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Don't Let Rain Ruin Your Day

2/2/2024 (Permalink)

Flooded Street in San Jose Rain causes major flooding in the street

SERVPRO® is a professional restoration and cleaning service that can assist you in the event of rain-related damage to your property. Here are some ways in which SERVPRO can help:

1. **Water Damage Restoration:**
- If your property experiences flooding or water damage due to heavy rain, SERVPRO can provide water extraction services to remove standing water.
- They use advanced equipment such as pumps, dehumidifiers, and air movers to thoroughly dry the affected areas.

2. **Mold Remediation:**
- Excessive rain and moisture can lead to mold growth. SERVPRO offers mold remediation services to assess and address any mold issues in your home or business.

3. **Storm Damage Cleanup:**
- Rainstorms can cause various types of damage, including roof leaks, broken windows, and structural damage. SERVPRO can assist in cleaning up and repairing these damages.

4. **Document Drying:**
- If you have important documents or valuable items that are damaged by rainwater, SERVPRO provides document drying services using specialized techniques to salvage and restore these items.

5. **Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning:**
- Rainwater can soil carpets and upholstery. SERVPRO offers professional cleaning services to restore and refresh these items.

6. **Emergency Response:**
- SERVPRO is available 24/7 for emergency response. If you experience rain-related damage, you can contact them, and they will dispatch a team promptly to assess the situation and begin the restoration process.

7. **Insurance Coordination:**
- SERVPRO can work with your insurance company to streamline the claims process and ensure a smooth and efficient restoration experience.

It's important to note that the specific services offered may vary depending on the franchise location and the nature of the damage. If you are facing rain-related issues, contacting your local SERVPRO office is advisable to discuss your specific needs and receive personalized assistance.

SERVPRO® saves your house

11/22/2023 (Permalink)

Air Movers Our specialized fans can dry out hard to reach corners

At SERVPRO® we specialize in water and fire damage restoration. If you have water damage in your house, here are the general steps they might take to treat and restore the affected areas:

1. **Emergency Contact:**
- Contact SERVPRO® as soon as possible to report the water damage. We have a 24/7 emergency response service.

2. **Inspection and Assessment:**
- Upon arrival, SERVPRO® professionals will inspect the property to assess the extent of the water damage and determine the best course of action.

3. **Water Removal:**
- The first step is to remove standing water from the affected areas. This may involve using powerful pumps and vacuums to extract water from floors, carpets, and other affected surfaces.

4. **Drying and Dehumidification:**
- After removing the visible water, SERVPRO® will use specialized equipment like industrial air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out the remaining moisture. This helps prevent mold growth and secondary damage.

5. **Cleaning and Sanitizing:**
- Once the area is dry, SERVPRO® will clean and sanitize the affected surfaces to eliminate any potential health hazards. This may involve using antimicrobial agents to prevent mold and other contaminants.

6. **Restoration and Repairs:**
- After the water damage is mitigated, SERVPRO® will work on restoring and repairing the affected areas. This may involve replacing damaged drywall, flooring, or other structural elements.

7. **Monitoring:**
- Throughout the process, SERVPRO® professionals will monitor the moisture levels to ensure that the affected areas are properly dried and there are no lingering issues.

8. **Documentation:**
- SERVPRO® will document the entire restoration process, including before-and-after photos and detailed notes. This documentation can be useful for insurance claims.

It's important to note that the specific steps taken may vary depending on the severity and nature of the water damage. Additionally, if the water damage is due to a larger disaster, such as a flood or storm, additional steps may be required.

If you're dealing with water damage, it's crucial to act quickly to minimize the potential for further damage and to increase the likelihood of a successful restoration. Always consult with professionals like SERVPRO® who have experience in water damage restoration.

Be Prepared with our Emergency Readiness Program (ERP)

10/26/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO®'s Emergency Readiness Profile (ERP) is a valuable tool for businesses and homeowners alike. By creating an ERP, you are taking proactive steps to minimize downtime, increase efficiency, and mitigate damages in the event of a disaster or emergency situation. Here are some benefits of SERVPRO®'s Emergency Readiness Profile:

1. Preparedness:
- Customized Plan: SERVPRO®'s ERP is tailored to your specific property, outlining the exact steps to take in case of an emergency.
- Quick Access to Information: All critical information, such as shut-off valve locations and emergency contacts, is readily available, saving time during a crisis.

