Why SERVPRO in case of fire damages?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

After a fire damages your home, Team SERVPRO works for you.

While asking family or friends for assistance may be less expensive, an untrained eye can result in extra damages that cause serious issues. In an effort to save you a few dollars, they may overlook or disregard issue areas, leading to exorbitant damages later on.

When dealing with fire damage on your Coconut Grove property, fully qualified specialists with access to industrial-grade equipment give you the greatest results. A reputable restoration business uses their years of knowledge to your advantage, replacing damaged materials, sanitising areas that may be repaired, and quickly and effectively restoring your property to good shape.

With the help of their skilled teams, SERVPRO professionals can rid your property of the smoke and ash that lingers long after the flames have died down but still damages your contents and structural elements. Professionals in restoration have the skills and resources to spot problem areas, control losses, and stop further damage.

The SERVPRO staff makes every effort to safeguard your property, restore power, and eliminate potential risks. Only the services you require that are appropriate for your circumstances are available thanks to the flexibility and adaptability of our offerings. We never charge you for services that are not necessary and make every effort to restore your property to its excellent pre-damage condition.

Using board-up procedures, SERVPRO seals openings like broken windows or open doors that could allow burglars to take advantage of your current situation. This protects exposed sections of your property from the elements. Additionally, we safeguard your house from corrosion by removing smoke stains from painted or plastic surfaces, furniture, fibreglass, and worktops.

Along with protecting window frames, faucets, door hardware, and lighting fixtures, we can also assist with protecting metal trim. A pre-cleaning chemical is applied to any surface at risk of future corrosion. This stops deterioration in its tracks and enables your restoration method to do its magic.

Regular Maintenance could save you money on the long run

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Regular Maintainance to Save You Money

Over time, the expense of maintaining your residences might build up to a sizable sum. Any structural system or appliance can benefit from lower maintenance costs if problems are resolved quickly and potential difficulties are foreseen. As long as homeowners schedule routine maintenance, the majority of home systems, such the HVAC or plumbing, may be maintained for years without experiencing a serious problem. Here are the top three strategies for minimising maintenance costs and extending the life of each system in your house.

1) Attend to minor repairs.

When it comes to maintenance, it's a good idea to begin small. When problems that initially appear to be minor are addressed, it can assist to avoid more serious problems later on. In terms of components, labour, and incidentals, regular or preventative maintenance is typically less expensive than emergency repairs.

2) Carry out routine maintenance

Homeowners should plan routine inspections of the building's structural systems, appliances, and other components. Inspections could reveal problems that need maintenance. The cost of maintenance is typically lower when components are cleaned and the parts required to avoid future issues are purchased than when damaged parts are repaired and potential damage is repaired.

3) Complete The Task Correctly-

Installing, maintaining, and repairing household systems and appliances like the HVAC and plumbing should always be done by skilled professionals. Although it might cost a little more every task to maintain excellent management standards, there is a substantially lower chance of developing serious issues that turn out to be highly expensive. Professionals who are bonded and insured frequently offer warranties for their work.

The longer an issue persists, the more likely it is that it will worsen and cost more to maintain. Regular inspections, upkeep, preventative measures, and prompt repairs for a Manhattan home's structural systems and appliances can assist homeowners in avoiding expensive emergency remedies for significant issues that could result in significant damage.

Water Damages and what to do?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

What actually occurred?

The plastic water line behind the refrigerator frequently cracks, starting a sluggish trickle that accumulates water behind the refrigerator unseen. Excessive condensation buildup is another typical cause that has the same result. Numerous issues can arise in your house as a result of water damage from your refrigerator, especially given how long the issue may go unnoticed before it is discovered and how much damage has already been done to your floors and the surrounding surroundings. Mold can grow and your floors can deteriorate in the ideal conditions of moisture, heat, and darkness. These mould spores can be problematic in places like apartments or enclosed spaces, and a condition like this should not be disregarded. Since SERVPRO specialises in mould remediation, we will gladly get rid of the problem and stop any future aggravation for you.

Next, what?

Any visible water must first be cleaned up to prevent further damage and the possibility of mould growth. After doing this, check your refrigerator to see if there are any obvious leaks or places where excessive condensation may be accumulating. If feasible, it's critical to replace any damaged connections in order to immediately halt the leak. Examine the damage to the area under and around the refrigerator if you are able to. The majority of the time, damage to the floors will be obvious, but the underlying issues may be hidden beneath.

what happens to water?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

What Happens to the Water Now?

When a leak develops, it can be frustrating to try to determine where the water goes. It's important to know the right procedures to take when a leak is discovered coming from an appliance or an open entryway (window, door, hole).

It's considerably more challenging to manage in the case of multi-unit buildings, such as co-ops or apartment complexes. To choose an appropriate water restoration solution, it is vital to determine the path of the water. Since each apartment is normally plumbed separately yet shares walls, ceilings, and floors with other living spaces, multi-unit housing is a natural place for such detective work. When it is quite likely that the water from the leak eventually spreads throughout the building where you cannot even see it and other tenants have not yet noticed, it is insufficient for a landlord to just respond to the complaint of one tenant.

Is It Simple to Track Water's Movement from Space to Space?

Water is frequently said to follow the route of least resistance. This fact does not always stand up to inspection because there are many additional considerations. For instance, if condensation forms on a cold water supply pipe running parallel to the floor in a warm, damp basement, some water will drop in a line down the pipe's length and fall to the ground. There would be numerous damp places traced on the floor throughout the length of the pipe, as opposed to simply one wet spot. The condensation will, however, have a tendency to run down the pipe and collect in a circle at the bottom if the cold pipe is parallel to the floor. Additional cases may yield even more contrasting solutions.

Now Tell Me How Trained Technicians Follow the Water

Since water doesn't go along the same paths that people might assume from mythology, SERVPRO needs to come up with more dependable methods of figuring out where water travels and hides. During the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training, our specialists learn the fundamental techniques for detecting moisture. We employ moisture detectors with and without prongs to find the presence of moisture, which aids us in tracing the path of an intrusion by water. We also use specialised moisture metres to measure the amounts of water absorbed by porous materials for further data. After we remove any standing water, the moisture levels serve as baselines for our Applied Structural Drying (ASD) professionals as they decide what drying goals to set.

Why Is It Important? Shouldn't the Water Inside the Building Just Dry Up?

One of the worrying possibilities to think about is the potential for mould development if all water is not removed from every area of an apartment complex. Only a minimal amount of moisture is required for mould spores to "germinate" and start growing. Molds only require oxygen, water, and an organic surface on which to grow. Mold colonies can grow without light in any building cavity, above ceilings, and between walls. Landlords are required to locate the leak and make plans to remove all water as soon as one occurs due to the risk of mould damage when wood framing, drywall, ceiling tiles, and other building materials are even slightly wet.

How Do Experts Remove Water From Tight Spaces?

Even in a large apartment complex, portable extractors can be moved quite a distance inside the flats. Compared to the larger, more powerful truck-mounted models, the mobile units are significantly more adaptable in their usage and can fit in confined locations much more readily. Up to 12 litres of water can be extracted using the equipment before it needs to be drained and a new attempt made to remove as much water as is possible. The apparatus can be carried like a backpack. We must take into consideration various controlled removal procedures, such as drilling access holes into the walls, if the extractor cannot reach moisture even with extenders.

Advice on what to do after facing water flood

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Floods in your building can be terrible; we understand how stressful and frustrating this can be. However, there are certain things you can do in the first 24 hours after a flood if you follow our advice.

• Take photos of the damage before removing any water. This will help your insurer understand the extent of the damage.
• Protect Your Health: Sewage or home chemicals could contaminate the water. Wear rubber gloves if you plan on lingering near the water.
• Contact your insurance provider: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the flood. Keep the phone numbers of your insurance company and local agent in your phone for emergencies.
• Remove Water: Once your insurer has given you permission to do so, utilise a sump pump and contact a restoration business.
• Mold can develop in as little as 24 to 48 hours after a flood. Make sure to rapidly remove any moist contents, such as carpets and bedding.

Flooding at your home or company necessitates the assistance of an expert. To get it repaired as soon as possible, contact your local restoration firm.

Dealing with Water Floods

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Water flood

How to Stay Safe During a Flood

Water can enter your home during a storm and cause flooding, which can seriously harm your property. However, ensuring the protection of your immediate family, pets, and other loved ones should always come first. When the weather is safe, return to inspect the damage and start the cleanup once the storm has passed. When visiting the floodplain, avoid doing the following things:

Keep Your Hands Off the Water.

Numerous forms of contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and debris, can be found in floodwater. Wearing rubber boots, gloves, and avoiding getting your hands or face wet will help protect your skin from the damaging effects of the water. If, in spite of your best efforts, contact happens, wash right away with soap and fresh water.

Never step into standing water.

Homes, yards, roadways, and other locations may have standing water after a flood. It is not unusual to see downed powerlines following a storm because strong winds frequently accompany intense storms. You can't always discern what's underneath the surface because floodwater is typically murky. If you enter a flooded home, you can get an electric shock if the water has been electrically charged. The risk of electrocution will be reduced with the use of rubber boots.

Don't let the water stand still.

Bacteria have more time to grow the longer water sits. The structural integrity of objects might start to deteriorate if they are submerged in water over extended periods of time. As quickly as possible, the water should be carefully evacuated. You can limit any water damage to your home by clearing the water more quickly. As soon as the water has been removed from the area, you should start the drying process because mould can start to form in as little as 24 to 48 hours.

By following a few precautions, you can help keep yourself safe from the dangers of floodwater.

Getting your business ready for a heavy storm!

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

How to Prepare Your Company for a Major Storm
At any time, a big rainfall can strike. When the building is packed of people, lightning and thunder may strike outside. Thunderstorms are very hazardous. Winds of 58 miles per hour or 1-inch hail are common in this type of storm. It can result in a range of problems, including:

Outages of electricity
Flooding in a flash
The lightning strikes.

As a result, it is critical to prepare your property prior to the arrival of severe weather. This will ensure the safety of your personnel and reduce the demand for storm cleanup services. Here are a few pointers to help you prepare for the heavy rain, lightning, and high winds that are expected.

Keep yourself up to date

An emergency alert system should be in place in your community. Make sure you have permission to use this system. You should also be aware of the meanings of the various notifications. When severe weather is expected in a certain area, a severe thunderstorm watch is issued. Meanwhile, a severe thunderstorm warning means that radar or storm spotters have detected dangerous conditions in the area.

Protect Your Assets

Any important equipment you put outside your building can be blown away by the wind that often comes with a big downpour. Before the terrible weather approaches, make sure you bring these items inside.
Shrubs and tree limbs can also be blown to the ground or into windows by the wind. Trim the plants regularly and remove any damaged portions to keep them vigorous and healthy.

Take precautions.

Your employees may be locked inside during the worst stages of the storm if severe weather strikes during office hours. As a result, you should keep an emergency kit on the premises. The kit should include materials that personnel can utilise if they are trapped inside the facility for several hours or days. A first-aid kit should also be readily available on site.

A heavy downpour can inflict significant wind and flood damage to your home. You can keep your staff safe and reduce the damage to your property by being proactive.

Get ready to a Storm kit

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Cold weather, snow, and ice storms may wreak havoc on your house or company. When tragedies like these hit, you must act quickly to prevent more damage to your property. SERVPRO is always willing to assist, and we'd like to offer some advice on how to put together a basic emergency kit in case the unexpected occurs.

One thing that 2021 has taught us is to always be prepared in a year full of surprises. Here are a few essentials to include in your Emergency Storm Kit.

The following items should be included in a basic emergency supplies kit:

-Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food  (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food)
-A battery-operated or hand-crank radio, as well as a NOAA weather radio - Weather Tone alarm on the radio
-Flashlight
-Kit for first aid
-Extra batteries are available.
-A whistle (to signal for help)
-Mask to protect against dust (to help filter contaminated air)
-Duct tape and plastic sheeting (to shelter in place)
-Garbage bags, moist towelettes, and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
-pliers or a wrench (to turn off utilities)
-Can opener (manual) (for food)
-Maps of the area
-Chargers and a backup battery are included with the phone.

Dealing with Cold Weather

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Many business owners are concerned about the cold weather, particularly those that operate out of warehouse facilities with exposed pipes.

Freezing occurs as a result of cold weather, putting a business at risk of a burst pipe or water line. There are a few things you can do to keep your pipes from freezing.

1. Keep the doors shut.

While it may seem self-evident, keeping doors, particularly warehouse garage doors, closed during work hours is one of the most straightforward ways to avoid a frozen pipe. Water lines in warehouses are frequently exposed, and if they are not adequately insulated, they might freeze and possibly burst, causing substantial damage and expenditure.

2. Open a Small Amount of Faucets

When conditions are expected to be cold or below freezing, simply turning on the cold water supply on taps closest to the exterior water lines can reduce the chance of a frozen or burst pipe. Standing water freezes more easily than moving water.

3. Maintain a Consistent Temperature

Maintaining a constant temperature, no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit, is most likely the greatest strategy to keep your company's pipes from freezing. While decreasing the temperature of your business after hours or over the holidays may appear to be a cost-cutting measure, you may be placing your business at risk of water damage, which might result in considerable downtime.

4. Create a strategy.

Finally, if the worst happens despite your precautions, having an emergency plan in place is a good idea. While you can and should construct an emergency action plan and checklist in-house, you may also wish to call a restoration business, as many of them provide emergency planning services.

An initial examination of your property and the customisation of an action plan in the case of an emergency or disaster are often included in these services.

A burst pipe can be disastrous for a business, not just because of the damage but also because of the disruption in operations. It's as simple as keeping doors closed and opening a faucet when necessary to avoid a pipe rupture due to freezing and maintaining a steady temperature throughout your facility. 

Make sure that your restaurant stands out with a small checklist.

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

n order to keep your restaurant in top form and ready for the next business day, you must strictly adhere to the nightly checklist. Every object in the kitchen, including the flooring, stovetops and ovens, cutlery, pots, and coffee makers, must be fully cleansed and shining clean on a daily basis.... Then there's the front of house, which includes the toilets, host stand, and bar area, which includes all of your glassware. Every day, however, you and your crew have everything under control.

It can also be difficult to find suitable flooring in a crowded restaurant. Many restaurants choose for hardwood flooring, which must be treated on a regular basis to prevent damage from high heels, spills, and scratches caused by table and chair movement.

Your establishment, on the other hand, might have carpeting. A nightly vacuum and spot cleaning will go a long way toward preventing mould growth and other issues that can produce odours, but your carpeting will still require a full cleaning on a regular basis to maintain your floors looking their best. Spills on carpet don't come up as readily or fully as they do on hardwood flooring, and a carpet in need of deep cleaning might appear dull and worn, with colours that are no longer as vibrant and fresh; this can have a negative impact on your guests' experience. Make sure to include a deep cleaning in your cleaning schedule!

How to create an escape plan for your office?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Escape plan

n the event of a fire, it is important that everyone in your building is able to make it out safely. Creating a fire escape plan is one way to help ensure this. The following steps can help.

1. Locate All Exits
   You should find any possible locations for getting out of the building. This will include the main entrances as well as fire escapes. On lower floors, windows may also be a safe option.
   2. Create Multiple Alternate Routes
   Depending on where the fire is located, you may not be able to get to an exit using the path you would usually take. Make sure that you know at least two ways to get to each exit.
   3. Posts Maps in Each Room
   During an emergency, you may find it difficult to determine the best way to get where you need to go. Posting maps of the building in each room and hallway can help. This can also be helpful for guests who do not know the layout of the building.
   4. Designate a Meetup Spot
   Even if everyone follows the fire escape plan perfectly, you may not end up in the same place once you’re outside. Pick an area where everyone will go once they have exited the building. This will make it easier to determine who may still be inside.
   5. Practice Regularly
   The best way to make sure that everyone will know what to do if a fire occurs is to practice your emergency escape plan regularly. This should be done at least every six months and should be as realistic as possible.
   It is important to have a good fire escape plan and to make sure everyone is safe during a fire. Afterward, however, you may need to focus on the state of your building. If there is a fire or smoke damage, you should hire a fire damage remediation company to take care of it. They can perform cleanup and repairs to both the structure of the building and the objects inside. If your business has been damaged due to a disaster, we’re here to help. Contact us at any hour to report your damage or to learn more about our commercial restoration services.

3 Cleaning Tactics That Prevent Mold Spore Buildup

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning air ducts

How Specific Strategies Can Stop Mold Problems in Your Business?

Mold spores are everywhere, and if your commercial facility provides the right conditions, they can build up, grow and develop into full-blown mold contamination. However, frequent and thorough procedures such as carpet cleaning can stop the creation of these habitats and prevent mold inside the location in the first place. Continue reading and learn more about how specific strategies can stop mold problems in your business.

Installing Doormats

Even though mold can grow anywhere and needs the bare minimum to do so, elements outside your property can accelerate the process. Incoming customers and employees can bring all sorts of contaminants inside.

• Water
• Dirt and rocks
• Mud
• Grass
• More spores

These components can provide either the nutrients or water necessary for mold to develop inside the building. By placing doormats near every single entrance, you can severely reduce the amount of these intruding materials, also decreasing the probability of mold inside the property.

Cleaning Carpets

Carpet can be an elegant flooring solution, but its porous properties cause it to trap both mold spores and the organic materials they thrive on. The best way to remove these materials is through frequent carpet cleaning and maintenance. Equip your custodians with the latest cleaning technology, including vacuums that utilize HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters, which can trap most kinds of particles, including mold.

Cleaning Air Ducts

One of the fastest ways mold can spread throughout a location is via air. The building's air ducts can provide a dark, secluded location where mold can easily grow. They can also transport the spores throughout the area, creating mass contamination. The most effective method in preventing mold situations like these involves hiring professionals to regularly clean the system and prevent buildup.
While commercial remediation specialists can help you in many mold cases, some of them can be prevented by simple duct or carpet cleaning. Conduct preventative cleaning to keep the business clean and safe for your employees and customers.

If your business has been damaged due to a disaster, we’re here to help. Contact us at any hour to report your damage or to learn more about our commercial restoration services.

5 Cooking Tips for Fire Safety

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Five Cooking Tips You Can Use For Fire Safety

After a kitchen fire, there are a few steps you can follow to help prevent a fire in the first place. Here are five cooking tips you can use for fire safety.

1. Keep The Cooking Area Clean

One way to help avoid fire damage in your kitchen is to keep the area clean. Grease and food residue can build up until it becomes a fire hazard. A clean cooking area is a safe cooking area.

2. Keep The Stove Free of Clutter

Keeping your counter clean and free of clutter is another step you can take. This will prevent things from getting knocked into a lit heating element.

3. Use a Splatter Guard

Using a splatter guard is one of the recommended tips for preventing a grease fire. This is usually in the form of a screen that can be set over a pot or pan when frying food. The mesh material can catch grease droplets and prevent them for getting into the heating element and parking a fire.

4. Stay Near the Stove

It’s highly recommended to never leave a lit stove unattended. This will allow you to be close at hand if something goes wrong giving you a chance to catch and mitigate any mistakes before a major problem occurs.

5. Use a Timer

If you’re multi taking in the kitchen you may want to use a food timer. This will help you turn off the stove on time before food has a chance to burn or catch fire.

Following these fire safety tips may help you prevent a fire in your home. Keep your cooking area clean and free of clutter, use a splatter guard when frying, and stay near the stove when in use. A timer is also a good idea. If a fire does occur a restoration service may be able to help with repairs.

4 Tips For Preventing a Fire in Your Home

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

No one likes to think about the possibility of having a fire in their home. Fires can be devastating physically, emotionally, and financially. Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent the likelihood of a home fire. Here are four tips for preventing a fire in your home.

1. Install Smoke Alarms
Fire preparation begins with installing smoke alarms in every sleeping room of your home. You should also have smoke alarms placed in hallways, kitchens, and family rooms. Once you’ve ensured you have the right number of alarms, be sure to test them monthly and replace batteries annually.

2. Educate
Education is key to increasing the safety of your loved ones. Teach children the following fire safety basics:

• Stop, drop and roll
• Fire crawl
• Checking doors for heat
• Escape routes
• The location and sound of smoke alarms
• Emergency phone numbers

3. Create an Escape Plan
Everyone should create a fire escape plan. Creating a plan is one of the best fire preparation tips to keep your family safe. Draw a floor plan of your house and mark all possible exits, including doors and windows, in each room. Walk through your home and ensure that exits are free from clutter and that children know how to open and safely exit each window.

4. Practice Your Plan
Once you have a plan in place, it’s wise to practice it. Choose at least two times a year to hold fire drills. These drills can either be planned or spontaneous. A good run-through of the plan will identify any areas that need to be adjusted or improved. Remember to emphasize that once you get outside, you should stay outside. Never go back inside a home that is on fire.
Fire preparation is one of the best things you can do to keep your kids safe in the event of a fire. If you ever experience a fire in your home, there are restoration specialists that can help restore your home.

Salvaging Smoke Damaged Items Through Cleaning

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Having an insurance policy that covers fire damage to your property is one part of responsible commercial property ownership. Working with a qualified fire restoration service provider is another. If you ever experience a property fire, an expert in fire restoration knows and understands the best methods of content cleaning to quickly bring your property back to pre-fire conditions. From dry-cleaning to smoke odor removal, your professional restoration provider has the training and equipment to minimize the interruption to your operations.

Understanding Restoration vs Replacement

You may think that a fire restoration process automatically means the replacement of damaged content. On the contrary, the right professional provider looks for every opportunity to salvage items through cleaning before considering replacement. This includes testing items to see which ones can be returned to a pre-fire condition. Common cleaning methods include the following:

• Dry-cleaning. Appropriate for light residues or as a pre-clean to wet cleaning
• Wet cleaning. Best for moderate to heavy soil.
• Spray and Wipe. Used for objects that can’t be wet cleaned.
• Foam cleaning. Best for upholstery fabrics that may shrink or be otherwise damaged by wet cleaning.
• Abrasive cleaning. Refers to wiping surfaces through agitation and friction.
• Immersion cleaning. Involves dipping objects into a bath for cleansing.

Even electronic devices that have been damaged by the fire may be saved through a cleaning process. Fire restoration providers have the knowledge and equipment to thoroughly inspect electronics for repair and safe operation.

Letting the Pros Handle the Cleanup Process
The fire repair process requires consideration on several levels. In addition to fire and water cleanup and dry-cleaning, other services may be necessary including content storage to protect items from further damage. Your fire restoration pro can coordinate any move-out or pack-out work necessary to get your property back to a pre-fire state. Trust the pros to understand what is needed to get things back to normal.

PREPARING FOR HURRICANE SEASON BEFORE TRAVELING

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

While vacations are a time for relaxation, an unexpected storm can ruin an otherwise amazing trip. It is important to remain mindful of the following hurricane safety tips:

Check the news: Check the weather of your travel destination up to a week in advance to avoid any surprise downpours. 

Obtain Hurricane Travel Insurance: Hurricane insurance can cover travel delays as a result of poor weather conditions and help you cancel your trip or leave early. 

Make paper copy of documents: In the event internet or digital devices are unavailable, printed copies of your travel insurance, itinerary, key phone numbers, and your passport will ensure you have reliable back-ups.

Identify a point of contact: Select an area to find your family or travel members in case cell phone coverage becomes unavailable.

Identify Evacuation Routes: Ask your hotel staff about emergency exit routes and safety procedures.

SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood wishes you a safe and hurricane free vacation! If you're in need of any assistance related to storm damage, we are here to help!

Water damage in Long Beach California

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Drying the wood floor.

Water damage in Long Beach California.

 This completely remodeled custom built house had water damage due to pipe leak from the Master Bathroom which penetrated to downstairs Dining Room, Kitchen and the Pantry. The homeowner just finished putting the plank engineered wood floor and emphasized how important it is for us to save them. We at SERVPRO of Northwest Long Beach dispatched our technicians to go out there ASAP and assess the damage. After moisture mapping, we outlined the effected area and our crew start the water remediation. Setting up equipment to save the wood floor was our first priority and due to timely manner response, we managed to salvage the wood floor and start the water remediation to the rest of the dwelling.

Water damage in Long Beach California

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

I used SERRVPRO of Northwest Long Beach recently to help mitigate some storm-related damage to my home. I was in a tizzy, but Henry and his team made me feel like I was in good hands. They responded quickly and helped prevent any further damage to my home. They also dealt with my property management, keeping them informed and suggesting best practices for how to handle related repairs. All the employees at SERVPRO of Northwest Long Beach were efficient, professional, and friendly. Henry and his team always followed up on what they said they would do. I would very highly recommend them, and they will be the first people I call if I ever have any water-related issues again!

Water Damage can be unexpected

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

I had a water pipe burst in my house back in June. Initially had another mitigation company come as per recommendations from my plumber. Well that was a mistake. Then I was referred to SERVPRO. Which was a provider that worked with my insurance company. WOW. What a difference in work ethics. They came on time. Left on time. Cleaned up properly. Always called me to let me know when they would be coming. And tried everything to help save my walls and floors. Can not say enough about their hard work and professionalism. I recommend SERVPRO to all and next time I would not waist my time with any other company. Let's hope there is not going to be a next time. Thanks SERVPRO.

Fire damage in Long Beach / Signal Hill

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Why it is important to act immediately when you have a fire damage

When a fire occurs in a home or a business, the aftermath can seem overwhelming, and if fire restoration is delayed, the destruction from smoke damage can become even worse. The longer you wait to address the damage, the more repairs you'll have to fix - which means you'll most likely have a larger bill for damages when all is said and done. You can avoid costly repairs and long-term issues if you make fire damage restoration a priority and follow the steps, you'll need to get your home or business back to normal as soon as possible.

Contact a Licensed Fire Damage Restoration Company

Most important step - find a fire restoration contractor who can assess the damage, give you an estimate on costs and start the cleanup process. Contact your home insurance company to make them aware of the fire and ask them for referrals for reliable businesses in your area. It's essential that you enlist the help of a licensed and insured fire damage restoration company to reduce the risk of further damage to your home. They are trained to handle this type of damage and many will perform some of the following steps to help get you through the initial fire cleanup:

While it's best to have a qualified fire restoration company handle the smoke damage restoration, there are some small tasks you can do to help minimize the initial damage before the professionals come in to do the major cleanup. Remember that safety comes first, so if there’s no way to safely gain access into your home, then stay out until the professionals arrive. If it is possible to enter your house, make sure you’re wearing work gloves, long sleeves/pants, and proper respiratory protection, such as a mask because exposure to soot can cause respiratory problems and other medical issues.

We perform a thorough cleanup using industrial-grade products and equipment, such as dry-cleaning soot sponges to remove loose soot and specialized vacuum filters to clean carpet and upholstery.

Storm Damage Cleanup

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storms can have a crippling effect on the inhabitants of a community. Whatever the season; whatever the disaster; you must be prepared. Evacuate if necessary and brace yourself. Once the storm hits there’s not much you can do. Hopefully, you and your loved ones have made it out with minimal injuries. Now, you must prepare for storm damage cleanup.

Winter storm damage

Winter can bring on some frigid weather which can freeze pipes and cause them to burst. The result can be extensive water damage. Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze can be outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool/hot tub supply lines and water sprinkler lines. Interior pipes in unheated or inadequately heated areas include those in basements, crawl spaces, attics and garages. Make sure to look at these when inspecting your home. Roof damage is also an issue since snow and ice can damage gutters and roofs.

