The Benefits of Hiring Professionals for Fire Damage Restoration

11/28/2023 (Permalink)

A fire can be a devastating experience for any homeowner. The aftermath can be overwhelming, with damages ranging from structural to the loss of cherished belongings. In such situations, hiring professionals for fire damage restoration can make a significant difference. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of hiring professionals for fire damage restoration.

Expertise and Experience

Professional fire damage restoration companies have the expertise and experience to handle the aftermath of a fire effectively. They undergo extensive training and certification in cleaning, restoration, and rebuilding techniques. They have the depth of knowledge and experience required to ensure a comprehensive assessment, cleanup, and restoration process.

Quick Response

Time is of the essence when it comes to fire damage restoration. The longer you wait to address the damage, the greater the chances of further damage and mold growth. Professional restoration companies respond quickly to help minimize damage and prevent further complications. They have specialized equipment and techniques to tackle the restoration process quickly and efficiently.

Assessment and Planning

Professional fire damage restoration companies conduct a thorough assessment of the damage to your property to develop a customized plan for restoration and recovery. They know what to look for and can identify damage that is not visible to the untrained eye. They can also recommend cost-effective solutions to help you save money and return your property to its preloss condition.

Comprehensive Restoration

Fire damage restoration professionals offer a range of services to handle the entire restoration process, from cleanup to rebuilding. They have specialized equipment and techniques to remove water, soot, and smoke residue, repair structural damage, clean and restore salvageable belongings, and address any potential mold growth. They can also repair or replace structural elements, such as walls, floors, ceilings, and roofs, to ensure that your property is safe and functional

Health and Safety

Fire damage can pose various safety risks, including exposure to hazardous substances, the risk of electric shock, and the possibility of structural collapse. Professional restoration teams take the necessary precautions to ensure personal safety and prevent further damage. They wear protective gear, such as masks and gloves, and use specialized equipment to manage hazardous substances and safely remove debris.

Financial and Legal Support

Professional restoration companies can assist you in navigating the insurance claims process and provide documentation of damage and restoration costs. They can also provide legal support to help you recover compensation for the damages caused by the fire.

In conclusion, hiring professionals for fire damage restoration provides various benefits, including expertise and experience, quick response, assessment and planning, comprehensive restoration, health and safety, and financial and legal support. These benefits can help you save money, time, and effort, and ensure that your property is restored to its preloss condition. When it comes to fire damage restoration, entrusting the recovery process to professionals is the wisest decision to rise from the ashes.

How Long Does it Take for Mold to Develop in a Leaking Roof?

10/26/2023 (Permalink)

A leaking roof can leave behind mold and mildew damage. Check for frequent leaks after a storm passes.

Dealing with a leaking roof can be a stressful situation. One of the primary concerns associated with roof leaks is the potential development of mold. In this blog, we will explore the timeline for mold growth after a leaking roof occurs.

Immediate Response is Essential

As soon as a roof leak is detected, it is important to address the issue promptly. However, the exact timeline for mold growth can vary depending on various factors such as temperature, humidity levels, and the type of material affected. Mold spores are present in the environment, so it's possible for them to start growing within 24 to 48 hours after moisture exposure. Therefore, it is crucial to act quickly to mitigate the leak and limit the potential for mold development.

Factors Affecting Mold Growth

Several factors can influence the rate of mold growth following a roof leak. High humidity levels, stagnant air, and temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit create an optimal environment for mold to thrive. Additionally, the presence of organic materials, such as wood or drywall, can provide nutrients for mold growth. The severity of the leak and the duration of moisture exposure also play a role. It's important to note that even if mold is not visible immediately, the potential for growth still exists, making it vital to take action promptly.

Mitigating the Risk of Mold Growth

To minimize the risk of mold development after a roof leak, it is crucial to address the leak and dry the affected area as soon as possible. Identify and repair the source of the leak to prevent further moisture intrusion. Remove any standing water and thoroughly dry the area using fans, dehumidifiers, and proper ventilation. Additionally, consider consulting with professionals to assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate remedial actions. Taking these preventive measures will help to mitigate the risk of mold growth and preserve the integrity of your property.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

To further prevent mold growth, it is important to conduct regular inspections and maintenance of your roof. Check for any signs of damage, such as cracked or missing shingles, deteriorated flashing, or clogged gutters. Address any issues promptly to prevent water intrusion during rain or storms. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your roof can go a long way in preventing leaks and reducing the risk of mold growth. By being proactive and vigilant with roof maintenance, you can ensure the longevity of your roof and minimize the chances of mold developing in the future.

