the shingles. It adds a secondary water barrier and protects the deck before and during installation. Roofers may use one or more layers of felt depending on the roof pitch and local practice, and the quantity is measured as part of the roof system. Synthetic underlayment is now common, but felt paper still appears on many estimates.
Field adjuster: An insurance adjuster who visits damaged properties to inspect the loss in person. The field adjuster measures the damage, takes photos, and compares the contractor's estimate against the actual conditions at the site. After the inspection, the adjuster approves a scope or discusses changes. Because the field adjuster sees the property directly, the estimate and supporting documentation the contractor prepares are what determine the final payment.
Field shingles: The standard shingles covering the main area of the roof, as opposed to starter, hip, and ridge shingles.
Final inspection: A walkthrough of the completed repair work, usually done by the adjuster or a supervisor, before the claim is closed. The final inspection confirms that the scope in the estimate was performed, that the materials match the estimate, and that the work meets the quality required by the claim. Any variance discovered at final inspection is resolved with a supplement or a holdback release before the last payment is made.
Fire damage: Damage caused by fire, smoke, and heat to a structure and its contents. Fire losses often affect multiple systems: charred framing may need replacement, soot coats walls and surfaces, and odor soaks into materials. Restoration of fire damage runs from emergency board-up and debris removal through smoke cleaning and structural repair, and the estimate documents each step separately so the adjuster can review the full scope.
Fire restoration: The process of repairing a structure and its contents after a fire loss. The work typically begins with emergency services such as board-up and debris removal, then continues with soot and smoke cleaning, odor control, and replacement of damaged materials. Every step is written into the estimate with line items that distinguish cleaning and repair from replacement, so the adjuster can see exactly what the contractor did and why.
First notice of loss: The first notification a policyholder gives the insurance company that a loss has occurred. The notification usually happens by phone, email, or an app, and it starts the claims process by opening a claim and assigning an adjuster. A prompt first notice of loss matters because the carrier can help with emergency services and document the damage before it gets worse. The report includes the date of the loss and a general description of what happened.
First notice of loss detail: The specific information reported to the insurer when a loss is first filed. This can include the loss date, the cause of damage, the property address, and the names of anyone involved. Accurate detail at first notice of loss helps the adjuster set the claim up correctly and can reduce delays later. Restoration contractors often help policyholders submit this detail by describing the damage they saw at the property.
Flashing: Metal or synthetic material used to seal the joints and transitions of a roof, such as where a roof plane meets a wall, chimney, or valley. Flashing keeps water from entering behind the roof covering, and it is installed at vents, chimneys, and dormers. It is a common point of failure in roof repairs because storm damage disturbs the seal. Estimators list flashing work separately from the roof covering and the underlayment.
Flashing tape: Self-adhesive tape made of synthetic rubber or modified bitumen, used to seal roof penetrations and transitions. Contractors press the tape into place over pipes, vents, and edges to add a watertight layer beneath the flashing. In repair estimates, flashing tape is a small but important line item, because a poor seal at a penetration is one of the common causes of interior leaks after a roofing job.
Flat deductible: A fixed dollar amount a policyholder must pay toward a covered loss, instead of a percentage of the home value. A flat deductible means the out-of-pocket amount is the same regardless of the size of the claim. Contractors should confirm the deductible at the start of a job, because it affects the payment the policyholder receives after the carrier subtracts it from the approved repair cost.
Forensic engineer: An engineer who investigates the cause and extent of damage on a property, usually after a major loss such as a fire, collapse, or severe storm. The forensic engineer gathers evidence, tests materials, and writes a report that explains how the damage happened. That report is used in disputes between carriers and policyholders, and it often helps decide whether the loss is covered. Restoration contractors coordinate with the engineer when a claim is challenged.
Functional damage: Damage that affects the way a component performs, even if it does not look severe. For example, a shingle that is creased or cracked may look intact from the ground but can still let water through. Insurance carriers use the difference between cosmetic and functional damage to decide coverage, so estimators describe what the damaged element does and how it fails, not only how it appears.

G

Gable: The triangular wall section at the end of a pitched roof. Gable roofs have rakes that meet the ridge, and gable-end flashing is a separate line item.
Gable end: The triangular wall section at the end of a gable roof, formed by the sloping roof planes. The gable end sits above the top wall of the house and is exposed to wind and rain coming off the roof. Repair work at the gable end can include replacing siding, sealing the roof-to-wall transition, and installing flashing or a rake trim at the roof edge.
Gable roof: A roof shaped like a triangle when viewed from the end, with two sloped planes that meet at a central ridge. It is the most common residential roof shape because it sheds water well and keeps snow moving. A simple gable roof is generally easier to repair than a complex roof with multiple slopes and valleys. The estimate lists the same roof components for a gable or a hip roof, including underlayment, shingles, ridge, and flashing.
Galvanized steel flashing: Flashing made from steel coated with zinc to resist rust. Galvanized steel is a common material for roof edge trim, valley flashing, and wall transitions because it is strong and inexpensive. When writing an estimate, the estimator notes the material of the existing flashing so a replacement matches, since galvanized steel may be swapped for aluminum, copper, or a sealed metal system depending on the scope and the product specified.
General contractor: The contractor responsible for the full scope of a construction or restoration project. The general contractor coordinates the trades, orders materials, schedules the work, and manages the overall contract with the property owner. In insurance restoration, the general contractor prepares or works with the estimate that goes to the adjuster and is responsible for completing the scope approved by the carrier, including any supplements.
General liability: A type of insurance that protects a contractor against claims for bodily injury or property damage caused by the contractor's work. Restoration contractors are usually required to carry general liability coverage, and policyholders may ask for a certificate of insurance before work begins. The coverage does not pay for the repair itself; it protects the contractor when accidents happen on the job.
Granule loss: Loss of the tiny mineral granules that coat asphalt shingles. Granules protect the shingle from sunlight and rain, and they are worn off over time by weathering, hail, and foot traffic. Heavy granule loss shortens the shingle's useful life and can be used as evidence that a roof needs replacement. An estimator checks for granule loss when deciding whether a roof is repaired or fully replaced in a claim.
Gutter: The trough along the roof edge that catches rain and sends it to the downspouts. Gutters protect the roof edge, the fascia, and the walls from water runoff. When gutters are damaged, repair work includes realignment, rehanging, and replacement of sections. An estimate for gutter work includes the gutter material, the color, and the measured lengths so the adjuster can verify the full scope of the repair.
Gutter system: The complete drainage assembly on a roof, including the gutter troughs, downspouts, end caps, elbows, and hangers. A properly working gutter system moves water away from the building and protects the foundation and landscaping. Estimating a full gutter system means measuring every run and noting every component, because damage to one part often requires matching the rest of the system to keep the repair looking consistent.

