Question 1

Who is responsible for paying for the service?

Accepted Answer

Ultimately you, the property owner, are responsible for payment. As the property owner, you will need to sign a form authorizing the work and payment. If this is an insurance claim, ServiceMaster Restoration by Damage Control generally collects only the deductible amount and bills the balance to your insurance provider as a service to you. If you have a large loss, your mortgage company may be included as a payee on the payment from your insurance company, and you may need to obtain a signature from them as well. If your claim is not covered or you decide not to file a claim, you will be expected to pay in full at the time of service.

Question 2

When does mold need to be handled by a professional remediation company?

Accepted Answer

Most experts recommend a professional remediation company when elevated mold levels are detected. Remediation professionals are specially trained to isolate and treat mold-affected areas to avoid contaminating adjacent spaces.

Question 3

How long will it take my property to dry after a water damage?

Accepted Answer

Drying time is determined by a combination of factors, including the location, duration, and source of water, the types of building materials, the weather conditions, and how quickly emergency services begin. Through consistent monitoring and evaluation of the drying process, we can determine when the drying is complete. Your carpet may feel dry to the touch, but padding and subfloors may still be wet underneath. While there are no rules to determine how long your property will take to dry, we can tell you it may take between three and five days or more, depending on the conditions.

Question 4

Can I clean up from fire damage myslef?

Accepted Answer

We suggest that you do not attempt any “do-it-yourself” cleaning methods without consulting your ServiceMaster Restore Technician. Pretesting, using the right cleaning agent for the particular item, mixing deodorizing agents with cleaning solutions, and using correct dilution rates are just some of the ways a fire restoration technician expertly controls the results. Professional cleaning systems and products used by experienced, trained ServiceMaster Restore Restoration Technicians give you the best chance for complete restoration of your belongings.

Question 5

How do I know when my property is completely dry?

Accepted Answer

Proper testing with our specialized equipment is the correct way to determine if things are completely dry. Touch alone may be a false indicator.

Question 6

How can I tell if I have mold?

Accepted Answer

If you see mold growth or water stains, a mold test can help identify related microbial activity. You can also look for areas where water leakage has occurred, such as roofs, pipes, ceilings, or walls. Musty smells may also indicate the presence of mold.

Question 7

Will I have to be home all the time?

Accepted Answer

No, we will do our best to make sure you may go about your daily routine. For site access, you can provide a key to your Project Manager or opt for a lockbox on the property.

Question 8

What does pre-loss condition mean?

Accepted Answer

ServiceMaster Restoration by Damage Control is responsible for returning your home to its original state before the damage occurred, or its pre-loss condition. We use materials that are similar in type and quality. There may be some damage that existed prior to your loss. Therefore, these damages have not been included in the scope of repairs. At your request, ServiceMaster Restore will provide you with an estimate for any additional renovation projects, also called non-insured work.

Question 9

How long will the restoration process take after a fire damage?

Accepted Answer

Because there are many variables and many services involved in fire and smoke restoration, it is difficult to predict exactly how long the complete restoration will take. Consult with your ServiceMaster Restore Restoration Technician on the estimated dates and phases of your restoration project.

ServiceMaster Restoration By Damage Control

(973) 779-0366

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