Frequently Asked Questions

Should I try and treat the stain before booking a technician?
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It is best not to. We recommend you only blot water on the stain and do not use other chemicals as this can interfere with our treatment process and may jeopardise a successful result. To minimize damage, scrape up any bulky material using a spoon, and use a plain white towel to soak up as much liquid as possible. Do not scrub; merely dab. We also recommend placing a damp towel on top until a technician can attend to the problem.

How long does it take to treat a fabric or carpet stain?
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On average about 1 to 2 hours. JAE has a high success rate of removing stains on the first treatment, but some stains may have wicking afterwards and may require a second treatment. Depending on the stain we can also clean to blend the whole carpet after the process.

Can all stains be treated and fully removed?
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Unfortunately not, despite using the most up-to-date technology and products available in the market. All stains can be treated and may even require a second treatment; however, we can never guarantee the full removal of any stain. Many factors come into play with an unsuccessful stain treatment - what caused the stain, the extent of the stain, how long it's been there, whether and how it was previously treated, and the type of carpet. If you have unsightly, stubborn stains that refuse to budge we recommend that you contact your insurance company.

Are any of the chemicals you use to treat a stain harmful to me, my pets, or my children?
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All chemicals can be harmful if not used correctly, but our technicians are trained to use them according to industry standards in a manner that keeps you, your pets, and your children safe. Our technician will discuss the process and options with you prior to treatment. We recommend that you and your pets stay clear of the area we are working in. Once the treatment is complete, and the carpet has been steam cleaned with hot water extraction the room is completely safe to enter again.

What if my rug is in a worse condition after it is treated?
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The possibility of this happening is very unlikely. Your rug is inspected and tested prior to cleaning and if any potential issues are identified our technician will contact you and discuss options. Although we cannot always assure the outcome of a treatment, we trust our expert knowledge to prevent this from happening. You can rest assured that every effort is made to treat your rug with care to get the best results from our cleaning process. If the rug is in worse condition after cleaning, we will contact you to discuss the likely reasons and suggest possible restorative options. At this point, it might be prudent to contact your insurance company.

What happens to my rug while you treat it?
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We have a special area for storing, cleaning, and drying rugs. It goes through a process identified for that particular rug. We first test for dye bleed before proceeding with treatment. Your rug stays with us in our controlled environment at our depot. Depending on the pile, material, and stains we use a variety of methods to get the best possible result. Rugs are vacuumed, shampooed, steam cleaned, dried, inspected, and groomed. Depending on the rug type, cleaning methods can differ. Sometimes rugs need to be submerged in specialist products in our rug bath. Before any specialist treatment is carried out, our technician will call you to discuss. Rest assured, your rug is in the hands of a fully trained/certified rug cleaning technician.

How long will it take to clean my rug?
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From 1 to 2 weeks. The reason is that we need to assess the rug, clean and dry it, and have it ready for delivery or collection. Some rugs may require multiple treatments or even require bathing to get the best results. Although some rugs can be cleaned on site, we recommend factory cleaning as the drying is more thorough and it can be inspected before being returned or collected.

What if I see a pest after the treatment has happened?
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Seeing pests within the first few days after treatment is completely normal. Often, after the first treatment, you may see an increase in pests for the first few days. Some treatments rely on the pest walking along the treated surfaces, and the pest may have come from an untreated cavity, like inside the wall framing. But the treatment will take care of it. For that reason, we apply treatment to the surfaces we know they use regularly. Once they interact with it, they'll begin to weaken and die. However, if you do not see a marked decrease in pests or no dead pests within the guarantee period, please call us, and we can discuss retreating for you.

How often should my house be treated for pests?
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Regular pest control is imperative in ensuring that your home or office is free of unwanted pests. We recommend a six-monthly pest control treatment, but at least every year. Most definitely with the advent of spring/summer when most crawling/flying pests arrive. Other factors to consider: If your home has previously been vulnerable to pests, or your home is an older home or located in a pest-prone or wooded area, you may require more frequent pest control treatments.

How long will the treatment last?
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There is no cut and dry answer. It depends on the products used, whether applied outside or inside, the weather and climate in your area, the degree of the infestation, and the type of treatment carried out. Different pest control issues require different treatment plans. For example flies: 2-4 months, fleas: 6 months—if animals are deflea’d, standard insects: 3-6 months, borers: 5 years, spiders and cockroaches: 1 year. We cannot guarantee the full removal of any pest. We do pest control, not eradication. Our experienced technician will advise you.

