Water damage describes various possible losses caused by water intruding where it will enable attack of a material or system by destructive processes such as rotting of wood, mold growth, bacteria growth, rusting of steel, swelling of composite woods, de-laminating of materials such as plywood, etc.
The damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor such as water spots that could eventually mar a surface, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as burst pipes and flooding. However fast it occurs, water damage is a major contributor to loss of property.
An insurance policy may or may not cover the costs associated with water damage and the process of water damage restoration. While a common cause of residential water damage is often the failure of a sump pump, many homeowner's insurance policies do not cover the associated costs without an addendum which adds to the monthly premium of the policy. Often the verbiage of this addendum is similar to "Sewer and Drain Coverage".
In the United States, those individuals who are affected by wide-scale flooding may have the ability to apply for government and FEMA grants through the Individual Assistance program.[1] On a larger level, businesses, cities, and communities can apply to the FEMA Public Assistance program for funds to assist after a large flood. For example, the city of Fond du Lac Wisconsin received $1.2 million FEMA grant after flooding in June 2008. The program allows the city to purchase the water damaged properties, demolish the structures, and turn the former land into public green space.[citation needed]
Water damage describes various possible losses caused by water intruding where it will enable attack of a material or system by destructive processes such as rotting of wood, mold growth, bacteria growth, rusting of steel, swelling of composite woods, de-laminating of materials such as plywood, etc.
The damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor such as water spots that could eventually mar a surface, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as burst pipes and flooding. However fast it occurs, water damage is a major contributor to loss of property.
An insurance policy may or may not cover the costs associated with water damage and the process of water damage restoration. While a common cause of residential water damage is often the failure of a sump pump, many homeowner's insurance policies do not cover the associated costs without an addendum which adds to the monthly premium of the policy. Often the verbiage of this addendum is similar to "Sewer and Drain Coverage".
In the United States, those individuals who are affected by wide-scale flooding may have the ability to apply for government and FEMA grants through the Individual Assistance program.[1] On a larger level, businesses, cities, and communities can apply to the FEMA Public Assistance program for funds to assist after a large flood. For example, the city of Fond du Lac Wisconsin received $1.2 million FEMA grant after flooding in June 2008. The program allows the city to purchase the water damaged properties, demolish the structures, and turn the former land into public green space.[citation needed]
There are three basic categories of water damage, based on the level of contamination.
Category 1 Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.
Category 2 Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to. Known as "grey water". This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of micro-organisms. Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.
Category 3 Water - Known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. Type 3 category are contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, storm surge, ground surface water or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and or have remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water. Toilet back flows that originates from beyond the toilet trap is considered black water contamination regardless of visible content or color.[5]
Class of water damage is determined by the probable rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected, or wet, in the room or space that was flooded. Determining the class of water damage is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to dry-down the structure.[6]
Class 1 - Slow Rate of Evaporation. Affects only a portion of a room. Materials have a low permeance/porosity. Minimum moisture is absorbed by the materials. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 1 be indicated when <5% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **
Class 2 - Fast Rate of Evaporation. Water affects the entire room of carpet and cushion. May have wicked up the walls, but not more than 24 inches. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 2 be indicated when 5% to 40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **
Class 3 - Fastest Rate of Evaporation. Water generally comes from overhead, affecting the entire area; walls, ceilings, insulation, carpet, cushion, etc. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 3 be indicated when >40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **
Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations. Involves materials with a very low permeance/porosity, such as hardwood floors, concrete, crawlspaces, gypcrete, plaster, etc. Drying generally requires very low specific humidity to accomplish drying.
Water damage restoration can be performed by property management teams, building maintenance personnel, or by the homeowners themselves; however, contacting a certified professional water damage restoration specialist is often regarded as the safest way to restore water damaged property. Certified professional water damage restoration specialists utilize psychrometrics to monitor the drying process.[7]
Standards and regulation[edit]
While there are currently no government regulations in the United States dictating procedures, two certifying bodies, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the RIA, do recommend standards of care. The current IICRC standard is ANSI/IICRC S500-2015.[8] It is the collaborative work of the IICRC, SCRT, IEI, IAQA, and NADCA.
Fire and Water Restoration companies are regulated by the appropriate state's Department of Consumer Affairs - usually the state contractors license board. In California, all Fire and Water Restoration companies must register with the California Contractors State License Board.[9] Presently, the California Contractors State License Board has no specific classification for "water and fire damage restoration."
