Frequently Asked Questions

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Biohazard

Insurance policies have many variables, while Crime Scene or Biohazard cleanup is often covered, you must consult your insurance broker or agent to determine your specific coverages.

Biohazards are any biological contaminants such as those found in sewage, mold, or any viral or bacterial contamination such as MRSA. Biohazards also include toxins found in decaying organisms, as well as bodily fluids.

Blood itself is not a biohazard, it’s what may be in the potentially hazardous blood, such as bloodborne pathogens (BBPs) or infectious microorganisms, that can cause diseases.

If someone in close proximity to you is coughing or sneezing, be sure to maintain at least 6 feet (2 meters) distance between yourself and the person who is coughing or sneezing.  If you are too close, you will have the potential to breathe in any sprays of liquid that may be emitted from their nose or mouth, which may potentially contain a virus, including the COVID-19.

If you are in a private setting and do are not wearing your cloth face covering, remember always to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue and dispose of the tissue in a lined trash can. Using the inside of your elbow is another option. Wash hands immediately with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

For professional cleanup following a social gathering that may have been impacted by COVID-19 or any other viral infection, contact your local PuroClean of Antioch professionals. Our certified industry-trained technicians use the PuroClean of Antioch system to provide deep mitigation cleaning in areas compromised by a Coronavirus or Influenza outbreak. Using this process, the team at PuroClean of Antioch will carefully contain the area and will minimize the risk of pathogens spreading using The Environmental Protection Agency-registered (EPA) hospital-grade products. If there are any lingering odors, our trained technicians will deodorize the area and return your property back to its pre-loss condition with empathy and care.

Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces are the recommended actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, like Coronavirus. Since any surface can be re-contaminated after cleaning, and because the Coronavirus is also spread person-to-person, PuroClean of Antioch services are not guaranteed to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information regarding Coronavirus, its spread, and prevention.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requests that we all do our part to slow the spread of the coronavirus.  We can do this by avoiding close contact with others and staying at home as much as possible if not working in a critical infrastructure industry such as healthcare, pharmaceutical, or food supply, etc.  The wearing of a face mask is recommended if you are ill with COVID-19 symptoms, especially if coughing or sneezing, or if you are looking after someone who has the disease. 

If you are not sick or looking after someone who is, then you should still cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others, as you could spread COVID-19 even if you do not feel sick.  Do not, however, use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker and continue to keep a distance of 6 feet between yourself and others, as the face cover is not a substitute for social distancing. NOTE: The CDC does not recommend face coverings for children under age 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

For health care professionals and people who are taking care of the sick in close settings, the U.S. Surgeon General recommends the N95 mask that should be carefully fitted to protect the worker.  Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.  If you are wearing a mask, you must know how to use it and dispose of it properly. To help reduce contamination related to the COVID-19 outbreak while caring for the sick or infirm, contact your local PuroClean professionals to schedule regular cleaning. Our industry-certified technicians use EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfecting products, including towelettes, containing pharmaceutical ingredients that meet OSHA’s bloodborne pathogen standard against diseases like the Coronavirus and other disease-causing bacteria, viruses, tuberculosis, mold, and mildew.

Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces are the recommended actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, like Coronavirus. Since any surface can be re-contaminated after cleaning, and because the Coronavirus is also spread person-to-person, PuroClean of Antioch services are not guaranteed to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for more information regarding the Coronavirus, its spread, and prevention.

As of March 17, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) does not have information specifically regarding how pregnant women are reacting to COVID-19 exposure. However, it should be noted that pregnant women are more susceptible to viral infections, which would include COVID-19.  Pregnant women should be extra diligent and follow routine preventive measures to avoid infection, such as disinfecting their home, washing their hands regularly, and avoiding crowded locations and people who are sick.

PuroClean of Antioch system to provide deep mitigation cleaning in areas compromised by a Coronavirus or Influenza outbreak. Using this process, the team at PuroClean of Antioch will carefully contain the area and will minimize the risk of pathogens spreading using The Environmental Protection Agency-registered (EPA) products. If there are any lingering odors, our trained technicians will deodorize the area and return your South Portland area property back to its pre-loss condition with empathy and care.

Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces are the recommended actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, like coronavirus. Since any surface can be re-contaminated after cleaning, and because the coronavirus is also spread person-to-person, PuroClean of Antioch services are not guaranteed to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information regarding coronavirus, its spread, and prevention.

When a biohazard occurs, professionals are needed to clean and disinfect as improper treatment can spread contamination and lead to illness or life-threatening conditions.

Bloodborne pathogens (BBPs), as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), means pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Most homeowners insurance will cover crime scene (biohazard) cleanup. We recommend that you consult your insurance agent/carrier to find out if you can make a claim for your particular circumstance.

Fire and Smoke

Monoammonium phosphate, ABC Dry Chemical, ABE Powder, tri-class, or multi-purpose dry chemical is a dry chemical extinguishing agent used on class A, class B, and class C fires. It uses a specially fluidized and siliconized monoammonium phosphate powder. From Quora: While fire extinguisher powder is non-toxic, it is not entirely safe. The chemicals used are considered appropriate for home use, but you should take precautions to avoid touching or inhaling too much of the powder. The chemicals can irritate the skin, so use gloves and avoid inhaling by using a dust mask if there is a need to clean the place where the fire occurs. Inhalation is one of the biggest dangers of fire extinguisher powder. It is very irritating to mucous membranes and may cause difficulties with breathing if inhaled in large enough quantities.

You can use sand or dirt to put out small fires. Never use water on an oil fire because water will evaporate and carry burning grease particles. Never use water on an electrical fire because water will conduct electricity and deliver a potentially deadly shock. Before attempting to put out an electrical fire, dry your hands and shut off the breaker if it’s not too close to the fire. Baking soda makes an effective extinguishing agent for grease fires. For small grease fires, use a metal pot lid to cover any remaining grease that hasn’t caught fire. Never use glass, glass will explode into dangerous fragments if it gets too hot. Also, never try to move a burning object outside before extinguishing the fire, or you risk spreading the fire.

Flammable liquids and gases, electrical fires, combustible metals, and kitchen fires involving cooking oils and fats.

Yes, you will be responsible for your deductible. If the loss is a covered claim, your insurance will pay any covered invoices up to your policy limit minus your deductible.

Your policy limit is the amount of money available to cover your claim.

Yes. Exposure to any smoke can irritate the eyes and cause breathing and other health issues. With a modern fire many synthetic materials will be burnt – they produce hazardous and toxic materials that should be cleaned by trained professionals.

Yes, but it is recommended that the work be done by professionals. The residue is an irritant and can cause discomfort and/or breathing problems; and can irritate the skin.

 It depends on the specific nature of the fire. The BEST plan is to have at least 1 “ABC” fire extinguisher in your home. They are rated for ever type of fire. If you know the fire does not involve electricity or grease (in a kitchen) or another type of fuel – then water is fine. If you have any doubt about your ability to put out a fire very quickly, the best course of action is to leave the home with all of your family and to call the fire department – from OUTSIDE of the home.

Call PuroClean of Antioch to come to your home to help do an assessment of the extent of the damage! They can begin remediation efforts immediately – which is the best way to minimize the damage of reduce the costs of the event. Even a “small” fire results in smoke/soot/odor throughout the home.

Legally, only a licensed inspector like a structural engineer or industrial hygienist can determine the safety of a building. Besides, the risk of checking the fire damage yourself is too great. Call a professional.

Most restoration companies also provide board-up services to prevent possible theft. A proper board-up should include using 3/8″ plywood with 2x4s bolted from inside the dwelling over windows. The front door should have a secure lock.

It depends on your specific policy. Call your insurance agent and/or adjuster to find out if the loss is covered in your policy.

This depends on the degree of the damage, your home’s layout, and your comfort level. As an alternate plan, talk with your insurance agent about off-site housing and staying at a hotel – these might be covered by your policy.

No! Water conducts electricity and can deliver a potentially deadly electric shock. If the fire is from an appliance and you can safely unplug it, go ahead. You can also use a heavy blanket to cut off its oxygen supply and smother it, or you can use a fire extinguisher designed for a Class C fire.

Clean the lint filter before and after each load of laundry. Don’t forget to clean the back of the dryer where lint can build up. Clean lint out of the vent pipe every three months. Have your dryer cleaned regularly by a professional, especially if it is taking longer than normal for clothes to dry.

