The S&S Repair and Restoration Roadmap
Home repair and restoration projects are never easy. They disrupt your daily life, and there are always surprises and unexpected challenges. If your home has been damaged due to flooding, fire or storms your already behind the eight-ball.
To complicate matters even more, now you have to file an insurance claim, negotiate with agents and adjustors and wait to get paid. Then you can start to think about hiring a contractor to put your house back together. No easy task.
“Let S&S help you navigate the construction/insurance maze, get you all of the benefits you are entitled too and get your home put back together again.”
Adjustors and agents will tell you to get three estimates. Stop, that isn’t necessary! S&S will help you file your claim, meet with adjustors, negotiate with your insurance company and rebuild your house with no cost to you other than your deductible as outlined in your insurance policy.
Our agreement with your insurance company is to repair and restore your structure with products and finishes of like kind and quality. We can of course help you upgrade your home but any upgrades or changes will be handled as change orders and estimated in advance.
This can all be very confusing so we’ve created the S&S Repair + Restoration Roadmap. The Roadmap outlines the steps and processes of home restoration so you always know where we are and what comes next.
Simply Scroll over the Roadmap for a complete explanation of the steps and process involved in getting your home back to its original condition.
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(815) 900-8016
Qualifying Event
One of the most common qualifying events is storm damage, which includes high winds, hail, and lightning strikes. If a severe storm tears shingles off a roof, breaks windows, or causes a tree to fall onto a home, the homeowner’s insurance policy will generally cover repairs. Lightning strikes that result in fire or electrical damage are also typically covered.
Fire damage is another significant qualifying event. Whether caused by an electrical malfunction, an unattended candle, fire can destroy structures and personal belongings. Homeowners' insurance generally covers fire and smoke damage, including repairs, debris removal, and temporary housing if the home is uninhabitable.
Water damage can also be a qualifying event if it results from sudden and accidental incidents like a burst pipe, an overflowing appliance, or a roof leak caused by a storm. However, most standard homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage, which is typically addressed through a separate flood insurance policy provided by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers.
Document Loss
Proper documentation of a loss is essential to ensure smooth insurance claims processing and to maximize approval of benefits. Thorough and accurate records will demonstrate the full extent of the damage and justify all necessary repairs.
Best Practices for Documenting a Loss:
- Initial Inspection & Assessment – S&S Repair and Restoration will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the property, identifying all damage. Utilizing tools such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras will detect hidden water damage and structural issues.
- Photographic & Video Evidence – High-resolution photos and videos will be captured before any mitigation or repair work begins. The overall damage will be documented with wide-angle shots, along with close-ups of specific affected areas, including water intrusion points, fire damage, and structural weaknesses.
- Detailed Written Reports – A clear and professional report will be provided, outlining the cause of the loss, the extent of the damage, and any pre-existing conditions. For storm-related claims, date, time, and weather details will be included.
- Scope of Work – In concert with your insurance company, precise and itemized scope of work will be created, including labor, materials, and required mitigation steps. Industry-standard pricing tools like Xactimate will be used to align with insurance carrier expectations.
By following these documentation best practices, S&S Repair and Restoration will streamline the claims process, reduce disputes, and help homeowners recover quickly.
Sign Contract
A contract between S&S Repair and Restoration and a homeowner who has experienced a qualifying insurance-related event establishes clear expectations, responsibilities, and legal protections for both parties. This agreement ensures a smooth restoration process and compliance with insurance requirements.
Contents of the Contract:
- Scope of Work – A detailed description of the repairs and restoration services that S&S Repair and Restoration will perform, including water mitigation, structural drying, fire damage repairs, and storm damage restoration.
- Cost & Payment Terms – A breakdown of costs, including materials, labor, and any additional charges. The contract will specify if payments will be made directly by the homeowner, their insurance company, or through an Assignment of Benefits (AOB).
- Timeline & Project Schedule – Estimated start and completion dates for the restoration project, with an understanding that delays may occur due to insurance approvals or unforeseen conditions.
- Insurance Claim Process – Confirmation that S&S Repair and Restoration will work with the homeowner’s insurance provider, submit all necessary documentation, and ensure repairs align with covered losses.
- Homeowner Responsibilities – The homeowner must provide property access, communicate with the insurance company as needed, and approve work authorizations.
