Pet Health
Equine Veterinarians Warn of Mold-Related Respiratory Disease in Horses Stabled in Flood-Damaged Facilities
James Ortega··3 min read·Source: American Association of Equine Practitioners
Storm
More Developing
Pet Health
Equine Veterinarians Warn of Mold-Related Respiratory Disease in Horses Stabled in Flood-Damaged Facilities
James Ortega·
Pet Health
Pet Birds: The Canaries in the Coal Mine for Indoor Mold Contamination
Dr. Patricia Wade·
Workforce
Community Colleges and Trade Schools Are Adding Restoration Programs to Meet Surging Demand
Sarah Chen·
Latest News
View All →Pet Health
Pet Birds: The Canaries in the Coal Mine for Indoor Mold Contamination
Avian veterinarians document a pattern of respiratory distress and sudden death in pet birds that precedes mold-related illness in human occupants, reviving the historical canary-in-the-coal-mine dynamic in a modern household context.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read· Association of Avian Veterinarians
Workforce
Community Colleges and Trade Schools Are Adding Restoration Programs to Meet Surging Demand
Driven by disaster frequency and the AI-to-trades career shift, community colleges in disaster-prone states are launching dedicated water, mold, and fire restoration programs for the first time.
Sarah Chen··3 min read· NCES Career and Technical Education Data
Pet Health
Veterinarians Urge Homeowners: Sick Pets May Be Your First Warning of Hidden Mold
Because pets spend more time at floor level and have faster respiratory rates than humans, they often develop mold-related symptoms weeks or months before human family members — making them a critical early warning system for hidden contamination.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read· AVMA
Pet Health
ASPCA Releases Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Pets from Indoor Mold Exposure
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has published its most comprehensive guidance to date on protecting companion animals from indoor mold, covering recognition, emergency response, and long-term prevention.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· ASPCA
More StoriesView Archive →
Workforce
Restoration Firms Report Severe Technician Shortage as Demand Outpaces Available Workforce
A new RIA survey finds that 74 percent of restoration contractors cite workforce shortage as their top operational challenge, with certified technician positions taking an average of 47 days to fill.
· 3 min · RIA 2026 Workforce Survey
Workforce
Military Veterans Are Finding a Natural Home in Restoration — and the GI Bill Pays for the Training
Discipline, physical fitness, team-based work, and structured procedures make restoration a strong fit for military veterans. VA GI Bill benefits cover IICRC certification programs at approved providers.
· 3 min · VA GI Bill
Pet Health
Cats in Water-Damaged Homes at Elevated Risk for Aspergillosis, Veterinary Study Finds
A veterinary study tracking feline respiratory disease across 400 households finds that cats in water-damaged homes are six times more likely to develop aspergillosis — a potentially fatal fungal infection — than cats in unaffected homes.
· 3 min · Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
Workforce
Restoration Firms Report Severe Technician Shortage as Demand Outpaces Available Workforce
A new RIA survey finds that 74 percent of restoration contractors cite workforce shortage as their top operational challenge, with certified technician positions taking an average of 47 days to fill.
· 3 min · RIA 2026 Workforce Survey
Workforce
The IICRC Certification Ladder: How to Build a Six-Figure Restoration Career from Zero
From a two-day WRT course to master-level credentials, the IICRC certification system offers one of the clearest career ladders in any trade — and restoration technicians with full cert stacks are commanding premium wages.
· 3 min · IICRC Certification Directory
Workforce
State-by-State: What Restoration Contractors Need to Know About Licensing Requirements in 2026
Licensing requirements for water, mold, and fire restoration contractors vary dramatically by state — from strict licensure with exam requirements to virtually no oversight.
· 3 min · Florida DBPR
Pet Health
Mycotoxin Exposure Linked to Kidney and Liver Toxicity in Companion Animals
Veterinary toxicologists document a pattern of unexplained kidney and liver disease in companion animals that resolves or stabilizes following removal from mold-contaminated environments, pointing to mycotoxin exposure as an underrecognized cause of organ damage.
· 3 min · American Board of Veterinary Toxicology
Workforce
AI Job Displacement Is Driving a Historic Surge in Trade School Enrollment — and Restoration Is Benefiting
As artificial intelligence eliminates white-collar roles at an accelerating pace, enrollment in skilled trades programs has jumped 22 percent in two years, with restoration and remediation certifications among the fastest-growing pathways.
· 3 min · NCES Vocational Enrollment Data 2025
Pet Health
FDA Issues Warning on Mycotoxin Contamination in Grain-Based Pet Foods
The FDA has issued a safety advisory warning pet owners about elevated mycotoxin levels detected in several grain-based dry pet food products, adding a dietary exposure pathway to the environmental mold risks already facing companion animals.
· 3 min · FDA Safety Advisory
Pet Health
Unexplained Behavioral Changes in Pets May Signal Mold-Related Neurological Effects
Veterinary behaviorists are identifying a pattern of anxiety, aggression, and cognitive dysfunction in pets living in mold-contaminated homes, consistent with the neurological effects of mycotoxin exposure documented in human health research.
· 3 min · American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
Pet Health
AVMA Issues Guidance on Recognizing Mold Illness in Dogs After Rise in Reported Cases
The American Veterinary Medical Association has issued new clinical guidance for veterinarians on diagnosing mold-related illness in dogs, citing a 40 percent increase in reported cases coinciding with rising water damage incidents nationwide.
· 3 min · AVMA Clinical Guidance
Workforce
Restoration Firms Are Building Formal Apprenticeship Programs to Solve the Talent Pipeline Problem
Leading restoration contractors are moving beyond informal on-the-job training to structured apprenticeship programs that combine IICRC certification and progressive field experience.
· 3 min · DOL Registered Apprenticeship Program
Pet Health
Veterinary Dermatologists Link Chronic Skin Conditions in Pets to Indoor Mold Exposure
A growing number of veterinary dermatologists are identifying indoor mold exposure as an underlying trigger for treatment-resistant skin conditions in dogs and cats, including chronic pruritus, hot spots, and recurrent fungal skin infections.
· 3 min · American College of Veterinary Dermatology
Industry
U.S. Restoration Industry Projected to Reach $100 Billion by 2028 as Disaster Frequency Accelerates
A new market analysis projects that the U.S. property damage restoration industry will grow from $82 billion in 2025 to $100 billion by 2028, driven by increasing disaster frequency, aging housing stock, and expanding service lines.
· 3 min · IBISWorld
Industry
AI-Powered Estimating Tools Are Reshaping How Restoration Contractors Price and Scope Jobs
Artificial intelligence tools that analyze photos and drone imagery to generate preliminary damage estimates are being adopted rapidly across the restoration industry, with early adopters reporting significant reductions in estimating time and improved accuracy.
