Content Cleaning And Fire Damage

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

The best way to clean your home after fire damage is to call SERVPRO of Deltona North

Content Cleaning And Fire Damage

Smoke and Soot Damage on Your Things

Smoke and soot damage is more than just a smell. It can leave behind a residue that can stain and discolor your possessions. When left untreated, smoke and soot can cause permanent damage to your belongings. Contents Restoration involves the restoration of your personal belongings damaged by smoke, fire, or water.

SERVPRO of Deltona North provides complete contents cleaning for homes, businesses, schools, and other structures that have sustained fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO has over 1,700 Franchises across the U.S. that are ready to respond 24 hours a day with cost-effective emergency services.

Dry Cleaning Can Remove Odor and Stains

Dry cleaning is not a true cleaning method. It is used to remove stains and odors from fabrics, clothing, upholstery, and other materials. To clean with dry cleaning the surface must be free of oils and dirt, or it will not work properly.

Dry cleaning often works when surface cleaning does not work. If a high pH chemical cleaner has been applied to the item, it cannot be dry cleaned. If there is still a strong smoky odor in the item after cleaning, dry cleaning may remove it. It will take longer to get the items back (1 week).

Dry cleaning involves applying a chemical solvent to the fabric that penetrates into the fabric and removes soil. A solvent such as perchloroethylene (PERC) is then used as a carrier for the chemical solvent into which it dissolves oils/dirt on contact with them - carrying them away from the item being cleaned. After this process has been completed it usually requires air drying before use again because PERC can leave behind an oily film on some fabrics if not removed completely during drying - especially in humid areas such as Florida!

Ultrasonic Cleaning for Non-porous Items

Ultrasonic cleaning is a gentle, non-abrasive way to clean non-porous items. It uses water and detergent to remove smoke odor from non-porous items.

Ultrasonic cleaning uses sound waves to create microscopic bubbles in a cleaning solution that simultaneously penetrates crevices and loosens dirt particles. The force of these bubbles mechanically cleans the surface while they break down grime and residue as they bounce away. This ensures thorough cleaning while also being gentle on your belongings.

The solution combines water with an appropriate solvent base. A probe is introduced into the solution where it creates microscopic bubbles that boost surface tension at the point of contact between the probe and the surface being cleaned. This creates enough energy to dislodge dirt particles without damaging any delicate surfaces. The combination of moisture in the air and these tiny bubbles lifts grime off hard surfaces without requiring scouring or scrubbing them down with brushes or cloths that could scratch delicate objects like porcelain figurines or glassware pieces.

The best way to clean your home or business after fire damage is to call SERVPRO of Deltona North. We will come out and help you get back on track with the clean-up process.

Filing Insurance Claims of Business Damaged by Storm: How to do it?

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Interested in emergency storm damage restoration? SERVPRO of West Volusia is nearby to help you, no matter how big or small the job, we’re here 24/7!

Is your business damaged or disrupted by a storm, fire, or other insured calamity? 

Dealing with the aftermath of a storm is likely to put your business under extreme stress, which may be difficult to manage without the help of a professional team to make the commercial storm damage cleanup.

Your insurance provider will either send you a proof of loss form to fill out yourself or set up an appointment for an insurance adjuster to evaluate the site and walk you through the claims procedure after you report a claim.

Adjusters are professionally qualified and licensed to assess damage, and different sorts of claims may necessitate the expertise of different claims adjusters, so you may be assigned to more than one adjuster.

You might have a claims professional examine structural damage and a content specialist assist with personal property loss, for example. There may also be a different claims adjuster if you have flood insurance or separate wind damage coverage through a state-run insurance pool.

The adjuster (or adjusters) will analyze the facts and your policy to assess coverage, and you will be asked to acquire repair estimates as part of the claims process. The more detail you can provide regarding the damage, the faster your claim will be resolved.

The six stages below will assist you in preparing for the claims process:

1. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

If you've evacuated or are unable to reside in your home, make sure your insurance provider knows how to contact you. To begin the claims procedure, customers can contact their insurer by phone, Internet, or mobile app. If available, include your insurance number, loss location, cell phone number, and backup contacts. If at all feasible, try to meet the claims adjuster at your home or place of business, assuming it is safe to do so.

