Frequently Asked Questions

About Priority Restoration:

What does a Restoration Company do?

A Restoration Company is the first responder when property damage occurs due to water, fire, mould, sewer backups, or storm events. Priority Restoration is a locally owned restoration company based in Winnipeg and serving communities across Manitoba. Our role is to provide a fast emergency response, make your property safe, and prepare a detailed scope of repairs for you and your insurance company.

Why should I trust Priority Restoration with my home and property?

For nearly 40 years, Priority Restoration has been a vetted and approved contractor for many of Canada’s leading insurance companies, property management firms, and institutional clients. As a Canadian, locally owned, independent company based in Winnipeg and serving communities across Manitoba, we take pride in serving with integrity and care.

We are an IICRC-Certified Firm, following the highest industry standards in water damage restoration, fire damage repair, and environmental services. This certification demonstrates that our methods are proven, compliant, and professionally recognized — giving you confidence that your property is in the hands of trained experts.

Our experienced, long-serving team is equipped to handle jobs of any size or complexity, always with an empathetic, people-first approach. With a dedicated Customer Service Manager overseeing client care, we are committed to delivering a 10 out of 10 customer service experience on every project.

What kind of training or certifications does your staff have?

Our staff are trained and certified in industry restoration standards through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) — the most widely recognized authority in the restoration industry.

In addition, our team has specialized training in asbestos handling, mould remediation, and trauma/biohazard cleanup, ensuring that all projects are completed to the highest standards of safety, compliance, and quality.

As an IICRC-Certified Firm, Priority Restoration follows proven, professionally recognized methods for water damage restoration, fire damage repair, and environmental services.

Does Priority Restoration handle all types of repairs, including belongings?

Yes. Priority Restoration is a full-service restoration company that manages your entire claim from start to finish so you don’t have to coordinate multiple contractors.

Our comprehensive services include:

  • Water damage restoration and flood cleanup
  • Fire damage repair and smoke/odour removal
  • Mould remediation and structural drying
  • Environmental services including asbestos abatement and biohazard cleanup
  • Contents cleaning, deodorizing, and secure storage in our 40,000 sq. ft. facility
  • Full reconstruction and repairs, from minor drywall replacement to complete rebuilds

With Priority Restoration, you have one trusted contractor for all emergency services, insurance restoration, and rebuild needs.

What role does Priority Restoration play in my Insurance claim?

As a certified and vetted IICRC restoration contractor, Priority Restoration provides you with a dedicated Project Manager and a skilled team of restoration experts who act as first responders when your home or business is damaged by water, fire, or other events.

We work directly with you — and your insurance provider if a claim is submitted — to mitigate damages by removing affected materials, drying and deodorizing the structure, and ensuring your property is safe and habitable. During this process, we also prepare a detailed scope of work for repairs.

Our goal is to restore your property to its pre-loss condition. Whether working through your insurance provider or directly with you on a private basis, we are committed to completing the restoration with professionalism, efficiency, and care.

How long will the restoration process take?

The restoration process has two main phases:

  • Emergency mitigation is completed right away to stabilize your property and prevent further damage. This phase is fast — often just a few days — since it doesn’t require material orders or detailed planning.
  • Repairs and reconstruction take longer because they involve insurance approvals, scheduling trades, and ordering the right materials.

Unlike a planned renovation, restoration follows an unexpected event. Renovations give you time to plan, budget, and make upgrades, while restoration focuses on returning your property to pre-loss condition with like kind and quality materials. Upgrades can be made, but they may extend the schedule.

Every claim is unique: some projects take weeks, others months, and larger or more complex claims may take longer. Your Project Manager will keep you informed at key milestones so you always know what to expect.

Our goal is to make this unplanned event feel as smooth as a planned renovation.

What areas does Priority Restoration serve?

Priority Restoration is a locally owned restoration company based in Winnipeg and serving communities across Manitoba, northwestern Ontario, and southeastern Saskatchewan. With two locations to serve you, we provide full emergency and restoration coverage across the region.

At the request of clients, we have mobilized to out-of-province locations for large-scale catastrophes, including the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfires, and have traveled to remote communities for major commercial claims — as far as Goose Bay, Labrador.

As one of the largest independent restoration contractors in Canada, we have the equipment, capacity, and skilled technical staff to take on specialized and large-volume projects of any size and scope.

