Level Creek Property Restoration in Northeast Metro Atlanta | Disaster Restoration

Fire Damage Cleanup: Initial Steps to Restore Your Fire-Damaged Home

2026-04-08T00:00:00.05Z

What is Fire Mitigation?

Fires can quickly cause devastating damage, turning one structurally sound home or business into an unsafe environment within minutes. Even after the flames are extinguished, issues like structural instability, water damage from firefighting efforts, and lingering soot can continue to cause further damage.

In the aftermath, the recovery process may feel overwhelming, but the steps taken immediately after the incident play a critical role in determining both the cost and timeline of restoration. Level Creek Property Restoration supports homeowners 24/7 by quickly scheduling mitigation and effectively navigating the insurance claims process, ensuring successful fire damage remediation.

Once the fire is extinguished, mitigation is the first step in protecting the property and preparing for a safe, efficient rebuild. Mitigation focuses on reducing the severity of the damage, often beginning with inspecting the structural stability and preventing further damage. This process includes inspecting, securing, and cleaning the property in preparation for rebuilding to pre-loss condition.

Assessing and Securing the Fire-Damaged Property

During the initial stages, a post-fire inspection is conducted to determine whether the property can be safely entered and restored. IICRC-trained contractors determine the type and extent of damage. Extreme temperatures can warp and weaken building materials, leaving visible and hidden hazards. Collapsed walls, warped ceilings, and toxic soot residue are common concerns following a house fire. For safety purposes, homeowners should avoid entering the property until after the assessment.

After a fire, it’s important to seal off any exposed areas, including damaged roofing, doors, and windows, to prevent intrusion and secure the property. Level Creek Property Restoration offers 24/7 emergency services, including fire damage board-up and roof tarping for both homeowners and businesses. Our team responds quickly, simplifies the insurance claims process, and always prioritizes restoring your property efficiently and safely.

Demolition and Water Removal

Once the property is secured, technicians immediately begin the drying process by removing standing water. Industrial-grade mitigation equipment, including drying fans and dehumidifiers, lowers moisture levels and prevents secondary damage. Property damage cleanup also involves removing unsalvageable materials, like wet sheetrock, burned furniture, and other affected contents. Content specialists may be contacted to remove delicate or salvageable personal items for additional cleaning, allowing homeowners to recover what they can before the next phase of restoration.

Specialty Cleaning: Smoke and Soot Removal

After water extraction and debris removal, IICRC-certified technicians focus on deep cleaning and deodorization. Smoke, soot, and lingering odors can continue to affect the property long after the fire is extinguished. Smoke and soot penetrate surfaces, leaving behind unpleasant odors that seem inescapable. Our trained technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and follow all IICRC standards for professional fire and smoke damage

Technicians use HEPA vacuums, thermal fogging, and ozone treatments to eliminate odors and reduce airborne particles. Commercial-grade restoration chemicals are also used to thoroughly remove stubborn residue from soot, smoke, and odor. With transparent pricing and expert care, Level Creek Property Restoration guarantees the removal of unpleasant smoke odors from your home or business.

Simplifying Fire-Damage Recovery

Restoring a property includes more than an inspection, water removal, thorough cleaning, and odor removal. After fire mitigation, fire-damage reconstruction returns the property to pre-loss condition. In addition to our mitigation technicians, our project managers play a critical role in ensuring a seamless recovery. Our project managers schedule repairs, coordinate with the insurance provider, and document progress, ensuring an efficient recovery from fire mitigation to the complete restoration.

Our technicians provide fast, professional, and reliable fire-damage cleanup services to Buford, Suwanee, and surrounding Atlanta-area cities. Contact Level Creek Property Restoration to learn more about cleaning up, rebuilding, or filing an insurance claim after a fire.

Pipe Burst Emergency Remediation

2026-03-10T15:54:31.05Z

The insurance agent recommended Level Creek Property Restoration as a trusted contractor for mitigation and restoration services. Our IICRC-certified technicians responded to the 24/7 emergency water removal services call and arrived on site within the hour. Since the pipe burst went unnoticed for several hours, remediation took several days to stabilize. During mitigation, the technicians removed standing water with vacuums and installed state-of-the-art drying equipment. Dehumidifiers, drying fans, and air movers increased ventilation, lowering humidity levels. Project managers also coordinated with the American Family Insurance Agent, updating the homeowner every step of the way.

Rebuilding Property Damaged by Vehicle Crash

2026-03-09T16:48:21.05Z

Once the homeowner filed an insurance claim, Level Creek Property Restoration stepped in to manage the covered repairs. A project manager was assigned to inspect the damage, coordinate directly with the homeowner's insurance provider, and manage every step of the rebuild. After the car crashed into the house, the homeowner was relieved not to face the burden of navigating home and auto policy coverage alone. Our IICRC-certified technicians consistently communicated with the homeowner to discuss the repair costs and coverage provided by Southern Trust Insurance Company. If your home or business is struck and damaged by a vehicle, our restoration professionals are trained to provide expert assistance.

