Understanding the Sewer Cleanup Process

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals can help you with the Sewer Cleanup Process.

When a toilet overflows or the sewer backs up, professional mitigation is necessary to ensure that the problem is fully resolved. You can be confident recommending SERVPRO to your residential clients in Ogden, UT, whenever sewer cleanup is needed. Each local franchise is backed by corporate resources and support. 

The Steps of the Sewer Backup Mitigation Process

Within hours of the initial contact, the sewer damage remediation team arrives at the house to start the cleanup process. SERVPRO has a reputation for being Faster to Any Size Disaster and handles each job in an efficient manner.

Assessment

The first thing technicians have to do is survey the sewer damage and create a workable plan. There are several outcomes customers can expect from the assessment stage:

• Itemized list of damages
• Repairs needed to restore home
• Estimated overall cost
• Verbal briefing with homeowners

If there is too much damage for the local specialists to handle quickly, they can call nearby SERVPRO teams for backup. The extra technicians are certified to provide the same quality of service.

Extraction

Sewer backup leaves a lot of contaminated water in its path. Before the home can be cleaned, the crew has to remove as much of the excess moisture and debris as possible. Industrial pumps make this process go more smoothly.

Removal

Every item that is touched by the dirty water has to be taken out of the home. Some of the customers' belongings can probably be cleaned, but delicate items may have to be replaced altogether. During the early stages of the sewer cleanup process, drywall, ceiling materials, tiles, carpet and insulation that have become contaminated must be torn out.

Sanitation

Every surface that remains after all ruined materials are torn out must be disinfected. Water from a flooded toilet is typically contaminated, leaving behind all sorts of bacteria and other microbes on anything it touches. The mitigation team cleans the area and then tests each surface to make sure that any microorganism that isn't supposed to be there is gone. 

Drying

Sewage can leave behind excess moisture. To prevent secondary damage such as rot or mold growth, the area must be dried thoroughly. Technicians can increase airflow in the space to speed up the process. They also may bring in dehumidifiers to ensure that the moisture in the air is brought back to an acceptable level. 

Rebuilding

SERVPRO staff members don't just gut the house and leave. They replace the materials they had to tear out. Each item that can be salvaged is repaired and returned to the owner. The technicians even go so far as to match paint and tile to the remaining surfaces for a seamless flow. Their job isn't finished until the home looks "Like it never even happened."

The sewer cleanup process can seem daunting at first, but hiring an experienced, knowledgeable team ensures that it is as simple as possible for the homeowners. With the fast, efficient response of a local team and corporate support, it's no wonder that SERVPRO is a preferred vendor for many insurance providers throughout the country.

What Not To Do When Your Home Floods

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Know more what to do When Your Home Floods.

Storms often bring torrential rainfall, and with that rainfall comes flooding. When floodwater rises in Ogden, UT, you may get a lot of advice from many sources. Most of those sources will focus on the actions you should take, but it's just as important to know what things to avoid. If your home is flooded during a natural disaster or storm, here are four behaviors to avoid.

Four Behaviors to Avoid

1. Staying in Your Home

If your flooded home is uninhabitable, you should get your family to a safe location. Local authorities will keep you posted on mandatory evacuations, but if there is significant damage, don't wait until you have to leave. The earlier you leave your home, the easier it is going to be to navigate roads and find shelter.

2. Touching Contaminated Water

You don't know where water seeping into your home from a storm has been, but you can count on it being contaminated. Floodwater is considered Category 3 water and can contain microbes and bacteria. Make sure you wear protective clothing and especially avoid contact with your hands and face.

3. Overusing Your Cell Phone

Until you find a place where you can plug your cell phone in, the charge on its battery is going to have to last. Many people will succumb to boredom and use their phones to play games or surf social media. It is smarter, however, to conserve the charge and only use your phone for emergencies.

4. Trying To Clean Mold

If there is widespread water damage in your area, remediation experts may not get to your home before mold starts to grow. While you can attempt to dry out your home to minimize the risk of a problem developing, fight the temptation to clean any mold that does form. Doing so without the proper training and equipment can actually make the problem worse.

Storms may leave your home full of floodwater. By following the right steps and avoiding the wrong ones, you can increase your chances of staying safe.

Is It Time to Clean Your Dryer Vent?

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Have you checked your clothes dryer lately?

Like most homeowners in Ogden,UT, you've probably taken precautions to prevent fires from happening in your home. But have you checked your clothes dryer lately? Each year, a significant number of homes are damaged by a lint fire. This type of dryer fire can occur when your vent isn't kept clean. So, how do you know if your vent needs maintenance?

