6 Ways To Ready Your Home For a Storm

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Acquire a generator and fuel for your home

Six Ways to Prepare for a Storm

Preparing for a storm may prevent damage and promote safety at a residence in Draper, UT. Homeowners should maintain the exterior of a residence and take a few important measures to avoid wind damage and keep out flood water.

1. Maintain Roofing

It is important to maintain the roof on a residence. Leaks or wind damage may be more likely if shingles or roofing materials are damaged or missing at the start of a storm.

2. Trim Trees

Have overhanging or large trees trimmed on a regular basis. Fallen limbs and flying branches are common causes of storm damage.

3. Consider Storm Windows and Flood Barriers

Residents of regions prone to storms with high wind speeds may want to have storm windows installed. Reusable sandbag alternatives can also be helpful for keeping out flood water and avoiding a flooded building.

4. Acquire a Generator and Fuel

If storm conditions interrupt the supply of electricity, homeowners can rely on a generator that runs on gasoline, diesel, propane or natural gas. Generators should only be operated outside. It may be worthwhile to invest in a way to protect or anchor down a generator.

5. Make Emergency Plans and Assemble Kits

Assemble a home kit with enough non-perishable food for three days, a gallon of water per person per day, first aid supplies, a battery-powered or hand crank radio, flashlights and batteries. Homeowners should also prepare a mobile kit in case of evacuation.

6. Stow Away Outdoor Items

Patio furniture, grills and other items that are typically kept outside may sustain damage or become flying debris. Any loose items should be stowed indoors in the days or hours before a storm.

All of these steps can help homeowners prepare for a storm in Draper, UT. If a residence suffers damage from flood water or wind, homeowners should contact insurance providers and a storm and water damage restoration service.

How To Address Common Water Issues in Your Commercial Building

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

A leaking pipe will become a burst pipe causing flooding

How To Address Common Water Issues in Your Commercial Building

Water damage has the potential to be one of the biggest threats to your commercial building. Think about it – leaking pipes, a broken faucet, or a clogged toilet can all cause major destruction to your business in the form of flood damage and mold formation. That’s why it’s a good idea to be aware of some of the most common water issues that can plague your property in South Jordan, UT, and how you can avoid them.

1. Be on the Lookout for Water Leaks

A water leak can start small in the form of a dripping faucet or improperly draining toilet tank. But if left unrepaired, these seemingly minor problems can escalate into a full-scale flooding emergency that will require a lengthy and extensive restoration. Regular inspections of all plumbing fixtures and systems can identify issues early before any major damage is done.

2. Take Immediate Action To Address a Pipe Break

While leaking pipes generally take time to exert damage, a complete pipe break inside a wall or ceiling will likely cause immediate flooding and must be treated like an emergency. After identifying and repairing the broken pipe, contact a reputable water damage restoration expert to assist in the flood cleanup process.

3. Stay Aware of Clogged Toilet Hazards

Many business owners think that their powerful commercial grade toilets are immune to blockage, but that’s simply not true. A toilet backup in your business can be caused by poor maintenance or overuse, so consider installing additional bathrooms to handle overflow and plunge or snake your toilet at the first sign of a clog to prevent a major sewage issue from shutting down your business.

Protecting your commercial building from hazards is one of your primary responsibilities as a business owner, so you should regularly monitor the main sources of water damage to identify any issues or needed repairs. Leaking pipes, a pipe break, or a clogged toilet all have the potential to negatively impact your business, so take steps to prevent a major water damage event.

Reasons To Have a New Building Inspected for Mold

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Herriman, UT

Purchasing a new commercial property comes with a lot of expenses, and you may be tempted to skimp on a few of them. While it may make sense to forego an expensive but unnecessary upgrade, one thing you don’t want to neglect is your mold inspection. You may balk at the prices that inspectors in Herriman UT, quote you, but skipping these tests may cost you much more in the long run. Here are some ways that having a preliminary professional test for mold can help.

It’s More Convenient

Before you buy a new property, you are likely asking questions about its past. You may inquire about such things as:

• Previous water damage
  
• Known plumbing issues
  
• State of the foundation
  
  

Any of these issues can lead to a mold problem. It is more convenient to test and take care of a fungus growth as well as the issue that causes it before you try to start using the building or renting the space to tenants.

