Storm Damage Effecting Your Business?

10/16/2022 (Permalink)

When Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore businesses suffer storm events, SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore will work around the clock to clean up debris and to restore the property to pre-storm conditions. We understand that commercial storm damage can be costly in terms of productivity; that is why it is always our goal to get your business back to preloss conditions so your business can continue to operate efficiently and effectively.

We Have the Resources to Handle Large Commercial Storm Damage 

When a storm hits Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, we can scale our resources to handle large-loss commercial restoration projects. Regardless of the size we are able to provide the resources to ensure your commercial property is restored. We have access to equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,600 Franchises across the country.

We prioritize your needs in the middle of your loss with nightly recaps, timely communication, ensuring we maximize time and stay within budget to bring your company back to preloss conditions. 

If your business is ever damaged by severe floods or storms, call us right away at (816)884-2240. Disaster can strike when we least expect it, but SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore will be there to help you weather the storm.

Storm Damage Can Happen Anywhere

9/26/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), “Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.” NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the U.S., and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO® Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore Professionals can help. They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in business as soon as possible.

Your local SERVPRO® Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore Professionals are ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Professionals are the Storm Damage Experts

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

Quick Response and High Standards Will Leave you Satisfied after Remediation

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs in an already anxiety-provoking situation. SERVPRO delivers the help you need swiftly even when a local disaster is widespread as we are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond if the need is great.

Storm damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind, and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face. Choosing our company puts in motion a vast support system, but our local ownership means you will receive a personalized approach to your particular situation, efficiently returning your home back to its pre-storm condition just “Like it never even happened.”  

Placing your trust in SERVPRO for your storm damage needs will reap benefits that less qualified companies simply cannot deliver. We use state-of-the-art equipment to clean, repair, and restore your home and in the process, we also restore your and your family’s peace of mind. Our technicians are highly trained and qualified. We also work closely with your insurance company, ensuring that all the work necessary is approved and compensated according to the terms of your policy. Our high standards and relentless drive to do the job on time while meeting local specifications means you and your family will quickly return to the quiet enjoyment of your house and neighborhood. We are not satisfied until you are happily back in your restored dwelling. 

Once you make sure that your family is safe after a major storm, your first call should be to SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore. Call (816)884-2240 24/7 and begin the road to recovery by scheduling an inspection with our storm damage experts.

When Storms or Floods Hit, SERVPRO is Ready!

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

When Storms or Floods hit Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, SERVPRO is ready! 

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster.  We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,800 franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 1(816)884-2240

What To Do After a Storm Damages Your Home

8/20/2022 (Permalink)

You hear the wind blowing and the rain pounding on your window panes, and you hope your home will remain untouched by the storm. Unfortunately, this is not the case. A tree falls on your roof, and water pours into your home, soaking your carpets and covering your hardwood floors. Here's how to stem the tide of storm damage in the event's immediate aftermath.

1. Document Damage Before Attempting Immediate Repairs

If you are planning to submit a claim to your insurance company for the damages, you will want to record them prior to attempting any immediate repairs. Make a list of damaged items, and take photos or videos of each.

2. Make Immediate Repairs Only To Prevent Further Damage to Your Home

Take the following steps when attempting immediate repairs or cleanup:

• Cover leaking roofs with a tarp to prevent more rainfall from entering the home.
• Pull up a wet carpet to prevent mold and move it to a dry location. 
• Throw away all perishable food that has spoiled.

Make sure all articles being removed from the home are documented on the inventory list of damaged items.

3. Exercise Caution If You're Staying in a Damaged Home 

To restore lost electricity in your home, use generators outside, away from windows and doors. Make sure your sewer system is working before flushing toilets, using water stored previously for this function if necessary. Open windows and run fans inside your home to circulate air and aid the drying process.

You may also choose to contact a company that can perform emergency restoration services in your home. If so, keep receipts for services provided, as well as for any purchases made for immediate repairs, such as a tarp for the leaking roof.

Hopefully, your home will never be subjected to storm damage. If it is, however, these storm tips can get you started on the road to recovery and get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.

What To Do After a Flood

6/5/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding can take a huge toll on business owners as they try to deal with cleaning and restoring their buildings after a flood occurs. While the first inclination might be to start cleaning the area and salvaging whatever can be saved, there are several hazards to be aware of when entering an area affected by flood water. Before doing anything after a flood occurs, quickly take the following steps.

Determine Safety

Your first concern when addressing a flood in your business is to determine whether it is safe or not to enter the area. It is very important to consider if the water might be contaminated. If dealing with a sewage backup or water from a nearby river, the water is considered Category 3 water. Also called black water, this type of flood water contains contaminants that can potentially cause harm to people or pets nearby.

Call for Help

If a lot of storm damage or water damage has occurred, it will be nearly impossible to effectively handle the situation on your own. Quickly get in contact with a water damage cleanup company to help mitigate the damage and restore your building to its original condition. If dealing with Category 3 water or another hazardous situation, do not enter the flooded area until the specialists say it is safe to do so.

