Frequently Asked Questions
Mold Remediation and Removal
Is It Risky to Tackle Mold Remediation by Yourself?
Yes — attempting mold remediation yourself often makes the problem worse and can spread spores throughout your home. Certified mold removal professionals at Drico Restoration use proper containment, removal, and disposal methods to prevent further contamination and health risks. DIY efforts can leave hidden mold behind and often increase long-term repair costs compared to professional services in Gulfport and Pinellas County.
Can You Stay In Your Home After Finding Mold?
You can sometimes stay in your home after finding mold, but only if the growth is minor and contained. When mold covers more than a few square feet, affects bedrooms or HVAC systems, or releases noticeable odors, it’s safer to leave during remediation. Professional cleaning prevents airborne spores from spreading and reduces health risks while the property is being sanitized and dried properly.
How Much Do Mold Remediation and Removal Services Typically Cost in Gulf Port?
The cost of mold remediation is determined by the inspection, size of the affected area, and level of contamination. A technician evaluates moisture levels, surface damage, and hidden growth before giving a written estimate. Prices aren’t listed online because every project differs, but an on-site assessment provides an exact cost and outlines the full remediation process before any work begins.
Does Homeowner’s Insurance Usually Cover Mold Damage?
Homeowner’s insurance may cover mold damage only when the mold is caused by a sudden, covered event. Issues linked to neglect, long-term leaks, or poor maintenance are usually excluded. Because coverage varies widely, professionals can help document the damage and guide you through the claim process, ensuring the cause, moisture source, and required repairs are accurately reported to your insurer.
Is Mold Removal Required By Law In Commercial Spaces?
Commercial properties must maintain safe, mold-free environments under OSHA standards and general health regulations. While mold removal laws vary, employers are responsible for addressing any conditions that threaten indoor air quality. Hiring certified commercial mold remediation ensures compliance with workplace safety requirements and reduces liability.
Can My Business Stay Open During Mold Remediation?
Some businesses can stay open during mold remediation when containment systems and HEPA filtration are used. For small, isolated areas, work can continue safely while technicians remove mold. Larger contamination, hidden growth, or air quality risks may require temporary closure to complete professional mold removal safely and thoroughly.
How Long Does Mold Remediation Take?
Mold remediation typically takes 1–5 days depending on the size of the contaminated area and the materials affected. The process includes containment, removal, HEPA vacuuming, drying, and antimicrobial treatment. A post-inspection confirms surfaces are safe. A full mold remediation assessment provides an exact timeline for your project.
Do You Offer Post-Remediation Testing?
Yes, post-remediation testing can be arranged through independent third-party air quality specialists. These tests verify that mold levels are safe, containment was successful, and the space meets clearance criteria. Professional mold remediation services often recommend third-party testing to confirm compliance and ensure complete peace of mind after cleanup.
Water Damage Restoration
How Long Does It Take To Restore a Flooded Property?
The duration of each restoration project depends significantly on multiple factors, including the following:
- The extent of the water damage
- Type of property affected
- Length of exposure to moisture
- Source of the flood water
- Cooperation of the property owner’s insurance
For smaller-scale incidents involving localized water damage, such as a burst pipe, the restoration process may take a few days to a week. In contrast, larger and more complex projects, like those resulting from severe flooding or storm damage, can extend the restoration timeline to several weeks.
The presence of mold, structural issues, and the need for extensive repairs can also contribute to prolonged restoration periods.
Is It Safe to Clean Up After a Flood by Yourself?
Cleaning up after a flood yourself is generally unsafe because floodwater can contain contaminants and hidden structural hazards. Without proper equipment and drying methods, water can seep into walls and flooring, increasing the risk of mold growth and long-term damage. Professional restoration teams use pumps, safety gear, and industrial drying systems to clean and sanitize the home safely and thoroughly.
How Quickly Can Water Damage Lead To Mold Growth?
Water damage can begin producing mold in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Once moisture is trapped behind walls, flooring, or insulation, mold spores activate quickly and spread through damp surfaces. Immediate drying, dehumidification, and airflow control are essential to stop growth. Fast action reduces health risks, limits structural damage, and prevents the need for larger remediation work later.
Can You Stay In Your Home After a Flood?
You can sometimes stay in your home after a flood, but only when the water is clean and structural damage is minimal. If the flooding involved contaminated water, electrical hazards, or soaked building materials, evacuation is safer. Professionals recommend leaving during extraction, drying, and sanitation to avoid exposure to bacteria, mold growth, and unstable flooring.
How Much Do Water Damage Restoration Services Cost in Gulf Port, FL?
The cost of water damage restoration services can vary significantly based on many factors, especially the type of water involved (clean, gray, or black water) and the amount of water present.
Small-scale incidents like minor leaks may only cost a few thousand to remediate, while severe flooding can incur prices in the five-figure range (or higher). To learn what your restoration project will cost, you’ll need to obtain a quote from a reliable service provider.
