6 Questions To Ask Your Insurance Adjuster After Water Damage

3/6/2023 (Permalink)

Your adjuster will be able to help you navigate through this difficult time, so don't hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns about your coverage.

If you've had a water loss, it's normal to have a million questions. You want to know whether or not you're covered for this loss and if there are any changes that might affect the timeline of repairs. Your adjuster should be able to answer all of these questions and more in order for you to reach a fair settlement agreement with their company.

Can you explain my policy and coverage?

When you call your insurance company to report water damage, they will send out an adjuster to assess the damage and determine how much it will cost to fix.

The first thing they'll do is explain what is covered by your policy and what isn't. They may also tell you about any deductibles or exclusions that apply in this situation, such as flooding caused by sewer backup or burst pipes that weren't installed properly.

If there are subrogation clauses or other terms that could affect your claim, it's important for them to explain those too so there are no surprises later on when it comes time for payment processing (e.g., "We won't pay for repairs until you've paid us back for damages done by previous residents").

What is your estimate for this damage?

You should receive an estimate from your insurance adjuster. The estimate should be based on an actual inspection of your property, not just a few photos you send them. The adjuster should also provide a detailed explanation of how they calculated their estimate and why it was necessary for them to take this approach.

The most important thing for you to do when working with an insurance adjuster is to ask questions! Make sure that you understand everything about the process before signing anything or making any decisions about how much money will be paid out by the company as part of their coverage agreement.

When can I expect an advance for my loss?

It is best to ask for an advance as soon as possible, because it may take time for the adjuster to determine the amount of your loss. It is also important to receive an advance in order to go forward with the mitigation and restoration process. Advances are usually paid within 14-60 days of the loss. They are usually based on the amount of damage to your home and whether you have already received any other insurance payments.

How long will it take to repair my home?

How long it will take to repair your home depends on the extent of the damage. If there's only minor damage and you have a contractor ready to start work right away, it might not take more than a few days or weeks. However, if there's significant damage that requires extensive repairs and rebuilding, then this process could take months.

It's important to have an idea of how long it will take to repair your home so you can plan ahead and make arrangements for alternative housing or accommodations while repairs are being made. You can ask your insurance adjuster for an estimate of how long it will take to repair your home after a water damage event occurs; however, keep in mind that this estimate may change depending on several factors.

When will we be able to go back into our home?

When you're dealing with water damage, it's important to know when you can go back into your home. The answer depends on a few factors:

• How long it takes to clean up the mess and repair any damage
• How long it takes for mold to grow in your house
• How long do construction companies need to finish their part of the job

Asking your insurance adjuster this question can give you more insight into when you can plan to return to your home.

Who do I reach out to if I have any more questions?

If you have additional questions or concerns, the adjuster should be happy to answer them for you. It is important to receive the proper contact information from the adjuster so that you can easily contact them with any additional questions.

To help speed up the process, ask for copies of your estimate, policy, and any other documentation that may be relevant to your claim.

If you find yourself in a situation where your home has been damaged by water, it's important to understand what the insurance process is and what questions to ask. Your adjuster will be able to help you navigate through this difficult time, so don't hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns about your coverage.

How To Detect Water Damage in Your Kitchen

2/13/2023 (Permalink)

If you suffer a water loss in your kitchen, give SERVPRO a call today!

Water damage can occur from a leaking pipe or appliance, but it is also possible that the water source is hidden. If you are experiencing leaks under your sink or notice that your refrigerator is dripping water, contact a restoration company immediately. Oftentimes these issues will not fix themselves and can cause long-term damage to your property if left unresolved for too long.

Leak Under Sink

Leak under the sink? Check the floor. Is there a water stain anywhere near the sink? The cabinet under your sink? Open it and look for any obvious signs of discoloration. You should also check the pipes leading to and from this cabinet. The drain trap under your sink could leak causing water damage as well.

The garbage disposal could also cause water damage. If you notice anything unusual like rusting or puddles inside this area which will probably require taking off some parts, then chances are something has leaked into it before as well as right now.

Refrigerator Drip Pan Leak

The refrigerator drip pan is located under the refrigerator. It's a tray that collects water from the condenser and channels it into an internal drain hose. The drip pan is usually made of plastic and can crack as a result of age or impact with heavy objects like pots and pans. If this happens, it may leak water into your kitchen flooring and cause damage to your home’s sub flooring.

