Begin with the project and summary
Confirm the property, price list, estimate date, totals, and major categories before reviewing individual line items.
Estimate-reading guide
How to Read an Xactimate Estimate
Before your team can write better estimates, it needs to understand how an Xactimate estimate is organized. Learn to follow the project from the summary into each room, elevation, line item, quantity, and note.
Read each line item in context
Look at the room or elevation, item description, activity, quantity, unit, and any attached note. Then compare it with the sketch and property documentation.
Ask the questions that reveal gaps
A careful review should answer a few basic questions.
- Is every affected area included?
- Do the quantities match the sketch?
- Are materials and activities described correctly?
- Do notes explain unusual items?
- Do the photos support the condition being estimated?
Frequently asked questions
What is the fastest way to learn an Xactimate estimate?
Use a real or simulated estimate and trace each line item back to the room, measurement, photo, and work it describes.
Why do quantities sometimes look different from field measurements?
Quantities can reflect waste, openings, surface calculations, units, or other assumptions. Review the sketch and line-item details before deciding a quantity is wrong.
Can Parrot Key review an active claim for me?
No. Parrot Key provides education and training and does not adjust, negotiate, or settle trainee claims.
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