FAQs

In some cases, you may be able to continue operating during restoration work if the damage is localized and there are no health or safety issues present.

Most commercial property insurance policies cover restoration services for damage caused by events such as fire, water, and storms.

As with the timeline, the cost of commercial restoration projects can vary significantly from project to project.

It’s impossible to provide an accurate timeline for your commercial restoration project until our local companies arrive to assess the damage.

Yes. Make sure you choose a commercial restoration company with appropriate licenses and certifications.

The commercial restoration process requires a series of steps that are all critical to ensure all health and safety issues are eliminated and your property is returned to its original condition.

Certifications, experience, availability, reputation, insurance, and compliance are some key factors to consider when choosing a commercial restoration company.

Water damage, fire and smoke damage, storm damage, and mold growth are the most common types of commercial property damage.

In some cases, you may be able to continue operating during restoration work if the damage is localized and there are no health or safety issues present.

Most commercial property insurance policies cover restoration services for damage caused by events such as fire, water, and storms.

As with the timeline, the cost of commercial restoration projects can vary significantly from project to project.

It’s impossible to provide an accurate timeline for your commercial restoration project until our local companies arrive to assess the damage.

Yes. Make sure you choose a commercial restoration company with appropriate licenses and certifications.

The commercial restoration process requires a series of steps that are all critical to ensure all health and safety issues are eliminated and your property is returned to its original condition.

Certifications, experience, availability, reputation, insurance, and compliance are some key factors to consider when choosing a commercial restoration company.

Water damage, fire and smoke damage, storm damage, and mold growth are the most common types of commercial property damage.

In some cases, you may be able to continue operating during restoration work if the damage is localized and there are no health or safety issues present.

Most commercial property insurance policies cover restoration services for damage caused by events such as fire, water, and storms.

As with the timeline, the cost of commercial restoration projects can vary significantly from project to project.

It’s impossible to provide an accurate timeline for your commercial restoration project until our local companies arrive to assess the damage.

Yes. Make sure you choose a commercial restoration company with appropriate licenses and certifications.

The commercial restoration process requires a series of steps that are all critical to ensure all health and safety issues are eliminated and your property is returned to its original condition.

Certifications, experience, availability, reputation, insurance, and compliance are some key factors to consider when choosing a commercial restoration company.

Water damage, fire and smoke damage, storm damage, and mold growth are the most common types of commercial property damage.

In some cases, you may be able to continue operating during restoration work if the damage is localized and there are no health or safety issues present.

Most commercial property insurance policies cover restoration services for damage caused by events such as fire, water, and storms.

As with the timeline, the cost of commercial restoration projects can vary significantly from project to project.

It’s impossible to provide an accurate timeline for your commercial restoration project until our local companies arrive to assess the damage.

Yes. Make sure you choose a commercial restoration company with appropriate licenses and certifications.

The commercial restoration process requires a series of steps that are all critical to ensure all health and safety issues are eliminated and your property is returned to its original condition.

Certifications, experience, availability, reputation, insurance, and compliance are some key factors to consider when choosing a commercial restoration company.

Water damage, fire and smoke damage, storm damage, and mold growth are the most common types of commercial property damage.

Asbestos removal isn’t normally covered by insurance. However, if asbestos is disturbed by a covered loss, such as storm damage or fire damage, it might be covered. We can document the process of removal and submit it to your insurance company. If they determine it is covered, you will get compensation.

When asbestos fibers are disturbed, they can float through the air and settle on any surface. If you have airborne asbestos in your building, it’s possible that the contents are also contaminated. Our asbestos experts can test the contents to determine whether they are contaminated. Depending on the nature of the items, they might be salvageable, but in other cases, they might be lost.

There are many strategies used to keep asbestos in the work area. First, the area is sealed and cut off from HVAC systems. Wetting asbestos helps keep it from getting airborne. In addition, negative air pressure keeps the work area air from leaking out unfiltered. The use of disposable clothing and safety gear which is changed in an airlock also helps control contamination.

