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":"3c490563-908e-5222-a31a-46a3f35d87b9","title":"How Garbage Is Safely Contained in Landfills","url":"/blog/how-landfills-work","image":{"path":"/static/a1075e3741357092152ff01e7bc897cc/landfill-dump.png","alt":"Trash is compacted daily in landfills"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"Whether you're curious about your weekly trash service or you're interested in renting a dumpster, you might be wondering how exactly your garbage is handled once it arrives at a landfill.
\r\n\r\nWe've gathered everything you need to know if you've ever been curious about how your garbage is safely handled at landfills nationwide.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/landfills_0.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nOne of the most important aspects of waste management safety is making sure that there is a barrier protecting the ground and soil from trash and their byproducts.
\r\n\r\nWhen landfills were first created, a thick, dense clay intended to be strong and durable enough to prevent all liquids, solids, and gases from penetrating the ground surrounded the landfill.
\r\n\r\nThese easily and often break down over time, however, and were no longer deemed acceptable for new landfills in the 1980s, when a single layer of plastic liners became the new norm.
\r\n\r\nThese liners are dense, typically 30-100 mils thick, and are made up of plastic and other synthetic material.
\r\n\r\nLater, double-lining landfills became required and some even utilize a combination of both clay and plastic liners.
\r\n\r\nWhile these preventative measures are not foolproof, the importance of landfill liners cannot be understated.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about dumpsters:
\r\n\r\nTrash at the landfill is compacted into \"cells\" to make the most of landfill real estate.
\r\n\r\nWith the help of bulldozers and other heavy machinery, garbage is compacted daily into cells, covered with a layer of dirt about 6 inches thick, and then compacted again.
\r\n\r\nThe purpose of the additional layer of dirt is to minimize stench and make it more difficult for pests to access the garbage.
\r\n\r\nSome areas are using alternatives to dirt, like cement or tarps, to save even more space in each landfill.
\r\n\r\nCompacting trash daily allows the space in each landfill to be utilized to its' fullest potential.
\r\n\r\n![\"Leachate](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/leachate.png\")
\r\nStormwater draining systems are placed on top of the landfill liner to filter out liquids from the compacted trash and from natural precipitation.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, an additional drainage system is used to separate all leachate from the rainwater.
\r\n\r\nLeachate is the liquid produced by trash and is a contaminant to both the waste and the rainfall.
\r\n\r\nRainwater is collected in drainage ditches and sent to collection ponds where it is tested for traces of leachate.
\r\n\r\nOnce it is deemed safe, it is redirected to a body of water offsite to be added back into the environment.
\r\n\r\nThe draining system for leachate has a pipe system that sends these liquids to a collection pond for leachate only, where it is allowed to settle and is tested to determine the chemical levels of the collection pond.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, the leachate is chemically treated and either sent back into the landfill so that it can be soaked up into the compacted trash where it does not reappear, or released back into the environment after it is determined as clean and safe.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOne of the byproducts of decomposing trash is the production of harmful gases like carbon dioxide and methane.
\r\n\r\nThese greenhouse gases are harmful to the environment and are also a fire hazard to affected areas with high exposure if left untreated.
\r\n\r\nIn today's world, we have developed solutions to mitigate these dangers including burning, venting, or converting these gases into new energy.
\r\n\r\nLandfills have a system of extraction wells and pipes used to contain and transport these gases for proper disposal or reuse.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Rent](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/garbage-truck-landfill.png\")
\r\nEventually, all landfills run out of space.
\r\n\r\nOnce a landfill is full and can no longer accept garbage, it is covered in a plaster cover permanently.
\r\n\r\nThis act of sealing a full landfill is referred to as \"capping.\"
\r\n\r\nOnce a landfill has been capped, it is covered in two feet of soil that is used to plant new vegetation.
\r\n\r\nThe additional soil and vegetation is used as protection against the elements that can cause erosion.
\r\n\r\nAll capped landfills are left undisturbed and observed regularly for 30 years to ensure no harmful leaks are released into the surrounding environment.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nMaking sure that garbage is safely contained in landfills is crucial in minimizing the environmental impact of landfills. Learn all about how garbage is processed and handled safely in landfills nationwide.
