Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ’s - Biohazard
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WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR CONTRACTING WITH A CLEANING SERVICE?
Typically speaking the property owner, the next of kin of the deceased, or other family members will contract the cleaning services. In some cases, our services are contracted through the insurance company or a representative of the estate of the deceased.
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DOES MY HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE COVER THE COST OF CLEAN-UP?
Homeowner’s insurance will typically pay for the clean-up costs associated with biohazard remediation. We will assist you by filing a claim, and working directly with your insurance representative, so that you can focus on what matters most during this difficult time. While we are unable to determine which benefits you qualify for, after the claim is filed, your insurance company will be able to confirm coverage and should allow you to select the cleaning service that you feel most comfortable with. Our company has established professional relationships with major insurance providers, allowing us to work directly between each party for your benefit.
If your homeowner’s insurance does not cover the cost of our cleaning services, we accept all major credit cards and individual payment plans. In some cases, a portion of the cost might be paid through the crime victim compensation funds provided by the state. Clean Pro Restoration also provides no-insurance discounts and financial hardship programs if qualifications are met, We insure that you are assisted and comfortable with proceeding before services are started.
Whatever your finances, our team will work with you to choose the best payment options for you.
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HOW MUCH DOES THE CLEANING SERVICE COST?
Every scene is different and each is estimated based on its own merit. The costs related our service varies based on the extent of damage to the structure and its contents. It is very difficult to immediately provide an estimate for services as much of the scope of work required is determined while the work itself is in progress. Some of the factors that determine the cost include, but are not limited to, how far biological fluids have traveled, if flooring needs to be removed, how many layers of flooring, if joists and beams have been affected, if walls and ceilings require cleaning, the amount of personal property affected, and if organic vapor odors have embedded themselves into the structure.
Upon arriving at the scene, our experienced team will evaluate the damages and develop a plan for the scope of work expected to be required to clean and sanitize the property successfully. Initially, a range for the cost – both best/worst case scenario – can be provided until any and all complicating factors can be ruled out and a firm estimate can be developed.
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DO I HAVE TO BE PRESENT WHILE YOUR TEAM IS WORKING?
No. As long as we have access to the property, if you choose not to be on-site during our cleaning process, we completely understand. If possible, we do prefer to conduct a final walk through when the work is completed to ensure customer satisfaction. Whether you’d like to monitor our work, or only visit once the job is complete, our team will treat your home with the same respect as if it was their own.
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WHY SHOULD I USE CLEAN PRO RESTORATION AS MY PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICE?
Our team offers you the following:
• Decades of biohazard remediation experience
• IICRC Certified https://iicrc.org
• Local cleaning technicians
• Success working on homeowner’s insurance claims
• Exceptional customer referrals
• Full compliance with OSHA standards
• Compliance with all local, state, and federal remediation laws
• Continuing education for all team members
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WHY SHOULD I USE A PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICE WHEN I CAN CLEAN IT UP MYSELF?
While we will never force you to use our services, attempting to clean a crime scene by yourself is never advised. You risk exposing yourself to pathogens and other toxic chemicals that are grave risks to your health. Attempting to restore a site yourself can result in further emotional trauma, something that we would never want to put one of our customers through.
We strongly recommend leaving the clean-up process to trusted professionals that have the tools and protective equipment, as well as the expertise, to safely clean a scene to the highest sanitation levels.
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WHAT RISKS DO I FACE WHEN CLEANING MYSELF?
Numerous dangerous bacteria and viruses, chemicals, and particles can jeopardize your health. The emotional distress caused by cleaning up after a suicide, accident, or un-attended death can have long-term consequences. You deserve to be protected from this unnecessary exposure by hiring a certified and professional cleaning service.
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HOW QUICK IS YOUR TURNAROUND TIME AFTER I CONTACT YOU?