Water Damage and Sewage Cleanup Service

2026-03-09T11:13:23.05Z

Requiring immediate attention, Level Creek Property Restoration responded to the emergency water services request and arrived on scene within the hour. IICRC-certified technicians shut off the water and power supply and began removing standing water as quickly as possible. Level Creek Property Restoration uses state-of-the-art drying equipment, such as dehumidifiers, wet vacuums, and air movers, to stabilize the area. When it comes to water damage, especially sewage removal, the sooner remediation can begin, the better. Our project managers implement mitigation techniques as quickly as possible to avoid costly restoration costs. From water removal to rebuilding the living room, Level Creek Property Restoration communicated directly with the homeowner's Mercury Insurance agent, facilitating a smooth restoration.

Storm Damage and Roof Restoration in Pendergrass

2026-03-06T17:13:00.05Z

Level Creek Property Restoration responded to the emergency tarping request within the hour to secure the property. Homeowners should evacuate immediately and not return inside until it's deemed safe. Sudden damage caused by a storm is often covered by insurance, but it's important to review your deductible and policy's coverage. After temporarily protecting the damaged roof from leaks, the project manager coordinated directly with the insurance provider to file an insurance claim. The covered scope of repairs included structural repairs, exterior restoration, and interior repairs. Level Creek Property Restoration offers 24/7 emergency response services if your home or business experiences extensive roof damage.

Water Damage and Sewage Cleanup Service

2026-03-06T16:01:56.05Z

Water emergencies can strike unexpectedly, causing significant damage quickly. Water damage can occur after sump pump failure, water heater failure, overflowing toilets, sewer backups, and more. Our IICRC-certified technicians offer 24/7 emergency services, comprehensive flood cleanup, and customer satisfaction.

After contacting Level Creek Property Restoration for emergency water removal services, technicians arrived immediately to stop the leak and begin stabilizing the area. The mitigation crew used vacuums to remove standing water, dehumidifiers to lower moisture levels, and cleaning agents to sterilize the area. Contact us to learn more about monitoring water usage, regular inspections, and preventing water damage in your home or property.

State Farm Roof Restoration in Nicholson

2026-03-06T15:22:22.05Z

As a trusted repair contractor with State Farm, Level Creek Property Restoration was contacted to handle the repairs following the storm damage. Technicians arrived on site within the hour to tarp and board up the affected areas, protecting the interior from water intrusion. Our project manager coordinated with the homeowner's State Farm agent to file a claim and move forward with documentation. Roof restoration can be costly, but our contractors are trained to advocate on the homeowner's behalf when discussing insurance claim coverage.

The roof damage was caused by sudden perils, such as wind, meaning the insurance will cover the repairs. Coverage can differ based on deductibles and overall policy coverage, making it imperative to speak with your agent. After receiving an approved scope of repairs, Level Creek Property Restoration repaired the underlying structure and replaced the entire roof. Insurance roof replacement, including roofing, interior restoration, and full reconstruction, is available for Nicholson and the surrounding Jackson County, Georgia cities.

Commercial Mitigation and Mold Cleanup Services

2026-03-05T16:53:46.05Z

As a local and family-owned company, IIRC certified technicians arrived on site the same day to inspect the property. Our specialists handle all types of mold infestations appearing in the bathroom, basement, attic, or walls. Mold can be stopped early with proper containment and air filtration. Surface treatments and cleaning agents are also used to thoroughly sanitize the area, preventing further mold damage. Mold eradication, whether toxic, green, or black, can be concerning, but professional remediation is available 24/7.

Frozen Pipe Burst Cleanup

2026-03-05T16:29:17.05Z

Level Creek Property Restoration offers 24/7, around-the-clock water extraction services for homeowners experiencing sudden water loss damage like a pipe burst. Momentarily, mitigation technicians and plumbers arrived to locate the source of the leak and shut off the water supply to prevent further flooding. Pipes are most at risk in unheated interior spaces like basements, ceilings, attics, and garages.

State of the art mitigation equipment, such as dehumidifiers, air movers, fans, vacuums, air scrubbers, and moisture meters were used to stabilize and dry the area. During mitigation, damaged materials were removed, making room to clean and continue to dry out the area. Proper mitigation techniques can make for a more affordable rebuild if handled quickly and efficiently.

Once mitigation was completed, the project manager continued to coordinate the covered scope of repairs with the homeowner's insurance provider. During the disaster recovery process, IIRC certified technicians replace flooring, walls, ceilings, appliances, and damaged structural components. Level Creek Property Restoration is a trusted repair contractor, fully trained in restoring flood-damaged properties to pre-loss condition.

Basement Water Damage Restoration in Lula

2026-03-05T14:02:52.05Z

Level Creek received the emergency water removal request and arrived on site immediately. When it comes to water intrusion, a small water stain can quickly turn into a collapsed ceiling. Contacting a mitigation technician as soon as possible is a crucial step in avoiding further damage. The IIRC certified technicians tarped the exterior of the property, located the source of the leak, and removed excess water. During the water damage remediation process, Level Creek Property Restoration worked directly with the homeowner's USAA insurance agent to ensure a smooth and efficient recovery.

