The questions we're
asked most often.
CFDR is a private Orlando restoration referral service. After you call or text 321-420-7274, owner Ryan Solberg matches you with a restoration company from CFDR's network. The answers below cover who does the work, what you pay, and Florida's rules for water, mold, fire, storm and insurance claims, with each statute linked.
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About CFDR: who answers, who shows up, and what you pay
3 questions answered below.
Is CFDR a FEMA or government disaster recovery center?+
No. CFDR (Central Florida Disaster Recovery) is a private restoration referral service in Orlando. FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are government sites that open after federally declared disasters; find those at fema.gov.
Who actually does the restoration work?+
A restoration company from CFDR's network does the work. After you call, owner Ryan Solberg matches you with it; that company inspects the damage, gives you a written, itemized estimate before work starts, does the work and contracts with you directly. CFDR does not perform restoration.
What do I pay CFDR?+
You pay CFDR nothing, and CFDR does not bill your insurer. The restoration company's price is between you, that company and, if the loss is covered, your insurer.
How does CFDR work, and what do I pay?
Central Florida Disaster Recovery (CFDR) is a private restoration referral service based in Orlando. It is not a FEMA or government disaster recovery center, and it is not a restoration contractor. When you call or text 321-420-7274, owner Ryan Solberg asks where the property is and what happened, then matches you with a restoration company from CFDR's network. That company inspects the damage, gives you a written, itemized estimate before work starts, does the work and contracts with you directly. CFDR does not perform restoration and does not negotiate insurance claims. You pay CFDR nothing, and CFDR does not bill your insurer. Before work starts, ask the company for its Florida license number where the work needs one, its IICRC Certified Firm number and a certificate of insurance.
Water damage: who do I call, how fast can someone come, and what does it cost?
9 questions answered below.
How fast can someone come to my water damage?+
Ask the matched company for its arrival time before you agree to anything. Call any hour. Owner Ryan Solberg takes the calls; if he is on another call, he calls you back.
Who do I call first when water is in my house?+
If it is safe, shut off the water at the main, stay away from electrical hazards and photograph the damage. Then report the loss to your insurer and call or text CFDR at 321-420-7274: Ryan Solberg asks where the property is and what happened, and matches you with a restoration company from CFDR's network.
What does water damage restoration cost?+
It depends on the water category, the area affected and the materials involved. Ask the matched company for a written, itemized estimate before work starts. Our cost guide explains what drives the price.
What types of water damage can a matched company handle?+
Pipe bursts, appliance leaks, roof leaks, storm flooding, sewage backups and AC condensate overflow are all typical restoration jobs. Tell Ryan what happened and he matches you with a company that takes that type of loss.
How long does the water damage drying process take?+
It depends on the materials, the water category, the humidity and the equipment, and a larger or deeper loss takes longer. Many residential dry-outs take several days (UNVERIFIED general range). The company should take moisture readings during the job and tell you when the structure has reached its dry standard.
Can I stay in my home during water damage restoration?+
Often yes, especially if only one area is affected. If the damage involves sewage, extensive mold or structural problems, you may need to relocate. Ask the matched company for its assessment after the first inspection, and ask your insurer whether your policy covers additional living expenses.
Do I need to remove my flooring after water damage?+
It depends on the flooring type and how saturated it is. Hardwood that has warped or buckled often needs replacement, while tile may be salvageable. The company should test the subfloor with a moisture meter; if readings stay elevated, removal helps prevent mold growth and structural damage.
What causes secondary water damage?+
Secondary damage occurs when materials stay wet. The EPA advises drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth; beyond that you can see mold, rot, warped flooring and deteriorating drywall. Call or text CFDR at 321-420-7274 the moment you discover water damage.
How do I prevent mold after water damage?+
Turn off the water source if it is safe, remove standing water if it is safe to do so, keep the air conditioning running and get the structure drying within 24 to 48 hours. Anything that stays wet after that can grow mold and may need to be removed.
Mold: do I need a licensed remediator, and will insurance pay?
9 questions answered below.
