Discovering water damage in your home or business can be overwhelming, but taking swift action can make all the difference in minimizing damage and costs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

The first thing to do is ensure everyone’s safety. Water damage can create hidden dangers such as electrical hazards or slippery floors. If it’s safe to do so:

• Turn off the water source. If a pipe is leaking or a fixture is overflowing, shutting off your main water valve can stop the flow and prevent further damage.
• Cut the electricity in affected areas. Water and electricity don’t mix, so turn off the power to avoid shocks or fire risks.

Next, document the damage. Before any cleanup begins, take photos and videos of the affected areas. This will be invaluable when filing an insurance claim. Be thorough, capturing all visible signs of damage like water-stained walls, soaked furniture, or warped flooring.

Call a water damage restoration professional immediately. Timing is everything when dealing with water damage. A trusted team like Platinum Restoration can assess the situation quickly, begin the drying process, and prevent issues like mold from setting in.

Finally, notify your insurance company. Share the documentation you’ve gathered and start the claims process as soon as possible. If you work with Platinum Restoration, we can even help guide you through this step.

The key is to stay calm and take these proactive steps right away. The sooner you act, the better chance you have of reducing damage and costs—and getting your space back to normal.

The timeline for repairing water damage can vary based on several factors, but understanding what to expect helps reduce stress and keeps you informed throughout the process. Here’s a closer look at what goes into the timeline:

Immediate Action: Within Hours
Once water damage is discovered, professionals will:

• Inspect and assess the damage to understand the extent and source of the issue.
• Begin water extraction using specialized equipment to remove standing water quickly.

This critical first step usually takes a few hours, depending on how much water is present.

Drying and Dehumidification: 2-7 Days
After the water is removed, the drying phase begins. This involves:

• Using industrial-grade fans and dehumidifiers to eliminate hidden moisture in walls, floors, and furniture.
• Monitoring moisture levels daily to ensure no damp areas are left behind.

The drying process can take a couple of days to a week, depending on the size of the affected area and the severity of the damage.

Repairs and Restoration: 1-4 Weeks
Once everything is dry, the actual repairs can begin. This might include:

• Replacing damaged drywall, flooring, or insulation.
• Fixing or refinishing structural elements like wood beams or cabinetry.
• Applying mold prevention treatments to ensure your home remains safe and healthy.

If the damage is extensive, this phase could take several weeks. For minor repairs, it may be completed in as little as a few days.

Factors That Can Impact the Timeline
Every situation is unique, and certain factors can extend or shorten the process:

• The type of water involved (clean, gray, or black water) affects the complexity of the cleanup.
• The size of the affected area—larger spaces take more time to restore.
• Whether mold has already started growing, as mold remediation adds time to the process.

The Bottom Line
Repairing water damage isn’t just about speed—it’s about thoroughness. Rushing the process can leave behind moisture that causes bigger problems later. At Platinum Restoration, we work efficiently without cutting corners, keeping you informed every step of the way.

If you’ve experienced water damage, reach out to us today. We’ll provide an honest timeline and get started on restoring your space as soon as possible!

Insurance coverage for water damage repairs can feel confusing, especially when dealing with the stress of the situation. The answer depends on the cause of the water damage and your specific policy, but here’s how it typically works:

Covered Water Damage Events
Most standard homeowner’s insurance policies will cover water damage that is sudden and accidental. This includes:

• Burst pipes caused by freezing temperatures or wear and tear.
• Water damage from an appliance malfunction, like a broken washing machine or dishwasher.
• Rain or storm damage that causes water to enter through a damaged roof or broken window.

These scenarios are considered unexpected, which is why they’re usually covered.

Excluded Water Damage Events
Unfortunately, not all water damage is covered. Common exclusions include:

• Flooding from natural disasters like hurricanes or heavy rains (this requires separate flood insurance).
• Damage resulting from long-term neglect or maintenance issues, such as slow leaks or mold that has been ignored.
• Sewage backups, unless your policy specifically includes this as an add-on.

It’s important to review your policy carefully to understand these limitations.

Steps to Take for Insurance Coverage
If your water damage appears to be covered, follow these steps to make the process smoother:

• Document everything. Take photos and videos of the damage before cleaning up. This is critical evidence for your claim.
• Contact your insurance provider immediately. Report the damage and provide all the details they request.
• Prevent further damage. Your policy likely requires you to mitigate additional damage. This means stopping the source of water and beginning cleanup as soon as possible.
• Work with a reputable restoration company. At Platinum Restoration, we’re experienced in working alongside insurance providers. We can even assist you with documentation and communicating with your adjuster.

Tips for Understanding Your Policy

• Know the difference between water damage and flooding—insurance policies define these terms differently.
• Check if you have endorsements or riders for specific events like sewer backups or sump pump failures.
• Understand your deductible and how it applies to water damage claims.