Liability, Insurance, and Repairs Following Fallen Tree Damage

2026-03-05T12:00:27.05Z

A project manager was assigned to guide the homeowner through the entire recovery process from tarping to roof replacement. Emergency tarping and water removal services are available 24/7 for home and business owners experiencing property damage. Our IIRC certified technicians have the expertise to repair roofing, siding, framing, and interior damage caused by storm, water, and fire disasters.

During remediation and reconstruction, our project managers coordinate directly with the insurance agent, having the homeowner's best interest in mind. Navigating insurance claims can be tricky, but Level Creek works with all major providers like Progressive, Nationwide, State Farm, Allstate, Travelers, Hartford, and Mercury, ensuring a smooth restoration process from start to finish.

Pipe Burst Emergency Water Removal

2026-03-05T10:02:38.05Z

A homeowner in Jefferson noticed brown water stains appearing on the drywall, warping and discoloration on the wood flooring, and a musty odor coming from the kitchen area. A burst pipe led to a flooded kitchen and water damage in several surrounding areas. Leaks from water supply lines, appliances, and pipes can cause significant damage quickly.

Kitchen Appliance Leak Cleanup

2026-03-04T16:05:01.05Z

A homeowner in Monroe experienced significant kitchen flooding after a dishwasher leak went unnoticed. The water spread quickly, damaging kitchen cabinets, drywall, flooring, and the subfloor beneath.

Toilet Overflow and Water Damage Remediation

2026-03-04T14:43:04.05Z

Our team of IIRC certified technicians responded quickly to assess the damage and begin water extraction. In any water loss situation, it's crucial to shut off the water supply, identify the source of the leak, and remove standing water. State-of-the-art equipment like drying fans, vacuums, and dehumidifiers are installed to stabilize the area. Our technicians wear protective gear and apply cleaning agents to avoid exposure to contaminated areas. After remediation, our project managers coordinated directly with the homeowner and State Farm to ensure clear communication and a smooth rebuild. The covered scope of repairs included flood cuts, minor demolition, drywall replacement, and new engineered wood flooring. Level Creek Property Restoration is trusted by major insurance providers to manage the entire water damage recovery process from start to finish.

Toilet Overflow Cleanup and Water Damage Repair

2026-02-26T11:30:46.05Z

Level Creek offers 24/7 emergency water removal and responded to the Grayson homeowner's call, sending mitigation technicians to the property immediately. Our trusted plumbers are trained in water and sewer damage cleanup, cleaning and deodorizing, drying contents and structure, and water leak repair. The team worked quickly, mitigating the risk of further damage to the unaffected surrounding areas.

Standing water was removed with industrial-strength equipment, such as pumps and vacuums. During the rapid removal of contaminated water, cleaning agents sanitized and removed bacteria. Our project managers worked quickly to stabilize the area and communicate effectively with the homeowner's insurance provider. During a flood, our team provided expert care with a sense of urgency, managing the mitigation, reconstruction, and insurance claims process from start to finish.

Is It Worth Filing a State Farm Claim for Minor Water Damage Repairs?

2026-02-23T09:15:35.05Z

To support the homeowner through this decision, Level Creek provided a free site inspection immediately. After a thorough inspection, the mitigation technician and project manager determined that it was in the homeowner's best interest not to file a claim. The damage was minimal, and the repairs were expected to cost less than the deductible. After the plumber repaired the leak, minor drying and cleaning restored the space to normal.

Throughout the entire process, Level Creek helped the homeowner understand their options and make an informed decision on how to proceed. Our team also stayed in contact with the insurance provider, updating the agent every step of the way. This instance represents the value in acting quickly and consulting a restoration professional if unsure whether the damage is claim-worthy. The Level Creek team helped the homeowner save money by preventing further water damage and avoiding the consequences of filing an unnecessary insurance claim.

What Water Damage Does Home Insurance Actually Cover?

2026-02-19T00:00:00.05Z

Water damage can happen unexpectedly, and understanding your homeowners insurance coverage can be incredibly helpful when navigating a stressful situation. From appliance leaks and burst pipes to plumbing issues and roof leaks, water damage is one of the most common and costly problems homeowners face. This often leaves homeowners asking whether it’s worth filing an insurance claim, whether the damage is covered, what the payout will be, and what’s included in their policy. While these concerns are valid, homeowners don’t have to navigate them alone. Level Creek has the experience of guiding you through every step of the repair process.

Is It Worth Filing an Insurance Claim for Water Damage?

Deciding whether to file an insurance claim often comes down to the size of the loss, your deductible, and your policy details. A free inspection from our restoration professionals can give you the clarity you need to make an informed decision. It’s also important to consider how the damage occurred. Sudden and unexpected issues are often covered, but ongoing problems without proper maintenance are usually not covered.

What Type of Water Damage Is Not Covered by Insurance?