- Warranties & Liability – S&S Repair and Restoration will outline guarantees on workmanship and materials, ensuring quality repairs while limiting liability for pre-existing conditions.
This contract protects both S&S Repair and Restoration and the homeowner, ensuring that work is completed professionally and in accordance with the insurance claim.
Pay Deductible
A homeowner’s insurance deductible is the out-of-pocket amount a policyholder must pay before insurance covers a claim. It helps control costs, prevent small claims, and balance risk between homeowners and insurers.
Purpose of the Deductible
- Encourages responsible property maintenance by ensuring homeowners share in repair costs.
- Helps keep insurance premiums lower by reducing frequent small claims.
- Higher deductibles lower monthly premiums, while lower deductibles result in higher premiums.
Homeowner Rights
- Choose a deductible amount when purchasing or renewing a policy.
- Receive clear explanations of how deductibles apply to different claims (e.g., storm, fire, water damage).
- Select any licensed contractor for repairs, not just the insurer’s preferred vendor.
Homeowner Responsibilities
- Pay the deductible directly to the contractor before work begins, per the insurance settlement.
- Avoid attempts to waive or reduce the deductible, as this may be considered insurance fraud.
- Review policy details to understand deductible obligations before filing a claim.
Understanding these aspects ensures a smooth claims process, compliance with insurance rules, and a fair distribution of costs.
Present Scope of Work
S&S Repair and Restoration provides comprehensive repair and restoration services following a homeowner’s qualifying insurance-related event, such as water, storm, fire, or flood damage. Their Scope of Work outlines the specific mitigation and repair tasks necessary to restore the property to its pre-loss condition.
After a qualifying event, the insurance company issues a Scope of Loss, which details the approved repairs and estimated costs based on policy coverage. S&S Repair and Restoration carefully reviews this document to ensure all necessary repairs are included and that the estimate aligns with industry standards.
Their Scope of Work typically includes:
- Emergency Mitigation – Water extraction, structural drying, smoke removal, and debris cleanup.
- Structural Repairs – Roof replacement, drywall repairs, flooring, and framing.
- Interior Restoration – Painting, cabinetry, and fixture replacement.
- Final Inspection & Quality Assurance – Ensuring the property meets pre-loss condition standards.
S&S Repair and Restoration works closely with the homeowner and insurance adjuster to reconcile discrepancies between the Scope of Work and Scope of Loss, advocating for any necessary supplemental claims to ensure complete and proper restoration.
Discus RCV and ACV
In a homeowner’s insurance claim, RCV (Replacement Cost Value) and ACV (Actual Cash Value) are two methods used by insurers to calculate payouts for damaged property. Understanding these terms is crucial for homeowners navigating the claims process.
RCV (Replacement Cost Value)
RCV is the amount it would cost to replace damaged property with new materials of similar kind and quality, without factoring in depreciation. For example, if a roof is damaged, the insurance payout under RCV would cover the full cost of replacing the roof with new shingles, regardless of the roof’s age. RCV ensures the homeowner can restore their property to its pre-loss condition.
ACV (Actual Cash Value)
ACV, on the other hand, deducts depreciation from the replacement cost. If the same roof is 10 years old, and the depreciation is 50%, the ACV payout would cover only the roof’s current value, not the full replacement cost. ACVgenerally results in a lower payout compared to RCV.
Homeowners should carefully review their policy to understand whether RCV or ACV applies, as it impacts the amount received in a claim. Policies may vary, with RCV typically applied to certain coverage types (e.g., dwelling) and ACV to others (e.g., personal property).
Create Agreement on Schedule + Final Scope
The process begins with an initial assessment of the damage and a review of the insurance company’s scope of loss. Based on this information, S&S Repair and Restoration will provide the homeowner with an estimated timeline for repairs, outlining key milestones such as initial mitigation, drying, restoration, and final inspections. The timeline will consider the availability of materials, the scope of repairs, and any insurance-related approval delays.
Defining the Final Scope of Work
The final scope of work will be developed after thoroughly reviewing the insurance adjuster’s estimate and the homeowner's specific needs. S&S Repair and Restoration will ensure that the scope aligns with the coverage and expectations set by the insurance company. Any discrepancies between the insurance estimate and necessary repairs will be discussed, and supplementary claims may be filed if needed.
Once both parties agree on the schedule and final scope, a contract will be signed, and work will begin. S&S Repair and Restoration will maintain ongoing communication with the homeowner and insurer to ensure timely and accurate completion of the project.
