An Initial Assessment Could Reduce Your Claim Expense

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO high tech content cleaning equipment

An Initial Assessment Could Reduce Your Claim Expense

When storms, fire, or water ravage a building, property owners in Chicago, IL, look to restoration as a chance to regain normalcy. They aren't always sure how to proceed, so they turn to their insurers for guidance. During the first few hours of damage assessment, it's important for both parties to initiate pretesting of the location to gain a true understanding of the magnitude of the repairs needed. This knowledge is pivotal in lowering the overall costs of the claim.

1. Identify the Extent and Type of Damage
Does the property really need a new floor? Was it truly necessary to gut the entire bottom section? During early testing, the experts can guide decisions that are essentials for renovations, verifying the extent of the insurance claim. Not only will the SERVPRO team evaluate where the problem happened, but they can also assess what category of water impacted the rooms and whether state laws deem work should be required. This is documented through photos and paperwork.

2. Minimize Additional Destruction
During pretesting stages, the disaster remediation company focuses on containment, attempting to cut down on unnecessary costs further down the road. The specialists identify the original source of the trouble and determine the possibility of further contamination. With this information, they can locate impacted sections and establish barriers, preventing situations such as mold growth or additional water saturation. Furthermore, they can stop air circulation so that spores do not travel. In addition, they'll ensure that dehumidifiers dry up water-logged walls and floors.

3. Focus on Restoring, not Just Replacing
The bottom line is essential; the insurance agent must balance safety and price. SERVPRO understands that using high tech content cleaning equipment can help to reduce costs and salvage items that otherwise might simply be thrown out. During early evaluations, the crew can identify fixtures and electronics that can be treated and sanitized.
It's about doing a job well and doing it right. Pretesting establishes a foundation for completing the restoration project on time and within a reasonable price.