Restoration guides
Last updated: 2026-06-17
Clear, practical guides on what restoration costs, what insurance does and doesn't cover, and what to do after water, fire, mold, or storm damage. RestoreHotline is a free referral service — these guides help you make informed decisions, and when you're ready, connect you with a vetted, independent local pro who does the work.
Cost guides
- Water damage restoration cost National price ranges by water category, area, and the factors that drive the bill.
- Mold removal cost Cost by area and severity, small spot vs. whole-home, and testing vs. remediation.
- Fire damage restoration cost Smoke and soot cleanup vs. structural rebuild, contents, and scope drivers.
What to do & how to choose
- First 24–48 hours after damage A safety-first checklist: stop the source, document, mitigate, and call a pro fast.
- How to file an insurance claim Step by step: document, mitigate, work with the adjuster, and review the settlement.
- How to choose a restoration company Vet an IICRC-certified pro: questions to ask, red flags, and verifying licensing.
Insurance coverage
- Does insurance cover mold? Covered-peril mold vs. excluded humidity/neglect, plus the sub-limits to watch.
- Does insurance cover water damage? Sudden vs. gradual, and why flooding needs a separate NFIP or private policy.
- Does insurance cover a roof leak? Storm-caused (covered) vs. wear-and-tear (excluded), and the interior damage.
- Sewer backup insurance coverage Why backup needs a separate water-backup endorsement, and what it covers.
- Does insurance cover foundation repair? Settling/soil movement (excluded) vs. covered-peril exceptions like a plumbing leak.
- Water damage insurance claim tips Documentation, the duty to mitigate, and working effectively with the adjuster.
- What is a public adjuster? A neutral explainer: what they do, how they’re paid, and when people consider one.
Need help now rather than reading? Connect with a vetted local restoration pro for water, fire, mold, sewage, or storm damage.