While the timeline for mold growth after a leaking roof can vary, it is crucial to respond promptly to address the issue and prevent further damage. By acting swiftly, mitigating the leak, and thoroughly drying the affected areas. Remember, timely intervention is key to safeguarding your property from the detrimental effects of moisture and mold.

Documenting Water Damage: Photography Tips for Insurance Claims

10/17/2023 (Permalink)

When dealing with water damage in your home or property, proper documentation is crucial for insurance claims and ensuring a smooth recovery process. One of the most effective ways to document water damage is through photography. In this blog post, we will provide essential tips on how to photograph water damage effectively to support your insurance claim.

Safety First

Before you start taking photos, ensure that it is safe to do so. Assess the area for any potential hazards, such as electrical or structural damage. If there are any safety concerns, contact professionals or wait until it is safe to proceed.

Begin by taking wide-angle shots to capture the overall extent of the water damage. Include as much of the affected area as possible in the frame, highlighting all affected rooms and materials. These photos will provide an overview of the damage for the insurance adjuster.

Focus on Details

After capturing the big picture shots, zoom in on specific areas and document the details of the damage. Capture close-up shots of waterlogged walls, damaged flooring, soaked furniture, and any visible signs of mold or mildew. These detailed photos will help support your insurance claim and the restoration process.

Adequate lighting is essential to capture clear and accurate photos. Open windows or turn on lights in the affected area to ensure proper illumination. Avoid using flash if possible, as it can create harsh shadows and distort the image. Natural light is often preferable for showcasing details.

Capture Before and After

If possible, take photos of the affected areas in your property before the water damage occurred. This provides a comparison for the insurance adjuster to assess the extent of the damage. If you don't have any "before" photos, include pictures of the unaffected areas to demonstrate the contrast.

To provide a comprehensive view of the water damage, take photos from different angles. Photograph damage from floor to ceiling, as well as from different sides of the room. This will help insurance adjusters understand the full scope of the damage and aid in accurate assessments.

Document Belongings and Personal Items

Don't forget to document damaged personal belongings, furniture, and valuable items. Capture individual items before they are moved or cleaned up. If possible, include any relevant information such as brand, model, or purchase date to support the value of the damaged items.

Make sure to date your photos, either by adjusting the settings on your camera or using the timestamp feature if available. Organize the photos in a logical order, separating them by room or area of your property. This will help you easily navigate and present the documentation during the claims process.

Remember, accurate and detailed documentation is key when it comes to insurance claims for water damage. By following these photography tips, you can ensure that you have the necessary evidence to support your claim and expedite the restoration process. Additionally, consult with your insurance company to understand any specific requirements or guidelines for documenting water damage.

Storm Damage Preparedness Tips

9/13/2023 (Permalink)

Be prepared incase of a storm to ensure the safety of the vulnerable.

Storms can be particularly challenging for seniors and vulnerable populations, who may have limited mobility, health conditions, or a lack of access to resources. It is crucial for these individuals to have a plan in place to protect themselves and minimize the impact of storm damage. In this blog post, we will discuss some essential tips for storm damage preparedness for seniors and vulnerable populations.

Create an Emergency Kit

Every senior and vulnerable person should have an emergency kit ready in case of a storm. This kit should include essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, medication, a battery-powered radio, and important documents (such as medical records and insurance documents). Make sure to store the kit in an easily accessible location.

Seniors and vulnerable populations should have a communications plan in place with family, friends, or neighbors who can check on them during a storm. Make sure to exchange contact information, establish a method of communication, and let them know if you have any specific needs or concerns.

Create a Support Network

Reach out to local senior centers, community organizations, or support groups to establish a network of support. They can help connect you with resources, provide assistance in preparing for a storm, and offer support during and after the storm.

Take steps to secure your home before a storm hits. Trim trees and shrubs around your property to minimize the risk of falling branches. Reinforce windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood to protect against high winds and flying debris. Ensure that all outdoor furniture and decor are properly secured or brought indoors to prevent them from becoming projectiles.

Stay Informed

Stay informed about storm warnings, evacuation orders, and local emergency resources. Follow local news stations, radio, or National Weather Service updates for the latest information. Consider registering for emergency alerts through your local government or emergency management agency.