It’s More Frugal

The longer you let mold grow, the bigger the problem becomes. Spending money on a mold inspection is usually much less expensive than finding out that what started as a small issue has become a major problem that may cost you thousands of dollars in mold mitigation services. Preliminary testing can help you save money on potential remediation by catching the problem when it’s still in its earlier stages.

It Saves Time

You probably have a proposed timeline for getting your building up and running. It can be frustrating to have that timeline interrupted by having to stop everything when you find visible mold in your building after you have already rented the space. Inspecting for mold before you buy can help you stick to your schedule.

A mold inspection may seem costly. The benefits of discovering a problem when you can most readily do something about it, however, may be well worth the price.

24/7 Emergency Response to Any Commercial Disaster

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

Your local Draper, UT, SERVPRO responds faster to any size disaster

Flooding, fire, water damage, raging storms and other outside factors can cause excessive damage to your building and therefore require you to shut down operations for 24 hours or more. The longer it takes to remediate the disaster, the more money you stand to lose. If your business is like most, it can't stand to lose more than a day's worth of profits. Your local Draper, UT, SERVPRO responds faster to any size disaster so that you (or, if you're an insurance adjuster, your client) can get back up and running as soon after disaster strikes as possible.

Why SERVPRO

SERVPRO franchises are locally owned by remediation professionals in your community. The owner of your local branch might be your neighbor, your friend's cousin or an employee's husband's sister. When you elect to use your local branch for damage remediation, you support local business. However, that's not the only reason you should call on SERVPRO to help out in your time of need. Some other benefits of utilizing this franchise above other disaster cleanup crews are as follows:

• Locally owned, which means it can respond faster to any size disaster
• Corporate reach, which means it has extensive reach and resources
  
• Franchise standards, which means professionals are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration
  

In addition to the above, SERVPRO requires franchise owners and their teams to undergo continuing education courses to equip them with the tools they need to decrease response times and remediate disaster faster.

Insurance Company Preferred Vendor

Because of the aforementioned reasons, SERVPRO is the preferred vendor when it comes to investigating and handling insurance claims. The franchise's reputation for quick response and utilization of best practices means any adjuster can count on a branch to handle an insurance claim in a timely fashion—and everyone knows timely means cost-effective. Cost effective services and the ability to respond faster to any size disaster gives SERVPRO an edge both insurance companies and their customers can get on board with. To mitigate loss as much as possible, contact your Draper, UT, disaster remediation franchise now.

What To Know Before You Make a Water Damage Insurance Claim

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded home due to a pipe break in South Jordan, UT

What To Know Before You Make a Water Damage Insurance Claim

Although damage from water is known as the second most common cause of homeowner’s claims, industry allowance for insurance claims for water type damage vary greatly. Whether the damage comes from bursting pipes or broken water heaters, it is important to understand what your insurance company covers in South Jordan, UT, when it comes to water damage, and you probably want to find out before you try to make a claim.

1. Flood

Within most insurance policies, floods are seen as unexpected surges of water onto more than an acre of land. Within your home, however, a flood can be defined as a sudden, unexpected surge of water that often results in puddles or standing liquid within a certain area. Because the floodwater was unexpected and could not be prevented, it is typically covered by most homeowner’s policies.

2. Rupture

Water due to ruptured of bursting pipes can be a difficult insurance claim to file if you cannot show the pipe was maintained. If the pipe dripped and you didn’t fix the broken pipe, your insurance company may say the rupture is the result of damage that occurred over time. However, the damage resulting from the water on floors, walls, and personal items may be covered because that damage was unexpected.

3. Storm

Just like a flood, a storm can cause unexpected floodwater to your home. It can also bring hail, freezing temperatures, and fallen trees. Because none of these issues can be reasonably expected to occur and damage your home, most insurance companies will cover a great deal of storm damage that occurs.

Knowing what water damage language was written into your insurance policy can help you prepare your claim against the insurance company. Whether it is a claim for bursting pipes or a sudden storm deluge, preparing your paperwork with the information the insurance company needs can be central to proving your damage and resolving the issue as quickly as possible. If you have questions, contact a water mitigation team to help clean up the water and document the process.

5 Places Mold May Grow

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

Kitchen mold loss in Daybreak, UT

5 Places Mold May Grow

When it comes to mold growth in Daybreak, UT, many mold remediation professionals recommend looking in several key locations for possible growth. These places include areas of high moisture such as:

1. Basements

In many cases, one of the first places to check for mold in your home is the basement. This is because water from outside can seep into any cracks or window wells, especially if the landscaping slopes toward the building. Many people choose to install a sump pump in order to help prevent this problem.

