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2024 Cat Readiness Playbook

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GET CA

READY:T

STORM
Tips, To
ols
Tactics ,

AHEADA practical playbook for


restoration pros for CAT success

EARN 3 IICRC CE CREDITS


TABLE OF CONTENTS
Ready for the surge? Here’s your quickstart guide to CAT readiness 3
Section 1: Pre-season CAT resource planning 4
Financial muscle 4

Legal readiness 5

Gearing up for action: Crew, equipment, and supplies 6

Pro tips for proactive planning 7

A Quick CAT Job Decision Guide 8

Don’t get swamped: Plan your CAT resources smartly 15

Putting your plans into action: Agile response and communication 16

Section 2: Building a resilient team for CAT response 17


On-site efficiency: Paperwork that’s on point 19
Taking care of business (and your crew) 21

Section 3: CAT claims made easy: Simplify your workflow 22


Strong Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are the key to efficient CAT operations 24
Encircle: Your tech partner for fast, accurate docs 25
Encircle Floor Plan: Speed and simplicity for CAT documentation 26

Section 4: CAT cases: Saving time and money 27

Section 5: Brace for financial impact during CATs 28

Section 6: CAT Bootcamp: Become a top dog (& earn 3 IICRC credits) 29

CAT confidence starts here — Own your success 30

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 2


Ready for the surge? Here’s your
quickstart guide to CAT readiness

Disasters strike fast and hard. With experts


predicting an intense hurricane season ahead,
it's not about if but when. Are you ready to face
the next major catastrophe with confidence?

Welcome to your essential guide


to CAT work confidence.
Designed to equip you with expert insights and
tools, this playbook prepares you for smart,
strategic action.

We'll show you how to use Encircle’s tools


for smoother operations and quicker claims
processing, setting you up not just for the next
disaster, but for ongoing success.

WHO SHOULD READ THIS? KEY TAKEAWAYS:


Restoration contractors aiming Streamline resource
for top efficiency: Get ready for management for everyday and
in-state and out-of-state CAT emergency situations.
projects.
Secure your operations
Teams ready to scale: Manage financially and legally.
multiple disaster responses
smoothly.
Enhance efficiency and speed up
claims with technology.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 3


SECTION 1
PRE-SEASON CAT RESOURCE PLANNING
When disaster strikes, being prepared is your secret weapon. Here's your pre-season
checklist to make sure you're ready to hit the ground running:

FINANCIAL MUSCLE
LESSONS
BOO ST YOUR BUFF E R
LEARNED FROM
HURRICANE IAN
Have enough cash reserves and a reliable credit
line ready before disaster strikes. Budget for all
expected costs‌— f‌ ood, lodging, labor, fuel‌—
‌and then double it to make sure you're covered.
This prep helps you manage unexpected
226%
increase in job volumes,
expenses and maintain operations smoothly.
all insured losses
Aim to have a credit line that covers at least
three months of your operational costs for
additional security.
80%
experienced
IRONCLAD PAYMEN T T E R M S slower payments
Define clear payment terms upfront to avoid
disputes and provide smooth cash flow.
(Sample clause: "Payments are due within 30 80%
days of invoice receipt; projects may be paused deployed resources
if payments are delayed beyond this term.") outside their regular
service area

BANK ON S T RO NG B ON DS
Cultivate relationships with banks early on.
67%
failed to meet
When you're knee-deep in a CAT scenario, a
revenue expectations
reliable banking partner and a solid credit line
are lifesavers.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 4


LEGAL READINESS

LICENSE UP
Before heading to a new state, verify you have the necessary licenses and insurance
coverage for the work you'll be doing. This includes checking state and regional
regulations and making sure your insurance is updated to reflect your operations in
the area. (Tip: Common licenses you might need include mold remediation, asbestos
removal, and lead paint certification.)

C ONT RACT CONFIDE N C E


Draft clear, comprehensive contracts that detail the scope of work, payment schedules,
and obligations of all parties involved.
(Tip: Use standardized contract templates reviewed by legal experts to make sure you
cover all critical aspects.)

