How Do You Tell if Your Shower is Leaking?

11/10/2022 (Permalink)

If you have any concerns about your shower at all, or even just want some peace of mind, give Our SERVPRO of South Redlands/Yucaipa team a call!

How Do You Tell if Your Shower is Leaking?

If you're a homeowner, you've might have spent a good amount of time inspecting the home's plumbing. But it's important to know that your shower is also at risk for water damage and leaks. As with any kind of plumbing work, there are warning signs that indicate you need to act immediately. In this post, we'll go over how to tell if your shower is leaking and what steps to take if it is!

Things to look for in a leaking shower

To determine if your shower is leaking, you'll need to look for some telltale signs. First, look for water damage around the base of the walls and ceiling of your bathroom. If there's a substantial amount of mold or mildew, that could be an indication that there's a leak somewhere nearby. Next, check for damp spots on the ceiling—this can mean that water is coming through from above.

If you notice cracks in your wall or flooring, this may indicate that something has shifted internally due to excess moisture in your home. Mold isn't just unsightly; it can also cause a ton of structural damage.

How to inspect a shower pan

To check whether your shower is leaking, you’ll want to inspect it from above and below.

If you can see any evidence of water damage around the drain or elsewhere on the floor, then there’s a good chance that your shower is leaking. This type of damage often looks like discoloration in tiles or grout. Check for mold or mildew, as well and stains on walls that may indicate that there was some leakage. Inspect caulking around your drain trap (the U-shaped piece that connects your drainpipe to your waste pipe) and make sure it hasn't started to wear away. If you see anything like this in your bathroom, contact a plumber immediately before more serious damage occurs!

Also, make sure that all pipes leading into and out of the bathtub are intact and connected properly. If any are loose or disconnected, then there may be a leak somewhere along those lines as well!

Inspecting a shower base from below

To do this, remove the pan and inspect it thoroughly. Look for any cracks or discolorations in the concrete floor and make sure there's no mold growing anywhere. Check around where water drains out of your tub as well to see if anything looks abnormal.

Now that you know how to spot a leak and the warning signs of water damage, what can you do to avoid it? The best way is to keep an eye on your shower. If something looks off or unusual, there’s probably a problem with it—and knowing this early could save you from thousands of dollars in damages later down the road. If you have any concerns about your shower at all, or even just want some peace of mind, give Our SERVPRO of South Redlands/Yucaipa team a call!

How Do I Protect My Business From a Fire Disaster?

10/27/2022 (Permalink)

Install more fire and smoke detectors throughout your Redlands, CA building

How Do I Protect My Business From a Fire Disaster?

A fire is a business owner’s worst nightmare. Fire disasters can leave your business in ruins and cost you significant time and money. A fire disaster is never planned, so it’s important that you are prepared to protect your business should the situation arise. Here are some tips on how to protect your business from a fire disaster.

Be prepared.

A fire disaster is never planned, so it’s important that you are prepared to protect your business from it should the situation arise. Here are some tips on how to protect your business from a fire disaster.

• Keep a record of all your assets and their value: Take photos of all assets in case they get damaged or destroyed by a fire; keep receipts for valuable items like computers and other electronics; create an inventory list with prices if possible, as well as serial numbers if applicable. This will help speed up the process when filing insurance claims after the fact.
• Get general liability insurance: General liability insurance covers property damage and bodily injury caused by someone else’s actions at your location (or another location). It also protects against any legal fees if you have to defend yourself against lawsuits related to an accident at your place of business or event venue!

Install a fire suppression system.

If you're looking for an effective way to protect your business from fire damage, a fire suppression system is the best choice. Here's why:

Fire suppression systems can reduce the damage caused by fires in your business and increase the safety of employees and visitors. Fire suppression systems are easy to install and maintain. You'll only need one person with some basic knowledge of electrical wiring to do this job well, so it's affordable as well!

In order to protect your business from a fire disaster, you need to install detectors and alarms that alert authorities immediately in case of a fire breakout.

Install more fire and smoke detectors throughout your building.

• Install smoke detectors in hallways and stairwells.
• Install fire alarms in kitchens, bathrooms, storage areas, boiler rooms, and near exit doors.
• Install fire alarms near electrical equipment.
• Install fire alarms near heating equipment.

Implement regular training sessions for employees.

You can help your employees respond quickly and effectively in the event of a fire by implementing regular training sessions. Training sessions are an excellent way to remind your workers what they should do if a fire breaks out, as well as why it's important that they evacuate immediately. You might want to include some hands-on activities like role-playing or simulations so that your staff members truly understand what’s at stake when it comes to dealing with fires in their workplace.

It's also important that you make sure all essential equipment is available and working properly before any kind of emergency occurs, including:

• Fire blankets - Make sure everyone knows where the fire blankets are located.
• Portable fire extinguishers - Make sure everyone knows how to use a fire extinguisher.
• Emergency exit routes - Make sure everyone knows the location of the nearest fire exit, where to go, and what to do.

Back up important files and documents regularly.

One of the most important steps you can take to protect your business from a fire disaster is to back up all of your important files and documents regularly.

You should have at least two backup devices ready to go, with one stored in a different location than the other. You should also make sure that each device has extra space available so that you don't run out of room during an emergency situation. And finally, make sure that all devices are working properly every time they're used!

Inspect, inspect, and then inspect some more.

As a business owner in Redlands, CA, you should take all possible steps to protect your assets from fire damage. This includes inspecting your building for fire hazards, inspecting your equipment for fire hazards, inspecting your employees for fire hazards, and inspecting the insurance policy that covers those assets. You’ll also want to inspect any evacuation plans in the case of a disaster.

If you don't have an evacuation plan or are unsure how to develop one, contact local authorities who can help with this task.

