Rare but Real: Northeast Tornado Threats and How to Respond

9/5/2023 (Permalink)

Be weather alert. Take proactive measures to protect your property from a tornado.

Tornadoes are often associated with the central United States, but they are a rare yet real threat in the Northeast as well. As a homeowner or property owner in this region, it's essential to be aware of the potential dangers tornadoes pose and be prepared to respond effectively if one strikes. In this blog, we'll explore the occurrence of tornadoes in the Northeast, the risks they present, and provide valuable tips on how to respond and protect your home and loved ones during these rare but potentially devastating events.

Understanding the Occurrence of Tornadoes in the Northeast

Tornadoes in the Northeast are generally less frequent and less intense compared to the tornado alley in the central U.S. However, they do occur, typically between April and August. The Northeastern tornadoes are commonly a result of severe thunderstorms, and they can develop quickly, leaving little time for preparedness. Being informed about tornado activity in your area and understanding tornado warning systems is crucial in staying safe during these rare weather events.

Monitor Weather Alerts and Tornado Warnings

Stay informed about weather conditions by monitoring local weather alerts and tornado warnings. Invest in a weather radio or use smartphone apps that provide real-time weather updates. Taking these proactive measures will allow you to receive immediate warnings and have ample time to seek shelter if a tornado is approaching your area.

Designate a Safe Shelter Area

Identify a safe shelter area within your home or property, preferably a basement or storm cellar. If you don't have access to these options, choose an interior room on the lowest level, such as a bathroom or closet, away from windows. Reinforce the shelter area by securing heavy furniture to the floor and walls.

Create a Family Tornado Emergency Plan

Develop a family tornado emergency plan and communicate it with all members. Practice tornado drills regularly, so everyone knows what to do in case of an actual tornado warning. Include essential elements like an evacuation route, a designated meeting point, and contacts for emergency services.

Secure Your Property

Take preventive measures to secure your property against potential tornado damage. Trim trees and remove weak branches that could become projectiles during strong winds. Reinforce windows and doors, and consider investing in storm shutters or impact-resistant glass for added protection.

Assemble an Emergency Kit

Prepare an emergency kit containing essential items such as a first-aid kit, flashlights, batteries, a battery-operated radio, bottled water, non-perishable food, and necessary medications. Store the kit in your designated shelter area for easy access during emergencies.

While tornadoes are a rare occurrence in the Northeast, they remain a real threat that homeowners and property owners should not ignore. Understanding the likelihood of tornado activity in your area and staying informed through weather alerts are vital aspects of tornado preparedness. Designate a safe shelter area within your home and create a comprehensive family tornado emergency plan to ensure everyone's safety. Taking proactive measures to secure your property and assembling an emergency kit will further enhance your readiness for these rare but potentially dangerous weather events. By being well-prepared and confident in your response, you can protect your home and loved ones during tornadoes and mitigate potential damage to your property.

Proper Cleaning After a Puffback: Steps to Restore Your Home

8/10/2023 (Permalink)

The process of cleaning after a fire is complex. Hire a professional to help restore your home after a fire.

Experiencing a puffback from your oil furnace can be a stressful and messy situation. After ensuring the safety of your family and addressing any immediate concerns, it's essential to begin the process of cleaning and restoring your home. Here are the steps to follow for proper cleaning after a puffback.

Contact a Professional Restoration Company

First and foremost, contact a professional restoration company that specializes in puffback clean-up. They have the expertise, experience, and equipment to handle the cleaning process effectively and efficiently. A professional restoration company will assess the extent of the damage, create a plan, and provide an estimate for the restoration work.

Ventilate the Area

Before the cleaning process begins, it's crucial to ventilate the affected area. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and help dissipate any residual smoke and odors. Turn off the furnace and ventilate the entire house to prevent the spread of soot particles.

Put on appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) before entering the affected area. This may include gloves, goggles, masks, and disposable coveralls. Puffback soot contains harmful particles that can be hazardous to your health, so it's important to take precautions to protect yourself during the cleaning process.

Remove Loose Soot

Begin by using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum cleaner with a disposable filter to remove loose soot from surfaces. Avoid using traditional vacuum cleaners as they may blow the soot particles back into the air. Gently vacuum walls, ceilings, furniture, and other affected areas to capture as much loose soot as possible.

After removing loose soot, carefully wipe down surfaces using dry chemical sponges or specialized cleaning products recommended by the restoration company. Avoid using water or wet cleaning methods, as they can cause the soot to spread and stain surfaces. Follow the instructions provided by the professionals to ensure safe and effective cleaning.