How long will the pest control treatment take?
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It varies, depending on a few factors:  Is it merely a preventative treatment or is there an active infestation?  The type of pest, for example, rodents, termites, ants, cockroaches, flies, etc  The size of the property It is advisable to have our technician visit your property and determine what will be required. Here are some general guidelines: A general treatment could take from 1 to 3 hours. A full ant treatment may take up to 3 hours. Rodents: an initial 1.5 hours, followed up by monthly visits. Under floor borer: 4 to 5 hours. Insects like flies, cockroaches, and spiders: average home: 1 hour. Outside: 1.5 hours.

What is the first thing to do after a flood has damaged my home?
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In all cases of flooding, first, ensure that your family is safe. Localised home flooding may be caused by an in-house water leak, like a burst pipe or a leaking appliance. Check if the house is safe, are there electrical hazards or sagged ceilings at risk of falling? Turn off the water supply to the house if unable to isolate the leak. If it's a local leak, organise a plumber to attend to it. When flooding is caused by an external event, such as extreme weather events, overflowing waterways, a natural disaster, or even overflowing city sewers or storm drains, turn off the electricity supply. Ring your Insurance Company and JAE straight away. When external floodwaters have crossed your property, be aware of the following: The flood water may have affected your septic tank and effluent disposal field. If gully traps are over-flowing or your toilets are not working properly, you should not use the toilets until the problem is resolved. Rather use alternative toilets, i.e. public toilets if there are any nearby, portaloos or portable chemical toilets. If the flood water has not subsided yet, be sure to wear protective clothing, like rubber boots and gloves. You will not only be wading through the water itself, but you will also be walking through whatever the water has come into contact with, including chemicals, sewage, garbage and debris. Flood water can be highly contaminated or even toxic. You will not always be able to see these contaminants or hazards, so it is important to wear protective gear. Do not touch your mouth or nose with your gloves or hands or anything that has been in contact with the water as the water may be polluted with bacteria, mould, or chemical substances that can be harmful to your health. Safety is always more important than salvaging household items, so be wise as you assess the structural integrity of your property. Before you start removing the water or arranging for clean-up from a house flood, thoroughly document all flood damage with pictures and/or video. Include pictures of structural and property damage as well as household items and furnishings that have been damaged or destroyed. This will assist your insurance adjuster in making an accurate assessment of your loss. JAE has all the equipment and experience needed to remove floodwater and restore your home and its contents to pre-flood conditions.

Do you communicate with my insurance company regarding a claim?
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Yes, we communicate continuously with the Insurance Company until the work is completed. Reports are sent to your insurance company (sometimes daily), and they will receive a complete update of how your flood is progressing. We are also in constant contact with Loss Adjusters as well as the builders who attend to the repairs.

Can I re-enter my home while the restoration is going on?
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Usually yes, though there will be additional hazards while we are drying. The technician will explain what you need to do. It depends on the extent of the flooding and the extent of the restoration work being done. Depending on the location and the extent of the flood in your home, this may not be advisable for health and safety reasons. Our technicians would be happy to discuss once we have assessed the areas requiring attention. Your home will be a work site for a while and may be unsafe due to various work-related hazards and cleaning chemicals. In addition, depending on the extent of the flooding and if remaining in the home is not ideal, we recommend talking to your insurance company about temporary accommodation.

Can I go into my home to get possessions and valuables while the restoration is going on?
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Usually yes, if it is safe to do so and a health and safety site induction is carried out. As your house becomes a temporary worksite during the restoration, there may be hazards present, but access can be arranged if it can be done safely. Removing possessions that have not been cleaned yet is not recommended as it may contaminate the property you are staying at. We care about the safety and well-being of our customers.

How long does flood restoration take?
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That depends on the extent of the damage, what carpet and flooring you have, and how many stories of the house are affected. On average, a flood restoration can take anywhere between 3 and 8 days, longer if there are building repairs needed after drying. Our technician will assess the work required and give you a reasonable estimate of the time it could take. Of course, the weather, humidity, and the season are factors to consider. Fixing structural damage will require more time and should only be done by reputable contractors.

Do you communicate with my insurance company regarding a claim?
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"Yes, we do, once you have lodged a claim and a referral has been sent to our office. We will liaise with you, your insurance company, and any other professionals such as Loss Adjusters working on your claim. A full report with photos is uploaded to your insurance company, and they are kept up to date with progress. An itemized list of contents removed from the site is also produced for you and your insurance company. We take our instructions/scope from the insurer. Everything we do during the restoration gets communicated to the insurer. When we encounter any problems along the way, we will consult with them to resolve any issues."