Getting help with storm damage cleanup

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.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today

WATER DAMAGE TO KITCHEN CEILING - "Like it never even happened."

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

In this case a slow leak from an upstairs bathroom caused sizable damage to the kitchen ceiling below.

Taking preventative measures are always recommended, but there is nothing that will stop a pipe from bursting if we cannot see it within the wall.

If you see any changes, investigate and aim to identify the source.

SERVPRO has technology to assist with identifying leaks behind walls and it is a FREE INSPECTION! Call us for a no charge initial inspection, there is no loss, in being thorough.

In this home, after we removed portions of the ceiling we uncovered the source of the leak.  Once repaired we began the remediation, cleaning, drying and reconstructing the affected area to make it:

"Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Northwest Long Beach responds quickly and expertly to resolve your emergency.  We will inspect and advise on best solutions.  We are your partner and will scientifically follow best practices.  Mark down this number!

Water damage in Long Beach area

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

IT COST ME MORE IN THE LONG RUN.... I had clogged drain lines, a pipe broke and my business flooded, an absolute nightmare, the fear of closing for a long period of time forced me to hire cheap and get fast back to business. I was in a panic and could not afford to close shop. My plumbers did a great job! But, I had no clue the damage sitting water could cause, I learned the hard way. A month after the incident we began to smell a musty odor and continued to linger. Someone suggested that it could be a dead animal in the walls, or behind furniture. We decided to give it a good cleaning, we moved furniture to discover dark spotting outside the bathroom walls. We had MOLD! I decided to investigate as the issue was growing and learned that water is a SOLVENT! I had to call certified experts to resolve this as now my employees and customers would be at risk. Henry and his team came out right away, I was in a panic and their calm demeanor, professional tools and efficiency reassured me that everything would be done fast and RIGHT. Even after everything was done they followed up. I was in the loop with time frames and communication with Edward (Farmer’s agent) was great help in getting things processed with SERVPRO. In retrospect, I should have called SERVPRO at first to handle the flood, and avoid the mold. Henry and his team was great! Thank you!

Water Damage

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

I had a water pipe burst in my house back in June. Initially had another mitigation company come as per recommendations from my plumber. Well that was a mistake. Then I was referred to SERVPRO. Which was a provider that worked with my insurance company. WOW. What a difference in work ethics. They came on time. Left on time. Cleaned up properly. Always called me to let me know when they would be coming. And tried everything to help save my walls and floors. Can not say enough about their hard work and professionalism. I recommend SERVPRO to all and next time I would not waist my time with any other company. Let's hope there is not going to be a next time. Thanks SERVPRO.

Carpet cleaning and deodorization

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Carpet cleaning and deodorization due to dog urination in Long Beach, CA

My family and I recently moved to Signal Hill and installed new carpet throughout our home.  We have two family pets and one is an elderly rescue dog. Our dog has accidentally urinated through out the downstairs carpet causing a horrible odor.

I called SERVPRO because of their reputation for professionalism, service and results. This location did not disappoint! They were on time, professional and were able to answer all my questions and offer solutions for a very reasonable price.

My carpets seem new again and the odor is gone. I would definitely use them again and recommend them to anyone

Carpet cleaning and deodorization

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Carpet cleaning and deodorization due to dog urination in Long Beach, CA

My family and I recently moved to Signal Hill and installed new carpet throughout our home.  We have two family pets and one is an elderly rescue dog. Our dog has accidentally urinated through out the downstairs carpet causing a horrible odor.

I called SERVPRO because of their reputation for professionalism, service and results. This location did not disappoint! They were on time, professional and were able to answer all my questions and offer solutions for a very reasonable price.

My carpets seem new again and the odor is gone. I would definitely use them again and recommend them to anyone

Fire Research Information Might Help To Keep Your Family Safe

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

More than one-quarter of the reported fires occurred in home environments, according to the National Fire Protection Association. They have also researched specific causes.

Most home fires and fire casualties result from five causes: cooking, heating equipment, electrical distribution and lighting equipment, intentional fire setting, and smoking materials.

Here are some tips to help avoid some of these causes:

Cooking

Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food.

If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.

Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.

Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of 3 feet around the stove.

Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Smoking

Smoke outside and completely stub out butts in an ashtray or a can filled with sand.

Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away.

Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.

Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used, even if it is turned off.

Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.

Be alert - don’t smoke in bed! If you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.

Electrical and Appliance Safety

Frayed wires can cause fires.

Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.

If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet.

Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.

We are ready to help when you have fire damage

Understanding The Research On Electrical Fires May Help You Avoid One In Your Home

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Electrical Fires

Fires involving electrical failures or malfunctions accounted for the highest share of civilian deaths (18%) and direct property damage (20%). This is according to a National Fire Protection Association report that was done in 2019.

Home electrical fires can start in wiring, electrical distribution systems, and lighting equipment, as well as in any equipment powered by electricity such as cooking, heating, office and entertainment equipment, washers and dryers, as well as electrical distribution or lighting equipment.

If you own an older home, it's important that you have your outlets and wiring checked. Aging electrical systems in older homes can be a source of arc faults, either through normal wear and tear or because the systems cannot accommodate the greater demands of modern appliances.

We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Natural Disaster: Is Your Small Business Protected?

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Natural Disasters damages normally create water damage, Storm damage, unprecedented mold,  and/or accidental fires. We don't want any loss to occur to your business, but it is a topic that needs to be talked about. Unexpected property damage happens more often than we like. 

During natural disasters, profits can be reduced as a result of lost sales and additional losses. Insurance does not cover all costs, and it is unable to replace customers who defect to a competition.

Here at SERVPRO, want to make sure that our community is prepared to face any obstacles. 

Common Natural Disaster Damages 

Wangari Maathai stated, “Mother Nature is very generous but very unforgiving“. Natural disasters have caused severe damages. Here are common natural damages that have impacted small businesses in your area

Flood + Storm Damage

Damage caused by strong winds and heavy rain can remove roof tiles, break windows, and more. Depending on how severe the storm is, flood remediation might be needed, aka water remediation/mitigation services. 

Water damage mitigation services commonly consist of drying, cleaning, and sanitizing contaminated areas and items. Following that, materials that have been damaged are repaired. This preserves the structural integrity of water-damaged floors, walls, and ceilings. Restoration work starts after the remediation process is completed and continues until your property is completely restored to its pre-flood condition.

Trust The Leader In The Restoration Industry

Don’t remain unaware of what can happen to your commercial building. And for emergency Fire and Water Remediation Services, don’t wait! call SERVPRO

Powerful Storms Around Can Be Bad For Business

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Can Help Get Your  Commercial Space Back Up And Running

Spring is here, and as we head for summer powerful storms continue to make their way through the area. With these heavy storms there is always a lightning, lots of wind and of course flooding. This can be very bad news for your business.

Some of the storms start with light rain and then shift to more pronounced lines of showers and thunderstorms along with strong winds, causing damage to businesses throughout the region.
This can also mean power outages, which also doesn't help your business.

Knowing You Have Help And Resources

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 damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

First Call For Commercial Water Damage

SERVPRO specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event, call us if you have questions

If You Understand Water Damage And Mold, You Understand Why You Need Trained Pros When You Have Damage

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

Training, Experience, Equipment, And Response Time, Are All Important When You Have Damage To Your Home

If you suspect mold in your home or business, don't hesitate to call professional help. Water damage can turn to a large mold problem quickly. SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

So What's Causing The Mold In Your Home?

Flooding from storms coming from outside

Sump pump overflow

Roof leaks from damaged roofs, ice dams or blocked gutters

Rain from storms through window frames, exterior walls, or doors

Leaking pipes, sewer back-ups or overflows

Damp basements due to high water table or badly managed water drainage

Condensation on cold surfaces

Mold needs these 3 main things to thrive and stay alive.

High humidity

Warm or temperate Temperature

Poor ventilation

Mold is easier to prevent than it is to clean so keeping a watch on common sources of mold and maintaining a dry, ventilated home and drying homes from water damage within 24 hours of the incidence is the best way to prevent mold from happening in the first place. If you have a mold problem and you would like information about how to get it professionally cleaned, please call us and we will direct you on the companies that we use to test for mold.

SERVPRO, specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

So How Are Our Teams Trained?

SERVPRO is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

If you need more reasons to call us for your water damage or mold issue, call us today

If You Suspect Mold In Your Home, Bring In The Experts To Find Out

8/21/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can occur anywhere in a home but mainly is concentrated to areas where moisture is present. These moisture areas are common to the bathroom and basements. Mold should be removed if found as soon as possible.

One of the first places mold can collect and you may not think to check is under the refrigerator. Under the fridge tends to collect moisture and dirt which can cause a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.

Another place is the AC unit. AC units are known to collect debris, dust and moisture from the air, which can lead to mold spores.

Mold can even grow in or around a washing machine or its parts. Moisture and lint can cause a presence of mold spores.

Other area in the house include anywhere moisture and dirt may form such as window corners.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow. Those conditions include:

Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.

Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.

Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

SERVPRO specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  

Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

Call For Help

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today.

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.

Water Damage | What is Covered Under Rental Insurance?

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Depending on the type of policy, Renters insurance protects you against water damage caused by a number of situations that you may experience as a tenant in Montgomery County, such as accidental overflows or water discharge. 

Accidental water damage incidents include:

• Pipe burst
• Machine malfunction (dishwasher, washing machine, etc) 
• Plumbing. 
• Damage to neighboring units

What Is My Landlord Responsible For?

Your landlord is responsible for the maintenance of your rental home, which includes preventing and fixing leaks. Any flaw in the building that could be linked to a possible future cause of property damage and water damage repairs must be reported.

Almost all rental agreements claim that you are not responsible for water damage repairs that are caused by structural issues if you inform your landlord in writing as soon as you find them. This involves leaks in the ceiling, assuming you aren't the one who caused them.

Double-Check Your Lease And Your Renter Policy 

Although most policies cover losses caused by accidental water damage, call your insurance company and discuss what your rental insurance covers.  Also, read your lease carefully. Make sure you understand your and those of your landlord's responsibilities in the event of a crisis. And in times of emergency, make sure your landlord knows to call SERVPRO when water damage restoration services are needed.

Heavy Rains, Flash Floods And Water Damage

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding And Water Damage To Your Home

Weather patterns in your area can be unpredictable. Flash flooding, heavy rains, and road closures are part of life in the metro area.
Sometimes floods develop slowly and forecasters can predict where a flood will happen well in advance.

There are times that flash floods occur in minutes and even on occasion, without any sign of rain. The National Weather Service (NWS) believes being prepared can save your life and give you peace of mind.

National Weather Service recommends following these tips before a flood:

1. If you have access to sandbags or other materials, use them to protect your home from flood waters if you have sufficient time to do so. Filling sandbags can take more time than you may think.

2. Have a professional install check-valves in plumbing to prevent flood waters from backing up into the drains of your home. Make sure your sump pump is working and consider having a backup. Make sure your electric circuit breakers, or fuses, are clearly marked for each area of your home.

3. Since standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover flooding, ensure coverage by contacting your insurance company or agent to purchase flood insurance. This must be done before there is even a threat of flooding as insurance companies stop issuing policies if there is a threat of flooding. (i.e. an approaching hurricane). Many flood insurance policies take at least 30 days to go into effect so even if you can buy it as a storm is approaching, it may not protect your investment.

A Flooded Basement Can Lead To Structural Issues And Mold

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level.

There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including:

A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe

Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home

Storm sewer backup
Sanitary sewer backup
Foundation drainage failure
Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call us Today

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get. Mold is also a threat if the water damage isn't treated.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today

A flooded basement can jeopardize your safety, and your home’s integrity.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week

We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies

We Bill the Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About

Our Technicians are Highly Trained in Water Restoration Techniques

We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards

Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

SERVPRO technicians are available to help.

Damage from Clean Water

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Damage from Clean Water:

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

Damage from Contaminated Water:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

SERVPRO is here to help. Give us a call if you have water damage

We are available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

Floods And Damage Across Several States

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Floods And Damage Across Several States

Storms and heavy rains can cause heavy flooding in a short period of time. Certain parts of the country experienced heavy rains earlier this year. People experienced dangerous storm water and flood damage in 6 states in early March. The National Weather Service is warning that rivers will stay in flood stage for days. The flood waters forced evacuations and millions in damage.

After The Flooding

Flooding means that not only will a homeowner have to think about the current situation of being displaced from their home and losing some of their personal belongings, but the results after the water is gone. Standing water is a breeding ground for bacteria.

Once the water has subsided the presence of dirt, grime, bacteria and mold will be present. The level of expensive damage depends on how long the standing water is left unattended. There is no telling when the water can be extracted from the towns let alone people’s houses.

After the waters have subsided and before you immediately enter your home refer to this checklist.

1. Watch out for wild animals, poisonous snakes that may have entered the home, check thru the debris.

2. Watch out for plaster, loose ceiling structures and document everything for yourself and for insurance purposes.

3. Throw away any food, anything that may have come in contact with the flood waters, anything in the fridge.

4. Check electrical systems, gas leaks, sewage and water lines all for damage.

Call SERVPRO Even if your flood damage is not as dramatic as what we saw in the south earlier this year, we'll be there to help.

Warm Weather And Good Times Outdoors, What About Lightning?

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Lightning is hotter than the surface of the sun, it can reach temperatures around 50,000 degrees F. That is according to the National Weather Service. While we still have some good outdoor weather ahead, use caution.

Here are some outdoor activity guidance from The National Weather Service:

–Coach of Outdoor Sports Team
Your little league team has an evening game at the local recreational park. The weather forecast calls for partly cloudy skies, with a chance of thunderstorms by early evening. When you arrive at the park, you notice the only safe buildings are the restrooms.

Shortly after sunset, the sky gets cloudy and you see bright flashes in the sky. What should you do? Get everyone into vehicles or the restrooms. Do NOT stay in the dugouts; they are not safe during lightning activity. Once in a safe place, wait 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder before resuming play.

–At the Beach or Lake

Your family plans to go to the beach today. The weather forecast calls for a nice morning followed by a 30 percent chance of afternoon thunderstorms. When you get to the beach, you see that the only nearby structures are open-sided picnic shelters.

The parking lot is a 5 minute walk from the beach. By early afternoon skies are darkening and hear distant thunder. What should you do? Go to your car! Do NOT seek shelter under the beach picnic shelters. Wait 30 minutes until after the last rumble of thunder before going back to the beach.

Don't Get Carried Away By Flooding

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

When looking for travel tips, you might have come across advice to avoid driving on a flooded path. This is more than just good advice; it will save your life and avoid expensive harm to your car. Here are some of the reasons not to drive on flooded highways.

Swept Away

Most of the flood deaths that occur in cars happen because the car driver misconstrued the depth of the floodwater. However, even a little bit of water can cause major problems on a flooded street. Here's what can happen at specific depths of water:

• 6 inches: Water up to 6 inches deep will cause your tires to lose traction on the ground. Your vehicle will skid when this happens. Although you're probably not drowning in this case, losing control of the vehicle may cause you to crash.
• 12 inches: a foot of water will cause small and medium-sized vehicles to float. If the water moves quickly, the vehicle can be swept away by the current—with you still inside.
• 24 inches: Even big pickups and SUVs can be washed away by two feet of water on a flooded street. Worse still, as the vehicle is being carried along, it may tip over, trapping you inside with the floodwater already rising.

Stranded at S(treet)ea 

In most cars, the engine air intake is near the edge. Driving on flooded roads can lead to the sucking of water from the air intake into the engine, which can cause serious damage. Floodwater also poses a risk to the electrical components of your car, which may cause you to stall and stall in the middle of the flood. And if you and your car make it safely across the floodwaters, your vehicle will still have water damage that is likely to be costly to repair later.

When there is a flood around the city, prepare alternative routes and stay up to date with changing weather conditions. In general, it is best to stop driving on flooded roads if at all necessary.

Storm Season Requires Preparation

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Spring and Summer bring sunshine and warmer weather to your area, but also can mean thunderstorms.

According to Ready now it is important to know the difference between a thunderstorm WATCH and a thunderstorm WARNING. A severe thunderstorm WATCH means a severe thunderstorm (damaging winds of 58 miles per hour or more, or hail three-fourths of an inch in diameter or greater) is likely to develop. A severe thunderstorm WARNING means that a severe thunderstorm has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.

In your area severe storms can cause downed trees/power lines, flash flooding, lightning-related damage, tornado damage, hail and massive amount of debris on roads.

Ready now recommends having these items organized before a storm strikes:

Water

One gallon of water per person, per day, for at least three days, to be used for drinking and sanitation

Food

At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food for each member of your family (while non-perishables do last for a long time, you should be regularly checking these supplies to make sure that nothing in your kit is expired)

Battery, solar powered, or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for each

Flashlight and extra batteries

A whistle to signal for help

Dust mask to help filter contaminated air

Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

Fire extinguisher

Extra cell phone with batteries/chargers
First aid kit

Prescription medications and eyewear

Emergency reference material such as first aid book

Have COVID-19 supplies stocked: cloth masks or face coverings, hand sanitizer, disinfectant cleaning supplies, sanitizing wipes, and soap.

Important documents such as: insurance policies, copy of driver’s license, Social Security card, birth certificate, and bank account records stored in a watertight container

Cash and change

Copies of local maps

A list of emergency contacts with phone numbers

For Your Vehicle

Jumper cables

First aid kit and necessary medications in case you are away from home for a prolonged period of time (this should include contact lens solution, extra cases, and/or glasses)

Cat litter or sand for better tire traction

Shovel

Ice scraper

Warm clothes, gloves, hat, sturdy boots, jacket and an extra change of clothes

Rain poncho and umbrella

Blankets or sleeping bags

Road flares or reflective triangles

Baby food/formula, wipes, and diapers if you have an infant

A full tank of gas

Bright colored cloth to use as a flag

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Here are a few Flood Facts provided by FEMA:

Flash floods can bring walls of water from 10 to 20 feet high.

Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.

Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires.

A 2,000 square foot home undergoing 12 feet of water damage could cost more than $50,000 to repair.

Here are a few supplies you need to prepare for a flood:

Stock up on First Aid items

Non-perishable foods

Three gallons of water per person for 3 days

Battery operated radio for weather reports

Extra batteries

Personal hygiene necessities

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

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

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

REVERSING WATER DAMAGE WITH INJECTIDRY SPECIALTY EQUIPMENT

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach / Signal Hill, we use a variety of tools and equipment to help reverse damage caused by elements such as water, fire, and mold. Our Injectidry equipment, for example, helps immensely in water saturated projects by allowing us to reach inaccessible, water damaged areas.

The Injectidry is a piece of mat-panel drying equipment that provides a non-invasive process for drying high risk areas of moisture such as walls, cavities, and hardwood floors. First, holes are drilled into drywall or under cabinets in the least visible locations possible. Next, small nozzles are inserted into a long hose, and the pressurized air pump injects heated air through the nozzles and into the hidden air spaces. The air movement becomes a vehicle for moisture, and water can be suctioned out of cracks and crevices.  

This valuable tool supplements common drying equipment such as air movers, dehumidifiers, and air scrubbers, allowing us to remove less and restore more. With the Injectidry, we are capable of drying wall cavities without having to remove large sections of the interior wall. Instead, the small holes are simply patched, creating an easier and more cost-effective solution.  

This method is beneficial when a homeowner calls us within the first 24 hours of the water loss, and the source of the water is clean. If the drywall and materials are wet for more than 24-48 hours, repair may not be feasible, depending on the damage. Our expert technicians will tailor a plan to fit your situation.

With this effective tool, you can trust us to dry your home or business in the event of water damage caused by a storm, heavy rain, flood, or burst pipe to name a few. Don't hesitate to call us in the event of an emergency at 562-591-1788. We are available 24/7 to answer your call.

PREVENTING AN EXTERNAL BUSINESS FIRE

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

External fire damage prevention remains a top priority for many businesses. While it is important to focus on preventing fires from igniting within the facility, external preventative measures should be considered as well. Since nearly every state has laws prohibiting smoking in public places, smoking occurs outside, often around the business by shrubbery and mulch. These fires can slow-burn for hours due to smoldering tunnels under the surface that later break out into open flame. Be mindful of the following tips to prevent fires from starting outside your business.

• Keep the mulch at least 18 inches away from combustible building materials, such as wood and decks.
• Provide proper receptacles for smoking materials at all entrances and in designated smoking at least 18 inches from the building and empty receptacles regularly.
• Keep mulch beds moist when possible.

If you need to create a controlled fire outside, remember the following:

• Don’t start open fires when the ground and surrounding vegetation are dry.
• Don’t burn when winds are stronger than a gentle breeze.
• Always have a strong water source ready in case a fire begins to get out of control.
• Stay with the fire at all times.
• When finished, rake through the ashes to ensure that all coals are cooled.

With these helpful tips, SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach / Signal Hill hopes your business remains free of fire damage. If you find yourself in an emergency, we're available to help reverse fire damage thoroughly and professionally.

WHAT IS BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLANNING?

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and water can create commercial damage that impacts your local Long Beach business in several ways. This might include infrastructure damage, employee injuries, and loss of revenue. It is important to ensure that your business continues running smoothly, even after a natural disaster, by creating a business continuity plan.

Business continuity planning is the creation of an emergency plan by recognizing threats facing the company and ensuring that assets are protected and remain functioning. For example, a finance corporation might back-up its computer and client files offsite, providing satellite offices access to important information in the event of an emergency. Once critical business functions are identified and a plan is in place, it’s advantageous to delegate business disruption duties to specific employees.

An area that is often overlooked is damage within the supply chain. If your business relies on a sole supplier for goods or services, a fire within their building is likely to have an adverse effect on your business. As a supplier, dividing operations will lead to partial damage instead of total loss.

With a well-designed plan, we hope to see your Long Beach commercial business running smoothly. Even with preparation, SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach / Signal Hill recognizes that emergencies happen routinely, and we are here to help restore your commercial building and minimize disruption.

PREVENTING AN EXTERNAL BUSINESS FIRE

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

External fire damage prevention remains a top priority for many businesses. While it is important to focus on preventing fires from igniting within the facility, external preventative measures should be considered as well. Since nearly every state has laws prohibiting smoking in public places, smoking occurs outside, often around the business by shrubbery and mulch. These fires can slow-burn for hours due to smoldering tunnels under the surface that later break out into open flame. Be mindful of the following tips to prevent fires from starting outside your business.

• Keep the mulch at least 18 inches away from combustible building materials, such as wood and decks.
• Provide proper receptacles for smoking materials at all entrances and in designated smoking at least 18 inches from the building and empty receptacles regularly.
• Keep mulch beds moist when possible.

If you need to create a controlled fire outside, remember the following:

• Don’t start open fires when the ground and surrounding vegetation are dry.
• Don’t burn when winds are stronger than a gentle breeze.
• Always have a strong water source ready in case a fire begins to get out of control.
• Stay with the fire at all times.
• When finished, rake through the ashes to ensure that all coals are cooled.

With these helpful tips, SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach / Signal Hill hopes your business remains free of fire damage. If you find yourself in an emergency, we're available to help reverse fire damage thoroughly and professionally.

FIXING WATER DAMAGED CARPETING IN YOUR BUSINESS

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

When you’re dealing with commercial water damage, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, and decisions must be made quickly. For instance, many business owners need help deciding if wet carpet should be repaired or replaced. Rest assured, we at SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach / Signal Hill will help you assess the situation and create a plan to fix or replace water-damaged materials, including your water-damaged carpeting.

Assess the Situation

During your evaluation, ask yourself the following questions.

• Has the source of the water been identified?
• Is it safe to fix the water-damaged carpeting, or are there hazardous materials involved?
• Has the water been stopped?

If the carpet is to be dried instead of replaced, the water responsible for damaging the carpet must be from a clean source such as broken pipes, supply lines, and rain. Flood-damaged carpet can be especially toxic and include mold spores or life-threatening bacteria. Do not attempt to salvage the carpet that was damaged by flooding.

What To Expect After a Commercial Roof Fire?

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Roof damage can be tricky to recognize immediately after a fire, especially if your attention has been drawn toward the damage inside your commercial property and the people who were on your property during the fire.

3 Steps Professionals Take Right Away

However, when fire cleanup and repair professionals show up to assess your property, there are some steps they'll take right away:

• Secure your property
• The tarp over any holes on the roof
• Provide their initial assessment

It's best to assume that you'll need roof repair. If the heat and flames of the fire didn't directly damage the roofing materials, firefighters may have broken holes in the roof as part of their efforts to save the rest of the building.

Why Does Tarping Matter?

Some of the most important tasks involved in fire cleanup are included in tarp services. When technicians cover the holes in the roof, they protect the inside of your property from rain or snow, windblown debris, animals, and insects. This work may also involve preventing others from entering your building without permission. This is a good way to avoid vandalism and other secondary damages.

What Should You Do After the Fire?

There are several other dos and don'ts you should also understand when your building has been damaged by fire:

• Do contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide these professionals with your insurance policy and account information.
• Do keep records of all conversations, receipts, and documents related to the fire, the resulting damage, and your insurance claim.
• Don't try to complete roof repair on your own. There are many safety hazards, and you could cause further damage, as well as making it more difficult for the insurance adjuster to establish the amount of damage.
• Don't enter the building until the fire department has completed all necessary safety inspections.
  

The property has been damaged by a fire, you'll need to rely on experienced fire cleanup professionals to help you get your building back into its pre-fire condition. Make sure you're prepared before a fire breaks out, so you can react confidently during an emergency.

Does Renters Insurance Cover Fire?

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Because the property owner's insurance does not cover the personal property of tenants, it is important for renters to purchase their own coverage. The short answer to the question of whether renter’s insurance covers fire is that it does. However, different types of coverage apply to fire damage in different ways.

Different Types of Renter Insurance Coverage for Fire Damage

Personal Property

The primary reason for renters to purchase fire coverage is to replace personal property damaged or destroyed in a fire. Examples of personal property include:

• Clothing
• Electronics
• Furniture
• Home decor
• Cash

Some types of property may be specifically excluded or have different limits, such as jewelry, cash, guns, and musical instruments. Most policies cover personal property at replacement value, but some may cover it at actual cash value, which is the replacement value less depreciation. If you need a fire restoration service, to clean your smoke-damaged property, this may be covered by your policy.

Liability

Another coverage provided by most renters insurance policies is a liability. This means that if you accidentally cause a fire in your rental unit, your liability coverage may pay for any damages to the building or injuries to other tenants or guests that you are legally liable for.

Medical Payments to Others

Most renters’ policies provide a small amount of coverage for medical payments to others. This is no-fault coverage, so it applies, even if you didn't cause the fire. This coverage might apply if you had a guest in your apartment and that person needed medical attention due to smoke inhalation from a fire in your kitchen.

Loss of Use

If a fire makes your apartment uninhabitable, loss of use coverage may apply. This coverage may reimburse you for additional living expenses, such as paying for a hotel room.

Renters insurance provides a variety of coverages for various types of fire damage. If you are unsure what your policy covers, your insurance professional can review your policy with you and make adjustments as needed.