2. Minimized Downtime:
- Faster Response: With the ERP in place, SERVPRO® can respond more quickly, minimizing the damage and reducing downtime for your business operations.
- Prioritized Action: The ERP helps prioritize what is important for your business, ensuring that the most critical areas are addressed promptly.

3. Cost Savings:
- Mitigating Damages: Timely response and action, as outlined in the ERP, can prevent extensive damages, saving you money on restoration and repair costs.
- Insurance Benefits: Having an ERP can make the insurance claims process smoother and potentially lead to lower premiums due to proactive risk management.

4. Peace of Mind:
- Confidence in Emergency Situations: Knowing that you have a well-thought-out plan in place can provide peace of mind, especially during stressful emergency situations.
- Professional Guidance: SERVPRO® professionals provide expertise and guidance, ensuring your emergency plan is comprehensive and effective.

 5. Collaboration and Communication:
- Clear Communication: The ERP ensures that all stakeholders are on the same page, facilitating clear communication during emergencies.
- Collaborative Approach: Businesses and SERVPRO® can collaborate effectively, streamlining the restoration process and ensuring a quicker recovery.

6. Compliance and Safety:
- Compliance: Helps in compliance with local regulations and safety standards, ensuring your business meets all the necessary requirements.
- Employee Safety: Clearly defined safety procedures in the ERP help protect employees and occupants during emergencies.

7. Customized Solutions:
- Tailored to Your Needs: Each ERP is customized to the specific needs and layout of your property, ensuring that all unique aspects are considered in the emergency plan.

In summary, SERVPRO®'s Emergency Readiness Profile offers peace of mind, cost savings, and efficient, well-coordinated emergency response. It’s an investment in preparedness that can make a significant difference in the outcomes during an emergency or disaster situation.

SERVPRO® and Insurance

10/3/2023 (Permalink)

Water Damage Cut Drying out the structure to prevent mold.

At SERVPRO®, we often work closely with insurance agencies to help individuals and businesses recover from such events. Here's how SERVPRO typically works with insurance agencies:

 **First Response and Assessment:** When a disaster occurs, the property owner contacts their insurance company. The insurance company might recommend or directly contact SERVPRO. SERVPRO responds quickly to assess the damage. They document the damage and create a plan for restoration, including estimating the costs involved.

 **Coordination and Communication:** SERVPRO communicates directly with the insurance company to discuss the restoration plan and the associated costs. They provide detailed documentation of the damage, including photographs, which is crucial for insurance claims processing.

**Approval and Authorization:** Once the restoration plan and cost estimate are agreed upon between SERVPRO and the insurance company, the restoration work begins. The insurance company authorizes the work based on the provided estimates.

 **Restoration Process:** SERVPRO carries out the restoration work, which can include cleaning, repairing, and rebuilding damaged areas. They use specialized equipment and techniques to ensure efficient and effective restoration.

 **Continuous Updates:** SERVPRO provides regular updates to the insurance company throughout the restoration process. This helps the insurance company keep track of the progress and ensures that the work is being done as per the agreed plan.

 **Completion and Verification:** Once the restoration work is completed, SERVPRO verifies the restoration with the property owner. They ensure that the property is restored to its preloss condition or better. Verification may also involve obtaining the property owner's approval of the completed work.

 **Billing and Payment:** SERVPRO sends the invoice to the insurance company for payment. The insurance company processes the invoice and settles the payment directly with SERVPRO.

 **Customer Satisfaction:** SERVPRO focuses on customer satisfaction, ensuring that the property owner is happy with the restoration results. They may conduct follow-up surveys or inspections to confirm customer satisfaction.

By working closely with insurance agencies, SERVPRO helps streamline the restoration process for the property owner. This collaboration ensures that the property is restored efficiently and that the insurance claim is processed smoothly, benefiting both the insured party and the insurance company.

How SERVPRO® Can Help With A Water Leak

9/27/2023 (Permalink)

Water Extracting Floormats and Fans SERVPRO uses state of the art equipment to remove and dry water from flooring.

SERVPRO® is the national leader in water damage restoration and cleanup services. We are known for their expertise in handling various types of water damage situations, from minor leaks to major floods. Here's how SERVPRO can help with water damage:

1. Emergency Response: SERVPRO offers 24/7 emergency services, meaning we can respond to your water damage situation quickly. Water damage can worsen rapidly, so a fast response is crucial to minimize the damage and prevent mold growth.