4 Ways to Know if Your Vent Needs Maintenance.

1. It's Been a While Since Your Last Inspection

It's important to have your dryer vent duct inspected at least once a year by a professional vent cleaning specialist. While it's possible to do the cleaning yourself, hiring professionals ensures the job is done properly, as they are familiar with all kinds of dryers and have the appropriate tools to efficiently clean the vent.

2. You Smell Something Burning

A burning smell is a sure sign that something's wrong. Lint can clog up the trap, drum casing and exhaust tube, and easily cause a lint fire. If you smell something burning, turn off the dryer and have a professional inspect it immediately.

3. It Takes a Long Time for Clothes to Dry

A vent that's blocked up will keep your clothes from drying properly. The time it takes might be twice or even three times as long. You may put clothes in for a normal drying cycle and find that they're still damp when you take them out. The clothes aren't able to dry because a blocked vent will not be able to release the moist air from inside.

4. The Dryer and Your Clothes Are Really Hot

If the outside of the dryer is hot to the touch and your clothes are extremely warm when you take them out, this is a sign that the vent is blocked and the air from inside the dryer is not being blown out properly.

As a homeowner, you have enough keep you busy without having to worry about a lint fire. Happily, if you look out for the signs above and take the appropriate steps, you won't ever have to!

5 Common Causes of Basement Floods

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

Know more about Basement Floods and Avoid Further Water Damage.

You may see a basement flood in your home and think it is no big deal. Over time, however, that standing water can cause major damage to your Ogden, UT, house. Mold and mildew could grow near the liquid, as well.

A flooded basement thus needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Your local SERVPRO franchise professionals can help with the restoration process. They are Faster to Any Size Disaster and will know how to salvage any damaged items.

Once the remediation is complete, you should take steps to prevent another flood from occurring. That means finding out exactly what caused the flood. Here are five common sources of basement floods and how to prevent them.

5 Common Causes of Flooded Basements

1. Poor Drainage Installation

When identifying the cause of your basement flood, check the location of the downspouts in your drainage system. They may drain toward your home or be placed within six feet of the basement. In either scenario, water from the downspouts could flow past the weeping tile and into the basement.

Have a plumber move the downspout so it empties into your backyard or street instead.

2. Improper Sealing

If your basement often floods during heavy rainstorms, the floors and walls of the room may not have been sealed properly. The seals need to be strong enough to withstand severe weather. A construction expert can help you strengthen the sealing if necessary.

3. Eavestrough Debris

When debris and leaves clog the eavestroughs, water could overflow from them and leak into the basement. Luckily, this problem is fairly simple to fix. Simply grab a ladder and clean the eavestroughs, or hire a professional to do it for you.

Sometimes, even unclogged eavestroughs overflow because they cannot handle the volume of rain that your area experiences. In this case, you need to replace your eavestroughs with bigger ones.

4. Clogged Manifold

Sometimes, basement floods occur for reasons beyond your control. For instance, your property could overflow with water if there is a clog in the manifold that links your house to the sewer system. Besides harming your basement, this could also damage the foundation of the home.

If you suspect that this issue is causing floods on your property, contact local authorities so they can address the problem.

5. Unsuitable Home Location

A home should be built on top of a sloped area so water can drain away from the property. If your house is experiencing numerous floods, it may be located at the bottom of the terrain. You do not necessary have to move, however. That is because the slope of a land typically becomes more level over time due to erosion.

While not every basement flood is preventable, you can take steps to reduce the chances of one of these disasters occurring. First, you need to understand what led to the flood in the first place. In some cases, you can lower your flood risk by making alternations to your home. Other times, you may need to implement more drastic changes. If you make adjustments and water damage still occurs, SERVPRO professionals can help with the cleanup.

IICRC Certification: What It Means to You

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

IICRC certified cleanup and restoration companies will the best option when suffering property damages in Ogden, UT.

Property damages are nearly always frustrating to Ogden, UT, homeowners because the damages affect both home and work life. In a rush to get things corrected, sometimes homeowners rush into contracts with unreputable cleanup and repair businesses. Fortunately, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (generally referred to as the IICRC,) provides training and certification to professionals, so homeowners can recognize trustworthy restoration companies.

What Does the Institute Offer?

When you find a cleanup and mitigation company with IICRC certification, you can be sure of a few important facts:

• The restoration company and its individual employees have completed classes, trainings, and standardized exams.
• Technicians and related professionals continue to complete coursework to maintain certificates.
• Companies abide by standards established by the Institute.

The contractor trainings and exams are offered consistently throughout the year, so professionals can update their credentials. Continuing education opportunities are an important aspect of providing modern services to keep homeowners, their families, and their property in safe conditions.

What Types of Classes Are Available?

Some of the classes offered by the certification institute include a mitigation certificate and water damage restoration training that includes education concerning basic containment, mold mitigation procedures, and techniques for drying a variety of structures. A mold certification course may cover the basics of identification or how to test for and abate mold growth.