Water damage restoration is often prefaced by a loss assessment and evaluation of affected materials. The damaged area is inspected with water sensing equipment such as probes and other infrared tools in order to determine the source of the damage and possible extent of areas affected. Emergency mitigation services are the first order of business. Controlling the source of water, removal of non-salvageable materials, water extraction and pre-cleaning of impacted materials are all part of the mitigation process. Restoration services would then be rendered to the property in order to dry the structure, stabilize building materials, sanitize any affected or cross-contaminated areas, and deodorize all affected areas and materials. After the labor is completed, water damage equipment including air movers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, wood floor drying systems, and sub-floor drying equipment is left in the residence. The goal of the drying process is to stabilize the moisture content of impacted materials below 15%, the generally accepted threshold for microbial amplification. Industry standards state that drying vendors should return at regular time intervals, preferably every twenty-four hours, to monitor the equipment, temperature, humidity, and moisture content of the affected walls and contents.[5]
The NAU Water Damage Restoration guideline was developed to ensure that all water incursions are handled in a professional manner which includes the latest information / procedures available. Every effort will be made to ensure the health and safety of all NAU faculty, students, staff and visitors to the campus in a timely fashion. Goal Guidelines, procedures and standards have been established not only to ensure the safety of everyone on campus but also to include every means available to promote the preservation, replacement and/or repair of University property according to standards / recommendations contained in the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) S500 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration. For prolonged water incursion events that lead to the formation of mold growth, remediation efforts shall follow the IICRC Standard for Professional Mold Remediation (S520). Typically an outside contractor that is trained and familiar with the IICRC remediation protocols is retained to perform water, mold and sewage restoration efforts due to the amount of training, vaccination, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other safety requirements associated with the work activities. University personnel that are familiar with water extraction/cleanup activities may assist with small isolated clean water, or Category 1 water, restoration activities if it is safe to do so but should check with their supervisor or NAU Regulatory Compliance. Flood Category Definitions Certain terms and definitions associated with water damage restoration exist. The following are definitions of terms used: Category 1 Water - Water originating from a source that does not pose substantial harm to humans. Category 1 water is also referred to as “clean water.” Examples of clean water sources may include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: • Broken domestic water supply lines; • Tub or sink overflows with no contaminants; • Appliance malfunctions involving domestic water supply lines; • Melting ice or snow; • Falling rainwater; and • Broken toilet tanks and toilet bowls that do not contain contaminants or additives. Clean water that has contact with structural surfaces and content materials may deteriorate in cleanliness as it dissolves or mixes with soils and other contaminants, and as time elapses. Category 2 Water - Water containing a significant degree of chemical, biological and/or physical contamination and having the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if consumed by or exposed to humans. Category 2 water is also referred to as “gray water.” Gray water carries microorganisms and nutrients for microorganisms. Examples of gray water sources may include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: • Discharge from dishwashers or washing machines; • Overflows from toilet bowls with some urine (no feces) • Sump pump failures; • Seepage due to hydrostatic pressure; • Chilled and condensate water; and • Fire Protection Sprinkler Water. Gray water may contain chemicals, biocontaminants (fungal, bacterial, viral algae) and other forms of contamination including physical hazards. Time and temperature aggravate category 2 water contamination levels significantly. Gray water in flooded structures that remains untreated for longer than 48 hours may change to category 3 – black water. Category 3 Water - Grossly unsanitary water containing pathogenic agents, arising form sewage or other contaminated water sources and having the likelihood of causing discomfort or sickness if consumed or exposed to humans. Black water includes sewage and other contaminated water sources entering or affecting the indoor environment. Category 2 water that is not removed promptly from the structure may be reclassified as category 3 water. Toilet back flows that originated beyond the toilet trap are considered black water contamination, regardless of visible content or color. Category 3 water includes, but is not necessarily limited to all forms of flooding from: • Sewage/rainwater mixed; and • Rising water from rivers or streams. Such water sources carry silt and organic matter into structures and create black water conditions. Restoration Guidelines & Criteria Excess Water Removal - Excess water removal is essential as the beginning point of restoration procedures. Removal of excess water may be achieved by physical means such as mopping or soaking up excess moisture from hard surfaces or furnishings. However, water removal usually involves the use of more sophisticated techniques and equipment such as pumps, or specially designed commercial wet vacuuming equipment. Evaporation - Once excess water is removed, remaining water must be changed from a liquid to a vapor by promoting evaporation. Normally, this is accomplished efficiently with specialized air-moving equipment. Dehumidification - Once moisture is evaporated from structural materials and contents into the air, the moisture must be removed from the air through dehumidification, or it must be externally exhausted. Failure to dehumidify may result in substantial secondary damage and present a significant health hazard. Temperature Control - Both evaporation and dehumidification are greatly enhanced by controlling the temperature in a confined environment. Additionally, microorganisms’ growth is temperature related. Thus, temperature modification and control is an important basic principle for safe, effective drying. Monitoring - The damaged structure must be monitored starting with the initial assessment and evaluation, and continuing throughout the restoration process. Monitoring procedures may include, but are not limited to the following: • Temperature and humidity readings; • Updating drying progress status; and • Checking the moisture content of structural wood and other materials with a moisture meter. When applicable, monitoring also must include checking equipment operation, work progress and indoor environment quality. Drying Standards have been developed and are presented in Appendix A. Inspection - Following the removal of excess water, a detailed inspection must be conducted that considers the extent of water migration, the types and quantities of affected materials and the degree of apparent damage. The information obtained may be used to analyze the extent of damage and to determine the job scope. Professional testing equipment and the principals of psychrometry must be used to formulate a plan to dry and restore, or replace both structural materials and contents. A comprehensive inspection may include, but is not necessarily limited to, the following: • Identifying and evaluating health and safety hazards; • Determining the source of water; • Determining the need to protect floor covering materials and contents; • Determining the extent of moisture intrusion; • Determining the job scope; • Evaluating flooring materials; • Evaluating inventories and/or contents items; • Evaluating the HVAC system if affected; • Assess other structural materials (walls, ceilings, etc.); • Documenting preexisting conditions not related to the current loss (wear, urine contamination, delamination, etc.); and • Establishing drying goals. If the inspection conclusions require that any materials be removed, the project manager, building manager, or other responsible party is responsible to providing information regarding the presence of asbestos to the restoration contractor. This information is ONLY available through the Asbestos Program Office (3- 6435). In addition, the contractor must receive, sign, and return a job-specific FS-13 form prior to