Minimize Flooding Loss With Business Interruption Insurance

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

Minimize flooding loss.

It takes a lot of work to run a business in Colorado Springs, CO. When the unexpected happens, such as flooding from a broken pipe, what will that interruption mean to your business? Business interruption insurance is supplemental coverage that helps a business weather the financial side of weathering the storm while a water damage and restoration company gets your business back to its preloss condition.

Minimize Losses and Prevent Downtime

Any unexpected downtime means financial losses on top of the costs associated with the repairs needed to fix large water damage. Additional insurance helps businesses stay afloat from financial losses.

Business Interruption Insurance

This type of insurance takes effect when physical damage to a property results in operations being suspended. Although coverage may differ across policies, it typically covers the following:

• Revenue that would have been made if the business was operating normally.
  
• Payments for loans, mortgages or leases during the downtime.
  
• Costs associated with temporary or permanent relocation.
  
• Provides money for employee payroll and taxes.
  
• Extra expenses incurred due to the event may also be covered.
  

Steps to Minimize Flooding Loss

While you may be able to count on the additional insurance coverage to keep your business from going under, prevention and planning for the worst are also key to minimizing losses. Every business should develop a business interruption plan. Key elements of this plan often include:

• Determining Risks: Identifying risks, both human and environmental, makes it easier to prepare for them. While some may not be preventable, such as a natural flood, knowing the risk is there enables creating an action plan to better handle the situation if it happens. Risks should be ranked according to severity and likelihood of happening.
  
• Know the Costs of Unexpected Downtime: Once the risks are known, each one should be analyzed and associated costs calculated. While making the calculations, include lost income, additional expenses, potential penalties or fines and the cost of delaying operations.
  
• Develop a Mitigation Plan: When developing a plan for controlling potential hazards, prevention, deterrence and mitigation are all essential. The first helps a business identify hazards that are preventable and take measures to avoid them. Deterrence focuses on the potential for criminal activities to happen and taking steps to minimize them. Mitigation focuses on events that are not preventable but require forethought to contain or control.
  Establish a Communication Plan: When the unexpected happens, does everyone know what to do? A chain of command should be developed to ensure that vital information is shared properly. To eliminate confusion, develop prescripted messages that are clear and concise.
  
• Have an Emergency Plan: Along with an evacuation plan to ensure the safety of everyone, there should also be an emergency plan for the business itself. This may include ensuring that data is protected and easily recoverable, inventory essential to operations is well-documented and the business has written contracts with key vendors.
  

Flooding and other unexpected events can be devastating to a business. If faced with an unexpected shutdown, having business interruption insurance and planning for such events helps reduce associated costs and may keep the business from going under.

The Importance of Having a Security Fence

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

A security fence can further guard your property after suffering fire damage.

Fire can leave large, gaping holes in your commercial building in Colorado Springs, CO. You probably already know the importance of boarding up vulnerable places to protect what's left of the structure. Don't stop there, though. A security fence is necessary to further guard your property.

Reasons To Install a Security Fence After a Fire

You already have damage that happened during both the fire and the process of putting the flames out. If you don't take the proper security measures, though, you may soon be facing other problems:

• Vandalism
  
• Theft
  
• Animal infestation
  
• Safety issues
  

Having a fence around the perimeter of your property makes a clear statement about its boundaries. It may not guarantee all will be well, but it greatly increases your chances of avoiding unnecessary complications.

Deter Invasion

Most people see plywood across the busted windows of a building and take that as a sign to steer clear of it. Some see it as an opportunity, though. A security fence gives thieves, vandals and others with nefarious intent an extra obstacle to overcome. It makes your vulnerable building harder to access and thus less attractive to those looking for an easy mark.
While a fence may not keep out smaller vermin, it can provide an extra deterrent for some wildlife. In combination with boards and tarps that cover the holes in your building, it provides another layer of protection. The more barriers you set up, the more secure your building is likely to be.

Mark Boundaries

A damaged building often gives the impression of being abandoned if it stands alone. People visiting nearby businesses may think it's OK to park on the grounds of your property if it looks like no one else is using the space anyway. Another perk of having a fence is that it marks the space as off-limits to anyone who doesn't have your permission to be there. It saves you the time and energy of having to engage in the countless interactions it would take to set boundaries on an individual basis.

Provide Safety Cues

Curiosity is a natural response to a damaged building. Those walking by may wonder what happened and want to check it out for themselves. This safety hazard can have not only unpleasant consequences for those who venture into the building but also for you as the owner. Fire damage restoration experts recommend protecting yourself and others by installing a fence around the property.

Appease Insurance Provider

Making your building secure is a key responsibility all the time. It becomes especially important when the building is damaged. Your commercial fire insurance provider expects you to protect your building even when it's not in use, and the company is unlikely to approve a claim for damage that happens as a result of poor security, even if it occurs after a covered peril. Using a fence to clearly mark and protect your property proves that you are doing everything in your power to keep it safe.

A security fence does more than just give you peace of mind. It can protect your already vulnerable building from further damage after a fire.

4 Reasons IICRC Certification Is So Valuable

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

You can Trust in IICRC Certification. You can Trust us.

When companies in the restoration industry want a stamp of respectability, they often go to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. The IICRC is a worldwide non-nonprofit organization that has been around since 1972. The organization provides 26 valuable professional certifications as well as additional standards in inspection, cleaning, and restoration fields.

SERVPRO has long understood the value of certifications in making sure its employees have the latest knowledge about cleaning practices for fire, water and mold remediation. A local restoration services franchise in Colorado Springs, CO, plays an active role in supporting the standards that continue to build on best practices for safety and efficiency in all areas of restoration. Professional certifications provide many areas of value for companies and customers.

Why IICRC Certification Is So Valuable?

1. The IICRC Provides a Broad Spectrum of Knowledge

Professional cleanup and restoration require specialized knowledge in many areas. Professional certification verifies that a technician has acquired an advanced level of knowledge in his or her field. This allows commercial customers to have a high degree of confidence in the abilities of SERVPRO technicians. This education takes much of the guesswork out of the recovery process and allows for the application of the latest scientific principles. A mitigation certificate signifies that the job will be done correctly the first time and eliminate mistakes.

2. The Organization Knows a Lot About Cleaning

While much of general cleaning relies on more basic knowledge, specialized cleaning often requires additional education. A commercial carpet maintenance technician, for example, intimately knows the ins and outs of making sure commercial carpets get the best treatment, while a carpet cleaning technician knows to restore a carpet after water damage. Likewise, a floor care technician is educated in the intricacies and subtleties of caring for flooring in a variety of situations.

3. It Places an Emphasis on Inspections

Much of the work after a disaster involves closely looking at the damage that has occurred and what can be done to fix it. Trained technicians know how to look at a disaster area and analyze the potential solutions. In the case of certified wood and laminate flooring inspector, the technician will have specialized knowledge that can aid in the recovery process.

4. The Organization Understands Restoration Principles

The goal of all work by a SERVPRO franchise is to restore the building to its original condition before a fire or storm disaster happened. Each situation is different, but armed with the proper knowledge technicians can make the best judgments about what is realistically possible. For example, an odor control technician understands what steps must be taken to rid a building of persistent odors from smoke. They utilize specialized equipment that does more than masks odors but eliminates them once and for all.

An applied structural drying technician knows the best way to get the moisture out of materials after water damage. A company that does not possess this knowledge could result in a job that has less than stellar results.

The IICRC and SERVPRO work together to improve the quality of the cleaning and restoration industry. They both help companies recover from disasters.

