Emergency Preparedness 101: Conducting Effective Emergency Drills at Work

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

As a disaster restoration company, we know the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Conducting regular emergency drills is one way to ensure that your workplace is ready to handle unexpected situations. In this blog, we'll go over the steps for conducting an emergency drill at work to help keep your employees safe.

Step 1: Plan the Drill

Before conducting an emergency drill, it's important to plan out the details. Determine what type of emergency you want to simulate, such as a fire or earthquake, and decide on a date and time that works for everyone. Make sure to communicate the drill plan to all employees, including what actions they should take during the drill.

Step 2: Conduct a Safety Review

Before conducting the drill, review the safety procedures for the emergency you'll be simulating. Make sure all employees are aware of the procedures and know how to respond. This review should include identifying emergency exits, the location of first-aid kits and fire extinguishers, and any other safety equipment that may be needed.

Step 3: Conduct the Drill

When conducting the drill, make sure to treat it as if it were a real emergency. This means activating alarms and instructing employees to follow the emergency procedures outlined in the safety review. After the drill, review the results to identify any areas for improvement and adjust your emergency plan accordingly.

Step 4: Debrief and Provide Feedback

After the drill, it's important to debrief with employees to discuss what worked well and what could be improved. This feedback can be used to improve the emergency plan and to ensure that all employees are prepared for future emergencies. Make sure to also thank employees for their participation and emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness.

Step 5: Conduct Regular Drills

Conducting regular emergency drills is key to ensuring that your workplace is prepared for unexpected situations. Make sure to schedule drills on a regular basis, such as once a quarter, to ensure that all employees are familiar with the emergency procedures and to identify any areas for improvement.

In conclusion, conducting emergency drills at work is an important part of ensuring that your workplace is prepared for unexpected situations. By following these steps and conducting regular drills, you can help keep your employees safe and minimize the impact of emergencies. If your workplace has experienced a disaster or emergency, our team at SERVPRO of Boston Downtown/Back Bay/South Boston is here to help with disaster restoration services. Contact us today to learn more.

For more information on emergency preparedness and to access additional resources, visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website.

The Silent Thief: How Mold Can Damage Your Personal Belongings and What You Can Do to Protect Them

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

By taking these steps, you can protect your personal belongings and ensure they remain usable for years to come.

Mold is a common issue that many people face, and it can be incredibly damaging to your personal belongings. It can grow on a wide variety of surfaces, including fabric, paper, wood, and even electronics. If left untreated, mold can cause irreversible damage and even render your belongings unusable. In this blog, we'll discuss how mold can affect your personal belongings and what you can do to prevent and address the issue.

Fabric Items

Mold can grow on a wide variety of fabric items, including clothing, upholstery, and bedding. It thrives in damp, humid environments, and can quickly spread if left unchecked. Mold can cause the fabric to become discolored, stained, and even develop a musty odor. In severe cases, it can also weaken the fabric fibers, causing them to deteriorate and tear. To prevent mold growth on fabric items, it is important to keep them clean and dry. If you notice any signs of mold growth, such as discoloration or a musty smell, it is best to have them professionally cleaned or disposed of if necessary.

Paper and Books

Mold can also grow on paper and books, which can be particularly damaging as they often hold sentimental or historical value. Mold can cause the paper to become discolored and weak, and it can also damage the ink or printing on the paper. In severe cases, mold can even cause the paper to disintegrate entirely. To prevent mold growth on paper and books, it is important to keep them in a dry environment and away from areas with high humidity levels. 

Wood and Furniture

Mold can also grow on wood and furniture, which can be particularly challenging to address. Mold can cause wood to become discolored, weakened, and even warped. It can also cause furniture to become musty and develop an unpleasant odor. To prevent mold growth on wood and furniture, it is important to keep them dry and well-ventilated.

Electronics

Mold can even grow on electronics, which can be incredibly damaging and even dangerous. Mold can cause electronics to malfunction, and it can also create a fire hazard if it grows near electrical components. To prevent mold growth on electronics, it is important to keep them dry and well-ventilated. 

In conclusion, mold can be incredibly damaging to your personal belongings, and it is important to take steps to prevent and address the issue. Keep your belongings clean and dry, and if you notice any signs of mold growth, it is best to have them professionally restored or disposed of if necessary. By taking these steps, you can protect your personal belongings and ensure they remain usable for years to come.

5 Steps to Ensure Your Business is Ready for a Fire Emergency

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

Being prepared for a fire emergency is crucial for any business.

Fires can happen anytime, anywhere, and can cause significant damage to businesses. That's why it's crucial to be prepared for a fire emergency. In this blog, we'll discuss the steps you can take to ensure that your company and its employees are ready in the event of a fire.

Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment

The first step in being prepared for a fire emergency is to conduct a fire risk assessment. This assessment should identify potential fire hazards in your workplace and evaluate the risks associated with them. You should also assess the current fire safety measures you have in place and determine if any additional measures are needed.

Develop an Emergency Plan

Once you've identified the potential fire hazards in your workplace, you should develop an emergency plan that outlines the steps to be taken in the event of a fire. This plan should include:

• Emergency contact information for local fire departments, ambulance services, and police departments.
• Evacuation procedures, including designated evacuation routes and assembly points.
• Procedures for accounting for all employees after an evacuation.
• Procedures for shutting down critical operations before leaving the building.
• Procedures for communicating with employees and emergency services during an emergency.

Install Fire Protection Equipment

Installing fire protection equipment such as smoke detectors, fire alarms, and fire sprinkler systems can help reduce the risk of fire and minimize the damage caused by a fire. It's crucial to ensure that this equipment is installed and maintained correctly to ensure its effectiveness.

Train Employees

Training your employees on fire safety and emergency procedures is critical to ensure that everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire. Your fire safety training should include:

• How to use fire extinguishers and other firefighting equipment.
• How to evacuate the building safely.
• How to account for all employees after an evacuation.
• How to shut down critical operations before leaving the building.
• How to contact emergency services.

Conduct Regular Fire Drills

Regular fire drills can help ensure that your employees are prepared and know what to do in the event of a fire. It's recommended that you conduct fire drills at least twice a year to ensure that everyone is familiar with the emergency procedures.

Being prepared for a fire emergency is crucial for any business. By conducting a fire risk assessment, developing an emergency plan, training employees, installing fire protection equipment, and conducting regular fire drills, you can help minimize the risk of fire and ensure that everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency. As experienced fire damage restoration professionals, we know the importance of being prepared and are here to help you every step of the way.

4 Steps To Take When Preparing For An Insurance Adjuster's Visit

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

Here are four steps to take to prepare for an insurance adjuster's visit.

When you have a homeowners insurance claim, it's important to be prepared. The adjuster will want to know what happened and how much of your home is damaged. You need to be ready with the facts and documentation so that the process can move forward quickly and easily. Here are four steps to take to prepare for an insurance adjuster's visit.

Take photos of the damage.

Before an insurance adjuster visits your home, it's critical that you take pictures of all of the damage. This will help them determine the cost of repairs and how much they should pay out on your claim.

• Take photos of any broken items or furniture lying around your home.
• Take photos from different angles (up close, far away) so that they can see what kind of damage has been done to each item in detail.
• Take photos showing all sides of each piece of furniture or appliance that was damaged by water or fire etc.,

Make temporary fixes to prevent more damage.

