6 Questions to Ask About Water Damage and Removal

Whether from a flood or an ongoing leak, water damage can be disastrous for your home, leading to mold growth and potential structural damage. Acting quickly and working with a water removal professional will help save your home and wallet. Here are a few common water damage questions to answer when you talk to a pro.

When do you need water damage work done?

When it comes to water damage, time is of the essence. The sooner someone can come out and inspect the problem and take steps to fix it, the better. Ideally, you'll be talking to a company that offers service 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will be able to respond to your problem ASAP. 

What is the extent of the water damage? 

The type of water damage—and its extent—determines the restoration and removal methods the professional will use. For example, water damage from a leaking pipe typically doesn't require disinfection. However, water damage from a backed-up toilet or a flood usually does. 

Water damage is also typically ranked by class. Class 1 damage is the least harmful, as the materials in your home most likely didn't absorb much water. The most harmful is Class 4 damage, which typically involves the structure of your home. Class 4 damage is more expensive to repair than Class 1.

How many rooms in your home are affected by water damage?

The water removal professional is going to need to know how many and which rooms in your home were affected by the water. Knowing the scope of the problem will help them estimate your water damage restoration costs and determine what type of equipment they'll need to use. 

How long has the area been wet?

If you noticed a leak yesterday, the restoration and removal process will most likely be simpler than if water has been dripping from a pipe for several weeks or months. The same is true after a flood. If water's been pooling in your basement for weeks, more extensive repairs will likely be needed. You don't have to have to know exactly how long the area's been wet but be prepared to give the pro an estimate.

Do you see signs of mold?

Mold growth may or may not accompany water damage, and a water restoration professional is likely to ask you about it to determine if additional steps are needed after your home dries out. Even if you don't see visible signs of mold, they may recommend that you contact a mold remediation expert to be on the safe side.

Will insurance cover the water removal?

Who's going to foot the bill for the water removal and restoration? It all depends on your insurance policy and the source of the damage. For certain types of problems, such as a burst pipe, your insurance will likely step in. However, following a flood or natural disaster, insurance may not pay the bills unless you specifically bought flood coverage.