Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Quick action is important in reducing loss and restoration costs in the event of a fire or water emergency. But in a stressful situation, it can be hard to know the right actions to take. First and foremost, make sure you contact a certified restoration company and your insurance company as soon as you possibly can. Here are some other helpful tips to help you minimize damage to your property.

Fire, Smoke and Soot…What to do?

  • DO open windows for ventilation.
  • DO change the air conditioning filter if the fan is operating.
  • Do NOT walk on damaged carpet or sit on upholstered furniture unless absolutely necessary.
  • Do NOT wipe or wash walls or other absorbent or porous surfaces.
  • Do NOT consume any food items exposed to smoke or excessive heat.
  • Do NOT use any electronics or appliances until they have been cleaned and/or checked.

Water Damage…What to do?

  • If you can't stop the flow of water, DO contact a plumber immediately.
  • If possible, DO keep the indoor temperature below 70 degrees. This helps prevent microbial growth.
  • DO place foil or plastic below furniture legs to prevent rust or furniture stains on flooring.
  • DO turn off the electricity to all affected rooms.
  • DO loop draperies through coat hangers and hang them from the rod to prevent water circles.
  • DO remove items from the floor in affected closets.
  • DO remove breakable items from furniture that will need to be moved for professional clean up.
  • DO remove area rugs from of wet carpet.
  • Do NOT use a household vacuum as this may cause an electrical shock.
  • DO not to walk on wet carpeting, if at all possible, as this may spread water to unaffected areas.

Sewage Backflow…What to do?

  • For safety, do NOT enter the affected area until after decontamination.
  • Do NOT attempt any cleaning for health and safety reasons.
  • If you must handle contaminated materials, DO wear rubber gloves.
  • If possible, DO leave the premises until after cleanup and decontamination.

Mold Growth…What to do?

  • DO call a restoration company immediately to have the growth evaluated.
  • DO not disturb the growth. This may cause spores to become air borne and spread spores to unaffected areas.
  • DO not apply direct air movement from fans or your HVAC system to the growth. This also may cause spores to become air borne and contaminate other areas.
  • DO close off the area if possible until a qualified inspection technician arrives.
By law, a technician cannot tell you whether the growth is mold during the first visit. The technician must take a sample to a lab for testing. While results are being processed, keep the affected area closed off as much as possible.