Estimating
admin 25 February 2023 Comments (0)

Field Inspections & Field Notes

by Benjamin Goss, MBA

When it comes to restoration construction work, accurate and detailed estimates are crucial to the success of any project. A good estimate not only ensures that the project is financially viable, but it also helps to avoid cost overruns and delays. That’s why detailed field inspections are an essential part of the estimating process. In this article, we’ll explore why detailed field inspections are important to the estimating process and how they can help restoration contractors create accurate and reliable estimates.

The Importance of Accurate Estimates

Before we dive into the importance of field inspections, it’s essential to understand why accurate estimates are critical to the success of restoration construction projects. Accurate estimates help restoration contractors to:

  • Ensure that the project is financially viable
  • Avoid cost overruns and delays
  • Build trust with customers by providing reliable and accurate pricing information
  • Improve efficiency by streamlining the restoration process
  • Increase profitability by identifying potential cost-saving opportunities

The Benefits of Detailed Field Inspections

Now that we understand why accurate estimates are so important, let’s explore the benefits of detailed field inspections in the estimating process. Detailed field inspections offer several key benefits, including:

  1. Identifying Hidden Damage: When restoration contractors perform detailed field inspections, they can identify damage that might not be immediately apparent. This can include damage that is hidden behind walls or ceilings, or damage that is not visible to the naked eye. By identifying hidden damage, restoration contractors can create more accurate estimates that reflect the true scope of the project.
  2. Assessing the Extent of the Damage: In addition to identifying hidden damage, detailed field inspections can help restoration contractors to assess the extent of the damage. This can include determining the severity of the damage and identifying any structural issues that need to be addressed. By assessing the extent of the damage, restoration contractors can create more accurate estimates that reflect the true scope of the project.
  3. Identifying Potential Hazards: Detailed field inspections can also help restoration contractors to identify potential hazards on the job site. This can include hazards such as mold, asbestos, or lead-based paint. By identifying potential hazards, restoration contractors can ensure that they take the necessary precautions to protect their workers and the environment.
  4. Identifying Cost-Saving Opportunities: Finally, detailed field inspections can help restoration contractors to identify potential cost-saving opportunities. This can include identifying materials that can be salvaged or reused, or identifying areas where repairs can be made instead of replacement. By identifying cost-saving opportunities, restoration contractors can create more accurate estimates that reflect the true cost of the project.

How to Perform a Detailed Field Inspection

Now that we understand the benefits of detailed field inspections, let’s explore how restoration contractors can perform these inspections effectively. Here are some tips:

  1. Use the Right Tools: Restoration contractors should use the right tools for the job, including moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and other specialized equipment. This can help them to identify hidden damage and assess the extent of the damage more accurately.
  2. Take Detailed Notes: Restoration contractors should take detailed notes during the inspection, including measurements and photographs. This information can be used to create more accurate estimates and to document the extent of the damage for insurance purposes.
  3. Work with the Customer: Restoration contractors should work closely with the customer during the inspection, explaining what they are looking for and answering any questions the customer may have. This can help to build trust with the customer and ensure that they are fully informed about the scope of the project.
  4. Follow Safety Guidelines: Restoration contractors should follow all safety guidelines and regulations during the inspection, including wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This can help to ensure the safety of the workers and the environment.

In conclusion, detailed field inspections are an essential part of the estimating process for restoration construction projects. They offer several key benefits, including identifying hidden damage

RdyBenGoss

I am intimately familiar with feeling like my hair is on fire while I try to slow things down and focus on the person (or people) I am with. Sometimes I fail miserably to be present. I have had deals stolen from me, customers refuse to pay, and employer/market partners renege on agreements and promises.

As an author, I have self-published several guides and two books. Prior to engaging in my current projects which include books on sales, management, storm restoration contracting and politics I read more than 150 books on sales & business topics, attended hundreds of hours of seminars, and watched thousands of hours of videos regarding the same.
I earned a master’s in business administration (MBA) from Regis University in Denver, Colorado.

I recruited and trained hundreds of salespeople, made thousands of cold calls, knocked on thousands of doors, and successfully completed thousands of sales presentations that resulted in revenue for the companies I have represented. Because I find it hard to sit still, I have worked in 15+ major metro markets across America, and I have moved my family and lived in seven of them (Philadelphia, Orlando, Phoenix, Denver, Kansas City, Omaha and Richmond).

With more than 25 years of experience in various phases and market verticals within the construction industry, this also includes nearly 15 years of experience in the storm restoration industry with an emphasis on roofing. I have personal experience with storm damage inspections (~10,000+), Xactimate estimating (~4,000+) and completing restoration projects including those for complex historic and/or commercial projects [i.e. Natural Slate and Ludowici Clay Tile].

My certifications include, but are not limited to FLIR Level 1, flat roof certifications (EPDM, TPO, and PVC), roof coatings systems, and tile roof certification in all 50 states, including Florida High Wind Tile Installation certification. Finally, I was licensed as the qualifying party as a Class A general contractor with no heigh restrictions in multiple states and jurisdictions.

I trust it’s abundantly clear that I love to talk and engage in conversation. Surprisingly, I also enjoy writing. Surprising, at least to me because I hated English as a subject in school - too many rules. Ha!

What I am most proud of is continuing to help my wife of more than 26 years raise 6 amazing children (3 boys and 3 girls). Our two Doberman Pinschers are pretty cool as well. (If anyone has tips on how to write a better bio - please email me! ;-).

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