[Edited]By JL | Published August 5, 2026
Construction cost inflation is expected to remain a central concern for the industry in 2026 and into 2027. This white paper provides an updated analysis of key drivers, market trends, and data-informed forecasts shaping construction costs in the coming year.
The overall forecast remains generally consistent with prior projections: construction costs are expected to increase approximately 3% to 6% overall, with regional variation. Sunbelt, Southeast, coastal, and fast-growth markets are expected to experience the strongest upward pressure, while Midwest markets remain particularly exposed to labor-wage volatility.
Labor remains the most significant inflationary driver. Skilled-trade wage inflation is expected to continue through 2026, with increases generally estimated at 3% to 5% depending on region and skill set. Material costs remain uneven: lumber is expected to trade at elevated levels due partly to tariffs and supply constraints, steel prices are supported by trade policy and domestic mill behavior, and roofing / asphalt roofing and asphalt products appear comparatively more stable but still exposed to petroleum and energy-market movements.
The construction sector is a critical component of the global economy, influencing infrastructure development, housing, and employment. In recent years, cost inflation has emerged as a sustained challenge affecting owners, contractors, consultants, investors, insurers, and policymakers. This updated white paper examines the outlook for construction cost inflation in 2026, identifies the leading drivers, summarizes material-specific trends, and outlines practical strategies for managing cost risk.
Current State of Construction Costs
The industry continues to face elevated cost pressure following the volatility of 2021 through 2024. Although some material categories have stabilized from peak pricing, construction costs remain above pre-pandemic levels, and labor pressure has become increasingly influential. As of early 2026, construction cost indices continue to show persistent increases, with average annual increases still generally within the 4% to 7% range across major markets.
Overall U.S. construction activity is expected to remain modestly positive. Spending is projected to rise slightly, about 0.4% year-over-year, reaching approximately $2.05 trillion. Residential construction is projected at approximately $879 billion, while civil engineering projects are projected at approximately $493 billion. Non-residential spending is expected to remain comparatively flat, reflecting cautious investment in commercial sectors.
This environment creates a mixed outlook: demand growth may be modest, but cost pressure remains meaningful because labor shortages, tariffs, supply constraints, energy inputs, and regional capacity limitations continue to affect pricing.
Labor Market Dynamics
A persistent shortage of skilled labor remains the primary inflationary force in construction. Wage inflation for skilled trades is expected to continue through 2026, generally in the 3% to 5% range depending on region and skill. Wage trends vary by location and trade, with the Midwest and Sunbelt states seeing the fastest wage growth. In-demand roles include electricians, welders, HVAC professionals, and renewable-energy specialists.
Union and non-union wage dynamics also remain important. The historical union wage premium has narrowed compared with levels before the 2000s, but union wages still generally exceed non-union wages. Current hourly rate examples include union classifications such as general laborers and restoration technicians at $115 to $150 per hour (contractor billing rate), roles at $75 to $95 per hour (labor rate), and specialized union environmental services at $165 to $250 per hour (labor rate). The construction wage gap varies by region, averaging approximately 22% nationally and reaching as much as 45% in the Midwest and Northeast.
Labor compensation growth has accelerated sharply in recent years. As of March 2025, average compensation costs reached $45.38 per hour worked. For a full-time employee working 40 hours per week year-round, this equates to roughly $94,000 annually. Five-year labor-cost growth accelerated from 12% in 2020 to 19% in 2023 and 28% in 2025. Several structural labor factors are likely to keep pressure on costs. More baby boomers are retiring, some markets have experienced labor disruption connected to actual or rumored immigration actions, and industry groups continue to call for policy changes and workforce-training investments. Unless immigration levels increase or related policies change, labor shortages and related project delays are likely to persist over the next year.
Workplace Pipeline and Trade Education
The workforce pipeline is beginning to show signs of change. Forty-five percent of Americans do not see the value in a four-year college degree, with that figure rising to 52% among members of Gen Z. Total U.S. student debt is approximately $1.62 trillion, and many U.S. employees have expressed concern that AI could make some roles obsolete. These pressures may increase interest in skilled trades over time, because many blue-collar roles involve hands-on work that is less directly replaceable by AI. However, trade-school growth is unlikely to resolve near-term labor shortages quickly enough to materially reduce 2026 cost pressure.