What Can You Expect From the Commercial Fire Cleanup Process?

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Know more about the Commercial Fire Cleanup Process

Confronting a fire at your commercial building in Colorado Springs, CO can be devastating. Even a small fire can cause enough loss to halt business for days or weeks. Whatever the severity, it's essential to take action immediately to reverse the fire and smoke damage, as well as the effects of the water and other extinguishing materials.

What Happens After the Flames Are Extinguished?

After firefighters extinguish the flames, it's time to call a fire damage restoration company as soon as possible. Immediately upon arrival on the scene, the technicians can begin mitigating the loss and restoring the damage. It's essential to start the process as quickly as possible, as the loss will only grow increasingly worse and spread with every minute that passes.

You can anticipate seeing the professionals complete the following steps.

1. Assess the Extent of the Damage

When the technicians first arrive, they will assess the extent of the damage. This assessment involves determining how far the damage has spread and the severity of the loss. The experts will inspect everything in the affected area, including the structure and contents. From these details, they will form the most appropriate plan of action.

2. Execute Emergency Mitigation Services

First and foremost, the experts will work to keep the deterioration from worsening. Standard mitigation services include extracting standing water with industrial pumps, boarding up broken windows and doors and tarping over holes in a roof.

3. Clean Up Fire, Smoke and Soot Damage

When the initial mitigation work is complete, the specialists will begin the cleanup process. After a fire, this process typically consists of removing charred materials and dust, as well as soot and smoke cleaning.

4. Remove Affected Materials and Excess Moisture

Anything affected by the fire, water or smoke damage must be removed for disposal or restoration. This comprises furniture, flooring and even drywall.

5. Conduct Restoration Services

The technicians will then begin restoring the structure and contents to return them to their pre-fire condition as much as possible. If needed, some items can be taken back to the restoration service's site for special handling. Other things will be removed and repaired or replaced.

The restoration process will include excess moisture removal with industrial fans and dehumidifiers. It will also consist of sanitization and deodorization.

6. Perform a Final Inspection

After the professionals complete the job, they will perform a final inspection. This check will ensure that everything has been completed thoroughly and that no other issues (e.g., mold growth or structural damage) are present.

Fires can be very harmful in several different ways, both directly and indirectly. Therefore, it's critical to mitigate the damage and restore the loss as quickly as possible. Knowing a little beforehand about the fire, soot and smoke damage cleanup process as part of your fire preparedness plan can be extremely helpful. Hopefully, you will never have to experience a blaze at your business.

However, you can prepare yourself by determining who you need to call and learning what to expect throughout the restoration journey in case a disaster does occur.

One Cleanup and Restoration Team Is Best for Full Fire Damage Recovery

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Have the Best Cleanup and Restoration Team and Enjoy A Full Fire Damage Recovery.

When your Colorado Springs, CO, property is affected by fire and soot, it's crucial that recovery and restoration work begin immediately to lessen the fire damage. Within a short period of time, the acidic qualities of soot and the penetrating qualities of smoke can leave permanent scarring. An experienced fire mitigation team quickly and thoroughly puts a stop to damage and completes the recovery process to get your company back into business.

Long-Term Fire Damage Begins With Initial Cleanup

One of the best reasons to work with fire cleanup and reconstruction experts for your full recovery is that lasting results begin as soon as the fire department leaves. The smoke and soot particles left in the air penetrate quickly into surfaces. Water from the fire department hoses is rapidly absorbed into carpeting, fabrics, wood, and structural elements. Technicians working toward full recovery perform many actions during their first trips to your property:

• Board up the building to prevent secondary damage and to improve security.
• Assess structural damage and stabilize the property as necessary.
• Determine what can be saved, cleaned, refurbished, and restored.
• Document damages for the insurance adjuster.
• Provide an estimate of the project, the costs, and the time frame.
• Discard unsalvageable items and store other belongings.

These initial steps provide an environment where the rest of the recovery process can be undertaken safely and efficiently.

Specialized Equipment Removes Smoke Damage

The main goal of the fire damage cleanup and recovery team is restoring your property and getting you back to work. Specialized scrubbers are used to eliminate smoke odors and soot stains. These tools are used on exterior and interior surfaces, including walls, ceilings, windows, patios, and sidewalks. Inside your building, cleansers and sanitizers are used to treat the same surfaces, as well as floors, the basement, and furnishings. Professional equipment, including ozone machines, are used to neutralize lingering particles and odors.

Water Damage Is Addressed Through Ventilation and Powerful Cleansers

Of course, there's a significant risk of water damage, so professionals must also get to work removing water from the building. This involves shutting off electricity, testing the integrity of structural elements, and monitoring levels of humidity. With high-powered fans and dehumidifiers, technicians dry the building and remove floating contaminants.

Progress Moves Forward Without Delays

When multiple recovery companies are hired to aid in the recovery of your property, there's a risk that mold growth will go unnoticed. Mold prevention begins with the tarping and boarding step, right after the fire department has left. This step continues as water-logged furnishings are removed from the building and as ventilation throughout the property is increased. During water extraction, further steps are taken to neutralize and remove any remaining mold particles.

A Speedy Recovery Matters

Recovering from fire damage doesn't have to take a long time. When you choose one experienced restoration team, each step is completed smoothly and without unnecessary delays. Each point of the process moves forward seamlessly. When a speedy recovery is essential to your company, contact a cleanup and restoration crew to see you through from beginning to end.

Prepartion Key to Weathering High Winds

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Follow These Key Tips and be ready for Storm and High Winds.

Business owners in Colorado Springs, CO, know what the aftermath of hurricane damage looks like. Although it may not be possible to avoid damage, being prepared before the storm hits is essential to protecting a business and its employees. That protection comes in the form of structural maintenance and a procedural plan to minimize downtime and keep employees safe.

5 Tips to Reinforce a Property

High winds may easily cause downed trees and power lines, as well as the potential for flying debris to break windows and cause other issues. Below are five ways to prepare the structure to better handle the storm.

Keep Trees Trimmed:

Falling branches are one of the most common causes of damage. Ensure that no branches are hanging over the roof or close enough to break a window. Any trees with hollows or other issues should be inspected by an arborist to ensure they are safe.

Choose Proper Landscaping:

Although rocks may add a pleasing aesthetic, they may become airborne during severe weather. There are many varieties of mulch that help spruce up the property while being less prone to causing damage.

Regularly Inspect the Roof:

This protective layer deals with a lot. Over time, a missing shingle or crack may easily become a big problem. To mitigate hurricane damage, have a professional roof inspector check it for any issues. That includes ensuring seals around vents or skylights are secure. As the owner, regularly complete a visual inspection for signs of trouble or debris on the roof.

Check Window and Door Seals and Hardware:

Any cracks or crevices give strong winds and rain an easy path to enter the business. Verify that all windows are sealed tightly and that door hardware is secure and braced to handle the weather.

Secure Outdoor Equipment, Structures:

Any additional structures or equipment on the property, such as a shed or dumpster, should be securely anchored. If the business has any vehicles, it is best to park them in a garage. If that is not possible, inspect the surroundings for potential items that could cause damage.

Have a Business Disaster Planin Place

Along with securing the property, how the business operates also needs to be secured. Creating a disaster plan is essential to minimize a business interruption, ensure employees and vendors know what to do, identify areas of potential risk, and protect assets. This plan should include a detailed outline of vital business operations, as well as procedures to follow during an unexpected event. A business should also keep data backed up at an off-site location or the cloud.