In most losses, cleaning the soot and smoke is the toughest part. Moreover, even small fires can cause major damage within minutes and leave lingering odors if not cleaned up properly. If you don’t act within a day or two of the fire, soot and smoke can leave permanent damage. Restoration professionals have the tools and know-how to restore your home as fast as possible and mitigate the loss.

Water can lead to more damage such as mold growth. Reputable restoration companies also extract the water from the damaged area as part of the fire restoration job.

The length of time varies on the extent of the damage. Additionally, local authorities and your insurance agent will also want to investigate the damage before the restoration company can start the cleanup.

Water can lead to more damage such as mold growth. Reputable restoration companies also extract the water from the damaged area as part of the fire restoration procedure.

Food safety after a fire is a huge issue, so you should discard non-perishable food exposed to heat, smoke, and firefighting chemicals, as well as perishable food left at room temperature for too long. However, you might be able to salvage refrigerated and frozen food after a fire. You should also throw out medicines, cosmetics, and burned clothing.Inventory non-restorable items to support your claims. Be sure to include the name, cost, and the year each item was purchased. Photos documenting the loss are great too.

Circuit breaker keeps tripping, persisting burnt smell with no identifiable source, several discolored or charred outlets and switches, or you have old or outdated wiring.

STOP! Moving or running feeds air to the flames and worsens the fire. DROP to the floor—if you stand up, the fire can burn your face. ROLL slowly on the floor or ground in a rug or blanket if you can. COOL off as soon as possible with water for first and second-degree burns.

Mold

“Black Mold” refers to stachybotrys chartarum (Stachy). Stachy is somewhat common in warm, humid environments – much less common where it is cooler and/or dryer. Hundreds of different molds (and mildews) are “black.” It is impossible to identify molds by “looking at them.” It takes a laboratory to determine the specific species.

Mold has been been associated with many aliments. You should consult with your doctor or your medical team if you are ill or have adverse symptoms.

Yes. ANY moisture from any source inside of your home can cause mold. It is important to periodically check your home for leaks. If you notice moisture or water where it does not belong check it out right away.

Both mold and mildew are part of the “fungal” group of organisms. They both produce spores, and mycotoxins and allergyns. They are, obviously, very similar. IN GENERAL: mildew grows on living organisms: the mildew on flowers, powdery mildew on grass, etc. Most mold growth is on things that used to be alive. Mold grows on wood and paper and cardboard and wool and silk and leather, etc. Mildew grown on trees, shrubs and many living plants. What you see growing inside your home is probably some type of mold. All molds must have something organic on which to grow. When you see mold growing on something that is not organic (concrete, plastic, glass) then it is actually growing on the DIRT that is on those materials. Dirt contains enough organic material to support mold growth.

Every Insurance policy is different. You should contact your broker/agent or your insurance company to determine the amount of coverage that you have.

Mold has been been associated with many ailments. You should consult with your doctor or your medical team if you are ill or have adverse sypmtoms.

It is important to remove the water as quickly as possible and to dry all affected materials. This includes under cabinets, under walls in adjacent rooms, the subfloor, lower rooms where the water might have gone. Dehumidifiers and air movers can be used to dry these materials.

The time is directly related to the amount of mold and where it is growing. Jobs can take anywhere from 4 hours to 5 days, or longer. Every situation is different!

There are a multitude of different molds that can be found in a home. When you discover mold the “name” of the mold is much less significant than the fact that you have growing mold at all. All mold produce allergyns and mycotoxins; some very weak, some quite potent.

The symptoms normally resemble “allergies:” itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing, etc. However, different molds will affect different people in different ways. If you believe you might be suffering from exposure to mold you should contact your doctor and be sure to share this concern.

The biggest step is to be sure the bathroom has adequate ventilation. It is important to have a properly installed exhaust fan.

Removing mold efficiently is harder than most people think. First, you have to wear protective clothing to reduce exposure to mold. Then, you need to isolate the mold, so that it doesn’t spread to other rooms. After that, fix the water problem and dry the affected surface. To clean up mold, scrub a mixture of household detergent and water on the surface (don’t use bleach).

Mold can take on a variety of colors – anywhere from dark black to a lighter green or anything in between. Sometimes it’s very difficult to determine if what is in your home is actually mold, so in some cases, we recommend using an industrial hygienist to test for mold before hiring a mold remediation company. Aindustrial hygienist can find the hidden mold behind walls or ceilings.

Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours after water damage and it can spread quickly, especially when it is disrupted. Rubbing it or spraying air against it can cause the mold spores to break off into the air, potentially causing illnesses.

Individual policies will vary, so you should ask your insurance agent and/or adjuster if you’re eligible for coverage.

Mold is a type of fungus that lives almost everywhere there is moisture, oxygen, and organic matter. Mold plays an important role in nature as it helps decompose organic material. However, mold found indoors can cause health problems, as well as structural problems to buildings.

Mold releases microscopic mold spores into the air. Since mold spores are airborne, all homes have mold spores in them, some more than others. Mold grows in homes because almost all homes meet the requirements of mold growth: moisture, nutrients (such as cellulose), and time.

Mold commonly grows in areas that are prone to moisture, such as the basement and bathroom. However, mold can also grow in hidden areas of the home, such as behind walls, under the floor, in the air conditioning system, in the crawl space or in the attic.

Although all homes have mold spores in them, larger patches of mold growth can cause health issues and structural damage. Signs of mold in homes include a musty odor and the visible black or white specks in areas of your home that have a water problem.

If there is mold growing in your home, you can be exposed to it. When mold is disturbed, it releases spores into the indoor air that you breathe. Other forms of exposure include touching the mold itself or moldy items, eating moldy food, and hand-to-mouth contact.

Mold-sensitive individuals may exhibit allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, coughing, itchy eyes, wheezing, and skin irritation. Mold exposure can also trigger asthmatic symptoms that include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Mold can also cause irritant reactions, which are similar to those of an allergic reaction.

If you suspect that there is mold growing in your home, you don’t have to know which type of mold it is, but you should have it removed as soon as possible. It is not necessary to test for mold if you already notice the signs of mold growth in your home. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sampling and culturing are not reliable in determining your health risk.

Although it is always better to hire a certified mold removal company, you might be able to remove small patches of mold (less than 10 square feet) yourself . When you’re not sure how to remove mold or if the infested area is larger than 10 square feet, contact a qualified professional.

Preventing mold requires fixing moisture problems in your home. Repair leaks in the walls, roof, gutters, and plumbing pipes, keep indoor humidity at 30-50% by using a dehumidifier, ventilate appliances that generate moisture, and keep the gutter system clean.

Yes, you can. But before occupying it, you should have the mold removed. If the mold is visible, then a mold remediation company like PuroClean can remove it. If it isn’t visible, but you suspect it might be present, you should have it checked out by an industrial hygienist to determine where the mold is and how much is present.

Mold is very tricky—and when attempting to remove it yourself, you can disrupt it and make it worse. A professional mold remediation company is able to remove it correctly, adhering to the IICRC mold removal guidelines for proper mold remediation. They will also be able to apply measures to prevent regrowth.

Yes! Black mold not only causes structural damage to buildings, exposure to black mold can cause numerous respiratory, neurological, and other health issues.

Mold can grow within 24 to 48 hours after water damage.

Yes, you can sue your landlord if you suffered from any illness due to mold in your home.

Not usually. Mold will not grow without a lot of moisture, so keeping your concrete floors clean and dry should prevent mold growth.

Black mold has a musty, pungent smell akin to rotting leaves, so look out for an unpleasant odor in your home as well as visible dark rings and spots. If you begin experiencing itchy skin, itchy, watery eyes, coughing, headaches, etc., black mold could be the culprit.

Reconstruction

The Professionals at PuroClean are the best option for reconstruction services because we understand the scope of the work to be done after water, fire, mold or biohazard emergency services are completed. We offer a true One-Stop-Choice for your restoration and remediation needs.

Reconstruction is the work done to repair damages from fire, flood, or other catastrophic events.

A permit may be needed depending on the requirements of your municipality and the full scope of the work to be done.

The Professionals at PuroClean are the best option for reconstruction services because we understand the scope of the work to be done after water, fire, mold or biohazard emergency services are completed. We offer a true One-Stop-Choice for your restoration and remediation needs.

Reconstruction may involve electrical, drywall, carpentry, or painting, flooring, cabinetry, roofing, permit acquisition, replacement or installation, project management or inspections and will depend on the scope of work to be done.

