Water Damage
Water Damage
We treat every issue like an emergency
Water damage is not only dangerous to the building or structure but can also be a health hazard if left untreated or not treated properly and thoroughly. Response time is crucial. The longer you wait to address the issue, the worse the problem gets, which means more time and money must be spent during final restoration.
Water damage or flooding inside a commercial property is defined as release of water into the interior of a building that is larger in scale than a spill of a few gallons of water. Typically, a flood involves multiple areas within the facility and affects multiple building components, such as ceilings, walls, carpets and furnishings. If it is a multi-level structure, leaks often seep through to lower floors, causing additional damage.
While immediate action is important, it is equally important that that any damaged area is fully evaluated by a licensed team of experts that can not only assess and repair any obvious building materials and aesthetic concerns, but also provide a mold and microbial inspection to ensure the long-term health of both the building and its occupants.
The damage caused by flooding or water intrusion is typically classified in one of three categories, depending on factors such as source and level of chemical or biological contamination.
Types of Water Damage
Cat. 1 - Minimum Risk
This is classified as clean water from a sink overflow, broken water or steam line, or rainwater infiltration and represents the lowest health risk. Damaged building materials and furnishings have the best potential for being salvaged. Response time should be within 24 to 48 hours. Beyond that, microbial growth begins to lower the water quality.
Cat. 2 - Moderate Risk
This is classified as water from storm drain back-ups, treated cooling water, surface water, fire suppression systems and discharges from equipment. Water in Category 2 presents a higher risk of disease or infection to those who come into direct contact with the contaminated area because of contamination and microbial growth. Damaged building materials are much more difficult to salvage.
Cat. 3 - Maximum Risk
This is classified as water from sewers, rivers, seawater, and surface water. This water presents the highest risk of containing infectious viruses, bacteria and parasites. Category 3 water has the ability to cause disease or infection from both direct and indirect contact. Category 3 water may also contain toxic and allergenic materials.
Our Process
Inspect
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Restoration crews arrive as quickly as possible
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Crews are instructed to avoid contact with contaminated materials and wear proper protective equipment
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All occupants are briefed for potential risks before entering the area
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Air handlers are isolated or shut down to prevent the spread of contamination
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Water damage is analyzed to help determine the level or category of contamination
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Industrial hygienist documents the results and drafts a report
Diagnose
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Based on air- and water-testing results, a treatment plan and project scope are established and implemented
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If the water is found to be in category 2 or 3, environmental health and safety should be addressed
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Plan includes a decision on whether biocides should be used
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Determinations are made regarding what materials can be salvaged and which must be replaced during the restoration process
Treat
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Stop the flow or intrusion of water and remove excess water and contaminants
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Air-testing results from the industrial hygienist’s report will be used to determine if the damaged area must be treated for microbial growth
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All porous and contaminated materials are sterilized, and the environment is stabilized with HEPA filtration and air-scrubbers
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Barriers are constructed to contain any airborne particulate
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Ingress/egress zipper doors will be installed at all entrances and exits
Document
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Once the damaged area is fully cleaned and restored to pre-loss condition or better, a client satisfaction approval sign-off will be requested
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All completion documentation is provided or submitted to the appropriate parties
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Outstanding claims with insurance adjustors will be settled on the client’s behalf