Water Damage Restoration

Answer: In short, it depends. While there are no rules to determine how long your property will take to dry, we can tell you it may take between three to five days or more, depending on the conditions.

This is determined by a combination of factors including: the location, duration & source of water, the types of building materials, weather conditions, and how quickly emergency services began. Through consistent monitoring and evaluation during the drying process, we can determine when the drying is complete. Your carpet may feel dry to the touch, but padding and sub-floors may still be wet underneath.

Answer: Not necessarily. We will adjust the temperature to its optimum setting for the proper drying conditions. Please do not change the setting or shut off the system without asking us as this may slow down the drying process.

Answer: Based on average electrical rates, it may cost about one dollar per day per piece of drying equipment to operate. Actual rates can vary depending on current rates from your local electricity provider.

Answer: A few reasons your carpet may not be salvageable:

• Delamination (occurs when backing separates from the carpet fiber)
• Loss of adhesion (may be caused by prolonged exposure to water or age of the carpet)
• Permanent stains
• Carpet covers wood flooring (to salvage the wood flooring)
• Sewage contamination

Answer: It depends. Our equipment is specially made to help floors get back into their original shape, but it may take up to 5 days to see how bad the damage is. We employ specialized drying systems and dehumidifiers that enable us to create an environment where wood floors can dry more efficiently.

Many wood floors do, in fact, return to their original shape. However, each flooring system is unique, and we will need to closely monitor the moisture content to determine if restoration is possible.

We’ll work with you and your insurance adjustor to make a final decision.

Answer: The extent of damage and the construction of the furniture will determine if your furniture can be restored. It must be dried before damage can be assessed. Non-salvageable furniture will be documented for you and if any items need to be discarded, a customer release form will need to be signed, and we can then dispose of it for you.

Answer: Most times it is not. It is not unusual to smell odors during the drying process. Increased heat and humidity can also lead to increased odors that may be coming from the floors, walls, and carpets. As the drying process continues and the humidity levels drop, you’ll notice these odors disappearing on their own. Deodorizers are often used to minimize these effects as well.

Answer: Not usually. If items need to be moved out, we will let you know in advance and coordinate with your insurance as needed.

Answer: Our technicians will evaluate moisture, determine the severity of the damage and may have to remove some of your ceiling for ventilation. Wet insulation can also be a hazard and may need to be removed.

Answer: Opening your windows during the drying process is not always recommended. Outside weather conditions may vary, so the technician will determine when and if the outside air is appropriate.

Answer: It is strongly suggested that you keep the traffic to a minimum. Wear shoes for your safety.

Answer: Hard surfaces can be cleaned and sanitized. Affected items that cannot be sanitized require disposal. Porous materials such as drywall, ceiling tiles, insulation, particleboard, paneling, etc. that have been directly affected should be removed during the emergency service visit.

Answer: Ultimately you, the property owner, are responsible for payment. We can help you navigate this process, and explain what’s happening, what the cost will be, and how your insurance or mortgage company will help. We also usually work directly with your insurance, so you won’t have the hassle of working with them and with us at the same time.

If this is an insurance claim, ServiceMaster Restore generally collects only the deductible amount and bills the balance to your insurance provider as a service to you. If your claim is not covered or you decide not to file a claim, we will bill you directly.