Emergency Plan for Your Business

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

Up to 50% of businesses never reopen following a disaster. This usually happens because the amount of damage was too large and too expensive to recover from, or there was a delay in the process. Your business should be prepared to minimize the damage to your business so that doors can open back for business.  

There are a few things you can do to make sure your establishment is ready.

Continuity Plan

A business that does reopen after a disaster must have a preparedness plan. You must identify the components of your business that are essential for it to continue running, as this will allow a restoration and remediation company to focus on the most essential frames of your business first. Also devising a plan with key members of your staff who know who and what should happen in the case of an emergency.

Prepare your Emergency Plan

Have a plan in place. Letting SERVPRO prepare an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) will help minimize the damage by having a quick response to an emergency. Knowing the intricarcies of your building allow us to be fully prepared for any emergency.  Something as simple as just knowing where the shutoff valves are can save you from extensive water damage and eliminate a headache in the case of emergency.

Review Your Insurance

Make sure you are familiar with your insurance. You need to know who to call when you need answers regarding your business. Understanding your policies will help you be able to know what is not covered and reassess if your needs require more coverage.

Cyber Security

The physical damages to your property is important but also internal damage to important too with files and data. Be sure to have all your data backed up.

It is key to have a plan for emergencies for your business to ensure that a restoration and remediation company can provide effective, speedy recovery. As we know this is critical for your business. If you experienced a disaster give us a call today!

Is Your Business Prepared?

12/27/2022 (Permalink)

Up to 50% of businesses never reopen following a disaster. This usually happens because the amount of damage was too large and too expensive to recover from. Your business should be prepared to minimize the damage to your business so that doors can open back for business.  

There are a few things you can do to make sure your establishment is ready.

Continuity Plan

A business that does reopen after a disaster must have a preparedness plan. You must identify the components of your business that are essential for it to continue running. Prepare a plan with the appropriate staff as well. Your staff must know who and what should happen in the case of an emergency.

Prepare your Emergency Plan

Have a plan in place. Letting SERVPRO prepare an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) will help minimize the damage by having a quick response to an emergency. Knowing what and when to do will ensure that the right steps are taken.  Something as simple as just knowing where the shutoff valves are can save you from extensive water damage.

Review Your Insurance

Make sure you are familiar with your insurance. You need to know who to call when you need answers regarding your business. Understanding your policies will help you be able to know what is not covered and reassess if your needs require more coverage.

Cyber Security

The physical damages to your property but also internal damage to important files and data. Be sure to have all your data backed up.

Benefits for Commercial Clients

10/16/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Property Managers

If you work in the property management industry you understand the value of a quick response and fast turnaround time when it comes to an emergency situation. A quick response time can mean a reduction in the size and scope of the damage, it can also mean the difference between having a chance at saving business-critical documents and equipment for the clients that are most important to you. 

Commercial Client Benefits 

Choosing SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore for your commercial damage mitigation accrues you benefits not limited to: 

• Working with you to tailor the solution to you, priding ourselves in accurate and straightforward communication. 
• Every large commercial loss is supervised by a local commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. 
• The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. 

Call us Today!

Contact the Commercial Fire and Water damage experts at SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore when you discover damage at your business. (816)884-2240 to set up an appointment for an inspection and consultation.

SERVPRO: Your Experts in Commercial Water Damage

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, MO, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration

Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply store. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particleboard, carpets, or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning, and possibly restructuring. Water-damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particleboard and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Services You Can Count On in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, MO

You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial damages and other services in the Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration.

Important Facts About Mold Growth

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

Everyone Should Know These Three Facts About Mold

It always pays to have a little bit of knowledge about certain subjects, and knowing a few facts about mold growth is a good idea. This information may help your business prevent the growth of mold, as well as help to rectify the situation if mold is found. Everyone should know these three facts about mold:

• Mold is a naturally occurring fungus that is found just about everywhere in small amounts
• Mold thrives in damp conditions of high humidity
• Mold can degrade indoor air quality and cause health effects for many people
  
  

A few other facts are relevant here. Mold often exudes a musty odor. Finally, mold spores are microscopic and can be spread throughout a building through the heating and cooling system.

Proven Steps for Mold Cleanup

When mold growth is discovered at your business in Harrisonville, Belton, or Raymore, it should be looked into immediately. Calling in a mold mitigation team that is Faster to Any Disaster is the place to begin. Each situation is unique, but the process for mold remediation is similar in most respects. It begins with an inspection and damage assessment and looks for instances of water damage, which often paved the way for mold to grow in a commercial building. These initial measures are followed by mold containment and air filtration and then the removal and cleaning of materials affected by mold. The final stages include content cleaning and restoration.

Positive Results

It is essentially impossible to remove every last vestige of mold spores from a building. However, with the right techniques and equipment, mold growth can be stopped to the point where it does not pose a problem for employees and customers. The removal of mold colonies will also address the appearance of the workplace, and the musty odor will be gone, too. With a better understanding of mold, your company can deal with the issue effectively.

