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FAQs, Residential Restoration Services
Have Questions About Home Restoration? We Have Answers!
Different people have different needs that depend on the kind of restoration services they are looking for. We would like to advise you to look through our frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) list so that you can easily make a timely decision on what exactly you need. We understand that you do not have time to wait until you get an answer, and we hope that our FAQs list will make it quicker.
We have divided our FAQ’s into sections around our services to assist you in getting your answers at a faster rate. You will not find it hard to find the answer you require, in a question relating to fire damage, water damage or anything, at your home.
We are fairly confident you would find what you wanted here. However, in case you have a more complicated problem that needs a talk with one of our specialists, then do not hesitate to call your local ServiceMaster of Bux-Mont!
Restore your home to its best condition with expert residential restoration. Call us today.
Our team is standing by to assist you with all your needs. Give us a call today at 1-800-RESPOND
Common Questions
Residential Water Damage FAQ
How long will it take my property to dry?
Drying time is determined by a combination of factors, including the location, duration, and source of water, the types of building materials, the weather conditions, and how quickly emergency services begin. Through consistent monitoring and evaluation of the drying process, we can determine when the drying is complete. Your carpet may feel dry to the touch, but padding and subfloors may still be wet underneath. While there are no rules to determine how long your property will take to dry, we can tell you it may take between three and five days or more, depending on the conditions.
How do I know when my property is completely dry?
Proper testing with our specialized equipment is the correct way to determine if things are completely dry. Touch alone may be a false indicator.
Will turning up the heat help dry things out?
Not necessarily. We will adjust the temperature to its optimum setting for the proper drying conditions. Please do not change the setting or shut off the HVAC system; doing so may prolong the drying process.
Can you restore my wet furniture?
The extent of damage and the construction of the furniture will determine if your furniture can be restored. Your furniture must be dried before damage can be adequately assessed. Unsalvageable furniture will be documented for you, and if any items need to be discarded, a customer release form will need to be signed.
Do I need to move out of my property during this process?
If you file an insurance claim, you may receive guidance from your insurance representative. However, this is a decision you must reach on your own. There are several factors to consider. Safety is paramount. Our equipment is as childproof as possible, but we require your supervision to make sure no children play with it. Air movers and dehumidifiers will create noise and make your property drafty for a few days. It is important that the equipment remains on, so if the noise is disruptive to you, you might want to consider an alternate place to stay.
Can my carpet be restored or will it have to be replaced?
A few reasons your carpet may not be salvageable:
My wood floors are wet and buckling. Will they have to be replaced?
Wood flooring must be evaluated during the drying process. We utilize specialized drying systems and dehumidifiers to create an environment where wood floors can dry more efficiently and resume their original shape. Due to the density of hardwood flooring and urethane finishes, drying may take longer. If you filed a claim, your insurance adjuster will work with you to make the final decision as to whether floors will need to be refinished or replaced.
Will there be any lingering odors after your restoration services?
My ceilings are wet. What needs to be done?
Our technicians will evaluate moisture content, determine the severity of the damage, and may have to remove some of your ceiling for ventilation. Wet insulation can also be a hazard and may need to be removed.
Why did the technician leave wet carpet on my stairs?
Carpet on the stairs is generally not removed for safety reasons. Exposed tack strips or staples, especially on steps, are dangerous. However, there are situations where removing carpet from stairs is necessary to prevent damage to hardwood steps, or in the case of sewage contamination. Removing tack strips is not advised, as this may damage the hardwood or the subfloor. Extreme caution must be used whenever the tack strip is exposed or when the carpeted stairs are damp. If carpet left on the stairs is unsalvageable, it will be removed when a new carpet is installed.
Common Questions
Residential Mold Remediation FAQ
What is mold?
What does mold need in order to grow?
Mold needs a moist environment, temperatures above freezing, and a food source, which could be leaves, paper, dirt, wood, or other building materials. Mold is more likely to be found in damp, dusty spaces or areas with stagnant air.
How can I tell if I have mold?
If you see mold growth or water stains, a mold test can help identify related microbial activity. You can also look for areas where water leakage has occurred, such as roofs, pipes, ceilings, or walls. Musty smells may also indicate the presence of mold.