· 3 min · R&R Magazine
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StormBreaking
NOAA Forecasts Above-Normal 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season With Up to 25 Named Storms
4d ago
StormBreaking
Flash Flood Emergency Declared in Texas Hill Country as Rivers Crest at Record Levels
5d ago
Human Health
The Physician Gap: Why Most Doctors Cannot Diagnose — or Treat — Mold Illness
Apr 1, 2026
Industry
Sustainability Is Becoming a Core Business Strategy for Leading Restoration Companies
4d ago
Insurance
Homeowner Insurance Premiums Rise 18 Percent on Average in 2026 as Carriers Respond to Catastrophe Losses
4d ago
Human Health
Heat Stress Prevention for Restoration Workers: OSHA Guidelines for Summer 2026
4d ago
Pet Health
ASPCA Releases Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Pets from Indoor Mold Exposure
4d ago
Products
Restoration CRM Software Comparison 2026: Jonas, Restoration Manager, and ServiceTitan
5d ago
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Subscribe Free →Legislation, Standards & Industry Data
Industry at a Glance2026
$210B
U.S. Market Size
Restoration & remediation (2026)
85,000+
Active Contractors
Licensed U.S. restoration firms
68
FEMA Declarations
Major disasters declared in 2025
88%
AI Adoption Rate
Firms using AI tools in 2026
47 days
Avg. Claim Cycle
Water damage claim to close
28,000
Workforce Gap
Unfilled technician jobs (2026)
Sources: IBISWorld 2026, RIA Industry Survey, Cleanfax Annual Report, FEMA OpenFEMA, R&R Magazine.
Partner Content
Sponsored by RNN PartnersIndustry
Why IICRC Certification Is the Single Best Investment a Restoration Contractor Can Make in 2026
With insurance carriers, property managers, and federal agencies increasingly requiring certified technicians, IICRC credentials have become a non-negotiable competitive advantage.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· IICRC
Industry
Job Management Software Is Becoming as Essential as Drying Equipment for Modern Restoration Firms
From estimate-to-invoice workflow automation to real-time moisture log integration, purpose-built restoration CRM platforms are separating high-growth firms from those struggling to scale.
Sarah Chen··3 min read· Restoration & Remediation Magazine
Industry
Heat Drying Technology Is Cutting Structural Drying Times by Up to 40 Percent, Contractors Report
Low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers paired with heat injection systems are transforming how restoration contractors approach large-loss structural drying — reducing job cycle times and improving documentation.
James Ortega··3 min read· R&R Magazine
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Flood, mold, fire, and water damage guides. Know your rights. Protect your claim.
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Contractor Intel
IICRC standards, state licensing, cost benchmarks, and industry news for restoration pros.
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Policy & Legislation
Track the MOLD Act, military housing standards, and federal disaster policy updates.
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Workforce & Careers
AI is displacing white-collar jobs. Restoration offers skilled, hands-on work that pays well and cannot be automated.
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Community Spotlight
Contractors, nonprofits, and products making a difference🏆Community Hero
Armored Roofing & Construction · Tampa Bay, FL
Donated Full Roof Replacement for Disabled Veteran
Armored Roofing donated a complete roof replacement — materials and labor — to a disabled Army veteran in Hillsborough County whose home sustained Category 3 hurricane damage. The project was completed in two days at no cost to the family.
Read more →
🛡️Advocacy
Military Family Advisory Network · National
Documenting Mold Complaints in 47,000+ Military Homes
MFAN has collected and published the most comprehensive dataset on mold complaints in privatized military housing, directly informing the MOLD Act legislation and DoD Inspector General investigations.
Read more →
📋Standard
IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation · Industry Standard
AMRT Certification Sets the Gold Standard for Mold Remediation
The IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) certification is the most rigorous professional credential in mold remediation. Consumers should verify AMRT certification before hiring any contractor for mold work.
Read more →
Storm12 stories
All Storm →Storm
NOAA Storm Prediction Center
RNN
Storm
Multi-Day Tornado Outbreak Across Midwest Leaves Trail of Structural Damage in Five States
A series of supercell thunderstorms produced more than 60 confirmed tornadoes across Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas, and Iowa over a 72-hour period, triggering FEMA preliminary damage assessments.
James Ortega··3 min read·Source: NOAA Storm Prediction Center
Storm
Flash Flood Emergency Declared in Texas Hill Country as Rivers Crest at Record Levels
Rapidly rising floodwaters in the Guadalupe and Blanco River basins prompted emergency declarations in six counties, with water rescue operations ongoing and hundreds of structures inundated.
· 3 min · Texas Division of Emergency Management
Storm
NOAA Forecasts Above-Normal 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season With Up to 25 Named Storms
Federal forecasters are warning coastal residents and restoration professionals to prepare for an exceptionally active hurricane season, driven by record warm Atlantic sea surface temperatures and a neutral ENSO pattern.
· 3 min · NOAA
Storm
Derecho Cuts 800-Mile Path Across Midwest, Generating $2.1 Billion in Insured Losses
A powerful derecho in March 2026 produced widespread straight-line wind damage across eight states from Nebraska to Ohio, generating an estimated $2.1 billion in insured losses and leaving more than 500,000 customers without power.
· 3 min · NWS
Storm
Flood Insurance Gap Leaves Coastal Communities Vulnerable as Storm Season Approaches
A new study finds that only 30 percent of flood-prone homes in the United States carry flood insurance, leaving a massive protection gap that forces homeowners to rely on disaster assistance or personal savings after a flood event.
· 3 min · First Street Foundation
Storm
Storm Damage Documentation Best Practices: What Contractors and Homeowners Need to Know
Proper documentation of storm damage in the first hours after an event is critical to a successful insurance claim. Restoration contractors and homeowners share responsibility for creating a complete, accurate record.
· 3 min · IICRC S500
Storm
Texas Hailstorm Season Generates Record $4.2 Billion in Insurance Claims Through March 2026
Texas has experienced an unusually active hailstorm season in the first quarter of 2026, generating an estimated $4.2 billion in insured losses — the highest first-quarter total on record, according to the Insurance Council of Texas.
· 3 min · Insurance Council of Texas
Storm
Atmospheric River Brings Record Rainfall to California, Triggering Widespread Flooding and Mudslides
A powerful atmospheric river event in February 2026 delivered record rainfall across Northern and Central California, triggering widespread flooding, mudslides, and evacuations affecting more than 200,000 residents.
· 3 min · NWS
Storm
Storm Surge Remains the Deadliest Hurricane Hazard — and the Most Misunderstood
Storm surge — the abnormal rise in sea level caused by a hurricane's winds and low pressure — kills more people than any other hurricane hazard, yet surveys show that many coastal residents underestimate the risk.
· 3 min · NHC
Storm
NOAA Forecasts Above-Normal 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season with 18 to 24 Named Storms
NOAA's May 2026 seasonal outlook projects an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season, with 18 to 24 named storms, 8 to 12 hurricanes, and 4 to 6 major hurricanes — driven by record warm Atlantic sea surface temperatures.
Sarah Chen··3 min read· NOAA
Storm
Hurricane Preparedness Week 2026: What Homeowners and Contractors Need to Do Now
With an above-normal hurricane season forecast, FEMA and the National Hurricane Center are urging homeowners and businesses to complete their preparedness planning during National Hurricane Preparedness Week, May 4-10.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· FEMA
Storm
Ice Storm Paralyzes Northeast, Causing Widespread Roof Collapses and Pipe Bursts
A major ice storm in January 2026 deposited up to two inches of ice on structures across the Northeast, causing roof collapses, pipe bursts, and power outages that generated an estimated $1.8 billion in insured losses.
