Contractor Verification Checklist
Before agreeing to any water damage restoration or mold remediation work, homeowners are responsible for verifying a provider's credentials. This website does not perform these checks on a homeowner's behalf — use this checklist as a starting point.
License
Confirm the provider holds any license required in your state for the type of work being performed, and verify it directly through your state's licensing board.
Insurance
Ask for a certificate of insurance showing general liability coverage and, if the provider has employees, workers' compensation coverage.
Written scope of work
Get a written description of exactly what will be done, including what will be removed, dried, cleaned, repaired, or replaced.
Written pricing
Get pricing in writing before work begins, including how charges are calculated and what could cause the price to change.
Payment terms
Understand deposit requirements, payment schedule, accepted payment methods, and what happens if you are working with an insurance claim.
Cancellation terms
Ask about the provider's cancellation policy and any fees that may apply if your circumstances change after scheduling.
Expected timeline
Ask how long the work is expected to take and what factors could extend that timeline.
Drying or remediation process
Ask how the provider will monitor progress, such as moisture readings for drying work or clearance testing for mold remediation, and how they will confirm the work is complete.
Documentation
Ask whether the provider will document the work with photos or readings, which can be useful for your records or an insurance claim.
References
Ask for references or examples of past work the provider is willing to share, and consider checking independent reviews.
Warranty terms
Ask whether a warranty applies to the work, what it covers, and for how long.
Permits, when applicable
For work that may require a permit, ask who is responsible for obtaining it and confirm this is addressed in writing.
Answer a few quick questions to check whether an independent service provider may be available in your area.
Check Service Availability
About 30 seconds · No account required
Home Damage Connect is a connection service and does not perform restoration or remediation work. Providers are independent. Availability is not guaranteed.