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Water Damage FAQs for Olney HomeownersStraight Answers to the Questions We Hear Most
Short, honest answers about emergencies, drying, mold, basements, insurance and how we work. If your question isn’t here, call (227) 219-5444 and ask a real person.
Emergencies and First Steps
What should I do first when water gets into my home?
Stop the water if you can safely reach the shutoff, stay out of rooms with wet outlets or cords, take photos, and call us at (227) 219-5444.
Where is my main water shutoff?
Usually in the basement or utility room where the water line comes in through the front wall. On a well home, turn off the well pump at its breaker.
Is it safe to turn the power off myself?
Only if you can reach the breaker from a dry spot. Never touch power while standing in water (CDC).
How fast can you get to my home?
Our office is on Olandwood Ct in central Olney. A person answers 24/7 and gives you an estimated arrival time before the crew leaves.
Can I use a shop vac instead?
For a small spill of clean water on a hard floor, yes. Water in carpet, drywall or insulation needs extraction and drying equipment. See emergency water removal.
Drying and Mold
How long does it take to dry a house?
Most homes take 3 to 5 days. Hardwood and concrete can take longer. We go by moisture readings. See structural drying.
How soon can mold start?
Mold can start growing on wet materials within 24 to 48 hours (EPA).
Why can’t I just use box fans?
Box fans move air but don’t pull water out of it. Without dehumidifiers, the moisture just moves around the room.
Do I need a mold test?
Usually not if you can see it. The EPA says sampling usually isn’t needed when mold is visible (EPA). See mold after water damage.
Why does my basement still smell musty?
Moisture is probably still hiding in the walls, the slab or the carpet. A moisture meter will find it.
Basements, Pipes and Backups
Why do Olney basements flood?
Sump pump failures, storm water through window wells, floor drain backups and frozen pipes. See flooded basements.
What happens if my sump pump fails?
Groundwater rises through the pit and spreads across the floor. See sump pump failure.
How do I keep pipes from freezing?
Insulate pipes in outside walls and garages, disconnect hoses, and on bitter nights keep a faucet at a slow trickle (WSSC Water). See burst and frozen pipes.
Is sewage backup dangerous?
Yes. It can carry human waste and germs (CDC). Keep kids and pets away. See sewage backup cleanup.
I’m on a well and septic. What changes after a backup?
Stop using the plumbing, get the tank pumped, and have your well water tested if septic water got near the well line. See septic backups.
Floors, Walls and Ceilings
Can wet carpet be saved?
Often, if the water was clean and it’s dried within a day or two. The pad usually gets replaced. See carpet and hardwood floors.
Can water damaged hardwood be saved?
Often, if drying starts fast. Cupped boards can flatten as they dry.
Do you have to cut out my drywall?
Only where it’s soaked, soft or touched dirty water. Small holes at the base often let us dry the wall cavity instead.
My ceiling is sagging. What should I do?
Keep everyone out from under it, put a bucket below, and call us. See ceilings and drywall.
Insurance and Cost
Does homeowners insurance cover water damage?
Sudden leaks like a burst pipe are generally covered. Slow leaks usually aren’t, and outside flooding needs a flood policy (Maryland Insurance Administration).
Is sewer or sump backup covered?
Usually only with a water and sewer backup endorsement (Maryland Insurance Administration).
Do new flood policies have a waiting period?
Yes. New flood policies usually have a 30 day wait (FloodSmart).
What should I photograph for my claim?
Every wet room, the water line on walls, the source, and damaged items with labels showing. See insurance claim help.
How much does water damage restoration cost?
It depends on how much water, how far it spread and what has to be removed. We give you a free assessment and an itemized estimate before work starts.
About Us
Where are you based?
3401 Olandwood Ct, Olney, MD 20832.
What areas do you serve?
Olney, Sandy Spring, Brookeville, Ashton, Brinklow, Aspen Hill, Leisure World, Derwood, Norbeck, Laytonsville, Cloverly, Spencerville, Colesville, Burtonsville and Damascus.
Do you handle businesses?
Yes. Offices, shops and restaurants, with after hours work when needed. See commercial properties.
Who does the work in my home?
The work may be done by an independent restoration contractor that serves this area. It gives you its own estimate and agreement before work starts. Read more on our about page.
Water Damage Services in Olney
Still Have a Question? Call (227) 219-5444
A real person answers day or night.
Olney Restoration Experts · 3401 Olandwood Ct, Olney, MD 20832 · (227) 219-5444 · info@waterdamageolney.com · Open 24 hours