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Restoration help center

Clear answers when property damage creates questions

Start with safety. Then use these answers to understand cleanup, insurance documentation, restoration and licensed construction.

01

What to do first

Safety comes before cleanup. These steps can help you make the next decision.

What should I do immediately after discovering property damage?

Keep people away from the affected area. If there is fire, smoke, a gas odor, electrical danger or structural movement, leave the property and call 911 or the appropriate utility. When conditions are safe, photograph the damage and call CPR at (626) 217-0082.

Should I shut off the water after a leak?

Shut off the nearest fixture valve or the main water supply only if you can reach it safely. Do not enter standing water near electrical equipment. Contact the appropriate emergency service if the source cannot be stopped safely.

What should I do after a fire?

Do not re-enter until the fire department says the property is safe. Avoid touching soot-covered materials. Contact your insurance carrier and call CPR to discuss securing openings, documenting damage and planning cleanup.

Is sewage water dangerous?

Sewage and contaminated water may contain harmful microorganisms. Keep people and pets away. Avoid direct contact and do not use household fans that could spread contamination. Professional removal, cleaning and drying may be needed.

02

Restoration services

The response depends on the source, affected materials and conditions at the property.

What is water damage mitigation?

Water mitigation limits additional damage. It may include extraction, removal of unsalvageable materials, moisture mapping, air movement, dehumidification, cleaning and documented drying.

How quickly can mold develop after water damage?

Mold growth can begin when materials remain damp. The timing varies with temperature, humidity, material type and existing conditions. Fast water removal and controlled drying reduce the opportunity for growth.

What does fire and smoke restoration include?

The scope may include emergency securing, soot and residue cleaning, odor control, contents handling, removal of damaged materials and preparation for repairs. The exact process depends on the type of fire and affected surfaces.

Does CPR provide emergency board-up and tarping?

Yes. CPR can temporarily secure damaged openings and exposed areas after fire, impact, vandalism or weather damage. Permanent repair work is planned separately.

03

Process and timing

Every loss is different. CPR explains the scope and updates you as conditions change.

How long does structural drying take?

Drying time depends on the amount of water, affected materials, access, weather and equipment placement. CPR monitors moisture conditions and adjusts the drying plan instead of relying on a fixed number of days.

Can I stay in my home during restoration?

It depends on safety, sanitation, access and the extent of work. Some projects allow occupants to remain in unaffected areas. Fire damage, sewage, extensive containment or unavailable utilities may require temporary relocation.

Why is containment used?

Containment separates the work area from unaffected spaces. It can help control dust, debris and airborne particles during demolition, remediation and detailed cleaning.

How does CPR document the work?

Documentation may include photographs, moisture readings, equipment records, affected materials and the approved scope. The documentation needed varies by project and insurance requirements.

04

Insurance and documentation

CPR documents the property and work. Your carrier determines policy coverage.

Does CPR work with insurance companies?

Yes. CPR can provide project documentation and communicate about the restoration scope. The insurance carrier and policy determine coverage, deductibles and payment decisions.

Should I photograph the damage before cleanup?

Yes, if it is safe. Take wide photos and close-ups before moving items or beginning cleanup. Do not delay urgent safety measures or allow damage to continue solely for photographs.

Do I need an insurance claim number before calling CPR?

No. You can call CPR before a claim number is available. Bring the carrier name, adjuster contact and claim number to the project when you receive them.

05

Construction and reconstruction

Licensed repair work can follow mitigation or be planned as a separate improvement project.

What is the difference between mitigation and reconstruction?

Mitigation stops or limits damage and stabilizes the property. Reconstruction replaces damaged building materials and restores the finished space after the property is dry, clean and ready for repairs.

Can CPR handle repairs after restoration?

Yes. CPR provides licensed repair and reconstruction services under California contractor license #1147006. Keeping mitigation and repairs with one team can reduce handoffs and improve project continuity.

Does CPR take improvement projects that are not insurance claims?

Yes. CPR can evaluate residential, commercial and property improvement projects based on scope, location and scheduling availability. Call to discuss the work and request an assessment.

What happens before construction begins?

CPR confirms the scope, site conditions, selections, responsibilities, exclusions, schedule and required approvals. Work begins after the project terms and authorized scope are clear.

06

Commercial and managed properties

Clear contacts and documentation help protect operations and reduce confusion.

Does CPR serve commercial and managed properties?

Yes. CPR works with commercial properties, property managers, HOAs and other authorized representatives. Response depends on the location, loss conditions and current availability.

Who should authorize work at a managed property?

The property owner, manager or another authorized representative should identify who can approve access, scope and project decisions. CPR confirms the responsible contacts before work proceeds.

Can restoration work be phased to reduce disruption?

Often, yes. CPR can discuss access, containment, work zones and scheduling around property operations. Emergency conditions and safety requirements may limit available options.

Need an answer for your property?

Tell us what happened. We’ll help define the next step.