Adjusters at a recent focus group talked about how often the first contact they have with restoration professionals is when they get the bill. Additionally, many adjusters said the first time they learn about new equipment is when it appears on a bill. One of the greatest breakdowns between adjusters and restorers is a lack of communication. Successful relationships whether at home, work or with clients start with good communication. The good news is you can do something about it (and it doesn't cost much). Here are a few ideas:

• As soon as you've evaluated the water damage, call the adjuster and let them know the size and extent of the damage (# square feet, rooms affected, etc.).
• Explain what equipment you plan to use and why-- include what result it will produce.
• Many insurance professionals haven't been introduced to the new equipment in our industry. If you plan to use newer equipment, notify the adjuster what it is and how it will benefit the job.
• When questions arise, share useful information such as pint removal for dehumidifiers or fax a layout of the affected area with equipment placement. Share any printed information that will help them understand the choices you've made.
• If you provide monitoring reports to verify drying progress--explain the information in the report (prior to giving them the bill).

Top restoration professionals manipulate and control as many factors as possible in their drying systems to properly complete a drying job as soon as practical. It helps save money for their customers, reduce their liability and make money. So what creates a versatile system? There are many factors, but here are some critical components:

• Ability to extract as much water as possible
• Lowering humidity in the affected air
• Increasing airflow across wet surfaces
• Controlling temperature of air and surfaces
• Using outside air when possible
• Creating a drying chamber
• Flexibility in the amount of equipment that can be used (ability to scale a system up or down, depending on size and layout)