Dry the Area 

If you have determined there are no safety concerns, you can try to dry some of the water in the area while waiting for help to arrive. Depending on where the flooding is located, you can try mopping the area, moving belongings and furniture, or hanging damp fabrics,

Knowing how to act in the case of a flood can help keep everyone in your building safe and minimize the amount of damage the flood water causes. While you want to act quickly, make sure to analyze the situation first and get the help you need.

3 Steps To Repair a Roof After Storm Damage

6/4/2022 (Permalink)

Roof Repair

When storms damage your home’s roof, the idea of a roof repair can seem overwhelming. However, understanding what repairing a roof entails may make you feel more at ease about the process.

1. Assessment

Storms can affect various parts of a roof, and in order to know how to proceed in the repair process, it’s often necessary to assess the damaged roof. Hail and wind damage can cause shingles to crack or even blow away entirely, and the extent of the damage will determine what will happen next. In order to receive a thorough and accurate assessment, it can sometimes be helpful to employ storm damage and restoration professionals.

2. Mitigation

Part of the roof repair process generally includes mitigating the damage. After an assessment has identified roof damage, tarps and board-up methods are often used to prevent the roof from further deteriorating. In addition to preventing the exterior of the home from sustaining more damage, it can also be useful to take measurements to protect the interior of the home. Roofs that have been affected by storms may cause water to become trapped in the home’s ceilings. Removing water from the ceiling in a timely manner can help to minimize the damage to the interior of the home.

3. Restoration

After an assessment and mitigation, the roof is restored. Any debris that is on or around the roof is first removed. Then, individual shingles that have been cracked or that have blown away due to strong winds can be replaced. If widespread damage has occurred to your roof, however, it may be necessary to replace the roof entirely to ensure the home is properly protected.

Knowing what is involved with a roof repair can help make the repair and restoration process less stressful. The repair process often involves the assessment of the roof, mitigating the damage, and restoration.

SERVPRO helps storm victims on the East Coast

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lee's Summit / Raytown / East Kansas City is proud to be a storm team member for all 4 of the SERVPRO storm teams. Recently SERVPRO of Lee's Summit / Raytown / East Kansas City spent over a month in Washington DC and the Boston area helping victims of burst pipes and ice dams. Traveling for the storm teams is very hard work with no time off and back-to-back 12-16 hours days.  Our crews were able to help more than 30 families and businesses get their lives back together, and that is the greatest part about doing storm work.  Each storm event is different, but the one thing that remains the same is the appreciation of the customer when they know that help has arrived! 

Precautions To Take When Your Home Is in a Flood Zone

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Living next to the beach or in a low-lying area may be a lifelong dream, but it can come with added risks. One such risk is having a home in a flood zone. You don't have to give up what may otherwise be a great location, though. There are several precautions you can take to minimize your risk of flood damage.

Protect Your Home

An active storm season in Cockrell, MO, can test the boundaries of your home like nothing else. While you may not be able to fully keep your home from flooding, there are several ways you can prepare for an upcoming rainstorm:

• Put sandbags out as a barrier against rising water.
• Install a sump pump in your basement on or the lower level of your home.
• Place outlets or sensitive equipment higher on the wall or on a shelf.
  
  

It's also a good idea to have an evacuation plan, just in case the water rises so high you need to leave your home. Even if your home floods, you can have measures already in place to deal with the fallout. 

Purchase Insurance

If your home is in a flood zone, you need to have flood insurance. This coverage is not typically part of your homeowners policy, so you'll need to purchase it separately. If your insurance company doesn't offer flood insurance, you can get a referral for a company that does from the National Flood Insurance Program.

Plan for Remediation

Flooding can produce serious damage to your home. Have the contact information for local flood restoration specialists handy. They can assess the damage to your home and give you an estimate of how much the repairs are going to cost.

When your home is in a flood zone, you have to take some factors into consideration that other homeowners do not. You may be able to minimize some damage. For the damage that you can't avoid, though, you need trusted cleanup professionals and an insurance policy that covers it.

Storm Damage? NO problem for SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore

10/16/2021 (Permalink)

When Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore businesses suffer serious damage after storm events, SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore will work around the clock to clean up any debris and to restore the property to pre-storm conditions. We understand that commercial storm damage can be very costly in terms of productivity; that is why it is always our goal to get your business back up and running as quickly and as seamlessly as possible. 

We Have the Resources to Handle Large Commercial Storm Damage 

When a storm hits Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, we can scale our resources to handle large-loss commercial restoration projects. We have access to equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,600 Franchises across the country. 

If your business is ever damaged by severe floods or storms, call us right away at (816)884-2240. Disaster can strike when we least expect it, but SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore will be there to help you weather the storm.

Storm Damage Can Happen Anywhere!

