Water Damage FAQ
What causes water damage ?
Water intrusion can happen because of variety of reasons. Natural disasters and a failed plumbing component can lead to burst or clogged pipes. Appliances are likely to malfunction and/or an improper connection to them.
Sewage systems can overfill and get clogged which results in raw sewage spew back into your property. Exterior components like roofing, gutters, windows can be installed improperly or damaged which can allow water to slowly steep into your property. Interior areas with water exposure can allow water damage because of cracks in tile, especially in showers.
How can I prevent water damage?
Keeping a scheduled maintenance routine around your home will help you catch an intrusion before it creates a lot of damage. Check all all your appliances, exterior objects that come into contact with water (Septic tank, gutters, etc) if you live in freezing temperatures make sure valves are properly insulated. Pay attention to your water bill, increase may show you there is a leak in the system.
Finally, educate everyone in your household/staff where and how to shut off the main water supply, in case of emergency to reduce water damage.
What are some effects of water damage?
If water damage is not treated correctly your property may be ruined or value decreased. Structural and cosmetic damage will occur and pose a safety risk. Mold begins to grow within 12-36 hours if left untreated and can cause serious health problems.
What should I do when I notice water damage?
If possible turn off the water source safety, Don’t use any electrical components in the damages area. Call a water damage professional as soon as possible to eliminate secondary damages. The longer the water is unattended, the more damage it creates.
What if I don’t have insurance coverage?
All of our prices are set without any mark ups. All equipment and tools come with a set price, you will only pay for whats required by I.I.C.R.C standard of drying to ensure proper restoration.
We accept check, cash and credit card.
Will My Insurance cover damages affected by water intrusion?
Rapid R&R has trained staff to make sure to help you deal with your insurance company in regards to coverage. We will give you knowledge so you can understand how to properly file a claim.
Every policy is different, but in most cases insurance companies cover emergency water damage. If they suspect you were negligent and delayed mitigation you may lose that coverage because most policies don’t cover mold (which grows within 12 hours). Don’t wait call a professional now!
6)Should I Call Insurance first when I notice water damage?
No, Call a water damage specialist to mitigate the problem and stop secondary damages. Our technicians will also be able to help you understand if its safe to remain in the home.
Some insurance companies take 3-5 days to come inspect the home, which can cause secondary damages and a health risk.
How much does water damage repair cost?
Our industry has set standard pricing that is used by all insurance companies to eliminate competition and offer fair prices to customers. Every piece of equipment has a set price and materials and labor are measured in time, size, and value.
(typical job ranges from $1500-$3000)
Is there a difference between types of water?
Yes, water comes in 3 category types.
- Category 1- also known as “clean water” example such as broken water supply or sink overflow. Not considered harmful but if left untreated can evolve to Cat 2
- Category 2- also known as “grey water” example such as dishwasher/washing machine discharge. Contains large amount of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort and sickness. Can evolve to cat 3 if untreated
- Category 3- also known as “black water” example such as sewage (Toilet back flow, crawlspace water), sea/ground/surface water. Extremely unsanitary, harmful bacteria and fungi, will cause discomfort and sickness.
Can’t I clean up the water damage myself ?
No, just like explained above, water comes in different types and some require proper personal protection equipment to ensure safety. Water travels in unpredictable ways and requires special tools are to detect moisture that is trapped or hidden. If even the slightest amount of water is hidden or trapped it will cause secondary damages and mold.
How long does restoration process take?
Typically 3-5 days for phase one which includes (Mitigation, Clean-up, Dry-out) depending on size and type of damage.
Phase two (reconstruction) takes usually 2-3 weeks depending on size and amount of work. (Depends also on upgrades, many clients choose not to replace out of date items but upgrade material- see next question)
What if we would like to upgrade during reconstruction?
Many customers upgrade their property during the reconstruction process. After phase one is complete, our trained staff will discuss any upgrades you would like to make. If there is funds from insurance to cover damages we will help you use it as credit toward any upgrades you would like.
Water damaged area looks dry, Am I safe?
No, Water travels in unpredictable ways and requires special tools are to detect moisture that is trapped or hidden. If even the slightest amount of water is hidden or trapped it will cause secondary damages and mold.
How long does it take mold to grow after a water intrusion?
Studies show mold grows within 12-36 hours depending on temperature and material
What are the steps to properly restore my home from water damage ?
- Inspect
- Mitigate
- Clean up
- Dry out
- Reconstruct
Sewage systems can overfill and get clogged which results in raw sewage spew back into your property. Exterior components like roofing, gutters, windows can be installed improperly or damaged which can allow water to slowly steep into your property. Interior areas with water exposure can allow water damage because of cracks in tile, especially in showers.
Finally, educate everyone in your household/staff where and how to shut off the main water supply, in case of emergency to reduce water damage.
If water damage is not treated correctly your property may be ruined or value decreased. Structural and cosmetic damage will occur and pose a safety risk. Mold begins to grow within 12-36 hours if left untreated and can cause serious health problems.
If water damage is not treated correctly your property may be ruined or value decreased. Structural and cosmetic damage will occur and pose a safety risk. Mold begins to grow within 12-36 hours if left untreated and can cause serious health problems.
We accept check, cash and credit card.
Every policy is different, but in most cases insurance companies cover emergency water damage. If they suspect you were negligent and delayed mitigation you may lose that coverage because most policies don’t cover mold (which grows within 12 hours). Don’t wait call a professional now!
6)Should I Call Insurance first when I notice water damage?
No, Call a water damage specialist to mitigate the problem and stop secondary damages. Our technicians will also be able to help you understand if its safe to remain in the home.
Some insurance companies take 3-5 days to come inspect the home, which can cause secondary damages and a health risk.
(typical job ranges from $1500-$3000)
- Category 1- also known as “clean water” example such as broken water supply or sink overflow. Not considered harmful but if left untreated can evolve to Cat 2
- Category 2- also known as “grey water” example such as dishwasher/washing machine discharge. Contains large amount of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort and sickness. Can evolve to cat 3 if untreated
- Category 3- also known as “black water” example such as sewage (Toilet back flow, crawlspace water), sea/ground/surface water. Extremely unsanitary, harmful bacteria and fungi, will cause discomfort and sickness.
No, just like explained above, water comes in different types and some require proper personal protection equipment to ensure safety. Water travels in unpredictable ways and requires special tools are to detect moisture that is trapped or hidden. If even the slightest amount of water is hidden or trapped it will cause secondary damages and mold.
No, Water travels in unpredictable ways and requires special tools are to detect moisture that is trapped or hidden. If even the slightest amount of water is hidden or trapped it will cause secondary damages and mold.
Studies show mold grows within 12-36 hours depending on temperature and material
- Inspect
- Mitigate
- Clean up
- Dry out
- Reconstruct
Typically 3-5 days for phase one which includes (Mitigation, Clean-up, Dry-out) depending on size and type of damage.
Phase two (reconstruction) takes usually 2-3 weeks depending on size and amount of work. (Depends also on upgrades, many clients choose not to replace out of date items but upgrade material- see next question)
Many customers upgrade their property during the reconstruction process. After phase one is complete, our trained staff will discuss any upgrades you would like to make. If there is funds from insurance to cover damages we will help you use it as credit toward any upgrades you would like.
Call (503) 680-5301
