You state that everything is equal but are concerned that not everything is equal...It's very possible to see a price spread like that even with comparable coverage but it's also vitally important you work with someone that has your back to make sure you understand your coverage before you'd have to use it.  

Well, in listening to "Mistakes to avoid when Gator lending (2023)"  there are bigger worries to be concerned about than are spoken of in the "gator training".

Cosmetic issues like the one's you explained do not pose an inhabitability concern.

If they were similar then pay it, if way off then tell them here is the quote and this is what we will reimburse - next time think 2x about ordering a service without our approvalI think you will find that in a life-threatening emergency such as this a judge will very happily hand you your rear end should you try to enforce such a policy or contract term against the person who is in danger. 

Regarding there being NO EMD- If you sent me a contract and did not put up EMD then as far as I"m concerned, we do not have a binding contract. 

My biggest concern would be the possible damage you can't see and if you only have 3 years of life on it, you'll conceivably be back in this spot again very soon.

Playing with credit cards is dangerous. 

Carrybacks are super dangerous.. but...

The sandbags also concerned me and I would be looking in other parts of town for sure.

A post on recapture:People are concerned about recapture when they cost segregate their improvements and for good reason.Recapture is real, and those deferred taxes will need to be paid.But fear not!