James Ortega··3 min read· NWS
Water12 stories
All Water →Water
RNN
Water
IICRC S500 Seventh Edition Introduces New Requirements for Category 3 Water Damage Documentation
The updated ANSI/IICRC S500 standard, published in January 2026, expands documentation requirements for Category 3 (grossly contaminated) water losses and introduces new guidance on emerging contaminants.
RNN News Desk··3 min read·Source: IICRC
Water
Millions of Homeowners Lack Coverage for Sewer Backup Damage — A Gap That Costs an Average of $11,000
Standard homeowners insurance policies typically exclude sewer backup and drain overflow damage, leaving millions of policyholders exposed to one of the most common and costly water damage scenarios.
· 3 min · Insurance Information Institute
Water
Thermal Imaging and Moisture Mapping: How Advanced Diagnostics Are Changing Water Damage Restoration
Infrared thermal imaging cameras and advanced moisture meters are enabling restoration contractors to detect hidden water intrusion, document damage extent, and optimize drying plans with unprecedented precision.
· 3 min · IICRC S500
Water
Water Damage Insurance Claims: Documentation Best Practices to Avoid Disputes
Thorough documentation of water damage — from the initial emergency response through the completion of drying — is the most effective way to avoid insurance claim disputes and ensure fair payment for restoration work.
· 3 min · IICRC S500
Water
Sewage Backup Remediation: Safety Protocols and Restoration Procedures
Sewage backups are Category 3 water damage events that require strict safety protocols to protect workers and occupants from exposure to pathogens, heavy metals, and toxic gases. Here is the proper remediation procedure.
· 3 min · IICRC S500
Water
Hidden Moisture: How to Find Water Damage That Isn't Visible to the Naked Eye
Much of the most serious water damage in buildings is hidden behind walls, under floors, and above ceilings. Here is how restoration professionals use moisture meters, thermal imaging, and other tools to find it.
· 3 min · IICRC S500
Water
Drying Goals and Standards: When Is a Water-Damaged Structure Truly Dry?
Determining when a water-damaged structure has been adequately dried is one of the most important — and most disputed — questions in water damage restoration. Here is how the IICRC S500 standard defines drying goals.
· 3 min · IICRC S500
Water
Water Damage Reconstruction Timeline: From Emergency Response to Move-In
A typical residential water damage restoration project takes 2 to 8 weeks from the initial water event to move-in, depending on the extent of damage and the efficiency of the insurance claims process.
· 3 min · IICRC S500
Water
The Science of Structural Drying: Psychrometrics for Restoration Professionals
Understanding psychrometrics — the science of air and its relationship to moisture — is fundamental to effective structural drying. Here is a practical overview of the key concepts that drive drying performance.
· 3 min · IICRC S500
Water
The 24-48 Hour Window: Why Rapid Response to Water Damage Prevents Mold
Mold can begin to grow on wet building materials within 24 to 48 hours under the right conditions. Rapid response to water damage — beginning mitigation within hours of the event — is the most effective way to prevent mold growth.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read· EPA
Water
Building Envelope Failures: The Most Common Sources of Water Intrusion in Commercial Buildings
Water intrusion through the building envelope — including roofs, walls, windows, and foundations — is the leading cause of water damage in commercial buildings. Here are the most common failure points and how to address them.
Sarah Chen··3 min read· Insurance Information Institute
Water
Pipe Burst Prevention: How to Protect Your Home's Plumbing During Extreme Cold
Frozen and burst pipes are among the most common and costly winter water damage events. Here is a comprehensive guide to protecting your home's plumbing system during extreme cold weather.
James Ortega··3 min read· American Red Cross
Fire12 stories
All Fire →
California Building Standards Commission
Fire
California Mandates Fire-Resistant Construction for Wildfire Rebuilding in High-Hazard Zones
New California building code amendments effective January 2026 require Class A fire-rated roofing, ember-resistant vents, and non-combustible exterior cladding for all structures rebuilt in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
Marcus Bell··3 min read·Source: California Building Standards Commission
Fire
Ozone vs. Hydroxyl: What the Science Says About Smoke Odor Remediation Technology in 2026
Both ozone generators and hydroxyl radical systems are widely used for smoke odor remediation, but their mechanisms, effectiveness, and safety profiles differ significantly — and the choice matters.
· 3 min · IICRC
Fire
Wildfire Smoke and Indoor Air Quality: HEPA Filtration Reduces Particulate Exposure by Up to 90 Percent
As wildfire smoke events become more frequent and longer-lasting, EPA and CDC guidance emphasizes HEPA air filtration as the most effective intervention for reducing indoor particulate matter exposure.
· 3 min · EPA
Fire
Contents Restoration After Fire: What Can Be Saved and What Must Be Discarded
Contents restoration — cleaning and restoring personal property damaged by fire, smoke, and soot — is a specialized discipline that can save homeowners tens of thousands of dollars compared to replacement. Here is what can and cannot be restored.
· 3 min · IICRC
Fire
Arson Investigations and Restoration: What Contractors Need to Know Before Starting Work
When a fire is under investigation for potential arson, restoration contractors must navigate a complex legal landscape to avoid disturbing evidence, protect themselves from liability, and ensure that their work does not compromise the investigation.
· 3 min · NFPA 921
Fire
Fire Soot and Char: The Hidden Health Risks That Persist Long After the Flames Are Out
Fire soot contains a complex mixture of toxic compounds — including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and fine particles — that pose significant health risks to occupants and restoration workers long after a fire is extinguished.
· 3 min · OSHA
Fire
California Wildfire Insurance Crisis Deepens as More Carriers Exit the Market
Several major insurance carriers have announced additional market withdrawals or coverage restrictions in California in early 2026, deepening a crisis that is leaving homeowners in fire-prone areas without affordable coverage options.
· 3 min · California Department of Insurance
Fire
Fire Restoration Timeline: What to Expect from Day One to Move-In
A typical residential fire restoration project takes 3 to 12 months from the date of the fire to move-in, depending on the extent of damage. Here is a week-by-week guide to the restoration process.
· 3 min · IICRC
Fire
Fire Insurance Claims: 10 Steps to Maximize Your Recovery After a House Fire
Navigating a fire insurance claim is complex and stressful. Here are 10 steps that homeowners can take to maximize their recovery and avoid common mistakes that lead to underpayment.
· 3 min · Insurance Information Institute
Fire
Residential Fire Sprinklers Reduce Home Fire Deaths by 80 Percent — Yet Adoption Remains Low
Residential fire sprinkler systems are the most effective technology for preventing fire deaths and limiting fire damage, but adoption rates remain low due to cost concerns and opposition from homebuilders.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· NFPA
Fire
Structural Assessment After Fire: How Engineers and Contractors Determine What Can Be Saved
Determining which structural elements of a fire-damaged building can be safely retained versus which must be demolished requires a systematic assessment process involving both structural engineers and restoration contractors.
