Tag Archives: Sump Pump Failure

What Is Subrogation? And how it matters to you.

Subrogation refers to the process an insurance company uses to seek reimbursement from the responsible party for a claim it has already paid.

Subrogation matters to you if:

  • You have a covered loss, and
  • You submit a claim to your insurance company, but
  • Another party is actually responsible for all or part of the damages (i.e. you have a car accident and the other driver caused the accident, or if damage to your home was caused by a faulty appliance)

In this case, your insurance company may pay your claim, and then seek reimbursement from the other party. This would depend on the circumstances surrounding the loss, the laws in your state, and your policy provisions.

If your company decides to pursue subrogation, the company will work to recover the damages from the responsible party. Damages may involve costs paid by you and the insurance company. Costs paid by you usually means your deductible, but could include amounts over your policy limits not paid by your insurance company. This would depend on the laws in your state and the specific circumstances surrounding the loss.

The subrogation process may also be used if you are at fault for damages. In this case, the other party and/or their insurance company would make a claim against you, usually directly to your insurance company. Your company will review the facts of investigation to determine if you are liable for the damages. Your company may make payment to the other company if you have coverage and it is determined that you would be legally responsible for all or part of the damages. Keep in mind that often times liability is not clear cut. In some cases, both parties may be partially responsible. Dependent on the laws in your state, both parties may share responsibility for payment of damages. For example, one party may be 40% responsible, and the other party may be 60% responsible. This could mean that both companies make subrogation claims against each other, and each company pays their respective portion of the other party’s claim.

In all cases, your participation and cooperation with us in the investigation phase of the claim process is important. Your assistance can help to establish important facts, and preserve evidence, and may help to accelerate the recovery process.

Reimbursement When Money is Recovered

If money is recovered, and part of the recovered amount was paid by you, (you paid your deductible, for example, but it was the other party’s fault) a reimbursement check will be issued. The reimbursement check is usually issued when money is received. Please note that practices vary based on the specific laws for your state.

The amount to be reimbursed is based on the amount claimed and the amount recovered. The amount claimed through subrogation depends on the amount each party was at fault. The amount recovered usually is divided proportionally between the insurance company and the insured, after expenses. This could vary based on the laws in your state.

 How Reimbursement Amounts are Calculated

Dependent on the laws in your state, you may be fully reimbursed for your deductible if:

  • The other party was 100% at fault
  • The other party paid the damages claimed in full
  • There were no collection expenses (i.e. collection agency) to recover the money.

 Often times though, it is not that simple. Based on the different factors that come into play, the calculation of the reimbursement amount can become quite complicated. The reimbursement of your deductible depends on several factors, including the amount recovered, the amount claimed (based on the amount the various parties were at fault), and state laws.

Generally, you would receive reimbursement of your deductible equal to your proportion of the total amount claimed to the total amount recovered, net of expenses. However, precisely how the reimbursement amount is determined varies by state.

These examples outline general rules that apply in many states—please discuss the specifics of your case with your subrogation claim representative.

 Example 1: Other party is 100% liable, but only paid part of the amount

The total amount of damages paid is $10,000. The other party was 100% responsible for the damages. Subrogation claim is for $10,000.

  • You paid $1,000 and your insurance company paid $9,000.
  • Your proportion is 1/10 or 10% of the total amount claimed—$1,000.
  • The amount actually collected is $5,000. There were no collection expenses.
  • You are reimbursed for $500, or 10% of the amount collected.
  • Your insurance company is reimbursed for $4,500.

 Example 2: Other party is partially liable; only paid part of the amount

The total amount of damages paid is $1000. The other party was 60% responsible for the damages. Subrogation claim is for $6,000.

  • You paid $1,000 and your insurance company paid $9,000.
  • Your proportion is 1/10 or 10% of the total amount claimed—$600.
  • The amount actually collected is $3,000. There were no collection expenses.
  • You are reimbursed for $300, or 10% of the amount collected.
  • Your insurance company is reimbursed for $2,700.

 Questions? Your Claims Representative Can Help.

Subrogation can be complex and non-intuitive. If you have questions, please let your claims representative know.

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Royal Water Damage is an IICRC Certified Firm

IICRC Certified Firm

Royal Water Damage – IICRC Certified Firm

IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the cleantrust logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise. All IICRC Certified Firms must:

  • Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
  • Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
  • Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
  • Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
  • Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC actively has relationships with fiber producers, carpet and fabric mills, furnishing manufacturers and retailers, and others affiliated with the industry. The use of cleantrust  service professionals is specified in leading manufacturers’ maintenance brochures and warranties.

When it comes to cleaning, restoration and inspection, the IICRC writes the books

As an ANSI-accredited standard-development organization, the IICRC has led the way in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, upholstery and fabric cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation.

