When to Choose Professional Restoration Services Over a DIY Project

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Media highlights six types of people who should avoid DIY damage restoration projects.

SERVPRO of Media understands that a water damage disaster can be a stressful, frustrating, and disruptive situation, especially for homeowners who are unable to undertake the water damage restoration process on their own. The property damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO are committed to providing a rapid response and efficient and thorough cleanup and restoration services, as well as a sense of encouragement for homeowners who cannot manage the situation as a DIY project.

A DIY water damage cleanup and restoration project is not practical or feasible for everyone. 

Circumstances where enlisting the services of a professional is the best practice.

1. The elderly

A slip-and-fall injury can put an elderly loved one in the hospital and rehab for months. Also, a broken leg or hip can lead to aging parents having to move out of their own home to recover with a relative or to stay in an assisted living center.

The emotional stress of dealing with a major property damage disaster such as a supply line bursting or a sewage backup can be overwhelming for an older person. A large-scale water intrusion or a cooking fire is a situation that the elderly with physical limitations should not attempt to remediate on their own.

Finally, the physical stress of mopping, lifting heavy buckets of water, climbing a ladder, or getting up and down from one’s knees can put a strain on the joints, the back, and the heart. Past or present injuries can become aggravated, and recent surgeries can be negatively impacted. Also, older individuals are more susceptible to straining a muscle or other injuries.

2. People with physical limitations

People with limited mobility, poor eyesight, lack of physical strength and stamina, or recent injuries should avoid undertaking a water damage cleanup project. A chronic illness or a recent surgery are compelling reasons to call in a professional to take care of the remediation process after a property damage disaster.

The realization that the job is too big to tackle alone can be frustrating and disappointing. A call to the professionals at SERVPRO of Media can begin the process of remediating the property damage and remedying the anxiety resulting from the disaster.

3. People suffering from health conditions aggravated by poor air quality

Property damage to a structure can create poor air quality, which can negatively affect people who suffer from breathing related health conditions. In a water damage situation, bulk water needs to be removed immediately. Rapid-spin fans and commercial-grade dehumidifiers must be deployed to dry up the remaining water and moisture. Allowing the residual water to linger is an invitation for a significant mold infestation, which could lead to health effects.

4. Homeowners who lack knowledge, equipment, and training

Property damage cleanup and restoration require knowledge, training, expertise, the proper equipment, specialized cleaning techniques, and EPA-approved cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing products. Personal protective gear such as protective eyewear, masks, gloves, boots, face shields, respirators, hardhats, and knee pads are essential for safety. Advanced moisture-detecting technology is indispensable to ensure and certify that the site meets drying standards. Many of these items need special instruction for proper use. The homeowner or business owner who does not know what to do and who does not have the needed tools, equipment, and safety gear should not proceed with a DIY property damage cleanup and restoration.

5. Homeowners with scheduling issues

Tight schedules at work, school, and home can make a DIY water damage cleanup project impossible to accomplish quickly enough to avoid advanced secondary damage such as a mold infestation. An upcoming vacation or business trip may be impossible to reschedule. Entertainment in the home for a holiday, anniversary, or birthday necessitates immediate action from the homeowner to secure water damage cleanup services.

People with physical limitations, health concerns, or heavy life and work commitments should avoid water damage DIY projects. The professionals at SERVPRO of Media offer a rapid response, 24/7, 365 days a year, including holidays. Customers are provided a detailed, documented estimate. The SERVPRO team can manage the insurance claims process from beginning to end, avoiding headaches and hassles for the homeowner.

For more details about Newtown Square, PA, water damage restoration, contact the SERVPRO of Media office by phone at (610) 566-5720 or by email at office@SERVPROmedia.com