Water Damage Categories and What They Mean

6/4/2022 (Permalink)

What Category of Water Causes the Flooding?

When your business suffers a broken pipe, you may need to schedule a restoration service to survey the damage and conduct a water pipe repair. The exact nature of the restoration and the steps followed may depend on what category of water caused the flooding. Here's what you may need to know.

1. White Water

Uncontaminated water is usually called white water and often comes from a broken pipe or water main. This is water that is usually considered safe for drinking or bathing, and may easily be cleaned up without worrying about sanitation issues.

2. Grey Water

The professional performing your water pipe repair may categorize any water that comes from an appliance or area that may have come in contact with minor contaminants, such as soap or cleaning chemicals, like grey water. This water is not safe for human consumption but is not carrying harmful contaminants such as those that might come from a sewer-related issue.

3. Black Water

The black water category is usually used when referring to any water that carries sewer contamination such as that from a flooded toilet. This may also refer to flood waters from storms or overflowing rivers as it's difficult to tell exactly what sources such water may have come into contact with. It's highly recommended that a professional be called any time water damage is suspected to fall under the black category, as specific sanitation and safety steps need to be followed.

Flooding is often categorized into three types. The category the flood damage falls under may influence the steps necessary when conducting a water pipe repair at your place of business. It's important to understand which category the water that causes any damage and your business come from so that the appropriate restoration steps may be taken. If you have any questions it's best to talk to your water damage restoration professional.

The Different Causes of Commercial Water Damage

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Work Place Water Damage is Restored by SERVPRO

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms. 

However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings.  

1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems

Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment

This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency. 

3. Broken pipes and plumbing

Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result. 

4. Backed up sewer lines

This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. 

Emergency Board Up

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Emergency Board Up Services

If your home or business incurs storm or fire damage resulting in an opening in your building you may be in need of emergency board-up services. Any openings in the structure need to be properly boarded up to protect the building from the weather and illegal entry. Your insurance policy also requires you to be proactive in protecting your home or business after any type of damage has occurred, otherwise, the insurance company could account for any further/secondary damage to the structure as negligence.

Not every situation requires the most extensive board up that the U.S Fire Administration have in their board up procedure manual, such as after a fire where the entire home is destroyed and is considered a complete loss. While each emergency board up is different, let’s take a look at how to properly board up a structure after the damage has caused an opening in the building.

Determining How Much Protection Is Needed

1. Openings in the basement, first floor doors, windows, and any point of entry accessible from a porch, fire escape, or other potential climbing points require additional security measures. These openings should be barricaded with plywood, 2x4s, bolts, and nails.
2. Openings that are at least 10′ from ground level which is not accessible from a porch, fire escape, roof, or other climbing points can be secured with nails in each brace, and every 12″ around the perimeter. For these openings the plywood should be fitted so that it rests snugly against the exterior frame, butting up to the siding on wood frame buildings and up to the brickwork on brick buildings. It may be necessary to remove the staff bead so this fit can be flush and tight.

Boarding Up

1. Cut plywood to fit over the window and door openings, flush with the outside of the molding. Note: For buildings with a metal door and window frames the alternative is to cut the plywood and 2x4s to fit the inside of the door frame buffed up against the band molding.
2. Cut the 2x4s to fit the horizontal dimension of the plywood. You will need two 2×4 exterior and two interior braces for each window and three sets for each door. Note: For buildings with metal doors and window frames the 2x4s for the outside will be cut to the dimensions of the plywood, fitting inside the door frame, against the band molding. For the inside, the 2x4s will be cut to the outside dimension of the door or window frame.
3. Pre-drill 3/8th inch holes in the plywood and the braces.
4. The holes will be placed approximately 1/3 of the length of the brace from each outside edge of the door and window jam.
5. The two window braces will be placed 1/3 of the distance from the top and the bottom of the window.
6. The three-door braces will be placed; one in the center of the doorway, and one half the distance from the center to the top and to the bottom of the doorway.
7. Place the plywood over the exterior opening and nail it to the frame. Note: For metal frames place the plywood and braces inside the frame against the band molding.
8. Place the 2×4 braces over the interior and exterior of the door or window.
9. Place the large washer over the carriage bolt and place the bolt through the holes.
10. Place washer and nut inside and tighten securely. Torque the nut so that it slightly compresses the interior 2×4.

4 Tasks Property Managers Should do to Prepare for a Storm

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial property can't be completely ignored when inclement weather comes through, and business owners can't control all elements of storm preparedness, especially if they lease space. With that in mind, managers must take action, doing what they can to protect the assets. Here are four things they can do to help.

1. Establish Communication

Regular updates are important. People need to know if the area is safe or whether evacuation and boarding should occur. Furthermore, everyone should be on the same page about how to prepare for the storm and who has what responsibility. Therefore, property management should compile a list of everyone's phone numbers and email addresses. Send messages often, ensuring that everyone is aware of your progress. 

