The Four A's

1.  Arrival

Photograph the outside of the structure and photograph the PuroClean van. Meet the insured and immediately begin the DocuSketch process as well as the Video Walk Through.

2.  Analyze

  • Determine the Source: Discuss with the homeowner where the water loss originated and when it happened.

  • Measure, Analyze, Document:

    • Use moisture sensors to identify affected areas.

    • Classify the water type (Category 1, 2, or 3) and its class (Class 1, 2, 3, or 4).

    • Document findings with photographs and moisture maps.

3.  Assess

  • Evaluate Damage:

    • Identify which materials need to be removed or can be dried in place.

    • Assess affected items (cabinets, carpets, etc.) for potential removal.

    • Determine required actions based on the water category and class.

    • Plan necessary equipment and chemistry for mitigation.

4.  Action

  • Execute Mitigation Steps:

    • Implement demolition as needed (remove damaged materials).

    • Set up drying equipment immediately (dehumidifiers, air movers).

    • Extract standing water if present.

    • Document all actions taken and monitor progress regularly.

    • DocuSketch the area before leaving, with all equipment in place.

By following these steps under each of the Four A's, restoration technicians can effectively manage water loss situations and minimize further damage.

Categories and Classification of Water Damage

The very first action taken is to survey the loss and determine the Category and the Class. The source of loss may not be the actual Category. Example: A second-floor sink overflows (Category 1 water) but affects carpet, and the first floor. The carpet has dirt, soil, food particles, etc., and the loss is now Category 2. Further, water that moves through building materials automatically become Category 2.

Categories:

Categories of Water Damage define the demolition protocols.

  1. Category 1 (Clean Water):

    • Source: Clean, drinkable water (e.g., broken pipes, sink overflows).

    • Impact: Minimal health risk; can be dried in place if addressed quickly.

  2. Category 2 (Gray Water):

    • Source: Water with contaminants (e.g., washing machine overflow, dishwasher leaks).

    • Impact: May cause illness if ingested; requires more extensive cleaning than Category 1.

  3. Category 3 (Black Water):

    • Source: Water containing pathogens and bacteria (e.g., sewage backup, flood water from outside).

    • Impact: High health risk; requires immediate removal and thorough remediation.

Classes:

Categories of Water Damage define the dehumidification protocols.

  1. Class 1:

    • Affects a small area (e.g., part of one room).

    • Low permeance materials affected; standard dehumidification needed.

  2. Class 2:

    • Affects an entire room or multiple rooms (e.g., a bathroom and adjoining areas).

    • Significant moisture; requires more dehumidification than Class 1.

  3. Class 3:

    • Water comes from overhead sources (e.g., roof leaks).

    • Affects ceilings, walls, and flooring; requires extensive drying and still more dehumidification than Class 2.

  4. Class 4:

    • Specialty drying required (e.g., hardwood floors, plaster).

    • Materials have absorbed significant moisture; long drying time expected. Therefore, yet still more dehumidification relative to even Class 3.