2. Make any necessary immediate repairs and lock up your home.

Take actions to safeguard your property, prevent further damage, and shorten the time it may take to restore it even before the adjuster comes, such as making acceptable interim repairs to avoid further damage and securing features such as windows, doors, and roofs as needed.

Before planning for a commercial storm damage cleanup, the insurance agent should first see the damage, don't make any unneeded repairs to the property because it may cause more damage or harm to you or your family. 

3. Gather important business documents.

Gather any relevant business records you'll need to substantiate the value of any damaged equipment, inventory, or structures you're including in your commercial insurance claim.

You'll need proof of income the business was generating both before and after the interruption began for business income (also known as business interruption) claims, so gather all of your financial documents, including tax returns, monthly sales tax returns, business contracts, budgets, financial statements, and other documents relevant to calculating the projected income of your business.

The amount of lost business income can then be calculated in collaboration with your insurance.

4. Keep track of all the costs associated with protecting or repairing your business. If your company is forced to close, you will need to submit information on the cost of operating from a temporary site, accurate records of business activities, and a list of expenses that have persisted while your company has been suspended, such as advertising, utilities, and so on. Loss or damage to automobiles, vans, trucks, or specialized vehicles that could jeopardize your ability to conduct business should also be reported.

5. Photograph any debris or destroyed things, and check with your insurance company to see if the debris may be removed.

In general, you should hold off on throwing away any damaged things until the claims adjuster arrives. If you must dispose of some goods, notify your insurance company and photograph or record the damage before discarding the items. Many insurers now accept photographic evidence via the internet.

If you are allowed to remove any debris, you may need a professional team to help you with this, you might want to reach out to the nearest team to start the storm damage restoration of your home or business place.

6. Be organized.

Keep the insurance claim number, adjuster and other insurance company contact information, images of the damage, receipts, repair bills, and estimates. Keep all of your papers organized so you can quickly refer to it if you have any queries.

You can verify the progress of your claim with your insurer by phone or online once you've reported it. You can view claim information, register for direct deposit of qualified claim payments on qualified losses, submit documents, and communicate with your claims adjuster via an online account.

Conclusion

The financial protection you've acquired may come to depend on the survival of the firm you've worked so hard to develop, which is why getting business insurance properly is so vital and so is finding the right company to help you with storm damage restoration.

Glad we have SERVPRO of West Volusia nearby to help you, get in touch immediately through our contact, no matter how big or small the job may be, we’re here 24/7!

5 Causes of Fires in Commercial Buildings and How to Prevent Them

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

It’s important to act fast when there’s a fire on a commercial property. Call for commercial fire damage restoration to prevent further damage.

All types of businesses are susceptible to fire hazards. Whether you operate from a small office space, have employees who come into work daily, or have special processes that involve chemicals and flammable liquids, your workplace is at risk of catching on fire. These fires may be minor, or they may be so large they result in serious injury or death. It’s important that you understand the top causes of these types of fires so you can take precautions against them before they happen.

Unattended Equipment

While people may not intend to leave a piece of equipment on without supervision, it happens. Industrial fans, manufacturing machines, and power tools are examples of equipment that often starts fires when left unattended. Other times, fires also start when people are using equipment incorrectly and spark a nearby combustible material.

Faulty Electrical Equipment

Faulty wiring, bad connections, and loose appliances are all common causes of electrical fires. To reduce the risk of electrical fires, make sure to have them checked and serviced regularly. 

Poor Working Conditions and Poor Maintenance of Equipment and Facilities

Poor working conditions often result from not following proper safety procedures or from employees not taking the proper precautions. Poor maintenance of equipment and facilities, such as haphazard cleaning and poor housekeeping, is another common cause of commercial fires.

Incorrect Storage of Materials

Incorrect storage can often lead to small fires that you may not even be aware of. However, these small fires can quickly turn into large blazes if left unchecked. To reduce the risk of commercial fires caused by incorrect storage of materials, make sure to store combustible materials away from heat sources.