2. Chimneys

In some cases, the chimney may also be a culprit for mold’s growth location. Chimneys can provide a number of cracks that can collect debris and water creating a prime habitat.

3. Bathrooms

Bathrooms can provide plenty of opportunity for mold growth. If you think you may have mold in the bathroom, you may want to check around the edge of your tub and toilet, as well as under the sink. These locations can collect moisture providing wet dark areas for mold to spore in.

4. Attics

Attics can be a place to find mold if you have recently experienced storm damage or a leak. Be sure to check thoroughly since it's possible for growth of mold on wood, which can mean under any supports or in the walls as well.

5. Kitchens

Mold can also be found in the kitchen. Between the refrigerator, a dishwasher, and the sink, there are plenty of places susceptible to potential water damage. If you do have a kitchen overflow, you may also want to check for moldy drywall after the water is cleaned up.

Knowing where to look for mold growth can help you take preventive measures. Areas of high moisture such as basements, chimneys, bathrooms, attics, or kitchens maybe the first places you can check. Remember, if you do find mold a professional can help.

Why Do Insurers Prefer Certain Vendors?

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides extensive IICRC employee certification and training as well

An insurance company is likely to recommend a preferred vendor to clean up and restore damage at a residence in Bluffdale, UT. Insurers prefer certified vendors with a track record of providing accurate estimates, supporting claims processing and completing jobs quickly. Here are a few reasons why an insurance agent may recommend a vendor.

Claims Information Center

Leading mitigation and restoration services maintain electronic management tools for the benefit of insurance representatives. Whenever SERVPRO responds to a call and provides an estimate, this information becomes available on the Claims Information Center. Agents and adjusters can also access the following types of collected data for counties, states, regions and nationwide:

• Causes of loss
  
• Franchise and company comparisons
  
• Job file cost
  
• Response times
  
• Types of claims
  
  

This information enables an insurance agent to make more informed decisions when processing and settling claims. Insurers may be more likely to include companies that provide electronic management resources in a vendor program.

Industry-Leading Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification is a leading certifying body in the mitigation and restoration industry. Insurers are more likely to want to work with vendors certified in several cleaning methods:

• Applied Structural Drying
  
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
  
• Fire
  
• Water
  
  

SERVPRO provides extensive IICRC employee certification and new franchise training as well as continuing education and e-learning programs. Certified training allows for more successful restoration jobs.

Participation Agreement

In order to receive insurance client referrals, each SERVPRO franchise must agree to 21 guidelines. These requirements range from background checks to insurance coverage and help to maintain high service standards nationwide.

These factors combine to set preferred vendors apart from the competition. An insurance company may rely on a vendor program to guarantee high-quality work. A homeowner or insurance agent can start the process by scheduling an on-site consultation in Bluffdale, UT, and obtaining a verbal briefing and estimate.

What You Need to Know About Mold Remediation and Removal

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage caused by a type of fungus that grows in humid, warm conditions.

That creepy cloud of black or green on the wall, ceiling or floor indicates fungal damage. It may occur due to a damp, humid environment, a flood, rain entering the home, or many other reasons. Microbial growth means one of many types of fungi are present. An environmental hygienist can determine what issues present in the home or business, recommend the proper treatment and mitigation specialists who can remediate the issue. Immediate analysis and mitigation is vital though because some fungi create dangerous health risks and can damage the area of growth, states the Centers for Disease Control.

There's a fungus among us.

That little patch of green or black fungus can wreak huge damage. The water entry from a leaky wood window allows fungal growth to foster, which untreated, rots the frame and windowsill. 

How does one tell what is present though? An environmental hygienist can analyze the growth present and recommend the proper mitigation. Briefly though, the three differ in the following ways.

Fungus: The various types of fungi comprise their own kingdom separate from the animal and plant kingdoms. Fungi include mildew, mold, mushrooms, puffballs and yeast.

Microbial growth: The multiplication of microorganisms which may include algae, bacteria, diatoms, fungi, and plankton.

Mildew: A type of fungus that absorbs its food from the organic matter it grows on and usually appears as a white or gray powdery residue.

