A flood in your basement, whether from a burst pipe, heavy rain, sewer backup, faulty appliance, or floodwaters, is a huge pain, regardless of the severity.
\r\n\r\nStatistics show that more than 14,000 people experience a water disaster of some kind every day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe fallout and cleanup involved with a basement flood doesn't have to be overly stressful, and Hometown is here to help.
\r\n
In this guide, we'll outline the steps you should take to protect your property, and thereby yourself, by getting things dried out, cleaned up, and back to normal as soon as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"basement](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/basement-flood-cleanup-infographic.png\")
\r\nRegardless of the cause of your basement flood, your first question will likely be, \"What do I do now?\"
\r\n\r\nThe first step is to make sure you and any other residents are not putting yourselves at risk.
\r\n\r\nWhenever entering a flooded home or area, be sure you're wearing protective clothing, like rubber boots and gloves.
\r\n\r\nWading through dirty water or touching items that have come into contact with flood water can expose you to pollutants, like bacteria, mold, chemicals, etc.
\r\n\r\nIn cases of more extreme flooding, make sure the house is safe to enter first.
\r\n\r\nKeep an eye out for telltale signs of structural damage, like buckling floors or walls or warped or cracked foundations.
\r\n\r\nWe also recommend taking photos and video of the damage and documenting cleanup efforts in case you need to submit them to your insurer.
\r\n\r\nAdequate documentation will allow the insurance adjuster to accurately assess the damage and your loss.
\r\n\r\nImmediately contact your utility companies if you suspect any damage has occurred to water, gas, electric, or sewer lines.
\r\n\r\nSafety is always more important than salvaging household items, so be wise as you assess the structural integrity of your property.
\r\n\r\nEven a small amount of water can cause an electrocution hazard in your home, so we recommend cutting the power to your home to mitigate your risk, even if there is a widespread power outage.
\r\n\r\nLocate your electrical panel and turn off the main breaker and each fuse switch.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, unplug appliances, equipment, or machinery if they are at risk and prop them up on blocks to keep them out of rising water whenever possible.
\r\n\r\nA backup generator can be a huge asset during floods because they allow for an electric sump pump, water vacuums, fans, and lights to run without putting yourself at risk of electrocution.
\r\n\r\nWe also advise shutting off your gas or reaching out to your gas company to do it for you if your home uses natural gas.
\r\n\r\nIf your home experiences serious flooding, a qualified electrician will need to inspect, clean, and dry the power box before you can turn the power on again.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOnce you're sure your safety is not at risk, the next thing you need to do is stop the water from rising if possible.
\r\n\r\nIf a pipe has burst or a broken appliance is leaking, turn off the water supply to your home immediately.
\r\n\r\nIf your home is flooding due to a storm or natural disaster, call your city to make sure the storm drains are open and cleaned out to ensure the water recedes as quickly as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"water](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/basement-water-seepage.png\")
\r\nYour homeowner's insurance may be able to help pay for flood damage remediation and repairs if it's included in your policy.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nInsurance companies classify water damage differently and are typically very strict about what they will and won't cover.
\r\n
In many cases, water damage is preventable with adequate home maintenance.
\r\n\r\nBecause of this, insurance providers only cover very specific circumstances.
\r\n\r\nThe most common types of coverage include:
\r\n\r\nFlood damage is not covered in your standard homeowner's insurance policy, but a separate policy can be purchased from government-backed National Flood Insurance Program.
\r\n\r\nIf you live in a Special Flood Hazard Area, you can buy a policy through a private insurer in order to meet your mortgage requirements and federal mandates.
\r\n\r\nHowever, surface water, like rain, rivers, lakes, or oceans overflowing, is excluded.
\r\n\r\nDamage from your pipes bursting is typically covered in a standard homeowner's policy.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if your pipes are slowly leaking over a longer period of time, this damage is excluded.
\r\n\r\nA home insurance policy typically includes water overflow under the water damage clause, but you will need to add water backup coverage.
\r\n\r\nWater Backup Coverage includes the backup of water from a drain, pipe, or sump pump.
\r\n\r\nWater overflow water is usually clear and relatively clean because it's never entered the plumbing system.
\r\n\r\nWater backup water is often dark brown or black and grainy because it comes from deeper within the plumbing system.
\r\n\r\nYou can generally purchase water backup coverage as an add-on coverage when you first purchase your policy in increments of $5,000 of protection.