Does Homeowner’s Insurance Usually Cover Water or Flood Damages?
The coverage for water or flood damages under homeowner's insurance varies by policy.
Homeowner's insurance and flood insurance are distinct policies, each covering different types of water-related damages. While homeowner's insurance typically provides coverage for sudden and accidental water damage, such as burst pipes or appliance leaks, it often excludes damage caused by floods.
Flood insurance, on the other hand, specifically addresses losses resulting from flooding events, including heavy rain, storm surges, or overflowing bodies of water.
For comprehensive protection, homeowners in flood-prone areas of Florida should consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy.
What Areas of Florida Does Drico Restoration Service?
We’ve been serving Pinellas County for years, from St. Petersburg to Seminole and beyond. Our team is based in Gulf Port, but we’re happy to drive throughout the region to assist property owners with flood damage requests. The team travels to surrounding neighborhoods daily, supporting homeowners and businesses with water, fire, mold, and biohazard cleanup needs. Technicians are available for rapid dispatch, full damage assessments, and complete restoration support from the first inspection through the final repairs.
Fire Damage Restoration
How Long Does It Take to Restore a Property After a Fire?
Fire restoration can take several weeks to several months depending on the size of the property and the severity of the damage. Light smoke cleanup may finish faster, while structural repairs, odor removal, and room-by-room rebuilding require more time. Quick contact with a restoration team allows faster planning, debris removal, and damage stabilization.
Can You Stay in Your Home After a Fire?
Staying in your home after a fire is usually unsafe because smoke residue, odor, and structural instability create significant hazards. Professionals recommend relocating until the building is inspected, cleaned, and cleared. Even small fires can leave toxins in the air and hidden damage inside walls, making temporary accommodations the safest choice during restoration.
Is It Safe to Clean Up After a Fire by Yourself?
Cleaning up after a fire on your own is unsafe because soot, chemicals, and weakened structures pose serious risks. Certified technicians use protective gear, HEPA vacuums, and controlled cleaning methods to remove toxic residues safely. Attempting DIY cleanup can spread soot, worsen damage, and expose you to hazardous materials that require professional handling.
How Much Do Fire Restoration Services Typically Cost in Gulf Port?
The cost of fire restoration services in Gulfport and throughout Florida can vary significantly. Pricing tends to depend on factors such as the extent of the damage, the cause of the fire, and specific restoration needs.
To learn what your fire damage will cost to repair, contact Drico Restoration. We’ll assess the scene and provide you with an upfront estimate for our services.
Does Homeowner’s Insurance Usually Cover Fire-Related Damage?
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover fire-related damage, including repairs, cleanup, and contents restoration. Policy limits and exclusions vary, so reviewing your coverage helps determine reimbursements for smoke cleanup, structural repairs, and temporary housing. A restoration team can document damage and assist with the claims process to ensure accurate reporting.
Biohazard Cleanup
What Is Considered a Biohazard?
Biohazards are substances that pose a threat to human health or the environment due to their biological nature. Some common examples include:
- Infectious agents like bacteria, viruses, and fungi
- Toxins produced by living organisms
- Blood and bodily fluids
- Medical waste
- and certain chemicals
All of these substances require safe, specialized handling and disposal procedures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Is It Safe to Clean Up Biohazards on My Own?
Cleaning up biohazards yourself is unsafe because bloodborne pathogens, bacteria, and toxic substances require professional handling. Certified technicians follow strict safety protocols, wear protective gear, and use hospital-grade disinfectants to prevent exposure. DIY cleanup increases the risk of illness and cross-contamination, making professional biohazard remediation the safest option.
Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Biohazard Cleanups?
Many homeowner’s insurance policies offer some level of coverage for biohazard cleanup, but the details vary. Coverage often depends on the cause, type of incident, and policy limits. Reviewing your policy and speaking with your insurance provider clarifies what aspects of cleaning, disposal, and restoration may be eligible for reimbursement.
What Areas Does Drico Restoration Service?
Drico Restoration extends its biohazard cleanup services to the entirety of Pinellas County, from St. Petersburg to Clearwater and beyond. As local Gulfport residents, we’re committed to serving our community, especially in the event of accidents or tragedies.
Flood Damage Cleanup
How Quickly Can Mold Form After Flooding?
Mold can begin forming within 24–48 hours after flooding when moisture is trapped in walls, flooring, or insulation. High humidity and poor airflow accelerate growth, making immediate drying and dehumidification essential. Fast action helps prevent widespread contamination, protects indoor air quality, and reduces the need for more extensive mold remediation later.
Can I Stay in My Home During Cleanup?
You can sometimes stay in your home during cleanup if the damage is small and the water came from a clean source. Large floods, sewage backups, or multi-room damage usually require temporary relocation for safety. Professionals advise leaving when heavy equipment, sanitation steps, or mold prevention treatments are underway.
