1. What should I do if I experience water damage?
Act quickly to minimize damage. Shut off the source (like your main water supply), avoid contact with contaminated surfaces and never use a household vacuum on water or mold. Blot excess water, move valuables to a dry spot and avoid using electrical appliances on wet floors. Most importantly, call ServiceMaster right away—our team will respond fast to start the restoration process.
2. Can I clean up mold, water or fire damage myself?
It’s not recommended. DIY cleanup of mold, water or fire damage can expose you to health hazards and worsen the damage. These situations require specialized tools, training and protective equipment. ServiceMaster professionals are equipped to handle it safely and thoroughly, ensuring proper restoration and peace of mind.
3. Are All Restoration Contractors the Same?
Not even close. In a recent external survey conducted by J.D. Power, ServiceMaster ranked at the top for customer satisfaction when we were the referred restoration provider.
What sets us apart?
- Fast, reliable response times
- Clear, proactive communication
- Certified and highly trained experts
- Advanced technology and equipment
- A trusted nationwide network
From the initial emergency call to full restoration, ServiceMaster delivers a seamless experience that consistently earns the trust of both homeowners and property professionals. When it matters most, we’re the team people are glad was referred.
4. Are Your Technicians Individually Certified?
Yes! Every ServiceMaster technician is IICRC-certified, meaning they’ve met the highest industry standards for water, fire, mold and biohazard restoration. We also provide continuous real-world training, so our team stays sharp and ready to handle any restoration challenge with professionalism and care.
5. Why Choose an IICRC-Certified Firm Like ServiceMaster?
Choosing an IICRC-certified firm ensures you’re working with technicians trained in the most advanced, ethical, and effective restoration practices. ServiceMaster’s team holds multiple certifications and uses cutting-edge equipment and technology, making us a preferred provider for insurers and a trusted choice for property owners.
6. What Does the Restoration Process Involve?
ServiceMaster follows a structured three-phase process to restore your property after a loss.
First, we inspect and assess the damage, documenting everything to create a customized plan.
Next comes mitigation and cleanup - this may include water extraction, drying, smoke and soot removal and debris disposal.
Finally, we restore and rebuild, from structural repairs to content cleaning, finishing with a final inspection to ensure quality. A dedicated project manager guides you through each phase, keeping communication clear and the process smooth.
7. How Long Do Restoration Projects Take with ServiceMaster?
Restoration timelines vary based on the type and extent of damage. Minor water damage may take 3–5 days, while moderate to severe cases can range from 7 days to several weeks. Fire damage and mold remediation also vary in duration depending on severity and affected areas. Factors like material types, insurance processing and weather can also impact timing. ServiceMaster ensures clear timelines, quality work, and consistent updates throughout the process.
8. What Types of Restoration Services Does ServiceMaster Offer?
ServiceMaster offers a comprehensive range of restoration services for both residential and commercial properties. These include water damage restoration, fire and smoke cleanup, mold remediation, storm and disaster recovery, and biohazard/trauma cleanup. We also provide contents cleaning, pack-out services and full reconstruction to get homes and businesses back to their pre-loss condition.
9. Do You Work With Insurance Companies?
Yes, ServiceMaster works directly with all major insurance carriers to streamline the restoration process for our clients. From damage documentation to estimate preparation and adjuster coordination, we handle the details to reduce your stress and speed up claims. As a preferred vendor for many top insurers - including State Farm, Farmers, Allstate, American Family, Traveler’s, USAA and more - we’re trusted for our responsiveness, expertise, and high-quality results across Oregon and beyond.
10. Why Do Insurance Carriers Prefer ServiceMaster?
Insurance carriers prefer ServiceMaster because we consistently improve policyholder satisfaction and streamline the claims process. The 2025 J.D. Power Study showed that insurers who referred ServiceMaster saw higher satisfaction scores, especially due to our clear communication and reliable, high-quality work. Unlike third-party services, we offer direct restoration capabilities, reducing delays and callbacks. Our trusted partnerships with both national and regional carriers make us a go-to choice for efficient, policy-compliant and stress-free restoration.
