Selector Code
The alphanumeric code that identifies a specific line item in Xactimate. Combines the trade category prefix with an item identifier to uniquely reference each piece of scope.
A selector code is the alphanumeric code that uniquely identifies a specific line item in Xactimate. It is the base reference that, combined with an activity code, makes each scope line specific and unambiguous.
How Selector Codes Work
The selector code begins with the three-letter trade category prefix. After the prefix, an item identifier narrows the reference to a specific item within that category. A complete line item combines the selector code with an activity code (like R&R for remove and replace, or RM for remove only) and a quantity. Together these pieces create a specific, priced line in the estimate.
Why Estimators Memorize Codes
Typing a selector code directly is faster than navigating through category menus. Experienced estimators know the most common codes in their trade by heart and can enter line items in seconds. Cheat sheets and training resources help new users build the same fluency. For contractors who use Xactimate daily, this efficiency compounds across hundreds of line items per week.
Codes in Supplements
When reviewing an existing estimate to write a supplement, the selector codes are the roadmap. Each code tells the reviewer exactly what item was scoped, what action was applied, and what quantity. Missing items are identified by what codes should be present but are not. Mis-scoped items are identified by codes that are present but wrong for the scope. Reading selector codes is the primary skill of a supplement specialist.
Frequently asked questions
It starts with the three-letter trade category prefix (RFG for roofing, for example) followed by an item identifier that specifies exactly which line item. Combined with an activity code for the action (remove, replace, R&R), the complete reference tells Xactimate what item and what work.
Within Xactimate, the catalog is searchable by selector code, by keyword, or by navigating the category tree. Many experienced estimators memorize the most common codes for their trade to write estimates faster. Xactimate also provides documentation and training resources that list commonly used codes.
Yes, for the standard catalog. Custom line items created by individual users have their own codes unique to their installation. The standard catalog is maintained by Verisk and is consistent across desktop and online Xactimate versions.
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