Step 2: Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

When responding to a water damage emergency, SERVPRO of Vincennes will begin with a detailed inspection of your home or property, including a damage assessment. At this stage, our professionals are trying to determine the scope of the damage so that we can develop an appropriate plan of action. SERVPRO of Vincennes technicians will also determine the category of the water. Water damage can be very deceptive. When water sits, time and temperature will affect the category. According to IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration (IICRC S500), there are three categories of water that cause damage. Below is a helpful list of the three categories:

  • Category 1 “Clean Water”: Water which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Examples include burst water pipes, failed supply lines on appliances, vertically falling water.
  • Category 2 “Grey Water”: Water which begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. Examples include water that has flowed through insulation and walls, dishwasher and washing machine discharge line overflow, toilet overflow that does not contain sewage.
  • Category 3 “Black Water”: Water which is highly contaminated and could cause death or serious illness if consumed by humans. Examples include sewage, rising flood water from rivers and streams, ground water flowing horizontally into homes.

Identify and Stop the Water Source

We will check for the source of moisture in your home or business. The source must be stopped before any restoration or drying of the building can be successful.

  • Stop the Source
  • Check for Contaminated Water

Identify the Type of Water

We will identify the category and classification of water damage to ensure our professionals restore your property based on industry guidelines. The level of contamination of the water will affect the specific restoration processes we use.

  • Category 1: "Clean Water"
  • Category 2: "Gray Water"
  • Category 3: "Black Water"

Survey the Extent of the Water Damage and Inspect the Premises

We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration. In addition, we will inspect for safety concerns that may be evident. If there are any safety issues like lead or asbestos, please bring them to our attention.

  • Survey Damage
  • Complete Safety Inspection

Move or Block Furniture

We move furniture and property contents and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpet.

  • Block Furniture

Back to Step 1: Emergency Contact

Forward to Step 3: Water Removal / Water Extraction