A temporary fix is a quick and easy way to repair your home that will prevent further damage. For example, if there is a window broken in your house, you could board up the hole until the insurance adjuster has visited and you can begin making a permanent fix. If your home has suffered from a water leak, another example of a temporary fix could be to shut off the main water supply to prevent more water from damaging your property or place a bucket under a leaking pipe.

A temporary fix does not have to be expensive or difficult; it just needs to hold up until you're able to get a real repair done by professionals.

Keep receipts and other documentation.

The most important thing you can do is to keep receipts and other documentation of everything that happened. This will help you make an accurate claim, and it will also help your adjuster if there are any discrepancies later on in the process.

Create a list of damaged belongings.

Next, you need to create a list of your belongings. This step is also known as creating a "Home Inventory" list. This includes not only the items that have been damaged but also any receipts for those items. You may also want to take photos of these items so that they can be included on this list as well. This will help them determine the value of any damaged belongings as well as how much money is owed by the insurance company.

Be sure to give detailed descriptions of each item on your list--this will help ensure that there is no confusion between similar pieces (e.g., two televisions with different screen sizes).

Be prepared!

An insurance adjuster visit can offer insight into your claim process, so be prepared! Make sure that you have all of your documents ready. An adjuster will want to see receipts, invoices, and other proof of damages before they give you any money on your claim.

If you're in the middle of a home or business insurance claim, an adjuster visit can be a stressful experience. But if you're prepared and know what to expect, it can actually be beneficial for both parties involved. By knowing what questions will be asked, how long this process takes, and how much money could potentially be covered by your policy, you'll have more peace of mind when faced with making decisions about coverage or repairs.

6 Common Causes of Water Damage

2/14/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen unexpectedly, give SERVPRO a call at the first sign of damage.

Water damage can happen to anyone at any time, and it's important to be prepared for it. The best way to prevent water damage is by knowing the common causes of it. Below is a list of some of the top reasons you might have experienced water damage in your home or business.

Water Damage From Faulty Pipes

One of the most common causes of water damage is faulty pipes. If you have a leaky pipe or faucet, it can cause serious damage to the walls and floors in your home. The most common types of damage are:

• Leaking pipes
• Clogged pipes
• Burst pipes

When the pipe is worn or damaged, it loses its ability to move water. This means that it can leak or burst, causing a flood and potentially damaging your home.

To avoid this problem, it's important to check the pipes in your home regularly. If they look damaged or have leaks or other signs of wear, call a professional plumber to have them repaired or replaced.

Water Damage in the Gutters

Leaves and debris can clog the gutters, causing them to overflow and cause water damage. If you don't regularly clean your gutters, you may not be aware of any potential problems until it's too late. To prevent your gutters from causing water damage, it is important to clean your gutters at least once per year.

Water Damage From Appliances

Appliances that use water can leak, resulting in damage to your home or business. Leaks are often caused by faulty valves or seals, which may need to be replaced by a qualified technician. The following appliances can cause water damage:

• Water heaters
• Washing machines
• Dishwashers
• Refrigerators
• Furnaces and hot water heaters

Water Damage From Supply Line Leaks

Water damage from supply line leaks is a common problem. Leaks can be caused by loose fittings, corroded pipes, or defective valves. If you suspect a leak in your home's plumbing system, call in a professional to investigate.

Water Damage From Clogged Drains

The most common cause of water damage is clogged drains. This can happen for a number of reasons, including: 

• Hair and other debris getting stuck in the drain
• A blockage due to foreign objects or food items being flushed down the toilet
• Grease buildup in pipes

Severe Weather

Severe weather is a common cause of water damage. This can include floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes. When inclement weather occurs in your area, it could cause water damage from leaks or flooding. It can also cause significant structural damage such as roof damage.

During these events, you should take extra precautions to ensure that your property is protected from any storm damage or flooding that might occur.

Water damage can be a serious problem that must be dealt with immediately.

Water damage is a serious problem that must be dealt with immediately. It can cause a lot of damage to your home and lead to mold, mildew, wood rot, and electrical problems.

If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to act quickly. The longer you wait before contacting a professional water damage restoration company, the more likely it is that mold will start growing in your home or business and cause long-term damage.

Reasons for Water Damage from Washing Machines

1/20/2023 (Permalink)

Washing machines are convenient household appliances, but they can also be a source of water damage if they are not properly maintained.

Washing machines are convenient household appliances, but they can also be a source of water damage if they are not properly maintained or if they malfunction. Leaks, overflowing, and other issues can cause water to seep into floors, walls, and other areas of the home, resulting in damage to the structure and belongings. It is important to be aware of the signs of washing machine water damage and to take steps to prevent or mitigate it, such as regularly inspecting and maintaining the machine, being alert for signs of leaks or other issues, and taking prompt action if water damage does occur. Here are some reasons your washing machine might cause water damage in your home.

Faulty Drain Hose

The main cause of washing machine water damage is the drain hose. This part connects to the bottom of your washer, and it's responsible for draining both water and waste from inside the machine. A faulty drain hose can be clogged or disconnected, which will prevent it from draining properly. It can also become damaged by rodents or insects that chew on it, or by other components within your washing machine (such as a broken pump).

Overloaded Washing Machine

Don’t overload your washing machine. If a load of laundry is too big, it can cause the unit to shake, spin out of balance and vibrate heavily during the cycle. This can cause damage to the bearings in your washer's tub and transmission shafts, as well as other vital parts that allow for the smooth operation of your device. 

If you're using an electric model with a direct-drive motor (instead of belt drive), don't overload it with more than 8 pounds per cubic foot capacity—this means 3 cubic feet of space should be left empty so there's room for water flow inside your appliance when it spins around at high speeds while doing its job!

The best rule of thumb: always follow manufacturer recommendations on how much clothing capacity should be used before adding new items into each load.

Faulty Seal

There are several ways to check the seal of your washing machine. If you have a front-loading washer, remove the front panel by unscrewing it counterclockwise. If you have a top-loading washer, locate the screws underneath and remove them using an Allen wrench. Next, lift up on the top of your washing machine until you can see where it connects to your wall bracket; this is usually located at either end or in between depending on how tall or wide your model is.

Once you've found where your washer is attached to its base, look for any holes or gaps in its sealant around the outside edges: if there are any cracks or tears visible here then water can seep out of them during use and cause minor damage over time (if not fixed immediately). If these holes exist then call in a professional plumber immediately! 

There is one thing that can make all the difference when dealing with a washing machine leak: hiring a professional. The longer you wait before hiring SERVPRO of Boston Downtown/Bay Back/South Boston, the more likely it will be that mold will grow and other areas will be damaged as well. By calling us right away, we are able to respond quickly—before any further problems occur—and begin working on restoring your home back to normalcy once again! 

The 4 Most Common Types of Mold

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can grow almost anywhere.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp areas. When it starts to multiply on walls, ceilings, and floors, mold can cause structural problems. It's important to understand the different types of mold and how they affect your home so that you can take action before the situation gets worse.

Mold spores are everywhere, but they only grow if there are the right conditions—dampness and high humidity being the two biggest factors. If you have excess moisture in your home due to leaks or a lack of ventilation, you're at risk for developing some undesirable molds such as Aspergillus and Cladosporium species. 

Penicillium

Penicillium is a common type of mold that grows on food and in soil. It's usually found in homes, especially near windows and doors, where it can enter through cracks or openings. Penicillium can grow on bread and other foods. Penicillin is produced by this type of mold, which was originally discovered in 1904 when Alexander Fleming noticed that mice were dying after eating bread with mold growing on it.

Penicillin kills bacteria by breaking down their cell walls, so it can be used to treat infections caused by viruses or bacteria as well as fungi. 