2. Have a Plan

Well before a system appears, sit down and discuss the protocol for storm preparedness. Gather together and upload online important legal and financial documents: This includes contracts, mortgage papers, bank account numbers, and insurance policies. In addition, think ahead of whom to call in an emergency. 

3. Prepare the Grounds

Once a watch is issued, property management should begin looking at the facility. Are the shingles loose on the roofs? If so, have them secured or covered. Does the pool area require attention? Have employees clear the deck of any furniture. Also, walk around. Trim tree branches, and pick up any loose debris. Eliminate objects that could be become projectiles from the high winds. 

4. Record the Property

Before the gales hit, grab your phone and videotape the building. Make sure this has a timestamp, verifying for insurance that you did attend to the location. Should leaks or structural problems occur, this evidence may help expedite the approval for a storm restoration company's services.

Be proactive. Management companies should consider storm preparedness early, mapping out their tasks and establishing a strong line of contact. Protect the space. It's valuable to many.

Is Your Business Prepared?

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

Up to 50% of businesses never reopen following a disaster. This usually happens because the amount of damage was too large and too expensive to recover from. Your business should be prepared to minimize the damage to your business so that doors can open back for business.  

There are a few things you can do to make sure your establishment is ready.

Continuity Plan

A business that does reopen after a disaster must have a preparedness plan. You must identify the components of your business that are essential for it to continue running. Prepare a plan with the appropriate staff as well. Your staff must know who and what should happen in the case of an emergency.

Prepare your Emergency Plan

Have a plan in place. Letting SERVPRO prepare an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) will help minimize the damage by having a quick response to an emergency. Knowing what and when to do will ensure that the right steps are taken.  Something as simple as just knowing where the shutoff valves can save you from extensive water damage.

Review Your Insurance

Make sure you are familiar with your insurance. You need to know who to call when you need answers regarding your business. Understanding your policies will help you be able to know what is not covered and reassess if your needs require more coverage.

Cyber Security

The physical damages to your property but also internal damage to important files and data. Be sure to have all your data backed up.

Benefits for Commercial Clients

10/16/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Property Managers

If you work in the property management industry you understand the value of a quick response and fast turnaround time when it comes to an emergency situation. A quick response time can mean a reduction in the size and scope of the damage, it can also mean the difference between having a chance at saving business critical documents and equipment for the clients that are most important to you. 

Commercial Client Benefits 

Choosing SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore for your commercial damage mitigation accrues you benefits not limited to: 

• Working with you to tailor the solution to you, priding ourselves in accurate and straightforward communication. 
• Every large commercial loss is supervised by a local commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. 
• The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. 

Call us Today!

Contact the Commercial Fire and Water damage experts at SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore when you discover damage at your business. (816)884-2240 to set up an appointment for an inspection and consultation.

SERVPRO: Your Expertise in Commercial Water Damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, MO, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration

Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply store. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particleboard, carpets, or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning, and possibly restructuring. Water-damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particleboard and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Services You Can Count On in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, MO

You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial damages and other services in the Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration.

Important Facts About Mold Growth

8/22/2021 (Permalink)

Everyone Should Know These Three Facts About Mold

It always pays to have a little bit of knowledge about certain subjects, and knowing a few facts about mold growth is a good idea. This information may help your business prevent the growth of mold, as well as help to rectify the situation if mold is found. Everyone should know these three facts about mold:

• Mold is a naturally occurring fungus that are found just about everywhere in small amounts
• Mold thrives in damp conditions of high humidity
• Mold can degrade indoor air quality and cause health effects to many people
  
  

A few other facts are relevant here. Mold often exudes a musty odor. Finally, mold spores are microscopic and can be spread throughout a building through the heating and cooling system.

Proven Steps for Mold Cleanup

When mold growth is discovered at your business in Harrisonville, Belton, or Raymore, it should be looked into immediately. Calling in a mold mitigation team that is Faster to Any Size Disaster is the place to begin. Each situation is unique, but the process for mold remediation is similar in most respects. It begins with an inspection and damage assessment and looks for instances of water damage, which often paved the way for mold to grow in a commercial building. These initial measures are followed by mold containment and air filtration and then the removal and cleaning of materials affected by mold. The final stages include content cleaning and restoration.

Positive Results

It is essentially impossible to remove every last vestige of mold spores from a building. However, with the right techniques and equipment, mold growth can be stopped to the point where it does not pose a problem for employees and customers. The removal of mold colonies will also address the appearance of the workplace, and the musty odor will be gone, too. With a better understanding of mold, your company can deal with the issue effectively.

The Reason SERVPRO Best Serves Your Commercial Needs

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is an IICRC Certified Firm.

How SERVPRO Stands Out From Competition

Certifications matter! You wouldn’t just let any service company on your property, and rightly so. You want to make sure they are qualified and properly trained to handle any problems that arise on the job. You need the job done as soon as possible so you can return to running your business and life. 