11. Do You Provide Free Inspections?
ServiceMaster often provides free inspections - especially for insurance claims or emergency situations when requested by insurance professionals. Our IICRC-certified experts assess the damage, answer your questions and recommend the best course of action. In some cases, a small fee may apply for specialized or high-demand inspections, but this is credited toward your project if you move forward with us. We’re committed to transparency and fairness, so there are no hidden fees - just clear, professional guidance from the start.
12. How Does ServiceMaster Ensure Customer Satisfaction?
ServiceMaster ensures customer satisfaction through dedicated project management, consistent communication, and rigorous quality control. Each client works with a project manager for clear updates and support from start to finish. We use certified technicians, advanced equipment and strict quality assurance checks. Client feedback is actively encouraged to drive continuous improvement and we stand behind our work with strong warranties and satisfaction guarantees. As a preferred vendor for many insurance carriers, our proven performance leads to faster claims and happier customers. Simply put, your peace of mind is our top priority.
13. I Saw a Negative Review About Your Company Online. How Can I Be Sure You’re Trustworthy?
We understand how one negative review can stand out - it’s a natural reaction called negativity bias. While no company is perfect, ServiceMaster has successfully restored hundreds of homes and businesses with proven results. We’re happy to provide recent examples, testimonials and references from satisfied clients. Plus, we back our work with satisfaction guarantees, so you can move forward with confidence. Our focus is on earning your trust through transparency, quality service, and real results.
14. I Keep Hearing Ads About Another Company Offering the Cheapest Restoration Service. How Do I Know Your Pricing Is Competitive and Worth It?
We understand that repeated ads can make “cheapest” sound like “best,” but restoration is about long-term value - not just upfront cost. For insurance claims, ServiceMaster follows Xactimate industry-standard pricing, meaning we do not set the cost - our pricing is determined by the same software used by most insurance carriers. Our pricing includes thorough drying, guaranteed mold prevention, certified technicians and a full restoration process that protects your home and health. Cheaper options often cut corners, leading to more damage later. With ServiceMaster, you're investing in quality, safety and peace of mind.
15. I’ve Worked with Another Restoration Company Before and Feel Comfortable with Them. Why Should I Consider Switching to Your Company?
It’s completely understandable to prefer a company you’re familiar with- trust matters. That said, ServiceMaster stands out with faster response times, IICRC-certified technicians and industry-leading technology to streamline every step of the restoration process. We prioritize clear, consistent communication and transparency so you always know what’s happening. Most importantly, in the 2025 J.D. Power survey, ServiceMaster ranked highest in customer satisfaction among restoration providers - outperforming the competition in critical areas like communication, timeliness and overall service experience.
If you’re looking for a trusted, efficient, and proven restoration partner, we’d love the opportunity to earn your confidence.
Give us the chance to show you how our service, speed and reliability can exceed your past experience.
16. My Home Flooded and I Just Want the Problem Fixed Immediately. Why Should I Take the Time to Consider Other Companies?
We get it - when your home floods, speed matters. That’s why we offer same-day assessments and can begin work immediately. But fast isn’t enough if the job isn’t done right. At ServiceMaster, we combine rapid response with advanced equipment and proven techniques to ensure thorough drying, mold prevention and long-term protection. You don’t have to choose between speed and quality - you get both with us.
17. I Had a Bad Experience With a Restoration Company Years Ago After They Didn’t Dry My Home Properly And We Then Had a Mold Issue. How Can I Trust Your Company Won’t Do the Same?
We understand your concern - and you’re right to be cautious. That’s why we use advanced tools like thermal imaging and moisture mapping to detect hidden water and prevent mold from returning. Our certified technicians follow strict drying protocols and double-check affected areas before completing the job. We don’t just restore - we make sure it lasts!
