Flood And Water Damage

Fire damage, as most would expect, is the number one worry for homeowners and business owners when they protect their property. However, studies show, that we are up to 10 times more likely to suffer water damage to our property than fire damage. It may not get the headlines or visible destruction that fire can bring, but billions of dollars a year are spent in restoring homes and businesses due to water and flood damage.

Damage caused by water is pervasive and dangerous if not caught in a timely manner. The growth of mold and their spores can be very toxic if not removed and cleaned properly. Before any repairs have started we contract out a specialist to test for mold and take the appropriate action if mold has been discovered.

Tens of thousands of dollars in damage can occur from a toilet or sink on the 2nd floor of a home that has ruptured and water has made its way to the main level. Tile floors, hardwood floors, drywall, electrical, carpet, furniture, personal belonging and effect all may be damaged. This is just one example. There could also be structural integrity issues, slab leaks, landscaping issues.

A general contractor may just cut the bottom of the dry wall and replace it and put out a bunch of dehumidifiers and blowers, not knowing the potential hidden damage under the flooring as well as exposing the home to possible asbestos in the drywall. The older the home, the more susceptible it is to rot and degradation from water exposure.

The contractor we recommend is licensed and certified to restore water damage and follows safety guidelines.

  • Loss assessment and evaluation

  • Categorization -- determining what type of water we are dealing with and how sanitary is it

  • Classification -- determining how much water and how it will be removed (evaporation, absorption and specialty drying)

  • Principles in Drying --taking into account structural and contents consideration, monitoring the drying process and making sure the process is complete by testing for temperature, moisture and humidity levels.

If you have suffered a flood due to heavy rains and live in a flood zone, you need a "flood insurance policy" and any damage incurred will not be covered otherwise. Insurance companies love to deny water claims. Putting off the blame to the homeowner as "lack of maintenance" doesn't fly with us. Policies generally state that a "sudden burst" from a pipe is covered, not from slow leaks. If the leak is hidden and unknowable to the homeowner, we will fight to get it covered.