Why Hire Institute Certified Professionals?

You may have a Ogden, UT, neighbor or two who are pretty familiar with construction techniques and general home upkeep. When you really need to know that the work to your home is done correctly, however, it's best to find a cleanup and reconstruction company that is IICRC certified.

You'll experience a lot of peace of mind knowing that there aren't hidden pockets of mold growth or structural elements of your home that have been compromised.

Working with trained professionals who hold a mitigation certificate gives you confidence that you've done everything you can to keep your family safe and healthy.

Understanding How Filing an Insurance Claim Can Raise Rates

11/25/2021 (Permalink)

File an insurance claim only when it is essential to avoid increased rates.

Home insurance is often necessary, and most homeowners do not mind paying the premiums because having a policy gives them peace of mind. However, while an insurance policy is welcome after experiencing a home disaster, like water damage, most people worry about filing an insurance claim because they are unsure how it will affect their premiums. While it might seem unfair, any mitigation professional in Ogden, UT, will tell you that you need to understand a few things before making a claim:

• Claims are necessary for financial protection
• Claims can affect rates regardless of circumstances
• Claims are advisable for large-scale losses

Understand the Rates of Filling Out an Insurance Claim.

Why an Insurance Claim Can Result in Rate Increases

When you signup with an insurance company, your premiums or rates are tied to your level of risk. Unfortunately, filing a claim increases your risks to the insurance company, regardless of the reason behind the claim. For example, your claim might be for a home flood resulting from a sudden pipe break. While your insurance might cover the damage, the expense still represents a loss and a risk to the insurer, meaning when it comes time to reassess your rates, your premiums might go up.

Essentially, your insurer performs a cost-benefit analysis every time they refigure your premiums. There is typically no reason for rates to climb if you make it through the year without filing a claim or using your policy. However, if you used your policy multiple times in a year, your account costs the insurer more than expected, meaning they will recover their losses by increasing your premiums.

Preventing Rate Hikes Because of Claims

The obvious solution to preventing rate hikes is never to file a claim, but this solution is impractical. Sometimes, you will need to make a claim because making the repairs alone is not financially possible. The key is to handle minor issues on your own whenever possible, limiting the number of times you use your policy.

If you experience damage that is not costly to repair, or if something does not even meet the deductible for your policy, then pay for it out of pocket. By paying for minimal expenses out of pocket, you can protect your insurance rates.

Rate Hike Circumstances

While your rates can increase regardless of the cause, some situations are more likely to result in an increase than others. For instance, if you file a claim and during the course of the investigation it is determined that you were at fault for the damage, your rates will typically always increase.

However, if you are not at fault and rarely use your policy, the insurer may or may not raise your rates. The primary takeaway is only to use your policy when it is absolutely necessary.

An insurance claim can lead to increased rates regardless of your responsibility or the extent of the damage to your property. To protect your current rates, you should only file claims when it is essential. Contact your insurance representative if you want to know how your rates might be affected by making a claim.

How Can an Electronic Claims Service Help?

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

Electronic claims service makes the process easier and faster.

If your home sustains loss from a disaster in Ogden, UT, whether a pipe burst, fire, or mold infestation, you're probably going to want to file an insurance claim. Thanks to modern technology, the claims process is easier than ever. SERVPRO offers an electronic claims service that extends many benefits in addition to its ease of use. This service is just one reason the company is on the shortlist of your insurance agent's preferred restoration providers. In addition to being a locally owned business with corporate reach and resources, industry competitors can't beat SERVPRO's electronic claims service.

Why Choose SERVPRO's Electronic Claims Service?

1. It's Convenient and Readily Accessible for Everyone Involved

People can access the electronic claims system remotely, from anywhere with an internet connection. They can also access and edit it on various devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones. This easy access makes it super convenient for an adjuster or restoration professional to upload information about and photos of the damage to the system as soon as they take them.

2. It Preserves Multiple Types of Information

Digital files are very similar to paper files, containing all of the information you would've found as paper documents in the past. This variety of data often includes itemized lists of damaged contents, photographs of the damage, the plan of action for restoration and repair, and progress reports from various contractors. To be put simply, everything you would find in a tangible file is now stored electronically.

3. It Creates a More Efficient Claims Process

Thanks to the electronic claims service, the insurance claim process is more efficient than ever. In the past, once completed, paper documents had to be shared by hand. They would move through multiple hands of different professionals and clients, and some required them to be mailed, which takes more time. Then, they had to be filed. There were risks of the documents becoming damaged or misplaced. Filing your claim electronically with SERVPRO makes the process virtually seamless and shared nearly instantaneously amongst everyone involved. Everything is in one location and can be viewed and updated by anyone with authorization at any time. Even better, the changes are made and seen in real-time.

