Understanding the Impact of Storm Damage on Your Property

9/23/2023 (Permalink)

Be weather aware and take precautions to protect your self incase of a storm.

Strong storms are known for causing significant damage to properties, leaving homeowners with various headaches in their aftermath. Water, wind, hail, and lightning are some of the elements that could result in different forms of damage to your property. Understanding the impact of storm damage on your property is vital in protecting your investment and staying financially responsible. In this article, we'll explore the effects that storms can have on your property and why you should take steps to mitigate them.

Water Damage

One of the most common damage types resulting from powerful storms is water damage. During heavy rainfall, excessive water could enter your property and find its way through cracks and other vulnerable points, causing destruction. Water damage could lead to mold formation and structural damage if left unattended. Other water-related problems could include electrical damages, plumbing issues, and appliance malfunctions, followed by possible short circuits, gas line explosions, or electrical hazards.

Wind Damage

When powerful winds accompany severe storms, your property is vulnerable to damage as well. The impact of strong winds could lead to fallen trees, damaged roofs, or window breakage. Other wind-related damages could arise from gutter displacement, hail damage, and siding detachment. Broken windows and holes in your walls may also expose your property to further damage, theft, and unwanted wildlife.

Hail Damage

Hail storms are quite common in the South Central region and can cause significant damage to properties. Hail could lead to roof damage, broken windows, and vehicle damage. They could also harm HVAC units, gutters, and sidings. Even if the hail doesn't break through your windows, they could still weaken the seals, making them susceptible to future damage.

Lightning Damage

Lightning strikes could cause property fires, electrical fires, and damage electronic appliances. If lightning strikes close to your home or business, it could cause power surges that could damage your electrical equipment, including air conditioning systems, televisions, and other appliances. Therefore, it is advisable to unplug your essential electrical equipment during a storm's height.

In summary, storm damage is a costly problem, which can ultimately threaten the safety of your home, business or even your life. Thus, it is critical to understand the impact of storm damage on your property and take appropriate steps to mitigate it. By conducting regular maintenance checks, investing in quality window and door protection, reinforcing your roof and siding, and seeking professional help after a storm, you can protect your property and avoid unnecessary expenses. Remember that being aware and taking precautions in advance can significantly minimize both financial and personal loss in the case of any storm damage.

Financial Flames: Unraveling the Responsibility for Fire Damage in Rental Properties

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Ensuring you have the proper insurance to cover your rental property is crucial.

A fire in a rental property can be a devastating event, leaving both tenants and landlords grappling with the aftermath. Among the many concerns that arise, a significant question arises: Who is responsible for paying for the fire damage? In this article, we will delve into the complexities of determining liability and explore the factors that influence who ultimately bears the financial burden of fire damage in a rental property.

Understanding Lease Agreements

The first step in understanding the responsibility for fire damage lies in reviewing the lease agreement. Lease agreements typically outline the rights and responsibilities of both the tenant and the landlord. It is crucial to thoroughly examine the lease to determine specific clauses related to maintenance, repairs, and insurance coverage in the event of a fire.

Landlord's Responsibility

In most cases, the landlord holds primary responsibility for maintaining the structural integrity of the rental property. This includes ensuring that the property meets safety standards, providing functional smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and conducting necessary repairs and maintenance. If the fire damage is a result of the landlord's negligence or failure to fulfill these responsibilities, they are likely to be held liable for the damages.

Tenant's Responsibility

Tenants are generally responsible for their own personal belongings and any damage caused by their actions or negligence. If the fire damage can be attributed to the tenant's misuse of appliances, carelessness with open flames, or violation of fire safety guidelines outlined in the lease agreement, the tenant may be responsible for covering the costs of repairs and damages.

Insurance plays a crucial role in determining who pays for fire damage in a rental property. Both landlords and tenants should have appropriate insurance coverage to protect themselves and their assets.

Landlord's and Tenants Insurance

Landlords typically carry property insurance, also known as landlord insurance or dwelling insurance. This insurance covers the structure of the building and may also include liability coverage. If the fire damage is a result of covered perils specified in the policy, the landlord's insurance may cover the repairs and restoration costs.

