Insurance Policy

Insurance Claims Explained

5 THINGS YOU MUST KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE CLAIMS

1. Never Handle the Claim Yourself

Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, and their systems are built to minimize payouts — not maximize fairness.

They’re experts at using policy language, pricing software, and “quick check” tactics to save money. And the truth is, they love dealing directly with homeowners, because most people don’t know how to challenge their numbers or read the fine print.

That’s why it’s almost never a good idea to handle the claim yourself. All insurance companies use a program called Xactimate, a highly detailed estimating system that tracks every stud, sheet of drywall, and coat of paint. If you’re not trained in it, you’re fighting an uphill battle — and you’ll almost always lose money you’re entitled to.

Having a knowledgeable contractor on your side ensures your claim is properly written, negotiated, and paid in full.

2. Avoid "Preferred" or "Insurance-Approved" Contractors

These contractors work directly for the insurance company, not for you. They often agree to discounted rates in exchange for steady work, which means lower-quality materials, rushed timelines, and cut corners.

You want a contractor who FIGHTS for you — not the insurance company’s interests.

3. Don't let the mitigation company handle the rebuild

 Mitigation companies are experts in cleanup, not reconstruction. Rebuilding a home requires multiple trades — plumbing, electrical, trim, framing — and most mitigation companies simply aren’t equipped for that level of coordination.

Keep your mitigation and rebuild phases separate to protect your quality and warranty.

4. Never start work before the insurance settlement is final

This is one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make.

Some contractors will say, “Go ahead and start — we’ll bill the insurance company later through supplementals.”

But here’s the truth: supplementals are not guaranteed. If they’re denied — and many are — you’re stuck paying the contractor out of pocket.

Always wait until your insurance company issues a full settlement before starting any rebuild work.

5. Be patient and willing to negotiate

Insurance claims are rarely quick or easy. The first estimate from your insurance company is almost always low.

A detailed, professionally written Xactimate estimate — paired with persistence — can often double the payout. Negotiations can take several weeks, but waiting for a fair amount beats settling short and paying the difference yourself.

5 Ways A New Day Construction Goes Above and Beyond on Insurance Claims

1. We Fight for You — Not the Insurance Company

We don’t play by the insurance company’s rules — we hold them accountable to pay what’s fair.
Our team knows exactly how to read and write Xactimate estimates, so we can legally and confidently challenge low or incomplete payouts. That means more of your home gets restored the right way — not the cheapest way.

2. We Use Professional Estimators Who Know the System

We partner with certified Xactimate specialists who write detailed, line-by-line estimates.
This ensures every wall stud, cabinet, and trim piece is properly accounted for. Their expertise often results in payouts two to three times higher than what the insurance company initially offers — because they know what the insurer has to cover by law.

3. We Give You a Dedicated Project Manager

From the first call to the final inspection, you’ll have one point of contact overseeing your entire project.
Your project manager will:

  • Communicate directly with adjusters
  • Keep you informed during every step
  • Coordinate trades and schedules
  • Ensure quality control from start to finish

     

No bouncing between departments — just one person making sure your rebuild runs smoothly.

4. We Offer a 3-Year Workmanship Warranty

Most insurance contractors disappear after final payment.
We stand behind our work with a three-year warranty — one of the strongest in the industry. If anything fails due to workmanship, we make it right. No excuses, no runaround, just accountability.

5. We Have a Full Showroom and Design Team

We’re not just a restoration company — we’re a full remodel firm.
Our showroom features cabinets, countertops, vanities, and flooring, with interior designers available to help you make selections. That means you don’t just get your home put back together — you get the opportunity to make it even better than before.

Insurance Claims discussed in congress?

At A New Day Construction, we understand the emotional toll of unexpected damages like water, fire, or mold, and we approach these situations with care, offering expertise and a personalized touch. We use industry-standard tools like Matterport and Xactimate to create accurate estimates, ensuring you get fair settlements from insurance companies. Also, we warn clients about working with insurance-recommended contractors, advising them to choose based on quality and reviews instead. Finally, we highlight our Christian values, offering prayer over projects and a strong commitment to integrity and client satisfaction.

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