18. I Usually Stick With My Regular Contractor for Repairs. Why Switch to Your Company for Fire Damage Restoration?
We completely respect your trust in your contractor. However, fire damage restoration is a highly specialized field that goes beyond general repairs. It involves smoke residue removal, structural assessment, odor control, and close coordination with insurance carriers. At ServiceMaster, we’ve completed hundreds of fire restorations and have the tools, training, and certifications to ensure your home is safe, clean, and fully restored—down to the details a general contractor might miss.
While general contractors excel at building homes or structures from the ground up, restoration requires a different skill set—one focused on carefully rebuilding what remains while managing the complexities of insurance claims, hidden smoke or soot damage, and health and safety standards. ServiceMaster’s experience allows us to handle both the technical restoration and the insurance communication, ensuring your home is brought back to pre-loss condition as smoothly and efficiently as possible.
19. I’ve Always Used the Same Water Damage Process Recommended Years Ago. Why Change Now?
If something worked in the past, it’s natural to stick with it. But restoration technology has come a long way. Today’s advanced equipment, like thermal imaging and precision drying systems, speeds up the process and reduces the risk of mold or future structural issues. By upgrading your approach, you’re not just following a trend - you’re protecting your property more effectively and potentially saving thousands in long-term repairs.
20. I think all restoration companies overcharge and can’t be trusted. How are you different?
Unfortunately, there are companies out there that have damaged trust. That’s why we focus on transparency from day one. You’ll receive a detailed estimate, a clear scope of work and progress updates with photos along the way. We also work directly with your insurance to avoid surprises. Our goal isn’t just to restore your property - it’s to restore your confidence in the process.
21. Can you handle both residential and commercial jobs?
Absolutely! ServiceMaster is equipped to restore both homes and commercial properties. Whether it’s water, fire, mold, or other types of damage, we have the experience, equipment, and certified teams to handle projects of any size with minimal disruption.
In addition, our ServiceMaster franchise recognized as a ServiceMaster Recovery Management (SRM) franchise — an elite designation within the ServiceMaster network. This means we are part of a select group of restoration companies trusted to respond to large-scale and catastrophic losses nationwide. SRM recognition reflects our advanced training, specialized equipment, and proven capability to manage complex commercial projects while maintaining the personalized care our residential customers expect.
22. What safety measures do you follow during restoration?
At ServiceMaster, our number one priority is safety - for occupants, employees and anyone who lives or works in the space, including our own crew and technicians.
During the initial inspection, we thoroughly assess the site to identify and mitigate any hazards such as exposed wiring, structural instability, compromised air quality or slippery surfaces. If necessary, we’ll shut off power and tag unsafe appliances to prevent further risk.
From start to finish, we take every precaution to ensure the environment remains secure, compliant, and safe for everyone involved in the restoration process.
23. Can you clean and restore my personal belongings?
Yes, we can. ServiceMaster offers full content restoration services, including inventorying, packing, transporting, cleaning, deodorizing and securely storing your belongings in a climate-controlled facility. Once your property is restored, we return everything clean and organized.
24. How do you handle biohazard or trauma cleanup?
ServiceMaster has certified technicians trained specifically for biohazard and trauma cleanup, including crime scenes, sewage spills and unattended deaths. We use specialized equipment, personal protective gear, and follow OSHA and EPA protocols to safely clean, disinfect and restore affected areas with care, discretion and respect.
25. Are your services environmentally friendly?
Yes, ServiceMaster is committed to eco-friendly restoration. We use non-toxic, biodegradable products and low-moisture methods that are safe for people, pets, and the planet. Whether restoring carpet, tile, or hardwood, our techniques reduce water waste, avoid harsh chemicals, and improve indoor air quality - all without sacrificing performance. It’s restoration you can feel good about.
26. I had a small fire; can I take care of it myself?
We recommend calling us for a free assessment, and we will let you know recommendations for structure cleaning and content cleaning services.
27. I filed an insurance claim but it was denied, is there any other way to pay for your services?
We offer financing options to pay for our services if your claim was denied or you are not going through insurance and have to pay out-of-pocket.
Your recovery starts here! Dial(503) 212-6925 orcontact us online for 24/7 restoration services in Salem today!