However, in an industry like SERVPRO, where we handle fire, smoke, storm, mold and water damage, the standards can seem rather grey. This is where the IICRC comes in.

The IICRC

The IICRC, also known as the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, sets the industry standards for our work. “Unmatched in technical excellence, the IICRC Standards are developed to provide the highest quality concepts, terminology, and procedures recognized in the cleaning and restoration industry.”

Since its founding in 1972, the IICRC has set the industry standard for companies like SERVPRO and ensured the customer that such a company will accurately and efficiently complete a job. According to their website, the IICRC has become a global organization with more than 60,000 active Certified Technicians and more than 6,000 Certified Firms around the world.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is proud to be your local IICRC certified firm. You can count on us to get the job done professionally and based on the scientifically proven standards. If you have any questions regarding our certifications and services, give us a call at (816) 884-2240 or contact our us HERE.

2 Ways To Find Out If You Have Mold

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Mold inspection in a Harrisonville, MO commercial building

Two Ways To Find Out If You Have Mold

Property owners never want to hear the news that they have a problem with mold. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to find mold in commercial buildings. Mold is found everywhere, including indoors and outdoors, and doesn’t cause a problem unless it is allowed to grow. Mold spores feed on moisture, which is why it’s commonly found in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. To the untrained eye, it may be difficult to identify mold. An indoor environmental specialist is someone who has been certified on mold and moisture problems. Here are two ways to find out if you have mold in your Harrisonville, MO, building.

1. Do an Inspection
One way you can find out if you have a mold problem is by doing an inspection. You can walk around your building and look for signs of mold, such as discolored ceilings and walls. It’s also possible to smell mold. An area that has significant mold growth may produce a musty odor, similar to damp, dirty socks. If you think you have a problem with mold, it’s best to get help from an indoor environmental specialist.

2. Contact a Professional
While it is possible for you to see or smell mold, it’s not advised to take care of the problem on your own. Remediating mold in commercial buildings is a major project due to the large size. Mold can spread quickly if left untreated, but thankfully mold remediation specialists are available anytime for emergency service. Once professionals arrive at your business, they will begin a thorough inspection to understand the extent of mold growth. After inspection, professionals will contain the mold, clean the air, remove damaged materials, clean belongings and restore the property.
It can be difficult to determine if there is a mold problem at your Harrisonville, MO, business. Fortunately, an indoor environmental specialist can conduct a mold test even if there is no visible sign of mold. Rely on trusted professionals to help you remediate a mold problem.

How to Choose the Right Restoration Contractor

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Harrisonville, MO

Here Are Some Ways To Vet Potential Companies

After your business in Harrisonville, MO, sees fire damage, choosing the right restoration professionals is one way to ensure your peace of mind. Here are some ways to vet potential companies.

Check Their Past Work
The best way to check out a restoration company is to look at their past work. Ask for a list of their previous clients. Check on the most recent projects. Talk to the clients and ask about their experience with the company. Ask the following questions to get a thorough idea:

• Did they give you an accurate estimate?
• Were you satisfied with their work?
• Was the project completed on time and within your budget?
• Were there any mistakes?
• Do you recommend the company?

Verify Their Licenses
Licenses are important in the restoration industry. For intensive jobs that require structural work or plumbing repairs, you will need to have a licensed professional perform the tasks. Choosing a company that is licensed will ensure that you get top quality work. Additionally, hiring an unlicensed contractor will make you responsible for any issues. In other words, you are responsible for defective work, property damage, or injuries during the restoration project.

Verify Their Certifications
Most people will only ask to see the contractor's license. They will only hold a general contractor's license because there is no specific restoration license. However, most of the fire damage assessment and restoration work is specialized, and the company should have the appropriate certifications for the work they are doing.

Check Their Insurance
Restoration companies often work directly with a client's insurance adjuster. Therefore, they know a lot about insurance and how important it is. Accidents can happen during a fire damage restoration project, especially if the fire has caused structural integrity problems. To ensure you are adequately protected, ask for proof of insurance.
Choosing the right fire mitigation and restoration professionals can be a challenging task. However, it is also crucial. Follow these steps for a guide to find the right company.

How to Prevent Plumbing Problems Before They Start

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Perform a regular inspection in your building

Ways To Prevent Water Damage

Plumbing problems at your facility in Harrisonville, MO, sometimes have a way of sneaking up on you. Unfortunately, even a small water leak can cause damage before you know it's there. Here are ways you can prevent water damage from catching you off guard.

Find a Reputable Plumber
The best time to find a reliable plumbing company is before you have a problem. You don't want to scramble around at the last minute to find an available plumber after you have a broken pipe or other major water leak. Doing some research ahead of time will pay off when you have an emergency. To find a good plumber, try:

• Asking friends and colleagues for references
  
• Reading online reviews
  
• Checking with the Better Business Bureau
  
  

When an emergency happens, you'll have someone dependable to contact.

