ARS Logo Trans

What to Do After Fire/Smoke Damage (and what NOT to do)

arsinc on September 4, 2024

Dealing with fire and smoke damage can be stressful, especially when it comes to finding the right restoration contractor who accepts your insurance. Here are some steps you can take to find a suitable contractor and get things back to normal:

Website Fire Damage

1. Research Restoration Companies

  • Look for Fire and Smoke Damage Specialists: Focus on companies that specialize in fire and smoke damage restoration. These specialists will have the expertise and equipment needed to properly restore your home.
  • Certifications Matter: Make sure any company you consider is certified by reputable organizations like the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification). This ensures they follow industry standards.

2. Inquire About Insurance Assistance

  • Direct Billing to Insurance: When contacting potential restoration company for fire damage, ask if they handle billing directly with your insurance company. This can make the process smoother and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Deductible Assistance: Some companies offer deductible assistance or flexible payment plans, which can help with any costs not covered by insurance.

3. Request Multiple Estimates

  • Get Multiple Quotes: Reach out to a few different companies to get estimates for the restoration work. Comparing quotes can help you find the best service at a fair price.

4. Check Reviews and References

  • Read Online Reviews: Look up reviews on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau to see what others have said about their experiences with the company. Pay attention to reviews that mention dealing with insurance claims, as this is key for your situation.
  • Ask for References: Don’t hesitate to ask companies for references. Speaking directly to previous clients can give you a good idea of what to expect.

5. Choose a Company and Begin Restoration

  • Make Your Decision: After gathering all the information and quotes, choose the company that best fits your needs and get the restoration process started.
  • Stay Involved: Keep in regular contact with both the restoration company and your insurance provider to ensure everything is on track and that you’re fully informed throughout the process.

Need Help with Fire Damage in Portland/Vancouver?

If you’re looking for a restoration company that checks all the boxes, we might be a good option for you! We specialize in fire damage restoration and offer a comprehensive range of services, including navigating the insurance process and providing deductible assistance. We also offer free onsite evaluations and are available 24/7, which can be crucial for emergency situations. We accept ALL insurance providers.

If you’d like more specific recommendations or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us!

What to Do When You Find Water in the Crawlspace of Your Home (and what not to do)

arsinc on September 4, 2024

Water in your crawlspace can lead to significant problems, including mold growth, structural damage, and pest infestations, so it’s crucial to address it promptly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do next:

1. Assess the Situation Safely

  • Safety First: Before entering the crawlspace, ensure it’s safe to do so. Avoid going into the area if there’s standing water or if you suspect electrical hazards. If you’re unsure about the safety, it’s best to wait for professionals.
  • Identify the Source: Try to determine the source of the water if you can do so safely. Common causes include heavy rain, plumbing leaks, groundwater seepage, or poor drainage around your home.

2. Remove the Water

  • Pump Out Water: If there is standing water, you’ll need to remove it. You can use a wet/dry vacuum for small amounts of water or rent a sump pump for larger quantities. However, this can be physically demanding and may require professional help if the area is flooded.
  • Dry the Crawlspace: Once the water is removed, use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the area completely. Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent mold and mildew growth.

3. Hire a Professional Restoration Company

  • Contact a Specialist: For significant water damage, it’s advisable to hire a professional restoration company that deals with water in crawlspaces. They have the equipment and expertise to remove water, dry out the space thoroughly, and mitigate any mold or mildew.
  • Insurance Claims: If the water damage is covered by your insurance policy, the restoration company can help document the damage and work with your insurer on the claim.

4. Inspect for Damage and Mold

  • Check for Mold: Water in a crawlspace can lead to mold growth, which can cause health issues and further damage your property. Inspect the area for any signs of mold or mildew. If you notice mold, contact a mold remediation specialist.
  • Structural Assessment: Have a professional inspect the structural integrity of your home, especially if the water has been standing for some time. Prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken the foundation, wooden beams, and other structural components.

5. Address the Underlying Issue

  • Fix Leaks and Improve Drainage: Identify and fix any plumbing leaks or broken pipes. If the water is from external sources, consider improving drainage around your home by installing downspout extensions, french drains, or grading the landscape away from the foundation.
  • Encapsulation: Consider finding a company that offers crawl space encapsulation. This involves sealing the crawlspace with a vapor barrier, improving ventilation, and sometimes installing a dehumidifier to maintain a dry environment.

6. Prevent Future Water Intrusion

  • Install a Sump Pump: If your crawlspace is prone to flooding, installing a sump pump can help manage water accumulation by automatically pumping it out of the crawlspace.
  • Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect your crawlspace and drainage systems to catch any potential issues early. This includes checking gutters, downspouts, and the grading around your home to ensure water is directed away from the foundation.

By taking these steps, you can ensure your crawlspace is properly dried out and protected against future water intrusion. If you need more specific guidance or have further questions, feel free to ask!

Need Help with Your Crawl Space in Vancouver?

If you’re looking for a restoration company that checks all the boxes, we might be a good option for you! We specialize in crawl space cleanup and offer a comprehensive range of services, including navigating the insurance process and providing deductible assistance. We also offer free onsite evaluations and are available 24/7, which can be crucial for emergency situations. We also accept ALL insurance providers.

If you’d like more specific recommendations or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us!

How to Find the Right Restoration Contractor for Water Damage (that accepts your insurance)

arsinc on August 1, 2024

Navigating water damage restoration and dealing with insurance can be overwhelming. Here are some steps you can take to find a suitable restoration company in Portland that meets your needs:

1. Research Local Restoration Companies

  • Look for Local Companies: Search for water damage restoration companies in the Portland area. Since you’re looking for a company that offers deductible assistance and helps navigate the insurance process, it’s essential to find companies that explicitly offer these services.
  • Check Certifications: Ensure you only work with a restoration company that is certified by reputable organizations like the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) and AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act) if asbestos might be a concern.

2. Ask About Insurance Assistance

3. Request Multiple Estimates

  • Get Several Quotes: It’s a good idea to request estimates from at least three different companies. This will give you a better understanding of the average costs and help you choose a company that offers the best value for the services you need.

4. Check Reviews and References

  • Read Online Reviews: Look at reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau to see what other customers have experienced. This can provide insight into the company’s reliability, quality of work, and customer service.
  • Ask for References: Request references from the companies to speak with previous clients about their experience, especially concerning insurance assistance and communication.

5. Choose a Company and Begin Restoration

  • Make Your Choice: Once you’ve gathered all the necessary information and compared the companies, choose the one that best meets your needs and proceed with scheduling the restoration work.
  • Stay Informed: Keep a line of communication open with the company and your insurance provider throughout the process to ensure everything goes smoothly and you’re fully aware of the steps being taken.

Need Help with Water Damage Restoration in Portland?

If you’re looking for a restoration company that checks all the boxes, ARS, Inc. might be a good option for you. We specialize in water damage restoration and offer a comprehensive range of services, including navigating the insurance process and providing deductible assistance. We also offer free onsite evaluations and are available 24/7, which can be crucial for emergency situations. We also accept ALL insurance providers.

If you’d like more specific recommendations or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us!