Homeowners should also be aware of what’s not included in most standard policies. Sewer backups, flooding, and foundation leaks are commonly excluded unless extra coverage is added. Optional additions and standalone policies may be available for these types of situations.

Can I Claim Water Damage on My Home Insurance?

Sudden or accidental damages are often included in standard policies. Additionally, some standard home insurance policies do not cover flood damage or sewer backups. It’s important to meet with your insurance to ensure proper coverage.

What is the Average Insurance Payout for Water Damage?

Insurance payments are specific to each situation and can differ greatly. Policy limits, deductibles, and the extent of the damage all play a role in determining the amount. Payments are intended to cover the repair work required to return the property to pre-loss condition. This often includes emergency water removal, drying, mitigation, and restoration when needed.

How Level Creek Helps Homeowners Navigate Water Damage Claims

Water damage is often unexpected and stressful for homeowners to tackle alone. Whether a pipe bursts or your roof is damaged, our team has over 15 years of experience working with State Farm, Allstate, Mercury, American Family, Farmers, and all major insurance providers. Our project managers communicate directly with providers, advocate on your behalf, and ensure repairs are completed efficiently. Trust a professional to answer your toughest insurance questions and guide you through stress-free water-damage repair.

Fire Warnings & Fire Safety: What Homeowners Need to Know to Prevent Damage

2026-01-05T00:00:00.05Z

National Weather Service Issues Fire Risk Warning...Here's How to Protect Your Home

What This Means for Your Home

The National Weather Service is alerting Georgia property owners that there’s an increased risk for fires to start and spread quickly. Dry weather patterns leave vegetation, grass, garbage, and other materials drier and more likely to catch fire. Fires can be especially devastating during a season with low rainfall, low humidity, and strong winds. As a homeowner, understanding fire risks and taking safety precautions can lower the likelihood of fire and minimize potential damage.

Warning Signs

While indoors, keep an eye out for flickering lights, discolored outlets, and malfunctioning appliances. While outside, check the gutters and vents for any blockages. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for anything that can overheat. Overheated contents during the dry and windy weather make a small spark dangerous, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings.

Take Action

Noticing potential fire risks is important, but taking action is what truly helps homeowners prevent damage. Regular safety checks, like ensuring the smoke detectors are working and fire extinguishers are easily accessible, can make a significant difference. Schedule routine chimney and HVAC inspections, and keep your home free of flammable hazards like fallen leaves, dryer lint, and stove grease.

Have a Plan

Although noticing potential fire risks and taking safety precautions can greatly reduce the risk of a fire, it’s important to remember that accidents can still happen. If a fire does start, preparation is key. Make sure you and your loved ones know where to find fire extinguishers, create and practice a fire escape plan, and have a list of emergency contacts readily available. By staying aware and prepared, homeowners can protect their property and enjoy peace of mind throughout the dry season.

10 Homeowner Maintenance Tips for a Safe Autumn Season

2025-10-31T00:00:00.05Z

Keep the Fall Season Fun...and Safe!

As temperatures continue to drop and leaves begin to fall, it's a great time to slow down and enjoy the change in seasons at home. During this time of year, homeowners might find themselves hanging a few extra decorations, cooking more often, lighting candles, or even hosting a bonfire. Whether you're spending a cozy night inside, roasting marshmallows by the fire, or cooking a new dish, safety is an essential component to enjoying your time at home. During all the fall festivities, simple maintenance checks can go a long way in protecting your property and loved ones.

10 Ways to Keep Your Family and Home Safe This Fall

Keep firepits and candles supervised, with fire extinguishers nearby
Avoid overloading outlets, especially when plugging in decorations
Check trees for weak or dead limbs
Keep pets away from flames and electrical cords
Stay aware of changing weather conditions
Test smoke detectors
Clean out air ducts
Clean air filters
Check for drafty doors and windows
Clean the chimney and fireplace

Want more safety tips?

There's nothing we'd love more than for you to have a fun, cozy, and safe fall season. These ten maintenance tips are an easy way to help protect your family and your home. If you'd like to learn more about protecting your property this season, we are happy to help!

Helping Hoschton Homeowners Protect Their Home and Navigate Insurance Claims

2025-10-17T00:00:00.05Z

As a restoration company, we understand that homeowners may struggle to navigate property damage and insurance coverage policies. Trying to figure everything out during a crisis can quickly become confusing and overwhelming. Many homeowners have questions like…

How do I handle a property damage claim? What does my insurance policy cover? How much is this going to cost? What does it mean when my insurance agent mentions claim-worthy damages? How do I repair this? What is deductible? Why do you recommend a restoration company over one of my buddies to handle the repairs? What are the common causes of homeowner claims? And so much more….

Many of these questions go unanswered each day. Given this ongoing issue, we decided to host an event to help homeowners protect their property and navigate insurance claims. Some of the topics discussed include signs of hidden damage to watch out for, the importance of meeting with your insurance agent, filing an insurance claim, and much more! By the end of the presentation, homeowners felt more empowered to make informed decisions regarding their property and insurance coverage.