Can I re-enter my home while the restoration is going on?
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"It depends on the severity of the damage and the extent of the restoration work being done. Avoid the potential for injury by staying away from your home and not re-entering it until a professional has approved it. Your home will be a work site for a while and may be unsafe due to various work-related hazards and cleaning chemicals. In addition, depending on the extent of the damage, and if remaining in the home is not safe, we recommend talking to your insurance company about temporary accommodation. However, if you need to periodically come and go from the house, and it is safe to do so, yes you can. We care about the safety and well-being of our customers."

What is the first thing to do after a fire has damaged my home?
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A house fire is a devastating experience, regardless of the amount of damage. Your first instinct may be to begin the clean-up and repair work, but there are several key things to work through first… Make sure your family is safe and well. Minimize time spent inside a contaminated indoor environment without appropriate breathing protection. Contact your insurance company. They will arrange an inspector to assess and record the damage to the buildings and your contents too. Your insurance company will also explain the claims process. This will include telling you when you can start hiring tradespeople to clean up and repair the damage. If you're a tenant, contact your landlord as soon as possible. If the NZ Fire Service are on site, they will advise you on when you can safely re-enter the property. They will also organise or tell you to disconnect the power, phone, and gas services to your home. Depending on the extent of the fire and whether it is safe, it is a good idea to take photos of the damage caused. Once you get the go-ahead from the insurance company, you can begin the repair and clean-up work. Often a fire causes severe smoke and water damage which requires professional cleaning and repairs. JAE has the required experience and know-how. Water and smoke-damaged furniture, carpets and drapes require professional cleaning. Some furniture may need to be dried as soon as possible to prevent mould growth. Structural damage must be repaired by a Licensed Building Practitioner. Remember to keep all the receipts in the days following the fire for any essential services, accommodation or supplies you needed to purchase. Your insurance company may reimburse you for these. But ask them before making any purchases or organising assistance though.

How long does fire restoration take?
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This process varies depending on the severity of the fire and smoke damage. It can take anything from one week to a few months. There are multiple things to restore after a fire and smoke damage. Cleaning of the dwelling. Cleaning of its contents, curtains, drapes, carpets, rugs, and clothes. Electrical items need to be tested. Most of this work is done by professionals which involves sub-contractors as well. JAE has extensive training and experience in fire and smoke restoration, and we aim to complete the work as efficiently and quickly as possible. We have a good reputation with various insurance companies and will keep you informed throughout the process.

Will carpet cleaning get rid of fleas in my carpet?
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Generally no. While cleaning will improve any infestation we recommend that you arrange with your local JAE branch for them to return several days after cleaning to treat any remaining infestation. This secondary treatment will eradicate any residual adult flea activity and also disrupt the flea larval cycle thereby ridding you of any ongoing flea invasion.

Why should I have my rugs cleaned?
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Rugs usually receive a lot of traffic. A thorough, professional oriental and area rug cleaning is the only way to remove the deep-down dirt, make this area of your home look nicer and ensure that all areas of your home stay clean and healthy.

Why should I have my leather professionally cleaned?
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Just like our skin, leather needs regular care to retain mosture and softness. Most store-bought leather cleaners can provide immediate relief, however can end up causing damage later down the line. The cleaning and conditioning products used by JAE will keep your leather looking and feeling great.

Why should I have a protector applied to my carpets or fabric?
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As the finishing touch to your thoroughly cleaned carpet and/or upholstery, specially formulated protector can be professionally applied. These products help carpet and upholstery resist soiling from dry dirt, water- and oil-based spills by wrapping each fibre in a protective coating. This extra layer gives you more time to clean up spots and spills before they soak into the fibres, helping you keep your carpet and upholstery looking its best between professional cleanings. Plus, it makes vacuuming and cleaning up spots easier.

What type of rugs do you clean?
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All types of rugs are welcome! This includes Oriental rugs, Persian rugs, Area rugs and more.

What steps are taken for flood restoration?
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You will speak with a certified restoration specialist very soon after your call. Then once we view the damage, our trained certified technician will follow our industry standards to ensure your home is restored how it was before the damage occured.

What should I do if stains reappear after a treatment?
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Although most spots/stains that are removed from carpet do not reappear, on rare occasions some substances in the carpet backing can wick to the surface after cleaning and drying. If this happens, please contact your local JAE branch at 0800 225 552 as soon as possible.