What to Do After a Fire

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Immediately after a fire is a very stressful time. With all of the fire damage and loss, it can difficult to see what to do next. The first thought on most people's minds is to repair the damage, but there are a few things that you should consider doing even before that. The very first thing you should do is call your insurance company. The second is to secure your home.

3 Steps to Follow After a Fire

Secure Your Home

Securing your home does not mean lock your doors. Remember that there could be hundreds of access points after a fire. Between the flames, smoke and the fire department, the damage can be extensive. When you secure your home, you will need to board up holes, windows, and doors.
Here's why you need to tarp or board your home:

• Vacant homes are catnip to vandals and thieves
• Your insurance may require it
• Rain, wind, and sun can make the damage worse
• Someone could go in and hurt themselves

You must cover all the exposed areas of your home as soon as possible.

Take an Inventory

When you are allowed back into your home, you will need to take an inventory. Take a look at what you need to throw out and what can be salvaged. Make sure you board up or tarp anything exposed to the elements while you are doing this. It is far easier to assess the damage and cover things that need to be covered simultaneously.

Fires are devastating. Just remember to board up, take inventory and find a remediation company that can help you. These steps can help you avoid any additional damage.

Frequently Lost Items During a Fire

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

A fire in your home, may not result in a total loss. Fire restoration specialists may be able to save a lot of the items in your home, but there are some things you will have to throw away. Having a prepared list of items that are frequently lost in a fire can serve as a starting checklist for belongings that need to be replaced.

List Of Items That Are Frequently Lost During a Fire

Documents

The good thing about replacing important documents is that you can find almost all of them online. You likely have digital copies of your income tax records, insurance information, and legal documents. However, you need to have hard copies of certain documents:

• Driver’s license
• Passport
• Titles and deeds
• Social security cards
• Health insurance cards

If these items are listed as part of the fire damage to your home, start the process of replacing them right away.

Food

You will likely need to throw away all food if the fire was anywhere near your kitchen. The refrigerator and freezer may keep food fresh under normal circumstances, but it is unlikely that they were able to withstand the fire's blaze well enough to protect the food inside during a fire. Non-perishable items must be tossed as well. Plastic and cardboard are no match for smoke and soot. Even the food in glass jars and aluminum cans can be spoiled by the high heat of a house fire. It is better to get rid of food altogether than take chances that it has gone bad.

Toiletries

Just as you would not want to consume anything that the fire or extinguishing agents have touched, you also don't want to put anything from the fire on your body. This includes cosmetics, soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and hair styling products. It's also necessary to throw away any medication that could have been subject to high temperatures or toxic fumes.

Many items in your home can be salvaged after a fire, but some must be replaced. Mitigation professionals can help you determine what to throw away and what to keep.

Businesses In Downtown Long Beach With Mold Can Count on SERVPRO

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Mold Damage Can Close a Business but SERVPRO Can Provide Mold Removal Services

When a business ends up with a mold problem, especially an eatery, it can meet downtown. This means a loss of revenue for the business in the short term and potential loss of customers in the long run. SERVPRO can provide mold removal to businesses that is efficient and fast. We do everything we can, including working with your insurance and schedule, to prevent your company from staying closed longer than necessary. Our technicians are experts at:

• Mold containment
• Mold removal
• Addressing the source of the moisture
• Restoring impacted structural elements
• Cleaning content
• Proper disposal of material not salvageable
• Sanitizing and the use of antimicrobials
• Following federal and local protocols
• Deodorizing if needed

We can trace the source of the problem, locate hidden mold or moisture, and clean your facility. Our training includes:

• Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician

If your business needs commercial mold damage assistance, contact us

Can a Firm's HR Records Be Protected From Mold Damage?

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Local Business Owners Concerned About Mold Damage To Documents.

Keeping records is part of daily life for entrepreneurs. Human Resources (HR) are essential to any firm, and each department must keep comprehensive records. HR records include:

• Employee information such as date of employment and contact details
• Formal contracts and job descriptions
• Records of pay and bonuses
• Sickness and absence records

Many companies avoid mold damage by using electronic files. However, some businesses also have physical documents, especially for older files. Those physical papers need protection.

Can mold damage HR papers?

Yes, mold can undoubtedly damage HR papers. Mold is a naturally-growing fungus that can propagate anywhere that is dark and warm enough and provides moisture and a food source. Paper is one of the food sources that mold loves to munch on. As firms often keep older records in the dark cupboards or basements, they might be ripe for mold damage.

How can I protect my firm’s HR records?

The most important thing you can do is make the switch to electronic records if you have not already. Make sure you have backups of electronic documents, too – Cloud storage is helpful.

For remaining paper records, you might:

• Install dehumidifiers in storage areas to cut down moisture
• Store documents in watertight boxes so water cannot enter
• Keep files away from potentially moldy areas such as dark corners 

What can SERVPRO do to help?

SERVPRO teams include trained mold remediation experts, who can remediate mold and reduce the risk of it coming back.

We will assess the situation in your office building, and let you know the steps we plan to take to fix the mold problem. In many cases, we start by setting up containment around the affected area. We use plastic sheeting to seal the spot off, cover all vents, and switch off the HVAC to stop the spores from escaping.

For very mild cases, gentle brushing and decontamination are enough to save records. In more advanced cases, we can consider vacuum freeze-drying to halt the damage and restore the documents.

Our teams also monitor moisture levels and dry the storage area to make it harder for mold to regrow.

For help protecting your business documents from mold damage, call SERVPRO DOWNTOWN LONG BEACH

SERVPRO Technicians Routinely Remove Smoke and Fire Damage from Furnishings

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

What qualifications should I look at for content restoration?

Restoring the contents of your home requires careful planning and expert attention to detail. Our roster of technicians hold qualifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certifications- a nationally recognized, independent awarding body. We act responsibly to identify different types of smoke and odor issues in furnishings before performing the necessary steps to return them to a prelist condition. Soft furnishings can be tricky to restore due to their diverse material composition. Using pH tests and pre-testing, we can ensure that your contents do not suffer from dye bleeding, shrinkage, or fiber wear during the restorative process.

How do I remove smoky odors from soft furnishings?

Soft furnishings tend to be porous in nature, which can lead them to absorb fire damage in your home Soot’s and soils may affect the surface level of materials, while high-pressure fires can lead to odor penetration beneath the surface of the fabric. SERVPRO can deploy air-filtration devices to remove potentially odor-causing soot particles from the area and apply liquid deodorants directly onto furnishings. Standard timings for odor dispersal can vary, but usually, we expect odors to depart at the two-week mark. Using a masking agent, SERVPRO technicians can reduce the impact of unpleasant odors until they disperse naturally and become no longer noticeable.

What equipment do I need to remove fire odors?

• Misters and ultra-low volume thermal foggers can help to penetrate fabrics or crevices with an odor-neutralizing solvent
• Odor pellets in problem locations can mask odors temporarily until they dissipate
• Air filtration using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can restore indoor air quality and remove the odor-causing particles

If you need content restoration after a recent fire, contact SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach

What Is the Easiest Way to Clean the Ceiling After Fire Damage in My Apartment?

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Resources that Match the Cleaning Challenge Making It Easier to Restore Your Soiled Ceiling

Cleaning the ceiling can present many challenges, especially considering most smoke residues settle on its surface when there is a fire in your property. SERVPRO technicians have several resources that can help ease the cleaning of the ceiling in your Syracuse property.

What complicates ceiling cleaning after fire damage in your homes?

• The unusual position
• Delicate materials
• Ceiling fixtures

The location of the ceiling leads to awkward posture when cleaning, which can complicate the process or even lead to injuries. Our technicians use various accessories to simplify the process. For instance, we have different types of ladders, which help ensure proximity to the soiled areas. Alternatively, we can attach extension poles to regularly brush or cleaning sponge holders, for telescopic access to the ceiling when standing on the floor and at a less tiring angle.

Do ceiling materials affect the cleaning process?

Houses have various types of ceiling constructions, including:

• Conventional ceiling
• Suspended ceiling
• Tray Ceiling

Apart from the conventional ceiling, the other types add some level of difficulty to the cleaning process because of the design or the materials used to make them. For instance, if you have a suspended or drop ceiling, it is made of lightweight acoustic materials. Regular cleaning can damage it by over-wetting the panels. Our SERVPRO technicians use specialized cleaning methods such as Peroxide Active Cleaning, which eliminates over wetting.

We also overcome problems associated with different designs. For instance, the waffle-like coffered design or the multiple levels of the tray ceiling create crests and basins, which make it harder to remove residues. Our technicians have access to different resources, including chemical sponges and compressed air equipment, to help reach the residues conveniently. 

With the right support, it is easier to remove soiling from a ceiling after fire damage. Call SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach

FLOOD DAMAGE - IT CAN OCCUR ANYWHERE!

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Throughout the US, floods remain one of the most widespread and common natural disasters that affect us. No matter where you’re located, in the mountains, along the coast, in the city, close to a river, or out in the desert, you can still be impacted by a flood.

Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:

• Even 6 inches of quickly moving water can sweep you off your feet so steer clear of floodwaters. If you find yourself in an area where the water reaches above your ankles, find another path, walk another way.
• When driving, the same rules apply: If you approach a flooded road, turn around and go another way. Most vehicles can be carried away by less than 2 feet of moving water. If caught by rising waters and the situation warrants it, get out of your car quickly and move to higher ground.
• Protect children from the dangers and diseases carried by contaminated floodwaters. What might look like a fun activity to them could prove deadly.

SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach / Signal Hill has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a flood strikes your home or business. No matter the size, floods have the potential to cause extensive damage to property when not treated quickly and properly and the cleanup can be an overwhelming task.

We’re here 24/7 to help. Contact us at 562-591-1788

STORM/HURRICANE SEASON WHERE YOU'RE GOING? BE PREPARED!

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Headed for a vacation destination that’s prone to Storms and Hurricanes?!

Vacations are a time for relaxation but what if an emergency strikes? It’s hurricane season and here at SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill, we are always looking out for our customers' safety and well-being. We've put together some tips for what to do if a hurricane strikes on your vacation and how to prep before you leave.

Before the trip:

• Check the local news:

While this might seem like an obvious tip it is very important to be up to date with the local weather at your vacation location. We recommend checking a week in advance to keep yourself up to date so there are no weather surprises while away!

• Get Hurricane Travel Insurance

When it comes to traveling, travel insurance is very important but specifically hurricane travel insurance during hurricane season is helpful. They’ll cover delays due to weather, accommodation cancelations, and going home early coverage, etc.

• Make a paper copy of documents

It is always important to make copies of your documents before you travel just in case something happens to them, where it be theft or a storm damages them! Print and bring copies of your travel insurance, itinerary, and key phone numbers as well as your passport (if necessary).

During hurricane:

• Identify a point of contact

It can be difficult to find cell service while on vacation so it is important to know where you can go to get in contact with others.

• Identify Evacuation Routes

Once onsite at your vacation, it is important to identify what the proper evacuation routes are to get to safety. Ask your hotel, landlord, or locals what those might be.

• Avoid any electrical wiring if you are wet or if the wiring is wet.

This will keep you from being electrocuted by any faulty wiring.

SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill wishes you a safe and hurricane-free vacation! We hope these tips have provided you the proper information to being ready and handling a hurricane emergency while on vacation. If you're in need of any assistance SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill is here to help. Call us at 562-591-1788

FAQ: I AM A RENTER-WHO WILL PAY FOR THIS WATER DAMAGE REPAIR?

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill, we have the opportunity to work on many water damage properties where multiple parties are involved.  We often have renters, homeowners, property managers, and HOAs on a single water damage repair.  Each project is unique when it comes to water restoration for condos or homes.  Renters are responsible for their belongings, except in rare cases where the landlord's policy covers rental belonging.  If a renter has a rental insurance policy, the policy may cover damaged contents (furniture, clothing, personal items), temporary housing if needed, or cleaning your belongings.  The homeowner is responsible for the structure of the property.  HOAs may be responsible for some of the structural repairs, depending on how the association bylaws are written.   

Part of our job at SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill is to guide you through this process.  We do water damage repairs every day, 24/7, so it is our pleasure to help you recover after a water emergency.  Our team is trained to help you file a claim and communicate with your landlord and property manager.  Please call SERVPRO at 888-591-1733 and we will help you with the water damage repair at your condo, home, or business. 

WATER DAMAGE: THE SCIENCE OF DRYING

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

The Science of Drying

When faced with water damage, we might instinctively reach for towels to dry the wet. We might add fans to aid the process. However, there is actually a science to the drying process. The knowledge of psychometrics, the dynamics of moist air, is critical to lower the chances of secondary damages. Your IICRC certified and trained technicians at SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill know the steps to take when your business or residence experiences water damage:

• First, we’ll conduct an inspection to detect what material(s) are wet
• Next, we’ll measure how much moisture is in those wet components and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Additionally, we’ll "speed up" the process by using professional drying equipment.  While a wet building can often dry naturally, it might do so unevenly, inadequately, or might take too long…all allowing for secondary damages to occur.

SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill has the knowledge, advanced equipment, and the technology, DryBook (a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation, updates on the drying process, and confirms industry drying requirements are met) to ensure that your water damage is mitigated. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

REVERSING WATER DAMAGE WITH INJECTIDRY SPECIALTY EQUIPMENT

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach / Signal Hill, we use a variety of tools and equipment to help reverse damage caused by elements such as water, fire, and mold. Our Injectidry equipment, for example, helps immensely in water-saturated projects by allowing us to reach inaccessible, water damaged areas.

The Injectidry is a piece of mat-panel drying equipment that provides a non-invasive process for drying high-risk areas of moisture such as walls, cavities, and hardwood floors. First, holes are drilled into drywall or under cabinets in the least visible locations possible. Next, small nozzles are inserted into a long hose, and the pressurized air pump injects heated air through the nozzles and into the hidden air spaces. The air movement becomes a vehicle for moisture, and water can be suctioned out of cracks and crevices.  

This valuable tool supplements common drying equipment such as air movers, dehumidifiers, and air scrubbers, allowing us to remove less and restore more. With the Injectidry, we are capable of drying wall cavities without having to remove large sections of the interior wall. Instead, the small holes are simply patched, creating an easier and more cost-effective solution.  

This method is beneficial when a homeowner calls us within the first 24 hours of the water loss, and the source of the water is clean. If the drywall and materials are wet for more than 24-48 hours, repair may not be feasible, depending on the damage. Our expert technicians will tailor a plan to fit your situation.

With this effective tool, you can trust us to dry your home or business in the event of water damage caused by a storm, heavy rain, flood, or burst pipe to name a few. Don't hesitate to call us in the event of an emergency at 562-591-1788. We are available 24/7 to answer your call.

ULTRASONIC- THE WONDER MACHINE

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Fire or Water damage affects more than just the physical property. When disaster strikes,  treasured possessions or important contents can also suffer from the effects of smoke, fire, mold, or black water. Did you know that SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill and our Ultrasonic Machine, with its heavy-duty cleaning capability, can restore your object back to near new condition ?! From electronics to jewelry, from home décor to antiques, items both fragile and durable may be saved by this technological wonder machine! Simply put, the process involves pressure waves, utilizing an implosion of bubbles occurring millions of times per second and producing tremendous vacuum energy. This breaks up the dirt and gently lifts the build-up away, reaching every nook and cranny that has been damaged.

Don’t despair that your prized possessions can’t be saved. Look to SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill and our Ultrasonic technology to help make the damage “Like it never even happened.”

WATER DAMAGE: THE SCIENCE OF DRYING

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

When faced with water damage, we might instinctively reach for towels to dry the wet. We might add fans to aid the process. However, there is actually a science to the drying process. The knowledge of psychrometrics, the dynamics of moist air, is critical to lower the chances of secondary damages. Your IICRC certified and trained technicians at SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill know the steps to take when your business or residence experiences water damage:

• First, we’ll conduct an inspection to detect what material(s) are wet
• Next, we’ll measure how much moisture is in those wet components and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Additionally, we’ll "speed up" the process by using professional drying equipment.  While a wet building can often dry naturally, it might do so unevenly, inadequately or might take too long…all allowing for secondary damages to occur.

SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach/Signal Hill has the knowledge, advanced equipment and the technology, DryBook (a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation, updates on the drying process and confirms industry drying requirements are met) to ensure that your water damage is mitigated. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Flood damage can occur anywhere!

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Flood and water damage occur in homes and businesses more often than you may realize. This type of damage can result from a storm or hurricane damaging your area. Regardless of where you’re located, flood water can reach you, whether you live in the mountains, the beach, or even the desert.

It is important to remain mindful of the following safety tips:

• Avoid floodwaters if possible. If you are caught in an area where the water reaches above your ankles, find another path or walk another way.
• If you reach a flooded road when driving, find a way around or follow the directions of safety personnel. Many vehicles can be carried away by as little as 2 feet of moving water!
• Be cautious of consuming or bathing in water found outside since disease can be carried by contaminated floodwaters.

Floods have the potential to cause noticeable damage to property when not treated quickly, and cleanup can be an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a storm looms over your home or business. We’re here to help 24/7.

5 Cooking Tips for Fire Safety

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Five Cooking Tips You Can Use For Fire Safety

After a kitchen fire, there are a few steps you can follow to help prevent a fire in the first place. Here are five cooking tips you can use for fire safety.

1. Keep The Cooking Area Clean

One way to help avoid fire damage in your kitchen is to keep the area clean. Grease and food residue can build up until it becomes a fire hazard. A clean cooking area is a safe cooking area.

2. Keep The Stove Free of Clutter

Keeping your counter clean and free of clutter is another step you can take. This will prevent things from getting knocked into a lit heating element.

3. Use a Splatter Guard

Using a splatter guard is one of the recommended tips for preventing a grease fire. This is usually in the form of a screen that can be set over a pot or pan when frying food. The mesh material can catch grease droplets and prevent them for getting into the heating element and parking a fire.

4. Stay Near the Stove

It’s highly recommended to never leave a lit stove unattended. This will allow you to be close at hand if something goes wrong giving you a chance to catch and mitigate any mistakes before a major problem occurs.

5. Use a Timer

If you’re multi taking in the kitchen you may want to use a food timer. This will help you turn off the stove on time before food has a chance to burn or catch fire.

Following these fire safety tips may help you prevent a fire in your home. Keep your cooking area clean and free of clutter, use a splatter guard when frying, and stay near the stove when in use. A timer is also a good idea. If a fire does occur a restoration service may be able to help with repairs.

4 Tips For Preventing a Fire in Your Home

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

No one likes to think about the possibility of having a fire in their home. Fires can be devastating physically, emotionally, and financially. Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent the likelihood of a home fire. Here are four tips for preventing a fire in your home.

1. Install Smoke Alarms
Fire preparation begins with installing smoke alarms in every sleeping room of your home. You should also have smoke alarms placed in hallways, kitchens, and family rooms. Once you’ve ensured you have the right number of alarms, be sure to test them monthly and replace batteries annually.

2. Educate
Education is key to increasing the safety of your loved ones. Teach children the following fire safety basics:

• Stop, drop and roll
• Fire crawl
• Checking doors for heat
• Escape routes
• The location and sound of smoke alarms
• Emergency phone numbers

3. Create an Escape Plan
Everyone should create a fire escape plan. Creating a plan is one of the best fire preparation tips to keep your family safe. Draw a floor plan of your house and mark all possible exits, including doors and windows, in each room. Walk through your home and ensure that exits are free from clutter and that children know how to open and safely exit each window.

4. Practice Your Plan
Once you have a plan in place, it’s wise to practice it. Choose at least two times a year to hold fire drills. These drills can either be planned or spontaneous. A good run-through of the plan will identify any areas that need to be adjusted or improved. Remember to emphasize that once you get outside, you should stay outside. Never go back inside a home that is on fire.
Fire preparation is one of the best things you can do to keep your kids safe in the event of a fire. If you ever experience a fire in your home, there are restoration specialists that can help restore your home.

Salvaging Smoke Damaged Items Through Cleaning

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Having an insurance policy that covers fire damage to your property is one part of responsible commercial property ownership. Working with a qualified fire restoration service provider is another. If you ever experience a property fire, an expert in fire restoration knows and understands the best methods of content cleaning to quickly bring your property back to pre-fire conditions. From dry-cleaning to smoke odor removal, your professional restoration provider has the training and equipment to minimize the interruption to your operations.

Understanding Restoration vs Replacement

You may think that a fire restoration process automatically means the replacement of damaged content. On the contrary, the right professional provider looks for every opportunity to salvage items through cleaning before considering replacement. This includes testing items to see which ones can be returned to a pre-fire condition. Common cleaning methods include the following:

• Dry-cleaning. Appropriate for light residues or as a pre-clean to wet cleaning
• Wet cleaning. Best for moderate to heavy soil.
• Spray and Wipe. Used for objects that can’t be wet cleaned.
• Foam cleaning. Best for upholstery fabrics that may shrink or be otherwise damaged by wet cleaning.
• Abrasive cleaning. Refers to wiping surfaces through agitation and friction.
• Immersion cleaning. Involves dipping objects into a bath for cleansing.

Even electronic devices that have been damaged by the fire may be saved through a cleaning process. Fire restoration providers have the knowledge and equipment to thoroughly inspect electronics for repair and safe operation.

Letting the Pros Handle the Cleanup Process
The fire repair process requires consideration on several levels. In addition to fire and water cleanup and dry-cleaning, other services may be necessary including content storage to protect items from further damage. Your fire restoration pro can coordinate any move-out or pack-out work necessary to get your property back to a pre-fire state. Trust the pros to understand what is needed to get things back to normal.

We have the Solutions!

8/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the interesting capacity to help land owners in an assortment of ways. Catastrophes come in numerous shapes and sizes. With more than three many years of experience we have seen most everything. We can't state everything in light of the fact that even in the times of helping our neighbors in the Longbeach Area, we despite everything see new things. Yet, here are a couple of catastrophes we regularly deal with.

Water Damage – We see water damages from a wide range of sources. Busted channels, breaking down machines, human mishaps or disregard, and ground flooding to give some examples regular sources. Regardless of the reason, or the epic story that clarifies it, we have an answer for return you to ordinary "Like it never happened."

Fire and Smoke Restoration – A fire can be an immense bother yet it isn't the apocalypse. Commonly, you would be amazed at the amount of your own property can be reestablished. We have practical experience in cleaning and freshening up anything from family treasures, records, to the very dividers in your home or business.

Shape Remediation – With normally significant levels of mugginess in the territory of the nation we live in form can be an issue if a water interruption isn't appropriately dealt with. In addition to the fact that we offer remediation services we do shape testing and offer deterrent estimates, for example, creep space dampness obstruction establishment.

Bio Hazard Clean Up – This territory of our work isn't charming to discuss yet commonly it is important. We have the preparation and experience to appropriately tidy up any territory that may have the danger of blood conceived microbes being available. These cases incorporate injury and wrongdoing scene tidy up.

These are in no way, shape or form the main services we offer. To be honest, whatever humankind or the unstoppable force of life can toss at a structure, we can more than likely aid the restoration.

Trust Us on COVID-19 Cleaning

8/2/2020 (Permalink)

In this season of pressure and vulnerability, the most ideal approach to battle the danger of COVID-19 is to be ready.

With regards to sterilization and disinfection, SERVPRO cleanup follows CDC rules and uses EPA-endorsed items. We're here to assist your business and your workers – 24 hours every day, seven days per week – until life has returned to typical in the networks we as a whole call home.

This is a suggestion to our clients that we are experts in cleaning services, and we hold fast to the most noteworthy cleaning and sterilization guidelines.

Specific Training

We are set up to clean and purify your home or business, as per conventions set out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have long stretches of involvement with managing organic contaminants, and we will go past the extent of work that customary janitorial staff perform every day.

The CDC emphasizes cleaning of high-contact surfaces, for example, counters, tabletops, door handles, light switches, restroom apparatuses, latrines, telephones, consoles, tablets and tables. Different spaces referenced in the CDC's direction for business spaces include:

Kitchen/Food Areas

Restrooms

Schools/Classrooms

Workplaces

Retail Spaces

Water Fountains

Racking/Racks

Deals Counters

Floor coverings and Rugs

Step Handrails

Lift Cars

Play area Equipment

Wellness Equipment

Specific Products

The CDC suggests use of a named medical clinic grade disinfectant with claims against comparable microbes to the coronavirus. Different items in the SERVPRO product offering convey the EPA-affirmed rising microbes claims. While there is as of now no item tried against this specific strain of the coronavirus, we are following all rules as given by the CDC and neighborhood specialists.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

WASHING MACHINE WATER DAMAGE: COMMON CAUSES

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

Washing machines are one of the most common sources of water damage in the home, and the damage can be costly, reaching potentially thousands of dollars.

Faulty washing machines can be difficult to diagnose and time consuming to repair. Specific preventative measures can save you both time and money down the road. The most effective ways of preventing damage from your washing machine are to:

• Replace the washing machine intake hose every 5 years.
• Check your sewer line after a storm, before running your washing machine.
• Don’t overload your washing machine.
• Have your machine professionally installed to avoid water line pinches and drainage issues.
• Shut off the intake valve behind your machine at the first sign of trouble.
• If you can’t access the intake valve, know how to shut off your home’s water main.

If you experience water damage in your Long Beach home as a result of a faulty washing machine, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood to fix the source of the problem and reverse the water damage. We’re available 24/7 at 562-420-0030.

HOW DOES A DESICCANT DEHUMIDIFIER WORK?

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood, we use a variety of equipment to restore water damaged materials and revert your Long Beach property back to preloss conditions. One such piece of equipment that excels at large loss drying is the desiccant dehumidifier.

A desiccant dehumidifier differs from a regular dehumidifiers since it utilizes chemical attraction instead of condensation to remove water from the air. A desiccant dehumidifier is made of several key components all working together. These include the following:

• The desiccant: Perhaps the most important component of a desiccant dehumidifier is the desiccant itself. A desiccant is simply a chemical that adsorbs (not absorbs) moisture. Moreover, the desiccants used in desiccant dehumidifiers are able release the same adsorbed moisture when heated. This ability to not only adsorb moisture but also to release it when heated is absolutely critical to the proper functioning of a desiccant dehumidifier. 
• A large rotating drum: This drum is about as wide as the dehumidifier itself and an inch or two thick, depending on the model. It’s made up of alternate layers of flat and corrugated sheets, arranged to allow for air flow perpendicular to the drum. This drum or “desiccant rotor” functions to remove moisture from incoming room air.
• A condenser: Made of plastic, it’s about as long and wide as the dehumidifier itself. It functions to condense warm moist air.
• A heater: Its sole function is to reheat air.
• One or several blowers: These function to move air throughout the system. Most commercial grade desiccant dehumidifiers have one big blower on the back of the dehumidifier. It pulls air in through the front and exhausts it out of the top. Many units also come equipped with a secondary smaller blower that circulates the air that is moved through the recharge zone of the desiccant drum. 

If you experience water damage in your home or business, a desiccant dehumidifier might be used, depending on the extent of water damage. Regardless of the situation, we have the tools to handle the job!

Did you know AC units can easily lead to water damage if not maintained properly?

