How long will it be before work starts?

Once a claim is approved, time is needed to organise trades, order materials, and prepare a repair schedule. Start times vary depending on trade availability, material lead times and our existing workload. We will be in touch soon with our current lead time so you have an idea of when we can start the work. This will be followed by a detailed repair schedule once all trades and materials are secured.

Can I request upgrades or additional work now?

Yes — this is the best time to discuss any upgrades or additional work you’d like to include alongside your insurance repair. We can help you explore options and pricing before the schedule is finalised.

Can I request changes after the schedule is confirmed?

Once the repair schedule is confirmed or work is underway, changes can disrupt trade sequencing and may cause delays. For this reason, additional work may not be able to be accommodated unless it is planned into the schedule.

What if I want to take a cash settlement instead?

If you’re considering this option, we recommend speaking with your insurer or loss adjuster to understand how the settlement amount is calculated and what responsibilities sit with you once a cash settlement is

accepted.

Cash settlement can be a good option if the insurance repair is very straightforward and it is unlikely there will be hidden damage discovered once the repairs start. It can also work well if you are wanting to upgrade or renovate the affected area. However, once a claim is cash settled, it can be more difficult to have additional damage or costs approved by your insurance company. You may be out of pocket depending on the trades you choose to engage.

If I take a cash settlement, will you still complete the repairs?

We generally like to keep our schedule free for insurance repairs, however we will discuss the possibility of doing the repair work directly with you.

If you take a cash settlement, we will provide you with our quote to complete the repairs as per the repair scope, including the management of materials and subcontractors.

This will need to be accepted by you and deposit paid before we can start the repairs. In some cases where claims are cash settled, we may recommend that you engage your own builder depending on our workload and commitment to other insurance repairs.

What if I have a builder who is cheaper or available earlier?

You’re welcome to choose a different builder to complete the repair work. Insurance repairs often involve complexities such as hidden moisture, mould, smoke residue, or contamination risks, and it is

important to choose a builder who is familiar with these risks and reinstatement requirements.

If further damage is discovered during repairs, an insurance approved builder status helps additional work and costs to be assessed and progressed efficiently, minimising delays. When unfamiliar trades or methods are used, it can sometimes lead to scope changes or additional costs that weren’t anticipated. Many clients choose to proceed with us knowing the repair will be carefully planned, well coordinated, and backed by a strong

familiarity with the insurance process.

Do I need to do anything while waiting?

At this stage, no action is required. We will be in touch with updates as your claim progresses. If your availability changes, please let us know.

Who can I contact with questions?

During this stage, the best point of contact is to call our office. You can call us on 06 378 2119 or email build@checkleyltd.co.nz