Cladosporium

Cladosporium is a common type of mold and can be found in soil, air, and on plant surfaces. It lives in areas with high humidity like houses, schools, and offices. Cladosporium is most likely to grow after flooding occurs when there are high levels of moisture in the air or on surfaces such as walls. This type of mold grows well if you have pets that shed fur indoors because it feeds off pet dander.  

Aspergillus

This mold is found in soil, decaying plant material, hay, grains, and straw. It also grows on food that has been stored for too long or was not properly processed or packaged before being sold at the store.

Stachybotrys chartarum

Stachybotrys chartarum, also commonly known as black mold, is a toxic mold that can cause extensive damage to homes and businesses. This type of mold can be found in water-damaged buildings or homes and should be treated quickly.

There are many types of mold

There are many types of mold, and they all look different. Some have flat-leaf shapes or tiny hairs that grow in clumps; some look like fuzzy green or brown spots, and others have thick tentacles or hair-like structures called “rhizoids” that allow the mold to attach itself to various materials.

When to call a mold remediation specialist

If you suspect that you have a mold problem, it's important to call a professional as soon as possible. Remediation efforts should always be taken if you notice any signs of mold in your home — especially if you see growth on wet surfaces such as linoleum floors or carpets because these areas will likely have other issues as well! 

If you have mold, don’t panic. It can be easy to take care of if you know what type of mold it is and how to deal with it. If you aren’t sure about the type of mold or don’t feel comfortable dealing with it yourself, contact an expert, such as our team here at SERVPRO, who can help you get rid of it safely and effectively.

Steps To Take To Avoid Frozen Pipes

11/9/2022 (Permalink)

Let the cold-water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes.

How to Prevent Freezing Pipes

Winter is an exciting time of year, but it is also be a time when you have to worry about frozen pipes. Frozen pipes can cause household plumbing problems that range from inconvenient to costly and even dangerous. As unpleasant as this situation may be, there are some steps you can take to prevent it or at least minimize your risk. Here are some tips for avoiding frozen pipes.

Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

If you have an oil or water supply line in the garage, it's best to keep your garage door closed. This will help prevent the pipes from freezing up as much as possible. If you have a water supply line in your garage and you're not sure whether or not it's frozen, contact a professional for advice.

Open cabinet doors 

Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. The repeated opening and closing of the cabinet’s doors creates a cold-air pocket that can cause pipes to freeze. If you have children, be sure they understand not to close these doors while they're in the room.

Let water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. 

If you have exposed pipes in your home, let the cold-water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. This will prevent freeze damage and help protect your plumbing system from freezing.

Maintain the same setting on the thermostat

Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. This will help keep your pipes from freezing as quickly. If you're using heat, make sure it's turned on no lower than 55° F.

If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home.

If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F. It's best not to lower the temperature at night—when it may be warmer inside your home than outside—and when you're asleep and not monitoring it closely. This will prevent pipes from freezing.

It's also important not to turn off the heat when you're away (unless there is an emergency). If nothing else, this can help protect those items that are most likely to freeze: pipes leading into the water heater and any exposed water lines, such as those located near windows or doors that don't get much direct sunlight.

Take steps now to avoid expensive emergency repairs later

In addition to the steps above, you can also take some preventive measures to keep your pipes from freezing. For example, insulate your water heater with a blanket or towel, and check the temperature gauge regularly. If it gets too cold in your home, consider turning on extra heating sources. You may also want to install a space heater near any exposed pipes, so they stay warm enough not to freeze.

If you think that your pipes might have already frozen due to an electrical outage or lack of heat in your home, don't wait until it thaws out—call a plumber immediately! Frozen pipes will often burst when thawed out too quickly; this can lead to a flooding situation that could cause significant damage inside or outside of your house.

We hope that we’ve given you some great tips for escaping the frozen pipe trap and avoiding costly damage to your home. As always, we want to help you stay warm and dry during the winter months. So, if you have any questions or concerns about your own pipes and would like a professional opinion on how best to protect them from freezing—give us a call!

What To Do If Your Business Has Smoke Damage

10/7/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke damage in a building in Boston, MA.

What to Do If Smoke Damage Occurs in Your Business

Smoke damage is something that can be difficult to clean up. The truth is that the damage caused by smoke has the potential to spread over large portions of your home and office building. That’s why it’s important to get help from professional cleaners, like our SERVPRO of Boston Downtown team, as soon as possible after a fire occurs. We know how overwhelming it can be when tragedy strikes in your home or business in Boston, but there are steps you can take right away that will make things easier down the road.

The process of cleaning up after a fire can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. 

When a fire occurs, there are a few things that you need to do right away. The first thing is to make sure everyone is out of harm’s way, and then call the fire department. It’s also important to shut off any sources of power in your building so that they don’t reignite the fire or cause you other problems while you wait for help.

Next up: after the emergency services have come through, it’s time to start cleaning up the mess! How do we know when smoke damage has been done? There are two signs—soot damage on walls and ceiling surfaces as well as visible smoke residue on surfaces like floors, walls, ceilings, and carpets. When these elements combine with bacteria from dirty hands and feet (even shoes left outside), it can create an environment where mold can form rapidly—causing further damage to your property.

Smoke damage and soot damage will quickly spread throughout your property

Smoke damage will be present in your building no matter where the fire occurred. Soot damage is damage that has sunk into porous materials, such as carpet and upholstery, wallboard, and drywall.

Your building will likely require professional cleaning of soot and smoke-damaged areas before they can be reoccupied. Soot can also cause problems if it turns out to be toxic or if it contains asbestos fibers. Asbestos fibers need special handling to prevent health problems for future occupants. The process of cleaning and restoring these areas requires highly trained and experienced professionals.

Time is of the essence

Smoke damage is a serious problem, as it can cause permanent discoloration and odor. The soot that you see on walls and ceilings is a fine black dust that can be seen by the naked eye. Smoke particles are extremely small, making them far more difficult to remove than other household dust.

Smoke particles tend to stick to the surfaces in your building more than they would otherwise, including vents and air conditioning ducts. Therefore, it’s important not just to clean up smoke damage quickly before it sinks into more porous materials like drywall or wood; but also, because removing these particles requires specialized equipment that isn’t as readily available as a vacuum cleaner would be!

We are here to help with the process of smoke damage restoration.

We are here to help with the process of smoke damage restoration. Smoke is a very difficult substance to remove and can cause serious harm to your building. Don't worry, though; we've seen it all before. Our technicians will be there for you during this difficult time, including after hours and on weekends and holidays. 

We hope this article answers some of your questions about smoke damage in buildings. We understand that the process of cleaning up after a fire can be stressful, but we want you to know that we are here for you when tragedy strikes. If disaster strikes, don’t hesitate and give our SERVPRO of Boston Downtown team a call today!

What To Do When Your Business Loses Power

8/31/2022 (Permalink)

Take a working lunch to a restaurant with a strong Wi-Fi signal.

Three Ways To Continue Working When You Lose Power

Storm season in Neponset, MA, can cause unplanned interruptions in your utility service. When power lines are down, you need a way to continue your business without losing important information. A power outage doesn't have to bring your operations to a halt. Here are three ways you can continue working even if you are temporary without your normal power or internet sources.

1. Seek Alternate Locations

One convenient thing about the internet is that you can access it from almost anywhere. If you know your business is going to be without power for a few hours, use some creative restructuring to get work done. Allow employees to work from home until power is restored in your building. Take a working lunch to a restaurant with a strong Wi-Fi signal. There are many places where you can work comfortably while technicians are repairing power lines and restoration experts are fixing anything wrong with the building.

