Quick answer
Look up the company at roc.az.gov and confirm the license is active and the classification fits the work. Ask for proof of liability insurance, written scope and pricing, and moisture documentation. Be wary of anyone who pressures you to sign right away or to hand over insurance payments.
You choose the company
After a loss, your insurer may suggest companies, a tow truck driver may hand you a card and a neighbor may recommend someone. In most cases, you have the right to choose who works on your home. A good company will welcome your questions.
Check the license
In Arizona, contractors are licensed by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. You can look up any company at roc.az.gov. Confirm that the license is active, that the name matches the company you are dealing with, that the classification is appropriate for the work and whether there are complaints on file. Work above a small dollar amount generally requires a license, so ask them to explain how they are covered for the work they are proposing.
Ask about insurance
- General liability coverage, in case something is damaged during the work
- Workers compensation coverage for crews on your property
- Ask for a certificate of insurance, and if you want to be sure, call the insurer to confirm
Ask about training and standards
- Do technicians hold IICRC certifications such as Water Damage Restoration Technician or Applied Structural Drying?
- Is the company an IICRC certified firm?
- Do they follow ANSI and IICRC S500 for water damage and S520 for mold?
Ask how the job will work
- How will moisture be measured and documented?
- What equipment will be used and for how long?
- Which materials do you plan to remove and why?
- What is the pricing method, and can I have the scope in writing?
- Will you work with my insurance adjuster?
- Who will be on site and who is my point of contact?
Red flags
- No license, a license that does not match the company name or an unwillingness to show it
- Pressure to sign immediately
- Large upfront payment demands
- Requests to sign over your insurance payments or sign a blank form
- No written scope or estimate
- Promises about what your insurer will pay
- Offers to waive or absorb your deductible, which can create problems with your insurer
- Refusal to share photos or moisture logs
Before you sign
- Read the work authorization and contract in full.
- Make sure the scope, price method and payment terms are written.
- Ask what happens if more damage is found.
- Keep a copy of everything.
If you called a referral line
Referral services connect you to independent companies. The same advice applies. A referral is not a recommendation or a guarantee, so verify the company yourself.
Frequently asked questions
Does my insurer pick the restoration company?
In most cases you can choose. Insurers may have preferred vendors, but you are generally not required to use them. Ask your insurer about your policy.
What is an IICRC certified firm?
IICRC is the standards and certification body for the cleaning and restoration industry. A certified firm has met the organization's requirements. You can verify certification on the IICRC website.