If you can’t find a professional drying company to come to your project immediately give us a call at 415-337-2023 or send us an email an [email protected]. We do not perform this type of work but we know many industry professionals. We don’t answer calls directly at night and over the weekend, but we do check messages and return calls. There is no charge for this help. We are not compensated for any referral.
You want to repair or stop further damage as quickly as possible, but don’t get scammed.
These are general guidelines that are industry-standard best practices. This is not legal advice and is not intended to replace your legal counsel.
Always obtain at least three quotes for any project
While you may be eager to repair storm damage immediately, remember that poor workmanship can lead to costly do-overs. Unlicensed contractors can exacerbate the damage to your property.
Always have a written contract that includes everything being done.
If there are change orders (expect them), get them in writing. Carefully read every word in the contract before signing. Ask questions about anything you don’t understand. You’ve been through enough – don’t get scammed by a few bad unlicensed contractors.
The contract MUST include a complete and thorough description of all anticipated work to be performed by the contractor.
Payment terms included.
It is recommended that milestone payments be discussed. Keep enough funds to correct any problems that come up at the end of the project. Insist on a complete written receipt after all payments.
California Law: Don’t pay more that $1,000 or 10%, whichever is less, when the contract is signed.
Timeline of when work will be done and completed
This should include milestone payments when a specific amount of work has been successfully completed by a certain date. You don’t want this work to drag on until next year. You may consider putting a no-fee cancellation clause if your contractor drags your job on past milestones. Remember, things come up in construction that often, legitimately delay completion. You will have a much better outcome by working these things peacefully and pleasantly with your contractor.
Contractor Insurance
Get your name included as additionally insured document from the contractors policy and have that page attached to the contract. This is a common industry practice. There is normally no charge for this service. We do this on every job when requested. Immediately with no drama. If there is “drama” about this, then more likely than not the contractor does not have insurance.
If a contractor does not have insurance then if things go wrong you are left to repair the damage and possibly pay his workers. If you can’t get a declaration sheet showing your name and property address, find another contractor who is licensed and insured.
Expect change orders
Expect those change orders to have a complete description of the changes you are expected to pay for and a timeline for completion. Both you and the contractor should sign those changes orders. Be sure to keep a copy. Use your phone and take a photo onsite, if necessary.
Avoid substandard workmanship
The original contract should have some type of guarantee or warranty. Ask questions if you do not see this language. Again, you may want to attend the building department inspections and hear what the inspector has to say.
Cancellation clause
Again, how much is the contractor going to be paid if you cancel the contract. Be sure to get everything in writing.
Avoid driveway deals.
By following these steps you can eliminate a lot of shoddy work, legal issues, frustration and not getting your money’s worth in repairs.
To prevent mold growth:
- Remove standing water immediately
- Dry wet materials within 24-48 hours
- Use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels
- Increase air circulation with fans
- Remove porous materials that can’t be thoroughly dried
Water damage happens when excess water accumulates where it doesn’t belong, potentially leading to rot, mold growth, and compromised structural integrity. Common causes include burst pipes, roof leaks, flooding, and sewage backups. Immediate action is crucial to mitigate damage and prevent long-term consequences.
The restoration process typically involves water extraction, drying, dehumidification, and cleaning. Depending on the extent of damage, repairs may range from simple drywall replacement to extensive structural renovation. Professional assessment is often necessary to ensure thorough remediation and to address hidden moisture that could lead to future problems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides guidelines on mold prevention and cleanup, emphasizing the importance of addressing water damage within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth [1]. Homeowners should also review their insurance policies, as coverage for water damage can vary significantly depending on the cause and circumstances.
Regardless of the source of the damages, asbestos testing for all buildings built before 1981 is required for a building permit in San Francisco and multiple other counties. It is easier and cheaper to test for asbestos than to rip into a building and expose any remaining undamaged contents, occupants, neighbors, etc., and have your job shut down with fines.
If your building is older and next to a school or other building where children are housed, lead-based paint testing is highly recommended.
After the primary cleanout of the damage, and before any restoration work begins, clearance testing is highly recommended. CYA.
Check for a contractors license here.
Check for an asbestos abatement contractors license here.
Check for a lead abatement contractors license here.