DOCUMENT EV ER YT HIN G
Keep good records of all communications and operations. This will help in the case
of disputes or audits. Make sure you know about industry standards like the S500.
This includes definitions like the "category of water" in hurricanes, which can often be
argued about. Train your team on how to document things during disasters. This will
make sure that the information is accurate and complete.
(Tip: Use digital tools to timestamp and store emails, contract changes, and approvals.)

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 5


GEARING UP FOR ACTION: CREW, EQUIPMENT, & SUPPLIES
Now that your financial and legal ducks are in a row, let's make sure your crew, equipment, and supplies
are ready to roll when disaster calls:

RESOURCE ALLOCATION MAP


Plan strategically to allocate resources (crew and equipment)
between regular operations and CAT projects. Use our
Catastrophe Process Workflow to streamline this planning,
making sure a solid foundation for both routine and
emergency operations.

BALANCE IS KEY
Evaluate your capacity to mobilize teams and equipment
without disrupting your core services. Use the People
Worksheet to assess personnel availability and the Toolbox
Checklist to audit equipment readiness, making sure you have
all necessary resources at hand for any task.

READY-TO-GO CHECKLIST
Before heading out, complete our Field-Ready CAT Prep
Checklist to manage your personal inventory‌— w‌ hat you’ll
carry with you and what you’ll need at home during your
absence.

CONTINGENCY PLANS
The unexpected is part of the game. Be prepared by
establishing plans to address potential equipment failures
or shortages.

LOCAL ALLIANCES
Build strong connections with local suppliers, subcontractors,
and temp agencies to quickly access necessary equipment,
materials, and manpower. Partner with restoration companies
for efficient and profitable CAT event responses.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 6


PRO TIPS FOR PROACTIVE PLANNING
Weigh the costs: Not all jobs are worth the chase. Things to consider:

Accommodation strategy: If you're in it


for the long haul, consider a 5th wheel or
trailer‌— m
‌ ore cost-effective than hotels
or Airbnbs.

Labor considerations: Bring your own


labor when possible, as local labor can
be expensive.

Essential equipment: Generators are


crucial; have plenty and secure them.

Waste management: Get a dependable


dumpster service before you leave.

Connectivity solutions: Explore FirstNet


phones and portable internet boxes
for reliable communication. Confirm
coverage before beginning work.

Program work vs. the free market: Many


jobs are available, but you can often earn
more by working for yourself.

Pace and rewards: The work is super


busy and fast-paced, but it's also highly
profitable and rewarding.

Update risk plans regularly: Continually refine your risk management plans to handle
unexpected challenges smoothly.

Opt for fixed-price contracts: Consider phase-based, fixed-price contracts for better
control over finances and fewer disputes.

Use third-party estimating: In high-volume surge events, consider leveraging third-


party resources to write Xactimate priced estimates, to help you manage multiple
projects efficiently.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 7


S HO UL D Y O U TAKE O N TH IS CAT J O B ?

A QUICK CAT JOB DECISION GUIDE


YES NO

Proceed to Consider logistics and


cost analysis Is the job within additional costs
our service area?

YES NO

Evaluate resource Can we manage Decline


availability the job
the logistics?
(Consider transportation,
accommodation, local regulations)

YES NO

Check job Do we have available


profitability
and necessary resources?
(Crew, equipment, supplies)

YES NO

Proceed to Decline
Profitability Can we hire or acquire the job
additional resources
affordably?

YES NO

Confirm Is the potential Decline


insurance and gain worth the the job
licensing requirements cost and effort?

YES NO

Accept Are insurance Assess feasibility to


the job and licensing adequate update insurance/license
quickly
for the job location?

YES FEASIBLE? NO

Update and Not feasible


accept the job decline the job

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 8


6 Pag
CATASTROPHE int eract
es of

chec ive
PROCESS WORKFLOW kl
ide y i s t s
to gu
p repar our C
ation AT
Your process should outline the steps you will take before, during s!
and after a large loss.

List remediation, restoration, and repair resources available: (ex. air movers)

How do I intake jobs


when there is an
influx of claims?

How do I track and


document jobs?

How do we triage
jobs?

What if my credit
cards don’t work?