9/26/2021 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), “Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.” NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you won’t in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the U.S., and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO® Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore Professionals can help. They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in business as soon as possible.

Your local SERVPRO® Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore Professionals are ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Professionals are the Storm Damage Experts

9/4/2021 (Permalink)

Quick Response and High Standards Will Leave you Satisfied after Remediation

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs to an already anxiety-provoking situation. SERVPRO delivers the help you need swiftly even when a local disaster is widespread as we are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond if the need is great.

Storm damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind, and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face. Choosing our company puts in motion a vast support system, but our local ownership means you will receive a personalized approach to your particular situation, efficiently returning your home back to its pre-storm condition just “Like it never even happened.”  

Placing your trust in SERVPRO for your storm damage needs will reap benefits that less qualified companies simply cannot deliver. We use state-of-the-art equipment to clean, repair, and restore your home and in the process, we also restore your and your family’s peace of mind. Our technicians are highly trained and qualified. We also work closely with your insurance company, ensuring that all the work necessary is approved and compensated according to the terms of your policy. Our high standards and relentless drive to do the job on time while meeting local specifications means you and your family will quickly return to the quiet enjoyment of your house and neighborhood. We are not satisfied until you are happily back in your restored dwelling. 

Once you make sure that your family is safe after a major storm, your first call should be to SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore. Call (816)884-2240 24/7 and begin the road to recovery by scheduling an inspection with our storm damage experts.

When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO Is Ready!

8/22/2021 (Permalink)

When Storms or Floods hit Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, SERVPRO is ready! 

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important.  A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit arrisonville/Belton/Raymore, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster.  We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,800 franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 1(816)884-2240

What To Do Right After a Storm Damages Your Home

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

You hear the wind blowing and the rain pounding on your window panes, and you hope your home will remain untouched by the storm. Unfortunately, this is not the case. A tree falls on your roof, and water pours into your home, soaking your carpets and covering your hardwood floors. Here's how to stem the tide of storm damage in the event's immediate aftermath.

1. Document Damage Before Attempting Immediate Repairs

If you are planning to submit a claim to your insurance company for the damages, you will want to record them prior to attempting any immediate repairs. Make a list of damaged items, and take photos or videos of each.

2. Make Immediate Repairs Only To Prevent Further Damage to Your Home

Take the following steps when attempting immediate repairs or cleanup:

• Cover leaking roofs with a tarp to prevent more rainfall from entering the home.
• Pull up a wet carpet to prevent mold and move it to a dry location. 
• Throw away all perishable food that has spoiled.

Make sure all articles being removed from the home were documented on the inventory list of damaged items.

3. Exercise Caution If You're Staying in a Damaged Home 

To restore lost electricity in your home, use generators outside, away from windows and doors. Make sure your sewer system is working before flushing toilets, using water stored previously for this function if necessary. Open windows and run fans inside your home to circulate air and aid the drying process.

You may also choose to contact a company that can perform emergency restoration services in your home. If so, keep receipts for services provided, as well as for any purchases made for immediate repairs, such as a tarp for the leaking roof.

Hopefully, your home will never be subjected to storm damage. If it is, however, these storm tips can get you started on the road to recovery and get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.

My Sump Pump Overflowed. How Long Do I Have to Clean Up the Mess?

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Letting water (from any source) remain in your basement or on your property can be disastrous.

Why It's In Your Best Interest to Address Water Damage Quickly

The midwest has received lots of rain within the past few weeks. We have had several flash floods that have caused flooded basements all over the region. If water has entered your property, the key is to act swiftly with thorough clean up and drying.

Timeline:

First Hour

Within the first hour, water spreads, saturating everything in its path. Taking the least path of resistance, it soaks into the flooring and anything else in contact with the water. Defying gravity, water begins to wick upwards into the walls from the floor through a process called capillary action.  Varnishes from wood furniture can bleed from the water, which can stain flooring. Any cardboard boxes, games, photographs start to swell and warp.

First 24 Hours

Within the first day, the drywall will begin to get soft. Metal surfaces in contact with the water can start the process of rusting - especially if not protected by paint.  Inexpensive furniture begins to swell and crack. Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain. A musty odor will start in some cases - particularly if it has been wet in this area before.

72 Hours to 1 Week:

If no cleanup work has been done, mildew and mold can begin to grow and spread. Musty odors typically begin to get stronger.  Furniture, walls, doors, cabinets, flooring could swell, warp and possibly begin to show visible mold due to the moisture soaking into them for so long. A fair amount of contamination is likely by the time a week passes.  Prolonged high humidity in the structure from the water can also cause secondary damage to pictures, wall hangings and damage on other levels of the home.  Even fresh-sourced water such as a water pipe break would be considered a contaminated level equal to sewage after a week of sitting.  

I Didn’t Catch it Quickly - Now What Should I Do?

