Summer is the prime season for home renovation in the Birmingham area, with homeowners and flippers alike chasing their next big project. But what happens when your contractor uncovers hidden damage in remodels? Mid-project surprises like drywall water damage or mold behind newly opened walls can stall timelines, inflate budgets, and leave you scrambling for expert help.
Royal Restoration offers rapid-response remediation services that integrate seamlessly with your renovation contractor’s schedule. We handle everything from water extraction and mold removal to structural repairs, so your project gets back on track without sacrificing quality or safety.
Common Hidden Issues Found Mid-Renovation
Drywall Water Damage and Rot
When contractors cut into walls, they often find water-stained drywall, soft spots, or crumbling plaster, a sure sign that there have been past leaks. Hidden water damage can result from roof leaks, plumbing failures, or flood events. Left unaddressed, rotted drywall invites mold growth and compromises the integrity of studs and fasteners.
Royal Restoration’s team removes damaged materials, dries framing with industrial dehumidifiers, and installs moisture-resistant drywall so your renovation proceeds on solid ground.
Contractor Discovered Mold
Mold often lurks behind walls, under flooring, or in attic insulation, which are places contractors expose only after demo begins. A small patch of black or green mold signals widespread spore colonization that can impact indoor air quality and health. Our certified mold remediation specialists contain the area with negative-air units, HEPA filtration, and controlled demolition techniques. We then apply antimicrobial treatments and replace contaminated materials, ensuring a clean environment for your finishing trades.
Old Structural Decay
Aging homes can harbor hidden decay in wooden beams, floor joists, and support posts. Termites, water intrusion, and normal wear can weaken key structural elements, creating safety hazards once renovation uncovers them. Royal Restoration inspects compromised members, sistering new lumber, or installing engineered supports as needed. Our structural repairs meet building-code requirements, giving your remodel a stable framework for new finishes.
Pest Damage
Rodents, insects, and wildlife often nest in wall cavities, attic spaces, or crawl spaces, chewing insulation and wiring or leaving behind droppings and nesting materials. Pest damage introduces fire risk, electrical faults, and unsanitary conditions. We partner with licensed pest-control professionals to remove infestations, sanitize affected areas, and repair damaged insulation or wiring before handing the space back to your remodeling team.
What to Do if Damage Is Found
- Pause Work and Document the Damage: As soon as your contractor reveals hidden damage, stop all demolition and construction in the affected area. Take clear photographs of water stains, mold colonies, or weakened framing from several angles. Note the date, location, and any observations about odor or visible decay. This documentation proves invaluable for insurance claims and helps your restoration team plan targeted repairs without unnecessary disruption to other areas of the project.
- Notify Your Insurance: Contact your insurer immediately to report the newly discovered damage. Provide them with your photos, notes, and any contractor findings. Ask about coverage for mold remediation, water extraction, and structural repairs. Understanding your policy limits and deductible upfront prevents surprises and speeds claim approval, allowing restoration work to begin sooner.
- Notify Your Contractor: Let your remodeling contractor know about the issue so they can adjust project timelines, budgets, and subcontractor schedules. A clear line of communication ensures that demolition stops only where necessary and that restoration experts coordinate with painters, electricians, and carpenters. This collaborative approach minimizes delays and keeps your overall project on track.
How Professional Restoration After Renovation Works
Rapid Mold Remediation and Water Extraction
Royal Restoration deploys certified mold remediation teams within 24 hours of notification. Technicians set up containment with negative-air machines and HEPA filtration to prevent spore spread. For water damage, we use truck-mounted extractors to remove standing moisture and industrial dehumidifiers to draw residual humidity from framing and subfloors. This rapid response stops mold growth in its tracks and prepares surfaces for safe rebuilding.
Structural Repairs and Safety Testing
Once the area is dry and clean, our carpenters and structural specialists assess framing integrity. We replace or sister damaged beams and joists to restore load-bearing capacity. All repairs adhere to local building codes and pass inspection.
We also perform safety testing of electrical and plumbing systems that may have been compromised by moisture or mold. Upon completion, we provide a full report outlining remediation steps and clearance test results, ensuring your remodel can resume with confidence.
Preventing Hidden Damage in Future Projects
Before starting renovation, schedule a pre-demo inspection that includes moisture scans and thermal imaging to detect leaks behind walls or under floors.
Hire a certified mold assessor if the home has a history of water intrusion. Ask your contractor to check attic spaces and crawl areas for pest damage or structural decay. Include a contingency budget of 10 to 15% for unexpected repairs.
Early detection and planning help you avoid mid-project surprises, reduce downtime, and keep your renovation on schedule and within budget.
Keep Your Remodel on Track with Royal Restoration
When hidden damage threatens your timeline, Royal Restoration delivers rapid-response remediation that integrates seamlessly with your remodel. Our certified teams handle mold removal, water extraction, structural repairs, and safety testing, following up with detailed clearance reports that let your contractor resume work confidently.
Leading Property Damage Recovery in Alabama
Serving Birmingham and surrounding communities, Royal Restoration offers expert restoration after renovation. Whether you encounter drywall water damage, mold behind walls, or structural decay, our licensed technicians respond 24/7 with advanced equipment and proven techniques. Call today, or reach out online when you’re ready for a consultation.