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Why You Should Always Get a Second Opinion on Your Insurance Scope

Think your insurance adjuster’s scope is final? Think again.
Here’s why a second opinion can protect your home—and your wallet.

📚 Why This Matters for Homeowners

When your home suffers damage—whether from water, fire, or a storm—the insurance adjuster will create a “scope of work.” This is a list of what they believe needs to be repaired, replaced, or cleaned.

But here’s the truth:
The first scope isn’t always accurate.
Adjusters are often overworked, rely on templated estimates, and sometimes miss critical details that can cost homeowners thousands of dollars if left unchecked.

⚠️ What Gets Missed in the First Scope?

Here’s a list of common items that adjusters frequently leave out or underestimate:

  • 🪵 Matching Materials: Flooring, cabinets, and paint often extend beyond the “affected area,” which means replacing just one section creates an inconsistent appearance.

  • 🏗️ Code Compliance: Your restoration should bring your home up to current code—but code upgrades are often overlooked in initial scopes.

  • 💧 Moisture & Mold Remediation: Water damage isn’t always visible. Without proper documentation and moisture testing, unseen moisture can lead to mold growth.

📢 Why Do Adjusters Deny Certain Items Initially?

Even when adjusters know something should be covered, they often follow a “deny-then-approve” protocol. We’ve heard this directly from adjusters:

“I see the damage and agree with you… but I can’t approve it right away. I have to deny it first and wait for more documentation before I can take it to my supervisor.”

Translation?
They’re following protocol—but if homeowners accept that initial denial without challenging it, they lose out on money they’re owed.

💡 Pro Tip:

Always document everything—photos, videos, and measurements—and get a second opinion from a licensed contractor. They’ll create a full, detailed scope that accounts for what’s truly needed.

🔎 How a Second Opinion Protects Your Claim

When you hire an experienced restoration professional, they’ll review the adjuster’s scope, identify any missing line items, and ensure that the estimate reflects the actual costs of restoring your home.

This protects you from:

  • Being underpaid by your insurance company

  • Having to pay out of pocket for missed items

  • Living with incomplete or subpar repairs

🎯 Final Thoughts: Don’t Settle for Less

Your insurance company’s scope isn’t the final word.
Protect your home and your wallet by getting a second opinion.

📞 Need a Second Opinion on Your Insurance Scope?

Call PL Builders today for a professional review of your claim.
👉 Contact Us Now

Posted on: March 31st, 2025

By: PL Builders

Restoration Tips

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PL Builders