Every business should take steps to protect itself from a fire disaster

A fire disaster can be devastating to your business. It can leave your business in ruins and cost you significant time and money. As a business owner, it’s important that you take steps to protect yourself from fire disasters. But, you don't have to let this happen to your company! With these tips, you’ll be able to prepare for any situation and remain safe during a fire breakout or other disaster at your place of work.

4 Common Places To Find Mold Growth in Your Home

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth inside cabinets.

Four Places You Might Find Mold

Mold damage is pretty common with homes, especially ones with humidity or moisture issues. Fungal spores thrive on dampness and organic matter such as paper, carpet, and wood; therefore, they are likely to grow where these factors are present. To catch issues early, homeowners in Big Bear, CA, should keep a vigilant eye on the following four places.

1. The Bathroom

Mold and mildew growth are often noticed within the bathrooms, especially within the shower. Moisture is often in excess here and resides on the tile. While the ceramic or porcelain may be harder to penetrate, the grout itself is vulnerable to droplets. Residents are likely to see growth within the lines.

Fight it off by using a squeegee after you shower. Also, run the fans for at least 20 minutes after, pulling out as much wetness as possible. Recaulk often to avoid weaknesses in the grout lines.

2. The Closets and Cabinets

Mold damage may happen in the corners of closets or inside cabinets. These locations may have water exposure from pipes and remain dark often: a perfect habitat for the organism. If discoloration is noticed, call a mold remediation company to evaluate the trouble. The area should be inspected, and the impacted drywall torn out and replaced.
Combat trouble by keeping closets cool, running fans in the bathrooms, and using moisture-absorbent products in cabinets.

3. The Kitchen

When the oven is going, heat builds. This environment assists in building humidity and mold growth. Keep the oven fans going and run the air handler. Be aware of how much you're running appliances and check the plumbing for rust, leaks, and corrosion.

4. The Air Handler

The air conditioner is a protective device against mold, assisting in maintaining a cool, dry space. It also moves the air from room to room and takes on dampness. Mold can multiply within the pipes, spreading to other locations. Have the system cleaned and checked regularly.

Mold damage likes hiding in places you don't often look. Those tiny spores cling easily, reproducing where water and organic structure meet. Be proactive, and keep a lookout for early stages.

How To Deodorize a Smoky Home

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

The odor of smoke is a persistent issue that must be addressed by a professional.

How To Deodorize A Smoky Residence

Home deodorization can be tricky, especially if you are dealing with smoke odor. Certain short-term solutions can trick you into thinking you have removed the odor, but the odor returns a few hours or days later. Additionally, not all permanent solutions work for every situation. The following outlines the differences among various odor removal techniques to help you choose the one most appropriate for your Riverside City, CA, home.

Temporary Solutions

When dealing with lingering odors, it is important to remove the particulates that are causing the smell rather than simply covering them up with other fragrances. The following are some common items that may cover up an odor for a little bit:

• Air fresheners
• Candles
• Incense

Eventually, the pleasant aroma from such items will fade and the smoke odor will return. In other cases, the fragrance from the air freshener may combine with the smoke smell and create an even more unpleasant odor.

Permanent Solutions

Smoke odor, whether from a fire or cigarette smoke, is a very long-lasting problem. The particulates tend to get trapped in porous surfaces and put off an unpleasant smell until they are properly removed. Fortunately, there are several methods of home deodorization that can effectively handle smoke odor, including the following:

• Air scrubbing
• Ozone treatment
• Thermal fogging

Air scrubbing filters the smoke particles out of the air.

Ozone treatments emit ozone into the area, and the ozone combines with the smoke particles to form a new particle that does not produce a smoky odor. Thermal fogging is better for areas affected by fires where the high temperatures caused surfaces to expand and trap the smoke odor. A certified restoration service can help you choose the best odor removal method for your home.

Home deodorization is often frustrating, especially if the offending smells linger for long periods or reappear. The best deodorization methods are those that permanently remove or alter the smoke particles so that they no longer emit unpleasant odors.

5 Steps To Keep Your Restaurant Mold-Free

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

With a clean kitchen and professional contact, mold should find no home in your restaurant!

Five Steps To Prevent Mold

Dealing with mold is an issue no restaurant owner wishes to endure. The high humidity of a busy kitchen can be the perfect breeding ground for it, but as inevitable as mold spores are in the environment, mold growth is an avoidable occurrence you can help prevent with these five simple steps:

1. Keep Humidity Levels Low

The EPA recommends interior humidity levels be kept between 30 and 50 percent to limit the possibility of mold development. Aim for the ideal level of 40 percent by utilizing fans and dehumidifiers in key locations such as the kitchen, bathroom and basement.

2. Maintain Ventilation Systems

The nature of a restaurant kitchen creates immense amounts of water and steam, making ideal conditions for mold spores to develop. Ensure there is an efficient ventilation system in place in the kitchen and dishwashing area. Regular maintenance checks should verify the system is clean and functioning properly.

3. Clean Regularly and Thoroughly

Mold thrives in dark, damp places that are often unseen to the obvious line of vision. The nooks and crannies of a restaurant kitchen can create ample opportunities for mold to develop: underneath sinks, behind appliances, or within refrigerators. Move equipment often, checking for moisture or water damage and cleaning on top, underneath, and behind all surfaces to minimize the opportunity for growth.

4. Inspect All Food

Chefs and cooks should be well-trained to identify signs of mold growth on food. Mold spores spread quickly, and any contaminated food could not only infect other food items but also spread to all areas of the kitchen.