2. Assessment and Inspection: Upon arrival, SERVPRO technicians will assess the extent of the water damage. We use specialized equipment to determine the moisture levels in affected areas and identify hidden sources of water.

3. Water Extraction: The first step in the restoration process is removing excess water from the affected area. SERVPRO uses powerful pumps and extraction equipment to efficiently remove water from carpets, flooring, walls, and other surfaces.

4. Drying and Dehumidification: After water extraction, SERVPRO employs industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the affected area thoroughly. Proper drying is essential to prevent mold growth and structural damage.

5. Cleaning and Sanitizing: SERVPRO technicians clean and sanitize affected surfaces and belongings to prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and odors. We use antimicrobial treatments and specialized cleaning products as needed.

6. Mold Remediation: If mold is present or suspected, SERVPRO can perform mold remediation services to safely remove and prevent its return. We follow industry guidelines and use appropriate techniques and products to ensure a mold-free environment.

7. Restoration and Repairs: Once the affected area is dry and clean, SERVPRO can begin the process of restoring your property. This may include repairing or replacing damaged materials such as drywall, flooring, and insulation.

8. Content Restoration: SERVPRO offers content restoration services, including the cleaning and restoration of furniture, documents, electronics, and personal belongings damaged by water.

9. Insurance Assistance: SERVPRO can work directly with your insurance company to facilitate the claims process, providing documentation and estimates to ensure a smooth and efficient reimbursement process.

10. Monitoring and Documentation: Throughout the restoration process, SERVPRO monitors moisture levels to ensure that the affected area is properly dried and documented. This helps provide evidence of the restoration process for insurance purposes.

11. Preventative Measures: SERVPRO can offer recommendations and solutions to prevent future water damage, such as sump pump installation, waterproofing, and maintenance tips.

SERVPRO is a valuable resource when it comes to dealing with water damage. Our trained and certified technicians use specialized equipment and industry best practices to efficiently restore your property to its pre-damage condition. Whether it's a small leak or a major flood, SERVPRO has the expertise and resources to handle the situation and mitigate further damage.

What is Category 3 Water Damage?

12/5/2022 (Permalink)

flood waters overtake house Sewage and flooding are considered Category 3.

Water damage can be devastating to your Cambrian Park, CA home, but it's important to remember that there are different types of water damage. There are 3 different categories of water damage. Category 3 water damage is the worst kind, but fortunately for you, you've found this article! Here's what category 3 water damage is and how to deal with it.

What is Category 3 Water Damage?

Category 3 water is water that is highly unsanitary and contains pathogenic agents. This includes bacteria, viruses, and other types of pathogens that can cause sickness. Category 3 water is common to see after a sewage loss.

Can I clean it on my own?

No. You should never attempt to clean up category 3 water damage on your own, without the help of a professional. Doing so can result in further damage to your home and belongings, and can be harmful without the proper protective gear. As with any type of water loss, attempting to clean water damage on your own can also spread mold spores throughout your home or business.

Call a professional right away

You should call a professional contractor right away to help you clean up the mess, determine the extent of the damage and decide what to do next.

If you don't act quickly and properly, mold can grow in as little as 48 hours after water damage has occurred. Waiting to act can also pose a risk to the people on your property. You don't want to be dealing with this problem on your own--it's important that you hire a certified company that specializes in water extraction and mold remediation services.

Will my insurance cover my losses?

If you have insurance and believe the damage was caused by a flood, you should file a claim with your insurer. However, even if you don't have insurance coverage for flooding or water damage, it's still possible to receive financial assistance from FEMA.

For more information about filing a claim with your insurer, contact them directly. If possible, make sure to gather documentation for all of your losses before filing the claim such as photos and receipts for damaged property. Companies such as SERVPRO can take care of the entire claims process for you.

Conclusion

Category 3 water damage is a serious matter and can be extremely costly. The best way to avoid this disaster is by knowing what to look for and acting quickly. If you do find yourself in this situation, contact SERVPRO of Los Gatos/ Monte Sereno immediately so that they can help with the cleaning process as soon as possible! Our team has the expertise and experience necessary to handle a water loss of any size.

Does My Carpet Have To Be Replaced?

11/7/2022 (Permalink)

Carpet folded, vacuum extractor, water under carpet If your carpet has been damaged by water you should remove it as soon as possible.

Do You Need to Replace Carpets After Water Damage?

