Plan your project · Restoration

Separate damage assessment, cleanup and rebuilding.

A property-damage request should explain what happened, what is still happening and which areas are affected. Cleanup and reconstruction may be separate scopes. Gather what you know without entering an unsafe area or assuming the insurance outcome.

Know the scope

Which kind of help do you need?

Start with the situation that best describes your property. Use these questions to make the scope clearer before you commit to work.

01

Water damage

State the apparent source, when it began and whether it has been stopped. Describe affected rooms and materials. Ask how the proposed work will document conditions, address the moisture source and establish when the cleanup phase is complete.

02

Fire and smoke damage

Identify affected spaces and whether the property has been cleared for access. Ask which parts of the proposed scope address cleaning, damaged contents and structural rebuilding, and which require separate assessments.

03

Mold or recurring moisture

Describe visible areas and any repeated leak or dampness. Ask about experience with similar work, containment and the underlying moisture problem. EPA guidance can help you understand when specialized cleanup is appropriate.

04

Storm or structural damage

Explain visible damage and access limitations. Ask whether the initial work is temporary protection, cleanup or permanent reconstruction. Keep those stages distinct in estimates and project records.

Make a considered choice

Useful questions before you agree.

A written proposal should explain what is included, what still needs a decision, and who is responsible for the next step.

01

Define the work boundary

Ask what happens to contents, damaged materials and waste, and what is excluded. Identify whether a separate contractor or approval will be needed for rebuilding.

02

Request documentation

Ask for photographs, written findings and a record of completed work. Confirm what information you are responsible for sending to an insurer or another party.

03

Confirm the handover

Agree on the completion criteria for each stage, the cleanup plan and any follow-up work. A finished cleanup visit does not automatically mean reconstruction or claim review is complete.

Further reading

Resources to inform your next step.

EPA mold cleanup guidance

Read EPA’s guidance on the factors affecting cleanup and choosing an experienced professional.

Read the official guidance
Before submitting

Questions about your request.

Is this a 24-hour dispatch service?
No. Requests are held for team review, and this form does not dispatch a crew or promise emergency availability. Arrange immediate assistance directly when waiting is not appropriate.
Does submitting a request file an insurance claim?
No. Contact your insurer about any claim. Describe whether a claim exists so the team understands the context, without assuming cleanup or repairs will be covered.
What happens after I submit?
Your request is held for HandVetted team review. Phone verification and partner matching are not active. The form is not an appointment booking, a quote or a confirmation that a business is available.
Describe the work

Ready to put your request together?

Share the service you need, your property ZIP and what you know so far. The next step is HandVetted team review.

Continue to the request page
Your project

Tell us what you need.

Use the existing service form below. Consent and submission details are shown in the form.

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