Does Insurance Cover Flood Damage?
Standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage from storms, rising water, or surface flooding. A separate flood insurance policy is required for water entering from outside the home. Homeowner’s insurance may still cover related issues like burst pipes or appliance leaks. Reviewing both policies clarifies what cleanup and repairs are included.
How Long Will Cleanup Take?
Cleanup time varies based on the amount of water, materials affected, and risk of mold. Small areas may dry in a few days with proper extraction and dehumidification. Larger incidents involving structural drying, sanitation, or mold prevention can take several weeks. Thorough moisture checks ensure every surface is fully dried before restoration finishes.
Sewage Cleanup
Is It Dangerous To Clean Up Sewage Myself?
Yes—cleaning up sewage yourself is dangerous because it contains bacteria, viruses, and toxic contaminants. Direct contact or improper handling can cause illness and spread contamination through the home. Professionals use protective gear, controlled extraction, and hospital-grade disinfectants to remove waste safely and restore the affected areas without creating additional hazards.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Sewage Backup?
Sewage backup is only covered when your homeowner’s policy includes a sewer backup endorsement. Standard policies typically exclude backups caused by clogs, blockages, or overwhelmed drain lines. Reviewing your policy helps determine coverage for extraction, sanitation, and repairs. Restoration teams can also assist with documentation for the claims process.
How Soon Should I Act After A Sewage Backup?
Action should be taken immediately after a sewage backup because contamination worsens every hour. Fast extraction, disinfection, and drying prevent bacteria from spreading into walls and flooring. Delayed cleanup increases the risk of mold growth, structural damage, and long-term odors, making urgent professional response essential.
How Long Does The Cleanup Take?
Sewage cleanup can take a few hours for small, contained incidents, while larger overflows involving multiple rooms require several days. Technicians must extract contaminated water, remove damaged materials, sanitize all surfaces, and perform thorough drying. Cleanup time increases if flooring, drywall, or structural components need replacement.
Commercial Water Damage Restoration
How Fast Can You Respond To An Emergency?
Emergency restoration teams typically respond within about one hour, depending on availability and severity. Rapid arrival helps limit water damage, stop mold growth, and stabilize unsafe structures after fires or storms. Most 24/7 restoration services are equipped to start extraction, board-up, or cleanup work immediately upon arrival.
Can You Work After Business Hours?
Yes, professional restoration companies offer after-hours service to minimize business disruption. Teams can work during evenings, weekends, or non-operating hours to complete cleanup, drying, or reconstruction work safely. Flexible scheduling allows businesses to maintain operations while still completing essential commercial restoration tasks.
How Long Does Restoration Take?
Restoration time varies based on the size of the affected area and the type of damage. Light cleanup may take only a few days, while structural repairs, odor removal, or mold prevention can take several weeks. A detailed restoration estimate outlines the full timeline after an on-site assessment.
Is It Safe To Stay Open During Restoration?
Many businesses can stay open during restoration when proper containment and safety protocols are in place. Restoration teams set up barriers, HEPA filtration, and controlled work zones to keep operations running while repairs continue. For large fires, structural risks, or heavy water damage, temporary closure may be recommended for safety.
Do You Prevent Mold After Cleanup?
Yes, restoration teams use commercial dehumidifiers, moisture meters, and antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold after water damage. Drying all affected materials is essential to stop mold growth within 24–48 hours. Professional water damage restoration includes humidity control, monitoring, and sanitation to keep surfaces safe after cleanup.
Disaster Restoration
What Should I Do Right After A Disaster?
Right after a disaster, make sure everyone is safe, leave the property if needed, and call emergency services immediately. Once safety is confirmed, contact a disaster restoration company to begin emergency cleanup, water removal, or fire damage control. Quick action reduces structural damage, prevents mold growth, and helps restoration teams stabilize the property faster.
How Long Does Disaster Restoration Take?
Disaster restoration can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the level of damage. Small water or fire cleanup jobs finish quickly, while major disasters involving demolition, reconstruction, and mold prevention take longer. A professional restoration assessment provides a detailed timeline based on cleanup needs and the scope of repairs required.
Do You Work With Insurance Companies?
Yes, restoration companies work directly with insurance providers to simplify the claims process. This includes handling documentation, taking photos, submitting reports, meeting adjusters, and coordinating inspections. Using a team experienced in insurance restoration ensures faster approvals, accurate estimates, and proper coverage for cleanup, repairs, and structural restoration.
Do You Handle Both Cleanup And Reconstruction?
Yes, full-service restoration companies handle both disaster cleanup and reconstruction repairs. This includes debris removal, water extraction, mold prevention, smoke cleanup, and structural repairs such as drywall, flooring, and painting. Working with a single restoration contractor ensures seamless project management, faster turnaround, and consistent quality from start to finish.