Tenants are responsible for obtaining renter's insurance, which covers their personal belongings and provides liability protection. If the fire damage is due to the tenant's actions or negligence, their renter's insurance may cover their personal property damages and liability claims.

Legal Considerations

In some cases, determining liability for fire damage in a rental property may involve legal proceedings. If negligence on either party's part is suspected, legal action may be taken to establish responsibility and seek compensation for damages. Consulting with legal professionals is advisable in complex situations or when there are disputes regarding liability.

Clear communication between the tenant and the landlord is essential when addressing fire damage. It is crucial to report the incident promptly and document the damages thoroughly through photographs, videos, and written descriptions. Maintaining records of any communication, including repair requests and insurance claims, can provide important evidence during the resolution process.

Determining who pays for fire damage in a rental property depends on several factors, including the lease agreement, insurance coverage, and the circumstances surrounding the fire. Both landlords and tenants should understand their respective responsibilities, review their insurance policies, and engage in open communication to ensure a fair and efficient resolution. Seeking legal advice and documenting the damages are valuable steps towards navigating the complexities of fire damage liability in a rental property.

Protecting Your Home: Tips to Prevent Water Damage While on Vacation

7/13/2023 (Permalink)

Protect your property while your away on vacation.

Planning a vacation is an exciting time, but it's important not to overlook the safety and well-being of your home while you're away. Water damage can be a costly and disruptive issue that can occur in your absence. To ensure peace of mind during your vacation, it's crucial to take preventive measures to protect your home from potential water damage. In this blog post, we will provide you with practical tips to help prevent water damage while you're on vacation, allowing you to relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about the safety of your property.

Inspect and Repair Plumbing

Before leaving for vacation, inspect your plumbing system for any leaks, drips, or signs of damage. Repair or replace any faulty components, such as faucets, valves, or pipes. It's advisable to hire a professional plumber to conduct a thorough inspection and address any issues that may increase the risk of water damage.

Shut Off the Main Water Supply

One of the most effective ways to prevent water damage is to shut off the main water supply to your home. Locate the main shut-off valve and turn it off before leaving for vacation. This will cut off the water supply to your entire home, minimizing the risk of leaks or burst pipes while you're away.

Drain and Insulate Pipes

In colder climates, freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst. To prevent this, drain and insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, or attics. Use pipe insulation sleeves or wrapping to protect pipes from freezing. Additionally, open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

Check and Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris before your vacation. This will prevent water from backing up and overflowing, which can lead to water damage around your home's foundation. Clean out any leaves, twigs, or other obstructions and ensure that water can flow freely through the gutters and downspouts.

Test Sump Pump and Backup Systems

If your home has a sump pump or other water drainage systems, test them before leaving for vacation. Ensure that they are in proper working condition and have a backup power source in case of a power outage. This will help prevent basement flooding during heavy rains or sudden water accumulation.

Set Up Leak Detection Devices

Consider installing leak detection devices in areas prone to water damage, such as the basement, laundry room, or near appliances like the dishwasher and water heater. These devices can detect leaks or excessive moisture and alert you through a smartphone app, allowing you to take action even when you're away from home.

Enlist the Help of a Trusted Neighbor or Friend

Ask a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to check on your home periodically while you're on vacation. Provide them with your contact information and instructions on what to do in case of an emergency. They can keep an eye out for any signs of water damage and address issues promptly on your behalf.

Consider Smart Home Technology

Investing in smart home technology can provide additional protection and peace of mind while you're away. Smart water leak detectors, smart thermostats, and security systems can help monitor your home remotely and send alerts in case of water leaks or unexpected environmental changes.

Preventing water damage while you're on vacation requires careful preparation and proactive measures. By inspecting and repairing your plumbing, shutting off the main water supply, draining and insulating pipes, cleaning gutters, testing sump pumps, setting up leak detection devices, enlisting the help of a trusted neighbor, and considering smart home technology, you can significantly reduce the risk of water damage and enjoy your vacation with peace of mind. Remember, a little prevention can go a long way in safeguarding your home and belongings from potential water-related disasters.