James Ortega··3 min read· AISC
Fire
Fire and Smoke Odor Remediation: A Technical Guide for Restoration Professionals
Smoke odor is one of the most challenging problems in fire restoration, requiring a systematic approach that addresses both the source of the odor and its penetration into porous materials. Here is the current best-practice methodology.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· IICRC S770
Mold12 stories
All Mold →Mold
RNN
Mold
CDC Report Quantifies Mold Exposure as a Leading Driver of Preventable Respiratory Disease in the U.S.
A new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analysis estimates that indoor mold exposure contributes to 4.6 million cases of asthma annually and costs the U.S. healthcare system $3.5 billion per year.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read·Source: CDC
Mold
Stachybotrys Chartarum: What Restoration Professionals Need to Know About Black Mold in 2026
Despite widespread public fear, Stachybotrys chartarum is less common than many homeowners believe — but when it is present, proper identification, containment, and remediation protocols are critical.
· 3 min · IICRC S520
Mold
How Fast Does Mold Grow After a Hurricane? The 24-to-48-Hour Window That Defines Remediation Outcomes
Mold can begin colonizing wet building materials within 24 to 48 hours of a flooding event. Understanding the growth timeline is essential for contractors, adjusters, and homeowners making post-storm decisions.
· 3 min · IICRC S500
Mold
Mold Remediation Cost Guide 2026: What Homeowners Should Expect to Pay
The cost of professional mold remediation varies widely depending on the extent of growth, the affected materials, and the region. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of typical costs for 2026.
· 3 min · IICRC S520 Standard
Mold
Mold Testing Guide 2026: When to Test, What Tests to Use, and How to Interpret Results
Mold testing is a valuable tool for assessing indoor air quality and verifying remediation effectiveness, but it must be performed correctly and interpreted in context to provide meaningful information.
· 3 min · IICRC S520
Mold
Mold Insurance Coverage Disputes Rise as Carriers Tighten Exclusions
Insurance carriers are increasingly invoking mold exclusions to deny or limit coverage for mold damage claims, generating a growing number of coverage disputes that restoration contractors and homeowners must navigate.
· 3 min · NAIC
Mold
Mold Prevention in New Construction: Building Science Best Practices for 2026
New construction that incorporates building science best practices for moisture management can significantly reduce the risk of mold growth over the life of the building. Here is what builders, contractors, and buyers should know.
· 3 min · Building Science Corporation
Mold
Mold in HVAC Systems: Detection, Remediation, and Prevention
Mold growth in HVAC systems can distribute spores throughout an entire building, making HVAC mold one of the most serious and costly forms of indoor mold contamination. Here is how to detect, remediate, and prevent it.
· 3 min · NADCA
Mold
IICRC S520 Standard: A Practical Guide for Restoration Contractors and Property Owners
The IICRC S520 Standard for Professional Mold Remediation is the industry's primary reference document for mold assessment and remediation. Here is what contractors and property owners need to know about its key requirements.
· 3 min · IICRC S520 Standard
Mold
Black Mold Facts vs. Myths: What the Science Actually Says About Stachybotrys
Stachybotrys chartarum — commonly called black mold — has been the subject of widespread fear and misinformation. Here is what the scientific evidence actually shows about its health effects and how to address it.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read· CDC
Mold
Crawl Space Encapsulation Reduces Mold Risk and Improves Energy Efficiency
Crawl space encapsulation — sealing the crawl space with a vapor barrier and conditioning the air — is one of the most effective long-term strategies for preventing mold growth and improving indoor air quality in homes with vented crawl spaces.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read· Building Science Corporation
Mold
Commercial Property Owners Face Increasing Mold Liability as Tenant Awareness Grows
Commercial property owners are facing a growing number of mold-related lawsuits from tenants, as awareness of mold's health effects increases and courts increasingly hold landlords liable for failing to maintain mold-free conditions.
Marcus Bell··3 min read· NAIOP
Insurance12 stories
All Insurance →Insurance
Florida Office of Insurance Regulation
RNN
Insurance
Florida Insurance Market Shows Signs of Stabilization After Three Years of Crisis, Regulators Report
Florida's property insurance market is showing early signs of stabilization in 2026, with several new carriers entering the market and Citizens Property Insurance reducing its policy count for the first time since 2020.
Marcus Bell··3 min read·Source: Florida Office of Insurance Regulation
Insurance
Assignment of Benefits Reform: How 2023 Florida Law Is Reshaping Contractor-Carrier Relationships in 2026
Three years after Florida eliminated assignment of benefits for property insurance claims, restoration contractors are adapting to a new claims landscape that has reduced litigation but complicated payment collection.
· 3 min · Florida OIR
Insurance
Xactimate Price List Updates Are Lagging Behind Actual Restoration Costs, Contractors Warn
A growing chorus of restoration contractors is raising concerns that Verisk's Xactimate price lists are not keeping pace with actual labor and material costs, creating systematic underpayment in insurance claims.
· 3 min · Restoration Industry Association
Insurance
AI and Automation Are Transforming the Insurance Claims Process — for Better and Worse
Insurance carriers are deploying artificial intelligence and automation throughout the claims process, from first notice of loss to settlement. The technology is improving speed and efficiency but also raising concerns about fairness.
· 3 min · Insurance Information Institute
Insurance
Annual Insurance Coverage Review: A Checklist for Homeowners and Property Managers
An annual review of your property insurance coverage is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your financial security. Here is a comprehensive checklist to guide the review.
· 3 min · Insurance Information Institute
Insurance
Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Cost Value: Understanding Depreciation in Property Claims
The difference between actual cash value and replacement cost value coverage can mean tens of thousands of dollars in a property damage claim. Here is how depreciation is calculated and how to ensure you have adequate coverage.
· 3 min · Insurance Information Institute
Insurance
Public Adjusters: What They Do, What They Cost, and When to Hire One
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who represents policyholders — not insurance carriers — in the claims process. Here is a comprehensive guide to when hiring a public adjuster makes sense and what to expect.
· 3 min · NAPIA
Insurance
The Insurance Appraisal Process: How to Resolve Disputes When You and Your Carrier Disagree
When a homeowner and their insurance carrier cannot agree on the value of a claim, the appraisal process provides a structured mechanism for resolving the dispute without litigation. Here is how it works.
· 3 min · NAIC
Insurance
Supplementing Insurance Claims: How Restoration Contractors Can Recover Legitimate Additional Costs
Supplementing an insurance claim — requesting additional payment for costs not included in the initial estimate — is a legitimate and necessary part of the restoration process. Here is how to do it effectively.
· 3 min · Verisk
Insurance
NFIP vs. Private Flood Insurance: Which Is Right for Your Property?
The National Flood Insurance Program is no longer the only option for flood coverage. Private flood insurance has grown significantly and may offer better coverage, lower premiums, or higher limits for some properties.
Marcus Bell··3 min read· FEMA
Insurance
Florida AOB Reform Two Years Later: Has the Litigation Crisis Been Resolved?
Florida's 2023 assignment of benefits reform was intended to reduce the litigation that had been driving up homeowner insurance costs. Two years later, the results are mixed — some metrics have improved, but premiums remain elevated.