\r\n","changed":"2025-11-13T18:50:08+00:00"},{"id":"712bffaa-b022-57a4-aca4-8ec2829a37f6","title":"How to Manage Remodel Debris and Dust","url":"/blog/how-to-manage-remodel-debris-and-dust","image":{"path":"/static/1ffc98a5fbc347381a9a5772b3aa765f/remodel-debris.jpg","alt":"Man shaking construction dust off work gloves"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"04cc94ec-8031-599d-b367-22042ec698df","name":"Construction Debris Removal","slug":"Construction-Debris-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"Managing dust and debris is an important part of the remodeling process. It's important to take a proactive approach to the cleanup aspect of a home or business remodel to protect both you and your property.
\r\n\r\nThere are several steps to take before a remodel to minimize the mess and stress of your project, but there are also solutions available if you've already begun your remodel and are in need of debris management after the fact.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/manage-debris-infographic_2.jpg\")
\r\nThe best way to manage construction and demolition (C&D) debris is to take action before you begin remodeling. Any items left in the areas surrounding your project that are left exposed will be vulnerable to collecting dust and debris that can settle in every nook and cranny it lands on, making cleanup much more difficult and time-consuming. Old, fragile, and valuable items especially should be far removed from any remodeling workspace to ensure no damage is done from the consequential settling of dust and debris.
\r\n\r\nMake sure to remove all of your belongings, including any furniture, decor, rugs, etc., until the area that you're remodeling is completely empty. Be sure to protect any fixtures or carpeted material that can't be removed from the area with corrugated plastic, sticky mats, plastic coverings, or something similar. It's important to cover any remaining items with a plastic material rather than a fabric covering because small particles can get stuck in soft materials, allowing the opportunity for it to penetrate the protective barrier to your belongings.
\r\n\r\nYou'll also want to create a disposal plan for your renovation debris, like drywall, tiling, packaging, and dust. Renting a temporary dumpster is an efficient and affordable way to manage your C&D debris throughout the course of your project. Dumpster rentals typically last for one week or more, making it convenient option for large or ongoing projects. It's beneficial to secure a dumpster rental ahead of time rather than waiting until after the fact. Having an efficient way to manage your debris throughout the course of your renovation helps to greatly reduce the risk of damage or injury.
\r\n\r\nIf your remodel is a small project and will produce less than 7 cubic yards worth of waste, it may be easier or more cost-efficient to manage your debris with heavy duty trash bags and a junk removal crew to haul away your waste once your renovation is finished.
\r\n\r\nGetting quotes from junk removal and dumpster rental services that in your area is fast and free with Hometown's single quote request form. You simply enter your zip code and answer a few short questions about your debris disposal needs to receive quotes from different local companies in your area, allowing you to quickly and easily compare each company's pricing, customer service, and availability.
\r\nContaining remodeling dust to your workspace throughout your project is key to not spreading fine particles throughout the property. One way to do this is to create a single point of entry and exit to and from the workspace. You can create this path by taping down a tarp or other plastic to help contain any dust and debris being tracked in and out by those working on the renovation. At the end of every day, you'll be able to easily shake out the dust that has settled on the plastic or tarps into a garbage bag, into a dumpster, or into a single pile to be vacuumed up. Fold up your protective path and store in the remodeling area to be reused the next work day.
\r\n\r\nAn important aspect to keep in mind is to prioritize proper ventilation to minimize the spread of dust particles settling in other areas of the home. Keeping windows open, taping up vents, and using a construction air purifier that filters dust, particles, and contaminants are all useful tools in protecting not only your home, but any people and pets that live inside.
\r\n\r\nAnother way to manage debris throughout a renovation project is to create and execute a daily cleaning plan. Daily maintenance is the most efficient way to contain as much construction dust as possible. Any piled up debris should be bagged or thrown into your dumpster rental at the end of every work day, floors should be swept and/or vacuumed, and the entry/exit point should be cleaned up. Even if you follow every precaution available, there's always a chance that some renovation dust can find ways to leave the contained workspace. Check flooring, furniture, and belongings located in the rooms surrounding the renovation project and clean up as needed. We highly advise wearing protective goggles and respirator masks when working on every aspect of a renovation, including debris management and cleanup.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nUnless you have a very small remodeling project, getting rid of dust and debris isn't usually as simple as bagging it up and throwing it into your trash ban. In fact, there are many municipalities throughout the U.S. that have strict rules and regulations regarding the dumping of C&D debris. If attempting to transport and dump your renovation debris to your local landfill on your own, it's very important to do the proper research beforehand. Some areas may make you separate the different types of debris your project has produced so that the demolition debris can be properly recycled.