the start of work or any change in the scope of work. This document is an auditable document required by purchasing in order to process payment for any work performed by contractors on the NAU campus. Floor covering evaluation - It is recommended that a determination be made as to whether floor covering materials (e.g. carpet, cushion, vinyl, wood, laminates) are salvageable. Considerations may include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: • Construction integrity; and • Porosity and potential health effects from contaminants. Disposition of floor coverings and the ability to salvage them will be determined according to the appended Drying Standards. Structural Materials - Throughout the restoration process, it is highly recommended that effort is directed toward anticipating secondary damage and attending to other structural components that may require drying, or demolition and replacement. This is especially important if water remains in contact with building materials longer than 24 hours, such as water on flooring in contact with gypsum board. These components may include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: • Ceilings • Walls • Built-in furnishings and fixtures • Insulation • Structural wood Occupant Evacuation - For areas with extensive water damage, determine if occupants need to be evacuated from the damaged area, and, if so, estimate the duration of time. Factors used to make this determination may include, but are not necessarily limited to the following: • Type of contamination (e.g., Category 1,2, or 3 water); • Obvious indications of high levels of microbiological or chemical contamination; and, • Presence of occupants who are immunocompromised or have mold allergies, asthma or other applicable medical conditions. Technician Training - Technicians performing category 2 water (gray water) and category 3 water (black water) damage restoration must be trained in risks of exposure and procedures for safe cleanup of these materials. Personal Protection - Persons working in or around Category 3 water during the initial stage of decontamination, cleaning and biocide application must be equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE) including but not necessarily limited to the following: • Rubber gloves • Eye protection • Protective suit • Rubber boots An evaluation must be made to determine the necessity for respiratory protection. In the case of overhead hazards or contamination, hard hats must also be worn. APPENDIX A – DRYING AND REMEDIATION STANDARDS Criteria for determining when Building Materials are “Dry” The underlying principles that guided the development of these standards were: 1. The ambient conditions must be stabilized and be able to be held at normal room conditions; 2. The building materials must be returned to their equilibrium moisture content to prevent the active growth of fungal organisms; and 3. The building materials must be returned to their pre-loss moisture state. When these three criteria are met, a building can be considered dry. Drying services shall be considered sufficient when the following three conditions have been achieved. 1. The interior ambient conditions are at or better than normal room conditions (50%RH @ 70° F); 2. The moisture in the building materials themselves will not support the active growth of mold and mildew; and 3. The building materials and contents will finish returning to equilibrium with normal room conditions by themselves without further damage to them. Hardwood Floors - For the purposes of this Standard, drying services on a hardwood floor shall be considered sufficient when all four of the following conditions are met. 1. The moisture content (MC) of the wood is decreasing. 2. All affected wood is within 2.5% of its normal moisture content as determined by actual measurement in a control point elsewhere on the same floor. 3. The differential of MC in wood from the top ¼” to the bottom ¼” is no more than 1%. 4. The building environment is stabilized and the existing HVAC system is capable of maintaining normal room conditions. Drywall - Drying services for drywall will be provided by an outside contractor. If drying procedures are not initiated within 48 hours of the initial water loss or dried within 72 hours, all wet drywall should be replaced. For the purposes of this Standard, drying services on drywall shall be considered sufficient when all four of the following conditions are met: 1. The moisture content of the drywall is decreasing. 2. All affected drywall is within 10% of its normal moisture content as determined by actual measurement in a control point elsewhere in the same building. (Example: Taking several readings in unaffected areas of drywall showed that the MC that should be expected in the building is 14%. Therefore, the maximum reading at the end of the job should be no more than 24 %.) 3. The differential of MC in wood from the top ¼” to the bottom ¼” is no more than 1%. 4. The building environment is stabilized and the existing HVAC system is capable of maintaining normal room conditions. Concrete Block - For the purposes of this Standard, drying services on concrete block shall be considered sufficient when all four of the following conditions are met: 1. The moisture content of the concrete block is decreasing. 2. All affected concrete block is within 10% of its normal moisture content as determined by actual measurement in a control point elsewhere in the same building. (Example: Taking several readings in unaffected areas of concrete block showed that the MC that should be expected in the building is 10%. Therefore the maximum reading at the end of the job should be no more than 20%). 3. 95% of the affected concrete block area meets criteria 1 & 2. 4. The building environment is stabilized and the existing HVAC system is capable of maintaining normal room conditions. Plaster - For the purposes of this Standard, drying services on plaster shall be considered sufficient when all four of the following conditions are met: 1. The moisture content of the plaster is decreasing. 2. All affected plaster is within 10% of its normal moisture content as determined by actual measurement in a control point elsewhere in the same building. (Example: Taking several readings in unaffected areas of plaster showed that the MC that should be expected in the building is 10%. Therefore the maximum reading at the end of the job should be no more than 20%). 3. 95% of the affected plaster area meets criteria 1 & 2. 4. The building environment is stabilized and the existing HVAC system is capable of maintaining normal room conditions. Concrete - For the purposes of this Standard, drying services on concrete shall be considered sufficient when all four of the following conditions are met: 1. The moisture content of the concrete is decreasing. 2. All affected concrete is within 10% of its normal moisture content as determined by actual measurement in a control point elsewhere in the same building. (Example: Taking several readings in unaffected areas of concrete showed that the MC that should be expected in the building is 10%. Therefore the maximum reading at the end of the job should be no more than 20%). 3. 95% of the affected concrete area meets criteria 1 & 2. 4. The building environment is stabilized and the existing HVAC system is capable of maintaining normal room conditions. Carpeting - For the purposes of this Standard, drying services on carpeting may be effective if the following conditions are met: 1. The carpet is not wet with Category 1 or 2 water for more than 48 hours. 2. The carpet is not wet with Category 3 (black) water for any amount of time. 3. The building environment is stabilized and the existing HVAC system is capable of maintaining normal room conditions. 4. If 1 and 2 are not met, the carpet must be removed and replaced. Carpeting shall be steam-cleaned/sanitized and thoroughly dry prior to reoccupancy. Insulation: For the purposes of this Standard, thermal insulation materials used in walls or ceilings cannot be adequately dried and reused. If insulation material is determined to be wet, it must be removed from the building. The area where it was installed must be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and dried. New insulation may then be installed. APPENDIX B – FLOOD RESPONSE PROCEDURE Purpose To identify the proper response procedure for University and other personnel when water/sewage flood damage is reported. Response Procedures A. Notifications 1. Upon discovery of a flood, call FAST 3-4227 during normal business hours. After business hours and on weekends notify the Central Plant Operator (3- 6412). Provide information to the Operator regarding the location, intensity and type of flood (i.e., sewage, stormwater, plumbing line, etc.). The Operator will notify the On-Call Supervisor. The Supervisor will then notify appropriate NAU staff. Outside vendors* may be necessary if the scope of damage exceeds the capability of NAU resources-especially if sewage is involved. Outside Vendor Assist (24/7)……………………….Qualified Vendor List* Operations & Maintenance………………………….3-1660 NAU Police ……..