Launder Fabrics and Textiles

Wash all affected fabrics and textiles, such as clothing, curtains, bedding, and rugs, as soon as possible. Use a mild detergent and follow the manufacturer's instructions for washing and drying. If the soot stains are persistent or if you are unsure about washing certain items, consult with the restoration company for guidance.

The soot from a puffback can infiltrate your HVAC system, including ductwork, registers, and filters. It's essential to clean the HVAC system thoroughly to prevent further contamination and potential future puffbacks. This step should be handled by professionals who can assess, clean, and repair the HVAC system as needed.

Consider Professional Deodorization

After the cleaning process is complete, have a certified HVAC technician inspect and repair your furnace. They will ensure that the cause of the puffback is addressed and that the furnace is in proper working condition before it is restarted. This step is vital to prevent future puffbacks and ensure the safety of your home.

Puffback soot can leave behind strong odors that are difficult to eliminate. Consider enlisting the help of a professional restoration company that offers deodorization services. They will use specialized techniques and equipment to neutralize odors and leave your home smelling fresh and clean.

Remember, the process of cleaning after a puffback can be complex and time-consuming. It's best to rely on the expertise of professional restoration companies with experience in puffback clean-up. They will guide you through the process, ensure thorough cleaning, and help restore your home to its pre-puffback condition as efficiently as possible.

Water Damaged Electronics: What to Do Next?

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on electronic devices, leaving many of us wondering what steps to take when faced with such a situation. Whether it's a smartphone, laptop, or other valuable electronics, quick and appropriate action is crucial to minimize the damage and increase the chances of successful recovery. In this blog post, we'll explore the essential steps you should take when dealing with water-damaged electronics, helping you make informed decisions and potentially save your devices.

Act Fast

Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage. The longer electronics remain submerged or exposed to moisture, the higher the risk of irreversible damage. As soon as you discover water damage, immediately disconnect the device from power sources and turn it off, if possible. Acting swiftly can significantly increase the chances of successful restoration.

Under no circumstances should you attempt to power on a water-damaged electronic device. Water and electricity do not mix well and can lead to short circuits or further damage. Resist the temptation to check if the device still works, as doing so may cause more harm than good.

Remove External Components

If applicable, remove any external components such as batteries, memory cards, or SIM cards from the water-damaged device. This will help prevent additional damage and allow for easier access to the internal components during the drying process.

Gently dry the device using a soft cloth or towel to remove any visible moisture from the surface. Avoid using heat sources like hairdryers, as excessive heat can further damage the electronics. Instead, opt for a cool, dry environment to facilitate the drying process.

To further absorb moisture, place the damaged device in a sealed container or bag with a desiccant packet or uncooked rice. Desiccants such as silica gel can be purchased online or found in packaging for various products. Rice can also help absorb moisture, but it may not be as effective as desiccants.

Seek Professional Assistance

For valuable or sensitive electronics, it's advisable to seek professional assistance. Contact the manufacturer, authorized service centers, or electronics repair shops experienced in water damage restoration. They have specialized tools, equipment, and expertise to properly assess and repair water-damaged devices.

If your device contains important data that has not been backed up, consult with professionals regarding data recovery options. Depending on the extent of the damage, they may be able to retrieve and salvage your valuable files.

Insurance Coverage

If the water damage is a result of an insurable event, such as a flood or accidental spill, check your insurance policy to determine coverage. Contact your insurance provider and follow their guidelines for filing a claim. Document the damage and keep records of any communication for the claims process.

Water damage can serve as a valuable lesson in preparedness. Consider investing in waterproof cases or protective covers for your devices, especially if you frequently use them in wet environments. Additionally, regularly backing up important data to external storage or cloud-based platforms can help minimize the potential loss in case of future incidents.

Dealing with water-damaged electronics requires immediate action and careful handling. By following the steps outlined above, you can increase the chances of saving your devices and potentially recovering valuable data. Remember, professional assistance is often recommended for complex or valuable electronics. While prevention is always the best approach, accidents happen, and knowing how to respond to water damage can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Why SERVPRO is the Best Choice for Your Storm Cleanup Needs

5/31/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a trusted name in the restoration industry, and here are some reasons why you should call them for your storm cleanup needs.

When a storm hits, it can be overwhelming and devastating to deal with the aftermath. From fallen trees to flooded basements, storm damage can cause a significant amount of stress and financial burden. That's why it's crucial to call in professionals to handle your storm cleanup needs. SERVPRO is a trusted name in the restoration industry, and here are some reasons why you should call them for your storm cleanup needs.

