H2O Away Restoration Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do first after discovering water damage?

If it is safe to do so, stop the source of the water and avoid affected electrical areas. Then contact H2O Away for professional water extraction, moisture detection, drying, and restoration.

How quickly should water damage be cleaned up?

Water damage should be addressed as quickly as possible. Delays can allow moisture to spread into walls, flooring, insulation, and other materials, increasing the risk of mold and additional damage.

How do you dry hidden moisture after water damage?

H2O Away uses moisture detection equipment and professional drying systems to identify and dry water that may be trapped behind walls, under flooring, or inside other building materials.

What should I do after a fire is extinguished?

Once the property is safe to enter, contact a professional restoration company. Fire damage can involve smoke, soot, odors, water from firefighting efforts, and structural damage that should be assessed before cleanup begins.

Can smoke and soot damage be cleaned and restored?

Yes. Depending on the affected materials, smoke and soot can often be professionally cleaned and treated. H2O Away also addresses lingering odors and other fire-related damage during the restoration process.

How long does fire damage restoration take?

The timeline depends on the extent of the fire, smoke, soot, water, and structural damage. Smaller losses may take several weeks, while more extensive restoration can take longer.

How do I know if I need mold testing or remediation?

Visible mold, musty odors, previous water damage, or ongoing moisture problems can indicate a mold issue. H2O Away can inspect the property and determine whether testing, containment, or remediation is appropriate.

What is involved in mold remediation?

Mold remediation can include identifying the moisture source, containing affected areas, removing contaminated materials, cleaning impacted surfaces, and addressing moisture conditions that could allow mold to return.

Can mold come back after remediation?

Mold can return if the underlying moisture problem is not corrected. H2O Away focuses on both removing affected materials and identifying the moisture conditions contributing to the growth.

Is sewage damage dangerous to clean up yourself?

Yes. Sewage can contain bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants that can create serious health risks. Professional cleanup helps ensure affected materials are removed, surfaces are disinfected, and the area is properly dried.

What does professional sewage cleanup include?

Sewage cleanup can include contaminated water removal, disposal of affected materials, cleaning and disinfection, drying, odor control, and restoration of damaged areas.

Can sewage damage lead to mold growth?

Yes. Moisture left behind after a sewage backup can create conditions for mold growth. Proper drying and moisture control are important parts of the cleanup process.

What situations require professional biohazard cleanup?

Biohazard cleanup may be needed after incidents involving blood, bodily fluids, biological materials, or other potentially hazardous contamination that requires professional removal and disinfection.

What does biohazard cleanup include?

Biohazard cleanup can include containment, removal of affected materials, cleaning, disinfection, contamination control, and restoration of impacted areas as needed.

Is biohazard cleanup available for both homes and businesses?

Yes. H2O Away provides biohazard cleanup for residential and commercial properties, with the cleanup process based on the type and extent of contamination.

Does H2O Away provide 24/7 emergency restoration?

Yes. H2O Away is available 24/7 for urgent property damage, including water, fire, sewage, biohazard, and other restoration emergencies.

How quickly can H2O Away respond to an emergency?

H2O Away aims to arrive in about 60 minutes or less for emergency calls throughout Olympia, Tumwater, and the surrounding Thurston County service area, depending on conditions and crew availability.

Will H2O Away work with my insurance company?

Yes. H2O Away can document the damage, communicate with insurance adjusters, and assist with the claims process. Direct insurance billing may also be available when applicable.