Schedule Regular Maintenance
It's a good idea to have a plumber perform regular inspections in your facility. During an inspection, an experienced plumber can assess the piping in your building and let you know what condition it is in. Many issues are caused by plumbing that is old, improperly installed or made from poor-quality materials. You may find that upgrading or replacing some piping will prevent plumbing problems in the future.

Watch Your Water Bill
Many times water damage goes unseen until it's too late. A running toilet, leaky water main or seeping pipe can wreak havoc on your facility and cost you thousands of dollars before you know it. If your water bill increases suddenly, it could point to a hidden problem. Have a plumber inspect your building. If you find water damage, a professional remediation company can mitigate the situation before more serious problems set in.
Keeping up with maintenance and taking care of plumbing problems right away will help you avoid major damage and keep your facility in Harrisonville, MO, up and running.

5 Steps To Take After Water Damage at Your Business

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage in Belton, MO

Here Are Five Steps You Should Consider

After broken pipes lead to water damage at your Belton, MO, business it’s important to act quickly to prevent long term problems such as warped wood, cracked stone or mold. 

1. Contact a Professional

One of the first steps to take after damage is found is to contact a restoration service. These professionals can help with water cleanup and repairs. They should have the tools and training needed to perform every step of the restoration process.

2. Remove the Water

The first step is to remove the water from the affected area as quickly as possible. This can be done with a pump or water-rated shop vacuum. You may also want to use a squeegee to pull water out of any tight spaces.

3. Dry the Area

The next step is to thoroughly dry the area. This is done to help prevent further water damage. In many cases your restoration service will use a dehumidifier to help pull water out of the air as well, which can help speed the process.,

4. Locate the Source

Before repairs can begin it’s important to locate the source of the water that caused the damages in the first place. If this step is not done then there is a chance that future damages could occur and ruin any repairs that are made.

5. Fix the Problem

Once the source of the damage is located it’s important to fix the problem as quickly as possible. This will help ensure that no further damages occur. Once this is done repairs to the affected area can be made.

After water damage affects your business remember to use these five steps. Contact a professional, remove the water, dry the space, locate the source of the problem and take the appropriate restoration steps. These steps can help you to get the area back to pre-damage conditions.

Three Winter Storm Preparation Suggestions

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Roof damage in a commercial building

How to Prepare Your Business for a Storm in Wintertime

Preparing a business in Harrisonville, MO for a winter storm may be an intimidating task. However, if a business owner is adequately prepared, the chances of sustaining storm damage can be significantly reduced. Here are three suggestions to consider to prepare a business for a storm in the wintertime.

1. Check the Building for Any Needed Repairs

It may be a good idea to begin preparations early, before the winter season arrives. Assessing a commercial building for any obvious damage that needs repairs is a great place to start. For example, a roof that needs to be fixed, or other issues with the structural integrity of the building should be evaluated and repaired if necessary. A snowstorm with lots of accumulating snow may create massive amounts of weight on the roof of a building, which may create a hazardous situation due to a potential roof collapse.

2. Insulation is Important

Ensuring that the business is properly insulated may be another beneficial task to complete prior to a winter storm in order to keep any employees that are in the building safe and warm. Checking all the windows and doorways is also very important to help keep cold air out of the building during a blizzard. Additionally, if a business loses electricity during a storm, having a generator to support the heat and lights can be very helpful.

3. Communication is Critical

Communication with employees is crucial. Having a plan in place in the event of an emergency may help to provide safety and security for employees. A business may consider having a “disaster preparedness drill,” which could involve a meeting place for anyone who is working at the time of an emergency during a storm.

Preparation is incredibly important. However, if damage does occur during a winter storm, professionals who specialize in disaster restoration and cleanup can be called. After the cleanup work is completed due to any blizzard or storm damage, the business will look “Like it never even happened."

Do You Suspect You Have a Mold Problem: How To Be Sure

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

Do You Suspect You Have a Mold Problem?

Is there a musty odor permeating through your ductwork or from your basement? Is there a fuzzy, colorful substance growing behind your water heater? While an indoor environmental specialist may be the best expert to validate your suspicion of mold, there are ways to tell if your fungal suspicions are on the right track.

1. Smell

Mold has a unique smell. It is musty and dank. Typically, when you encounter mold the air is humid and thick. While musty can mean several things to different people, the best way to describe the musty odor of mold is stuffy and stale, and that is because mold usually develops in areas that are not well ventilated.

2. Look

Mold growth is unique in appearance. Most mold will rise above the surface of the material it is growing on, and it will look fuzzy, almost soft. Also, mold is quite colorful. It is found in gradients of green, gray and yellow. However, it may also take on the color of other chemicals and liquids that have spilled nearby. To definitively conclude that you have mold, however, you will likely need an indoor environmental specialist.

3. Humidity

As stated above, humidity and a lack of ventilation contribute to the development of fungus. Therefore, if you have an area of your property that is unusually humid without proper ventilation, then you have an area that is prime real estate for mold spore settlements.