Shielding Your Business: Commercial Storm Insurance Coverage

6/18/2023 (Permalink)

Commercial properties are often vulnerable to the damaging effects of storms, including high winds, hail, lightning, and heavy rainfall. To mitigate financial risks and protect their assets, businesses often opt for commercial storm insurance. However, understanding the coverage provided by such policies is crucial for making informed decisions. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of commercial storm insurance to help you grasp what it covers and how it can safeguard your business in times of storm-related disasters.

Property Damage Coverage

Commercial storm insurance typically provides coverage for property damage caused by storms. This includes structural damage to buildings, roofs, walls, and other physical structures on your premises. It may also extend to outdoor fixtures, signage, fences, and landscaping affected by storm-related perils. The policy should outline the specific covered perils, such as wind, hail, lightning, and falling objects.

Business Interruption Coverage

In addition to property damage, commercial storm insurance often includes business interruption coverage. This coverage helps compensate for the income loss and extra expenses incurred due to temporary closure or disruption caused by storm-related damages. It can cover ongoing expenses like payroll, rent, utilities, and even relocation costs if necessary.

Equipment and Inventory Coverage

Commercial storm insurance typically extends coverage to the equipment and inventory affected by storm-related perils. This can include machinery, tools, computers, inventory stock, and other business-related equipment. Damages resulting from lightning strikes, water intrusion, or other covered perils may be eligible for reimbursement or replacement under the policy.

Additional Coverages

Commercial storm insurance policies may offer additional coverages or endorsements that can be tailored to your business's specific needs. These may include coverage for debris removal, temporary repairs, and protection against business liability arising from storm-related incidents, such as slips and falls on wet surfaces. Review your policy carefully to understand the extent of these additional coverages.

Deductibles and Limits

Commercial storm insurance policies typically have deductibles, which are the amount you are responsible for paying out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. The policy will also specify coverage limits, which determine the maximum amount the insurer will pay for covered losses. It's important to review and understand these deductibles and limits to ensure they align with your business's risk tolerance and potential financial exposure.

Exclusions and Policy Limitations

While commercial storm insurance covers a wide range of storm-related perils, it's crucial to be aware of any exclusions and limitations within the policy. Some policies may exclude certain perils like flooding or impose limitations on coverage for specific types of property or circumstances. Understanding these exclusions and limitations will help you assess your business's vulnerabilities and explore additional coverage options if necessary.

Commercial storm insurance plays a crucial role in protecting businesses from the financial impact of storm-related damages. By understanding the coverage it provides, including property damage, business interruption, equipment, and inventory, as well as additional coverages, deductibles, and limits, you can make informed decisions when selecting a policy. Remember to review your policy regularly, reassess your business's needs, and consult with an insurance professional to ensure your coverage remains adequate and aligned with your business's evolving requirements. With comprehensive commercial storm insurance, you can have peace of mind knowing that your business is protected against the unpredictable forces of nature.

Say Goodbye to Mold: A Guide to Cleaning Up Small Amounts of Mold in Your Home

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

If you suspect mold in your home, give the professionals at SERVPRO a call.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows on organic material, such as wood and food. It's usually found in damp places like basements or bathrooms, but it can also grow on drywall if you have a leaky pipe in your home.

Where is Mold Found?

Mold can grow in many places, including bathrooms, kitchens, basements and crawl spaces. The humidity from a shower or bath can provide the perfect conditions for mold to flourish. If you have an open window and don't use your kitchen fan, the air will get stagnant and allow mold to grow on surfaces like countertops and cupboards (especially if they're made of wood). Basements or crawl spaces with poor ventilation, which allows moisture to build up and create an ideal environment for mold growth.

How to Clean Up Small Amounts of Mold

The first step to cleaning up mold is figuring out how much of it you have. If you have a large amount, or if the area has been closed off for some time, then it's best to call in professionals who have experience dealing with mold.
If you do decide to clean up small amounts of mold yourself, follow these steps:

Wear protective gear, a respirator mask and gloves are recommended. Remove all items from the area that can be cleaned without damaging them (this includes carpeting). If possible, remove drywall as well, otherwise vacuum thoroughly after removing any visible growths. If there are any large pieces remaining on the surface after vacuuming them off (like wallpaper), scrape these away using a putty knife or similar tool so that they don't come back later when new growth occurs beneath them Wash down all surfaces with water mixed with bleach at least twice, once after removing visible growths and again after vacuuming up dust particles left behind by your cleaning methods. Let everything dry completely before replacing furniture or other objects back into place.