Each IICRC standard takes years to develop and the coordination of several experts in the field, including allied tradespersons; manufacturers; international, national and regional trade associations; individual or franchise professionals; cleaning, inspection and restoration industry organizations; insurance industry; training schools; contractors; and public health professionals.

These standards are reviewed and updated at least every five years. Many of these fields, such as the water damage restoration field, change rapidly and those who are certified keep up with the advancement of the science and generally accepted practices of the industry.

The IICRC helps keep homes and businesses healthful

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average person spends 90 percent or more of their time indoors, where levels of pollutants may be two to five times (and occasionally more than 100 times) higher than outdoor levels.

This makes it extremely important to perform regular maintenance inside your home or business. In addition to vacuuming, cleaning and checking for water damage on a regular basis, using a certified technician for cleaning will help extend the life of your flooring and upholstery and ensure that your home or business is healthful for those who live and work there.

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Water Damage Restoration – What Are Your Options?

If you have been confronted by water damage in your house or commercial property, you will be best advised to hire the services of a professional fire and water restoration company. Though water damage restoration is something that you can achieve on your own, there is too much at risk to take it up as a do it yourself project.

Here are some highlights about the services that a well established fire and water restoration company like Royal Water Damage will be able to provide.

•Available 24/7 – The good fire and water restoration company will operate throughout the day and night. Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage restoration and lost time will often result in dramatically increased losses and additional restoration expenses. Shut off the water supply that caused the flooding and call a professional water damage repair company as soon as you can.

•Expert help with insurance claims – The fire and water restoration company is more than just a professional service to restore your home. The Royal Water Damage will often award you an insurance specialist who will help you with the insurance claims process along the way. Ideally, claiming insurance should be easy for homeowners who have suffered property damage although the reality is that the insurance company will do anything to give you a check with a lower amount than required. Having professional help in the form of an insurance specialist will save you a lot of stress and effort and will also get you that check that will cover all the restoration expenses.

•Professional equipment – fire and water restoration company will have several commercial grade machines such as dehumidifiers, blowers, truck mounted water extraction units, portable water extraction units, moisture gauges, humidity gauges and so on that will help them remove the water and restore your property in the fastest way possible. If you approached the process on your own, it will take you a very long time as you will generally have just one dehumidifier or just one blower which might not even be powerful enough to do the job in the first place.

•Technical knowhow – This is where restoration companies offers the most value. It will take you several hours of research and learning to figure out the best restoration plan for you house while a professional restoration company will often have years of experience on their hands. Their experience and their expertise will allow them to immediately go to work on restoring your property in the most time efficient and cost efficient manner. They will also be able to advise you about potential problems with the construction of your house that might lead to future water damage problems. 

 
Thus, in conclusion, it is advised that you call for the services of a fire and water restoration company if you haven’t done so already. The sooner your call, the lesser your losses will be. A good fire and water restoration companies will also guarantee you that their repair estimates will be accepted by the insurance company which means that you have almost nothing to lose by hiring professionals.

Service within 45 minutes with FREE Estimates. Call 215-657-2244

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3 Ways to Help Prevent Water Damage in Your Home or Business

A pipe bursts, a hose blows or a steady drip goes unnoticed for months. Whatever causes a leak, it usually results in a messy, costly problem. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety reports the average cost of a plumbing failure is more than $5,000 after the insurance deductible was paid.

A leak detection device can be your first line of defense against water damage in your home. Here’s a look at what’s available:

  • Passive systems are alarm-only detectors. They are relatively inexpensive and should be placed near appliances and fixtures that use water, in the basement and in other areas where you may have a concern about leaks. The units emit a loud noise or whistle when a leak is detected. Typically battery-powered, they are portable and require no hard wiring, so they’re ideal for do-it-yourselfers.
  • Appliance leak detectors are connected to specific appliances that could leak, such as a washing machine or a refrigerator with a water dispenser. These detectors also issue an alarm, but because they turn off the water to the appliance when a leak is detected they are considered “active” leak detection systems. Some appliance leak detectors can be installed by a homeowner; others may require professional plumbing assistance for best results.
  • Whole-house leak detection systems provide widespread protection. A shut-off valve is installed on the main water line; the system’s primary unit is typically hard-wired to an electrical source to power the valve. When a leak is detected, the sensors transmit an alert to the main unit, which shuts off the water to the entire house. Moisture-sensing technologies for these systems vary by manufacturer and generally are either internal components of the shut off valve or external moisture sensors that are installed at all appliances and fixtures where leaks can occur. Sophisticated systems can be connected to a home security or fire alarm system, and can be programmed to send an electronic message about the leak to you or a security company. Plumber contractors often install whole-house systems.

In addition to installing leak detection devices, homeowners should stay on the lookout for potential water problems around the home.