What can I do to prevent the growth of mold in my home?
The most effective means to keep mold in check include keeping the humidity level of your home at 40–60 percent, using an air conditioner and/or dehumidifier during humid months and in damp spaces like basements, and always utilizing exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, along with dryer vents outside your home. Lastly, if there are leaks in your roof, walls, or plumbing, it is important to repair them as soon as possible.
Why is mold a problem?
Many people aren’t aware that mold can cause serious structural damage to homes and businesses, which, if left undetected, can cause a property to lose value and/or require significant repairs. And if you have ever suffered from allergies, exposure to molds can often cause nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, skin irritation, or even more severe reactions.
When does mold need to be handled by a professional remediation company?
Most experts recommend a professional remediation company when elevated mold levels are detected. Remediation professionals are specially trained to isolate and treat mold-affected areas to avoid contaminating adjacent spaces.
Some molds have the reputation of being more dangerous than others. Is identifying the mold important?
Sometimes you will hear terms like “toxic mold” and “black mold” used to refer to molds. While identifying the type of fungus or mold may be interesting, it doesn’t affect the course of action. If mold is present, the CDC has strongly recommended that it be removed, no matter the type*.
Common Questions
Residential Hoarding FAQ
Will you clean the home without the customer being present?
We prefer to work with the customer in the home, but under specific medical situations, we can do so with their input, even if they’re not present. We will never clean out a home without the customer’s knowledge, approval, and understanding.
How involved must the customer be in the cleaning process?
While we do not ask the customer to physically move items, we do ask for their guidance when it comes to making decisions. After all, the more involved in the cleanup the customer is, the greater chance they’ll have a positive experience and outcome.
How do you handle a resistant customer?
Can friends, neighbors, and church groups help?
Because homes are filled with highly emotional situations, our experience has shown that friends, neighbors, and church groups are best suited as post-cleanup support groups after the process has been completed.
Can you help family members educate another family member on the cleaning process?
What does a hoarding cleanup cost?
Every job is unique, and pricing will vary in many situations, including the size of the home, type of items kept, ability to make decisions, and hazards found in the home.
How long does the cleaning take?
Timing differs for each home depending upon volume, hazards, and more. An average home takes between 3 and 5 days. Preparing for the cleanup can take weeks, but the actual cleanup is usually less than a week.
Does the customer get breaks during the cleanup?
Each job will be tailored to the customer’s ability to focus and make decisions. Whether that means we work half days or full days, we prioritize the customer’s well-being and encourage breaks as needed.
What do you do with valuables found in the house?
Can you help donate items?
Yes, our team will help assist with the details of donated items. Once the customer selects a preferred donation organization, our team will sort and document all items and can take them to the donation center. We will take a detailed inventory, fill out the donation receipt, and return it to the customer for tax purposes.
Common Questions
Residential Reconstruction Services FAQ
How long will the reconstruction project take?
What does pre-loss condition mean?
ServiceMaster Restore is responsible for returning your home to its original state before the damage occurred, or its pre-loss condition. We use materials that are similar in type and quality. There may be some damage that existed prior to your loss. Therefore, these damages have not been included in the scope of repairs. At your request, ServiceMaster Restore will provide you with an estimate for any additional renovation projects, also called non-insured work.
What is non-insured work?
Any renovation project unrelated to your loss is considered non-insured work. At your request, ServiceMaster Restore will provide a separate estimate for a non-insured renovation project, and we will require separate authorization and payment terms. If non-insured work will delay the completion of an insured portion, then the situation must be discussed with your Insurance Adjuster and the ServiceMaster Restore Project Manager.
Do I need a permit?
When required, your ServiceMaster Restore Project Manager will take out the appropriate permit(s) on your behalf, identifying the ServiceMaster Restore Franchise Business as the general contractor. If applicable, permit fees are included in the estimate and may be covered by the insurance company.
What is a code or by-law upgrade?
It is an upgrade that is made when your home’s pre-loss condition no longer meets legal building codes. Your insurance company may recognize code upgrades in the estimation process. Any questions regarding code upgrades should be directed to your Insurance Adjuster.
Will I have to be home all the time?
No, we will do our best to make sure you may go about your daily routine. For site access, you can provide a key to your Project Manager or opt for a lockbox on the property.