Asbestos comes in many forms, and it can usually be safely left in place. However, whenever you disturb your building’s walls, attic, or other places where asbestos is found, it can make the particles airborne, leading to deadly risks for anyone breathing the air.

Test for asbestos whenever you are planning to renovate your house or building, or if the walls or ceiling are damaged by storm damage, fire damage, water damage, or other disruptions.

Asbestos fibers can become airborne and enter the lungs. There they can irritate the body, causing dangerous scars and other damage, which can turn into cancers. The characteristic cancer associated with asbestos is mesothelioma, which is among the deadliest cancers. Most people live for just 4-18 months after their mesothelioma diagnosis.

Yes! Asbestos is a highly dangerous material that can be difficult to control and contain. Improper disposal methods may be dangerous for those disposing of the material as well as anyone in the building. Professional asbestos abatement can reduce risks and protect you from liability and even criminal charges.

Regular maintenance is key to preventing a water line break:

• Inspect exposed pipes for wear, rust, or leaks

• Insulate pipes during colder months to prevent freezing

• Monitor water pressure to avoid stress on pipes

• Consider installing a water leak detection system for early warnings

Hiring professionals to check your plumbing annually can also help identify potential issues before they escalate. If you’re dealing with water damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to experienced restoration professionals for immediate assistance and peace of mind.

Water damage from a broken water line can lead to mold growth within 24-48 hours if not addressed promptly, posing health risks that include respiratory issues or allergies. If the main water line breaks and involves contaminated water, there’s a risk of exposure to harmful bacteria. Quick action to address the damage and proper cleanup will reduce these health risks.

The water damage restoration timeline depends on a variety of factors, including the extent of the damage, the affected area, and whether drying, cleaning, or replacing materials is necessary. A thorough assessment of the damage to your home or business from a professional water damage restoration company is necessary to determine an accurate timeline for the restoration process.

Most homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from pipe breaks, including water line or main water line issues. However, coverage varies, especially if negligence or wear and tear caused the break. Review your policy and contact your provider for specific details.

At Cousino Damage Restoration Experts, we have extensive experience coordinating with insurance companies after water damage, and we can help document the damage for your claim to ensure you receive the maximum benefits allowed under the terms of your policy.

After a water line or main water line break, check for visible signs like standing water and soggy walls or flooring. Inspect for damp patches, mold growth, or changes in water pressure. To ensure a thorough assessment, it’s best to contact a professional water damage restoration company, as unseen water damage can lead to structural issues or health hazards.

Our team handles your belongings with the utmost care. All items are carefully inventoried, documented, and securely packed before transport to our cleaning facility. Additionally, our team uses advanced cleaning equipment and techniques that are gentle yet effective, ensuring your items are not damaged in the process.

Yes, many electronics can be cleaned and restored using specialized techniques. Devices such as computers, televisions, and kitchen appliances often undergo a detailed inspection and cleaning process to ensure safety and functionality before being returned to you.

The cost of contents restoration varies depending on factors such as the type of damage, the number of items needing restoration, and the cleaning methods required. We offer customized quotes after evaluating your specific situation to ensure transparency and fair pricing.

The duration of the contents restoration process depends on the extent of the damage and the volume of items that need restoration. While certain items may be cleaned and returned quickly, more severely affected items can take a few days or weeks to fully restore. We’ll provide an estimated timeline after assessing your belongings.

Our team can restore a wide variety of items, including furniture, clothing, documents, photographs, artwork, and even delicate items like antiques. Our advanced cleaning techniques are also effective for removing odors, stains, and contaminants caused by fire, water, storm or mold damage.

Look for a contractor with specialized experience in disaster restoration and remodeling. Check for certifications, licenses, and insurance, as well as positive reviews or testimonials from previous clients. A reliable contractor should also provide a clear timeline, transparent pricing, and regular communication throughout the process. At Cousino Damage Restoration Experts, we are licensed contractors that handle all repairs and remodeling work as part of the restoration services we provide. This ensures a seamless process and a hassle-free experience for you, and you’ll have peace of mind that the contractor performing all remodeling work understands the unique nuances associated with disaster restoration projects.

