Getting Familiar with the Remediation Process for Water Damage

After a disaster, services for water damage remediation near me seem to appear out of thin air. They will likely talk about their unique techniques and services, but in reality, most of these companies follow the same seven-step process for water damage restoration and recovery, and it will suit you well to understand what that process is.

Evaluation

The first step in the water damage remediation process is an assessment of your property and the extent of the damage. The restoration company will send out an evaluation team within 15 minutes of being called. This team will spend some time walking your property and its grounds, looking for causes of water infiltration.

Also, they will assess the level of structural damage and look for any signs of mold growth. Once they have completed their initial walk-through, they will offer an initial estimate. However, a more detailed assessment will follow with explanations for the costs. If hired, the restoration company will set a timeline for the work to begin.

Water Removal

Next, the company will send out a team to extract the surplus water from the property. Depending on the extent of the flooding, the team will probably arrive with pump trucks, which are large trucks with built-in water pumps. Large diameter hoses connect to the truck and are brought into and placed in the affected areas before the vehicles are turned on for suction.

In addition to these trucks, the company might also send smaller pumps, or the teams might use wet/dry vacs. In any case, the water is eliminated from the property as quickly as possible to minimize the threat of mold.

Removal of Porous Items

Once the excess water has been removed from the affected space, the team begins the removal of porous items, including rugs, carpets, drywall, insulation, draperies, etc. If the water is clean, then these items can likely be cleaned and returned. However, if the items sat in contaminated water or mold growth is present, then all affected porous items should be discarded. In certain situations, some things might be able to be cleaned.

Drying and Dehumidifying

After removing all affected items and opening up any necessary walls, then the remediation company can begin drying out space. To do so, they will typically use air-movers, fans, and dehumidifiers. Also, these companies will probably open all doors and windows to the affected area to allow for improved ventilation.

Disinfecting the Property

With the property dry and all contaminated items removed, the remediation specialist will move forward with cleaning and disinfecting the home. Using commercial grade cleaners and vacuums with HEPA filters, the team will scrub down every surface in the affected area to ensure a clean foundation for the renovation to follow.

Treating for Mold

Beyond disinfecting for water damage, it is possible that your home might need to be treated for mold, depending on the length of time water was collecting. Mold can develop and spread within 24 to 48 hours, which means if you did not notice the water damage for a few days, then mold could be likely. Any restoration company you bring in will probably test for mold. If they find it, then they will contain the problem, remove it, and treat it.

Renovation

Last, after the property has been dried, treated, and cleaned, then it is time for the restoration phase. Most companies design a quote with the understanding that the property is being restored to pre-damage condition.

However, homeowners do have the option of upgrading or renovating as long as they understand that the costs might not be covered by their insurer. Therefore, if money is tight and your insurance will cover most of the remediation and renovation expenses, it is likely a good idea to leave most of the upgrades and structural changes to a minimum.

Water damage remediation is a busy process, and it requires decisive action to ensure that the home is not exposed to further loss. Most remediation companies follow the process above. However, to ensure that the assessment, estimate, and work are all balanced with only minor adjustments for contingencies, you should hire a reputable restoration company, like United Water Restoration Group. Don’t fall victim to unscrupulous businesses preying on your misfortune.

We provide services in Ormond Beach, Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, Daytona Beach, Florida, Orlando, Florida, Tampa, Florida, Melbourne, Florida, and many other locations around Florida!