\r\n\r\nIf you rent a dumpster, be sure to tell each company you speak with about the type of waste you plan on throwing into the dumpster to ensure that all items and materials are accepted and can be mixed in together. The best way to utilize a dumpster rental is to have it on location from the beginning of the renovation until the end, so that you can place your waste in the container as it's produced. Once your remodeling project is finished and the area has been cleaned up, contact the dumpster company to come and pick up your rental. After it's been weighed and dropped off at the landfill, you'll receive your final bill. Your final bill should reflect the initial quote you were given as long as you haven't gone over your weight limit or rental period, or placed prohibited items into the container.
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company to come and pick up all your debris, either bagged and ready to go or still in piles at your worksite, is another convenient way to get rid of your remodeling waste. Junk removal companies offer a more-inclusive service by doing the heavy lifting and loading for you and can sometimes be more cost efficient for smaller projects that produce less than 7 cubic yards of waste.
\r\n\r\nFind qualified debris removal services in your area by searching on Hometown. Request free quotes from multiple companies at once to shop around for the best price and customer service.
\r\n\r\nIf you're in need of professional interior demolition help, find local local contractors at Hometown Demolition. We only publish licensed, bonded, and insured contractors throughout the U.S. to make finding reputable demolition services fast, easy, and free!
\r\nManaging debris is an important part of the remodeling process. Learn how to manage dust and debris before, during, and after your remodeling project.
\r\n","changed":"2023-04-19T18:56:57+00:00"},{"id":"255390de-c9ee-55ab-bcb6-4827ff8c80d2","title":"What to Look for in Junk Removal Reviews Before Hiring","url":"/blog/what-to-look-for-in-junk-removal-reviews","image":{"path":"/static/e9ba45a2f53599c938b5b51cfd1e4e97/reviews1-1.jpg","alt":"Person scrolling the internet to read company reviews"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"5928a41a-3ef0-577b-a694-0bb6cb93c693","name":"Hiring for Junk Removal","slug":"Hiring-for-Junk-Removal"}],"content":"\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen you need junk removed from your property quickly and safely, it's important to make sure you're hiring a company that is reputable and capable of delivering high-quality results on time and for a fair price.
\r\n
It's common to hyper focus on pricing when hiring any service provider—and junk removal services are no different—but professionalism and reliability are just as important as pricing.
\r\n\r\nOne of the best ways to research a company is to read reviews from real customers who have worked with the company and can shine an honest light on the type of service you can expect from them. There are several things to look for when reading junk removal reviews that can help you determine who the best company for your job is, and we'll go over them all in this quick guide.
\r\n\r\nThere are many motivations behind someone leaving a fake review, negative or positive, which is why it's important to make sure that the reviews you check out are verified and from real customers.
\r\n\r\nYou don't want a company's competition, loving mother, or the company themselves influencing your purchasing decisions, which is why it's best to only consider reviews from customers who have actually hired the company you're considering.
\r\n\r\nThe best way to ensure you're reading verified reviews from real junk removal customers is to read the reviews on Hometown. Our site personally verifies every review that is submitted before publishing it, good or bad. Our only motivation behind accepting company reviews is to help inform future customers like you, so you never have to wonder if the gleaming 5-star review or scathing 1-star review is left by the owner's wife or scorned enemy.
\r\n\r\nWhen visiting other sites to read reviews about a junk removal company, look for an indication that those reviews are real before giving them too much weight in your consideration. For example, do they use overly flowery marketing language? Do they speak in absolutes and extremes? Are they super vague about their experience? These are all potential signs of a fake review that you should make note of.
\r\n\r\nSome websites, like Google, allow the owner of the company to respond to reviews, which can be worthwhile to read as well.
\r\n\r\nWhile this doesn't happen on Hometown due to our review verification process, it's not uncommon for reviews to be left for a product, service, or company that either don't match the product/service description or were out of the company's control. There are plenty of instances where a quick look at a company's 1- to 2-star reviews reveals they are actually completely irrelevant to the service they're reviewing.
\r\n\r\nFor example, you may see a \"negative\" review for a company in which the entire review actually compliments the company and their employees on all their hard work, but the author of the review only gave them 2 stars because of circumstances that are irrelevant to the service or were out of the company's control.