………………….…………………3-3611 Custodial Services (small Category 1 water)……..3-6565 NAU Industrial Hygienist………………………..…..3-6109 or 3-6435 * Qualified vendor is one that has met minimum State requirements concerning Insurance. An emergency purchase request should be sent to Purchasing within twenty-four (24) hours after calling the outside vendor to assist. * A Damage Report should be submitted as soon as possible (for non-criminal damage) to initiate the insurance claim process. The Damage Report is located on the NAU “Police/University” website (https://www4.nau.edu/police/). The Damage Report is not a police report and will be issued a claim number by the Insurance Officer at Property and Liability Insurance Services. However, if the damage is due to vandalism/criminal damage, immediately contact NAU Police Dispatch, 523-3611, to file a police report. For additional information about filing a claim for damages, contact NAU’s Insurance Officer with Property and Liability Insurance Services (523-2009). B. Evacuation/Perimeter Control 1. In a situation where floods are uncontrolled or involve infectious waste or other hazards (electrical), staff may be instructed to evacuate the area by NAU Regulatory Compliance, appropriate Capital Assets and Services Staff, or other responders (NAU PD or outside contractor). 2. Perimeter control must be established by staff in the area with assistance from NAU Regulatory Compliance, Custodial Services, or other responders. 3. The remediation contractor will tape off affected areas and divert traffic in such a fashion to minimize public exposure to the affected areas. C. Pre-Restoration Action 1. Responders entering the affected areas will wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (i.e., impervious boots, impervious gloves, goggles, and face shield and protective clothing if splashing is likely). 2. Photographs should be retained for insurance documentation and submitted to the Insurance Officer, Property and Liability Insurance Services, as supporting documentation for the property damage claim. Please write the claim number on all supporting documentation sent. 3. Responders will establish a Decontamination Zone as follows: a. An approved disinfectant (see Definitions) shall be used to decontaminate equipment that is removed from the contaminated area. b. To control the spread of potentially infectious material to clean areas, all persons leaving the affected area shall walk across the Decontamination Zone barrier, which consists of: i. Disinfectant soaked disposable absorbent pads placed on a clean area of the floor, ii. Clean disposable absorbent pads damped with water placed on the clean side of the floor, iii. Clean, dry disposable absorbent pad placed at the end of the Decontamination Zone to dry material passing through. c. All materials used for remediation of the flood must either be decontaminated with an approved disinfectant prior to leaving the flood area or discarded. This includes all plumbing tools and reusable flood response equipment. D. Containment Materials 1. Responders shall maintain spill containment materials. 2. Responders shall place spill barriers around the affected areas in order to contain the flood from potential migration to unaffected areas. 3. Reusable spill barriers shall be decontaminated by responders with a disinfectant and returned to storage. E. Exposure Procedures 1. If university personnel or students have come in contact with sewage flood water, the following should occur: a. Remove contaminated clothing. b. Wash affected area with soap and water. c. Go to the Fronske Health Center for follow-up treatment. F. Asbestos Precautions 1. Because asbestos is present in various building materials of many buildings on campus, no disturbance including removal of flooring or wall materials may be conducted without prior authorization by the Asbestos Program Office. a. Contractors, building managers, project managers, or other responsible parties may contact the asbestos program office directly at 3-6435. b. Restoration Contractors must sign and return a copy of the NAU FS-13 form prior to the commencement of work. This is an auditable document which confirms that the contractor has received asbestos information pertinent to the project at hand. Purchasing requires this document to complete processing of payment for any work performed.
Mold (American English) or mould (British English), also sometimes referred to as mildew, is a fungal growth that develops on wet materials. Mold is a natural part of the environment and plays an important part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees; indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Mold reproduce by means of tiny spores. The spores are like seeds, but invisible to the naked eye, that float through the air and deposit on surfaces. When the temperature, moisture, and available nutrient conditions are correct, the spores can form into new mold colonies where they are deposited.[1] There are many types of mold, but all require moisture and a food source for growth.
Mold is ubiquitous, and mold spores are a common component of household and workplace dust. In large amounts they can be a health hazard to humans, potentially causing allergic reactions and respiratory problems.
Some mold produce mycotoxins, chemical components of their cells walls, that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals. "Toxic mold" refers to mold which produce mycotoxins, such as Stachybotrys chartarum.[2] Exposure to high levels of mycotoxins can lead to neurological problems and death. Prolonged exposure (for example, daily exposure) can be particularly harmful. Mycotoxins can persist in the indoor environment even after death of the fungi. They can adhere to dust particles and can spread through the air attached to these dust particles or spores.[3] There must be very specific temperature and humidity conditions in order for fungi to produce mycotoxins.[3]
Symptoms of mold exposure may include nasal and sinus congestion; runny nose, eye irritation; itchy, red, watery eyes, respiratory problems, such as wheezing and difficulty breathing, chest tightness, cough, throat irritation, skin irritation (such as a rash), headache, and persistent sneezing.[4] Immune-compromised people and people with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may get serious infections in their lungs when they are exposed to mold. These people should stay away from areas that are likely to have mold, such as compost piles, cut grass, and wooded areas.[5]
Infants may develop respiratory symptoms as a result of exposure to Penicillium, a fungal genus. Signs of mold-related respiratory problems in an infant include a persistent cough or wheeze. Increased exposure increases the probability of developing respiratory symptoms during the first year of life. Studies have indicated a correlation between the probability of developing asthma and exposure to Penicillium.[6]
Mold exposure has a variety of health effects, and sensitivity to mold varies. Exposure to mold may cause throat irritation, nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, cough and wheezing and skin irritation in some cases. Exposure to mold may heighten sensitivity, depending on the time and nature of exposure. People with chronic lung diseases are at higher risk for mold allergies, and will experience more severe reactions when exposed to mold. Damp indoor environments correlate with upper-respiratory-tract symptoms, such as coughing and wheezing in people with asthma.[7]
Mold is found everywhere and can grow on almost any substance when moisture is present. They reproduce by spores, which are carried by air currents. When spores land on a moist surface suitable for life, they begin to grow. Mold is normally found indoors at levels which do not affect most healthy individuals.
Because common building materials are capable of sustaining mold growth and mold spores are ubiquitous, mold growth in an indoor environment is typically related to water or moisture exposure and may be caused by incomplete drying of flooring materials (such as concrete). Flooding, leaky roofs, building-maintenance or indoor-plumbing problems can lead to interior mold growth. Water vapor commonly condenses on surfaces cooler than the moisture-laden air, enabling mold to flourish.[citation needed] This moisture vapor passes through walls and ceilings, typically condensing during the winter in climates with a long heating season. Floors over crawl spaces and basements, without vapor barriers or with dirt floors, are mold-prone. The "doormat test" detects moisture from concrete slabs without a sub-slab vapor barrier.[citation needed] Some materials, such as polished concrete, do not support mold growth.
