This process provides a checklist of items required on first day of a water damage response Category III 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 project before leaving the shop
This will allow the office to keep track of travel time on the project.
3. Clock into project when arriving at the job site
Clock into job a second time when arriving at the jobsite.
4. Take picture of front of loss site from the street
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.
7. 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.
8. Install floor protection
9. Set up containment and drying chambers if necessary
10. Remove all contents from affected area
Remove all contents from affected area.
- Porous contents (stuffed animals, clothing, upholstered furniture, papers, etc.) should be disposed of.
- Hard contents need to be wiped down with an appropriate sanitizer and dried.
- Toys should be disposed of.
11. Extract Category III water or sewage
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 all porous building materials that were in contact with Category III water
Remove all porous building materials that were in contact with Category III water and double bag in 30 mil garbage bags. This should be completed in the area where the work is being completed. If the garbage bag has lost its integrity place in second garbage bag before taking outside. This includes but is not limited to the following:
- Floorcoverings
- Underlayment
- Drywall and or plaster
- Base trim and casing
- Insulation
- Cabinetry
14. Collect samples of building materials
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
