Water damage can be devastating, destroying home furnishings, irreplaceable items, and even the structure of the home itself. When faced with water damage, it is crucial to act quickly to mitigate further destruction and begin the restoration process. Hiring professional water damage restoration services provides the expertise and equipment needed to properly handle water damage and restore your home to its pre-loss condition.
Why Hire Water Damage Restoration Professionals
Attempting DIY water damage restoration can often make the problem worse. Professional water damage restoration services have the proper training, industry certifications, specialized equipment, and resources to fully restore your home. Here are some key reasons to hire water damage restoration professionals:
Advanced Drying Techniques
Professional water damage restoration technicians use truck-mounted extraction systems and industrial air movers to thoroughly dry all affected areas. This helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Improper drying can cause secondary damage.
Structural Drying Expertise
Some water damage requires structural drying techniques. For example, drying concrete flooring, hardwood floors, walls, and other structural components of the home requires special equipment and methods. Impacting structural integrity can undermine the safety of the home.
Remediation of Contaminants
Floodwaters often contain contaminants such as sewage, chemicals, and other pollutants. Professional remediation is required to safely remove and dispose of contaminated materials without cross-contamination. This protects homeowners from coming into contact with dangerous biological contaminants and prevents further property damage.
Professional Project Management
Water damage restoration involves coordinating specialized technicians, equipment, materials, and processes. Professional project management ensures the restoration is handled efficiently and effectively.
Insurance Claim Assistance
Reputable water damage restoration companies work closely with both homeowners and insurers to settle claims fairly and expediently. Their expertise facilitates the claims process.
Certifications to Look For
When selecting water damage restoration services, look for companies with training and certifications from established organizations and institutes. Some of the major certifications include:
IICRC Certifications
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) offers credentials in water damage restoration, mold remediation, fire/smoke restoration, and other services. IICRC certified technicians must undergo coursework and pass exams in their restoration specialty.
RIA Certification
The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) offers Registered Water Restorer and Applied Structural Drying certifications. Technicians undergo continuing education in structural drying techniques.
BBB Accreditation
The Better Business Bureau provides accreditation to companies that meet standards in areas like transparency, advertising truthfulness, and proper complaints resolution. BBB accreditation provides assurance of ethical business practices.
Chamber of Commerce Membership
Many areas have Chambers of Commerce that only admit reputable local businesses. Chamber membership signifies community involvement and satisfactory business practices.
Red Flags to Avoid
When hiring water damage restoration services, there are a few red flags to watch out for:
Lack of Proper Licensing
Technicians should have all licenses required by state and local authorities to perform water damage restoration services. Lack of licensing may indicate insufficient training.
Vague Pricing
Avoid companies that won’t provide clear, upfront pricing. Ethical professionals will explain their rates, fees, and charges so you can make informed decisions.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics
Don’t hire any company that uses manipulative, intimidating sales tactics. Reputable providers allow you time to review estimates, ask questions, and make decisions.
No Written Contract
Insist on a written contract that clearly outlines the services to be performed, timeline, costs, and other vital details so misunderstandings can be avoided.
Refusal to Follow Industry Standards
Professional water damage restoration should adhere to IICRC and RIA standards. Technicians should be properly trained and certified. Lack of standards compliance is a red flag.
Questions to Ask Water Damage Restoration Companies
When interviewing water damage restoration companies, asking the right questions helps identify the best service provider for your needs. Important questions include:
Are you certified by any professional organizations?
Certifications indicate technicians are properly trained and up-to-date on the latest methods and industry standards. The previously mentioned IICRC and RIA certifications are highly reputable.
Do you have both equipment and personnel specially trained in water damage restoration?
Truck-mounted extraction systems, commercial dehumidifiers and air movers, moisture meters, and other specialty drying equipment maximizes restoration capabilities. Technicians should also have water damage-specific training.
How quickly can you respond to an emergency call?
Timeliness is critical to effective water damage restoration. Capabilities to mobilize and begin mitigation quickly prevents further property damage and mold growth.
What are your customer service policies?
Good providers are transparent about pricing, offer warranties, provide multiple means of contact, and have satisfactory complaint resolution practices. This minimizes frustration.
Do you assist with filing insurance claims?