Material Costs
Material prices remain elevated, though volatility varies by category. Prices for several key inputs have stabilized compared with recent peaks, but steel, lumber, and petroleum-based products remain exposed to trade policy, energy prices, freight rates, supply constraints, and regional demand cycles.
Lumber Market Outlook
Lumber remains exposed to tariff policy, supply constraints, domestic production capacity, and labor availability in the timber industry. Current lumber pricing is approximately $618.05 per thousand board feet. Increased U.S. tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber imports have pushed duties above 34%. Canadian mills supply about 25% of U.S. lumber demand, making tariffs a meaningful pricing factor for the U.S. supply chain.
U.S. reliance on Canadian timber is expected to decline by approximately 15% to 20%. Increasing U.S. production may take one or two quarters to ramp up, which could create a sharp short-term price increase by mid-2026 before easing as production catches up. Federal timber supply constraints, environmental regulations, and ongoing litigation have also restricted harvesting and contributed to mill closures, especially in states such as Oregon.
Lumber is expected to continue trading in the $550 to $650 per thousand board feet range over the next 12 months.
Tariffs, trade negotiations, and government policy are expected to create short-term volatility, even if production catches
up later in the forecast period.
Steel Market Outlook
Steel pricing remains shaped by trade policy, domestic mill utilization, raw-material costs, energy prices, freight rates, and global supply conditions. Cold-rolled steel used in roofing and siding is trading around $1,173 per ton. Section 232 tariffs on steel imports doubled to 50% in June 2025, supporting domestic prices and limiting downward pressure from imports. U.S. mills are operating at a 76% to 77% capacity utilization rate, up from the prior year, while restricting order books to manage inventories and maintain price floors.
Cold-rolled steel prices in the United States are expected to remain stable or rise slightly over the next 12 months, with most forecasts in the $1,100 to $1,300 per ton range. Prices could rise modestly in the last half of 2026 into 2027, reaching an estimated $1,300 to $1,450 per ton. Structural hot-rolled coil steel is also trading around $1,173 per ton. Global oversupply may weigh on prices, but U.S. tariffs and steady to modestly rising domestic demand could sustain current pricing. Analysts expect structural steel to continue trading in the $1,000 to $1,200 per ton range.
Asphalt and Roofing Materials
Roofing and asphalt-related materials appear comparatively more stable than several other construction inputs. Based on current Kansas-area market conditions, asphalt roofing material costs have increased by nearly 25% since January 2020, according to the Producer Price Index (PPI). Many roofing products are petroleum based, so their costs remain closely tied to crude oil prices and asphalt derivatives.
Shingle pricing has declined by approximately 2.19% over the past year. Factors contributing to pricing stability include reduced construction activity and reduced infrastructure spending, while demand for impact-resistant and energy-efficient shingles has provided some support. Roofing material prices are expected to remain relatively stable, with increases of approximately 2% to 5% over the next year.
Supply Chain, Regulatory, and Macroeconomic Factors
Supply chain conditions have improved from the most acute pandemic-era disruptions, but residual effects remain. Geopolitical tensions, tariff changes, freight costs, and logistics constraints continue to affect imported materials and equipment. These pressures are especially relevant for lumber and steel, where trade policy and supply availability can materially shift costs over short periods.
More stringent regulations on emissions, waste management, and building standards continue to add compliance costs. The transition to sustainable construction practices may provide long-term benefits, but near-term implementation often increases project budgets through higher material specifications, documentation requirements, training needs, and compliance efforts.
Interest rates, general inflation, currency fluctuations, capital costs, and project-financing conditions continue to influence construction decisions. When borrowing costs remain elevated, marginal projects face greater scrutiny, and owners may delay or resize projects. Even with modest overall spending growth, cost inflation can remain sticky if labor and material inputs remain constrained.
