Insurance and contractor quotes on trashed rental

[Jacqui Dolan]

Hi all,

I have a rental in Atlanta which has been trashed and have just had an assessor go through the property.  I am waiting to hear back on what will be considered vandalism/malicious mischief to get an idea of what will/won't be covered and what I will possibly be left to cover.

When I originally contacted the insurance company, they sent a restoration company that they work with to have a look (prior to the assessor) to see if my deductibles were more or less than the damage and whether it was worth me making a claim.  The fellow from the restoration company agreed the damage was well in excess of the deductibles.

My question is, are restoration companies who are recommended/work with insurance companies the best option?  Or once the assessor comes back with his figures, am I likely to get more competitive figures if my property manager seeks various quotes from painters/cabinet makers/flooring contractors etc. Whilst I want the best job at the cheapest price, I don't want the rehab to drag on forever. Would love to hear the experience of others in this regards. Thanks in advance,  Jacqui