Insurance Scope of Work

What Is Scope of Work

Scope of work is the detailed list of all repairs and work items included in an insurance estimate. It defines what the insurance company agrees to pay for. Missing or incomplete scope costs you thousands.

Why Scope Matters

The scope of work determines what gets repaired. If an item isn't in the scope, it won't be paid for. Insurance adjusters systematically limit scope to minimize payouts. They exclude items hoping you won't notice, argue certain repairs aren't necessary, or claim damage items aren't related to the covered event.

Common Scope Limitations

Adjusters often exclude related repairs, limit scope to visible damage only, exclude code upgrade requirements, and minimize the extent of necessary repairs. Each excluded item reduces your settlement.

Hidden Damage Issues

Initial scope typically only includes visible damage. Hidden damage behind walls, under flooring, or in attics isn't included until it's discovered. You need to file supplemental claims as contractors uncover additional damage.

Proper Repair Standards

Contractors must follow building codes and industry standards. Insurance scope should include all work necessary to meet these standards, but adjusters often try to limit scope to minimum repairs that may not meet code.

Common Scope Issues

Missing Damage Items

Damaged components not included in the scope at all

Incomplete Repairs

Scope includes partial repair but not complete restoration

Excluded Related Work

Necessary related repairs excluded from scope

No Code Upgrades

Required building code upgrades not included

Hidden Damage Not Included

Scope limited to visible damage only

Inadequate Quantities

Scope includes insufficient materials or labor

How to Review Scope of Work

Systematic scope review ensures all necessary repairs are included in your settlement.

Compare to Contractor Estimates — Contractor scope should be more comprehensive than adjuster scope
List Missing Items — Identify every repair in contractor estimates that's missing from insurance scope
Check for Complete Repairs — Ensure scope includes complete restoration, not just minimum repairs
Verify Related Work — Confirm all related and necessary repairs are included
Check Code Requirements — Verify scope includes required building code upgrades
Document Hidden Damage — As contractors discover additional damage, document and submit supplemental claims
Review Quantities — Ensure scope includes adequate materials and labor for proper repair
Get Contractor Review — Have your contractor review the insurance scope for completeness
Challenge Exclusions — Question why specific items are excluded and provide evidence they're necessary
Request Scope Revisions — Submit detailed requests for scope additions with supporting documentation

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add items to the scope after the estimate is written?

Yes. File supplemental claims for items that were missed or for hidden damage discovered during repairs. Scope can be revised throughout the claim process.

What if the adjuster says certain repairs aren't necessary?

Challenge this with contractor opinions and building code requirements. If repairs are necessary for proper restoration or code compliance, they should be included.

How detailed should scope of work be?

Very detailed. Good scope lists every component, material, and task required for complete repair. Vague or incomplete scope leads to disputes during repairs.

What if contractors discover more damage during repairs?

Document immediately with photos and get a supplemental estimate. File a supplemental claim with your insurance company for the newly discovered damage.

Can I negotiate scope or just pricing?

Both. Scope negotiation is often more important than price negotiation. Adding missing items to scope can increase your settlement more than arguing over unit prices.