Forecast for 2026: Projections and Scenarios
Based on current market conditions, construction cost inflation in 2026 is expected to remain in the 3% to 6% overall range. Regional variation remains one of the most important planning considerations. Sunbelt states, Southeast markets, coastal areas, and high-growth markets are expected to see stronger upward cost pressure. Midwest markets also remain notable for labor-wage volatility, especially where construction wage gaps and skilled-labor shortages are more pronounced.
Impacts on the Construction Industry
Project Budget: Rising input costs are forcing developers, owners, insurers, and contractors to revise budgets, seek cost-saving alternatives, and in some cases delay or cancel projects.
Timelines: Labor shortages and extended lead times for materials can increase project duration and raise the risk of cost overruns.
Investment Decisions: Cost inflation affects the viability of marginal projects and increases scrutiny of return on investment. Projects with faster payback periods or stronger resilience to cost volatility may receive preference.
Industry Structure: Smaller firms with limited pricing power and capital reserves may be more vulnerable, potentially accelerating industry consolidation
Regional Pricing: Budgeting should be localized. National averages may understate cost pressure in Sunbelt, Southeast, coastal,
Midwest, and other high-growth or labor constrained markets.
Use Escalation Contingencies: Build realistic escalation allowances into estimates, especially for labor-intensive scopes and materials affected by tariffs or energy prices.
Procure Early Where Practical: For steel, lumber, mechanical equipment, and other key inputs, early buyout can reduce exposure to short-term volatility.
Qualify Multiple Suppliers & Subcontractors: Broader sourcing options can reduce schedule and pricing risk when regional capacity is tight.
Monitor Labor Availability: Labor should be treated as a schedule and cost risk, not only a staffing issue. Contractor capacity and trade availability should be confirmed early.
Consider Alternative Methods: Modular construction, prefabrication, improved project sequencing, and selective automation may reduce risk, though upfront investment can limit immediate savings.
Update Budget Frequently: Because tariffs, freight, energy, and regional wage trends can change quickly, estimates should be refreshed at key project milestones.
Conclusion
The current data supports a 2026 construction cost inflation forecast of approximately 3% to 6% overall, with possible stabilization moving into 2027. While this level remains elevated by historical standards, it is more comparable to normal inflationary periods than the extreme escalation experienced
from 2021 through 2024.
Labor remains the dominant driver, with skilled-trade wage growth expected to continue and the industry requiring nearly 499,000 additional workers to meet demand. Lumber is expected to remain elevated and volatile due to tariff and supply constraints. Steel pricing is expected to remain stable to slightly higher, supported by tariffs and domestic price floors. Roofing and asphalt products appear more stable, with expected increases of 2% to 5% over the next year.
References:
Global Construction Cost Index Reports, 2024-2026.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Construction Labor Market Data.
International Monetary Fund (IMF) World Economic Outlook, 2025-2026.
Industry association reports on building materials and supply chains.
Policy briefs on construction regulation and sustainability initiatives.
*Source data is a snapshot in time and will change as the market adjusts in the future.
[Edited]By Jordan Levine | Published 2024
In the last few years, hurricane season has been anything but “normal.” This year, it is safe to say that we can expect more of the same.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted a 40% chance of near-normal activity, with a 30% possibility of above-normal activity for the 2023 hurricane season.1 It is evident that seasonal changes have impacted both the frequency and severity of hurricanes in the last few years, with storms hitting later in the season and with record-breaking, unpredictable impact.
2023 NOAA predictions:
12-17 named storms (39+ mph winds)
5-9 of which will become hurricanes (74+ mph winds)
1-4 major hurricanes (111+ mph winds) in the Atlantic hurricane region
Because of the unpredictability of the season, proper preparation will be critical to maximizing recovery efforts post-events.
6 ways claims estimators can prepare for hurricane season
While we can’t predict what will happen, there are a few ways estimators can prepare for the unpredictable. Here are six considerations:
1. Expect the unexpected. Modeled hurricane paths are not always accurate! Hurricanes can make landfall anywhere along the coastline it’s predicted to pass, significantly impacting surrounding areas. Remember: No one should feel safe if they’re on the modeled path, so accounting for broader geographical impact zones is key.