Marcus Bell··3 min read· Florida Department of Insurance
Insurance
Insurance Bad Faith: When Carriers Cross the Line and What Policyholders Can Do
Insurance bad faith occurs when a carrier unreasonably denies, delays, or underpays a valid claim. Here is what constitutes bad faith, how to document it, and what legal remedies are available to policyholders.
Marcus Bell··3 min read· NAIC
Human Health12 stories
All Human Health →Human Health
Toxicology Letters
RNN
Human Health
Researchers Identify Mold Exposure as Potential Trigger for Autoimmune Disease Onset
A growing body of peer-reviewed research suggests that chronic mycotoxin exposure can dysregulate the immune system in ways that trigger or accelerate autoimmune conditions including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read·Source: Toxicology Letters
Human Health
Mold-Related Illness Frequently Misdiagnosed as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia, Study Finds
A peer-reviewed study in Environmental Health Perspectives finds that up to 30 percent of patients diagnosed with CFS or fibromyalgia show evidence of prior water-damaged building exposure — and improve significantly after remediation.
· 3 min · Environmental Health Perspectives
Human Health
EPA Data Links Indoor Mold Exposure During Pregnancy to Adverse Birth Outcomes
Environmental Protection Agency researchers analyzing birth records and housing inspection data find that pregnant women in mold-contaminated homes face elevated rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, and gestational respiratory complications.
· 3 min · EPA Environmental Health Data
Human Health
Emerging Research Links Indoor Mold Exposure to Gut Microbiome Disruption and Digestive Disorders
Gastroenterologists and environmental health researchers are documenting a pattern of gut microbiome disruption in patients with chronic mold exposure, with implications for irritable bowel syndrome, leaky gut, and inflammatory bowel disease.
· 3 min · American Gastroenterological Association Annual Meeting
Human Health
Sick Building Syndrome Gains New Recognition as Legitimate Medical Diagnosis
After decades of skepticism, sick building syndrome — characterized by headaches, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms tied to specific buildings — is gaining formal recognition in medical literature, with mold and VOC exposure identified as primary drivers.
· 3 min · Annals of Internal Medicine
Human Health
Living in Mold-Contaminated Homes Doubles Risk of Depression and Anxiety, UK Study Finds
A large-scale UK study tracking 10,000 households over six years finds that occupants of mold-contaminated homes are twice as likely to develop clinically significant depression or anxiety — independent of housing quality and socioeconomic factors.
· 3 min · British Journal of Psychiatry
Human Health
NIH Study: Children in Mold-Contaminated Homes Face 3x Higher Asthma Hospitalization Rate
National Institutes of Health researchers tracking 2,800 pediatric patients over four years find that children in homes with visible mold or musty odors are hospitalized for asthma at three times the rate of peers in unaffected homes.
· 3 min · NIH
Human Health
CDC Report Links Mycotoxin Exposure to Measurable Neurological Damage in Adults
A new CDC environmental health advisory documents cognitive impairment, memory loss, and peripheral neuropathy in adults with prolonged indoor mold exposure — conditions previously dismissed as psychosomatic.
· 3 min · CDC Environmental Health Advisory
Human Health
Volatile Organic Compounds from Mold Growth Linked to Chronic Headaches and Dizziness
Indoor air quality researchers identify microbial VOCs produced by common household molds as a primary driver of unexplained chronic headaches and dizziness — symptoms that resolve after remediation in the majority of documented cases.
· 3 min · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Human Health
EPA Increases Enforcement of Lead Paint RRP Rule as Renovation Activity Surges in Older Housing Stock
The EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting rule requires certified contractors for work disturbing lead paint in pre-1978 homes, but enforcement has historically been lax. That is changing in 2026.
Marcus Bell··3 min read· EPA
Human Health
Post-Disaster Mental Health: Restoration Workers Face Elevated PTSD and Burnout Rates, Study Finds
A 2026 occupational health study finds that restoration workers who respond to large-scale disaster events show PTSD symptoms at rates comparable to first responders, highlighting a largely unaddressed mental health crisis in the industry.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read· Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
Human Health
OSHA Targets Silica Dust Exposure in Restoration Industry as Silicosis Cases Rise Among Younger Workers
OSHA's crystalline silica standard requires engineering controls, respiratory protection, and medical surveillance for workers exposed to silica dust during cutting, grinding, and demolition of concrete and masonry.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read· OSHA
Pet Health12 stories
All Pet Health →Pet Health
American Association of Equine Practitioners
RNN
Pet Health
Equine Veterinarians Warn of Mold-Related Respiratory Disease in Horses Stabled in Flood-Damaged Facilities
Following widespread flooding in the Southeast, equine veterinarians are reporting elevated cases of heaves and fungal pneumonia in horses stabled in flood-damaged barns, urging barn owners to prioritize remediation before restocking.
James Ortega··3 min read·Source: American Association of Equine Practitioners
Pet Health
Pet Birds: The Canaries in the Coal Mine for Indoor Mold Contamination
Avian veterinarians document a pattern of respiratory distress and sudden death in pet birds that precedes mold-related illness in human occupants, reviving the historical canary-in-the-coal-mine dynamic in a modern household context.
· 3 min · Association of Avian Veterinarians
Pet Health
Veterinarians Urge Homeowners: Sick Pets May Be Your First Warning of Hidden Mold
Because pets spend more time at floor level and have faster respiratory rates than humans, they often develop mold-related symptoms weeks or months before human family members — making them a critical early warning system for hidden contamination.
· 3 min · AVMA
Pet Health
ASPCA Releases Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Pets from Indoor Mold Exposure
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has published its most comprehensive guidance to date on protecting companion animals from indoor mold, covering recognition, emergency response, and long-term prevention.
· 3 min · ASPCA
Pet Health
Unexplained Behavioral Changes in Pets May Signal Mold-Related Neurological Effects
Veterinary behaviorists are identifying a pattern of anxiety, aggression, and cognitive dysfunction in pets living in mold-contaminated homes, consistent with the neurological effects of mycotoxin exposure documented in human health research.
· 3 min · American College of Veterinary Behaviorists
Pet Health
Mycotoxin Exposure Linked to Kidney and Liver Toxicity in Companion Animals
Veterinary toxicologists document a pattern of unexplained kidney and liver disease in companion animals that resolves or stabilizes following removal from mold-contaminated environments, pointing to mycotoxin exposure as an underrecognized cause of organ damage.
· 3 min · American Board of Veterinary Toxicology
Pet Health
AVMA Issues Guidance on Recognizing Mold Illness in Dogs After Rise in Reported Cases
The American Veterinary Medical Association has issued new clinical guidance for veterinarians on diagnosing mold-related illness in dogs, citing a 40 percent increase in reported cases coinciding with rising water damage incidents nationwide.
· 3 min · AVMA Clinical Guidance
Pet Health
Veterinary Dermatologists Link Chronic Skin Conditions in Pets to Indoor Mold Exposure
A growing number of veterinary dermatologists are identifying indoor mold exposure as an underlying trigger for treatment-resistant skin conditions in dogs and cats, including chronic pruritus, hot spots, and recurrent fungal skin infections.
