Professional vs. DIY Water Damage Mitigation

10/4/2023 (Permalink)

Not sure if a professional or DIY water mitigation is right for you? Compare the two options with this helpful guide!

Whether dealing with a slow leak or a major flood, handling water damage mitigation is no small task. Not only is there the initial damage and cleanup to consider, but there’s also the possibility of long-term effects, such as rot and mold. In fact, dangerous mold can start to grow in as little as 24 hours following a water damage or flooding event.

For that reason, it’s important that homeowners act fast and try to mitigate further loss, especially when it comes to water mitigation. However, many people often procrastinate as they weigh their options of hiring a professional versus completing the job themselves. 

Each option has its own pros and cons, so customers should take that into consideration. This guide helps break down the main differences between a professional and DIY water damage mitigation.

Cost

One of the most considerable differences between a professional and DIY water mitigation is the price. Homeowners who choose the DIY route often do so because it is the more affordable option. However, there are some cases where it could turn out to be more expensive than expected. This is especially true if there is hidden damage or future mold growth.

Professional water mitigation services can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. While this might seem off-putting, this option could provide homeowners with a better return by ensuring the job gets done right the first time. 

Time

Many homeowners are eager to get started on their water mitigation right away, so they start the cleanup on their own. While it might be faster to get started without waiting on a professional, the amount of time to complete the whole job usually takes much longer. Many people underestimate how long drying and cleaning takes, and they fail to realize how their work and family life can interrupt the project.  

The best water mitigation companies offer 24/7 emergency services, so homeowners shouldn’t have to wait long to start the cleanup process. Not to mention, their methods and equipment help them complete the mitigation much faster than a homeowner could complete a DIY job.

Expertise

The fact of the matter is that the average homeowner simply doesn’t have any experience with water damage mitigation. They don’t know the best methods for drying and cleaning, and they may unknowingly put themselves at risk for exposure to contaminants, electric shock, or other hazards. 

When a homeowner chooses to hire a professional, they can rest assured that they have the training and certification to handle the job. The technicians have extensive knowledge and skills that allow them to effectively mitigate further damage. 

Equipment

The average homeowner also doesn’t have access to the right equipment for water damage mitigation. If the leak was small enough, they may be able to use towels and mops, but if the event caused significant water damage, they’ll need access to bigger and more effective tools.

A professional water mitigation company should have access to a variety of tools that can aid in a quick cleanup. Not only do they have pumps and wet/dry vacuums that can speed up water extraction, but they also have moisture meters, infrared cameras, air movers, dehumidifiers, and other tools that let them achieve the best results. 

Effectiveness

In general, a DIY water mitigation is far less effective than a professional job. Homeowners who choose this option are more likely to need professional services down the road as secondary water damage pops up. 

By hiring a professional to start, homeowners can ensure the job gets done right the first time. Experts are thorough with checking the results and reading moisture levels when the job is finished. Many offer some kind of satisfaction guarantee as well.

Insurance Claims

Finally, homeowners who choose to DIY the cleanup may prefer to pay for the project with their homeowner's insurance. In this case, they also have to navigate the challenges of filing a claim on their own. Not only is this stressful, but if they make a mistake, they risk getting denied any coverage at all.

One of the greatest benefits of working with a professional is that they can assist with the insurance claims process. In fact, many will file the claim and handle negotiations with the adjuster on behalf of their customers. This cuts down on time and stress!

Request a Professional Water Mitigation from a Trusted Local Restoration Company 

Interested in hiring a professional water mitigation company? Local customers should call SERVPRO of Weymouth, Hingham, and Quincy right away. They offer 24/7 emergency services, so they can help any time that a disaster strikes the area. Customers just need to call (781) 650-3901 or fill out their online contact form.