Dishwasher Line Burst

A dishwasher line burst can be a very costly repair, Because of the high cost of these repairs, it's important that you are able to recognize any signs that indicate you may have this problem.

If your dishwasher is not draining properly or the water is backing up into the sink or tub, there is a chance that your hose line has burst and needs immediate attention. The most common reason for an old hose line bursting is that it has been overused and worn out due to repeated use over several years. If this happens in your home, there will be evidence of mold growth within 48 hours after being exposed with standing water from the burst line due to lack of drainage caused by blocked lines or other problems with drainage such as clogged pipes elsewhere in those areas where they were connected.

Contact a Professional

If you suspect that any of your kitchen appliances have water damage, contact an emergency restoration specialist. They will be able to identify the problem and fix it, preventing further damage. They can also help you with insurance claims and cleanup. Additionally, if a professional is called in before there is significant damage to your home, it may be possible for them to restore most of your property back to its original condition so that no one notices anything has happened at all.

If you suspect that any of your kitchen appliances have water damage, contact an emergency restoration specialist. In most cases, the best way to prevent this type of issue from becoming a problem is by regularly cleaning them. You can also take advantage of insurance protection for appliances and other household items so that if disaster strikes, you’ll be covered.

Who Should I Call First When There is Standing Water In My Home?

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Standing water in a Forest City, NC home

We’re here to help. If you have standing water in your home and need emergency service, give us a call. At SERVPRO of Lake Lure Forest City, we provide emergency restoration services, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We understand that when flooding happens it can be overwhelming. That’s why we want to make sure you know who to call first when there is standing water in your home!

1. Contractor

When you have standing water in your home, the first people you should call are contractors. They can help assess the damage and provide recommendations on how to proceed. If a contractor is not available immediately, they may be able to refer you to someone who is. Contractors are often the best people to find a restoration company and property management company that can help with cleanup or repairs. You should also contact an insurance agent so that all of your bases are covered after such an experience.

2. Insurance Agent

If your home has standing water, you'll need to call an insurance agent. Your insurance agent will have the expertise to help you file a claim and get in touch with a restoration company. They can also assist with getting in contact with the right people at your insurance company so that they can help you get a rental property if needed or offer other assistance as well.

If you have severe water damage in your home, it is important that you take immediate action. Don't let the water sit for too long or try to clean it up yourself.

3. Property Management Company

Third, if you're renting a home and your property management company is responsible for maintaining it, they likely won't be able to help with the restoration process. However, they may be able to recommend contractors or even help you find temporary housing until the damage has been repaired.

In general, if you're not sure who to contact when there's standing water in your Forest City, NC home, it's best to call your insurance agent first. They'll be able to get things moving quickly so that the right people can come out and start the restoration process as soon as possible.

4. Professional Restoration Company

This is the most important step to take when dealing with water damage. A professional restoration company has the experience, equipment and expertise to properly restore your home back to its original state. They can also help you find out what caused the water damage in your home so you know how to prevent similar incidents from happening again in the future.

Water damage can be a serious problem, especially if left untreated. If you suspect that your home has suffered from water damage, contact a professional restoration company immediately.

When you have a water damage emergency, it is important to take action quickly. The longer the water sits in your home or business, the more damage it will cause and the more expensive it will be to repair. So if you need help with a flooded basement or other water damage problem, we’re here for you 24 hours a day. Call us at (828) 245-8436 and speak directly with one of our trained technicians who can give you advice on how to solve this problem as soon as possible!

What You Should Have in Your Emergency Preparedness Kit?

12/5/2022 (Permalink)

The following items are recommended for a basic first aid kit

What Should Be Included In Your Emergency Kit?

If you're planning to be prepared for the next emergency, you'll want to make sure that your emergency preparedness kit is ready. Of course, there are a lot of things that go into an emergency kit, such as food, water, and medications, but here's a list of some of the items you can't forget:

Water

In addition to food, water is one of the most important things to have in an emergency preparedness kit. You should store a gallon of water per person, per day, for three days. If you need to evacuate your home, you should be able to survive on this amount of water for at least 72 hours. The recommended amount of storage for a home is two weeks' worth, but it's better to overstock than not have enough if disaster strikes.