4. It Improves Accuracy

Because the information is in a digital format and stored in a virtual file, accuracy is strengthened. As various professionals, such as insurance adjusters and fire damage restoration experts, add and subtract information to the claim, the computer is good at catching errors that the insurance agent or other people might miss.

5. It Requires Less Paper

The electronic claims service is not only user-friendly, but it's also eco-friendly. No longer is there a need for vast shelves of boxes and long rows of file cabinets packed with paper documents. The electronic storage system digitally saves, encrypts, and backs up for even more security. It has also reduced administrative costs and decreased the need for paper correspondence.

Whatever type of disaster your home experiences and whatever the damage, SERVPRO's electronic claims service makes filing an insurance claim super simple. Technology is improving all the time, and SERVPRO will continually be on top of it.

What To Do With a Leaking Toilet

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Hire a professional team to repair the toilet leak of your Ogden, UT, home.

An old, leaking toilet in your commercial building can be more than annoying. When the leaking water begins to seep into the flooring materials, it can lead to mold growth, warped wood, and structural weakness. You may also find that you're paying more for water each month. There are several possible causes for the leak:

• Faulty seals
• Broken toilet tank
• Worn out joints in the supply line
• Damaged washer, bolts, or flapper
• Trouble with the shutoff valve

It's often hard to determine the exact cause of trouble without removing the entire toilet, and you may avoid some of this hassle by contacting SERVPRO professionals who are Here to Help whenever you need them.

Gather Supplies and Shut Off the Water

If you do decide to replace the leaking toilet, begin by gathering the necessary equipment, including an adjustable wrench, some screwdrivers, a putty knife, and a large rag. You may also need a hacksaw and something to protect your floor from the old toilet. Turn off the water before you take any toilet repair steps. You should also drain water out of the tank and bowl of the toilet.

Remove and Replace the Toilet

Next, remove the caps covering closed bolts and remove the nuts that keep the toilet in place. Lifting from underneath the bowl, move the old toilet out of your way. Remove the wax gasket by loosening the screws and then replace it with a new gasket. After attaching the new toilet to the water supply, carefully position it and tighten the nuts and bolts to hold it in place. Doublecheck all seals before turning the water back on.

Hire Professionals

As a property owner, you may find that the best way to avoid further damage, including mold and water damage, is to hire a professional water remediation company to handle the cleanup and repairs caused by a leaking toilet. Remember that SERVPRO is Faster to Any Size Disaster in Ogden, UT.

3 Considerations When Dealing With the Aftermath of a Flood

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Natural disasters can cause floodings and permanent damages to your Ogden, UT, home.

A flood is never a good thing, but when it happens in a residence, especially among family heirlooms and other valuables, the experience is devastating. When dealing with water in home, it is crucial to act fast. You might want to call a water remediation specialist in Ogden, UT. These professionals can help to excavate the water and possibly salvage a majority of your belongings. However, when dealing with water-damaged items, there are a few things to keep in mind.

1. Porous Items Might Not be Salvageable

Depending on the type of water damage you are dealing with, it might be best to discard any affected porous items. For example, if the flood is the result of black water, it is likely best and recommended that you throw the affected items away. However, you can reach out to a dry cleaning specialist advertising flood recovery for any heirlooms or items with historical or real value.

2. Appliance Might Need To Be Thrown Away

With water in home, all sorts of materials and devices are affected. If the water level reaches above electrical outlets or submerges appliances, it is best to discard the devices. Hanging on to flooded appliances can be a fire hazard, and it can result in secondary damage, like mold growth.

3. Clean Water Floods Offer More Opportunities for Salvage

If the flood results from a broken pipe or clean water supply line, you will probably have more opportunities to salvage personal items. However, that depends on how long the water has been standing. Even clean water can become contaminated if left to stand for days.
Whenever you end up with water in home, it is best to have a professional service, like SERVPRO, come out and assess the damage. The technicians can help you determine what is salvageable and what is not, possibly presenting the option to save family heirlooms.

What Is IICRC Certification?

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

IICRC is a third-party certification agency for the restoration industry.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification is a third-party certification agency for the restoration industry. The IICRC is a member and accredited standards developer for the American National Standards Institute and also develops and maintains BSR standards. Find out more about these standards and the certification process.

ANSI and BSR Standards

A number of standards fall under the purview of this organization. These standards cover most of the major types of restoration:

• ANSI S500 for Professional Water Damage Restoration
• ANSI S520 for Professional Mold Remediation
• BSR S700 for Professional Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration

There are many other standards pertaining to cleaning, maintaining, and restoring other types of materials. This certifying body develops and maintains these standards in cooperation with ANSI to establish best practices for the professional mitigation and restoration industry.