Employees Smoking in Prohibited Areas

It may seem like no big deal to sneak a smoke in a storage room, but it can quickly turn into a disaster. If the smoking materials ignite a flammable material, you could have a major fire on your hands. Make sure that you have a zero-tolerance policy against smoking in prohibited areas in your building.

What to do if your building catches fire?

It’s important to act fast when there’s a fire on a commercial property. Look for fire damage restoration companies near me so commercial fire damage restoration will be accomplished as soon as possible. When disaster happens, it is best to leave it to professionals.

Conclusion

Fire can destroy a building and everything in it in a matter of minutes. To protect your business, you should be aware of the common causes of fires and take precautions against them. The next time you find yourself in a commercial building, keep an eye out for faulty wiring, dusty ducts, and flammable materials. Moreover, make sure your building follows all codes and standards set by the National Fire Protection Association. Nevertheless, if you encounter fire in your building, call for a commercial fire damage restoration as soon as possible. Make sure to look for fire damage restoration companies near me to find the closest cleanup and restoration professional in your area.

Here Are The Top 3 Effects of Mold in a Commercial Building

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Mold is a major contributor to the decomposition of a building and, if left untreated, can cause heavy damage to a commercial property.

Mold is a major contributor to the decomposition of a building and, if left untreated, can cause heavy damage to a commercial property in Volusia County. It does not take much for fungus to thrive and begin consuming the natural construction materials that compose the building. Favorable materials for fungus include:

• Drywall
• Concrete
• Insulation
• Wood

Your HVAC system can contribute to the spread of these harmful airborne particles if it is not routinely inspected and serviced. HVAC cleaning includes removing dirt and grime from the condenser unit and dust from air ducts. Here are three effects of mold on the natural construction materials of a building:

1. Rotting Wood
Mold functions as a cleaning agent for the wild by decomposing rotting substances. Your commercial building provides it the necessary nutrients to survive. Paired with a humid and dark environment, the wooden structure will give mold spores an opportunity to grow into colonies.

2. Mildew Odor
Mold spores will travel through your HVAC system and circulate into the rooms. They can also feed off the dust accumulated in the air ducts. When mold grows inside of the ducts, a musty smell will spread throughout the building every time the system turns on. HVAC cleaning is a preventative measure that should be added to the routine maintenance plans of your commercial building. This will decrease the number of mold spores that circulate, lessening the chances of a greater fungus problem.

3. Decomposition of Drywall
Drywall is another source of nutrition for mold. It is especially attractive for fungus because it provides a dark environment. If water from leaks or humidity dampens the drywall, it will meet all the criteria for it to grow. The problem may go unnoticed until it develops on the surface of the wall. In this case, the drywall is irreparable and must be replaced.
A mold problem can be avoided by hiring a professional HVAC cleaning service to improve the air quality of your commercial building. Frequently cleaning vents and using good air filters will also decrease the chances of microbial growth.

There is Water in My Retail Store, Who Do I Turn to for Help?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

After a water loss incident in a retail store, it is imperative to clean it up properly, so it does not turn into a breeding ground for mold.

Contact a Company that Performs Commercial Water Removal

Water loss in a retail store can happen because of several reasons, such as overflowing sinks, burst pipes, and a leaking roof. Your retail store can suffer immediate losses in terms of destruction to electronic equipment, merchandise, and fixtures. The water can also seep up walls into insulation and other structural materials.

How Can I Prevent Further Losses?

Water damage can cause you to incur longer-term losses such as lost business because of the time your store remains shut for cleanup and restoration. To prevent additional losses, you need to start the process of commercial water removal as soon as possible. At SERVPRO, we understand business operations, and we have served different commercial clients for many years. We know our way around retail stores and other business premises. Some benefits of working with us include:

•     Round the clock availability.
•     Courteous and helpful water damage restoration technicians (WRTs).
•     Advanced water removal equipment to handle water extraction projects of any size.
•     Complete water removal and drying services.
•     Thorough cleaning and decontamination using EPA-approved products.
•     Working with your insurance company.

How Do You Conduct the Water Removal Process?