Delegate safety protocols to specific employees to help better ensure that things will run more smoothly during the chaos. Additionally, it is recommended to ensure there are extra supplies available during an emergency, such as batteries, first-aid kits, water and food.

While hurricane damage may be unavoidable, there are ways to secure your business to minimize the aftermath. Along with regular maintenance and staying on top of any repairs, have a detailed plan in place to handle the impending weather event.

The Sewer Damage Cleanup Process

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these tips if you experience a Sewer Damage Cleanup Process in your Colorado Springs, CO, property.

An overflowing toilet in the public restroom of your commercial building in Colorado Springs, CO, may not seem like that big a deal at first, especially if the mess is mopped up quickly. The staff who responds to the crisis initially, however, only sees what happens on the surface.

What to do if you Experience Sewer Damage?

An overflow is likely to cause sewer damage not only to the floorboards under the bathroom tile but also to the ceiling of the space directly beneath it. The cleanup process must be swift and thorough to prevent ongoing issues.

1. Assessment of Sewer Damage

The first thing you need to do is call a reliable sewage mitigation company. When the team arrives, the technicians assess the damage to the building and provide a report that contains valuable information:

• Extent of the damage
• Cleanup procedures recommended
• Estimated cost for restoration

The team leader can guide you through what the cleanup process will entail and give you a general timeline for when you can reasonably expect the sewage company to complete the repairs. Submit this report with your insurance claim to verify the work that is being done.

2. Removal of Water and Materials

Before technicians can clean the area, they must remove everything that doesn't belong in the space. If there is still standing water in the restroom, between the floors or leaking into the room below, it has to be pumped out. Then the team tears out all materials that show signs of sewer damage. This is likely to include flooring, ceiling tiles, insulation and drywall with which the contaminated water came into contact.

3. Disinfection of Affected Space

After all ruined materials have been removed, it's time to disinfect and deodorize the area. Sewage contains bacteria and other microbes that you certainly don't want to be left in your building. The mitigation crew uses industrial cleaners to sanitize the space. Technicians also may use an ozone machine or other treatments to remove any foul odors that linger.

4. Drying Area

It's not enough for the space around and underneath the flooded toilet to be clean; it must also be dry. This is one of the key steps for preventing secondary damage such as mold growth, which thrives in damp environments. Every remaining surface in the area must be dried. Technicians can also ensure that the humidity level is in an acceptable range so that moisture does not become an issue.

5. Rebuilding the Structure

The last step of the restoration process is replacing all the materials that were torn out. Technicians rebuild walls and add new ceiling tiles. They install new insulation and flooring and make sure that it matches the remaining structure. When it is finished, you shouldn't be able to tell where the old tiles end and the new ones begin.

When there is a problem with your building stemming from an overflow on an upper level, the floors beneath it are also in danger of sustaining sewer damage. Call a remediation company so that you can get the cleanup process started as soon as possible. Fast action prevents further issues and gets your building back to normal in a timely manner.

How Business Insurance Coverage Works

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in a commercial building in Colorado Springs, CO.

Your business in Colorado Springs, CO, needs protection from a variety of potential problems. Basic property insurance is a must, but you also may benefit from flood or storm insurance. While your insurance agent is able to advise you on the policies that you should include in your commercial package, it doesn't hurt to have an overview of the information before you meet with him or her.

Types of Coverage

It takes a village of policies to cover a commercial property adequately. There are several types of insurance coverage to think about:

• Property insurance – covers general repairs, such as water damage from leaks, caused by accidents or external factors
• Flood insurance – covers more extensive damage caused by prolonged rainfall, overflowing rivers and streams, and breaking dams or levees.
• Storm insurance – covers damage from wind, hail, or other elements of the specific storms listed in the policy

You may also consider a business continuity policy so that you have the working capital to stay afloat while storm remediation experts are working to return your building to an inhabitable space.

Dollar vs. Percentage

Insurance policies can have different types of deductibles. Many plans have dollar deductibles. A specific amount stated in the policy must be paid before insurance kicks in. These deductibles are often determined by the standard rate for the area, and raising the amount may result in lower premiums for the policy. A percentage deductible is sometimes used in storm and flood policies to lower the risk for the insurance company. Because the damage covered by these policies tends to be large, so do the payouts. This deductible depends on a percentage of the property's overall value.

When shopping for commercial insurance coverage, a basic property policy isn't enough to cover everything that might come your way. It's a good idea to add additional policies, such as flood and storm insurance, so that you can be confident that you will be able to overcome any damage that happens to your property.

Business Interruption: Minimizing Flood Loss and Delays

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

As an owner in Colorado Springs, CO, Minimize Flood Loss and Delays by following these important tips.

The last thing any business wants after experiencing flooding or any disaster is extensive business interruption. Business interruption accounts for any losses incurred as a company attempts to recover from the loss.

Important Tips to minimize Flood Loss and Delays

After a flood, a business might need to shut down all operations or move essential operations off-site. The closure and move might cost the company revenue. Business interruption insurance can help mitigate any financial losses, but coverage depends on the policy.

The goal to a quick recovery is to hire a restoration service in Colorado Springs, CO, especially a company with familiarity in water loss. These services can help in a few key areas, including:

• Loss mitigation
• Disaster Cleanup
• Property restoration

Flooding and Business Interruption

Many businesses, especially aging operations, can experience a broken pipe, leading to a flood. Depending on the hours of operation, a break can go unnoticed for several hours or several days, resulting in a significant accumulation of water.

The longer water is left to stand, the greater the opportunity for compounding problems. For instance, a flood can lead to mold development in as few as 48 hours.

Companies should have guards, cameras, or notification systems in place to reduce the risk of extensive flooding or unmonitored periods. However, beyond preventative measures, companies should also have a qualified mitigation service on standby for remediation and recovery.

Mitigation and Recovery

Extensive or large water damage is costly, and it is time-consuming to clean and repair. The standard restoration service has a three-pronged approach to the recovery process: mitigate, clean, and restore.

Mitigation involves stopping the flow of water and limiting or restricting the damage. It can include shutting off and repairing pipes or supply valves or using tarps and buckets to trap and catch water.

Cleaning is aimed at removing excess water and disinfecting the facility. Most restoration services will use various tools, including:

• Shop vacuums
• Fans
• Blowers
• Dehumidifiers

Finally, the service will focus on restoration, which means restoring the facility to pre-disaster conditions. As a business owner, you likely care about the timeline to recovery and restoration, but that will depend on the specific cause of your business's disaster.

Qualified Restoration Services

The key to working with a restoration professional is to only work with those who are qualified. A company should have a license and insurance. You should verify this information with the certifying bodies, ensuring you are working with a real and proven professional.

One credential to look for in any restoration service is the IICRC. Any company bearing those initials has proven its understanding of fundamental disaster response requirements. Insurance is also essential for any restoration service. Suppose the company working on your site does not have adequate or proper insurance. In that case, your business is potentially on the hook for any damages or injuries that occur on your property.

While no business owner wants to experience flooding, it can happen. The best any owner can do is limit their exposure and business interruption through planning and making necessary connections and arrangements with qualified restoration services. It is vital that you do not waste time after a flood. The sooner your property is restored, the sooner you can get back to business.

Don’t Be Sorry, Be Proactive about Preventative Business Measures

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment drying out this commercial building.

A pipe break can lead to water damage which ultimately leads to filing a business claim. The claim process can be extensive and can cause an interruption in the business for days or possibly weeks. Taking small steps now, however, can reduce the risk of having to file any water-related claim.

Steps to Avoid a Pipe Break

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Insulating any pipes that are exposed to frigid temperatures can reduce the risk of burst pipes. The insulation will prevent the buildup of ice inside the pipe; therefore, reducing the risk of increased pressure.

