Restoration FAQ
Answers to common questions about water, fire, mold and biohazard restoration in Dallas–Fort Worth, and about how our referral service works.
About the service
What is Cross Timber Restoration?
A free referral service. When you call or send a request, we connect you with an independent restoration company that serves your ZIP code in Dallas–Fort Worth. That company quotes, performs and warranties the work.
Does it cost anything to use this service?
No. Connecting is free for homeowners. Participating companies pay for referrals. You only pay the company you hire, at the price you agree to with them.
What areas do you cover?
The Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex, including Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Frisco, Irving, Denton and the surrounding cities. Enter your ZIP code to check.
Which kinds of damage can you help with?
Water damage (leaks, burst pipes, floods, sewage), fire and smoke damage, mold, and biohazard cleanup.
Do the restoration companies work with insurance?
Most restoration companies in the area regularly work with insurance adjusters and document losses the way insurers expect. Ask the company about billing when they call.
How quickly will someone respond?
It depends on the company serving your area and the time. Calling is faster than the form for active water or fire losses.
About the work
How long does it take to dry a house after water damage?
Most homes take three to five days of drying with commercial equipment. Hardwood, plaster and dense materials can take longer; the crew should confirm dryness with meter readings, not by feel.
Where is the water shutoff on a DFW house?
Most homes have a main valve in a ground box near the street at the meter, and many also have a house valve in the garage or near the water heater. A meter key or large pliers may be needed at the street.
Can I just paint over a ceiling water stain?
Only after the leak is fixed and the ceiling and insulation are confirmed dry with a meter. Use a stain-blocking primer first, or the stain bleeds through.
Does homeowners insurance cover flood damage?
Standard homeowners policies exclude flood water from outside. Coverage comes from a separate flood policy, such as NFIP. Wind-driven rain through a damaged roof is often treated differently; ask your insurer.
Can sewage-soaked carpet be cleaned?
No. Industry standard (IICRC S500) calls for removing carpet and pad soaked by sewage. Hard surfaces like tile and sealed concrete can be cleaned and disinfected.
How long does fire damage restoration take?
A small kitchen fire may take one to three weeks. Larger fires with structural damage often take several months, mainly because of rebuild and permitting.
How long does smoke smell last?
Without treatment it can last months or years, returning on hot, humid days. Professional deodorization usually takes one to three days once cleaning is done.
Do I need a mold test before remediation?
For regulated Texas projects (25 contiguous sq ft or more), a licensed assessor inspects and writes the protocol. Lab sampling isn't always needed to confirm visible mold, but it's commonly used for clearance.
Is attic mold dangerous?
It's usually less direct exposure than mold in living areas, but spores can enter through ceiling penetrations and returns. It also signals a moisture problem that can damage the roof deck.
Does homeowners insurance cover biohazard cleanup?
Many policies cover it as a sudden and accidental loss. Ask the cleanup company to work directly with your adjuster.
How long does a hoarding cleanup take?
From one day for a single room to a week or more for a whole house, depending on volume and how much sorting the family wants.