Our technicians conduct an assessment to know which steps to take to remove the water and dry a property quickly. During the process, our technicians do the following:

•     Look out for safety hazards like falling stock, uneven flooring, and ruined electrical wiring.
•     Determine what caused the water loss and take steps to prevent further leaking. 
•     Determine the most appropriate and effective strategy for cleaning up your property. 

After a water loss incident in a retail store, it is imperative to clean it up properly, so it does not turn into a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms. Our SERVPRO team can extract the water efficiently using electric submersible pumps, which offer continuous and quiet operation. 

We can also inventory the salvageable items, equipment, and fixtures and move them to our facilities for proper drying and restoration. Our team can also get rid of debris and unsalvageable items, including furnishings and structural items.

We can then place structural drying equipment like air movers and desiccant dehumidifiers throughout your store to dry the affected areas thoroughly. Air movers expedite the drying of surfaces like flooring and enhance air circulation of the whole indoor space. Desiccant dehumidifiers use chemicals called desiccants, which absorb moisture from the air dehumidifiers process readily. 

When a water loss problem occurs in your retail store, you can trust SERVPRO of West Volusia to remove the water and dry the business premises. Contact us any time at (386) 574-0864.

SERVPRO Protects Businesses in DeLand from Flood Damage

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

The restoration process after flood damage involves meticulous planning and spot-on execution to restore your DeLand commercial space.

Why You Need Professional Restorers for Flood Damage Restoration of your DeLand Commercial Property

Water cleanup after flood damage at your commercial property in DeLand can be a difficult and time-consuming process. Seeking immediate help from SERVPRO can save you a lot of time and headache dealing with the aftermath of flood loss. Our technicians are available 24/7, and We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

The restoration process after flood damage involves meticulous planning and spot-on execution to restore your DeLand commercial space to preloss condition. SERVPRO experts have the experience, training, and equipment to get the job done. 

What Steps do SERVPRO Techs Take During Flood Restoration at DeLand Properties? 

SERVPRO experts carry out the flood restoration in many steps-

• Establish engineering controls- Include building containment and establishing negative pressure to limit exposure to unaffected parts during the water cleanup process
• Remove water- Excess water from carpets and other flooring is extracted with truck-mounted or portable extractors and wet vacuums.
• Provide Humidity Control- Dehumidifiers and air movers control the humidity to minimize potential secondary damage and microbial amplification.
• Decontamination of salvageable material- We use pressure washing, wet cleaning, and HEPA vacuuming to clean the damaged material. SERVPRO technicians also use antimicrobials and disinfectants to decontaminate surfaces and materials

Call SERVPRO of West Volusia at (386) 574-0864 for a fast and efficient flood damage restoration service.

Fire Safety Best Practices For Commercial Buildings

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Having the proper fire safety practices in place can potentially save your business from a disastrous fire.

Here are a few fire-safety tips focused on keeping the workplace safe.

1. Keep your workplace clean and organized. Mess contributes to fires by providing more fuel to the flames and by limiting access to exits and emergency equipment.
2. Place all oily/chemical covered rags in a seal-able metal container. Dispose of this waste on a regular basis.
3. Keep machinery on an appropriate maintenance schedule and keep to it, to prevent overheating and sparks.
4. Report all electrical hazards immediately faulty wiring is a common cause of fires along with and malfunctioning electrical equipment. Never attempt electrical repairs unless you are qualified and authorized.
5. Have easy access to all electrical control panels. Clutter and equipment stored in front of the panels slow down your ability to shut down the power in emergencies.
6. Use and store chemicals safely. Read the label and the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) to determine if the substances are flammable or hazardous in any way. Provide proper ventilation when using and storing these substances.
7. Smoke only in designated areas and extinguish smoking materials safely and thoroughly. Never smoke in storerooms or chemical storage areas. Never exposes areas containing chemicals to open flames of any variety.
8. Never block sprinklers, firefighting equipment, or emergency exits.
9. Have an emergency information list near telephones. The list should include emergency numbers, company address, and fire evacuation plans.
10. Learn the location of all fire extinguishers and how to properly use them.