What method do you use for cleaning?
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We clean carpets using steam cleaning, also known as ‘hot water extraction’. JAE’s hot water extraction method gently removes the toughest and deepest dirt safely. Our specially formulated cleaning solution and hot, soft water are inserted deep within the carpet fibres. Following this our powerful carpet steam cleaning machinery extracts 95% of the moisture bringing with it deep-down dirt, allergens and cleaning solution. Carpet manufacturers recommend this cleaning method.

The tag on my furniture recommends a dry cleaning method, can JAE clean it?
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Yes, JAE can take care of it. We’ll test your fabric to determine the safest and most effective cleaning method.

My carpet already has a protector, do I need to apply another one?
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A dry soil protector comes on most carpets from the manufacturers. This is a wear-dated product and is removed over time with everyday traffic. Carpet manufacturers recommend that you have this protector reapplied about once a year, and perhaps more often on heavy traffic areas.

How often do manufacturers recommend a professional cleaning?
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Manufacturers recommend having furniture professionally cleaned every 12-24 months depending on use.

How long will it take to clean my carpets?
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On average, it will take approximately 15-20 minutes per room. This time can vary greatly depending on the amount of furniture to be moved, how soiled the carpet is, and any necessary stain treatments.

How long will it take for my carpet to dry after a cleaning?
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The length of time it takes for your carpet to dry is dependent on the weather. Airflow, temperature and humidity all have an effect. It could take from 8 – 24 hours. Using fans, dehumidifiers, air-conditioning, and heating systems (depending on the weather) can help. We may use blocks or paper, under furniture legs, for instance, make sure you leave those in place until the carpet is totally dry. Walking on the carpet is ok but wear clean rubber soled shoes, or no shoes at all. You certainly don’t want to be walking on your freshly cleaned carpet in street shoes. Think also of your safety when walking from damp carpet on to slippery floors.

How does your deodorizer work to remove odours?
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JAE uses a natural bacterial enzyme action to digest organic odour sources such as vomit, feces, urine, milk, blood etc. This product removes organic odours that it contacts. It also uses a neutralizer to give immediate relief from any odours while the enzyme is working. The key to complete removal of an odour is that this product must reach all contaminated surfaces. If the odour causing source has penetrated the backing and possibly the padding we cannot guarantee complete removal of the odour.

How does JAE clean upholstered furniture?
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We use our powerful hot water extraction cleaning process if possible. This provides the best and deepest cleaning. Some fabrics may require a more delicate clean. When this is the case, we will work with you to make the best decision to suit your needs.

How do I prepare my house for a pest control treatment?
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Depending on the type of treatment required, there may be different preparation suggestions. Give your local JAE branch a call at 0800 225 552 to get the best information.

How do I get in touch with JAE if I have a flood or fire emergency?
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We are available 24 hours a day to help you handle your water emergency. Just call us at 0800 225 552 and our Customer Service Advisors will have a certified restoration specialist get in touch with your right away.

Do you move my furniture?
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The simple answer is Yes. There are some items we are not able to move such as pianos, large electronics, china cabinets, beds, dressers with mirrors, pool tables, any furniture that sits flat on the carpeted surface. We also recommend that you remove items such as lamps, plants, breakables, knick knacks and electronics. We won’t charge extra to move small and easily movable items of furniture. Once we have finished we will return anything we have moved to its rightful place on protective padding as needed.

Do you guarantee the removal of all spots or stains on the carpet?
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We cannot guarantee that we will remove all spots or stains. There are substances that can permanently discolour carpet fibres. The age of the carpet and the type of carpet fibres also play a factor in this. The technician will try to determine if this is the case prior to cleaning but they are not always able to determine this before trying to remove the spots.

Do I need to vacuum before you arrive?
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Light vacuuming in the traffic areas is recommended but not required. If needed, the technician can pre-vacuum the area to be cleaned.

Do I have to leave my home for the treatment?
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We recommend that you leave your home for any spray treatments for around 4 hours. This will allow the spray to dry. For rodent treatments there is no need to leave.

Are the pest control treatments safe for my family and pets?
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The treatments we use are applied at safe levels and safe for your family and pets after the process is complete.

Will carpet cleaning get rid of fleas in my carpet?
JAE services icon

Generally no. While cleaning will improve any infestation we recommend that you arrange with your local JAE branch for them to return several days after cleaning to treat any remaining infestation. This secondary treatment will eradicate any residual adult flea activity and also disrupt the flea larval cycle thereby ridding you of any ongoing flea invasion.

