Your gear is packed, the call has come—are you really ready?
A catastrophe (CAT) deployment can be the start of a life-changing career in insurance adjusting. But heading into a disaster zone for the first time can be overwhelming if you’re not truly prepared. At MileHigh Adjusters Houston (MHAH), we don’t just teach you how to inspect property—we prepare you for the entire CAT experience.
Here’s a practical guide to help you hit the ground running for your first deployment.
- Get Your Gear Right (And Ready Early)
Deployment isn’t the time to realize you’re missing essentials. Your basic gear should include:
- A fully charged laptop with Xactimate installed
- Measuring tape, laser measurer, clipboard, chalk, and ladder
- PPE (safety vest, boots, gloves, headlamp)
- A hotspot or mobile data plan
- Portable printer/scanner (optional but helpful)
Tip from our grads:
“Pre-pack a ‘go bag’ so when the call comes, you’re not scrambling.”
We provide a full deployment gear checklist in our course to make sure you’re ready to roll at a moment’s notice.
- Plan for Logistics
Deployment often means long drives or last-minute flights, extended hotel stays and working in unfamiliar locations. Plan your travel, budget wisely, and book early if a major storm is tracking.
Pro tip:
Use reward programs with hotel chains—those nights add up fast!
- Prepare Mentally and Physically
CAT adjusting is not a 9-to-5 job. You’ll likely be working 12- to 14-hour days, walking roofs, dealing with distressed homeowners, and managing multiple claims daily.
You need mental stamina, focus, and patience. Self-care and time management will make or break your success.
MHAH students say:
“The first few days were intense, but because we simulated the process in class, I knew how to manage my time and stay organized.”
- Know the Process, Not Just the Software
Being Xactimate-ready is essential—but understanding workflow and carrier expectations is just as important. That includes claim intake, inspection protocol, photo documentation, and file uploading.
We drill these processes in our training, so when deployment hits, you’re not figuring it out on the fly.
- Tap Into the Right Support Network
Deployment doesn’t mean you’re alone. At MHAH, we connect you with real staffing firms, offer tips for standing out, and even advise on what to say when you get that first call from a field manager.
Plus, our grads can retake the course for free (except licensing), if they want a refresher before going out.
Final Thoughts
The best adjusters aren’t just licensed, they’re prepared. From packing gear to managing stress to handling your first roof claim, success starts before deployment ever begins.
At MileHigh Adjusters Houston, we train you for what’s really out there. Because when a catastrophe strikes, readiness is everything.
📞 Call us at 281-741-8505
🌐 Learn more or enroll: www.milehighadjustershouston.com