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 9


CATASTROPHE PROCESS WORKFLOW

What’s my path to
collecting payment
on each claim?

What if I can’t get


fuel?

How will we
communicate if cell
phones are down?

Do we have local partnerships in place?

For a large loss


what is our plan to
handle it?

Do we have a
standard referral
rate and process?

Who deals directly


with the insurance
company for
updates, changes,
or payment
collection?

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 10


CATASTROPHE PROCESS WORKFLOW
What is our plan for:
Temporary Labor

Technicians &
Supervisors

Administrative Staff

Safety Staff Member

Clerk of the Works

Project Managers/
Coordinators

Sales & Support

Generators &
Electricity

Air movers &


Dehumidifiers

Gas, Fuel

Tools, tracking
systems, consumables

PPE, logo wear

Specialty Tools / EQ

Hotels /
Accommodations

Food & Water

Transportation

Debris removal /
Disposal

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 11


PEOPLE WORKSHEET
Emergency Response Team Members

Name Role Contact Info Responsibilities

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 12


TOOLBOX CHECKLIST
Are you ready for a CAT? Check out our helpful list to ensure you
have everything you need!

Adjustable wrenches WD40

Various screwdrivers Heavy duty garbage bags Make sure to


inventory your
Various pliers (standard & needle nose) 5-gallon buckets
equipment
Channel lock pliers Scoop shovel and ensure
Side cutters Utility hose & hose adapter everything
is in working
Hammers Cleaning towels order.
Crow bars (variety of sizes) Flashlight
If you work
6-inch metal prybars Portable lights
with an
Razor knife & extra blades Extra batteries (based on equipment) equipment
Measuring tape (25 or 30 ft) Gloves
rental
supplier,
Cordless drill Respirators communicate
Circular saw Disposable N-95s to them that
you’re taking
Reciprocating saw P100 Filters
inventory and
Roto zip Rubber boots may need
repairs.
Drywall screws Safety goggles

Common nails Safety glasses

Finishing nails Disposable suits

Floor scrapers Hard hats / safety vests

Various spare saw blades First aid kit

6 mil poly sheeting Bottled water

ZipLoc baggies SDS

Boxes Cleaning agents

Duct tape Disinfectants / biocide

Electrical tape Odor neutralizers

Paper towel / bathroom tissue Paper geography map

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 13


FIELD-READY CAT PREP CHECKLIST
Take time to do a personal inventory of what you need with you while you travel and
what you need at home while away. This is a checklist to give you some ideas of items
to address prior to leaving.

Communicate
Make sure you let key people in your life know the time you will be gone.

Personal packing
Clothes for all climates. Extra items you wear daily (socks, shirts, underwear) in case laundry is not available.
Make sure to have work boots, extra boots and sneakers.

Food / beverages
Pick up foods and beverages you prefer - make sure to pack enough to eat for 2 weeks without other food
available. Remember to get non-perishable items you can eat without cooking in case power is not an option.

Hygiene
Get your hair cut prior to leaving. If you’re on any medications, ensure you have a month’s supply at minimum.
Bring additional toiletries. Bring items to cleanup on the road if there is not any running water.

Sleeping
We will have facilities to sleep in. There may be a delay so bring items in case we need to rest in vehicles,
like a pillow / blanket.

Personal bills
Take care of personal bills prior to leaving. Set items up on autopay where able. If you need to send money
home set up a system prior to leaving.

Cash / debit / credit


Make sure to have a debit / credit payment source with you. Bring cash - if credit card machines are down you
will need cash for purchases. Bring small bills in case change is not available.

Identification / background
Make sure you have a valid photo identification. Make sure any outstanding tickets / warrants are satisfied to
ensure no issues on military bases.

Child care / pet arrangements


Plan now for when the time comes. Coordinate these arrangements with friends / family or certified
caretakers of children or pets. This has to be planned in advance, not the day of!