2. Maintain a Consistent Temperature

Allowing a building to go below 55°F consistently dramatically increases the risks of frozen pipes and pipe breaks as well as filing a business claim and should be avoided if possible.

3. Keep Drainage Areas Clear

Preventing minor flooding can be as easy as keeping drainage areas clear. This can be done by inspecting drains, downspouts, and gutters frequently to ensure that there are no blockages that would encourage backflow.

4. Remove Excess Snow

Another way of preventing minor flooding and even possible roof damage is to remove any excess snow. Snow not only increases the load on your roof but during the thaw it is possible that the melting snow will seep into minor imperfections and weaken the structure of the roof.

5. Fix Leaks and Cracks

It may also be a good idea to regularly walk the perimeter of your building, checking the foundation in the exterior for any cracks or leaks. Any minor imperfections can usually be corrected with exterior sealants; however, significant cracks may require the use of a restoration company in the Colorado Springs, CO, area.

6. Protect Valuable Items

While performing any of these preventative steps can reduce the risk of water damage, it may still be wise to protect any valuable items by keeping them above ground level and even in waterproof bins.

While a business claim is not necessarily a bad thing, it can take time to process, and that is valuable time that your business cannot afford to lose, which is why it’s better to be proactive rather than sorry.

Is Renter's Insurance Enough

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can cause damage to your property.

The main advantage of living in an apartment is you needn't concern yourself with the typical structural maintenance and repairs of homeowners. However, that doesn’t mean a renter is completely without concern or need of a robust renter's insurance policy or a storm mitigation specialist in Colorado Springs, CO.
Flooding, for example, is a complex issue involving structure and personal property. What happens in this situation? Are you or the landlord responsible, and if you are, will your standard insurance coverage be enough? There are a few things to understand in such complex situations.

Things to Know about Renter's Insurance

1. The Landlord is Only Responsible for the Structure of the Building

A landlord is not responsible for all contents inside of a building, typically. They are liable for any damage to the property and structure of the complex. The landlord must also maintain all essentials and ensure a safe and habitable environment.
However, while a landlord is not responsible for damages to personal property in most situations, they might be liable if they did not take adequate action. If a landlord, for example, waits several days to report the aftermath of a flood, resulting in more water damage and potential mold contamination, a tenant might have ground to sue.

2. Standard Renter’s Insurance Typically Does Not Cover Flood Loss

When reviewing potential renter’s insurance policies, be sure to read through the coverages thoroughly. Most basic policies, while affordable, do not cover flood damage. If you are interested in flood coverage, you will need to purchase supplemental coverage. However, make sure to read the exceptions in the supplemental policy to ensure it covers what you need or are concerned about.

3. Personal Property is Almost Always a Tenant Responsibility

When renting an apartment, you are entering an arrangement with the landlord. The agreement has risks for both parties. The landlord understands things might happen to the structure during your stay, and you understand things might happen to your belongings. Each party is responsible for their property usually.

The best defense against property loss is an adequate renter’s insurance policy. Make sure your policy covers anything you are worried about, and buy a supplemental policy for anything extra.

How To Clean Up Water Damage

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with water damage

Water damage in your commercial building in Colorado Springs, CO, can come from a variety of sources. A toilet on the second floor can overflow and flood the room below it, or heavy rains can seep into the lower levels. While no amount of damage is good news, the best case scenario results from a clean water source. The cleanup process in these cases is fairly straightforward.

4 Steps of the Cleanup Process

Locate Source

Water restoration specialists assess the damage of your building when they arrive on site. One of the best indicators of how complicated the restoration process is going to be is the source of the excess water:

• Supply line leak
  
• Busted pipe
  
• Faulty equipment
  
• Toilet overflow
  
• Floodwater
  

When water is contaminated, the technicians know that strong disinfectants and extra equipment will likely be needed to fully mitigate the damage. If the damage comes from a clean source such as a broken pipe, however, they can focus their plan on simply replacing ruined materials.

Tear Out Damage

Even with a clean water source, some of the walls, insulation, flooring or ceiling tiles may be saturated. These ruined materials must be removed so that they don't develop secondary damage such as mold growth. Technicians will likely mark a flood cut several inches beyond the damage they can see to ensure that all the saturated spots are removed.

Dry Area

Even after all the waterlogged materials are gone, the team must make sure the remaining surfaces are dry. This protects the remaining portion of the building from further damage. It also prevents damage in the new parts of the structure.

Rebuild Space

Finally, the restoration specialists put up new walls, floors and ceilings to replace what was removed. They match wallpaper, paint and tile to the remaining structure. The final result is that no one can tell where the damage happened.

A clean water leak or spill may still cause a lot of damage. The cleanup process is relatively simple, though.

4 Tips for Preparing Your Business for Flood

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Prepare your building for flooding.

Floods can be and are often unpredictable. Heavy rains and overflowing bodies of water are just two common causes of flooding. Different areas of the country have different levels of flood risks. It's impossible to be totally prepared for every possibility, but there are measures you can take to make a significant difference in the event a disaster occurs.

4 Ways to Prepare Your Business for Flood

1. Create an Emergency Kit

Create an emergency kit with all the essentials stocked in case of a flood. It should include a well-supplied first aid kit, medicines, non-perishable food, a can opener, eating utensils, bottled water, flashlights, a battery-powered radio, spare batteries, blankets and any essential phone numbers.

2. Assess Your Insurance

Call your insurance agent to ensure you have enough of the correct insurance type to provide an adequate coverage amount for whatever might occur. See if you can add coverage for flooding, as well as business interruption coverage. This can cover you from property destruction, black water cleanup and sanitization, and lost revenue if the business has to shut down for a while. As water damage restoration professionals return the building to its preloss condition, you can continue to pay your employees.

3. Design an Emergency Evacuation Plan

Some roads will be blocked by high water or debris, such as downed tree limbs during a flood. Check with the Federal Emergency Management Agency for topography maps of your area. This provides a way to plan alternate routes for your employees to navigate home safely.

4. Backup Important Documents and Data

All of your important documents, whether digital or paper documents, must be backed up. These include insurance documents, employee files, vendor contact information, contracts, etc. You should save digital files to the cloud and make copies of paper documents to be kept off-site.

Whether your Colorado Springs, CO, building's location is particularly susceptible to flooding or not, you must be prepared for flood damage for your employees' safety and the preservation of your business.

The Basic Workings of Fire Sprinklers

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Sprinklers are required

Fire sprinkler systems are required in commercial and residential buildings; you've probably noticed the sprinkler heads on the ceiling. They're invaluable fire suppression tools for protecting lives, structures and contents. Most people don't know exactly how fire sprinklers work, though.

Basics of Fire Sprinklers

Here are a few of the basics:

1. There Are Different Types of Sprinkler Pipe Systems

There are two main types of pipe systems. A wet pipe system keeps water pressurized in the pipes. The water is immediately released when a sprinkler head is activated. In a dry pipe system, pressurized air, not water, is collected in the pipes. Therefore, when a sprinkler head is activated, the air is released from the lines. This release of air allows the water to flow through the pipes.

2. Sprinklers Detect Heat, Not Smoke

Many people think smoke triggers fire sprinkler heads, but this isn't true. They are actually triggered by extreme heat. The fire heats the air above the flames quickly as the air flows across the ceiling. Fire sprinklers are typically designed to activate when the heat reaches 135 - 165 degrees.