If you've ever left your water running in the kitchen and then come back to find it's been leaking for hours, you know how bad a small water leak can get. When this happens, you may think about replacing the damaged area of the carpet or repairing it yourself. You may also consider simply ripping it out and starting over with new flooring altogether. However, there are more than a few things that go into deciding whether or not to replace your carpet after water damage occurs. 

How much damage has been done?

The first step is figuring out how much damage has been done. What caused the water damage? How much water was involved? How long were your carpets wet and how long have they been dry? The longer it takes for them to dry, the more likely there will be permanent damage to the carpet fibers.

The amount of time that has passed since water damage occurred also plays a role in whether or not you need to replace your carpeting. If you can't remember when this happened, there are other ways you can determine whether or not it's too late:

What caused the water damage?

  • Flooding: Storm drains getting backed up due to heavy rains and snowmelt outside, or excessive rain can result in your home flooding. These types of incidents shouldn’t be taken lightly; they can lead to serious mold growth and structural damage if not addressed quickly.
  • Burst pipes: Sometimes water damage is just an accident—it's the result of a burst pipe or other plumbing issue in your home. If you notice your home has developed a leak, turn off the main valve immediately so that no more water flows through the pipe until it can be repaired by professionals. 
  • Water damage due to roof leak: Another common cause for unexpected damage? Roofs leaking after heavy rainstorms or snowmelt events can result in a ton of structural damage and standing water inside your home.

Dry it out within 24-48 hours.

The good news is that most carpets can be saved if they are dried out within 48 hours. The bad news is that if you don't take steps to dry it quickly, your carpet will begin to smell and mold can begin to form underneath the carpet. And once that happens, the only way to get rid of the odor is by replacing your carpet entirely.

So what can you do? Start with this: If there was water damage from flooding or leaking pipes or even a burst pipe in your home or business, it's important not to let the wet area sit too long before starting the drying process—especially if you live in an area where mildew and mold are prevalent. Calling your local water cleanup expert as quickly as possible after a water loss is crucial if you want to save your carpets.

Replace or remove?

You will need to consider whether the carpet can be cleaned, or if it is damaged beyond repair.

If it is wet and moldy, remove the carpet as soon as possible. Wet or moldy carpets are not salvageable and should be removed from your home as soon as possible. The same goes for any instance where physical damage has occurred—whether from flooding or simply being walked on in an unclean state. The longer you leave these carpets in place, the more likely they are to become infested with bacteria and other harmful substances that can cause problems.

Mold is often difficult to completely remove from carpeting because it grows deep within the fibers of the material which makes it harder to reach with cleaners designed specifically for cleaning carpets. If your carpet is already damaged by mold or mildew then replacing your carpet might be necessary.

Call a professional right away.

If your home in Los Gatos, CA, has experienced water damage, it is possible to salvage the carpet. Call a professional right away. Professional water cleanup experts will remove the water, dirt, and bacteria that are responsible for odors and unsightly stains. The professionals will also help prevent mold and mildew from forming on your carpet while they're working on it. They'll also make sure that any permanent damage is prevented by following industry-standard procedures when they clean your carpets so you can save money in the long run by avoiding replacement costs!

How Do I Create an Office Fire Escape Plan?

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

Map route. Fire escape plan A fire escape plan is essential for commercial buildings and offices.

What Should a Fire Escape Plan for an Office Look Like?

Creating a fire escape plan for your Los Gatos office is crucial. In fact, it's one of the most important things you can do as an employer. But how does one go about doing that? Well, there are a few things you should keep in mind when creating an office fire escape plan:

Having a fire escape plan for your office is crucial!

If you have a commercial building, having a fire escape plan is absolutely crucial. As a matter of fact, it's the law! When it comes to commercial buildings and business owners, there are many different factors that influence your decision about what type of plan you need.

As with any aspect of business, it's important to be aware of local laws and ordinances regarding your chosen industry. This will ensure that if something happens (like an accident or an emergency), you're in compliance with local and state regulations. In general, though, when creating plans for any kind of commercial building:

  • Have multiple exits from every room and floor
  • Make sure that all employees know where these exits are located
  • Plan accordingly if there's only one way out (such as through windows)

When it comes to creating an office fire escape plan, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

When it comes to creating an office fire escape plan, there are a few things you should keep in mind. An easy-to-follow and clearly visible plan is essential to ensure that all employees know how to safely get out of the building. The plan should be practiced regularly so everyone knows where the exits are located and how to use them, as well as which exit is appropriate for their situation if they have questions about what action to take at any given moment.