5. Schedule Professional Inspections

Prevention is the preferred method when it comes to mold growth. To keep your Redlands, CA, restaurant running fungus-free, it is best to schedule a consultation with professionals. A mold remediation team has IICRC training credentials paired with high-tech equipment to verify your restaurant is not only mold-free but also at low risk for any future development. With a clean kitchen and professional contact, mold should find no home in your restaurant!

4 Steps To Take After a Pipe Bursts

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

Find the source of the problem in this case it was a pipe break.

Steps To Minimize Water Damage In Your Home

After a long day, you want to go back to your Mentone, CA, home and relax. If you open the door and are greeted with a flood from bursting pipes, immediate action needs to be taken. The longer the water sits, the more water damage your home and its belongings will incur. Below are four steps to help minimize the damage and get back to “Like it never even happened.”

1. Stop the Water
The sooner you find the source of the problem and stop it, the better. If the cause is a plumbing issue, turn off the main shutoff valve.

2. File a Claim
When faced with bursting pipes, it means potentially hundreds of gallons of water unleashed into your home. Since this situation is likely accidental, it’s important to immediately file a claim. Before the adjuster comes, be sure to document all the damage via photos and videos to help ensure a smoother process.

3. Start Extracting Water

While water may look like it is just sitting there, it is slowly spreading by wicking up walls and being absorbed into flooring. Extracting the water is the essential first step to avoiding bigger problems down the road, such as mold growth.

4. Call the Professionals

Along with calling a plumber to fix a broken pipe, this type of situation is often best left to a water damage restoration specialist. A certified provider will not only have the expertise and know-how to assess the damage but all the latest tools and techniques to handle every aspect of the cleanup, from industrial-grade fans for drying out the home to cleaning services to restore damaged belongings and structural components. As industry experts, the right help will also take the necessary measures to prevent future damage from happening.

Dealing with bursting pipes is an overwhelming mess. Quickly responding to the situation and following the above steps may help make it more manageable.

What To Look for in a Large Loss Response Company

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

If you have experienced storm damage in your business it is important to choose the right large loss restoration company.

Large events call for an extraordinary service team. However, do some due diligence to find the right company. From blizzards to flooding, there are a few things you must look for to find a large loss contractor that can restore the damage, minimize downtime, and lessen your losses.

Many Industries Served
Many types of businesses in Yucaipa, CA could benefit from a large loss contractor. Check a company's past work history and look for experience in the following:

• Apartments
• Office buildings
• Corporate facilities
• Banks
• Medical facilities
• Hotels
• Condominiums
• Homeowner's associations
• Churches
• Shopping centers
• Schools
• Manufacturing plants
• Insurance headquarters
• Bars
• Government buildings

Large Loss Program

Finding a company with a large loss program can ensure you are in good hands. This is because someone with a catastrophic loss program will have a team ready to go with specialized equipment and experience with fire, smoke, water, and mold mitigation and restoration. They will also have experience coordinating with large businesses and managing projects of this size.

Trusted Reputation

You want your catastrophic loss team to be composed of the best managers and technicians available. Therefore, you want a disaster remediation company with a top-notch reputation. A company that is trusted will have competent and experienced professionals working for them. Word of mouth, recommendations from your insurance company, and online reviews are the best way to get a feel for a professional's reputation. Checking these sources lets you find the best company.

Detailed Restoration Process

After a disaster, there will be a lot of challenges you need to face. Therefore, it is a good idea to find a company that provides a detailed restoration process. They should be able to help you through everything from structural damage to content cleaning. They will also explain each step of the catastrophic loss restoration process so you know what to expect.

Whether you experience storm damage or another type of disaster, it is important to choose the right large loss restoration company. Following these tips will help you choose the right professionals for your business.

5 Storm Preparation Tips for Residential Properties

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Put together an emergency response kit for your household

Tips To Protect Your Home And Family From Severe Weather

Preparation is key when it comes to protecting your home in Mentone, CA, from severe weather, floodwater, and other types of water damage. Planning ahead and making sure you're prepared before a storm hits is key to reducing flood damage and keeping your family safe. Follow the tips below to help protect your home and family from severe weather.

1. Create an Emergency Preparedness Plan.
Craft a clear emergency response plan for your family that is easy to follow. Make sure everyone knows where to go and what to do in the case of a severe storm. Make time to regularly discuss and practice this plan, especially if your local weather channel predicts an incoming storm.

2. Pay Attention to Local Emergency Alerts.
The Emergency Alert System (EAS) can provide reliable, real-time updates regarding the storm. Make sure everyone in your household signs up for this system so that you can stay updated on new developments.

3. Waterproof and Relocate Valuable Items.
Any valuable possessions that are unlikely to survive a flooded building need to be sealed in waterproof containers and relocated to high shelves that are at least one foot above the projected flood water level. This includes important documents, electronic devices and other important possessions that are susceptible to water damage.

4. Trim Back Tree Branches.
Severe winds can quickly turn overgrown tree branches into dangerous projectiles. You can help prevent tree limbs from crashing into your property by trimming back any branches that are growing too close to your home.

5. Build an Emergency Supply Kit.
Put together an emergency response kit for your household containing valuable necessities. Suggested items to stock include, but are not limited to, batteries, bandages, non-perishable foods, blankets, a battery-powered radio and a flashlight.
Rising floodwater, dangerously high winds and heavy rains can all inflict devastating damage on your property if you aren't prepared. Contact flood remediation experts if your home has suffered damage from a recent storm or flood.

Avoid a Fire With These Candle Alternatives

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Never leave a burning candle in your Mentone, CA room.

These Candle Alternatives Will Help You Avoid a Fire

Whether it is for ambiance or to make your Mentone, CA, home smell wonderful and inviting, candles have long been one of the only options.

Unfortunately, that means you are at risk of having a candle fire. Candles are the source of more than 7,000 fires a year that add up to more than $250 million in fire damage restoration services.