Quick Response Time

When it comes to storm damage, time is of the essence. The longer you wait to start the cleanup process, the more damage can occur. SERVPRO has a 24/7 emergency response team that can be on-site within hours of your call, ready to assess the damage and begin the cleanup process immediately.

Experienced and Trained Professionals

SERVPRO has been in the restoration industry for over 50 years and has a team of experienced and trained professionals who can handle any storm damage situation. Their technicians undergo rigorous training to become certified in various areas, including water damage restoration, fire and smoke damage restoration, and mold remediation.

State-of-the-Art Equipment

To provide the best possible service, SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment for their cleanup and restoration services. This includes high-powered water extraction equipment, industrial-grade dehumidifiers, and air movers to dry out your property quickly and efficiently. They also use advanced moisture detection equipment to ensure that all affected areas are thoroughly dried, preventing further damage and mold growth.

Comprehensive Services

SERVPRO offers a wide range of services to handle all aspects of storm damage cleanup and restoration. This includes water damage restoration, mold remediation, fire and smoke damage restoration, and even biohazard cleanup. They can handle everything from minor water damage to major structural damage caused by a storm.

Insurance Assistance

Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially when you're already dealing with storm damage. SERVPRO can help by working with your insurance company to ensure that the cleanup and restoration process is covered under your policy. They can even help with filing insurance claims and documentation to ensure a smooth and stress-free process.

Peace of Mind

At the end of the day, calling SERVPRO for your storm cleanup needs provides peace of mind. You can trust that their team of professionals will handle the cleanup and restoration process efficiently, effectively, and with care. This will allow you to focus on other important aspects of your life and get back to normal as quickly as possible.

In conclusion, dealing with storm damage is never easy, but calling SERVPRO for your cleanup and restoration needs can make all the difference. Their quick response time, experienced professionals, state-of-the-art equipment, comprehensive services, insurance assistance, and peace of mind make them the top choice for storm cleanup and restoration. Don't wait until it's too late - call SERVPRO today.

How quickly does mold form after a water loss?

5/25/2023 (Permalink)

When your property suffers from a water loss, seek help from a professional.

Water damage in homes or buildings can occur due to various reasons such as leaks, floods, burst pipes, or other plumbing issues. One of the most concerning consequences of water damage is the potential for mold growth. Mold can start forming within a short period of time after a water loss, and understanding the timeline of mold growth is crucial for effective remediation. In this blog, we will explore how quickly mold can form after a water loss and the importance of prompt action to prevent mold growth.

The timeline for mold growth after water damage can vary depending on several factors, including the type of mold, the extent of water damage, and the environmental conditions. However, in general, mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours after a water loss.

Here is a timeline of mold growth after a water loss:

0-24 hours

In the first 24 hours after water damage occurs, the affected area may still be wet, but mold growth is not typically visible at this stage. However, mold spores, which are microscopic mold particles, may already be present in the air and on surfaces, waiting for the right conditions to grow.

24-48 hours

Within 24 to 48 hours, mold spores can start to germinate and grow into visible colonies on damp surfaces. If the moisture source is not addressed, mold can spread rapidly and cover larger areas.

48 hours and beyond

If the water damage is not mitigated and the affected area remains wet, mold growth can accelerate. Mold colonies can become larger and more widespread and affect materials, such as walls, ceilings, carpets, and furniture.

It's important to note that mold growth is not always visible. Mold can grow behind walls, under carpets, and in hidden areas, making it difficult to detect without proper inspection. The longer the water damage remains unresolved, the higher the risk of mold growth.

The presence of moisture, warmth, and organic matter (such as drywall, wood, or carpet) are the ideal conditions for mold to thrive. Mold can also grow in dark and poorly ventilated areas, making it even more challenging to detect early on.

Given the rapid timeline of mold growth after water damage, it's crucial to take prompt action to prevent mold growth and mitigate the risks.

Address the water source

Identify and repair the source of water damage as soon as possible. This may involve fixing leaks, drying out wet areas, or using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels.

Remove standing water

If there is standing water, it should be removed promptly to prevent further damage and inhibit mold growth. Use pumps, wet vacuums, or professional water extraction services to remove excess water.

Dry out affected areas

Properly dry out the affected areas using fans, dehumidifiers, and proper ventilation. It's important to thoroughly dry the area within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth.

