After the fire is extinguished and emergency responders have left, the priorities are safety, preventing further damage, documenting losses, and beginning the recovery process.

Here’s a checklist to walk you through the process:

Wait until the property is safe to enter. You should only re-enter your home or office building when the professionals have done their job and tell you it’s safe. If they say it isn’t safe, believe them! They may be aware of structural damages or unstable ceilings issues you can’t see, not to mention electrical hazards or gas leaks or contaminated air that are invisible to you.

Contact First In Restoration to assess the problem. A trained professional can help you take the steps that will help you get through the insurance process faster and more efficiently. You’ll want the voice of experience that First In Restoration offers to walk alongside you.

Avoid touching soot or damaged material. Be careful where you step and what you touch. Soot and smoke residue can spread easily and could stain surfaces. It is important to avoid handling affected items – even precious keepsakes – until the damage can be assessed.

Document all damage. Use your smartphone to document the damage. Shoot video of each room that has been affected, slowly panning through the scene as you walk along. Take as many cellphone photos as you need to show every item that has been damaged. You’ll want to conduct a room-by-room inventory of the damage and photo and video evidence will help in your case to get them replaced.

Notify your insurance company. When things have settled down, report the loss as soon as possible. This is where First In Restoration can be very helpful. The professional technicians can help partner with your insurance company to ensure that you get the most settlement that is possible.

Arrange professional restoration and cleanup. First In Restoration can test for hazardous chemicals (asbestos, lead, chemicals) that may have been unleashed or revealed during the fire. You will want fire damage restoration professionals to assess and clean the property and set up a plan to get you back into your home or business.

Grab all your important belongings. When the area is safe and you get the proper approval, retrieve your important documents, medications, valuables and electronics. If needed, you might want to rent a storage unit and keep them in a clean, dry location.

Don’t forget to document your expenses. Life goes on, but you’ll need to keep receipts so you can be reimbursed. Keep a file of all communications, invoices, estimates, receipts, and claim-related documents throughout the restoration process.

Water damage can wreck your life. But there are steps you can take to mitigate the damage and keep your world from spinning completely out of control.

The first thing to do is to act quickly. If you spot a water problem – a broken pipe, a broken line, a busted water heater, an overflowing toilet or sink – speed is essential. Wasted time means additional damage, which could mean a higher cost and longer return to normal.

Here is a checklist to follow you should take if you walk in and discover you’ve got puddles of water in places it’s not supposed to be.

Stop the source of the water. Shut off the valve that leads to the problem area or turn it off at the street. This will only take a minute and will stop the source of the water, giving you time to think clearly and move forward.

If necessary, turn off the electricity. If the water is near an electrical outlet, it makes sense to go to your breaker panel and shut off the power to the area that is affected. If your breaker isn’t marked, go ahead and kill the power to entire house. You don’t want to play around with electricity!

Call your First In Restoration professional. The trained professional can arrive quickly and help you understand how the cleanup and restoration process works. The technician can help keep you safe and guide you through the process of getting your problem solved, including walking alongside you with the insurance company.

Document the damage. Use you smartphone and take photos and videos of the damage. Don’t miss anything. Document everything in the rooms that have been affected, including the furniture, carpet or flooring, walls, ceilings and your personal items. Do this before you start cleaning up. The more documentation you provide, the more you will help your claim with the insurance company.

Contact your insurance provider. You need to report the damage as soon as possible. (Our First In Restoration team can help you with this process and show you how to avoid some of the traps an insurance company may set that could possibly cost you money.) Follow their instructions; they’ll explain any documents they’ll need or how to work through the process of emergency repairs.

Remove standing water and begin the drying process. After documenting the damage (that’s a key point), you’ll want to get rid of all the visible water. You can remove a lot of it by using a wet vac or an old-fashioned mop. Use cloth towels and paper towels to get up the smaller spots.

Remove wet materials that can’t be salvaged. That water-soaked carpet and padding has to go. Ditch that soaked insulation. Remove the damaged drywall or other porous materials that can’t be dried promptly. Cleaning and disinfecting affected surfaces also helps reduce mold and bacteria.

Dry out the area. First In Restoration has larger, powerful fans and heaters that can be used to properly dry out your property. In the meantime, run whatever fans you have, open the windows (if weather permits), and fire up the dehumidifiers. That will help slow the process until First In Restoration can bring in the powerful equipment that will be needed.