Communicate
Remind family, friends, and anyone who needs to know when you are leaving - make sure someone has keys
to your property / vehicle in case it’s needed.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 14


DON’T GET SWAMPED

PLAN YOUR CAT RESOURCES SMARTLY

Plan for Peak Balance Your Be Prepared for


Season Resources the Unexpected
Map resource allocation ​​Make sure best Develop backup plans
(crew & equipment) personnel and (equipment failures)
equipment are
Balance ongoing available for both Build local alliances
projects & CAT events routine and emergency (suppliers,
situations. subcontractors)
Maintain strong base
operations

Plan Drills
& Training

Conduct
Drills &
CONTINUOUS Training
TRAINING &
PREPAREDNESS
Update
Plans

Evaluate
Performance

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 15


PUTTING YOUR PLANS INTO ACTION:
AGILE RESPONSE AND COMMUNICATION

ADAPTING TO THE EVOLVING SITUATION


Real-time resource allocation: Be prepared to adjust crew assignments and
equipment deployment based on the urgency and complexity of incoming jobs.

Prioritization and flexibility: Develop a system for prioritizing jobs and be ready
to redirect resources quickly as needs change.

Clear communication: Maintain clear and consistent communication with your


team, clients, and local authorities throughout the event.

STAY READY
Update strategic plans: Regularly review and update your resource allocation
plans based on real-world experiences.

Verify backup resources: Make sure backup equipment and supply lines are
functional and readily available.

Schedule drills: Conduct regular drills to simulate CAT scenarios and train your
team on effective response strategies.

A MINI-CHECKLIST
Regularly review and update strategic resource plans.

Verify backup equipment and supply lines are functional.

Schedule and conduct readiness drills periodically.

Maintain active communication with local networks & external partners.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 16


SECTION 2
BUILDING A RESILIENT TEAM FOR CAT RESPONSE

This section dives into building a crew that can handle anything a CAT event throws
their way. We'll cover how to train them up, keep them talking, and get the job done
efficiently, all while prioritizing their well-being.

TRAINING CHAMPS
P R AC T IC E M AKE S P E R F E C T
Run regular drills that mimic real-life CAT
situations. This exposes any gaps in your team's
readiness and helps refine response strategies.

T ALK M AS T E R S
Sharpen those communication skills with training
focused on clear reporting and updates, even
under pressure.

S E N S IT IV E C OM M UN IC AT ION
T R AIN IN G
Equip your team with the skills to engage with
disaster-affected homeowners compassionately.
Teach them to approach interactions with
empathy, focusing on how to offer services
without seeming predatory.

Example script:

“We are deeply sorry for your loss. If you need assistance with
recovery, we’re here to help at your convenience. We work directly
with insurance to ensure you can focus on what matters most.”

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 17


BUDDY SYSTEM FOR BUSINESS
FORGE PARTNERSHIPS
Before disaster strikes, build relationships with
other restoration companies. This facilitates
resource sharing and collaborative efforts
during CAT events.

UNIFIED DOCUMENTATION TOOLS


Consider the types of documentation
tools your partners use. Encircle allows
multiple users to collaborate on the
same file simultaneously, making sure
seamless integration and management of
documentation across different teams.

TRANSPARENCY IS KEY
Maintain open communication with partners
about your team's capabilities and timelines.
This builds trust and avoids confusion.

FIELD DOCUMENTATION DONE RIGHT

ENCIRCLE: YOUR PAPERLESS HERO


Streamline documentation with Encircle's
features. Use video walk-throughs with
voiceovers and digital logs to create detailed,
accessible records.

DAILY STAND-UPS (VIRTUALLY)


Schedule regular video updates to check
progress and keep everyone (team and
stakeholders) on the same page.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 18


ON-SITE EFFICIENCY:
PAPERWORK THAT’S ON POINT

ROOM RECON
C AP T UR E E V E R YT HIN G
Use Encircle to take comprehensive photos and
videos of each room, documenting every angle
for a complete visual record.

F AS T E R , F OC US E D N OT E S
Use pre-made Encircle Note Templates to
capture crucial details during initial inspections
and daily wrap-ups.

The detail of your field reports will vary depending on the type of loss and
the degree of damage, but they should always include the following:

Messages exchanged (texts and emails) Photos


Scope videos Notes
Sketches Floor plans
Scopes Moisture maps
Moisture readings

Keep all your field documents in one place, instead of all


over the place, with Encircle. From plumber reports to
hygienist assessments, everything's organized and easy
to access. This helps you make quick decisions and keeps
everyone on the same page during busy CAT operations.