How to Prevent Mold Growth

Humidity control. If you have a humidifier, make sure it's working properly and not leaking water into your home. Also be sure to keep the bathroom fan on when showering or bathing to prevent excess moisture from building up in the air. Ventilation,  Open windows when possible, especially during warmer months when humidity levels tend to be higher than usual.
Maintenance, Check for leaks around pipe fittings and faucets, repair any leaks immediately if found (a common source of mold growth).

What to Do If You Suspect a Larger Mold Problem
If you suspect a larger mold problem, it's best to hire a professional. A trained inspector can test for mold and determine whether there is an issue that requires remediation. If so, they will also be able to tell you how much cleaning up needs to be done and how much it will cost.

If you suspect mold in your home or office, give the professionals at SERVPRO a call to immediately assess and begin the mold remediation process for quick cleanup.

Restoring Homes and Lives: Understanding the Fire Damage Restoration Process

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration is a complex process. Give the professionals a call for your fire damage restoration.

Fire damage restoration refers to the process of repairing and restoring a property that has been damaged by fire. It is a comprehensive process that involves a variety of different steps, including assessment, cleaning, restoration, and reconstruction. Fire damage restoration is typically carried out by professionals who have the necessary equipment, expertise, and experience to safely and effectively restore a property to its pre-fire condition.

The first step in fire damage restoration is usually an assessment of the damage. This involves inspecting the property to determine the extent of the damage and identify any safety hazards that need to be addressed. The assessment will also help determine the best course of action for restoring the property, as well as provide an estimate of the costs involved.

Once the assessment is complete, the next step in fire damage restoration is to clean the property. This involves removing any debris and charred materials from the property, as well as using specialized equipment to remove smoke and soot from surfaces. This process is important not only for aesthetic reasons but also to prevent further damage from occurring due to residual smoke and soot.

After the property has been cleaned, the restoration process can begin. This may involve repairing or replacing damaged structural elements, such as walls, ceilings, and floors, as well as replacing damaged electrical systems and appliances. In some cases, it may also involve repainting and refinishing surfaces to restore the property's appearance.

Throughout the restoration process, it is important to take steps to prevent further damage from occurring. This may involve installing temporary measures, such as tarps and plywood, to protect the property from the elements. It may also involve using dehumidifiers and other equipment to remove excess moisture from the property and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

Once the restoration process is complete, the final step in fire damage restoration is often reconstruction. This may involve rebuilding damaged structures or installing new fixtures and appliances to replace those that were destroyed in the fire. Reconstruction can be a complex process, and it is important to work with professionals who have experience in this area to ensure that the work is done safely and effectively.

In summary, fire damage restoration is a complex process that involves a variety of different steps. It requires the expertise and equipment of trained professionals to effectively restore a property that has been damaged by fire. By taking the necessary steps to assess the damage, clean the property, and restore and reconstruct damaged elements, fire damage restoration can help to return a property to its pre-fire condition and ensure the safety and well-being of those who live or work there.

How much time do I have to File a Water Claim?

3/10/2023 (Permalink)

Filing an insurance claim for your residential water damage can help return your home back to pre loss conditions.

Water damage can be devastating. It's a stressful time for everyone involved, including you and your insurance company. With the right information and support, however, you can get through this quickly and easily. Here are some tips to help recover water damage and claim to get the most from your insurance claim.

1. Call in the experts

At the first sign of damage give the experts at SERVPRO a call. Our qualified technicians respond to the call immediately to begin assessing your damages. They will begin by taking photos of affected areas so that they can be used as evidence later on when filing a claim with insurance companies. Next they will begin removing standing water from flooring and hard surfaces using portable extraction units that produce powerful suction forces capable of pulling up even heavy amounts of moisture within minutes.

