Give the provider the relevant history
Report the suspected source, discovery time, materials contacted, prior moisture problems, and known contaminants. Mark uncertain information as uncertain. An initially clean source does not describe every surface or material the water later reached.
Do not apply a shortcut to rain losses
The IICRC’s 2026 position statement says roof-down entry and wind-driven rain are not automatically Category 3. The determination follows inspection and information gathering. Conversely, clear-looking water is not evidence that a loss can be handled as uncontaminated.
Ask how the finding changes the work
- What supports the assigned category, and what could change it?
- What controls and specialist involvement are needed before drying or demolition?
- Which retained or removed materials must be identified for reconstruction?