Residential Water Damage Restoration: The [Ultimate] Guide

Water damage is a fairly common problem in many Baltimore homes and commercial buildings. If you are looking for an expert in the Baltimore Maryland area who can help restore your water-damaged property, there’s one company to call – Eco Pro Restoration of Baltimore.

Serving the greater Baltimore and surrounding areas, our teams have experience handling everything from floods to fire clean-ups and sewage leaks. Our professionals know how to handle any type of water disaster and have extensive knowledge and experience to handle any size job.

Call Eco Pro Restoration of Baltimore today for a free inspection!

Below we will try to answer the most commonly asked questions in the damage restoration industry.

• What Are The Most Common Causes Of Water Damage?
• What should I do if I have water damage in my home?
• Types of Water Damage
• When to Call a Professional for Water Damage Restoration Service
• What to Expect During the Water Damage Restoration Services
• What are the benefits of using water damage restoration?
• How can professional water damage restoration save you money?
• What are the things to consider when choosing a water damage restoration company?
• How to handle the water damage claim with your insurance
• Water Damage Repair Costs For Uninsured
• Frequently Asked Questions

Water damage can be a very costly and destructive problem for any homeowner. It is important to be aware of the common causes of water damage so that you can take steps to prevent it from happening in your home.

Leaking or burst pipes

One of the primary causes of water damage is leaking or burst pipes. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as old age, corrosion, or even freezing temperatures if the pipes are not properly insulated. If you suspect that there may be a problem with your pipes, it is important to have them checked by a professional as soon as possible so that they can be repaired or replaced before they cause serious damage to your home.

Heavy rains and flood damage

Another common cause of water damage is heavy rains and flooding. This can often lead to sewage backup, which can contaminate your water supply and lead to serious health problems if not cleaned up immediately. In addition, flood waters can also cause foundation cracks, which can allow water to enter your home and cause extensive damage over time.

Faulty appliances

Faulty appliances can also be a common cause of water damage. If your washing machine, dishwasher, or refrigerator leaks, it can quickly lead to a build-up of water that can cause mold and mildew to grow. In addition, if you have a sump pump that fails, it can allow water to enter your basement and cause serious damage.

Overflowing toilets or sinks

Overflowing toilets or sinks are another common cause of water damage. If your toilet overflows or your sink backs up, it can create a significant amount of water that can quickly spread throughout your home and cause extensive damage.

Sewage backup

A sewage backup is another serious problem that can often lead to water damage. If sewage enters your home through a broken pipe or sewer line, it can contaminate your water supply and lead to serious health problems. In addition, sewage backup can also destroy carpets, flooring, and personal belongings.

Foundation cracks

Finally, foundation cracks are another common cause of water damage. These cracks can allow moisture to enter your home and cause extensive damage over time. If you suspect that you have a foundation problem, it is important to have it checked by a professional as soon as possible so that the problem can be repaired before it causes further damage.

Remember…Quick mitigation services are essential

The first step in dealing with water damage is to quickly mitigate the problem. This means stopping the source of the water if possible and then taking steps to remove the water and dry out the affected area. The sooner you can do this, the better chance you have of preventing further damage.

Water damage is a very serious problem and can be costly and destructive. By knowing the common causes of water damage, you can take steps to prevent it from happening in your home. If you do experience water damage, it is important to have it cleaned up immediately by a professional to prevent further damage and health problems.

If you see any signs of water damage, it’s important to act fast and call in a professional. Water damage can cause serious problems like mold growth and structural damage, so it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. If your home has  suffered water damage, there are a few things you can do to help mitigate the damage before the professionals arrive:

1. Turn off the water: If you know where the water leak is coming from, turn off the water at the source to help stop the flow of water into your home.

2. Remove any standing water: If there is any standing water in your home, start by removing it with a wet/dry vacuum or mop and bucket. The less water there is in your home, the less severe the damage will be.

3. Move any valuable items out of the way: If possible, move any valuable or sensitive items out of the way of the water damage. This includes things like electronics, paintings, photographs, and more. The quicker you can get these items out of the water, the less damage they will sustain.

