Choosing a Company for Flood Cleanup Services

If you have experienced water damage or a flood in Houston, choosing a flood cleanup company to restore your home can be a difficult task, especially if you don’t know what questions to ask before signing off on the work. It’s best to be prepared and have a flood cleanup service provider selected before disaster strikes, but in the event you are caught off guard you can still be sure you are making the right decision by following a few general guidelines.

Identifying the Source of the Water Damage

Some water damage occurs suddenly when a pipe bursts or from a flooding stream nearby, while other times water damage can occur slowly over time from a leaking pipe or roof. Likewise, the source of the water will dictate flood cleanup procedures, and you will want to know if you are dealing with clean water or contaminated water.

The type of water damage present in your home will affect flood cleanup and water damage remediation. Before hiring a flood cleanup professional in Houston, ask about specific experience they may have that is similar to your situation. If your home is flooded with sewage, they will need to have additional training and equipment to ensure your home will be restored and safe for you and your family.

When contacting a flood damage cleanup in Houston, tell them what type of water damage your home has sustained, and don’t be afraid to ask them how they will handle flood cleanup. Slow leaks causing water damage over time will require different flood cleanup methods than sudden flooding. Use your best judgment in making your decision.

Ask About Specialized Training and Qualifications

The flood cleanup industry has numerous opportunities for certification and specialized training, and you should always ask about certifications and training related to your type of water damage. Flood cleanup professionals should receive regular ongoing training to ensure they are up to date on the most recent information available to the industry.

The IICRC provides training and certifications for flood cleanup and other restoration categories, as do several other independent organizations. After you have identified any training and certifications, remember to also check the integrity of the issuing body.

Additional Services

Many companies providing flood cleanup and water damage restoration in Houston will offer a variety of other services that may be necessary to restore your home. Additional services may include mold remediation and prevention, restoration of personal items and furniture, and the replacement of structural elements like drywall and wood panels.

Utilizing one company to perform all your flood cleanup and restoration needs can save you both time and money, and can simplify your insurance claims process. There are numerous benefits to working with just one company, including increased efficiency, lower risk of something being overlooked, and a streamlined process.

Fair Expectations of a Restoration Expert

When it’s an emergency, you will want to work with a flood cleanup company that is available 24 hours a day and who can respond as soon as possible. It is entirely reasonable to expect a prompt response from a provider of emergency restoration services.

Legitimate flood cleanup businesses will be insured and hold all appropriate licenses to operate in your area. Always ask for proof of insurance and confirm the contractor has adequate liability insurance.

In addition to responding in a timely manner, flood cleanup professionals in Houston should always provide a written estimate to you before any work begins. In doing so, you will have a reasonable expectation of the flood cleanup work to be completed as well as the costs involved. If your flood damage is covered by insurance, the flood cleanup professional will work with your insurance company on your claim.

You have a choice when hiring a flood cleanup professional, and it’s your right to obtain the necessary information to make an informed decision. The final decision is ultimately yours, but by following the guidelines outlined above you can find an experienced flood cleanup professional that will be able to tackle any job.