What method do you use for cleaning?
JAE services icon

We clean carpets using steam cleaning, also known as ‘hot water extraction’. JAE’s hot water extraction method gently removes the toughest and deepest dirt safely. Our specially formulated cleaning solution and hot, soft water are inserted deep within the carpet fibres. Following this our powerful carpet steam cleaning machinery extracts 95% of the moisture bringing with it deep-down dirt, allergens and cleaning solution. Carpet manufacturers recommend this cleaning method.

How long will it take to clean my carpets?
JAE services icon

On average, it will take approximately 15-20 minutes per room. This time can vary greatly depending on the amount of furniture to be moved, how soiled the carpet is, and any necessary stain treatments.

How long will it take for my carpet to dry after a cleaning?
JAE services icon

The length of time it takes for your carpet to dry is dependent on the weather. Airflow, temperature and humidity all have an effect. It could take from 8 – 24 hours. Using fans, dehumidifiers, air-conditioning, and heating systems (depending on the weather) can help. We may use blocks or paper, under furniture legs, for instance, make sure you leave those in place until the carpet is totally dry. Walking on the carpet is ok but wear clean rubber soled shoes, or no shoes at all. You certainly don’t want to be walking on your freshly cleaned carpet in street shoes. Think also of your safety when walking from damp carpet on to slippery floors.

Do you move my furniture?
JAE services icon

The simple answer is Yes. There are some items we are not able to move such as pianos, large electronics, china cabinets, beds, dressers with mirrors, pool tables, any furniture that sits flat on the carpeted surface. We also recommend that you remove items such as lamps, plants, breakables, knick knacks and electronics. We won’t charge extra to move small and easily movable items of furniture. Once we have finished we will return anything we have moved to its rightful place on protective padding as needed.

Do you guarantee the removal of all spots or stains on the carpet?
JAE services icon

We cannot guarantee that we will remove all spots or stains. There are substances that can permanently discolour carpet fibres. The age of the carpet and the type of carpet fibres also play a factor in this. The technician will try to determine if this is the case prior to cleaning but they are not always able to determine this before trying to remove the spots.

Do I need to vacuum before you arrive?
JAE services icon

Light vacuuming in the traffic areas is recommended but not required. If needed, the technician can pre-vacuum the area to be cleaned.

Should I try and treat the stain before booking a technician?
JAE services icon

It is best not to. We recommend you only blot water on the stain and do not use other chemicals as this can interfere with our treatment process and may jeopardise a successful result. To minimize damage, scrape up any bulky material using a spoon, and use a plain white towel to soak up as much liquid as possible. Do not scrub; merely dab. We also recommend placing a damp towel on top until a technician can attend to the problem.

How long does it take to treat a fabric or carpet stain?
JAE services icon

On average about 1 to 2 hours. JAE has a high success rate of removing stains on the first treatment, but some stains may have wicking afterwards and may require a second treatment. Depending on the stain we can also clean to blend the whole carpet after the process.

Can all stains be treated and fully removed?
JAE services icon

Unfortunately not, despite using the most up-to-date technology and products available in the market. All stains can be treated and may even require a second treatment; however, we can never guarantee the full removal of any stain. Many factors come into play with an unsuccessful stain treatment - what caused the stain, the extent of the stain, how long it's been there, whether and how it was previously treated, and the type of carpet. If you have unsightly, stubborn stains that refuse to budge we recommend that you contact your insurance company.

Are any of the chemicals you use to treat a stain harmful to me, my pets, or my children?
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All chemicals can be harmful if not used correctly, but our technicians are trained to use them according to industry standards in a manner that keeps you, your pets, and your children safe. Our technician will discuss the process and options with you prior to treatment. We recommend that you and your pets stay clear of the area we are working in. Once the treatment is complete, and the carpet has been steam cleaned with hot water extraction the room is completely safe to enter again.

What should I do if stains reappear after a treatment?
JAE services icon

Although most spots/stains that are removed from carpet do not reappear, on rare occasions some substances in the carpet backing can wick to the surface after cleaning and drying. If this happens, please contact your local JAE branch at 0800 225 552 as soon as possible.

Why should I have my leather professionally cleaned?
JAE services icon

Just like our skin, leather needs regular care to retain mosture and softness. Most store-bought leather cleaners can provide immediate relief, however can end up causing damage later down the line. The cleaning and conditioning products used by JAE will keep your leather looking and feeling great.

The tag on my furniture recommends a dry cleaning method, can JAE clean it?
JAE services icon

Yes, JAE can take care of it. We’ll test your fabric to determine the safest and most effective cleaning method.