3. Sprinkler Heads Activate Individually

Sprinkler heads activate individually, so only the ones in the fire's high temperature will activate (it could be one or multiple heads). They're designed this way to minimize water damage. Typically only one or two sprinklers are needed during a fire. This normally either stops the fire entirely or controls it until the fire department arrives.

4. Sprinklers Must Be Turned Off Manually

The sprinkler system has to be manually turned off at the main fire riser to stop the water flow. This riser is where the sprinkler system pipes connect to the building's main water supply. Water damage remediation professionals will be necessary to complete the fire sprinkler cleanup. Then, the activated sprinklers will have to be replaced.

The fire sprinkler system in your Colorado Springs, CO, building could make the difference between saving the building and its contents or sustaining a total loss. Now you know a little more about how these systems work.

3 Mitigation Tips for Commercial Water Damage Until Help Arrives

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Bursting pipes can lead to severe damage.

After a pipe burst or a sewer backs up into your facility, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Many business owners do not know how to deal with the aftermath of a water disaster, which is why they typically have a disaster restoration service in Colorado Springs, CO, on standby. However, to help you through until such services arrive, consider the following three damage tips.

3 Damage Tips for Commercial Water Damage

1. Shut Off Water Source

Before considering any cleaning tips, you should think about the source of the water. With pipe breaks or leaks, find the nearest water supply shutoff valve and seal the line. Turning off the valve should stop any more damage from happening, but if the closest valve does not seem to work, consider shutting off the main valve. Keep in mind the water supply in the line will still trickle out even after closing the valve.

2. Document the Scene

If it is safe to enter the facility, consider documenting the scene. Out of all the damage tips, documentation is key to filing insurance claims. You will often need to provide proof of loss to insurance adjusters, but it can take time for these adjusters to come to your property, meaning pictures and receipts of damage can sometimes be sufficient and helpful.

3. Begin Removing Excess Water

If there are no evident safety risks, you can begin removing excess water or drying the floors. However, if water levels are above electrical outlets, it is best to wait for disaster professionals. Keep in mind that the absence of light does not mean the absence of electricity.

The above damage tips are not meant as a complete mitigation strategy for businesses. The three suggestions above are only offered as suggestions to productively pass the time until a professional service arrives. Stopping water flow, documenting the damage, and removing excess water are all essential activities that can help move the restoration and claims process along.

3 Options for Cleaning Fire Damaged Contents

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Consider professional content cleaning services.

If you have had a fire in your building, you may think the only solution for dealing with your fire damaged contents is to throw them out and buy replacements. However, cleaning methods, such as dry-cleaning, can be used to restore some contents that might otherwise need replacement. These are three of the options you have for dealing with fire damaged contents.

Three Options For Dealing With Fire Damaged Contents

1. Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your building has extensive fire damage, you may need to move all of your contents out of the building to facilitate restoration and repair. A fire restoration company in Colorado Springs, CO, can efficiently move your contents out of your building, organize them and provide content storage until you are ready to move them back in.

2. Professional Cleaning

Some types of contents may be easily cleaned by wiping them down with soap and water, but other items may need the services of a professional cleaning company to be properly restored. Dry-cleaning is performed to remove light residues or pre-clean items before wet cleaning. Wet cleaning can be effective for removing moderate to heavy residues. Items that can't be wet cleaned may be cleaned by spraying and wiping. Foam cleaning is used for upholstery fabrics.

3. Document and Photograph Drying

If you have valuable documents or photographs that were damaged by water or fire, they may be able to be restored through professional content cleaning. The cleaning methods used depend on the type of documents and the amount of damage and include air drying, freeze-drying, dehumidification, vacuum thermal drying and vacuum freeze-drying.

Before you start throwing out your fire damaged contents, consult with a professional cleaning service in Colorado Springs, CO. Using dry-cleaning or other methods to clean your damaged property can preserve difficult to replace items and save you money by restoring items that may otherwise need to be replaced. Check with your insurance company, before you make your final decision.

Beyond the First Steps of Responding To Burst Pipes

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Bursting pipes can cause your business to face days or weeks closed.

Taking the right steps when you discover bursting pipes in your business can limit the expense and effort necessary to restore your property. This is particularly important when you're facing days or weeks of your Colorado Springs, CO, business being closed. You may already be familiar with the very first steps to take:

• Shut off water to the flooded area.
  
• Turn off the electricity.
  
• Mop up as much water as possible.
  
• Provide plenty of ventilation.
  

These steps are critical to preventing damage, but there are further steps you should consider preparing to turn work over to water damage Colorado Springs professionals.

4 Further Steps To Respond To Bursting Pipes

1. Locate the Broken Pipe

There may be water still draining from the pipes, but more importantly, you need to know where to fix broken pipe elements. Even a minor crack could lead to a lot of damage, and you may have the skills necessary to prevent further breaks.
Remove Items From the Flooded Area
If it's safe to walk into the flooded room, carry out furnishings, equipment, and other valuable items. You may possibly prevent papers, inventory, and belongings from getting damaged.

2. Record Damages

Carefully make a record of the damage. Use photographs and write down values of damaged items to be sure your insurance claim is accurate.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

There's a good chance that the damage will be covered by the business' insurance policy. The first step in getting your claim moving is contacting your agent. It may be important that an insurance adjuster goes through the building before cleanup and repair professionals get started.

4. Understand the Risk of Mold Growth

Mold growth is a common occurrence after bursting pipes. This is because moisture gets under carpeting and inside the walls. When you hire cleanup technicians to handle repairs, there's a better chance that you'll avoid secondary damage. Be sure you know what to watch out for.

Ultimately, the best thing you can do after managing existing damage is taking steps to prevent bursting pipes in the future. Discuss potential improvements with your custodial staff or local experts.

3 Steps of Roof Restoration

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

Roof damage in Colorado Springs, CO.

When a storm blows in to Colorado Springs, CO, overnight, you may dread discovering the damage that was done to your commercial building the next day. Even if most of your building is spared, it's important to check for a roof leak. During heavy storms, particularly those that contain rain or hail, your roof bears the brunt of the onslaught. Fortunately, water restoration specialists can repair the damage and restore your roof in three basic steps.

3 Basic Steps to Repair and Restore Your Roof

1. Remove

The first thing experts do is examine the damage. Whether you have missing shingles or just broken or cracked ones, either problem can allow water to seep into your building's interior. As a result, several items may need to be torn out:

• Roof support beams
  
• Insulation
  
• Drywall
  
• Ceiling tiles
  
  

Removing water damage is vital. Taking care of this step quickly can help you avoid secondary problems such as mold growth. The sooner you call the technicians, the smoother the cleanup process will go.

2. Decontaminate

Flood water, particularly that which has run into your building through a roof leak, is considered contaminated water. It can contain dirt, debris and bacteria. It is necessary, therefore, to not only dry out the affected area but also to disinfect it so that microscopic organisms in the water don't lead to further rot or bad air quality in your building. Technicians may use special machinery and industrial cleaners to sanitize the space.

3. Rebuild

Once all traces of damage and filth are gone, the restoration stage can begin. Specialists rebuild the interior portions that were destroyed, replacing walls, ceilings and insulation. Then they repair the damaged roof so that it can get back to protecting your building.

Even a small roof leak can cause serious damage to your commercial building. A professional team that has the knowledge and experience to handle the cleanup process from removal to restoration is essential for getting your roof back to normal.

The Top 3 Things You Should Know About Category 2 Water Damage

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Avoid exposure to Category 2 water damage

Before water pipe repair can begin, you need to know what kind of water you’re dealing with. Category 2 water damage is essentially the “Goldilocks” of water damage. It isn’t as highly contaminated as Category 3 water, but it isn’t clean like Category 1 water, either. Here are the top three things you need to know about Category 2 water.

