Why a timeline helps
Two facts shape most irritant cleanups: how much residue there was and whether the air system spread it. A timeline that records when the incident happened, when the furnace or AC ran, and when doors and windows were opened tells a provider which rooms and systems to check. It also shows an insurer that the household acted promptly to limit damage.
Fill it in as soon as you can, while times are fresh, and keep adding entries until cleanup is done.
Example timeline
- Incident
- Date and time; where the release happened; what was released, if known.
- First hour
- Who left the home; whether the furnace or AC was running; which windows and doors were opened.
- First day
- Filter changed? Insurer and landlord called? Photos taken?
- Cleanup days
- Which rooms were cleaned, by whom, with what method.
- Re-entry
- Who returned, when, and whether anyone had symptoms.
Timeline sheet
| Date and time | Event or action | Who | HVAC on/off | Symptoms noted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Incident in living room | ||||
| Windows opened on north and south sides | ||||
| Furnace turned off at thermostat | ||||
Filling gaps honestly
It is normal not to remember exact times after a stressful event. Write approximate times as approximate, such as around 9 p.m., and mark anything you are unsure of. Phone call logs, text messages, doorbell cameras and smart thermostat histories can help fill in gaps later. A timeline that admits uncertainty is more credible than one that seems too precise.
Keep adding to it through cleanup and re-entry. The later entries, showing when symptoms stopped, are what tell everyone the job is finished.
Questions the timeline should answer
- Where and when did the release happen?
- Was the furnace or air conditioner running, and for how long afterward?
- When were doors and windows opened, and which ones?
- When did cleanup start and finish in each room?
- When did each household member return, and did anyone have symptoms?
Common questions
What if I do not know whether the furnace ran?
Check the thermostat's history if it has one, and note the outdoor temperature. Write unknown rather than guessing.
Who should get a copy?
Your insurer, your landlord if you rent, and any cleanup or HVAC provider you hire.
Can a smart thermostat help?
Many record when the system ran. Check the app history and add those times to the timeline.
General information for Berkeley, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.