Employee and Franchise Certification

SERVPRO is an approved IICRC training school that offers training in certified cleaning and restoration methods, as well as a mitigation certificate. A wide range of certifications are available for specific contents and materials as well as different types of disaster cleanup and restoration:

• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Carpet Cleaning Technician
• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician
• Mold Removal Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

In order to be considered certified, a firm must employ at least one trained Technician. Franchise owners and employees can also participate in continuing education and e-learning programs. Cleaning and restoration technicians are required to earn 14 continuing education credit hours of approved instruction every four years. SERVPRO makes it possible for franchise owners and employees to earn and maintain this industry-leading certification.

IICRC certification makes it more likely that insurance company vendor networks will include a franchise or local company in Uintah, UT. For the best results, insurance representatives and homeowners should make sure that the mitigation and restoration service they plan to use holds this industry-leading certification.

Important Benefits of the SERVPRO Electronic Claims Service

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

Insurance coverage in Ogden, UT is very important and the SERVPRO electronic claims services can help.

Property damages from natural disasters, vandalism, and other sources happen in Ogden, UT, and all across the country. As agents and adjusters work to complete each insurance claim, an electronic claims service offers invaluable benefits, including:

• Speedier results
• Improved accuracy
• Consistency from one claim to another

Of course, the real value of the electronic system is only seen when it is used correctly.

More Than a Virtual Paper Record

Digital files are replacing paper in many industries, and there are many important benefits to this transfer, including reducing the required amount of space and cutting down on paper, ink, and related costs. However, the SERVPRO electronic claims system offers many more benefits. For example, when an insurance agent prepares to complete a claim, the agent can pull up pertinent information from the office or the damaged property. The claims service provides access to nationwide comparisons and damage specifics from local properties.

More Than a Digital Storage System

Agents, adjusters, and other damage restoration professionals can conveniently input data using smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers. The same devices can be used to pull information when it's needed. One of the most significant benefits of this service is that all of the professionals involved in resolving an insurance claim can receive updates and communications very quickly, reducing confusion and the potential for mistakes.

More Than a Locked Filing Cabinet

In the past, many records were kept in filing cabinets or even cardboard boxes. Although a bit of security may have been possible, these storage systems couldn't guarantee confidentiality. The digital electronic claims system offers high-quality digital security. In addition to providing safeguards that prevent unauthorized actions, the computerized system is backed up by corporate security teams who monitor who accesses files and how information is shared.

The full benefit of working with the SERVPRO system means understanding everything available for filing each insurance claim. Get work completed more quickly, improve communication, share information, and be sure to keep related information confidential. It's all possible with the electronic claims service.

Contact SERVPRO for Water Damage Repair

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent further damage and contact SERVPRO.

Many things could lead to water in home, but if you want the best results, there's only one way to respond. When you hire SERVPRO professionals at the first sign of trouble, you can expect quality results in a short amount of time.

Start Removing Water

Contacting Ogden, UT, professionals is just one of the things you can do to minimize damage when there's water in home. You should get started on several other steps as you wait for the pros to arrive:

• Shut off power to your home.
  
• Turn off water at the water main or at the source of the flood.
  
• Remove water as quickly as possible with towels, mops, and wet/dry vacuums.
  
• Begin drying off furnishings and moving them to dry locations.
  
• Open windows and install fans to provide ventilation.
  
• Send clothing, curtains, and other fabrics for dry cleaning services.
  
• Separate items to be thrown out and those that can be repaired.
  
• Turn memorabilia over to experts who know how to prevent lasting water damage.
  

It's also a good idea to contact your insurance provider for more information about avoiding damage and to understand your coverage.

Save Documents, Artwork, and Other Valuables

If you have valuables, ask SERVPRO technicians whether those items can be repaired. Important documents, paintings, beautiful rugs, and other important items can be treated with care to avoid further damage.

Ensure Complete Disinfection

Remember that floodwater isn't clean. SERVPRO water damage cleanup and repair professionals will thoroughly disinfect your home, the furnishings, and many of your belongings. This step is vital in preventing lasting damage, mold growth, and unpleasant odors. If your home isn't disinfected properly, it could become attractive to pests.

SERVPRO Is Faster to Any Size Disaster

A quick response is essential to avoiding serious damage from having water in home. As soon as you notice signs of water or a broken pipe, take steps to prevent further damage to your Ogden, UT, home.

Easy Steps to Using a Fire Extinguisher

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Having a fire extinguisher in your Ogden ,UT property can help in a small fire.

You’ve heard throughout your life that in case of a fire, you should call 911 and get away from danger. While this is sound advice, there are things you can do at the outset of the fire to keep it from spreading and threatening your Ogden ,UT, office. In small fires, a fire extinguisher can be your most important tool to keep the incident from getting out of hand.

Why Use a Fire Extinguisher

You see extinguishers in buildings everywhere you go, but what makes them such effective tools to help prevent major fire damage?

