Restoration FAQ
Q: Do I have to work with the restoration company my insurance agent recommends?
A: Insurance companies are permitted to recommend preferred restoration vendors, however they can not require you to use a specific firm. You can choose to work with Emergency Restoration or any licensed restoration contractors.
Q: My basement has water damage, am I covered?
A: Your policy will spell out the specifics of your homeowners insurance coverage. Most insurance policies require an extra rider to cover water damage that is related to flooding. Water damage from a broken pipe within the house should be covered in a basic policy.
Q: I don’t want to file an insurance claim, is this ok?
A: We will work with you or your insurance company at your discretion. We offer competitive pricing on all of our restoration projects.
Q: If not restored, what effects can water damage have?
Immediately
- furniture in direct contact with moisture delaminates, cracks and swells
- drywall begins to swell
- wallpaper adhesives fail
A Few Days
- mold will begin to appear
- metal surfaces begin to corrode
- wood materials begin to swell and split
- fabric dyes discolor and bleed
- people affected by mold allergies can begin to have reactions
Over A Week
- mold destroys organic materials like paper coverings, wood, drywall, and paneling
- wood components split and warp
- insurance claim costs can increase
- health problems can become an issue
Q: I have a flooding problem. What should I do, and what should I not do?
DO
- Call a contractor to eliminate the water source.
- Turn off circuit breakers in wet areas, unplug and remove any electrical devices on a wet surface.
- Small items should be removed from wet areas to prevent rust and stains.
- Aluminum foil can be placed under furniture legs.
- Lift draperies to eliminate staining.
- Remove plants, books and other items from wet carpet areas.
DO NOT
- Do not use a regular vacuum on wet carpet.
- Do not place newspaper on carpet, staining may occur.
- Don’t walk on wet carpet any more than necessary.
- Do not use your central air or heating system to avoid spreading contamination.
Q: What is the IICRC
A: The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) has served as the Industry Guardian for the cleaning, inspection and restoration service industries for more than 30 years. As a non-profit certification organization, the IICRC helps ensure that you have access to trusted and trained cleaning professionals by establishing and monitoring certification programs and standards for these industries.
To qualify for IICRC-Certified Firm status businesses must demonstrate proof of insurance, maintain a written customer complaint policy with documented follow-up and provide ongoing education and training leading to certification for all technicians. IICRC Certified Firms are also required to abide by the IICRC Code of Ethics. Services provided by IICRC–Certified professionals range from flooring inspection and cleaning to mold remediation to water and fire damage restoration.