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

• A broken pump
• A/C condenser coil is leaking
• Faulty installation
• Dirty filter
• Overflow pan is damaged
• A/C drain line is clogged

Regardless of what caused the leak, it is important to call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood to obtain a professional estimate and thoughtful plan to repair your water damaged floors and walls. We can help identify the source of the leak and ensure it is repaired to prevent further damage. We are available 24/7 to take your call.

PREPARING FOR HURRICANE SEASON BEFORE TRAVELING

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

While vacations are a time for relaxation, an unexpected storm can ruin an otherwise amazing trip. It is important to remain mindful of the following hurricane safety tips:

Check the news: Check the weather of your travel destination up to a week in advance to avoid any surprise downpours. 

Obtain Hurricane Travel Insurance: Hurricane insurance can cover travel delays as a result of poor weather conditions and help you cancel your trip or leave early. 

Make paper copy of documents: In the event internet or digital devices are unavailable, printed copies of your travel insurance, itinerary, key phone numbers, and your passport will ensure you have reliable back-ups.

Identify a point of contact: Select an area to find your family or travel members in case cell phone coverage becomes unavailable.

Identify Evacuation Routes: Ask your hotel staff about emergency exit routes and safety procedures.

SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood wishes you a safe and hurricane free vacation! If you're in need of any assistance related to storm damage, we are here to help!

Flood damage can occur anywhere!

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

Flood and water damage occur in homes and businesses more often than you may realize. This type of damage can result from a storm or hurricane damaging your area. Regardless of where you’re located, flood water can reach you, whether you live in the mountains, the beach, or even the desert.

It is important to remain mindful of the following safety tips:

• Avoid floodwaters if possible. If you are caught in an area where water reaches above your ankles, find another path or walk another way.
• If you reach a flooded road when driving, find a way around or follow the directions of safety personnel. Many vehicles can be carried away by as little as 2 feet of moving water!
• Be cautious of consuming or bathing in water found outside since disease can be carried by contaminated floodwaters.

Floods have the potential to cause noticeable damage to property when not treated quickly, and cleanup can be an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a storm looms over your home or business. We’re here to help 24/7.

Water Emergencies

8/1/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood 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 NE Long Beach / Lakewood 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 –562-420-0030

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 NE Long Beach / Lakewood

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood 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.

Candle safety tips to prevent fires

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

Candle Flame

Us here at SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach have complied with a list of important tips to help you understand how dangerous candles can be and how to use them safely. 

Quick tips-

• 38% of home candle fires start in bedrooms and cause 35% of associated deaths. 
• More than 50% of all candle home fires start because the candle was too close to a flammable item (I.E. mattresses, bedding, curtains, cabinetry, or furniture are ignited). 
• In 12% of home candle fires and in 25% of associated deaths and injuries, the household occupants were asleep when the fire occurred.
• Unsupervised children are involved in 20% of home candle fires. 
• Having a working smoke alarm reduces one’s chances of dying in a fire by nearly 50%.
• 11% of home fires are caused by falling asleep while a candle is lit
• 58% of home fires started when something flammable was too close to the lit candle
• 36% of home fires start in the bedroom

Preparedness Tips:

• Remember that lit candles are fire. Keep them at least 12 inches from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding, mattresses, paper, books, flammable decorations, clothing, and upholstered furniture.
• Never leave a room or go to sleep before blowing out all lit candles.
• Use candle holders that are sturdy and won’t tip over easily. Candleholders that are made from a material that cannot burn, and are large enough to collect dripping wax would also be a good idea.
• Place candles where they cannot be reached or knocked over by pets or children.
• During an emergency, always use flashlights instead of candles as light sources.
• Never leave a child unattended in a room with a candle. Additionally, keep all matches and lighters out of reach of children.
• Keep all lit candles and any other open flames away from flammable liquids.

In the worst-case scenario of a home fire, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach is here to help. We can clean your content and home; demo affected areas and eliminate smoke odor from your home. Feel free to call us

Flattening the curve

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

Sanitizing a commercial property

As many states begin to reopen, we all have feelings of uncertainty going into spaces we used to not think twice about. The grocery store, a coffee shop, your own work desk are all spaces that we used to frequent. At SERVPRO of North East Long beach we are offering our disinfectant services to places of businesses, so employees and customers feel safe in your place of business. we have a responsibility to take care of our fellow neighbors. 

Practicing preventative cleaning for reopening is essential. When we enter your home or business, we are able to disinfect your entire area with EPA approved products. As we look toward the reopening date, we want to ensure your business is prepared to act and your home is sanitized to guarantee safety. 

We are providing disinfecting services for COVID-19 as well as general detailed cleanings for unoccupied homes collecting dust. 

Our Disinfectant services include:

• Thorough cleaning of effected areas with disinfectants approved by the EPA

• Approved Hospital Grade disinfectant. Our cleaners are usable on any surface and are safe.

• Surface wiping of critical contact areas. Fixtures, keyboards, phones, door handles, certain contents within the affected area are hand wiped. A 5-10 minute dwell time should be allowed post wipe down. Walls up to a height of approximately 5’ throughout traffic areas.

• Technicians will always wear masks and gloves. If needed, overalls will also be worn.

Since many homes and offices have been vacant for some time, we also offer a detailed floor to ceiling deep cleaning, from base molding to crown molding including content manipulation, carpets, and upholstered furniture if needed. We will clean every square foot leaving your home or office in the highest condition. 

SERVPRO of North East Long Beach is dedicated to helping flatten the curve and ensure your safety so you can spend more time focusing on the important things in life. If you have any questions, feel free to call us

FIRE SAFETY TIPS TO AVOID FIRE DAMAGE

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

How to Avoid Fire Damage and Keep Your Home Safe

Fires can happen anytime/anywhere and the impact of fire damage is overwhelming. That’s why SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is open 24 hours a day, every day, just in case an emergency, such as a fire, strikes your home. We are always looking out for the safety of our customers and ways to assist in keeping emergencies, such as fire damage, at a minimum. With fire season in California upon us, it is important to always be updated on fire safety measures in your home. Here are some recommended steps:

Smoke Detectors

-Install at least one smoke detector on every level of the home, near the bedrooms, and one in the garage.

-Test all the batteries monthly

-Clean your smoke detectors from dust and dirt to keep them working properly

Fire Escape Plan

-Establish a planned escape route for every room in the house

-Determine an outside meeting place for all family members

-Review your plans and practice a fire drill with household members twice a year

Electricity

-Use fire-safe electric outlets

-replace fraying cords

-Do not overuse one plug

Outdoor Tips

-Fire Resistant Plants

-BBQ grill away from the house

The safety and security of our customers are important to all of us at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood. By taking these preventative measures, you take steps toward avoiding fire damage and the loss and suffering it can cause. If you do find yourself affected by smoke damage, fire damage, or other emergencies, we’re here to help. Call us 24/7 at 562-420-0030.

Need a Board Up?

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

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 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 point 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 another climbing point 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.

Need Emergency Board Up Services? Contact SERVPRO of North East Long Beach / Lakewood today to schedule an appointment. (562)-591-1788

How to prevent water damage in your commercial building

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in your commercial building creates a serious panic and places your Long Beach or Lakewood business on hold until restoration and repairs are completed. For example, employees may have trouble accessing their work station or lack the tools they need to complete important work. Mold damage can even emerge if the saturated areas of the business are not replaced quickly, creating additional delays. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood recommends you consider the following tips to prevent commercial water damage.

Maintain the areas around your business.

It is important to make sure tree roots around your business do not grow unchecked. Unless closely monitored, they may develop a tendency to grow towards your pipes and create punctures. Any new trees should be planted away from known water pipes and only in approved areas.

Install A Water Detection System

A water detection system will monitor the moisture level of a room. You will receive a notification if the moisture level rises to a certain point, allowing you to catch water damage before it becomes irreversible. The initial cost could become a wise investment if it prevents costly repairs down the road.

Educate Your Employees

If you decide to employ more people and increase their responsibilities, there is greater potential for flooding as a result of human error. To help mitigate this possibility, educate new hires about ways to prevent flooding and how to respond to emergency water damage.

Sadly, no one is ever completely safe from having their home or commercial property damaged by flooding. Should you find your business experiencing emergency water damage, remember we’re available day or night to answer your call.

GOT WATER DAMAGE IN YOUR BUSINESS?

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

When you’re dealing with commercial water damage, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, and decisions must be made quickly. Rest assured, we at SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood will help you assess the situation and create a plan to fix or replace water-damaged materials.

Assess the Situation

During your evaluation, ask yourself the following questions.

• Has the source of the water been identified?
• Is it safe to fix the water damaged carpeting, or are there hazardous materials involved?
• Has the water been stopped?

If the carpet is to be dried instead of replaced, the water responsible for damaging the carpet must be from a clean source such as broken pipes, supply lines, and rain. Flood-damaged carpet can be especially toxic and include mold spores or life-threatening bacteria.

Can You Use the Same Padding When the Carpet Gets Wet?

No, you can’t use the same padding if your carpet gets wet. Carpet padding is like a giant sponge. It soaks up the water and it won’t dry out. The dampness will cause it to mildew and mold, which will cause an odor and unsafe conditions under the carpet, no matter how dry you get the carpet itself.

Once the carpet is completely dry, we can install a new carpet pad and then lay the carpet back in place. If you have carpet padding, we will remove the pad underneath the wet carpet and throw it away. 

Can I Dry the Carpet Myself?

In most cases, drying water damaged carpeting is best left to professionals. It can be incredibly difficult to not only save the carpet, but also eliminate mold and mildew, and make the air breathable again. Our team is equipped to handle your commercial water loss, day or night. 

How Do You Dry Wet Carpet?

Since water damaged carpeting can grow mold within 48 hours, it is important to move quickly. A wet-vacuum can be an effective way to dry carpet after water damage. Since it can take several times over to dry the carpet, we suggest using blowers, fans, and dehumidifiers. The extra equipment will circulate the air and dry water-damaged materials in your business even faster.

Got a sewage backup in your business?

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Sewage is a form of black water, floodwater that contains contaminants and viruses that pose serious risks of illness. It is important to fix the sewage backup quickly and prevent it from happening in the future by remaining aware of the causes of sewage backup in your business.

Causes of Sewage Backup

• Clogs – Sewage can emerge in your business when either your drain pipes or main sewer line become clogged. If one toilet creates a sewage backup, start by examining the drain connected to that toilet for clogs. If all toilets in your business create back-flows, then there may be a clog in the main sewer line.
• Tree Roots – Trees can grow really long roots that intertwine with your sewer line. Roots can grow into a pipe and cause holes or crush the sewer line by growing around it. 
• Damaged Sewer Lines– Old pipes are often made of cast iron or clay piping instead of plastic, resulting in faster deterioration. These older sewage systems can break down and crack, causing sewage backups and flooded rooms.
• Heavy Rainfall – A large amount of rain can overburden your city’s sewer lines. If the public sewer can’t handle excess rainfall, the water can make its way into connected sewer lines, putting your business at risk of water damage.

Preventing Sewage Backups

• Don’t pour grease down the drain. Cooking oil can harden within your pipes which stops debris from draining, resulting in a clog. To properly dispose of grease or fat, pour it into a heat-resistant container and throw it in the trash after it cools off.
• Dispose of paper products properly. Flushing hygiene products such as paper towels, diapers, or feminine products down the toilet can easily clog your sewer line. Save yourself a headache and discard paper products in the trash.
• Install a new plastic pipe or cut tree roots. To prevent tree roots from damaging your sewer line, replace it with a new plastic pipe. If tree roots still grow in your sewer, cut the roots occasionally.
• Install a backwater prevention valve. This fixture allows sewage to leave but prevents it from backing up into your business. 

If a sewage backup occurs in your business, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood right away to remediate the black water damage. Handling the contaminated water by yourself can put you at risk of contracting diseases. We will take care of the water damage repair and have your business functioning again.

4 Tips to prevent fire

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you plan to enjoy barbecuing this summer, it’s important to be mindful of potential fire hazards which can lead to irreversible fire damage and lingering smoke damage in your Long Beach residence. Follow these simple fire safety guidelines to prevent a fire from occurring near your home this summer. 

1. Keep the grill outside, and avoid using your grill in garages, covered decks, screened in patios, or any area where there is a roof located above. They should also be kept at a safe distance from the house to prevent flare ups from reaching the exterior of your home.
2. Keep your eye on the barbecue. If you abandon your grill, it can be knocked over or flare up, causing the surrounding area to catch fire. Make sure the grill is always supervised whenever it’s in use to avoid unnecessary fire damage.
3. Regularly clean it. If you are pulling your grill out of storage, it’s important to clean off any sticky grease or hardened fat since they can cause an unexpected flare up. These pieces can easily be scraped off using a proper grill cleaner.
4. Inspect it closely. If you are using a propane or gas grill, it’s important to inspect it before using it. Look for any signs of holes and potential problems in the hose. This could signal that there’s a leak. A gas leak next to a flame can cause serious problems and start a fire. 

Make sure to follow these guidelines every time you fire up your grill to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones. If you experience fire damage, smoke damage, or require board up and tarping services this summer, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood is available to take your call anytime, day or night at 562-420-0030.

We are IICRC CERTIFIED.

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Within just the past few years, technology and techniques within the restoration industry have evolved rapidly. These advancements allow professionals at SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood to restore properties back to preloss conditions more effectively than ever before.

Following guidelines and standards set forth by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), our technicians use their skills and equipment at the highest caliber for all restoration and cleaning services. Following the IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide, we incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property effectively.

Water can easily saturate your Long Beach residence in undetected areas and damage begins faster than you realize. Our technicians rely upon specialized moisture and measurement equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Infrared cameras can help detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor, allowing for thorough water removal. Moreover, sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.

Powerful water extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the majority of the water from your Long Beach home or business. Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water are utilized for the most difficult jobs and provide efficient clean-up. Furthermore, truck-mounted and portable extraction units allow for rapid water removal and water displacement.

Once the water has been pumped out, industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your Long Beach home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture, and high-speed air circulators cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace. Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air, allowing for faster drying.

Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process. Air scrubbers, thermal foggers, and deodorization agents create cleaner air for you and your family to breathe. The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may also be needed to clean and remove odors or contaminants on your property. Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture and disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

You can trust SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood to use the best equipment to bring your life back in order. Whatever the job requires, we have you covered. Call us now, and we will be happy to gather the proper equipment for your specific needs.

Got water Damage in your commercial property?

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and water can create commercial damage that impacts your local Long Beach business, including infrastructure damage, property damage, and loss of revenue. A sound business continuity plan will keep your business running in the event of an emergency.

A business continuity plan offers several benefits:

• It improves public perception and acceptance of the company. By displaying a proactive attitude and preparedness, the public will have a positive impression of the organization, leading to more trust and business.
• It will boost your employees' morale and command loyalty by offering them more assurance and stability.
• Shareholders and partners will gain added security by investing and collaborating with a business that makes every effort to prepare for the unexpected.
• Overall efficiency improves, allowing the company to respond quickly and keep losses to a minimum.

With a well-designed plan, we hope to see your Long Beach or Lakewood commercial business operating efficiently. Even with preparation, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood recognizes that emergencies happen routinely, and we are here to help clean, restore, and repair your commercial building 24/7.

5 Entertaining & Creative Things to Do During Lockdown

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

During this challenging time, even the most productive of people are going to watch their fair share of Netflix, Disney +, and Hulu. Additionally, many people will play video games just to pass the time. While these are fun activities, they can also get quite boring after a while and leave you feeling drained. Here are 5 good alternatives which can be quite fun and also rewarding.

1. Read a Book

While this may sound like something your librarian from middle school would tell you, it is actually quite amazing. Playing a video game or watching a movie are all linear experiences in a sense. Reading a book allows you to use your own creativity and imagination to in a sense vicariously live a much more adventurous life. Furthermore, it challenges your vocabulary, mind, and idea of what is reality. If one does not like reading or has difficulty doing so there are many services such as Audible which have pre-read audio files of books.

2. Practice an Instrument

Playing music can be incredibly therapeutic and helps people express themselves in something more powerful than words. There is so much free time available now you could even teach yourself to play an instrument. YouTube is going to be one of your greatest tools—and also distractions—during this time. Take advantage of this unique opportunity and become the next Billy Joel or Justin Bieber.  

3. Get Whatever You Need to Off Your Chest

One of the worst things you could do would be to bottle up all your feelings and just reside in them. If you have a conflict with some family, friends, or loved ones give them a call. Be honest and let them know how you feel. At the same time, remind them of how much they mean to you and how you want restitution. This could also be a good testing ground if you are interested in a person. If you just send them a text asking how they are doing or things about their lives. If they are remotely interested, they will reciprocate this. However, if they don’t respond or just seem dry you can forget about them and move on with your life. This is the time for action, not angst.

4. Keep Up with Friends and Family

Don’t neglect to talk with your family and friends. While physical interactions and conversations are not advised nor necessarily wise, there are several alternatives. You can use Facetime if you have an iPhone for an easy and intuitive video conference. Additionally, there are apps such as Houseparty and Skype for any web-enabled device. The importance of keeping in touch with your friends and family cannot be overstated. It will help you deal with any frustrations, bond with them, and develop a deeper relationship.

5. Listen to a Podcast

Podcasts are like the modern-day radio show. There is an infinite variety of them. The beauty, however, is in the fact that one can listen to them whenever you want and there is no need to tune into a channel at a specific time. Podcasts are incredibly engaging and can help you to take your mind off all the worry of everyday life—even if only for an hour.

Hopefully, these ideas can help you enjoy this extra amount of free time and take your mind of all the stress of this situation in the meanwhile. 

Steps to Recover Quickly From a Flood With Safety in Mind | SERVPRO® of Santa Clarita Valley

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding is now a more common occurrence than it ever has been, which has spurred many people to think through exactly what their recovery strategy would be.

While recovering from a flood quickly is everyone’s top focus, it is important to understand that staying safe also plays a vital role in the recovery efforts. We have detailed the steps below to help you know exactly how to recover from a flood while remaining safe in the process

Quick Recovery Steps to Take After a Flood

Avoid further safety hazards. It is a natural reaction to want to handle the damage as quickly as possible, prompting many individuals to be antsy to return to their homes. While this is understandable, it is important to check with local officials in your area to make sure the impacted regions are safe to inhabit once more.

Air out the home. While the damage that rising waters cause is devastating enough, those who have experienced flood damage are also at high risk for mold development in the impacted areas. Mold thrives in damp areas with little airflow, so opening your home’s doors and windows can cut down significantly on its growth, as well as keep the air healthier to breathe as you work to clean up.

Document the damages. While many people will react to seeing the damage by immediately taking action, make sure you are gathering adequate documentation before you jump in. Create a detailed inventory list of everything that has been impacted by the flood and take photographic evidence to back up what you include. Not only is this helpful for your own records, but if you are eligible to file an insurance claim, it will come in handy through that process as well.

Contact your restoration and insurance companies right away. If you have already purchased flood insurance, getting in touch with your insurance company right away will help direct you toward the next steps for filing a claim. Additionally, prioritize contacting your flood restoration company in the aftermath. Letting moisture sit can cause further damages to your home, so getting the professionals in quickly is always advised.

If your home has been damaged in a flood, we are here for you. You can contact us ²⁴⁄₇ to receive a quick response and set the restoration process in motion.

Smoke Detectors: Your First Line of Defense against fire.

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors can often give homeowners the first alert of a fire within the home. When they are properly installed and functioning, they can help to protect your property, belongings, and most importantly your loved ones. While every fire cannot be prevented smoke detectors can help you to minimize the damage and protect yourself and those around you. Therefore, it is important to know how to install, monitor, and replace smoke detectors as need be.

Know Where to Install

One of the most important parts of the installation of smoke detectors is to place them in the correct parts of the house. The National Fire Protection Association recommends placing smoke alarms on every floor of your home including the basement, inside and outside every sleeping area, and in high-risk areas such as the kitchen, laundry room, and boiler area. 

Other Things to Keep in Mind

Choose a smoke detector that is certified by a recognized testing laboratory and not just the cheapest one online. You should also install the smoke detector at least 10 feet away from the stove and large cooking appliances to save you the pain and deafening beeping of a false alarm. Ensure that your smoke alarms all work together as well so that should an alert go off in the basement everyone in the house is aware. Most smoke detectors have wireless connection methods nowadays, otherwise, you could contact an electrician or look up how to hardwire them online. Furthermore, there are two different types of smoke detectors: Ionization and photoelectric. Ionization excels in detecting high heat and flaming fires whereas photoelectric are better suited for low heat and smoldering fires. Both of these should be utilized throughout the home for the best coverage and protection.

 Know When to Replace

The vast majority of smoke detectors are designed with an internal non-replaceable battery that lasts around 10 years. If your smoke detector is chirping this is a sign of a low battery and should be replaced as soon as possible. You should test all the smoke alarms in your home once every month using the test button on the detector. Furthermore, follow the instructions and manual that came with your smoke detector to clean it and ensure it does not get clogged up with dust or other contaminants which may hamper its ability to detect and alert to fires.

Experienced Fire Damage?

The reality is that even with fully functioning and interconnected smoke detectors, fires can and do unexpectedly happen. The most important thing is that you and your loved ones are safe. SERVPRO has the experience, expertise, and tools needed to properly mitigate and restore fire damage and make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Water Damage in your commercial building!

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water harm occasions at more prominent NE Long Beach/Lakewood business properties are regularly mind-boggling with various issues that require a proficient and adaptable reaction. Regardless of whether we're managing a generally little water cleanup situation or a huge scope occasion, we work rapidly to survey every special circumstance and disengage the harmed territory. On numerous occasions, ordinary activities can proceed in a brief space while we reestablish your office.

Reestablishing Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our experts are prepared to be aware of lawful and ecological concerns and endeavor to completely reestablish the harmed territory while working inside your budgetary requirements. We comprehend that consistently spent tidying up is an hour of lost income and profitability. So when a crisis circumstance emerges in your business, call us and we'll be there quickly with the assistance you need.

About SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood works in the cleanup and rebuilding of business and private property after a water harm occasion. Our staff is exceptionally prepared in property harm reclamation. From starting and continuously preparing at SERVPRO's corporate preparing office to customary IICRC-industry confirmation, have confidence our staff is furnished with the information to reestablish your property.

We are available 24/7 to help you

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

A pipe brust in the night, what do you do? Sprinklers go off, sewage backs up, criminals desert broken glass and harmed insides, where do you turn? There is no time allotment for when catastrophe strikes, regardless of whether it is water harm, fire harm, a biohazard crisis and so on … so SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is prepared for you every minute of every day. We have representatives accessible to take as much time as necessary, quickly, to react to your calamity. We are completely arranged to help you when a crisis hits your home or business. We know the effect, by and by, expertly and monetarily, lost days can have if a crisis strikes an office or property. That is the reason we are focused on ensuring that you return to pre-harm conditions as quickly as time permits. On the off chance that a catastrophe strikes, be it the center of the night or during a bustling workday, make a point to call SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood at (562)- 420-0030. We'll react to your call, evaluate your harms and take care of your issues!

Tips to avoid Hurricanes

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

Headed for a vacation destination that’s prone to Storms and Hurricanes?!

Vacations are a time for relaxation but what if an emergency strikes? It’s storm and hurricane season in some destinations and here at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood, we are always looking out for our customers' safety and well-being. We've put together some tips for what to do if a hurricane strikes on your vacation and how to prep before you leave.

Before the trip:

• Check the local news:

While this might seem like an obvious tip it is very important to be up to date with the local weather at your vacation location. We recommend checking a week in advance to keep yourself up to date so there are no weather surprises while away!

• Get Hurricane Travel Insurance

When it comes to traveling, travel insurance is very important but specifically hurricane travel insurance during hurricane season is helpful. They’ll cover delays due to weather, accommodation cancelations, and going home early coverage, etc.

• Make a paper copy of documents

It is always important to make copies of your documents before you travel just incase something happens to them, where it be theft or a storm damages them! Print and bring copies of your travel insurance, itinerary and key phone numbers as well as your passport (if necessary).

 During hurricane:

• Identify a point of contact

It can be difficult to find cell service while on vacation so it is important to know where you can go to get in contact with others.

• Identify Evacuation Routes

Once onsite at your vacation, it is important to identify what the proper evacuation routes are to get to safety. Ask your hotel, landlord, or locals what those might be.

• Avoid any electrical wiring if you are wet or if the wiring is wet.

This will keep you from being electrocuted by any faulty wiring.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood wishes you a safe and hurricane-free vacation! We hope these tips have provided you the proper information to being ready and handling a hurricane emergency while on vacation. If you're in need of any assistance SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to help. Call us at 562-420-0030

No matter where you're located we are always ready!

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

All through the US, floods stay one of the most boundless and normal catastrophic events that influence us. Regardless of where you're situated, in the mountains, along the coast, in the city, near a waterway or out in the desert, you can even now be affected by a flood. Here are some significant wellbeing tips to remember:

Indeed, even 6 creeps of rapidly moving water can deeply inspire you so avoid floodwaters. On the off chance that you end up in a territory where the water comes to over your lower legs, discover another way, walk another way.

When driving, similar principles apply: If you approach an overwhelmed street, pivot and go another way. Most vehicles can be diverted by under 2 feet of moving water. Whenever got by rising waters and the circumstance warrants it, escape your vehicle rapidly and move to higher ground.

Shield youngsters from the threats and illnesses conveyed by sullied floodwaters. What may resemble an enjoyment movement to them could demonstrate destructively.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood has the experience and information to help you when a flood strikes your home or business. Regardless of the size, floods can possibly make broad harm property when not treated rapidly and appropriately and the cleanup can be a mind-boggling task. We're here day in and day out to help. Get in touch with us at 562-420-0030.

Water damage can be headache, But We are Faster to any Disaster

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water crises don't sit tight for ordinary business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood gives crisis cleaning and rebuilding administrations 24 hours every day, 7 days per week—including all occasions.

Quicker To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water harm is intrusive. Water rapidly spreads all through your home and gets retained into floors, dividers, furniture, and that's just the beginning. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood shows up rapidly and begins the water extraction process very quickly. This prompt reaction assists with limiting the harm and the cleaning and rebuilding costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us all day, every day – 562-420-0030

Water Damage Timeline

In no time

Water rapidly spreads all through your property, immersing everything in its way.

Water is ingested into dividers, floors, upholstery, and effects.

Furniture completions may drain, causing perpetual recoloring on floor coverings.

Photos, books, and other paper merchandise begin to grow and twist.

Hours 1 - 24:

Drywall starts to grow and separate.

Metal surfaces start to discolor.

Furniture starts to grow and break.

Colors and inks from fabric and paper merchandise spread and stain.

A smelly scent shows up.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

Form and mold may develop and spread.

Entryways, windows, and studs swell and twist.

Metal starts to rust and erode.

Furniture twists and gives indications of form.

Paint starts to rankle.

Wood flooring swells and twists.

Genuine biohazard tainting is conceivable.

Over 1 Week:

Reclamation time and cost increment significantly; supplanting sullied materials and basic remaking might be broad.

Auxiliary wellbeing, shape development, and biohazard contaminants present genuine dangers to inhabitants.

About SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood works in the cleanup and reclamation of the private and business property after a fire, smoke or water harm occasion. Our staff is exceptionally prepared in property harm rebuilding. From introductory and continuous preparing at SERVPRO's corporate preparing office to standard IICRC-industry accreditation, have confidence our staff is furnished with the information to reestablish your property.

Renter insurance is worth it?

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood prescribes Renter's Insurance. Here is the reason:

Working our rebuilding business in the more prominent Long Beach region presents us with the mind-boggling universe of taking a shot at water harm or shoot harm in Multi-Unit or High-ascent properties. We should give a case of the considerable number of players that can be engaged with a water misfortune at a 4-story apartment suite complex with 2 units being influenced by the misfortune. Here is the arrangement:

Rita rents Unit 1 on the principal floor from her landowner Lucy. Owen lives above Renter Rita in Unit 2 on the subsequent floor and he possesses the property. At 2:00 am on a Saturday night, Owner Owen's latrine begins to flood. Proprietor Owen doesn't return home until 6:00 am, at which time he finds the water harm. He stops the stock line to the can (which really work since he is a decent mortgage holder who supplanted them a year ago) and calls Renter Rita. Leaseholder Rita answers her telephone, revealing to Owner Owen she is on her path home from the air terminal after an overnight flight and in no disposition to manage this circumstance.

At the point when Renter Rita returns home, she finds that the latrine water has soaked her restroom and whole storage room loaded with the attire. Tenant Rita calls her Landlord Lucy in tears to give her the news. This is when Renter Rita discovers that her Landlord Lucy can't for any of Renter Rita's own assets. Landowner Lucy says, "Leaseholder Rita, I advised you to get Renter's Insurance when you moved in!" Renter Rita starts to truly freeze now. She has a major gathering tomorrow with nothing to wear, also she is as of now depleted from her excursion for work. She begins to absorb water with towels, which does minimal great yet she doesn't have a clue what else to do.

Meanwhile, Landlord Lucy calls her protection hotline and poses plenty of inquiries. Landowner Lucy's next call is to Owner Owen to shout at him, telling him that he is capable to fix her unit and pay for Renter Rita's remain while the work is being finished. Proprietor Owen discloses to Landlord Lucy to quiet down, referencing that neither of them is dependable. Oh, Owner Owen has checked on the CC&R's, which express that latrine flood is secured by the HOA, with a couple of special cases that they can turn out later.

Now Owner Owen and Landlord Lucy start a 3-route call with HOA President Horatio. HOA Horatio can't morning individual, so he discloses to them that the two of them have to document their own cases promptly, including Renter Rita on the off chance that she has protection. HOA Horatio clarifies the HOA approach covers just a piece of the case, and the last duty is worked out toward the finish of the case between the protection bearers. The HOA is required to meet to talk about the case once it is resolved who is answerable for which parts of the case. This could be a month or progressively out. In the event that they don't call SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach, their favored Water Mitigation merchant,

ASAP, at that point, the case cost will in all probability go up since the harm deteriorates the more drawn out the water sits.

Proprietor Owen and Landlord Lucy hang up and get back to their protection transporters. They also are told by their protection hotline that SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is their favored seller. They choose to make separate cases and call SERVPRO.

Before they know it, a well disposed of SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood group is nearby, taking estimations, setting up gear, and moving influenced things aside for evaluation.

While the SERVPRO group is working, Renter Rita calls her protection bearer, still in tears, seeking after a marvel. Mr. Protection requires her to briefly wait for a few minutes while he audits her strategy. Leaseholder Rita chomps her nails, standing by anxiously for them to give her the news. Mr. Protection gets back on the line to tell Renter Rita that, Yes! You do have a leaseholder's arrangement. It turns out her neighborhood agent included it at her last recharging, per her solicitation. Tenant Rita works such a lot that she once in a while overlooks all the manners in which she sets herself up for progress. She was excited to discover that her strategy secured her harmed dress. Mr. Protection gave Renter Rita a crisis check, as sketched out in her arrangement, to purchase a couple of things while she harmed apparel is assessed for rebuilding or fix by the SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood group.

After a month after the fixes are totally finished and every single influenced party are settled, Owner Owen, Renter Rita, HOA Horatio, and Landlord Lucy get together at their nearby wine bar, to get up to speed and chuckle about their huge battle. The HOA wound up covering some portion of the case and their own strategies secured the equalization. They state a gathering "Cheers!" to their protection bearers.

This story could host finished distinctively if all gatherings were uninsured or underinsured. Here are some useful hints:

Ensure you comprehend your inclusion.

Invest energy with your operator posing inquiries to guarantee you completely handle what is and can't by your approach.

Experience diverse made-up situations with your specialist to discover what your inclusion would be in various circumstances.

For instance, "Imagine a scenario in which I left a light consuming and there was smoke harm in my condo?" Or "Consider the possibility that my neighbor's fridge line spilled and demolished my roof.

Set aside the effort to audit your inclusion on the off chance that anything changes with your property or living circumstance.

On the off chance that you are a tenant buy a tenant's approach. On the off chance that you are a proprietor, urge your tenants to get a tenant's approach.

The lesson of the story – protection is a piece of our day by day American life. Set yourself up for progress by buying a protection arrangement that meets your requirements

Water Damage at your Rental Condo, Multi-Unit Property, or High-ascent? We are prepared to help. Call SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood at 562-420-0030

What to do if you have fire in your house?

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

Fire could result from several different causes including cooking equipment, old electrical equipment, and flammable materials. Should you experience a sizable fire in your home for any reason, there are some important steps to take during the fire. Remain mindful of the following actions:

• Get The fire extinguisher
• Raise an alarm
• Call 911
• Leave Valuables behind
• If your clothes catch on fire. Don’t run just stop and roll over.
• Cover your nose. The smoke is more dangerous than the fire.
• Safety Evacuation spot.
• Contact your local Red Cross. They can help provide food and provisions
• Notify your insurance company about the fire
• Do not re-enter your home until instructed to do so. Talk to firefighters about what can be salvaged instead

Always remember to make sure that everybody is safe. close the door behind you. Research has proven that closing doors prevents fire from spreading, which simply means the fire will be relegated to a spot for a while. Nobody wants a fire in his house but simple don’t panic.

Don’t forget to call SERVPRO to restore your house "Like it never even happened."

Asbestos is responsible for the death of about 40,000 Americans annually

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Asbestos on a pipe

At SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood, we deal with a lot of unexpected problems and create a plan to solve each one. Asbestos is a common danger found in many homes.

What is asbestos, the dangers it poses, and signs to look out for?

Asbestos filaments are a delicate, flexible, mineral substance that is impervious to heat, power, and consumption. For a considerable length of time, this material has been utilized in fireproofing and electrical materials, floor tiles, car parts, and shopper items, for example, hair dryers. Lamentably, these infinitesimal strands are scentless, for all intents and purposes undetectable, and can cause irritation in lung tissue when breathed in. Side effects may stay lethargic for 20-50 years, making the older progressively helpless to mesothelioma, an uncommon malignant growth of the lungs. In the event that you presume a lot of asbestos in your structure, check for the accompanying: Surface patterns on roofing and shingles with dimples or shallow craters.

• Interior and exterior joints where plastic, aluminum, or wooden runners were joined with asbestos sheets and adhesives, like window putty, drywall tape, and joint cement.
• Asbestos insulation in the attic or in bathroom floor tiles.

Asbestos was unable to reach a complete ban in the U.S. in 1991, and it is still responsible for the deaths of about 40,000 Americans annually.

Notify SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood for expert cleaning from us and our associated professionals. A licensed abatement specialist will perform an asbestos inspection and determine if it needs to be covered or removed. You can count on us to keep you and your family healthy and hazard-free.

Mold Extraction, How fast we are!

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Happy Customer after SERVPRO cleaned her house from Mold.

Home and entrepreneurs place a great deal of their confidence in their buildings when they submit the requests to supply their shops with things and products. While you may have made the significant starting venture quite a while prior, each thing that you have available to be purchased inside the shop speaks to a part of that money related course of action that you have with your provider to follow through on your finish of the understanding. At the point when water misfortune occurrences happen inside the home or property, you need to act promptly to shield this venture from hopeless damage. Our experts are promptly accessible to help!

While you can't anticipate when you may need water or mold evacuation, the quicker that you can verify this administration, contain and suitably clean the zone, the less of the things and stock all through your home or property that can turn out to be straightforwardly affected. Our SERVPRO experts can work rapidly to offer successful moderation arrangements including quick extraction when you need it the most.

At the point when we previously come into your building, some portion of our group attempts to set up the extraction gear required to start expulsion and rebuilding endeavors while another segment of our team can work to expel in danger substance from the influenced region. Without an across the board circumstance, quite a bit of these moving things can get put away in an alternate region of your store except if they require centered drying and cleaning attention.

Our SERVPRO technicians on location decide the best hardware for the seriousness of the water damage, running from versatile wet-vac units with extraction wands to gas-controlled rubbish siphons and our extractor truck. With the compelling evacuation of overabundance water, our group can find a good pace completely drying the damaged territory and shielding your building from potential remaking or remediation needs.

While there are numerous worries when your home or property endures a water misfortune episode, the speculation that you have made and substance of the property. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood has effective extraction and drying gear to recover your entryways open rapidly. Call us whenever calamity strikes at (562) 420-0030

FLOOD DAMAGE CAN OCCUR ANYWHERE

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Flood and water damage occur in homes and businesses more often than you may realize. This type of damage can result from a storm or hurricane damaging your area. Regardless of where you’re located, flood water can reach you, whether you live in the mountains, the beach, or even the desert.

It is important to remain mindful of the following safety tips:

• Avoid floodwaters if possible. If you are caught in an area where water reaches above your ankles, find another path or walk another way.
• If you reach a flooded road when driving, find a way around or follow the directions of safety personnel. Many vehicles can be carried away by as little as 2 feet of moving water!
• Be cautious of consuming or bathing in water found outside since disease can be carried by contaminated floodwaters.

Floods have the potential to cause noticeable damage to property when not treated quickly, and cleanup can be an overwhelming task. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a storm looms over your home or business. We’re here to help 24/7.

PREPARING FOR HURRICANE SEASON BEFORE TRAVELING

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

While vacations are a time for relaxation, an unexpected storm can ruin an otherwise amazing trip. It is important to remain mindful of the following hurricane safety tips:

Check the news: Check the weather of your travel destination up to a week in advance to avoid any surprise downpours. 

Obtain Hurricane Travel Insurance: Hurricane insurance can cover travel delays as a result of poor weather conditions and help you cancel your trip or leave early. 

Make paper copy of documents: In the event internet or digital devices are unavailable, printed copies of your travel insurance, itinerary, key phone numbers, and your passport will ensure you have reliable back-ups.

Identify a point of contact: Select an area to find your family or travel members in case cell phone coverage becomes unavailable.

Identify Evacuation Routes: Ask your hotel staff about emergency exit routes and safety procedures.

SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood wishes you a safe and hurricane free vacation! If you're in need of any assistance related to storm damage, we are here to help!

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR A STORM?

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Buildings are not always constructed to handle storm damage. After a hurricane, many components of your home or business may require replacement. If you experience destruction caused by strong elements during a storm, we’re here to help!

A hurricane can bring about black water, sewage water containing bacteria, mold, and viruses. Once black water permeates through the floor, walls, or ceiling, replacement of contaminated areas is recommended. Sanding down floorboards, for example, is no longer feasible once the top layer is heavily saturated.

Additionally, strong winds can knock over trees or bring debris into your home. A single branch from a large tree could have enough weight to destroy a roof. As a result, runoff of torrential rains may begin to flow into your Long Beach home or business. In this situation, SERVPRO technicians can use penetrating moisture meters and special equipment to recommend the best course of action based on the amount of damage incurred.

If you find yourself in a situation too big to handle, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood for immediate and professional service.

SMOKE DAMAGE: SHOULD I BE CONCERNED?

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, fire restoration and clean-up are our specialties. Smoke can affect a building’s structure in unexpected ways. Depending on temperature, the environment, and air flow, smoke can distribute in many different areas and create more damage than initially thought. Fortunately, you can count on SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood to handle fire and smoke damage quickly and professionally.

Furniture, decorations, and enclosed spaces interact with the smoke in unusual ways. In warmer air, molecules move from hot areas to colder areas of the room. These particles rest behind cool drapes or under shades, and they travel into drawers, closets, and cavities. Since smoke particles are often ionized (possessing an electrical charge), smoke damage may also occur on surrounding nail heads in the ceiling and synthetic materials such as vinyl, due to their greater ionization characteristics.

Additionally, air currents may carry smoke away from the fire, damaging rooms not directly affected by the incident. Airstreams may carry it around doors, and residue begins to build on the far side of door openings - with the pattern diminishing further away from the fire. Understanding the physics helps takes mystery out of stressful situation.

Smoke resulting from fire can behave in unintended ways. It permeates a house as it seeks new places to settle. The resulting effects can be long lasting and have an impact on your health. If you find yourself in such a situation, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood will have you breathing better.

SIGNS OF A SLAB LEAK

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can occur in a variety of ways, including a slab leak. A slab leak is a term to describe a leak that has developed in the copper water lines running below the concrete foundation of your home. When these same leaks are above ground, in the wall or ceiling, they are known as pinhole leaks. Check out the signs in this list, so you'll be ready if it happens to you.

Your Hardwood or Tile Floor is Suddenly Hot

Do your floors suddenly feel hot? You might have a hot-side slab leak that is running 24/7 and heating up your floors from below. Unfortunately, those nice warm floors are costing you a bundle to heat all that water! 

If you have carpeting, you probably won't detect the hot spot right away. If you have pets, you may notice them lying in a certain spot repeatedly on cool days, so check the floor and see if it's warmer than surrounding areas.

Low Water Pressure

With so much water flowing out of leaks or breaks in the pipes, that leaves less water to travel to your fixtures, resulting in sudden low water pressure. If you're not using water at the same time anywhere else in the house, like the washing machine or the shower, you could have a slab leak that's stealing your water pressure.

Bad or Musty Smells 

If water from a slab leak bubbles up under your carpet, mold and mildew growth will soon follow. If the leak wicks up into the drywall, you could also develop mold in your walls. While these types of mold growth are usually not visible, you will definitely start to smell them! So if areas of your house suddenly smell musty, check this list for other signs of a slab leak. 

If you think you have a slab, don't hesitate to call us 24/7. We will identify the source of the problem, restore your home or business to preloss conditions, and make it "Like it never even happened."

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLANNING?

8/19/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and water can create commercial damage that impacts your local Long Beach business, including infrastructure damage, property damage, and loss of revenue. A sound business continuity plan will keep your business running in the event of an emergency.

A business continuity plan offers several benefits:

• It improves public perception and acceptance of the company. By displaying a proactive attitude and preparedness, the public will have a positive impression of the organization, leading to more trust and business.
• It will boost your employees' morale and command loyalty by offering them more assurance and stability.
• Shareholders and partners will gain added security by investing and collaborating with a business that makes every effort to prepare for the unexpected.
• Overall efficiency improves, allowing the company to respond quickly and keep losses to a minimum.

With a well-designed plan, we hope to see your Long Beach or Lakewood commercial business operating efficiently. Even with preparation, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood recognizes that emergencies happen routinely, and we are here to help clean, restore, and repair your commercial building 24/7.

IMPORTANT ACTIONS AFTER A HOUSE FIRE

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damage could result from several different causes including cooking equipment, old electrical equipment, and flammable materials. Should you experience a sizable fire in you home for any reason, there are some important steps to take during the aftermath. Remain mindful of the following actions:

• Examine you and your family for injuries and seek medical help
• If you can’t find a place to stay, your local Red Cross can help provide food and provisions
• Notify your insurance company about the fire
• Do not re-enter your home until instructed to do so. Talk to firefighters about what can be salvaged instead
• Once you are cleared to enter the building, check for important documents and keepsakes
• Make a list of your possessions and note damaged goods
• Keep track of receipts for expenses as a result of the fire

Nobody wants to be caught off guard after a fire. By knowing important actions to take after a house fire, you and your family can live a little bit safer. When accidents happen, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood is here to clean fire damage and restore your home quickly and professionally.

TOASTER OVENS AND ASSOCIATED RISKS

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Since a toaster uses a large amount of electricity to create a lot of heat in a confined space, there remains some inherent risk for fire damage in your Long Beach or Lakewood home. Modern toaster ovens often have advanced safety features such as automatic shutoffs to prevent the heating element from overheating. Nevertheless, there are still some dangers, particularly with older toaster ovens. Educate yourself about the risks, and never leave a toaster oven unattended.

Burns

Like anything else that gets hot, toaster ovens can cause burns. Outside parts of the toaster such as the glass door can get hot enough to cause blisters. It is also easy to burn yourself reaching into a toaster oven to retrieve food since the area is quite small.

Fire

Fires in toaster ovens can occur for many reasons. If small particles of bread accumulate in the bottom, they can catch fire inside, spreading smoke. Additionally, some toaster ovens can catch fire if kept in confined spaces or as a result of a serious design flaw.

Electric Shock

Toaster ovens and other electric appliances that use heating elements use high-voltage electricity to generate heat. If you come directly in contact with the electricity, you can receive a potentially fatal shock. Never reach into a toaster oven with a knife, fork, or other metal conductor. 

If you experience fire due to a faulty toaster oven, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood is ready to answer your call. Our technicians are available to walk the premises and provide a solution for proper cleanup and restoration. Don’t hesitate to call 562-420-0030.

WASHING MACHINE WATER DAMAGE: PREVENTATIVE MEASURES

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Washing machines are one of the most common sources of water damage in the home, and the damage can be costly, reaching potentially thousands of dollars.

Faulty washing machines can be difficult to diagnose and time consuming to repair. Specific preventative measures can save you both time and money down the road. The most effective ways of preventing damage from your washing machine are to:

• Replace the washing machine intake hose every 5 years.
• Check your sewer line after a storm, before running your washing machine.
• Don’t overload your washing machine.
• Have your machine professionally installed to avoid water line pinches and drainage issues.
• Shut off the intake valve behind your machine at the first sign of trouble.
• If you can’t access the intake valve, know how to shut off your home’s water main.

If you experience water damage in your Long Beach home as a result of a faulty washing machine, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood to fix the source of the problem and reverse the water damage. We’re available 24/7 at 562-420-0030.

HOW DID MY AIR CONDITIONING UNIT LEAD TO WATER DAMAGE?

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

Many Long Beach residents are using air conditioning units to combat the hot summer months, but did you know these units can easily lead to water damage if not maintained properly? 

If you notice your A/C unit leaking water in your residence, it’s important to quickly take steps to minimize damage to your property. First, perform a quick inspection to identify where specifically the water is coming from. You may consider the following six major reasons that A/C units leak when beginning the troubleshooting process:

• A broken pump
• A/C condenser coil is leaking
• Faulty installation
• Dirty filter
• Overflow pan is damaged
• A/C drain line is clogged

Regardless of what caused the leak, it is important to call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood to obtain a professional estimate and thoughtful plan to repair your water damaged floors and walls. We can help identify the source of the leak and ensure it is repaired to prevent further damage. We are available 24/7 to take your call.

HOW TO REMAIN SAFE DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

On Independence Day this year, a 6.4-magnitude hit Southern California, only to be followed by a 7.1 magnitude earthquake the next day, the strongest earthquake in the region for decades.

While none of the quakes resulted in any major injuries or fatalities, the incident did displace many residents in the towns located near the epicenter of the first two major temblors. 

Earthquakes can happen anywhere, without warning, and cause natural disasters such as tsunamis, landslides, and avalanches. If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away. Drop, Cover, then Hold On!

We recommend taking the following steps to prepare for, survive, and recover from an earthquake:

• Make a Plan: Gathering your family will be a top priority. Choose a meeting place and an out-of-area contact to relay messages.
• Secure Your Home: Make sure your house is as shake proof as possible by retrofitting weak spots, strapping down heavy furniture and securing loose objects.
• Obtain a Kit: Store supplies to get your family through at least the first three days after a quake.
• Drop, Cover, and Hold on: When a quake stars, drop down where you are, and cover your head. If you’re near heavy furniture, take cover underneath and hold tight.
• Check for Hazards: When the shaking stops, check for injuries and for damage to home electrical wires, gas lines, walls, floors, and water pipes.
• Stay Connected: Surviving a quake is a community effort. Get to know your neighbors now, and work together with local organizations to prepare.

With preparation, you can reduce worry and stress during an emergency. If an earthquake causes significant damage to Southern California, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood is here to help clean the debris and restore your home or business back to preloss conditions.

WHAT ARE THE COMPONENTS OF A DESICCANT DEHUMIDIFIER?

7/6/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood, we use a variety of equipment to restore water damaged materials and revert your Long Beach property back to preloss conditions. One such piece of equipment that excels at large loss drying is the desiccant dehumidifier.

A desiccant dehumidifier differs from a regular dehumidifiers since it utilizes chemical attraction instead of condensation to remove water from the air. A desiccant dehumidifier is made of several key components all working together. These include the following:

• The desiccant: Perhaps the most important component of a desiccant dehumidifier is the desiccant itself. A desiccant is simply a chemical that adsorbs (not absorbs) moisture. Moreover, the desiccants used in desiccant dehumidifiers are able release the same adsorbed moisture when heated. This ability to not only adsorb moisture but also to release it when heated is absolutely critical to the proper functioning of a desiccant dehumidifier. 
• A large rotating drum: This drum is about as wide as the dehumidifier itself and an inch or two thick, depending on the model. It’s made up of alternate layers of flat and corrugated sheets, arranged to allow for air flow perpendicular to the drum. This drum or “desiccant rotor” functions to remove moisture from incoming room air.
• A condenser: Made of plastic, it’s about as long and wide as the dehumidifier itself. It functions to condense warm moist air.
• A heater: Its sole function is to reheat air.
• One or several blowers: These function to move air throughout the system. Most commercial grade desiccant dehumidifiers have one big blower on the back of the dehumidifier. It pulls air in through the front and exhausts it out of the top. Many units also come equipped with a secondary smaller blower that circulates the air that is moved through the recharge zone of the desiccant drum. 

If you experience water damage in your home or business, a desiccant dehumidifier might be used, depending on the extent of water damage. Regardless of the situation, we have the tools to handle the job!

HOW TO PREVENT AN ELECTRICAL FIRE IN YOUR LONG BEACH RESTAURANT

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage remains a strong concern for restaurant owners in Long Beach, Lakewood, and across the nation. In the U.S., restaurant fires can cost $60,000 on average, amounting to approximately $165 million every year, according to the National Fire Data Center. We hope the following tips can help you eliminate injuries and property damage in your restaurant resulting from electrical problems.

Electrical Fire Prevention

The second leading cause of fires in the restaurant industry is electrical fires. Often, they can be prevented with routine maintenance and employee training. Common causes of electrical fires in restaurants include extension cord use, overloading electrical systems with too much equipment, or storing combustible materials too close to an electrical panel. You can follow these steps to help prevent electrical fires:

• Begin a regular maintenance and inspection program.
• Train staff to identify hazards, such as locating breaker switches, identifying unsafe electrical cords, and how to report hazards.
• Hire only qualified contractors that are properly licensed to perform electrical work.
• Schedule regular maintenance on electrical equipment, and watch for hazards like frayed cords or wiring, cracked or broken switch plates, and combustible items near power sources.

With these helpful tips, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood hopes your commercial restaurant remains free of fire and commercial damage. If you find yourself in an emergency, we're available to help 24/7.

TOP FIREWORK SAFETY TIPS

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

Summer is often associated with grilling, fireworks, and festive parades, but careless activities can lead to irreversible fire and smoke damage in your Long Beach neighborhood.

For instance, there are plenty of visits to the emergency room in the midst of celebrating our independence. In 2017, at least eight people died and about 12,900 were injured badly enough to require medical treatment after fireworks-related incidents, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. While most of these incidents resulted from untrained individuals using homemade, illegal, or professional-grade fireworks, thousands were from “safe” devices such as small firecrackers and sparklers.

Remember, legal fireworks can be just as dangerous as illegal ones. We encourage you to remain mindful of the following tips from the National Safety Council to stay safe this summer:

• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks
• Older children should use them only under close adult supervision
• Never light them indoors
• Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
• Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
• Never ignite devices in a container
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
• Soak unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding

If you find yourself requiring emergency fire damage or smoke clean-up, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood is here to repair and restore your home or business. We’re available 24/7, even holidays, to reduce your stress and get you back on your feet.

PREVENTING WATER DAMAGE IN A COMMERCIAL BUILDING

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in your commercial building creates a serious panic and places your Long Beach or Lakewood business on hold until restoration and repairs are completed. For example, employees may have trouble accessing their work station or lack the tools they need to complete important work. Mold damage can even emerge if the saturated areas of the business are not replaced quickly, creating additional delays. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood recommends you consider the following tips to prevent commercial water damage.

Maintain the areas around your business.

It is important to make sure tree roots around your business do not grow unchecked. Unless closely monitored, they may develop a tendency to grow towards your pipes and create punctures. Any new trees should be planted away from known water pipes and only in approved areas.

Install A Water Detection System

A water detection system will monitor the moisture level of a room. You will receive a notification if the moisture level rises to a certain point, allowing you to catch water damage before it becomes irreversible. The initial cost could become a wise investment if it prevents costly repairs down the road.

Educate Your Employees

If you decide to employ more people and increase their responsibilities, there is greater potential for flooding as a result of human error. To help mitigate this possibility, educate new hires about ways to prevent flooding and how to respond to emergency water damage.

Sadly, no one is ever completely safe from having their home or commercial property damaged by flooding. Should you find your business experiencing emergency water damage, remember we’re available day or night to answer your call.

HOW TO MANAGE COMPULSIVE HOARDING

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

Not every home disaster comes from a storm, a burst pipe, or a fire in the kitchen, resulting in extensive water or fire damage. Hoarding is an increasing problem for many families that requires a professional cleaning and restoration service. A person living with the disorder experiences a compulsive need to keep everything, even trash or waste items. This excessive accumulation can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter, creating crowded and unsanitary living conditions. 

If you are trying to help a friend or family member manage their hoarding tendencies, we recommend the following:

• Start Slow. Don't go through your home and throw everything into the dumpster at once. This may lead to strong feelings of regret and anxiety; rather, go through one small space or collection each week.
• Be decisive. Make a rational decision about whether or not to keep an item. Handle objects only once and don’t revisit items you chose to discard. If you really can’t decide, store it in a box for six months. If you don’t open the box before then, you can let it go.
• Minimize Collections. If you kept all of your childhood drawings or essays, choose to save only a handful of the most memorable ones and donate or recycle the rest. Explore opportunities to convert physical photos or writings into digital files to save space and prevent wear and tear.
• Throw away unused items. Even if the item is brand new, if you don’t use it, it’s simply taking up space. If you bought items to start a new hobby, re-evaluate if the hobby is truly the right fit for you.
• Consider Consignment. It’s easier to downsize if you know your possessions are going to a good home. Check if your items can be sold for money or donated to someone in need.

SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood offers a sensitive approach to these situations with the safety of the homeowner, as well as our technicians, in mind. We can remove the unwanted items from the house and address lingering issues such as odors and structural damages. We have the equipment and expertise to contend with bacteria and the effects of infestations. Our premier cleaning services can make hoarding situations “Like it never even happened,” and return your home to a livable condition.  