Do I need a licensed remediator for mold in Florida?+
Florida requires a licensed Mold Assessor (MRSA) to assess, and a licensed Mold Remediator (MRSR) to remove, mold growth larger than 10 square feet; the company that assesses a home generally may not remediate it within 12 months (ss. 468.8411, 468.8419). Ask any company for its license number and verify it at myfloridalicense.com before you sign.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 468.8411 (mold licensing definitions); Fla. Stat. 468.8419 (mold prohibitions; 12-month rule); Florida DBPR license search
Does CFDR test or inspect for mold?+
No. CFDR does not test, inspect or assess mold and does not remove it. In Florida a licensed Mold Assessor assesses and a licensed Mold Remediator removes. Search for both licensees at myfloridalicense.com.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 468.8419 (mold prohibitions; 12-month rule); Florida DBPR license search
Is mold remediation covered by homeowners insurance?+
Coverage depends on the cause and on your policy. Mold that follows a sudden, covered water loss (like a pipe burst) may be covered, often with a sublimit, while mold from long-term moisture or neglect is often excluded. Read your policy's mold or fungi provision and ask your insurer. Your matched company documents the loss for your claim and writes a line-item Xactimate estimate. Coverage and settlement decisions stay between you and your insurer.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 626.854 (public adjusters; claim-help limits)
Is mold in my home dangerous?+
Mold can cause allergic reactions and respiratory irritation, and people with asthma or weakened immune systems are more sensitive. The EPA's guidance is to find and fix the moisture problem and remove the mold; call a doctor if someone in the home has symptoms.
How long does mold remediation take?+
It depends on how much material is affected and what is behind it. The remediator's written scope should state the work and a schedule before it begins; ask for both.
What does the mold remediation process involve?+
Typical steps are fixing the moisture source, containment, HEPA air filtration, removal of contaminated materials and cleaning of affected surfaces. In Florida, post-remediation verification is done by a licensed Mold Assessor, not by the remediator (ss. 468.8411, 468.8419).
Sources: Fla. Stat. 468.8411 (mold licensing definitions); Fla. Stat. 468.8419 (mold prohibitions; 12-month rule)
Can I remove mold myself?+
Florida's licensing rules apply to mold growth larger than 10 square feet. For small areas on hard surfaces, homeowners sometimes clean it themselves with protective equipment, following EPA guidance. Hidden mold behind walls, under flooring or in HVAC systems needs a professional.
Sources: EPA: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home; Fla. Stat. 468.8419 (mold prohibitions; 12-month rule)
How can I prevent mold from coming back?+
Control moisture: fix plumbing leaks promptly, ventilate bathrooms and kitchens, and keep indoor humidity below 60%, the EPA's guidance. In Florida's climate, a dehumidifier can help.
What is a mold clearance report?+
After remediation, a licensed Mold Assessor can verify the work and issue a report. Insurers and future buyers may ask for it. Because the company that assesses a home generally may not remediate it within 12 months, expect two separate companies (s. 468.8419).
Sources: Fla. Stat. 468.8419 (mold prohibitions; 12-month rule)
Fire and smoke: who do I call after a house fire, and what can be saved?
6 questions answered below.
Who do I call after a house fire?+
If anyone is in danger, call 911 first. After the fire department releases the property, report the loss to your insurer and call or text CFDR at 321-420-7274; Ryan matches you with a restoration company for cleaning, board-up and rebuild. Do not re-enter until the fire department says it is safe.
Can my home be saved after a fire?+
Often, depending on the structural damage. The fire department and your local building department decide whether the building is safe to enter. A restoration company then assesses what can be cleaned and what must be replaced.
What does fire and smoke damage restoration involve?+
Typical steps are emergency board-up, soot and char removal, drying (fire suppression leaves water behind), smoke odor treatment, surface cleaning and reconstruction of affected areas. Ask the company whether it handles cleaning and rebuild under one contract.
How long does fire damage restoration take?+
It depends on how far the fire and smoke spread, the structural damage, permits and how quickly your insurer approves the scope. Ask the matched company for a written timeline with milestones after the first assessment.
How do you eliminate smoke smell from a home?+
Smoke odor penetrates porous materials such as drywall, insulation, wood framing, fabrics and HVAC ductwork. Restoration companies use cleaning, thermal fogging, ozone or hydroxyl treatment and, in severe cases, replacement of smoke-saturated materials. Painting over smoke odor without treating it does not work long-term.
What happens to my contents and belongings after a fire?+
Ask the matched company whether it offers contents pack-out and cleaning. Photograph and list damaged items before anything is discarded; items that cannot be restored should be documented for your claim.
Storm and hurricane damage: tarps, deadlines and finding a crew
7 questions answered below.