I noticed that your company is COR certified. What does that mean?

COR (Certificate of Recognition) certification is awarded to companies that have developed and implemented a health and safety program meeting established provincial standards. It shows that our safety management system has been independently audited and confirmed to be compliant.

For our clients, COR certification demonstrates that Priority Restoration is committed to the highest standards of workplace safety, protecting both our employees and your property throughout the restoration process.

What does Priority Restoration do to reduce their carbon footprint?

We are committed to operating sustainably by reducing waste, improving fuel efficiency, and using environmentally friendly products. Some of our initiatives include:

  • Recycling programs on job sites and in our facility
  • Hybrid vehicles and GPS fleet tracking to lower emissions
  • On-site waste station to reduce landfill trips
  • Specialized systems like ESPORTA and Fireline that save water, energy, and restore more items instead of sending them to landfill
  • Donating reusable materials to Habitat for Humanity Manitoba
  • Upgrading to energy-efficient LED lighting throughout our facility

To learn more about our environmental initiatives, visit our Sustainability Page.

Emergency Services:

What should I do first if I have fire or smoke damage in my home or business?

The first step is to call your insurance provider’s after-hours claims service line (if available) to open a claim. If you can’t reach your insurer, you can call your broker for assistance.

No matter what, you can always call Priority Restoration 24/7 at 204-786-3344 to begin emergency services immediately — regardless of claim status. Acting quickly helps reduce damage and control costs.

If you prefer, we also offer private restoration options. A Project Manager will review scope, costs, and timelines with you before work begins so you can make an informed decision.

Do I need to sign a contract with Priority Restoration?

Yes. Whether you’re working with us privately or through an insurance claim, we require you to sign a work authorization form before restoration begins. This document gives Priority Restoration and our vetted subcontractors permission to access your property and carry out the necessary restoration work.

Your dedicated Project Manager will review the form with you, explain exactly what it covers, and provide you with a copy for your records.

What if my property emergency happens at night or on the weekend?

Emergencies don’t wait for business hours. That’s why Priority Restoration provides 24/7 emergency services in Winnipeg. When you call 204-786-3344, our after-hours line will connect you with a Project Manager who will dispatch a crew to stabilize your property.

To help control costs, we complete only the essential emergency work after hours until coverage is confirmed with your insurance provider.

How quickly can Priority Restoration arrive at my property for the initial inspection?

For Winnipeg properties, we aim to arrive within one hour of your call. For locations outside Winnipeg, response times depend on travel distance.

Early inspection prevents further damage, so we encourage you to make yourself available as soon as possible.

What can I expect during the emergency mitigation repairs?

During the emergency mitigation phase, our restoration professionals focus on stabilizing your property and

preventing further damage. Depending on the type and extent of the loss, this may include:

  • Extracting water from affected areas
  • Removing damaged drywall, flooring, insulation, or other materials
  • Performing asbestos testing when required by law
  • Installing specialized drying and dehumidification equipment

In some cases, contents from the affected area may need to be removed for protection. Certain items may be transported to our secure facility for professional cleaning, storage, or processing.

Your Project Manager will explain what is required in your specific situation and keep you updated throughout the process. Every claim is unique, and our response is tailored to the needs of your property to ensure a safe and effective restoration.

What kind of products and chemicals will be used in my home?

Whenever possible, Priority Restoration uses environmentally friendly cleaning and restoration products that are safe for people and pets.

If specialized products are required that may not be safe to come into contact with, we will notify you in advance and explain any precautions that should be taken.

Why is your staff taking photos and videos of my property?

Your insurance company requires full documentation of the damages, which includes photos and videos. This information is included in our reports to help your adjuster determine the cause of loss and review what may or may not be covered under your policy.

In some cases, we also need to document areas that appear unaffected. This is because building materials, finishes, or systems often run continuously throughout a property. Having a complete record helps your adjuster understand the full scope of the situation and make an informed coverage decision.

Our role is to ensure your insurance provider has accurate and detailed documentation so that claims decisions can be made fairly and repairs can proceed without unnecessary delays.

How long will the drying equipment be in my home?

When water damage occurs, our restoration crews install specialized drying and dehumidification equipment in the affected areas of your home or business. Water can seep into walls, floors, and hidden spaces where it isn’t visible. Leaving equipment running is critical to ensure these areas are thoroughly dried and to prevent further damage.

