How does the restoration process work?

At MJ White, we're here to guide you through the home restoration process and provide clarity on what to expect as we begin repairing your property. Once you, the property owner, sign a work authorization, our restoration company collaborates with your insurance adjuster to establish the scope of necessary repairs. Upon approval from the insurance adjuster, we initiate the estimation process. This involves gathering detailed measurements and photographs to ensure accuracy.nnOur estimators then input this information into a standardized program used by the insurance industry to generate the estimate, which is subsequently shared with the insurance company. Once the estimate is approved, our project managers step in to coordinate the repairs. They'll work closely with you, overseeing selection meetings, scheduling repairs, managing on-site construction, and arranging building inspections. Throughout the process, your project manager will review all repairs and schedule any necessary finishing touches before conducting the final walk-through with you.

Do I have to pay money upfront?

Yes! MJ White is proud to be a full-service contractor that can handle your entire restoration and renovation project from start to finish. We have a full, in-house water mitigation department and a contents division on site to make sure your experience is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

What training certificates do you hold?

MJ White is certified by The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). To qualify for IICRC-Certified Firm status, businesses must demonstrate proof of insurance, maintain a written customer complaint policy with documented follow-up, and provide ongoing education and training leading to certification for all technicians.nnIICRC Certified Firms are also required to abide by the IICRC Code of Ethics. Services provided by IICRC-certified professionals range from flooring inspection and cleaning to mold remediation to water and fire damage restoration.

Is your restoration company Michigan-based?

Everything that can be done to keep business local to Michigan is of huge value to our economy and employment rates. MJ White is proud to be a Michigan-based business that supports our local communities.

Why Quick Action Matters in Disaster Restoration & Recovery

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August 31, 2025

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Featured, Storm

Disaster restoration begins the moment an emergency ends. Quick action can make the difference between recovery and long-term damage, whether caused by a fire, flood, or major storm. A slow response leads to higher repair costs, increased health risks, and more complex insurance claims.

Below, we explore why speed matters, how to prepare, and how to get the right help.

How Time Impacts Restoration Costs

The longer property damage goes untreated, the worse it becomes. For example, water from a broken pipe begins damaging drywall, flooring, and personal belongings within hours. After 24--48 hours, mold sets in, turning a simple cleanup into a costly remediation.

Smoke from a fire seeps into walls and furniture almost immediately. If not removed quickly and adequately, odors and toxins remain long-term. Fast restoration limits structural wear, prevents further loss, and lowers financial burden. Insurance companies often reduce payouts for preventable secondary damage, making early action necessary.

Emergency Preparedness for Homeowners & Businesses

Disaster readiness isn't just for large-scale emergencies. Fires, floods, and severe weather can hit anyone, anywhere. Taking a few steps in advance helps protect your home or business when the unexpected happens:

Create a Response Plan: Identify evacuation routes, meeting points, and roles for each family member or employee.
Maintain Essential Documents: Secure digital and physical copies of insurance policies, ID, medical records, and financial information.
Know Who to Call: Pre-select a reputable local restoration provider. Save their number in your phone and include it in your emergency kit.

Preparedness can't stop the disaster, but it can reduce confusion, keep people safe, and speed up recovery.

Understanding Common Disaster Types & Response Techniques

Different disasters require different restoration strategies. Understanding what you're dealing with helps you respond correctly:

Floods: Standing water should be extracted immediately to prevent foundation damage and mold growth. Restoration includes drying, disinfecting, and structural repair.
Storms: Wind and debris can break windows, tear off roofing, or bring down power lines. Fast board-up and structural stabilization prevent further damage while permanent repairs are planned.
Fires: Beyond burn damage, smoke and soot are hazardous to health. Restoration includes air purification, surface cleaning, odor removal, and rebuilding.

A proper response starts with fast assessment and continues with targeted, professional cleanup.

Insurance Considerations & Claims Process

Understanding your insurance policy before a disaster strikes is one of the most important steps in protecting your property. Here's what to look for:

Policy Coverage: Standard policies don't always cover floods or certain types of storm damage. Understand exactly what's included.
Limits & Deductibles: Know how much you're responsible for. A high deductible may reduce your premium, but can increase your financial burden during a claim.
Documentation: Keep detailed records of your belongings and take photos of your property periodically. After a disaster, document damage immediately to support your claim.

Knowing your policy now saves time and money later and ensures fewer delays during restoration.

Steps to File a Claim After a Disaster

Filing an insurance claim is overwhelming, especially while dealing with loss. Follow these steps to stay organized and ensure a smooth process:

Contact Your Insurer: Do it as soon as it's safe to do so.
Document Everything: Take clear photos and videos from multiple angles.
Prevent Further Damage: Board up windows, shut off water or electricity, and remove valuables.
Schedule a Visit: Ask for an adjuster to inspect the property.
Keep All Receipts: Track cleanup costs, temporary housing, and repair expenses.
Get a Detailed Estimate: Work with your restoration company to provide professional assessments and a scope of work.

Delays in filing or incomplete documentation can reduce your payout and lengthen recovery.

Why Hiring Professional Restoration Services Matters

Homeowners and business owners often try to handle damage themselves or delay calling in help. This can lead to major setbacks:

Missed Problems: Hidden water damage, electrical issues, and mold can go unnoticed.
Insurance Challenges: Incomplete documentation and vague damage reports can slow or deny claims.
Health & Safety Risks: Exposure to contaminants or structural damage can create new hazards.

That's why working with a certified restoration team like MJ White makes a difference. We offer:

Accurate damage assessments to help insurers understand the full scope.
Guidance through the claims process, including help understanding exclusions and requirements.
Professional tools and techniques to restore your property efficiently and safely.

We fix the damage and help you avoid bigger problems.

Choose a Trusted Team for Disaster Restoration & Recovery

Damage from storms, floods, or fires reaches beyond what's visible. Delays in response can lead to mold growth, structural issues, or electrical hazards—making fast, professional action essential.

That's why MJ White offers complete disaster restoration services across Michigan. Our certified team provides immediate damage assessments, safe removal of hazards, and efficient restoration using industry-leading tools. With over 40 years of experience, we act quickly to reduce risk and start the recovery process.

Protect Your Home & Your Future—Call MJ White Today

When disaster strikes your Michigan property, don't wait. MJ White is ready to respond 24/7 with professional support, skilled restoration, and true care for your property.

Call us at 888-992-4404 or reach out online to schedule an assessment and take the first step toward recovery.