Consult with professionals

If the water damage is extensive or if you suspect mold growth, it's best to consult with professional mold remediation services. They have the expertise and equipment to properly assess and remediate mold issues to prevent further damage and ensure a safe and healthy environment.

In conclusion, mold can start forming within 24 to 48 hours after a water loss, making it crucial to take swift action to prevent mold growth. The longer the water damage remains unresolved, the higher the risk of mold growth.

Stay Safe and Warm: Essential Tips to Reduce Space Heater Fires

5/10/2023 (Permalink)

By following these essential tips, you can reduce the risk of space heater fires and keep your home or workplace safe and warm.

When the weather starts getting colder, many of us turn to space heaters to keep our homes and workplaces warm and cozy. While space heaters are an effective way to heat small spaces, they can also be a fire hazard if not used safely. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters are involved in about one-third of home heating fires and 80% of home heating fire deaths.

To keep your space heater use safe and prevent fires, follow these essential tips:

Choose the right space heater

Not all space heaters are created equal. When choosing a space heater, look for one with safety features such as automatic shut-off switches and overheat protection. Make sure to select a space heater that is appropriate for the size of the room you want to heat. Check the label or packaging for information about the heater's wattage and recommended room size.

Keep space heaters on a flat, level surface

Place your space heater on a flat, level surface that is not prone to tipping over. Do not place your space heater on furniture or other unstable surfaces. Make sure the heater is at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding, and furniture.

Plug space heaters directly into the wall

Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip. Space heaters draw a lot of power and can easily overload extension cords or power strips, increasing the risk of fire. Instead, plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet.

Turn space heaters off when you leave the room

Never leave a space heater unattended. Always turn your space heater off when you leave the room or go to bed. If you have pets or small children, consider using a space heater with a protective grill or cover to prevent burns.

Keep space heaters away from water

Do not use your space heater in damp or wet areas such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements. Water can increase the risk of electrical shock or short-circuiting, which can lead to a fire.

Maintain your space heater

Regularly inspect your space heater for damage or wear and tear. If you notice any damage, do not use the heater until it has been repaired or replaced. Clean your space heater regularly to remove dust and debris, which can build up and increase the risk of fire.

By following these essential tips, you can reduce the risk of space heater fires and keep your home or workplace safe and warm. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when using space heaters. Stay warm and stay safe!

Stop the Drip. A Step-By-Step Guide on How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

3/6/2023 (Permalink)

If your faucet is leaking, contact a professional today.

A leaky faucet is a common household problem that can waste a significant amount of water if left unaddressed. Fortunately, fixing a leaky faucet is a relatively simple task that can be accomplished by following a few basic steps. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to fix a leaky faucet.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Before you begin to work on the faucet, you need to turn off the water supply to prevent any water from flowing. To do this, locate the shut-off valve under the sink and turn it clockwise to shut off the water.

Step 2: Remove the Handle

Use a screwdriver to remove the handle of the faucet. Depending on the type of faucet you have, there may be a screw on top of the handle or a set screw on the side. Once you remove the screw, gently pull the handle off the faucet.

Step 3: Remove the Packing Nut

Once you have removed the handle, you will need to remove the packing nut. The packing nut is located just below the handle and can be removed using a wrench. Turn the nut counterclockwise until it comes off.

Step 4: Remove the Stem

Once you have removed the packing nut, you can remove the stem of the faucet. The stem is the long, cylindrical part of the faucet that the handle attaches to. Use pliers to pull the stem out of the faucet body.

Step 5: Replace the Washer

The most common cause of a leaky faucet is a worn-out washer. Inspect the washer for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary. To remove the washer, use a screwdriver to pry it off the stem.

Step 6: Reassemble the Faucet

Once you have replaced the washer, reassemble the faucet in the reverse order that you disassembled it. Insert the stem back into the faucet body, tighten the packing nut, and reattach the handle.

Step 7: Turn On the Water Supply

After you have reassembled the faucet, turn on the water supply and test the faucet to ensure that it is no longer leaking. If the faucet still leaks, you may need to replace other parts, such as the O-ring or cartridge.

In conclusion, fixing a leaky faucet is a simple DIY task that can be accomplished with just a few basic tools. By following these steps, you can save money on your water bill and prevent water waste. However, if you are not comfortable performing the repair yourself, it's always a good idea to call a professional plumber to ensure that the repair is done correctly.

Fire Extinguisher Safety

2/10/2023 (Permalink)

Fire extinguisher safety is important to know when and how to use one properly

If you ever find yourself in a situation where there is a fire in your home, it's important to know what to do. Fires can be dangerous and life-threatening. They also have the potential to damage everything in their path. If you know how to use a fire extinguisher correctly, though, it's possible that you will be able to stop a small blaze before it gets out of control or causes serious damage. Here are some tips on how best to fight an emergency fire.