Drying time varies depending on the extent of water damage, building materials, and environmental conditions. Our mitigation experts strategically place the equipment to maximize efficiency and will remove it once moisture readings confirm that the structure is dry.

If you have any concerns with the equipment setup or operation, contact your Project Manager right away for support.

What happens if the drying equipment stops working or displays an error code?

If your drying or dehumidification equipment stops working, makes unusual noises, or shows an error code, call Priority Restoration immediately at 204-786-3344 (24/7). The equipment must remain running to properly dry your property and prevent additional water damage. Our team will dispatch a technician to inspect and resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

How will the drying equipment affect my electricity bill?

We use a variety of drying and dehumidification equipment, including fans, dehumidifiers, and specialized systems for hardwood floors, crawlspaces, mould or asbestos abatement, and odour control.

The impact on your electricity bill will depend on the amount of equipment required and how long it needs to run. Your Project Manager can give you an estimated cost based on your specific project.

What is a Post Water inspection?

A post-water inspection is performed after your property has sustained water damage to confirm that all affected areas are fully dry and safe for repairs to begin.

Our certified technicians use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to carefully inspect walls, floors, and other building materials. If additional drying is required, they may adjust the equipment placement or settings and return for another inspection at a later date.

Once your property is confirmed dry, our team will remove the drying equipment and take final photos and moisture readings for your Project Manager to review before moving the project into the repair stage.

Do I need to take time off work while restoration work is being done in my home?

No. As long as you allow us to install a lockbox on your property, our team can access the site as needed to keep the project on schedule without disrupting your workday or personal appointments.

You can trust Priority Restoration, our carefully screened employees, and our vetted subcontractors to worprofessionally, safely, and respectfully in your home while you go about your day.

Can I live in my home during the mitigation or repair process?

In most cases, yes — you can remain in your home during the mitigation or repair process. However, this will depend on the location and extent of the damage, as well as whether specialized work such as asbestos abatement is required.

Your insurance company and Project Manager will review your specific situation and advise you on whether it is safe for you and your family to stay in the home. If temporary relocation is needed, they will help guide you through the process.

Reconstruction & Repairs:

All of the mitigation work is complete — what happens now?

Once mitigation is complete (the emergency work to stabilize your property and prevent further damage), your file will be reviewed by both your Project Manager and your insurance adjuster. A detailed scope of repairs is then prepared for the damaged areas, which allows us to provide a quote to your insurance company.

After submission, we must wait for your insurer to review and approve the scope of repairs before reconstruction can begin. During this stage, your Project Manager will keep you updated on progress and notify you as soon as approvals are received so the rebuild can move forward.

Will I be provided with a schedule of repairs?

Yes. Your Project Coordinator will provide you with a detailed repair schedule so you know what to expect throughout the reconstruction process.

Some items on the schedule may be listed as tentative if material selections have not yet been finalized or if we are waiting on confirmation of delivery dates. Your Project Coordinator will keep you updated on any changes to ensure your project stays on track.

How can I help ensure my restoration project stays on track?

While we coordinate your restoration, there are a few simple steps you can take to help avoid delays and keep the project running smoothly:

  • Keep children and pets away from work areas for safety.
  • Leave drying and deodorizing equipment running until removed.
  • Respond promptly to questions and approvals from us and your adjuster.
  • Make material selections early to prevent back-order delays.
  • Discuss upgrades or changes during scope development, since they may require approvals and affect timelines.

Does Priority Restoration hire sub-contractors?

Yes. In addition to our permanent staff, Priority Restoration works with vetted subcontractors to complete certain aspects of restoration and rebuild projects. Before becoming an approved vendor, each subcontractor must provide proof of insurance, Workers Compensation (WCB) coverage, and safety documentation that meets our strict criteria.

This process ensures that every subcontractor we partner with is fully qualified, compliant, and able to deliver work to the same high standards as our in-house team.

Can I hire my own tradespeople?

At Priority Restoration, we work with a network of trusted trades and subcontractors who have been fully vetted for safety, insurance, and WCB compliance. This ensures consistent quality of work and helps keep your project on schedule.

It’s your home or business, and you do have the right to choose who works there. However, if you decide to bring in your own tradespeople, we recommend discussing this with your insurance adjuster. In some cases, a cashout option may be arranged so you can manage that portion of the work with the trade of your choice.

