System, Method And Software Program For Managing, Documenting And Analyzing Water Damage Restoration Procedures

 

A computer-based system, and a computer readable program for use in a computer, for managing a drying procedure performed at a structure. A graphical user interface displays data input forms that when completed by the user record information relating to the structure, including data that establishes the locations in which drying is needed, the amount and types of drying equipment used to accomplish the drying procedure, periodic moisture content levels in the locations being dried, and the labor used in the drying procedure. The user can add forms, modify the forms, and use less than all of the forms. The entered data is saved in a computer memory. Reports are generated that include the entered data as well as data establishing the progress of drying over time, and include moisture standards that should be met before the job is completed. Real time management and analysis from the server database is available for management by insurance adjusters, insurance agents, network managers, contractors with multiple offices, contractors with a single office and multiple project managers, and/or others. Water damage restoration analysis from the server database can provide cost and procedural information for losses by structure, type, region, and extent of loss.

Class of water damage is determined by the probable rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected, or wet, in the room or space that was flooded. Determining the class of water damage is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to dry-down the structure. Class 1 - Slow Rate of Evaporation. Affects only a portion of a room. Materials have a low permeance/porosity. Minimum moisture is absorbed by the materials. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 1 be indicated when <5% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected ** Class 2 - Fast Rate of Evaporation. Water affects the entire room of carpet and cushion. May have wicked up the walls, but not more than 24 inches. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 2 be indicated when 5% to 40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected ** Class 3 - Fastest Rate of Evaporation. Water generally comes from overhead, affecting the entire area; walls, ceilings, insulation, carpet, cushion, etc. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 3 be indicated when >40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected ** Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations. Involves materials with a very low permeance/porosity, such as hardwood floors, concrete, crawlspaces, gypcrete, plaster, etc. Drying generally requires very low specific humidity to accomplish drying.