Food 

It is important to have a supply of food for yourself and your family. Preferably a 3-day supply for evacuation, and a 2-week supply for home use.

Your food supply should consist of that doesn’t need cooking or refrigeration as part of your emergency kit. This includes:

• Canned meats, fruits and vegetables
• Cereals and dry foods like crackers, peanut butter and granola bars
• Powdered milk products such as powdered eggs or formula for infants

Flashlight

A flashlight is an essential item to have in your emergency kit. A flashlight can help you to see in dark places, and it will also be useful if the power goes out. Flashlights should have a high-quality, durable light bulb that won't burn out right away. 

Battery-powered radio

Another important tool in your kit is a battery-powered radio. You will be able to use this device to stay informed about the weather, as well as find out what it's like in your area. Most importantly, you'll also be able to use it to find out if there are any severe weather alerts that might require evacuation or other action on your part.

First aid kit

The following items are recommended for a basic first aid kit:

• bandages - adhesive bandages, gauze pads, sterile gauze pads and adhesive tape.
• eye wash and eye pads.
• analgesic gel or sting relief cream to treat insect bites or stings, such as wasp or bee stings.
• antiseptic solution (such as iodine) to clean wounds and prevent infection.

7 day supply of medications 

When you’re preparing for an emergency, it’s important to have a supply of medications and medical items in your kit. The quantity of each item varies based on your family size and needs.

• 7-day supply of over-the-counter medications: Allergy medication, fever reducer (e.g., Tylenol), pain reliever (e.g., ibuprofen), stomach upset treatment (e.g., Pepto Bismol), electrolyte replacement drink mix (e.g., Pedialyte)
• Any prescription medications 

It is also important to have toilet paper, paper towels and hand sanitizer on hand during an emergency. You should also include feminine hygiene products in your kit if you think you might need them.

Copies of personal documents

These include birth certificates, social security cards, passports and other identification papers. They are also useful as a source of information if you ever need to apply for new forms of identification or get in touch with family members following an emergency.

If you want to keep your papers dry during an emergency, it’s best store them in a waterproof container such as a Ziploc baggie or plastic tub. These are widely available at any grocery store.

As you can see, there are a lot of things to consider when it comes to preparing an emergency kit. Hopefully this list has given you some ideas about what should be included in yours. If you find yourself lacking any of these items, don’t worry—the best time to prepare for an emergency is now. Just take some time to think about what situations might come up and how they will affect your family or community. 

How to Fix a Flooded Basement?

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

A flooded basement in Forest City, NC.

How to Repair a Flooded Basement

A flooded basement is a nightmare. The water can ruin your home and your possessions, and the cleanup process can be frustrating and difficult. But there's no need to panic! There are steps you can take to limit the damage caused by flooding, clean up your basement quickly, and make sure it doesn't happen again.

Drain water

It’s important to remove as much of the water as quickly as possible. You can use a wet/dry vacuum, a pump, or even a shop vac. This is especially true if you have carpeting in your basement because wet carpets will lead to mold growth and other problems if they aren't removed immediately.

Clean-up

Next, it's time to clean up the mess. You'll need to remove wet and damaged items from your basement, and then remove any standing water. For instance:

• Remove any wet insulation that has fallen down from the walls or ceiling. If you can't get it out of there on your own, call a professional for help.
• Remove all wet carpeting in your basement so it doesn't cause mold growth later on (or smell awful). If you don't have the money right away for new carpeting, consider renting out a machine that will suck up excess moisture and dirt in your carpets so they can dry faster.
• Remove all drywall damaged by flooding as soon as possible; chances are good that if it was hit with enough water over an extended period of time, mold spores will have been embedded into the paper backing—and if those spores haven't already appeared yet, they likely will soon!

Drying out

Now that you've removed your wet belongings from the basement, it's time to start the drying process. One of the most effective ways to get rid of moisture is through dehumidifiers and fans.

Dehumidifiers are great for removing moisture because they use a refrigeration system to absorb water into their internal compartment, which acts as a cooling agent when heated by an internal heater. This method works well because dehumidifiers pull air in through their vents and expel it out through another vent at a higher temperature than that which originally entered the machine—which means it also removes any excess humidity (water vapor) along with it!