Please note: Priority Restoration cannot provide a warranty on any work not completed by our staff or approved vendors.

What factors can cause delays on my restoration project?

While we do everything possible to keep your project on schedule, some factors outside our control may cause delays, including:

  • High-volume claim periods such as major storm or flood seasons
  • Material shortages or back-ordered items from suppliers
  • Insurance company approvals for estimates or scope of work
  • Permit applications and approvals
  • Building code issues or required upgrades
  • Access limitations or scheduling conflicts
  • Repairs to the original cause of loss (e.g., plumbing or structural issues)

Your Project Manager and Project Coordinator will keep you informed at every stage and work to minimize delays while ensuring your restoration is completed to the highest standards.

Once my scope of work is approved, how long will the repairs take?

After your scope of work is approved and we receive your signed work authorization form and deductible payment, our team will coordinate with you to schedule the start of repairs.

You will be provided with a schedule of work so you know what to expect at each stage. In some cases, you may also be asked to make selections such as flooring, cabinetry, tile, or paint colors before reconstruction can begin.

Every project is unique, and timelines vary depending on factors such as material availability, insurance approvals, and the overall scope of repairs. Your Project Manager can provide a general estimate for the timeline, while your Project Coordinator will supply a detailed schedule once the project moves into the reconstruction phase.

Do I get to see the scope of repairs & estimate?

Yes. A detailed scope of repairs and estimate is prepared by Priority Restoration and submitted to your insurance company for review and approval.

Once it has been approved, you can request a copy directly from your insurance adjuster. Your Project Manager can also review the scope of repairs with you and explain the process so you understand what work has been approved before reconstruction begins.

Will there be a final inspection of the repairs?

Yes. On larger projects, a final walk-through inspection is automatically scheduled to ensure all repairs meet our quality standards and your expectations.

For smaller projects, a final inspection can be arranged at your request. If you notice any deficiencies or concerns, we will review them with you and schedule repairs promptly to ensure your property is fully restored.

My repairs have been marked as Seasonal, what does that mean?

In Winnipeg, the short summer season creates a limited window for exterior restoration work, especially following widespread weather events like hailstorms. While we prioritize and complete emergency or temporary repairs right away, final exterior repairs may need to be scheduled into the following season due to weather constraints and limited trade availability.

At Priority Restoration, we take pride in delivering high-quality work by partnering only with reputable, vetted subcontractors through our internal vendor program. This ensures top-tier workmanship but can limit the number of exterior projects we can complete during peak periods.

Contents & Personal Belongings:

My personal items were affected by the damage to my home or business. What will happen to them?

Our specially trained staff will carefully assess, photograph, and document your belongings affected by fire, water, or mould damage. Items that require further care will be safely packed out and transported to our secure contents facility, where they can be professionally cleaned, restored, and stored until they are ready to be returned to you.

Will my contents be taken out of my home for cleaning and repair?

Yes. Any contents that cannot be restored on-site will be carefully packed out and transported to our 40,000 sq. ft. facility, where our team will clean, deodorize, and restore them using specialized equipment. Once processed, your belongings are kept in our climate-controlled storage facility until they are ready to be returned to you.

If your items were not directly affected by the loss, we may still remove them to protect them during the repair process. These items will be stored safely on-site, in a secure storage pod, or at our facility until restoration work is complete

What happens to those items that cannot be cleaned or repaired?

Any contents that are damaged beyond restoration are deemed non-restorable. These items are documented on a schedule of loss, which is provided to both you and your insurance adjuster. Once an item is confirmed as non-restorable, we require authorization from you and your adjuster before it can be disposed of.

Perishable goods, such as food items, are listed and disposed of immediately for health and safety reasons. Your insurance company will work with you directly on the replacement of non-restorable items, if applicable.

What if I need some of my belongings, like laundry, right away?

If you need access to certain belongings immediately, such as clothing or laundry items, we can process them at our facility with an expedited 24-hour turnaround. Please let your Project Manager know which items you require urgently — these will be tagged as rush and prioritized for cleaning.

If it is safe for you to enter your home, we may ask you to place rush laundry items on the beds for easy identification and processing.

How do I prioritize my belongings and decide what to take with me?

To make the process easier, we provide you with a detailed Take-Along List of items that should be packed and removed from your home. These typically include essentials such as passports, cash, medications, school textbooks, and jewelry.