Alternatives to Avoid Smoke Cleanup Services

Technology has come a long way in nearly every aspect of life, including candles and aroma options. Below are a few ways to achieve what you want without the flames.

Diffusers: If giving your home its own unique and inviting odor, diffusers are an excellent option. For larger areas, an essential oil diffuser emits the odors into the air and offers humidifier benefits in dry months. For smaller rooms, such as a bathroom, a reed diffuser subtly dispenses the aroma as the reeds absorb the oils.

Flameless Candles: When candles are more for setting the mood, flames candles are a good alternative. These have evolved over the years to be more life-like with faux flickering flames. Most of them are battery-operated and often come with remotes or have timers.

Wax Warmers: Although not quite the best of both worlds, wax warmers are close. These electric warmers warm-up scented wax to provide the smell that a candle does without the risk of a candle fire. Many have decorative cutouts that show just a little light, giving the room candle-like lighting.

Burning Candles Safely

If you just can’t live without burning a candle, make sure you always do so in the safest way possible. That includes:

• Never leave a room with a candle burning.
• Ensure nothing flammable is within 1 foot of the candle.
• Keep wicks trimmed to ¼ inch.
• Stop burning when there are only 2 inches left.
• Only burn in a sturdy holder that isn’t easy to tip.

Knowing there is a high risk of a candle fire, the above alternatives are great ways to get the smell and aura without the risk.

Avoid Doing These 3 Things After a Flood

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

After a flood, stay away from these three things.

A flood presents a variety of hazards to your Mentone, CA, homes such as flood water itself, crumbling structures, and electrocution. It is understandable that you are overwhelmed by these dangers, but making the wrong move can endanger your house and your wellbeing. Avoid the following actions to keep yourself and your property safe.

1. Try to Save Your Flooded Home

As a homeowner, you may be protective of the house and belongings you have worked hard to earn. However, attempting to "save" your home during a flood is a futile effort. There is not much you can do once disaster strikes, so focus on saving yourself and anyone in the household. Take immediate shelter and then stay with relatives or at a hotel until the weather improves and it becomes safe to approach the territory.

2. Use Your Mobile Phone Too Much

It is important to have every resource available when dealing with natural disasters and your mobile phone is no exception. It can inform you when the flood water has receded, where to evacuate and what other resources are available. But you also need it for instant communication, a crucial factor during and after a flood. Even if you have a backup battery, it is wise to limit phone use to emergencies only. You want to have enough power when you need it the most.

3. Underestimate the Aftermath

Even if the water level has lowered enough, it can still be dangerous to wander inside without precautions. Wear protective clothing that covers everything, along with rubber boots to prevent electric shocks. Stay away from standing water and weakened structures. Wait until the water damage repair is complete since it can eliminate the most obvious hazards of the aftermath, as well as the more subtle ones such as future mold growth.

An overpowering situation such as a flood can lead you to make rash decisions you could regret. Do the proper research and learn what actions to avoid when facing flood water and strong winds.

How To Get the Most Out of Your Insurance Claim

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Disaster claims can be upsetting. Knowing how to deal with an insurance claim can help you reach a faster agreement so you can reopen your business.

How To Maximize The Value Of Your Insurance Claim

Disaster claims can be stressful. Knowing the process for dealing with an insurance claim can help you get a settlement quicker, so you can hire a remediation company, such as SERVPRO, and get your Redlands, CA, business open again. Being prepared ahead of time can also help you get more out of your insurance company. Here are some steps to take for a quick and thorough settlement.

React Appropriately

Right after your loss, things are going to be chaotic. While you need to think about contacting your insurance company promptly, you should also take the time to react to the situation properly. This includes:

• Preventing further loss
• Salvaging items
• Photographing the damage and compare it to your inventory list
• Avoiding throwing items away

Know Your Policy

Your policy has several key aspects that will be outlined on your declarations page. This document is confusing, so take extra time before a disaster to read and understand it. This can help the insurance claim process go smoother when you experience a disaster.

Call the Insurance Company

The biggest mistake a business owner can make in the face of a disaster is to delay making your insurance claim. Therefore, your first call should be to the insurance company to figure out your deductible, what will be covered, and what disaster restoration service they recommend.

Expect Extra Funds for Business Interruption

If you have a business interruption clause on your policy, you can expect extra funds for that. This will cover your lost income when you need to shut down your business and any extra expenses you have due to the interruption. This can include funds for new communication lines, a temporary location, extra transportation costs, or anything else you would not have incurred without the disaster.

The best way to get the most out of your claim is to understand the process and react appropriately. Additionally, you can discuss your extra clauses with your insurance agent and ensure you get any funds you are entitled to.

Fire Damage and Revenue Loss

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

After a business fire, it is important to contact an experienced fire mitigation team to return your facility to its pre-fire condition. Call us!

Damage To The Property And Loss Of Revenue

If your company in Mentone, CA, experiences fire damage, there is a good chance that your business operations will suffer. This could mean that your income from sales and services could decrease, making it hard to meet your financial commitments. Soot and smoke damage, as well as water damage from fire fighting efforts, can make a building unsuitable for use for days, weeks or even months. A strong interruption insurance policy provides coverage for this difficult situation.

The Need for Insurance

Your company knows that standard insurance is essential to protect against property damage from a disaster. In some cases, the temporary loss of a steady income stream is just as expensive as the property loss from a fire. This makes business interruption coverage vital for the success of your company.

The Features of Interruption Insurance

As with other insurance products, you can customize this type of insurance for the specific needs of your business. In many cases, interruption protection provides the following benefits and coverages:

• Replaces lost income as the result of property damage
  
• Covers operating expenses and loan payments
  
• Pays for a move to a temporary location
  
• Covers tax payments and company payroll

As with other policies, there could be exclusions and limits on payments. Most claims are based on the past earnings of your company from a similar period.