Offering 24/7 cleaning services, our representatives are responsive to your needs from the moment a call is received. Our goal is to arrive on the scene as quickly as possible. With crews stationed throughout the metro area, arrival at the scene could be as quick as an hour or two, but no longer than 24 hours. We will work around your schedule, both day and night.
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HOW LONG DOES A CLEAN-UP TAKE?
The extent of the scope of work and the time required to remediate a property is uncovered as each layer beneath the surface is tested for the presence of biological fluid. The clean-up period varies greatly depending on the situation. After our initial meeting, we will provide you with a complete plan of action, including an estimated time of completion. Services can range from a few hours to a few days. We will make sure to keep you and or your insurance representative informed throughout the process.
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DO YOU USE BLEACH?
We do not use bleach during our clean-ups because it doesn’t penetrate carpets, fabrics, and hardwood floors like other professional cleaning solutions. Our team uses a full range of hospital-grade solvents and chemicals that are designed to penetrate lingering stains. These products quickly disinfect and sanitize, leaving the site safe and clean.
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ONCE THE CLEANING IS COMPLETE, HOW SAFE WILL IT BE?
Once fully cleaned, the entire site will be safe for your family and loved ones. Our goal is to make sure that the scene is devoid of any lingering odors, stains, or soiled surfaces. And if you by chance require any additional cleaning, let us know and we’ll gladly come back for a follow-up consultation.
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WHAT IF I DON'T HAVE INSURANCE COVERAGE? MY FAMILY IS ON A FIXED INCOME. DO YOU OFFER PAYMENT OPTIONS?
Yes. We understand the emotional distress you may be experiencing. Although most of our cases are handled directly through insurance, in the event that this option is not available to you, we will work with you to develop a payment plan conducive to your finances.
FAQ’s - Water
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HOW DOES WATER DAMAGE A HOME?
Water causes sagging and deterioration. It causes wood to swell, warp, and eventually rot. And it permanently ruins fabric items such as carpets and furniture that are soaked for more than a couple days. Water damage can also be a major electrical hazard. It can short-out electrical systems, causing fires, shock hazards, and damage to electronics.
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CAN I CLEAN UP AND DRY OUT THE DAMAGE MYSELF?
You can clean up some of the damage, but first, make sure to take pictures before you do anything. It’s okay to mop up excess water, but if the water flooded a large area of your home, you’re going to need professional services to prevent and repair major damage.
An excessive amount of water will soak into your floors and pool up behind your walls, which is a problem that homeowners can’t deal with safely by themselves. These hidden, water-soaked spaces are a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and structural deterioration. Mold is a serious health threat to everyone who enters the building, and if a structure is deemed unstable, you won’t be able to enter.
If the water damage is caused by a sewage backup, it is an immediate, serious health hazard. Avoid any contact and call Clean Pro Restoration immediately.
If your homeowner’s insurance does not cover the cost of our cleaning services, we accept all major credit cards and individual payment plans. In some cases, a portion of the cost might be paid through the crime victim compensation funds provided by the state. Clean Pro Restoration also provides no-insurance discounts and financial hardship programs if qualifications are met, We insure that you are assisted and comfortable with proceeding before services are started.
Whatever your finances, our team will work with you to choose the best payment options for you.
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WHAT CAN A WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION COMPANY LIKE CLEAN PRO RESTORATION DO TO HELP?
Our water damage cleanup and drying specialists are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and are equipped with the best drying equipment and moisture detection meters available.
We have the expertise and equipment to remove water that has seeped deep into the walls and floors of your home. Our innovative techniques are backed by science, research, and experience. Our rapid response, combined with our knowledge, experience, and equipment, will ensure that your loss is handled as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible, without any unnecessary tear out of your structure. We monitor the progress closely with advanced moisture-detecting meters. We also communicate with your insurance company to make the insurance claim process as quick and easy as possible. Upon arriving at the scene, our experienced team will evaluate the damages and develop a plan for the scope of work expected to be required to clean and sanitize the property successfully. Initially, a range for the cost – both best/worst case scenario – can be provided until any and all complicating factors can be ruled out and a firm estimate can be developed.
