Why Most Contractors Misunderstand AI

Why this matters:
Most contractors think of AI as a fancy tool they might use someday — like drones or estimating software. But AI isn’t a gadget. It’s a force multiplier that can reshape how your business runs behind the scenes. Until you see it clearly, you’ll keep solving 2025 problems with 2015 tools.

The Two Most Common Misunderstandings

1. “AI is too complicated for me”
This mindset comes from years of seeing tech as something only office people deal with. But today’s AI — tools like ChatGPT or Claude — are built for normal use. If you can write an email or send a text, you can talk to AI. You don’t need to code. You just need to try.

2. “AI is here to replace workers”
Not in this business. Restoration needs hands, trucks, and rapid response — AI can’t tarp a roof or dry out a crawlspace. But it can handle late-night inquiries, generate scopes, write polished emails to adjusters, or draft follow-ups to homeowners. It won’t take your team. It’ll take the repetitive stuff off their plate.

A Better Way to See It

Think of AI like a smart office assistant who works 24/7, never needs a break, and can instantly learn any new task — as long as you show it once or twice.

It’s not magic. It’s leverage.

If you learn to talk to it right, it becomes a silent partner in your business.
If you ignore it, someone else in your market won’t.