As a family and locally owned business, we’ve dedicated the past fifteen years to supporting our community. Our mission is to restore peace of mind for homeowners facing property damage and insurance claims. We’re honored to assist our neighbors in Braselton, Hoschton, and the entire Northeast Metro Atlanta area.

Stay tuned for our next event if you’d like to feel more prepared to protect your property and navigate homeowners insurance!

Check out our Latest Podcast Episode, Water in the Home= Bad

2025-09-18T00:00:00.05Z

Join Andy Mason and Chris Turner on the latest Everything Home Podcast

Andy Mason, CEO of Level Creek, joins Chris Turner of Everything Home Magazine for a candid conversation on growing up in Georgia, running a family-owned business, and navigating the restoration industry. The two meet up at Toast and Jam, a cozy coworking space in downtown Buford. After catching up, they set up the mics, settle in, and get ready to dive into an honest conversation.

Discover what sets Level Creek apart and how we're committed to delivering top-notch services to our clients. Click the link below to watch the full episode on YouTube. Don't miss out!!

Maximize Your Homeowners Insurance: 5 Reasons to Meet Your Agent Annually

2025-09-30T00:00:00.05Z

5 Reasons Homeowners Should Meet Their Insurance Agent Annually

Homeowners should meet with their insurance providers regularly to stay informed and make the best decisions about protecting their property. As a preferred repair contractor for State Farm and Allstate, we’ve seen firsthand how valuable these meetings can be. Here are 5 key reasons why homeowners should consider meeting with their insurance provider at least once per year.

1. Stay Knowledgeable About Your Policy
As a homeowner, property damage is rarely something you anticipate. Understanding what your insurance plan covers helps you know what to expect if damage occurs. Homeowners who are familiar with their coverage and the claims process can respond quickly and take immediate action to prevent further damage.

2. Account for Life Changes
Life changes can all influence the type of insurance coverage you need. Some life changes include moving into a new home, a change in employment status, marriage or divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, or even transitioning to working remotely.

3. Take Advantage of Discounts and Deductible Options
Meeting with your insurance provider can help determine your goals and payment options available. Homeowners often have some flexibility when it comes to premiums, costs, and deductibles. Options may include standard deductibles, percentage-based deductibles, minimum deductibles, or even specialty policies. Regular check-ins ensure homeowners are aware of potential discounts, deductible adjustments, and coverage options.

4. Ensure Appropriate Coverage
As a homeowner, it is important to stay in regular communication with your insurance provider to confirm proper coverage is applied. Many factors can influence the amount of coverage a homeowner needs. A few variables that affect your policy include the size and type of home you live in, the amount of coverage you are comfortable with, how long you’ve lived in the home, your history of insurance claims, your credit score, and more. As a homeowner, reviewing these variables with an insurance provider helps you select a policy that’s best suited to your situation.

5. It’s FREE!
Meeting with your insurance agent once a year costs nothing and helps you get the most out of your policy. These free check-ins keep you informed about your policy, update your agent on any life changes, ensure your coverage fits your needs, and may even uncover discounts or savings opportunities. Since you’re already investing in protecting your home, it’s worth scheduling a meeting with your insurance agent!

10 Ways to Prevent Electrical Fires

2025-06-25T00:00:00.05Z

Melted Television, Electrical Fire

What is an Electrical Fire?

Electrical fires are often caused by overheating, malfunctioning, or damaged electrical components. Common sources include faulty outlets, space heaters, and misuse of extension cords. Electrical fires are among the most frequent household disasters. Once the fire is extinguished, a homeowner can contact their local insurance agency to file a claim and select Level Creek from the agency’s preferred network. While we provide 24/7 emergency services, it’s just as important to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of electrical fires.

10 Ways to Prevent Electrical Fire

Always plug in appliances directly into the wall, not an extension cord
Use light bulbs that match the wattage listed on the light fixture
If an appliance has a cracked or damaged cord, replace the appliance
Use power strips with internal overload protection
Conduct electrical inspections
Avoid Overloading outlets
Pay attention to flickering or sparks
Keep flammable materials away from outlets
Unplug devices when not in use
Use surge protectors

Mold Remediation and Abatement

2025-06-19T00:00:00.05Z

Mold hiding in your home... grossed out already?

Mold sounds gross enough, but it’s even worse when it's hiding somewhere in your home. Mold is a type of fungal microscopic organism that thrives in damp, humid areas. It may appear after incidents like roof leaks, pipe bursts, or even poor ventilation. Mold can grow in any space with high moisture, such as basements, kitchens, bathrooms, crawl spaces, and areas near windows and doorways. To avoid health risks and further home damage, it is important to reach out to a professional immediately if you suspect there may be mold in your home. Some of the signs to look out for include bubbled paint, uneven hardwood flooring, musty odors, or surface discoloration.

So, you have mold, now what?

