Water Mitigation Trends Every Contractor Should Watch in 2025 – From a Xactimate Trainer’s Perspective

As a contractor in the restoration industry, you’re expected to move fast, stay compliant, and still make a profit — all while navigating ever-changing demands from carriers and customers. As a Xactimate trainer who works with contractors daily, I want to share some key trends in water mitigation that are shaping the way we work in 2025.
These aren't just industry buzzwords — these are practical shifts that impact how you estimate, document, and get paid.


1. Faster Estimates Through AI and Automation
Let’s face it: writing estimates takes time — especially when the job is complex. New AI-powered tools are hitting the market that can help streamline photo documentation, sketching, and even line item suggestions. These tools don’t replace Xactimate — they enhance it. Contractors using these tools are cutting their estimating time in half.
What to do: Start exploring platforms that integrate with Xactimate and help reduce time spent on scoping and documentation.


2. Real-Time Drying Logs Are Becoming the Norm
Insurance companies are asking for proof — not just that you dried a structure, but how long, how effectively, and what equipment was used. Smart meters and cloud-based drying logs are now expected by many carriers.
What to do: If you’re still using paper logs, it’s time to make the switch. Apps like Encircle, MICA, and Dash can sync your readings with job files and support your estimate.


3. Better Documentation = Fewer Adjuster Pushbacks
Too many contractors lose money because they aren’t telling the full story in their estimates. A well-written scope in Xactimate, paired with detailed photos and moisture readings, reduces pushback and gets you paid faster.
What to do: Train your team to take thorough documentation in the field — and make sure your estimators know how to tie that into the Xactimate narrative and line items.


4. 3D Scanning Is Giving Contractors an Edge
Tools like Matterport or DocuSketch allow you to create full 3D scans of loss sites. Not only does this protect you legally, but it also helps justify every square foot and line item in your estimate.
What to do: Consider investing in 3D scanning tools. The cost is often offset by faster approvals and better accuracy — especially on larger jobs.


5. Xactimate Skills Aren’t Just for Estimators Anymore
More contractors are training their field technicians in basic Xactimate and scoping. Why? Because when your techs understand how line items relate to their work, your estimates are cleaner, faster, and more defensible.
What to do: Invest in training your techs — not just your estimators. Even just knowing what photos to take and how to describe work done helps your bottom line.


6. Defending Scope Against Undercutting
Adjusters are tightening the belt on what they’ll approve. But contractors who write detailed, well-supported scopes are winning more approvals — and protecting their profit margins.
What to do: Focus on writing justifiable estimates. That means including the right F9 notes, showing moisture data, and tying every line item back to real work done.


Final Thoughts
The water mitigation game is evolving fast. If you're still doing things the way you did five years ago, you’re likely leaving money on the table. The good news? Contractors who adapt — who invest in tools, training, and better documentation — are getting paid faster, protecting themselves from liability, and standing out in a crowded market.
If you're ready to level up your team’s Xactimate skills or want help building out a bulletproof estimating workflow, let’s connect.