Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can we come out?
This depends on the nature of the problem. If it is an emergency like a flooded kitchen, we will be on site within 2 hours (Sonoma or Marin counties only).
For estimates on non urgent remediation or repairs we can typically be out within 24-72 hours. Then starting the actual work is dependent on the earliest available start date which will be stated on the signed agreement.
How much is it going to cost?
This is dependent on the extent of damage, but emergency services are typically invoiced once the work is completed and we can provide a standard pricing sheet beforehand.
Do I need to report this to my insurance agent?
If your claim amount is under, or not significantly more than your deductable, you’ll probably save money in the long run by not reporting your loss. Why? Most insurance companies will raise your rates after an incident.
Note: For many homeowners turning in an insurance claim is a first time experience which can be accompanied by uncertainty, anxiety, and many questions. We are here to answer as many of these as we possibly in your time of need.
How can you tell if there's moisture under my floor?
We would physically inspect damage by entering the crawlspace. We also use specific moisture meters that accurately determine the moisture content in porous materials.
What is mitigation/remediation?
Mitigation and remediation are the processes used to clean up, dry down, and remove damages caused by floods, sewage etc. Each type of loss requires special training, its own equipment, and its own set of processes in order to eliminate the damages and restore property to “as-new” condition.
How do you get rid of mold?
This is a labor intensive process involving the scrubbing and sanding of areas affected in a negative pressure contained area (sealed from other areas of the home or building to prevent further spread of mold spores) followed by treatment with EPA approved antimicrobial solutions. In severe situations, materials need to be entirely removed.
How long will it take to dry out my flooded basement?
This also depends on the extent of the flooding and the materials damaged, but typically 3 – 5 days.
How will you dry out my bathroom?
After removing visible pooling of water, the process of drying an area involves blowing air over the surface using blowers (fans) to accelerate evaporation and then removing the increase in moisture content (humidity) from the air with dehumidifiers.
How noisy are your machines?
Most drying equipment is loud, but it is mostly white noise from industrial fans.
Do I really have to leave them on 24/7?
For best and fastest results yes — leaving these fans on is essential. If you turn them off at night it will add days to the drying process so leaving them on is best. If you need some quiet please call and let us know, we are happy to work with you and we completely understand.
What is going to happen to my electrical bill?
Our industrial fans pull a lot of power. Your bill is going to spike upwards. If you turn in a claim to your insurance provider simply send the large bill to your adjuster with copies of 3 prior months bills so that they can see what you normally pay. They will reimburse you for the additional cost.
Do you use hazardous chemicals to clean surfaces or remove mold? If not, what types of solvents do you use?
No, we only use EPA approved solutions.
Will you work with my insurance company?
Yes, most of what we do involves working with insurance adjusters, carriers and agents.
Do you work with all insurance companies?
Yes we do.
What happens if my claim is not approved?
BRC’s policy is to commence work once your insurance has been approved. If you are not covered for the damage, then it is a conversation with you about how much out of pocket cost and work is possible.
How long does it take for my claim to be approved?
This depends on many factors including the nature of the damage, when it first occurred, your insurance policy and carrier’s position, the availability of the adjuster assessing the claim.
Who do I pay my deductible to?
Ask your adjuster who your deductable should go to. Sometimes it goes to the insurance company, other times it goes to contractor. In many cases we’ll be instructed by your insurance company to collect it.
How long will restoration take?
For small restoration jobs we can let you know when we see your property. For larger jobs the answer is in three-parts:
1. Mitigation / remediation
This is a process of demolition and clean up that can take as little as 3-5 days for small water and sewage losses, up to 3 weeks for a complete loss. Please ask your mitigation project manager for an estimated time line for completion of this portion. Please remember that this time line does not include repairs.
2. Construction estimate
Estimating a loss often times requires 2 site visits. The first visit is going to be within 3 days of Bravo being notified of your loss. We endeavor to upload our estimates within a 3 day time period for the adjusters review and approval. If we get to your home and the mitigation/remediation demo is not complete then we will do a preliminary estimate for the adjuster so that they can begin to get an idea of what is involved.Once the demolition work is complete then we will re-inspect and refine the estimate. We then follow up with the adjuster for approval so that we can get the repairs started. This process can take 1 to 2 weeks, the timelines for this run in conjunction with the mitigation work and timelines.Our goal is to have an estimate that your adjuster can work with as quickly as possible.
3. Construction Repairs
Bravo has coined the term “unwanted remodel” to better define how most home owners feel about having to go through this, and we really are sorry!What we have found is that the people that are the most successful and happiest after everything is done are those that make the changes that they have always wanted to make. We will send you a contract for the work after the repair estimate is approved by your adjuster. Once this is signed then you will be contacted by one of our construction project managers to meet and go over the scope of the repairs, material selections, and a timeline for repairs to start and complete.Each repair is unique so the time line will be determined by the scope of the repairs.
What if I can’t use my kitchen?
We will contact your adjuster and let them know. Your adjuster will let you know what their companies process is. In most cases you will be reimbursed reasonable additional living expenses
What if I can’t use my bathroom?
If you only have one bathroom then we will let your adjuster know that you need to be relocated temporarily during the process.
What if I can’t live in my house?
We will contact your adjuster and let them know that you need to be temporarily relocated during the process.
Are you a licensed contractor?
Yes, we are a licensed general contractor: #956146
Do you do all types of repairs?
We do most repairs inside and outside.
What type of repairs don't you do?
Generally small repairs that could be done by a handyman or similar person or some landscaping needs. As a general contractor, we are able to partner with a wide range of specialized trades.
Do you remove asbestos?
We do not – for this we refer to a preferred experienced and licensed professional.