What Training Should a Water Restoration Company Have?
Last updated October 25, 2026
The short answer
A Common Industry Standard
A major organization in the field sets voluntary guidelines for water restoration. Pros who follow these guidelines have studied specific methods for drying and cleaning. This training covers water damage principles, drying techniques, and safety protocols. It indicates the pros are familiar with established procedures for the work.
When pros have studied this standard, it means they have passed exams on its methods. Common areas of study include water damage restoration and applied structural drying. This training focuses on drying science, finding moisture, and using equipment correctly. The goal is to restore your property effectively and help prevent issues like mold.
Beyond the IICRC: Other Relevant Training
Beyond that common standard, other training can be relevant. Some equipment manufacturers offer courses on using their products effectively. Training in health and safety, like standards for handling contaminated water, is also important. This helps protect the workers in your home and your household from hazards.
Specific situations may call for more specialized knowledge. A sewage backup requires training in safety procedures for highly contaminated water. Restoring historical buildings or valuable items might involve particular recovery techniques. You can ask the local water damage pros about any additional training pertinent to your situation.
How Standard Procedures Help Your Home
Following standard procedures supports consistent, science-based work. It helps ensure the pros use a systematic method to locate all hidden moisture, which is key for complete drying. Incomplete drying can lead to structural problems and mold, creating more cost and disruption later. Proper methods aim to prevent these follow-up issues.
Using a standard approach also aids in thorough documentation. Detailed moisture logs and photos are often part of the process for insurance. A methodical approach creates a clear record of the damage and the steps taken. This documentation can be useful when discussing the work with your insurance company. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Systematic moisture detection using meters and sensors.
- Correct use of air movers, dehumidifiers, and drying mats.
- Proper handling and disposal of contaminated water and materials.
- Methods to help prevent microbial growth during drying.
- Detailed record-keeping for the drying process.
- Adherence to safety standards for workers and occupants.
What Standard Training Does Not Mean
It helps to know what this type of training does not assure. Having studied the standards does not mean every job will be perfect or that the pro is the right fit for you. The training shows education, but the actual skill and care of the people on site can differ. You should still evaluate the pro and ask questions.
This training is also not a substitute for licenses or insurance. A business must have the proper local and state contractor licenses to operate legally. They should also carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Always verify these items separately when deciding who to hire for your project.
How to Check a Pro's Training
You can ask the local water damage pros directly for information about their training background. Reputable businesses should be willing to discuss their approach. You can also check the website of the major industry organization to find firms that follow its standards, though not all qualified pros are listed there. This gives you a clearer picture of their formal education in restoration methods.
Combine this check with other sensible steps. Ask about their experience with situations similar to yours, such as a flooded basement or a leak behind a wall. Request references from past customers if possible. In many areas, climate conditions make thorough drying especially important to prevent mold.
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Call Now (240) 261-5117Frequently asked questions
Is formal training in restoration standards a legal requirement?
No, following a specific industry standard is not a legal requirement for water restoration work. It is a voluntary guideline. Local business licenses and contractor registrations are the legal necessities. However, many insurance companies are familiar with these common standards. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Should I only hire pros with a lot of formal training?
More formal training credentials are not always better. Focus on core knowledge relevant to your water damage, such as training in water damage restoration and drying. A pro with key training and strong practical experience is often a solid choice. Ask how their education applies directly to the problem in your home.
How does standard training affect an insurance claim?
Using recognized standard methods can support your claim by showing a systematic approach was followed. Insurers are often familiar with these common procedures. The pros' documentation, guided by their training, provides evidence for the work needed. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Proper methods help justify the claim's scope.
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