FAQs
When can we get back in?
That’s probably the single most asked question, one of the hardest to answer and, unfortunately, one of the easiest to give false hopes about. So, this is another place where our 30 years of experience allow us to give you a Guaranteed Completion Date.
Will this smell ever go away?
Smoke is an insidious evil. With anything less than a superior restoration job, that smoke smell can seep up months, even years later. So, that’s a situation we guarantee against — with expert restoration — and a Lifetime Smoke Odor Guarantee.
How long will water damage drying process take?
Each situation is different, however, most properties will take approximately 3-5 days to dry completely. A number of things determine drying time including location, duration, and the source of water. Other factors include the type of building materials, weather conditions, and how quickly emergency services begin. We determine when the drying stage is complete through consistent monitoring and evaluation of the water damage restoration process.
Do you bill my insurance company?
Yes. As a courtesy to our residential customers, we submit all of your water damage restoration paperwork to your insurance company and directly bill your insurance company for our services. Be prepared to supply any supporting materials for the claim. Some of these documents include claim number, policy number, and insurance company information. We work with most insurance companies to cover the cost of our services. However, in the case that your claim isn’t covered by your insurance provider you will be responsible for all payments.
Do I need to move out during my restoration?
If you file an insurance claim, you may receive guidance from your insurance representative. We do not typically require that residents move out during the drying process of water damage restoration, however, there are several things to consider when deciding where to reside. Safety is paramount. Our equipment is as childproof as possible, but we request your supervision in making sure no children play with the equipment. Air movers and dehumidifiers will create some noise and make your property drafty for a few days. If you feel that this is too much of an inconvenience to you, consider finding an alternate place to stay until we compete the restoration process.
Quick Tips
Disaster Recovery Do’s and Don’ts
While you are waiting for the property restoration experts to arrive, there are some things that you can do to ensure that the damage and your out-of-pocket expenses are minimized.
• Protect chrome trim on kitchen appliances by applying a light coat of Vaseline or other type of oil
• Blow off or brush-vacuum loose particles from upholstery, draperies, and carpet
• If weather permits, open all windows in the damaged area to improve ventilation
• Use a small amount of oil to coat and protect smoke-damaged faucets, towel bars, and tub fittings
• Remove any pets to a clean environment (birds are particularly susceptible to smoke particles)
• If electricity is off, empty your freezer and refrigerator and keep the door propped open
• If it’s winter and electricity is out, pour antifreeze in toilet bowls, sinks, and tubs to help prevent frozen pipes and other problems
• If heat is off in the winter, call a plumber to drain your heating system
• DON’T wipe or wash walls or ceilings
• DON’T use upholstered furniture
• DON’T use exposed food items—including canned goods—that may have been exposed to smoke or extreme heat
• DON’T use electrical equipment (TVs, stereos, etc.) until they’ve been professionally checked
• DON’T send smoke-damaged garments to the dry cleaner, since improper cleaning may just cause the residue and odors to sink into the material.
• Get rid of as much floodwater as possible by mopping and blotting
• Wipe water from wood furniture
• Prop up wet upholstered cushions to ensure even drying
• Place aluminum foil on wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• During wintertime, open windows to speed drying—in the summer, turn on air conditioning
• Open (but not do not force) drawers and cabinet doors to ensure that the insides are completely dried
• Move valuable paintings and art away from flooded areas—and preferably to higher ground
• Blot dry wet carpeting with white towels
• Punch small holes in sagging ceilings to relieve trapped water (and place pans or buckets beneath)
• DON’T leave wet fabrics in place—and hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature
• DON’T leave books, magazines, and colored items on wet carpet or floors
• DON’T attempt to use your normal household vacuum to suck up floodwaters
• DON’T use electrical appliances while you’re standing on a wet surface
• DON’T turn on ceiling fixtures, such as lights as fans, if the ceiling is wet
• Keep everyone out of rooms where the ceiling is sagging from excess water
Growth
• If coming into direct contact with the mold, wear gloves, a facial mask, and protective clothing
• Wash all soft materials like towels and clothing and store them away from the mold growth
• If the mold growth is extensive, please call us. Our advice is free!
• DON’T touch or handle affected materials
• DON’T sleep in any rooms where mold growth is present
• DON’T vacuum anything
• DON’T turn on air conditioning (or heating) as this can allow the contamination to spread through your ventilation system
• DON’T try to remove the mold on your own until you have consulted mold remediation professionals