Yes, you can often make upgrades or changes during the remodeling process. This is a great opportunity to enhance your property with modern fixtures, energy-efficient solutions, or updated layouts. Our team will work with you to incorporate these changes into the remodeling plan.

Insurance coverage varies depending on your policy and the cause of the damage. Many policies cover restoration to pre-loss conditions, but additional upgrades or customizations might not be included. You should always check your policy and consult with your insurance provider to clarify your coverage before moving forward with remodeling services.

The timeline for remodeling depends on the extent of the damage, the complexity of the repairs, and any specific customizations you want included. Minor repairs may take a few weeks, while extensive remodeling could take several months. A professional assessment from our team at Cousino Damage Restoration Experts can provide a more accurate estimate.

Remodeling during disaster restoration includes repairing and rebuilding areas of your property that have been damaged by events such as floods, fires, or storms. The process typically includes structural repairs and aesthetic improvements, while ensuring the restoration and remodeling work meets safety and building codes.

Leaking pipes should be repaired as soon as they are detected to prevent more extensive water damage from developing. Taking swift action minimizes damage and repair costs, protecting both your property and your peace of mind.

Preventing leaking pipes starts with regular maintenance and awareness. Schedule routine plumbing inspections to check for weak points or early signs of wear. Insulate pipes in colder areas to prevent freezing, and make sure you have proper water pressure throughout your plumbing system. Avoid pouring grease or other clog-causing substances down drains, as blockages can put pressure on your pipes.

In general, most insurance policies will cover water damage from sudden and accidental damage associated with a leaking pipe. However, if the leak is due to neglect or lack of maintenance, coverage could be denied. Always review your policy carefully to determine exactly what is covered, and report potential claims promptly.

A leaking pipe might start small, but it has the potential to cause widespread water damage over time. Unchecked leaks can lead to water pooling, structural damage, mold growth, and ruined furniture or flooring. Slow leaks may also create unseen damage, compromising drywall or wooden beams. Addressing leaks early saves you from costly repairs and helps maintain the safety and integrity of your property.

Older pipes often exhibit tell-tale signs that they may be approaching the end of their lifespan. Watch out for irregular water pressure, rust-colored water, repeated leaks, or visible corrosion on exposed pipes. If your building is old, it’s wise to have your plumbing system inspected regularly by a professional. They can identify aging or deteriorating pipes that may need replacement before they cause serious damage.

Proper documentation is critical for a successful insurance claim. Follow these steps:

• Photograph the Damage – Take clear photos and videos of affected areas, including walls, floors, and personal belongings.
• Save Damaged Items – If possible, leave damaged materials or items (like soaked carpets) for the adjuster’s inspection.
• Create an Inventory – Make a detailed list of all items that were damaged, including descriptions and approximate values.
• Keep All Records – Save receipts for plumbing repairs, water removal services, and any other relevant costs.
• Contact Your Insurance Company Quickly – Notify your insurance company as soon as the damage is discovered to start the claims process.

Pipes are more likely to burst in areas that are exposed to freezing temperatures or poor insulation. Common spots include:

• Unheated Areas – Garages, basements, and crawl spaces are high-risk zones.
• Exterior Walls – Pipes running along exterior walls can freeze during cold weather.
• Attic Spaces – Poor insulation in attics makes pipes vulnerable.
• Under Sinks or Appliances – Pipes in less visible areas are often overlooked and can freeze or rupture.

Ensuring proper insulation and maintaining a steady temperature in these areas can help prevent water pipe breaks.

You should act immediately after identifying a burst pipe. Water damage can worsen within hours, potentially leading to structural issues, mold growth, and expensive repairs. The first step is to shut off the water supply to stop further flooding, followed by beginning water removal and drying efforts as soon as possible. It’s crucial to contact a water damage restoration professional within the first 24 to 48 hours to prevent long-term complications. Fast action is the best way to protect your property and minimize repair costs.

Most insurance policies cover water damage caused by sudden and accidental issues, such as a burst pipe. However, coverage can vary depending on the specifics of your policy. For example, damage from a burst pipe due to freezing temperatures or unforeseen ruptures is generally covered, but damage resulting from neglect, such as failing to maintain heating during winter, or issues that develop gradually may not be covered.