  • Pay attention to damp or discolored areas under sinks or near refrigerators, and around bathroom fixtures. 
  • Look for rust on the exterior or base of a water heater.
  • Replace hoses on the washing machine every 3-5 years as part of a proactive maintenance plan.
  • Investigate musty smells in the basement or near water fixtures.
  • Clean and test your sump pump periodically.
  • If a leak is discovered, have it repaired immediately.

    If you suspect a problem, consider having a plumber check your pipes, fittings and water pressure.

If you do incur water damage be sure to call us for a FREE Estimate and Evaluation at 215-657-2244.

 

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The importance of hiring a Professional Water Damage Company

The earlier you contact a water removal company, the higher. Time is critical. Once water is extracted, drying is imperative. Quick water extraction and drying will help prevent further damage to property. The longer it takes to take out the water and dry the involved area, more water damage occurs, and odds are that mold has begun to grow. Drywall can happen to be dry and unaffected but, if drywall was wet greater than 2 hours it should be replaced.

Mold can be found almost anywhere and it can grow on nearly every surface, as long as moisture and oxygen can be found. When too much moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth usually occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. Many mold troubles remain hidden from site for a long period. They are discovered when someone using a sensitivity to mold spends in time the building and gets sick.

The first step in flood damage restoration is water extraction. Royal Water Damage can send a team immediately, whenever of day, to help you as soon as you need them. When possible, find and stop the initial source of the water (plumbing, faucet, etc). Remove as much water as you can.

It takes a great deal to restore smoke-damaged possessions: far more than a vacuum and scrub brush. Royal Water Damage is skilled in this kind of detailed work. The initial step to restoration is the removal of soot. A commercial-strength vacuum can be used to clean and extract soot. Individual items must get hand-cleaned for soot removal. Whilst the restoration is happening, the property will be open whenever you can for clean air. After the soot is removed, smoke residue must be cleaned. An ozone generator helps extract smoke particles in your home office and belongings. A thermal fogger also draws the smoke out.

 

 

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Water damage in your home? Actions to take.

Actions You Can Take

Shut Down Affected Utilities 

      1. Water Source: Stop the source of the water. Turn off   your   outside water main, or call a plumber or other qualified tradesman   to   stop the source of water flow. Contact your local utilities   department   if you can’t find how to turn off the water main.
      2. Electrical: Disconnect all power to affected areas. Do not   operate   your TVs or other electrical appliances while standing on wet   carpets or   floors (especially if concrete). Do not use your household   vacuum   cleaner to remove water.

Remove as Much Standing Water as Possible

      1. Floors: Remove as much standing water as possible by squeegee, mopping or blotting.
      2. Carpeting: Blot wet carpet with clean white towels. Remove   Oriental   rugs or other colored rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpet.   Place a fan so   air flows over the carpet, speeding the drying process.
      3. Ceilings: Punch small holes in sagging ceilings to relieve   trapped   water. Place a plastic (not metal) bucket under the leak. Do   not turn on   ceiling light fixtures or fan if the ceiling is wet.

Move Wet Items to Dry Areas

    1. Clothing/Fabrics: Move wet items to a dry place. Do not allow     draperies to remain in contact with wet floors or carpeting. Open and     empty drawers and cabinets for complete drying. Hang furs and leather     goods to dry separately at room temperature.
    2. Furniture: Move lighter pieces off of the carpeting. Place   plastic   wrap or plastic bags beneath the legs of larger furniture.   Wipe any   residual water off of the furniture.
    3. Art Objects/Paintings: Remove valuable painting and pictures from wet walls. Transfer all objects to a dry safe place.
    4. Upholstery: Remove and prop up wet upholstered cushions for even drying. Check for possible bleeding of colors.
    5. Luggage: Open suitcases and luggage to dry in sunlight if possible.
    6. Books/Magazines: Do not leave books, magazines or other colored     items on wet carpets or floors. High value books should be given to a     professional for proper drying and restoration as soon as possible.

Ventilate Affected Areas   

    1. Air Conditioning: Turn on your air conditioner (no lower than 72 degrees) to speed drying in the summer, or more humid regions.
    2. Open windows and doors when possible.
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Water Damage? What you need to know.

What You Need to Know About Water Damage

  • Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms including viruses, bacteria, and mold.  These can cause disease, trigger allergic reactions, and continue to damage materials long after the water damage. Call today for an expert to contain, inspect for, and terminate microorganisms.
  • Sewage and storm water contamination must be contained.  Call today to fix the problem, clean the sewage, AND disinfect and sanitize your home and belongings.
  • Water can seep into your walls, floors, and belongings.
    • Complete structural drying is an excellent method of drying, reducing risk of mold, and restoring your property to normal as quickly as possible.
    • Wood floors and finished flooring can swell and eventually become damaged if not properly dried.  Patience is required as finished flooring and floor systems do not react and dry out overnight, sometimes taking weeks for the flooring to flatten and/or stabilize.
    • Drying water damaged kitchen cabinets is easier and more cost-effective than replacing them.

