Insurance Work 101: What to Expect After Mitigation

Finished with water mitigation? Learn what happens next in the insurance repair process—from estimates and approvals to rebuild and final inspection.

The dry-out is done—here’s what comes next.

So your home’s been dried out after a water loss. Fans are off. Dehumidifiers are gone. The noise has stopped—but now you’re left staring at bare studs, ripped-out flooring, and that dreaded word: rebuild.

What now?

This is where the real work begins—and where many homeowners start to feel lost. Here’s a breakdown of what happens next, how to protect your wallet, and what to expect from your contractor (and insurance adjuster) as you move into the repair phase.

1. Insurance Scope & Estimate Review

After mitigation, the insurance adjuster or their rep will write a “scope of loss” detailing what they’re willing to pay to repair. This is usually written in a software like Xactimate and may not match the real-world price of quality labor and materials in your area.

🔍 Pro Tip: A good contractor can review this scope, flag missing items, and request supplements on your behalf. Don’t sign anything until that’s been reviewed.

2. Choose a Contractor You Trust

This is not the time to pick the cheapest bid. You need someone who understands insurance protocols, can speak the adjuster’s language, and has a reputation for actually finishing the job—not just starting it.

Ask:

• Do they use Xactimate or insurance-friendly invoicing?

• Can they help with documentation for supplements?

3. Contract & Scheduling

Once you approve the estimate, your contractor should provide a detailed scope of work, timeline, and contract. Expect delays if the insurance approval takes time or if materials need to be special ordered.

4. Reconstruction Begins

This might include:

• Drywall, insulation, and paint

• Flooring replacement

• Cabinet and trim repair

• Plumbing or electrical reconnections

Your contractor should coordinate directly with you and work in phases based on what’s approved.

5. Final Walkthrough & Documentation

Once work is complete, you’ll do a final walkthrough with your contractor. They may help submit final invoices or proof of completion to your insurance carrier so the remaining claim funds (often called depreciation) can be released.

Final Word:

Insurance restoration is a process. If you feel like you’re stuck in the middle of a system designed for speed and low payouts, you're not wrong. Having the right contractor in your corner makes all the difference.

When your project needs that divine spark ~ Prometheus Contracting