• They can act quickly and effectively against a wide range of fires in many places.
• Anyone can learn how to use them properly.
• If you use them properly, they can keep a small fire from getting out of control and causing extensive damage or even bodily harm or death.

The Correct Method

If you spot a kitchen fire in your office break room, or if there is a fire in any other part of your building, you need to act without hesitation. When you use the fire extinguisher appropriately, you can have confidence that you can put out the fire without much difficulty. Experts teach that you should use the PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep

Pull

Your first job is to take the extinguisher and pull the pin out of the handle at the top of the device. This will break the seal and allow you to spray the chemical.

Aim

Take the hose in one hand while holding the extinguisher by the handle in the other. Next, aim the hose low at the base of the fire.

Squeeze

Squeeze the handle firmly. This will release the extinguishing chemical.

Sweep

In a fluid motion, sweep the hose from side to side at the bottom of the fire. Do this until the fire is completely out.

If you follow these steps, you can put out small fires with a fire extinguisher. Study and practice this method in your workplace.

5 Steps To Take Immediately After a Pipe Breaks

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Cut off the electricity after a pipe breaks

Winter storms can cause havoc outside your home with the buildup of snow, howling winds, and never-ending rain, but sometimes the unexpected occurs, and a storm causes your home’s pipes to freeze and break. When the temperatures fall to a record low, and you find yourself with bursting pipes, here are five steps to take as soon as you find the problem.

Five Steps to Take After a Pipe Burst

1. Turn off the water.

To prevent additional water damage, make sure you turn off the water at the nearest valve. This may also eliminate the chance of any other weakened pipes breaking during the repair.

2. Cut off the electricity.

Active electricity in an area with standing water is rarely a good thing. So, turn the breaker off that supplies electricity to the area to make sure everyone working to fix the broken pipe is safe.

3. Contact your insurance company.

Letting your insurance company know about the bursting pipes and water problem can start the claim process. The insurance company can then send someone to view the damage.

4. Call a remediation service.

Calling in water remediation service technicians to check the situation and help you clean and disinfect the area is a good idea. Removing the standing water as soon as possible helps stop the growth of mold and any possible secondary damage.

5. Document the scene.

Using your phone or a camera, take photos of the area before, during and after the water removal process. You may also want to list each item that needs to be repaired or that is discarded.

The winter storms can be brutal as they batter Ogden, UT, with their frozen tendrils. When you find a storm has caused bursting pipes in your home, take the five steps above to help rectify the situation as quickly as possible. Don’t forget to ask the technicians for ideas about preventing future pipe damage.

The Benefits of a Claims Inventory Service

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

A claims inventory service can be beneficial.

When a commercial client's property in Ogden, UT, is damaged, maintaining an up-to-date insurance claim is vital to serving the client well. One thing that you should look for when seeking preferred vendors is a claims inventory service. This system allows both you and your client to track the progress of the restoration throughout the whole cleanup process and understand the costs involved.

3 Benefits of a Claims Inventory Service

Assessment

As soon as SERVPRO technicians assess the damage to the building, they update your client's account in the Claims Information Center with key pieces of data:

• Type of damage
  
• Extent of problem
  
• Projected cost of repair
  

This fast response allows you to start processing the claim immediately. Once the adjuster visits the building and corroborates the claim, you have easy access through a simple login to verify that his or her report matches what the damage mitigation experts plan to do.

Updates

Sometimes during the remediation process, technicians run into problems that they didn't see before. Secondary damage may also have occurred since the initial report. Whatever the reason for the update to the insurance claim, the CIC allows you and your client to track changes as they are discovered.

Final Bill

With traditional filing methods, the insurance agent assigned to your client's case has to wait for the property owner to receive the final bill from the mitigation company and submit it with his or her claims paperwork. The benefit of claims inventory services is that all this information is already available to the building owner and the insurance company online. There is no more cause for delay in getting the information you need to process the final claim.

With all the technology available to businesses today, it just makes sense to choose a mitigation company that uses claims inventory services as a preferred vendor. Efficient reporting helps you finalize and process an insurance claim with unprecedented ease.

Why Does Your Basement Flood?

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Unsuitable sealant can lead to moisture issues

Do you experience frequent flooding in your basement that does not appear to come from an existing plumbing issue? While you can call a water mitigation expert in Ogden, UT, to assess your property, you are likely dealing with one or more of the following four issues when dealing with a basement flood.

4 Leading Causes For Flooded Basements

1. Clogged Eaves and Gutters

Not all homeowners are great at maintaining the exterior of their homes, especially when it comes to the dreaded eaves and gutters. No one likes to climb a ladder and scoop out all of the gunk that builds up over the winter. Unfortunately, if left to accumulate, then your outdoor drainage system cannot function properly, leading to rainwater pooling around the foundation of your home, which can lead to a flooded basement and significant water damage.

