Drying time is determined by a combination of factors, including the location, duration and source of water, the types of building materials, the weather conditions and how quickly emergency services begin. Your carpet may feel dry to the touch but padding and subfloors may still be wet underneath.

Proper testing with our specialized equipment is the correct way to determine if things are completely dry. Touch alone may be a false indicator.

Not necessarily. We will adjust the temperature to its optimum setting for the proper drying conditions.

Wood flooring must be evaluated during the drying process. If you filed a claim, your insurance adjuster will work with you to make the final decision as to whether floors will need to be refinished or replaced.

The extent of damage and the construction of the furniture will determine if your furniture can be restored. Your furniture must be dried before damage can be adequately assessed. Non-salvageable furniture will be documented for you, and if any items need to be discarded, a customer release form will need to be signed.

Check with your insurance professional.

Not usually. If items need to be moved out, we will let you know in advance.

It is not unusual to smell odors during the drying process. Increased heat and humidity can also lead to increased odors that may be coming from the drying building materials, or dormant spill and accident areas.

Our water damage mitigation specialists will place and monitor equipment to achieve optimal results in the shortest amount of time. Please make sure no one turns the equipment off or moves it.

Ultimately you, the property owner, are responsible for payment and will need to sign a form authorizing payment for the restoration services. If this is an insurance claim, ServiceMaster Restore generally collects only the deductible (co-payment) amount from you and bills the balance to your insurance provider as a service to you. If you have a large loss, your mortgage company may be included as a payee on the payment from your insurance company, and you may need to obtain a signature from them as well. If your claim is not covered by insurance or you decide not to file a claim, you will be expected to pay in full. Your ServiceMaster Restore representative can discuss these details.

Opening your windows to assist the drying process is not always recommended. Outside weather conditions may vary, so the team will determine when and if the outside air is appropriate.

It is strongly suggested that you keep the traffic to a minimum. Wearing shoes is recommended for your safety.

Nonporous flooring can trap water and prevent it from drying properly.

Carpet on the stairs is generally not removed for safety reasons. Exposed tack strips or staples, especially on steps, is dangerous. If carpet left on the stairs is unsalvageable, it will be removed when new carpet is installed.

No, we will do our best to make sure you may go about your daily routine. For site access, work with your project manager.

Depending on the scope of work, contents may remain on location. We will take appropriate measures to securely cover and protect contents.