In Episode 12 of The Restoration Report, Levi Stearns of Core Contractors sits down with Matt Layson of CalRose Insurance for a candid conversation that every homeowner, contractor, and business owner should hear. The episode dives deep into what makes insurance work—or fail—when disaster strikes, and why having the right support can make all the difference.
Matt, a fourth-generation insurance agent, shares his journey from the world of live event production to founding CalRose Insurance with his father. Their mission? Helping people make better decisions. And when it comes to insurance restoration, project management, and home remodeling, better decisions start with education.
Insurance Isn’t Just Paperwork—It’s Protection
Matt emphasizes that while insurance companies promise simplicity and affordability in their ads, the reality is far more nuanced. Especially for general contractors and restoration professionals, online-first insurers like Next may leave dangerous gaps in coverage. “The devil is in the details,” Matt warns, noting that these policies often remove key protections like water damage from freezing or extended replacement cost coverage—critical elements in construction and remodeling claims.
The Real Cost of Convenience
Many homeowners unknowingly carry outdated or underfunded policies. During the episode, Matt explains how inflation, labor shortages, and increased construction costs have rendered many homeowners’ policies insufficient. He urges clients to ask story-based questions, like “What would my policy do if a pipe burst behind my wall?” instead of relying on confusing insurance jargon. A simple rider like extended replacement cost—usually inexpensive—can double coverage in a rebuild scenario.
Contractors and Insurance Agents Must Collaborate
What sets companies like Core Contractors apart is how they bridge the communication gap between insurance carriers and the people actually affected—homeowners. Levi highlights how communication and transparency are essential for successful project management. His team focuses on fast response times, managing expectations, and working within claims—even if that means covering upfront costs temporarily to keep timelines on track.
The synergy between restoration contractors and insurance agents is vital. As Matt points out, claims that go sideways usually break down due to poor communication. That’s why CalRose Insurance emphasizes proactive outreach, automatic policy check-ins, and clarity in coverage education. This mirrors Core Contractors’ “community funding” model, where each job is supported through an integrated system to ensure clients feel cared for and confident—even when insurance falls short.
Final Thoughts: Make Informed Choices, Not Cheap Ones
The key takeaway from this episode? Insurance and restoration aren’t just technical necessities—they’re human services. Whether you’re protecting a family home or managing multiple restoration jobs, the value lies in having the right team backing you.
Don’t wait for disaster to strike. If you’re unsure about your coverage—or you’re a contractor looking to level up your insurance protection—contact Core Contractors to start the conversation. They’ll help guide you through the restoration process and connect you with trusted partners like CalRose Insurance to ensure your policies match your real-world needs.
📞 Ready to make smarter choices for your home or business? Contact Core Contractors today and get peace of mind with every project.
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Get Professional Help When You Need It
If you’re facing a home disaster, don’t navigate the restoration process alone. Whether it’s water damage, mold, or fire restoration, PuroClean Marysville and Core Contractors are here to help. Contact their expert team today for a free evaluation and professional guidance on your insurance claim.
Have a home restoration question? Contact us today and let’s restore your home together!
