Reconstruction After Mitigation – FAQ

Restoration | Reconstruction | Mitigation

When will reconstruction actually begin?

Reconstruction doesn’t start the same day mitigation ends. We must first:
1. Write and submit a reconstruction estimate.
2. Obtain insurance approval.
3. Confirm your material selections.
4. Secure permits, if required.

Typical prep time: 1–3 weeks after mitigation is complete, depending on carrier response, selections, and permitting.

Fire damage: Often involves structural repairs, permits, and soot remediation.
Typical duration: 3–12 months, depending on scope, inspections, and insurer pace.

Water damage: Usually less invasive.
Typical duration: 1–6 weeks, longer if mold, structural issues, or custom materials are involved.

Timelines may shift if the insurer requests changes or we discover hidden conditions. We’ll keep you updated promptly.

It’s not “nothing”—it’s paperwork and planning: insurance review, material ordering, and trade scheduling.
We’ll send weekly updates summarizing what’s done, what’s next, and any holds.

Sometimes. With partial approval or an agreed-upon scope, we may begin limited prep work. Major work won’t start until we have written carrier approval to protect you from uncovered costs. If you prefer to self-fund certain items and reconcile with insurance later, let us know—we’ll outline the steps.

Not necessarily—and that’s normal. Some phases move quickly (like demo or framing), while others involve waiting (inspections, specialty materials).
We aim for visible weekly progress, even if not daily.

Your Project Manager will provide weekly status updates—and additional updates anytime something changes—covering:
• Completed work
• Upcoming tasks
• Open approvals
• Any delays

You can! We’ll create a written change order and review any timeline or cost impacts before proceeding.
Upgrades above insurance allowances are welcome—you simply pay the difference.

Every claim is unique. Carrier review speed, city inspections, materials, mortgage endorsements, and scope all affect timelines.
We’ll move as fast as your claim, permits, and materials allow.

It depends on the project’s scope and phase. Safety and comfort come first—we’ll help you plan around utilities, kitchens, bathrooms, and dust/noise.
Some phases may require temporary relocation.

For large-scope projects—or when soot, smoke, or extensive water work is involved—we may recommend a professional contents packout to protect your belongings and keep the job moving smoothly.

Our Process:
• Trained packout team: We inventory, photograph, and pack your items professionally with protective materials.
• Secure storage: We operate a 20,000 sq. ft. climate-controlled facility for safe, clean storage.
• Chain of custody: Barcoding and inventory tracking ensure accuracy.
• Cleaning & deodorization: When appropriate, we clean and deodorize soft goods and hard contents.
• Return & pack-back: Once finishes cure (paint/floors), we schedule delivery and pack-back.

If a packout is recommended, we’ll review the plan, coverage, and any out-of-pocket costs (if upgrades or non-covered services apply) before moving anything.

• Deductible: Payable to Atex Restoration. It cannot be waived.
• ACV payment (initial): Usually released by the carrier after estimate approval.
• RCV/depreciation (final): Typically released after completion and invoicing.
• Mortgage company on the check? Endorsements or inspections can add 7–14 days—we’ll guide you.
• Supplements: If we uncover hidden damage or pricing gaps, we’ll submit a supplement to your insurer. Work related to the supplement proceeds after approval (or you may self-fund).

1. Selections (flooring, tile, paint, fixtures) by the requested date so we can order promptly.
2. Access details (lockbox/garage code, pet plan).
3. Deductible method and any mortgage-check instructions.
4. Timely approvals on estimates and change orders.
5. Earliest start window: As soon as we have insurer approval, your selections, and payment setup (typically 3–10 business days out, depending on crews/materials).

• Work days/hours: Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (with notice for exceptions).
• Protection: We isolate work areas, manage dust, and clean daily. Please secure pets and valuables.
• Permits & inspections: We handle them if needed; schedules may affect phase timing.
• Warranty: 5-year workmanship warranty (plus manufacturer warranties where applicable).
• Punch list: Near completion, we’ll walk the project with you, list touch-ups, and address them before final billing.