Questions about the house itself
Good answers mention testing, readings and explaining options rather than a standard tear-out.
- Have you worked in basements with brick or stone foundations and layered wall finishes?
- How will you decide whether to dry plaster in place or remove it?
- If there is old square tile or black mastic under the carpet, what will you do before pulling it up?
- How do you handle drying equipment in a house with older wiring or a small electrical panel?
- Do your technicians hold IICRC certification in water damage restoration, and who will actually be on site?
- Who will do the rebuild, and will that work be permitted where required?
Answers that reassure and answers that worry
| Reassuring | Worth a second opinion |
|---|---|
| Explains the water category and what it means for each material | Recommends tearing out the whole basement without readings |
| Takes moisture readings before cutting and shares them | Dismisses questions about asbestos or lead in an old house |
| Mentions sampling suspect materials before demolition | Pressures you to sign before you have talked to your insurer |
| Puts the scope of work and estimate in writing before starting | Cannot tell you who will be doing the work |
| Offers daily readings and a final dry report | Gives no clear end point for drying |
Paperwork to ask for before and during the job
- A written scope that lists rooms, materials to be removed and equipment to be placed.
- An itemized estimate, ideally in a format your adjuster can compare line by line.
- Photos of each area before demolition and after removal.
- Moisture readings taken at each visit, with locations noted.
- Lab results for any materials that were sampled.
- A final report showing readings at or near dry reference levels.
- Contact details for the person managing your job.
Common questions
Do I have to use the company my insurer suggests?
In most cases you can choose your own restorer, though insurers may have preferred vendors. Ask your adjuster how your choice affects the claim and payment.
Should I get more than one estimate during an emergency?
Stopping active water cannot wait for bids. Once the source is stopped and extraction is done, there is usually time to compare estimates for the rebuild.
General information for Washington Park, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.