\r\n\r\nWater damage caused by a storm is likely covered by your standard homeowners policy if the water enters from above ground level.
\r\n\r\nGroundwater seepage is not covered in a standard homeowner's policy.
\r\n\r\nWater seepage is when water seeps into your home via porous material or tiny holes due to groundwater levels rising or excess water in the soil causing hydrostatic pressure against your home's foundation.
\r\n\r\nFollow all the instructions laid out by your insurance company when it comes to the clean up and restoration process.
\r\n\r\nWait to begin any repairs or demolition until your insurance company has sent an adjuster to your home to assess the damage or has given you authorization to move forward.
\r\n\r\nKeep track of all the damage by taking photos and video of the entire process, documenting conversations with your insurer, and maintaining consistent, clear communication.
\r\nRemoving water as quickly as possible after your basement floods is important in order to minimize any damage to flooring, carpets, drywall, etc.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAct quickly to limit damage to your home and avoid further problems down the road.
\r\n
If you have a sump pump, this is the best choice for removing large amounts of water.
\r\n\r\nBuckets or a hose to siphon the water are your next best bets.
\r\n\r\nA wet vac can suck up relatively small amount of standing water from carpets and floors.
\r\n\r\nIf the flooding is minimal, mopping up the water with towels or an absorbent mop head is typically sufficient.
\r\n\r\nThe longer the water is allowed to sit in your basement, the more extensive the damage is likely to become.
\r\n\r\nOnce the bulk of the water is removed, open your windows (if it's dry outside) and utilize fans and dehumidifiers to move air and dry out your basement and belongings. Running the air conditioner or furnace can be helpful, too.
\r\n\r\nIf you're able to dry out your basement and belongings in less than 24-48 hours, you can likely get away without removing or tossing too much.
\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, remember to document the entire process as you go, taking photos and video of the level of flood damage.
\r\n\r\nWater damage can be sneaky and penetrate the structure of your home, causing trapped moisture pockets, which can lead to hidden mildew and mold within your walls or beneath your floors and eventually, structural damage.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend using a moisture meter to ensure moisture doesn't go undetected.
\r\n\r\nIf the flood damage is extensive, you'll want to contact a qualified flood restoration company to take any additional steps to ensure your home is adequately dried out, repairs are made, and the structure is safe for years to come.
\r\n\r\nIf the cause of the flood is covered by your homeowner's insurance, you will need to get authorization from your insurer before beginning cleanup, so reach out to them immediately.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, the faster you can dry things out, the less damage you'll experience.
\r\n\r\nAs soon as it's safe to do so, separate any water-logged items and air them out. (Don't forget to document!)
\r\n\r\nThe quicker you can remove salvageable items, the better chance you have of saving them.
\r\n\r\nIf an item has been exposed to water for more than 24-48 hours, they likely contain mold spores and should be thrown out.
\r\n\r\nSimilarly, we recommend throwing out any food that has been in close proximity to flood water, not just the food that has come in contact with it.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a decent amount of items to get rid of, whether it's random household items, furniture, appliances, or carpeting, a junk removal company can help haul it away quickly and safely.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you'd rather do the work yourself, renting a dumpster is another great option.
\r\n\r\nHometown specializes in helping homeowners find junk removal services and dumpster rentals in their hometown. Browse companies in your area, read customer reviews, and request quotes from multiple providers to ensure you get the best price for great services.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf your basement flood was caused by a burst pipe or broken appliance, a qualified local plumber should be one of your first calls.
\r\n\r\nA plumber will be able to stop the leak, fix the pipe, and resolve any plumbing issues that contributed to the flood.
\r\n\r\nMany plumbers will also recommend restoration companies to help remove any water and restore your property, but don't allow any restoration company to begin any work before your insurance company has the chance to send an adjuster to look at the damage and assess your claim.
\r\n\r\nFind reputable demolition contractors in your area to help you complete any structural or renovation-related work. We also recommend getting multiple quotes from demolition contractors before signing a contract to ensure you don't overpay.
\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nA flood in your basement is a huge pain, regardless of the severity. Learn the steps you should take to protect your property, and thereby yourself, by getting things dried out, cleaned up, and back to normal as soon as possible.