· 3 min · American College of Veterinary Dermatology
Pet Health
FDA Issues Warning on Mycotoxin Contamination in Grain-Based Pet Foods
The FDA has issued a safety advisory warning pet owners about elevated mycotoxin levels detected in several grain-based dry pet food products, adding a dietary exposure pathway to the environmental mold risks already facing companion animals.
· 3 min · FDA Safety Advisory
Pet Health
Cats in Water-Damaged Homes at Elevated Risk for Aspergillosis, Veterinary Study Finds
A veterinary study tracking feline respiratory disease across 400 households finds that cats in water-damaged homes are six times more likely to develop aspergillosis — a potentially fatal fungal infection — than cats in unaffected homes.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read· Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery
Pet Health
Veterinarians Warn Pet Owners About Mold Exposure Symptoms After Flood Damage
Cats and dogs face elevated risk from mycotoxin inhalation in water-damaged homes. Vets urge owners to recognize early warning signs before chronic illness sets in.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read· AVMA
Pet Health
Lead Paint Dust From Renovation Work Poses Hidden Danger to Household Pets
Pets in homes undergoing lead paint remediation face ingestion risks that owners rarely consider. Veterinary toxicologists recommend strict containment protocols and temporary relocation.
Dr. Patricia Wade··3 min read· EPA
Veteran Health10 stories
All Veteran Health →
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Veteran Health
VA Expands Mold Remediation Benefits for Veterans in Flood-Damaged Homes
The Department of Veterans Affairs has broadened eligibility for home repair grants to include mold remediation costs for veterans whose homes sustained flood damage, citing growing health concerns.
RNN News Desk··1 min read·Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Veteran Health
IICRC Partners with DAV to Train Veterans as Certified Restoration Technicians
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification has launched a workforce initiative with Disabled American Veterans to provide free IICRC certification training for veterans transitioning to civilian careers.
· 1 min · IICRC
Veteran Health
Toxic Mold in VA Housing Facilities Prompts Congressional Hearing
House Veterans' Affairs Committee members called for emergency remediation funding after inspectors found widespread Stachybotrys mold contamination in three VA-operated transitional housing facilities.
· 1 min · House Veterans' Affairs Committee
Veteran Health
HUD and VA Joint Initiative Funds $180 Million for Veteran Housing Restoration
The HUD-VASH program secured $180 million in supplemental funding to restore and rehabilitate housing units for homeless veterans, with priority given to properties with water, fire, or mold damage.
· 1 min · U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Veteran Health
Study: Veterans Face Higher Risk of Respiratory Disease from Occupational Mold Exposure
A CDC-funded study of 12,000 veterans found that those with deployment-related respiratory conditions face a 3.2x higher risk of serious illness from residential mold exposure compared to the general population.
· 1 min · Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Veteran Health
VFW Launches Home Restoration Assistance Program for Disabled Veterans
The Veterans of Foreign Wars has partnered with regional restoration contractors to provide subsidized water damage and mold remediation services for disabled veterans who cannot afford commercial rates.
· 1 min · Veterans of Foreign Wars
Veteran Health
Military Times: Burn Pit Exposure Increases Mold Sensitivity in Veterans, Study Finds
A new study in the American Journal of Respiratory Medicine found that veterans exposed to open burn pits during deployment show significantly heightened immune responses to common indoor mold species.
· 1 min · Military Times
Veteran Health
Honoring sacrifice, connecting Veterans: CMV participates in Bataan Memorial Death March Marathon
VA's Center for Minority Veterans participated in the annual Bataan Memorial Death March Marathon at White Sands Missile Range, engaging directly with service members, Veterans and their families.
· 1 min · VA News
Veteran Health
Health concern? VA Health Connect nurses are available 24/7
VA Health Connect clinical triage assesses Veterans’ symptoms or health concerns by phone to determine urgency and recommend the right level of care.
· 1 min · VA News
Veteran Health
Veterans’ trust in VA hits record high: A promising trend for our heroes
Overall trust in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has reached an all-time high. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, 82% of Veterans who used VA services — including health care, benefits, burials and memorials — reported that they trust VA to fulfill the nation’s…
Catrenich Kristi··1 min read· VA News
Policy12 stories
All Policy →
Restoration Industry Association
Policy
Bipartisan Bill Would Create Interstate Contractor Licensing Reciprocity for Disaster Response
Legislation introduced in March 2026 would allow licensed contractors from any state to work in federally declared disaster areas without obtaining a separate license in the affected state, removing a major barrier to rapid disaster response.
Marcus Bell··3 min read·Source: Restoration Industry Association
Policy
FEMA BRIC Program Awards $2.3 Billion for Pre-Disaster Mitigation in 2026 Funding Cycle
FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program has awarded $2.3 billion to state and local governments for pre-disaster hazard mitigation projects, with a focus on flood control, wildfire risk reduction, and critical infrastructure hardening.
· 3 min · FEMA
Policy
Congress Reauthorizes National Flood Insurance Program Through 2031 With Risk Rating 2.0 Provisions
A bipartisan bill reauthorizing the NFIP for five years includes provisions codifying FEMA's Risk Rating 2.0 methodology and establishing a new affordability framework for low-income policyholders.
· 3 min · FEMA
Policy
The MOLD Act: Federal Legislation Targets Mold Crisis in Military Housing
The Military On-base Living Deficiencies (MOLD) Act, introduced in Congress in 2026, would require the Department of Defense to establish mold inspection and remediation standards for all military family housing and impose penalties on private housing contractors who fail to meet them.
· 3 min · Military Family Advisory Network
Policy
Climate Risk Disclosure Requirements for Property Insurance Are Coming — Here Is What to Expect
Federal and state regulators are developing new requirements for insurance carriers to disclose their climate-related financial risks and their exposure to catastrophe losses. Here is what the regulatory landscape looks like in 2026.
· 3 min · SEC
Policy
Restoration Contractor Licensing Reform: States Tighten Requirements After Disaster Fraud Surge
A surge in contractor fraud following major disasters in 2024 and 2025 has prompted several states to strengthen licensing requirements for restoration contractors, including new bonding, insurance, and background check requirements.
· 3 min · FTC
Policy
States Move to Strengthen Building Codes for Climate Resilience as Federal Standards Lag
Several states are adopting stronger building codes that require new construction to be more resilient to climate-related hazards — including flooding, wildfire, and extreme heat — as federal building code standards fail to keep pace with changing risk.
· 3 min · ICC
Policy
VA Strengthens Mold and Habitability Standards for VA-Backed Housing
The Department of Veterans Affairs has updated its minimum property requirements for VA-backed loans to include stronger mold and habitability standards, reflecting growing awareness of the health risks of mold exposure for veterans.
· 3 min · VA
Policy
OSHA Silica Rule Compliance: What Restoration Contractors Need to Know in 2026
OSHA's crystalline silica standard, which limits worker exposure to silica dust generated during construction and restoration activities, has been in effect since 2017 but enforcement has intensified in recent years.
