MoreFulfilling this need, the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) has published "Disaster Restoration Information," a Web page containing tips intended to provide assistance to those living in areas affected by recent hurricanes, flooding, and resulting mold.
"Disaster Restoration Information" outlines a checklist of qualifications for restoration contractors. The page also links to industry-recognized programs dealing with indoor environmental inspection, mold remediation, and water restoration services. Using these links, visitors accessing this page can easily contact qualified professionals.
IAQA also lists established government and industry standards and guidelines dealing with indoor air pollution, the cleanup of water damage, the removal of mold, and the cleanup of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. Information about these documents is provided on the page.
Because consumers need to be wary of fly-by-night operators seeking to take advantage of water damage victims, IAQA has listed five warning signs that a contractor should be avoided. These contractor warning signs range from listing himself or herself as a beneficiary for funds from the Federal Emergency Management Association, to insisting on a 50 percent deposit plus the cost of materials.
IAQA specifies typical steps for rendering payment and recommends homeowners and restoration contractors should agree on completion criteria before work is undertaken.
The Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) is a nonprofit, multidisciplinary organization, dedicated to promoting the exchange of indoor environmental information, through education and research, for the safety and well being of the general public. For more information, visit http://www.iaqa.org/ or call (301) 231-8388.