H

Hail damage: Damage caused by hailstones striking a roof or exterior. Hail impact can dent metal flashing, bruise asphalt shingles, and break the granules that protect the shingle surface. Hail damage is not always visible from the ground, so adjusters and contractors inspect carefully, often checking hard-to-see areas. When the damage is widespread across the roof plane, replacement can be approved instead of a spot repair.
High roof: A roof higher than the standard two-story measurement. High roofs trigger an additional height charge because of the extra equipment and safety setup required.
Hip and ridge shingles: The shingles used along roof peaks and hips — a separate product and line item from the field shingles.
Hip ridge: The top edge of a hip roof, where the sloping roof planes meet. The hip ridge usually runs horizontally along the top, and it is capped with hip and ridge shingles or covered by a ridge vent. When an estimate lists ridge work, it covers the cap and vent along the peak of the roof. The hip ridge is part of the roof finishing material and is measured separately from the roof planes.
Hip roof: A roof where all four sides slope upward to a ridge, leaving no vertical gable walls. A hip roof is common in windy areas because its sloped sides deflect wind better than a gable roof. Repairing a hip roof involves measuring both sloped planes, the hip ridge, and the valleys where the sections meet, and the estimate itemizes the same roof components used on other roof styles.
Hold harmless agreement: A contract clause where one party agrees to assume another party's liability for certain risks, often included in construction contracts and property owner agreements. In restoration work, hold harmless clauses appear in contracts between property managers and contractors, and they define who is responsible if an additional loss or injury occurs. The contractor should review the language carefully, because the clause can transfer risk that belongs to the insurance policy.
Holdback: The portion of a claim payment the insurance carrier withholds until the work is completed and inspected. It is a common part of the payment structure because the carrier wants to confirm that the repair was finished before paying the full amount. Usually the holdback is released after the final inspection or after the policyholder and contractor confirm the scope was completed. It is also called the depreciation holdback in some claims.
Hydroxyl generator: A piece of air-treatment equipment used in fire and odor restoration that produces hydroxyl radicals, which react with odor-causing compounds in the air and on surfaces. Restoration crews run hydroxyl generators during the cleaning phase to reduce smoke smell, often alongside air scrubbers and air movers. The equipment time and the labor are documented in the estimate as part of the odor control scope.

I

Ice and water barrier: A self-adhering membrane installed in eaves, valleys, and around penetrations to stop leaks from ice dams and wind-driven rain.
Ice and water membrane: A self-adhesive rubberized underlayment installed on a roof in the areas most vulnerable to ice damming and water intrusion, such as the eaves, valleys, and around penetrations. The membrane protects the roof deck from the freeze-and-thaw cycles that cause leaks. Because it costs more than standard underlayment, it is installed only in the required zones, and the estimator measures those areas separately so the adjuster can verify the amount.
Ice and water shield: A common name for the self-adhesive waterproof roof underlayment installed at the eaves, valleys, and around penetrations to protect against water intrusion from ice and rain. It is made from modified bitumen with an adhesive backing. Many local codes require it in specific roof zones, so estimates list the shield as a separate line item with the measured area, and the quantity must match the code requirement.
Ice dam damage: Damage that occurs when water from melting snow backs up behind a dam of ice on a roof and seeps into the house. Ice dams form at the eaves when snow melts on a warm roof and refreezes there. The resulting water can damage ceilings, walls, insulation, and the roof deck. Repair involves removing the ice, repairing the water-damaged structure, and installing an ice and water shield to prevent another failure.
IICRC: The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, a standards body for the restoration industry. IICRC publishes standards for water damage restoration, fire and smoke cleaning, and other restoration procedures. Restorers who hold IICRC certifications are trained to the industry's accepted methods. Contractors commonly reference IICRC standards in their scope of work so the adjuster and the policyholder share the same procedure.
Impact resistance rating: A rating that measures how well a roofing material withstands impact, such as from hail. Shingles are classified into levels that show how much damage the surface can take before the material fails. Insurance carriers and local codes may use the rating to decide how a replacement roof is priced, because a higher-rated product resists cracking. The rating is noted on the replacement product in the estimate.
Import: Loading an ESX file into Xactimate so it can be reviewed, edited, and re-priced. Read the guide →
Import-ready: Describes an ESX file whose structure and codes will import into Xactimate cleanly, without errors. Read the guide →
Indemnification: An obligation one party takes on to cover another party's losses, and it can be written into contracts as well as insurance policies. In claim work, indemnification generally means the insured is put back in the same financial position they were in before the loss, not made better. A contractor reading an indemnification clause should check who is responsible for what, because it can shift risk beyond what the insurance covers.
Indemnity: The principle that insurance pays to restore a policyholder to the financial position they were in before the loss, without producing a profit. Indemnity affects how an estimate is priced, because the carrier pays the cost to repair or replace damaged property rather than an inflated amount. For a contractor, that means the estimate documents actual repair costs, and the payment should not exceed the loss itself.
Independent adjuster: An insurance adjuster who works as a contractor for a carrier or a managing general agent rather than as a carrier employee. Independent adjusters are typically engaged when a carrier is overloaded, such as during a catastrophe, or when a particular claim needs an outside professional. The adjuster's role is the same: inspect the loss, measure the scope, and review the repair estimate prepared by the contractor.
Independent adjuster detail: The extra information about how an independent adjuster works, including that they are often assigned a portfolio of losses during storm seasons and must follow the carrier's instructions. Independent adjusters work under the same policy terms as staff adjusters. For contractors, it is useful to know who the adjuster represents, because the final estimate flows to that carrier and the adjuster's authority sets which changes they can approve.
Infrared inspection: A way to inspect a property with a thermal camera that shows temperature differences beneath the surface. In restoration work, infrared cameras reveal wet spots in walls, under floors, or behind insulation without cutting into the structure. The inspection finds moisture that is not visible to the eye and supports both the drying plan and the estimate. It is a standard part of water damage documentation.
Initial estimate: The first estimate the carrier writes after the initial inspection.
Inspection protocol: The set of steps an adjuster or an inspector follows when examining a damaged property. It can include walking the roof, reviewing existing photos, taking moisture readings, and verifying the measurements behind the estimate. Following a consistent inspection protocol keeps findings objective and makes the claim review faster. Contractors help by preparing a clean, organized estimate and documentation package before the adjuster arrives.
Insurance claim: A formal request to an insurer for payment after damage to covered property.

K

Kickout flashing: A small angled piece of flashing installed where a roof's lower edge meets the side wall of a building. It diverts water off the roof into the gutter so it does not run down the wall and into the siding. Missing or poorly installed kickout flashing leads to rot and moisture intrusion behind the wall, and it is often noted during a roof repair or siding replacement.

