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Updated over 8 years ago,
Botched cleanup
More than two months ago my home suffered water and mold damage because of a water leak.
My insurance company sent a cleanup crew to begin the remediation process, but they disregarded proper procedures and exposed our entire home and all contents to mold spores beyond what was damaged. Here's what happened:
They immediately tore out wet, moldy drywall without establishing a containment area to seal off the unaffected areas of the home from the affected areas. At the same time they set up fans and turned on our air conditioning to circulate air to speed up the dryout process. It spread the moldy drywall dust into every part of the home. (Also, none of the workers was wearing protection for their skin, eyes or breathing.)
Besides belongings that were in the damaged areas, we have asked that all soft goods be replaced because of the negligence of the cleanup crew, which admitted to us they did not follow proper mold remediation procedures. Insurance has offered only to clean the clothing.
My wife has serious health issues, particularly her compromised immune system, and all but the most mild cleaners tend cause an allergic reaction. We have a statement from her doctor saying all clothing, bedding, linens, drapes, soft goods, etc., should be replaced in order to ensure against risk of an allergic reaction.
This would have never been an issue had the cleanup company -- assigned by the insurance company -- followed proper procedures.
So far we are at a stalemate with insurance over the clothing. We want it replaced; they are offering to clean it.
Is there a regulatory agency we should contact concerning the improper cleanup? Any suggestions on how we should deal with the insurance adjusters?
Any advice here would be appreciated. Thanks.