The Platinum Promise
At Platinum Restoration, we understand how overwhelming water damage can be. We’re here to not only repair your property but also help you navigate the insurance process with ease. If you’re unsure about coverage or need guidance, reach out to us today. 

We’re happy to help you get back to normal quickly and stress-free!

One of the biggest concerns after water damage is mold growth. Mold can develop in as little as 24 to 48 hours, turning a bad situation into a bigger problem. The good news? With the right steps, you can prevent mold and protect your home or business. Here’s how:

Start Drying Immediately
Mold thrives in damp conditions, so acting quickly is essential. Steps to dry out your space include:

• Using industrial-strength fans to circulate air and speed up drying.
• Running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels in the air.
• Opening windows and doors (if the weather permits) to improve ventilation.

The sooner you remove moisture, the less chance mold has to grow.

Remove Wet Materials
Certain materials that are soaked can’t always be saved. To prevent mold, remove:

• Wet carpets, rugs, and padding.
• Damaged drywall, insulation, and ceiling tiles.
• Any furniture or belongings that have absorbed water and can’t be dried out completely.

If you’re unsure what can be salvaged, a professional restoration team can help assess the damage.

Clean and Disinfect
Mold spores can spread easily, so thorough cleaning is critical.

• Wipe down surfaces with mold-killing solutions or professional-grade disinfectants.
• Pay special attention to porous materials like wood and fabric, which can trap moisture.
• Vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture mold spores in the air.

This step ensures mold doesn’t have a chance to take hold.

Monitor Moisture Levels
Even after drying and cleaning, it’s important to ensure no moisture remains.

• Use moisture meters to check hidden areas like inside walls and under floors.
• Keep dehumidifiers running for a few extra days to fully dry the space.
• Check for any lingering musty smells, which could indicate hidden mold.

Professional restoration teams have the tools to detect moisture in hard-to-reach areas.

Work With a Professional Team
Mold prevention can be complex, especially after significant water damage. At Platinum Restoration, we:

• Provide rapid water extraction and drying services to prevent mold from forming.
• Treat affected areas with mold-preventative solutions.
• Monitor your property to ensure it’s completely dry and safe before we finish the job.

Why This Matters
Mold not only damages your property but can also pose serious health risks, especially for those with allergies or respiratory conditions. By taking these steps, you’re protecting both your home and your loved ones.

If you’ve experienced water damage, let us help you take swift, effective action. Call Platinum Restoration today to ensure your space stays mold-free and fully restored!

When you’re faced with water damage, it’s natural to wonder what the repair process involves. At Platinum Restoration, we take a thorough, step-by-step approach to ensure your property is restored to its pre-damage condition—or better. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Inspection and Assessment
   Our team begins by evaluating the full extent of the damage. This step is crucial to creating an effective restoration plan.

• We identify the source of the water to ensure no further leaks occur.
• We assess the level of water contamination (clean, gray, or black water).
• We check all affected areas, including hidden spaces like behind walls and under floors.

This detailed inspection helps us prioritize your needs and set expectations for the timeline and cost.

2. Water Extraction
   The next step is removing standing water quickly to prevent further damage.

• We use powerful pumps and vacuums to extract water from floors, carpets, and furniture.
• Our advanced equipment ensures even hard-to-reach areas are thoroughly dried.

Fast action here minimizes the risk of mold and structural issues.

3. Drying and Dehumidification
   Even after water is removed, moisture can linger in the air and materials. To combat this:

• Industrial-grade fans and dehumidifiers dry the affected space completely.
• Moisture meters help us monitor progress and ensure no dampness is left behind.

This step is critical for preventing long-term damage like mold growth or warped structures.

4. Cleaning and Sanitizing
   Water damage can leave behind dirt, debris, and contaminants, especially with gray or black water.

• We clean all affected surfaces to remove stains and debris.
• Sanitizing treatments ensure the space is safe for you and your family.
• Odor removal techniques, like air scrubbers, eliminate any lingering smells.

We leave your space clean, fresh, and ready to use again.

5. Repairs and Restoration
   Finally, we restore your property to its original condition—or better.

• Replacing damaged drywall, insulation, and flooring.
• Restoring structural elements like beams or cabinets.
• Applying mold prevention treatments to keep your property safe.

For severe damage, we work closely with you to rebuild and redesign affected areas.

Why Choose Platinum Repair and Restoration?
We know how stressful water damage can be, so we handle every detail with care. From start to finish, our goal is to make the process seamless and get you back to normal as quickly as possible.

If you’ve experienced water damage, don’t wait. Call Platinum Restoration today to get started with a trusted team who’s here for you every step of the way!