2. Use Backup Power

If you are able to stay in the building to work, a backup power source can help you do so. A portable generator or battery backup can get you through a temporary power outage. Use an uninterrupted power supply to avoid losing data on an unsaved document during a sudden outage.

3. Follow Internet Tips

If you have a data plan on your phone, you can use your plan as Wi-Fi by turning on the personal hotspot. This can help you finish what you have started if you experience a momentary lapse of service in your building. If power is limited, make sure that you only use the essential services you need. You may be tempted to log on to check social media or play games while you are waiting on the power to come back, but this can drain the small reserves you have quickly. Conserve energy by only using what you need until you have full service again.

A power outage can be frustrating, but it doesn't have to be devastating. Having a backup plan can save data and allow your business to continue functioning.

3 Common Pitfalls of DIY Mold Testing Kits

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

Home mold testing kit

Mold Kits Are Subject To Some Big Problems

Some homeowners buy home mold testing kits as a budget-friendly alternative to a professional mold inspection. Others use these tests to confirm their suspicions about mold in their homes before they call the professionals. Before you buy a home mold kit, for any reason, you should be aware that these kits are subject to some big problems.

1. Test Samples Must Be Shipped to a Lab
A typical DIY mold kit comes with a petri dish. You leave the dish open in your home for a specified amount of time, then seal it, capturing any mold spores inside. Next, you ship the sealed petri dish to a lab for analysis. The shipping step is problematic because you have no control over the sample while it’s in transit. For example, your sample could be exposed to extreme heat or cold during shipping; since mold spores are sensitive to temperature, this could skew your test results. Furthermore, the glass slides in most mold testing kits break easily, even with protective packaging.

2. Lab Results Are Often Inconclusive
At the lab, scientists analyze your test sample and generate a report indicating the type and number of mold spores found on the slide. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do with this information. The lab report can’t tell you key information, like:

• the density of mold spores in the air
• whether that density is considered hazardous
• the cause of the excess mold growth
  
  

3. Mold Kits Are Time-Sensitive
The Petri dishes in most home kits contain a testing medium called agar. Agar is inexpensive and widely available, but it has a limited shelf life. Many DIY mold tests do not have an expiration date or a manufacturing date, and you have no way of knowing how long a kit has been sitting on a store shelf in Ashmont, MA.
The problems inherent in home mold testing kits have led trade groups and consumer advocacy organizations to discourage homeowners from using them. Even the best DIY kit is not a reliable substitute for professional mold testing.

3 Tips for Avoiding Cigarette Fires

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

Don't smoke indoors

Consider The Following Tips

If you or one of the residents in your home currently smokes, it's important to be informed on how to prevent a cigarette fire. After first checking with your local fire department in Dorchester, MA, for any pointers they might have, consider other tips, as well.

1. Don't Smoke Indoors
There are a surprising number of flammable materials in your home. Any type of fabric will burn easily, so, if an ashtray gets knocked over, a stray cinder could easily start an ashtray fire and severely damage your home. In addition to the risk of fires, smoke from cigarettes can also damage the fabrics in your home and cause them to smell bad. This smell is difficult to remove with conventional laundry detergent.

2. Wear Removeable Clothing
If you or a family member smokes, make sure to wear clothing that can be removed easily after smoking and before entering the home. A jacket or a hoodie would be a good choice. This way, any odors are likely to soak into the removable item, rather than being tracked in and soaking into your furniture or drapes. It's also wise to wash this removable clothing often, as the odor will build up in these garments.

3. Consider Professional Odor Removal
If someone has smoked in your home for a while, or if there has been a cigarette fire, it's time to consider calling in odor removal and fire damage specialist. Hiring a professional will ensure that your home is cleaned from top to bottom with the best equipment suited for the job. This thorough home cleaning can include your carpet, drapes, air ducts, upholstery, and more. There is equipment meant for every job, whether you need full fire cleanup or an odor removal detail.
With a conscientious mind and some knowledge, it is possible to prevent a cigarette fire before it happens.

Tips for Preventing Sewage Backup

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage backup in Back Bay, MA

A regular flood can cause enough damage on its own, but a sewer flood is its own beast entirely. Sewage water is a Category 3 biohazard that can cause a lot of damage to your property. It's a good idea to take the proper precautions and prevent sewage backup before it occurs. These tips may benefit you if you believe that your home in Back Bay, MA, may be at risk.

Upgrade Your Drain

Investing in an upgrade for your drainage system is significantly less expensive and stressful than dealing with flooding and sewer cleaning. There are 4 main devices that you can choose from, based on your home's needs:

The Back Flow Prevention Valve: Also known as a backwater valve, this handy device reverses the flow of sewage to prevent the black water from flowing up into your basement.

The Overhead Sewer: This device is going to be a bit more costly than the others on this list. It works by collecting excess sewage and redirecting it into the building's main sewer line.

The Floor Drain Plug: On the other side of the coin is this neat little contraption. Floor drain plugs are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. They're installed directly beneath the drain and function by floating up to plug the drain hole when excess water begins to build. Once the water levels decrease, the drain is automatically unplugged.

The Standpipe: A standpipe is another device that works to redirect water flow, as opposed to blocking it. The pipe is installed sticking up out of the floor, hence the name. Any backup water that rises out of the drain is redirected into the pipe instead of flooding out onto the basement floor. If the water rises above the top of the standpipe, then the contraption won't work.

Storm damage and sewage backup are not to be taken lightly. Preventative methods can reduce your risk, but they won't provide 100% protection. Be sure to consult storm remediation experts if your home does experience a basement flood.

How To Handle an Overflowing Toilet

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

A clogged toilet needs to be dealt with correctly to prevent sewer damage.

While toilets may get clogged or not function as they should from time to time, an overflowing toilet can pose a large issue, especially if dealing with a sewage backup. If sewage water enters your home in Boston, MA, it is labeled Category 3 water and needs to be considered an emergency since the bacteria, viruses, and microbes in the contaminated water can cause serious illness and harm to anyone who comes into contact with it. This situation warrants the help of a professional sewage cleanup and restoration company. Here is some useful information for dealing with toilet overflow and sewer damage.

Possible Causes of a Sewage Backup

While you should contact a sewage company whenever a backup occurs, there are several reasons sewage might make its way into your home:

• Clogged or flooded toilet
• Tree roots affecting sewer line
• Damaged, worn, or clogged sewer line
• Municipal sewer backup
  
  

How To Deal With a Clogged Toilet

While a clogged toilet is not an emergency in itself, it needs to be dealt with correctly to prevent sewer damage from occurring. Often, a small clog can be handled using a toilet plunger. You should prevent overflowing ahead of time by taking the lid off the tank and pushing the flapper down, which prevents water from entering the bowl. Then turn off the toilet’s main water supply. If a plunger doesn’t fix the clog, you can try using a toilet auger or snake to break up a clog in the drainage pipe. Sometimes, a plunger or auger won’t be enough to fix the issue and will need to be fixed by a professional plumber.

Since sewage backup is grossly contaminated and causes severe harm to any who consumes or comes into contact with it, you should always call a professional sewer damage cleanup company rather than try to clean up the mess yourself. Prevent a toilet overflow from occurring by knowing how to effectively handle clogs.

Fire Damage and Water Damage: How One Leads to the Other

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Theatre District, MA.

