20 Environmental Services and Restoration

What do environmental and restoration professionals do?

Specialists and consultants can be hired to carry out large-scale building restoration projects, or to restore period features such as interior trims and mouldings. They will first inspect and assess your home, and will provide restoration advice based on the extent of damage. It’s important to note that some heritage-listed buildings may have lead paint on walls, doors, windows and windowsills. Lead that gets disturbed by sanding, cutting or replacing old windows can create hazardous lead dust. If your home was built before 1978, you’ll want to find restoration professionals with experience and training in lead-safe procedures.

Homes that have water damage, mould, or which have been affected by a natural disaster will need specialty restoration experts. They will secure your home and remove any dangerous contents before beginning repair work. Should you suspect mould in your house, a qualified professional will do a full visual inspection and perform air/surface sampling to confirm its presence before safely removing the mould. Special training, equipment and licensing are required. Make sure you are working with certified, licensed and insured professionals who guarantee and warranty their restoration work.

Questions to ask prospective restoration companies:

What experience do you have in period property restoration?

Have you worked on projects similar to mine?

Will I need to get planning permission for my house restoration?

What materials will you be using? Are they original and where will you source them?

What will my building restoration or property maintenance services cost?

Do you offer written estimates?

How much disruption will be caused?

How long do you estimate the restoration to take?

Do you carry out building conservation work that will ensure my property stays in good condition for years to come?

Find environmental and restoration professionals on Houzz. Search qualified professionals in water damage restoration, fire damage repair, mould removal, and heritage renovations. Read through professional profiles for information on qualifications, experience and services provided.