WRT
Definition
WRT stands for Water Damage Restoration Technician, the IICRC's entry-level water damage certification. It covers how water damages buildings and how to dry them, and it is the prerequisite for the ASD and AMRT certifications.
What it means
WRT is the IICRC certification most water damage technicians start with. The IICRC says it shows knowledge of water damage, its effects, and techniques for drying structures, including water losses, sewer backflows and contamination such as mold. It has no prerequisite and is offered live-stream or in person, in English or Spanish.
WRT is required before a technician can take Applied Structural Drying (ASD) or Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT). It is also part of the IICRC’s Master Water Restorer track. The training is based on the ANSI/IICRC S500 water standard.
Why it matters to your claim or your bill
WRT is the baseline you should expect from anyone drying your home. The IICRC says a WRT holder should be able to explain to an adjuster the difference between a Category 2 and a Category 3 water loss, which is a good question to ask at the first visit. Remember that certifications follow the person, not the company. Ask who will be on your job, then check the firm on the IICRC Global Locator. Our list of questions to ask a restoration company covers the rest.
Sources
- Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT), Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (accessed 2026-10-19)
- Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD), Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (accessed 2026-10-19)
- Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT), Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (accessed 2026-10-19)
- IICRC Global Locator, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (accessed 2026-10-19)
Updated October 19, 2026. Drafted with AI assistance and edited by Vincent Wallace. All glossary terms