Mold remediation, or abatement, involves a series of steps to remove or reduce the amount of mold. The key to tackling mold is acting quickly and following proper abatement techniques. Since mold is typically a sign of a more significant problem, it is important that the mitigation team first investigates what caused the growth as well as the type of mold present. Once this is determined, the team can decide how to proceed with abatement and prevent regrowth.

Abatement

After determining the cause and type of mold, the mitigation team can proceed with abatement. The abatement process includes containing the affected area, removing mold-infested materials, structural cleaning, air filtering, and drying.

During containment, the affected areas are isolated to prevent the mold from spreading any further. Containment is as simple as arranging plastic barriers to separate the contaminated areas from the non-contaminated areas. Next, the team removes damaged contents such as molded carpet, drywall, and furniture. After the damaged materials are removed, structural cleaning continues.

Although different kinds of mold call for specific cleaning agents, most of the same procedures are followed. Antimicrobial agents destroy mold so that the microscopic organisms are no longer able to multiply.

After structural cleaning, air filters and drying devices are used to dry out the home. Once the drying fans and dehumidifiers are running, the mitigation crew uses moisture meters to track the amount of moisture in the air. Once dry, the mitigation crew contacts the restoration team to begin rebuilding.

Why it Matters

Mold isn’t just gross; it can be extremely harmful to your health and home. To get rid of mold, prompt and professional abatement is crucial. If you suspect mold or experience a water-related property incident, give Level Creek a call! Level Creek Property Restoration offers 24/7 emergency services to help protect and restore your home.

Level Creek Property Restoration Offers 24/7 Emergency Services

When Accidents happen: Home Vehicle Collision Repair

2025-03-26T00:00:00.05Z

My house got hit by a car?!

In the world of Door Dash, Uber Eats, self-driving cars, distracted drivers, Lyft and the like it has become a more common place to have the home you live in struck by a car. Really? The answer is yes. Last year. Level Creek Property Restoration completed repairs on close to a dozen homes that were damaged in one way or another by a vehicle impact. When this happens there are a few things that can happen. Most importantly and typically, insurance companies will be involved. We have seen both the driver’s insurance company and the homeowner’s insurance company pay for the damage. Hopefully, both parties are insured.

It is important for the contractor you choose to know who they will ultimately be dealing with regarding the damage. Typically, if your insurance company is handling the claim, you will be responsible for your deductible and should be reimbursed for the deductible once your insurance company settles the claim with the driver’s insurance company. If you choose to have the driver’s insurance handle the repairs directly this is most likely not the case. Either way, you need a company that is a restoration contractor that understands the insurance process to handle the repairs. A qualified restoration contractor knows how to estimate, communicate and navigate the insurance claim process.

If your home has experienced an unfortunate run in with a vehicle, the professionals at Level Creek Property Restoration are here to help 24/7.

5 cancer-causing pollutants lurking in your home

2021-03-19T00:00:00.05Z

5 CANCER-CAUSING POLLUTANTS LURKING IN YOUR HOME

Home should be a haven, but if the indoor air is laden with carcinogens, your family’s health could be at risk. Learn about the most common cancer-causing substances lurking in your home and how to get rid of them.

Cigarette Smoke

Secondhand smoke is the third leading cause of lung cancer and can also cause heart disease. In children, exposure to secondhand smoke can lead to asthma attacks, ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

To eliminate cigarette smoke from your home:

Don’t smoke inside.
Create a designated place for guests to smoke outside.
Consider quitting—“firsthand” cigarette smoke is an even more dangerous carcinogen than secondhand smoke.

Formaldehyde

This colorless, flammable gas is one of the most widely recognized, volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It has a pungent odor and is off-gassed from numerous items in your home, including building materials, insulation, fabric, paint, paper products, and cosmetics. Formaldehyde is linked to lung cancer, leukemia, and asthma.

To eliminate formaldehyde from your home:

Choose exterior-grade pressed wood for remodeling projects.
Only use particle board if it’s laminated to protect against off-gassing.
Avoid air fresheners and use unscented soaps and detergents.
Open the windows when the weather is nice to ventilate the interior.

Radon

This colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas is a byproduct of uranium breaking down in the soil beneath your home. Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and the second leading cause overall.

To eliminate radon from your home:

Purchase a do-it-yourself radon test kit to find out if your levels are high.
Seal and caulk any cracks in the foundation and basement walls.
Install plastic sheeting in the crawlspace to act as a radon barrier.
Install a radon mitigation system to divert the gas harmlessly into the atmosphere.

Ozone

When located high in the stratosphere, ozone protects the earth from the sun’s damaging UV rays. However, ground-level ozone is the primary ingredient in smog. It causes and exacerbates respiratory problems and increases the risk of lung disease.

To eliminate ozone from your home:

Don’t use ozone-producing office equipment, including laser copiers and printers.
Research electric air cleaners and ion generators carefully before purchasing. Many of these products generate ozone as a byproduct.

Asbestos

The most common place to find asbestos is in older buildings with vermiculite insulation, “popcorn” ceilings, and cement board siding or shingles. Asbestos can cause respiratory disease and various types of lung cancer.

