FAQs
More FAQs- Can I clean up fire and smoke damage in my home myself?
- Do my belongings need to be moved away from the premises?
- Why did the technician leave wet carpet on my stairs?
After fire and smoke damage in your home, we do not recommend you attempt any “do-it-yourself” cleaning methods without first consulting your ServiceMaster Restore qualified Restoration Technician. Pre-testing, using the right cleaning agent for particular items, mixing deodourizing agents with cleaning solutions and using correct dilution ratios are just some of the ways an expert fire restoration technician attains professional and controlled results. Professional cleaning systems and products used by experienced, trained technicians give you the best chance for successful restoration of your property and belongings.
Depending on the scope of work, your belongings and contents of your home may remain on location. In this case, we will take appropriate measures to securely cover and protect contents. Any construction related dust or dirt that occurs as a result of the work, would be addressed in the post-construction cleaning. For large restoration jobs, it is advisable to move all affected contents to a secure, climate-controlled facility in order to protect them and make room for construction. Be assured that our technicians are fully trained and will treat your possessions with the utmost care. Our Automated Inventory Control System tracks the status of your belongings from move out to move back. We will work with you and your Insurance Claims Representative to manage this process efficiently.
After water damage in your home, stair carpeting is generally not removed for safety reasons. Exposed tack strips or staples, especially on steps, can be dangerous. However, there are situations where removing carpet from stairs is necessary to prevent damage to hardwood steps underneath, or in the case of sewage contamination. Removing tack strips is not advised, as this may damage the hardwood or the subfloor. Extreme caution must be used whenever the tack strip is exposed or when the carpeted stairs are damp. If carpet left on the stairs is unsalvageable, it will be removed when new carpet is installed.