Insurance estimates vs. contractor estimates after storm damage in oregon: what homeowners need to know
After a storm damages your home, one of the first steps many Oregon homeowners take is filing an insurance claim. Soon after, confusion often sets in when the insurance company’s estimates doesn’t match the contractors repair estimate. This is a common issue after storm damage—and it doesn’t necessarily mean someone is overcharging.
Understanding why insurance estimates and contractor estimates differ can help you avoid delays, unexpected costs, and incomplete repairs.
Why Insurance Estimates Are Often Lower Than Contractor Estimates
Insurance adjusters and construction contractors approach storm damage from very different perspectives.
Insurance estimates are typically written to determine coverage, not to fully restore your property to current construction standards. Adjusters often:
▪️ Write estimates quickly using standardized pricing software
▪️ Miss hidden or structural damage
▪️ Exclude code upgrades required by Oregon Bilding regulations
▪️ Focus on repairing, not replacing, damaged materials
Contractors, on the other hand, are responsible for complete it the work safely, legally, and to code. A professional contractors estimate reflects:
▪️ Actual labor and material costs
▪️ Required permits and inspections
▪️ Full replacements if needed
▪️ Long-term durability, not short-term fixes
Common Storm Damage Items Insurance Estimates Miss
In Oregon’s climate, storm damage often goes beyond what’s immediately visible. Some commonly overlooked items are:
▪️ Fence posts loosened by saturated soil
▪️ Structural rot hidden behind siding or trim
▪️ Damage to concrete footings or post bases
▪️ Improper drainage causing future foundation issues
▪️ Code-required upgrades during repair
These issues may not be visible during a brief inspection but can lead to failure if not properly addressed.
Oregon Building Codes Can Affect Repair Costs
Once major reason contractors estimates differ from insurance estimates is Oregon building code compliance. Many repairs require updates to meet codes, especially for:
▪️ Structural repairs
▪️ Fence and eco post installation
▪️ Footing depth and spacing
▪️ Wind and load resistance
Insurance estimates often do not include these requirements unless specifically documented. A licensed contractor must follow state and county codes—even if the insurance estimates does not account for them.
Who Is Responsible for the Difference in Cost?
This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask. In many cases, insurance companies will reconsider their estimates when provided with:
▪️A detailed contractors estimate
▪️ Photos showing hidden or structural damage
▪️ Code documentation or permit requirements
A qualified storm damage contractor can work directly with your insurance company to justify necessary repairs and help minimize out-of-pocket costs. So always ask again after getting a contractors estimate.
Why Choosing the Lowest Estimate Can Cost You More
Accepting an insurance estimates without professional review can result in:
▪️ Incomplete repairs
▪️ Temporary fixes that fail in Oregons unpredictable weather
▪️ Out-of-pocket expenses
▪️ Safety and liability issues
Construction shortcuts may not be obvious right away, but they often surface months or years later—especially in storm prone climate.
The Value of Hiring a Local Contractor (Forged Built)
Local contractors understand:
▪️ Oregon weather patterns and soil conditions
▪️ State and county permit requirements
▪️ Common storm-related construction failures
▪️ How to properly document repairs for insurance claims
Working with an Oregon construction company ensures your repairs are done correctly the first time— and stand up to future storms.
If your home has been damaged by a storm, don’t rely solely on and insurance estimate to guide repairs. A professional contractors assessment ensures the damage is fully addressed, meets Oregon standards, and protects your property long-term.
Storm damage repair isn’t just about fixing whats broken—it’s about rebuilding safely and correctly.
Please give us a call or email with any questions or concerns about your property.
Forged Built
(971) 486-6587
Levi@forgedbuilt.com
CCB#246536
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