2. Document the damages

Document the damages Once you have a good idea of what was damaged, it's time to document and photograph the damage. You'll want to take multiple pictures from different angles so that you can show how much of your stuff was affected by water. Keep track of what was damaged, including receipts for any cleaning or repairs (if possible). You may also want to write down where each item came from and its value in case there are any disputes down the line about coverage limits or replacement costs. Lastly, keep a list of all contact information for anyone who has been helping out with the process.

3. Cause of your water loss

Once you have determined the cause of loss, its time to file a claim with your insurance company. There are many ways that water can get into your home, pipes may burst from age or pressure and plumbing fixtures (such as sinks) may leak due to poor installation or damage. Rainwater can seep through cracks in roofs or walls after heavy rain fall.

To determine whether or not filing an insurance claim is right for you, take some time first by asking yourself these questions: How much time do I have before things start getting worse? What type of coverage do I have?

Call the Professionals

If you have water damage at your home or business, call SERVPRO 24/7. When you call us after a flooding event, we will send over a professional technician who will assess how much work needs to be done onsite before beginning any cleanup process. Our team has advanced equipment and techniques to extract all standing water from your property. 

What is covered with Business Insurance?

2/9/2023 (Permalink)

Do you have insurance in case of fire?

A business insurance policy can help you pay for the damages your company sustains and also helps replace any lost income due to a disruption. Some of these are obvious, while others might surprise you.

What is your potential loss?

The potential loss is the monetary value of property damage, lost revenue and profits, increased expenses and increased risk. For example, if you have a fire in your building that causes $100 million in damages, this is your potential loss. Your insurance company will then pay you up to this amount. To determine what your insurance policy limits should be for each type of coverage (such as property damage), consult with an independent commercial property & casualty insurance broker who specializes in business insurance policies for businesses like yours.

Property protection

The property protection section of your business insurance policy helps protect you against damage to the physical properties that are used to operate your business. Property can be damaged by fire, vandalism or natural disasters such as tornadoes, hurricanes and earthquakes. Additionally, coverage may include loss of use due to repair or replacement expenses. It also covers temporary relocation expenses if you're forced to shut down for an extended period because of damage from a covered peril. Keep in mind that coverage is only available while the property is being used as part of your business activity and not while it's vacant or under construction.

Business interruption insurance

The main objective of business interruption insurance coverage is to keep your business afloat in case of a covered disruption. If a fire or flood destroys the building where you operate, this type of insurance would reimburse you for lost revenue during this period.

In addition to reimbursements for lost revenue and any physical damages sustained, some types of business interruption insurance also cover the costs associated with hiring replacement workers while yours are out of commission. It’s important to inventory all the physical assets lost so that they can be replaced. You may also want to consider getting excess property coverage that covers additional property that isn't included under basic property insurance policies (e.g., tools or machinery).

These are the expenses that could be covered by the policy.

Business insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property, as well as restoring the site to its original condition. The policy may also include a provision that allows you to hire a contractor to repair or replace damaged equipment.

Depending on your business and location, additional coverage could be required under state law. In addition, some businesses are required by law to have workers' compensation insurance or pay into unemployment funds in certain states or provinces—this is beyond what is included in most business policies.

If you are still unsure about whether or not your business needs coverage, contact an insurance professional who can help determine the right amount of insurance for your business.

Top 3 Locations for Mold Growth in Your Home

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

To prevent mold damage, it's important to regularly inspect these three spots.

Mold is a fungus that can grow in the house if you don't take preventive measures. It's common to find mold in basements and attics, as they tend to be humid, but it's also possible that mold could have started growing out of sight. To prevent further damage, it's important to regularly inspect these three spots. 

The Attic

The attic may be a good place to start looking for mold. The attic is a dark, damp, and warm place that is ideal for mold growth. Mold spores that are in the air can easily land on surfaces such as wood or insulation in your attic. If you have any leaks or moisture in this area, it will only increase the chances of mold growth.

It’s important that you check your attic regularly so that you can catch any potential issues before they become serious concerns!

