This process contains a checklist of items required on first day of a water damage response Category II loss.
1. Collect file information and address
Before leaving the office, ensure you have all documents, files and the address of the location of the water loss.
2. Clock into the project before leaving the shop
This will allow the office to keep track of travel time on the project.
3. Clock into the project when you arrive on site
Clock into job a second time when arriving at the jobsite.
4. Take a photo from the front of the home
This is an important step and is required by many insurance companies as a requirement for payment.
5. Get appropriate forms signed
Forms:
- Work Authorization
- Etc.
6. Put on (don) PPE
See video below for how to properly don PPE.
This water has:
- a significant degree of chemical, biological and/or physical contamination
- potential to cause sickness or discomfort
Examples include:
- aquarium or waterbed leaks
- toilet bowl overflows containing urine
- dishwasher or clothing washer leaks
- water entering the structure from below-grade
Cleaning processes need to take place to take care of contamination prior to drying procedures. The water must not be allowed to dwell for a significant time. Carpet underlay needs to be removed and disposed of, and carpet itself must be thoroughly cleaned. Antimicrobials are used to prevent bacterial growth.
7. Install floor protection
Install if needed.
8. Photo document the loss site
Photo document the loss site following photo document procedures as outlined in the document below.
After the site has been documented with a digital camera set up and do 3D Imaging of the loss site.
Make sure to document any items that stick out as high dollar or sentimental to the insured. Also take photos of any pre demo damage. You can not have enough pre demo photos!
9. Move and block contents
10. Extract water
11. Set up containment and drying chambers if necessary
12. Stop and ask whether the damaged material needs to be tested for lead or asbestos
Before beginning the removal process confirm whether the building materials need to be tested for lead or asbestos. See OSHA and EPA guidelines for when to test.
Asbestos: https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/asbestos-laws-and-regulations
Lead: https://www.epa.gov/lead/complying-lead-laws-and-regulations
13. Remove any carpet pad that had been exposed
Cleaning processes need to take place to take care of contamination prior to drying procedures. The water must not be allowed to dwell for a significant time. Carpet underlay needs to be removed and disposed of, and carpet itself must be thoroughly cleaned. Antimicrobials are used to prevent bacterial growth.
14. Collect samples of building material
Collect samples of any building materials that are being removed. Note: Choose a section that has not been contaminated if possible.
- Cut small piece of materials 12 X 12 inches.
- Place in large ziploc bag.
- Write the job name and job number on the bag.
Following are some of the items that should have samples brought back to the office:
- Carpet
- Vinyl
- Hardwood
- Carpet Cushion
- Drywall
- Baseboard
- Casing
- Other as needed
15. Use an appropriate sanitizer to treat all affected surfaces
16. Remove (doff) PPE
See video below for proper process for removal of PPE.
17. Set up drying equipment
18. Take initial moisture readings
19. Diagram the building
20. Complete final quality check walk through of project before departing
Before departing the project for the day do a final walk through:
- Is all debris removed and the site broom clean?
- Is all of the equipment running correctly?
- Are there any safety concerns?
- Tackless exposed
- Extension cords or other trip/fall hazards
- Nails exposed in floors or walls where they can be hit
- Gas appliance pilot lights
21. Input notes and upload documents into file management software before departing site
22. Clock out of project before leaving for the shop
23. Clean and decontaminate equipment
24. Restock vehicle
25. Clock out of project