Your plan should include two ways out of every room so people can still get out even if one way becomes blocked or unsafe during an emergency situation. It's also important that all employees are included in this process—even those who work remotely or don't spend much time in the office—and not just office staff; everyone needs clear instructions on when and where they should go following a fire alarm or other emergency situation.

A good fire escape plan is essential for commercial buildings.

Imagine this scenario: You're at work, sitting behind your desk. Suddenly, there's a fire in the building and everyone starts to panic.

You've never even thought about what you would do in such an emergency situation! Do you know where the exits are? Do you know where they're located? Can you find them quickly enough if necessary?

If not, then chances are that if there were ever an emergency of any kind at your place of business (and it could happen), then this lack of knowledge might make things even worse for everyone involved. Your inability to escape will cause more confusion and chaos for those around you--and ultimately put people's lives at risk as well as damage property or equipment. This is why creating an office fire escape plan is so important for commercial buildings—it helps ensure that everyone knows exactly what their role will be during emergencies like these, so no one gets hurt or injured unnecessarily.

A fire escape plan is essential for commercial buildings and offices. It should be regularly reviewed so you can make changes, when necessary, but it's also important to have a copy of the plan on hand at all times in case of emergencies.

A Brief Guide to Various Types of Household Mold

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth on wall Mold damage in Cambrian Park, CA.

Mold growth comes in many forms. No matter what kind you have, it needs to be removed by mold renovation specialists. Here's a look at some different types of molds you might encounter in Cambrian Park, CA.

Mold Classifications

Harmful molds fall into three categories:

  1. Allergenic
  2. Pathogenic
  3. Toxigenic

Each of these classes is characterized by a unique set of negative effects. In every case, you must act with haste to prevent mold's spread.

Mold Types
Scientists recognize a dozen types of mold. An awareness of them should make dealing with your specific situation easier. Some common ones are below.
Acremonium is a toxigenic type of mold growth with an appearance that evolves over time. It begins as a small, moist fungus and slowly transforms into a powdery mess. It typically appears in areas with condensation.
Chaetomium is a form of mold often found in homes where there has been water damage. It features a cottony texture and is accompanied by a distinct odor. Over time, its color changes from white to grey, then to brown, and finally black.
Cladosporium appears in areas with both high humidity and cold conditions. This fungus often feeds on carpets and upholstery. You may find it under floorboards or in cupboards.
Aspergillus is extremely common. Another allergenic, aspergillus comes in many colors. Its spores connect into long chains that build thick layers.
Fusarium is both toxigenic and allergenic. Sometimes found growing on food, it's able to thrive in frigid temperatures. Colors range from white to pink and a variety of reds. This type of mold can spread particularly fast.
Mucor blossoms in thick patches. It can often be found near air conditioning systems where condensation is present. It is able to be easily identified by its distinctive greyish or white color.
No type of mold growth can be eliminated without the right attention. Knowing the exact type of mold you have is bound to prove helpful.

Are Flood Waters Dangerous?

8/20/2022 (Permalink)

Green SERVPRO van in a neighborhood Call SERVPRO of Los Gatos / Monte Sereno right away if you need help with flood damage restoration.

Flood Damage Often Brings Contamination into your Home. SERVPRO Provides Licensed Restoration for Los Gatos Residents

Floodwaters typically contact soils, chemicals, and pathogens before reaching your home. These contaminants can be hazardous. Our roster of licensed technicians can restore your home to a safe, sanitary condition.

Cross-contamination is a common byproduct of Flood Damage for Los Gatos residents that requires professional assessment and cleaning. Typical contaminants may include human pathogens, viruses, bacteria, herbicides, or pesticides. These contaminants must be removed from the property to ensure it remains inhabitable. Specific regulations and laws govern contaminated items or wastewater. SERVPRO is a licensed flood restoration service that can expertly assess and restore your home after a flood. We have experience working in severe storms and flood recovery operations and working under hygienists and indoor environmental specialists' guidance. Together, we can return your home to a pre-accident condition.

  • We can cut out contaminated drywall from a flooded property and replace it with clean drywall and, where necessary, insulation. 
  • Our flood pumps can pass the solid waste to ensure that your property is drained quickly after a flood or storm event.
  • Using the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards, our technicians can restore your home to a sanitary state.