How Often Do Businesses Need a Deep Cleaning Service and Why?

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial building interior.

Your employees have every reason to expect clean surroundings. Many commercial buildings have employees working in the building, who track dirt and grime into buildings on their shoes and clothes every single day.

If you don't clean your office space regularly, it will become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. For instance, mold can develop in almost any part of commercial structures, particularly in moist places such as air ducts or drip pans. This is extremely harmful to our health. There's even a name for sickness caused by a dirty building environment. It’s called the Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). According to the Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sick Building Syndrome increases sickness absenteeism and causes a decrease in the productivity of the workers.

Therefore, commercial buildings require a commercial building cleaning service whenever possible. The reason why it is important is that regular cleaning alone doesn't properly eliminate bacteria growth and malodors.

How often does your office need a deep clean?

Generally, providers of commercial building restoration services recommend deep cleaning services every quarter. However, the frequency of commercial building cleanings depends on the size and condition of each office space.

For instance, in offices where people work with their hands such as construction sites or manufacturing facilities, there is a greater risk of developing skin problems and disease since the germs can be spread more easily. In this case, companies should schedule commercial building restoration services more often than other industries.

What can you expect from a deep cleaning service?

Deep cleaning requires specific skills and application methods different from regular cleaning. 

Deep cleaning services usually involve:

• Ceilings, walls, and hard floors
• Drapes and blinds
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism
• Trauma and Crime Scene

How do you know it's time to schedule for a deep clean?

This will depend on the situation and setup of your business. The greatest advice is to pay attention to your clients and staff. You might believe your cleaning routine is sufficient as it is. But what matters most is the condition of your facilities. When you hire an expert provider of commercial building cleaning service, they will help assess the condition of your office spaces and let you know when deep cleaning is needed. You can schedule quarterly or monthly deep cleaning services with them depending on the size of each office space.

Make cleanliness a priority in your business.

Building cleanliness matters to your employees, customers, and visitors alike. When the atmosphere is clean, it contributes to a positive working environment that increases productivity. Good hygiene also helps create an impression of professionalism for potential clients or business partners who visit the office spaces on special occasions such as presentations or seminars where first impressions matter most.

Find a reputable commercial cleaning company that takes deep cleaning as seriously as you do. This way you can get back to business as usual with cleaner office spaces that are ready to greet your employees and clients alike.

Ways to Repair Water Damaged Electronics

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Phones may not turn on after being water damaged.

After investing heavily in the equipment and technology that keep your business in action, flooded electronics and the ensuing water damage can feel overwhelming. Is it possible to repair the damage on your own? 

Corrosion Damage

One of the most serious causes of damage is the corrosion caused by hidden moisture. The combination of metal, water, and oxygen creates an iron oxide or rust. This gradually breaks down the metals within your equipment. The damage may be apparent within a few hours, but it could also take days before you notice it. The damage to flooded electronics isn't limited to your equipment. Your outlets, circuit interrupters, light switches, timers, and other wired conveniences often experience electronic damage. 

Removing Corrosion

As you begin cleaning up after water damage, carefully consider the risks. It is possible and often very likely that you'll cause further damage to the equipment, and you could put yourself at risk of injury. Some solutions sold for rust removal aren't appropriate for all kinds of technology. 

• Unplug the device and remove batteries. Be aware of exposed connectors that may be fragile or affected by corrosion.
• Watch out for white or green buildup on charging ports or battery, SIM card, and metal connectors. These are areas of corrosion.
• Use cotton swabs or a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution to wash off the corrosion. The cleaning solution may be a mix of baking soda and water, vinegar, or isopropyl alcohol. If the corrosion doesn't come off with gently wiping, you may need to let the solution sit on the area and wipe it off later.
• Allow the electronics to dry completely before plugging it in or replacing batteries. Do not use a heated hair dryer on equipment. 

The best step for cleaning your electronics is to contact a professional,. You risk doing further damage to the equipment, suffering from injuries, and voiding insurance coverage or equipment warranties when you DIY this task. Keep these risks in mind before trying to clean corrosion from flooded electronics on your own.