Three Main Contributors to Fire and Water Damage

When business owners consider fire damage, they often think of charred structures and melted computer housings. Still, very few consider the extensive amount of water damage that can occur in fire rescue. To help you understand why such loss is inevitable, it is essential to review the main three contributors to such damage.

1. Rescue Efforts
2. Heat
3. Suppression Systems
   
   

Rescue Efforts

Most water damage occurs as a result of rescue efforts. Firefighters use large, high volume, high-pressure hoses to dose the flames and extinguish the blaze. While some water likely dissipates from the excessive heat, most of it will remain on the floor, ceilings, walls, and cavities of the building, which means that you may want to hire a Theatre District, MA, fire restoration company to help mitigate further loss.

Heat

While it may seem counter-intuitive, heat can also lead to water and fire damage. Extreme temperatures can lead to bursts and broken pipes, which inevitably leads to significant flooding within the property. Therefore, it is often necessary to turn off the water supply to a building following a fire to reduce the risk of water loss.

Suppression Systems

Last, a fire hose and broken pipes are not the only contributors to excessive water buildup in a fire-damaged property. Often, the safety measures that are put in place, like a fire suppression system, can result in flooding as well. While many systems rely on foam or other chemicals, some systems are purely water-based. Also, while there are systems that can coordinate water release to only certain places in the building, other systems do not have such controls, which means that when one sprinkler is set off, all of them go off.
Water and fire damage often appear together after a blaze. However, it is necessary to understand that while such damage is frustrating, it is an essential part of rescue efforts, without which you may not have a commercial facility at all.

5 Benefits of an Electronic Claims Service

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

When you choose SERVPRO, you get the benefits of electronic claims services.

Five Advantages of Using an Electronic Claims Service

When remediation and restoration services are needed in Waterfront, MA, all parties involved want that insurance claim to be as uncomplicated as possible. When you choose SERVPRO, you get the benefits of electronic claims services. Below are five ways that service helps the claim from beginning to end.

1. Enhances Efficiency
Any insurance agent knows the massive amount of documents involved with any claim. Oftentimes, these documents must be seen by multiple people in multiple locations. Instead of having to mail them, you get the freedom to the information with a few clicks. All authorized people can view the documents and submit changes if needed. This may include uploading photos of damaged items or changing the estimate of damage.

2. Accessible to All Parties
Since all information related to the claim is in one location, everyone involved can easily find what they are looking for. This information can be accessed from anywhere, which further ensures that everyone is on the same page throughout the process.

3. Ensures Insurance Claim Accuracy
By storing data in a digital format, you get the peace of mind that the information is up-to-date and accurate. Instead of having a paper trail to file, which may or may not have been filed correctly, you get instant access to real-time information.

4. A Secure Method
Electronic claims eradicate the need for a large paper trail, which may easily be misplaced or missing documents. Since all the photos, insurance information, estimates, timelines and other related information are saved in an encrypted file and backed up, it eliminates the potential for misplaced claims.

5. More Convenient
Whether you want to double-check something or want to check the progress of the process, electronic claims make that easy and convenient. They can be accessed from any device and any location.
Everyone involved wants the insurance claim process to be as smooth as possible. Choosing a provider with electronic claims helps make that happen.

Flood Safety Before, During and After the Flood

6/20/2022 (Permalink)

Keep a well-stocked emergency kit ready.

Flood Safety

Flood safety is largely a matter of preparation and staying calm. If a storm surge or other weather event strikes Chinatown, MA here's a quick rundown of useful safety tips to keep in mind.

What To Do Before the Flood
If you have the opportunity to be ready for rising water, use that to your advantage. Deploy any sandbags or other barriers you have.
At a minimum, keep a well-stocked emergency kit ready that includes the following:

• Enough food and water for at least three days
  
• Medicine for at least three days
  
• Flashlights
  
• First-aid kit
  
• Blankets
  
• Radio
  
• Batteries
  
• Pet food, toys, and medicine
  
  

Be advised that homeowners insurance doesn't include flood insurance, either. Knowing your flood risk in Chinatown, MA, and talking with your insurance agent are two simple ways to protect your home as well.

Flood Safety During the Event Itself
Move to the highest ground possible. If the local government tells you to leave, leave.
If you're at home during a flood, stay inside and away from the water. The NWS reports that as few as 6 inches of water is enough to topple an adult. Inside the home, if the water in a room rises above the electrical outlets, stay out of that room.
It's important to remain up to date on what's happening, too. Use that radio in your emergency kit, as well as social media and local TV if you still have access.

Handling the Aftermath
Many of the same tips hold true after a flood: Most importantly, stay away from the water and keep yourself informed. Call a flood damage mitigation company to start the restoration process right away, and leave the handling of all soggy materials to the experts. Flood water is typically contaminated. Remember that flood waters can affect the structural elements of your home, too, so proceed with caution, especially if you've been away.
Flood safety is an area of knowledge most people hope they never have to call on. Being prepared, however, is one of your best defenses against Mother Nature.

How To Save Your Electronics After a Fire

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Keep computer files backed up on an external hard drive or cloud in case of fire damage.

How To Save Your Electronics After a Fire

After a house fire has hit your  North End, MA, home, working with a professional restoration company will help you navigate the rebuilding process. Keep in mind that flames and soot not only affected the structure of your home but also your belongings. A crucial step in fire cleanup is restoring your electronic devices that have been exposed to smoke.

Restoring Damaged Electronics
The most important step in electronic fire cleanup is to leave your equipment powered off until it has been properly cleaned. If you don’t turn on an electronic device that has been affected by smoke, it can’t short-circuit or overheat. You can wipe away any residue on the outside of your device. Otherwise, trust the professionals to clean and inspect your electronics. 
Restoration companies can revitalize the following devices:

• Computers
  
• TVs
  
• DVD players
  
• Gaming systems
  
  

Understanding the Effects of Smoke Damage
Smoke covers your electronics with a highly acidic residue. Unless properly cleaned off, the acid in the soot will disintegrate the inner workings of your devices. Corrosion leads to premature electronic failure. Furthermore, the soot leaves a black film on your electronics, adding a layer of insulation that can make them overheat if turned on.

Protecting Your Devices
Take preventative measures to minimize the impact of smoke and soot on your devices. Invest in a backup storage program for your desktop or laptop computer that stores your information and photographs in a safe place. You can upload your data to the cloud or keep virtual copies of important documents online with free or paid software.
As you restore your home after a fire, remember to take care of your electronics as well. Following the proper steps prevents the loss of information and your devices. Let the professionals help you through the fire cleanup process and get your home back.

How Can I Avoid Residential Lightning Fires?

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

A thunderstorm can harm you even inside your home.

How Can I Prevent Lightning Fires in My Home?

Even if your South End, MA, house shelters you during a thunderstorm, it can still be vulnerable to lighting fire. The electric system, the metal pipes and other components inside the building not only conduct electricity but are connected to devices that can overheat and burn. You can reduce the probability of discharges affecting your home with these tactics.

Get a Grounding System
The electric energy generated by a powerful storm will always seek a path of low resistance toward the ground. You can exploit this occurrence by setting up a grounding system that includes:

• Copper/aluminum lightning rod
  
• Main conductor
  
• Ground
  
• Bonded metal components
  
  

These parts ensure that the system safely transfers the energy from the strike to the ground with no disturbance. This structure improves the safety of your property and can even earn you some insurance credit.