Experienced water damage restoration professionals are familiar with claim processes and documentation requirements. They work with insurers to settle claims quickly and fairly.
Can you provide references from past flood restoration jobs?
Reputable companies will furnish customer references upon request. Speaking with past clients provides helpful insights on service quality, timeliness, integrity and more.
Water Damage Assessment & Mitigation
When water damage restoration technicians first arrive onsite, they perform a thorough assessment of the loss to identify the proper response. Knowledgeable technicians look for:
Sources of Water Intrusion
Locating where water entered the home, and if that source has been stopped, guides the restoration plan. Active leaks must be stopped before mitigation can begin.
Type of Water
The source and contamination levels of water impacts mitigation steps. Floodwaters require more remediation than clean rainwater. Technicians test water to identify contaminants.
Extent of Saturation
Moisture meters and infrared cameras identify the extent of moisture saturation throughout walls, flooring, and furnishings. This reveals the drying requirements.
Structural Impacts
Technicians check for compromised structural integrity, including damage to foundations, drywall, floors, and load-bearing elements. Structural drying techniques may be required.
Health Hazards
Standing water encourages mold, mildew, and bacteria growth. Technicians check for hazardous contaminants and if occupants may safely remain onsite during restoration.
Effective mitigation stops further water intrusion and contamination. Pumping removes standing water. Plastic sheeting isolates affected areas. Dehumidifiers and fans dry materials. Air scrubbers filter air. Contaminated items are discarded properly.
Water Extraction & Drying Methods
Water extraction and drying is a multi-step process requiring specialized equipment and methods for proper restoration.
Extraction
Truck-mounted extraction systems rapidly remove free-standing water from floors, carpets, and other surfaces. This vacuum system prevents wicking and secondary moisture damage.
Structural Dehumidification
Large commercial dehumidifiers are installed throughout affected areas to bring humidity levels down to prevent mold growth. This dries structural components.
Air Movement
Industrial air movers circulate air to accelerate evaporation. Airflow also equalizes humidity levels throughout the space. This works in conjunction with dehumidification.
Monitoring and Documenting
Moisture sensors monitor moisture levels throughout the restoration process to ensure drying progress stays on track. Progress is documented to meet insurance requirements.
Odor Control
Ozone generators neutralize persistent odors often left behind after water damage. This restores indoor air quality. Air scrubbers also filter particulates.
Safety Checks
Once fully dry per industry standards, technicians perform safety checks to ensure electrical systems, appliances, HVAC systems, and gas lines are restored to proper working order.
Mold Inhibition
EPA-registered anti-microbial agents are applied to inhibit mold growth. Any discovered mold is properly remediated by trained specialists.
Following structured drying protocols minimizes restoration timeframes while avoiding secondary damage. Technicians remain onsite monitoring progress until all moisture is fully remediated.
Water Damage Restoration Process Phases
Water damage restoration typically progresses through three main phases:
Emergency Response Phase
The initial response focuses on immediate safety concerns and mitigating further property damage. Hazards are addressed, utilities shut off, and affected areas isolated. Pumping, dehumidification, and basic drying begins.
Restorative Drying Phase
During this phase, technicians use specialized structural drying techniques per IICRC standards to fully dry all affected materials. Air quality treatments also occur. Moisture levels are continually monitored.
Reconstruction Phase
Once drying meets moisture content thresholds, reconstruction efforts begin. This may involve cleanup, repairs, replacements, and refinishing. Technicians work to restore the property to its pre-loss condition.
Reputable water damage restoration companies have the training, equipment, and resources to properly handle all phases of the restoration process.
Services Offered by Water Damage Restoration Companies
The services offered by water damage restoration companies depend on their capabilities and specializations but may include:
- 24/7 Emergency Response – Reputable providers offer around-the-clock response to begin mitigation and drying immediately to prevent further building damage and mold growth.
- Water Extraction – Truck-mounted extraction systems rapidly remove large volumes of water from the property, including under floors, behind walls, and beneath materials.
- Drying and Dehumidification – Commercial dehumidification and air movement dries structural materials, carpets, furnishings, and contents to proper moisture levels.
- Air Duct Cleaning – HVAC systems are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Air quality is restored.
- Odor Removal – Ozone generators, air scrubbers, and other methods remove persistent odors often left behind after water intrusion.
