At a glance
What to know
- Tell the crew when you noticed the damage, what was done to control the source, and which rooms or systems may be affected.
- The team records accessible conditions and takes measurements suited to the material and type of loss.
- Review the proposed work, boundaries, and any separate trade needs before authorizing service.
Before the visit
Write down when you discovered the damage, what happened just before it, and whether water, smoke, odor, or residue moved into adjoining rooms. Note any prior leaks or work in the same area. Share photos taken safely and any relevant plumber, roofer, or other trade findings.
Tell the team about pets, occupants, building access, and immediate concerns such as sewage, wet electrical equipment, or a damaged ceiling. Keep those areas undisturbed while the relevant authority or trade addresses the hazard.
What the crew checks
The assessment starts at the reported source and follows the damage path. For a leak above a finished room, the ceiling stain is one observation. The team also looks at accessible edges, nearby walls and floors, and other places the water could have reached.
For water losses, readings from affected materials can be compared with an appropriate dry reference when available. A thermal image can help guide where to check, and a material-appropriate measurement helps confirm what is wet. For mold, the assessment documents visible conditions and moisture clues. Independent sampling or laboratory analysis is a separate service provided by a qualified third party when needed.
Review the proposed scope
Ask which rooms and materials the estimate covers, what will be protected, which materials can be cleaned or dried, and where access or removal is proposed. The written scope should explain any meaningful limitations and outside trade work, such as repairing the leak or rebuilding finishes.
Some layers cannot be evaluated until access is authorized. If the crew uncovers additional damage, ask for the finding, supporting photos or readings, and the proposed change in writing before approving additional work.
What to ask before work starts
- Which areas have been checked and which remain inaccessible?
- Who is responsible for stopping or permanently repairing the source?
- How will the team check progress and document completion?
- What do you need from the owner, tenant, or property manager to start?
For active damage, call with the property address, the type of damage, and any access concerns so the team can discuss the next step.