How often do manufacturers recommend a professional cleaning?
JAE services icon

Manufacturers recommend having furniture professionally cleaned every 12-24 months depending on use.

How does JAE clean upholstered furniture?
JAE services icon

We use our powerful hot water extraction cleaning process if possible. This provides the best and deepest cleaning. Some fabrics may require a more delicate clean. When this is the case, we will work with you to make the best decision to suit your needs.

What if my rug is in a worse condition after it is treated?
JAE services icon

The possibility of this happening is very unlikely. Your rug is inspected and tested prior to cleaning and if any potential issues are identified our technician will contact you and discuss options. Although we cannot always assure the outcome of a treatment, we trust our expert knowledge to prevent this from happening. You can rest assured that every effort is made to treat your rug with care to get the best results from our cleaning process. If the rug is in worse condition after cleaning, we will contact you to discuss the likely reasons and suggest possible restorative options. At this point, it might be prudent to contact your insurance company.

What happens to my rug while you treat it?
JAE services icon

We have a special area for storing, cleaning, and drying rugs. It goes through a process identified for that particular rug. We first test for dye bleed before proceeding with treatment. Your rug stays with us in our controlled environment at our depot. Depending on the pile, material, and stains we use a variety of methods to get the best possible result. Rugs are vacuumed, shampooed, steam cleaned, dried, inspected, and groomed. Depending on the rug type, cleaning methods can differ. Sometimes rugs need to be submerged in specialist products in our rug bath. Before any specialist treatment is carried out, our technician will call you to discuss. Rest assured, your rug is in the hands of a fully trained/certified rug cleaning technician.

How long will it take to clean my rug?
JAE services icon

From 1 to 2 weeks. The reason is that we need to assess the rug, clean and dry it, and have it ready for delivery or collection. Some rugs may require multiple treatments or even require bathing to get the best results. Although some rugs can be cleaned on site, we recommend factory cleaning as the drying is more thorough and it can be inspected before being returned or collected.

Why should I have my rugs cleaned?
JAE services icon

Rugs usually receive a lot of traffic. A thorough, professional oriental and area rug cleaning is the only way to remove the deep-down dirt, make this area of your home look nicer and ensure that all areas of your home stay clean and healthy.

What type of rugs do you clean?
JAE services icon

All types of rugs are welcome! This includes Oriental rugs, Persian rugs, Area rugs and more.

Why should I have a protector applied to my carpets or fabric?
JAE services icon

As the finishing touch to your thoroughly cleaned carpet and/or upholstery, specially formulated protector can be professionally applied. These products help carpet and upholstery resist soiling from dry dirt, water- and oil-based spills by wrapping each fibre in a protective coating. This extra layer gives you more time to clean up spots and spills before they soak into the fibres, helping you keep your carpet and upholstery looking its best between professional cleanings. Plus, it makes vacuuming and cleaning up spots easier.

My carpet already has a protector, do I need to apply another one?
JAE services icon

A dry soil protector comes on most carpets from the manufacturers. This is a wear-dated product and is removed over time with everyday traffic. Carpet manufacturers recommend that you have this protector reapplied about once a year, and perhaps more often on heavy traffic areas.

How does your deodorizer work to remove odours?
JAE services icon

JAE uses a natural bacterial enzyme action to digest organic odour sources such as vomit, feces, urine, milk, blood etc. This product removes organic odours that it contacts. It also uses a neutralizer to give immediate relief from any odours while the enzyme is working. The key to complete removal of an odour is that this product must reach all contaminated surfaces. If the odour causing source has penetrated the backing and possibly the padding we cannot guarantee complete removal of the odour.

What is the first thing to do after a flood has damaged my home?
JAE services icon