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DO I HAVE TO WAIT FOR AN INSURANCE ADJUSTER TO ARRIVE BEFORE CALLING A PROFESSIONAL WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION COMPANY?
In most cases, the answer is no. Insurance policies normally require you to do whatever you can to prevent further damage.
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WHAT CAN I DO IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT FURTHER DMAGE?
Preventing further damage starts with stopping the source of water. Next, call your insurance company and ask if you have coverage. They will likely issue you a claim and recommend you call a restoration company such as Clean Pro Restoration.
After you call a professional water damage restoration company and they deem it safe for you to enter, take a lot of pictures. Take enough pictures to document all the damage, then you can move furniture and other items out of the flooded area and try to remove some of the standing water. But don’t throw anything away. A reputable water damage restoration company, like Clean Pro Restoration, will arrive quickly to start countering the damage.
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WILL WATER DAMAGE TO MY PROPERTY CAUSE A MOLD OUTBREAK?
If your home’s water damage is taken care of immediately, mold outbreaks can usually be prevented. However, if you let the water sit, it could cause detrimental mold growth. Mold isn’t always obvious to the naked eye, but it can wreak havoc on your family’s health and safety. Depending on the situation, we may recommend a mold assessment be performed by a third party during the water damage restoration process. If mold is discovered in your home, Clean Pro Restoration will remediate the mold as well as repair any water damage.
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HOW CAN I PREVENT WATER DAMAGE FROM REOCCURING IN THE FUTURE?
Water damage can be difficult to prevent. But there are some cautionary measures you can take. You can apply coatings and sealants to your foundation, walls, windows, and doorways to help keep floodwater from leaking into your home. All electrical outlets should be at least one foot above flood level to prevent electrical damage.
To prevent water damage from a flooded sewage system, install valves on your pipes to keep it from backing up into your home.
Plumbing issues cause most water damage. Regular maintenance and inspections can help you catch most plumbing problems before they result in detrimental water damage.
FAQ’s - Mold
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ARE ALL TYPES OF MOLD HARMFUL?
Many different types of molds exist, some estimate over 100,000 different species! Exposure to some types of mold may cause harmful effects (coughing, headache, sneezing) in susceptible individuals.
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HOW CAN I BE EXPOSED TO MOLD?
Contact with mold by touching, eating, or breathing the mold spores or mold particles are common modes of exposure. Higher mold levels indoors increase the exposure level and may promote an allergy-like reaction. High exposure to mold can lead to an immune response against the mold particles. The degree of response varies from person to person.
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HOW CAN I CONTROL MOLD IN MY HOME OR OFFICE?
To control mold, one needs to control moisture. Check areas where water may enter the home, like in the crawlspace or a roof leak. If you find moisture, fix it. Routine maintenance is a must. Also keep the humidity inside below 50%, above this level gives mold enough moisture to grow.
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IS MOLD A CONCERN WITH NEW HOMES?
Mold is everywhere. But due to poor construction practices, wet building materials, and/or poor ventilation, some newer homes have higher mold levels than some older homes.
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HOW MUCH DOES MOLD REMEDIATION COST?
Mold remediation costs can vary depending on the extent, size, location, and specific parameters of the mold problem. An interior mold problem depends largely on the total area of the mold problem and the type of material supporting mold growth. For instance, drywall may have to be removed when moldy, whereas concrete or plaster can be effectively treated.
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HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A MOLD PROBLEM?
Mold typically appears as fuzzy masses, normally on building materials. Molds can produce smelly chemicals that may give a room a “musty” odor. Often times a mold problem begins as staining on ceilings or walls and progresses until numerous mold colonies are visible on the surface of the building material.
FAQ’s - Fire & Smoke
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WHAT NOT TO DO AFTER A HOUSE FIRE
1. Do not enter your home until you're given permission that it is safe.
2. Do not turn on gas, water or electric utilities until a professional has deemed them safe.
3. Do not start or move your vehicle if it has been damaged.
4. Do not try to clean any of the smoke or soot damage yourself. -
WHAT IS SALVAGEABLE AFTER A FIRE?