2. Poor Drainage

Beyond external drainage, it is also possible that the drainage system within the basement is not adequate for your home's size and location. For example, you may have a small sump pump or a single backwater valve system when, in reality, you need a large sump pump and multiple valves or drains to avoid a basement flood.

3. Unsuitable Sealant

Sometimes builders skimp where it matters most. A basement requires a sealer that is suitable for both the climate and the location of the home. If a lower grade sealer is used because it is cost-effective, a homeowner may deal with moisture issues when the weather changes throughout the year. Also, if your home was built in a naturally damp location, then using maximum sealant protection is necessary. If you continue to have moisture problems, consider looking into a better sealer for walls and floor.

4. Poor Location

Some areas are not meant to have basements. For example, many marsh communities do not have basements because of the natural dampness of the soil. The location of your home may be the root cause of your issue.

If you have a problem with a recurring basement flood, get an inspection of your property. Contact a local water remediation company to help.

How SERVPRO Addresses Widespread Loss

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

When a natural disaster causes a catastrophic loss, count on SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team.

A fire in one home in Ogden, UT, can be devastating. What happens, though, when a natural disaster causes a catastrophic loss throughout an entire area of the country? When this happens, you need a team of experts you can rely on to mobilize quickly to address the damage caused by the event. That's where SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team comes in.

Disaster Recovery Team

Standard Mode of Operation

When you call 1-800-SERVPRO after a flooding disaster, you are connected to more than just an information line. The corporate office provides several services:

• Referral to a local team that meets high service standards
  
• Full access to the Claims Information Center
  
• Updates on job progress
  

This is the standard mode of operation for any calls received by the company. It connects you to local experts who can address the storm damage on the property in question. You can expect detailed, individual attention for each job received.

Emergency Response

When multiple homes in the same area suffer catastrophic loss, SERVPRO rises to the occasion. It is easy to imagine how problems in multiple homes could easily overwhelm local storm restoration specialists in the affected area. The Disaster Recovery Team is designed to overcome this issue. Once mobilized, it sends extra supplies, equipment and teams to the disaster zone to fortify the resources of the local teams. Because all the teams are certified in storm damage remediation, they are fully qualified to jump in and help out with little to no further instruction. This makes SERVPRO Faster to Any Size Disaster, even when the damage is widespread.

If you provide coverage to homeowners in a certain area, a large storm could result in a catastrophic loss for many of your clients. When this happens, you need a mitigation company you can depend on to provide the most expert and efficient service. You can trust SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team to get your clients the help they need as soon as possible.

What Should You Do if You Smell Mold but Can’t See Mold in Your Business?

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

Mold and moisture damage in Ogden, UT.

How to Locate Mold

Mold growth can quickly disrupt your business in Ogden ,UT, but sometimes finding the exact location of the growth can be difficult. If you notice a mold smell in your building but don’t see any visible indicators of the growth, there are several things you can do to locate the mold.

1. Follow the Smell

In some instances, you might be able to smell mold before you can see it growing. The musty odor is often strongest close to where the mold is growing. If you’re unsure where the mold is growing, check the areas where the scent smells the strongest. It can also be helpful to be aware that mold can grow inside walls or other areas that aren’t visible, so it’s wise not to ignore the fungus smell.

2. Check Common Areas Where Mold Grows

Understanding where mold commonly grows can help lead you to the source of the mold smell in your building. Mold most often grows in damp areas, though it is possible for mold to grow in dryer areas as well. If the smell of the mold alone doesn’t help you locate the growth, then it can be useful to check in areas such as bathrooms, near water heaters or by pipes.

3. Use a Thermal Camera

If you have followed the smell of mold and have also searched in areas where mold commonly grows but still don’t see mold, you can consider using a thermal camera. A thermal camera will show you where water is located in spots that you can’t see. Since mold tends to grow near water and in moist areas, this tool might be able to help you locate the mold and could save you the time of searching yourself.

A mold smell in your building can often be an indicator of mold growth. If you notice a musty, mildew smell in your business or if you see signs of mold growth, it’s sometimes useful to contact mold removal and remediation professionals.

Keep Mold From Spreading Using These Five Easy Steps

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals placing containment to avoid mold from spreading in Ogden, UT.

Mold spores are ever present in the world. If given the right conditions, these small seeds can land in warehouses, businesses or offices and grow into full-fledged blooms. Mold outbreaks should be addressed immediately. Mold cleanup can be done by owners of commercial properties in Ogden, UT, who wish to undertake the task by themselves. If you notice mold growth in your commercial space, take the following five measures in order to ensure that you do not cross contaminate clean and unaffected areas when removing your business’s mold contamination.

