Information on processes
FAQ
Find quick answers to common questions in our comprehensive FAQ page designed to help you get the content information you need fast.
Content Recovery Specialists FAQ
What does Content Recovery Specialists do?
Content Recovery Specialists (CRS) specializes in restoring and protecting personal property after disasters. We handle packout, cleaning, storage, and return of items damaged by fire, water, microbial growth, or other events.
Who does CRS work with after a property loss?
We collaborate with insurance adjusters, restoration contractors, and property owners. Our goal is to streamline the recovery process for everyone involved.
What is a packout service in property restoration?
A packout involves removing and inventorying contents from a damaged property for off-site cleaning and storage. This protects items from further damage and speeds up structural repairs.
Does CRS handle both residential and commercial losses?
Yes, we serve both homeowners and businesses. Our team is equipped to manage everything from small home losses to large commercial disasters.
What is the difference between contents restoration vs. replacement?
Contents restoration is the process of cleaning, deodorizing, and restoring damaged belongings after a fire, water, or mold event—rather than replacing them. Restoration often saves significantly on claim costs and allows homeowners to keep sentimental or high-value items. CRS evaluates each item to determine whether it is salvageable and provides documentation for items that cannot be restored.
What types of items can be restored after fire, water, or mold damage?
CRS restores a wide range of items, including furniture, electronics, appliances, clothing, artwork, documents, décor, and sentimental keepsakes. Many items impacted by fire, smoke, water, mold, or debris can be safely restored using advanced cleaning and drying methods. During the packout, we assess each item and determine the most effective restoration approach.
What technology does CRS use for contents inventory and tracking?
CRS uses a digital inventory system with barcoding, photo documentation, and chain-of-custody tracking to capture every item from packout to return delivery. Adjusters, TPAs, and homeowners receive clear, itemized reports showing the condition, location, and restoration status of all contents throughout the process.
Insurance & Claims FAQ
Can CRS help with my insurance claim?
Yes, we assist with documentation and communication to support your claim. Our detailed inventories and reports help insurance adjusters process claims more efficiently.
Do I need to wait for my insurance company to call CRS?
No, you can contact us directly. We’ll coordinate with your insurer once we’re involved.
Does CRS provide documentation for non-salvageable items?
Yes, we document all non-restorable items with photos and descriptions. This helps support your claim and ensures transparency.
Will my insurance cover packout and storage services?
How does CRS work with insurance adjusters?
We provide digital inventories, regular updates, and open communication. This helps adjusters stay informed and move claims forward quickly.
What information do adjusters receive from CRS?
Adjusters receive a complete documentation package, including digital inventory reports, non-salvageable item lists, photos, restoration notes, and any required claim documentation. Our goal is to provide everything an adjuster needs to process the claim efficiently and confidently.
How does CRS help reduce claim cycle times?
CRS streamlines the contents portion of the claim by providing rapid mobilization, organized packouts, accurate documentation, and clear communication with adjusters and restoration partners. Our digital inventory system and structured workflows eliminate delays, help avoid supplemental requests, and support faster claim resolution.
Can CRS assist with claim revisions or supplemental requests?
Yes. CRS routinely supports adjusters and restoration partners with revisions, supplements, and additional documentation as needed. Whether new information is discovered or the scope changes, we provide updated reports, corrected inventories, or additional photos to help move the claim forward.
Restoration Partner FAQ
Can CRS support my restoration company with contents services?
Yes, we partner with restoration contractors to handle the contents side of the job. This allows your team to focus on mitigation and rebuilds.
Does CRS offer digital inventory tracking?
Absolutely. We use barcode and photo-based systems to track every item from packout to return.
How does CRS ensure chain of custody for contents?
We maintain a secure, documented process using digital tracking. This ensures accountability and protects high-value or sensitive items.
Can CRS scale for large-loss or multi-unit jobs?
Yes, we’re equipped for large-scale commercial and multi-family losses. Our team can mobilize quickly and manage complex logistics.
What makes CRS a good partner for restoration companies?
We’re fast, reliable, and easy to work with. Our services complements your work and help deliver a better experience for your clients.
What is the benefit of outsourcing contents restoration?
Outsourcing contents restoration to CRS allows restoration contractors to focus on mitigation and reconstruction while our team handles packing, cleaning, inventory, storage, and logistics. This reduces internal labor strain, limits liability, improves job efficiency, and increases overall customer satisfaction. It also ensures contents are managed by specialists trained specifically in contents handling and restoration.
How does CRS integrate with restoration project timelines?
CRS coordinates closely with mitigation and reconstruction teams to align packout, cleaning, storage, and return delivery with the project schedule. Our goal is to ensure contents never slow down the restoration timeline. We provide regular updates and adjust our workflow as needed based on the status of repairs.
Home and Property Owner FAQ
Can I choose CRS even if my insurance recommends someone else?
Yes, you have the right to choose your own restoration provider. CRS is happy to work with your insurer regardless of their initial recommendation.
What happens to my belongings during the restoration process?
How long does the packout and restoration process take?
It depends on the amount of contents, extent of the damage, and the repair timeline. We aim to return your items as quickly and safely as possible.
Can CRS restore sentimental or high-value items?
We use specialized techniques to restore delicate or valuable belongings. While not everything can be saved, we do our best to recover what matters most.
How do I get started with CRS?
Just give us a call or fill out our contact form. We’ll schedule a consultation and guide you through the next steps.
What should I do with my belongings immediately after a fire or water loss?
After a property loss, avoid handling or moving damaged items. Smoke residue, soot, and water contamination can worsen if disturbed. Contact CRS or your restoration provider right away so we can safely inventory, pack out, clean, and store your belongings to prevent secondary damage and support your insurance claim.
How does contents storage work during repairs?
CRS stores your belongings in a secure, climate-controlled facility while your property is being repaired. Each item is barcoded, photographed, and tracked through our digital inventory system. Once your home or business is ready, we carefully return all restored items and place them back in their original rooms whenever possible.