If an evacuation order is issued, have a plan in place for transportation and shelter. Identify evacuation routes and make arrangements with family, friends, or local authorities for assistance. If needed, contact your local emergency management agency to inquire about special needs shelters or transportation options for seniors and vulnerable populations.

Prepare for Power Outages

Power outages are common during severe storms. Make sure to have alternative lighting options, such as battery-powered flashlights or lanterns. If you rely on medical equipment that requires electricity, have a backup power source, such as a generator or a battery backup, to ensure uninterrupted use.

During a storm or power outage, it is essential to stay hydrated and cool, especially for seniors who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Have enough bottled water stored in your emergency kit, along with hand-held fans, battery-powered fans, or portable air conditioners, if possible.

Storm damage preparedness is critical for seniors and vulnerable populations to ensure their safety and well-being during severe weather events. By creating an emergency kit, having a communications plan, and establishing a support network, seniors and vulnerable individuals can better navigate the challenges of storms. Remember, being prepared and having a plan in place can make all the difference in ensuring the safety and security of those most at risk during severe weather events.

Who Pays for Fire Damage in a Rental Property? Understanding Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

8/9/2023 (Permalink)

Having the right insurance policy for rental property is key to ensuring your property is safe after a fire.

A fire in a rental property can be a devastating event for both tenants and landlords. Not only is there the risk of injury or loss of life, but there's also the issue of who's responsible for paying for the damages. In this blog post, we'll explore the responsibilities of tenants and landlords when it comes to fire damage, insurance coverage, and liability.

Tenant Responsibilities

Tenants have a responsibility to take reasonable precautions to prevent fires in a rental property. This includes following safety guidelines such as not smoking indoors, not overloading electrical outlets, and using appliances safely. If a fire occurs due to negligence on the part of the tenant, they may be held liable for damages.

However, if a fire is caused by circumstances outside of the tenant's control, such as faulty wiring or a natural disaster, the tenant may not be held responsible for the damages. In these cases, the landlord's insurance policy may cover the cost of repairs.

Landlord Responsibilities

Landlords have a legal obligation to maintain a safe and habitable living environment for tenants. This includes ensuring that the property meets fire safety codes and regulations. If a tenant is not following safety guidelines, the landlord can provide written notice to the tenant to rectify the situation. If the tenant refuses to comply, the landlord can take legal action to remove the tenant.

If the fire is caused by a breach of the landlord's duty to maintain safe conditions, such as faulty wiring or a lack of functioning smoke detectors, the landlord may be held liable for damages. In these cases, the landlord's insurance policy may cover the damages caused by the fire.

Insurance Coverage

Tenant insurance policies, also known as renters insurance, typically provide coverage for fire damage to personal belongings, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics. However, tenants need to check their policies to determine the extent of their coverage and any limitations. Some policies may not cover damage caused by certain types of fires, such as wildfires.

Landlords are also required to have insurance coverage for their rental properties. Landlord insurance policies typically cover damage to the building and its contents caused by fire, as well as liability for injuries to tenants or visitors. However, the specific coverage and limitations of each policy may vary, so landlords should review their policies carefully.

In conclusion, who pays for fire damage in a rental property depends on the circumstances of the fire and the insurance coverage of the tenant and landlord. Tenants should take reasonable precautions to prevent fires, while landlords have a legal obligation to maintain a safe living environment. If the fire is caused by the negligence of the tenant, they may be held liable for damages. If the fire is caused by a breach of the landlord's duty, such as insufficient safety measures, the landlord may be held liable for damages. Insurance policies for both tenants and landlords may cover a portion of the damages, but the limitations and extent of coverage should be reviewed carefully.

The Hidden Aftermath: How Water Damage Occurs After a Fire

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage occurs after a fire, call the professionals.

When we think of the damage caused by a fire, we often focus on the visible destruction from flames and smoke. However, another significant concern that arises after a fire is water damage. The use of water to extinguish the fire can lead to a range of issues, including structural damage, mold growth, and compromised electrical systems. In this blog, we will explore how water damage occurs after a fire and the necessary steps to mitigate its effects.

Firefighting Efforts

When firefighters battle a blaze, they utilize large volumes of water to extinguish the flames and prevent the fire from spreading. This water infiltrates various parts of the building, including walls, floors, and ceilings, saturating porous materials and seeping into hidden spaces.