SERVPRO of Harrisonville / Belton / Raymore is here to help make whatever water damage situation you find yourself in, “Like it never even happened.” It’s always easier, less expensive and faster to clean up water damage immediately after it occurs, but if you come home from vacation to a murky indoor swimming pool you didn’t know you had, call us today and we’ll make it go away.  Our 24 hour emergency response number is 816-882-2240, or you can contact us HERE.

How To Handle Winter Storm Damage

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storm does not always lead to a joyous time

Snow can be fun, but it does not always lead to cozy evenings around a fire with hot cocoa. Sometimes, snow causes more problems than smiles. While some people might think about sledding and vacation days when there is a winter storm in Belton, MO, others have to worry about the damage homes can endure during colder months. If you have a home located in a snowy climate, it can be wise to learn how to protect your property against Mother Nature in wintertime.

Types of Damage

Wintertime might bring beautiful scenery, but ice and frigid temperatures can take a toll on a home. When it comes to damages, homeowners with property in blizzard conditions often experience:

• Frozen pipes
• Ice dams
• Roof damage

When the temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it is common for the extreme cold to freeze and burst unprotected household pipes. Another problem that occurs is the uneven freezing of water on the edges of the roof. As snow melts, ice dams form, and this blocks standing water from freely flowing. With that in mind, the gutters are not the only upper issue. Roof damage is also common.

How To Prevent Damage
Because repairs can be extensive and costly, one of the best things you can do is to take steps to prevent problems before you have to call a winter storm damage remediation expert. Winterization refers to the process of preparing your home for winter weather. During winterization, you can check your roof tiles, clear your gutters and insulate any exposed piping. Look for any air leaks around the house that you can seal and trim surrounding trees that might break.
Everyone has heard about the fun of a "winter wonderland," but a winter storm does not always lead to a joyous time. Instead, wintery conditions can cause significant damages to homes without proper planning. For this reason, it can be a good idea to take the time to winterize your home so you can spend more time having fun building a snowman.

How To Get the Most From Your Business's Storm Insurance Policy

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

Floods affect building in Belton, MO

What Steps To Take In Case Of A Storm?

Dealing with storm damage in Belton, MO, can be taxing, but it may be made even worse if your insurance isn't properly used. No one wants to experience financial difficulties stemming from property damage. Because of this, it's important to know what steps to take in case of a storm. Here are a couple of ways to get the most out of your company's storm insurance policy.

Understand Your Policy
Before you can wield your insurance policy, you must understand it. Commercial building insurance usually covers the following:

• Wind and hail
  
• Robbery
  
• Fire
  
• Vandalism
  
  

There are many storm-related damages that most insurance companies don't cover. This usually lies in the realm of flooding. Since flooding makes up a large percentage of most storm-caused damages, it's essential to know if this is covered. If flooding isn't in your insurance policy, find a back-up plan should this damage ever occur. Once you know your insurance coverage, make sure that you understand what to do. If monetary assistance is needed rapidly, you'll want to go through the insurance process quickly.

Document the Damage
In order to receive any monetary assistance with the damage to your building, you'll need to document each problem fully. Thoroughly search your property for issues caused by the storm. Once something is found, write it down and take a picture. Be sure that an adjuster is sent over. This individual will help to decide what gets covered by your storm insurance. Have a detailed summary of any and all damages ready when the adjuster comes. If storm damage restoration needs to occur before the insurance company can respond, keep each proof of purchase. This level of documentation will make it difficult to ignore any impairment or reimbursement.
A debilitating storm is often difficult to recover from, but it doesn't need to ruin your finances. If you know how to fully use your storm insurance, your business will be one step closer to recuperation.

Types of Flood Water Contamination

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Category 2 water damage comes from a dirty water source

Which Type Of Water Is Flooding Your Home?

While all types of floods are capable of inflicting massive amounts of water damage on your property, some are just inherently more dangerous than others. Floods are classified according to one of three categories, depending on which types of contaminants are present in the water. Read on to see which type of water is flooding your home in Belton, MO.

1. Category 1: Clean Water Floods
Much like the name implies, Category 1 floods are characterized by an absence of contaminants. It is possible for these types of floods to transform into more dangerous varieties if outside contaminants are introduced to the water. Clean water floods are typically caused by:

• Supply line bursts
  
• Leaky pipes
  
• Rain water or snow melt
  
  

2. Category 2: Gray Water Floods
Category 2 floods do contain mild amounts of contamination, but not enough to be considered a biohazard. If left untreated for 48 hours, a Category 2 flood can quickly become a Category 3. Gray water floods are usually a result of:

• Sump pump failures
  
• Malfunctioning household appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines
  
• Broken aquariums
  
  

3. Category 3: Black Water Floods
Category 3 floods are the most dangerous types of floods. They're categorized by the presence of human/animal fecal matter, raw sewage, dangerous chemicals and other types of biohazards. These floods are extremely dangerous and can inflict massive amounts of water damage, so you should never attempt to remediate them on your own. They're often caused by:

• Toilet back flow
  
• Sewage overflow
  
• Rising groundwater
  
• Overflowing banks from rivers or streams
  
  

It's important to take all types of water damage seriously, but you need to be especially wary of damage caused by black water floods. If not treated properly, the situation will only get worse and worse. It's best to contact flood remediation experts if your property has been affected by Category 3 flooding.