To ensure a smooth claims process, it’s important to document the damage thoroughly by taking photos and videos, keeping receipts for repairs, and notifying your insurance company as soon as possible. Always review your policy or consult with your insurance provider to confirm the exact details of your coverage.

Drying a property after a burst pipe requires immediate and thorough action:

• Stop the Water Flow – Shut off your main water supply right away.
• Remove Standing Water – Use a wet/dry vacuum or a professional water extraction service to get rid of pooled water.
• Dehumidify the Space – Set up dehumidifiers to pull excess moisture from the air and prevent mold growth.
• Ventilate the Area – Open windows and use fans to circulate fresh air and aid in drying.
• Get Professional Help – To ensure the process is completed properly, it is often best to call a water damage restoration company who can ensure the property is completely dry and the risk of long-term damage is eliminated.

It can be.

Virus and pathogen cleanup is aimed at stopping illnesses that spread primarily through contact with infectious materials.

In most instances, professional crime scene cleanup services are covered by your business insurance policy.

FLEET Response’s local companies will always use the materials necessary to effectively remove biohazard contamination.

You can always request additional demolition and restoration as part of the biohazard cleanup process.

The length of time a biohazard cleanup takes will depend on the nature of the contamination and its extent.

This depends on the extent of the biohazard contamination, the nature of the contaminants, and the nature of your business.

Yes!

A maid service or specialty cleaning company might seem like an attractive choice when you have a major spill or contamination.

They will not use cleaners that will cause damage to the walls or the contents of your property.

Whenever possible, FLEET Response’s local companies will work with no chemicals or with only very safe chemicals

It depends.

Yes!

It’s becoming increasingly common to discourage reconstruction.

Some types of insurance will cover expenses like this.

Deciding whether to restore your building or tear it down and start again can be difficult.

In some cases, you can’t rebuild the old building because the building codes have changed since the original construction.

Not generally.

If you are the property owner, you can decide to integrate upgrades to the property during restoration.

Since every storm is different, it’s impossible to say for sure what restoration will be like.

This depends on the extent of damage to your building.

Not if you work with FLEET Response’s local companies.

There is no single cost or timetable for storm damage restoration.

Storms are capable of causing many types of severe damage to any property.

Yes.

It doesn’t work on all types, and it’s most effective when used rapidly after graffiti appears.

Whether graffiti comes back after cleaning it depends on several factors.

In some cases, you may be able to handle graffiti or vandalism.

Sanitizing is only effective at dealing with multicellular parasites and bacteria.

Our local companies always follow industry best practices to ensure a treated area is cleaned and disinfected.

Virus and pathogen cleanup is aimed at stopping illnesses that spread primarily through contact with infectious materials. A properly handled cleanup will kill all viruses and pathogens in the cleaned area.

Our Priority Response Emergency Program (PREP) will ensure your business will have a plan in place for when a fire or any other disaster strikes.

Yes!

In general, commercial insurance policies will cover the cost of fire damage restoration.

In some instances, it might be possible to operate in the building during fire damage restoration, but it depends on the nature of the work and the fire.

Our local companies are experts at fire damage restoration, and they will identify what items can be salvaged and restored as well as those that will need to be replaced.

Fire damage restoration can vary significantly, depending on the type and extent of the fire as well as the contents and construction of your property.

Yes!

Finding the source of water damage is an essential first step in restoring damaged property, but it’s not always easy.

Whether your insurance will cover water damage typically depends on the source of the damage.

Some effects of water can take place very quickly.

Often, a water damage restoration company can create the ideal drying conditions to avoid or reverse damage to property.

The precise cost and timeline for water damage restoration depends on the exact nature of the affected structure and the amount of water damage suffered.

Water damage restoration companies provide a wide range of services to help mitigate the damage to your property and restore it to its original condition.

Mold remediation does not take a certain amount of time or have a specific cost.

In most instances, it’s best to trust mold remediation to the experts.

