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!

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!

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.

What To Do About Water in Your Crawl Space

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

A wet crawl space can have a big impact on your home.

How Did Water Get Under The House?

Most homeowners in Forest City, NC, take water problems very seriously. Water can cause a lot of damage to furniture, appliances and fabrics. But many people overlook a wet crawl space. It's easy to assume that since it's not part of the interior, a little water is okay. That may not be the case.

Causes of Moisture
So how did water get under the house in the first place? There are a few common reasons:

• A leaky pipe
  
• The slope of your yard
  
• A misdirected downspout
  
• A flood
  
  

Figuring out which of these is the source of the water will help you find a solution.

Potential for Damage in a Wet Crawl Space
A seemingly empty crawl space is a critical area in the home. The foundation and important structural elements are accessed here. When there is flooding, damage can happen. Water weakens wood joists and supports, erodes foundations and fosters mold growth. All these issues can become long-term problems that will need to be repaired. And the repairs can get costly. The best way to minimize damage is to address the situation as soon as possible.

Ways To Fix the Problem
Once you’ve decided to act, there are a few key steps. Stop the source of the water so that you can deal with the problem. Get a professional to clean the area and get rid of any mold that may have developed. Check the structural elements of your home. If something seems compromised, call someone to repair or replace it. You may want to invest in waterproofing or a pump that can help keep everything dry to help reduce future problems. It's also a good idea to add crawl space inspections to your home maintenance list
While it’s an easy thing to ignore, a wet crawl space can have a big impact on your home. Knowing that, take the time to make a plan to handle any problems you find when making inspections. You’ll sleep easier knowing you’re taking the best care of your home.

What To Do if Your Light Floods

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in a light fixture in a home in Union Mills, NC.

Water Damage To a Light Fixture

A broken pipe or overflowing bathtub can cause leaks in the oddest places. If there is a light fixture on the ceiling directly below the leak, you could find water in the light. Water and electricity don't mix well, so it's important to take a few preliminary steps before water restoration experts arrive to repair the water damage to your ceiling.

1. Cut Electricity

The first thing to do is to stop the electrical current that is flowing to the light. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, so a light fixture with water poses a risk of shock to anyone who comes into contact with it. If you want to make sure that the electricity is off, you can test nearby dry surfaces with a voltage tester that doesn't make actual contact with the surface.

2. Stop Water Flow

After you have eliminated the electrical risk, it's a good idea to shut off the source of the leak. If a toilet overflow is the culprit, turn the water off at the wall to stop water from running into the tank. If you have a broken pipe, you will likely need to turn the water off at the water main to keep from getting more water in the light below.

3. Call Professionals

Ceiling damage from a water leak is not the sort of thing you want to handle on your own. Certified technicians in Union Mills, NC, have the knowledge and tools to fix the problem safely and efficiently. By leaving it up to them, you can likely avoid secondary damage such as mold or further leaking and be confident that the damage is remediated completely.

A leak on the second floor may result in water in the light below it. Your best course of action in this situation is to stop the flow of electricity and water to the area and let the professionals take it from there.

How To Clean Flood-Damaged Electronics

3/19/2022 (Permalink)

Not all flooded electronics can be fully restored to working condition.

What To Do About Flooded Electronics

If your Nebo, NC, building floods, the cleaning and restoration process that follows can be complicated. One of the most daunting aspects of water damage cleanup is what to do about flooded electronics. Follow these steps for safely cleaning and restoring a water-damaged device.

1. Stay Safe

When retrieving your electronics, be careful to avoid any shock hazards. The safest bet is to disconnect the building power if possible. Avoid standing in water or wearing wet clothing when handling electronics and use extra care with battery-operated devices.

2. Disassemble and Drain

Make sure the device is turned off and remove the battery. Turn and gently shake the device to drain as much water as possible. Carefully disassemble the device as completely as you can. To completely remove water from around and under circuit board components, fully submerge the circuit board in a container of isopropyl alcohol. For best results, use alcohol with a concentration of 90% or higher.

3. Carefully Clean

For most flooded electronics, simply drying them out is not enough. Most floodwater contains at least some contaminants, so it’s important to clean devices. Removing any residue or debris is particularly important with sensitive components such as circuit boards. Use a soft toothbrush or small paintbrush to gently clean these components, being especially careful around cables and connectors to avoid damaging the contact surfaces. Dry the cleaned components using a clean hairdryer in a cold setting, or by placing them under a slightly warm desk lamp.

4. Reassemble and Test

Reassemble your device only after it is completely dry. Always use a new battery, never one that has been submerged. Carefully turn the device on and test to see if it is working correctly. When troubleshooting electronic damage, it’s helpful to replace one part at a time until you find the defective component.
Unfortunately, not all flooded electronics can be fully restored to working condition. This cleaning process will help you salvage as much as possible.

What Do You Need To File a Water Damage Claim?

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in Columbus, NC.

File a Water Damage Claim

Documentation is required to file a homeowners insurance claim for water damage. A policyholder should provide photos, videos, maintenance records, and proof of purchase to an insurer as evidence of damage caused by a pipe burst or any type of leak. Learn more about what information a homeowner should gather as he or she prepares to file a claim for water damage.

Proof of Damage

Insurers will want to see proof of the full extent of the damage. There are several types of useful documentation:

• Photographs
  
• Video
  
• Footage dated prior to an incident
  
  

These records indicate that damage was caused by the incident that led a homeowner to file an insurance claim. It is important to document damage before taking any steps toward mitigation. Homeowners may also benefit from being able to produce maintenance records indicating that the incident was not due to negligence. Even if an insurer does not cover the cause of damage, coverage should be available for the effects.

Proof of Purchase

It can also be helpful to gather receipts or other proof of purchase for damaged contents. Check your policy to ensure that the replacement cost of items is covered rather than the actual cash value. Given depreciation, the latter may not be sufficient to replace items with severe damage.

A Restoration Estimate

Insurers prefer to work with an established water damage mitigation and restoration company. Obtain an estimate for the cleanup and restoration processes by contacting a company that provides both services. This calculation may be more accurate and complete than estimates from more than one business.

All of this information can help a homeowner filing an insurance claim for water damage. Be aware that homeowners insurance does not cover any damage caused by flooding. A separate flood insurance policy is necessary for damage resulting from heavy rains or rising bodies of water in Columbus, NC.