\r\n","changed":"2022-02-09T15:23:23+00:00"},{"id":"6ba86d65-aa8b-5d78-be0c-ec5b89a64e58","title":"How Does Junk Removal Work?","url":"/blog/how-junk-removal-works","image":{"path":"/static/cf1fc38537e21179649b7c5580a161d2/junk-removal-truck-in-city.png","alt":"junk removal truck in city"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"Junk removal services are incredibly convenient, which is why so many homeowners and business owners opt to hire junk removal companies to help with the removal of bulk trash, furniture, remodeling project debris, and more.
\r\n\r\nHere's how the junk removal process works...
\r\n\r\n![\"infographic](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/how-junk-removal-works-infographic.png\")
\r\nAfter reaching out to junk removal companies for a project quote request, they'll reach out to you to schedule a time to come out and assess your junk removal project.
\r\n\r\nIf you haven't requested quotes from junk removal companies yet, Hometown can help you find qualified local junk removal services, read customer reviews, and easily request quotes from them.
\r\n\r\nWe always recommend getting more than one quote whenever possible to increase the odds of getting the best service for the best price.
\r\n\r\nOnce you've scheduled your appointment to get a quote, the junk removal company will send a team (typically of two people) out to your location on your appointment date to assess a few things and provide you with a quote.
\r\n\r\nDuring your quote appointment, the junk removal company will determine...
\r\n\r\nOnce the junk removal company has a thorough understanding of what your junk removal project will require, they'll be able to provide you with an accurate quote.
\r\n\r\nIf you're satisfied with the price they quote you, the junk removal team will get to work right away to remove the junk, or they'll schedule the removal on a future date if necessary.
\r\n\r\nIf you don't like the quote they give you, you don't have to move forward with their services.
\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, we recommend getting more than one quote for your junk removal project if you can.
\r\n\r\nBeing able to compare customer service, pricing, and availability will make it easier to ensure you hire the right junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies typically deploy simple manpower to carry items from your home or business out to their truck/trailer.
\r\n\r\nIf you have appliances or extremely heavy items, like a piano for example, the junk removal crew may utilize dollies, moving straps, and other equipment to get the job done safely without damaging any walls or doors in the process.
\r\n\r\nIn most cases, they'll sweep the area clean after removing your item(s) as well.
\r\n\r\nOnce your junk removal project is completed, before leaving your home or business, the junk removal company will provide you with an invoice.
\r\n\r\nOftentimes, they'll take a card or cash on the spot.
\r\n\r\nIn some cases, you can call into the office to pay the invoice over the phone.
\r\n\r\nOnce loaded onto their truck, the junk removal company will then transport your item(s) to the appropriate place for proper disposal.
\r\n\r\nFor example, if you have items that can be donated, the service company will take it to a local charity. (Ask for a receipt of donation if they do not provide one to you.)
\r\n\r\nIf the item can't be donated but can be recycled, the company will take it to a local recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nIf they can't donate or recycle an item, only then will they take the item(s) to the landfill.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are incredibly convenient, which is why so many homeowners and business owners opt to hire junk removal companies to help with the removal of bulk trash, furniture, remodeling project debris, and more. Learn the process involved with junk removal services and what to expect.
\r\n","changed":"2022-09-29T16:42:02+00:00"},{"id":"ecbf0af7-1e96-571d-a905-3e697805470f","title":"Disposal Options for Flooring Removal Projects","url":"/blog/disposal-options-for-flooring-removal-projects","image":{"path":"/static/96a3276c0ab7c5ea7c7f6e6e8f7ff1dc/Flooring_removal_1_0.jpg","alt":""},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"d1824a81-ae42-587c-9dd3-2efa674e423f","name":"Construction Dumpsters","slug":"Construction-Dumpsters"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"New flooring is a major upgrade that can add function, good looks, and value to your home.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nYour floors are one of the first things people see when they enter and move throughout your home, and they can immediately influence a buyer's opinion of the home.
\r\n
With a return on investment (ROI) averaging 50-80% for new flooring installation, it’s a great investment, especially when your current flooring is old, outdated, or damaged.
\r\n\r\nRead on to learn about how to get rid of the old flooring, which type of new flooring to choose, and more.
\r\n\r\nJump to:
\r\n\r\n![\"tile](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/Flooring-removal.jpg\")
\r\nTo get an idea of the floor removal process, we've outlined the most popular types of floor removal for you below.
