How long does it take for my burst fire service to be repaired?
Do you install or repair fire sprinkler systems?
Does Total Fire & Water have public liability insurance?
What criteria is considered for evaluating the scope of works?
What are the safe guards to underground services?
What is non-destructive excavation?
What about pedestrians, motorists and workers around the site?
Do you reinstate the site?
What are the guarantees?
What are the payment requirements?
What about damage to my property?

> How long does it take for my burst fire service to be repaired?

From 8 to 24 hours. 

> Do you install or repair fire sprinkler systems?

Total Fire & Water is concerned with the water services that brings the water to your fire facility from the main in the street. Therefore, the fire sprinkler service in your building is not part of our services - only the pipe that feeds it.

> Does Total Fire & Water have public liability insurance?

All works are covered up to $10 million.

> What criteria is considered for evaluating the scope of works?

The site's underground assets are surveyed, the type of excavation decided, the location of works, safety controls required, reinstatement requirements and emergency issues are assessed. These all contribute to the complexity of a project. The following information will give you more of an understanding of the requirements. Sometimes considerations need to be reassessed during a project once the full ramifications of works is exposed.

> What are the safeguards to underground services?

Sonar equipment is used to locate all the services. As a further safeguard, we use the service 'dial before you dig' 1100. In a few cases, further verification is needed. A technique called pot holing is used where small holes are created by a non-destructive excavator, making it a safe procedure for any unidentified services.

> What is non-destructive excavation?

It is a process using air and water to loosen the earth and a huge vacuum extracts the soil into a holding tank. This soil is then disposed of using EPA registered vehicles. Regulations prohibit this soil being used for backfill.

> What about pedestrians, motorists and workers around the site?

Works cannot be performed on public roads or footpaths without appropriate safety procedures by trained personnel. We have personnel accredited with the appropriate safety course for traffic control. Controls differ for day and night and short and long term projects.

> Do you reinstate the site?

Suitable backfill material is transported to the site. Reinstatement of pavements and roads will be completed within the quoted job in the majority of cases. Emergency work timing may prevent full reinstatement. In this case a time will be organised to reinstate the site.

> What are the guarantees?

All works are performed by trained plumbing technicians. The repaired section of the service pipe is guaranteed for 6 years. The plumbing technician will supply a certificate of compliance. This certificate is lodged with the Plumbing Industry Commission, therefore registering the site.

> What are the payment requirements?

Total Fire & Water policy is that payment is expected upon completion of works.

> What about damage to my property?

Walls, floors, surfaces or fixtures may be altered in the course of works. The customer/owner or tenant will be consulted should this need arise. In an emergency, where safety is the priority, Total Fire & Water may undertake such work without consultation.

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