5 Steps to Keep Mold From Spreading 

1. Wear Old Clothes When Removing Mold. Mold spores will cling to the clothes you wear. Don an old shirt, pants and shoes that you won’t mind throwing away after the cleanup.

2. Cover Air Vents. Your air conditioning and heating systems are great conduits for spreading spores throughout your commercial space. Be sure to fully cover your ventilation systems before undertaking any mold cleanup.

3. Hide the Vacuum. Keep your vacuum far from your work area to ensure that this spore-sucking machine doesn’t convert itself into a spore-spewing machine.

4. Spritz Mold Patches. It may seem counterintuitive to add humidity to the water-loving organism that you are trying to kill. However, a quick aqua spray will reduce the number of spores that are released into the air as you work.

5. Dispose of Affected Materials. Tainted carpet, flooring, rugs, curtains and clothing should be placed into a heavy-duty plastic garbage bag and disposed of immediately. Be sure to seal the bag by taping it closed before tossing.

Given the right conditions, mold can grow in any commercial space. If you decide to tackle your commercial property’s mold problem on your own, be sure to take a note from mold-removal professionals who take special precautions to avoid cross-contamination when conducting their mold cleanup. By taking the above simple yet important measures, owners of commercial spaces in Ogden, UT, can prevent the cross-contamination of mold in their businesses or offices when removing their mold outbreak.

3 Main Characteristics of Mold

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Ogden, UT.

You probably have many checklists that apply to your commercial building in Ogden, UT. With all the regular maintenance routines and proper repairs, finding black mold growth – or any type of mold invasion – can come as a complete shock. However, you might be wondering what mold looks like in the first place. The following list includes three angles from which you can better identify mold.

3 Ways To Identify Mold 

1. Color

If you've observed some funky colors spring up around the company sink, you may have a mold cleanup in your future. Most commonly known as Alternaria, this kind of mold frequents bathrooms and other damp places indoors. This fungus spreads quickly, so you'll want to address even minor problems in a timely manner.

2. Texture

Another way you can detect mold in your building is by observing its texture. If you've tried cleaning those worn-out carpets time and again to no avail, a mold called Cladosporium could be your culprit. In addition, not all dark colored molds are black mold; this dark colored mold with a suede-like texture loves to thrive in carpets and upholsteries. Cladosporium is also known to grow in both warm and cool climates. Some molds may take on powdery textures, while others can take on a slimy appearance.

3. Smell

Most Ogden, UT, residents are familiar with that musty smell that can pop up in basements or other dark, humid places. Black mold could be present if that earthy smell just won't go away. Even if your building has never had past moisture damage, this kind of mold easily feeds on damp drywall and even dusty corners. Hiring a professional is usually your best bet when it comes to detecting types of mold, since identifying and determining all those subtle growth spots could prove challenging.

Allotting the time to determine what sort of mold has taken over your commercial building can be a stressful task in itself. By relying on the mold remediation pros to do the job for you, you can have peace of mind that your building is fully inspected and free of fungus.

Taking the Hassle Out of Claims Investigations

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

Choose SERVPRO of Ogden for quality results

As an insurance adjuster, you have a duty to the insured to thoroughly investigate a claim and make an informed decision based on the evidence available to you. However, you also have a duty to your clients to keep claims costs down and to ensure that fraudulent claims don't slip through the cracks. SERVPRO professionals can help you achieve that delicate balance and give you a competitive advantage that both clients and customers can appreciate.

The SERVPRO Difference

Our professionals are uniquely qualified to help in a variety of disaster situations. From assessing flood claims to evaluating fire damage, you can count on our team to not only provide a fair estimate for repairs but also, to make said repairs in a timely and effective manner. Some other reasons clients turn to us are as follows:

• Emergency response to claims
  
• Pretesting claims
  
• Electronic claims information
  
• Superior training
  
• Vendor qualification compliance
  
  

Our professionals strive to make the job of your insurance adjuster as easy as possible, as well as to keep your customers happy. We excel in both aspects by being available to assess damages and make repairs in as timely a manner as possible.

Serving Adjusters and Their Customers

Adjusters are put in the difficult position of having to review and interpret policies before trying to put monetary values on them. SERVPRO strives to make adjusters' jobs slightly easier by making emergency response, loss assessment, damage mitigation and electronic insurance claim files available in as little as 24 hours. Because these franchise professionals handle the work of multiple vendors, it means less time waiting for vendors to respond, communicate and get on the same page, which means less time settling a claim.

Your insurance adjuster has several Eden,UT, emergency response cleanup crews from which to choose, so why choose SERVPRO? The company has a long-standing reputation for obtaining immediate and quality results. When your customers see who your vendor of choice is, they'll know that you're serious about helping them recover their losses, an advantage your competitors don't have.