· 3 min · OSHA
Policy
Federal Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs: A Guide for Homeowners and Contractors
FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program provide billions of dollars annually for projects that reduce the risk of future disaster damage. Here is how to access these funds.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· FEMA
Policy
FEMA Accelerates Flood Map Updates to Reflect Climate Change and Development Patterns
FEMA is accelerating its program to update the nation's flood maps, which are used to determine flood insurance requirements and building code standards, to better reflect current flood risk from climate change and changing development patterns.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· FEMA
Policy
EPA Strengthens Lead Paint Renovation Rule, Expanding Scope to More Restoration Projects
The EPA has proposed updates to its Lead Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule that would expand the rule's scope to cover more types of renovation and restoration work in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· EPA
Legislation12 stories
All Legislation →Legislation
Restoration Industry Association
RNN
Legislation
Bipartisan Bill Would Create Interstate Contractor Licensing Reciprocity for Disaster Response
Legislation introduced in March 2026 would allow licensed contractors from any state to work in federally declared disaster areas without obtaining a separate license in the affected state, removing a major barrier to rapid disaster response.
Marcus Bell··3 min read·Source: Restoration Industry Association
Legislation
New York Enacts Mandatory Mold Disclosure Law for Residential Property Sales
New York's new mold disclosure statute, effective March 2026, requires sellers of residential property to disclose known mold conditions and provide buyers with a state-approved mold information pamphlet.
· 3 min · New York State Legislature
Legislation
Six States Enact Anti-Storm-Chaser Legislation in 2026 to Protect Disaster Victims From Contractor Fraud
A wave of state legislation targeting predatory contractors who descend on disaster-affected communities is gaining momentum, with six states enacting new laws in 2026 that impose criminal penalties for contractor fraud following declared disasters.
· 3 min · Restoration Industry Association
Legislation
Federal Legislation Would Establish Mandatory Indoor Air Quality Standards for K-12 Schools
The Healthy Schools Act of 2026 would require all K-12 schools receiving federal funding to meet EPA indoor air quality standards, including mold assessment and remediation protocols, within five years.
· 3 min · GAO
Legislation
Congress Reauthorizes National Flood Insurance Program Through 2031 With Risk Rating 2.0 Provisions
A bipartisan bill reauthorizing the NFIP for five years includes provisions codifying FEMA's Risk Rating 2.0 methodology and establishing a new affordability framework for low-income policyholders.
· 3 min · FEMA
Legislation
FEMA BRIC Program Awards $2.3 Billion for Pre-Disaster Mitigation in 2026 Funding Cycle
FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program has awarded $2.3 billion to state and local governments for pre-disaster hazard mitigation projects, with a focus on flood control, wildfire risk reduction, and critical infrastructure hardening.
· 3 min · FEMA
Legislation
Federal Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs: A Guide for Homeowners and Contractors
FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program provide billions of dollars annually for projects that reduce the risk of future disaster damage. Here is how to access these funds.
· 3 min · FEMA
Legislation
NDAA 2026 Strengthens Military Housing Protections, Expands Tenant Rights
The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 includes significant new protections for military families living in privatized housing, building on reforms enacted in recent years to address the military housing crisis.
· 3 min · Congress.gov
Legislation
OSHA Silica Rule Compliance: What Restoration Contractors Need to Know in 2026
OSHA's crystalline silica standard, which limits worker exposure to silica dust generated during construction and restoration activities, has been in effect since 2017 but enforcement has intensified in recent years.
· 3 min · OSHA
Legislation
Climate Risk Disclosure Requirements for Property Insurance Are Coming — Here Is What to Expect
Federal and state regulators are developing new requirements for insurance carriers to disclose their climate-related financial risks and their exposure to catastrophe losses. Here is what the regulatory landscape looks like in 2026.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· SEC
Legislation
The MOLD Act: Federal Legislation Targets Mold Crisis in Military Housing
The Military On-base Living Deficiencies (MOLD) Act, introduced in Congress in 2026, would require the Department of Defense to establish mold inspection and remediation standards for all military family housing and impose penalties on private housing contractors who fail to meet them.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· Military Family Advisory Network
Legislation
VA Strengthens Mold and Habitability Standards for VA-Backed Housing
The Department of Veterans Affairs has updated its minimum property requirements for VA-backed loans to include stronger mold and habitability standards, reflecting growing awareness of the health risks of mold exposure for veterans.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· VA
Industry12 stories
All Industry →Industry
R&R Magazine
RNN
Industry
AI-Powered Estimating Tools Are Reshaping How Restoration Contractors Price and Scope Jobs
Artificial intelligence tools that analyze photos and drone imagery to generate preliminary damage estimates are being adopted rapidly across the restoration industry, with early adopters reporting significant reductions in estimating time and improved accuracy.
Sarah Chen··3 min read·Source: R&R Magazine
Industry
U.S. Restoration Industry Projected to Reach $100 Billion by 2028 as Disaster Frequency Accelerates
A new market analysis projects that the U.S. property damage restoration industry will grow from $82 billion in 2025 to $100 billion by 2028, driven by increasing disaster frequency, aging housing stock, and expanding service lines.
· 3 min · IBISWorld
Industry
Restoration Industry Faces Critical Workforce Shortage as Demand Surges and Technician Pipeline Lags
A 2026 industry survey finds that 73 percent of restoration firms report difficulty hiring qualified technicians, with the average open position taking 47 days to fill — a gap that is limiting industry capacity during peak demand periods.
· 3 min · Restoration Industry Association
Industry
Technology Adoption Separates High-Growth Restoration Companies from the Pack in 2026
A 2026 RIA survey finds that restoration companies that have invested in digital documentation, moisture mapping software, and AI estimating tools are growing revenue 2.5 times faster than those that have not.
· 3 min · RIA
Industry
Restoration Companies Adapt Business Models for a Climate-Changed Future
Leading restoration companies are repositioning as climate resilience advisers, offering pre-disaster mitigation services alongside traditional post-disaster restoration — a shift that is expanding their revenue base and deepening customer relationships.
· 3 min · FEMA
Industry
Commercial Restoration Market Grows as Property Managers Prioritize Rapid Response
The commercial restoration market is growing faster than the residential segment in 2026, driven by property managers' increasing demand for rapid response, documented protocols, and minimal business interruption.
· 3 min · IBISWorld
Industry
IICRC Water Restoration Technician Certification Demand Surges as Carriers Require Credentials
Enrollment in IICRC Water Restoration Technician courses increased 35 percent in 2025 as insurance carriers and property managers increasingly require WRT certification as a condition of preferred vendor status.
· 3 min · IICRC
Industry
Restoration Industry Addresses Mental Health Crisis Among Workers Exposed to Trauma
Restoration workers who regularly respond to catastrophic losses — including deaths, fires, and floods that destroy families' homes — face elevated rates of PTSD, depression, and burnout. Industry organizations are developing support resources.
· 3 min · RIA
Industry
Restoration Contractors Navigate Shifting Insurance Carrier Relationships in 2026
As insurance carriers tighten preferred vendor requirements and increase scrutiny of restoration invoices, contractors are adapting their business models to maintain carrier relationships while protecting their margins.