- Anti-Microbial Treatments – The application of anti-microbial agents inhibits the growth of mold and bacteria on wet materials.
- Smoke and Soot Removal – Smoke damage resulting from fires also requires remediation. Technicians remove soot from contents and structure.
- Electronics Restoration – Special methods dry electronics through component separation, gentle cleaning, controlled humidity, and testing.
- Dehumidifier Rentals – For DIY drying, companies can provide commercial dehumidifiers, air movers, and air scrubbers for proper moisture removal.
- Reconstruction Services – Some companies offer repair and replacement services to restore the property, such as drywall installation, flooring replacement, and finish carpentry.
Key Factors When Selecting a Water Damage Restoration Company
Choosing the right water damage restoration company ensures your restoration needs are handled properly. Here are key factors to consider:
Relevant Experience
Look for ample experience performing professional water damage restorations specifically for properties similar to yours. This demonstrates in-depth technical knowledge.
Proper Licensing and Certifications
Technicians should hold IICRC, RIA, and other industry certifications, as well as all required state and local licensing. This validates proper training.
Available Services
Assess capabilities to provide all services you require, such as water extraction, drying, mold remediation, reconstruction, and electronics restoration.
Response Time
The company should be able to mobilize technicians and equipment promptly for emergency response to begin mitigation ASAP and prevent further damage.
Equipment and Resources
Commercial drying equipment, adequate personnel, relationships with qualified subcontractors, and the capacity to handle large-scale restorations may be necessary for proper restoration.
Insurance Relationships
Choose a company experienced in working with insurers to settle claims fairly. They should manage documentation and facilitate prompt claim resolution.
Damage Assessment Skills
Select technicians trained in comprehensive damage assessments. This enables accurate drying and restoration protocols.
Reputation
Research online reviews and testimonials. Favorable feedback on expertise, timeliness, customer service and integrity indicates a reputable company.
Choosing the right water damage restoration service provider helps ensure your treasured home and valuables are restored properly and efficiently. Trusting unqualified contractors can risk further property damage and financial loss. Do thorough research to identify responsive, capable, certified professionals dedicated to quality restoration work and customer satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Water Damage Restoration
Water damage can happen suddenly and require urgent response. Here are some common questions homeowners have regarding water damage restoration:
How soon after water damage do I need to call restoration services?
Acting quickly is critical. Contacting a water damage restoration professional within 24-48 hours helps prevent mold growth and secondary damage. Immediate response is best.
Will my homeowners insurance cover water damage restoration?
Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover water damage from sudden events like burst pipes or storms. Damage from gradual events like leaky roofs may have limited coverage. Inspect your policy or check with your agent.
Why does water damage restoration take so long?
Thorough drying requires time due to absorption into materials like concrete, wood, and padding. Affected areas must remain dry for days after surfaces appear dry. Rushing the process risks further damage.
How can I tell if there is hidden water damage?
Signs include new or expanding water stains, musty odors, peeling paint or wallpaper, warped floors or wood, and mold or mildew growth. Thermal imaging and moisture meters also detect hidden moisture.
Does a higher quote guarantee better water damage restoration services?
No. Compare the scope of services rather than just the bottom line cost. However, extremely low bids may indicate potential cut corners or inexperienced technicians.
Can I completely restore my home after extensive water damage?
In most cases, yes. With proper water extraction, drying protocols, mold remediation, reconstruction services, and contents restoration, homes can be fully restored to pre-loss conditions.
Will using my homeowners insurance raise my rates?
Filing an insurance claim for a sudden, accidental loss will generally not increase premiums. However, don’t file a claim for minor losses you can reasonably pay yourself.
Can I dry things out myself without professional help?
Attempting extensive DIY drying risks secondary moisture damage and mold growth. It’s best to hire professional water damage restoration for proper extraction and drying.
Conclusion
Water damage can be stressful and require urgent response. However, hiring reputable water damage restoration professionals provides the expertise, equipment, and project management needed to fully repair damage and restore your home properly. Following industry standards avoids secondary damage while specialized techniques save time and money over DIY efforts. With some research, you can find responsive, experienced providers with excellent customer service to make the restoration process as smooth as possible so you can quickly return to normalcy.