L

Labor: The cost of the work itself, priced per hour or per unit of work.
Labor cost: The portion of an estimate that pays for the work performed by the contractor's crew. Labor is priced separately from materials, and in restoration estimating it is calculated from the measured quantities and the crew needed to complete the scope. The estimator's labor charges are what the adjuster reviews during a labor rate dispute, so they are documented along with the line items.
Labor minimum: The minimum amount of labor charged for a task when set by the price list the estimate is built against. A labor minimum prevents a very small quantity from producing a labor charge that does not cover the crew's time. In insurance claims, the labor minimum is part of the estimator's price list, and the reviewer or the adjuster checks it against the policy and the estimate before approving payment.
Labor rate dispute: A disagreement between a contractor and an insurer about how much labor should be charged for a repair. The dispute can be about the hourly rate, the number of hours needed, or which price list applies to the work. A documented estimate with measured quantities and clear line items makes resolving the dispute faster, because both sides review the same numbers. Contractors respond with their documented rate and the scope that requires it.
Law and ordinance: Coverage for the added cost of rebuilding to current code after a loss (sometimes called ordinance or law coverage). Without the endorsement, code upgrades may not be paid.
Lien waiver: A document a contractor signs releasing the right to place a lien on the property in exchange for payment. Lien waivers are used in the insurance claims process when a carrier issues progress payments, because the carrier wants assurance that the contractor will not claim it is unpaid. A contractor should only sign a waiver for the amount actually received, and the waiver should match the payment it covers.
Like kind and quality: A standard in property insurance meaning the damaged property is replaced with a similar material and level of quality, not something better or custom. For roofing, that usually means replacing damaged shingles with a comparable product of the same class. The like kind and quality standard can cause a dispute when the policyholder wants an upgrade, because the carrier pays for the original product and the difference becomes the property owner's cost.
Line item: A single row in an estimate: a code, a description, a quantity, a unit price, and a line total.
Line item dispute: A disagreement over a specific line in an estimate, such as the quantity, the price, or the product code used for a repair. Line item disputes are common in insurance restoration because carriers review every line. Contractors often resolve them with a supplement that includes photos, measurements, and justification for the line in question. Preparing a clean estimate with correct codes reduces how many line item disputes happen at all.
Line items: The individual entries in an estimate that describe each unit of repair, the material or task, the quantity, and the price. In an ESX file, line items carry the codes that Xactimate uses to map the work to the price list. The accuracy of an estimate depends on the line items, because every quantity, code, and price stays visible for the adjuster to review.
Line items detail: The deeper information attached to a line item, including the measurement, the number of units, the product code, and the unit price. The detail lets an adjuster trace how the total was built. In an ESX estimate, line item detail is what makes the file portable across Xactimate sessions, because each line carries the code the receiving software needs to map the work to its own price list.
Line total: Quantity times unit price for a single line item.
Litigation: The process of resolving a dispute through the court system. Insurance claims that end up in litigation usually involve coverage questions, bad faith claims, or disagreements about the extent of damage. Litigation is costly and long, which is why contractors and carriers prefer to resolve disputes through supplements, appraisals, or negotiated settlements. Accurate documentation and a defensible estimate are the strongest tools for staying out of court.
Loss date: The date on which the covered damage occurred. The loss date is recorded at the first notice of loss and is important because it starts the timeline for the policy, the claim, and any time limits that apply. It also determines which policy and which deductible are in effect. For a storm loss, the contractor confirms the loss date through weather records and documentation of when the damage was first discovered.
Loss of use: Coverage that pays the additional costs a policyholder incurs when the home is uninhabitable after a covered loss, such as a hotel stay, meals, or extra transportation. Loss of use pays the difference between normal living expenses and the higher costs caused by the loss. It is separate from the dwelling repairs, and the policy sets the limit on the period and the amount that can be claimed.
Loss of use coverage: The section of a homeowners or renters policy covering additional living expenses when the property cannot be occupied. Loss of use coverage is triggered by a covered loss that makes the home unfit to live in, and it reimburses the reasonable extra costs of temporary housing and meals. Clear documentation, including how long the property was uninhabitable, often determines whether the costs are paid.
Low slope: A roof with a shallow pitch (typically under 3/12). Low-slope roofs need different systems (single-ply, modified bitumen) and often require different code and coverage treatment than steep-slope shingle roofs.
Low slope roof: A roof with a slight pitch, close to flat, used on commercial buildings and some residential designs. Low slope roofs take different materials than steep roofs, such as membrane and modified bitumen systems. Because water drains slowly off a low slope roof, the design and the flashing are critical, and leaks are more likely when penetrations are not sealed properly. Estimators list the membrane, insulation, and flashing for that roof system.

M

Macro: A saved group of line items that inserts together, so a common job like a tear-off and re-roof does not have to be built from scratch every time.
Macro template: A saved set of commonly used line items in Xactimate that can be added to an estimate with one command. Macros and macro templates let an estimator write a repetitive scope, such as a roof tear-off, without re-entering each line. The template keeps the same codes and structure across jobs, but each job still needs its quantities checked because every roof is measured differently.
Macros: Shortcut commands in Xactimate that add a predefined group of line items to an estimate. Macros are defined as MAC items that include measurements, codes, and descriptions, and they can be selected from the macro menu. They speed up estimating on repeat work such as flooring or roofing, but they can also insert the wrong code if the macro is not updated with the job's measurements.
Macros in Xactimate: An Xactimate-specific term for the macro system, which is a library of shortcuts that inserts a series of items into an estimate. The system works with the measured quantities and is organized by trade. When an estimator uses macros, every line is still recorded in the ESX file with its product code and price, so the reviewer sees the full estimate rather than only the shortcut that produced it.
Managed repair program: A program where an insurer coordinates repairs through a network of approved contractors and manages the claims process for the policyholder. The carrier assigns a contractor, sets the initial scope, and monitors the work to control costs. Contractors working under these programs follow the program guidelines and submit their estimates and supplements through the carrier's system, which makes consistent documentation even more important.
Markup: A percentage added to material and labor costs to cover handling, overhead, and profit.
Matching provision: A clause in some homeowner policies that requires the insurer to pay to match undamaged parts of a building, such as the surrounding siding or shingles, when the repair would otherwise look different. The provision exists because a freshly patched roof or wall can appear visibly different next to aged materials. It often has a limit or an age condition, so a carrier may approve matching or decline it based on the policy wording.
Matching requirement: The rule that keeps repairs visually consistent by requiring replacement materials to match the unbroken parts of the building. Matching requirements matter most for shingles, siding, and flooring, where a new section can look noticeably different next to older materials. When a carrier includes a matching requirement in the coverage, the estimate may include replacement of adjacent units, and the contractor documents the condition and availability of the product.
Material order: The request a contractor places for the materials listed in an approved estimate, such as shingles, underlayment, and flashing. The order is based on the quantities in the estimate, and it is one of the steps that confirms the correct product, color, and grade are delivered to the job. An accurate estimate prevents the delay of a material order placed after the work has already started.
Material upgrade: A change from the original product to a higher-grade or more expensive material during a repair. An upgrade, such as a designer shingle or a higher-impact product, is usually requested by the property owner. Insurance pays for the like kind and quality product, and the property owner pays the difference. Restoration contractors write the upgrade as a separate line item so the two prices stay visible to the adjuster.
Material waste factor: The extra allowance added to a material quantity to cover the material lost to cuts, waste, and breakage during installation. Roofers order a little more than the measured area because shingles and flashing waste at valleys, hips, and edges. The waste factor in the estimate prevents a shortage of material on the job, and the adjuster sees it as part of the quantity calculation for the measured area.
Materials: The cost of the products installed, usually priced per square, per bundle, or per piece.
Mechanical damage: Damage caused by physical force or equipment rather than by a weather event or fire. Examples include a vehicle striking a building, a pipe being broken during construction, or a wall punctured by a misplaced tool. Coverage for mechanical damage depends on the policy and the circumstances, so the estimate records the cause and the damaged element to support the claim.
Mechanics lien: A payment claim a contractor, subcontractor or supplier can file against a property when they have not been paid for work or materials. The lien attaches to the property itself, even after the insurer has paid the claim. Deadlines, required notices and who must be paid differ from state to state, so the paperwork has to follow that state's rules.
Mediation: A meeting where a neutral third person helps the policyholder and the insurer settle a disputed claim without going to court. The mediator does not decide anything - if the two sides still disagree, the claim can move on to appraisal or a lawsuit; many policies require mediation or appraisal before a suit is filed. Read the guide →
Metal roof: A roofing system of metal panels or shingles (steel, aluminum, copper). It has a long life, is often a code or coverage consideration, and is priced differently from asphalt shingles.
Mitigation: Reasonable steps taken after a loss to prevent further damage, such as tarping a roof or boarding a window. Most policies cover emergency mitigation, and it must be documented to be reimbursed.
Mitigation technician: The field tech who performs emergency work after a loss, such as extracting water, setting drying equipment, tarping a roof, or boarding a window. Their readings and photos are the evidence an adjuster uses to pay the mitigation invoice, so the documentation matters as much as the work.
Modified bitumen: A roofing membrane made of asphalt reinforced with a polymer, sold in rolls and applied with heat, adhesive, or peel-and-stick backing, most often on low-slope roofs. It is priced by the square in Xactimate, and the application method and number of plies are separate line items. Read the guide →
Moisture content: The amount of water held in a building material, usually reported as a percentage of its dry weight. Restoration crews compare readings against a dry standard for that material to decide when a structure is dry enough to rebuild, and those records support the drying portion of a claim.
Moisture mapping: Tracing where water has travelled inside walls, ceilings and floors with a moisture meter, a thermal camera, or both, and marking the wet areas on a sketch. It is one main input to that decision - removal also turns on the water category and contamination.
Moisture meter: A handheld tool that measures water in building materials, either by pins driven into the surface or by a non-invasive sensor pressed against it. Adjusters expect meter readings with the location, material, and dry standard noted, because the readings are what justify drying equipment on the claim.
Mold assessment: An inspection that identifies mold, the moisture feeding it, and the affected area, often with air or surface samples sent to a lab. It is normally done by a party separate from the removal crew, and mold coverage is limited or excluded on many policies, so check the carrier before promising payment.
Mold damage: Loss caused by mold growth after a water intrusion that was not dried promptly. Most policies treat mold as a limited or excluded peril, so the carrier decides what is paid, and the claim is stronger when the drying records show the structure was handled properly.
Mold remediation: Removing mold growth and fixing the moisture source that feeds it, rather than wiping the surface clean. US restoration work normally follows the IICRC S520 mold standard for containment, removal and clearance checks, and clearance is usually confirmed by an independent third party.