When You Need Commercial Flood Insurance

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Flood insurance is essential for your business

Purchasing Flood Insurance

If you are a business owner, you know how important it is to be prepared. You don't know when disaster may strike, but you can have the protection and backing of an insurance policy. It could be helpful to purchase flood insurance. In fact, in certain cases, you might be required by law to have this coverage. You can spare yourself and your Belton, MO, organization a lot of grief by having the right commercial plan.

What it Covers

A regular commercial insurance policy will help cover the costs of repairing damage due to a fire, storms, left or vandalism. Commercial property coverage will help with water damage as a result of a pipe burst or a malfunctioning appliance. However, other types of flooding require an additional flood policy. This will cover the following:

• Flooding from a sewer backup
  
• Flooding from a broken main water line
  
• Flooding from an overflowing waterway.
  
  

When You Need it: Your Building is in a High-Risk Area
Not all businesses need a flood insurance policy. If your facility is located in a place where flooding is rare, the law won't require this. However, if your building is in an area prone to flooding or where a flood is more likely, you must carry a flood policy. This may include building your facility on the banks of a river or lake. If you are in other flood zones such as on or near rising water tables, you may be required to purchase supplemental flood coverage.

Certain Mortgages
You will also need a flood policy if you have a mortgage on the property from a federally regulated or insured lender. If you are not sure whether you fall into this category, check with the lender as you begin to secure financing.
A professional flood cleanup company can help you restore your building. To get the financial help you need to recovery, flood insurance is essential.

What To Do About Bathtub Backup

8/4/2020 (Permalink)

The sight of water and/or sewage coming up from the drain of your bathtub or shower in Belton, MO, can be quite alarming. Bathtub backup is a serious problem, and while you should try to refrain from panicking, you should nevertheless take quick action to diagnose and correct the problem.

Why Does Bathtub Backup Occur?

Backup into the bathtub usually indicates a problem with the main sewer line of your home. Common causes include the following:

• Clogs due to paper products, grease buildup, toys, etc.
• Blockages due to tree roots
• Flooding due to excess rain
  

Can You Clean Up the Backup on Your Own?

Sometimes, but only under certain circumstances. It helps to know whether it is sewer backup or backup from the sink. If the latter, you may be able to handle the cleanup on your own because there is less chance of exposure to harmful bacteria.

If the backup occurred recently, i.e., within 24 hours of discovery, you may be able to handle the cleanup yourself. This is because any bacteria that may be present hasn't had time to proliferate.

If there is a good thing about bathtub backup, it is that the walls of the tub serve to contain the wastewater. This containment makes it more feasible for you to handle cleanup on your own.

When Should You Call a Professional?

You should call restoration and cleanup professionals if the backup contains raw sewage. This may be the case if it occurs when you flush the toilet, if it is brown in color, or if it is accompanied by a foul smell. Regardless of the source of the backup, you should call a cleanup professional if it is 24 hours old or more. While a bathtub may serve to contain the wastewater, backup in a shower stall may spread all over the bathroom floor and into the rest of the house. The more widespread the flooding is, the more necessary it becomes to hire professional cleanup.

Don't take chances with a potential sewer backup. If you have any doubts as to whether you can handle the cleanup yourself, contact a professional right away.

Flood Proof Your House in 5 Easy Steps

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Apply waterproof sealant in your home

Tips To Flood Proof Your Home

Flooding is a big enough problem on its own. The fact that it can often cause further consequential issues makes it even more serious. When it comes to flood safety, prevention is your biggest ally. Follow these easy safety tips to help flood proof your home in Harrisonville, MO.

1. Keep important documents and possessions on elevated surfaces: Floodwater starts low before rising, so the best way to keep your stuff dry is to store it as high as you can. Move important possessions to high shelves on the top floor of your house, just to be safe.

2. Move in-home electrical systems above flood level: The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety recommends that all electrical equipment, such as switches, circuit breakers and wiring, sit at least a foot above your home's flood level. Staying away from electrified water is a basic flood safety principle.

3. Upgrade your water valves: A sewage flood is a biohazard, and therefore significantly more dangerous than an average flood. To prevent sewage backflow from entering your home, you should install either an interior/exterior backflow valve or a gate valve.

4. Control the flow of water around your house: Ideally, your house should sit higher than the surrounding landscape so water can flow away from the property. This isn't always the case, so take care to monitor the direction the water flows in after a storm. If it's directed towards your house, you should contact your local environmental services department.