Many commercial and residential buildings are equipped with fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers. While these systems are effective in suppressing fires, they can release substantial amounts of water in a short period. If not promptly addressed, the water can accumulate and cause extensive damage.

Water Runoff

Water used during firefighting efforts can create significant runoff, which can further exacerbate water damage. The runoff may pool around the property, seep into the foundation, and infiltrate neighboring areas, leading to additional complications.

Structural Damage

Water can weaken the structural integrity of a building by compromising load-bearing elements, causing warping, swelling, or deterioration. As water saturates materials like wood, drywall, and insulation, they may lose their strength and integrity, requiring thorough drying and potential replacement.

Mold and Mildew Growth

Moisture left behind after a fire can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. Mold spores thrive in damp conditions and can proliferate rapidly, leading to potential health risks and further damage to the property. Prompt action to remove moisture and control humidity levels is crucial in preventing mold infestation.

Electrical System Compromise

Water exposure can compromise electrical systems, posing a serious safety hazard. Electrical components that come into contact with water may become damaged or corroded, leading to electrical malfunctions, short circuits, or even fires. It is essential to have a qualified professional inspect and repair the electrical system before reoccupying the property.

Secondary Water Damage

If water damage is not addressed promptly and effectively, it can lead to secondary damage. Lingering moisture can seep into building materials, causing long-term issues such as rot, mold growth, and the deterioration of structural elements. The longer the water remains, the greater the risk of extensive damage and costly repairs.

Mitigating Water Damage After a Fire

• Contact a professional restoration company experienced in fire and water damage restoration.
• Ensure the property is safe to enter by consulting with relevant authorities and professionals.
• Extract standing water and initiate the drying process using specialized equipment.
• Remove damaged materials and assess the extent of structural damage.
• Address any mold growth or potential mold risks through professional remediation.
• Repair or replace compromised electrical systems under the guidance of licensed electricians.
• Implement preventive measures, such as moisture barriers and improved ventilation, to minimize future water damage risks.

Water damage is an often-overlooked consequence that can occur after a fire. Understanding how water damage happens and the potential risks it poses is crucial for effective recovery and restoration. Swift action, professional assistance, and thorough mitigation efforts are essential to minimize the impact of water damage and ensure the safety and integrity of the property. Remember, addressing both fire and water damage comprehensively is key to a successful recovery process.

Preventing Mold After Flooding: Essential Tips for Homeowners

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

By following these tips, you can help prevent a mold outbreak after your home floods.

When it comes to water damage in your home, one of the biggest threats is mold. Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours of a flood, and if not properly addressed, it can quickly spread throughout your home and cause health problems for you and your family. In this blog post, we'll provide you with some tips on how to prevent a mold outbreak after your home floods.

Act Fast

The key to preventing a mold outbreak after a flood is to act fast. The longer you wait, the more time mold has to grow and spread. As soon as it is safe to do so, start removing any standing water from your home. If the water is too deep, you may need to call in a professional restoration company to help.

Remove Wet Materials

Mold thrives in moist environments, so it's important to remove any wet materials from your home as soon as possible. This includes carpet, furniture, and any other items that have been damaged by the flood. If you are unable to remove these items yourself, consider hiring a professional restoration company to help.

Dry Out Your Home

After removing all of the wet materials from your home, it's important to dry out your home as much as possible. Open windows and doors to increase ventilation, and use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry out any remaining moisture.

Clean and Disinfect

Once your home is dry, it's important to thoroughly clean and disinfect all affected areas. This includes walls, floors, and any other surfaces that have come into contact with flood water. Use a mixture of bleach and water to disinfect these areas, and be sure to wear gloves and other protective gear while cleaning.

Monitor for Mold

Even after taking all of these steps, it's important to continue monitoring your home for mold. Keep an eye out for any signs of mold growth, such as musty odors or discoloration on walls and ceilings. If you do notice mold growth, it's important to address it immediately to prevent it from spreading.

By following these tips, you can help prevent a mold outbreak after your home floods. However, if you do notice mold growth or are unable to address the flood damage on your own, be sure to call in a professional restoration company to help.

DIY vs. Professional Mold Removal: Which is Right for You?

5/17/2023 (Permalink)

Mold can be in hidden places, hiring a professional to remove mold in your home or business.