LEARN MORE

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 19


PAPERLESS A-TEAM
SIGNAT URES
ON-DEMAND
No need to wait for on-site
signatures. Encircle Link allows
homeowners to securely review
and sign documents remotely —
a huge time-saver during a CAT
event.

SEAMLESS S YNCIN G
Download the latest claim data
before hitting the site. Once back
online, Encircle automatically
syncs your updates.

PRO TIPS
MORNING REFRESH
Update your data each day to
keep your team in the loop.

SKET CH LIKE A P R O
Skip the manual measuring and
sketching with Encircle Floor
Plan. This works great for large
teams, allowing one crew member
to map the area while others
capture photos.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 20


TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS (AND YOUR CREW)

Your team's mental well-being is priority one during a CAT event. Here's how to keep them
feeling their best:

Break time is sacred


Implement and enforce scheduled breaks. Track work hours to prevent burnout.

Fueling team spirit


Consider incorporating a weekly team breakfast or dinner to give your team a chance
to connect outside work and unwind.

Listen up
Be alert to signs of stress and fatigue. Offer timely breaks to maintain resilience.

Shield from the storm


When dealing with difficult customer interactions, involve upper management to
protect your frontline workers from added stress.

Docs are your friend


Even under pressure, maintain consistent documentation practices. This supports
smooth operations and reduces stress for everyone.

By focusing on training, communication, on-site efficiency, and well-being, you can build a rock-
solid team that can conquer any CAT challenge.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 21


SECTION 3
CAT CLAIMS MADE EASY
SIMPLIFY YOUR WORKFLOW

This section equips you with the tools and strategies to excel in CAT claim
documentation.

We'll guide you through creating robust Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and
using Encircle's technology to streamline data collection and leverage Encircle Floor
Plans.

BUILDING A SOLID FOUNDATION:


ENCIRCLE CAT CONTRACTOR CLAIMS WORKFLOW
The infographic on the next page visually maps out the key steps, from receiving a job
to wrapping up post-inspection activities. Following this established workflow provides
consistent and efficient claims processing, no matter the project size.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 22


BUIL D IN G A S O LID FO UNDATIO N

Encircle CAT Contractor Claims Workflow

FIELD STAFF OFFICE

START
JOB
Receive Job

Accept Job
in Encircle

1 1
Initial Site Visit Job In-Take
Qualify claims remotely
Shares claim with PM to properly using this script
allocate resources and
2 2 reduce liabilities before you are
on site using Encircle Link.

Field team generates SHARE CUSTOM


3 story like initial reports 3 REPORTSWITH
CARRIERS & CUSTOMERS
for easy reporting
INSTANTLY
Real-time documentation Initial Reporting
using photos, videos, notes, sketch Review and Share
END OF
DAY 1

REST
OF JOB
4 4
INSURER
ISSUES
PAYMENT
Moisture Contents Rebuild Get Paid Faster $$

Keep the adjuster


5 informed with
comprehensive reporting
5
Final reporting
Send a COS using
Encircle Link

FINISH 
JOB
Close job

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 23


STRONG STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES (SOPS)
ARE THE KEY TO EFFICIENT CAT OPERATIONS
Efficient workflows are crucial for success, no matter the job size — from 2K jobs to 2M
jobs. Here's how to craft SOPs that empower your team for seamless documentation:

Consistency is king
Make sure your SOPs apply to all jobs, from small homes to big commercial buildings.
This guarantees thorough documentation for every claim.

Invest in efficiency tools


Solutions like Encircle can streamline tasks and documentation, allowing you to manage a
higher volume of jobs without compromising quality.

Teamwork makes the dream work


Collaborate with your crew to create a comprehensive checklist of all necessary
documents, from initial photos to the final sign-off. Involving your team gets them
invested in following the SOPs.

Clear roles, clear goals


Clearly assign documentation tasks to specific team members. This promotes focus,
accountability, and makes sure nothing gets missed.