2. Learn about the exposure area. Doing your homework on the communities that might be affected ahead of time will help you better prepare for post-storm needs. To better understand potential exposures, learn about the types of structures in the area and more about the local building codes required. Footings, roof types, and the structural framing must all comply with local building codes. For example, in Florida, basements are almost non-existent, but in some surrounding states, basements can be more frequent. Factors such as soil composition of the area will affect your cost and timeline for addressing damages after the storm.
3. Prepare a list of vetted resources. Once a storm hits, it’s already too late to contact licensed remediation professionals. Start sourcing and vetting qualified professionals early; ask them for certificates of insurance (COI), state licensures, and permits to ensure they can work and assess in your area. There are always teams that come into the hurricane area from neighboring states to grab the additional work post-storm. Before engaging with such teams, confirm they’ve got the right permits and licensing.
4. Collaborate with local disaster relief efforts. When people’s lives and livelihoods are at risk, the last thing you want to do is become a part of the problem. Too often, crews swarm a disaster area without collaborating with the requests of the local relief efforts. This causes more delays and traffic jams for emergency services trying to reach those in crisis, so make sure to be respectful of the circumstances and disaster relief efforts happening.
5. Anticipate supply chain delays. Disaster zones only amplify supply chain issues that are already limping along after a global pandemic. Whatever you think your timeline will be, anticipate continued delays in the face of a disaster.
6. Approach those impacted with compassion. It’s easy to lose sight of the humanity behind the numbers when you’re processing a host of CAT claims, but remember that each homeowner or business owner that you encounter is experiencing a significant loss. Do your best to notify those who may be affected by a hurricane prior to landfall and have them update their records for items covered by their insurance.
The experts you need when hurricanes hit
The jury is still out on how the 2023 hurricane season will compare to last year’s catastrophic events. But when hurricanes hit, having the right team of response experts can help you tackle recovery efforts appropriately.
This information is intended for informational purposes only. Each restoration project has unique properties and must be evaluated individually by knowledgeable consultants. RMC Group is not liable for any loss or damage arising out of or in connection with the use of this information.
Source:
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration “NOAA predicts a near-normal 2023 Atlantic hurricane season,” May 25, 2023.
By Jordan Levine | Published October, 2024
In an increasingly volatile environment, RMC Group has taken the time to listen to those affected in the agricultural sector, recognizing the challenges posed when attempting to navigate a risk or loss. As a result of communicating with carriers and adjusters, our Agriculture Team gives dedicated support to our Consultants and Adjusters as they navigate the challenges posed by natural disasters and operational risks. Our RMC Group Agriculture Team, led by Darren Leins, Director of the North Region, is uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive risk management solutions tailored specifically for agricultural businesses. Our team’s expertise is rooted in a blend of personal agricultural backgrounds and extensive experience in the world of agriculture, making us a reliable partner for ranch and agricultural operators alike.
Team Overview
The RMC Group Agriculture Team consists of estimator professionals with extensive knowledge of the agricultural landscape:
Darren Leins – Director, North Region
Brandon Wirtz – Executive Building Consultant, North Region
Justin DeShong – Senior Building Consultant, North Region
Jim Schelich – Senior Building Consultant, Midwest Region
Clint Jester – Senior Building Consultant, Midwest Region
Scott Anderson – Senior Building Consultant, Midwest Region
Ben Larkin – Senior Building Consultant, East Region
Each member brings a wealth of experience, having grown up on multi-generational farms and having a personal connection to the agricultural industry. This expertise allows our team to objectively liaison between environmentalist crews, municipalities, and other parties on projects that offer unique challenges faced by our clients in the agricultural sector.
Focus on Agriculture at RMC Group
To maximize the effectiveness of our Agriculture Team, RMC Group is active in fostering strategic partnerships across the agricultural landscape.
Estimating Services: Providing accurate and timely assessments to facilitate effective claim management and recovery strategies.