3 Facts About Category 2 Water Damage

1. It Can Make You Sick

Category 2 water contains a moderate amount of biological, chemical and/or physical contaminants. In short, enough toxins are present that consuming this type of water is likely to make you feel ill and exposure to it could cause significant skin irritation. It’s often referred to as “gray water” due to this mid-range level of contamination.

2. It’s Found in a Variety of Places

There are probably several sources of Category 2 water on your Colorado Springs, CO, commercial property. Category 2 water comes from places such as:

• Toilets (without solid waste)
  
• Sump pumps
  
• Dishwashers
  
• Washing machines
  

If you experience unwanted water from any of these sources, you should refrain from beginning any water pipe repair or water removal and instead vacate the area.

3. It Should Be Cleaned Up by Professionals

Because of the potential for illness, if a broken pipe or seepage causes an area of your property to become flooded with Category 2 water, it’s best to call your local water damage restoration company. Professionals have the experience, training and equipment to safely remove the contaminated water and sanitize your commercial space. They also frequently perform repairs and other restoration efforts as you work toward returning to business as usual.

Before you break out the shop vac or start searching for water pipe repair videos online, assess the water involved. If you suspect that it’s Category 2 water, enlist the help of a trusted water damage mitigation service for a safe, quick resolution.

Why the Decision Makers Trust SERVPRO

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

Insurance Claim Form

When a business needs to contact an insurance agent to file a claim, most will receive a recommendation for SERVPRO in Colorado Springs, CO. While there are many reasons that this remediation service has such a sterling reputation among industry professionals, there are at least four reasons the decision-makers hold the company in such high regard.

1. Rapid response
2. Certification
3. Vendor requirements
4. Claims information center

4 Reasons the Decision-Makers Trust SERVPRO

Rapid Response

When a disaster occurs, response time is crucial. A company needs to protect the remainder of the facility to ensure claim approval, but if too much time passes, the business opens itself up to accusations of lax mitigation protocols, making approval difficult. A business needs a company with a pristine reputation to make it to the building quickly, putting mitigation procedures into effect that will protect the claim.

Certification

Your company's insurance agent most likely knows that SERVPRO is certified through the IICRC, the certification body known for restoration and remediation standards across the industry. The certification speaks to the professionalism and knowledge of this vendor and its franchisees.

Vendor Requirements

Beyond the IICRC certification, the Faster to Any Disaster professional has an established and popular vendor program. Franchisees must adhere to 21 guidelines before they can receive referrals from the company. Some of these requirements include IICRC training, employee background checks and commercial insurance.

Claims Information Center

The business famous for the "Like it never even happened," adage also goes out of its way to make the claims process approachable for insurers and clients. The claims information center is a digital portal, allowing for shared messaging and updates on existing and past projects. The system benefits insurers because it is a one-stop-shop for research and data analysis.

SERVPRO is a well-known disaster mitigation and restoration specialist, and you should not be surprised if your insurance agent suggests the company for your next damage claim. Call on the Faster to Any Disaster brand for more information or a building assessment.

How Can You Prevent Water Damage During Construction?

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy rain can sometimes bring a building construction to a stop

The construction process is often an exciting time for business owners. However, having to worry about making a water pipe repair and the resulting water damage can make the process stressful. There are several ways businesses in Colorado Springs, CO, can avoid water damage during construction.

3 Steps to Avoid Water Damage During Construction

1. Prepare for Rain

Heavy rain can sometimes bring a building construction to a stop. Though you can't prevent rain from falling, there are steps you can take to protect your building from flooding. Throughout the construction process, it can be helpful to ensure that building materials remain covered. Additionally, keeping water drainage away from your building can help to prevent major water damage from affecting your property.

2. Use the Right Materials

Faulty or outdated equipment, such as a broken pipe or damaged appliance, can often cause major delays during the construction process. If major water damage occurs, it may be useful to contact water damage restoration experts. However, using materials that meet relevant building code standards can help to prevent the need for a water pipe repair or other costly and time-consuming repairs. If you are adding on to a property, it can be particularly helpful to check existing building materials prior to construction to ensure the original structure is sound.

3. Keep Contact With the Project Manager

Throughout the process of construction, you will likely have a variety of questions. A project manager can often help to guide you through the construction process. Asking your project manager, contractor and other important professionals who are taking part in the construction process what measurements they are taking to avoid water damage can bring you peace of mind. If active steps to prevent a flooded building are not being taken, you can request that measurements be put in place quickly.

Avoiding the need for a water pipe repair or a supply line repair during construction can help to make construction a less stressful process. Knowing how to avoid major water damage during construction can help to make the construction process quick and easy.

Reduce Exposure to COVID-19 at Your Workplace

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Keeping your office desk and office clean can reduce exposure to COVID-19.

The current coronavirus that countries and communities are currently battling is easy to transmit. One of the means of transmission is by touching infected surfaces. If an employee or client with the virus comes into your Colorado Springs, CO, building, the virus could be left on doorknobs, tabletops, elevator buttons, and anything else the person touched. The next person to touch that surface could then pick up the virus and become ill themselves and/or contribute to the spread of coronavirus exposure.

Recommendations From the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Individuals can and should take steps to avoid becoming sick. These steps are simple and effective:

• Wash hands frequently and for twenty seconds, using soap and water
  
• Wear a mask that covers both the nose and the mouth
  
• Stay home when feeling sick
  
• Use a tissue to cover the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing
  
  

Most people aren’t at risk of becoming seriously ill, but the steps individuals take to reduce the spread of the virus can prevent unnecessary deaths.

Unseen Exposure Increases Numbers of Infected People

Part of the problem with this virus is that people may be asymptomatic carriers for up to two weeks before getting sick or may carry the virus without ever appearing sick. This means that your business could already have been exposed to the virus. For this reason, consistent coronavirus cleanup must be a top priority. Without routine cleaning, you could inadvertently contribute to rising levels of coronavirus exposure in your community.

Professionals Are Equipped To Face the Virus

SERVPRO offers covid-19 cleanup services and is Here to Help commercial properties. Using FDA approved disinfectants and drawing upon more than 40 years of experience, SERVPRO cleanup professionals are prepared with appropriate personal protective equipment and current training. Trained technicians use modern disinfection practices to provide thorough coronavirus cleanup.

Concerns about coronavirus exposure don’t have to become fears about the virus. As individuals and companies take steps to minimize the spread of the virus, there will naturally be less cause for alarm.

How To Prepare Your Commercial Property for Winter

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

To avoid winter storm damage in your commercial property remove all debris from gutters.

For many, the word “winter” evokes images of chilly nights and cozy sweaters. For others, it’s a reminder of why they moved to Bermuda. And for most property owners, it’s a reminder that your commercial building needs to take precautions for the cooler months ahead. Here are five ways to avoid winter storm damage.

5 Ways to Prepare Your Commercial Property to Avoid Winter Storm Damage

1. Inspect Your Roof

Winter storms can wreak havoc on shingles and roof tiles. Roof damage gives water easy access to your building’s interior and can lead to property damage and mold.

2. Clean Your Gutters

While you’re up there, eliminate any leaves, sticks, or other debris that may have gathered in your gutters. If left unattended, gutter clogs can lead to water accumulation and necessitate the help of a storm damage restoration company.