Mold growth in homes can be a serious issue, affecting not only the aesthetics of the space but also cause secondary damages. When faced with a mold problem, homeowners may wonder whether they should attempt to tackle it themselves or hire a professional mold removal service. Both options have their pros and cons, and it's important to weigh them carefully before making a decision. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between DIY and professional mold removal and help you determine which approach may be best for you.

DIY Mold Removal

Many homeowners opt for DIY mold removal as it can be more cost-effective compared to hiring a professional service. DIY methods typically involve using household cleaners, bleach, or other mold-killing products to clean visible mold growth. It may also involve removing and replacing mold-infested materials such as drywall, insulation, or carpeting.

Advantages of DIY

One of the advantages of DIY mold removal is that it can be done at your own pace and on your own schedule. It also gives you the flexibility to choose the products and methods you want to use. DIY mold removal can be appropriate for small, isolated areas of mold growth that are less than 10 square feet and do not involve extensive damage.

Risk and limitations

There are also several limitations and risks associated with DIY mold removal. Mold can be hidden behind walls, in ductwork, or in hard-to-reach areas, and DIY methods may not effectively address these hidden mold colonies. Moreover, improper handling of mold during DIY removal can result in the release of mold spores into the air, potentially causing cross-contamination and spreading mold to other areas of the home. DIY methods may also lack the proper equipment and expertise to ensure thorough mold removal and proper cleanup, which can increase the risk of mold regrowth.

Professional Mold Removal

Professional mold removal services are typically performed by trained and certified mold remediation experts who have the knowledge, experience, and specialized equipment to effectively handle mold problems. Professional mold removal involves a thorough assessment of the mold growth, identification of the source of moisture, containment of the affected area to prevent cross-contamination, removal of mold-infested materials, proper cleanup, and application of preventive measures to inhibit mold regrowth.

Benefits of a Professional

One of the main benefits of hiring a professional mold removal service is the expertise and specialized equipment they bring to the table. Professionals can accurately assess the extent of the mold problem, identify hidden mold colonies, and ensure proper containment and cleanup to prevent further spread of mold spores. They can also provide recommendations and solutions to address the underlying moisture issue to prevent future mold growth.

Professional removal

Professional mold removal is typically recommended for large mold infestations, extensive damage, or situations where health risks may be involved, such as toxic mold or mold in sensitive areas like HVAC systems. It is also a preferred option for those who may have health conditions that make them more vulnerable to mold exposure, or for those who lack the time, skills, or resources for DIY mold removal.

DIY in Small Places

DIY mold removal can be appropriate for small, isolated mold problems, but it has limitations and risks that may not be suitable for more extensive mold growth or potential health risks. Professional mold removal, on the other hand, offers expertise, specialized equipment, and thorough remediation, making it a preferred option for larger mold problems or situations where health risks may be a concern.

When deciding between DIY and professional mold removal, it's essential to consider the size and severity of the mold problem, the potential health risks, your own skills and resources, and the extent of the damage. It's also important to follow appropriate safety measures, such as wearing proper protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation, regardless of whether you choose to go with DIY or professional mold removal.

What is Fire Damage Restoration?

4/22/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration is an important part of the cleanup process after a fire loss.

Fire damage restoration is the process of restoring your property to its pre-fire condition. This differs from fire damage repair, which involves repairing the property after it has been damaged by a fire.

Fire damage restoration involves removing smoke and soot stains from walls and ceilings, replacing carpets that have been burned or melted by hot embers and liquids spilled during evacuation efforts, cleaning up debris left behind by firefighters (such as ashes), sanitizing surfaces with disinfectants such as bleach or ammonia gas--and more!

Depending on how much time has passed since your house was damaged by flames will determine how much work needs to be done before you can move back into it again.

Cleaning Up Fire Damage

The first step in restoring your property after a fire is to clean up the soot, smoke and ash from the affected areas. You'll also need to remove any debris that was left behind by firefighters or other emergency responders. This can be done with a simple broom and dustpan, but if there's significant damage or debris on your flooring surfaces (such as carpeting), you may need to hire professional cleaners for this task.

Cleaners should disinfect all surfaces that were exposed during cleanup efforts, this includes countertops and appliances such as refrigerators and stoves.

