WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE WATER DAMAGE REBUILD PROCESS

Water Damage Rebuild

Step 01

Protect yourself and your home

Water and electricity are a dangerous duo, so if you find water damage around outlets or light fixtures, switch off the main power and water supplies immediately. Never touch standing water until the electricity is off. Be cautious of rooms where the ceiling or floor is sagging, as they pose additional risks. If the water has been around for more than 24 hours, it’s advisable to wear a mask or stay out of the area to avoid potential exposure to mold, lead, or asbestos.

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Step 02

Hire a Plumber

Upon noticing water damage in your Redondo Beach property, it’s important to immediately hire a licensed plumber. They can not only identify the source of the leak but also help establish how long it’s been present. This is essential because most insurance policies will not cover leaks that have persisted for more than 14 days. A professional insurance adjuster can assist in documenting when the leak began, significantly increasing the chances of your claim being covered.

Step 03

Collect Evidence

Filing a claim with your insurance adjuster? Be sure to collect plenty of evidence first. Photograph and record the leak in action, and document the damage to your flooring, furniture, and other items affected. Keep any faulty equipment, such as broken pipes or damaged washing machines, to support your claim. By providing detailed evidence, you can help guarantee coverage from your insurance company and ensure that your claim is properly handled.

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Step 04

File A Claim And Expect Your Insurance Company To Do Their Research

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What Kind Of Water Damages Should Be Covered?

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Step 05

Do Damage Control

WATER DAMAGE REBUILD PROCESS

Since mold can appear within a day, initiating the reconstruction process promptly is vital. While individual circumstances may affect the exact process, most water damage restoration projects will generally involve these essential steps:

Water Clean Up

Step 01

Water Clean-Up

The initial task is to extract the water. We recommend using a certified water damage restoration company because they have the right equipment and expertise to detect hidden issues. Additionally, the water could contain harmful agents like sewage, urine, or chemicals, depending on the source of the leak. These professionals are equipped with protective gear and know the correct safety measures to take during the cleanup process.

Fixing The Leak

Step 02

Fixing The Leak

To ensure a successful rebuild, addressing and repairing the leak is crucial. Failing to fix the leak can jeopardize the entire reconstruction process. Insurance usually provides coverage for repairs at the exact location of the leak but does not extend to re-piping the entire house. Insurance companies often enlist the help of leak detection specialists or experienced plumbers to locate and repair the leak accurately. This essential step lays the groundwork for a smooth and effective rebuilding effort.

Step 03

Dry Job

After addressing the leak, it is imperative to dry out the damaged areas to minimize further water damage and inhibit mold growth. For best results, hire a professional water damage restoration company. They will use advanced tools such as commercial heaters, dehumidifiers, and air movers to eliminate moisture and enhance air circulation. Air scrubbers can also be utilized to eliminate mold spores from the air effectively.

Remember, when you file an insurance claim, your insurer might direct you to a specific water damage repair company for the drying process. It’s important to know that some of these companies work primarily on behalf of the insurance company, often managing 30 or more jobs monthly from these referrals.

The ability of insurance companies to control how much is paid out for water damage claims means they can impact the behavior of their endorsed repair companies. As a result, a water damage restoration firm selected by your insurer might opt for shortcuts in the drying process to fulfill the expectations of the insurance provider they have a regular business relationship with.

Instead of simply agreeing to the water damage rebuild company recommended by your insurance, look for a licensed and unbiased restoration firm that ensures honest work. This company will generally bill your insurance directly. If the damage is from a covered event, your insurer should handle the payment. Opting for an impartial firm can help ensure you receive quality restoration services without undue influence from the insurance provider.

Step 04

Lead and asbestos abatement

While most water damage repair services work to keep the drying process as non-invasive as possible, some situations require removing drywall, insulation, or other materials that cannot be saved. If your home was built before 1990, it may be tested for lead and asbestos, which could complicate the drying and rebuilding procedures.

States have unique regulations for lead and asbestos removal, and some require that only licensed contractors handle these materials. A reputable water damage restoration company will be familiar with the specific rules in your state and assist you through the abatement process if lead or asbestos is found during the repair.

Lead and asbestos abatement
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Step 05

Cleaning Personal Belongings

After the drying procedure is complete, it’s important to treat your belongings with antimicrobial agents to avoid mold and bacteria growth. This treatment should encompass carpets, clothing, furniture, curtains, and any other potentially affected items.

Step 06

Rebuild

After the water has been removed and the area has been dried, you can move forward with the rebuild. The process will vary based on the damage level and might include removing, repairing, or replacing affected materials and structural elements like drywall, cabinetry, hardwood floors, and possibly parts of the foundation.

Although some companies handle both the drying and the repair of water damage, it is advisable to seek a well-respected contractor for these services. Insurance companies may offer a list of vendors who provide both services, but these vendors may cut corners to reduce costs. As a result, homeowners frequently end up disappointed with the quality of the repairs. A reputable contractor can offer a more thorough and satisfactory solution.

Opting for a contractor you trust can lead to superior results. Furthermore, having an estimate from your insurance adjuster regarding what is covered allows you to negotiate with your contractor, ensuring that the repair costs stay within the financial constraints set by your insurance policy.

HOW A WATER DAMAGE REBUILD LOS ANGELES

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