Significant mold growth requires moisture and food sources and a substrate capable of sustaining growth. Common cellulose-based building materials, such as plywood, drywall, furring strips, finish carpentry, cabinetry, wood framing, composite wood flooring, carpets, and carpet padding provide food for mold. In carpet, organic load such as invisible dust and cellulose are food sources. After water damage to a building, mold grows in walls and then becomes dormant until subsequent high humidity; suitable conditions reactivate mold. Mycotoxin levels are higher in buildings which have had a water incident.
Mold is detectable by smell and signs of water damage on walls or ceiling and can grow in places invisible to the human eye. It may be found behind wallpaper or paneling, on the inside of ceiling tiles, the back of drywall, or the underside of carpets or carpet padding. Piping in walls may also be a source of mold, since they may leak (causing moisture and condensation).[8]
Spores need three things to grow into mold: nutrients – cellulose (the cell wall of green plants) is a common food for indoor spores; moisture – to begin the decaying process caused by mold; and time – mold growth begins from 24 hours to 10 days after the provision of growing conditions.
Mold colonies can grow inside buildings, and the chief hazard is the inhalation of mycotoxins. After a flood or major leak, mycotoxin levels are higher – even after a building has dried out.[citation needed]
Food sources for mold in buildings include cellulose-based materials such as wood, cardboard and the paper facing on drywall and organic matter such as soap, fabrics, and dust containing skin cells. If a house has mold, the moisture may originate in the basement or crawl space, a leaking roof or a leak in plumbing pipes. Insufficient ventilation may accelerate moisture buildup. Visible mold colonies may form where ventilation is poorest and on perimeter walls (because they are nearest the dew point).
If there are mold problems in a house only during certain times of the year, the house is probably too airtight or too drafty. Mold problems occur in airtight homes more frequently in the warmer months (when humidity is high inside the house, and moisture is trapped), and occur in drafty homes more frequently in the colder months (when warm air escapes from the living area and condenses). If a house is artificially humidified during the winter, this can create conditions favorable to mold. Moving air may prevent mold from growing, since it has the same desiccating effect as low humidity. Mold grows best in warm temperatures, 77 to 86 °F (25 to 30 °C), although growth may occur between 32 and 95 °F (0 and 35 °C).[citation needed]
Removing one of the three requirements for mold reduces (or eliminates) new mold growth: moisture; food for the mold spores (for example, dust or dander); and warmth since mold generally does not grow in cold environments.
HVAC systems can produce all three requirements for mold growth. The air conditioning system creates a difference in temperature, encouraging condensation. The high rate of dusty air movement through an HVAC system may furnish ample food for mold. Since the air-conditioning system is not always running, warm conditions are the final component for mold growth.
An observation of the indoor environment should be conducted before any sampling is performed. The area should be surveyed for odors indicating mold or bacterial growth, moisture sources, such as stagnant water or leaking pipes, and water-damaged building materials.[9] This can include moving furniture, lifting (or removing) carpets, checking behind wallpaper or paneling, checking ventilation ductwork and exposing wall cavities. Efforts typically focus on areas where there are signs of liquid moisture or water vapor (humidity), or where moisture problems are suspected. Often, quick decisions about the immediate safety and health of the environment can be made by these observations before sampling is even needed.[9] The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not generally recommend sampling unless an occupant of the space has symptoms. In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary.[10] Sampling should be performed by a trained professional with specific experience in mold-sampling protocols, sampling methods and the interpretation of findings. It should be done only to make a particular determination, such as airborne spore concentration or identifying a particular species.
Before sampling, a subsequent course of action should be determined.
In the U.S., sampling and analysis should follow the recommendations of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the EPA and the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). Types of samples include air, surface, bulk, dust, and swab.[3] Multiple types of sampling are recommended by the AIHA, since each has limitations.[11]
Air is the most common form of sampling to assess mold levels. Although, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not have any current testing protocols. Air sampling is considered to be the most representative method for assessing respiratory exposure to mold.[12] Indoor and outdoor air are sampled, and their mold spore concentrations are compared. Indoor mold concentrations should be less than or equal to outdoor concentrations with similar distributions of species.[3] A predominant difference in species or higher indoor concentrations can indicate poor indoor air quality and a possible health hazard.[3] Air sampling can be used to identify hidden mold and is often used to assess the effectiveness of control measures after remediation.[12] An indoor mold air sampling campaign should be performed over the course of at least several days as the environmental conditions can lead to variations in the day-to-day mold concentration.[12] Stationary samplers assess a specific environment, such as a room or building, whereas personal samplers assess the mold exposure one person receives in all of the environments they enter over the course of sampling.[12] Personal samplers can be attached to workers to assess their respiratory exposures to molds on the job.[12] Personal samplers usually show higher levels of exposure than stationary samples due to the "personal cloud" effect, where the activities of the person re-suspend settled particles.[12] There are several methods that can be used for indoor mold air sampling.
Surface sampling measures the number of mold spores deposited on indoor surfaces. With swab, a cotton swab is rubbed across the area being sampled, often a measured area, and subsequently sent to the mold testing laboratory. The swab can rubbed on an agar plate to grow the mold on a culture medium. Final results indicate mold levels and species located in the suspect area. Surface sampling can by used to identify the source of mold exposure. Molecular analyses, such as qPCR, may also be used for species identification and quantification. Swab and surface sampling can give detailed information about the mold, but cannot measure the actual mold exposure because it is not aerosolized.[12]
Bulk removal of material from the contaminated area is used to identify and quantify the mold in the sample. This method is often used to verify contamination and identify the source of contamination.[12] Dust samples can be collected using a vacuum with a collection filter attached. Dust from surfaces such as floors, beds, or furniture is often collected to assess health effects from exposure in epidemiology studies.[12] Researchers of indoor mold also use a long-term settled dust collection method where a dust cloth or petri dish is left out in the environment for a set period of time, sometimes weeks.[12] Dust samples can be analyzed using culture-based or culture-independent methods. Quantitative PCR is a DNA-based molecular method that can identify and quantify fungal species. The Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) is a numerical that can be used in epidemiological studies to assess mold burdens of houses in the United States. The ERMI consists of a list of 36 fungal species commonly associated with damp houses that can be measured using qPCR.[13][12] Like swab and surface sampling, bulk and dust sampling can give detailed information about the mold source, but cannot accurately determine the level of exposure to the source.[12]
The first step in solving an indoor mold problem is to remove the moisture source;[14] new mold will begin to grow on moist, porous surfaces within 24 to 48 hours. There are a number of ways to prevent mold growth. Some cleaning companies specialize in fabric restoration, removing mold (and mold spores) from clothing to eliminate odor and prevent further damage to garments.