Third-Party Scheduling Services: Coordinating with contractors, suppliers, and other fields ranging from engineers to industrial hygienists to ensure timely project execution and resource availability.
Project Support Services: Offering expertise in construction, repairs, remediation and mitigation efforts to restore operational capacity as quickly as possible.
RMC Group provides unwavering support to insurance carriers, adjusters, and their partners in the face of agricultural disasters.
Reducing Down-Time: Apply strategic methods to limit business interruptions such as facility and production downtimes.
RMC Group’s Handling Examples Within Past 5 Years
RMC Group has a successful track record of responding effectively to agricultural disasters, showcasing our ability to manage significant claims and providing critical support during times of crisis. Below are notable examples of our disaster response efforts:
Memphis, MO Hail Damage Response, 2023: In Memphis, a significant hail event caused damage to silos and a pole barn for a large farm with over 20 locations. RMC Group swiftly consulted on the hail claim, amounting to $1M in damages. Our prompt response ensured minimal disruption to the farm’s operations, illustrating our dedication to supporting agricultural clients through immediate and effective claims management.
Dodge Center, MN – Comprehensive Claim Management, 2023: A catastrophic incident in Dodge Center resulted in the total loss of three 100,000+ bushel grain bins and wind damage to a tractor painting factory. RMC Group managed a $5M claim, facilitating rapid evaluations and negotiations that led to the swift restoration of critical infrastructure. This experience highlights our ability to handle large-scale claims efficiently, underscoring our role as a key ally in disaster recovery.
Perry, MO – Timely Recovery for Hog Barns, 2023: An estimated $1M in damages occurred at a hog barn farm in Perry due to severe weather. RMC Group conducted in-depth claim processing and loss evaluations, securing necessary funds for timely recovery. Our focus on thorough assessments allowed clients to access vital resources quickly, reinforcing our role as a reliable partner in the recovery process.
Sheboygan Falls, WI – Tornado Recovery, 2022: The devastation from a tornado in Sheboygan Falls led to the total loss of a large cattle barn and damage to over ten additional buildings. RMC Group coordinated a comprehensive disaster assessment and claim management process, accelerating recovery efforts for the affected operations. Our proactive approach ensured that ranch and agricultural operators could return to normal operations as quickly as possible, demonstrating our focus on minimizing operational downtime.
Northfield, MN – Swift Response to Hail Damage, 2022: A hailstorm in Northfield impacted over 20 buildings on a horse ranch. With swift claim adjustments and recovery strategies, RMC Group minimized operational downtime during repairs. This case reinforces our commitment to supporting agricultural businesses during critical moments, helping them regain stability and continue their operations with confidence.
Green Bay, WI – Effective Rebuilding Strategies, 2021: In Green Bay, hail damage affected a dairy operation comprising over 20 buildings up to $3.5M. Our comprehensive damage assessments and expert claim management facilitated effective rebuilding strategies. This incident showcases our ability to provide tailored solutions that cater to the specific needs of our agricultural clients, ensuring their long-term sustainability.
Red Feather Lakes, CO – Equestrian Facility Collapse, 2020: The collapse of an equestrian facility in Red Feather Lakes due to heavy ice and snow in 2020 required meticulous management of total loss claims. RMC Group ensured accurate evaluations and timely assistance, supporting rebuilding efforts and enhancing safety measures for the future. This experience highlights our commitment to not just recovery, but also to improving resilience against future risks.
Conclusion
With the leadership of Darren Leins, our RMC Group Agriculture Team is dedicated to quick responses, timely assessment of damages, and timely creation of recovery plans.
Our team’s unique blend of agricultural knowledge and insurance expertise positions us as a trusted partner offering tailored solutions.
You can be assured that each and every assignment goes through a rigorous Quality Assurance process prior to reporting.
Constantly building and strengthening partnerships in the agricultural community, RMC Group remains committed to supporting our clients through our expert-level services.