N

Nail pattern: The spacing and placement of nails that fasten shingles or sheathing, set by the shingle manufacturer and the local code. It is checked during roof inspections, and an improper pattern is a common reason a carrier denies or prorates a shingle repair.
Nail pop: A fastener that has backed out and is lifting the surface above it - a shingle on a roof, or the painted surface of drywall inside - usually from movement, heat cycling, or a fastener that missed the framing. A few are a repair; pops across a whole slope usually point to an installation or ventilation problem rather than to wind or hail, and that pattern is often not covered as storm damage.
Named peril: A specific cause of loss listed in the policy, such as fire, wind, hail, or theft. A named-peril policy pays only for the perils it lists, while an open-peril policy covers everything except what it excludes, so knowing which form the insured has changes what you can claim.
Named storm deductible: A separate deductible, often higher, that applies when damage comes from a storm the policy defines as a named storm, such as a tropical storm or hurricane. It is often a percentage of the dwelling limit instead of a flat amount, so the policyholder's share is far larger. Exactly what triggers it is set by state rules and the policy wording.
Negative air pressure: Setting up containment with an air scrubber so air is pulled from the work area through a HEPA filter and exhausted, leaving the work area at lower pressure than the rooms around it. That keeps dust and mold spores inside the plastic during demolition and mold work.
Non-recoverable depreciation: The portion of depreciation the policyholder never recovers — the policy does not pay it back.
Notice of claim: The insured's report to the carrier that a loss happened, which starts the clock on the policy's duties for both sides. Prompt notice is a policy condition, and late notice can be raised as a reason to deny, though how strictly that is enforced varies by state and carrier.

O

O&P: Overhead and Profit: the contractor's business costs and margin, added on top of labor and materials on claims where multiple trades are involved. Read the guide →
Occurrence: The event that causes a loss, such as a hail storm or a burst pipe, and the unit most policies use to apply limits and deductibles. One storm can be one occurrence for many homes, and how occurrences are counted decides whether a loss is paid or capped.
OSB: Oriented strand board - an engineered panel of glued wood strands, commonly used as roof decking instead of plywood. It is easy to spot by the flake pattern; it holds fasteners well while dry, but once it gets wet it swells at the edges and loses that grip, so it draws close attention on water and storm claims.
Other structures: Coverage for detached buildings on the property, like a garage or a shed.
Overhead: The contractor's fixed business costs: office, insurance, vehicles, software, and administrative staff. Read the guide →
Overhead and profit dispute: The argument over whether a claim should include overhead and profit, common when a carrier scopes a job as repairs a homeowner could manage or as several trades. Contractors argue the work needs a general contractor to run it; carriers argue it does not, and the answer turns on the policy and the scope. Read the guide →
Override pricing: Manually replacing a line item's unit price in Xactimate instead of using the price list. Overrides are visible in the estimate and are a frequent point of dispute, because a carrier may reprice the line back to the list price unless the change is documented and justified. Read the guide →
Ozone treatment: Using ozone gas to oxidize the molecules that cause smoke odour after a fire, with people, pets and plants out of the space. It does not remove soot residue - surfaces still have to be cleaned first - and no US health agency approves ozone use in an occupied space.

