What Is the IICRC?
The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is an international standard-setting organization founded in 1972. Based in Nashville, Tennessee, the IICRC develops and maintains the standards by which professional water damage restoration, mold remediation, carpet cleaning, and related services are performed.
The IICRC is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and recognized by insurance companies across North America as the authoritative body for restoration industry standards.
The IICRC S500 Standard — What Your Contractor Follows
The IICRC S500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration is the definitive reference document governing water damage restoration in Canada and the United States. It defines:
Every ServiceFind network provider is required to perform work in compliance with IICRC S500.
Key IICRC Certifications for Water Damage
WRT — Water Damage Restoration Technician
The foundational certification. Covers water damage categories, drying science, documentation, and insurance communication. Required for all technicians performing water damage restoration.
ASD — Applied Structural Drying Technician
Advanced certification for structural drying. Covers psychrometrics (the science of air and moisture), drying calculations, and specialized equipment use.
CDS — Commercial Drying Specialist
For commercial property restoration — large-scale events in commercial buildings.
AMRT — Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
Covers mold remediation and microbial contamination — relevant for Category 3 events and post-flood mold prevention.
How to Verify IICRC Credentials
Visit the IICRC's online verification portal at https://www.iicrc.org/page/findapro and search for your contractor's name or company. Certification records show current status, expiry date, and certification type.
Red flags:
All ServiceFind network providers have verified IICRC credentials on file.