This information is intended for informational purposes only. Each restoration project has unique properties and must be evaluated individually by knowledgeable consultants. RMC Group is not liable for any loss or damage arising out of or in connection with the use of this information
Areas of Expertise Agriculture - Appraisals - High Net Worth - Large Loss - Power & Energy EXPERIENCE
Brett is an Executive Building Consultant with over 15 years of experience in the construction and consulting industry. Combining his knowledge of engineering, construction, and experience with consulting, Brett moved into the building and construction consulting industry by joining RMC Group in 2017. Brett‘s experiences prior to joining this team strengthens it by having him consult on diverse and large projects as an Executive Building Consultant. Ranging from complex energy plants to multi-building developments and large agricultural manufacturing, Brett’s diverse background enriches RMC’s complex team with losses reaching into the billions. FEATURED PROJECTS BRETT BUSBOOM, PE, MBA Director of Complex Claims Executive Building Consultant b.busboom@rmcteam.com newloss@rmcteam.com M (310) 433-9762 O (913) 601-4546 SUBMIT ASSIGNMENT Los Angeles, CA
• Wildfires, Palisades / Eaton Canyon, CA - 2025 Project lead for 20+ High Net Worth residences destroyed from wildfires in Southern California. Given the geography, many structures required extensive foundation and anchoring systems for steep hillsides. Brett worked with engineers, hygienists, and various teams of emergency workers to keep in step with local authorities in order to address environmental restrictions, debris removal, and reconstruction efforts.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
• RMC Group, Direcor of Complex Claims 2022 to Present
• RMC Group, Executive Building Consultant 2022 to Present
• RMC Group, Senior Building Consultant 2017 to 2022
• Civil Engineering Consultant 2007 to 2017 CERTIFICATIONS
• IICRC Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT)
• IICRC Applied Structural Drying (ASD)
• OSHA 10 - Hour
• Professional Engineer (PE) State of California & Missouri 2007 to 2017 EDUCATION
• University of Nebraska - Lincoln Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering
• Pepperdine University Master’s in Business Administration RMC GROUP
• Cattle Farm Explosion, Dimmitt, TX – 2023 Lead consultant on preparing a scope and estimate of repairs for a 45-acre property including claim repairs totaling over $55M. Acting as liaison between civil engineers, civil servants, and debris removal and construction crews, Brett conducted oversight of budgets, timelines, and means and method for proper removal, disposal, and reconstruction services.
• Wind Event, Valeo, CA - 2023 Worked to liaison with municipalities, boards of directors, and various syndicates on a $2M project that included safety and environmental concerns from water entering large manufacturing equipment, battery automotive products, and production equipment. After passing strict vetting, RMC managed mitigation and repair protocols and processes. Challenges overcome included strict budgets, environmental concerns, and a period of restoration limiting substantial business interruption cost.
• Tornado, Wichita, KS - 2021 Acted as project lead for a tornado event at a YMCA campus, which included a water park, stretching out over 120,000SF with over $30M in repairs. This resulted from collaboration on engineers’ reports, mitigation, abatements, and debris removal. When RMC was retained, work was at a standstill. Our team conducted a needs evaluation that identified the most efficient path for completion of repairs. Our expert evaluation and oversight compared the cost to repair vs replace and reduced business interruption by 2 years. 12130 Millennium Drive, Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA 90094 www.rmcteam.com BRETT BUSBOOM, PE, MBA Director of Complex Claims Executive Building Consultant
FEATURED PROJECTS CONTINUED
• Water Treatment Facility, Texas - 2022 Completed estimating and reporting for scope of repairs of a water treatment facility nearly $22M in repairs.
• Winter Storm Uri, Texas - 2021 Consultant on seven high end residential properties in Houston. Provided estimate of repairs with all properties, exceeding $1M in repairs.
• Derecho, IA - 2020 Led a team of consultants to inspect over 100 buildings consisting of nursing homes, apartments, houses, duplexes and various buildings throughout Iowa.
• Wildfires, Heidelberg, CA - 2019 Alongside municipalities and emergency protocols, Brett conducted inspections and estimates valued at $33M. This property included various building types, such as a dwelling, social barn, fitness center, pool, and pool house which required oversight for mitigation and engineer teams.