Mold remediation is a specialized approach to dealing with mold growth that not only completely eliminates the current mold growth, but also prevents the future growth of mold.

In most instances, professional crime scene cleanup services are covered by homeowners insurance policies.

Blood and airborne pathogens, bodily fluids, bacteria and other hazardous materials found at a crime scene can often result in serious health hazards and potentially cause the development of infectious diseases.

Anytime blood or bodily fluids are present after a traumatic incident, professional crime scene cleanup services are required to restore safe conditions at your property.

Crime scene cleanup is an important service provided to home and business owners after a traumatic incident occurs on your property.

You should choose a reconstruction company because it can help you get better results, often for a better price, and faster.

Regular maintenance is key to preventing a water line break:

• Inspect exposed pipes for wear, rust, or leaks

• Insulate pipes during colder months to prevent freezing

• Monitor water pressure to avoid stress on pipes

• Consider installing a water leak detection system for early warnings

Hiring professionals to check your plumbing annually can also help identify potential issues before they escalate. If you’re dealing with water damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to experienced restoration professionals for immediate assistance and peace of mind.

Water damage from a broken water line can lead to mold growth within 24-48 hours if not addressed promptly, posing health risks that include respiratory issues or allergies. If the main water line breaks and involves contaminated water, there’s a risk of exposure to harmful bacteria. Quick action to address the damage and proper cleanup will reduce these health risks.

The water damage restoration timeline depends on a variety of factors, including the extent of the damage, the affected area, and whether drying, cleaning, or replacing materials is necessary. A thorough assessment of the damage to your home or business from a professional water damage restoration company is necessary to determine an accurate timeline for the restoration process.

Most homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from pipe breaks, including water line or main water line issues. However, coverage varies, especially if negligence or wear and tear caused the break. Review your policy and contact your provider for specific details.

At Cousino Damage Restoration Experts, we have extensive experience coordinating with insurance companies after water damage, and we can help document the damage for your claim to ensure you receive the maximum benefits allowed under the terms of your policy.

After a water line or main water line break, check for visible signs like standing water and soggy walls or flooring. Inspect for damp patches, mold growth, or changes in water pressure. To ensure a thorough assessment, it’s best to contact a professional water damage restoration company, as unseen water damage can lead to structural issues or health hazards.

Water damage restoration is the process of repairing or restoring a property that has been damaged by water due to floods, leaks, burst pipes, or other water-related disasters.

In most instances, homeowner’s insurance policies will cover water damage caused by storm damage or plumbing issues such as a burst pipe or broken appliance. However, flood damage is often not covered by insurance policies.

Water damage can take effect very quickly, and the damage will compound the longer you wait to take action and begin the water damage restoration process. The speed and severity of water damage depends on a variety of factors, including the amount of water, type of water (clean vs. contaminated), affected materials and environmental conditions.

In addition to damaging your home, black mold can be dangerous to some people. People can experience serious complications from mold exposure.

With potentially high costs associated with these projects, you may be wondering whether your insurance company will pay for mold remediation. Insurance coverage often varies based on your specific situation.

The cost of mold remediation can vary significantly depending on the location of the mold and the extent of the contamination.

Achieving permanent mold removal involves a combination of eliminating the current mold infestation and addressing the underlying issues that allowed the mold to grow initially.

The duration of the mold remediation process can vary greatly depending on the extent of the mold infestation, the size of the area affected, and the specifics of the property and its materials.

It’s always best to work with a professional mold remediation company anytime you experience mold growth.

Mold remediation is a specialized process aimed at removing mold from indoor environments, restoring the safety and air quality of your space.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows from tiny spores. These spores are essentially everywhere there is dust and dirt. They can lay dormant for years, but when the conditions are right for mold to grow, the spores will come to life. The main limiting factor that prevents mold growth is a lack of water, so anything that creates moist places in your home can trigger mold growth.

The goal of fire damage restoration is to restore your home as close as possible to its state before the fire. By salvaging some items, cleaning and deodorizing whenever possible, and finding authentic replacements when available, we can typically get your home nearly identical to its pre-fire state.