\r\n\r\nThis is not a comprehensive guide by any means, but it shows that floor removal isn't always as easy as it seems.
\r\n\r\nAs you can see, floor removal isn't a job for just anybody.
\r\n\r\nThat's why we always recommend hiring a professional to handle your floor removal.
\r\n\r\nThey'll be able to get the work done quickly, safely, and properly.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nOnce the floor is torn up, it's time to manage the resulting debris.
\r\n\r\nIf you hire a professional to handle your floor removal, it's likely the will handle the debris disposal for you.
\r\n\r\nIif you chose to tear up your floors yourself, you're left responsible with figuring out what to do with the debris.
\r\n\r\nIt’s unlawful to dispose of construction debris in your curbside trash can, so avoid putting carpeting or other flooring scraps in with your regular trash.
\r\n\r\nIt may be possible to schedule a special pick-up with your waste hauler, but you need to call ahead to set this up. (Additional fees likely apply.)
\r\n\r\nHowever, we recommend renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal company to handle the mess for you.
\r\n\r\nRenting a temporary dumpster is a super simple and convenient way to get rid of your flooring debris and potentially other junk you've got lying around your house.
\r\n\r\nTypically, a 10 yard or 20 yard dumpster is enough for a floor disposal project, and they cost anywhere from $250-$350 on average for a seven-day rental.
\r\n\r\nCosts vary by dumpster size, where you're located, the type and amount of debris you're disposing, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend reaching out to three dumpster rental providers (or more) to ensure you get the right dumpster size for the job without overpaying.
\r\n\r\nThis also will help to ensure you fnd a dumpster service that can have your dumpster delivered and picked up when you need it.
\r\n\r\nWhen reaching out to contractors for quotes, be sure you have a good understanding of how much debris you have.
\r\n\r\nThis will allow them to more accurately estimate which dumpster size is right for you.
\r\n\r\nReach out to dumpster providers a week or more in advance whenever possible to increase the chances of getting the dumpster you need when you need it.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nIf speed and convenience are a priority for you, hiring a junk removal company to load up, haul away, and dispose of your flooring debris is the way to go.
\r\n\r\nBecause they do all the work for you, junk removal is almost always more expensive than dumpster rental.
\r\n\r\nHowever, many people find that the time and effort saved is well worth the cost.
\r\n\r\nJust like with dumpster rental (and any other service), we recommend reaching out to multiple companies for quotes to ensure you choose the right one for you and your project.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"trending](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/Flooring-removal-2.jpg\")
\r\nThe top choice in flooring materials, based on ROI and overall desirability, is wood flooring.
\r\n\r\nYou can expect to get back all or nearly all of the money put into wood flooring.
\r\n\r\nFor example, investing $5,000 in new wood floors throughout the house will likely raise the value of the home by $5,000 or more.
\r\n\r\nIt’s a cost-effective alternative to wood flooring that can boost a home’s value, just not quite as much as real wood flooring.
\r\n\r\nThis is a great option for mid-tier homes where it's common to utilize laminate wood flooring, carpeting, or vinyl.
\r\n\r\nIdeal for bathrooms, kitchens, and other “wet” areas, tile offers varying ROI depending on the type of tile and the type of neighborhood.
\r\n\r\nHigh-end tile flooring makes sense in a high-end home, but will not offer a great ROI when installed in a low-to-mid level home.
\r\n\r\nA great option for high-traffic or wet areas when on a budget.
\r\n\r\nThis type of flooring doesn’t necessarily offer a great ROI, but fresh flooring can always improve the aesthetic and functionality of a house, which never hurts.
\r\n\r\nAn affordable option that works well in some areas of the home, such as living rooms, dens, or bedrooms, is carpeting.
\r\n\r\nHowever, carpeting is typically less favorable compared to wood and laminate wood flooring.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
If you're considering replacing your floors, start here. Find out how to remove and dispose of your old flooring, popular replacement options, and more.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-02T22:23:43+00:00"},{"id":"366ca292-22f0-503e-a9d9-c20554ed17de","title":"Why You Should Hire a Locally-Owned Junk Removal Company","url":"/blog/hire-locally-owned-junk-removal-company","image":{"path":"/static/48c3691b40976d7c63d1bb3ee94ac569/local-junk.png","alt":"Junk removal crew loading broken furniture"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"When it comes to most goods and services, shopping and hiring local is always the best practice.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHiring local is an especially good idea when you're in need of junk removal because of their fast response times and more affordable pricing.