Six Feet Away.

Do not stand closer than six feet from the fire. The heat, smoke and flames can injure or kill you if you are too close. If your clothing catches on fire, stop what you're doing and drop to the ground immediately! Roll around in a blanket or rug until the flames are out. Do NOT run away from it because that will only fan the flames!

Be careful when dealing with hot embers after extinguishing an outdoor fire as they may still be burning inside their casings and could start another blaze if handled improperly (or even just touched).

Never use water on a grease fire.

If you think you have a grease fire, don't use water to put it out. Water causes the oil in the pan to spread and can make the flames larger. Instead, get yourself a dry powder fire extinguisher and aim for the base of the flame. Having a fire extinguisher in your kitchen incase of an emergency is always a good idea.

Call a Professional.

If you are in doubt about how to use a fire extinguisher, or if you feel unsafe near the fire, call the fire department. If that's not possible, or if it takes too long for them to arrive and put out your blaze, then here are some other ways that you can handle it yourself. Call a professional fire extinguisher service. There are many companies that offer this kind of service, they'll come out with their own equipment and take care of everything!

Call a professional fire damage restoration company. They can help clean up any messes left behind by extinguished flames before they cause any more damage than necessary. Give SERVPRO a call for remediation after a fire loss to your property.

As you can see, there are many ways to extinguish a fire. Even so, it's important to remember that safety always comes first. If you are unsure about how to use a fire extinguisher or if there is any doubt in your mind about whether or not you should use one at all, call 911 immediately! 

Factors to Consider When Getting Professional Mold Inspection

1/23/2023 (Permalink)

If you suspect that you have a mold problem in your Egg Harbor home, it is important that you take action.

Mold is a fungus that grows in damp areas. It can be found growing on any organic material, and it thrives in warm, dark places with high humidity. Mold growth can be an issue in homes and businesses, leading to structural damage. If you notice mold around your home or business, it's important to have it professionally inspected and tested as soon as possible. An inspector will advise you on what actions should be taken based on the results of their inspection and testing services.

Hidden Mold

Mold is sometimes visible and sometimes invisible to the naked eye. Mold can be seen as a black or green discoloration, as a black or white powdery substance, and as a black or brown slimy substance. The growth of mold can be in different colors due to its spores being present on many surfaces in your home or office. 

Property Damage from Mold

When you hire a professional to check for mold, they will assess the property thoroughly and identify any potential issues. Mold can cause property damage as it grows throughout your home or business. The presence of mold is also an indicator that there is water damage somewhere in your building.

Mold growth has a negative impact on the value of your home; when it's visible, buyers will usually consider this problem before making their final decision on whether or not they want to buy the property.

Professional Mold Inspection

If you suspect that there may be mold in your home, it's best to get an inspection done by a certified inspector.

This can help you determine whether or not there is actually any visible mold on the surfaces of your home and also what kinds of molds are present in the air quality of your home.

Similarly, if there has been any recent water damage or leaks that have caused moisture problems in your home (such as a flooded basement), then professional mold testing should also be performed to ensure that the moisture levels have been brought back down to normal levels before returning to living spaces where occupants will spend time breathing them in every day.

Getting a Mold Sample

Choose the location of the test. It is important for you to choose where you want your home inspected, or what area of your home you would like tested. Your inspector should be able to assess all possible places where mold can grow and provide you with a list of areas that need to be checked out as well as ones that are safe from contamination.

Indoor Air Quality Check

Inspectors should be able to conduct an indoor air quality test on request. If you have a concern about the amount of airborne mold in your home, you can ask for an indoor air quality test. The results of this test will help determine whether remediation is necessary and effective.

Mold Remediation Professionals

SERVPRO of Egg Harbor/ Township is available 24/7. If you are experiencing a mold emergency or need professional mold remediation services, call us at 609-383-9785. Our staff can help you with any questions or concerns regarding the cleanup process and will be happy to provide you with an estimate for any necessary work.

If you suspect that you have a mold problem in your Egg Harbor home, it is important that you take action. Mold can be dangerous and harmful to your health. The first step is to contact SERVPRO for expert mold removal services.

9 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Water Damage Restoration Company

12/9/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t be afraid to ask these questions, as they are all reasonable and pertinent to the services you will receive.