Some items may require replacement (for example, prescriptions, which your pharmacist can refill) or specialized cleaning (such as jewelry) before they can be used again. While our team can assist in processing valuables like jewelry, we recommend removing them yourself first to ensure they are accounted for. We can then document, clean, and return them quickly for safe keeping or immediate use.

There are also items that cannot be packed or transported to our facility, referred to as the Non-Transportable List. Examples include live household plants, gasoline, food, and firearms. Your Project Manager will guide you on how to safely store or dispose of these items yourself.

What if I need to access something from storage during my claim?

You can request items from storage with 48 hours’ notice. To process your request, you’ll need to provide the box number from your contents inventory list.

We encourage you to review your in-storage list carefully and request any other items you may need at the same time — for example, if the season is changing and you’ll require winter clothing. Because our storage system is designed for long-term safekeeping, it takes time to carefully retrieve and reprocess items.

Please note: your insurance company may limit how many storage requests you can make as part of your claim. Your Project Manager can guide you on this process to ensure you get what you need while keeping your claim on track.

NON TRANSPORTABLE ITEMS

CLIENT TAKE ALONG LIST

Insurance Coverage & Costs:

Who determines if I have coverage for my insurance claim?

Your insurance provider and adjuster are the only ones who decide what is or isn’t covered under your policy. Priority Restoration does not make coverage decisions.

While your claim is under review, we can perform essential mitigation services such as water extraction, drying, or securing your property to prevent further damage. Please note that if your claim is not approved, you are responsible for the cost of this work. To help keep expenses low, we perform only the minimum necessary mitigation until coverage is confirmed.

If you choose to delay work until coverage is confirmed, you are still responsible for taking reasonable steps to prevent additional damage to your home or business, as required under most insurance policies.

What is a cause of loss?

A cause of loss is the specific event that damages your home or business — for example, a ruptured hot water tank, hail damage to a roof, or a fire caused by a faulty appliance.

It’s important to understand that while insurance policies usually do not cover repair or replacement of the cause itself, the damage that results from the cause may be covered under your policy. In some cases, the cause of loss must be retained for further investigation. Do not dispose of it until your adjuster or restoration contractor confirms it is safe to do so.

At Priority Restoration, we inspect your property, help identify the cause of loss, and provide a detailed damage assessment and report to your insurance adjuster.

What do I do if the cause of loss isn’t covered?

If the item or system that caused the damage is not covered by your insurance, we encourage you to arrange for its repair or replacement as soon as possible. Addressing the cause quickly helps prevent delays in your restoration project and reduces the risk of future damage.

In many cases, restoration work cannot proceed until the cause of loss has been fully resolved. For example, if a foundation crack allowed water intrusion, repairs to the affected areas cannot be completed until the foundation itself is fixed — otherwise, the same issue may occur again.

Priority Restoration will guide you through this process, provide clear documentation for your insurance adjuster, and ensure the restoration is completed once the cause of loss has been addressed.

What if the cause of loss isn’t obvious?

Sometimes the source of property damage isn’t immediately clear. In these situations, additional investigation may be required, which can involve opening walls, ceilings, or other concealed areas of your home or business.

If further investigation is needed, Priority Restoration will communicate with you and your insurance provider and, if necessary, bring in specialized professional trades to help determine the cause of loss. Identifying the issue accurately ensures that your restoration project is completed properly and reduces the risk of recurring damage.

What happens if I do not have enough insurance coverage or if my claim is denied?

If your insurance coverage does not fully cover the cost of mitigation or reconstruction — or if your claim is denied — your Project Manager will provide you with a detailed quote for any non-covered repairs.

We can also prepare quotes for upgrades or private restoration work you may wish to complete alongside your insurance claim. This gives you the flexibility to address everything at once while our team is already working in your home or business, saving time and reducing disruptions.

What is a cashout in an insurance claim?

Some insurance providers may offer a cashout option to their clients. A cashout is when your insurance company pays funds directly to you, allowing you to manage the repair process independently without using a preferred restoration contractor.

If you receive a cashout, Priority Restoration can still provide mitigation and full repair services on a private basis. In some cases, only part of a claim may be cashed out — for example, if a homeowner wants to use their own vendor for certain work or complete some repairs themselves.

We are happy to work with you in these situations; however, please note that any portion of work not completed by Priority Restoration or our approved vendors will not be covered under our workmanship warranty.