Avoid Using Electricity and Water
Using plugged electronics during a storm can sometimes result in a lighting fire. The storm's discharge might use the building's electrical wiring system as its path, creating a power surge that can devastate any active device. Additionally, it can also travel through the metallic plumbing system that transports water. Anyone using them can get shocked or accidentally start a fire. People at home should not use electronics and unplug them immediately. They should also avoid using showers and sinks until the storm stops.

Invest in a Surge Suppressor
While powering down and disconnecting electronics is the best way to diminish the impact of a lightning strike, it can be time-consuming and difficult. You also may not be home on time to do so. You can counter this power surge by installing a transient voltage surge suppressor. When the excess energy overwhelms your system, the suppressor will limit the voltage to just slightly higher than average. It can prevent electrical damage and a house fire until you can manually unplug the devices.
A thunderstorm can harm you even inside your home. Consider these strategies to reduce the possibility of lighting fire and contact storm damage restoration if necessary.

3 Reasons Why Your Building Needs Fire Insurance

5/21/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Financial District, MA.

Protect Your Building Against The Risk Of a Fire

Many business owners struggle to manage the expensive premiums they pay on various insurance policies. You may wonder if you really need all the coverage you are paying for.
In the case of fire insurance for your building, reducing or declining coverage is a risky and potentially catastrophic decision. Protecting against the risk of fire is a necessary step every business in Financial District, MA should take. 

1. Fires Can Happen to Any Business
Fires can stem from any number of sources, including heating equipment, cooking appliances, electrical components and lighting. 
No matter what kind of equipment your building contains, the smoke and flames from a fire can spread rapidly and damage property that is essential to the operation of your business.

2. Fire Expenses Without Insurance Can Be Devastating
Although the immediate damage to property is obvious, the financial damage from a fire is not limited to the initial blaze. Materials used in fighting fire, such as foam and water, also damage property.
In the event of a fire, the expenses add up quickly. If you have not obtained adequate coverage, your business may need to pay for fire restoration and smoke cleanup without financial assistance.

3. Fire Insurance Helps Your Business Maintain Financial Goals
The best way to move forward with confidence is to make sure that you have accounted for the various risks associated with owning a business. An uninsured fire has the potential to wreak havoc on your business's finances, and you may even struggle to maintain essential business operations in the aftermath of a fire.
Having fire insurance goes a long way in protecting your finances and providing peace of mind. A fire is something you hope never happens, but maintaining the right coverage allows you to manage the risk and take control of your business's financial future.

Steps to Filing a Flood Claim

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage in Seaport, MA.

How to Make a Flood Claim

If a storm has caused flooding and water damage in your home in Seaport, MA, and you have insurance, you should file a flood claim as soon as possible. Processing a claim can take a little while, but you should not wait to minimize the damage to your home.

1. Call and Start the Flood Claim Process
One of the first things you should do is call your insurance company and report the storm damage. The person on the phone will let you know what you need to do to begin your insurance claim and prepare for the adjuster's inspection.

2. Start the Cleanup Process
After a large storm, insurance companies are extremely busy because many people are dealing with damage. It may take a few days for the inspection of your property to occur, but you should start cleaning up to prevent further damage and mold.
You can do some things yourself, like open doors and windows to increase ventilation and put towels down on the carpet. However, you should also call flood restoration specialists because they know how to mitigate damage and restore items that do not have to be thrown out.

3. Document Losses for the Inspection
Prepare for the inspection by documenting damage and losses. Take videos and pictures, especially before throwing anything away. The more documentation you have, the better your chances are of being reimbursed.

4. Keep All Receipts Related to Flood Restoration
During the cleanup and restoration process, keep track of all expenses to hand over to your adjuster. Have the restoration company give you an initial estimation, and keep receipts related to the cleanup efforts.
A flood can cause a lot of damage to your home. Whether you have standing water, or your items are wet from the receding waters, you should file a flood claim and do it properly for the best outcome.

Ensuring Smoother Damage Claims for All Parties

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

We can get your business back up and running.

All Parties Benefit from Smoother Damage Claims

When a commercial property in South Boston, MA, is faced with mold, water or fire damage, getting back to normal doesn’t have to be a confusing and complicated process. Although a large loss may require time for a certified mediation and restoration company to complete, choosing the right one makes the claim process smoother for the property owner and insurance adjuster.

Trusted Claims Services

When choosing SERVPRO, all parties get peace of mind that they are working with an established, certified company that has the expertise to complete the restoration and established procedures to ensure the insurance claim avoids unexpected bumps in the road.

Itemized Inventory: An itemized list of all losses is provided in a detailed report that includes photos.
Claims Information Center: This is an online, one-stop shop for all aspects of the project. It includes a job file with vital, up-to-date information such as to estimate details, related paperwork, pending and completed jobs, cost data and performance comparison.
Trained Professionals: While the details are important for the client and insurance adjuster, so is that knowing trained, certified professionals are completing the work. All franchise technicians adhere to IICRC standards and complete ongoing training.

A Support Network
While the work is being completed, the technicians are backed by an extensive support network. The Customer Care Center works to promptly handle claims, implement best practices and maintain a strong relationship with national accounts. From filing documentation to providing any necessary documentation, it is dedicated to making the entire process go as smoothly as possible. That network also includes reliance on 1,700 franchises across the United States and Canada. No matter where a large loss happens, 24/7 help is available to respond to an emergency.
When damage happens, the client is focused on getting back to business and the insurance adjuster is focused on the numbers and ensuring the claim is done right. Getting help from the right restoration professional makes it easier to achieve both and get the situation back to “Like it never even happened.”

How To Check for Moldy Air Ducts

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

After cleaning microbial growth in ducts

How To Check For Mold

Mold is present everywhere. Outdoors, it's safe and natural; indoors, it can be problematic. One area of your business in Back Bay, MA, that may have escaped your mold prevention efforts is your HVAC system. Mold readily grows in moist environments, and the ductwork, drip pans, and coils of your heating and cooling system could provide the ideal climate for mold growth. Here are a few ways to check for mold during your monthly HVAC cleaning regimen.

1. Follow your nose

A musty or mildew smell is often one of the first signs of mold growth. If you notice a moldy odor, turn off your HVAC system for a little while. If the smell dissipates when the system is off but comes back as soon as you turn it on, you likely have mold growing somewhere in the air ducts or drip pans. While it may be tempting to clean all of the parts that you can teach yourself, there are parts of an HVAC system that could be damaged by improper mold cleanup methods, so leave the HVAC cleaning to a pro.

2. Trust your eyes

Plan time for a regular visual inspection of the accessible elements of your heating and cooling system. Are there signs of mold growth? A blocked drain, pooling water, or condensation on the exterior of your air ducts could all be signs of potential mold growth.

3. Call a professional

Whether you see signs of mold or think you smell it, the best thing to do is call a mold remediation specialist to complete a thorough assessment. They will have a plan for cleaning vents, drain pans, and coils. They can also provide tips and strategies for preventing future mold problems.
Regular HVAC cleaning and maintenance will help to prevent most mold problems. However, if you think that your HVAC system could have mold, hiring a professional to complete a thorough assessment is the best bet for proper remediation.

How Can I Protect My Building From Hail?

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Regularly inspecting your roof will help prevent damage during a storm.

Prevent Roof Damage From Hail

While flooding and wind damage might be the first things you think of after a storm in Boston, MA, hail damage can happen, and it can be severe. As you think of ways to protect your property from storm damage, consider taking steps to prevent roof damage from hail.