The effective way to clean mold is to use detergent solutions which physically remove mold. Many commercially available detergents marketed for mold cleanup include an EPA-approved antifungal agent.[15][16]
Mould will start to grow once moisture and organic material come together. This can happen anywhere in a property including bathrooms, walls, garages, bedrooms kitchen, etc. A smell is a good indicator that there is mold growth that needs immediate attention. If not attended to, the growth can spread through the property contributing to adverse health problems and causing secondary damage to the structure and its contents.[17] Significant mold growth may require professional mold remediation to remove the affected building materials and eradicate the source of excess moisture. In extreme cases of mold growth in buildings, it may be more cost-effective to condemn the building than to reduce mold to safe levels.[citation needed]
The goals of remediation are to remove (or clean) contaminated materials, preventing fungi (and fungi-contaminated dust) from entering an occupied (or non-contaminated) area while protecting workers performing the abatement.[18]
The purpose of cleanup is to eliminate mold and remove contaminated materials. Killing mold with a biocide is insufficient, since chemicals and proteins causing reactions in humans remain in dead mold. The following methods are used.
- Evaluation: Before remediation, the area is assessed to ensure safety, clean up the entire moldy area, and properly approach the mold. The EPA provides the following instructions:[8]
- HVAC cleaning: Should be done by a trained professional.[19]
- Protective clothing: Includes a half- or full-face respirator mask. Goggles with a half-face respirator mask prevent mold spores from reaching the mucous membranes of the eyes. Disposable hazmat coveralls are available to keep out particles down to one micrometer, and protective suits keep mold spores from entering skin cuts. Gloves are made of rubber, nitrile, polyurethane, or neoprene.[8][18]
- Dry brushing or agitation device: Wire brushing or sanding is used when microbial growth can be seen on solid wood surfaces such as framing or underlayment (the subfloor).
- Dry-ice blasting: Removes mold from wood and cement; however, this process may spray mold and its byproducts into surrounding air.
- Wet vacuum: Wet vacuuming is used on wet materials, and this method is one of those approved by the EPA.[citation needed]
- Damp wipe: Removal of mold from non-porous surfaces by wiping or scrubbing with water and a detergent and drying quickly.
- HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) vacuum: Used in remediation areas after materials have been dried and contaminated materials removed; collected debris and dust is stored to prevent debris release.
- Debris disposal: Sealed in the remediation area, debris is usually discarded with ordinary construction waste.
Equipment used in mold remediation includes: moisture meter: measures drying of damaged materials; Humidity gauge: often paired with a thermometer; borescope: Camera at the end of a flexible snake, illuminating potential mold problems inside walls, ceilings and crawl spaces; digital camera: Documents findings during assessment; personal protective equipment (PPE): Respirators, gloves, impervious suit, and eye protection; thermographic camera: Infrared thermal-imaging cameras identify secondary moisture sources.
During mold remediation in the U.S., the level of contamination dictates the protection level for remediation workers.[20] Contamination levels have been enumerated as I, II, III, and IV:[citation needed]
After remediation, the premises should be reevaluated to ensure success.
According to the EPA, residential mold may be prevented and controlled by cleaning and repairing roof gutters, to prevent moisture seepage into the home; keeping air-conditioning drip pans clean and drainage lines clear; monitoring indoor humidity; drying areas of moisture or condensation and removing their sources; ensuring that there is adequate ventilation by installing an exhaust fan in your bathroom; treating exposed structural wood or wood framing with an EPA-approved fungicidal encapsulation coating after pre-cleaning (particularly homes with a crawl space, unfinished basement, or a poorly-ventilated attic).[8]
Jump to navigationJump to searchRichmond is a home rule-class city in and the county seat of Madison County, Kentucky, United States.[4] It is named after Richmond, Virginia, and is the home of Eastern Kentucky University. The population was 36,157 in 2019.[5] Richmond is the third-largest city in the Bluegrass region (after Louisville and Lexington) and the state's sixth-largest city. It is the eighth largest population center in Kentucky, when including metropolitan areas. Richmond serves as the center for work and shopping for south-central Kentucky. Richmond is the principal city of the Richmond–Berea Micropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of Madison and Rockcastle counties.
The City of Richmond was founded in 1798 by Colonel John Miller from Virginia, a British American who had served with the rebels in the Revolutionary War. According to tradition, Miller was attracted to the area by the good spring water and friendly Native Americans.[citation needed] That year, the Kentucky legislature approved moving the county seat from Milford to land owned by Colonel Miller. The residents of Milford adamantly opposed the move, which led to a fist fight between Dave Kennedy (representing Milford) and William Kearly (representing Richmond). The county approved the move in March 1798. On July 4, 1798, the new town was named Richmond in honor of Miller's Virginia birthplace.[6] Richmond was incorporated in 1809.[7] Water damage mitigation
Kentucky was a border state during the Civil War and stayed in the Union. On August 30, 1862, during the Civil War, the Union and Confederate Armies clashed in the Battle of Richmond. Troops under Confederate General Edmund Kirby Smith routed the soldiers of Union General William Nelson. Out of Nelson's 6,500 men, only 1,200 escaped; the rest were all captured.[8] One historian called this battle "the nearest thing to a Cannae ever scored by any general, North or South, in the course of the whole war." [9][page needed]
In 1906, Eastern Kentucky State Normal School was founded in Richmond to train teachers. There were eleven members of the first graduating class in 1909. By 1922 it had expanded its curriculum to a four-year program and was established as a college. It added graduate-degree programs in 1935. In recognition of its academic departments and research, in 1965 the institution was renamed as Eastern Kentucky University.[10]
In the late 1990s and through the first decade of the 21st century, Richmond had a commercial and residential boom related to other development in the Bluegrass Region. As of 2009, Richmond was Kentucky's seventh-largest city, moving up four places from ranking in the 2000 census as Kentucky's eleventh-largest city.[11]
Richmond is located in Madison County in the Bluegrass region of the state. The Blue Grass Army Depot lies to the southeast of the city. The city is served by Interstate 75, U. S. Routes 25 and 421, and Kentucky Routes 52, 169 and 388.[12] I-75 runs to the west of downtown, with access from exits 83, 87, and 90. Via I-75, downtown Lexington is 25 mi (40 km) northwest, and Knoxville, Tennessee is 147 mi (237 km) south. U.S. Route 25 forms the eastern bypass around the city, leading northwest to Lexington and south 14 mi (23 km) to Berea. U.S. Route 421 parallels U.S. 25 on the eastern bypass of the city, leading northwest to Lexington (with U.S. 25 and I-75) and southeast 34 mi (55 km) to McKee.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 19.2 square miles (50 km2), of which 19.1 square miles (49 km2) is land and 0.1 square miles (0.26 km2)(0.73%) is water.[citation needed]