Most insurance policies cover fire damage restoration.

It is not recommended to attempt cleaning up fire damage on your own.

In most instances, you’ll need to temporarily relocate while all repairs are being made since fire damaged homes present safety hazards.

In most instances, our local fire damage restoration team can help you salvage just about any item that wasn’t directly exposed to flames.

The length of time required to restore your property will depend on the extent of the fire damage. If the damage was minimal and limited to a section of the property, the process can potentially be completed within a few weeks.

Yes!

In most cases, fire damage can be repaired. When we arrive at your home or business, our local company’s technicians will assess the property to evaluate the extent and severity of the damage.

As your property, you have the option to decide that you would rather tear down what remains of your house and rebuild it. However, this is typically much more expensive than storm damage restoration. Insurance may not cover the costs of demolition and rebuilding except under specific circumstances.

Every situation is unique, so the restoration process will be determined by the specific damage you’ve sustained. When our team arrives on site, we’ll thoroughly assess all damage and recommend the proper process to restore your property to its original condition.

It depends on the extent of damage to your home. FLEET Response’s local companies will perform a thorough safety inspection of your home. They will let you know if it’s safe to inhabit your home. They will also let you know if it’s safe to partially inhabit your home, and what areas should be avoided.

No. FLEET Response’s local companies provide comprehensive storm damage restoration services, and they handle every aspect of the process, including all necessary cleanup, water damage restoration, mold remediation, and reconstruction work.

The cost of storm damage restoration services varies greatly and depends on the specific damage you’ve incurred. Factors that impact the cost of storm damage restoration include the following.

In most instances, storm damage will be covered by your insurance policy. However, it’s always important to read your policy to determine exactly what is covered.

It’s a good idea. The initial damage to your property may be subtle and difficult to identify on your own. If this damage goes unrepaired, it can become more extensive over time and potentially threaten the structural integrity of the building.

Every storm is unique and can bring a different set of issues to your property.

Yes!

A specialty cleaning company can seem like an attractive option, because they are dedicated to cleaning. However, many specialty cleaning projects require the removal of damaged or contaminated components, including drywall, structural supports, flooring, and more. In these cases, a cleaning company might either stop short rather than cause damage they can’t repair or else leave you with a new problem to deal with.

The specialty cleaning experts at all FLEET Response local companies have extensive training and experience in protecting your property while providing cleaning services. Whenever possible, we will preserve your property without damage.

Whenever possible, we prefer to work with no chemicals or safe chemicals. However, in some cases, the only effective method for cleaning will involve the use of chemicals with a degree of toxicity. If this is necessary, FLEET Response’s local companies will let you know, and they’ll explain how we will handle these chemicals during and after cleaning.

This depends on the nature of the contamination, its extent, and its location. For some types of contamination, you can simply close the doors to the contaminated area before and during cleaning.

The amount of time it takes to clean a space depends on the nature of the contamination, the size of the space to be cleaned, and the standard of cleanliness necessary.

Reconstruction costs and timeframes depend on the size and complexity of the structure. FLEET Response’s local companies utilize a tandem team building approach to speed up the construction process, because we know how important it is for you and your family to get back home.

Not generally. If your home was a historic building, there may be restrictions on how you can rebuild, as well as HOA and local zoning regulations.

In some disaster-prone areas, local, state, and federal authorities are trying to discourage people from rebuilding homes when they are likely to be badly damaged or destroyed again in the near future.

This is a very complicated decision, and you should make it in consultation with a restoration expert who can help you understand the different factors involved, including safety, cost, convenience, and legal restrictions.

After a disaster, you must first make sure everyone is safe, and safely out of a damaged structure.

Code requirements for construction are constantly changing as we learn more about, for example, fire hazards, or as the needs of homeowners increase, such as the increased demand for electrical outlets and circuits that can handle the load.

With any major restoration or reconstruction project, you are likely to need multiple permits.

Although general contractors are skilled in managing teams of contractors on big jobs like new house construction, they are likely not prepared to handle the challenges of a reconstruction. For example, they may not be able to salvage, restore, and store the moveable property that survived the disaster.