Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that dealing with property damage and the restoration process can feel overwhelming. Our goal at Bioclean Disaster Services is to make things as clear and straightforward as possible. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive.

  • Your insurance broker is the best resource to answer this question, as premium impacts vary by policy, claim history, and provider. We recommend reaching out to them directly for accurate information specific to your coverage.

  • No. The choice of restoration company is always yours. Your insurance adjuster’s role is to ensure the work is priced correctly and aligns with your policy, but you are free to choose the contractor you feel most comfortable working with.

  • Every loss is different, and timelines depend on several factors.

    During the emergency phase of a water loss, drying time depends on how wet the affected materials are. In many cases, materials can be dried within 3 to 5 days. Some porous materials may not be able to be dried and may need to be removed.

    During the rebuild phase, timelines can be affected by custom or special-order materials, contractor availability, and insurance approvals. If your claim involves insurance, there may be waiting periods while estimates are reviewed and approved.

  • Once insurance coverage is confirmed, emergency services begin right away.

    Next, either your insurance adjuster or a Bioclean estimator will assess the damage and prepare a detailed rebuild estimate. This estimate then goes through a two-step review process with an insurance reviewer and adjuster. Revisions may be requested to meet insurance standards and must be approved before rebuild work can begin.

    Once written approval is received, we will contact you to confirm when you would like to proceed with the rebuild work.

  • Insurance companies may request a site inspection to help determine the cause of loss, confirm coverage, or assess whether the damage exceeds your deductible. In some cases, we are asked to inspect and report back before any work proceeds.

    Regardless of the situation, we are here to help you move forward. We offer flexible payment options and can suggest ways to reduce costs if repairs need to be paid out of pocket.

  • For homes built prior to 1990, it is standard practice to test certain materials that may contain asbestos if they have been affected by the loss. Samples are sent to an independent lab, with results typically available within 3 to 5 business days.

    Testing is necessary because asbestos can be released into the air when materials are disturbed. Alberta regulations require specific procedures to be followed when asbestos is present, and testing helps ensure everyone’s safety.

  • We send a sample of your existing flooring to the Insurance Claims Collaborative (ICC). ICC determines a current flooring option that is considered like kind and quality and provides recommendations for local flooring retailers, as flooring is subcontracted on insurance claims.

    Homeowners are not required to use the recommended retailer and are free to choose their own. If you wish to upgrade or change your flooring, please let our office know so the flooring retailer can review options with you. Any costs beyond the original replacement value are the homeowner’s responsibility.

  • Yes. Many clients choose to make changes or upgrades while rebuilding. However, changing flooring types may create additional considerations, including baseboard coverage, door and door jamb adjustments, and potential floor leveling or underlay requirements. Your Project Manager will review these details with you before work begins.

  • Yes, paint colour changes are allowed, but it is important to understand insurance limitations. Insurance typically covers painting only in affected areas. Choosing a new colour may require additional coats or painting in unaffected rooms to achieve a consistent look, which may result in added costs to the homeowner.

  • Absolutely. Many homeowners use this opportunity to complete additional improvements such as extra flooring, painting, or trim upgrades. Please note that additional work may extend the project timeline by several days or weeks, depending on the scope.

  • We use industrial fans and dehumidifiers based on the materials affected and the type of loss. Moisture monitoring is completed using moisture meters and hygrometers to determine how wet materials are and how much equipment is needed. 

    In cases involving sewage backups, fans cannot be used due to the risk of spreading bacteria. We return regularly to monitor moisture levels and determine whether materials can be dried or need to be removed.

  • We use ecologically and biologically friendly cleaning products that do not contain VOCs or hazardous compounds. These products are biodegradable, made from natural organic ingredients, and designed to help improve indoor air quality, which is especially important after fire or flood damage.