The basement

The basement is the most common place for mold growth, and it's not hard to see why. The moisture in your basement often comes from a leaking roof or plumbing leaks, which can ruin your home's structure if left unchecked. Mold growth can also come from the water that gets in through your foundation. If you have a leaky basement, it's important to fix the issue immediately so that mold doesn't start growing inside your home!

Mold caused by condensation on windows or walls can also be found in your basement. Condensation occurs when warm air comes into contact with cold surfaces like windows and walls; this makes the water vapor in the surrounding air condense on those surfaces as it cools down.

The crawlspace

Mold grows in dark, damp areas. Crawlspaces are often dark and damp. Mold can grow on the insulation, wood, and other materials in your crawlspace. Mold may damage your home by rotting wood beams or making it more difficult to sell if you ever decide to move out of it later on down the road.

Regular mold inspection is a preventive measure

It is important to understand that mold can grow anywhere in your house, even in the most unexpected places. It can be difficult to spot and remove because of its microscopic size and hardy nature.

Additional spaces to inspect include:

• Bathroom
• Kitchen
• Air-conditioning system

There are many different places in your house where mold can grow. The most common areas include the bathroom and kitchen. If you’re not checking these areas regularly for mold, then it could be damaging to your property. If you discover a potential mold infestation in your home or business in Redlands, CA, don’t hesitate and give our SERVPRO team a call today!

5 Steps to Take After Finding Water Damage in Your Home

12/23/2022 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your Yucaipa, CA home call your local SERVPRO.

5 Steps to Take After Finding Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage is an unfortunate reality in many homes. It can happen through a number of sources, such as a broken pipe in the wall or roof or even from flooding or heavy rains. If you've found water damage in your home, it's important that you act quickly to prevent further damage and minimize the long-term cost of restoring your house to its former condition.

1. Stop the Water

As soon as you notice water damage, you should immediately shut off the water supply to your home. This will prevent further damage and make it easier to clean up after the flood has been contained.

If you aren't sure how to shut off the water supply in your house, contact SERVPRO of South Redlands/Yucaipa to help you with this step. 

If you can't find where the leak is coming from (and this is especially true if it's happening in an area that isn't visible), call a professional! They'll have equipment that can detect even tiny leaks from pipes that weren't visible before they got wet.

2. Call Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company as soon as you notice water damage in your home. You may need to file a claim and submit the necessary paperwork, which will be handled by your insurance company. If you do not file a claim, you could be liable for the damages if it turns out that there was a leaky pipe or faucet in your home.

Your insurance company will guide you through the process of filing an insurance claim and help mitigate any costs incurred from repairing or replacing damaged property items such as carpeting, walls, countertops, and appliances.

3. Protect Yourself and Your Family

Water damage can be devastating to your home and family. Here are some tips on how to protect your family after a water damage event:

First, turn off the power. If you have any appliances that use electricity, such as your dishwasher or washing machine, be sure to turn them off at the wall. Next, wear protective gear. Water damage can cause harmful mold to grow on your walls and floors if it's left untreated. To prevent this, wear a mask and gloves when cleaning up the mess. Protect your valuables by moving them out of the affected area and into a clean spot in your home. Don’t disturb visible mold until you know what kind of mold it is! If you’re not sure whether or not it’s harmful, check with an expert before touching it or removing it from your home.

4. Assess the Damage

Assessing the damage is the next step in determining how to proceed with repairs. The following are some general guidelines for assessing damages:

• Determine if there is standing water or a full-scale flood
• Check for mold growth and mildew
• Check for structural damage such as cracked drywall or floors buckling upwards

5. Call a Professional Water Damage Restoration Company

After you have found the source of water damage in your home, it is time to call a professional water damage restoration company. The main reason that you should call a professional to handle this kind of job is because they have the equipment and training necessary to do the job right. They can also get your home dried out much faster than you could do it yourself, and this will help prevent mold from forming.

A professional company will be able to help with insurance claims as well.

If you’ve found water damage in your Yucaipa, CA home, don’t panic! With these five steps, you can take care of the problem and prevent further damage. Following them will make the process easier for everyone involved. Our SERVPRO team is always on standby and ready to assist you with your water mitigation and restoration needs!