Commercial fire / smoke damage restoration and content management faq

The complete restoration timeline for fire and smoke restoration is challenging to predict due to the numerous variables and services involved. It is essential to consult with your ServiceMaster Remediation Services Technician to obtain a clear estimate of the dates and phases of your restoration project.

It is imperative that you do not attempt any “do-it-yourself” cleaning methods without first consulting your ServiceMaster Remediation Services Technician. Pretesting, using the correct cleaning agent for each specific item, mixing deodorizing agents with cleaning solutions, and utilizing the correct dilution rates are absolutely essential for achieving the desired results. Only the professional cleaning systems and products employed by experienced, trained ServiceMaster Remediation Services Technicians can provide the best chance for achieving full restoration of your belongings.

At ServiceMaster Remediation Services, occupant and worker safety is a top priority. During the initial inspection, safety hazards are identified and addressed, including debris removal, air quality, electrical hazards, slip and trip hazards, etc. Burnt electrical cords and appliances are separated out for disposal, and questionable electrical appliances are unplugged and tagged for evaluation of safe operation. Electrical power may be turned off and kept off until evaluation by a licensed electrician.

We recommend that you not turn on your furnace or air conditioning unit without clearance from the HVAC contractor.

For insurance purposes, we recommend you make a list of items (including food items) deemed nonrestorable.

It’s up to you to decide, but it’s important to consider safety concerns, odors, electricity, and noise from equipment. If you plan to leave your premises for an extended period, it’s a good idea to take these steps: forward your mail to your temporary residence, stop newspaper and other deliveries, and notify utility companies and cable providers of the temporary suspension of services.

ServiceMaster Remediation Services is general contractor company we can do drywall/painting; electrical; plumbing; roofing; framing/finish carpentry; flooring/carpet; installation of doors, windows, cabinets, post-construction cleanup, etc.

Depending on the source, nature, and extent of the fire, it may be best to move all belongings to a secure facility for cleaning, storage and to make room for restoration or construction. ServiceMaster Remediation Services will work with you and your insurance claims representative to manage this process.

Yes, with advance notice we can schedule a time for a  ServiceMaster Remediation Services Technician to meet with you and provide access to your requested items. A service charge may apply.

Some high-value items require restoration by a specialist. Working with your insurance claims representative, we can help you identify these and locate a qualified restorer.

Ultimately you, the property owner, are responsible for payment and will need to sign a form authorizing payment for the reconstruction services.

If this is an insurance claim, ServiceMaster Remediation Services generally collects only the deductible amount from you before work begins and bills the balance to your insurance provider as a service to you. If your project is not covered by insurance or you decide not to file a claim, a payment schedule must be agreed upon prior to the start of any non-insured work. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: To avoid confusion, please direct any insurance-related questions to your Insurance Agent or Claims Representative.