Why Mold Grows in HVAC Air Ducts

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

You can find mold growth in the humid and dark areas of your HVAC system.

Mold can grow in most areas of commercial buildings in DeLand, Florida, especially if they provide the right conditions. Its effects are dangerous for building materials, causing severe damage if left untreated. HVAC systems circulate mold around the building and provide the humid conditions it needs to thrive. HVAC cleaning is especially important for commercial buildings to prevent the growth of unwanted mold.

The Conditions for Mold Growth in HVAC Systems

You can find mold growth in the humid and dark areas of your HVAC system, such as:

• The drip pan
• The AC evaporator coils
• The air ducts

Mold thrives in moist environmental conditions where it can find a host with the right nutrients. The dust in the ducts provides mold with nutrients and the dark, humid environment gives it the preferable conditions to grow. If the drip pan and AC evaporator coil are not cleaned regularly, they can also provide fungus the essential conditions for growth. It is important to conduct routine HVAC cleaning to prevent these parts from becoming worn or damaged.

Mold Prevention for HVAC Systems
To prevent mold growth on HVAC systems, make sure the air filters are routinely cleaned or replaced. HEPA filters are capable of filtering out the smallest air particles, making them ideal for filtering mold spores. Regular professional HVAC maintenance is also an essential part of mold prevention. It is recommended that this be done twice a year for commercial buildings. Routinely inspect your HVAC system for mold on air vents. Cleaning vents regularly will also prevent additional mold particles from circulating through your HVAC system.
Regular HVAC cleaning is necessary for mold prevention for commercial buildings and should be done by a professional mold cleaning service at least twice a year. If you have mold damage in your building, it is likely the mold is traveling through your HVAC system. Good filtration and regular maintenance can prevent mold growth and make your commercial building a cleaner, health-friendly environment.

Emergency Ready Plan

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Does your business have an Emergency Ready Plan?

When you have a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) in place for your business, you are ready for whatever happens! 

SERVPRO of West Volusia can provide your company with an ERP individually tailored to your needs. Here's what it does: 

• Identifies a point of contact able to authorize work orders. This allows us to be able to quickly get to work repairing any damage in the event of a water or fire damage.
• Provides significant details on valve shut off locations, identifies areas with important safety equipment and presents emergency contact information and notes. This allows any employee you wish to have easy access to vital emergency information in the event that damage occurs. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia is here to help protect your business by helping you get prepared! Give us a call today: (386) 574-0864

What's The Difference Between Partial Losses and Total Losses?

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy Floor Damage

A partial loss indicates that a structure was not irreparably damaged. In general, this level of damage may require restoration and repairs, but not a complete rebuild. Find out how to determine the extent of fire loss at a commercial building in West Volusia County.

The Damage Is Limited

If a particular area of a structure has sustained fire damage while other areas are only affected by heat or smoke, the loss is likely to be partial. The following are some of the most common forms of partial loss:

• Burnt or charred building materials or contents
• Heat-damaged building materials or contents
• Smoke-damaged building materials or contents
  
  

Buildings that remain structurally sound can still suffer an extensive partial loss. An actual total loss involves a situation in which a property has burned down or sustained such extensive structural damage that a complete rebuild is necessary.

Restoration Is An Option
A fire loss is likely partial if a building can be cleaned and restored. This even applies to situations in which a certain portion of a structure sustains significant damage and may have to be rebuilt, but the building remains structurally sound on the whole and safe for occupation after cleaning and restoration.

Contents Can Be Restored or Replaced
Fire damage at a commercial building is likely to involve damaged contents. Getting a professional verdict on the condition of equipment can facilitate claim settlement. Any assessment should account for fire, heat and smoke damage. It is helpful to have an insurance policy that covers replacement costs rather than actual cash value with depreciation.
In the event of a partial fire loss, cleanup and restoration experts should check for hidden damage. Fire damage that appears minor may actually be more extensive. Experienced fire restoration professionals can inspect and accurately identify the extent of loss for the purpose of making a commercial property insurance claim.

