(1)  Water & Fire damage restoration is a very difficult task and requires a lot of attention to detail from beginning to end, so that the home occupants safety and health are not in jeopardy. Always hire a professional for “extensive” water and fire damage and restoration.

(2)  Water Damage & Restoration: Water damage from a storm, flood or burst pipes, can be dangerous. Mold, mildew and overall damage to structural integrity can occur. In addition, a homeowner that delays in solving a water damage problem can be denied a claim (by an insurance company) if they decide to repair the problem at a later date. If you delay, often insurance companies will consider this owner neglect. It is best to take care of the problem immediately to avoid further complications.

(3) On average, it takes three to five full days for a structure to dry with the proper equipment. Insurance company protocol calls for a minimum of three days for equipment to be on site. Although the affected area may seem dry, there is often hidden moisture that needs to be resolved.

(4)  Smoke & Fire Damage & Restoration: There are two forms of smoke damage: soot and odor. Soot is visible and must be thoroughly cleaned before the house is suitable for occupation again, but odor is not visible and is sometimes not noticed until homeowners have moved back into their home.

(5)  The professional Damage & Restoration company should typically: Remove structural components (walls, ceiling, etc.) with charring, smoke damage or moisture damage. Remove floor coverings. Evaluate structural framing and sub-floors for charring and warping (then dry, replace and repair as needed).

(6)  The professional Damage & Restoration company should typically: Inspect HVAC systems and replace or restore as needed. Replace, reseal and paint drywall and structural components. Evaluate and restore all furnishings and removable fixtures. Deodorize each room, using an ozone generator to eradicate smoke odors, if needed.

(7)  Professional restoration companies can advise homeowners on which damaged items can safely be restored and which items are beyond repair. Damage from fire, smoke or water is not always apparent from outside, but an expert in fire restoration can ensure that resources are not wasted by repairing items that in reality cannot be salvaged.

(8)  Inquire about guarantees on work performed, as much of the damage caused by a fire is not always obvious right away.

(9)  Obtain a detailed written work proposal, including time frames, as homeowners often have to make alternative living arrangements until the work is completed.

(10)  Check past customer references thoroughly to assess the quality of work and integrity of the company. Investigate the company’s ‘current workers’ compensation (or alternative workers insurance) and liability insurance.