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Richmond has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.[13]
| Historical population |
|---|
| Census | Pop. | | %± |
|---|
| 1800 | 110 | | — |
| 1810 | 366 | | 232.7% |
| 1830 | 947 | | — |
| 1840 | 822 | | −13.2% |
| 1850 | 411 | | −50.0% |
| 1860 | 845 | | 105.6% |
| 1870 | 1,629 | | 92.8% |
| 1880 | 2,909 | | 78.6% |
| 1890 | 5,073 | | 74.4% |
| 1900 | 4,653 | | −8.3% |
| 1910 | 5,340 | | 14.8% |
| 1920 | 5,622 | | 5.3% |
| 1930 | 6,495 | | 15.5% |
| 1940 | 7,335 | | 12.9% |
| 1950 | 10,268 | | 40.0% |
| 1960 | 12,168 | | 18.5% |
| 1970 | 16,861 | | 38.6% |
| 1980 | 21,705 | | 28.7% |
| 1990 | 21,155 | | −2.5% |
| 2000 | 27,152 | | 28.3% |
| 2010 | 31,364 | | 15.5% |
| 2019 (est.) | 36,157 | [3] | 15.3% |
| U.S. Decennial Census[14] |
As of the census[15] of 2000, there were 27,152 people, 10,795 households, and 5,548 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,420.4 people per square mile (548.3/km2). There were 11,857 housing units at an average density of 620.3/sq mi (239.4/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 88.30% White, 8.27% African American, 0.29% Native American, 1.09% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 0.43% from other races, and 1.58% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.21% of the population.
There were 10,795 households, out of which 24.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 35.2% were married couples living together, 12.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.6% were non-families. 34.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.14 and the average family size was 2.78.
In the city, the population was spread out, with 17.5% under the age of 18, 31.7% from 18 to 24, 27.5% from 25 to 44, 13.8% from 45 to 64, and 9.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 25 years. For every 100 females, there were 90.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.8 males.
The median income for a household in the city was $25,533, and the median income for a family was $36,222. Males had a median income of $30,817 versus $22,053 for females. The per capita income for the city was $15,815. About 16.6% of families and 25.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 26.2% of those under age 18 and 19.9% of those aged 65 or over.
Richmond operates under a council–manager government. The citizens elect a mayor and four city commissioners who form the Board of Commissioners. The Board of Commissioners is the legislative body of the city government and represents the interests of the citizens when applicable. The Board of Commissioners appoints a city manager, who administers the day-to-day operations of the city.[citation needed]
The mayor is elected for a term of four years. Each city commissioner is elected for a term of two years. The term of the city manager is indefinite.[citation needed]
Richmond is served by the Madison County Public School System.[16] In 1988 the Richmond Independent School District merged into the Madison County school district.[17]
Richmond has a lending library, a branch of the Madison County Public Library.[18]
The Richmond Register is published on Tuesday through Saturday publication. The Eastern Progress is a weekly student publication of Eastern Kentucky University[19]
Richmond is located on a concurrency with U.S. Route 25 and 421. The two routes run north to Lexington and diverge approximately five miles south of the city. U.S. 25 connects the city to Berea and Mount Vernon in the south. U.S. 421 connects to McKee in the south east. State Route 52 connects to Lancaster in the west and Irvine in the east. State Route 876 serves as a beltway around the business district of the city, and State Route 388 runs north of the city to the north end of the county. Interstate 75 passes through western Richmond, and connects the city to Lexington in the north and Knoxville, Tennessee in the south. I-75 has three exits in the city. The U.S. 25 connector, signed as S.R. 2872 and commonly known as Duncannon Lane, connects I-75 to U.S. 25 south of the city.[20]
Central Kentucky Regional Airport is a public airport located in Madison County between Richmond and Berea. It consists of a 5,001 by 100 ft asphalt runway.[21]
The city has numerous parks, the most prominent[citation needed] being Lake Reba Recreational Complex. Paradise Cove, the city's aquatic center, is located in the complex, along with Adventure Falls Miniature Golf and Batting Cages, separate regulation sports fields for football, soccer, baseball and softball; a horseshoe pit, and a playground.[citation needed]
The downtown business district includes many Victorian-style structures including the Glyndon Hotel.[citation needed]
The majority of the city's high rises are located on the campus of Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), which include the 20-story Commonwealth Hall, which is the tallest building in Richmond, the 16-story Keene Hall, the 13-story Telford Hall. Two 12-story buildings, Todd Hall and Dupree Hall, were torn down in 2017.[citation needed]
The 2,000-seat EKU Center for the Arts was completed in 2011 on Lancaster Avenue.[citation needed]
- Daniel Boone (November 2, 1734 – September 26, 1820), born in Birdsboro, PA, he was an American pioneer who established Fort Boonesborough, in Madison County Kentucky along the Kentucky River
- Kit Carson, pioneer frontiersman, born near Richmond in Madison County, Kentucky, but raised in Franklin, Missouri
- Squire Boone, brother of Daniel Boone
- Cassius Marcellus Clay, planter, abolitionist and politician; Minister to Spain and Russia, a founder of the Republican Party
- Brutus J. Clay II, son of Cassius M. Clay and Minister to Switzerland
- Earle Combs, New York Yankees player, Baseball Hall of Fame member; longtime resident of the area
- David R. Francis, Mayor of St. Louis, Governor of Missouri and U.S. Secretary of the Interior; born in Richmond
- Odon Guitar, brigadier general in the Union Missouri State Militia in the American Civil War
- Leigh Ann Hester of the Kentucky Army National Guard, first woman in United States military history to be cited for valor in close quarters combat, for action near Salman Pak, Iraq on March 20, 2005; she is the first woman to receive the Silver Star Medal for valor in combat
- James B. McCreary, United States Senator and two-term Governor of Kentucky
- Samuel Freeman Miller, U.S. Supreme Court Justice
- Fiddlin' Doc Roberts (April 26, 1897 – August 4, 1978), old-time bluegrass fiddler
- Jimmy Stokley (October 18, 1943 – August 13, 1985), lead singer, co-founder and member of the band Exile
- Samuel Hanson Stone, Kentucky politician, born near Richmond
- William J. Stone, Governor of Missouri, born near Richmond
- Keen Johnson, editor of the Richmond Daily Register (1925–39); Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky (1935–39); Governor of Kentucky (1939–43); Undersecretary of Labor (1946–47); longtime resident of the area
- Ken Upchurch, member of the Kentucky House of Representatives from Wayne County; born in Richmond in 1969
- John Reid Wolfskill, California pioneer
- Larry Warford, NFL offensive lineman (2013–Present)
- ^ Jump up to:a b c "Richmond". Geographic Names Information System. United States Geological Survey.
