Northeast Property Restoration
May 1, 2020
1:00 pm
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10 Questions to Ask a COVID-19 Cleanup Company

10 Questions to Ask a COVID-19 Cleanup Company | The worldwide Coronavirus outbreak has people trying to protect themselves, their homes and their businesses from infection/contamination. If your home or business has had an occupant who tested positive for coronavirus you will want to disinfect the property properly.

There are many companies that advertise for COVID-19 cleanup. However, not all of them may be qualified for the job. There is plenty of uncertainty surrounding the current COVID-19 pandemic, therefore you’ll want to be certain when it comes to hiring a qualified company. Not only should you hire a Certified Cleanup Company you should also hire an Environmental Hygienist to ensure the virus is gone.

Certified Cleanup Company

A Certified Cleanup Company specializes in the cleanup of the property. They work hand in hand with the Environmental Hygenist to ensure the job is complete.

Environmental Hygienist

An Environmental Hygienist provides a visual inspection and tests the contaminated area. They will also put together a work plan to be completed by the Cleanup Company. Once the cleanup is completed the Hygienist does a post visual inspection and testing for clearance.

So, what should you do to ensure that a company is able to clean your home or business properly? Below are 10 questions you should ask a company before hiring them.

1) Are Your Employees Certified?

Disaster cleanup companies who specialize in water, mold, fire, sewage, and bio-hazard services should have training and certifications. For COVID-19 they should have the following certifications and training:

IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration)
OSHA (BBP)
HAZWOPER

*Click on IICRC above to search for a certified cleanup company.

2) Is Your Company Insured?

Any reputable company will have general liability and workers compensation insurance.

3) What Are Your Safety Precautions?

Every certified cleanup company should have implemented safety precautions. Ask about their:

Personal Protective Equipment
Health and Safety Protocol

Technicians should wear the following:

Tyvex Suits
Gloves
Full Face Respirators

4) What Types of Chemicals Do You Use?

There are certain EPA approved disinfectants for use against the COVID-19 virus.

Ask the company what product they use and check if they are on the list. Also have them provide you with the SDS Sheet (safety data sheet) for that product.

Head to https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2 to learn more about approved the disinfectants.

5) What Cleaning Techniques Do You Use?

The Environmental Hygienist will put in place a work plan to be implemented and completed. The cleaning techniques should follow the work plan. The cleaning company should also provide you with a scope of work that references the Hygienists. Learn more about the appropriate cleaning techniques at:

6) Do You Have Experience With Bio Hazard Cleanup?

Companies with experience in Bio Hazard Cleanup should have the knowledge on proper cleanup. They also should be trained to address viruses, bacteria, microbial growth and other pathogens.

7) Do You Have a Website?

Check out their company website and read the reviews for previous customers.

If they don’t have a website (which in this day and age is very uncommon) you should Google them and if there still is little to no information move on.

8) Can You Provide Me With References?

Disaster cleanup can be pricey, especially when your insurance does not cover the situation. Therefore, you want to make sure the company you hire is legitimate and in good standings.

Many companies work with insurances, environmental hygienists, and other contractors. Ask for their contact information to gather more insight.

9) How Do You Know The Virus Is Gone?

As mentioned above, the Environmental Hygienist will do post testing. Post testing is the only way to determine for sure if your home or property is free from the virus.

If the company you speak with does not mention using an Environmental Hygienist than I would be weary in hiring that company.

10) ASK ASK ASK

There’s no such thing as a stupid question especially in regards to ensuring the safety of you, your family, or your employees.

COVID-19 Cleanup

The coronavirus pandemic unfortunately has brought out many untrustworthy people. When people are scared these scammers try to take advantage. This is why we urge you to ASK questions to make sure the company is legitimate.

If you are in need of a COVID-19 cleanup company do your research and ask these 10 important questions!

STAY SAFE, STAY HOME, AND STAY STRONG!

Service Area:

Broome County, Tioga County, Tompkins County, Cortland County, Susquehanna County, Lakawanna County, Chenango County and more!