Why we doc
Explain the rationale behind each documentation step. Understanding the "why" increases
compliance and appreciation for the SOPs' impact on your company's success.

By following these steps, you'll establish SOPs that streamline documentation, empower your
team, and position your company for success during CAT events.

EXAMPLE WATER MITIGATION SOP


Grab our step-by-step checklist to ensure thorough and
efficient water mitigation.

GET THE CHECKLIST

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 24


ENCIRCLE: YOUR TECH PARTNER FOR
FAST, ACCURATE DOCS

1 Pre-site visit: Download data


Always update your device with the newest claim data before going to
a job site. This makes sure you have the latest information for on-site
decision-making.

Quick Tip: Make downloading data a daily habit to avoid


discrepancies and be prepared for anything.

2 Enable offline mode for on-site data collection


To save battery and data, switch to Offline Mode in the Encircle app. You'll
still be able to capture data, but you won't be able to use the internet.

Quick Tip: Offline Mode makes sure no data is lost, even in areas with
poor connectivity. Work uninterrupted and sync later.

3 Document the site — details matter


Use the Encircle app to take photos and videos of the site. Tap the '+'
button, choose 'Add Photos & Videos', and capture every angle. Next, add
detailed room notes and sketches to document specific observations
and measurements.

Quick Tip: Capture comprehensive visuals and notes for a full


assessment. This helps with accurate evaluations and strengthens
your claims.

4 Sync data
After returning to an area with internet access, reconnect your device to
Wi-Fi or mobile data. Open the Encircle app to sync the collected data
back to the servers.

Quick Tip: Keep the app open and in the foreground while it syncs to
make sure a complete and uninterrupted data transfer. This step is
crucial to maintaining complete and accurate job records.

Want more detailed instructions?


Check out our Job Documentation Cheat Sheet for a more
comprehensive walk-through.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 25


ENCIRCLE FLOOR PLAN
SPEED AND SIMPLICITY FOR CAT DOCUMENTATION

When dealing with CAT events, it's important to work quickly and easily. Encircle's Floor Plan
tool can help make your documentation much faster and simpler.

Less gear, more action


Skip the bulky equipment. Encircle works with just a smartphone, removing the need for
extra cameras or tripods. This makes mobilizing for jobs faster and reduces the risk of
equipment damage.

Consistent documentation
Keep your process uniform, whether it’s a typical day or a high-pressure CAT operation.
This consistency minimizes training and errors, making your team's response more effective.

Quick capture
Document properties quickly‌— w
‌ ithin minutes. This rapid process lets your team cover
more ground, helping more property owners in less time.

Everything in one place


Floor plans, photos, and notes are all integrated into the Encircle app. This means
all your data is instantly organized and accessible, speeding up every step from
assessment to claim.

Fast turnaround
Floor plans are processed and returned within hours, not days. This swift turnaround
helps you start estimates sooner, speeding up approvals and payments.

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 26


SECTION 4
CAT CASES: SAVING TIME AND MONEY
FORT MCMURRAY FIRE: CUTTING CLAIM TIME BY 96%

Background: During the massive Fort McMurray wildfire,


restoration teams faced the monumental task of processing
thousands of claims.

Key benefit: Encircle significantly reduced claim


documentation time, enabling faster response.

Key result: Documentation time reduced from 24 hours to


just 1 hour.

“I was amazed at how quickly the team got up to


speed using the app and the impact it made on our
productivity. We doubled the number of claims we
processed within 48 hours of using Encircle.”
- T AM AR A R O Y, D KI P R O S ERVE

STREAMLINED OPERATIONS DURING HURRICANE HARVEY

Background: J.C. Restoration faced the challenge of


documenting extensive damage across numerous properties
swiftly during Hurricane Harvey.

Key benefit: Encircle streamlined field documentation and


improved real-time communication.

Key result: Three project managers documented 116


apartments across 30 buildings in just 2 days.

“Encircle was critical in bridging communications between


field and office, allowing instant decision-making.”
- JO SH B AC HM AN, D IR E C T O R O F O P E R A TIONS,
J. C . R E ST O RATION

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 27


SECTION 5
BRACE FOR FINANCIAL IMPACT DURING CATS

Here are some final tips to keep your cash flowing smoothly, even in a disaster:

PLAN LIKE A PR O
Before you jump into a CAT job, do some serious financial planning. Don't overextend
yourself — you’ve got to keep your regular business running, too! Be honest about your
capacity to take on extra work.

