Estimating & Workflow
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.
Full guide: roofing estimate photo damage analysis
More estimating & workflow terms
- Supplement
A follow-up request to the carrier for items the original estimate missed, code requirements, additional damage, or corrected quantities.
- Supplemental payment
The additional payment a carrier issues after a supplement is approved.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Common questions
What does "Test Square" mean in Xactimate estimating?
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.
Where does "Test Square" show up in a claim?
The term matters on estimates and scopes across the insurance restoration workflow, see the full guide for where it fits.
Put this to work
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