Water Damage

First, contact a water-damage restoration company, such as PuroClean of Antioch, as soon as possible. Don’t wait, as water can cause mold and irremediable damage to the wood, walls, and carpet in your home. Then, contact your insurance company to start the claim process. If safe, shut off the utilities in your home to avoid further damage. Don’t enter your home if it has suffered structural damage. Don’t walk through floodwater if electricity hasn’t been turned off, and avoid contaminants.

Homeowners insurance provides coverage for damage that is sudden and accidental (such as water heater ruptures or pipe bursts). However, flood damage, no matter the source of the water, is NOT covered by standard homeowners policies. Flooding can occur from storms, sewer backup, and overflowing rivers, ponds, lakes, and oceans. However, you can purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. Note that water damage that results from lack of maintenance is not covered on a standard homeowners insurance policy.

Mold can grow on the surface within 24 to 48 hours.

You can avoid water damage by cleaning gutters and downspouts, checking your appliances regularly, upgrading washing machine hoses, checking your water pressure, monitoring your water bill, etc.

Yes. Water can cause swelling, warping, delamination, and joint line separation, but it is best to contact an emergency restoration specialist to make the final determination before assuming that the laminate is damaged.

It depends on the material and how long it was wet. We can assess this for you during a visit. Move furniture to a dry area or put it on blocks so it can begin to self-dry as soon as possible.

Every Insurance policy is different. You should contact your broker/agent or your insurance company to determine the amount of coverage that you have. For the best possible service to restore all aspects of water and/or mold damage call The Professionals at PuroClean of Antioch.

There are three basic “types” of water damage, based on the level of contamination. 1-Category 1 (Clean Water): from a damaged pipe or hose. 2-Category 2 (Grey water): this is from an overflowing washing machine or dishwasher or sump-pump failure. 3-Category 3 (Black Water): sewage and all flooding where the water comes into the home from the outside. This water is grossly contaminated. No porous materials damaged by such water can be saved. Such a loss may involve some demolition of drywall that has been contaminated.

Warranties offer a variety of coverages. Check your warranty and/or call the “help” number for the company offering the warranty.

 Every insurance policy is different. You should contact your broker/agent or your insurance company to determine the amount of coverage that you have.

Most carpet in homes is installed over pad. Both of these materials need to dry completely, and quickly or mold could develop. It is important to extract as much water as possible from both carpet and pad. This requires specialized equipment and should be done by professionals such as PuroClean. PuroClean professionals will also know if the carpet/pad need to be removed because of contaminants that were in the water. After professional extraction the drying time will depend on the type of carpet and pad. PuroClean ensures that these flooring materials are dry as part of the water mitigation process.

There are many variables that affect the time for drywall to dry after being wet. Normally it will be returned to a dry condition in two – three days, but that will vary with each situation.

There are many variables that determine whether a flooded home can be saved: the amount of water is one, even more important is the amount of time the water was in/around the home. Every situation is different!

Water from outside the structure is contaminated and should be handled be professionals such as PuroClean of Antioch. Even if the water was not from outside if it is there for an extended time then many materials will need to be removed because of the increased contamination from long-standing water. Drywall will soften and may fall, especially from ceilings. Carpet, pad and other floor coverings may need to be removed. Every situation is different! For the best, specific advice, please call your local PuroClean of Antioch as soon as the damage is discovered.

That depends on the amount of damage. It there is extensive damage it will not be possible to occupy the structure. However, every situation is different!

Initially PuroClean of Antioch needs to get into the home or office to do the emergency remediation and mitigation work. Then, during the drying process, PuroClean of Antioch will need to return each day to monitor the progress and to adjust equipment to achieve the best results in the shortest amount of time.

Daily monitoring is one important aspect of the process. Industry Best Practices require this monitoring to insure that the drying process is proceeding properly.

Yes! It is important that the equipment run 24 hours every day. This will provide the best possible drying process.

It is important that you NOT turn the equipment off. The drying process is most effective and most efficient when the equipment is allowed to run 24 hours every day. This will allow PuroClean to complete the job as quickly as possible and then all equipment will be removed.

Please do not open doors or windows. The equipment selected for every job and the process are based on having a “closed drying system.” Opening doors or windows will upset that process and may extend the drying time (and the charges) significantly.