TOP 4 TIPS FOR SAFE BARBECUING THIS SUMMER

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Beware of fire hazards when barbecuing this summer.

If you plan to enjoy barbecuing this summer, it’s important to be mindful of potential fire hazards which can lead to irreversible fire damage and lingering smoke damage in your Long Beach residence. Follow these simple fire safety guidelines to prevent a fire from occurring near your home this summer. 

1. Keep the grill outside, and avoid using your grill in garages, covered decks, screened in patios, or any area where there is a roof located above. They should also be kept at a safe distance from the house to prevent flare ups from reaching the exterior of your home.
2. Keep your eye on the barbecue. If you abandon your grill, it can be knocked over or flare up, causing the surrounding area to catch fire. Make sure the grill is always supervised whenever it’s in use to avoid unnecessary fire damage.
3. Regularly clean it. If you are pulling your grill out of storage, it’s important to clean off any sticky grease or hardened fat since they can cause an unexpected flare up. These pieces can easily be scraped off using a proper grill cleaner.
4. Inspect it closely. If you are using a propane or gas grill, it’s important to inspect it before using it. Look for any signs of holes and potential problems in the hose. This could signal that there’s a leak. A gas leak next to a flame can cause serious problems and start a fire. 

Make sure to follow these guidelines every time you fire up your grill to ensure the safety of your home and loved ones. If you experience fire damage, smoke damage, or require board up and tarping services this summer, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood is available to take your call anytime, day or night at 562-420-0030.

SAVING A BOOK FROM WATER DAMAGE

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damaged Book

If you experience flooding or severe water damage in your Long Beach or Lakewood home, rescuing your possessions from a burst pipe or water leak can become a stressful task. Finding a sentimental book could cause you to scramble to dry it in a hurry.

The following tips can help you save a wet book, even if the pages are incredibly weak or completely soaked with water.

1. Wipe down the cover. Once excess water has been removed, use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe down the cover. 
2. Shake out excess water. Move the wet book to a dry area to prevent further damage. If the book is dripping with water, tightly hold it closed and shake out as much as you can.
3. Place the book upright. After setting down the washcloth, set the book to stand upright to allow the water to flow down to the base. 
4. Absorb the water. Lay down a wash cloth on a dry, flat area to serve as a base to absorb the water. 
5. Insert rags behind the covers. Place rags in between the front and back covers only. Avoid placing them in between the pages as they can rip easily.
6. Let the book sit. Allow the book to rest in standing position for as long as necessary to dry completely.

With some patience and ingenuity, a valuable book can be saved from water damage. Don’t hesitate to contact us for emergency cleaning and flood damage repair. For home and business restoration services, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood has you covered every step of the way. 

FIXING WATER DAMAGED CARPETING IN YOUR BUSINESS

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

When you’re dealing with commercial water damage, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, and decisions must be made quickly. Rest assured, we at SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood will help you assess the situation and create a plan to fix or replace water damaged materials.

Assess the Situation

During your evaluation, ask yourself the following questions.

• Has the source of the water been identified?
• Is it safe to fix the water damaged carpeting, or are there hazardous materials involved?
• Has the water been stopped?

If the carpet is to be dried instead of replaced, the water responsible for damaging the carpet must be from a clean source such as broken pipes, supply lines, and rain. Flood-damaged carpet can be especially toxic and include mold spores or life-threatening bacteria.

Can You Use the Same Padding When the Carpet Gets Wet?

No, you can’t use the same padding if your carpet gets wet. Carpet padding is like a giant sponge. It soaks up the water and it won’t dry out. The dampness will cause it to mildew and mold, which will cause an odor and unsafe conditions under the carpet, no matter how dry you get the carpet itself.

Once the carpet is completely dry, we can install a new carpet pad and then lay the carpet back in place. If you have carpet padding, we will remove the pad underneath the wet carpet and throw it away. 

Can I Dry the Carpet Myself?

In most cases, drying water damaged carpeting is best left to professionals. It can be incredibly difficult to not only save the carpet, but also eliminate mold and mildew, and make the air breathable again. Our team is equipped to handle your commercial water loss, day or night. 

How Do You Dry Wet Carpet?

Since water damaged carpeting can grow mold within 48 hours, it is important to move quickly. A wet-vacuum can be an effective way to dry carpet after water damage. Since it can take several times over to dry the carpet, we suggest using blowers, fans, and dehumidifiers. The extra equipment will circulate the air and dry water damaged materials in your business even faster.

IMPORTANT STORM SAFETY TIPS

4/20/2019 (Permalink)

Where were you the last time you encountered a heavy storm? The key to storm and lightning safety is to avoid being in the wrong place at the wrong time. If you see a storm approaching on the horizon, remain indoors in case of a lightning strike. Lightning will follow the available paths to ground, including the electrical wiring, plumbing, or telephone lines. Try to avoid structures like bus shelters, outhouses, or any small non-metal structure that do not provide any lightning protection.

The fact that houses and buildings have an abundance of grounding paths makes them generally safe lightning shelters, but to ensure maximum safety during a storm:

• Don't use any wired appliance or device. Wireless appliances are safe to use.
• Stay away from water pipes and faucets. (No baths, showers, etc.)
• Don't stand on a basement floor or patio slab, or anywhere where standing water or excessive moisture is present. These areas are 'ground current' danger zones.
• Stay away from walls where electrical wiring is present.

If you find yourself on the road during a storm, you are safest in an enclosed, metal vehicle. The car should ideally have a hard top with its windows rolled up. If your car is struck by lightning, the current will flow through the metal body of the vehicle to the ground.

Keep the following safety tips in mind if you’re driving through a storm:

• If there is no shelter around and you must stay on the road, pull over, turn off your engine, and turn on your hazard lights while you wait out the storm.
• Do not touch anything metal inside of your car. This includes the radio, cell phone chargers, mobile GPS devices, door handles, and the steering wheel.
• If you’re on a motorcycle or a bicycle, do not seek shelter underneath trees. While trees may provide cover from the rain, this will greatly increase your risk of being struck by lightning.

If you experience property loss due to a storm, SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood is here to help with restoration and repair. We can clear debris, help reverse water damage, and get you back on your feet. Don’t be caught off guard; call us any day, morning or night.

CAUSES OF SEWAGE BACKUP IN YOUR BUSINESS

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

Sewage is a form of black water, floodwater that contains contaminants and viruses that pose serious risks of illness. It is important to fix the sewage backup quickly and prevent it from happening in the future by remaining aware of the causes of sewage backup in your business.

Causes of Sewage Backup

• Clogs – Sewage can emerge in your business when either your drain pipes or main sewer line become clogged. If one toilet creates a sewage backup, start by examining the drain connected to that toilet for clogs. If all toilets in your business create back-flows, then there may be a clog in the main sewer line.
• Tree Roots – Trees can grow really long roots that intertwine with your sewer line. Roots can grow into a pipe and cause holes or crush the sewer line by growing around it. 
• Damaged Sewer Lines– Old pipes are often made of cast iron or clay piping instead of plastic, resulting in faster deterioration. These older sewage systems can break down and crack, causing sewage backups and flooded rooms.
• Heavy Rainfall – A large amount of rain can overburden your city’s sewer lines. If the public sewer can’t handle excess rainfall, the water can make its way into connected sewer lines, putting your business at risk of water damage.

Preventing Sewage Backups

• Don’t pour grease down the drain. Cooking oil can harden within your pipes which stops debris from draining, resulting in a clog. To properly dispose of grease or fat, pour it into a heat-resistant container and throw it in the trash after it cools off.
• Dispose of paper products properly. Flushing hygiene products such as paper towels, diapers, or feminine products down the toilet can easily clog your sewer line. Save yourself a headache and discard paper products in the trash.
• Install a new plastic pipe or cut tree roots.To prevent tree roots from damaging your sewer line,replace it with a new plastic pipe. If tree roots still grow in your sewer, cut the roots occasionally.
• Install a backwater prevention valve. This fixture allows sewage to leave but prevents it from backing up into your business. 

If sewage backup occurs in your business, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood right away to remediate the black water damage. Handling the contaminated water by yourself can put you at risk of contracting diseases. We will take care of the water damage repair and have your business functioning again.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS - NEED TO KNOW FACTS

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you are a home owner or renter, knowing the basic tenants of fire safety can mean the difference between minor damage or total loss. Having a fire extinguisher on the premises and knowing how to access it can keep you and your loved ones safe. Here we will review the different types of fire extinguishers and how to use one in the event of an emergency.

Fire Extinguisher Classifications

Household fire extinguishers are labeled with a specific class to fight a specific type of fire. Since using the wrong extinguisher could make the situation worse, consider one that is rated for multiple classes.

Class A: For trash, wood, and/or paper fires.
Class B: For liquids and/or grease fires.
Class C: For electrical fires.
Class D: For flammable metals (usually only needed in labs or industrial plants).
Class K: Specifically for kitchen fires when grease and oil are involved.

Fire Extinguisher Effectiveness and Size

When choosing an extinguisher, determine its effectiveness by considering the numbers on the label. Every number before the A means it is as effective as 1.25 gallons of water. For example, 2A means the fire extinguisher is as effective as 2.5 gallons of water. The numbers before B and C are a measure of the amount of square feet the fire extinguisher can put out. For example, a 20: BC fire extinguisher can extinguish a fire over 20 square feet.

Keep in mind that the extinguisher size also varies based on the weight. Typically, there are 4, 5, 10, and 20-pound extinguishers. Bigger isn’t always better; it depends how much you can physically hold and the size of your residence.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

A good way to remember what to do in a moment of panic is the acronym P.A.S.S.

Step 1: Pull the pin.
Step 2: Aim the extinguisher at the fire low with the nozzle at the base of the fire.
Step 3: Squeeze the handle to begin extinguishing the fire.
Step 4: Sweep the extinguisher side to side at the fire’s base until it’s out.

With these helpful tips, we hope that you remain prepared in the event of a fire. Don’t hesitate to call 9-11 if the fire spreads or if you are in need of assistance. We are here to help during the aftermath to repair damage caused by smoke, soot, and fire; call us 24/7 for all your restoration needs.

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONTAINMENT

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood, building a containment is a critical part of our restoration, remediation, and abatement projects. These barriers, often made with poly-sheeting held in place by tape, are used for a range of jobs. This may include the abatement of mold, lead, and asbestos, the clean-up of damage caused by fire, smoke, or water, or to keep contaminants and even crime scenes contained. Containment systems are also useful in reconstruction projects, particularly where stone or wood cutting occurs and particles such as sawdust are released into the air. 

Building an airtight containment is paramount to protecting interiors during restoration projects and minimizing the risk of contact with hazardous materials during abatement. Containments serve to:

• Prevent potentially hazardous substances such as mold spores, asbestos, lead-based paint, and silica dust from spreading throughout the entire structure. These substances are very small and can easily hitch a ride on normal air currents found in most buildings.
• Address concerns for health and safety, especially where airborne hazardous materials are present. If not contained properly, these materials can cause health complications and affect the well-being of nearby tenants, workers, and others in the surrounding area.
• Function as a barrier to keep dust and other particles confined within a work space, prevent further property damage, and make clean-up easier. Without proper containment, the cost of the loss can increase dramatically.

Containing the site remains not only a priority, but a necessity. A safer work site benefits all parties, and mold testing is more likely to pass the first time, reducing the cost of re-cleaning and re-testing. When you call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood, you can rely on us to construct a proper containment and restore your home or business back to new.

REMAINING SAFE DURING FLOODS AND SEVERE WEATHER

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know a flood can occur in any one of the 50 United States? Even California is susceptible to flooding, in addition to harsh winds and mudslides. Therefore, it is important to be prepared for these emergency situations. Here we outline important ways to prepare for flooding and encourage you to think about your plan for harsh weather conditions.

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, follow these tips to stay safe during a flood:

• Seek higher grounds and avoid all areas that are at a higher risk of flooding
• If your home starts flooding, go to your top floor of your home, attic, or roof
• Don’t try walking across flooded streams or flooded roadways
• Turn off your main power and close your main gas valve
• Turn on and listen to a battery-powered radio for updated storm and flood information
• If you’ve touched floodwaters, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
• It’s important that you have an emergency supply kit in your home and vehicle in case of an emergency. You should also ensure you have you and your family’s medication pre-loaded with your emergency supply kit.

If your home is affected by flood water, keep the following tips in mind:

• Clear any debris from your gutters and/or downspouts
• Maintain your sump pump and install a battery backup in the case of a power outage
• Anchor fuel tanks
• Move valuables to a safe place
• Keep electrical components and appliances at least 12 inches above your house’s floor elevation

When driving through a storm, keep in mind most commuter vehicles were not designed to drive through flood water. Doing so can prevent airflow to your vehicle and lock up the engine, placing you in an even worse situation. Not only is it dangerous for you and your vehicle, but other people on the road as well.

Hopefully, with the helpful tips above, you can better prepare yourself and your home for severe weather. Even with proper planning, however, situations can go awry. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood is here to help with damage caused by a storm or flooding. We're available day or night, 24/7.

DISASTER RECOVERY: NEED TO KNOW FACTS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

Natural disasters have an enormous impact on small businesses, especially start-ups and cash-only businesses. The livelihood of both the owner and employees are jeopardized, and a plan must be in place to protect all parties involved. The Federal Emergency Management Agency estimates that 40% of small businesses fail to re-open after a natural disaster. With preparation, you can greatly increase the chance of your business recovering.

An emergency plan should be formed when the business is formed. Insurance becomes a key component of this plan, requiring careful consideration of all assets and deciding on the best insurance policy. For example, will natural disaster or looting insurance be included or added on later? Use the following steps as a guide to develop a post-disaster plan to keep your business running after an emergency.

• Follow up with employees: Address their concerns, and note if they are able to find temporary work or aid in the recovery process.
• Develop a communication strategy: Delegate someone trusted to communicate with disaster relief services, suppliers, and financial institutions
• Keep your data safe: Have a back-up of your business' files in multiple locations. Consider cloud based services since the data is stored remotely and can be accessed from multiple devices.
• Seek a restoration expert: Restoration companies such as ours will come to your aid to listen to your concerns, minimize loss, fix damages, and find the best value out of your insurance coverage.
• File an insurance claim: Examine policy and make sure there are no gaps. Also ask the questions, "Are additional damages covered? What are my deductibles?"
• Disaster loan assistance: There are various government agencies and organizations that can help your business recover. Visit the U.S. Small Business Administration website to learn about their Disaster Loan Program to help fix property and restock supplies.

Preparation is vital to recovering from any disaster; no one is immune. With the right plan, your chance of re-opening will increase significantly. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood is ready to answer your call and restore your small business back to new.

WATER DAMAGE FROM A DISHWASHER

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Have you experienced water damage from a malfunctioning dishwasher? Identifying the source of the problem can become a challenging task. Here we will list common causes for a dishwasher leak, discuss how quickly water damage can occur, explore if it's covered by insurance, and what can be done to fix the problem.

Common causes for a dishwasher leak include the following:

• Worn gaskets
• An dishwasher incorrectly leveled
• Incorrect dish washing soap
• Broken door
• Defective dishwasher tub

How long does it take for damage to occur?

Water leaking from a dishwasher can cause damage within a few hours. Any visible pools of water should be mopped quickly; if it remains on the floor for too long, it can cause permanent damage. Some flooring materials are more susceptible to water damage such as wood or bamboo. For instance, wood will absorb water quickly, causing your flooring to warp and crack.

Is the damage covered by insurance?

Depending on your insurance policy, the damage might be covered. If the dishwasher is new, has shown no previous signs of wear and tear, and you report the damage in a timely manner, your insurer may cover the repair cost. If your dishwasher is old, shows signs of neglect, and has caused you problems in the past, your insurer will likely rule that the water damage is due to negligence on your part and not cover the damages. In addition, we encourage you to view your dishwasher’s warranty to figure out if you can receive a replacement washer free of charge.

Repairing the resulting water damage

Once you notice a malfunction with your dishwasher, make sure to turn it off right away. Call SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach / Signal Hill, and we can assist with pulling the unit out from under the counter to reach any water that has pooled beneath the machine. Additionally, we can identify the cause of the leak, test for moisture, and schedule any necessary repairs. Let us know how we can help, day or night, at 562-591-1788.

CRAWL SPACE WATER DAMAGE

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is incredibly invasive and often reaches a home's crawl space. This is the hollow area found under some houses between the ground and the first floor, roughly one to three feet high. Because it's rare for tenants to access this area, water damage can cause significant damage before the consequences become evident. Here are some common causes for water damage within a crawl space.

Excess Humidity

One possible source of water damage within a crawl space involves excess humidity. Homes with broken window seals or an unsealed crawlspace with a dirt floor will generally have humidity problems. Water can evaporate and become trapped in the crawlspace, resulting in a thin sheet of water. This may then lead to water damage, mold growth, or poor air quality.

Leaky or Broken Pipes

If a puddle of water is found in a crawlspace, a leaky or burst pipe may be the cause. This water could be either clean or contaminated, depending on which pipe it escaped from. A musty smell usually indicates clean water that has been sitting for some time whereas a foul stench may indicate sewage water.

Roof Leak

For homes that have crawl spaces directly attached to the roof, water damage will usually be evident on the ceiling and walls of the crawl space. You may even hear water moving from inside the attic to an inside wall, leading to the crawl space. We recommend calling a professional roofer to locate and patch the leak before addressing crawl space water damage.

What Should be Done if Water Damage is Found in My Crawl Space?

Since a wet foundation, damaged drywall, or sewage leaks can cause serious damage to your home in the first 24-48 hours, we recommend calling us for immediate restoration services. We will identify the source of the damage, use professional equipment to treat the area, and properly handle sewage water or standing water that has bred bacteria. Let us help you determine which materials can be salvaged, and we will repair the affected flooring and drywall. 

Call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood 24/7 at 562-420-0030 if you experience water damage within your crawl space.

STORING PROPANE TANKS SAFELY

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

As a clean and natural energy source, propane is an easy to use and affordable product to warm homes, provide heating, and allow barbeque and cooking. It comes in both gas and liquid forms and is also highly flammable. When misused, propane poses a strong fire hazard. Following these 3 tips to store propane tanks properly will keep your home safe and reduce the chance of fire damage.

First, always store propane tanks upright and outdoors on a hard surface. Should it catch on fire, the potential for loss is much less severe. The hard surface can help prevent the container from accidentally tipping over and causing unneeded damage or harm to the tank itself. Additionally, never leave a cylinder tank inside a car or vehicle.

If you smell gas or an odor like rotten eggs, shut off the propane tank and leave immediately if there are no visible sparks or flames. Avoid using a cell phone, lights, or appliances. Notify the fire department of a potential gas leak and do not return to the building until it has been declared safe for re-entry.

Always turn off the gas line or valve to an unused tank. Leaving it open could cause a leak, leading to dangerous situations where fire or explosion may occur. Remember to treat an empty tank as if it were full, just in case there was an error.

We hope these tips keep you safe when handling propane tanks. In the case of property damage, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood 24/7 for restoration services.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM SEVERE WINDS

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

Severe weather such as storms or hurricanes can bring strong winds traveling over 100 miles per hour. Even winds traveling 25 miles per hour have been shown to cause damage to homes and other property. Take note of the following points to learn about how you can prepare for the possibility of damaging winds.

• Secure outdoor furniture and decorations, or store in enclosed areas.
• Anchor and secure outdoor structures such as freestanding sheds or kennels to sturdy foundations.
• Inspect and repair loose roof shingles, especially if you own an older home or have older roofing materials. Wind damage begins small by prying up a corner, but each gust of wind comes closer to removing the entire shingle and increases risk to surrounding roofing materials. Additionally, anchor your home's siding firmly. As with the roof, wind can tear away large areas once a small piece has loosened.
• Remove overhanging branches by trimming and pruning your trees. This will help prevent unexpected debris from falling on your home and keep fire from spreading.
• Reinforce doors with deadbolts and don’t forget to fortify garage doors.
• Designate a safe area in your home or business to take shelter if necessary; a small, interior room with no windows is ideal.
• Store vehicles in a sheltered area and away from trees or objects that may become projectiles in a storm.

In addition to these tips, stay tuned to your local radio station, TV weather report, or internet news site for frequent weather updates. Should you experience damage from high winds or a storm, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood for complete clean up, restoration, and repair.

SPACE HEATER DANGERS

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

During the cold months, space heaters are a great way to warm a room in the absence of central heating. Portable heaters, however, can pose certain threats to your home. If left unattended, a space heater can easily cause a house fire or electrical overload. Remain safe and warm by remembering the following safety tips.

• Leave three feet of space around your heater to avoid igniting flammable material. Keep pets and children from disturbing the heater to avoid burns and injuries. Make sure to also remove any objects blocking air flow or covering cables or components.
• Avoid leaving a heater running throughout the day, especially unmonitored. It may overload a circuit, causing power failure or a fire. Any unusual sounds or malfunctions should be fixed right away.
• Don't use extension cords or power strips with a space heater. Plugging them directly into an outlet will help avoid a power overload.
• Avoid using a space heater in a humid environment such as a bathroom. Water in the air may cause complications with the machine, causing it to malfunction.

As you shop for a portable heater, look for a safety certification label from an independent testing organization and the following safety features to keep your home safe from fire damage.

• Shut-off features: A smart sensor will automatically shut off the machine when it overheats, and a tip-over switch does the same if the heater is knocked over.
• Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) plug: This plug helps prevent electric shock. If your heater does not come equipped with one, avoid using it around moist areas.
• Sturdy cord: Many heaters come with a cord around 6 feet long. Make sure it has a sturdy design and reaches the desired areas. Remember, extension cords or power strips can cause electrical issues.

Educating yourself about the safety hazards that come with the improper use of portable heaters will help you achieve better peace of mind as you keep your home warm and comfortable during this winter season.

SERVPRO EXPERTS WILL BOARD UP AND TARP YOUR HOME

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

After a residential fire, an emergency board up or tarping is an important step in protecting your home and assisting with your insurance claim. Because of the nature of the job, we recommend seeking the help of our professionals to assist in the process. We will do a better job shielding your home from secondary damage, securing the correct locations, and using the proper materials. By knowing how to a navigate around cracked windows and doors, our trained workers can detect areas that appear undamaged to the naked eye but may present leakage and stability issues.

There are several reasons to perform a board up or tarp over.

• Helps your insurance claim: It is not uncommon for these services to be required by your insurance following a disaster. By not taking the appropriate actions on your end, insurance companies may find a reason to deny a claim.
• Prevents further damage: Openings in the wall or roof provides access to harmful elements such as wind, water, and debris. Human or animal invaders could cause even more damage, adding to your existing issues and increasing your repair bill.
• Reduces additional property loss and liability: Thieves may remove essential belongings or cause unnecessary destruction, and their injuries could become your liability.

Structures pose a strong hazard both during and after a fire. It is not recommended to re-enter your home until it has been deemed safe by the fire department or proper authority. Dangerous elements might be present including electrical hazards and harmful airborne particles.

If you find yourself in need of board up or tarping services, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach /  Lakewood at 562-420-0030 for an estimate and any additional restoration services.

REVERSING WATER DAMAGE WITH INJECTIDRY SPECIALTY EQUIPMENT

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood, we use a variety of tools and equipment to help reverse damage caused by elements such as water, fire, and mold. Our Injectidry equipment, for example, helps immensely in water saturated projects by allowing us to reach inaccessible, water damaged areas.

The Injectidry is a piece of mat-panel drying equipment that provides a non-invasive process for drying high risk areas of moisture such as walls, cavities, and hardwood floors. First, holes are drilled into drywall or under cabinets in the least visible locations possible. Next, small nozzles are inserted into a long hose, and the pressurized air pump injects heated air through the nozzles and into the hidden air spaces. The air movement becomes a vehicle for moisture, and water can be suctioned out of cracks and crevices.  

This valuable tool supplements common drying equipment such as air movers, dehumidifiers, and air scrubbers, allowing us to remove less and restore more. With the Injectidry, we are capable of drying wall cavities without having to remove large sections of the interior wall. Instead, the small holes are simply patched, creating an easier and more cost-effective solution.  

This method is beneficial when a homeowner calls us within the first 24 hours of the water loss, and the source of the water is clean. If the drywall and materials are wet for more than 24-48 hours, repair may not be feasible, depending on the damage. Our expert technicians will tailor a plan to fit your situation.

With this effective tool, you can trust us to dry your home or business in the event of water damage caused by a storm, heavy rain, flood, or burst pipe to name a few. Don't hesitate to call us in the event of an emergency at 562-420-0030. We are available 24/7 to answer your call.

FOUR COMMON STEPS FOR MOLD ASSESSMENT AND REMOVAL

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

If significant mold is detected in your home, it is important to deal with it immediately. Assessing mold growth involves more than just a visual inspection, however. Mold acts as a hidden intruder, growing in spaces out of sight. Should you discover mold in your house, you can expect these four common steps for professional mold remediation.

Documentation

The first step is to document the situation with writing and photos. The documentation will be used to develop a remediation plan, which describes when work is slated to begin, when that work is scheduled to be completed, who will be performing the remediation, any testing that should be done, and if homeowners will be temporarily relocated.

Inspection

Next, it is important to calculate the extent of the mold contamination. Since mold may not always grow in one area, determining the precise amount and its specific location(s) will lead to effective mold removal. Once an exact assessment is made, mold remediation may proceed.

Remediation

Remediation will always involve cleaning up existing mold, avoiding exposure to oneself and homeowners, and preventing new growth by addressing the moisture source. After repairing the water or moisture problem, cleaning can begin. All contaminated, non-porous materials and wood surfaces that are moldy can be cleaned at the professional's discretion.

Follow-Up

Just because the mold is gone and there's no dirt or dust doesn't mean that the job is done. The last step is to inspect the home soon after remediation and make sure there is no sign of visible mold, mold-damaged materials, or moldy odors. Homeowners should be able to occupy the home without aggravated health complaints.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood for cleanup, restoration, and repair at 562-420-0030. We are available to take your call 24/7!

THE MOLD CLEANUP PROCESS

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

Mold often thrives undetected due to water or moisture damage. It is important to identify the extent of mold growth before it reaches a hazardous level by reaching out to a remediation team. If you require mold cleanup in your home, you can expect a professional to perform an assessment and devise a plan for your situation. Typically, they will perform the following steps for safe and effective removal.

Before cleanup can begin, it is important to fix the cause of the mold to prevent additional spores from growing. This process may involve fixing a leak, drying down a room, or pumping out water. Next, a professional will isolate the contaminated area by closing all doors and windows between the contaminated area and other rooms of the home, based on their discretion.

Once cleaning begins, a remediation specialist will usually suppress dust by misting the contaminated areas. All wet and mold-damaged porous materials should be removed, since contamination has already permeated throughout. They should be discarded in durable plastic bags, tied, and disposed.

Generally, non-porous materials and wood surfaces that are moldy can be cleaned based on the extent of damage. A wire brush can be used on all moldy surfaces and then wiped with disposable wipes.

