Does homeowner's insurance cover water damage?

Most homeowner's policies cover most water damages, but not all water damages are created equal. There can be a lot of exceptions to coverage depending on the intricacies of your policy. This is why it's a good idea to be familiar with your policy and call your agent right away when damage occurs.

How can I prevent water damage?

A good portion of water damage can be prevented by proper household maintenance. Routine plumbing maintenance, as well as sump pump and appliance maintenance, are effective ways to avoid preventable damages. If you live in a cold climate, preparing your home for the winter can also help avoid damage. Finally, it's a good idea to regularly check the exterior of your home, particularly your roof, for damage to ensure water isn't unexpectedly leaking into your home.

How do I clean up soot?

DIY soot removal is not recommended. Commercially available products can actually cause permanent damage to surfaces. Soot itself is primarily oil-based, but that residue also contains toxic, possibly biohazard contaminants.

How do I know for sure what caused the water damage to my property?

Identifying the source of the water damage is one of the first steps in both the insurance claim process and before beginning to dry out and repair the damaged areas. After all, if you replace a sagging, wet ceiling that was caused by a roof leak but don't fix the roof, too, the next rainstorm will start the cycle all over again. The buckling to your hardwood floor could be caused by a leaking pipe. We will pinpoint the exact cause of your water damage and make sure the source is repaired. We make sure your restoration job is done right the first time.

How long does fire damage restoration take?

It's never a quick fix, though we've gathered together a multi-discipline team of contractors and disaster restoration technicians to work in tandem to complete the work as soon as possible. From structural repairs to sand/soda-blasting to odor removal to contents cleaning, our fire damage restoration crew begins as soon as the project scope is determined, and we don't stop until the job is done and both you and the insurance company are satisfied with the results.

How long will it take to dry out my property?

That depends on the types of materials that were affected by water. Drywall, carpet, and hardwood floors will take longer to dry than other materials in the space. We use moisture meters throughout the process and in many different locations to gauge the moisture levels and will continue to adjust our fans and dehumidifiers to achieve an efficient but effective dry time. The bare minimum of "three days to dry" may only produce a surface dry, but can still leave behind moisture levels that create an ideal environment for mold to grow.

How soon can I move back home after a fire?

Depending on the extent or location of the fire damage, some homeowners can move back in a few days or longer. The fire department will usually turn off electricity and gas to the property right away, and that won't be restored until a building inspector says that it's safe to turn those utilities back on. If you experienced significant smoke damage and the home's occupants include elderly persons, young children, or those with chronic health conditions, it may be wise to stay until the smoke cleanup is complete. Contracting with a damage restoration company experienced in fire damage repair can often get you back home sooner because they'll have the resources to hire and manage the many tradespeople who will need to work together to make the home liveable again. One perk of hiring RestoreMore Inc is our guarantee to you and your family! When you hire RestoreMore for damage restoration, if we can't keep you in your home or your home is otherwise uncomfortable, and you have to go stay in a hotel, the first night is on us! Click here to read the rest of our customer guarantee.

I aired out my house after a small fire, but it still smells like smoke. What can I do?

Smoke damage is rarely limited to one area of the house, and it leaves behind a residue that can hide in crevices and out-of-reach areas, and a simple "airing out" may not be sufficient. We recommend consulting with a smoke damage technician who can help you troubleshoot the next steps.

Is fire damage covered by insurance?

Most often, yes. You'll need to check your specific policy for the full scope of coverage, but in general, if the damage was caused by a flame, it's covered. Your best bet is to hire a professional damage restoration company, such as RestoreMore Inc, to help you through the claims process. We know how to avoid some common missteps when it comes to making sure the entire loss is documented and covered. Many homeowners and insurance companies forget, for instance, to consider that your HVAC system will need to be cleaned of soot, and, since fires are extinguished using water, many areas of your home may need to be restored due to water damage even if they weren't directly affected by the fire.

Is water damage covered by my insurance policy?

Water damage insurance claims depend on a few different criteria. Ultimately, that's a question you'll have to clarify with your insurance company. However, we can tell you that the viability of water damage insurance claims depends primarily on what caused the damage (storm, burst pipe, plumbing malfunction, localized flood, sump pump failure, etc. ). Some insurance policies will outline scenarios that will NOT be covered without specific riders like flood insurance, or sump pump failure insurance. Contacting a restoration contractor as well as your insurance adjuster at the same time is a good idea because the restoration contractor will help make sure that not only will the water extraction and dry out be covered but the rebuild process that should follow. If the full scope of the claim isn't outlined and agreed upon from the start, there may be issues down the line, and property owners may find themselves having to pay out of pocket to get the property completely back to normal.

The Rise of Eco-Friendly Solutions in Water and Fire Damage Restoration

Posted by: RestoreMore Inc on June 2, 2025

Imagine returning home after a vacation, only to find your living room submerged in water or your cherished belongings reduced to ashes due to a fire. The emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fires alone cause over $10 billion in property damage annually in the U.S. Meanwhile, water and mold damage contribute significantly to financial and health challenges for homeowners.

As the demand for responsible restoration grows, there is a burgeoning market for eco-friendly solutions that not only restore properties but also minimize harm to our planet.

Eco-friendly restoration practices are becoming more integral in the Water, Fire, and Mold Damage Restoration industry. With the global climate crisis calling for increased corporate responsibility, companies like RestoreMore are stepping up to offer solutions that align with environmental best practices.

