FAQ - SERVPRO Has the Answers About What You Should Know Concerning Water Damage in Merrimack and Amherst

9/26/2018 (Permalink)

Merrimack Homeowners Have the Questions and SERVPRO Has the Answers to Mold and Water Problems

8 Frequently Asked Questions That Worry Property Owners in Merrimack About Water Damage

1. How much does a water damage restoration cost?
A: SERVPRO provides a professional estimate after consulting with you free if charge. We document the damaged area, what components and possessions were damaged, and estimate the water mitigation cost. Many factors come into play like the time needed, the equipment deployed, and containment and barrier setups.

2. Are you submitting a claim with your insurance?
A: If you are submitting a claim, SERVPRO requires the claim number and the name of your insurance company. We can then directly interact with your insurer releasing you from undue stress. However, you are responsible for the deductible and a deposit if no coverage is available before we begin the restoration of your Merrimack property.

3. What product sanitizes and disinfects the affected elements after a water loss?
A:  We use SERVPRO's proprietary decontamination products on the stricken areas to reduce the likelihood of microbial growth and for cleanability. The chief decontaminant product is SERVPRO Oxide, an EPA registered chlorine dioxide based disinfectant and stabilizer. This chemical requires no personal protective equipment PPE during treatment, is safe for use on all surfaces, and of course for people and your pets.

4. Can I remain at home during the drying process?
A: The short answer is yes; if the residence is safe. The safety of our customers and employees is our number one priority. Each case is different depending on the severity of the damage and is evaluated on its own problems. We help you to remain in your residence when feasible. However, if deemed hazardous, we can suggest to your insurance company to provide you with a temporary relocation. The drying equipment can be loud, and usually must run for several days continuously during the dry-down period, to achieve our drying goals. This is your personal decision.

5. Can a SERVPRO team respond quickly to an emergency loss?
A: We average about 2 hours after receiving the phone call on site to do emergency services and start the recovery process right away. However, we do need a signed Service Authorization Form prior to beginning the mitigation.

6. What is the drying process for water damage?
A: The drying process begins with the crew stopping the water flow if it is on-going. The crew checks for any electrical hazards to avoid shocks or worse. Our technicians can extract any pooling water from the wet areas and use moisture measuring and detection equipment as well as psychrometrics to discover the moisture in the wall cavities and the air. The SERVPRO crew can formulate a drying plan to determine the best methods of restoration for your home. We can then place a variety of drying systems and equipment, including air movers and commercial grade dehumidifiers, to completely dry the materials and environment. The entire drying process typically takes about 3-5 days to complete. And we document the results for your carrier.

7. Does all water damage cause mold?
A:  Each water damaging event presents an opening for mold to grow from dormant spores or other microbial growth. The source and type of water (clean, gray, or black) the volume of the water, the ambient temperature, and the length of time the moisture has been present all have a direct bearing on the amount and types of microbial growth species. It is critical to take action as soon as you understand that a water damage loss has occurred.

8. How long before microbial growth starts to grow?
A: Depending upon the conditions, but in most cases, microbial growth can start within 72 hours after a water loss. Swiftly responding is crucial to prevent the spread of microbial and other organisms.

SERVPRO of Merrimack has the answers to your questions and the solutions to your problems by calling us at (603) 262-9293.