\r\n
Hometown is the best resource for finding locally-owned and operated junk removal companies throughout the U.S.
\r\n\r\n![\"Why](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/why-hire-local-infographic.png\")
\r\nOne of the most important aspects that junk removal customers typically consider is cost.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to pricing, locally-owned junk removal companies usually cost less than large, nation-wide waste removal chains.
\r\n
Local services don't have to navigate their scheduling from one city or state to the next in order to service their long list of clients, which is usually the case for larger chains.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies that only service one general area tend to have more availability and less wait times than their larger competitors that service the entire state.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nLocal services generally give all their customers equal priority while larger chains tend to cater to large contractors who are their bread and butter.
\r\n
When you're spending hundreds of dollars on a service, you want and deserve to feel like a priority to the company you're giving your business to.
\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to the junk removal industry, local providers are by far the best choice when you have a specific timeline you're working with.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nProjects that are large enough to require junk removal services usually require an organized timeline.
\r\n\r\nSo when you hire a removal crew, it's important that the arrival/removal time that you schedule is maintained.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPoor service and communication can cause delays in your project schedule which can ultimately cost you money.
\r\n
Direct communication with the company providing your service is important in order to avoid miscommunication and a delayed timeline, which is why hiring a local company is ideal for time-sensitive services like waste hauling.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"scrolling](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/local-junk-2.png\")
\r\nLocal junk removal companies are both cost-efficient and time-efficient.
\r\n\r\nThe best way to get the best junk removal price is to get multiple quotes, and searching for providers on Hometown is the most efficient way to locate and request free quotes from multiple junk removal providers in your area at a time.
\r\n\r\nBy searching your zip code and answering a few quick questions about your project needs, you'll be shown a variety of locally-owned and operated junk removal companies that service your area.
\r\n\r\nBeing able to request an unlimited amount of free junk removal quotes from one web page is fast, efficient, and easy.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nShopping and hiring local is almost always the best practice, and the same goes for junk removal services. Learn why hiring local is best and how to find locally-owned and operated junk removal companies for free with Hometown.
\r\n","changed":"2022-06-16T04:32:47+00:00"},{"id":"b303ad5c-d340-502c-be9b-6b865b7603cd","title":"How to Find the Right Hoarding Cleaning Service","url":"/blog/how-to-find-the-right-hoarding-cleaning-service","image":{"path":"/static/646c4ac1e01b4aa8ac84c54bc6ca5417/hoarder-2.jpg","alt":"hoarding cleanup workers dressed in hazmat suits carrying boxes"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"8d15e244-391b-564d-8e25-ec23f4896b56","name":"Hoarding Cleanout","slug":"Hoarding-Cleanout"},{"id":"5928a41a-3ef0-577b-a694-0bb6cb93c693","name":"Hiring for Junk Removal","slug":"Hiring-for-Junk-Removal"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"Cleaning up a house in hoarding condition is not for the faint of heart. In fact, in many cases, it can be outright dangerous. That's why hiring professional services is always the best practice when remediating a hoarder's home.
\r\n\r\nWhen searching for professional hoarding cleanup services, knowing where to start can be half the battle. With hundreds of search results at the click of a button, it can be overwhelming to even begin the task of finding the right hoarding cleanup crew in your area that will not only fit your budget, but who will use discretion and prioritize quality customer service.
\r\n\r\nFinding the right hoarding cleaning service doesn't have to be hard when you use Hometown. We make it easy for homeowners and business owners to find locally-owned and operated junk removal companies across the country and vet them to ensure they're reputable.
\r\n\r\nOne of the most important things to look for when scouting hoarding cleanup services is professionalism. Do they answer your phone calls and emails in a timely fashion? Are they available and eager to answer all of your related questions honestly? Do they interact with their potential customers in a friendly and professional manner? Ask yourself these questions throughout the course of your initial correspondence.
\r\n\r\nIt's also a good idea to find out the type of experience each junk removal company has with hoarding cleanups specifically. Because they're often the most extensive jobs junk removal businesses offer, you won't want your project to the be the first hoarding cleanout the company in question has tackled. Experience in the level of safety measures, attention to detail, and efficiency required to remediate a hoarder home is important if you want to complete your project correctly, on time, and within your intended budget.