3. Inspect the Rest of Your Property, Too

Depending on where your commercial property is located, a winter storm can encompass a variety of extreme weather events — everything from snow and hail to high winds. As the temperature drops, survey your building and surrounding premises to look for existing issues that may appear small now but may be exacerbated by severe and unusual weather.

4. Check Window and Door Seals

Even if winter in your neck of the woods is mild, it’s imperative to eliminate any gaps around your windows and doors. Drafts often mean more dollars spent on utilities. Break out the caulking gun or bucket of sealant and keep your energy costs as low as possible when the temperature dips.

5. Inspect your HVAC System

The lower the thermometer reading, the more you’ll need to rely on your HVAC unit. To avoid storm damage to your energy bill, look for blockages and cracks, listen for strange noises, and clean your filters and condensation drain traps before winter sets in.

Even if your Colorado Springs, CO, commercial property is in for mild weather this winter, it’s imperative to prepare for winter storm damage. By taking just a few precautions, you can prevent interruption to your daily routine and revenue and eliminate the need to figure disaster restoration into your budget.

What To Do If Your Business Has Been Exposed to the Coronavirus

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help with Coronavirus in Colorado Springs, CO.

The effects of the coronavirus pandemic are far-reaching; virtually every community is taking precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19. If your commercial property in Colorado Springs, CO, was the site of a coronavirus exposure. 

Three steps to take to reduce further contamination.

1. Close Off the Area
   If one of your employees tests positive for COVID-19, the first thing to do is to retrace his or her steps and close off any areas of your property that may have been exposed to the virus as a result. The goal here is to identify what areas need to be thoroughly cleaned. If you can shut your entire business down temporarily for a deep cleaning, it may be wise to do so.
2. Wait 24 Hours Before Starting Any COVID-19 Cleanup
   It’s unknown just how long the coronavirus can live on a surface. While it’s likely only a matter of minutes, it’s important to err on the side of safety after a coronavirus exposure and wait at least one day before beginning any sort of sanitation offensive. Don’t forget: There are a variety of factors that could potentially contribute to the virus’s lifespan, such as the types of surface affected, as well as the temperature and humidity in Colorado Springs, CO.
   
3. Leave the Cleaning to the Professionals
   While you wait for the virus to become dormant, consider calling a local emergency restoration company to schedule a professional coronavirus cleanup. Its crew has the experience and tools necessary to safely complete the job. In addition to strictly adhering to all federal guidelines for COVID-19 cleanup, for example, a disaster mitigation team receives training focused on which materials are most successful in eliminating the coronavirus in particular.
   

A coronavirus exposure at your commercial property can be daunting. However, if you keep a cool head, carefully retrace the infected person’s steps, and enlist the help of trained professionals, you can reduce the risk of further workplace contamination and look forward to resuming business as usual as soon as possible.

Commercial Water Damage Cleanup Services

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

Your Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Experts

Commercial properties are a large investment and some buildings are trickier than others. If you experience a water loss at your office, call center, hotel, multifamily community, or other commercial property SERVPRO has the know how and the equipment to get the job done right. Speedy and careful recovery after commercial flooding takes knowledgeable staff, advanced equipment, and modern drying techniques.

Does SERVPRO clean Commercial Properties?

We have years of experience providing water damage services to clients across the country. We have done everything from retail stores, and hotel chains, to schools and Fortune 500 office buildings. No job is too big or small for the crew at SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs.

Don't leave commercial water damage to amateurs. Call the company that has the most experience and is trusted by insurance companies all over the USA.

Commercial Water Damage

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

Your Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Experts

Commercial properties are a large investment and some buildings are trickier than others. If you experience a water loss at your office, call center, hotel, multifamily community, or other commercial property SERVPRO has the know how and the equipment to get the job done right. Speedy and careful recovery after commercial flooding takes knowledgeable staff, advanced equipment, and modern drying techniques. 

We have years of experience providing water damage services to clients across the country. We have done everything from retail stores, and hotel chains, to schools and Fortune 500 office buildings. No job is too big or small for the crew at SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs. 

How Can You Prepare Your Business For a Flood?

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

The best time to plan your evacuation route is now

Here Are Some Things You Should Consider When Creating a Storm Preparedness Plan

The last few years have shown that severe inclement can devastate areas quickly, often going places that many thought would not be touched. That means business owners throughout the states and particularly Colorado Springs, CO, should consider how to handle flood water, efficiently and safely. Here are three things that proprietors should consider in creating a storm preparedness plan.

1. Think Ahead
A flooded building poses several major issues. Documents and electronics could be ruined. Titleholders may not be permitted access, and important assets could be harmed. For that reason, don't take chances. Before anything comes your way, sit down and plan out how to help yourself. Locate all paperwork such as titles, contracts, and financial notes. Take photos of them, or scan them. Then, upload them to a cloud. That way, should moisture ruin a computer system or filing area, you can still pull up records. In addition, understand your insurance policy, reviewing any deductibles, clauses and procedures. Do this annually, speaking with your agent about any concerns.

2. Prepare the Building
When watches and warnings are issued, take steps to minimize flood water problems. Have the roof reviewed, covering up any loose shingles or flashing. Then, walk the perimeter, picking up items and branches that could become lifted up by high winds. Your goal is to remove anything that could puncture the roof, walls or windows. Even small objects could become missiles when intense gales occur. Finally, board up windows and doors.

3. Get It Fixed
After the system passes, contact your insurance agency and a water restoration company. They can assess any water damage, determining the extent of repairs. By working closely with your insurance agent and remediation crews, you may be able to expedite the process. Remember to discard anything touched by external water. It could contain bacteria and prove hazardous to you, employees and clients. Then, work as a team to sanitize the rooms and restore the place.
Your company is valuable, and you'll want it up and running as soon as possible. Don't wait for a disaster to happen. Instead, organize yourself now, saving documentation and contacts. Then, work with professionals to fix the shop.

Your Rental House, Polybutylene Pipes and Risk Management

9/28/2019 (Permalink)

Discovering that your older property has polybutylene pipes can be an ominous sign of the future health of the building

Your Rental House, Polybutylene Pipes and Risk Management

As an owner of a rental property in Colorado Springs, CO there’s no lack of maintenance issues that have to be resolved. Discovering that your older property has polybutylene pipes can be an ominous sign of the future health of the building. Is it time to replace them?

What’s the Problem?

Millions of houses were built with this type of plumbing system from 1978 to 1996 and many of these systems still remain. These pipes are notorious for forming micro-fractures that eventually burst; oxidation and chlorine exposure weakens them over time. These pipes were originally thought to be super durable due to their flexibility, but time has proven otherwise. If you’re still contemplating whether to risk keeping the current pipe system versus replacing it, consider these consequences of keeping the old:

• Emergency Pipe Leaks
  
• Damage to Property
  
• Insurance Claims
  
• Unhappy Residents
  
  

To make things worse, some insurers don’t even cover houses that are fitted with these pipes. And if they do, they may charge higher premiums for these properties. These days polybutylene pipes are usually replaced with either copper or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes. Unfortunately, there’s really no way to repair the old pipes, so the question comes down to replacing them now or flirting with the possible consequences of waiting.

Things to Consider

It’ll most definitely be costly to repipe the house, but it could be way more expensive to wait until there’s a problem. If you don’t get them replaced you could risk being sued by residents, having to invest in expensive remediation services or possibly losing your valuable property completely. Consider it an investment in the future of your business. You and your residents will feel much more confident knowing that your property’s plumbing system will be in good shape for many years to come.
If your property sustains water damage from a leaky or ruptured polybutylene pipe, you can count on remediation professionals to do a quick and thorough cleanup.

