The single biggest purchase you’ll probably ever make is your home. And if your home is damaged by fire or water, you may be overwhelmed at the scope of the damage. While there are some similarities between the two, fire damage is usually even more extensive than water damage alone. Fire damage is often accompanied by water damage due to the efforts to put out the fire. So there are some overlaps, with different tools and procedures for each form of damage.

Water damage restoration is sometimes needed in seemingly unlikely situations. Water damage service is not required only when there is a huge flood – sometimes even smaller damages like faucet leaks can have grave effects on your home. The points below will help you identify some of the situations in which you could call a water damage company to help you out.

Water damage can come from three possible sources, each creating a different set of challenges for the cleaning professional. Category 1 is clean water, like from broken water lines. Category 2 is water from a source which may be contaminated. And category 3 is “black” water-water which may contain sewage, as from a sewer backup.

No matter which type of damage your home has suffered, the damage doesn’t just stop after the incident. Mold and mildew can grow on damp surfaces, even behind walls where it can’t be seen. This can represent a significant health hazard, especially if a family member has a history of respiratory problems. Renting this equipment yourself could be prohibitively expensive, not to mention the steep learning curve in using it. Water damage restoration experts, by contrast, have all the right equipment for the job, and they know how to use it.

When it comes to selecting the right professional water restoration repair service for your needs, it’s important to look at exactly what services each company offers. Some companies will only offer water removal, for example, while others may offer any number of other services, like structural drying, sewage cleanup and backup, digital metering, thermal imaging and more. Some water damage restoration professionals will even offer assistance with insurance claim filing. And without an insurance claim to file, the cost of restoration can be much higher.

Flood damages can sometimes cause other problems like physical or mental stress. This stress is basically caused by dealing with the water damage, flood clean up and insurance companies. And, if you hire the services of a proper water damage restoration company you will not have to worry about these things as most of them will be taken care of by the company you hire. Also if you do your research the water damage restoration service you hire has their own adjuster who can handle the insurance claim directly, you will not have to deal with that either.

Finally, be careful and choose an established flood clean up or water damage restoration company. If they have the experience and knowledge to get the job done right, you will be glad you did!