Sign Authorization to Proceed
At this stage in the repair and restoration process, S&S Repair and Restoration requires the homeowner to sign an Authorization to Proceed to ensure that all parties are aligned and that work can begin promptly and efficiently. This document serves several important purposes:
Legal Authorization
The Authorization to Proceed grants S&S Repair and Restoration formal permission to begin the necessary repair and restoration work. Without this signed authorization, contractors are legally unable to begin the restoration, which may delay the process. This ensures that both the homeowner and contractor are on the same page about when work is to begin.
Insurance Compliance
Signing this document confirms that the homeowner has agreed to the scope of work outlined and understands the insurance company’s coverage, including the deductible and any out-of-pocket costs. It also serves as proof that the homeowner has approved the proposed repairs, aligning with the insurance company’s guidelines for the claim. This minimizes the potential for disputes or confusion later in the process.
Project Scope and Schedule
The Authorization to Proceed finalizes the agreed-upon scope of work and project schedule. This ensures that the homeowner and S&S Repair and Restoration are clear about expectations, timelines, and responsibilities before any work begins.
Overall, the Authorization to Proceed protects both parties and sets the stage for a smooth, transparent restoration process.
CLAIM INITIATION
Rough In
The first stage in the repair and restoration of a home after a qualifying event, as handled by S&S Repair and Restoration, involves critical initial work, including demolition, rough-in, and framing. This phase sets the foundation for all subsequent repairs and ensures the home is structurally sound before further restoration can occur.
The process begins with demolition, where any damaged materials, such as drywall, flooring, insulation, or structural elements, are carefully removed. This step is necessary to expose the underlying damage and make space for repairs. Demolition may also include the removal of any debris from fire, water, or storm damage to prevent further complications during the restoration.
Once demolition is complete, rough-in work begins. This stage involves the installation of essential systems, such as plumbing, electrical wiring, and HVAC. At this point, contractors will ensure that all systems are up to code and aligned with the homeowner’s needs. Properly completed rough-in work is essential for both safety and the efficiency of the home.
Following the rough-in, the framing of the home is reconstructed, including walls, floors, and ceilings. This stage rebuilds the home’s structural integrity and prepares it for the finishing stages of restoration, such as drywall installation, flooring, and painting.
This foundational work is critical for ensuring the home is safe and structurally stable before proceeding with more detailed repairs and finishing touches.
Mechanical Installation
The second stage in the repair and restoration of a home after a qualifying event involves the installation of mechanicals, which includes plumbing, electrical systems, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). This phase is critical for restoring the home’s functional systems, ensuring that the house is both livable and safe.
During this stage, any damaged or compromised plumbing systems are replaced or repaired. This includes pipes, drains, water supply lines, and fixtures. If water damage occurred, the plumbing is thoroughly inspected to ensure there are no leaks or hidden issues before new materials are installed. Once the system is updated, plumbing tests are conducted to verify everything is functioning properly.
The electrical system is a key component of the restoration process. Any damaged wiring, outlets, or fixtures are replaced. New electrical panels, breakers, and switches may also be installed as needed. Safety is a priority during this stage, and all work must meet local building codes and pass inspection.
The HVAC system is often inspected and repaired or replaced as part of this phase. This includes restoring or installing air conditioning, heating systems, and ductwork to ensure comfort and air quality throughout the home.
Once all mechanical systems are installed and tested for functionality, the home is ready for the next stage of restoration, including drywall and interior finishes.
Wall + Ceiling Finishes
Phase three of the repair and restoration process focuses on the installation of wall and ceiling finishes, an essential step in restoring the home’s interior. Following mechanical installations, this phase prepares the home for its final touches.
In this phase, drywall or other wall materials are installed. Any damaged drywall is replaced, and new sheets are hung, taped, and mudded. This process involves applying joint compound, sanding, and smoothing the surface to ensure a clean finish. If needed, moisture-resistant drywall is used in areas exposed to water or storms.
Similarly, ceilings are repaired or replaced, whether with new drywall, ceiling tiles, or other materials. Structural issues caused by water or fire damage are addressed to ensure safety.
Once drywall and ceiling materials are in place, texturing and painting are done. This can include smooth or textured finishes, depending on the homeowner's preferences, and prepares the walls and ceilings for the final stage of restoration.