Make the cleanup a priority. Time is of the essence because mold can begin growing within 24-28 hours of the disaster. A hasty cleanup will reduce the chance that mold will get a foothold and cause even more damage.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: First In Restoration joins Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Club

First In Restoration, a leader in water, mold and fire remediation, has joined the elite Chairman’s Club of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. “

We are thrilled to welcome First in Restoration to The Chairman’s Club and look forward to connecting their team with valuable relationships while working together to make a positive impact throughout Gwinnett,” said Margaret Phillips, the organization’s Senior Membership Development Manager.

Membership in the Chairman’s Club is by invitation only and is reserved for businesses and individuals who go the extra mile in supporting the chamber and the broader economic development of Gwinnett County.

“We are pleased to accept an invitation to join the Chairman’s Club,” First In Restoration founder David King said. “It is exciting to be part of such a vibrant, influential group that plays an important role in the area’s economic development. We look forward to being actively involved in this important organization.”

First In Restoration was founded in 2024 by King, a U.S. Marine Corp veteran who resides in Loganville. First In Restoration specializes in water damage restoration, mold removal and fire-damage remediation for residential, multi-family dwellings and commercial buildings throughout Georgia, with a focus in Gwinnett County and metro Atlanta.

First In Restoration is guided by the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. This lesson really hit home when an elderly friend had a dishonest company take advantage of their family during an emergency. King saw the mistreatment and realized people in distress needed a trustworthy friend to walk alongside them through the process. That has been the guiding principle of First In Restoration.

First In Restoration has helped countless families, businesses, non-profits and churches deal with water damage, mold removal and fire remediation.

First In Restoration is an IICRC certified firm and holds certification in water, fire, odor and mold removal and is a member of Restoration Industry Association (RIA), and the Atlanta Apartment Association.

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Contact information:
David King, First In Restoration, www.firstinrestoration.com
678-483-7284, info@firstinrestoration.com

Download a printable copy here: Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: First In Restoration joins Atlanta Apartment Association

First In Restoration has joined the Atlanta Apartment Association, one of largest organizations of its kind in the United States.

“We have always admired and respected the values for which the Atlanta Apartment Association has stood,” First In Restoration owner David King said. “The organization represents 1.9 million Georgians, and we are proud to be a part of their effort to provide fast, quality response to those in need.”

The Atlanta Apartment Association represents more than 350 companies and manages more than 500,000 apartment homes.

King is U.S. Marine Corp veteran who resides in Loganville, Ga. King’s company, First In Restoration specializes in water damage restoration, fire restoration and mold removal and remediation for multi-family dwellings, commercial buildings and residential properties throughout Georgia, with a focus in Gwinnett County and metro Atlanta.

First In Restoration is guided by the principle by which many of us were raised: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

This lesson really hit home when an elderly friend had a dishonest company take advantage of their family during an emergency. David saw the mistreatment and realized people in distress need a trustworthy friend to walk alongside them through the process.

“Our model of high quality and fast response matches the needs of Atlanta’s apartment owners. I see First In Restoration as a perfect partner for the Atlanta Apartment Association.”

First In Restoration is an IICRC certified firm and holds certification in water, fire, odor and mold removal and is a member of Restoration Industry Association.

###

Contact information:

David King, First In Restoration, www.firstinrestoration.com

(678) 483-7284, info@firstinrestoration.com

Download a printable copy here: Press Release

Georgia rain can be a serious threat to your property’s foundation, crawlspace air quality. At First In Restoration we know one thing is for sure: prevention is cheaper than repair. Here are some tips so you’re ready for the upcoming Georgia rain to help prevent water damage.

Check Your Gutters Like Your Home Depends on It

Leaves and pine needle debris will block water flow very quickly. When gutters overflow, the water is looking for any place to go. The could end up behind your walls and all the way into your basement. Make gutter cleaning a regular chore (or let the professionals clean them for you), and double-check that the downspouts are pushing water away from your home.

Your Landscaping Might Be The Culprit

Water needs to move away from your home. Mulch too high? Flower beds sloping the wrong way? Maybe your azaleas are too close causing water to pool up. You need to keep rainwater shifted away from your home and away from your foundation. Don’t know where to start? We always recommend calling a landscape company or architect that can help with preventative measures. 

Smelly Basement or Crawlspace? 

If your basement or crawlspace smell musty or feels damp, that means that water is already getting in to your home. Seal any cracks and have your crawlspace encapsulated. You should also consider installing a sump pump which will really help during the next downpour.

