FAQs - Ask the Provision Restoration Pros

Being IICRC certified means a restoration company or technician has been trained and tested by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) - the leading standard-setting body for cleaning, inspection, and restoration services.

Why it matters:

• Ensures technicians working in your home or business follow industry-recognized safety and restoration standards.

• Confirms they have passed specialized training and exams in water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, and more.

• Requires ongoing continuing education to stay up to date with new materials, equipment, and techniques. This way, the restoration work being done on your property is being done with the latest industry knowledge.

• Certified firms must show proof of insurance, proper documentation, and trustworthy business practices.

For homeowners and businesses: choosing an IICRC-certified restoration company means you’re working with trained professionals who can restore your property safely, efficiently, and to the highest industry standards.

Yes - mold exposure can cause health problems for many people, especially those with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. Both the EPA and CDC warn that all types of mold have the potential to impact health.

Common health issues linked to mold include:

• Headaches

• Breathing difficulties

• Persistent cough or cold-like symptoms

• Irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, or lungs

• Asthma attacks

• Allergic reactions

• Skin irritation

• Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (lung inflammation)

• Opportunistic infections in immune-compromised individuals

Who is most at risk?

• Children and infants

• Elderly adults

• People with asthma or chronic lung conditions

• Individuals with weakened immune systems (chemotherapy patients, transplant patients, etc.)

In homes: mold often grows in damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, or around kitchen drains. Even small amounts can trigger reactions.

In offices: mold growth can worsen indoor air quality and contribute to Sick Building Syndrome. It thrives in spaces with high humidity (60–90%) and temperatures between 70–90°F. Common areas include break rooms, ceilings, bathrooms, and window areas.

If you notice mold, it’s best to arrange professional mold remediation quickly to protect both your health and your property.

No - painting over mold does not solve the problem. It only hides the mold temporarily while it continues to grow underneath the paint.

Why painting over mold doesn’t work:

• Paint does not kill mold, because mold is a living fungus, not a stain.

• Mold will continue to spread on porous surfaces (like drywall), eventually causing damage that requires full replacement.

• Freshly painted surfaces can quickly bubble, crack, or discolor as the mold breaks through.

• The real issue (moisture source such as a leak or high humidity) remains unresolved.

Common signs of paint covering mold:

• Walls or ceilings that bubble, bow out, or feel uneven

• Paint that cracks or chips prematurely

• Light-colored paint turning yellow or brown (often a sign of water damage)

The correct solution is to fix the source of moisture first, then have the affected area properly cleaned or remediated. If mold is extensive, professional restoration is the safest and most cost-effective option.

Sometimes - it depends on the cause. Most homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage (like a burst pipe), but they do not cover flood damage or gradual issues (like slow leaks or poor maintenance).

Typically covered:

• Burst pipes or appliance failures (dishwasher, washing machine, water heater)

• Water damage from putting out a fire

• Accidental overflow from sinks, tubs, or toilets

• Roof leaks caused by sudden storms or wind damage

Usually not covered:

• Flooding from heavy rain, storm surge, or overflowing rivers (requires separate flood insurance)

• Gradual leaks from old plumbing, poor maintenance, or foundation cracks

• Sewer or drain backups (unless you added extra coverage)

• Mold growth that develops because water damage wasn’t fixed quickly

Tip: Always review your specific policy and consider adding flood or sewer backup coverage if you’re in a high-risk area. If water damage happens, document everything and contact both a restoration professional and your insurance company immediately.

The water damage restoration process is a series of steps to remove water, dry the property, clean damaged areas, and restore your home or business. The goal is to prevent mold growth, protect belongings, and return your property to a safe condition.

Typical steps in water damage restoration:

1. Inspection & assessment – A professional identifies the source of water and evaluates the extent of damage. This determines the right restoration plan.

2. Water removal – Pumps and vacuums extract standing water as quickly as possible to prevent further damage.

3. Drying & dehumidification – Specialized equipment removes hidden moisture from walls, flooring, and furniture. This phase can take several days to fully complete.

4. Cleaning & sanitizing – Personal items and surfaces are cleaned, disinfected, and treated with antimicrobial products to stop mold and bacteria. Air scrubbers may also be used.

5. Repairs & restoration – Damaged materials like drywall, insulation, or flooring are replaced to return the property to its pre-damage condition.

Why it matters: Acting quickly is crucial - mold can begin growing in just 24–48 hours. Professional restoration ensures a safe, complete recovery.

Water damage restoration is the process of cleaning, drying, repairing, and restoring a property after it has been damaged by water from leaks, floods, or other emergencies. The goal is to remove water quickly, prevent mold growth, and return the property to a safe, livable condition.

Typical water damage restoration process:

1. Inspection & assessment – finding the source of water and measuring the extent of damage.

2. Water removal – extracting standing water using pumps and vacuums.

3. Drying & dehumidification – using specialized equipment to remove hidden moisture.

4. Cleaning & sanitizing – disinfecting surfaces to prevent bacteria and mold.

5. Repairs & restoration – fixing damaged drywall, flooring, or structural elements to restore the home or office.

Professional restoration is important because water can seep into walls, floors, and foundations, causing long-term damage and mold growth if not handled quickly.

A homeowners insurance company may deny a water damage claim if the cause of the damage is excluded from your policy or if it’s considered preventable.

Common reasons for denial include:

• Flooding – standard homeowners insurance does not cover floods (you need separate flood insurance).