This phase is vital for returning the home to its pre-loss condition and sets the stage for flooring, cabinetry, and final touches, ensuring the space is both functional and visually restored.
Progress Payment
A progress payment is required at the installation of wall and ceiling finishes to ensure that both the homeowner and contractor are protected throughout the restoration process. This payment helps cover the contractor’s costs for labor, materials, and other expenses incurred up to that point in the project.
Why Progress Payments are Necessary:
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Protection for the Homeowner
Progress payments ensure that the contractor is completing work as agreed and in a timely manner. The homeowner is paying for work already completed, which provides assurance that the restoration is moving forward according to plan. -
Protection for the Contractor
For the contractor, progress payments help cover ongoing costs and prevent financial strain. Restoring a home requires significant investment in materials and labor, and progress payments help maintain cash flow to continue work without delays.
By establishing progress payments, both the homeowner and contractor are protected. The homeowner only pays for completed work, while the contractor receives the funds necessary to keep the restoration on track and maintain quality throughout the project.
Floor Finishes
When restoring a home after a qualifying insurance event, the design, choice, and installation of wood, vinyl, or tile flooring are key to returning the home to its pre-loss condition. The process must adhere to the insurance company’s requirement of "like kind and quality."
The selected flooring should match the original style, functionality, and aesthetics of the home. Whether choosing wood, vinyl, or tile, the material should suit the specific area being restored and align with the homeowner’s preferences. "Like kind and quality" means the new flooring must resemble the damaged flooring in appearance, durability, and performance.
Once the flooring material is chosen, the installation involves preparing the subfloor, ensuring proper underlayment, and laying the new flooring according to industry standards. For wood, this may include acclimating the material to the room’s conditions. Vinyl and tile must be measured and cut precisely for a seamless fit.
By following the like kind and quality standard, S&S Repair and Restoration ensures that the homeowner’s insurance claim covers materials comparable to what was originally in place, restoring the home’s value, functionality, and appearance.
Trim + Millwork
After a qualifying insurance claim, the installation of trim and millwork is a key step in restoring the home’s interior to its pre-loss condition. This process involves selecting materials that match the style and quality of the original trim while ensuring they align with the homeowner’s preferences and insurance coverage.
The choice of trim and millwork includes options such as baseboards, crown molding, window casings, and door frames. These elements should reflect the design and quality of the original trim to meet the "like kind and quality"requirement of the insurance claim. Homeowners can choose from various materials, such as wood, MDF (medium-density fiberboard), or vinyl, depending on the room’s function, style, and budget.
Once materials are selected, the installation process begins with precise cutting, fitting, and securing of trim pieces to the walls, doors, and windows. Proper alignment and smooth finishes are critical to achieving a polished look. Any gaps are filled, and final touches, such as painting or staining, are applied to ensure the trim complements the room’s overall aesthetic.
The installation of trim and millwork is an essential final touch that enhances the home's beauty and restores it to its original design after the damage is repaired.
Finish Paint
The painting process during the repair and restoration of a home after an insurance claim is crucial for restoring its appearance. This step takes place after structural repairs and installation of systems like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC are completed.
The painting process begins with proper surface preparation, including cleaning, sanding, and priming to ensure a smooth, durable finish. Damaged areas, such as those affected by water, fire, or other issues, are carefully treated to prevent visible defects once painted.
Homeowners can expect high-quality paint application, typically involving multiple coats for areas with significant damage. S&S Repair and Restoration collaborates with homeowners to select paint colors and finishes that match the original look or any new design preferences.
Insurance policies generally cover painting as part of the "like kind and quality" requirement, ensuring the paint used matches the original in both appearance and durability.
The final goal is a professional, clean finish that restores the home to its pre-loss condition. Once completed, touch-ups and corrections will be made to ensure the home is fully restored visually and is livable. This process ensures the home’s interior or exterior looks just as it did before the damage occurred.
Punch List
A punch list is a critical step in the final phase of the repair and restoration process following a qualifying insurance event. It serves as a detailed list of tasks or items that need attention before the project can be considered complete. The purpose of the punch list is to ensure that all repairs, installations, and finishes meet the homeowner’s expectations and align with the insurance company's scope of loss.
The punch list ensures that any remaining issues or incomplete tasks are addressed before the project is finalized. It provides a clear outline of what still needs to be done, ensuring that both the homeowner and S&S Repair and Restoration are on the same page about the quality and completeness of the work.