Pro Tip: If you see bubbling paint in your home, warping floors, or smell something kind of weird and earthy you may have water damage and hidden mold.

We Respond Fast to Georgia Water Damage

First In Restoration is Georgia’s most trusted name in water damage restoration and mold remediation. We’re IICRC certified, offer 24/7 emergency plumbing and provide full-service restoration including crawlspace encapsulation. We are based in Gwinnett County but serve all of Georgia.

Call First In Restoration: 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com

Generally you think of mold as being weird spots on drywall or a musty smell in your bathroom. But mold can hide in places out of your sight like inside your home’s HVAC system which silently spreads mold spores throughout your vents.

Mold Loves HVAC Systems

HVAC units are the perfect places for mold families to form. Mold loves dark and moist spaces. Condensation from HVAC coils and HVAC ducts mix together with dust that has buil up creating the perfect coughing cocktail. Once it forms in your HVAC system, it will spread quickly through your home and into the air you and your family breathe.

Mold Health Risks 

Mold spores can cause tons of health problems, especially for folks with allergies, asthma and compromised immune systems. Mold from HVAC systems can cause symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, headaches, fatigue, as well as chronic respiratory problems. Since it came from mold in your HVAC system that means you are breathing it in every day without realizing it.

How Do I Know if My HVAC Has Mold?

• Do you smell something musty or sour when your HVAC system turns on and runs?
• Do you see mold around vents or air returns?
• Have you noticed allergy or asthma symptoms while indoors?
• Do you see a lot of dust or moisture around your unit?

Don’t Try DIY 

Mold in your HVAC system is not a project for someone that’s not a professional — a handyman or spraying bleach won’t cut it. To remediate mold in your HVAC takes a company with specialized training, testing, equipment as well as containment methods to safely clean and restore your infected HVAC system. At First In Restoration, we’re IICRC certified and experienced to tackle mold issues.

Call the Best in Georgia — First In Restoration

If you think you have mold in your HVAC system, do not delay. Call the number one water damage and mold remediation company in Georgia. First In Restoration is IICRC certified, offers 24/7 emergency service and handles everything from cleanup to full reconstruction. We’re based in Loganville but serve all surrounding areas in Georgia. Call now: 470-748-0225, www.firstinrestoration.com

Here are three easy ways to make your home a little greener on Earth Day.

1. Fix Leaks & Dripping Faucets: That annoying dripping faucet is wasting thousands of gallons of water a year, not to mention thousands of dollars (yep, your bill is definitely affected by a dripping faucet). Repair leaky faucets and small leaks early to help prevent long term issues.

2. Install a water monitor: You can prevent major water damage to your home by investing in a Smart Water Monitor (Amazon, y’all!). These devices can detect leaks or even unusual water usage. The monitor will send you an alert directly to your home. It’s a small investment that will give you peace of mind and help prevent major water damage.

3. Clean those gutters: Water around your foundation or water backing up on your roof is a big no-no! You want to keep debris cleaned out of your gutters to protect your home. This also helps with storm water runoff.

Protect Your Home from Water Damage

At First In Restoration, we believe in doing things differently. From fast response times to eco-friendly cleanup First In Restoration will restore your space quickly. Whether it’s water damage, emergency plumbing or mold remediation our IICRC-certified team is ready 24/7, call First In Restoration today: 470-748-0225, www.firstinrestoration.com

Easter Sunday is a holiday that should be about family, delicious food, traditions and making memories, not a surprise waterfall from your ceiling from water damage.

When everyone’s in town and you’re hosting a big family get-together, your home’s plumbing is working extra hard. The strain from additional people using the bathroom or running multiple loads of dishes through out the weekend can stress out your home’s plumbing system. Everything seems fine at first — Then a guest’s toilet overflows. Maybe your dishwasher leaks mid-cycle. Even worse — your hot water heater decides that after all of these years of faithful service, it’s time to give out, resulting in a flooded garage, attic, or basement while you’re just trying to carve the ham and serve some casseroles. .