\r\n\r\nHere are some examples:
\r\n\r\n\"ABC Junk Removal's service was great, but there was construction on 8th street so they got stuck in traffic and arrived 30 minutes later than expected. That's the only reason I'm leaving 2 stars, but the actual company and service was great!\"
\r\n\r\n\"123 Junk Be Gone was friendly, professional, and worked quickly to remove our junk. They had to reschedule our pick-up due to severe weather, but other than that, the service was excellent.\"
\r\n\r\nAs you can see, though these may technically not be 4- or 5-star reviews, the actual customer service and workmanship that these companies provided was 5 stars, so be sure you take all aspects of the reviews you read into consideration.
\r\n\r\nUnless you have a considerably large project, junk removal services should be completed quickly. So, when reading junk removal reviews, look for mention of how fast or efficient their service was. The timeliness of the actual service is important as well as the timeliness of their customer service and how quickly they respond to your quote request or any questions you have.
\r\n\r\nAre they available to chat when they're contacted, or at least able to get back to you in a reasonably punctual manner? Are emails and questions answered in a timely fashion so that you aren't left waiting on a response for days? Any mention of junk removal crews charging by the hour for large projects who are slow-moving and seemingly unmotivated is an immediate red flag.
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal jobs are priced on the amount of junk you have, and most junk removal companies train their crew to be as time-efficient as possible at each job site so that they can quickly move on to the next job and make as much money as possible each day. Being fast and efficient not only benefits you as a customer, but it should be the business strategy of a successful junk removal company, too.
\r\n\r\nYou should expect a certain level of professionalism from any company you do business with, regardless of the type of service they offer, and it's not unusual for those leaving reviews to touch on this subject.
\r\n\r\nIf you notice more than one person mentioning a lack of professionalism from the company in question, they could end up being a headache to deal with for you as well.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRespectful, punctual, and helpful communication should be the standard for any company you spend your hard earned money on.
\r\n
Reviews that mention how professional, friendly, and eager to help their customers a company is should be given higher standing as you consider all your local options.
\r\n\r\nThe junk removal industry is large and it can be overwhelming and take up a significant amount of time to find companies in your area that are competitively priced, have a good reputation among their customers, have availability when you need it, and are locally-owned and operated.
\r\n
\r\nFinding these quality companies for your removal needs has been made simple with Hometown. Our easy-to-use search engine allows you to enter your zip code and find reputable services in your area that are licensed, insured, and locally-owned! You can read verified reviews from customers who have hired them and make the most informed decision based on the experiences of their customers and the price they quote you.
\r\n
\r\nOur quote request form allows you to get multiple quotes from up to 3 qualified companies in your area so that you don't have to keep answering the same questions about your project details every time you want a company to quote your junk removal job. We do all the legwork for you free of charge, so you can focus on more important matters.
Learn about things to look for when reading junk removal reviews to help you determine who the best company for your project is.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-24T13:54:33+00:00"},{"id":"ed4c31cb-6012-5c53-ac56-fd16fed586a3","title":"Streamline Fire Damage Cleanup with Junk Removal","url":"/blog/fire-damage-cleanup","image":{"path":"/static/2e993eac5aa85f775c1a2d13b0a54916/fire-damage.png","alt":"flames coming out of toaster in kitchen"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"9b611674-a2b8-541f-99a9-bfaf0063fc7d","name":"Storm Cleanup","slug":"Storm-Cleanup"}],"content":"Smoke damage, ash, burnt items, and potential water damage or foam from extinguishing a fire...these are all things you might face after minor fire damage.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTo clean up your home after a fire, whether from a small kitchen or electrical fire or a wildfire, professional cleanup services can help get it done fast.
\r\n
Professional fire damage cleanup and junk removal services can save you time, stress, and risk.
\r\n\r\n![\"fire](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/fire-damage-cleanup-infographic.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nWildfires and house fires, even if not extreme, can cause a decent amount of damage.
\r\n\r\nOnce you're sure the fire is extinguished and your home is safe, we recommend starting to find cleanup assistance ASAP.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nProfessional fire damage cleanup crews have the experience and equipment necessary to safely clean up ash and soot, haul away heavy items and debris, and clear the property of any additional damaged items.
\r\n
Fire damage cleanup crews bag and box up whatever you need removed, and then they haul it away to be disposed of responsibly.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFire damage cleanup costs can vary a great deal depending on how severe the damage is, the labor involved with the cleanup, where you live, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor minor fire damage cleanup, you can expect to pay anywhere from $400-$1,000.
