The Step By Step Process
Your home has been damaged by water from a leak or a fire. How are you going to address the problem in your home?
Restoration Companies are usually the first responders following significant damage to a home from floods and fires, water damage, sewage backup, and other important events. The job of a restoration company is to clean up the mess and preserve and protect the home and its contents so that further damage will not occur.
The Step by Step Process
-
After the major catastrophe, place a call to your insurance agent or other representatives.
2. The insurance company will typically provide you with information about restoration companies that remove the water or other contamination. Most insurance adjusters and claim representatives are familiar with the Restoration Companies available in your community to quickly begin the clean-up.
Even if your insurance company places the call to the Restoration Company, the Restoration Company works for You!
3. Review your responsibilities under your insurance policy for cleaning up the home to prevent additional damage. Discuss any questions about cleaning up with your insurance representative or claim adjuster.
4. When the Restoration Company arrives, thoroughly walk through your home with the Restoration Company Representative and discuss the areas that need to be cleaned or packed. Your insurance company adjuster or claim representative may recommend how your home should be cleaned or packed. If you have a camera, take pictures of the damage.
5. After the Restoration Company evaluates the work and equipment needed to clean your home, they will provide you with an estimate or contract for their services. Read the agreement to make sure all the services discussed are listed. You must sign this contract before the Restoration Company will begin work on your home.
6. In the weeks following the water damage, frequently inspect the areas where the Restoration Company worked to ensure no moisture or dampness remains in your home.
Remember
-
You are not obligated to hire the Restoration Company called by your insurance company. You may select any Restoration Company to do the cleanup, but the work must be done quickly to prevent further damage to your home and contents.
-
If you experience a problem with the services of the Restoration Company, you must take it up with the Restoration Company, NOT the insurance company.
-
Not all Cleaning and Restoration Services that the Restoration Company provides are covered under your Insurance Policy.
Currently, no government agencies in Georgia regulate clean-up work done by Restoration Companies.
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a non-profit organization with certification programs and standards for the restoration industry. An IICRC certified firm must demonstrate proof of insurance, maintain a written customer complaint policy with follow-up on complaints and provide education and training, leading to certification, for technicians.
The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) is a trade association of cleaning and restoration professionals offering education and training, technical support, and several certifications for technicians.
Important Tips
-
Choose a well-respected Restoration Company to clean and pack your home
-
Ask if they are IICRC certified
-
Read the Restoration Company’s contract carefully and keep a copy
-
If a problem occurs with the quality of work, contact your Restoration Company IMMEDIATELY!
-
KNOW what your insurance policy requires you to do following a significant loss.
-
If you have insurance coverage questions, ask your claims adjuster for answers
-
Response time is crucial to preventing further damage, including mold damage.
-
Begin repairs to your home promptly following the cleanup and pack-out services
-
Identify a good restoration company before you have an incident