\r\n\r\nHoarding cleanups can be an emotionally delicate situation if the homeowner is around during the cleaning, so a company with experience in handling these situations can be the difference between a successful remediation and a complete backslide. It's important to know how to be delicate and discrete, yet efficient and motivating, and these skills often only come with proper education and plenty of previous experience.
\r\n\r\nAnother important thing to look for when choosing a hoarding cleanup service is what their previous customers are saying about them. Offering the lowest rate in town might attract many customers to a company, but paying attention to the feedback they receive from previous customers is key when choosing who to hire. Read reviews from real customers on Hometown to get an idea of the level of customer service you can expect.
\r\n\r\nWith that being said, price should also be a factor to consider. While going with the cheapest company in town runs the risk of dealing with a less qualified crew, there's no reason that you should be spending more than the average going rate for hoarding cleaning services in your area. The average cost for hoarding cleaning services range around $1,000-$2,000 per day that it takes to complete the job, but there are many factors that are play in a hoarding cleanup. The cost of your particular job will vary based on the size and scope of your project, time and manpower required, presence of hazardous material, landfill fees in your area, where you're located, who you hire, and more.
\r\n\r\nThe best way to get an idea of what a fair price is for your particular cleanup project is by getting multiple quotes from local companies in your area. (Again, Hometown makes this easy.) Because hoarding cleanups are big projects that take careful planning and organizing, the junk removal companies you speak with will most likely want to send someone to the home to assess it in person in order to provide you with the most accurate estimate.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\n![\"Bathroom](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/hoarder-1.jpg\")
\r\nDoing a hoarding cleaning yourself is never recommended due to the safety and health risks, but there are ways to do it that will decrease your chances of injury and increase your level of efficiency.
\r\n\r\nOne of the most important steps in a DIY hoarding cleanup project is to wear protective clothing from head to toe. Hazmat suits are ideal, but coveralls with hoods and shoe coverings, in addition to gloves, boots, goggles, and a respirator mask is necessary. People often underestimate the amount of toxic fumes that are airborne from mold, chemicals, animal droppings, decaying matter, etc. There are also typically plenty of sharp edges and rusty metal hiding in the depths of piled up junk, so leave no room for error and suit up accordingly.
\r\n\r\nAnother critical component of DIY hoarding cleanups is having a proper disposal solution, i.e. a dumpster. Temporary dumpster rentals are perfect when you have large amounts of trash and they come in a variety of different sizes to suite the disposal needs of every project.
\r\n\r\nAs is the case with junk removal services, Hometown can help you find dumpster rental services in your area that are affordable and available when you need it.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nHometown simplifies the process of getting free quotes from dumpster rental and junk removal companies that provide hoarding cleanout services in your area. By doing a quick search of your zip code, you'll be shown local businesses near you that are reputable, qualified, and eager to offer free quotes.
\r\n\r\nYou can select your own service provider, or Hometown will match up your request to the right local experts for you. Either way, we make getting quotes fast and easy.
\r\n\r\nBecause of the extensive nature of hoarding cleanups, most junk removal companies will need to come to the job site to assess the amount of work that needs to be done and provide an on-site estimate that is as accurate as possible. However, dumpster rental quotes can be given over the phone or via email within 1-2 business days.
\r\n\r\nWith Hometown, you can read reviews from previous customers to gather information about the type of customer service each company is known for and get answers to the most common hoarding cleanout questions so your project goes well from start to finish.
\r\n\r\nLearn what to look for in hoarding cleanup services, how to find local hoarding cleaning companies, and request free quotes form reputable services in your area with Hometown.
\r\n","changed":"2023-05-25T12:20:51+00:00"},{"id":"8b54a685-e7fb-5d31-a404-d7f5c7ed27e3","title":"The Difference Between Junk Removal and Trash Removal Services","url":"/blog/difference-between-junk-removal-and-trash-removal","image":{"path":"/static/98ed644127112c9473e8f6783dcd3d75/trash-removal-vs-junk-removal.png","alt":"trash removal and junk removal side by side comparison"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"992d9210-2094-55b4-ae6e-a3514ed26cf8","name":"Trash Removal","slug":"Trash-Removal"}],"content":"If you're planning a cleanout project, you're likely wondering what's the best way to get rid of all the stuff you no longer want to keep.
