24 / 7 Emergency Response

Here are the initial steps to take between calling BENCHMARK, and our water damage restoration technicians arrival.

Every water damage is unique, and requires a structured solution, so the primary process stays the same. BENCHMARK has the experience and advanced equipment to quickly restore your home to better than before, water damage condition. We use a structured approach to water extraction and water removal that emphasizes inspecting and increasing the drying process from beginning to end.

The extraction and mitigation begins with a phone call. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is hyper critical. If you delay even a few hours can greatly increase the size and degree of damage.

When considering what type of service you need, do you mind if we ask you a few more questions to be prepared when we arrive?

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Questions:

1. When did this loss occur?
2. Has the source been stopped?
3. What is the source?
4. Does the property still have electricity?
5. Is the HVAC system still operational?
6. Are the affected areas in 1 area?
7. What year was the home constructed?
8. Does anyone in the home have sensitivities to chemicals, allergies or respiratory problems?
9. Have you called your insurance company yet?

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A water damage restoration timeline can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific steps needed to restore the affected area. However, here is a general timeline that may be followed:

1. Assessment – The first step is to assess the extent of the damage and identify any safety hazards or structural damage.
2. Water extraction – Any standing water is removed using specialized equipment, such as pumps or vacuums.
3. Drying – The affected area is dried using dehumidifiers and air movers to prevent further damage and mold growth.
4. Cleaning – Any affected surfaces and items are cleaned and disinfected to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
5. Restoration – The area is restored to its pre-damage condition, which may include replacing flooring, drywall, or other building materials.

Here’s what to expect today:

1. At Arrival – Your technician will evaluate all the areas and the scope of the affected area to ensure the fasted drying
2. Extraction – All affected areas are extracted to remove any excess water.
3. Anti-Microbial Treatment – Your technician will apply an antimicrobial treatment to inhibit the growth of mold, mildew and bacteria
4. Equipment installed – We’ll install high-velocity airmovers and state-of-the-art dehumidifiers to rapidly evaporate any water saturation.
5. Removal of affected material – If necessary, any unsalvageable materials that cannot be saved will be removed to eliminate any secondary damage.
6. Track off clean – Lastly we will clean the affected and surrounded areas, leaving the area clean, or cleaner than before the loss.

The duration of each step can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific techniques and equipment used. In some cases, it may take several days or even weeks to complete the restoration process.

It is important to act quickly when dealing with water damage to prevent further damage and potential health hazards. Hiring a professional water damage restoration company can help ensure a timely and thorough restoration process.

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Question: So what area’s would you like to have cleaned?

Some level of coverage is provided in many (even most) homeowner insurance policies. You will need to contact your agent, and be connected with a personal insurance adjuster to assist you with your water damage scenario. When dealing with insurance, the “source” of the water damage is important to know. Other services such as flooding from groundwater, and rivers are supported through the National Flood Insurance Program.

If a water loss occurs in your home, it’s only natural you want to immediately get active. Below are some productive actions you can perform before we arrive. Remember, only do this if you can do it safely.

1. Stop the water source, if you can. If you can’t find where the water is coming from, we’ll locate and stop the source as soon as we arrive.
2. Remove any excess water by using towels, mopping, as best you can, or wiping. This could include flooring and hard surface furniture which has standing water on it.
3. Protect carpet, rugs, drapes, and upholstered items from further damage. Place tinfoil or cellophane between furniture and wet carpet or rugs. Move books, magazines, or other items that may dye from carpets and rugs.
4. Be careful with electric items that have come into contact with water. This may include items such as electrical sockets, light switches, and if in the ceiling lights themselves.

The structural drying time varies with the severity of the water damage occurring, and the structure-type, on average situation taking 3–5 days. This can vary greatly though, depending on the scope of the affected areas, the affected materials & contents affected, any removal that may be required.

Returning your house to its pre-loss condition is a closely monitored process, with our technicians making adjustments to environment and equipment to help the area is return to normal as fast as possible.