P

Pack-out: Removing contents from a damaged home so they can be cleaned, stored, or inventoried while repairs happen. Pack-outs are billed by the item or by the hour, and carriers expect an inventory with quantities and condition, because undocumented contents are the easiest part of a claim to cut.
Parapet wall: The low wall that extends above the roofline at the edge of a flat or low-slope roof, often on commercial buildings and sometimes on homes. It gets its own flashing, coping, and sealant line items, and those details are commonly missed when a scope is written from photos. Read the guide →
Peel-and-stick membrane: A self-adhering roofing membrane, often used as underlayment on steep-slope roofs or as a cap sheet on low-slope roofs, that seals around nails and resists ice dams. It is priced by the square, and where it is required depends on the local code. Read the guide →
Peer review (insurance): A second look at a claim file or estimate by someone other than the adjuster who wrote it, often a reviewer, engineer, or consultant hired by the carrier. It can confirm the scope or cut it, and the contractor's best answer is documentation: photos, measurements, codes, and a written justification for each disputed line. Read the guide →
Per-line pricing: Charging for an estimate based on the number of line items it contains, so bigger scopes cost more.
Percentage deductible: A deductible set as a percentage of the dwelling's insured value rather than a flat dollar amount, common on wind and hail policies in some states. It is calculated from the Coverage A limit, so a higher insured value means a bigger out-of-pocket share.
Personal property: Coverage for the contents of the home, as opposed to the building itself.
Pipe boot: The rubber or metal seal around vent pipes that stick through the roof.
Pipe collar: The flashing piece that seals a roof where a plumbing vent pipe passes through it, also called a pipe boot. Collars crack with sun exposure, and a failed collar is a leading source of small roof leaks, so it appears as its own line item on a repair scope. Read the guide →
Plywood: The wood sheathing panels nailed to roof framing, sold in thicknesses like 7/16 or 15/32 inch and rated for roof decking. Decks are replaced when they are delaminated, rotted, or too thin for the new covering, and the replacement is priced by the sheet. Read the guide →
Policy: The insurance contract that spells out what is covered, the limits, and the deductible.
Policy endorsement: A written change added to an insurance policy that alters its coverage, such as adding a water backup limit, changing the deductible, or scheduling a valuable item. Endorsements control over the base policy wording, so read them before promising that something is covered.
Policy limits: The most a policy will pay for a covered loss. On a homeowners policy that is split into Coverage A for the dwelling, Coverage B for other structures, and Coverage C for contents. Limits apply per occurrence or per policy period depending on the form, so check the declarations page before assuming a scope fits.
Policyholder: The person or business that owns the insurance policy.
Ponding water: Standing water that stays on a roof for more than a day or two after rain because the deck does not drain. In a claim, document the depth, the area, and the drain path with photos and a moisture reading, since carriers argue about whether ponding or a storm caused the damage. Read the guide →
Power vent: A roof-mounted exhaust fan that pulls attic air out mechanically instead of relying on passive vents. On a claim it is a separate line item from the shingle tear-off, and carriers often question whether it was damaged or just old, so photograph it before removal. Read the guide →
Pre-existing damage: Wear, rot, or failure that existed before the loss date and is not covered by the policy. Adjusters exclude it, so contractors should document the condition at the time of inspection with dated photos and note what the new damage added on top of it.
Preferred vendor program: An arrangement where an insurer steers work to contractors who agree to its pricing and service standards. Contractors in these programs usually give up some price negotiation, so read the agreement and know what you can still supplement before signing.
Premium: What the policyholder pays the insurer for coverage, usually monthly or annually. Contractors should not quote it or adjust a scope to fit it, because the premium reflects the policy's limits and deductible, and the loss is priced from the damage.
Price list: The master catalog of codes, descriptions, and unit prices Xactimate uses to price line items. The price list loaded in your copy determines what every line item costs. Read the guide →
Price list region: The geographic area whose labor and material costs Xactimate uses to price a line item. If the estimate was written for the wrong region, the fix is to correct the region or ask for a reprice, not to hand-edit unit prices line by line. Read the guide →
Price override: A manual change to a unit price that replaces what the price list would charge. Overrides must be documented, because carriers and reviewers reject unexplained ones, and an override on labor or material is where a supplement argument usually starts. Read the guide →
Pricing dispute: A disagreement over what a line item, trade, or scope should cost between the contractor, the adjuster, or the carrier's reviewer. Resolve it with documentation - photos, measurements, invoices - rather than by resubmitting the same numbers, and escalate through the carrier's review process if it stalls. Read the guide →
Pricing list: The database of unit prices, labor rates, and material costs an estimating platform applies to line items. The list carries its own effective date and region, so two estimates of the same scope can differ simply because they were priced from different lists. Read the guide →
Production orders: The internal document that releases approved restoration work to the crew or subcontractor, listing materials, quantities, and scheduled dates. It should match the approved scope exactly, because a production order that adds or drops items creates a change the carrier never approved.
Profit: The contractor's margin on a job, after labor, materials, and overhead are covered.
Progress billing: Invoicing for work completed to date on a job rather than billing the whole job at the end. Each invoice should tie to the approved scope and the work actually in place, with photos or a signed draw schedule, because carriers and lenders release money in stages.
Progress payment: A partial payment made as a job reaches agreed milestones, such as after tear-off, dry-in, or final inspection. Get the schedule in writing before starting, because a progress payment not tied to completed work is the most common way a contractor ends up financing a customer's job.
Proof of loss: The signed statement the policyholder submits to the insurer listing the amount claimed and swearing the loss facts are true. The policy sets the deadline and the carrier supplies the form; state law can change both, so get the specific requirement in writing before signing or filing. An incomplete or amended form can delay payment, so match the numbers to the estimate and keep a dated copy.
Property damage: Physical harm to covered structures or belongings caused by a covered event. In a claim it is the trigger for coverage, so the report should tie the damage to the date and cause of loss with photos, and separate storm damage from wear or poor maintenance.
Proximate cause: The event the law treats as the direct cause of the damage, even when other conditions contributed. Carriers use it to decide coverage, so document the chain from the storm or event to the damage rather than only the damage itself. Read the guide →
Psychrometry: The study of moisture in air: temperature, relative humidity, dew point, and how they interact. Restoration crews use those readings to set drying goals and prove a structure is dry, and the same readings are the evidence a carrier reviews when paying for drying equipment.
Public adjuster: An adjuster hired by the policyholder — not the carrier — to document the damage and negotiate the claim on their behalf.
Punch list: The list of small unfinished or defective items left after the main work is done, walked with the homeowner before final payment. Clearing it in writing protects the contractor, because a signed punch list is what turns a job into a completed one.
PWARR: Paid When Actually Repaired or Replaced: line items — often code upgrades and add-ons — the carrier holds back and only pays after the work is actually completed and documented. Read the guide →
PWI: Paid When Incurred: line items the carrier pays as part of the claim once they are incurred, without waiting for the work to be finished.

Q

Quantity: How many units of a line item an estimate calls for — squares, feet, hours, or each.