Fans can help speed up this process as well by circulating air throughout your basement space. It isn't uncommon for basements to become moldy in areas where there's been standing water or excessive dampness over time; using fans can help prevent this from happening while also speeding up drying time overall so you don't have to wait around forever before moving back into your home again! You may also want to consider installing exhaust fans near windows going out toward open spaces such as yards or streets so any remaining moisture gets released outside rather than building up inside your house next door instead."

The cleanup needs to be handled quickly and professionally

You need a professional to perform the cleanup of your flooded basement. One with experience, who knows what needs doing and can do it quickly. You need someone with the right equipment for the job, and most importantly, someone you can trust. The longer the water sits, the more damage it can cause to your Forest City, NC, home. If you need help with your flooded basement cleanup, contact our SERVPRO of Lake Lure Forest City team today!

How Do I Know If My Fire Sprinklers Are Working Properly?

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

It’s important to make sure that your fire sprinklers are in good working order before a fire occurs.

How Can I Tell If My Fire Sprinklers Are Operating Correctly?

Fire sprinklers are a great way to keep your building safe from fire and can help minimize the damage caused by fires. It’s important to make sure that your fire sprinklers are in good working order before a fire occurs. Regular maintenance and inspections of your Marion, NC, building's fire sprinklers will prevent damage or loss of life due to an unwanted or unexpected fire.

Fire sprinklers are a great way to help prevent fires.

Fire sprinklers are a great way to help prevent fires from spreading and causing extensive damage. They can also limit the amount of smoke that fills a structure during a fire, which makes cleanup easier.

When it comes to fire sprinkler systems, you have two main choices: fixed or portable. Each type has its own advantages based on your needs, but both will be able to stop smaller fires before they get out of control and cause major damage.

Fire sprinklers cannot completely contain a fire

Smoke detectors are a great way to detect fires, but they cannot completely stop or contain fires in your home. Fire sprinklers use water or foam to put out the flames and cool down hot spots. They also can limit the amount of smoke that fills a structure during a fire, which makes cleanup easier.

Fire sprinklers work by releasing water automatically when heat from an open flame reaches a certain temperature; this causes the sprinkler heads to open and release their contents onto the fire source. The amount of time it takes for this process depends on how quickly the sprinkler head opens and how soon after activation that water starts flowing out of it.

There are different types of fire sprinklers available depending on what type of space they're intended for (such as residential homes) so make sure you know which ones fit your needs best before installing them yourself!

Regular maintenance is crucial

It’s important to make sure that your fire sprinklers are in good working order before a fire occurs. As part of the inspection, check for any signs of damage and make sure that the system is functioning properly. If it isn't, replace or repair any parts needed to get it up and running again.

Fire sprinklers should be inspected annually by a qualified technician. They can fail without warning, which would leave you unprotected in the event of a fire. In fact, they are one of the best ways to help prevent fires from spreading and causing extensive damage—especially if you have an older home or building with wooden walls and ceilings (like many churches do).

When it comes to fire sprinklers, the best course of action is to get them checked out as soon as possible. If you don’t have a professional on staff who can do this, call a fire sprinkler company that offers their services. They can make sure everything is working properly so you don’t have any surprises when a fire starts up in your building! If your home or business in Marion, NC, suffers from fire and smoke damage, don’t hesitate and give our SERVPRO of Lake Lure Forest City team a call for all your fire damage cleanup and restoration needs!

3 Steps To Take After a Fire in Your Home

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

Call fire restoration professionals after experiencing a fire

Three Steps to Follow After a Home Fire

How To Create a Solid Fire Preparation Plan

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Your fire preparation plan must include simple evacuation routes.

Fire Preparation Plan

A fire in your building in Saluda, NC, requires swift action. You need a fire preparation plan so that you can evacuate your building quickly. A solid plan can also prevent excessive damage to the building itself.

Fire System
A fundamental necessity for detecting problems and reducing fire damage is a reliable fire system. A good fire alarm and suppression system consists of a few key elements:

• Smoke detectors in or near every room
• Control panel that reports alerts to a central location
• Sprinkler system that activates when the temperature gets too high
  
  

A functional fire alarm system lets you know where smoke is located. According to fire restoration specialists, while a sprinkler system may cause water damage when it is triggered, this problem is relatively small compared to the havoc that an unchecked fire can wreak.