- ^ "2019 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved July 24, 2020.
- ^ Jump up to:a b "Population and Housing Unit Estimates". United States Census Bureau. May 24, 2020. Retrieved May 27, 2020.
- ^ "Find a County". National Association of Counties. Archived from the original on May 31, 2011. Retrieved 2011-06-07.
- ^ "Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for Incorporated Places: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2018". Archived from the original on June 2, 2016. Retrieved July 2, 2019.
- ^ Chamber of Commerce website, "City History", retrieved August 28, 2009.
- ^ Collins, Lewis (1877). History of Kentucky. p. 493. ISBN 9780722249208.
- ^ The History Channel website. Archived 2009-04-30 at the Wayback Machine "This Day in History: August 30, 1862- The Battle of Richmond, Kentucky," retrieved August 28, 2009.
- ^ Foote, Shelby, The Civil War, A Narrative: Fort Sumter to Perryville, Random House, 1958, ISBN 0-394-49517-9
- ^ Eastern Kentucky University website, "About Eastern Kentucky University", retrieved August 28, 2009
- ^ US Census Archived 2020-02-12 at Archive.today, "Kentucky by Place", retrieved July 28, 2010
- ^ Kentucky Atlas & Gazetteer, DeLorme, 4th ed. 2010, p. 52 ISBN 0899333400
- ^ "Richmond, Kentucky Köppen Climate Classification (Weatherbase)". Weatherbase.
- ^ "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2015.
- ^ "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved 2008-01-31.
- ^ Madison County Schools website Archived 2009-08-06 at the Wayback Machine, retrieved August 28,2 009.
- ^ Ellis, Ronnie (2007-01-15). "The ups and downs of merging school districts". Richmond Register. Retrieved 2018-05-21.
- ^ "Kentucky Public Library Directory". Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives. Archived from the original on 11 January 2019. Retrieved 7 June 2019.
- ^ "Eastern Kentucky University". The Eastern Progress. 2012-04-26. Retrieved 2012-05-15.
- ^ Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (2017). Official Highway Map (Purchase required)(Map). section. Frankfort, KY: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. Retrieved November 18,2017.
- ^ FAA Airport Form 5010 for I39 PDF. Federal Aviation Administration. Effective November 15, 2012.
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What to consider when choosing a fire and damage restoration company
Certified experts
It is imperative to make certain that the company in question has all the required state and local certifications to complete the restoration job. These certifications should also be up-to-date.
• Certification: Look for credentials from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, also known as the IICRC, for well-trained fire and water damage experts.
• Sub-certifications: The IICRC has additional specializations such as mold remediation or structural and commercial Drying. Ask the company for details about their sub-certifications.
• Restoration vs. reconstruction: Note that the IICRC refers to restoration, not reconstruction. If the damage is to severe that contractors are required to partially or completely rebuild/reconstruct properties, make sure that they have all the proper local licenses and certifications necessary.
Experience
Every disaster is unique and requires the utmost care. If a company begins operating from the wrong starting assumptions, it can prolong or completely derail the restoration project unnecessarily.
• Relevant experience: Make sure that the company providing restoration has dealt with many previous situations that are similar to the current task at hand. For example, standing water from a flood could become contaminated with chemicals or substances that make it a biohazard. Make sure the company knows what they are dealing with before they come out to avoid added confusion that slows down the job.
• Comprehensive evaluations: Don't hold back any information. Even details that don't seem to be significant initially can greatly impact the company's professional evaluation of the restoration requirements or the extent of structural damage.
Asset protection
Different kinds of materials - such as furniture, computers, floors, etc. - require different treatments under very specific timetables.
• High-priority assets: Decide which assets have the highest priority and then look for the company that specializes in that particular area.
• Practicality: Replacing property or recreating data may be less expensive than restoration. Don't compromise your practicality.
• Pre-inspection reports: Some types of leases require a pre-inspection report by qualified restoration personnel to establish insurability levels.
Time to recovery
Hours, and sometimes minutes, can make all the difference in what is recoverable. Make sure the company will be ready the moment disaster strikes.
• Rapid response: The first few hours after a disaster can make all the difference in terms of what is recoverable. Look for rapid response times. Also critical, is advice on what to do immediately and what needs attention within the first 24 hours.
• Schedules: Look for a company that can give a full, detailed schedule of steps that they will need to perform before an estimated completion date.
• Variable costs: Be prepared for costs to vary greatly based on factors that aren't obvious at first, such as structural damage and the extent of smoke damage.
Storage facilities
Some restoration companies offer storage facilities. Find out how much space the company has to house your undamaged assets and what their storage rates are.
• Storage conditions: Make sure that storage facilities are nearby and adequate in terms of factors like temperature control and security.
• Packing services: Ask if they provide packing services, which means that they can thoroughly clean property before packing it up and putting it into the company's storage facility.
• Record keeping: Make sure to take photographic records of the condition of your property before it goes into storage.
Referrals
Ask for names of commercial or governmental agencies that the company has worked for and look for referrals.
• Referral limitations: Don't discount a company just because its referrals aren't perfect. Some items simply aren't restorable, and that fact creates disappointment.