Generally, any item that's strong enough to survive the heat and the flames without absorbing water and smoke is completely salvageable after a fire.
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WHAT IS CONSIDERED FIRE DAMAGE?
Fire damage refers to the physical damage to a property as a result of burning. This damage may either be directly caused by the flames or could occur due to smoke and other corrosive substances emitted by the fire. In terms of insurance, fire damage is one of the types of coverage offered in property insurance.
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CAN YOU WEAR CLOTHES AFTER A FIRE?
If clothing has not been burned in a fire, there's a good chance smoke, and soot have damaged it. You can still have clothes restored to their original fresh state. However, this takes special care that often takes the expertise of fire damage restoration professionals.
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HOW LONG DOES SOOT STAY IN THE AIR?
Soot particles are very small and can float in the air for a long time. Therefore, it is important to contact a professional restoration company that has specialized equipment such as air scrubbers with hepa and carbon filters to effectively remove soot. We can quickly and effectively remove soot from a home or business.
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WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU BREATHE IN SOOT?
Soot can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion or via the skin and eyes. These toxic particles can cause breathing issues, including asthma, bronchitis, coronary heart disease, and even cancer.
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HOW DOES HOUSE INSURANCE WORK WITH A FIRE?
Homeowners insurance typically helps protect personal belongings from specific risks (described in most policies as "perils"), such as fire and lightning strikes. If your belongings are damaged or destroyed in a fire, homeowners insurance may help pay to repair or replace them.
FAQ’s - Contents
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WHAT ARE CONTENTS?
If you were to flip a house upside-down, anything that would fall out would be considered “contents” (furniture, wall decor, kitchen appliances, etc.).
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WHY WOULD ONE NEED TO MOVE CONTENTS?
If your home or business has been damaged by a fire, water, or mold, your belongings should be removed from the affected areas to prevent additional damage, and to expedite the repairs process. When a fire damage affects your property, the residual smoke and soot can cause permanent staining, etching, or corrosion to your contents. Water damage disasters can wreak havoc on your contents, especially if enough time passes for mold to start growing. Clothing, upholstery furniture, and other soft goods can become damaged beyond repair with prolonged exposure to water and excess moisture.
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HOW ARE FIRE AND FLOOD DAMAGED ITEMS RESTORED?
The cleaning method used depends on the item. For instance, items sensitive to water are usually hand-washed while fire-damaged garments require a specialized form of dry cleaning. As for fire-damaged jewelry, restoration companies will use ultrasonic cleaning to remove soot. (The sonic vibrations can remove soot from jewelry without damaging it).
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WOULDN'T IT BE CHEAPER TO JUST REPLACE ALL OF MY DAMAGED BELONGINGS?
In certain cases, it would be more cost-effective to replace all of the damaged belongings that don’t have any sentimental value. However, this still takes up a lot of time and money. And in most cases, the repairs alone would max out your insurance coverage, which forces most homeowners to pay for replacements using their own money.
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WHAT IS SALVAGEABLE VS. NON-SALVAGEABLE
Our team will look at each item and consider how affected the item was by the loss that occurred. An example of a non-salvageable item with water loss would be wood, due to the porous material. Wood can soak up water, and after a period of time, mold growth can appear. An example of a non-salvageable item with a fire loss would be pillows or a couch near where the fire occurred. This is due to not being able to remove the smoke damage within the fabric.
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WHO COVERS THE COST?
Our team will look at each item and consider how affected the item was by the loss that occurred. An example of a non-salvageable item with water loss would be wood, due to the porous material. Wood can soak up water, and after a period of time, mold growth can appear. An example of a non-salvageable item with a fire loss would be pillows or a couch near where the fire occurred. This is due to not being able to remove the smoke damage within the fabric.