What Is the Difference Between Emergency and Non-Emergency Restoration?

An emergency means the damage is active and getting worse. A burst pipe flooding your kitchen, sewage backing up into a basement, or a roof leak dripping into a ceiling are examples. The goal is to stop the source and limit further harm before the damage spreads to more areas.

You should act quickly in these situations. Shut off the water if you can, and call a local water damage pro right away. Know where your main shutoff valve is before you need it, especially if your area experiences freezing winters.

• Water is actively flowing or pooling
• Sewage or contaminated water is present
• Structural collapse is possible
• Electrical hazards exist
• Mold growth has already started

Ask yourself two questions. Is the damage still spreading? Is it a health or safety risk? If the answer to either is yes, treat it as an emergency. If the water is off, the area is dry, and no one is in danger, it can likely wait for a scheduled appointment.

A quick rule of thumb: if you can leave the room and nothing changes for the worse, it's non-emergency. If you leave and come back to more water, sagging ceilings, or new stains, that's an emergency. Trust your judgment and err on the side of caution.

Non-emergency restoration returns your home to normal. This includes replacing damaged drywall, refinishing furniture, cleaning contents, and addressing lingering odors. It's a more thorough process that can take days or weeks, depending on the extent of the damage.

You can schedule these services at your convenience. The pros will assess the damage, explain what needs to be done, and give you a clear plan. Costs vary based on materials, labor, and the size of the affected area. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.