\r\n
More extreme fire damage cleanup will be double or triple these costs, if not more, and we often recommend remediation companies for major fire damage cases.
\r\n\r\nFor many fire damage cases, your homeowner's insurance may help pay for the cleanup and repairs, so reach out to them immediately.
\r\n\r\nNote: If you live in an area prone to wildfires, it may be difficult to get home insurance that covers wildfire damage due to the risk involved with insuring homes in these areas. However, if you are able to get coverage, it would mitigate or eliminate the cost of paying the pros to clean up and dispose of debris from a covered wildfire loss, leaving you with less stress in the long run.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen your property is affected by a fire, you want to get it handled as quickly as possible, and Hometown gets that.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHometown can help you find qualified junk removal and fire damage cleanup pros in your area, read reviews, and request quotes easily and free of charge.
\r\n
Give as much detail about your project as you can to each company you speak to in order to get the most accurate junk removal quote. Oftentimes, cleanup and hauling companies will need to come out to your property to assess the work and provide a quote.
\r\n\r\nWhenever possible, we recommend getting more than one estimate for your junk removal project to ensure you get the best service for the best price.
\r\n\r\nIf you'd rather clean up the mess yourself, dumpster rental is an ideal option, and Hometown can help with that, too! Just like with junk removal, Hometown can help you find dumpster rental companies in your area. We even make it easy to request multiple dumpster quotes and read reviews.
\r\n\r\nNote: If your property has extreme damage, you will likely need to reach out to a restoration company.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nSmoke damage, ash, burnt items, and potential water damage or foam from extinguishing a fire...these are all things you might face after minor fire damage. Get your home cleaned up fast after a fire with the help of professional cleanup services.
\r\n","changed":"2022-12-06T18:23:50+00:00"},{"id":"581dbb1a-04e2-5301-accc-cc0ce050e96d","title":"Frequently Asked Junk Removal Questions","url":"/blog/junk-removal-faqs","image":{"path":"/static/22b182bd8ebd6a37557ac964d91ba325/junk-removal-crew.png","alt":"junk removal crew loading furniture onto truck"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"}],"content":"Looking for answers to some of junk removal customers' most frequently asked questions? We've got the answers you're looking for.
\r\n\r\nIn this guide, we answer some of the most common junk removal questions:
\r\n\r\nSearch for junk removal services in your area using Hometown's easy-to-use database.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, you can compare the services each company offers, read customer reviews, and request quotes from as many service providers as you'd like.
\r\n\r\nIf you have just a couple of bulky items to toss, like an appliance or a small furniture set, then the junk hauler may be able to give you a quote before coming out to your site.
\r\n\r\nIf you have more than a few items to get rid of, the junk removal service will likely need to see the junk in person to give an accurate estimate.
\r\n\r\nTypically, a crew of two people will come out to your property to assess the junk's volume and the amount of effort necessary to remove it.
\r\n\r\nThey then provide you with an exact quote, and if you're satisfied with the price, the team removes the junk on the spot.
\r\n\r\nIf you don't like the price that particular company quotes you, you're not obligated to hire and estimates are free.
\r\n\r\nPayment is only taken after the job is completed and your junk is gone.
\r\n\r\nIf the price works for you, then most haulers will remove the junk on the spot.
\r\n\r\nThe crew who gave you the estimate will then load all your unwanted junk onto their trucks and haul it away, leaving you with a clean-swept space.
\r\n\r\nAfter your junk is hauled away, relax and enjoy your clutter-free space.
\r\n\r\nIt feels great to get rid of unwanted or unneeded items cluttering up your life, especially when someone else did all the heavy lifting and dirty work for you.
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal experts will handle your debris responsibly, donating reusable items in good condition and recycling when possible.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies structure their services in a way that allows you to get rid of a large (or small) amount of junk in a single trip without sending it to the landfill by throwing it away with a dumpster rental.
\r\n
Items are separated so they can be donated or recycled whenever possible.
\r\n\r\nIf you only have a couple items to get rid of and they're all going to the same place, the company will typically drive them there directly, either to a local donation center/charity or to the local recycling facility. Whatever cannot be donated or recycled is taken to the landfill for disposal.
