hurricane: Classification of Storm Water Damage - 10/22/17 10:35 AM
After the recent hurricanes we have found ourselves faced with the misclassification of rain water from the hurricane as Category 3 water (Cat 3).  The classification of water is defined by the IICRC S500 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration as either Category 1, 2, or 3.
After recent named storms many restoration contractors have been opportunistically categorizing rainwater from the storms as Category 3 water.  This benefits the restoration contractor.  With the classification of Cat 3 water the contractors can now remove substantially more building material than would otherwise be necessary.
To be clear there will always be Cat … (10 comments)

hurricane: Disaster Response and Recovery - 10/07/17 10:56 AM
It has been a wild couple of months, with first Hurricane Harvey then Irma and finally Maria leaving paths of devastation in their wake. Hundreds of IAQA members have been impacted both professionally and personally by the storms. As professionals serving clients suffering wide-ranging damages, we want to responsibly assist them and help them avoid the scammers who unfortunately seek to profit by the misfortune of others. The following is information to keep in mind that you can pass along to your clients as needed.
Puerto Rico
As the post hurricane damage is assessed in Puerto Rico, there are reports of “FEMA inspectors” … (0 comments)

hurricane: IAQA Response to Hurricane Harvey - 09/02/17 08:13 AM
As our country is once again hit with a devastating storm, IAQA sends our thoughts and prayers to all those impacted by Hurricane Harvey and the devastating floods that follow the storm surge. We have many IAQA members in the South Texas area who will be directly impacted by the storm and flood waters. Please know that our prayers are with you and your families. 
 
As those that are impacted by the storm and flood water struggle to gain control of their flood damaged homes, our vast network of IAQA members will be responding and taking action to provide necessary emergency response. … (1 comments)

hurricane: Storm Damage Assessment and Environmental Testing - 09/04/08 03:05 AM
Storm Damage Assessment and Environmental Testing
National attention has brought mold and indoor air quality to the forefront of your clients' concerns. Many clients have become knowledgeable about mold infestations and health issues.
By understanding what is hype and what is truth, you can recommend a certified Indoor Air Quality Specialist who will assess and analyze the property. The solutions recommend by a specialist will allow you and your client to move forward with the transaction quickly, efficiently, and effectively.
After The Clean Up Make Sure Your Home Is Free Of ;
Mold Bacteria Sewage Contamination E. Coli Fecal Coliform Fecal Streptococcus … (0 comments)

hurricane: Cleaning up after a Flood Step 2 - 09/04/08 02:43 AM
Once the Home or Building is Safe:
•1.     First take an inventory: Compile a room-by-room inventory of missing or damaged goods, and include manufacturer's names, dates and places of purchases and prices. Take photographs to document the damages for insurance purposes. A video recording would also be a very effective way to document flood damage.  This documentation will be useful if claims need to be filed with insurance companies, banks or various agencies later.
•2.     Dry all wet materials as quickly as possible. If possible, use air conditioning with fans and dehumidifiers. If you have no power and can get access … (0 comments)

hurricane: Cleaning up after a Flood Step 1 - 09/04/08 02:41 AM
The best way to avoid mold hazards is to hire a reputable Indoor Environmental Consultant that is certified and trained to provide a written protocol that will allow you to receive competitive bids from licensed restoration and drying contractors trained in dealing with water damage and mold remediation. But that may be difficult after a disaster. You may have to do the cleanup yourself. If so, follow the steps below.
* BEFORE YOU PROCEED:
After the water has receded enough to the point that it is no longer standing in your home or business, you should begin clean-up procedures.
Before beginning clean-up … (0 comments)