In all cases of flooding, first, ensure that your family is safe. Localised home flooding may be caused by an in-house water leak, like a burst pipe or a leaking appliance. Check if the house is safe, are there electrical hazards or sagged ceilings at risk of falling? Turn off the water supply to the house if unable to isolate the leak. If it's a local leak, organise a plumber to attend to it. When flooding is caused by an external event, such as extreme weather events, overflowing waterways, a natural disaster, or even overflowing city sewers or storm drains, turn off the electricity supply. Ring your Insurance Company and JAE straight away. When external floodwaters have crossed your property, be aware of the following: The flood water may have affected your septic tank and effluent disposal field. If gully traps are over-flowing or your toilets are not working properly, you should not use the toilets until the problem is resolved. Rather use alternative toilets, i.e. public toilets if there are any nearby, portaloos or portable chemical toilets. If the flood water has not subsided yet, be sure to wear protective clothing, like rubber boots and gloves. You will not only be wading through the water itself, but you will also be walking through whatever the water has come into contact with, including chemicals, sewage, garbage and debris. Flood water can be highly contaminated or even toxic. You will not always be able to see these contaminants or hazards, so it is important to wear protective gear. Do not touch your mouth or nose with your gloves or hands or anything that has been in contact with the water as the water may be polluted with bacteria, mould, or chemical substances that can be harmful to your health. Safety is always more important than salvaging household items, so be wise as you assess the structural integrity of your property. Before you start removing the water or arranging for clean-up from a house flood, thoroughly document all flood damage with pictures and/or video. Include pictures of structural and property damage as well as household items and furnishings that have been damaged or destroyed. This will assist your insurance adjuster in making an accurate assessment of your loss. JAE has all the equipment and experience needed to remove floodwater and restore your home and its contents to pre-flood conditions.

Do you communicate with my insurance company regarding a claim?
JAE services icon

Yes, we communicate continuously with the Insurance Company until the work is completed. Reports are sent to your insurance company (sometimes daily), and they will receive a complete update of how your flood is progressing. We are also in constant contact with Loss Adjusters as well as the builders who attend to the repairs.

Can I re-enter my home while the restoration is going on?
JAE services icon

Usually yes, though there will be additional hazards while we are drying. The technician will explain what you need to do. It depends on the extent of the flooding and the extent of the restoration work being done. Depending on the location and the extent of the flood in your home, this may not be advisable for health and safety reasons. Our technicians would be happy to discuss once we have assessed the areas requiring attention. Your home will be a work site for a while and may be unsafe due to various work-related hazards and cleaning chemicals. In addition, depending on the extent of the flooding and if remaining in the home is not ideal, we recommend talking to your insurance company about temporary accommodation.

Can I go into my home to get possessions and valuables while the restoration is going on?
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Usually yes, if it is safe to do so and a health and safety site induction is carried out. As your house becomes a temporary worksite during the restoration, there may be hazards present, but access can be arranged if it can be done safely. Removing possessions that have not been cleaned yet is not recommended as it may contaminate the property you are staying at. We care about the safety and well-being of our customers.

How long does flood restoration take?
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That depends on the extent of the damage, what carpet and flooring you have, and how many stories of the house are affected. On average, a flood restoration can take anywhere between 3 and 8 days, longer if there are building repairs needed after drying. Our technician will assess the work required and give you a reasonable estimate of the time it could take. Of course, the weather, humidity, and the season are factors to consider. Fixing structural damage will require more time and should only be done by reputable contractors.

What steps are taken for flood restoration?
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You will speak with a certified restoration specialist very soon after your call. Then once we view the damage, our trained certified technician will follow our industry standards to ensure your home is restored how it was before the damage occured.

How do I get in touch with JAE if I have a flood or fire emergency?
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We are available 24 hours a day to help you handle your water emergency. Just call us at 0800 225 552 and our Customer Service Advisors will have a certified restoration specialist get in touch with your right away.

Do you communicate with my insurance company regarding a claim?
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"Yes, we do, once you have lodged a claim and a referral has been sent to our office. We will liaise with you, your insurance company, and any other professionals such as Loss Adjusters working on your claim. A full report with photos is uploaded to your insurance company, and they are kept up to date with progress. An itemized list of contents removed from the site is also produced for you and your insurance company. We take our instructions/scope from the insurer. Everything we do during the restoration gets communicated to the insurer. When we encounter any problems along the way, we will consult with them to resolve any issues."

Can I re-enter my home while the restoration is going on?
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"It depends on the severity of the damage and the extent of the restoration work being done. Avoid the potential for injury by staying away from your home and not re-entering it until a professional has approved it. Your home will be a work site for a while and may be unsafe due to various work-related hazards and cleaning chemicals. In addition, depending on the extent of the damage, and if remaining in the home is not safe, we recommend talking to your insurance company about temporary accommodation. However, if you need to periodically come and go from the house, and it is safe to do so, yes you can. We care about the safety and well-being of our customers."