The Benefits of Prompt Fire Restoration

After a business fire, it is important to contact an experienced fire mitigation team to return your facility to its pre-fire condition. This is the most efficient way to make the building safe for operations. A fast response from a team that is on call 365 days a year limits damages and lets your business restore its income stream.

Interruption insurance protects your company from the financial consequences of disasters such as a fire. It can help your company survive the aftermath of a damaging fire.

Benefits of Working With a Full-Service Fire Restoration Team

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to your water, fire or mold damage loss. Do not delay in contacting our team!

The Advantages Of Hiring A Full-Service Fire Restoration Company

If your company in Redlands, CA, falls victim to fire damage, you will have a lot to manage in the immediate aftermath. There will be consultations with your insurance company, and you will also need to manage the cleanup of your facility. It is even probable that you will have to suspend or move operations for a while.

How well you manage this challenging time can make a difference between a smooth process and a frustrating one. One way to streamline the cleanup is by choosing a reputable fire restoration franchise for the majority of the work.

The Value of a Project Manager

When you work with one company, you deal with a project manager who answers all of your questions and keeps you informed of the progress of the fire mitigation response. This makes it easy to get answers in a timely fashion. A full-service contractor with experience in fire restoration handles all aspects of the cleanup:

• Inspection of fire damage
• Creation of a cleanup plan
• Removal of water due to fire fighting efforts
• Cleanup of soot and smoke damage
• Specialty cleaning of the building
• Rebuilding of burned or destroyed structures

When you deal with multiple contractors, coordination can suffer. This could lead to misunderstandings and delays at a time when speed is critical.

The Advantage of Communication With the Insurance Adjuster

It is important to keep the lines of communication open between the insurance company and the contractor. This typically leads to a smoother claims process for payments for expenses and reimbursements for property damage. A full-service contractor can send a spreadsheet of labor and repair costs to the adjuster. When this is handled efficiently and completely, your company is likely to benefit.

Fire damage presents many challenges for your company. It is important to look for ways that help facilitate the restoration stage.

Why Insurers Appreciate Electronic Claims Services

5/1/2022 (Permalink)

Most insurers seek out Preferred Vendors with access to the SERVPRO Claims Information Center.

Why Do Insurers Value Electronic Claims Services?

Insurance companies process many claims every day, some of which are easier and faster to approve than others. The availability of accurate information about property damage is a determining factor for the speed and ultimate success of insurance claim approval. Find out how the SERVPRO Claims Information Center can support damage claims for properties located in Yucaipa,CA.

Reliable Access To Information

Insurance agents and adjusters must be able to access information about property damage to process a claim. All of the following elements should be included in a job file:

• First notice of loss
• Documentation of damage
• Forms and paperwork
• An itemized estimate

A notice of loss is required to file an insurance claim, as is documentation of damage taken prior to mitigation. The Claims Information Center makes all of this information available upon processing by a restoration franchise. These digitized materials and other helpful resources can be accessed online at any time through the same convenient service.

Faster Job Progress Updates

As certified professionals make progress on mitigating, cleaning and restoring damage, information about ongoing work is also updated on the Claims Information Center. An insurance agent or adjuster can check in on the status of a job at any time during claim processing.

Industry Standard Performance Comparisons

One of the best features of working with a large restoration company is the availability of information from other jobs in the same area and nationwide. Insurers can compare the performance of a franchise location to industry standards for damage restoration work.

The accuracy and availability of information are the two most important factors for successfully settling any insurance claim. Property owners may prefer to retain the services of restoration professionals who use electronic claims services for restoring homes or commercial buildings in Yucaipa,CA, and most insurers seek out Preferred Vendors with access to the SERVPRO Claims Information Center.

3 Flaws to Look for When Inspecting Your Home's Bathtub

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

If you have a shower pan leak, the leaked water will be added to your bill.

Three Flaws To Look For When Inspecting Your Bathtub At Home

Has your home in Redlands, CA, been having issues with the shower pan or tub? Even if not, it's best to perform regular inspections to prevent a bathtub leak or other problems. There are a few flaws that indicate bigger issues.

1. Water Stains

This one is an obvious but serious issue. If you see water stains anywhere near your bathtub, it's best to check it out. Be thorough and inspect the ceilings, floors, and walls both in your bathroom and in the adjacent rooms or hallways. This includes checking any rooms below and the surrounding carpets or rugs. If you spot any damages, you have a bathtub leak that must be taken care of as soon as possible. Call in a water damage and cleanup professional to give an estimate on the repair cost.

2. Loose Tiles

Shower tiles are great for a number of reasons. It looks nice, provides a barrier to water, and is a great indicator of other issues. If water happens to bypass the grout in the tiles or leak from the faucet, the tiles shift and sometimes crack. This happens because the water breaks the bond between the tile glue and the supporting wall. If you see this, you know for certain that you have a water leak.

3. High Water Bill

In some cases, the culprit of a high water bill isn't necessarily all those long, hot winter showers you've been taking. If you have a shower pan leak, the escaping water is charged to your bill. Of course, this is true of a leak anywhere in your home, so it's best to look for the other indicators to help narrow it down. To help keep track of your usage, keep an eye on your water meter and log the amounts in your phone or on a dedicated sticky note.

With some knowledge and the reassurance of a professional at your side, a bathtub leak is a worry of the past.

After the Flood: Where Is That Smell Coming From?

4/2/2022 (Permalink)

You can count on our SERVPRO team to be there for you when disaster strikes. Our team offers our emergency cleaning and restoration 24/7.

Where Did That Odor Come From After The Flood?

