Property Restoration FAQ

What services does Service Restoration offer?

Service Restoration provides mitigation, rebuild, and contents handling services to restore your property after damage. This includes stopping further damage, repairing structures, and handling your personal belongings with care.

What should I do immediately after discovering damage?

1. Ensure safety by checking for hazards like live wires or unstable structures.

2. Stop the source of damage if possible (e.g., shut off water or electricity).

3. Document everything with photos and videos.

4. Contact Service Restoration for emergency response.

5. Notify your insurance company to start your claim.

Do I need to contact my insurance company before calling Service Restoration?
No, you can call Service Restoration first. Our team will assess the damage, provide documentation, and assist in your insurance claim process.

Mitigation Services

What is mitigation, and why is it necessary?
Mitigation prevents further damage after an event like water, fire, or mold damage. It includes drying, cleaning, and structural stabilization to minimize loss before repairs begin.

How long does the mitigation process take?

• Water damage: 3–7 days for drying.

• Fire/smoke damage: Several days to a few weeks.

• Mold remediation: A few days to a couple of weeks.

Will my home or business be safe to stay in during mitigation?
It depends on the severity. Minor damage may allow you to stay, but major damage with structural risks or health hazards may require temporary relocation.

What kind of equipment will be used, and for how long?

• Air movers & dehumidifiers (for drying) – 3–7 days.

• HEPA air scrubbers (for smoke/mold) – Until air quality is restored.

• Ozone machines/hydroxyl generators (odor removal) – 24–48 hours.

Do I need to do anything while mitigation is happening?

• Keep pets and children away from the work area.

• Don’t turn off or move equipment.

• Allow access for monitoring and adjustments.

Rebuild Services

How long does the rebuild process take?

• Minor repairs: 1–2 weeks.

• Moderate repairs (drywall, flooring, painting): 3–6 weeks.

• Major reconstruction: Several months, depending on approvals and materials.

What factors can affect the rebuild timeline?

• Insurance approvals.

• Material availability.

• Scope of damage.

• Weather conditions.

Will I need to vacate my home or business during the rebuild?
For minor repairs, you may stay. Major structural repairs often require temporary relocation.

Can I make upgrades or changes during the rebuild?
Yes! You can request upgrades (e.g., flooring, countertops). Insurance generally covers like-for-like replacements, but upgrades are out-of-pocket expenses.

Contents Handling

What happens to my personal belongings?
Service Restoration assesses, cleans, deodorizes, and stores salvageable items. Unsalvageable items are documented for insurance claims.

Will Service Restoration clean and restore my damaged items?
Yes, Service Restoration uses specialized techniques to restore furniture, clothing, electronics, and more.

How do I know which items are salvageable?
Our team assesses items based on material, extent of damage, and cost-effectiveness. Some items may be more practical to replace.

Insurance Claims Process & Impact on Work

How does the claims process work?

1. File a claim with your insurance company.

2. An adjuster assesses the damage.

3. Service Restoration begins mitigation to prevent further damage.

4. We submit an estimate for insurance approval.

5. Once approved, Service Restoration will start the rebuild process.

What role does Service Restoration play in working with my insurance company?
Service Restoration documents damage, communicates with adjusters, and ensures proper claim processing to keep your project moving.

How do insurance payments work?

• Actual Cash Value (ACV): Pays the depreciated value upfront.

• Replacement Cost Value (RCV): Pays full cost after work is completed.

• Deductibles: You are responsible for paying the deductible amount.

• Mortgage company involvement: If applicable, checks may be issued to both you and your lender.

What happens if my insurance doesn’t cover something?
Service Restoration provides an estimate for out-of-pocket costs, and you can choose whether to proceed with the repairs independently.

Do I need multiple quotes for my insurance company?
No, most policies do not require multiple estimates. Service Restoration provides detailed, industry-standard estimates that align with insurance requirements.

Still have questions? Contact Service Restoration anytime—we’re here to help!