To eliminate asbestos from your home:

Hire an asbestos abatement service to test and remove asbestos-containing building products from your home. This may only be necessary if you’re planning a renovation or repair because asbestos is harmless if you leave it undisturbed.

If you suspect high levels of carcinogens in your home, Level Creek for help. Call us 24/7 at [[phone]]

FAQS about water, fire & smoke damage restoration

2021-03-17T00:00:00.05Z

FAQS ABOUT WATER, FIRE & SMOKE DAMAGE RESTORATION

If your home has been damaged by water, fire, or smoke, you probably have questions about the restoration process from Level Creek. Find the answers here.

How long does it take to clean up water, fire, or smoke damage? Every case is unique. The time it takes depends on the extent of the damage and how many rooms are affected. We will be able to provide you a better-estimated timeline upon a site inspection. We also allow each of our customers complete transparency throughout the entire restoration process to keep you aware of the scope of work, status, and expected completion date.
What is the cost to repair water, fire, or smoke damage? The degree of damage greatly impacts the repair cost. We would be happy to provide you with an estimate when we assess your property.
Who is responsible for the home restoration costs? The property owner is responsible. However, we recommend calling your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance provider as soon as you discover the damage. Detail the situation, file a claim, and find out if you’re eligible for reimbursement. We would be happy to coordinate things with your insurance provider on your behalf.
Can I clean up fire and smoke damage myself? We strongly recommend hiring a professional for this kind of work. Cleaning up a fire-damaged house puts you at risk of smoke and fume inhalation and structural collapse. Our experienced team has the proper equipment and expertise to deliver a job well done.
What can I salvage after a fire? If you took anything with you as you evacuated the house, keep it in your possession. Avoid re-entering the building until fire damage restoration is complete. Until then, we’ll carefully assess the condition of your belongings to help you decide what personal property restoration you want to pursue. Everything is documented and accounted for during this process.
Is it possible for water damage to be hidden? While common signs of water damage include stains on the walls and ceiling, puddles on the floor, and visible mold growth, hidden leaks aren’t as obvious and may go unnoticed for a long time. Be on the lookout for a lingering musty smell, sounds of running water, and an unexplained increase in your water bills.
How does water damage restoration work? We utilize a process called rapid structural drying. This involves water extraction, airflow, dehumidification, and temperature control to restore your home. We can also mitigate mold growth, a common side effect of water damage.
How do I hire a restoration company? Call Level Creek at [[phone]]

Emergency Response Plans - How to Prevent Catastrophe

2021-03-15T00:00:00.05Z

Catastrophic events can take many forms, from natural disasters to explosions to industrial spills. While ranging widely in scale and scope, a local catastrophe can have far-reaching consequences for businesses in the area.

Consider that 40 to 60 percent of small businesses never reopen after a disaster. Then, 90 percent of those that do reopen fail within a year if they were unable to resume operations within five days. If you want your business to be resilient, you should be prepared to respond to any emergency that could arise. Here are some tips to help your business create a catastrophe response plan.

Put a team together: Decide which key personnel you will choose to lead and plan your catastrophe response. A team comprised of members from various departments can provide diverse perspectives.
Consider the threats: Natural disasters could include earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, or tornadoes. Non-weather-related events could be a threat as well, including medical emergencies, biological hazards, or interruptions to your utility service. Then, human acts to consider include robbery, arson, explosions, hazardous leaks or spills, workplace violence, and terrorist attacks.
Perform a business impact analysis: Consider what operational and financial functions could be affected if your business was disrupted. Anticipate the impact of lost or delayed sales, increased expenses, and customer dissatisfaction lasting different lengths of time. For instance, closing your doors for one day due to minor building damage would have a far lesser effect than having to relocate if the building is destroyed.
Create a business continuity plan: Map out the steps your business will take to get back up and running once the disaster passes. Identify potential relocation sites, make plans for replacing electronic equipment and office furnishings, and create an emergency cash fund. Record the contact information of your employees, clients, and critical service providers, with copies stored offsite in case the building is off-limits.
Develop a communications plan: Decide how you will disseminate information to your employees and clients in an emergency. Mass notification systems, company hotlines, and other techniques may be used.
Make the plan readily available: Once you have completed your catastrophe response plan, make sure every team member gets a copy. Also, store an electronic version on a private, secure cloud server.
Maintain the plan: Your business situation is likely to change, and when it does, your catastrophe response plan could as well. Update any changes in processes, equipment needs, and other factors about once a quarter. Make changes to employee, client, and service provider contact information as they occur. Then, have the team hold an annual meeting to review and test the plan.

At Level Creek Property Restoration, we respond to catastrophes within two hours of your request for help. Once dispatched, we work tirelessly to help get your home or business back to normal. If your business has been impacted by a storm, major accident, or human-made disaster, please contact us at [[phone]]. Whatever happens, we’re here to help.

Where does the water go?