In this blog post, we will explore the rise of eco-friendly solutions in the restoration industry, the challenges they address, and how they benefit both consumers and the environment.

This blog will delve into the primary eco-friendly practices in the restoration industry, the reasons behind their necessary adoption, and real-world examples showcasing successful implementations.

By the end, you'll be prepared to choose green solutions in your restoration needs, armed with knowledge and actionable insights.

The Demand for Eco-Friendly Restoration Solutions

The Environmental and Economic Impact

Many conventional restoration practices involve chemicals and methods that harm the environment. For instance, harmful solvents and a high waste generation footprint commonly hinder sustainable progress. These traditional methods contribute significantly to pollution and health problems for individuals exposed to such conditions.

Moreover, the costs associated with environmental harm are not always immediately visible. Long-term consequences can include increased medical expenses and reduced property values due to environmental degradation. By opting for eco-friendly restoration, property owners contribute to a stable ecosystem, which in turn supports healthy living conditions.

Benefits of Eco-Friendly Practices

Eco-friendly solutions offer numerous benefits:

Reduced Carbon Footprint: Sustainable methods use less energy and generate less waste, directly reducing carbon emissions.
Improved Indoor Air Quality: Natural, non-toxic cleaning agents enhance air quality, reducing respiratory issues.
Sustainability: Restoration techniques using recycled materials reduce the demand for new resources, promoting a circular economy.

These benefits make sustainable restoration an appealing option for environmentally-conscious consumers who value long-term outcomes over short-term fixes.

Innovations in Water Damage Restoration

Eco-Friendly Water Extraction

Advancements in technology have paved the way for efficient, eco-friendly water extraction methods. Equipment such as low-energy dehumidifiers and high-tech water pumps reduces energy consumption.

For instance, today's water extraction methods utilize equipment that is both efficient in extracting moisture and designed to operate with minimal environmental impact, as reported by environmental engineering publications.

For example, local contractors may adopt solar-powered pumps and non-toxic anti-microbial treatments after a flooding incident, which showcases a successful application of eco-friendly water restoration.

Sustainable Mold Remediation

Mold can be a stubborn issue, but addressing it sustainably is now possible with eco-friendly alternatives. Instead of harsh chemicals, specialists use enzymatic treatments - natural enzymes that consume mold, leaving no harmful residues behind.

Innovations in Fire Damage Restoration

The Shift to Green Cleaning Solutions

Fire damage restoration often involves dealing with residues left by soot and smoke. Traditionally, cleaning agents used in such scenarios have been chemical-laden, posing risks to both humans and the environment.

However, the shift toward green alternatives, such as biodegradable cleaners, ensures that harmful chemicals do not further inflate the environmental burden.

Eco-friendly agents effectively break down soot residues without releasing toxic substances. This shields indoor environments from pollution and minimizes waste runoff that would otherwise harm natural ecosystems.

Sustainable Reconstruction Materials

Eco-friendly fire damage restoration also incorporates using sustainable materials during the rebuilding process. Recycled and sustainably-harvested timber, reclaimed iron, and non-toxic paints are increasingly popular among forward-thinking contractors and architects.

Overcoming Challenges in Adopting Eco-Friendly Solutions

Cost Implications

One frequently voiced concern is the cost of adopting eco-friendly solutions. While initial investments may be higher than conventional methods, the long-term financial benefits, including reduced energy bills and enhanced property value, offset these costs. It's crucial for vendors and customers to consider this long-term value equation.

Industry Perception and Education

As with any industry evolution, there is a critical need for education and awareness. Restoration experts must consistently update their knowledge base and inform clients about the benefits of sustainable practices. Collaborative workshops and community outreach programs aid in nurturing this educational culture, leading to greater acceptance of eco-friendly solutions.

The Future of Restoration: An Ecological Imperative

The shift towards eco-friendly practices in the Water, Fire, and Mold Damage Restoration industry is not a fleeting trend but a necessary transition. As professionals and consumers alike become more environmentally conscious, restoration companies are best positioned to lead the charge in responsible practices that safeguard our planet's future.

Actionable Steps for Consumers

Ask About Green Solutions: When conversing with your restoration provider, inquire about the eco-friendly options available for your specific needs.
Research and Choose Responsibly: Make decisions based on a company's commitment to sustainable practices. For example, RestoreMore's dedication to such practices underscores its leadership in the industry.
Advocate for More Education: Join local community programs advocating for greener restoration practices, or initiate discussions about the importance of sustainability.

Real-world benefit, personal health, and environmental preservation go hand in hand with eco-friendly restoration options. By ensuring that homes are restored with environmental principles in mind, we pave the way for healthier, more sustainable living for future generations.

Be Eco-Friendly With Restore More

Eco-friendly options in restoration realms are poised to revitalize the industry, offering both environmental benefits and superior safety for consumers. Companies like RestoreMore exemplify how offering cutting-edge, responsible solutions can harmonize ethics with business, meeting today's restoration needs while preserving resources for tomorrow.

By prioritizing sustainable methods, both homeowners and restoration experts can create lasting positive impacts on the environment, setting a standard for responsible living and business operations.

If you're facing water or fire damage and are interested in sustainable solutions, we encourage you to visit RestoreMore's website to explore their eco-friendly services. Contact us to learn how you can restore your property responsibly and effectively, honoring both your home and our shared environment.