Mold: A type of fungus that grows in humid, warm conditions. Like mildew, it absorbs its food from the organism it attaches to by secreting enzymes to break down the substance.

Is there a mold cleanup fairy?

Although no mold cleanup fairy exists, an environmental hygienist can recommend the proper mitigation techniques for each type of microbial growth and a contractor who can clean and sanitize the area. If an area like a window frame or drywall has been damaged by mold, it needs replacement. Mitigation means more than a surface cleaning. Spores can travel, so the contractor will likely examine the heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) system for contamination. If contaminated, don't run the system until it is remediated. Some sentimental items or art pieces require a specialist to clean. The CDC offers an online guide to mold cleanup and specialized contractors.

The upshot is that any microbial growth needs mediation, but the fungus present could be mildew, mold, mushrooms, puffballs, or yeast. Consult an environmental hygienist to determine what growth type occurs. Hire a professional contractor to handle mold cleanup. This may extend to more than the area obviously affected since fungal spores travel and may have entered the HVAC system. Certain types of fungi create hazards and must be quickly addressed to alleviate the hazard.

How To Stock Your First Aid Kit

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential to every emergency preparedness plan

How To Stock Your First Aid Kit

During storm season in Herriman, UT, your commercial building and its occupants could be subjected to dangerous elements. Just as you want to put measures in place to protect or  storm restoration professionals to repair your building if it gets damaged, you should also have the tools to take care of people who are injured during an emergency. A well-stocked first aid kit is essential to every emergency preparedness plan. Here are some items you want to make sure to include.

1. Wound Coverage

If someone is wounded, you need to be able to dress the wound in some way. That’s where bandages come in. Scrapes and abrasions come in all shapes and sizes, and so should the materials you use to shield them from further harm. Each emergency kit should include:

• Standard adhesive bandages
  
• Triangular bandages
  
• Small gauze pads
  
• Large gauze pads
  
• One large roll of gauze
  
  

2. Wound Cleaners

To prevent infection, your kit should include products that disinfect. Individually wrapped moist towelettes or alcohol pads can suffice. You may also find antibiotic cream helpful in certain situations.

3. Fracture Care

If someone breaks a bone, you need to be able to stabilize it until emergency personnel arrive. Your first aid kit should, therefore, include a splint and something to secure the appendage to the splint, such as tape or elastic bands.

4. CPR Equipment

If someone’s heart stops, someone who is trained in CPR may have to resuscitate him or her. A resuscitation bag or face mask can come in handy.

5. Miscellaneous Items

Every emergency kit should also include scissors, tweezers, latex gloves and a blanket. All of these items can be useful when caring for the people affected by the disaster.

When you don’t know what kind of emergency is going to strike, it is good to be prepared for a wide variety of scenarios. A well-stocked first aid kit is one that can be used to address multiple kinds of injuries.

What To Know About Fire Damage and Your Renters Insurance

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Packing out items after a fire in Riverton, UT

What To Know About Fire Damage and Your Renters Insurance

When your rental suffers fire damage in Riverton, UT, you may be wondering if your renters insurance will cover the damage. Your exact coverage will depend on your policy type, however, here are a few things you may be able to expect.

1. Parts of the Insurance Policy

There are many parts to an insurance policy you should be aware of. Personal property coverage is for the items you brought into the rental unit, while structural coverage is for the physical building. Liability coverage may be included in case you are found personally at fault for the fire. A loss of use clause may be included to provided funding in case the home or apartment is rendered uninhabitable.

2. What May Be Covered

Most renters insurance policies commonly cover the costs needed to replace personal items. Depending on your policy they may even cover the cost to hire a fire restoration service which can help with cleaning and repairs. Some services may even help salvage personal items. Your renters policy may also include liability and loss of use depending on the circumstances, and severity of the fire.

3. What May Not Be Covered

Many renters policies are designed to cover only that which the renter is reasonably responsible for. This means that things such as structural damage may fall under the landlord’s insurance policy. Fortunately, many insurance companies will work together to help ensure the process goes smoothly. It is considered the renter’s responsibility to have an insurance policy in the first place as well as to keep it up-to-date.

It’s important to remember that your renters insurance coverage will depend on your policy. However, in most cases, fire damage to personal property will be covered along with some repair and restorations costs. Your landlord’s policy should cover the damage to the structure itself. As the policyholder, you are considered responsible for knowing what your policy contains.