4. Test

A mold remediation specialist in the Harrisonville, MO, area can take samples and perform a mold test to find out if you are in fact dealing with an infestation. The truth is, not all fungal deposits are mold, and there are times when something may look like mold but is actually a calcium deposit or something else entirely. Tests are the only surefire way to prove something is mold.

While you can base your assessment off smells, looks and environmental conditions, an indoor environmental specialist is likely your best shot at verifying your suspicions of mold growth. Don’t risk your property or health. Call an expert and ask for a test.

Why You Should Choose a Mitigation Company To Do the Rebuild

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Harrisonville, MO

Why You Should Choose a Mitigation Company To Do the Rebuild

If your business in Harrisonville, MO, has sustained fire damage, you may not know who to turn to for help. Once the fire crew leaves, the cleanup and restoration process can begin. Depending on the type of damage your building sustained, a variety of experts may be needed to return it to its pre-fire condition. By using a one-stop-shop, you can quicken the restoration process and get back to business sooner. Mitigation companies generally offer all the services you need from assessment through to restoration.

1. Point of Contact

You will likely be provided with a single point of contact. This expert will help you through the entire process and will work with your insurance adjuster. If you have any emergencies or concerns, this is the person that will send the right team onsite to address the issue.

2. Plan of Action

Experts will inspect the damage by going through each room or area and looking for soot, fire, water, and smoke damage. They will put together an action plan based on your unique situation.

3. Protection from Further Damage

The fire mitigation team will usually place a board or tarp over any damaged roofs, windows, or exterior walls. This not only protects from rainfall but also from intruders.

4. Disaster Cleanup and Sanitization

Fire damage can lead to water damage. By working with a mitigation company, the right professional will be sent onsite at the right time, whether you need water extraction and drying or smoke and odor removal.

5. Restoration

During this final step, your business will begin to look like it did before the fire. Damaged items like carpet, paint, and drywall may be replaced.
You can streamline the entire fire damage process by working with a professional mitigation company. When you take advantage of these experts, you can rest assured that they know what needs to be done and have the professional to do it right.

Exterior Maintenance of a Commercial Building Is Critical for Storm Preparedness

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

You must keep the building maintained to stay profitable

Owning a commercial property can be a smart investment in Belton, MO. Choosing an area where rents are expected to either stay stable or increase can bring a return on investment of around 9%, better than three times the average return on residential rentals. However, to make it pay off, you need to keep up with exterior maintenance to be ready for storms and other issues.

You Must Keep the Building Maintained to Stay Profitable

When a property isn’t maintained, it’s useful life will be reduced – and rents may be as well. Commercial buildings also normally require more maintenance than homes. There are a few reasons for this:

• Tenants and customers are harder on properties than owners.
  
• Commercial operations tend to cause more wear and tear.
  
• Businesses are more likely to cut corners on maintenance in the pursuit of profit.
  
  

Storm Preparedness Starts With the Cladding

Whether you have siding or cladding on your building, it’s the first line of defense against inclement weather. That’s why exterior maintenance is so important – a tiny leak in the wrong place can cause massive, hidden water damage. Holes in the exterior can be fixed easily if caught quickly.

Yearly Inspections Are Also Essential

A building inspection is not only important for long-term profit, it may be required by law. Having an expert inspect the property is your only way to know what’s really happening to it, especially if there isn’t a full-time building superintendent on-site.

If Possible, Visually Inspect the Property Yourself Every 3 Months

Walk through and around the building quarterly to make sure your tenants aren’t exacerbating an issue. Also, inspect after a significant storm. Pay close attention to vulnerable areas, such as the siding, around windows and visible portions of the roof. If you see rust, you need a follow-up inspection an expert.
If you see an issue in your walkthrough, call a professional storm cleanup company to examine the damage and determine the best course. Good exterior maintenance will help prevent excessive repairs, reduce damage from storms and identify tenant carelessness, but eventually, all buildings will need repairs.

The Basics of Mold Remediation

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Restoring severe mold damage in Harrisonville, MO

Here is an Overview of The Remediation Process

If your property has sustained any type of water damage, then stopping mold growth is a top concern. If you have found any signs of mold in your Harrisonville, MO, building, you may be wondering about the mold remediation process. Mold cleanup processes vary depending on the type of mold you have. If you are worried about black mold, then you should contact specialists as soon as possible. Here is an overview of the remediation process.

• Inspection
  
• Containment
  
• Disinfection
  
• Restoration
  
  

Inspection

At the first suspicion of mold, you should find trusted experts to perform an inspection. A proper inspection of the premises will help determine what equipment and personnel are necessary to handle the situation. Your inspection professionals use advanced technologies to detect existing mold as well as hidden water sources.

Containment and Disinfection

Properly containing mold helps prevent the fungus from spreading and causing additional damage. If you have black mold, it is of utmost importance to use personal protection gear while dealing with an infestation. Remediation specialists have the training and equipment to keep the building safe. They may use equipment such as negative air chambers and HEPA vacuums. Once the mold is contained, materials that have been affected will be treated with antifungal and antimicrobial agents. These treatments kill mold colonies and stop new colonies from growing.

