Before you hire a water damage restoration service, you must understand the risks involved in the process. First, you must ensure that you are hiring a certified company. Check for certification from the IICRC. You should also ask the company whether they are insured and if they have a 24-hour emergency line. It is also essential to ask how satisfied their previous clients have been with their service. You can usually get this information through online review sites. However, if you’re not sure how to find a trustworthy company, you can also check online reviews.
IICRC certification
IICRC is an organization that recognizes professional work standards and provides ongoing education to restore damaged property.
IICRC training is comprehensive and focuses on water removal, moisture removal, and optimal use of equipment. Consumers value integrity, quality work, and professionalism in service providers, and they expect to get the same results from a company certified by IICRC. IICRC is committed to maintaining its standards and enhancing its members’ expertise and provides certification to water damage restoration companies that meet high industry standards. Certified companies adhere to IICRC standards for all aspects of their operations, including the training of technicians.
Cost of hiring a professional
Some homeowners may want to save money by hiring a restoration company and cleaning crew to help with their water damage restoration project. Others may wish to handle the job themselves, hiring dehumidifiers and other specialty materials. While some homeowners may be able to save money by repairing some damage themselves, it is generally a better idea to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and without health risks. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of hiring a professional for water damage restoration:
First, a restoration contractor will assess the extent of water damage. Next, a restoration team will use moisture sensors to determine whether water has penetrated the walls or not. Next, they will evaluate the level of repair needed for the area. Finally, a restoration crew will remove any carpet, furniture, appliances, or electronics required. Once the rooms are clean and dry, the contractors will assess how much damage has been caused. You can expect to pay between $350 and $500 per hour for water damage restoration.
Health hazards
While water damage may not cause severe health risks to most people, it can be dangerous for occupants of a structure if it contains contaminated water. Excess moisture in a system can encourage the growth of harmful bacteria and mold. Additionally, exposure to water contaminated with mold can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and chronic headaches. Therefore, water damage restoration must prioritize health, not property damage. For this reason, a professional cleanup company is necessary to prevent the spread of bacteria and mold.
In addition to health risks, water damage can cause mold and other harmful biological growth. This mold will take hold within 12 days and can affect people’s health in the home. These are not only unpleasant odors but can also cause respiratory and skin problems, particularly for people with eczema or asthma. In addition to these health risks, water damage can lead to musty odors and other unpleasant odors.
Removing items damaged by water
After a flood has soaked your home, you may not immediately see how much damage has been done to your belongings. But you should still remove any damaged items so that water damage restoration professionals can do their job correctly. Even if some things are unsalvageable, you can still save them from being thrown out. If you can’t salvage them, consider storing them in an open container.
After the flood, you should remove any wet fabrics from carpets and rugs. If possible, place them in a dry location. Books should be removed from damp carpets and spread out to dry. If possible, prop up furniture legs. You can also place aluminum foil, china saucers, or wood blocks between the legs of furniture. You should also remove any wet or stained upholstered items, such as cushions.
Health hazards associated with untreated water
Floodwaters are dangerous because they contain harmful chemicals, dirt, and bacteria. Even if the water is not as toxic as sewage, the moisture and dirt can bring about unpleasant repercussions. Bugs love moist places to lay their eggs, and fungus thrives in this environment. Mold exposure can lead to respiratory problems and allergies. Therefore, the water damage restoration process must focus on health.
Even a tiny leak or flood can cause extensive damage and pose a significant health risk. Water damage restoration professionals can safely remove the water, affected materials, and contaminants. In many cases, the water damage restoration process will only be able to be completed when there is a professional inspection. In addition, the cleanup process should include a thorough examination of any electrical wiring and outlets. Finally, wooden structures absorb water and can become damp, which can cause mold and pose structural dangers.