GET PAID WHAT YOU'R E W OR T H


Set clear payment terms upfront. This is key to avoiding cash flow issues during
stressful CAT situations. Don't be afraid to ask for what you deserve.

DOCS ARE YOUR B FF S


Good documentation is your friend when it comes to money. Organized, accessible
records make communication and getting paid much easier.

M ANAGE RES OU R C E S W IS E LY
Efficient resource management protects profitability and operational success. Don't
take on more than you can handle, or you'll end up stretched thin. Choose CAT jobs that
fit your company's capacity and long-term goals.

LISTEN TO THE EXPERTS

“Poor documentation can


“Clear financial terms
cost you 20-30% of your
set the stage for smooth
revenue. Not just field
operations and steady work, but staff time spent
cash flow.” chasing invoices and
- WA R N ER C R U Z , negotiations. It's a big hit.”
SVP OF C O R P O R A TE D EV EL O PM ENT
B L U S K Y R ES TO R A TI ON - ST E VE G LO Z IK, P R E SID ENT,
F P R E ST O R AT I ON

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 28


SECTION 6
CAT BOOTCAMP WEBINAR: BECOME A TOP DOG
(and earn 3 IICRC CE credits)

This video training series, packed with 3 valuable IICRC CE credits, equips you and your
team to handle any disaster.

HERE'S YOUR EDGE


Pre-CAT prep: Be disaster-ready, making sure your
team is fully prepared.

Streamlined team mobilization: Deploy and manage


your crew efficiently during emergencies.

Conquer onsite challenges: Learn strategies to


overcome common disaster zone hurdles.

Expert documentation techniques: Master capturing


accurate, fast documentation for smooth claims
processing.

Profitable estimating: Develop skills to create


accurate, profitable estimates, even under pressure.

MEET YOUR CAT COACHING CREW

KRI S RZE SN OS K I C R BR Y A N N E W EL L JO S H M IL L ER C HR IS EL LIOTT


Vic e Presid e n t Ex e c . V i c e P r e si de nt P r e s i de nt Vi ce P r e sident
E n c irc le S i gn a l R e st o r a t i o n Ra i nbo w Re st o r a t i o n B l u S ky Re s t oration

Plus, you can watch it on-demand, so you can learn at your pace, on your schedule.

Turn those CAT challenges into opportunities and elevate your business's response game

ACCESS IT NOW!

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CAT CONFIDENCE STARTS HERE
— OWN YOUR SUCCESS

Disasters may be unpredictable, but your response


doesn't have to be.

With this playbook, you can confidently navigate CAT


workflows and claims, so you can focus on what's most
important — restoring lives and properties.

By following these comprehensive strategies, you'll be


prepared to:

• Secure more CAT jobs with a solid pre-season plan

• Assemble a resilient, well-trained crew that thrives


under pressure

• Streamline documentation with Encircle for faster


claims processing

• Maintain financial stability throughout a CAT event

READY TO TAKE YOUR CAT READINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL?


Enroll in our on-demand CAT Bootcamp and:

• Earn 3 IICRC CE credits (at no cost to you!)

• Gain in-depth training from industry leaders

• Master the skills to confidently handle any CAT


scenario

Invest your time and elevate your business.

ACCESS THE ON-DEMAND CAT BOOTCAMP NOW!

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GET CA
READY:T

STORM
Tips, To
ols
Tactics ,

AHEAD
A practical playbook for
restoration pros for CAT success

Congratulations!

You’ve earned
3 IICRC CE credits!
CLAIM MY 3 IICRC CE CREDITS

“The IICRC does not endorse any educational provider, product, offering, or service. The Institute expressly disclaims
responsibility, endorsement or warranty for third-party publications, products, certifications, or instruction.
The approved status does not award IICRC Certification, only qualified continuing education hours.”

SUBSCRIBE C AT RE ADINESS PL AYBOOK | 31

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