\r\n\r\nShould you throw it out in your curbside trash bin? Would it fit?
\r\n\r\nDo you need a trash removal service or junk removal company to handle the disposal properly, and what's the difference?
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBoth services can help with getting rid of unwanted household trash and junk, but understanding the differences between the two can help you decide which is the best service that suits your needs.
\r\n
We'll go over the three main differences between trash removal and junk removal services.
\r\n\r\nA vast majority of trash removal or trash collection services are not willing to accept certain items or pick up a trash bin that's overflowing.
\r\n\r\nSo, if you have anything to toss that won't fit in your trash cart—or isn't allowed—junk removal services are a great solution.
\r\n\r\nYour local trash and recycling department may offer yearly programs designed to help homeowners get rid of bulky or large amounts of household junk.
\r\n\r\nMany cities offer a trash pick-up day or community dumpster event to help community members get rid of larger items or bulk trash.
\r\n\r\nWhile a great option in some circumstances, these events typically only happen once a year and have limits on the type and amount of debris accepted.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services provide a convenient solution to picking up bulky items, like furniture, as well as a large amount of smaller items—anything that doesn't fit in your trash bin.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTrash removal is the regular collection service that picks up trash from your curb.
\r\n\r\nA trash bin typically gets picked up on a weekly or bi-weekly basis for a fee that varies based on cart size.
\r\n\r\nIn most cases, you sign up for regular trash removal services through your city's Public Works department, decide which cart size you'd like, prepay for a certain number of collections, and conveniently dispose of your trash and/or recycling on your scheduled date.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal is a one-time service that is scheduled in advance and paid for upon job completion.
\r\n\r\nWhen you have a disposal project, you can reach out to local junk removal companies for a quote (Hometown makes it easy!) and schedule the junk removal when it's convenient for you.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"overhead](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/overhead-view-of-landfill-and-excavator.png\")
\r\nTrash collection trucks haul your trash to the landfill, where it's dumped and piled up.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies take the time to dispose of every item they haul away properly.
\r\n\r\nIf the item can be donated, they will take it to a local charity. (Most will provide a receipt of donation, just be sure to ask.)
\r\n\r\nIf the item can be recycled, they'll take it to a local recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nOnly when there's no other option do junk removal companies take items to the landfill.
\r\n\r\nThis is why junk removal is an extremely eco-friendly disposal option.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf you're planning a cleanout project, you're likely wondering what's the best way to get rid of all the stuff you no longer want to keep. Should you throw it out in your curbside trash bin? Would it all fit? Do you need a trash removal service or junk removal company to handle the disposal properly, and what's the difference? Learn the differences and benefits of each.
\r\n","changed":"2022-08-30T17:11:44+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Alaska/Anchorage-AK-dumpsters.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"alaska/junk-removal-anchorage-ak","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"alaska/commercial-waste-management-anchorage-ak","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"Removing Unwanted Junk","body":"With Hometown, getting a no-obligation quote is always free, but hiring a junk removal service to remove your unwanted items always comes at a cost.
\r\n\r\nIt's relatively common for companies to charge a minimum of $75 to $100 for any removal, no matter how minimal it may be. If you have an entire house worth of debris, then you can expect to pay upwards of $500 to $1,000, though this number can be much higher in a hoarding situation or other large volume cleanup project.
\r\n\r\nSome companies quote a price based on the expected volume of the debris in the truck, e.g., a full truckload, 1/2 truckload, or 1/4 truckload, while others quote by the hour.
\r\n\r\nThere are a number of factors that can influence the cost of junk removal, like:
\r\n\r\nThe cost to haul junk varies by location. Customers in Los Angeles or New York City can expect to pay more for junk removal than those in Fort Wayne, Indiana would pay for the same size project.
\r\n\r\nThe amount of junk that needs to be removed is a big factor, too. For example, large cleanups will require a bigger truck or container with a large loading capacity, as well as more labor hours to complete the job. The same is true for complex cleanups, like having to carry items down multiple flights of stairs or removing an old heavy piano that needs to be disassembled in order to remove it safely, or other situations that require more time and/or manpower.
\r\n\r\nCertain types of waste, junk, and debris cost more to dispose of than others. For example, hazardous materials cost more due to environmental laws, safety concerns, and disposal requirements.
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