Why Holiday Water Damage Happens

When your house is full, your plumbing doesn’t get a break. Common holiday mishaps or heavy use include:

• Clogged toilets or drains
• Appliance leaks from old dishwashers or washing machines
• Hidden pipe bursts
• Water heaters throwing in the towel

What to Do If Water Damage Strikes During Easter

1. Stay calm. Shut off the water supply to your house. (Click HERE for a video on how to do this).
2. Protect valuables. Move electronics, heirlooms, and an important items away from the affected area if possible.
3. Document all of the damage. Take photos and video to submit to your insurance company (do this even if you decide not to file a claim).
4. Call First In Restoration immediately. The longer the water sits, the more damage it causes to your home and it’s structure, and mold can begin to spread within 24-48 hours of water exposure.

We’re Available — Even on Easter

At First In Restoration, we know emergencies don’t take holidays off. That’s why we don’t either. First In Restoration’s emergency response team is on call 24/7 for your water damage emergency.

Call 470-748-0225 any time, www.firstinrestoration.com

It’s already frustrating to experience water damage in your home or business. Having a water damage insurance claim denied is your worst nightmare. While water damage restoration is necessary, it can be costly, especially the longer the water has been left to sit.

If you have to come out of pocket for water damage restoration, you may be left wondering how much everything will cost and how you’ll pay the bill? With First In Restoration you still have options, even if your water damage claim was denied.

Why Was Your Water Damage Insurance Claim Denied?

Insurance companies have strict guidelines on what they cover. It’s important to review your policy closely every year when it is up for renewal. Common reasons for insurance claim denial may include:

• Gradual Damage – If you had a leak for a long time (even if you didn’t realize it) or if you didn’t properly maintain your home and it caused a long-term leak, then this is considered homeowner negligence and will not be covered.
• Flood vs. Water Damage Confusion – If your home floods from heavy rains, storms or overflowing rivers and creeks you will need separate flood insurance for that. Typically standard insurance will not cover it.
• Late Reporting – Failing to report damage immediately to your insurance company make get your claim denied. Your insurance company may take the stance that the delay in calling to make the claim worsened the damage of your home (which will cost them more money).
• Incorrect or Insufficient Coverage – There is more than one type of water damage and your insurance policy may have exclusions you weren’t aware of. It’s best to talk to local insurance agent to make sure you’re covered.

What to Do If Your Water Damage Claim Is Denied

1. Review Your Policy 

Read every detail in your insurance policy regarding water damage coverage and the reasons for denial. 

2. Request a Written Explanation

If your claim was denied over the phone by the adjuster, consider requesting a formal written explanation by the insurance company. This will show you the exact reason for claim denial and you can determine whether you should challenge the decision.

3. Gather Evidence & Documentation

Your insurance company may have denied the claim due to lack of sufficient proof. You can help strengthen your case with:

• Photos and videos of the damage
• Repair invoices and written professional assessments and estimates
• Reports by plumbers or contractors outlining the issue

4. File an Appeal

Most insurance companies allow you to appeal a denied claim. Submit a written request with the following:

• Give an explanation (in detail) of why you believe the damage should be covered
• Add any additional documents or expert opinions (ie: from your plumber) supporting the claim
• Reference line items of your policy if coverage should apply

5. Consult a Public Adjuster 

A public adjuster has the authority to review your insurance policy as well as your case. They can represent you and negotiate with your insurer on your behalf. 

6. Consider Legal Action

If everything else fails you may have to take matters into your own hands and consider:

• Filing a complaint with the Georgia’s insurance commissioner.
• Hire an attorney that specializes in disputes with insurance claims.

How First In Restoration Can Help

Dealing with water damage AND a denied insurance claim is overwhelming. At First In Restoration, the best water damage restoration company in Georgia, we work directly with homeowners and businesses to assess and restore water damage. Call First In Restoration today at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com.

Your yard can either protect your foundation or cause major water damage.

If you have poor drainage, a sloped yard or have plants too close to your foundation it can direct water straight into your crawlspace or basement. Over time these issues can lead to structural issues to your home, mold damage and even a flooded foundation.

On the flip side, strategic landscaping — like grading your yard away from the home, using proper gutter extensions and planting water-absorbing shrubs — can help keep water far from your house to help prevent water damage.

Even your plant choices make a difference. Water-absorbing shrubs and deep-rooted native plants will help soak up excess groundwater, and mulched garden beds can reduce erosion and slow the flow of rainwater across your property.

When done correctly, your landscaping can guide water away from your home and toward safer drainage zones — keeping your foundation dry, your crawlspace clear and your risk of water damage low.

If you’ve experienced water damage in your home from landscape issues you need to call First In Restoration, Georgia’s number one rated water damage restoration company: 470-748-0225, www.firstinrestoration.com