SUMMARY DESCRIPTION: The Property Field Estimator is responsible for inspecting, scoping and estimating property claims of all named-peril losses. For claims where the damage is less severe, the Property Field Estimator may be assigned tasks, such as verification of damage. The role's primary duties include reviewing the client's intake information, inspecting damaged property, and estimating repair/replacement costs in accordance with the client's and RENFROE's guidelines. The Property Field Estimator is also responsible for documenting all activity, submitting proper paperwork, meeting with contractors (when required), effectively communicating with the client and all stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with legal and contractual obligations.
REPORTS TO: Assigned RENFROE Manager
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Follows RENFROE and clients' procedures for inspecting, scoping and estimating property claims
- Travels to the loss location to inspect the property, which could include climbing the roof, inspecting the attic, or other inspection points, to establish the scope of the loss
- Works with contractors or another representative to reach an agreement on the scope of loss
- Completes assigned property estimation, such as property or contents inspections, verification of loss, and updates estimate documentation as new information becomes available using XactAnalysis, Xactimate, or other estimating platforms
- Photographs must be taken using a LiDAR-enabled smartphone or device
- Contacts and interacts with the insured to obtain documents such as property deeds, purchase receipts, warranties, photographs, or other documents to establish the existence, ownership, and value of the items claimed lost
- Writes closing reports, including recommendations for repair and/or replacement, depreciation method used, and the pursuit of subrogation and salvage potential
- All documentation must be uploaded to client or RENFROE platforms as directed
- Manages the progression of claims/tasks and claim inventories assigned to them
- Works with the RENFROE Manager and other stakeholders to share knowledge and experience and to gain new skills
- Participates and communicates in client team meetings to discuss claim estimating trends, team production, inspection methods and tools, and any assignment concerns or changes
- Makes suggestions on ways to improve process efficiency
- Participates in special projects and completes other duties as assigned
Non-Authorized Activities:
Field estimators should not:
- Handle claim inspections for which they do not have client authorization or for which they are not licensed
- Make, discuss or recommend coverage decisions to any stakeholders
- Communicate training requirements to client staff adjusters and non-affiliated firms
- Communicate training requirements to any claim handler who is not deployed with RENFROE
- Discuss Human Resource issues with any client staff adjusters in any segment or any claim handler that is not deployed with RENFROE
- Discuss any of the following topics with a client staff adjuster or any claim handler that is not deployed with RENFROE: job openings, termination, prior work history, attendance, absence requests, daily work schedule, claim volume or workload, meal and rest break schedule, promotions, development, compensation, or mentoring of any kind
EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS:
- A minimum of 1 year of property claims estimating experience is preferred
- Inspector must capture photos using a LiDAR-enabled smartphone or device
- Participation in technical insurance coursework is preferred, such as CPCU
- Appropriate licenses, depending on state requirements, and successful completion of required/applicable claims certification training classes
- Effective problem resolution and decision-making skills to include analyzing information, demonstrating sound judgment, and utilizing one's own experience and the experience of others
- Strong analytical skills and consistent attention to detail
- Communicates clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
- Strong customer service orientation and good rapport with the insured
- Well-organized and hard-working, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment
- Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to establish good relationships with clients, RENFROE management, employees, and others with whom they interact
- Computer skills, including but not limited to practical knowledge of Word and Excel
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Ability to operate an automobile and have a valid driver's license with a safe driving record
- Ability to travel by automobile or airplane
- Must be able to lift, carry, unfold/extend, and climb a ladder (which may exceed 50 lbs. in weight) that is approved by the appropriate regulatory agency or complies with legislative or regulatory occupational health and safety requirements
- Must be able to complete measurements of roofs and inspect interior as necessary, including attics, basements, and crawl spaces for residential and commercial structures
- Must be able to do the following while conducting an inspection: climb, bend, crawl, stoop, walk, reach, kneel, squat, and carry/lift objects (typically weighing less than 50 lbs.)
- Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather
- Ability to operate a telephone and a computer for extended periods of time
- Must be able to work extended and varying work schedules, including working up to 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, for extended periods of time, including weekends and holidays
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, changing, and multi-tasking environment