Most water damage contractors in the Denver metro cover a wide area, so a company based across town may handle your Aurora job. That's normal, but it means you're often choosing fast, by phone, with no references in hand. Ask these questions on the first call, then again when someone arrives and before you sign anything.

Most of them have no single right answer. Listen for a clear, specific reply instead of vague reassurance, and for a willingness to put the key details in writing.

On the phone

  1. Do your technicians hold IICRC certification in water damage restoration, and can they show it on site?
  2. Do you work on homes, commercial space or both, and how large an area can you take on right now?
  3. Realistically, when could someone get here, given where your crews are today?
  4. Do you carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance, and will you send the certificates?
  5. Will you work with my insurer directly, and will you ask me to sign anything about payment?

On site, before you sign

  1. What category of water do you think this is, and why?
  2. How will you extract it: truck-mount, portable units, weighted tools, pumps?
  3. What do you plan to remove, and what do you expect to dry in place?
  4. How and how often will you take readings, and will I get a copy of the drying log?
  5. How will you decide drying is finished?
  6. Is this document a work authorization, an assignment of benefits or a direction to pay, and can I take a few minutes to read it?
  7. If repairs come afterward, am I free to pick a different contractor?

How to read the answers

  • IfThe answers are specific and the contractor offers to put them in writingThenA good sign. Get the scope, the drying plan and the documentation promises into the paperwork.
  • IfYou're pushed to sign right now, or told the insurer requires their formThenSlow down and call your insurer. You can authorize emergency extraction without signing away control of the claim.
  • IfThe contractor promises the insurer will pay for everythingThenBe careful. Coverage depends on your policy and the adjuster, not the contractor.
  • IfNobody can explain how drying will be measuredThenConsider someone else. Readings are basic to the work.

General information for Aurora, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.