Once the main repair and restoration work is finished, S&S Repair and Restoration and the homeowner walk through the property together. They review all areas, checking for any imperfections, touch-ups, or overlooked details. This can include anything from paint touch-ups, trim adjustments, to minor repairs. The punch list is then compiled and prioritized, and any remaining work is completed before the final payment is made.
The punch list helps ensure the project is done to satisfaction, with all aspects of the restoration completed before the homeowner moves back in.
PROJECT EXECUTION
Quality Control Inspection
S&S Repair and Restoration follows a comprehensive Quality Control (QC) process to ensure that every aspect of a home repair and restoration project is completed to the highest standards. This process is vital at the close of a project, ensuring that all work is done correctly and aligns with the homeowner’s expectations and the insurance company’s scope of loss.
At the conclusion of the repair work, S&S Repair and Restoration conducts a thorough inspection of the property. This includes reviewing structural repairs, finishes, systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), and any other work performed during the restoration. The QC team carefully checks for any inconsistencies or defects that may require attention, ensuring the work meets both industry standards and the specific requirements outlined in the homeowner’s insurance claim.
The final inspection involves a detailed walkthrough with the homeowner, where every area of the home is assessed. The contractor ensures that all repairs and installations align with the insurance company’s "like kind and quality"requirements. Any issues identified during this inspection are addressed before the final approval.
This QC process guarantees that all repairs are completed professionally, and the home is fully restored. Once the homeowner is satisfied, S&S Repair and Restoration ensures that the project is closed out, and the insurance claim process is finalized.
Sign Certificate of Completion
A Certificate of Completion (COC) is a critical document in the roofing, siding, repair and restoration process, offering significant value to both homeowners and contractors. For the homeowner, the COC signifies that the repair or restoration work has been completed according to the agreed-upon terms, specifications, and quality standards. It serves as confirmation that the project is finished and all work has been carried out to their satisfaction. The homeowner’s signature on the COC marks their acknowledgment of the project’s completion and their approval of the work done.
For the contractor the COC is equally essential as it provides legal protection and a clear record that the work was completed in line with the contract. It helps mitigate the risk of disputes or claims regarding incomplete or unsatisfactory work after the job is finished. Additionally, the COC can be used for warranty purposes, ensuring that any future issues are covered within the scope of the warranty agreement.
The COC establishes transparency and serves as an official confirmation of project completion. It provides both parties with peace of mind, ensuring that expectations have been met, while offering a safeguard against future misunderstandings or legal complications.
Final Payment
Once a repair and restoration project following an insurance claim is complete, final payment becomes due from both the insurance company and the homeowner. The payment includes not only the original scope of work but also any additional costs incurred due to supplements or change orders that were outside the initial scope of loss. Insurance companies typically issue payment based on the scope of work outlined in the claim, but if unforeseen issues arise or additional repairs are needed, the contractor will submit a supplement or change order to account for these changes.
These adjustments may be necessary if damage was more extensive than initially assessed, or if certain repairs were uncovered during the course of the project. Once the work is completed and approved, the homeowner and insurance company are responsible for settling the final balance. This ensures that the contractor is fully compensated for the labor and materials used, including the extra work beyond the original claim.
It’s essential that homeowners understand they are responsible for paying any portion of the cost not covered by the insurance policy. Clear communication between the homeowner, contractor, and insurance company is crucial to ensure that all payments are made promptly and accurately, avoiding any delays or misunderstandings.
Warranty
S&S Repair and Restoration offers a limited 1-year warranty for labor and materials once a project is complete, providing homeowners with peace of mind and ensuring the long-term quality of the work performed. This warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship that may arise within the first year after completion. Whether it’s an issue with the roofing, siding, or other aspects of the repair, the warranty guarantees that any necessary repairs or corrections will be made at no additional cost to the homeowner.
This warranty is a testament to S&S’s commitment to delivering high-quality, durable results. It reflects the company’s confidence in the materials used and the craftsmanship of its team. Homeowners can be assured that if any unexpected problems arise, S&S will be there to address them promptly and professionally.
However, it’s important to note that the warranty becomes effective only once all payments, including any balances due for the project and supplements or change orders, have been fully settled. This ensures that the homeowner has met their financial obligations, allowing the warranty to be activated. Clear communication and prompt payment are essential to ensure that the homeowner can fully benefit from the protection offered by this limited warranty.