5. Apply waterproof sealant: A sealant can be applied to both the interior and exterior of your home. This can help keep rainwater out as well as flooding.
While these flood safety tips can certainly lower your home's risk of flooding, they can't prevent a disaster entirely. It's vital that you contact storm remediation experts if you do become the victim of a flood.

Steps of the Flood Restoration Process

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Surface cleanup in Belton, MO

Flood Restoration Process

Storm season can stir up many problems for homeowners. When your home in Belton, MO, floods or is otherwise damaged by wind, rain, or hail, storm restoration experts can help tear out ruined material and put your house back together again. They follow these steps to ensure that your home is back to normal as quickly as possible.

1. Water Extraction
After surveying the extent of the damage, the first step is to remove all the excess water. Specialists use industrial pumps and techniques to extract water so your home can start to dry out.
2. Damage Removal
Before your home can be restored, technicians must tear out the materials that can't be salvaged. They remove saturated walls, ceilings, and floors. They also clear out any soggy items that need to be cleaned or discarded.
3. Moisture Control
Drying out the remaining structure keeps water damage from turning into secondary damage, such as mold growth. The mitigation team makes sure that surfaces are dry and takes steps to bring the humidity in your home down to an acceptable level.
4. Surface Cleanup
Water that floods your home during a storm is not clean water. Technicians disinfect your home to rid it of any bacteria that happens to be present.
5. Full Restoration
When you choose a company that handles both remediation and restoration, you know your home is in good hands. The same team that deals with the damage also handles the rebuilding process. They know exactly what is needed to restore your home fully to how it looked before the storm.
After a storm damages your home, calling dependable professionals to fix it is a smart move. They can walk you through what to expect from the restoration process so that you are aware of what's happening in your home. Efficient and expert work helps your home get back to normal.

Why Weather Watching Could Protect Your Company

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Watch the local news for weather events that could impact your business

Why Weather Watching Could Protect Your Company

As a business owner in Belton, MO, you know a lot of wildcards exist, and one of the biggest is the weather. A winter storm could bring high winds and dump loads of snow in your area. A lightning storm could strike your building with a powerful blast. When you run a company or are responsible for protecting its property, watching the weather takes on a focused urgency. Here are a few steps to take that keep you informed of weather warnings:

• Watch the local news for weather events that could impact your business
  
• Keep a mental record of seasonal weather patterns in your region
  
• Stay informed with state and federal weather alerts
  
• Understand if your building is located in a flood zone
  
  

It is important not to be blindsided by severe weather. Being aware helps you take steps ahead of time to mitigate the effects of a storm.

Storm Impacts

A winter storm can impact your business in many ways. It could cause the roads to be impassable, meaning customers will be unable to make it to your store or office for a day or more. It could affect the accessibility of your parking lot. With a little foresight, this can be avoided by hiring a company that has the resources to clear your lot even during bad weather. Heavy snow on your roof could cause storm damage by creating ice dams or even by collapsing a portion of the roof. Ice buildup could result in a pipe break. A storm remediation franchise in your area can arrive to secure your building and remove damaging water.

Storm Preparation

The more time you spend on preparation the less likely you are going to be surprised by a winter storm. Planning ahead pays off by knowing how to react and which companies to call in an emergency. This could result in reduced expenses and a faster recovery for your company.

Preparing Your Business for Winter Storms

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

Winter storm in Harrisonville, MO

Inclement weather can hit at any time, but it is especially expected during winter. As a business owner in Harrisonville, MO, it's crucial to stay aware of weather conditions and have winter storm preparedness plans in place. Here are some tips for getting your building and your business plans winter-ready before severe weather hits.

Keep Tabs on the Weather

One key to protecting your business against severe weather is prevention. A combination of watching the weather closely and keeping up with regular inspections and maintenance of your space can save you a lot of trouble. Keep roofs, windows, doors, drains, and plumbing systems up to code. Check these areas closely before a period of severe weather and address any necessary repairs. If you anticipate a winter storm, take care to watch its path and prepare your building for potential storm damage.

Keep Employees Informed

If the weather forecasts show a likely blast, prepare your employees accordingly. If your business can run while they work from home, prepare them for this. If your business can't operate remotely, you may need to shut it down for the duration of the storm. If shutting down is also not an option, you can create a team of essential employees and offer to put them house them in a nearby hotel so they can get to work safely. Whatever you decide, communication with your employees is crucial.

Keep Emergency Contacts Handy

Even the most prepared business can succumb to nature's will. Keep yourself organized and have the contact information for local authorities, preferred insurance providers, and professional water damage restoration technicians at the ready. Store their numbers in your phone and write them down, as well. In the event of an emergency, such as a pipe break, accessing this information easily can feel like a lifeline.
Nobody is immune to the effects of a winter storm. With some diligence, you can minimize the damage, and with the right team of professionals, you can get your business back up and running fast.