Who does emergency tarping and board-up after a storm?+
CFDR does not tarp roofs. Ask the matched company whether it tarps roofs; if it does not, a roofing company or tarp service can. Photograph the damage first, and keep your receipts: your policy requires you to protect the property from further damage.
What if I can't find a crew after a hurricane?+
After a major storm, contractors book up and schedules stretch. Call early, ask the company for a start date and a written schedule, and keep documenting. Call or text Ryan at 321-420-7274 and he tells you which companies cover your address.
Can CFDR help me with FEMA after a hurricane?+
No. CFDR is a private referral service and is not part of FEMA. You apply for FEMA Individual Assistance yourself at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. Keep your photos, estimates and receipts, and report covered damage to your insurer first.
How should I prepare my home before hurricane season?+
Key steps include securing or storing outdoor furniture, trimming trees near your home, inspecting your roof for loose or missing shingles, installing storm shutters or impact glass, checking your garage door rating and stocking emergency supplies. Our Hurricane Prep Guide has a full checklist.
What storm damage is typically covered by homeowners insurance?+
Standard homeowners policies generally cover wind damage, storm damage to the roof and damage from fallen trees, subject to your deductible. Flooding from storm surge or rising water is typically not covered by a standard policy; that takes separate NFIP or private flood coverage. Your policy and your insurer decide coverage.
Sources: FEMA: flood insurance
What is the hurricane deductible in Florida?+
Insurers must offer a flat-dollar hurricane deductible option and options of 2%, 5% and 10% of the dwelling limit (s. 627.701(3)(a)). It applies once per calendar year to covered hurricane losses (s. 627.701(5)(a)), and only while a hurricane warning or watch is in effect for Florida and for 72 hours after the last one ends (s. 627.4025(2)(c)). Your declarations page shows the deductible that applies to your policy.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.701 (hurricane deductibles); Fla. Stat. 627.4025 (when the hurricane deductible applies)
How long does storm damage restoration take?+
It depends on the damage, permits and material availability. After a major hurricane, demand for contractors surges and timelines stretch. Ask the company for a written schedule, and see our claim guide for the deadlines your insurer must meet.
Insurance claims: deadlines, coverage, and what a contractor can and can't do
16 questions answered below.
How does the insurance claims process work for disaster restoration?+
Report the claim to your insurer first. Florida gives the insurer 7 calendar days to acknowledge your claim communication (s. 627.70131(1)(a)) and requires it to start investigating within 7 days after it receives your proof-of-loss statements (s. 627.70131(3)(a)). Your matched company documents the loss for your claim and writes a line-item Xactimate estimate. Coverage and settlement decisions stay between you and your insurer.
Florida claim deadlines and steps →
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.70131 (insurer claim-handling deadlines); Fla. Stat. 626.854 (public adjusters; claim-help limits)
How long do I have to file an insurance claim in Florida?+
You must give your insurer notice of a new or reopened claim within 1 year of the date of loss, and of a supplemental claim within 18 months (s. 627.70132(2)). SB 2-A, signed December 16, 2022 (ch. 2022-271), shortened these from 2 years and 3 years. Report losses right away, even if you are unsure about coverage.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.70132 (notice-of-claim deadlines); Ch. 2022-271 (SB 2-A)
How long does the insurer have to respond, inspect and pay?+
The insurer must acknowledge your claim communication within 7 days and begin investigating within 7 days of your proof of loss (s. 627.70131(1)(a), (3)(a)). If it inspects, it must do so within 30 days of your proof of loss (s. 627.70131(3)(b)), and it must pay or deny within 60 days (s. 627.70131(7)(a)). Keep a log of every call and email.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.70131 (insurer claim-handling deadlines)
What can a contractor do for my claim, and what can't it do?+
Your matched company documents the loss for your claim and writes a line-item Xactimate estimate. Coverage and settlement decisions stay between you and your insurer. A contractor may suggest you contact your insurer, but may not interpret your policy or advise you on coverage (s. 489.147(2)(d)). In Florida, only a licensed public adjuster or an attorney may be paid to negotiate a claim for you (s. 626.854).