What is a deductible?

A deductible is the portion of your insurance claim that is not covered by your policy and must be paid out-of-pocket by you as the policyholder. In other words, it’s the amount you are responsible for before your insurance coverage applies to the rest of the claim.

The amount of your deductible is set by your policy and will be confirmed by your insurance adjuster.

Who do I pay my deductible to?

In most cases, your deductible is paid directly to Priority Restoration if we are performing the restoration services. The deductible amount is then subtracted from the invoice we submit to your insurance company.

Always confirm the deductible amount with your insurance adjuster so you know exactly what to expect before your claim is finalized.

Material Selections, Permits & Upgrades

What kind of material selections will I be required to make?

During the reconstruction phase, you will be asked to select materials such as flooring, paint, cabinetry, countertops, and tile. The earlier these selections are made, the smoother the process will be, since certain products — such as flooring — can take up to six weeks for delivery.

Specialty or custom items may take even longer, so making timely decisions helps keep your restoration project on schedule and prevents unnecessary delays. Your Project Coordinator will guide you through the selection process to ensure everything is ordered and ready when construction begins.

What is a construction permit, and how do I know if I need one?

A construction permit (also called a building permit) is official approval from your city or municipality that allows you to begin a construction, renovation, or repair project. Permits ensure the work complies with local building codes and safety standards.

Whether you need a permit depends on the type of work being done. Major projects such as structural changes, electrical or plumbing work, additions, or large-scale renovations usually require a permit. Smaller cosmetic updates — like painting, replacing flooring, or installing cabinets — typically do not.

At Priority Restoration, we will handle applying for any required permits on your behalf. In some cases, the municipality may require your signature as the homeowner or property owner before issuing the permit. Your Project Manager will guide you through this process to ensure all approvals are in place.

What if I want to do some upgrades or renovations to my home or business during my Insurance claim?

Yes, you can request upgrades or additional renovations during your insurance claim. Our team will work with you to establish a budget and clear goals for any upgrades to your home or business.

Keep in mind that insurance only covers the replacement of materials with like kind and quality. You will be responsible for paying the difference in cost for upgraded or premium selections. For private work, a 50% deposit is required before repairs can begin, based on the agreed-upon estimate.

Please note that additional upgrades are subject to material availability and our team’s scheduling capacity. Your Project Manager can guide you through the options to help you make the best decision.

Am I allowed to reallocate parts of my budget to other non-claim-related repairs?

Your insurance company approves repairs only for the areas of your home or business that were damaged in the claim. Priority Restoration’s responsibility is to restore your property to its pre-loss condition by following the approved scope of work.

If you would like to reallocate part of your budget or make changes outside of the approved scope, these requests must be submitted to your insurance adjuster for consideration. In some cases, you may also choose to complete non-claim-related repairs or upgrades privately, in which case our team can provide a separate estimate.

Environmental Hazards:

What happens if mould or asbestos is found in my home?

Priority Restoration is an industry leader in mould remediation and asbestos abatement for residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional clients. Our specially trained Project Managers understand the risks associated with hazardous materials and will work with you to develop a safe, customized remediation plan for your property.

We also coordinate with your insurance provider to determine coverage, as not all mould or asbestos removal may be included under every policy. Regardless of coverage, our team ensures that all remediation work is performed to the highest standards of safety, compliance, and quality.

Why are asbestos samples being taken in my home?

If your home or business was built before 1990, asbestos testing is legally required before certain building materials can be disturbed during restoration or renovation. Common materials that may contain asbestos include drywall compound, flooring, insulation, ceiling texture, and pipe wrap.

Taking samples ensures that any work is completed safely and in compliance with provincial regulations. If asbestos is found, it must be properly removed by trained professionals before repairs can continue.

Priority Restoration is certified in asbestos handling and abatement, and our team will guide you through the process to ensure your property is restored safely and according to all health and safety standards.

We also coordinate with your insurance provider to determine coverage, as not all mould or asbestos removal may be included under every policy. Regardless of coverage, our team ensures that all remediation work is performed to the highest standards of safety, compliance, and quality.

My house was built before 1990, but I’ve since renovated it. Why are asbestos samples still being taken?

Even if your home has been renovated, asbestos testing is still required unless you can provide clear documentation showing when the renovations were completed and that all original asbestos-containing materials were removed.