A mild contamination can be cleaned with a damp cloth or mop with detergent solution, while a more severe area may require special HEPA vacuums designed to trap extremely small, micron-sized particles. All areas should be visibly free of contamination and debris, and cleaned materials should be dried to allow leftover moisture to evaporate. Fans and dehumidifiers will help speed up the drying process, and materials that were moved should be replaced or repaired.

If you require mold cleanup, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood at 562-420-0030. We are available to take your call 24/7 and develop the correct course of action.

THE LEVELS OF MOLD DAMAGE

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

Often, it is difficult to determine the extent of mold damage, and there can be negative consequences caused from prolonged growth. When a contaminated area of any size is detected, a professional should be called to determine the best course of action to ensure the safety of those occupying the home. Here we will discuss the 5 levels of mold damage and typical actions for cleanup and removal.

Level 1 (0-10 Square Feet)

When addressed quickly and properly, level 1 mold is unlikely to cause a serious problems. A professional is likely to wear protective gear, remove contaminated materials in a plastic bag, and leave the area dry and free of mold contamination.

Level 2 (10-30 Square Feet)

Level 2 mold involves the same steps as level 1 with a few extra precautions. Moldy materials should be covered with double plastic sheets and sealed with tape before any handling or removal of materials to contain dust and debris. When the mold removal is finished, the area should be cleaned with a damp cloth and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum, depending on the situation.

Level 3 (30-100 Square Feet)

Mold level 3 usually indicates an underlying problem in the plumbing or air conditioning system. In addition to steps for the previous two levels, a professional may seal ventilation ducts in the work area and areas directly adjacent with plastic sheeting. Those residing in adjacent areas should be vacated as an extra precaution based on the discretion of the remediation professional.

Level 4 (Greater than 100 Square Feet)

For level 4 mold damage, every worker involved should be equipped with full face respirators and disposable protective clothing. Workers should completely isolate their work area from the rest of the home with sheeting sealed with duct tape. Air monitoring should be conducted prior to moving back into your home to determine if it is fit to reoccupy.

Level 5 (Air Conditioners and HVAC Systems)

Remediation procedures for air conditioning units and HVAC systems usually involve shutting down the system prior to remediation. Growth-supporting materials that are contaminated should be removed and sealed in plastic bags. Antimicrobial agents may be employed for greater mold removal as well.

SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood is ready to help you with any project, big or small. Call us 24/7 at 562-420-0030 if you detect mold in your home.

MOLD: CERTAIN TYPES CAN CAUSE PROBLEMS

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Mold in a Long Beach home's crawl space.

At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood, we deal with a lot of mold issues. We've learned that it’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at 562-591-1788. 

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

Contact SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood for mold remediation services.

ULTRASONIC-THE WONDER MACHINE

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Ultrasonic Machine - Works wonders on your fire, water or smoke damaged possessions

Fire or water damage affects more than just the physical property. When disaster strikes,  treasured possessions or important contents can also suffer from the effects of smoke, fire, mold or black water. Did you know that SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood and our Ultrasonic Machine, with it’s heavy duty cleaning capability, can restore your object back to near new condition?! From electronics to jewelry, from home décor to antiques, items both fragile and durable  may be saved by this technological wonder machine! Simply put, the process involves pressure waves, utilizing an implosion of bubbles occurring millions of times per seconds and producing tremendous vacuum energy. This breaks up the dirt and gently lifts the build up away, reaching every nook and cranny that has been damaged.

Don’t despair that your prized possessions can’t be saved. Look to SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach/Lakewood and our Ultrasonic technology to help make damage “Like it never even happened."

COMMERCIAL LOSS AFTERMATH

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood is ready to handle all types of commercial loss. Whether you own a small business or large corporation, our team is ready to repair damage resulting from, but not limited to, water, fire, storm, and mold. Depending on the size of your facility, we will categorize it into one of three categories.

The first category involves small commercial losses involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space, including a stand-alone retail establishment, a daycare facility, or a portion of a larger structure. The second category involves midsize commercial losses ranging from 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space, including multi-family properties, a midsize school, or a small shopping center. The third category involves a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings will likely be large structures including a hospital, school, or university.

Moreover, claims involving commercial structures can present a number of challenges to the claim professional, especially since no two commercial building losses are ever the same. When examining commercial losses, adjusters must take into account three major considerations.

The first is multiple stakeholders. Multiple property owners and tenants, primary leases and subleases, mortgages, and liens all impact the investigation of a building loss and become essential considerations in the adjusting process. After confirmation of policy information, an adjuster will need to analyze the lease agreement between landlord and tenant, which often contains provisions that outline the rights to make improvements to the leased space.

The second major consideration is construction uniqueness. Each type of occupancy is comprised of different construction principles and methods and can vary in terms of size, alarm and fire systems, interior finishes, and tenant improvements. Because of the range of characteristics, familiarity with commercial building structures and alternative repair methods will contribute to the proper overall loss assessment.

Lastly, adjusters must be aware of commercial policies that may have coverage for business interruption, including business income and extra expenses. After a full assessment, the claim settlement amount should be based on the cost of repair or replacement at the time of the loss. The adjuster also must calculate for depreciation based upon age, usage, and obsolescence of building items. Coming full circle to the start of the adjusting process, the claim settlement needs to take into account the insurance policy of the property.

In the event of a commercial loss, repair and recovery depends on the size of the facility, the parties involved, the construction of the building, and existing policies. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood will do its best to help you in the aftermath of a commercial loss by working with adjusters and getting you back on your feet. Call us anytime, day or night, for fast and professional service.

BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLANNING

10/15/2018 (Permalink)

Fire and water damage can impact your local Long Beach business in a variety of ways. Some of the most evident ways include infrastructure damage, property damage, employee injuries, and loss of revenue. How can you ensure that your business continues running smoothly, even in the event of a sudden emergency? We at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood have compiled information to create a business continuity plan that will keep your businesses running in the event of a disaster.

Business continuity planning is the creation of an emergency plan by recognizing threats facing the company and ensuring that personnel and assets are protected and functioning in the event of a disaster. For example, a finance company based in a major city might back-up its computer and client files offsite, providing satellite offices access to important information in the event of an emergency. Once critical business functions are identified and a recovery system is in place, it’s a good idea to coordinate a trained team to manage business disruption.

An area that is often overlooked is damage to a business from a fire within the supply chain. If your business relies on a sole supplier for goods or services, a fire within their building is likely to have an adverse effect on your business. As a supplier, dividing operations will lead to partial damage instead of total loss.

Businesses can protect themselves in the following ways:

• Securing vacant or easily accessible areas to prevent thieves from breaking in
• Implementing a safety team to prevent accidents caused by neglect, poor housekeeping, hot work equipment, hazardous chemicals, or unsafe work practices.
• Providing fire safety training and routinely checking fire alarms and fire extinguishers
• Practicing an evacuation plan

A business continuity plan offers several benefits. It improves public perception and acceptance of the company. By displaying a proactive attitude and preparedness, the public will have a positive impression of the organization, leading to more trust and business. Additionally, it will boost your employees' morale and command loyalty by offering them more assurance and stability. Shareholders and partners will gain added security by investing and collaborating with a business that makes every effort to prepare for the unexpected. Lastly, overall efficiency improves, allowing the company to respond quickly and keep losses to a minimum.

With a well-designed plan, we hope to see your Long Beach commercial business running smoothly, regardless of the circumstances. Even with preparation, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood recognizes that emergencies happen routinely, and we are here to help restore your commercial building and keep your business flowing.

JOIN THE RED CROSS "SOUND THE ALARM" CAMPAIGN

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood, we do our best to advocate emergency preparedness and safety. Our professional restoration services will help aid you when disaster hits, but did you know that you can also promote safety and make a difference in your community?

Every day, seven people die in home fires and 36 suffer injuries, most in homes that lack working smoke alarms. Sadly, children and the elderly disproportionately become the victims. The American Red Cross sought to improve the odds and save lives by creating the Home Fire Campaign in 2014. A critical part of the campaign is “Sound the Alarm”, a series of home fire safety and smoke alarm installation events across the country. Together with fire departments and other community partners, Red Cross volunteers canvass at-risk neighborhoods, install free smoke alarms, replace batteries in existing alarms, and provide fire prevention and safety education.

The Red Cross will install a limited number of free smoke alarms for those who cannot afford them or are unable to install them, including specialized bedside alarms for individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. To identify your local region office, please visit RedCross.org (or call 1-800-REDCROSS). Depending on where you live and other factors, partner organizations may assist in creating an appointment for your house alarm. If you are able to purchase and install your own smoke alarm, but would like information on home fire safety and smoke alarm installation, you can visit redcross.org/homefire.

In just three years, the home visits have installed more than 1 million smoke alarms and prepared more than 1 million people against house fires. So far, 472 lives have been saved and 600,000 homes have been made emergency ready. In the LA region alone, the Red Cross and its partners have accomplished the following:

• Served 29,396 people
• Canvased 19,148 homes
• Conducted 8,017 home visits
• Created 6,694 evacuation plans
• Witnessed 3,854 volunteers attend events

There are five ways you can get involved.

1. Get Prepared at Home: Learn how to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover after a home fire. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, test smoke alarms every month, and talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

2. Teach Fire Safety in Your Classroom: The Pillowcase Project is a preparedness education program for grades 3 - 5, which teaches students about personal and family preparedness, local hazards, and basic coping skills. You can contact your local Red Cross to find out more.

3. Volunteer to Help Others: Join your local Red Cross to install smoke alarms, educate your community about fire safety, or help others after a fire. Volunteers carry out 90% of the humanitarian work of the Red Cross.

4. Make a Donation: Help families prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from home fires by making a small donation. A little goes a long way.

5. Sound the Alarm. Save a life: You can help this spring by installing free smoke alarms in your community. In 2018, 100,000 smoke alarms were installed and 28,000 volunteers raised $15,000,000!

To view upcoming volunteer opportunities, in the Los Angeles area, you can visit https://www.redcross.org/local/california/los-angeles/about-us/our-work/home-fire-safety.html

JOIN THE RED CROSS "SOUND THE ALARM" CAMPAIGN

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood, we do our best to advocate emergency preparedness and safety. Our professional restoration services will help aid you when disaster hits, but did you know that you can also promote safety and make a difference in your community?

Every day, seven people die in home fires and 36 suffer injuries, most in homes that lack working smoke alarms. Sadly, children and the elderly disproportionately become the victims. The American Red Cross sought to improve the odds and save lives by creating the Home Fire Campaign in 2014. A critical part of the campaign is “Sound the Alarm”, a series of home fire safety and smoke alarm installation events across the country. Together with fire departments and other community partners, Red Cross volunteers canvass at-risk neighborhoods, install free smoke alarms, replace batteries in existing alarms, and provide fire prevention and safety education.

The Red Cross will install a limited number of free smoke alarms for those who cannot afford them or are unable to install them, including specialized bedside alarms for individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. To identify your local region office, please visit RedCross.org (or call 1-800-REDCROSS). Depending on where you live and other factors, partner organizations may assist in creating an appointment for your house alarm. If you are able to purchase and install your own smoke alarm, but would like information on home fire safety and smoke alarm installation, you can visit redcross.org/homefire.

In just three years, the home visits have installed more than 1 million smoke alarms and prepared more than 1 million people against house fires. So far, 472 lives have been saved and 600,000 homes have been made emergency ready. In the LA region alone, the Red Cross and its partners have accomplished the following:

• Served 29,396 people
• Canvased 19,148 homes
• Conducted 8,017 home visits
• Created 6,694 evacuation plans
• Witnessed 3,854 volunteers attend events

There are five ways you can get involved.

1. Get Prepared at Home: Learn how to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover after a home fire. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, test smoke alarms every month, and talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

2. Teach Fire Safety in Your Classroom: The Pillowcase Project is a preparedness education program for grades 3 - 5, which teaches students about personal and family preparedness, local hazards, and basic coping skills. You can contact your local Red Cross to find out more.

3. Volunteer to Help Others: Join your local Red Cross to install smoke alarms, educate your community about fire safety, or help others after a fire. Volunteers carry out 90% of the humanitarian work of the Red Cross.

4. Make a Donation: Help families prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from home fires by making a small donation. A little goes a long way.

5. Sound the Alarm. Save a life: You can help this spring by installing free smoke alarms in your community. In 2018, 100,000 smoke alarms were installed and 28,000 volunteers raised $15,000,000!

To view upcoming volunteer opportunities, in the Los Angeles area, you can visit https://www.redcross.org/local/california/los-angeles/about-us/our-work/home-fire-safety.html

NO STORM IS TOO LARGE

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

What happens if you find your Long Beach business or home in the middle of a storm? At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood, we recognize that buildings are not always adequately constructed to handle changing weather conditions. We are here to help with damage caused by wind or water in the event of a storm.

In September of 2015, the remnants of Hurricane Linda brought localized downpours from Santa Barbara to San Diego, California. That month, Los Angeles received 2.39 inches of rain, making it one of the wettest September days since 1877. Many older homes and businesses in L.A. County found themselves overwhelmed and unprepared.

In a storm such as this, torrents of black water, sewage water containing bacteria, mold, and viruses, begin to devastate businesses by first permeating through the floors, walls, and ceiling. Here the water can infiltrate through coating breaks, between seams, and under baseboards. If combined with dirt, mold may even begin to develop. When exposed to this kind of water, complete removal and replacement of contaminated areas is recommended. If restoration is an option, it is important to note how the wooden floor boards begin to expand and warp. Cupping occurs when the edges of floorboards begin to rise and can be sanded down by our SERVPRO technicians. Unfortunately, if the floor boards begin to crown due to an oversaturation of the top layer of wood, sanding is not an option and complete removal might be the best course of action. 

Strong winds can cause adjacent trees to become a hazard to your home. A single branch from a large tree could have enough weight to collapse a roof or create an opening in the side of your house. As a result, runoff of torrential rains may begin to flow into your Long Beach home. In this situation, SERVPRO technicians can use penetrating moisture meters and special equipment to recommend the best course of action based on the amount of damage incurred.

Across the nation, SERVPRO has you covered with the Commercial Large Loss Division and the Disaster Recovery Team. With the ability to mobilize local command centers, along with the resources of more than 1,700 franchises nationwide, no disaster is too big. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation. If you find yourself in a situation too big to handle, call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood for immediate and professional service.

IMMEDIATE RESPONSE AND THE SERVPRO EMERGENCY READY PROFILE

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to our local communities. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night, if you experience an emergency in the greater Long Beach area.

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. Fortunately, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. If you find yourself outside of our serviceable area, you may contact over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian franchise locations. Our immediate response helps to minimize the damage, cleaning, and restoration costs.

Many emergencies that we encounter include some type of water damage. Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and permeating floors, walls, and furniture. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

Within minutes, water quickly spreads throughout your property. It saturates everything in its path, absorbing into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. Between 1 and 24 hours, drywall begins to swell and break down, metal surfaces begin to tarnish, and furniture begins to crack. Within 48 hours to a week, mold and mildew may grow and spread, and doors, windows, and studs start to warp. Metal begins to rust and corrode, and furniture distorts, showing signs of mold. After a week, restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.

Even though disaster strikes unexpectedly, you can always plan ahead of time. By utilizing the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program for your business, you can create an Emergency READY Profile for your establishment, at no charge. You can work with SERVPRO to gather and document information that will become critical if a disaster strikes. Once the profile is created, you will have access to your information 24/7 online and by using SERVPRO’s free smartphone app.

With proper planning, you can land back on your feet faster than ever. Don’t incur more damage and expense by waiting to contact a professional. SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood is ready to respond any time or day of the year.

CLAIMS RESPONSE AND SERVICE

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers. At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood, we understand your situation and are uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a noticeable difference and make your job easier.

Our job is to reassure the customer, perform quality service, and to report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim, and not to deal with problems from vendors. Working together we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you are assigned. Damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file are available to you within hours. Our documented, measured performance increases value to you and your shareholders, managers, and customers.

If you call SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood, we will use only qualified vendors to service your customer. That commitment resulted in an implementation of best practices and job process programs, crew and vehicle standards, and insurance requirements. Our file documentation requirements and quality assurance program will also guarantee service at the highest standard.

Some of the services we provide involving claims include the following:

• Emergency Response to Claims: Restoring property is our first priority. Your customer will appreciate the immediate response and you will know everything is being done to limit the damage.
• Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense: Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Claims professionals know the rule is, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood, we make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.
• Claims Inventory Service: We can provide an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.
• Electronic Claims Information: Our Claims Information Center provides fast, accurate information you need to make sound decisions, including a complete electronic job file, online access to all files, informative reports to improve results, and performance comparison to the industry standard.

Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood leaders in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. Our system is geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your company’s competitive advantage.

EXCEPTIONAL TRAINING AND STANDARDS

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood, effective training is the best way to ensure our customers receive the service they deserve. Franchise owners and industry employees may learn a wealth of restoration and mitigation skills at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility.

At the facility, new franchises must participate in a 15 day in-house, hands-on training program covering fire restoration, water restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and mold mitigation. Employees may learn at their own pace and take advantage of video and web based training modules. Continuing education about emergency mitigation services is also offered in the form of credit and noncredit courses.

Our responders are trained to standards set forth by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and complete various year-around education courses at the highest degree. Developed in 1972, the IICRC sought to set standards for the cleaning, inspection, and restoration service industries. The group boasts 53,000 active certified registered technicians and 6,000 certified individuals and firms, making it the premier certification and standard-setting body for the industry.

In order to obtain certification, technicians must first attend specialized classes in the field of cleaning, inspection, and restoration and pass a standardized test. After achieving certification, technicians must remain knowledgeable on current trends in their field and learn how to overcome new challenges by earning continuing education credits. The title of master technician can be only be acquired with additional training and 3 to 5 years of experience.

The scope of IICRC certifications qualifies a remediation and restoration company to adequately and safely restore a home. While not mandatory, this accreditation offers confidence and guarantee to homeowners and businesses affected by floods, fires, and other disasters. Rest assured, these technicians possess the training and expertise to work with specific machinery and products needed for comprehensive restoration.

SERVPRO has developed the most extensive performance guidelines in the industry. These guidelines assure you receive the best restoration service in the industry. At SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood, we maintain proper guidelines for business. From insurance to background checks on employees, each requirement is maintained continually to help ensure you get the best possible service providers.

ADVANCED EQUIPMENT AND TECHNIQUES

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Within just the past few years, technology and techniques within the restoration industry have evolved rapidly. These advancements allow professionals at SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood to restore properties back to preloss conditions more effectively than ever before.

Following guidelines and standards set forth by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), our technicians use their skills and equipment at the highest caliber for all restoration and cleaning services. Following the IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide, we incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture, and dry a property effectively.

Water can easily saturate your Long Beach residence in undetected areas and damage begins faster than you realize. Our technicians rely upon specialized moisture and measurement equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Infrared cameras can help detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor, allowing for thorough water removal. Moreover, sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.

Powerful water extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the majority of the water from your Long Beach home or business. Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water are utilized for the most difficult jobs and provide efficient clean-up. Furthermore, truck-mounted and portable extraction units allow for rapid water removal and water displacement.

Once the water has been pumped out, industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your Long Beach home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture, and high-speed air circulators cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace. Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air, allowing for faster drying.

Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process. Air scrubbers, thermal foggers, and deodorization agents create cleaner air for you and your family to breathe. The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may also be needed to clean and remove odors or contaminants on your property. Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture, and disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

You can trust SERVPRO of Northeast Long Beach / Lakewood to use the best equipment to bring your life back in order. Whatever the job requires, we have you covered. Call us now, and we will be happy to gather the proper equipment for your specific needs.

CAN YOU GUESS THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF HOUSE FIRES?

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a home's contents in Santa Barbara

There are many situations that may cause a fire, but can you guess the most common causes of house fires? It may happen in ways you least expect. Take precautionary measures now to protect your home from the following fire instigators. If an accident occurs, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood has you covered.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking equipment is the number one cause for house fires. Pots and pans can quickly overheat when left unattended or mishandled. Be sure to turn handles towards the middle of the stove to avoid children from accidentally grabbing it from the burner. When leaving the house, remember to turn off stove-top burners and ovens.

Moreover, smoking in bedrooms should be avoided at all costs. A cigarette butt can stay lit for hours and cause a flame after coming into contact with clothes or furniture. Open flames such as candles also pose a danger for many residents. While they may have an attractive look and smell, candles should always be blown out before you leave a room.

Furthermore, older lampshades and light fittings may build up heat, and weak bases could pose a tipping hazard. Electrical equipment such as these should be checked for faulty cords, and the power point must not be overloaded with double adapter plugs. Also be mindful of flammable liquids such as petrol, kerosene, or methylated spirits around the house. These should be kept away from heat sources and stored properly according to their label.

If you experience a fire, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Examine you and your family for injuries and seek medical help
• If you can’t find a place to stay, your local Red Cross can help provide food and provisions
• Notify your insurance company about the fire
• Do not re-enter your home until instructed to do so. Talk to firefighters about what can be salvaged instead
• Once you are cleared to enter the building, check for important documents and keepsakes
• Make a list of your possessions and note damaged goods
• Keep track of receipts for expenses as a result of the fire

Nobody wants to come home to a irreparable damage. By knowing these common causes of house fires, you and your neighborhood can live a little bit safer. When accidents happen, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood is here to clean fire damage and restore your home quickly and professionally.

IMPACT OF SMOKE DAMAGE

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke damage can have a devastating affect on health and property. SERVPRO can help!

At SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood, fire restoration and clean-up is one of our specialties. Smoke, comprised of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and soot, affects a building’s structure in unexpected ways. Depending on temperature, the environment, and air flow, smoke can distribute in many different areas and cause more damage than you realize. To protect your health and preserve your property investment, count on SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood to restore your building back to new.

Because hot air rises, smoke residue is most commonly found on the ceiling directly above the source of the fire. Soot can also extend to the inside perimeter as cold air below opens a path for smoke to travel to exterior walls and windows. Because of this, noticeable staining and odor remains present throughout.

Furniture, decorations, and enclosed spaces interact with the smoke in unusual ways. As molecules become excited in warmer air, they move from hot areas to colder areas of the room, falling out of the air and onto relatively enclosed areas. These particles rest behind cool drapes or under shades, and they travel into drawers, closets, and cavities. Since smoke particles are often ionized (possessing an electrical charge), smoke damage may also occur on surrounding nail heads in the ceiling and synthetic materials such as vinyl, due to their greater ionization characteristics. You may also witness cobweb-like shapes in the corners of the room caused by the strong charge of burning plastics.

Furthermore, air currents may carry smoke away from the fire, causing damage in surprising areas. First, the smoke will find its way into the cool ductwork, damaging rooms located away from the fire. Airstreams may then carry it around doors, like water passing objects in a stream. As a result, residue builds on the far side of door openings with the pattern diminishing further away from the fire. Understanding the physics takes mystery out of stressful situation.

Smoke resulting from fire can behave in unintended ways. It permeates a house as it seeks new places to settle. The resulting effects can be long lasting and have an impact on your health. Until professionals repair the damage and replace smoke stained areas, the room is virtually uninhabitable. If you find yourself in such a situation, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood will have you breathing better.

MONDAY MORNING FLOOD DAMAGE

8/29/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technician extracting water from a flood-damaged business in Long Beach

Monday Morning Flood Damage

Water damage may occur unexpectedly, through no fault of your own. For example, when a fire hydrant, adjacent to a commercial building, became sheared by a vehicle, it flooded the business without warning and without the occupants’ knowledge or involvement. Did you know a hydrant can gush 5,000 to 180,000 gallons of water, shooting 50 or 60 feet into the air? The amount of water lost depends on response time, hydrant type, and system pressure. If this type of catastrophe occurs, local businesses and residences must be prepared to mitigate a potential flood. On August 27, 2018, one such incident occurred, and SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood was quick to arrive on the scene.

On Monday morning, firefighters began pumping water out of a downtown loading dock after a truck driver accidentally sheared a fire hydrant off its base. A big-rig hit the hydrant around 5 a.m. on Long Beach Boulevard, just south of Fourth Street. Fortunately, it activated a fire alarm in the nearby Chuck E. Cheese’s, alerting authorities. That same morning, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood was called to the scene to complete the water remediation in a nearby business affected by the accident. After an assessment of the situation, the SERVPRO crew was quick to suction water out of the floors and carpets, insuring that the facility was thoroughly and professionally dried down. Due to the extent of water damage, impacting numerous offices, computer room, and common area, the entire job was estimated to take about five days.

If your business becomes flooded, there are a few steps you can immediately take to reduce damage before SERVPRO arrives at the scene.

1. Turn off power to affected rooms, and walk carefully while avoiding sagging ceilings.
2. Find and stop the source. Turn off the valve attached to the leaking fixture, or locate the main water supply valve to the building. If you cannot find the valve, notify a plumber or in some cases, the fire department.
3. Remove as much standing water as possible, but only if you’re certain that the water is clean. Do not use a household vacuum cleaner. Instead, use a professional wet/dry vac or towels and linens to prevent the water from entering unaffected areas.
4. Remove clothing, documents, and objects in the affected area, and place plastic underneath furniture to prevent further water damage. Wooden blocks or Styrofoam can help protect furniture with a solid base, and curtains can be hung to dry.
5. Remove pictures from wet walls and open drawers on wet furniture. Prop up cushions and remove rugs carefully as they may bleed onto other surfaces.

Unexpected flooding is stressful and places your business in a standstill. Whether the source of flooding originated in your building or your neighbor’s, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to help in any emergency, 24/7, and get your business up and running.

THE IMPORTANCE OF RENTERS INSURANCE

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

Protect yourself and your Family- get renters insurance!

If an unexpected disaster occurs, could you afford to replace the possessions in your home? Renters insurance is a cost effective way to replace personal belongings in the event of theft, fire, or water damage. It will also include liability protection, covering the medical expenses of someone hurt inside your residence. At SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood, we witness customers getting back on their feet much more quickly with the appropriate renters insurance policy.

While renters insurance is not required by law, your landlord may require it as part of your rental agreement. It is important to note that their insurance policy will only cover the building and not items within the establishment such as furniture, electronics, and appliances.

Most people’s possessions are worth more than they realize. The average person has over $35,000 worth of items that are not covered under their landlord’s policy. Thankfully, renters insurance is relatively inexpensive. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ data, the average policy costs $184 per year, or about $15 per month for coverage that ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 (depending on where you live) with a $500 to $1,000 deductible.

In order to determine which insurance policy is right for you, it is important to take an inventory of your belongings which can later be used in your claim. Coverage for certain types of property such as collectibles, gold ware, jewelry, and bank notes may have a dollar limit, and the amount of money you can recoup depends on the terms of your insurance. Cash value coverage will reimburse the cost of the item at the time of the claim, whereas replacement cost coverage will reimburse the full value of a brand new item. Also be aware of multi-policy discounts or reductions if your home is equipped with smoke alarms or a security system. Should something happen and you need to file a claim, do not attempt to clean the area but document everything with photos and be prepared to pay your deductible.

