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description: What is an ESX file, how to get it, and FAQ
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# Xactimate ESX Add-on and FAQ

The Xactimate ESX feature is a paid add-on within the iGUIDE platform.

Xactimate is software used by insurance adjusters, contractors, and other professionals to estimate the costs of repairing or replacing damages to buildings and structures. It uses a library of pre-built data to create accurate estimates quickly and saves them in the ESX file format. These files can include information about the scope of work, materials used, and costs associated with the project. They allow for easy sharing and editing by other users with access to the software.



## **The steps to gain access to your ESX file are as follows:** <a href="#the-steps-to-gain-access-to-your-esx-file-are-as-follows" id="the-steps-to-gain-access-to-your-esx-file-are-as-follows"></a>

### **For new iGUIDEs:**

1. Check the Xactimate ESX paid add-on checkbox when creating your iGUIDE.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.freshdesk.com/data/helpdesk/attachments/production/33096419693/original/WXKf6hs7r4DhQW7XCZKg3EXIfyuvaKEN7A.png?1684343459" alt=""><figcaption><p>Figure 1</p></figcaption></figure></div>

2. Upon checking this box, you will be notified that the charge for your requested ESX file will only be processed once the file has been generated and is ready for download. Click Enable to continue.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.freshdesk.com/data/helpdesk/attachments/production/33096419691/original/tYnk1USgvhYnHRgDblcE8_eRpZl_Hqiy0w.png?1684343459" alt=""><figcaption><p>Figure 2</p></figcaption></figure></div>

3. Once you have enabled the ESX feature, another notification will pop up asking you if you would like to request the ESX file to be sketched and ready within 24 hours or if you would prefer to have it ready at a later time. Click “Request ESX” or “Not Yet,” depending on your desired outcome. If you have clicked “Request ESX,” you can skip step 5 on this list.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.freshdesk.com/data/helpdesk/attachments/production/33096419692/original/NaJuwmvwqicfb8OZXQZlS1NWktHNzLe3Ww.png?1684343459" alt=""><figcaption><p>Figure 3</p></figcaption></figure></div>

4. Navigate to your iGUIDE on the portal once published, click on the Xactimate ESX tool.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.freshdesk.com/data/helpdesk/attachments/production/33096419690/original/5_egx4cXFCkVTfpGTYDHtAJcaUw2VjyY4g.png?1684343459" alt=""><figcaption><p>Figure 4</p></figcaption></figure></div>

5. Click on the “Request New ESX File button to order your ESX file.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.freshdesk.com/data/helpdesk/attachments/production/33096419689/original/kmTBQRK4IMAQyhs9IDV0BNaWDAE8nx-zKw.png?1684343459" alt=""><figcaption><p>Figure 5</p></figcaption></figure></div>

6. Your ESX file will be generated within 24 hours; please check the Xactimate tool after 24 hours have passed to find your download link. \
   \
   To download your most recent ESX file, click on the “Download latest ESX file” button to begin downloading your ESX file.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.freshdesk.com/data/helpdesk/attachments/production/33096419694/original/UHWDY2_ZyGVJAUjqWYwnqSC2DzhAQAlmjw.png?1684343459" alt=""><figcaption><p>Figure 6</p></figcaption></figure></div>

### **For existing iGUIDEs:**

If you would like to request an ESX file for an iGUIDE you haven't initially selected the Xactimate ESX add-on option for, please follow the instructions listed below:

1. Find the iGUIDE by searching on the ‘My iGUIDEs’ page.
2. Click on “Packages & Add-ons”.
3. Check the box next to “Xactimate ESX”.
4. Click “Enable”.
5. Now you can continue from step 3 from the instructions listed above.

<figure><img src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.freshdesk.com/data/helpdesk/attachments/production/33096419695/original/8fTY26GjGBgqJke97qArqKe4xdpCJlpJUA.png?1684343459" alt=""><figcaption><p>Figure 7</p></figcaption></figure>

## Frequently Asked Questions <a href="#frequently-asked-questions" id="frequently-asked-questions"></a>

<details>

<summary><strong>What are ESX files used for?</strong></summary>

As a Xactimate Insurance Claims Estimate file type, the .esx file extension is used to save files created by Xactimate software. Insurance claims, estimates, policies, and other information regarding insurance are all saved using the .esx file extension.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Who typically uses ESX files?</strong></summary>

Xactimate ESX files are typically used by professionals in the insurance and restoration industries. These files are specifically designed for estimating and documenting property damage and repairs. Insurance adjusters, contractors, and restoration specialists rely on Xactimate software to create accurate estimates for property claims and restoration projects. The ESX files contain detailed information about the scope of work, itemized cost estimates, measurements, and material quantities. They facilitate efficient communication, streamline the claims process, and ensure consistency in estimating practices among different stakeholders involved in property damage assessments and repairs.

</details>

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<summary><strong>What software can open ESX files?</strong></summary>

Xactimate ESX files can be opened and accessed using the Xactimate software itself. Xactimate is a specialized estimating software widely used in the insurance and restoration industries. It allows users to create, view, and modify ESX files for accurate property damage estimation and claims processing. Xactimate offers a comprehensive suite of tools and features tailored specifically for handling insurance claims and construction estimates. Users can import ESX files into the Xactimate software and leverage its functionality to analyze, estimate, and generate detailed reports for insurance purposes.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>What makes iGUIDE ESX Floor Plans special?</strong></summary>

iGUIDE ESX sketches are special because they offer a comprehensive and interactive representation of a property's layout and dimensions. They are created using advanced 3D imaging technology and precise measurements, providing accurate and detailed floor plans. These floor plans are highly interactive, allowing users to navigate through the property virtually, explore different rooms, and get a clear understanding of the space.

</details>

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<summary><strong>Do I need to have an iGUIDE made to order an ESX file?</strong></summary>

Yes – you are required to order an iGUIDE Standard or Premium to get an ESX sketch.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Can I update my previously created iGUIDES to an ESX file?</strong></summary>

All previously created iGUIDEs can have the Xactimate ESX add-on. There is a key difference between Premium and Standard iGUIDEs when creating the ESX file.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>What are the differences between the Xactimate ESX you get from a Standard iGUIDE vs. a Premium iGUIDE?</strong></summary>

For Premium iGUIDEs only, the cabinets will be represented in the Xactimate ESX sketch file, and not for the Standard iGUIDE packages.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>How long will it take to get my ESX file delivered?</strong></summary>

Simply request the ESX file during the creation process of a Standard or Premium iGUIDE or once the iGUIDE has been published and your file will be delivered within 24 hours. Excluding Sundays, holidays, and outside office hours (Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm ET).

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>How does the pricing work?</strong></summary>

Xactimate ESX files are billed at $0.02/ft² USD. This is on top of the processing fee for a Standard or Premium iGUIDE which is between $0.02/ft² and $0.03/ft² USD respectively. This brings the total cost of Xactimate ESX files to between 0.04/ft² and 0.05/ft² for properties up to 10,000ft².

</details>

<details>

<summary>Do iGUIDE ESX files deduct for openings?</summary>

Yes, iGUIDE ESX files deduct for openings within the ESX file.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Does iGUIDE complete the estimates as well?</summary>

iGUIDE focuses on creating the most accurate sketches on the market to be able to drop into Xactimate however we don’t complete the estimates.

</details>