R

Rake: The sloping outer edge of a gable roof from the ridge down to the eaves. Drip edge is required along rakes as well as eaves, per IRC R905.2.8.5.
Rake edge: The sloped edge of a roof where the gable meets the shingles, running from eave to ridge. It takes its own trim, starter, and fasteners, so measure rake length separately from eave length or the material order and the estimate will both come up short. Read the guide →
RCV: Replacement Cost Value: the full cost to repair or replace damaged property, before depreciation is subtracted. Read the guide →
Re-inspection: A second look at a property or a completed repair, usually requested by the carrier, a reviewer, or the homeowner. It can confirm the work, reopen a disputed item, or trigger a supplement, so keep the same documentation package ready and note who attended.
Re-roof: Installing a new roof covering over an existing one, or tearing the old covering off first, without changing the roof structure. It matters in a claim because the scope and price differ sharply between an overlay and a full tear-off, so confirm which one the carrier approved.
Rebuttal: A written, evidence-backed response explaining why the carrier's estimate does not fully cover the loss. Read the guide →
Recoverable depreciation: The portion of depreciation the carrier holds back but pays out after the repairs are completed and documented.
Reglet: A groove cut into masonry or concrete that a counterflashing edge is inserted into, so water running down the wall cannot get behind the roof flashing. It is frequently missed in a scope, so measure and photograph it before tear-off, especially on brick or block walls. Read the guide →
Reinspection: A second visit to document damage missed in the first inspection — often needed before a supplement is approved.
Reopened claim: A closed claim that the carrier puts back into active status, usually because new damage, a supplement, or a missed item surfaced after payment. Reopening has its own time limits and documentation rules that vary by carrier and state, so ask what they require before resubmitting. Read the guide →
Replacement cost value: What it costs to repair or replace the damage with like kind and quality at today's prices, without deducting for age. Most policies pay it only after the work is done and invoiced, so keep receipts and completion photos to collect the recoverable depreciation.
Reprice: What happens when you import an ESX file: Xactimate prices every line item against the price list loaded in your copy, which may differ from the one used to write the file. Read the guide →
Reservation of rights: A letter in which the carrier says it is still investigating coverage and may deny the claim later. It is not a denial, but it means every dollar needs documentation, so keep working the file and answer requests on time. Read the guide →
Restoration project manager: The person who runs the job day to day: scheduling crews, ordering materials, tracking the scope, and reporting to the homeowner and adjuster. In a claim, that person owns the documentation trail, so moisture readings, photos, and change orders should all route through them.
Retainage: Money a customer or general contractor holds back from each progress payment until the job is finished and approved. It is usually a small percentage of the contract, though the rate and release rules depend on the contract and the state. Read the guide →
Ridge cap: The material covering the peak where two roof slopes meet, sealing the joint against water. It is sold and priced by the linear foot, and most shingle systems use a matching ridge product instead of field shingles turned sideways.
Ridge vent: Ventilation installed along the roof peak to let hot air escape.
Roof cement: A thick, trowel-grade adhesive used to seal flashings, patches, and small repairs where caulk alone will not hold. In estimates it is a line item and a material, so where it is used belongs in the scope notes. Whether it is owed as a separate item depends on the carrier, so document it.
Roof decking: The structural surface the roof covering is attached to, usually plywood or oriented strand board. It sits above the rafters and below the underlayment and shingles. When decking is soaked or delaminated it is often replaced in sections, and that work is a separate line item from the shingle repair.
Roof penetration: Any object passing through the roof plane — vent stacks, pipes, skylights, chimneys. IRC R903.2 requires all penetrations to be flashed. Boots and flashings around penetrations are frequent storm-damage items.
Roof pitch: The steepness of a roof, expressed as a rise over run (e.g. 4/12 = 4 inches of rise per 12 inches of run). Pitch affects the installation method, safety, and steep/high charges.
Roof square: 100 square feet of roof surface — the standard unit for measuring and pricing roofs.
Roof truss: A prefabricated framed member, usually wood, that carries the roof deck and its loads across a span. Trusses are engineered components, so repair or replacement of one often needs an engineer's review before an adjuster will approve it. Read the guide →
Roofing consultant: An independent inspector who documents roof condition and writes a report supporting either the property owner or the carrier. In a disputed claim, their report can push a scope disagreement toward resolution. A consultant advises and documents but does not approve payment. Read the guide →
Roofing sealant: A flexible caulk or sealant applied at flashings, penetrations, and edges to keep water out. Estimates generally show it as its own line item rather than bundling it into shingle or flashing labor. Workmanship warranties cover how it is applied, not the product alone.
Roofing square: One hundred square feet of roof surface, the unit roofers use for ordering material and pricing labor. A square usually takes three bundles of shingles, though that varies by product. Measure in squares first, then convert to bundles. Read the guide →