9 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Water Damage Restoration Company

The water damage restoration industry is a highly competitive industry to be in. No matter what city or state you live in, there are likely many restoration companies to choose from after suffering from a water loss. That's why it's important to do your research when choosing a water damage restoration company. The last thing you want to do is hire an inexperienced company to handle your water disaster. You want to make sure they have the right equipment, staff, and training to handle any type of water damage. So, before you hire a restoration company, ask them questions about.

1. How Long Have They In Business?

It's important to ask a restoration business how long they have been in business because not only does it show that they have been around for a while, which means they're likely to be more reliable, but it also shows that they are experienced and know what they're doing. If you're looking for a company to do some work on your house, it's best to find one that has experience with that kind of work, so you can trust that the job will be done well and correctly.

Make sure to ask the restoration business the following:

• How long have they been in business?
• How long have they been in the industry?
• How long have they been providing this type of service?

2. Do They Have a License?

It is important to verify that your water damage restoration company has a license. In some states, it is illegal for anyone other than a licensed contractor to perform any type of water damage repair. Licenses are an excellent indicator of quality because they indicate that the company has met certain standards and has been reviewed by a third-party appraiser.

3. Do They Have Experience?

The next step is to ask about their experience. You need to know that the company has had experience in dealing with your type of water damage, whether it is a flood or another type of disaster. How many times have they performed restoration services like yours? What types of jobs have they completed in the past? Do they have references? It's important to ask these questions because if they haven't done this type of work before, there may be some mistakes made that could cost you more money down the road.

4. What Services do They Offer?

Once you've established that the company you're considering is licensed and insured, it's time to start asking questions. 

What services do they offer? Water damage restoration companies will typically offer a variety of services including water removal, dehumidification, furniture removal and air quality testing. They may also be able to help with odor removal as well as sanitation and cleaning. A good water damage restoration company will also be prepared to restore your property back to its pre-damaged state.

5. Are They Available 24/7?

If you have an emergency situation, it's important to know that your water damage restoration company can be reached 24/7. What happens if you have a flood at 2am? Will they pick up the phone and help you then? You want a company that will respond quickly when you need them most. That's just one of the benefits of working with a full-service restoration company such as SERVPRO of Egg Harbor/Township—they're available 24/7 for emergency calls or after-hours emergencies.

6. Will They Work with My Insurance?

While it is your job to pay for the repairs, you will find that many insurance companies are willing to reimburse you if they can determine that the damage was not your fault. Insurance companies have their own process for deciding whether or not they will pay for a claim. If you have any questions or concerns about this process, ask before hiring a company.

7. What Type of Equipment Do They Use?

Water damage restoration companies have a myriad of equipment at their disposal. Some of these tools are considered standard industry equipment, while others are unique to the company you choose. One way to find out what type of equipment they use and why is by asking them about it directly. If you’re not sure what they should be using, here’s a list:

• Dehumidifiers – These machines remove excess moisture from your home so that it can dry quickly and prevent mold growth. They also keep humidity levels low which prevents further damage from occurring in your home
• Steam cleaners – This machine uses high-temperature hot water steam to clean up any remaining dirt or grime left behind by the flood water in your house after it has been removed
• Air movers – These fans blow air around your home so that all its surfaces get dried properly before being covered up again; this helps prevent further damage from occurring because airflow will be improved thus allowing better circulation throughout every room

8. Are the Technicians Trained?

One of the most important questions to ask when hiring a water damage restoration company is whether or not they have trained technicians. This will allow you to be certain that the job will be done right and in a timely manner, which can often mean the difference between having dry floors and walls or remaining damp for weeks on end.

Trained technicians are also more likely to do an excellent job at cleaning up your Northfield, NJ home after it has been damaged by water because they know what equipment works best for removing mold and mildew from surfaces such as carpeting or drywall. If there is no training involved, then chances are good that whoever comes out to assess your situation might not know how best clean up after such an event.

Trained technicians are much faster than amateurs when it comes time for repairs because they have been taught how best get rid of all moisture as soon as possible!

9. What Will the Process Look Like?

What will the process look like? How long will it take for them to be on-site, and how long does each step take? It’s important to know these things beforehand so that you can plan appropriately.

How will they remove water and dry your home? The type of drying equipment used depends on several factors, including where your home is located, its construction materials, and whether it was flooded by sewage or fresh water. However, they should still have a plan in place for dealing with any kind of water damage situation.

Don’t be afraid to ask these questions, as they are all reasonable and pertinent to the services you will receive. This information will help you determine if a company is right for your needs or if there are better options available.