Sources: Fla. Stat. 626.854 (public adjusters; claim-help limits); Fla. Stat. 489.147 (contractors and property insurance claims)
Do I need a public adjuster?+
That is your decision. In Florida, only a licensed public adjuster or an attorney may be paid to negotiate a claim for you (s. 626.854). A restoration company can document the loss and write an estimate, but cannot do that part of the job. Verify any public adjuster's license with the Florida Department of Financial Services before you sign.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 626.854 (public adjusters; claim-help limits)
What if my insurance company denies my claim?+
Denials can often be challenged. Ask for the denial in writing and the specific reason. The matched company can give you its documentation (photos, moisture logs and estimate) to share with your insurer. Florida's Department of Financial Services runs a mediation program for disputed residential property claims, and a licensed public adjuster or an attorney may also help.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.7015 (DFS mediation); Florida DFS mediation program
Will filing a restoration claim raise my insurance rates?+
Rate impact varies by insurer, your claims history and the type of loss. Ask your agent about your specific policy before you decide whether to file.
What is Xactimate and why does it matter?+
Xactimate is line-item estimating software that many insurers and contractors use, so an estimate written in it can be compared with the adjuster's numbers line by line. Ask the matched company whether it writes its estimate in Xactimate. Coverage and settlement decisions stay between you and your insurer.
Do I have to pay my deductible?+
Yes. Your deductible is part of your contract with your insurer. Be wary of any contractor who offers to waive or rebate it: that is prohibited and Florida treats it as insurance fraud (s. 489.147; s. 817.234).
Sources: Fla. Stat. 489.147 (contractors and property insurance claims)
Does homeowners insurance cover mold remediation in Florida?+
It depends on the cause and your policy. If mold follows a covered water loss, such as a sudden pipe burst, the policy may cover it, often with a limit; mold from gradual moisture or a slow, unaddressed leak is commonly excluded as maintenance. Check the mold or fungi provision in your policy. For the licensing rules, see the mold section above.
Does homeowners insurance cover sewage backup in Florida?+
Standard homeowners policies often exclude sewer and drain backup unless you add a backup endorsement. Check your declarations page for a 'water backup' or 'sewer backup' endorsement, and ask your agent before you need it. Sewage cleanup is Category 3 work that calls for containment and protective equipment.
What is ALE (Additional Living Expenses) coverage?+
ALE pays for temporary housing, meals and increased living costs when a covered loss makes your home unlivable. Your policy sets the limit and the time period. Keep every hotel and meal receipt and submit them with your claim; the matched company can document why the home is unlivable.
Can I choose my own restoration contractor, or does insurance assign one?+
Your insurer may suggest preferred vendors; Florida's Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights calls them optional, but tells you to check your policy for managed-repair provisions first (s. 627.7142). Citizens' Managed Repair Program changes your limits if you decline it.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.7142 (Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights); Citizens: claims
What if the insurance adjuster's estimate is lower than my contractor's?+
A gap between the two is common and not final. The company can walk through its own estimate with your adjuster and document any missing items in a revised estimate that you give your insurer. If you still disagree, your policy may include an appraisal clause, and the Florida Department of Financial Services offers free mediation for eligible residential disputes (s. 627.7015).
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.7015 (DFS mediation); Florida DFS mediation program
What is a depreciation holdback and how do I recover it?+
On a replacement-cost policy, the insurer may first pay actual cash value, which is replacement cost minus depreciation, less your deductible, and release the rest as work is performed and expenses are incurred (s. 627.7011(3)(a)). Keep your final invoices and submit them to your insurer promptly to recover the holdback.
What is a proof of loss form and when do I need one?+
A proof of loss is a sworn statement of the amount of your loss, the date, the cause and the damaged property. Your policy sets the deadline, so check it; if you miss it, the insurer may have grounds to deny. Answer the adjuster's document requests promptly, because delays on your side can pause the insurer's deadlines (s. 627.70131(8)(b)).
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.70131 (insurer claim-handling deadlines)
Florida rules: licenses, assignment of benefits, Citizens and flood insurance
12 questions answered below.
How do I check a restoration company's license?+
Search the company or its license holder at the Florida DBPR license search (myfloridalicense.com). Also ask for its IICRC Certified Firm number, which you can verify at iicrc.org, and a current certificate of insurance. Contractors who do construction or repair work generally must hold a Florida license.