S

S500 standard: The IICRC's water damage restoration standard that sets the categories and classes of water loss and the standard drying approach. In a claim it is the baseline for what counts as reasonable drying. It is a restoration standard, not a policy or a payment rule.
S520 standard: The IICRC's mold remediation standard covering how mold work is assessed, contained, and cleaned. When a claim includes mold, adjusters and remediators point to this standard to justify the scope. Its fit on a given loss depends on the carrier.
Sales tax: Tax applied to materials and some services, depending on the state.
Salvage: Damaged property that still has usable value, which the carrier may deduct from the settlement because the policyholder keeps it. On larger losses, a carrier may ask you to set salvageable material aside for inspection. Document what is reusable and what is genuine waste. Read the guide →
Satellite measurement: A roof measurement report built from aerial imagery instead of a site visit, giving dimensions, pitch, and facet areas. It is fast and accurate on simple roofs, and it can drift on complex geometry or heavy tree cover. Have a dispute over measurements checked in the field. Read the guide →
Scope agreement: A written document confirming exactly what work was authorized and at what price, separate from the insurance estimate. It protects both sides when the carrier's approved scope and the contractor's work order differ. Sign it before starting, not after. Read the guide →
Scope creep: Work that grows beyond the approved estimate without a written change order or carrier approval. It is how contractors end up doing extra work they never get paid for. Every addition needs documentation and a signature before the work happens. Read the guide →
Scope of loss: The written description of the damage and the work needed to repair it.
Scope of work: The detailed list of repairs and materials needed to restore the property, written either by the insurer's estimator or as the contractor's proposal. A thin scope of work means supplements later, which slows payment. Missing items are the most common source of dispute. Read the guide →
Scope sheet: The field document where an adjuster or contractor records what damage was found, what work is needed, and what materials it takes. It becomes the basis for the estimate the carrier writes. Compare it against your own measurements before you accept the number. Read the guide →
Scupper: An opening through a parapet wall that lets water drain off a flat or low-slope roof. It is usually a line item on the estimate, and keeping it clear of debris is part of the repair. Blocked scuppers are a common cause of ponding and interior leaks.
Selector code: The short code that names a specific line item inside its Xactimate category - you need both halves to identify the product, such as DRY WTRX, not WTRX alone. A right-sounding description on the wrong selector puts the wrong product at the wrong price, and it is a frequent cause of supplement disputes. Read the guide →
Settlement: The final agreed payment on a claim.
Sheathing: Another name for roof decking — the structural surface under the roof covering.
Siding damage: Dents, cracks, or holes in wall cladding from hail, wind, or impact. Siding is handled separately from roofing on a claim, with its own line items and its own repair-versus-replace rules that vary by material. Partial elevation replacement can leave a color or texture mismatch. Read the guide →
Sketch: The scaled drawing of the structure in Xactimate that generates measurements and quantities.
Sketch (Xactimate): The drawing tool where you lay out the roof and building so the software calculates every measurement it uses. Errors in the sketch flow into every line item that depends on it. Pitch, valleys, and waste belong in the sketch, not in later guesswork. Read the guide →
Skylight: A window set into the roof; the flashing around it is a common missed line item. Read the guide →
Slope: How steep a roof is, expressed as rise over run — a 6/12 roof rises 6 inches for every foot it runs.
Smoke damage: Residue, odor, and surface contamination left by smoke, which usually needs cleaning, sealing, or removal of porous materials. Each of those is its own line item, so a smoke claim's scope grows with how far the residue traveled. Hidden smoke damage often surfaces after the first scope is written.
Snow guard: A small attachment that holds snow on a metal or steep roof so it releases in pieces instead of one dangerous slide. It appears as a line item on estimates for those roofs. On a claim, ask whether any were damaged or removed and need replacing.
Soffit: The finished underside panel at the roof overhang, which also vents the attic. It is a separate line item from fascia in most estimates. Fascia and soffit are damaged together often, so quoting just one can miss owed work.
Soffit vent: Ventilation built into the underside of the eaves to pull cool air in.
Soft metal damage: Denting, deformation, or perforation of soft metals such as gutters, downspouts, vents, and flashing, usually from hail. It is the classic hail indicator an adjuster looks for to confirm the damage is storm-caused. Dents that break the surface or crease metal are the ones that get replaced. Read the guide →
Soot: The fine black powder left when fuel or building materials burn without enough oxygen. It sticks to surfaces, stains them, and carries odor, so a fire claim usually needs cleaning, sealing and deodorization lines, often followed by repaint. How far the soot traveled decides how much of the building gets cleaned.
SQ: Shorthand for a roof square — 100 square feet of roof surface.
Staff Adjuster: An adjuster who is a direct employee of the insurance carrier, not an independent adjuster hired for the storm. Their estimate sets the starting scope, and supplements go back to them or their supervisor for review. How much authority each one has varies by carrier.
Standing-Seam Metal: A metal roof made of long panels that run eave to ridge and lock together at raised seams instead of overlapping shingles. Repairs usually mean replacing a whole panel, and matching an older profile or finish can be hard. Hail and wind claims turn on whether the panel or only its coating was damaged.
Starter course: The first row of shingles at the roof edge that seals the eaves — often its own line item.
Starter Strip: The first course laid along the eaves before the field shingles, sealing the bottom edge and locking the first full course down. It is priced separately from field shingles, so a scope that only counts field squares is missing a line item. Some manufacturers require it for the shingle warranty. Read the guide →
Statute of Limitations: The deadline set by state law for suing over a claim, usually running from the date of loss or from the denial. How long it is and when it starts varies by state and by policy wording, so confirm the rule where the loss happened. Missing it can kill an otherwise valid claim. Read the guide →
Steep slope: A roof steeper than about 6/12. Steep slopes are harder and more dangerous to work, so Xactimate adds a steep charge to labor and materials.
Step flashing: The small angled metal pieces used where a roof meets a wall.
Storm Chasing: Out-of-town crews that follow hail and wind events, knock doors, and often offer to handle the claim for the homeowner. Some do solid work, but they usually leave after the season, so warranty and callbacks are the real risk. Check licensing, insurance, and a local address before signing anything.
Storm Damage: Damage caused by a weather event such as hail, wind, or a fallen limb, as opposed to age, wear, or bad installation. Carriers test cause and timing, so the claim is strongest when the loss date, the weather record, and the damage agree. An adjuster may still call some marks cosmetic or pre-existing.
Structural check: A review of an ESX file's structure — required sections, code shape, and line totals — before you try to import it. Read the guide →
Structural Drying: Drying a building's framing, drywall, and subfloor after water gets in, using air movers, dehumidifiers, and moisture readings until the materials reach a dry standard. The drying log is the evidence that supports equipment counts and drying days on the invoice. Drying stops when the readings hit the target, not when the room looks dry.
Subcontractor: A separate crew or company hired for part of the job, such as a gutter or drywall crew. Their work still belongs in the estimate, and their proof of insurance matters before they start. An unpaid sub can file a lien in most states, so get lien waivers as work is done.
Subrogation: An insurer's right to recover what it paid from whoever actually caused the loss, such as a careless manufacturer or another driver. It means a closed claim can reopen, so keep your photos and documents after settlement. Recovery usually goes to the paying carrier, and the rules vary by state.
Subrogation Waiver: A contract clause in which a party gives up the right to have its insurer pursue the other party (or that party's insurer) after a loss, common in leases and construction contracts. It can block the carrier from recovering what it paid, even when the other party caused the damage. Whether it holds up depends on the contract, the state, and the policy.
Supplement: A follow-up request to the carrier for items the original estimate missed — code requirements, additional damage, or corrected quantities. Read the guide →
Supplement Approval: The carrier's written acceptance of extra work and money a contractor asked for after the first estimate. Carriers often accept some items and reject others, and the accepted items should appear on a revised estimate. Get the approval in writing before starting the added work. Read the guide →
Supplement Denial: A carrier's refusal of a supplement request, in whole or in part, usually with a line-by-line reason. Denials often rest on coverage, missing documentation, or a pricing disagreement, so read the stated reason before responding. The right next step depends on the policy and the state. Read the guide →
Supplement Request: The written request for work or money the first estimate left out, backed by photos, measurements, and the supporting line items. Supplements are normal on roof claims, and carriers expect them when a scope was written from the ground. Send clear evidence per item instead of a running list of complaints. Read the guide →
Supplemental payment: The additional payment a carrier issues after a supplement is approved.
Surety Bond: A guarantee from a bonding company that pays if a contractor fails to finish the job or fails to pay what they owe. It is not the same as insurance and does not cover the contractor's own mistakes. What it protects, and who can claim on it, depends on the state and the contract.
Synthetic underlayment: A modern woven underlayment that is lighter, stronger, and more tear-resistant than traditional felt.

T

Tear-off: Removing the existing roof covering before the new roof goes on.
Temporary Repairs: Work done right after a loss to stop more damage, such as tarps, board-up, or a dry-in, before the permanent repair is approved. Policies generally require the owner to prevent further damage, and reasonable emergency costs are usually reimbursable. Photograph and receipt the work, since carriers often pay it separately.
Test Square: A measured patch of roof, often ten feet by ten feet, where an inspector counts hail or wind marks and applies that rate to the slope. Adjusters use it to set how many shingles get replaced, so its location and photos can change the scope. Damage outside the square still counts when documented. Read the guide →
Thermal Moisture Survey: A scan of a building with a thermal camera plus moisture readings, used to map where water went after a leak or flood. The findings support the drying scope and the equipment count, so the survey is evidence in the claim. Repeating the same scan when the building is dry closes the file cleanly.
Thermal Shock: Rapid temperature swings that make a roof surface expand and contract faster than the material can take, cracking it over time. It is wear rather than one weather event, so carriers often treat it as excluded deterioration. Documenting a single storm as the cause is different from documenting years of movement.
Third-Party Administrator: A company hired to run claim handling for a carrier or an employer, such as a warranty program or a managed repair network. The person reviewing your supplement may work for the administrator, not the carrier on the policy, and their guidelines can differ. Ask who actually has authority to approve the added work.
Three-Trade Rule: A carrier guideline that allows overhead and profit for a general contractor when a loss needs three or more separate trades. It is a rule of thumb, not a policy term, and carriers apply their own versions, so answer a denial with your trade list. Some carriers use a different threshold, or none at all. Read the guide →
Tile roof: A roofing system of clay or concrete tiles. Tiles are heavy, expensive to replace, and break under impact, so hail damage to tile is a distinct scope from asphalt.
Total Loss Determination: A decision that repairing the property no longer makes sense, so the claim is settled as a total loss rather than a repair. The threshold differs by policy and by state, so do not assume a fixed percentage. After the declaration, the settlement usually follows the policy limit and coverage form, not the repair estimate.
TPO: A single-ply thermoplastic membrane (thermoplastic polyolefin), usually white, heat-welded at the seams and used mostly on low-slope commercial roofs. On a claim, photograph the seams, fasteners and any ponding or punctures, because whether a section is repaired or replaced depends on membrane type, age and the carrier's matching rules.
Trade Category Prefix: A trade category prefix is the short letter group at the front of a line item code that names the trade, such as roofing, drywall or paint. A wrong prefix can send a line into the wrong trade and change how it prices, so check it before you argue the description. Read the guide →
Trade Groups: Trade groups are bundles of related trades, such as roofing, siding and gutters, used to sort line items and labor on an estimate. They matter in a claim because carriers review scopes by trade, so a misfiled line can be skipped or paid on the wrong labor rate.
True budget: What a job actually costs to complete — materials, labor, overhead, and profit — used to decide whether a carrier's payment covers the work. Read the guide →
Turbine Vent: A turbine vent is a spinning rooftop vent that pulls hot air out of an attic as wind turns its blades. On a storm claim, note bent or missing turbines and whether the flashing leaked, because a vent that still spins may be repairable while a crushed one is usually replaced. Read the guide →