• Woolsey Wildfires, Malibu, CA - 2018 Completed inspections and estimates on approximately 10 commercial and high-net-worth residential properties.
• Hurricane Florence, North Carolina - 2018 A project with an estimated replacement cost that approached $12.5M, Brett was the primary consultant and estimator of a 280-unit apartment complex. Led a team that completed clear inspections and accurate scope of repairs for twelve 40,000SF nursing and rehabilitation facilities.
• Winery Valuations, California - 2018 Worked as liaison with insurance carriers, insured, and brokers to complete property valuations for 40+ wineries totaling over $1.5B. Coordinated multiple environmental hygienists and engineer teams to keep the project on schedule and within budget limits.
• Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico / St. Thomas - 2017 Completed inspection of approximately 20 claims across Puerto Rico and St. Thomas. Worked closely with city municipalities and hygienists to decrease business interruption to affected businesses such as dental and medical facilities, hotels, and supermarkets.
• GATX/Kinder Morgan GX-145 Pipeline Site / Paramount Petroleum / Alon USA - 2016 Managing project engineer in reviewing remediation progress reports for the 3 free-phase liquid hydrocarbon (FPLH) recovery systems. Coordinated emergency repair and hazmat containment with hygienist teams to reduce business interruption and secure the surrounding areas.
• Pacific Gas & Electric Major Greenfield Project - 2015 to 2016 Oversight for 10+ capital improvement projects with repair estimates valued up to $5B, Brett generated future construction cost projects. Managing this project included preparing presentations and creating accepted proposals, estimates, schedules, and all documents required to submit to the California Public Utility Commission.
• Southern California Edison TRTP 6 and 11 Wind Renewable Energy - 2012 to 2015 Brett supervised a high-risk energy project as the field engineer. A close review of cost tracking and change order negotiation was required to reduce high-energy electrical risks and power shutoffs to customers throughout the region. www.rmcteam.com RMC GROUP 12130 Millennium Drive, Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA 90094
EXPERIENCE
Scott brings over 20 years of experience in the insurance claims industry, specializing in wind, fire, hail, water damage, and CAT responses. He joined RMC in 2024 as a Senior Building Consultant. Scott holds a Baccalaureate from the University of Iowa and professional certifications including HAAG Residential and Commercial, Xactimate Level 2, and FAA Drone Pilot (sUAS). His expertise spans complex projects in regulated sectors like healthcare, industrial, HOAs, appraisals, agriculture, higher education, and builders’ risk, all demonstrating his skill in minimizing business interruptions. Scott has also overseen scheduling across various estimating platforms to ensure projects stay on track and within budget. He emphasizes the importance of detailed documentation and proactive communication with carriers and crews throughout the completion of residential and commercial projects.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
• RMC Group, Senior Building Consultant 2024 to Present
• American Family Insurance, Speciality Large Loss Adjuster 2018 to 2024
• American Family Mutual Insurance, Senior Catastrophe Claims Adjuster 2012 to 2018
• American Family Mutual Insurance, Property Field Adjuster 2011 to 2012
• American Family Mutual Insurance, Property Desk Adjuster 2007 to 2011 CERTIFICATIONS
• Approved Instructor for Continuning Education
• IICRC WRT • IICRC ASD
• Xactimate Level 2
• HAAG Residential and Commercial Certified Inspector
• Drone Pilot, FAA sUAS Liscense
FEATURED PROJECTS
• Colorado Springs, CO, Hail - 2026 Hail claim appraisal for a 56 building HOA complex. I led a team of consultants to inspect each building and worked with local contractors on an RFP to determine costs based on my scope.
• Cheyenne WY, Wind/Hail - 2025 Handled the field inspection of a cathedral, school, several office buildings, and residential premises for a parish. Scoped, estimated, and researched code enforcement with local municipality. Worked with multiple contractors to obtain competitive bids based on an agreed scope. Conducted progress and completion inspections and worked with state of Wyoming to determine sales tax. Total cost $6M.