· 3 min · RIA
Industry
Restoration Industry Works to Improve Diversity as Workforce Demographics Shift
The restoration industry is working to improve diversity and inclusion as demographic shifts in the U.S. workforce create both an opportunity and an imperative to recruit from historically underrepresented communities.
Sarah Chen··3 min read· RIA
Industry
Restoration Industry Revenue to Exceed $210 Billion in 2026, Driven by Climate-Related Disasters
The U.S. restoration industry is projected to exceed $210 billion in revenue in 2026, according to IBISWorld, driven by an increase in climate-related disasters and aging housing stock that is more vulnerable to water and fire damage.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· IBISWorld
Industry
Hydroxyl Generators Enable Odor Treatment in Occupied Spaces — A Growing Alternative to Ozone
Hydroxyl generators, which produce hydroxyl radicals that neutralize odors without the toxicity of ozone, are gaining market share among restoration contractors who need to treat odors in occupied or partially occupied structures.
RNN News Desk··3 min read· IICRC
Technology10 stories
All Technology →
Verisk Analytics
Technology
Xactimate 29 Introduces AI-Powered Damage Assessment for Water and Fire Claims
Verisk's Xactimate 29 update integrates machine learning models trained on 50 million claims to automatically detect damage scope from photos, reducing estimate preparation time by up to 60%.
RNN News Desk··1 min read·Source: Verisk Analytics
Technology
IoT Moisture Sensors Now Required Under New IICRC S500 Monitoring Standards
The IICRC's updated S500 standard for water damage restoration now requires continuous IoT moisture monitoring during the drying process, with data logged to a cloud platform for insurance documentation.
· 1 min · IICRC
Technology
Drone-Based Thermal Imaging Cuts Roof Moisture Assessment Time by 80%
Restoration contractors are increasingly deploying thermal imaging drones to detect moisture intrusion in commercial roofing systems, reducing assessment time from days to hours and improving accuracy.
· 1 min · Cleanfax
Technology
AI Claims Platform Reduces Supplement Disputes by 45% for Restoration Contractors
A new AI-powered claims management platform analyzes Xactimate estimates against IICRC standards and local labor rates in real time, automatically flagging underpaid line items before submission.
· 1 min · R&R Magazine
Technology
3D Scanning Technology Transforms Structural Documentation for Large Loss Restoration
Matterport and FARO 3D scanning systems are becoming standard tools for large-loss restoration documentation, providing millimeter-accurate measurements that reduce disputes and accelerate claims settlement.
· 1 min · Cleanfax
Technology
EPA Releases Digital Toolkit for Mold Assessment and Remediation Planning
The Environmental Protection Agency has launched an updated digital toolkit for property owners, adjusters, and contractors that includes an AI-assisted mold risk calculator and interactive remediation planning guides.
· 1 min · U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Technology
NIST Releases Framework for Cybersecurity in Smart Building Restoration Systems
The National Institute of Standards and Technology has published new guidelines for securing IoT-connected restoration equipment, addressing vulnerabilities in networked drying systems and moisture monitoring platforms.
· 1 min · National Institute of Standards and Technology
Technology
FYI: News Briefs in HVAC - April 6, 2026
Blackstone Energy Transition Partners agreed to acquire a majority stake in Advanced Cooling Technologies Inc., a Lancaster, Pa.-based firm, as part of HVAC industry acquisitions announced in early April 2026. The deal highlights ongoing consolidation in cooling and energy transition technologies relevant to restoration applications.
· 1 min · privsource
Technology
First Onsite Launches Life Sciences Division to Protect Critical Environments
First Onsite Property Restoration launched a Life Sciences Division and appointed Kellie Matzinger as life sciences operations director, North America.
· 1 min · Cleanfax
Technology
PuroClean Attends Major Industry Events in 2026
PuroClean is maintaining strong momentum in 2026 with an active leadership presence across the restoration industry’s most prominent events.
Cleanfax Staff··1 min read· Cleanfax
Women in Restoration12 stories
All Women in Restoration →
NAWIC
Women in Restoration
NAWIC Reports Record Female Membership as Women Reshape Restoration Industry
The National Association of Women in Construction reached 5,800 active members in 2025, with restoration and remediation trades among the fastest-growing specialty chapters.
RNN News Desk··1 min read·Source: NAWIC
Women in Restoration
Women-Owned Restoration Firms Outperform Industry Average in Customer Satisfaction Scores
A new RIA survey finds women-led restoration companies score 12 points higher on Net Promoter Score than the industry average, driven by communication and documentation practices.
· 1 min · Restoration Industry Association
Women in Restoration
IICRC Launches Women in Restoration Scholarship Program for 2025 Certification Cycle
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification will award 50 full-tuition scholarships to women pursuing WRT, ASD, or AMRT credentials this year.
· 1 min · IICRC
Women in Restoration
R&R Magazine Profiles 10 Women Shaping the Future of Restoration
Restoration & Remediation Magazine's annual Women in Restoration feature highlights leaders in mold remediation, large-loss fire recovery, and disaster response coordination.
· 1 min · R&R Magazine
Women in Restoration
BLS Data: Women in Restoration Trades Earn 94 Cents on the Dollar Compared to Male Peers
New Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data shows the restoration industry has one of the narrowest gender pay gaps in the construction sector.
· 1 min · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Women in Restoration
Cleanfax Launches 'Women Who Restore' Video Series Featuring Field Technicians
The trade publication's new video series puts the spotlight on women working in the field — from water extraction to structural drying — to combat persistent recruitment myths.
· 1 min · Cleanfax
Women in Restoration
Women-Owned Restoration Companies Grew 18% in 2024, Outpacing Industry Overall
Census Bureau data shows women-owned firms in the specialty trade contractors sector — which includes restoration — grew at nearly three times the rate of male-owned firms last year.
· 1 min · U.S. Census Bureau
Women in Restoration
RIA's Women in Restoration Network Reaches 800 Members, Plans First National Summit
The Restoration Industry Association's women's professional network will hold its inaugural national summit in Nashville this September, featuring technical workshops and business development sessions.
· 1 min · Restoration Industry Association
Women in Restoration
From Nurse to Mold Remediator: How Healthcare Workers Are Entering Restoration
A growing number of women with clinical backgrounds are transitioning into mold and indoor air quality work, bringing patient communication skills to a field that desperately needs them.
· 1 min · AIHA
Women in Restoration
State Farm, Travelers Back Women-in-Restoration Apprenticeship Program in 5 States
Two of the nation's largest property insurers are co-funding a paid apprenticeship program to increase the number of women in IICRC-certified restoration roles.
RNN News Desk··1 min read· Insurance Information Institute
Women in Restoration
NAWIC's Restoration Chapter in Houston Adds 60 Members After Harvey Anniversary Events
The Houston chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction saw a surge in restoration-sector membership following a series of Hurricane Harvey anniversary events highlighting women's roles in the recovery.
RNN News Desk··1 min read· NAWIC
Women in Restoration
Women Estimators Are Closing the Supplement Gap for Restoration Contractors
A new analysis of Xactimate claims data suggests female estimators are more likely to identify and successfully negotiate supplemental line items, improving revenue per job.
RNN News Desk··1 min read· R&R Magazine
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