Inspect Your Roof

Maintaining and regularly inspecting your roof will keep it in good shape, helping prevent damage during a storm. Check the following areas:

• Decking
  
• Gutters
  
• Drainage pipes
  
• Flashing
  
• Vents
  
• Surface membranes
  
  

Roof damage can lead to water in your attic, wet insulation and other secondary damage that may require the help of a commercial restoration company.

Protect HVAC Systems

HVAC equipment is sometimes mounted on the roof of a commercial property. If yours is roof-mounted, check to see if it is designed to withstand hail impact. If not, you can install wire mesh, hail guards, or other protection to shield your equipment. Hail guards are designed to protect from hail impact and may also be resistant to rot and UV rays as well as corrosion and abrasion. If you use hail guards, they should also be designed to withstand uplift pressures.

Use Impact-Resistant Skylights and Solar Panels

If you use solar panels, be sure they are designed to the standards of the International Electrotechnical Commission or IEC. The IEC code requires solar panels to meet a certain impact test rating to their standards.
Similarly, if you have skylights, they should also meet impact standards and building codes in your area. If you know ahead of time that there is a chance of hail, you can cover your skylights with plywood, a storm shutter or a metal cap to prevent hail damage. Regular inspections will help keep your skylight in good shape.
Maintenance and planning before a hail storm in Boston, MA, can go a long way in preventing roof damage to your commercial property.

3 Ways To Prevent Mold in a Rental Property

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

Ceiling damaged by water in Theatre District, MA.

Ways To Keep Your Property Mold- Free

As a landlord, you know that mold prevention is important for both you and your tenants. You should encourage your renters to limit mold growth by immediately drying wet clothes and regularly cleaning the bathrooms. However, there are other steps you can take to keep your Theatre District, MA, property mold-free as well.

1. Install Exhaust Fans

Kitchens and bathrooms typically contain lots of moisture. This is why they are common locations for mold. You can install exhaust fans in these rooms to keep them dry. If your tenants frequently use their kitchens, you may also want to purchase hoods that suck up any excess grease and moisture during the cooking process.

2. Reduce Humidity

Even everyday humidity in the air can cause mold to grow. A dehumidifier is thus a good mold prevention tool. You can also buy a hygrometer to monitor the humidity level in your building and make sure it remains between 30% and 50%.

3. Regularly Check for Leaks

Even a small leak in your property can cause water damage to the floors or walls. The water may also encourage the growth of mildew or mold.
Unfortunately, leaks often occur in hidden locations. By the time you notice a leak, it may have already caused major harm. You should perform regular inspections of each unit. Be sure to check under the sink and radiator, as these are common sites of undetected mold growth.
You can even give each tenant a smart detector that notifies you if a leak occurs. Once you do discover the leak, have the problem fixed right away. You may also want to call mold remediation specialists to make sure any small patches of the fungus near the leak are removed immediately.
Neither you nor your tenants want mold to grow in your property. You should work with your renters to enact mold prevention strategies.

How Do You Remove the Smoke Odors After a Fire?

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

Soot damage in Waterfront, MA.

The fire and water damage, and destruction that occurs during a fire, can be devastating, but with help from a professional fire restoration service in Waterfront, MA, you can find some peace of mind in the aftermath. You may realize that flames and water can both do harm, but smoke damage and residual odors can also be a problem, so careful smoke cleaning needs to be undertaken.

Are Smoke and Soot the Same Thing?

A fire can cause a good deal of soot damage and smoke. Soot is primarily composed of carbon and other chemicals that have not been completely consumed by flames. It leaves a sticky and greasy residue that can be loaded with chemicals and usually carries a sharp and particularly foul odor. Smoke and soot can be compared in the following ways:

• Smoke is a vapor or gas given off by burning material
  
• Soot is a greasy or sticky substance caused by incomplete combustion
  
• Smoke is carried in the air and can be breathed while soot is more localized
  
• Both can adhere to any surface
  
• Both carry foul-smelling odors
  
  

How are Soot and Smoke Cleaned Up?

Soot damage, like smoke damage, requires careful handling and complete removal. Scraping and diluting the thick, toxic substance with industrial chemicals may be necessary. If soot cannot be removed thoroughly, then disposal of the affected surface is needed.

Smoke, on the other hand, can float and travel to any surface the air comes in contact with. It adheres and can stain paint and other elements, and can penetrate porous materials, so smoke is something that needs to be dealt with. Physically cleaning with detergent, followed by treating the area with an ozone generator may rid the area of any lingering odors.

Smoke damage does not need to be the end of the road. With help from a restoration service in Waterfront, MA, smoke cleaning can make the nasty odors a thing of the past and give your building a fresh take on life.

Secondary Damage Could Be Worse Than the Initial Cause

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Checking for mold in a crawlspace.

How To Avoid Secondary Damage In Your Building

When one domino fall, it creates a chain reaction, knocking over more. Water intrusion is quite similar to the childhood game. When commercial owners don’t notice it immediately or fail to fix elements of primary breaks, the lingering humidity could lead to secondary complications such as structural deterioration or black mold. The effects of water are severe and costly. Property owners in Chinatown, MA, should understand why it’s concerning and how to avoid it.

1. Lack of Attention Leads to Mold

While fungal spores are always around, these little decomposers become a significant problem for owners when interacting with water. The fluid feeds the microbes, encouraging reproduction. Water exposure, then, is serious business, acting as the trigger. The following conditions demand attention:

• Plumbing leaks or drips
  
• High humidity levels
  
• Damp, dark cabinets or closets
  
• Flooding
  
• Lingering puddles
  
  

Tend to these situations right away to stop secondary trouble from starting.

2. Secondary Issues May Appear First

Sometimes dampness hides, only evident after the moisture penetrates through materials. Early signs of black mold include peeling paint, warped flooring and musty smells. You may also observe unusual stains or spots.
A leak may have started within the crawl space, indiscernible until now. In this case, call in a mold remediation company to investigate. The primary cause should be fixed first. Then, tackle the cleanup.

3. Focus on Drying and Gutting

Fixing secondary damage is a timely process, requiring patience and thoroughness. If not methodically handled, the premises may experience future complications. Extract as much moisture as possible. Use a moisture reader to understand to monitor dampness. Run industrial dehumidifiers around the clock to pull out the humidity from walls, floors, the air and objects.
Also, pull out porous items that have become drenched. These are likely to contaminate the room more, and they cannot be thoroughly cleaned. Perform flood cuts on the drywall, taking out a few feet above the waterline. Toss impacted carpeting and soaked valuables.
Excess water could encourage black mold growth. To safeguard a commercial property from these secondary harms, seek professional help as soon as possible and concentrate on decreasing wetness.

Types of Water Damage Coverage

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

More water damages are caused by broken pipes in North End, MA

How to Approach Damaged Pipes and Other Plumbing

Do you know when water damage to your business is covered by your existing insurance policy? Read on to better understand how to approach damaged pipes and other plumbing problems.

1. Floods or Leaks?

While most commercial insurance policies explicitly do not cover the sort of catastrophic flood event that results from extreme rainfall, tidal waves, or overflowing rivers, many other types of water damage are still covered by default plans. For example, leaking pipes and the damage they cause to the surrounding area are usually covered. As long as all issues are correctly documented and ascertained by your adjuster, your insurer will likely pay for a qualified professional water damage restoration service to bring your property back to its original condition.

2. Burden of Maintenance

However, under most default packages, your business damage will not be insured against flooding resulting from negligence. Broadly speaking, these cases usually come down to a lack of preventative maintenance. For example, if a few damaged pipes were noticeably leaking for more than a couple of weeks, it is no longer considered an unpreventable accident. In such cases, the business owner will be liable for all damages, since the flood did not result from a sudden event.