According to FEMA, 99% of counties in the U.S. suffered some impact from flooding between 1996 and 2019. Regardless of whether it comes from a malfunctioning toilet or a leaky roof, a flood has the potential to cause issues like mold growth and water damage. Cleaning up flood water can involve a great deal of time whether you do it yourself or employ the services of a professional cleanup service in Mentone, CA, so it can be annoying to observe a lingering odor even after the process. There are three potential culprits for a smell that refuses to leave in the wake of an unexpected surge of water.

1. Mold and Mildew

FEMA states that mildew colonies (generally used to refer to a certain kind of flat mold growth) may begin to cling to and spread across damp surfaces within only 24 to 48 hours. The fungus produces chemical compounds while propagating that release an earthy, musty scent.

2. Bacteria

Flood water is separated into three categories for recovery and restoration purposes:

• Clean water (Category 1)
  
• Gray water (Category 2)
  
• Contaminated water (Category 3)

The latter two may carry substances like chemicals. Among their contents, bacteria often reside. These may emit bad odors like the rotten egg one commonly associated with sulfur or others or their breakdown of particles may lead to them. Even after all standing water is removed and everything dried, porous materials like carpeting may retain some of the microorganisms if not properly cleaned, causing the smell to permeate the room.

3. Sewage

Burst pipes are one of the most common reasons for flooding in a structure, and they often contain wastewater. Even if water comes from outside, it may have mixed with sewage loss from storm drains and garbage from the streets, particularly if it is overflow from a nearby body of water.

The best way to avoid unpleasant odors from mold growth and other things in flood water is to disinfect all affected areas and surfaces thoroughly as soon as possible. Consulting a professional may also help.

How To Understand General Liability Insurance and Mold Claims

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Finding a mold infestation in your business can cause a bit of distress. We want to remind our clients that our team is always close by and on-call.

Mold Claims And General Liability Insurance: What You Need To Know

Navigating mold insurance claims as a service provider in Yucaipa, CA, is so complex that it's nearly worth turning in your business license. Hyperbole aside, mold is a contentious topic in the insurance world. The primary reason for this is that mold is virtually omnipresent and wreaks havoc where it lands. As such, the majority of general liability insurance policies have broad, sweeping mold exclusions. Present an insurance claim with the word "mold" in it, and your insurer is likely to wash their hands of you. Why is this and how do you protect your business?

General Liability Insurance

Basically, mold insurance claims are difficult to manage because mold itself isn't the main issue. Usually, some form of water damage occurred first, resulting in the mold growth. This could have been a flood, or it could have been caused by a construction or maintenance defect, which trigger yet other exclusions in your general liability policy. Therefore, the mold, while problematic, is not what caused the damage initially; it is secondary damage.

How to Cover a Mold Claim

So how do you cover secondary damage which needs to be addressed in the form of mold remediation by a mold remediation specialist, when your general liability policy won't cover it?

Maintain a CPL

A Contractors Pollution Liability policy covers at least part of the gap left by your GL policy. These policies, too, have their limitations, but do cover more than most GL policies.

Use the Same Company

Find a company that handles both GL and CPL policies. When both policies are housed under the same roof, you're more likely to have your mold claim covered.

Create Custom Coverage

Ultimately, some type of umbrella policy is the final piece that protects your business in mold remediation claims. Shop around and find the company that will provide you with everything that you need to keep your business safe.

Don't let mold insurance claims ruin your business. Keep up with changes to insurance coverage and ensure that you have the necessary policies to cover all of your needs.

Creating an Effective Business Continuity Plan

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

The only way to know if your continuity plan works is to test it. A real flood will be the true test and the best way to see if your plan works.

Developing A Successful Business Continuity Plan

Flooding and other disasters can strike at a moment's notice. Even with advanced warning, things are going to go drastically wrong. However, having a plan for these kinds of disasters can help your business recover quickly. This is why you need to create an effective continuity plan for your business. You need to take the time to outline, test, and improve it.

Outline It

To start making your continuity plan, you will need to evaluate your business and note your processes, vulnerabilities, and potential losses. This step is crucial to creating a tailored plan for your business in Yucaipa, CA. From there, you can outline your plan. The things to include are:

• Scope of the plan
  
• Business areas
  
• Critical functions
  
• Dependencies
  
• Acceptable downtime
  
• Plan for hiring storm remediation professionals, maintaining operations, and reopening

Test It

The only way to know if your continuity plan works is to test it. A real incident will be the true test and the best way to see if your plan works. However, a controlled test is much more comfortable for business owners and can give you a realistic sense of gaps and areas that need improvement.

Improve It

You are going to put a lot of effort into creating and testing your plan. Once you complete the job, it is tempting to let your plan sit and hope for the best amid a disaster. However, if you do this, your plan could be useless when a disaster strikes, so you need to improve it after getting the test results.
This plan is crucial for businesses to recover from floods and storm damage. Therefore, you want to make sure you take the time to create an effective plan. Make sure you create a tailored plan and then test it out before a disaster hits. Keep improving it until it is thorough enough to withstand a disaster.

Candle Alternatives That Leave Your House Smelling Fresh Without the Fire Risk

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

The open flame from candle products opens homes to a fire risk.

Alternatives To Candles That Leave Your House Smelling Fresh Without The Risk Of A Fire

Some scent enthusiasts are candle-obsessed but are seeking alternatives for a decreased fire risk. Scent-producing products are being reconsidered by homeowners in Mentone, CA, who prefer to keep their homes safe from fire hazards. These include:

• Flame candles
  
• Incense burners
  
• Tealight wax warmers

The open flame from candle products opens homes to a fire risk. Here are some candle alternatives that will keep a home smelling fresh and free from a candle fire.