What is the first thing to do after a fire has damaged my home?
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A house fire is a devastating experience, regardless of the amount of damage. Your first instinct may be to begin the clean-up and repair work, but there are several key things to work through first… Make sure your family is safe and well. Minimize time spent inside a contaminated indoor environment without appropriate breathing protection. Contact your insurance company. They will arrange an inspector to assess and record the damage to the buildings and your contents too. Your insurance company will also explain the claims process. This will include telling you when you can start hiring tradespeople to clean up and repair the damage. If you're a tenant, contact your landlord as soon as possible. If the NZ Fire Service are on site, they will advise you on when you can safely re-enter the property. They will also organise or tell you to disconnect the power, phone, and gas services to your home. Depending on the extent of the fire and whether it is safe, it is a good idea to take photos of the damage caused. Once you get the go-ahead from the insurance company, you can begin the repair and clean-up work. Often a fire causes severe smoke and water damage which requires professional cleaning and repairs. JAE has the required experience and know-how. Water and smoke-damaged furniture, carpets and drapes require professional cleaning. Some furniture may need to be dried as soon as possible to prevent mould growth. Structural damage must be repaired by a Licensed Building Practitioner. Remember to keep all the receipts in the days following the fire for any essential services, accommodation or supplies you needed to purchase. Your insurance company may reimburse you for these. But ask them before making any purchases or organising assistance though.

How long does fire restoration take?
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This process varies depending on the severity of the fire and smoke damage. It can take anything from one week to a few months. There are multiple things to restore after a fire and smoke damage. Cleaning of the dwelling. Cleaning of its contents, curtains, drapes, carpets, rugs, and clothes. Electrical items need to be tested. Most of this work is done by professionals which involves sub-contractors as well. JAE has extensive training and experience in fire and smoke restoration, and we aim to complete the work as efficiently and quickly as possible. We have a good reputation with various insurance companies and will keep you informed throughout the process.

What steps are taken for flood restoration?
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You will speak with a certified restoration specialist very soon after your call. Then once we view the damage, our trained certified technician will follow our industry standards to ensure your home is restored how it was before the damage occured.

How do I get in touch with JAE if I have a flood or fire emergency?
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We are available 24 hours a day to help you handle your water emergency. Just call us at 0800 225 552 and our Customer Service Advisors will have a certified restoration specialist get in touch with your right away.

What if I see a pest after the treatment has happened?
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Seeing pests within the first few days after treatment is completely normal. Often, after the first treatment, you may see an increase in pests for the first few days. Some treatments rely on the pest walking along the treated surfaces, and the pest may have come from an untreated cavity, like inside the wall framing. But the treatment will take care of it. For that reason, we apply treatment to the surfaces we know they use regularly. Once they interact with it, they'll begin to weaken and die. However, if you do not see a marked decrease in pests or no dead pests within the guarantee period, please call us, and we can discuss retreating for you.

How often should my house be treated for pests?
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Regular pest control is imperative in ensuring that your home or office is free of unwanted pests. We recommend a six-monthly pest control treatment, but at least every year. Most definitely with the advent of spring/summer when most crawling/flying pests arrive. Other factors to consider: If your home has previously been vulnerable to pests, or your home is an older home or located in a pest-prone or wooded area, you may require more frequent pest control treatments.

How long will the treatment last?
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There is no cut and dry answer. It depends on the products used, whether applied outside or inside, the weather and climate in your area, the degree of the infestation, and the type of treatment carried out. Different pest control issues require different treatment plans. For example flies: 2-4 months, fleas: 6 months—if animals are deflea’d, standard insects: 3-6 months, borers: 5 years, spiders and cockroaches: 1 year. We cannot guarantee the full removal of any pest. We do pest control, not eradication. Our experienced technician will advise you.

How long will the pest control treatment take?
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It varies, depending on a few factors:  Is it merely a preventative treatment or is there an active infestation?  The type of pest, for example, rodents, termites, ants, cockroaches, flies, etc  The size of the property It is advisable to have our technician visit your property and determine what will be required. Here are some general guidelines: A general treatment could take from 1 to 3 hours. A full ant treatment may take up to 3 hours. Rodents: an initial 1.5 hours, followed up by monthly visits. Under floor borer: 4 to 5 hours. Insects like flies, cockroaches, and spiders: average home: 1 hour. Outside: 1.5 hours.

How do I prepare my house for a pest control treatment?
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Depending on the type of treatment required, there may be different preparation suggestions. Give your local JAE branch a call at 0800 225 552 to get the best information.

Do I have to leave my home for the treatment?
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We recommend that you leave your home for any spray treatments for around 4 hours. This will allow the spray to dry. For rodent treatments there is no need to leave.

Are the pest control treatments safe for my family and pets?
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The treatments we use are applied at safe levels and safe for your family and pets after the process is complete.