• Gradual leaks – damage from long-term plumbing leaks, seepage, or poor maintenance is usually not covered.

• Negligence – if the insurer determines you didn’t take reasonable steps to protect your property.

• Mold – if mold developed because water damage wasn’t addressed quickly.

• Sewer or drain backups – unless you purchased add-on coverage.

• Wear and tear – damage from old roofs, aging pipes, or foundation cracks.

Tip: Always review your policy carefully and document damage immediately with photos. If your claim is denied but you believe it should be covered, you can appeal the decision or work with a professional restoration company to provide proper documentation.

Hiring a water damage restoration specialist ensures that your property is restored quickly, safely, and correctly after leaks, floods, or plumbing failures. While DIY cleanup may seem cheaper, hidden damage and mold growth can cost far more in the long run.

Key reasons to hire a specialist:

• Fast response & professional equipment – Experts use pumps, vacuums, dehumidifiers, and air scrubbers to remove water and moisture efficiently.

• Mold prevention – Specialists dry and treat hidden areas to stop mold from forming (which can begin within 24–48 hours).

• Structural protection – Proper drying prevents damage to drywall, flooring, and foundations.

• Health & safety – Certified professionals use antimicrobial treatments to sanitize surfaces and improve indoor air quality.

• Insurance assistance – Restoration companies often document damage and work directly with insurance providers to support your claim.

A certified water damage restoration specialist doesn’t just clean up - they ensure your home or business is fully protected from long-term damage.

Yes - in most cases, homeowners must pay their insurance deductible upfront before restoration contractors can begin work. This ensures the project can move forward without payment issues and keeps the insurance claim process compliant.

Key things to know about deductibles:

• Upfront payment is required – Contractors cannot start repairs until the deductible is paid.

• No waivers or rebates allowed – Insurance laws prevent contractors from waiving, rebating, or offsetting your deductible.

• Why it matters – Paying your deductible ensures your insurance claim stays valid and avoids coverage disputes later.

• Insurance tip – When choosing or renewing your homeowners policy, consider what deductible amount you can reasonably pay in an emergency.

Paying your deductible upfront is a normal part of the restoration process — it protects both you and your contractor, ensuring the work can begin quickly and your insurance claim is honored.

Usually not under a standard homeowners policy. Most homeowners insurance policies exclude sewage or drain backups from basic coverage. To be protected, you typically need to purchase an optional sewage or water backup endorsement.

Key points about coverage:

• Not covered: Standard homeowners insurance does not include damage from sewage backups.

• Covered with an add-on: If you added a sewer/water backup rider, your insurance may pay for cleanup and repairs.

• Flood insurance doesn’t help: Flood policies also do not cover sewage backups.

• Why it matters: Without coverage, you’re responsible for all cleanup and restoration costs.

Tip: Review your policy and ask your agent if you have sewage backup coverage. If not, consider adding it - the cost is usually low compared to the potential expense of cleanup and repairs.

Yes - sewage water is highly dangerous because it contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Direct contact or even breathing in contaminated air can cause serious illness.

Health risks from sewage exposure include:

• Gastrointestinal infections (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)

• Skin rashes or irritation

• Eye, nose, and throat irritation

• Respiratory problems from airborne contaminants

• Hepatitis, salmonella, E. coli, and other bacterial infections

• Increased risks for children, elderly adults, and those with weakened immune systems

Important: Never attempt to clean sewage water yourself. Professional sewage cleanup is necessary to safely remove contaminants, sanitize affected areas, and protect your health.

If your home is uninhabitable after sewage, water, or fire damage, your homeowners insurance may cover Additional Living Expenses (ALE) - but only if the damage is caused by a covered peril under your policy.

What ALE insurance covers:

• Hotel stays or temporary rental housing

• Meals or increased food expenses

• Laundry and storage fees

• Pet boarding

• Other reasonable extra costs while displaced

When ALE applies:

• Your home must be officially unlivable due to damage.

• The cause must be a covered peril (e.g., burst pipes, sudden water damage, fire).

• ALE usually does not apply if the damage is caused by flooding, gradual leaks, or maintenance issues.

Tip: Always check your policy details or speak to your claims representative to confirm what’s covered and what documentation you’ll need for your ALE claim.

If you’ve had a fire, safety comes first - once everyone is safe and the fire is out, here’s what to do next:

1. Contact your insurance company – Report the fire and begin the claims process.

2. Protect your property – If safe, secure windows, doors, or holes in the roof to prevent further damage.

3. Avoid DIY cleanup – Smoke, soot, and water used to extinguish the fire can be hazardous and spread damage if not handled properly.

4. Call a fire damage restoration specialist – Professionals handle smoke removal, odor control, structural drying, and repairs.

5. Document everything – Take photos and keep receipts for temporary housing, meals, and repairs for insurance reimbursement.

Acting quickly prevents secondary damage and helps your insurance claim move faster.

Yes - smoke damage can be harmful even after a fire is out. Smoke and soot contain toxic particles and chemicals that can irritate the lungs, skin, and eyes.

Health risks from smoke damage include:

• Coughing, shortness of breath, and aggravated asthma

• Burning or irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat

• Headaches, dizziness, or fatigue from carbon monoxide exposure

• Long-term respiratory problems if soot particles remain in the home

Important: Smoke and soot settle into walls, furniture, and HVAC systems. Professional cleaning and deodorization are necessary to make your home safe again.