Gas And Water Shutoffs For Commercial Buildings

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial property managers usually gloss over where their building's gas and water valves are located when they first settle into a property. Sooner or later, a leak may occur and unnecessary damage can happen to the building if the property manager doesn't know where the shutoff valves are. 

Knowing where the gas and water shutoffs are can potentially save you thousands of dollars on a damage restoration job. So knowing where the shutoffs are and properly labeling them can be extremely beneficial as you won't have to wait for the city or fire department to locate and shut them off for you. 

In the case of sprinklers that malfunction and turn on, just 1 minute less of water flowing could cut days off of a drying project.

If you don't already, make sure you put together a plan of where the following shutoffs are for gas, water, and electric.

Commercial buildings oftentimes require elevated training and equipment to dry and repair.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints.

We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan Advantage

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Don't Trust Us, Test us

SERVPRO specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call SERVPRO Of West Volusia County Today to set up a Emergency ready Profile at no cost! 386-574-0864

My Office is Flooded!

5/16/2020 (Permalink)

Water intrusion may be more severe in commercial buildings than in a residential setting, and the effects can be more extensive. Many commercial structures have larger volumes of water entering the premises through plumbing supply lines and at a higher water pressure. The quantity of outgoing sewage is also greater than a typical residence. Commercial buildings are certainly larger than your average residence, so entry points for water intrusion through areas like the roof, exterior walls or windows are commensurately greater in number.

Water intrusion in commercial buildings can damage high-value equipment like computers and also building services such as HVAC, lighting, elevators and security equipment. Common long-term consequences of water damage like mold or microbial growth may be more problematic than in a home, due to the larger occupancy of a business or other commercial enterprise. When a greater number of people with a wider range of sensitivity are exposed to mold and bacteria spores, health impacts may be significantly magnified, perhaps leading to an enforced closure of the facility until the situation is fully remediated.

Typical issues from water intrusion in the commercial environment include:

• Water from roof leaks penetrating through ceilings. Chronic leakage through the roof may proceed unnoticed for long periods, hidden by suspended ceiling panels or in electrical or HVAC service areas above.
• Ruptures of water supply lines typically release clean (white) water.  Sewage backups or leaks in drain pipes release toxic (black) water that may be a biohazard and require evacuation of the premises.
• Flooding from external sources can result from heavy rains, storms such as hurricanes or local overflowing lakes or rivers.
• Moisture intrusion through the building envelope is typically more subtle. Humid outdoor air may be drawn in through structural cracks and gaps. Over a period, chronic dampness forms in spaces like wall voids, unventilated attics and service areas, spawning hidden mold growth that persists unseen.

At SERVPRO of West Volusia we are experts in commercial water damage mitigation and restoration. 

386-574-0864

Dealing with Contents

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

All water damages at commercial facilities are challenging. Whether there are multi-levels involved, numerous offices/cubicles or filled storage rooms, SERVPRO of West Volusia can help. 

Our IICRC trained and certified employees utilize state of the art equipment and software to insure your structure is properly dried out and you contents are dealt with. Our software programs track drying progress and can take a full inventory of any affected contents, salvageable and non-salvageable. 

Rest assured, our goal is to get you back in business as quickly as possible. To do so, we monitor our equipment and take material and atmospheric readings daily. Remember, when water damage impacts your facility go with the professionals at SERVPRO. "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of West Volusia

386-574-0864

What's That Smell?

5/10/2020 (Permalink)

As we begin to go back to work many will be returning to buildings/facilities that have been closed for weeks or months. This creates the potential for unidentifiable odors from ambient humidity, lack of temperature control or undetected leaks. 

At SERVPRO of West Volusia we are experts in identifying and eliminating odor(s). However, eliminating the odor is only part of the solution. If the cause of the odor isn't identified and remedied, you are simply putting "a band-aid on a broken leg". 

Should you have an odor issue upon your return to work let SERVPRO of West Volusia investigate it for you. We will do so at no cost and provide you with a report of our findings and an estimate for remediating the source and eliminating the odor, if necessary. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia 

386-574-0864

"Here to Help"

Insurance Policy - What You Should Know

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding your insurance policy makes it so much easier to know when you are covered.

