We got some minor flooding in our garage and living room. I want to bring in some contractors to recommend repairs, but am concerned about that I could be scammed, or that something important could be missed. What should I expect?
The age of the house determines residual damages from my experience.
Older homes can usually shake off a small flood with minimal repairs.
Newer homes (1985+) tend to hold the moisture into their components and tend to require component replacement.
If the floors in the living room are newer, you should find out if moisture is sitting between any underlayment and the finished floor.
A moisture meter should be used in the walls that were affected to see if they need replacement (if visual damage is not present)
Mold is your enemy. Sheetrock walls should be replaced.
When exterior walls are opened due to water leaks, we usually replace the wall insulation as well with the maximum rated insulation for the bay.
How did the flood happen? Could it have been prevented?
Good luck.