What should a restorer do if informed that water did not affect adjacent areas?

When a restorer is informed that water did not affect adjacent areas, the most prudent course of action is to verify the information independently. This approach is vital for several reasons.

Firstly, relying solely on the information shared by others can be misleading, as it may come from individuals who lack the expertise or understanding of the hiding places of moisture or the potential for water movement through building materials. Water can migrate surprisingly far from the initial source, potentially impacting areas that are not immediately visible.

Secondly, independent verification involves using tools and techniques such as moisture meters or thermal imaging cameras to assess the actual conditions of the surrounding areas. This not only helps confirm the initial assessment but also ensures that any hidden moisture is detected and addressed, thereby preventing future problems like mold growth or structural damage.

In a restoration context, thoroughness in inspection and assessment is critical to achieving effective and lasting results. Neglecting to independently verify the condition of adjacent areas could lead to oversights that compromise the integrity of the restoration effort and leave lingering issues that could affect the safety and health of the environment.