Evacuation Routes
No matter where the fire is located or how big it is, you want to make sure you can get everyone out of the building in an efficient manner. Your fire preparation plan must include simple evacuation routes. Make a map of the quickest way to get out of the building from every location, ensuring that the route does not intersect with the path that firefighters will be used to put out the fire. Post the evacuation route in every hallway and beside every door.

Action Plan
In addition to alerts and pathways for escape, any disaster preparation plan needs a detailed list of what is expected of everyone involved. For example, who is in charge of making sure everyone is accounted for once you reach the designated safe space? Who is tasked with communicating with the emergency personnel if necessary? Make a checklist of what will need to be done in the event of a fire and who is responsible for each task.
Every business owner dreads the thought of a fire in his or her building, but it's still important to be prepared. The key factors in a solid fire preparation plan are minimizing damage and getting everyone to safety.

4 Steps to Preventing Water Damage in Your Home While on Vacation

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

Shutting off the water supply line.

Prevent Water Damage In Your Home

One of the worst ways to end your vacation is returning to your home in Union Mills, NC, and finding that it’s flooded due to a broken pipe. There are some precautions you can take to prevent unexpected water damage. If you are planning on being away from home for more than a couple of days, it’s recommended you keep a checklist to follow, so you can avoid costly water pipe repair.

1. Clear Away Exterior Debris

It’s good practice to routinely check points around your home where leaves and other debris collect, such as gutters. Inspecting your home’s exterior before leaving will provide you with an added sense of security.

2. Keep Pipes and Spigots Insulated

If you live in a northern climate and plan to vacation during the winter months, one practical way to protect pipes is to cover them with an insulation sleeve. Covers are also available for spigots. Disconnect any hoses that aren’t in use, such as garden hoses.

3. Inspect Your Home for Leaks

Simply taking the time to inspect your home for leaks, or the potential thereof could prevent water pipe repair down the road. The most obvious places to check are all sinks, toilets, and tubs. Look them over thoroughly for any signs of seepage, dripping, dampness, or rust. Don’t forget some of the less obvious places, such as the water heater.

Water can also leak in through broken window seals and the roof. While you’re surveying your home in Union Mills, NC, you might as well check for missing or broken shingles and weak areas. Your goal is to keep from returning to a flooded mess.

4. Shut the Water Off

Even if you’re planning on asking someone you trust to stop by and check on your home periodically, it’s recommended to turn off the main water line. Remember to let all of the water drain from the faucets and toilet tanks will alleviate pressure buildup and help prevent the possibility of a broken pipe.

Taking a few simple precautions before you leave on vacation allows you to better relax and enjoy your time away. It also goes a long way toward preventing water pipe repair.

FAQs About Cleaning Under Your Home After a Flood

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning a crawlspace in a home in Nebo, NC.

A home flood in Nebo, NC, can cause a devastating amount of damage. Though many homeowners are eager to begin cleaning their homes, few people realize that the area underneath houses often need to be cleaned after a flood. Here are a few helpful things to know about cleaning crawlspaces after a flood.

What Are Signs of a Damaged Crawlspace?

Though damage in a crawlspace may not be immediately apparent, identifying damage in a timely manner is often important. The following are common indicators that a crawlspace has been affected by a storm:

• An unpleasant, musty odor in areas above and around the crawlspace due to mold growth
  
• Damaged subfloors or warped vinyl floors
  
• High levels of humidity in rooms above the crawlspace
  
  

What Causes Damage to Crawlspaces?

A home flood can cause major damage to both the interior and exterior of a home, and though crawlspaces are often overlooked, they are still prone to damage. When water quickly accumulates underneath a home and is not removed or drained, the structure of a home can be affected. Damage to crawlspaces can also occur if there are high levels of humidity in the area, which can cause building materials to absorb the moisture and weaken.

How Can Under Your House Be Cleaned?

Fortunately, there are steps that professionals from a storm damage restoration company can take to clean your home’s crawlspace. First, water is removed under the crawlspace. If mold and high levels of humidity remain present after the water is removed, professionals may create negative air pressure in the area to dry up the area. Once the crawlspace is dry, professionals can restore or replace any building materials that have been damaged.

Though a home flood can wreak havoc on your home, it can be useful to understand more about cleaning underneath your home. Knowing the signs of a damaged crawlspace, common causes of damage and how the underside of your house is cleaned can make the cleanup process seem less complex.