Essential Oil Diffusers

Essential oils are non-synthetic fragrant oils used for aromatherapy, candles, natural soaps and lotions. Essential oil diffusers use a blend of essential oil and water to disperse a scented mist into the air. The mechanism uses an electronic method to create vapor, eliminating with it a fire hazard. Some essential oil diffusers light up to provide an imitation flicker.

Plugins and Flameless Candles

For those wanting to create a romantic environment with the look of candles, there are flameless candle alternatives. These are often made of LED lights and a wax or plastic base. They are battery-powered and can be purchased with remote controls. Some are also made with a timer installed for automatic shut-off. Flameless candles can be paired with plugins for scent.

Electric Wax Warmers

Wax warmers are usually made of a ceramic base that holds scented wax cubes to diffuse the scent without the flame. Some are made to warm the wax with a tealight candle. It is important to purchase an electric wax warmer to keep a house protected from open flames. Like diffusers, wax warmers can be purchased with a flicker option.

Candle alternatives are an excellent option to create an enhanced home environment without the hazard of an open flame. Like candles, they provide homeowners the option of infusing scent into their homes. In case of a candle fire, contact a local fire damage restoration service to repair and restore damaged property.

How To Prepare for an Adjuster’s Visit

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

Contact disaster mitigation services and building contractors to provide official estimates for the cost of cleaning up and restoring your home.

How To Prepare For A Visit From A Claims Adjuster

If you’re filing an insurance claim for damage to your home, your insurance company will require that a home adjuster, who is professionally trained to assess damage for insurance claims, review the domicile. While insurance companies are happy to send adjusters that work for them, you can also hire your own public adjuster in Redlands, CA, to do the assessment.

Either way, your claim will be most successful if you prepare for the adjuster’s visit in advance. In general, the more information and evidence of damage you can provide to the adjuster, the more likely your insurance company is to pay for damages. Follow these basic steps to get ready for an adjuster’s visit.

1. Make a Visual Record of All Damage

Take photographs or videos of all the damage in your home. This includes damage to possessions like electronics, furniture and carpets as well as structural damage to walls, floors, sheds and swimming pools. This provides irrefutable evidence of the damage. Make sure you don’t throw anything away or make any permanent repairs until after the adjuster’s visit.

2. Take a Complete Inventory of Damaged Items

At the least you’ll need to make a list of everything that was damaged. Information should include the make and model, the item's age and the condition it was in before it was damaged. If you have purchase receipts you should gather these together and give them to the home adjuster.

3. Get Estimates for Clean-Up and Repairs

Contact disaster mitigation services and building contractors in Redlands, CA, to provide official estimates for the cost of cleaning up and restoring your home. Give these estimates to the adjuster along with the inventory and visual record of damages. By providing evidence for how much everything will cost, you’re making it clear to your insurance company what needs to be paid for.

Before a home adjuster comes to assess damage to your home, make sure you have made detailed records of the damage. This means you can point it out to the adjuster and provide documentation of what everything is worth and how much it will cost to repair or replace.

Why It Is Important To Keep Your Microwave Clean

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

If your home suffers soot and smoke damage after a house fire, give SERVPRO a call. Our team of fire damage experts will restore it efficiently.

Why Is Keeping Your Microwave Clean So Important?

A microwave is a convenient and effective way to quickly prepare foods and free up time for other activities. But sometimes, food debris, residue and odors can make it far from pleasant to cook your meals. Bacon explodes, butter splashes and greasy or sugary foods left too long can burn and fill the oven with a putrid smoke smell. Your home in Yucaipa, CA, deserves to smell of good food when you are cooking, not yesterday’s failure. So how do you keep your cooker fresh and odor free? Here are some ways to do it.

When Your Microwave Oven Needs Freshening

• Regularly clean the grease filter by soaking in hot water and dish soap to loosen grease and debris. Rinse thoroughly, dry and replace the filter.
• Frequently change the charcoal filter to remove any residual food or smoke smell.
• Do an overall cleaning on the interior and the vent grill. Place a half cup of water with two tablespoons of white vinegar in the oven and cook on high for 4 minutes. Allow it to sit for fifteen minutes to loosen food splatters and spills. Wipe clean with a soapy cloth, rinse and dry with a paper towel. A removable glass turntable can be placed in the dishwasher.

When Cleaning Fails to Remove the Odors

Sometimes an over-the-range-cooker is exposed to burned food, especially involving greasy foods. If you can’t get the smoke odor, but it is otherwise in good condition, restoration specialists in Yucaipa, CA, can help with odor removal and unhealthy residue. The same is true for a countertop model, with the same tips for cleaning and maintenance. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual for additional instructions.

An over-the-range unit is expensive to buy and a shame to replace because of a smoke smell. But with a little care, and proper maintenance it can last a good long time and help you create happy food memories.

What to Know About the IICRC

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

The IICRC sets a series of standards recognized by federal, state, and local authorities for the cleaning and restoration industry.

What You Should Know About The International Committee Of The Red Cross (IICRC)

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, also known as the IICRC, is an important organization responsible for setting standards for the property restoration community including those in Mentone, CA. Here are a few details about this organization you may wish to know.

1. Who They Are

A non-profit organization, this institute seeks to serve the cleaning and restoration community. There are 15 industry leaders chosen to sit on the board of directors. These professionals help ensure that the organization runs smoothly in a direction that represents the interests and standards of the industry, and help shape the recognized policies.

2. What They Do

The IICRC sets a series of standards recognized by federal, state, and local authorities for the cleaning and restoration industry. These standards are meant to ensure that every job is conducted with the safety of both building occupant and restoration team in mind, and that each project is completed with quality results. This organization also provides education and certificate training.

