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The “3 Estimates” Myth vs. Reality
While many adjusters or agents suggest getting three bids, most insurance policies do not actually require it. The goal of the insurance company is to establish a “fair and reasonable” cost for repairs.
Why they ask for 3 estimates:
- Market Benchmarking: It helps them ensure one contractor isn’t overcharging.
- Fraud Prevention: Multiple bids make it harder for a single contractor to “pad” the numbers.
- Averaging Costs: It gives the adjuster a data set to justify the final payout.
What the Insurance Company Actually Wants
When you submit documentation for damage, the insurance company isn’t just looking at the bottom-line price. They are looking for a Scope of Loss. Your estimate should include:
- Detailed Measurements: Exact square footage of roofing, flooring, or drywall being replaced.
- Line-Item Costs: A breakdown of labor vs. materials (don’t accept “Total: $10,000”).
- Photos of the Damage: Evidence that justifies every single line item in the estimate.
- Code Requirements: Mention of any local building codes that require upgrades (e.g., specific types of roofing underlayment).
Dealing with property damage is stressful enough without the headache of insurance paperwork. One of the most common pieces of advice homeowners hear is: “You need to get three estimates.”
But is that actually a rule? Here is the breakdown of what insurance companies typically look for and how you can protect your investment during the claims process.
The “3 Estimates” Myth vs. Reality
While many adjusters or agents suggest getting three bids, most insurance policies do not actually require it. The goal of the insurance company is to establish a “fair and reasonable” cost for repairs.
Why they ask for 3 estimates:
- Market Benchmarking: It helps them ensure one contractor isn’t overcharging.
- Fraud Prevention: Multiple bids make it harder for a single contractor to “pad” the numbers.
- Averaging Costs: It gives the adjuster a data set to justify the final payout.
Why you might only need one:
Modern insurance adjusters use standardized software (like Xactimate) to calculate repair costs based on local material and labor rates. If you find a reputable, high-quality contractor who uses the same software and provides a detailed, line-item scope of work, your insurance company will often accept that single estimate as the “gold standard.”
What the Insurance Company Actually Wants
When you submit documentation for damage, the insurance company isn’t just looking at the bottom-line price. They are looking for a Scope of Loss. Your estimate should include:
- Detailed Measurements: Exact square footage of roofing, flooring, or drywall being replaced.
- Line-Item Costs: A breakdown of labor vs. materials (don’t accept “Total: $10,000”).
- Photos of the Damage: Evidence that justifies every single line item in the estimate.
- Code Requirements: Mention of any local building codes that require upgrades (e.g., specific types of roofing underlayment).
Homeowner Pro-Tips for Damage Claims
⚠️ Don’t just pick the lowest bid. If you provide three estimates and one is significantly lower than the others, the insurance company may try to pay out based on that low-ball number—even if that contractor is unlicensed or using sub-par materials.
- Work with “Insurance-Savvy” Contractors: Look for businesses that have experience talking to adjusters. They know the “language” of claims and can spot damage an adjuster might miss.
- The Supplement Process: If your contractor starts work and finds hidden damage (like rot under a roof), they can file a “Supplement” to get the insurance company to pay for the extra costs.
- Hold Your Ground: You have the right to choose who repairs your home. You are not obligated to use the “preferred vendors” the insurance company suggests.
Need to find a reliable local pro?
If you’ve recently experienced damage, don’t wait for the secondary damage (like mold or leaks) to set in. Use CompaniesNearMe.org to find verified, highly-rated contractors in your area who specialize in insurance restoration.