4. Call a professional: Once you’ve taken care of the immediate problem, it’s time to call in professional home restoration services. They will have the tools and experience necessary to fix the problem and restore your home to its original condition.

There are four common categories of water damage. These categories are based on the origin of the water, and they are:

1. Clean water damage: This type of water damage is caused by clean, fresh water. Examples include leaky pipes, overflowing sinks or bathtubs, and rainwater leaks. This type of damage is not usually considered harmful to humans.

2. Grey water damage: This type of water damage is caused by slightly contaminated water. Examples include washing machine or dishwasher overflows, toilet bowl overflows with some urine, and sump pump failures. This type of damage can be harmful to humans if ingested, and it can also cause mold growth.

3. Black water damage: This type of water damage is caused by highly contaminated or toxic water sources. Examples include sewage backups, flooding from rivers or lakes, and septic tank failures. This type of damage can be extremely harmful to humans and can cause serious health problems if ingested.

Water damage can be sneaky, so it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs that something might be wrong. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to call a professional:

1. Water stains on walls or ceilings: Water stains are one of the most obvious signs that you have a water damage problem. If you see water stains on your walls or ceiling, it’s time to call in a professional.

2. Peeling paint: Paint that is peeling or bubbling is another sign that you have a water damage problem. This is usually caused by moisture seeping into the paint and causing it to lift away from the wall or ceiling.

3. Warped floors: Floors that are warped or buckling could be another sign of water damage. This is usually caused by moisture seeping into the floorboards and causing them to swell up and warp.

4. Musty odors: A musty smell in your home could be a sign of mold or mildew growth, which can often be caused by water leaks. If you notice a musty odor, it’s time to call in a professional to investigate the cause.

5. Visible mold growth: Mold growth is another sign that you have a water damage problem. Mold thrives in damp, dark places, so if you see mold growing in your home, it’s time to call a professional.

A professional damage restoration company will have the experience and equipment necessary to safely and effectively restore your property. Once you call, they will typically send someone out to start the process. Be sure to choose your own damage restoration company. Do not let the insurance company choose for you. They will send their “boys” and do not have your best interest in mind. You have the right to choose which company you will use to restore your home.

Step 1. Inspection and assessment:

The first step is to inspect and assess the extent of the water damage. This will help the restoration company determine the best course of action for restoring your property.

Step 2. Water removal:

Once the inspection and assessment are complete, the next step is to remove all of the water from your property. This may require using powerful pumps and vacuums to remove all of the water.

Step 3. Drying and dehumidification of the property:

After all of the water has been removed, it is important to dry out your property area as much as possible. This can be done by using fans, dehumidifiers, and other equipment. It is important to get rid of all moisture because it can lead to mold growth.

Step 4. Cleaning and sanitizing the area:

After drying out an area completely, the final step in the restoration process is cleaning & sanitizing. This removes any dirt, debris, or contaminants that may have been left behind by the water. It will also help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. This will help prevent any further contamination or damage.

Step 5. Restoration:

The final step in water damage restoration is restoring your property back to its original condition. This may involve repairing or replacing damaged materials, painting, and other repairs

• Help you salvage your belongings.
• Help you prevent further damage to your home or structure.
• Have the necessary equipment to dry out your property quickly and effectively.
• Help you clean and disinfect your belongings to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Helps to improve the indoor air quality of your home or office.

• Restoring your home or business after water damage can be costly.
• A professional will have the experience and knowledge to properly restore your property, often at a fraction of the cost of doing it yourself.
• Water damage restoration companies also have invested in specialized equipment and cleaning products that can remove mold, mildew, and other contaminants that may be present after a flood or leak.
• In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of hiring professional water damage restoration services.
• Professional water damage restoration can save you time and hassle in the long run by preventing further damage to your property and restoring it to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently.

Experienced Team

When choosing a water damage restoration company, it is important to choose one with experience. A company that has been in business for a longer time is more likely to have the knowledge and experience necessary to properly restore your property. You want to be sure that the company has been in business for a while and has a good reputation. You can check the company’s website and see how long they have been in business.