     

    Call 215-657-2244 today for dehumidification and complete drying services- structure, carpet & area rugs, hardwood floors, walls, furniture, kitchen cabinets.

 

  • Like water, fire & smoke damage can often be concealed from the visible eye.  Smoke comes in four basic varieties:
    • Dry Smoke results from a fast burning high temperature fire.
    • Protein Smoke has an extreme pungent odor but is virtually invisible.
    • Wet Smoke is described as resulting from a low heat fire.
    • Fuel Oil Soot Smoke results from furnace currents.

     

    Call 215-657-2244 today for a professional to evaluate the smoke and fire damage, target the type of smoke that has saturated the structure, and identify what type of restoration or replacement is necessary.

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About Royal Water Damage

We take your calls live 24 hours a day 7 days a week and send our local technicians to you anywhere in the Philadelphia, Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware and Chester County areas.

If you have a Emergency or are looking for more Information please CALL US NOW:  FREE ESTIMATES 215-657-2244

The Water Removal Specialists

  • On call 24-hours a day, 7 days a week
  • Free Inspections and Estimates
  • Direct Insurance Company Billing
  • Water Damage Specialists
  • Carpet and Upholstery Specialists
  • Cleaning Experts
  • Sewage Intrusion Professionals
  • Fire and Smoke Cleanup Specialists
  • Our standards set us above our competition!

Royal Water Damage Restoration, Inc. was founded by 2 local businessmen and our management team has a combined 30 years of experience. We possess trained and professional crews, utilizing state-of-the art equipment to quickly make the repairs and prevent any further damage from happening to your home, office or vehicle. Our company specializes exclusively in Water Removal and Drying, Odor and Mildew Control, Basement Water Removal, Sewage Intrusion Cleanup and Fire/Smoke Restoration. Royal is committed to superior customer service and we exceed expectations in all of our business relationships. Our goal and success is based on responding immediately and bringing our customers 100% satisfaction. To us it’s a matter of integrity and our reputation is built on it.

We are located at 1923 Fairview Avenue, Willow Grove, PA 19090.

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Welcome To Royal Water Damage Restoration

Royal Water Damage 215-657-2244

We understand the urgency of EMERGENCY.

We understand the urgency of EMERGENCY. We take your calls live 24 hours a day 7 days a week and send our local technicians to you anywhere in the Philadelphia, Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware and Chester County areas. We respond within 45 minutes and get the job done right! We offer full Water Damage Repair, Water Removal, Smoke, Fire, Flood Cleanup, Storm Damage, Wet Basement Drying and Mold Services and we are available around the clock. We also offer a variety of Payment Plans and Insurance Billing. Our certified and dedicated professional technicians will get to your place quickly to repair the damage and prevent any further damage from happening to your home or office.

Whether it be a Flooded Basement, Burst Pipes, Fire and/or Smoke Damage, Water Damage Restoration, Sewage Overflow or Commercial Water Extraction, Royal Water Damage is available to repair the damage! We take pride in our work and assure our customers 100% satisfaction. Contact us now for all your flood, smoke, fire, water restoration, odor and mildew control and dehumidification needs anytime 24/7. Call us now (215) 657-2244 for a NO obligation FREE estimate and our certified technicians will arrive in 45 minutes or less.

 

Flood Clean Up and Water Damage Restoration

  • Removal and Drying
  • Dehumidification
  • Odor and Mildew Control
  • Complete Structural Drying
  • Wood Floor Drying
  • Wall Drying
  • Kitchen Cabinet Drying
  • Deodorize and Sanitize
  • Carpet Repair and Stretching
  • Upholstery Cleaning
  • Carpet Cleaning
  • Debris Removal
  • Tile and Air Duct Cleaning after Water Damage

Sewage Removal & Clean Up Services

  • Extract All Visible Contamination
  • Disinfect All Affected Areas
  • Odor removal
  • Complete Damage Clean Up
  • Tile and Carpet Cleaning after Sewage Damage

Smoke & Fire Damage Clean Up

  • Smoke Odor Removal
  • Structural/Content Cleaning
  • Structural Restoration
  • Complete Damage Clean Up
  • Tile and Air Duct Cleaning after Fire Damage

Some of our many service areas include:
Abington
Ambler
Bensalem
Blue Bell
Broomall
Chalfont
Doylestown
Eagleville
Glenside
Hatfield
Horsham
Huntingdon Valley
King of Prussia
Lafayette Hill
Media
Newtown
Newtown Square
Norristown
Philadelphia
Pottstown
Wayne
Yardley

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