Flood Restoration - Category 2 Water Loss Procedure

WARNING: Handling Category 2 water damage involves significant health risks and a high chance of injury. The process of water damage restoration can lead to severe health risks, including illness or death, due to the potential for toxic mold and structural instability if not dried properly.

Jon-Don strongly recommends hiring a trained and certified professional, well-versed in the industry's standards of care (IICRC S500 and IICRC S520), for all Category 2 water or hurricane damage restoration. We advise that professionals complete an IICRC WRT Class and an IICRC ASD Class before addressing any water loss incidents.

Category 2 water damage, or "Gray Water," involves water that contains significant levels of chemical, biological, or physical contaminants. This type of water can cause discomfort or sickness when consumed or exposed to, and typically comes from sources such as toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, hydrostatic failure seepage, and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.

Basic Procedure for Category 2 Water Damage

1. Complete Contracts: Ensure all work contracts are finalized before initiating restoration efforts.
2. Safety Hazard Identification: Identify potential safety hazards such as electrical wires in standing water or unstable structures.
3. Source Identification and Containment: Locate and halt the source of the water. This may require the services of a professional plumber or contractor.
4. Furniture Protection: Block furniture to protect it and move smaller items out of the affected area.
5. Water Extraction: Use a sub-surface extraction tool and pads, and a squeegee or mop for hard surfaces. Turn on dehumidifiers to allow coils to reach the dew point.
6. Biocide Application: Apply a biocide to all affected surfaces to prevent and retard the growth of microbial organisms.
7. Material Removal and Disposal: Remove and discard the carpet pad and any non-dryable structural materials from affected areas.
8. Moisture Inspection: Inspect all areas the water may have reached, documenting moisture levels.
9. Drying Chamber Creation: Establish a drying chamber to focus on drying only the wet areas.
10. Air Movers Installation: Install air movers approximately every 10-15 linear feet, ensuring they all blow in the same direction.
11. Daily Monitoring: Continuously monitor the restoration process, recording all drying data and keeping precise records.
12. Disposal and Documentation: Dispose of any non-dryable items, with documented approval from the homeowner or insurance company.
13. Carpet Reinstallation: Once drying is complete, reinstall the carpet with a new pad.
14. Structural Material Replacement:Replace all structural materials that were removed during the cleanup process.
15. Final Cleaning: After drying, clean all affected areas thoroughly to ensure no contaminants remain.