This is because many renovations involve painting over existing drywall, installing new flooring over old flooring, or leaving some original materials in place. Without verified testing records, there is no way to confirm whether asbestos may still be present in concealed layers of your home.

By law, restoration contractors must take samples in any home built before 1990 to ensure safety and compliance. Priority Restoration follows all provincial health and safety regulations to protect you, your family, and our workers.

What is a biohazard?

A biological hazard (biohazard) is any biological substance that may pose a threat to human health. Examples of biohazardous materials include blood, bodily fluids, animal waste, and other potentially infectious substances.

Priority Restoration provides biohazard cleanup services to ensure that hazardous materials are removed safely, following strict health and safety regulations.

What can I do if my home or business has been exposed to a biohazard?

If your property has been exposed to blood, bodily fluids, or other biohazardous materials, it’s important not to attempt cleanup on your own. Improper handling can create serious health and safety risks.

Priority Restoration’s team of trained and compassionate biohazard technicians will assess the affected areas, disinfect surfaces, and safely remove and dispose of hazardous materials in compliance with health regulations. Our professional biohazard cleanup services ensure your home or business is restored to a safe and habitable condition.

What is environmental testing?

Environmental testing involves inspecting your property for substances that may impact health or safety, such as mould, asbestos, lead, or other hazardous contaminants. Testing identifies potential issues so they can be safely managed or removed during restoration work.

If your home was built before 1990, we are legally required to take asbestos samples of any affected materials scheduled for removal. A trained specialist will carefully collect samples, document where they were taken from, and send them to an accredited lab for analysis.

Your Project Manager will review the lab results with you and explain any additional precautions required if materials test positive for asbestos. Don’t worry — asbestos is not harmful when left undisturbed. If there are safety concerns, we will notify you immediately. In some cases, mitigation work may be delayed until results are received and your adjuster provides the necessary approvals.

Communication, Completion & Follow Up

How quickly will you respond if I contact you during my claim?

During your claim, your Project Manager and Project Coordinator are committed to clear and timely communication. We aim to return your calls and emails within one business day to keep you updated and ensure your questions are answered promptly.

What can I do if I need to escalate an issue or concern?

At Priority Restoration, our goal is to provide every client with a 10/10 customer experience. If you feel your concerns are not being addressed, you can escalate the issue directly to our Customer Service Manager by emailing customerservice@priorityrestoration.com or calling 204-786-3344.

Your feedback helps us improve, and we are committed to resolving issues quickly and fairly.

Why are there so many people working on my project?

Insurance restoration projects are often complex and require a team of specialized professionals to ensure your home or business is restored to the highest standards. Depending on the stage of your project, you may see:

  • Project Managers overseeing your claim and guiding communication
  • Project Coordinators managing scheduling, documentation, and client updates during the rebuild
  • Site Supervisors coordinating on-site work
  • Restoration Technicians handling water extraction, drying, and cleaning
  • Carpenters and skilled trades completing reconstruction
  • Subcontractors brought in for specialized services such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC

While many people may be involved, your primary point of contact will change depending on the stage of your project:

  • During the initial emergency response, you will work directly with your Project Manager.
  • During the rebuild and reconstruction phase, your Project Coordinator will be your main contact, ensuring timelines, trades, and communication are managed smoothly.

What is a certificate of completion?

Once all repairs are finished, we’ll ask you to sign a Certificate of Completion. This document confirms to your insurance company that the restoration work is complete and that you are satisfied with the results.

If anything does not meet your expectations, we encourage you to let us know right away. The sooner we’re made aware, the quicker we can address concerns and make things right before finalizing the claim.

Does Priority Restoration offer a warranty on repairs?

Yes. Priority Restoration provides a one-year warranty on workmanship starting from the date your claim is completed. This warranty covers the quality of our repair work but does not apply to conditions caused by normal wear and tear.

In some cases, your insurance company may offer an extended warranty period when you use an approved contractor like Priority Restoration. Your insurance adjuster can confirm if an extended warranty timeline applies to your policy.

Will I be asked to provide any feedback at the end of my claim?

Yes. During your claim, we will send you short customer satisfaction surveys at key stages of the project. These surveys help confirm that we are meeting expectations, staying on track, and addressing any concerns promptly.

Your feedback is valuable — it allows us to continuously improve our services and deliver the best possible restoration experience for every client.