U

Umbrella Policy: An umbrella policy is extra liability coverage that sits above your general liability and auto limits and pays after those limits are used up. Contractors should know an umbrella usually covers liability claims, not damage to the work itself, and carriers may require proof of it before they sign a contract.
Umpire: An umpire is the neutral third party chosen when you and the insurer each pick an appraiser and those two cannot agree. The umpire decides the disputed amount with them, and because the choice is usually made by the two appraisers or a court, agree on who picks and who pays before you start. Read the guide →
Underlayment: The protective layer between the roof deck and the shingles — felt or synthetic.
Underpayment: An underpayment is a claim payment that covers less than the scope of work you can document, whether from missed line items, wrong quantities or a pricing difference. The fix is evidence: photos, measurements and code or manufacturer requirements tied to specific line items, then a written request for the difference. Read the guide →
Unit price: The price Xactimate assigns to one unit of a line item.

V

Valley: A valley is the inside angle where two roof slopes meet, and it carries water from both planes, making it a common leak point. In a claim, photograph the valley metal or woven method and note rust, granule loss and debris, since carriers often question replacing a valley that shows only partial damage. Read the guide →
Valley flashing: Metal installed in the valleys where two roof planes meet, directing water down and off the roof.
Valued Policy Law: A valued policy law is a state rule that, in a total loss, requires the insurer to pay the policy limit for the insured structure instead of the actual cash value. Only some states have one, most apply it to a total loss of real property and in many states only to fire losses, and the details differ - so check your state's rule and the policy before you rely on it.
Vapor Barrier: A vapor barrier blocks moisture vapor from moving into a roof or wall assembly, and in roofing it is usually a membrane or underlayment layer. Replacing or disturbing it can be its own line item, and whether it is required depends on local code and the assembly, so photograph what was there.
Ventilation: The intake-and-exhaust system that keeps the attic cool and dry — required by code in most areas.
Verisk: The analytics company that owns Xactimate and the Xactware estimating tools.

W

Waste factor: The percentage of extra material added to cover cuts, breakage, and overlap — a cut-up roof needs a higher factor than a simple one. Read the guide →
Water Damage: Water damage is loss caused by water entering where it should not, from a burst supply line, a roof leak or a storm, and it often shows as staining, swelling or soft drywall. Document the source and moisture readings, since carriers generally pay for the resulting damage and drying. Whether the failed pipe or fitting itself is covered turns on the cause and the policy, so read the exclusion before you promise it.
Water Extraction: Water extraction is the first step of drying a wet building: pumping and vacuuming standing water before air movers and dehumidifiers run. For a claim, log time on site, equipment used and daily moisture readings, because carriers want proof the drying was needed and how long it took.
Water Mitigation Category: Water mitigation category is the label for how contaminated the water is, usually clean supply-line water, gray water from a fixture, or black water from sewage or ground water. The IICRC water damage standard defines the categories, and the category drives which materials can be dried in place and which must be removed, so document it before work starts.
Wear Pattern: A wear pattern is the gradual deterioration that age, sun and foot traffic leave across a roof, unlike the random or directional marks a storm leaves. Adjusters use it to separate maintenance from storm damage, so photograph whole slopes, not just the worst spots, or your claim can be read as normal aging. Read the guide →
Weathering vs Damage: Weathering is the gradual breakdown of a roof from sun, rain and temperature swings, while damage is a distinct event such as hail or wind. The two look alike, so a claim leans on the date of loss, matching damage on other slopes and test squares, because carriers argue weathering where the evidence is thin. Read the guide →
Wind and Hail Deductible: A wind and hail deductible is a separate deductible, often higher than your general one, that applies only to wind and hail claims. It is usually a percentage of the dwelling limit rather than a flat amount, and it comes off the top of the claim, so figure it before you quote a homeowner.
Wind claim: A claim for damage caused by wind — typically lifted shingles, exposed nails, and torn flashing.
Wind damage: Roofing damage from wind uplift — lifted shingles, exposed nail heads, and torn flashing.
Wind Speed Rating: A wind speed rating is the maximum wind a product is tested to withstand, shown on shingle, panel and fastener literature as a rated speed. Carriers and code officials may require a rated product or a specific fastening pattern in high-wind areas, so keep the product literature and fastening detail in the claim file.
Wind Uplift: Wind uplift is the suction wind puts on a roof as it passes over, pulling at edges, corners and field shingles instead of pushing down. That is why fastening at the perimeter, the corners and the ridge matters more than field fastening - corners see the highest uplift - and why edge-only damage can raise questions about whether the roof was installed to code.
Workers Compensation: Workers compensation is insurance that pays medical bills and lost wages for an employee hurt on the job, and it generally replaces the employee's right to sue the employer over that injury. Most states require it, it is priced by payroll and job class, and it is not part of a homeowner's property claim.

X

XactAnalysis: Verisk's web-based tool for viewing and working with Xactimate estimates without a desktop install.
XACTDOC: The root element that wraps an estimate's data inside an ESX file. You will see it if you open a .esx file in a text editor. Read the guide →
Xactimate: The estimating software used across the property insurance industry to price damage claims. Carriers, adjusters, and contractors all work from the same Xactimate price lists, which is why it is the common language of claims. Read the guide →
Xactimate categories: The major product groups of the Xactimate catalog, such as roofing, siding, and interior finishes. Every estimate line belongs to a category, and the category helps the estimator find the right code and keeps the scope organized. A code's category is listed on its reference page.
Xactimate estimate: An estimate built in Xactimate using its codes, price lists, and sketching tools.
XactNet: XactNet is Xactware's network for sending claim assignments and files between carriers, adjusters and contractors, separate from email. When a carrier sends work through XactNet, the attached estimate is usually an ESX file, so keep the message and its attachments together, since that file and not a PDF is what carries the line items. Read the guide →
Xactware: The Verisk division that builds Xactimate and related estimating tools.

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