3. Other Exceptions

Coverage for fire suppression systems, such as water-based overhead sprinklers or powder-based devices, is usually more extensive than for the basic plumbing. This is because these systems are necessary for the buildings to be compliant with fire codes and because water does not move through these pipes regularly. While it is important to maintain your fire sprinklers in North End, MA, for safety and legal reasons, it is unlikely that you need an additional insurance coverage package to cover them. Mold damage resulting from moisture retained in the walls or floors is usually not covered, as this is a side effect from a more fundamental plumbing problem.

Don’t allow damaged pipes and other plumbing issues to linger and incur unnecessary costs. Prevent downtime by actively pursuing the appropriate maintenance remedies outlined above.

How Do Insurance Agents Use Claims Inventory Systems?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Claims Information Center makes it easier to ensure that accurate information is available about types of damage

SERVPRO Claims Information Center

A claims inventory system can help insurance agents keep track of claims in progress, estimates and data. There are several ways in which the SERVPRO Claims Information Center makes it easier to settle an insurance claim.

Accessing Individual and Aggregate Data

Whenever restoration professionals issue a new estimate, this information is uploaded to a corporate database and becomes available to insurance representatives. Resources such as the Claims Information Center make it easy to review individual files. Agents and adjusters can also access several types of data for the purpose of comparison:

• Causes of loss
• Job file costs
• Response times
• Types of claims
  
  

All of this data is available for counties, states, regions and nationwide. An insurance agent can also easily compare the performance of a company to other mitigation and restoration services in a region or across the country.

Managing Claim Information

As an insurance claim progresses, an online resource makes it easier to add to, complete or review data. This can help insurers and restoration professionals ensure that all of the necessary information is available to other parties. This may reduce the possibility of miscommunication, which can unnecessarily prolong the claim process.

Reducing Processing Times

An online resource that is easy to access can speed up the process of preparing, processing and settling claims. The availability of individual and collected data in one place can allow for less back-and-forth communication between agents, adjusters, insured parties and mitigation and restoration services.

All of these factors can make an electronic claims inventory system a useful feature for insurance agents and adjusters. Whether or not representatives have worked with similar systems in the past, the SERVPRO Claims Information Center makes it easier to ensure that accurate information is available about types of damage, restoration services and estimates related to an insurance claim for damage at a residence in South End, MA.

Cleaning Up After a Leaking Water Heater

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

A water heater problem is frustrating.

Cleaning Up After a Water Heater That Has Leaked

A broken water heater is a nasty surprise that can cause a lot of damage. If you notice your water heater is making funny noises, take some steps to minimize the impact on your home. You don’t want to get caught in the shower with a failed water heater. A leaking water heater can cause a lot of frustration and damage.

Minimizing Damage

If you notice your water heater is acting up, follow these steps to help mitigate any further damage:

• Turn off the power supply.
  
• Cut off the water.
  
• Drain your water heater.
  
• Flip open the pressure-release valve.
  
• Use cold water to rinse the water heater.
  
  

Cleanup Procedures

If you are dealing with a leaking hot water heater, it is important to not just fix the source of the problem but to clean up any water and address any damage that occurred as a result of the leak. Standing water can lead to a lot of frustrating problems. Warm, moist areas are breeding grounds for mold, germs, fungus and all kinds of other pathogens.

Depending on the amount of water you are dealing with, most cleanups require more than just soaking the water up with a towel. Carpet, walls and wood tend to absorb and hold in moisture. It is important to dry out carpets and behind walls where mold can grow undetected.

If you are dealing with a leaking water heater that has caused significant water damage, water mitigation specialists can help you dry things out and prevent secondary damage from occurring. If your home isn’t properly dried out within the first 48 hours, you could be looking at substantial damage.

A water heater problem is frustrating. Don’t let the resulting water damage be an ongoing process. Hire professionals in Financial District, MA, to come in and make sure moisture isn’t trapped behind your walls and that your carpets are thoroughly dried. You don’t want have to deal with mold growth.

Help Protect Your Home With Storm Shutters

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

A way to protect your home from high winds is by installing storm shutters.

Protect Your Home From High Winds

In areas prone to high winds, residents often look for ways to protect their homes from damage. If your home is located in Financial District, MA, adding storm shutters to your property can not only provide protection but could also increase your property value. Below is a list of some of the shutter solutions most frequently chosen by homeowners, so you can see which option may be right for your property.

1. Storm Panels

Other than boarding up your windows with plywood, storm panels are one of the most cost-efficient ways to protect your home from high winds. These panels are removable during the hurricane off-season, but when in use, slide onto either permanent tracks or bolts installed around your windows. At a cost of only $7-$10 per square foot, aluminum storm panels can provide solid protection without breaking the bank.

2. Accordion Style

An accordion-style option has a similar look to a storm panel when in use but is folded and stored in a permanent box near the window until you need it. The cost ($15 to $20 per square foot) is about double that of a storm panel, but it is less burdensome to operate each year.

3. Bahama Style

Bahama-style storm shutters can be one of the most aesthetically pleasing choices and are sometimes used on homes for decorative purposes only. They are permanent fixtures that prop open when not in use, then lowered and secured when needed for protection. Priced around $20 to $30 per square foot, they could be a beautiful and functional option for your home.

4. Roll-Down Style

At $35 to $50 or more per square foot, roll-down-style shutters are more expensive than other options but can provide the most security and ease of use. Operated by a hand crank or sometimes with just the touch of a button, they roll up into a permanently installed box when not needed.

Restoring your home after damage from a storm will involve the help of experienced professionals, so taking extra measures to secure your home can be a worthwhile investment. Shutter options like the ones listed above can help reduce the damage to your property during high winds.

Fire Remediation: Where Did All the Water Come From?

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage in South Boston, MA.

Fire Remediation

It is odd to consider water cleanup in association with fire remediation, but it is a common pairing. After experiencing a business fire, it can be hard enough dealing with the charred remains of your property, but to also find water damage in areas that weren’t touched by the flames is frustrating and confusing. The fact is, firefighters, take many precautions to ensure the safety of others.

1. Putting Out the Blaze

Depending on the size of the fire, firefighters may have multiple hoses aimed at your property within minutes of arrival. These hoses operate at 400 psi and douse the flames in gallons of water per second. Additionally, firefighters will break out windows surrounding the blaze to hit the fire from above and below, causing massive amounts of flooding within your building.

2. Limiting the Damage

In an effort to limit the damage of a fire, firefighters will attempt to contain the fire to the initial area. However, this means that they will likely break through windows and doors of other rooms, flooding these areas with water to prevent the fire from spreading throughout the building but simultaneously expanding the water cleanup in its aftermath.

3. Restricting the Spread

Beyond dousing unaffected rooms, firefighters will soak the exterior of your property to limit the possibility of the fire jumping to surrounding buildings. This means your entire property is being doused, but it is a good thing. The water protects you, your property and your neighbors.

4. Walking Through the Facility

Once the fire is out, emergency services will walk your property looking for embers, using fire extinguishers on any remaining sources of heat. Between the hoses and the extinguishers, the fire cleanup is a massive undertaking requiring the assistance of a disaster restoration specialist in the South Boston, MA, area. These professionals are also experts in smoke cleanup.

While not often considered, water cleanup after a fire can be extensive. The fire hoses alone will contribute to a significant amount of water buildup, but when coupled with extinguishes and other suppression systems, it is likely necessary to hire a remediation specialist.