Reputation

You can check the company’s reviews on their website, Google, Yelp, or other review sites. You also want to make sure that they have a list of satisfied customers. The more information you can find about the company, the better. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints against the company.

Cost

Water damage restoration can be expensive, so it is important to get quotes from several different companies before making a decision. In many cases, insurance will cover the loss of your property and the restoration. If you let the insurance company choose the damage restoration company, they will cut corners and likely end up doing a poor job. It is your right to decide which company does your repairs. Comparing prices lets you know the actual range of the cost before you settle with your insurance company.

Industry Certifications

Make sure the company is certified by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification). The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a certification and standard-setting non-profit organization for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. This certification ensures that the company has been properly trained in water damage restoration techniques. Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) is a designation offered by the IICRC. This credential requires that technicians complete coursework in proper water damage restoration techniques and procedures, as well as pass a written examination.

Equipment

The company should have the proper equipment to do the job right. This includes industrial-strength fans, dehumidifiers, and pumps.

Insurance

The company’s insurance is a must when it comes to choosing a water damage restoration company. It is important to check what the company’s insurance covers and make sure that it will cover all the damages that may occur during the restoration process. The company’s insurance should cover all the costs of the restoration process, including the cost of materials, labor, and any other expenses that may be incurred. You can check the company’s insurance by asking for a copy of their policy or by checking with your state’s department of insurance.

Licensed and Bonded Restoration Contractor

The damage restoration company you choose should have up-to-date licensing and carry a Surety bond that ensures that the public will be compensated if the company causes damages.

Do This…

1. Immediately contact your insurance company or agent to report the loss.

2. If possible, take pictures or videos of the damage and keep a list of all damaged or lost items.

3. Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage (e.g., board up broken windows). Keep receipts for any materials you purchase.

4. Contact a restoration company to begin repairs as soon as possible (many companies offer 24/7 emergency services).

5. If you have to leave your home, keep a list of all expenses incurred while away, including hotel bills and restaurant receipts.

6 Follow your insurance company’s instructions regarding claims and repairs.

Don’t Do This…

Do not throw away any damaged belongings until after an adjuster has inspected them. This includes damaged flooring, carpeting, drywall, etc.

Contacting your insurance company

Your insurance company will need some basic information from you in order to process your claim. This includes your contact information, policy number, and a description of what happened. You may also be asked to provide photographs or other documentation.

Once you have contacted your insurance company, they will assign a claims adjuster to your case. The claims adjuster will investigate the cause of the loss and determine whether or not it is covered by your policy. If it is determined that the loss is covered, the insurance company will provide you with instructions on how to proceed.

Beginning the claims process

The claims process can be confusing and overwhelming, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. Your restoration company will be there to help you every step of the way. The insurance company will likely ask for a lot of information from you, so it is important to be prepared. Make sure to have all of your documentation ready before beginning the process.

In order to begin the claims process, you will need some basic information about your loss. This will include things like when and where the loss occurred and what was lost. You will also need to have your insurance policy handy so that the company can verify your coverage.

Documenting everything

Documenting everything related to your loss is important for a few reasons. First, it can help you to keep track of what happened and how you felt during the event. This can be helpful in understanding your own grief process and in seeking support from others. Additionally, documenting your loss can help you communicate your needs to others who may be able to provide support. Finally, documenting your experience can provide a sense of closure or resolution for yourself and for future generations.

There are many ways to document your loss. You could keep a journal, write letters, or create a scrapbook. You could also take photographs or make videos. Whatever method you choose, be sure to do it in a way that feels comfortable for you.

The cost of water damage restoration can vary depending on the severity of the damage, the type of water involved, and the size of the affected area. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $10,000 and up for water damage restoration services. Water damage restoration companies typically charge by the square footage of the affected area. There may also be an additional fee for each category of water damage (e.g., Category 1, 2, or 3). For example, a company may charge $3 per square foot for Category 1 water damage (i.e., clean water from a broken pipe) and $4 per square foot for Category 2 water damage (i.e., contaminated water from a dishwasher).

The typical cost is based on these factors:

• The size of the affected area
• The type of water damage
• The amount of water damage
• The extent of the damage
• The location of the damage
• Whether there is mold growth