\r\n\r\nIf you are donating furniture or a large amount of items, the company should provide you with a donation receipt.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\n![\"pile](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/junk-removal-items.png\")
\r\nJunk removal companies are willing to take nearly anything off your hands, including items you can't put in a dumpster, like air conditioning units, refrigerators, and other freon-containing appliances.
\r\n\r\nHere's an idea of what most junk removal companies will take:
\r\n\r\nKeep in mind: There are some items are not accepted due to safety concerns, like hazardous materials (mold, asbestos, lead paint), chemicals, etc.
\r\n\r\nDouble check with each company you speak to that they accept the items you have.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nGetting a quote from a junk removal company is always free, but the cost for your specific junk removal project will depend on a number of factors.
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal services have a minimum charge of $75-$100.
\r\n\r\nThis will generally include the pick-up of a couple small pieces of furniture or a very small pile of lightweight junk.
\r\n\r\nThe average junk removal project, however, is typically bigger than this, so the average cost of junk removal services is typically closer to $500-$1,000.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs you might imagine, one of the biggest factors influencing cost is the amount of items you have, because the more items you have to remove, the more space it takes up in the company's truck, the more labor hours and people it will take to get the project done, and the more it will cost for the job.
\r\n
For example, if you have heavy or large items to get rid of, it will take more than one person to haul them away, which results in a higher cost.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, if you live in a remote, rural area, it will cost the company more to get to your property and haul the junk to the nearest recycling facility or landfill, and you will have to cover that cost difference.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: How Much Does It Cost to Haul Away Junk?
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIn most cases, dumpster rental prices fall between $250 and $550 for a seven-day rental, while junk removal can be as low as $75 or as high as thousands of dollars.
\r\n\r\nTypically, junk removal services cost more than renting a dumpster because they do all the work for you.
\r\n\r\nHowever, the exception to this rule is when you have a smaller cleanup, like hauling away a couple pieces of furniture or getting rid of a refrigerator.
\r\n\r\nIn general, if you need to get rid of only a couple larger items like appliances or furniture, junk removal is usually the more cost-effective option.
\r\n\r\nBut, if you have a larger project, then dumpster rental is likely less expensive.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rental saves you money when you have more than a few yards of debris or junk to get rid of.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal estimates are almost always provided on-site.
\r\n\r\nThe junk removal crew will come out to your home, yard, or business to see your junk cleanup project in person before providing an estimate for the junk removal work.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBecause junk removal pricing is based on how much space your items take up in the company's truck, they will need to see the items in person before they can provide an exact quote. For single item removals, they may be able to offer an estimated price, but the final cost is not given until the crew is on site.
\r\n
When the junk removal company comes out and gives you an estimate, if you agree to their price, they'll often get started right away or schedule a time that's convenient to complete the work.
\r\n\r\nThese quotes may be provided in person, but you are in no way obligated to hire a junk removal company if you don't feel like their price is fair or there are other red flags, like poor customer service.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: What Is an On-Site Junk Removal Estimate?
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTips are not required or expected, but if your junk removal crew does a great job, it's relatively standard practice to tip 10-20%.
\r\n\r\nA basic guideline for tipping a junk removal company is 10-15% tips for a small cleanup project and 15-20% for a larger cleanup.
\r\n\r\nHowever, you are in no way obligated to tip your junk haulers.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: How to Choose the Best Junk Removal Company
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/junk-removal-company_0.png\")
\r\nHometown makes it easy to find the right local junk removal company for the job.
\r\n\r\nYou can browse companies that serve your zip code, read their company profiles, see what customers have to say about their service, and easily request a quote from as many companies as you'd like.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend reaching out to multiple junk removal providers before hiring because it will help to ensure you get a fair price, good customer service, and the services you need when you need them.
\r\n\r\nContact a minimum of two to three junk removal companies to be sure you have a good understanding of your options and that you pick the right company for you and your project.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nLooking for answers to some of junk removal customers' most frequently asked questions? We've got the answers you're looking for. Find out how junk removal works, how much it costs, who to hire, whether or not to tip, and more.
\r\n","changed":"2022-04-27T16:21:33+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":"It's relatively common for companies to charge a minimum of $75 to $100 for pick-ups, no matter how small the job.
\r\n\r\nIf 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\nLearn more: How Much Does It Cost to Haul Away Junk?
\r\n\r\nThere are a number of factors that can influence the cost of junk removal:
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Beginner's Guide to Junk Removal Service
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