Xactimate Line Items Every Public Adjuster Needs to Know
Why Xactimate Matters for Public Adjusters
Xactimate is the estimating software used by the vast majority of insurance carriers, independent adjusters, and contractors in the United States. When you submit a scope of loss or estimate in Xactimate format, you are speaking the carrier's language — which means fewer disputes, faster reviews, and higher acceptance rates.
Public adjusters who do not use Xactimate, or who use it incorrectly, leave money on the table. Carriers have staff adjusters who are trained to identify missing line items, incorrect quantities, and activity code errors. Your estimate needs to be airtight.
Essential Xactimate Activity Codes by Trade
Roofing (RFG)
Roofing is the most commonly disputed trade in property claims. Key line items include: RFG SHNG (shingle removal and replacement), RFG FELT (underlayment), RFG DRIP (drip edge), RFG FLASH (flashing), RFG VENT (ridge and soffit vents), and RFG DECK (decking replacement when damaged). Always include RFG TEAR for tear-off when a full replacement is warranted. Do not forget RFG DUMPSTER for debris removal.
Drywall (DRY)
Drywall line items are frequently undercounted by carrier adjusters. Key codes: DRY HANG (hanging new drywall), DRY TAPE (tape, float, and texture), DRY PRIME (prime coat before painting), DRY PAINT (paint — always a separate line from texture), and DRY INSUL (insulation replacement behind drywall). When water damage is involved, include DRY DEMO for demolition and DRY MOLD for antimicrobial treatment.
Flooring (FLR)
Flooring disputes often center on matching. Key codes: FLR CARP (carpet removal and replacement), FLR PAD (carpet pad), FLR HDWD (hardwood floor replacement), FLR TILE (ceramic or porcelain tile), FLR LVP (luxury vinyl plank), and FLR BASE (baseboard replacement). When matching is not possible, document the matching issue in your scope and include the full affected area.
Exterior (EXT)
Exterior line items cover siding, windows, doors, and trim. Key codes: EXT SIDN (siding removal and replacement), EXT WIND (window replacement), EXT DOOR (door replacement), EXT TRIM (exterior trim), EXT GUTTER (gutter and downspout), and EXT PAINT (exterior paint). For hail claims, always include EXT CAULK for re-caulking all penetrations.
HVAC and Mechanical (HVC, PLM)
Mechanical items are frequently overlooked. Key codes: HVC UNIT (HVAC unit replacement), HVC DUCT (ductwork), PLM PIPE (plumbing pipe repair), PLM FIXT (fixture replacement), and PLM WATER (water heater). When smoke or soot damage is present, include HVC CLEAN for duct cleaning.
The Most Commonly Missed Line Items
In audits of thousands of carrier estimates, these items are most frequently missing or undercounted: general contractor overhead and profit (O&P — typically 10% and 10%), debris removal, temporary repairs (tarping, board-up), code upgrade items, and permit fees. O&P alone can represent 15–20% of the total estimate value on a complex claim.
How to Dispute a Carrier's Xactimate Estimate
When a carrier's estimate is lower than yours, request their Xactimate file in ESX format. Compare line by line. Document every missing item and every quantity discrepancy. Submit your counter-estimate with a written explanation of each difference. Reference the Xactimate pricing database for your region and date of loss.
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