Restoring Fire Damage

Restoring fire damage is a process that involves replacing damaged materials, repairing structural damage, restoring electrical systems and plumbing systems. The restoration process may also include cleaning and sanitizing the affected area as well as removing odors caused by smoke or soot.

Restoration experts use state-of-the-art equipment to restore your property back to its original condition. They will remove smoke stains from walls and ceilings using high-powered vacuums equipped with HEPA filters (HEPA stands for "high efficiency particulate air") that trap microscopic particles of dust and debris in their filters rather than releasing them back into the air where they could be breathed in by family members or pets who remain inside during cleanup efforts. 

Restoring Furnishings

Restoring your furnishings is a big part of the fire damage restoration process. It's important to clean and restore your furniture, carpets and other furnishings as soon as possible after a fire. This will help prevent further damage from occurring and make it easier for you to return home sooner.

If any items were damaged by smoke or water during cleanup efforts, they should be replaced by professionals who have experience restoring antiques and artwork--or else they may not hold up well over time.

Restoring Electronics

Restoring electronics is a specialized process that requires the expertise of an experienced technician. The first step in restoring electronics is to clean them, which can be done by vacuuming or wiping down each item with a damp cloth. Once you've cleaned your computer, monitor and other electronic devices, you'll want to replace any damaged components and restore data from your hard drive if possible.

Restoring HVAC Systems

Restoring HVAC systems is a crucial part of the fire damage restoration process. The systems that provide your home with heating, cooling and ventilation can be damaged by smoke and soot during a fire. This can lead to poor air quality in your home, which could cause respiratory problems for you and your family members.

Restoration companies will clean out the ducts of any debris left behind by firefighters or other cleanup crews. They'll also replace damaged components such as fans, motors or compressors as needed so that your HVAC system works properly again after being exposed to smoke or heat from an accidental fire at home or business property location.

Restoring Appliances

Restoring appliances is a large part of fire damage restoration. Appliance repair and replacement can be complicated, but it's important to get your appliances back into working order as soon as possible. The longer they're damaged, the more likely they are to break down completely.

After the fire damage restoration process is complete, there are a few final steps that need to be taken. These include:

• A final assessment of the damage
• Conducting a post-restoration inspection
• Restoring your property to its pre-fire condition

How to file a water damage claim.

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

Filing a claim after a water loss or other restoration emergency.

Water damage can be devastating to your home or business. But if you are insured, filing a water loss claim is actually pretty simple. Here's what you need to know about the process.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

If you have received water damage to your home or business, the first thing you should do is contact your insurance company. They will want to know what happened, how much damage there is and whether or not they need to file a claim on your behalf. If they do, they will send out an adjuster who can assess the situation and provide advice on next steps.

Talk to your insurance adjuster about your coverage and options.

If you have a water damage claim, it's important to talk to your insurance adjuster. Insurance adjusters are trained to help you and your family understand what's covered under the terms of your policy. They can also help guide you through the claims process, including negotiating with contractors and vendors on your behalf.

In most cases, insurance companies will require that any repairs be performed by licensed professionals who hold liability insurance themselves and if they don't meet these requirements, then it may be necessary for someone from the company itself to step in and finish the job instead of hiring someone else at an inflated cost just because he happened by first.

Document the damage with photos or videos.

Take photos of the damage. You can use your phone to take photos, but if you have the option, it's best to use a camera. The more angles and perspectives you capture in these images, the better. For example, if there's water damage on your ceiling and walls, as well as inside cabinets or closets and possibly even under rugs, take photos from each room so that you have documentation of how far-reaching this issue may be and how much work will be required to fix it all up again!

Get pictures from outside as well. It might seem obvious that one should snap shots from outside their home after experiencing any kind of severe weather event, like flooding. Many people forget about this step when trying to document their claim with insurance companies or other agencies involved in filing claims for homeowners' insurance policies.

A water loss claim can be complicated, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming

File a claim as soon as possible after discovering the damage. Your insurance company will want documentation of the damage and how it happened, so take photos and video of any affected areas before cleaning up or making repairs. If possible, keep a record of all your phone calls with adjusters and other representatives from your insurance company so that there are no misunderstandings later on. A water loss claim can be complicated, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Make sure you understand what type of policy coverage applies in your case, theft vs vandalism or natural disaster, and whether or not any specific exclusions apply (like earthquake coverage).

Give SERVPRO a call for your water restoration emergency. Our technicians are ready to help 24/7.