2021-03-12T00:00:00.05Z

WHERE DOES THE WATER GO?

Water can seep through any crack or crevice, no matter how small. Porous objects also absorb it and become soggy, rotten, and moldy over time. To make matters worse, water damage is often hidden from view, occurring behind walls or under floors. Detect structural damage before it’s too late by checking these places where water likes to hide.

Under the windows: Rain can seep in around the window and trickle down the wall, eventually damaging wall studs and framing. Exterior wood windowsills are also prone to rotting.
Around roof penetrations: Chimneys, vents, and exhaust fans that exit through the roof can develop leaks, causing water damage in the attic every time it rains.
Behind the siding: Anywhere two siding panels meet, including at the corners and around windows, is liable to leak. The damage can remain hidden behind the siding for years.
Behind exterior faucets: A leak here may send water running down the inside of the wall where it can do significant damage to the sheathing and framing before it’s discovered.
Below the threshold: Has the metal threshold of your exterior doors started to loosen and wobble? This is a sign that the wood beneath them is rotting away due to water damage.
Along the baseboards: If floodwater rises to floor level, the baseboards, drywall, and other building materials may be compromised. Replace them, even if the water subsides quickly and the wall looks fine.
Beneath plumbing appliances: A leaky dishwasher, washing machine, or ice maker supply line can lead to hidden water damage beneath these plumbing appliances.
Inside the air conditioner: AC units collect and drain condensed water as part of the dehumidification process. If the condensate line clogs or overflows, water damage and mold growth may occur inside the air conditioner.
Next to the shower or bathtub: A little spill on the bathroom floor is nothing to worry about, but if water begins to pool beside the shower or tub, this could signal a leaky plumbing connection and rotting subfloor.
Behind the bathtub or shower walls: Cracked caulk may allow water to leak behind the tile walls and damage the studs and framing.
Under the toilet: Watch out for a wobbly toilet or spongy floor. These are signs of a broken wax ring between the toilet base and the drainpipe, which allows water to leak every time you flush.
Below the sink: Slow drips are easy to miss—until a musty smell tells you something isn’t right. Check the cabinets below your kitchen and bathroom sinks often for signs of water damage.

Usually, by the time you discover a water leak, the damage is already done. Let DKI help you recover with professional water damage restoration. We clean and decontaminate the affected area, as well as remediate any mold growth that has developed. To learn more about our services, or to schedule water damage restoration

Mold - Removal vs Remediation

2021-03-10T00:00:00.05Z

MOLD—REMOVAL VS. REMEDIATION

If the mere thought of mold makes you recoil in disgust, you may be appalled to find fuzzy, slimy, or powdery mold growth throughout your house. Should you take steps to simply remove the mold, or is remediation the better choice? Learn the difference between the two so you can combat your mold problem correctly.

Understanding Mold

Mold growth may be off-putting, but spores are everywhere, both inside and outside your home. All they need to start growing is a little moisture, a food source, and preferably, a warm, dark environment. Bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and crawlspaces are common places to find mold. There are hundreds of thousands of known mold species, many of which can grow inside your home, including penicillium, aspergillus, and Stachybotrys (toxic black mold).

Mold Removal?

Some restoration companies claim to offer complete “mold removal,” but this is misleading. The fact is mold can never be removed entirely because spores are ubiquitous. It doesn’t matter how thoroughly you clean a surface—if the environment is prime for mold growth, it will return. That’s why remediation is the right way to go.

Mold Remediation

The goal of remediating mold growth is to restore out-of-control fungi to normal levels. Consider what this multi-step process entails.

Mold Inspection

The first step is to identify signs of mold problems. Testing may be required if you notice standing water, discolored surfaces, and lingering musty odors, but you don’t see visible mold growth. Getting a spore count is also useful to estimate the level of contamination.

Mold Containment

The affected area must be sealed off to prevent mold from spreading during the cleanup process. This is usually accomplished by installing physical barriers and negative air pressure chambers.

Air Filtration

In cases of large-scale contamination, high-efficiency air filters may be installed in the home’s HVAC system. Turning on the blower picks up active spores from around the house and traps them in the filter. HEPA-equipped vacuum cleaners may also be used to remove spores that have settled on surfaces.

Mold Cleanup & Sanitization

The precise cleaning method depends on what type of mold is growing, the surface it’s growing on, and the extent of the contamination. Typically, a combination of antimicrobial, anti-fungal, and biocide products is needed. Porous surfaces are the most difficult to clean and may not be salvageable. Once mold cleanup is finished, the house must be sanitized and deodorized.

Prevention

The final step is to make the environment uninhabitable for future mold growth. This usually entails controlling the humidity and removing sources of standing water. Your remediation company can offer personalized tips to help you with this.

Now that you understand the difference between mold removal and remediation, it’s clear that remediation is the smart choice. Let DKI get your indoor mold levels under control. Our remediation efforts tackle existing mold outbreaks, stop them from spreading, and help prevent future problems. Call us at [[phone]] for more information or to schedule your mold remediation services today