3. How They Serve

By creating industry standards and providing a mitigation certificate to those individuals trained in these policies through one of the many provided programs, this organization helps insure that those in the industry all work to a set standard. Standards help ensure that there is no confusion about the steps necessary to properly complete a job, and allows clients to know what to expect their chosen professional to do during restoration.

The standards set by the IICRC allow you to know that the professional restoration team chosen to work on your client’s property can perform the job to the same degree of excellence you seek to provide yourself. This non-profit organization seeks to provide globally set standards for every restoration professional to follow, ensuring that every job is performed with quality results. Choosing a certified professional can allow you to know what to expect from any restoration job.

Why Emergency Board Up? Securing Your Business After a Fire

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

Emergency board up in a commercial building in Yucaipa, CA.

Ways To  Secure Your Business Prior To Fire

Keeping your business secure after a commercial fire isn’t always top of mind, but it should be. Once the flames are out, your Yucaipa, CA, building faces new threats in the form of weather, animals and vandals. Here are some ways to secure your business prior to fire damage restoration.

After the fire, but before repair is often the most vulnerable time for a damaged building. Ways to protect your unsecure building include:

• Emergency board up
  
• Security fencing
  
• Roof protection
  
  

Emergency Board Up

In addition to scorching doors and burning holes through walls, heat from fires can burst windows and leave your building-wide open. Even the tiniest hole can be enough for an animal to get through and destroy personal property. In a pinch, use simple plywood and a nail gun to cover most holes. Or, connect with a fire damage restoration firm that may rent out steel coverings for extra-tough security.

Security Fencing

A damaged building is typically a vacant one, and those are a gold mine in the minds of would-be thieves. Security fencing is a great way to create a barrier. Encircling the building with sturdy chain-link fencing can make it hard to get in without being noticed. Best of all, it’s easily removed for repairs.

Roof Protection

Flames that reach the roof of your building can cause particularly costly roof damage - but things can get much worse if water gets in on top of that. Sturdy, industrial-grade tarps can be placed over roof holes and secured to create a waterproof barrier that keeps storm damage at bay.

You owe it to yourself to prevent more stress from a fire if you can. Securing your building after the blaze is a great way to do it. Whether it's boarding, fencing, or a basic tarp, apply these methods to keep your building safe until fire damage restoration and smoke cleanup are complete.

3 Tips for Protecting Your Home’s Water Pipes During Cold Weather

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

If you plan to leave your home overnight allow warm water faucet to drip slightly.

Protect Your Property When Cold Weather Strikes

When frigid temperatures arrive, they can affect your Mentone, CA, home in many ways. However, one way they can be extremely damaging is when they cause frozen pipes both inside and outside. When water pipes become frozen, they can burst without warning and cause serious flooding that can ruin walls and flooring. Fortunately, there are several ways you can prevent this issue and safeguard your property when cold weather strikes.

1. Search for Air Leaks

When cold air is allowed to seep into your home, it can contribute to pipe freeze and flooding when pipes become cold enough to burst. You can reduce the risk by searching for air leaks inside your home and sealing them with fiber insulation or caulk. Air leaks can be commonly found around vents, loose electrical plating and near joists in unfinished areas, such as utility or mud rooms. If you find air leaks, take the opportunity to check any nearby pipes for signs of wear or damage.

2. Expose Hidden Pipes to Warm Air

Pipes hidden under cabinets, such as those in your kitchen and bathroom, can be more prone to freezing because they are rarely exposed to warm air. Opening your cabinets during freezing temperatures can prevent this and a pipe burst that could result in a serious flood. If you plan to leave your home overnight or for an extended winter holiday, leave the cabinet doors open and allow the warm water faucet to drip slightly, which can prevent these pipes from freezing over.

3. Winterize Your Pipes Before Cold Weather Hits

Taking time to winterize your home during the fall can lower the risk of frozen pipes later on. Have a flood damage and water removal company come in to inspect your water lines and ask technicians advice about steps you can take to protect your pipes now.

Frozen pipes can cause serious water damage to your Mentone, CA, home. Knowing how to prevent this problem could go a long way in helping you save the time and money it takes to make repairs in the aftermath.

What Kind of Storm Shutters Should I Choose?

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

It is a good idea to install storm shutters in your home.

Protect Your Home During Storm Season

People who live far inland typically do not have to worry about needing storm shutters. If you live in the middle of Hurricane Alley, however, where high winds and flooding are yearly occurrences, it is probably a good idea to install storm shutters on your home. Prices of shutters vary according to quality and style. Here are a few options you might consider to protect your home during storm season.

1. Plywood

Plywood is the most basic protection you can get. Although it is heavy and not very pretty, it gets the job done in a pinch. At less than $1 per square foot, it is most likely the least expensive option.

2. Storm Panels

If you want to protect your windows and interiors during the threat of high winds but do not want to leave the panels up the rest of the year, storm panels might be the right choice for you. They cost $7-$15 each and can be removed when they’re not needed.

3. Accordion Style

These storm shutters are bolted to the sides of your windows. They are manually operated, unfolding to protect your windows from wind and rain, and their price ranges from $15-25 per square foot.

4. Rolling Shutters

This option offers protection from wind as well as insulation and privacy. They attach permanently to your home and cost $20-$30 per square foot.

5. Colonial Style

If you are interested in improving the look and privacy of your home in Redlands, CA as well as its level of protection, these shutters add a unique look to your home’s exterior. The price of Colonial-style shutters can be as low as $200 a window or as high as $500 a window depending on materials used.

6. Bahama Awnings

These shutters offer premium protection from storms and from the intense heat from the sun’s rays. They can cost $200-$1000 each.

When high winds rage, you want to make sure you have shutters that protect your home. Fortunately, there are options on the market that fit almost any budget.