4 Must-Do Tasks When There’s a Sewage Backup in Your Bathtub

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Sewer backup in a Belton, MO bathroom

Prevent Further Damage in Your Home From Sewage Backup

When a sewer backup occurs and there is sewage in your bathtub, it is important not only to clean it up as soon as possible but also prevent it from happening again. If the backup is minor and has happened recently, you can attempt to clean it yourself. However, major backups will generally require professional help and you should not attempt to unclog them. If you wish to tackle the backup yourself, here are four things that you should do immediately to prevent further damage in your Belton, MO, home.

1. Use Proper Safety Equipment

Before you even enter the bathroom, ensure that you have the appropriate safety gear, such as a face mask, eye protection and rubber gloves. It is important that your skin does not come in direct contact with the wastewater from the sewer backup.

2. Remove the Water

Do your best to remove the standing water from the tub to prevent it from leaking and flooding other parts of your house. If the water is deep, you may need a pump. If it isn’t very deep, a wet-dry vacuum is all you may need to clean up the bathtub backup.

3. Remove and Clean Any Saturated Items

Remove anything that has been touched by the wastewater immediately. Some items, such as carpets and saturated baseboards, will need to be replaced and may require water damage repair. Items such as clothing and anything that can be easily cleaned should be sanitized as soon as possible.

4. Open Windows and Allow Sun Inside

Once the water and waste is handled, open your windows and blinds to allow airflow and sun to dry things out. If there was any flooding, sunlight can help to stop the growth of bacteria and reduce humidity.

A sewer backup in your home can be disastrous. However, damage can be prevented as long as you follow these steps or you contact a professional if further help is needed.

Understanding Flood Insurance, Requirements and Benefits for Your Business

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage due to rain in Belton, MO

What is Flood Coverage?

Most businesses require a commercial insurance policy to operate, but not all require flood insurance, which can lead to questions of whether such a plan is necessary. Questions regarding necessity depend on location and regulation, while some businesses can operate without concern for flooding, others face the threat of floods seasonally. Therefore, to understand whether a flood policy is right for your business, you must first understand what flood coverage is and what your risks are when it comes to rising water levels.

1. Understanding Flood Coverage

Flood coverage is for instances of large-body flooding. For example, overflowing rivers, heavy rains leading to storm surges, snowmelt, broken dams, or even blocked storm drains and systems. Typically, this type of coverage kicks in when the flooding affects two acres or at least two properties.

2. Determining Risks

While flood insurance is a decent policy to have, it is not necessary for every state, city or location. There are designated flood zones throughout the country where it is wise to have this type of coverage. However, even in some flood zones, the risk of flooding is minimal, meaning that insurance is suggested but not required.

3. Knowing About Requirements

However, there are some areas of the country where flood coverage is required just like commercial policies. The requirement is often put in place by the local government to help avoid losses and financial disparity.

4. Coverage and Restoration

While some commercial policies will cover the cost of a storm remediation specialist in the Belton, MO, area, most commercial coverage is limited to rain and wind damage. Therefore, if a flood occurs and you do not have adequate coverage, the business is left to fund the restoration alone.
Flood insurance is not a requirement everywhere. However, even in places where it is not a requirement, a business may benefit from the extra protection. Contact a local specialist and discuss how to best protect your business for unexpected weather disasters.

Understanding Commercial Generators

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial generator in a Harrisonville, MO building

Importance of Understanding How Commercial Generators Work

As a business owner in Harrisonville, MO, it is important for you to understand how your commercial generators work, from learning how long they will last to knowing what to do if they break down. You will be thankful when and if a storm wipes out your building’s power and causes a potentially dangerous situation. Here are three things to know about your generator equipment.

1. Generators last through many uses. Typical models will work for about 3,000 hours, meaning that a typical standby option could last for more than 30 years. Contact the manufacturer of your unit for more specific information on its expected lifespan.

2. All generators are not the same. Some run on diesel, while others are fueled by natural gas. There are also prime, standby, portable and stationary models. Since there are all of these features and more that you must consider before making a purchase, make sure that you pick out the right generator for your business’ needs and budget.

3. Generator problems need to be considered. Even the best piece of equipment can malfunction. In the event of a broken unit, you must be prepared for flooding and other destruction that can take place, especially if bad weather is occurring. If something does happen to your business, a local commercial storm damage restoration company should be called as soon as the weather dies down so you can begin taking care of your damaged or wet property and belongings.

A responsible business owner should be aware of and understand all of the equipment that the company uses to keep things running smoothly. A generator should be no exception, even if it is just a portable model that is used sparingly. Stay in contact with your local repair shops, cleanup crews and other trusted professionals in Harrisonville, MO, that can help when storms or other disasters threaten your property.

How To Access and Use Flood Maps

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

Homeowners should know if a property is located in a flood zone.

Homeowners and prospective buyers should know if a property is located in a flood zone. The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides online access to flood maps. Find out more about the resources available for determining the risk of flooding at a residence in Harrisonville, MO.