• Fargo, ND, Fire - 2025 Large fire to a historic church. Worked with contractors to determine scope and repair costs. Specialty artwork present. Vaulted ceilings stick built over 100 years ago, so a track system for the new drywall had to be designed as a part of the repair. Scott worked with the engineers, architects, church representatives and contractors on this loss. Construction schedules were reviewed and delays identified with the goal of reopening the church as soon as possible.
FEATURED PROJECTS CONTINUED
• Wray, CO Hailstorm - 2024 After a major hailstorm hit the area, the carrier enlisted Scott’s help to inspect a complex of food processing facilities. His task was to identify the specific insulated panels and gather replacement bids. Leveraging his industry contacts, Scott sourced the panels and provided the carrier with a firm bid, a construction timeline, and a plan to keep food operations running during repairs. These strategies helped minimize business interruptions, and Scott accurately estimated the repair costs at $5M, which was agreed upon by all parties.
• Tuscon, AZ Wind/Hailstorm - 2024 A wind and hailstorm affected three hospitals and the headquarters of a health care provider. Scott coordinated with both the independent and carrier’s adjusters, as well as multiple contractor teams, to develop accurate estimates for repairing the roofs and addressing water infiltration. He maintained steady communication with hygienists and HVAC contractors, ensuring clear oversight of the reconstruction timeline. Recognizing the safety and environmental concerns, particularly with teams working on rooftop HVAC units, Scott worked closely with industry contacts to provide the carrier with a comprehensive estimate valued at $4M. His efforts ensured the repairs would be completed without disrupting the hospitals’ operations.
• Minneapolis, MM Hailstorm - 2023 Scott managed complex residential campusstyle communities across the Twin Cities metro. Collaborating with the Homeowners’ Association, he led a team of engineers to assess hail damage to over 10 high-value buildings, each with rebuild estimates ranging from $500K to $4M. By working closely with experts in each trade and conducting detailed research, Scott ensured that each insured received an accurate, mutually agreed-upon rebuild value.
• Sioux Falls, SD Derecho - 2023 Scott collaborated with others to assess agricultural operations on both farms and ranches, as well as a homeowners’ association community that suffered severe wind and hail damage. He utilized his connections with manufacturers to act as a liaison between the carrier and trades professionals, helping resolve cost estimates for various agricultural structures such as grain bins, barns, stock housing, and processing plants. Working alongside engineering teams and environmental hygienists, Scott developed estimates for complete rebuilds, with values ranging from $500k to $3M.
• Cedar Rapids, IA Derecho - 2022 Scott conducted inspections and provided loss estimates for HOA communities and agricultural operations affected by wind and hail. He assessed structural integrity, damage to roofs, fencing, and equipment, and the impact on crops and landscaping. By overseeing mitigation budgets, construction timelines, and project schedules, Scott helped save loss-of-use funds and minimized business interruption. His process included detailed site inspections, damage documentation, and cost estimates for repairs or replacements, all while coordinating with contractors. Claims ranged from localized damage to total loss of structures, with assessments covering cases valued between $1M and $4M.
• Green Bay, WI Wind/Hailstorm - 2021 Scott’s team, in collaboration with engineer and environmentalist crews, rapidly assessed the damage to large dairy production facilities affected by wind and hail. Working closely with carriers, and local, state, and federal authorities, they addressed safety, environmental concerns, and established mitigation strategies, timelines, and budgets for emergency repairs, debris removal, and reconstruction. Expert budgeting and research led to a $3M estimate for rebuilding, while ensuring minimal business interruption and preserving critical operations.
• Farmington, UT Hailstorm - 2021 On a complex project, Scott oversaw adjusting claims for 75 buildings impacted by wind and hail, conducting a comprehensive assessment of roof, window, siding, and structural integrity. Collaborating with engineer and environmentalist crews, he worked with hygienists and contractors to ensure accurate evaluations that addressed water intrusion risks and safety concerns. The final damage estimate of $3M incorporated detailed construction budgets, abatement timelines, and mitigation strategies, with careful oversight and auditing to minimize business interruption and ensure documented alignment of client expectations.