Do my belongings need to be moved away from the premises?
Depending on the scope of work, contents may remain on location. We will take appropriate measures to securely cover and protect contents. Any construction-related dust that collects will be addressed in the post-construction cleaning.
Common Questions
Residential Air Duct Cleaning FAQ
Is air duct cleaning expensive?
The cost of the service varies and depends on factors such as where you live, how dirty your system is, how easy it is for the contractor to access the ducts and what your ducts are made of, and what material is used in the construction of the ducts. However, our expertise, training, and satisfaction guarantee are built into the price of service.
How long will it take to have my air ducts cleaned?
The amount of time it takes to clean a residential HVAC system can vary depending on the complexity of the system. Once a trained technician arrives, they should be able to give you an estimate of how long it will take. For standard purposes, we ask for at least 3-5 hours to get the job done right and to your satisfaction.
Will air duct cleaning be disruptive to my family?
Your professionals at ServiceMaster Restore can schedule a time that is most convenient for your family and when most of the household is not present. Depending on the magnitude of the job, we should have your house back to normal operation in a matter of a few hours.
How often do I need to get my air ducts cleaned?
We recommend air duct cleaning every three to five years. Customers should consider more frequent cleaning of their duct systems if their home has any of the following:
Do I need to do anything prior to the technician arriving for my scheduled service?
Duct cleaning can be noisy. It is best to do it when most family members are not present. Clear work areas. Ask your technician how much space is needed around each air vent register and how much space they will need around the furnace and air conditioner. It is best to have these areas cleared beforehand. Prior to cleaning, perform a walkthrough of your home to go over where protective coverings such as drop and corner guards will be placed. Also, it is necessary to go over the ducts, how they will be cleaned, and the accessibility of it.
Why should I have my air ducts cleaned?
Air duct cleaning helps:
Is there anything I can do to help maintain clean air ducts?
To help maintain clean air ducts, change air filters based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular vacuuming will also help reduce pet dander and airborne dirt and debris.
Common Questions
Residential Fire Damage & Content Management FAQ
How long will the restoration process take?
Because there are many variables and many services involved in fire and smoke restoration, it is difficult to predict exactly how long the complete restoration will take. Consult with your ServiceMaster Restore Restoration Technician on the estimated dates and phases of your restoration project.
Can I clean up from fire damage myself?
We suggest that you do not attempt any “do-it-yourself” cleaning methods without consulting your ServiceMaster Restore Restoration Technician. Pretesting, using the right cleaning agent for the particular item, mixing deodorizing agents with cleaning solutions, and using correct dilution rates are just some of the ways a fire restoration technician expertly controls the results. Professional cleaning systems and products used by experienced, trained ServiceMaster Restore Restoration Technicians give you the best chance for complete restoration of your belongings.
What are some safety concerns?
Can I turn on my heating and air conditioning unit?
What items do I keep in my possession during the restoration process?
– Cash
– Medications
– Valuable Jewelry
– Checkbooks
Do my belongings need to be moved away from the premises?
Do I need to move out of my property during this process?
This is ultimately your decision. Some things you may want to consider are safety concerns, odors, electricity, noise from equipment, etc. If vacating your premises for any length of time, consider the following: forward your mail to your temporary residence; stop newspaper and other deliveries; notify utility company, cable company, etc., of temporary suspension of services.
How do I keep track of non-restorable items?
Do I need general contractors?
There are some items that may require general contractors such as drywall/painting; electrical; plumbing; roofing; framing/finish carpentry; flooring/carpet; installation of doors, windows, cabinets, post-construction cleanup, etc.
Will I have access to my belongings while they are in storage?
Yes, with advance notice we can schedule a time for a ServiceMaster Restore Restoration Technician to meet with you and provide access to your requested items. A service charge may apply.
Get in touch
Need Restoration Help?
Whether you’re facing an unexpected emergency or planning ahead for restoration services, our dedicated team is here to provide fast, professional, and reliable assistance. From water and fire damage to mold, odor, and specialty restoration, we handle every project with care and expertise.
127 S 3rd St Suite 1, Perkasie, PA 18944, United States
service@servicemasterbuxmont.com
(215) 857-9754
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