The Facts About Smoke Damage

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

Fire in a Colorado Springs, CO warehouse

Destruction the hot flames can causes. Indeed, even smaller incidents have the potential to cause fire damage. However, if your Colorado Springs, CO, office building has a fire, you also need to be concerned about the problems smoke can cause. The smoke cleaning effort, in this case, can be significant as well.

Where’s There’s Fire, There’s Smoke

In many situations, people will smell smoke before they’ll ever see signs of a fire. Your building should have effective smoke detectors to alert you when problems arise. Here are some concerns to be aware of with smoke:

• The effects the smoke can have on people’s health
  
• The lingering smoke odor, which can be unbearable
  
• Damage caused by smoke to electronics, documents, furniture, floors and walls
  
  

Make the Right Call

After calling the fire department to tackle the fire, you’ll need to get in touch with our insurance company. Next, hire an experienced team of fire restoration experts to assess the smoke damage and other issues. Professionals will have the right equipment and the latest techniques to thoroughly clean those areas the smoke affected.

Cleaning Methods

Smoke will leave behind a nasty layer of soot on surfaces and materials. It can corrode electronics and make other items unsalvageable without effective ways to handle smoke cleaning. The cleanup team will use a variety of tactics to thoroughly and safely clean all affected items and areas of your building. Some of the most effective treatments are air filtration devices, ozone machines and thermal foggers.

Your Role

Don’t disturb anything at the scene. This could cause further damage. Do not try to turn on any of the electronics or clean anything yourself. At most, you could take a damp cloth and wipe off surfaces.
Damage left from fire and smoke can be terrible. Luckily, qualified crews can use smoke cleaning methods to save even heavily damaged items. Get in touch with a restoration company today.

Facility Maintenance: Cleaning Moldy Carpets

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Vacuums with HEPA filters can help with carpet cleaning

Facility Maintenance: Cleaning Moldy Carpets

Carpet cleaning is likely part of any property’s maintenance routine. However, when dealing with mold growth, regular cleaning must be adjusted, and special precautions taken to reduce the spread of mold spores and to control the risks of further contamination.

1. Control Ventilation

The main rule when dealing with mold problems is to control ventilation. Typically, ventilation is encouraged in a property to reduce the risk of fungal development, but when dealing with an infestation, the focus is on lowering spread within the facility. Therefore, the contaminated area should be sealed off with plastic, including thresholds and vents. You can open an exterior window, placing a fan in the opening blowing outward, which will help to force spores out of the building as the carpets are cleaned.

2. Scrub

Moldy carpet cleaning requires a stiff, dry brush. Gently scrub the affected areas, freeing the surface mold. Sweep or brush the loose material into a bag, seal it and discard it. While you can use a vacuum with a HEPA filter for this, keep in mind that you will need to clean the vacuum thoroughly before using it in other areas of the property. If you do not clean the vacuum, you risk exposing other areas to mold development.

3. Use an Appropriate Cleaner

Do not use bleach. Bleach is for a nonporous surface. When used to clean mold from porous materials, it may contribute to further growth. There are some commercial mold cleaners available, but make sure that they are for mold, not mildew and that they can be used to clean porous surfaces.

4. Consult with a Specialist

A better choice for mold removal is to hire a remediation specialist in the Colorado Springs, CO, area. These professionals are certified and experienced and are likely aware of all safety precautions and chemicals needed to restore your facility.

While carpet cleaning is a routine part of property maintenance, mold removal is not. Therefore, ensure you follow basic cleaning practices to limit further exposure or hire a professional to eliminate the problem for you.

EMERGENCY READY PROGRAM

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Many businesses have an emergency contingency plan in place, but few have a plan to get back into their buildings following a disaster.

Up to 25% 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.

EMERGENCY READY PROGRAM

• A no-cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
• SERVPRO® is a sponsor of the American Red Cross Ready Rating™ program. A free, web-based program designed to help businesses, organizations and schools become better prepared for emergencies.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”

Ready to get started?

Call SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs proudly serves Colorado Springs, Fountain, Security-Widefield, Black Forest, Peyton, Calhan, Woodland Park, Ellicott, and all of Elbert and El Paso County. Call us with your mitigation concerns at (719) 266-0881.

Call the Cleanup Team of North Central Colorado Springs

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

No matter where you live, it is important to be informed and prepared for any natural disaster that may occur. Natural disasters often strike without warning, leaving behind a trail of destruction and devastation. Though Mother Nature's disasters are often unpredictable, there are steps you can take to ensure you are prepared.

Contact SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs to establish an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your property. SERVPRO's ERP serves as a quick reference document, detailing important building and contact information for you property in the event of an emergency. The ERP is an ideal supplement to any existing preparedness plan, or may be used as a standalone document. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is the key to timely mitigation, and can minimize the effects of any weather-related disaster, water or fire damage to your business.

When disaster strikes, make sure you have experience professionals on the line. No matter how big or small SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs professionals will be ready to help make your property damage "Like it never even happened."

Call us at (719) 266-0881

Fast Facts on Flooding

4/27/2017 (Permalink)

At least 25% of businesses that close after a flood event never reopen again.

Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, out in the country, or even in the desert, there is potential for flooding. Anywhere it can rain, it can flood.

A variety of events can cause flooding, like: heavy rains, when ocean waves come onshore, if snow melts too fast, or when dams or levees break. A flooding event may occur over a long period and could last days, weeks, or longer.

The most dangerous type of flood, a flash flood, happens quickly with little or no warnings. Flash floods are the top weather-related killer in the U.S. since they can roll boulders, tear out trees and destroy buildings of low-lying areas in less than six hours, caused by intense rainfall from a thunderstorm or several thunderstorms.

At least 25% of the business that close after an event like a flood never reopen their doors. As little as one-inch of water can cause costly damage to your property. The average commercial flood claim was is more than $75,000.00.

SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs one of the over 1,700 franchises that have over 40 years of experience remediating flood damaged businesses. If a flood strikes your business, call SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs at (719) 266-0881

COMMERCIAL CLEANING SERVICES

4/27/2017 (Permalink)

You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, call in  SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs Franchise Professional. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs Franchise Professionals to make your workspace look its very best.
Your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will get the job done right and get it done quickly, because the SERVPRO® Advantage includes these benefits:

Award-Winning Training

Exclusive Cleaning Products

Nearly 50 years of Experience

SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs proudly serves Colorado Springs, Fountain, Security-Widefield, Black Forest, Peyton, Calhan, Woodland Park, Ellicott, and all of Elbert and El Paso County. Call us with your mitigation concerns at (719) 266-0881.

DISASTERS AT EDUCATION FACILITIES

4/27/2017 (Permalink)

AT SERVPRO® we believe learning shouldn’t be paused or canceled, even in the face of disaster.

Disasters at an educational facility are highly complex and require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a small school campus or an institute of higher education, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area so that normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility. 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. Your job is to provide valuable lessons and information to the students, ours is to make sure you have a safe place to do so.

OUR EXPERIENCE

Our experience in handling educational facilities cleanups has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following educational facilities:

• K-12 Schools


• Colleges & Universities


• Dormitories


• Private Schools


• Libraries

SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs is locally owned and operated—so we’re a part of this community too. We are also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which enables us to respond quicker with more resources. For major storms and disasters, we can call upon special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country.

SERVPRO of North Central Colorado Springs proudly serves Colorado Springs, Fountain, Security-Widefield, Black Forest, Peyton, Calhan, Woodland Park, Ellicott, and all of Elbert and El Paso County. Call us with your mitigation concerns at (719) 266-0881.