Restoration

Depending on the extent of the water and mold damage, the materials in your building may be cleaned or replaced. Porous materials such as drywall and carpeting may need to be removed. Your team of mold and water damage specialists will advise which items can be sanitized and which require disposal. They also have ways to deodorize and thoroughly remove odors from your property. If the mold damage is extensive, parts of your building may require reconstruction.
When it comes to your property, don't let mold take charge. If you suspect black mold or any other type of mold issue, contact professionals as soon as possible to lessen the impact on your building and your wallet.

Preparing the Exterior of Your Commercial Building for a Hurricane

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial building in Harrisonville, MO

Preparing the Exterior of Your Commercial Building for a Hurricane

When the meteorologist is calling for a hurricane to make landfall in or near Harrisonville, MO, you want to make sure that your commercial building is ready for anything. Working proactively throughout the year to keep your building maintained will minimize risk once the storm blows in. Performing exterior maintenance one more time just before the hurricane hits is one way to ensure that everything that can be done has been done. Make sure to complete these three steps when preparing the exterior of your building for a hurricane’s arrival.

1. Trim Tree Limbs
Any overhanging, loose or dead tree limbs should be cut back. A fallen branch can damage the roof, possibly even puncturing the membrane. Windows could be shattered by an out of control branch. Loose or falling tree limbs can also become projectiles in heavy winds damaging nearby properties or even injuring people.

2. Remove Potential Projectiles
One of the most important types of exterior maintenance is making sure that potential projectiles are put away or secured. This is not only important for your own property but could potentially affect other properties around your building. Signs, displays, trashcans, tables and chairs are no match when it comes to hurricane-force winds. You will also want to make sure that any parts of the building that are loose that could tear away in high winds are taken care of, such as loose siding, shingles, etc.

3. Clean Gutters, Downspouts and Drains
Make sure that gutters, downspouts and drains are clear of leaves and debris. Water flow and drainage are very important to avoid flooding during heavy rains.
Taking proactive steps in the form of exterior maintenance may not mean that there will be no hurricane damage. However, keeping your building maintained will always pay off in the long run. If your commercial building sustains storm damage be sure to get a building inspection and call on storm cleanup professionals to get it back up to code.

How To Keep Your Toilets Healthy in a Commercial Building

9/27/2019 (Permalink)

A clogged toilet in a Belton, MO building

How To Avoid a Clogged Toilet?

Some of the most important amenities of any commercial building in Belton, MO, are the toilets. Although they serve a vital function, they are often overlooked. What can you do to avoid a clogged toilet and keep them in good working order?

What Goes In

Toilet paper can be a source of clogging if too much is used. In a business or commercial building it's hard to keep on top of everyone's toilet paper use. One way to ease this pressure is to buy thin toilet paper. This solution can be a lot cheaper than thick, name-brand toilet paper, as well. You should also make sure to communicate that things other than toilet paper should not be flushed down the toilet- if it gets clogged, you could end up with a bathroom full of sewage.

What Comes Out

If water or sewage is coming back out of the toilet, you may have a problem. There are several issues that could be at play:

• Clogged toilet
• Leaking water line
• Cracked bowl
• Improperly sealed footing
  

These types of problems can get worse if left alone. They can also cause water damage. In addition to a plumber, you may consider calling in a water damage remediation specialist to return your bathroom to its original state.

What Sticks Around

Changing the behavior of bathroom visitors can go a long way to prevent toilet overflow. Providing multiple labeled waste receptacles, especially for things such as feminine products, can help to reduce the amount of material that is flushed down the pipes. You can also put up signage to point these out and to state what should not be going in the toilet.
A clogged toilet can leave visitors or employees of your building with a bad impression. Keeping your bathrooms clean and functional should be a top priority of your maintenance crew. A few preventative measures can make a big difference.

3 Ways Tarp Services Can Benefit Businesses After Fires

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Roof tarping after a fire in Harrisonville, MO

Tarp Services Can Be Beneficial To Businesses

Fires in Harrisonville, MO, can cause damage to all aspects of a business, including a building's roof. However, many business owners are unsure what the fire cleanup process looks like when it comes to their businesses' roofs. However, tarp services can be beneficial to businesses for a variety of reasons.

1. Protect Your Roof From the Elements

Before a roof repair can begin, it's often important to first protect your business's roof from outside elements. Wind and rain can often cause additional damage to your property's roof. Additionally, debris such as tree limbs that land on your already damaged roof may cause further destruction. Fortunately, placing a tarp on your roof can usually help to protect your roof from wind, rain and debris.

2. Mitigate Damage

If a roof that has sustained damage is left uncovered, it may cause damage to the interior and exterior of your building. Loose roof tiles can damage siding and other exterior elements of your building, and a damaged roof can also cause water to leak into your business. If your building's roof has caused extensive damage to your business, you may want to consider contacting emergency fire cleanup services. However, you can often avoid interior and exterior damage by placing a tarp over your property's roof.

