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The Steam Team

4.74(
337
)

The Steam Team

4.74(
337
)
Customers say: Super punctual
42 years of experience

The Steam Team is a true Austin original, the only locally owned, full-service cleaning, restoration and catastrophe management company in the greater Austin area. The Steam Team serves homeowners and businesses with a wide range of services, meeting both routine and emergency needs with prompt, expert, guaranteed service. Founded in Austin in 1983, The Steam Team has steadily expanded its service offerings and was named one of Austin's fastest-growing companies by the Austin Business Journal in 2003. In 2005 we were selected as the only finalist for the Austin Chamber of Commerce Business Awards for customer service. The company has built its reputation on performing beyond even the highest expectations, with greater professional focus and personal involvement than its competitors .

"I worked with Andrew Bobst through a flood remediation process. And while he was extremely responsive & quick to come out to the house in the flood aftermath, the rest of the process was like pulling teeth. There was unclear communication about how long the dryers needed to run, promises of working with insurance, but to which I later became the middle man for payment. And most significantly, a tile that was ruined when the walls were taken out. I've spent 5 months trying to work with them to get them to replace this. And I've even offered to provide a replacement tile myself, if they'll just have someone come replace it. Unfortunately, despite countless followups, Andrew has not made the time to get this resolved. So I certainly won't be giving them my service again."

Jenn B on November 2023

The Steam Team is a true Austin original, the only locally owned, full-service cleaning, restoration and catastrophe management company in the greater Austin area. The Steam Team serves homeowners and businesses with a wide range of services, meeting both routine and emergency needs with prompt, expert, guaranteed service. Founded in Austin in 1983, The Steam Team has steadily expanded its service offerings and was named one of Austin's fastest-growing companies by the Austin Business Journal in 2003. In 2005 we were selected as the only finalist for the Austin Chamber of Commerce Business Awards for customer service. The company has built its reputation on performing beyond even the highest expectations, with greater professional focus and personal involvement than its competitors .

"I worked with Andrew Bobst through a flood remediation process. And while he was extremely responsive & quick to come out to the house in the flood aftermath, the rest of the process was like pulling teeth. There was unclear communication about how long the dryers needed to run, promises of working with insurance, but to which I later became the middle man for payment. And most significantly, a tile that was ruined when the walls were taken out. I've spent 5 months trying to work with them to get them to replace this. And I've even offered to provide a replacement tile myself, if they'll just have someone come replace it. Unfortunately, despite countless followups, Andrew has not made the time to get this resolved. So I certainly won't be giving them my service again."

Jenn B on November 2023

Earthquake Retrofitting questions, answered by experts

Earthquake gas shut-off valves, or seismic gas shut-off valves, are safety devices that attach to your natural gas line. When an earthquake hits, the valve automatically turns off the flow of gas. Earthquake gas shut-off valves can prevent gas leaks, which are especially dangerous after a quake due to the risk of fire and explosion.

Almost all new buildings in California need an earthquake shut-off valve. The requirements for an earthquake gas shut-off valve (and who can install it) depend on where you live. For example, according to the Los Angeles Municipal Code, you’re required to hire a licensed contractor to install one whenever you build, sell, or renovate a home. Check with your local building department for your city’s laws on installing, permitting, and inspecting earthquake shut-off valves.

Some cities or states may require you to have an earthquake gas shut-off valve. Your insurance provider may also have requirements for installing this valve. Even if you don’t have to have one by law, it’s wise to have a natural gas plumber install one anyway. These devices can be lifesaving and prevent fires or explosions in the event of a gas leak.

Projects will vary based on size and scope, but an average earthquake retrofit takes between two weeks and two months. This includes the initial evaluation and plan, bidding and contract paperwork, permitting and approval process, actual work, and final inspection. Your contractor should give you a more accurate time estimate for your specific project, and they may be able to estimate how long the permitting process will take for your area.

Earthquake retrofitting can increase your home value, making it a great return on investment. This feature is especially valuable in areas prone to earthquakes. Besides the increased safety value (not only for your family but for the next family who moves in), earthquake retrofitting also helps lower homeowners insurance rates. In addition, having your home earthquake retrofitted can make it easier to get a home loan since they are considered lower risk.

The Smithville, TX homeowners’ guide to earthquake retrofitting services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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