How to check any restoration company →
Sources: Florida DBPR license search; IICRC Certified Firm verification
What is the Florida Assignment of Benefits (AOB) law?+
An AOB is a contract in which a homeowner signs over insurance claim rights to a contractor. Florida restricted AOBs in 2019, then banned them with SB 2-A (ch. 2022-271): an AOB under a residential or commercial property policy issued on or after January 1, 2023 is invalid (s. 627.7152(13)). CFDR is not a party to your repair contract and never asks you to sign an AOB.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.7152 (assignment of benefits); Ch. 2022-271 (SB 2-A)
Does Citizens Property Insurance cover burst pipe water damage?+
Citizens covers sudden and accidental water damage from burst pipes under its HO-3 form, and a long-term slow leak may be denied as maintenance. Under Florida law the insurer must start investigating within 7 days after your proof of loss and pay or deny within 60 days (s. 627.70131). Citizens policyholder? Call Citizens first (866-411-2742); with other insurers, ask about managed-repair rules before you sign a repair contract. If you hire an outside dry-out company instead of Citizens' Emergency Water Removal Services.
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.70131 (insurer claim-handling deadlines); Citizens FAQ a_id 3930 (emergency measures cap); Citizens: claims
What is the difference between flood insurance and homeowners insurance in Florida?+
Standard homeowners insurance covers water damage from internal sources (burst pipes, appliance failures, storm-caused roof leaks) but excludes flooding from external sources such as storm surge, rising rivers and overland water flow. Flood insurance through NFIP or a private carrier covers those events. A hurricane can cause both covered wind-and-rain damage and excluded flood damage, which is why many homeowners carry both policies. NFIP claims have a separate 60-day proof-of-loss deadline.
Sources: FEMA: flood insurance; FEMA: filing a flood insurance claim
Does homeowners insurance cover burst pipes in Florida?+
Generally yes: standard HO-3 policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from burst pipes, while a slow leak left unaddressed for months may be denied as a maintenance issue. After a burst pipe, report the claim to your insurer, then call or text CFDR at 321-420-7274. Flood damage from rising groundwater or storm surge is not covered by a standard policy.
What does RCV vs ACV mean in a homeowners insurance policy?+
RCV (Replacement Cost Value) pays what it costs to replace damaged property with new materials. ACV (Actual Cash Value) is replacement cost minus depreciation, so a 15-year-old roof is paid at its depreciated value. Check your declarations page for which one you have.
What is Category 1, Category 2, and Category 3 water damage?+
The IICRC S500 standard classifies water damage by contamination level. Category 1 (clean water) comes from supply lines, rain or broken fixtures. Category 2 (gray water) comes from dishwashers, washing machines or toilet overflow without feces. Category 3 (black water) includes sewage and river flooding, and is the highest risk. The category affects the method, the cost and which materials must be removed.
How long does it take to dry a flooded ground floor in Florida?+
It depends on the water category, the materials and the equipment. Florida's heat and humidity can slow evaporation without the right equipment setup, and concrete block absorbs water deeply. The company should take moisture readings daily and not remove equipment until readings reach the dry standard; ending drying early is a common cause of post-remediation mold.
What is the difference between water mitigation and water restoration?+
Mitigation is the emergency phase: stopping the water source, extracting standing water, removing wet materials and setting up drying equipment. Restoration is the rebuild phase: replacing drywall, flooring, cabinetry and other removed or damaged materials. Some companies do both under one contract while others hand off between teams; ask the matched company which it does.
How do I know if I have hidden water damage inside my walls?+
Warning signs include musty odors without visible moisture; bubbling, peeling or staining on walls or ceilings; soft spots or warping in wood floors or drywall; and sudden increases in your water bill. A restoration company can use moisture meters and thermal imaging to find moisture behind finished surfaces. Ask the matched company whether it charges for an inspection before it comes out.
Can mold grow inside HVAC ductwork?+
Yes. Ducts can collect condensation in humid climates, and debris plus moisture supports mold. Signs include musty smells when the AC runs and visible dark spots near vents. Ductwork contamination needs duct-specific remediation; wall remediation alone will not solve it.
How do I document water or fire damage for an insurance claim?+
Before anything is touched, photograph and video every affected area, including the damage source, and list damaged contents. Note the date and time you discovered it and save receipts for emergency expenses. Keep damaged items until the adjuster or contractor has documented them (s. 627.7142 advises photographing damage before and after repairs).
Sources: Fla. Stat. 627.7142 (Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights)
Still have a question? The fastest answer is on the phone.
Call any hour. Owner Ryan Solberg takes the calls; if he is on another call, he calls you back. Ask the matched company whether it charges for an inspection before it comes out.