3. Expedite the Restoration Process

A quick restoration process is often important to business owners. Unfortunately, the restoration of your building can often be slowed down if your roof causes additional damage to your building or if your roof sustains secondary damage after the initial fire. As a result, it may take your business an extended period of time to reopen. However, by preventing further damage and protecting both your roof and your building, a tarp on your building's roof can ultimately help to quicken the process of restoration.

Understanding why placing a tarp on your roof can be a helpful part of the fire cleanup process can be useful to business owners. Knowing that a tarp can protect your roof, mitigate damage, and quicken the process of restoration can help to put your mind at ease after your business has sustained fire damage.

Our IICRC certification

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Each year we have to certify to keep up our IICRC certifications.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore has been  IICRC, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification approved. The IICRC sets the gold standards for the Cleaning and Remediation industry, of which SERVPRO is an industry leader. The following is from the IICRC official website (http://www.IICRC.org).

”IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the cleantrust logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise.

"IICRC Certified Firms must:

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

"The IICRC actively pursues relationships with fiber producers, carpet and fabric mills, furnishing manufacturers and retailers, and others affiliated with the industry. The use of IICRC-certified service professionals is specified in leading manufacturers’ maintenance brochures and warranties.”

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is honored to count it among the select organizations to receive this certification. We will continue to offer the same standard of excellence that you have come to expect, but now we have the IICRC stamp of approval to back that up. 

Be Ready and Prepared for that Emergency

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

It's always a good time to plan on the future. Book your free Emergency Ready Planning lunch today!

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore utilizes the latest technology in order to expedite the mitigation process further increasing our value to our customers.  

The SERVPRO Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency Ready Profile. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your home or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.  Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your home of business.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a large fire or area flood, or just a minor water leak. Having an Emergency READY Plan may help minimize the time your business is inactive, and get you back in the building following a disaster

Give us a call today to complete your Emergency Ready Profile. Call today at (816) 884-2240.

Restoring your Commercial Property after Water Damage Event

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events to commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response.  Whether we're dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damage area.  in many instances, normal operations can continue in temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents    Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints.  We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we'll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore.

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

Certifications

• IICRC Certified Firm
• AMRT Allpied Microbial Remediation Techician
• ASD Applied Structural Drying Tecician
• CCT Carpet Cleaning Technician
• CDS Commercial Drying Specialist
• ECTP Employee Certification Training Program
• FRT Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• OSHA 10 Hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• RRRP Lead Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT Water Damage Restoration Technician

Commercial Building Cleaning

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Working to restore you and your business to its full potential.

Commercial Building Restoration and Cleaning.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore is ready to respond immediately and work quickly to clean and restore your business.  We understand that you property's appearance is important and that every hour spent restoring is an hour of lost productivity.  

When you need a restoration or cleaning professional, SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore has the training and expertise to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Overview of Commercial Services:

*Small office Buildings

*Large Office Buildings

*Apartment Buildings

*Restaurants

* Hotel/Motels

*Small Retail Stores

*Large Retail/Big -Box Stores

*Manufacturing & Industrial

*Government/Military

Every commercial property experiences wear and tear, including dirt and grime that accumulates from ordinary use.  You can count on SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore to make your work space look its very best. Professional cleaning helps to protect your carpet and upholstery and increase its lifespan. We also are there for you if you have a commercial water loss, fire or need mold remediation.

Have questions? Call Today- (816) 884-2240

Fire Damage Preparation Tips

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Harrisonville, MO

As hard as it can be to think about, a fire could occur at your place of business. While a fire and its related damage are very real risks that you need to consider, there are things you can do to prepare for a possible future fire - and sleep a little easier at night.

Here Are Five Steps You Can Take To Help You With Fire Preparation

1. Understand your insurance plan. Make sure that you understand your commercial insurance coverage, claim requirements and any special conditions that apply to fire damage. If you don’t like one of the provisions of your policy, talk to your agent about adding or removing coverage.
   
   
2. Estimate replacement and repair costs. This is an important step to take to understand how much focus needs to be put on fire preparedness within your company. Making estimates will also help you identify your most vulnerable equipment.
   
   
3. Protect your workers. Make sure that your entire team is trained on fire preparation. Create an emergency escape plan that everyone can learn and remember so that they can exit the building as quickly and safely as possible during a fire.
   
   
4. Safeguard your business. Your business needs an emergency plan of sorts, too. Create a plan of recovery so you know what to do to reopen after a fire. This should include planning on the Harrisonville, MO, commercial fire damage service you will use if damage occurs.
   
   
5. Back up important files. Business records, repair service provider lists, financial spreadsheets and inventories are some examples of documents that should be preserved to the best of your ability as part of your disaster preparation plan. You can store these at an offsite location, but you should also consider utilizing electronic cloud services to keep online copies of your most important files.

Fire preparation is important not only for your company and finances, but also for the well-being of you and your entire staff. Put these steps into action for a better defense against building fires.