View the Flood Rate Insurance Map

The National Flood Insurance Program maintains a Flood Rate Insurance Map. This map offers several viewing options and important information:

• Dynamic maps and firm images
  
• Date of last update
  
• Records of revisions, amendments and revalidations
  
  

A detailed key indicates how levels of risk and flood prevention features are displayed. This map provides a recent assessment of flood risks at any area or property in the country.

Use Other Flood Risk Products

FEMA also offers user-friendly flood risk tools. These non-regulatory resources include graphical risk maps and detailed risk reports. Homeowners can enter their location to access all of the available flood zone information.

Request an Amendment or Revision

Homeowners who increase the elevation of their residences to prevent flooding can request an amendment, revision or recertification. Depending on when these changes took place, an amendment or revision may already be on file. The owner of a modified property on a flood plain should take the following measures:

• Check to see if an amendment or revision is on file
  
• Request a Letter of Map Amendment
  
• Request a Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill
  
  

Amendments may not immediately be indicated on maps or reports. These modifications can still reduce flood risks and lower the cost of flood insurance coverage.

The Flood Rate Insurance Map indicates the risk of flooding in Harrisonville, MO. Owners of residences located in a flood zone should obtain flood insurance and notify the NFIP or a private insurer in the event of a flood. Storm damage restoration specialists can quickly assess and begin to mitigate damage.

Two Storms in Two Months

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

Kansas City area had two storms in two months. Houses and businesses flooded that hadn't flooded in 20 plus years.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (816)-884-2240.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore.

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

When Storms or Floods hit Cass County

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore.

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams  that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (816) 884-2240

Frozen Pipes and Roof Repair

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Roof leaks can damage your home.

Storm damage hits residential and commercial buildingsroofs the hardest. A roof leak makes you experience water damage inside the house following damage from a wind storm or hail.  

A home remediation company like SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Ramore will not only secure the damaged area we will provide storm restoration services and provide water damage clean up services.

Storm remediation structures are necessary to avoid future flooding that only a flood pump can remove.

Another potential loss is from ice dam effects, snow, and freezing temperatures causing  frozen pipes amount to approximately $1.2 billion annually.

A few things you can do to prevent this from happening to you is:

*Make sure all outside hoses are removed from water faucets.

*Put outside insulation covers on faucets.

*On really cold nights leave a trickle of water running in sinks.

If you experience any water damage please give us a call at (816)-884-2240.

WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF A STORM DAMAGING MY HOME?

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Worldwide there are an estimated 16 million thunderstorms each year.

Worldwide, there are an estimates 16 million thunderstorms each year, and at any given moment, there are roughly 2,000 thunderstorm in progress.  There are about 100,00 thunderstorms each year in the U.S. alone. About 10% of these reach severe levels.

Thunderstorms are most likely to happen in the spring and summer months and during the afternoon and evening hours, but they can occur year-round at all hours.

Storming can and will happen at anytime, and with 16 million happening every year there's a definite need for cleanup and restoration.  So the chances of having a storm damage your home are quite unpredictable. But having the right service to restore the damage is a definite.

About SERVPRO

SERVPRO of Harrisonville/Belton/Raymore has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. As a leader in storm and water damage restoration we can be "faster to any size disaster."

Taxes and Storm Damage: What Is Not Deductible Under Casualty Loss

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Call your insurer in the Belton, MO area to find out more information and specifics

Taxes and Storm Damage

Tis the season, and most businesses are adding up deductions and getting ready to file. Unfortunately, while casualty losses may cover some elements of storm damage, not everything is tax deductible. In fact, there are at least four elements of damage that are typically not deductible.

1. Insured Items

Most businesses are required to have some type of commercial property insurance, and while basic policies will not cover extreme natural disasters, they likely cover wind and rainstorms. Any items or damage that are covered under your insurance policy cannot be claimed as a deduction because such issues are considered reimbursable.

2. Wear and Tear

Additionally, while you can deduct storm damage that is not reimbursable, you cannot claim items that have been damaged due to normal wear and tear. Therefore, if you have an HVAC unit that is past its prime and hasn’t been cared for properly, you cannot claim that it was damaged in a storm to receive a deduction.

3. Future Profits

While natural disasters, like hurricanes, can create significant business interruptions, you likely can’t claim profit losses. The reason is that these losses are considered future profits, and while some insurance policies will account for historical earnings, the IRS will not allow for these projections to be claimed as actual losses.

4. Project Restoration

Also, most insurance policies will cover some aspect of restoration after a storm, especially if you have additional riders, which means that restoration costs are reimbursable and not deductible. You can call your insurer, local IRS branch or a disaster restoration specialist in the Belton, MO, area to find out more information and specifics.

Storm Damage can wreak havoc on a business both physically and fiscally. Unfortunately, not all of this damage is deductible. However, through insurance policies, most losses are reimbursable, meaning that your financial difficulties are lessened in the long term if you have adequate coverage.