Describe the assembly without dismantling it
Tell the assessor whether water appeared near a sink, appliance or adjoining room, and whether it reached the cabinet base, toe kick or nearby flooring. Note visible swelling, odor or staining from a safe position. Avoid removing cabinets or opening electrical areas to investigate. These observations help define the inspection request; they do not establish which hidden materials are wet or whether a cabinet can be retained.
Ask what access and protection are included
A written proposal should explain the planned assessment and any access work, contents handling or protection of adjacent finishes. Ask whether removal of trim or a toe kick is proposed, who performs it and how any additional work is approved. Discuss plumbing repair separately from cleanup. Check whether the estimate includes moving appliances, disconnecting services or resetting fixtures rather than assuming those tasks are part of drying.
Separate drying from replacement decisions
Ask how the provider will assess the affected materials and document progress. Surface appearance alone does not decide whether concealed areas are ready for repair. Materials, contamination and practical access can change the scope. Request an explanation of what supports retention or removal, which decisions remain provisional and what would trigger a revised estimate. A general guide cannot determine whether the cabinets in your home require replacement.
Plan the handoff before signing
Identify who restores openings, resets cabinets and repairs flooring, and whether those costs are included. Ask about access restrictions during work and how you will receive progress updates. Keep scope changes and completion records with the estimate. Compare proposals using the same responsibilities and exclusions, then confirm assessment charges and availability directly with the provider. Coverage questions belong with your insurer and depend on the cause and policy.
Prepare the relevant assessment.
Describe the cabinet location, nearby flooring and source history when requesting a structural-drying assessment.
Read the relevant service scope →
Call (833) 628-1561 for a QuoteReferences: EPA flooded-home guidance · FTC contractor-selection guidance.