Question 1

How quickly should I call a restoration company after water damage?

Accepted Answer

Immediately — within the first hour if possible. Water spreads fast, soaking into drywall, subfloor, and insulation within minutes. Mold can begin growing in as little as 24–48 hours. The sooner we arrive, the less structural damage occurs and the lower your overall restoration cost.

Question 2

What does the water damage restoration process involve?

Accepted Answer

We follow a proven five-step process: (1) Emergency contact and dispatch, (2) Inspection and damage assessment with moisture mapping, (3) Water extraction using truck-mounted pumps, (4) Structural drying with industrial air movers and dehumidifiers, and (5) Full restoration — drywall, flooring, painting, and any structural repairs needed to return your property to pre-loss condition.

Question 3

Can water-damaged flooring and drywall be saved, or does it all need to be replaced?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the material, saturation level, and how quickly we respond. Hardwood floors can often be dried and saved if we act fast. Drywall that has been wet for more than 24–48 hours typically needs replacement to prevent mold. We assess every affected material and only recommend replacement when drying is no longer viable.

Question 4

How long does water damage restoration take?

Accepted Answer

Drying typically takes 3–5 days with professional equipment. Full restoration — repairs, flooring, painting — can take 1–2 weeks depending on the extent of damage. We provide a detailed timeline after our initial assessment so you know exactly what to expect.

Question 5

Is water damage covered by homeowners insurance?

Accepted Answer

Most sudden and accidental water damage (burst pipes, appliance failures, storm-related leaks) is covered by standard homeowners insurance. Gradual leaks or flooding from outside typically require separate coverage. We work directly with all major insurance carriers and help you document and file your claim.

Question 6

What should I do immediately after a house fire?

Accepted Answer

First, ensure everyone is safe and do not re-enter until the fire department clears the structure. Then call us — we provide emergency board-up and tarping to secure the property, prevent further damage, and protect against theft or weather. Do not attempt to clean soot yourself; improper cleaning can permanently set stains and odors.

Question 7

Can smoke and soot damage be fully removed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in most cases. We use professional-grade HEPA vacuums, dry and wet chemical sponges, thermal fogging, and ozone treatments to eliminate smoke odor and soot residue from surfaces, contents, and HVAC systems. Porous materials like insulation or heavily saturated drywall may need replacement.

Question 8

How long does fire damage restoration take?

Accepted Answer

Minor fire damage can be restored in 1–2 weeks. Significant structural damage may take 4–8 weeks or longer. We provide a detailed scope of work and timeline after our initial assessment, and we coordinate directly with your insurance adjuster throughout the process.

Question 9

Will my home smell like smoke after restoration?

Accepted Answer

No. Odor elimination is a core part of our fire restoration process. We use thermal fogging, ozone generators, and hydroxyl machines to neutralize smoke molecules — not just mask them. We do not consider the job complete until the odor is fully gone.

Question 10

How do I know if I have a mold problem?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include visible mold growth (black, green, or white patches), a persistent musty odor, recent water damage that was not professionally dried, or unexplained allergy-like symptoms in occupants. If you suspect mold, call us for an inspection — mold is not always visible and can grow inside walls, under flooring, and in HVAC systems.

Question 11

Is mold dangerous to my health?

Accepted Answer

Certain mold species — particularly black mold (Stachybotrys) — can cause respiratory issues, headaches, and other health problems, especially in children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Any mold growth should be taken seriously and remediated by a professional.

Question 12

What does mold remediation involve?

Accepted Answer

Our process includes: (1) Inspection and moisture source identification, (2) Containment to prevent spore spread, (3) Air filtration with HEPA equipment, (4) Physical removal of mold-affected materials, (5) Antimicrobial treatment of all surfaces, and (6) Restoration of removed materials. We also address the underlying moisture source to prevent recurrence.

Question 13

Can I just paint over mold or clean it with bleach?

Accepted Answer

No. Painting over mold traps it and allows it to continue growing beneath the surface. Bleach kills surface mold on non-porous materials but does not penetrate porous surfaces like drywall or wood, and it does not address the moisture source. Professional remediation is the only way to fully eliminate mold and prevent it from returning.

Question 14

Do you work with insurance companies?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we work directly with all major insurance carriers including State Farm, Allstate, Farmers, USAA, Travelers, and more. We document all damage thoroughly with photos and detailed estimates, communicate with your adjuster, and guide you through every step of the claims process.

Question 15

Do I need to get multiple estimates before filing a claim?

Accepted Answer

Your insurance policy may require it, but many carriers accept a single estimate from a qualified restoration contractor. We recommend calling your insurance company first to understand their process. We are happy to work within whatever framework your carrier requires.

Question 16

What if my insurance claim is denied?

Accepted Answer

We can help you understand the denial and provide additional documentation to support an appeal. In some cases, a public adjuster may be beneficial. We have extensive experience working through complex claims and will advocate for you throughout the process.

Question 17

Do you offer 24/7 emergency response?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We answer the phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year — including holidays. When disaster strikes, you should not have to wait until business hours. Call (816) 477-3144 any time and we will dispatch a team immediately.

Question 18

How fast can you arrive after I call?

Accepted Answer

We aim to be on-site within 1–2 hours for emergency calls throughout the Kansas City metro area. Response time depends on your location and current call volume, but we prioritize emergencies and dispatch the nearest available team.

Question 19

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve the entire Kansas City metro area across Missouri and Kansas — including Kansas City MO, Lee's Summit, Independence, Blue Springs, Raytown, Grandview, Liberty, Kearney, Belton, Raymore, Parkville, Overland Park, Olathe, Shawnee, Lenexa, Leawood, Prairie Village, Kansas City KS, and Bonner Springs.

Question 20

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It Happens Restoration Services is fully licensed and insured. Our technicians are trained and certified in water damage restoration, fire and smoke remediation, and mold remediation. We carry full liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage on every job.

Restoration Questions, Answered

Water Damage

Fire & Smoke Damage

Mold Remediation

Insurance & Claims

Emergency Response & Service Area

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