When an adjuster walks a loss, they’re not just looking at damage—they’re looking at documentation.

They want to see moisture readings, drying logs, photos from day one, and evidence that the loss was mitigated properly. Sloppy or missing documentation raises red flags and slows claims.

Good restoration protects the property. Great restoration protects the claim.

Takeaway: Proper documentation is just as important as proper drying.

https://cat3recovery.com/how-to-document-water-damage-for-insurance-photos-readings-logs/

This is Category 3 Conversations by CAT 3 Recovery.

The most common mistake after water damage isn’t ignoring it—it’s trying to dry it without understanding what’s wet.

People rent fans, open windows, and think visible dryness means the problem is solved. Meanwhile, moisture is still trapped behind walls, under flooring, and inside cabinets. That hidden moisture is what causes mold, odor, and structural failure weeks later.

Drying isn’t guesswork. It’s measurement, mapping, and control.

Takeaway: If moisture isn’t measured, it isn’t managed.

https://cat3recovery.com/structural-drying/

This is Category 3 Conversations by CAT 3 Recovery.

Water damage doesn’t stay the same overnight—it escalates.

In the first few hours, moisture spreads through drywall, flooring, and framing. By 24 hours, materials swell, adhesives break down, and microbial growth can begin. At 48 hours, you’re no longer dealing with simple water damage—you’re dealing with secondary damage and potential mold conditions.

The biggest losses we see aren’t from the initial leak. They’re from waiting.

Takeaway: Water damage is time-sensitive—every hour of delay increases cost and complexity.

https://cat3recovery.com/water-damage-mitigation/

This is Category 3 Conversations by CAT 3 Recovery.