Insurance is a subject that most find unimportant until they are in a situation when they need it. Our advice? DO NOT be like this.

As a business or homeowner, it is vital to know exactly what your policy covers! We cannot tell you how many times we find that a business or home is damaged and some (or none) of the repairs are covered. 

In Florida, more often than not the lack of coverage surrounds flood or mold damage. 

Make it a priority to call your agent sometime this week. Have a five to ten-minute "checkup" conversation just to make sure you are all on the same page with your policy and coverage! 

Put your mind at ease, and know that when the unexpected happens, SERVPRO of West Volusia will be here for you, and your insurance will pay for it! 

If you are in need of Cleaning & Restoration services, give us a call at (386) 574-0864.

Always Ready!

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

For Immediate Service call SERVPRO of West Volusia - 

Our franchise provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. For 35 years we have been responding immediately to any emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7: (386) 574-0864

Residential Services

Whether your Volusia County home needs emergency flood damage or your carpets cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for Fire/Water/Mold damage to strike your Volusia County commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. 

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation/Restoration

When You Aren't Ready

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

"You don't think about what you will do if your place of business is covered in water. So thankful SERVPRO of West Volusia came to the rescue!" - Amy 

You don't think about it. A fire, a water damage, hurricane loss, mold growth - we could go on and on. As tragic and worrisome as these events can be, its fairly rare that we find a commercial property owner who is prepared to open the flood gates that was a front door and find a water damage. 

That's where we come in.

We can handle any sort of damage, big or small! We are talking skyscraper status, to small business warehouse offices. We are here for you. So don't let the panic sink in...Grab your phone, dial our number, and we'll take it from there.

24/7 - 7 days a week: (386) 574-0864

Safety Tips for Your Business

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

Helping to protect your business is easy when you follow a few simple measures. Here are a few of our favorite safety tips so that you can be better prepared if disaster strikes.

1. Advance preparation is so important. Make sure that key employees understand the business insurance plan in DETAIL. This makes it so much easier when you need to make a claim. 
2. Make sure your smoke alarms work properly! It is such a small thing but this safety measure is constantly neglected. 
3. Make sure safety rules and plans are accessible to all employees. This can be achieved by having the safety instructions posted in all areas of the office space. 

Even just by implementing these quick and easy steps, your helping to make your business environment safer and better prepared! 

SERVPRO of West Volusia County: (386) 574-0864

Why Your Business Needs An ERP

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

When you have a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) in place for your business, you are ready for whatever happens! 

SERVPRO of West Volusia County can provide your company with an ERP individually tailored to your needs. Here's what it does: 

• Identifies a point of contact able to authorize work orders. This allows us to be able to quickly get to work repairing any damage in the event of a water or fire damage.
• Provides significant details on valve shut off locations, identifies areas with important safety equipment and presents emergency contact information and notes. This allows any employee you wish to have easy access to vital emergency information in the event that damage occurs. 

SERVPRO of West Volusia County is here to help protect your business by helping you get prepared! Give us a call today: (386)574-0864

Protecting Your Central Florida Business From Hurricane Damage

10/1/2018 (Permalink)

Structure effected by water damage due to a recent storm.

Just like you would your home, it is so important to protect your business structure from powerful storms. 

That's why we thought we would share a few tips to help you prepare.

1. Trim trees or other plants 

At your home, you are going to make sure your trees and bushes are trimmed to help ensure that nothing comes flying through your windows during high winds. It's important to take this same measure at the office. 

2. Storm shutters

If you live somewhere prone to hurricanes and powerful storms like we do here in Central Florida, it's always a good idea to install storm shutters on your windows at the office just like you would at home. 

3. Storage space

If you are a company that deals with equipment (like we do) it's important to have a space inside your office that you would be able to store everything if need be. This helps to prevent any equipment from getting wet and possibly ruined. 

So that's it. All it takes is a few extra measures to make sure your business is as safe and secure during a storm as your home! 

If you ever do end up with a water damage in your home or place of business, don't worry...We're here for you. 

Give us a call at (386) 574-0864.