Many PuroClean of Antioch Professionals provide Full Service to you including the replacement or repair of any structural items that have been damaged. Consult your local PuroClean of Antioch office to see if they provide Full Service.

For a small area, you can mix one cup of vinegar and 2 cups of water and spray on the area. If your entire carpet is damaged, you should call in a water mitigation company, such as PuroClean of Antioch, to take care of the damage.

Yes – including subfloors, reconstruction and refinishing. The repairs needed depend on many factors.

Yes – we have a system for removing water from carpets, but sometimes carpets and pads must be replaced after getting wet. If mold is present, this can also affect the outcomes. If the water was clean and we can dry and sanitize them, they can sometimes be saved.

Water damage can occur after natural disasters, such as thunderstorms or hurricanes that cause flooding, from pipe bursts, appliance malfunctions, roof leaks, foundation leaks, septic tank overflows, poor drainage, and more. Flash flooding, pipe bursts, and sewage backups are especially dangerous as they can produce several inches of water in less than a day.

Floodwater that comes from outside and from sewage backups contains dangerous contaminants like viruses and bacteria. If the water isn’t drained within 24-48 hours, structural damage and mold growth can ensue. Even water leaks that infiltrate your home slowly can cause damage to the building and lead to mold growth. Mold left unchecked will spread quickly through the home.

The first thing professionals do is remove damaged materials that will either be restored or discarded. Materials include baseboards, insulation, furniture, carpeting, upholstery, carpet padding, fragile woods, drywall, and more. After the damaged items are removed, the technicians begin drying out the water and disinfecting the areas. Specialized tools like air movers and dehumidifiers are typically involved in the drying process. Professionals will also handle mold damage in the restoration process. Mold-infected surfaces will be disinfected and restored as quickly as possible to prevent it from spreading.

It’s impossible to make your home flood proof, but you can take several measures to prevent flood damage.

Remove wet moist or damp items, wipe up spills, fix any plumbing leaks, control the humidity in your home, reinforce the sealant, when cleaning your floors make sure you dry the floors completely.

Replace missing shingles, clean gutters, inspect vents, valleys, chimneys, pipes, skylights, etc. You should also check your attic ceiling and remove ice buildup during heavy snow.

The bathroom is a prime area for water damage, since almost everything you do in there involve water use. To prevent water damage, you can replace torn shower curtains, dry the floor and drain water from the tub after use, check for leaking pipes, and ensure that the grout and caulking are in good condition.

Contact your insurance agent and/or adjuster and they will tell you everything you need to have ready to ensure the claims process is smooth.

Check the surface of the wall for water stains, peeling paint, or warping. Push on the wall lightly – if it’s soft and spongy, that’s an indication of moisture damage. Then, take the smell test. If the wall smells musty, like rotted leaves, it is a telltale sign of water damage.

You can check the walls and ceilings for water stains, the floors for warping and buckling, and the pipes for corrosion, leaks, missing grout, and mold. Attics and basements may have damaged flooring, mildew or mold, dampness, and odors. Also, be sure to inspect the exterior of the home for cracked roof tiles, puddles, standing water, and whether the ground is sloping away from the house.

First you have to remove the damaged floor material, add the framing as needed, then measure, cut, and fasten new plywood.

An easy way to tell if your tile floors are water-damaged is by checking to see if any tiles are darker in color than the other tiles.

You should get a professional home inspector to determine if there is water damage and the extent of the damage. A contractor can estimate the repair cost.

You may be able to add water damage coverage to your insurance policy. Contact your insurance agent and/or adjuster to find out if you’re eligible for coverage.

Homeowner’s insurance provides coverage for damage that is sudden and accidental (such as water heater ruptures or pipe bursts). However, flood damage, no matter the source of the water, is NOT covered by standard homeowner’s policies.

Homeowners insurance provides coverage for damage that is sudden and accidental (such as water heater ruptures or pipe bursts). However, flood damage, no matter the source of the water, is NOT covered by standard homeowners policies. Flooding can occur from storms, sewer backup, and overflowing rivers, ponds, lakes, and oceans. However, you can purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. Note that water damage that results from lack of maintenance is not covered on a standard homeowners insurance policy.

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5682 Leitrim Court
Antioch, CA 94531

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