SERVPRO®
 
 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does it cost to have water or fire damaged property professionally restored?

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The key component of our pricing is an estimating program called Xactimate. This program follows insurance industry standards for pricing and is recognized by most insurance companies. However, since there are many variables so we cannot give a price before our estimator inspects the property and damages. Our estimates are provided free of charge.

2. Can I restore my damage myself?

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In most cases when fire and/or water has damaged property or contents, it is not recommended that a homeowner or untrained individual attempt the restoration process. Proper equipment, cleaning products, supplies and knowledge is essential to be sure that water has been extracted and the structure dry. Failure to properly dry, floors, carpet, walls and contents can cause secondary damages such as buckling, rot, and mold. You may also jeopardize your insurance coverage for the incident, by not properly mitigating or minimizing damage.

3. Is my damage covered by my insurance?

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You need to review your policy with your agent to determine if you have proper coverage for your damage. Ask about available riders for sump pump failure or sewer backups. Most policies do not cover water damage from outside sources so you may want to review flood insurance options with your agent.

4. How is payment handled?

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We work with the insurance company to collect payment for the costs of restoring your property. Most policies have a deductible which is your responsibility. Deductibles can be a flat amount such as $250.00 or a percentage of your claim. The insurance company will pay the claim minus your deductible.

5. Do I have a choice of contractors to use for restoring my property?

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Yes. The customer always has the ability to use the restoration company they feel is qualified. Many insurance companies refer their insured to us, but we also receive business directly from property owners because of our reputation, customer referrals and from many existing customers.

6. Why should I choose an IICRC certified restoration company?

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It is important to work with a restoration company that has been certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). IICRC certified firms adhere to industry accepted standards and assures you that the technicians working on your property have been properly trained and have experience handling fire and water damaged property. Our technicians attend programs throughout the year to keep their certification current. We invest both time and money training our people to understand proper restoration processes.

7. Can cleaning a rug cause premature wear?

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No, just the opposite! Regularly cleaning carpets and rugs (once a year) makes their original sheen last longer. Annual rug cleaning prevents stains from becoming imbedded in the fibers, especially in high traffic areas. None of the equipment and products that we use is abrasive or likely to alter the color of your carpets and rugs.

8. How often should residential HVAC systems be cleaned?

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Frequency of cleaning depends on several factors, including the preference of the homeowner. Some conditions should be considered such as whether there are smokers in the household or pets that shed excessively, water damages or contamination to the home or HVAC, or residents with allergies or asthma. More frequent cleaning might be helpful after home renovations or remodeling or prior to occupancy of a new home.

9. What is mold?

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Mold is a fungus that is naturally occurring and found both indoors and outdoors. To survive, mold requires only a source of food, warmth, and moisture. Its food sources are many, including building materials such as wood, carpet, ceiling tiles, drywall, upholstery, wallpaper, and sheetrock. The reproduction of mold occurs through the release of mold spores which land on organic surfaces and begin to germinate. The rate at which reproduction occurs is determined by; factors such as temperature, type of surface and amount of moisture.

10. What are some of the signs that mold might be present ?

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If you answer is yes to any of the following questions you may have a hidden mold condition:
Is there a musty smell in the building?
Are there visible signs of water damage anywhere?
Has the building ever suffered any appliance leaks?
Has the building every suffered a roof leak?
Has the building ever suffered a plumbing leak?
Has the building ever suffered a sink or sewer overflow?
Is there visible black mold in the basement, attic or living areas?

11. Is mold dangerous?

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Most molds, and those most commonly found in homes and offices, do not produce toxins and are not considered harmful to humans. Some molds can trigger allergic reactions and asthma symptoms in certain people. Toxic molds are those that secrete a poison call mycotoxins and they exist in far fewer number then ordinary molds.

12. Is there anything I can do to minimize the risk of mold growth?

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The key to mold control is moisture control. Solve moisture problems before they become mold problems! Fix leaky plumbing and leaks in the building envelope as soon as possible. Watch for condensation and wet spots. Fix source(s) of moisture problem(s) as soon as possible. Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in the air (humidity). To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid). Keep heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly, and unobstructed. Vent moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, to the outside where possible. Maintain low humidity, below 60% relative humidity (RH), ideally 30-50%, if possible. Perform regular building HVAC inspections and maintenance as scheduled. Clean and dry wet spots within 48 hours. Don't let foundation stay wet. Provide drainage and slope the ground away for the foundation.
 
We Serve Your Market
• Commercial Buildings
• Distribution Centers
• Industrial Plants
• Malls and Retail Spaces
• Government Facilities
• Transportation Centers
• Condominiums
• Supermarkets
• Research Facilities
• Hospitals & Medical Facilities
• Military Bases
• Distribution Facilities
• Warehouse Facilities
• Schools
• Hotels and Motels
• Restaurants
• Churches
 
SERVPRO ®  Franchise of the Year

SERVPRO ®  Franchise of the Year
Independently Owned and Operated