Moreover, renters insurance will not cover you in the event of a flood. Floods are the number one natural disaster in the U.S., and you don’t have to live in a high risk flood-zone to be affected. Flash floods can occur anywhere, including the beaches and the deserts, and only an inch of water can begin causing damage to your building. Consider shopping for flood insurance in addition to your renters insurance.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to help get your life back on track. Our trained professionals and specialized equipment can help ease your stress by taking care of you in the event of water and fire damage. Additionally, renters insurance will give you one more reason to be worry free. 

ASBESTOS- SHOULD I BE WORRIED?

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

Asbestos Fibers

At SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood, we deal with a lot of unexpected problems and create a plan to solve each one. One common danger found in many homes includes the potentially harmful material, asbestos.

While Congress enacted the Toxic Substances Control Act in 1976 to comprehensively regulate toxic substances including asbestos, it hasn’t prevented the material from appearing in buildings and many consumer goods. Most recently, on June 1, 2018, The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made it easier for companies to use asbestos in new products.

Following the new presidential administration “framework” for evaluating risks, the EPA would only restrict products that pose a direct risk to workers instead of a general risk to air, ground, or water contamination. While asbestos imports are tracked and reviewed for new purposes, many worry the EPA will be too lenient as they have been for pesticides, air pollution from cars, and coal-fired power plants. Asbestos imports to the U.S., which have declined overall and in the last few years, rose 45 percent between 2015 and 2016. 

Asbestos was unable to reach a complete ban in the U.S. in 1991, and it is still responsible for the deaths of about 40,000 Americans annually.

So what is asbestos, the dangers it poses, and signs to look out for?

Asbestos fibers are a soft, flexible, mineral substance that are resistant to heat, electricity, and corrosion. For decades, this material has been used in fireproofing and electrical materials, floor tiles, automobile parts, and consumer products such as hair dryers. Unfortunately, these microscopic fibers are odorless, virtually invisible, and can cause inflammation in lung tissue when inhaled. Symptoms may remain dormant for 20-50 years, making the elderly more susceptible to mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the lungs. If you suspect a large amount of asbestos in your building, check for the following:

• Surface patterns on roofing and shingles with dimples or shallow craters.
• Interior and exterior joints where plastic, aluminum, or wooden runners were joined with asbestos sheets and adhesives, like window putty, drywall tape and joint cement.
• Asbestos insulation in the attic or in bathroom floor tiles.

Notify SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood for expert cleaning from us and our associated professionals. A licensed abatement specialist will perform an asbestos inspection and determine if it needs to be covered or removed. You can count on us to keep you and your family healthy and hazard free.

MOLD: WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PREVENT ITS GROWTH

8/6/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in a storage unit in San Pedro

Mold is a type of fungi which grows in moist locations. Some mold is helpful and is used in medicines, some mold is delicious and is found in cheese or in the form of mushrooms. However, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood knows that other types of mold can be harmful to our health.  It’s not healthy to inhale any type of mold spores, but some types of mold actually produce toxins, known as mycotoxins, that frequently cause a variety of health problems. 

Once it’s been determined that your home or business has mold that must be remediated (testing is done and a protocol is written by an environmental consulting company), SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is there to contain the area, follow the protocol and remove the mold to ensure that you are living and working in a safe environment.

So how can we prevent the bad type of mold from growing in the first place?

Mold thrives in dark, moist areas. If your home or business has suffered a water loss remember that prompt mitigation is vital to avoid mold growth which can be visible in as little as 24 to 48 hours under certain conditions. Keep in mind that mold can grow on multiple places such as ceiling tiles, wallpaper, carpets, drywall and even wood.

Responding to water damages and other water intrusions immediately can prevent mold growth in those locations. When calling SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood make sure to let them know how long this water damage could have been going on so we can inspect for mold growth as well.

Make sure to keep gutters and drains clear of debris. By keeping clear of build-up this prevents moisture from staying in the drains and will prevent mold from growing.

Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.

Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building and perform necessary maintenance.

Having a mold issue can be dangerous to your health. Taking preventative steps to defend against mold growth is an important proactive step. When water loss occurs, prompt action and a call to  SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood (562) 420-0030 to insure that the affected areas in your home or business is thoroughly dried and the loss is properly mitigated is key.

KID FIRE SAFETY-BE PREPARED!

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a Signal Hill home

You may know what to do during a fire, but do your children? SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood has faced countless losses in homes and businesses due to fire damage so we want families to be prepared. With school coming back in session soon, it's important to make sure that your kids are educated on fire safety. You never want to leave your kids home alone without the proper fire safety education and since you can't predict a fire emergency, fire safety education is key. Here are some important items to remember: 

Make sure that you educate your children on what a smoke alarm looks and sounds like. Make sure they can recognize when a fire alarm has gone off and what to do when an alarm has sound. Know two or more routes to exit your home/school during a fire as well as a meeting point away from the location a safe distance from the fire. The American Red Cross suggests "Practice your fire escape plan at least twice a year and at different times of the day. Practice waking up to smoke alarms, low crawling, and meeting outside." It is crucial your children also know how to dial 9-1-1. 

When making sure your home is up to fire safety standards, make sure to have escape ladders on the upper levels so that you can escape from windows to safety. The American Red Cross also suggests "use quick-release devices on barred windows and doors. Security bars without release devices can trap you in a deadly fire. If you have security bars on your windows, be sure one window in each sleeping room has a release device." It is important to make your children aware of which windows have quick releases on them and how to use them properly. Also have fire extinguishers readily available, and up-to-date and, at minimum, in the kitchen, garage and on the upper levels. 

It's never too soon to start teaching your kids how to be prepared during an emergency, including fires, as they often occur in the home. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is open 24/7 in case an emergency strikes. We are dedicated to helping restore your residence to pre-disaster conditions, making it “Like it never even happened”. 

HOW TO PREVENT WATER DAMAGE: ON VACATION

7/29/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage in a Long Beach Home

There may be nothing worse than coming home from a relaxing vacation to a flooded home! SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood knows that water damage that isn't resolved quickly can turn into a mold problem.  When a home suffers a water damage event, a mold infestation can quickly arise and spread throughout the residence in as little as 48-72 hours. Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. So avoiding water damage while you are away is key vacation prep! Here are a few tips, before you head out, to keep your property dry and, hopefully, damage- free:

-Inspect the hoses that connect to major appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerator ice-makers. Replace any old or damaged hoses.

-Clear all the debris out of your rain gutters, and check the downspouts for any blockages. This will enable water to exit your roof correctly without flooding or backing up.

-Ask someone to check on your home periodically while you are away to make sure all goes well. If there is a leak or flood, they’ll catch it in the early stages.

-Consider shutting off automatic sprinklers in the front and back of the house. This will prevent you from having a flood in your yard that can migrate into the property.

-Consider turning off the main water in the house. In this way, you are completely avoiding any in-home water damage from pipes that could possibly burst in your absence.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is ready to assist when your home is affected by water damage (fire damage, smoke damage, biohazard too)  whether you've been away on vacation or not! Call us 24/7 at 562-420-0030 and let us know how we can help!

COMMERCIAL - WATER DAMAGE

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

Moisture Meter showing atmospheric reading at commercial loss in Long Beach

At SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood we do a high volume of commercial water damage services.  The term "commercial" in our industry includes office buildings, industrial buildings, multi-unit properties, and retail businesses.  So what is the difference between working on commercial water damage repair versus performing our services at residential homes? 

While a water damage to a residential home is a huge inconvenience for a homeowner or renter, it can be devastating for a business owner.  Instead of one family being troubled with damaged property, a business with a water damage can affect the families of everyone who works there!  Quick turnaround time is essential so that the business can get back to normal as fast as possible.   

If you dislike Mondays, imagine a Monday morning where you open up the front door to your office and water floods your feet.  After the initial panic subsides, you call in SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood to help with the cleanup and repairs.  Our initial crews will show up to assess the damage, as well as start the extraction of standing water and placing furniture up on blocks to stop further damage.  No two jobs are alike, so our team kicks into problem-solving mode.  Additional crews are called in, additional equipment arrives.  The adjuster is contacted so he is apprised of the situation on the ground.  Most likely testing will need to be ordered to comply with the Lead and Asbestos removal laws.   

The needs of the business owner are the most important aspect of the entire process.  Do they need to be relocated temporarily?  SERVPRO takes care of that.  Are there damaged servers or computers that need to be repaired?  SERVPRO facilitates that.  Was any specialty equipment damaged?  Are there any safety hazards?  Were any files damaged that need to be salvaged?  Do we need to work around the clock?  Can we only work through a night shift?  There are so many variables.  SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood has many resources to help put your business back together as quickly as possible.  It is what we do on a regular basis. 

Once the drying takes place, the construction repairs follow.  An estimate is sent to the insurance carrier for approval.  The goal is to complete the repairs quickly so that business can resume as usual.  The benefit of having one company do the water damage repair and the construction repair is the smooth work flow.  We can write the repair estimate while the drying is taking place, which saves many days of waiting for insurance approval.  Many of our clients have special needs, requiring us to work weekends only or nights, and we accommodate them.   

Commercial water damage repair is a service that SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood has been offering for 10 years.  We are proud of our work product.  If you have a water damage at your business, give us a call at 562-420-0030.  SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to help.   

STORM - HURRICANE HARVEY 2017

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

A home in Houston ravaged by Hurricane Harvey

It has been nearly a year since SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood packed up three trucks to make the drive from Long Beach, California to Houston, Texas to help with water damage repair cleanup from Hurricane Harvey.  So, what was it like?   

The drive took three full days due to the heavy equipment we carried with us.  As we came closer to Houston, we had trouble fueling up our diesel truck.  Driving from small town gas station to small town gas station along our route, we were met with signs over the gas nozzles announcing “Out of Fuel.”   The lines were very long, with tempers flaring as locals and long-distance truck drivers competed to fill up their vehicles.   

On Day 3 we made it to Houston in the afternoon.  The traffic was terrible – and this is someone from Los Angeles saying this.  There were many main roads that were still underwater, some looking like rivers as we passed them.  We were fortunate to have a friend with a small apartment in Southeast Houston that we could stay at.  It became our office, kitchen, and sleeping quarters.  A hotel was rented for our technicians who flew in to help with the cleanup work.   

The first couple days in Houston was spent organizing supplies, getting the layout of the city, and generally preparing to get started on the work.  SERVPRO Storm Team started to send us a steady flow of work after about 4 days.  Now, when you are responding to storm damaged homes, there is only so much preparation you can do beforehand.  The real problem solving happens in the field once you have your boots on the ground.   

The first impression I had when we started working was the great resourcefulness of Texans.  Friends and neighbors came to each other’s aid to help pull out damaged furniture, remove drywall, and provide moral support and humor.  Driving down neighborhoods, we saw piles of drywall, clothing, and furniture piled high in front yards.  After a few days of trash not being cleared, the smell started to fill the humid air.  The odor was like what you experience when you clean out a dirty fish tank.  Many cars were unusable due to being flooded, so they sat with steamy windows until the towing companies could come through to take them to the junk yards.  Despite all this, restaurants were open, Home Depot and Loews were open for business, and people went about their days as best they could, patching the city back together.  

The worst houses we worked on were the ones that had been completely swept through with mud.  Imagine a tidal wave of mud floating through the entire downstairs of your home.  The water lines were taller than me on some of the homes.  The mud was everywhere – caked on the floors, on the wall studs behind the drywall, on furniture and clothing.  We would remove the furniture, the affected drywall, complete a pressure washing of all the surfaces while extracting the runoff, and then finish by hand wiping, vacuuming, and mopping all the affected areas at least one or more times.  The final treatment would be an antimicrobial application.   

The customers with the most badly affected homes were the nicest and most grateful.  When they could have been angry at their circumstances, they instead showed gratitude.  Our crews put in long days with a smile fueled by the good attitudes of our customers.  Even the massive number of mosquitoes from all the standing water couldn’t keep us down.   

After a month in Houston, we made the long ride back to Los Angeles.  The home office ran smoothly in our absence, thanks to our wonderful General Manager and the crews that stayed behind.  It was a great adventure.  We hoped to have some much-needed downtime when we got back, but Mother Nature had other plans.  We returned home to blazing wildfires in Los Angeles and Orange County.  Off to help with the fire damage cleanup we went because at  SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood we are here to help with fire damage repair and water damage repair both on the road and in our own backyard.   

GO GREEN IN YOUR OFFICE!

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood supports an Eco-Friendly Office Environment

With heat rising and summer in full force we are all aware of how important it is to monitor the A/C to keep your electric bill from sky rocketing… but did you know it has an ECO-FRIENDLY impact?! SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is dedicated to making sure your business or home is disaster free, but we think it is important to stay up to date on some of the best green tips as well. These tips can not only save our environment but can also save you money! Here are some very simple changes you can make in your office that can have a great green & eco-friendly impact!

• Keep your A/C at a constant of 76 degrees and above (lower use of A/C =reduced water consumption and carbon emissions)
• Provide a readily available recycling bin. Employees will be more likely to choose it, when appropriate, over throwing all items in the trash
• Encourage workers to use 'real' or ceramic mugs at work instead of disposable cups (we have some fun mugs in our office!)
• Reduce the amount of printing in the office by relying on emails, white boarding and projectors during meetings. Here in our SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood office we like to use a projector to conduct meetings.
• Recycle used ink and toner cartridges for printers
• Replace standard incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or LED bulbs wherever possible. These use 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent light bulbs while delivering the same light output.
• Install low-flow faucet aerators to reduce the flow of water from taps.
• Use weather-stripping and caulking to minimize heat loss from windows and doors.

Unplugging your electronics from the outlets is a great example of an eco-friendly tip that could prevent fire damage in your office as well! Overloading outlets is not only an energy-waster but can result in electrical fires.  If this occurs, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is there to help. For fire damage, water damage and all types of emergency services, contact us 24/7 at 888-591-1733.  

And for more ideas, search “green office tips” or check out articles like: www.thriveglobal.com/stories/27906-15-ways-to-be-green-at-work

READY TO RESPOND TO YOUR EMERGENCY 24/7

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage to a Commercial Building in Long Beach

A pipe bursts in the middle of the night, what do you do? Sprinklers go off, sewage backs up, thieves leave behind broken glass and damaged interiors, where do you turn? There is no time frame for when disaster strikes, whether it is water damage, fire damage, a biohazard emergency etc. … so SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is ready for you 24/7. We have employees available to take your call any time, any day, to respond to your disaster. We are fully prepared to help you when an emergency hits your home or business. We know the impact, personally, professionally and financially, lost days can have if an emergency strikes an office or property. That’s why we are committed to making sure that you get back to pre-damage conditions as soon as possible. If a disaster strikes, be it the middle of the night or during a busy work day, make sure to call SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood at (562)-420-0030. We’ll respond to your call, assess your damages and solve your problems!

TSUNAMI: A THREAT TO COASTAL CALIFORNIA

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Tsunami preparedness is critical in Coastal California

Living in California, and especially along the coast, we’re aware that we can feel the negative impacts from natural threats such as tropical storms and Tsunamis. In fact, just off the coast of California lies the Cascadia fault – which is thought to be up to 30 times more powerful than its more famous neighbor, the San Andreas fault.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to assist when your home or business is affected by water, fire and storm damages. We also want to provide you information to help you avoid loss or damage to property, personal belongings or, in the worst case, people. Here are some insights about Tsunamis to keep you informed:

Ready.gov classifies a tsunami as "a series of enormous waves created by an underwater disturbance such as an earthquake, landslide, volcanic eruption, or meteorite."  Tsunamis are also known as seismic sea waves and often mistaken for tidal waves. Areas within a mile of the coast and less than 25 feet about sea level have a greater risk of being hit, according to www.Ready.gov

It is important to be aware of evacuation routes close to the beach and have an emergency plan prepared in case one strikes. It is also very important to understand that the first wave often is not the last and could get larger. Once you have reached higher ground, make sure to stay away from effected sites until officials deem them safe. Flooding is the most common safety hazard but, in the aftermath of the event, landslides, floods, debris, and/or contaminated drinking water can also occur.

If you are traveling anywhere tropical, you may want to check out www.tsunami.gov  in advance to determine if there are advisory warnings, threats, etc. Also, make sure you keep up-to-date on where to go during an emergency evacuation due to tsunami and who to contact once you reach a safe area.

If your property becomes damaged from a tsunami, or from any loss caused by water, fire, storm or biohazard, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to clean up, restore and, when needed, reconstruct your home or business and get you back to the way things were. Reach us 24/7 at 562-420-0030

FIRE SEASON IS CAUSING WIDE SPREAD DAMAGE

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a home in Long Beach

There have been recent Fires throughout the State, causing fire damage and smoke damage to residential and commercial properties. Here at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood, we’ve already responded to a number of fire losses in the last month. The overall incidents across the region cause worry among officials and scientists that fire season may come earlier to California this year, amid drought conditions, raising worries of a destructive season ahead. Last year was the deadliest and costliest fire season in the state’s history. No one wants to see another year of deadly fires.

On a personal level, it’s important to be prepared. Stay tuned in to your favorite tv or radio station to keep informed about current fire locations and their status. An informative website is www.fire.ca.gov for up-to-the-minute reports. They not only tell you if there is a fire close to you, but also the level of containment of the fire and how many acres have been impacted. Be sure to have an emergency bag packed and kept up to date in case an evacuation is announced or your property is affected.

Should your property suffer from fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is available, 24/7 to help. We’ll work closely with your insurance company, providing the needed documentation and photos to assist in getting the needed approvals to move forward in cleanup, restoration and, reconstruction of your home or business. We can pack up your belongings and keep them safely stored in our warehouse until they can be returned to your property. We have worked with numerous customers affected by loss caused from fire damage, assisting them through this overwhelming process. Look to the certified, trained professionals at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood to help you through this difficult time. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened”.

STORM DAMAGE: HOW TO BE PREPARED

7/8/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Damage to a Home in Santa Barbara

The devastation caused by storm damage can be far-reaching. The residents and business owners in the Greater Santa Barbara area were victims to the cruel effects of the wild fires, mud slides and extreme water damage occurring this year. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood was there to help with cleanup, restoration and reconstruction expertise.

When a wild fire has affected an area, it becomes susceptible to landslides due to destabilization of the soil or foundation. When a storm is threatening, preplanning and preparation can assist in lessening storm and water damage.

The most important thing to know is how to recognize when the storm will be approaching and the signs that come along with a landslide. Change in the landscape and sudden cracks in the pavement are major signs that a landslide may occur at your home. Indicators such as pipes bursting, and crackling of trees or light rumbling sounds are signs that the ground beneath is moving.

During a severe storm make sure to stay alert and awake. Move away from the path of a landslide or debris flow as quickly as possible. The danger from a mudflow increases near stream channels and with prolonged heavy rains. Make sure to stay clear of all rivers or open bodies of water. If escape from the landslide is not possible, authorities recommend you curl into a tight ball and cover your neck and head as much as possible.

After a landslide make sure you stay away from affected until advised otherwise. Look for and report broken utility lines and damaged roadways and railways to appropriate authorities. Reporting potential hazards will get the utilities turned off as quickly as possible, preventing further home emergencies. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to assist you with any storm damages, as well water and fire damages, affecting your home or business. Call us ,24/7, when emergency strikes: 562-420-0030

EMERGENCY EVACUATION KIT: BE PREPARED FOR FIRE SEASON

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a building in Anaheim.

What if I Need to Evacuate My home?

Fire season is in full effect and multiple fires have started across the state of California causing fire damage to residences and businesses. Here at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood we work on fire restorations and repair when a disaster strikes. We also know it's extremely important to get together an Emergency Evacuation Kit. We've compiled some helpful tips for putting together an evacuation kit. It is important to update your emergency kits every year to adjust to new needs and replace anything that has expired. Ready.gov suggests you have kits ready in your home, car, and at work because you never know when a fire will cause an evacuation.

What to Pack inside the Kit:

• Scan and save all important documents on a flash drive

These include:

• Driver’s license
• The deed to your house
• Your will and/or trust
• Proof of insurance
• Medical records
• Passport
• Social security cards
• Birth certificates
• Pet paperwork

• Daily Essentials
  • Flashlights
  • Batteries
  • Clothes
  • Pet supplies
  • Diapers (if needed)
  • Nonperishable foods
  • Hand crank/battery powered radio
  • Medications (as applicable)
• First Aid Kit
• Fire Extinguisher
• Sleeping Bag/Blankets

To look up more on how to pack the perfect evacuation kit check out Ready.gov for additional tips. If your home or business experiences fire damage, call SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood. We’re here 24/7 to help make it “Like it never even happened”.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS TO AVOID FIRE DAMAGE

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Home Fire in Tustin

How to Avoid Fire Damage and Keep Your Home Safe

Fires can happen anytime/anywhere and the impact of fire damage is overwhelming. That’s why SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is open 24 hours a day, every day, just in case an emergency, such as a fire, strikes your home. We are always looking out for the safety of our customers and ways to assist in keeping emergencies, such as fire damage, at a minimum. With fire season in California upon us it is important to always be updated on fire safety measures in your home. Here are some recommended steps:

Smoke Detectors

-Install at least one smoke detector on every level of the home, near the bedrooms, and one in the garage.

-Test all the batteries monthly

-Clean your smoke detectors from dust and dirt to keep them working properly

Fire Escape Plan

-Establish a planned escape route for every room in the house

-Determine an outside meeting place for all family members

-Review your plans and practice a fire drill with household members twice a year

Electricity

-Use fire-safe electric outlets

-replace fraying cords

-Do not overuse one plug

Outdoor Tips

-Fire Resistant Plants

-BBQ grill away from the house

The safety and security of our customers is important to all of us at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood. By taking these preventative measures, you take steps toward avoiding fire damage and the loss and suffering it can cause. If you do find yourself affected by smoke damage, fire damage or other emergencies, we’re here to help. Call us 24/7 at 562-420-0030.

WATER DAMAGE - THE SCIENCE OF DRYING

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage at a Long Beach residence

The Science of Drying

When faced with water damage, we might instinctively reach for towels to dry the wet. We might add fans to aid the process. However, there is actually a science to the drying process. The knowledge of psychrometrics, the dynamics of moist air, is critical to lower the chances of secondary damages. Your IICRC certified and trained technicians at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood know the steps to take when your business or residence experiences water damage:

• First, we’ll conduct an inspection to detect what material(s) are wet
• Next, we’ll measure how much moisture is in those wet components and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Additionally, we’ll speed up the process by using professional drying equipment.  While a wet building can often dry naturally, it might do so unevenly, inadequately or might take too long…all allowing for secondary damages to occur.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood has the knowledge, advanced equipment and the technology, DryBook (a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation, updates on the drying process and confirms industry drying requirements are met) to ensure that your water damage is mitigated. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

FAQ: AS A RENTER, WHO PAYS FOR WATER DAMAGES?

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage in a Long Beach residence

Renters often wonder, when faced with water damages, who will pick up the bill? At SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood we are called out to cleanup and restore many water damaged properties where multiple parties are involved.  We often have renters, homeowners, property managers, and HOAs on a single water damage repair.  Each project is unique when it comes to water restoration for condos or homes.  Renters are responsible for their belongings, except in rare cases where the landlord's policy covers rental belonging.  If a renter has a rental insurance policy, the policy may cover damaged contents (furniture, clothing, personal items), temporary housing if needed, or cleaning your belongings.  The homeowner is responsible for the structure of the property.  HOAs may be responsible for some of the structural repairs, depending on how the association bylaws are written.   

At SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood we are willing and able to guide you through this process.  We do water damage repairs every day, 24/7, so it is our pleasure to help you recover after a water emergency.  Our team is trained to help you file a claim, provide all needed documentation, and also communicate with your landlord and property manager.  Please call SERVPRO at 562-420-0030 and we will help you with the water damage repair at your condo, home, or business. 

MOLD IN LONG BEACH OR LAKEWOOD...DOES YOUR PROPERTY HAVE A PROBLEM?!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation in a Long Beach home

At SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood we receive weekly calls from our residential or business property owners with questions or concerns about mold.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood 562-420-0030

SMOKE AND SOOT CAUSE EXTENSIVE DAMAGE

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Ceiling affected by smoke damage in Long Beach residence.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor.  SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood has smoke damage expertise and experience, allowing us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood today: 562-420-0030

STORM/HURRICANE SEASON WHERE YOU'RE VACATIONING? BE PREPARED!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Affects of a Hurricane

Headed for a vacation destination that’s prone to Storms and Hurricanes?!

Vacations are a time for relaxation but what if an emergency strikes? It’s storm and hurricane season in some destinations and here at SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood we are always looking out for our customers safety and well-being. We've put together some tips for what to do if a hurricane strikes on your vacation and how to prep before you leave.

Before the trip:

• Check the local news:

While this might seem like an obvious tip it is very important to be up to date with the local weather at your vacation location. We recommend checking a week in advance to keep yourself up to date so there are no weather surprises while away!

• Get Hurricane Travel Insurance

When it comes to traveling, travel insurance is very important but specifically hurricane travel insurance during hurricane season is helpful. They’ll cover delays due to weather, accommodation cancelations, and going home early coverage, etc.

• Make paper copy of documents

It is always important to make copies of your documents before you travel just incase something happens to them, where it be theft or a storm damages them! Print and bring copies of your travel insurance, itinerary and key phone numbers as well as your passport (if necessary).

 During hurricane:

• Identify a point of contact

It can be difficult to find cell service while on vacation so it is important to know where you can go to get in contact with others.

• Identify Evacuation Routes

Once onsite at your vacation, it is important to identify what the proper evacuation routes are to get to safety. Ask your hotel, landlord, or locals what those might be.

• Avoid any electrical wiring if you are wet or if the wiring is wet.

This will keep you from being electrocuted by any faulty wiring.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood wishes you a safe and hurricane free vacation! We hope these tips have provided you the proper information to being ready and handling a hurricane emergency while on vacation. If you're in need of any assistance SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is here to help. Call us at 562-420-0030

RESTORING YOUR LONG BEACH COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AFTER A WATER DAMAGE EVENT

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at greater NE Long Beach/Lakewood 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 damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a 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 NE Long Beach/Lakewood

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.

YOUR NE LONG BEACH/LAKEWOOD WATER DAMAGE SERVICE 24/7

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

We're available for water damage emergencies, large or small, 24 hours a day

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is available 24 hours a day for water damage emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 562-420-0030

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood 

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood  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.

Meet Our Crew-

http://www.SERVPROnortheastlongbeachlakewood.com/employee-photos

LONG BEACH/LAKEWOOD: WE SPECIALIZE IN FLOODED BASEMENT CLEANUP & RESTORATION!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement? We have the trained staff & necessary equipment to solve your problem!

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Long Beach or Lakewood basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home or business
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 562-420-0030

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your structure’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days a week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 562-420-0030

FAQ: I AM A RENTER AND MY RENTAL HAS WATER DAMAGE– WHO WILL PAY FOR MY DAMAGED PERSONAL BELONGINGS?

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

What happens to a renter's personal belongings when a water damage occurs?

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood recommends Renter’s Insurance.  Here is why:

Operating our restoration business in the greater Long Beach area presents us with the complex world of working on water damage or fire damage in Multi-Unit or High-rise properties. Let’s give an example of all the players that can be involved in a water loss at a 4-story condo complex with 2 units being affected by the loss. Here is the setup:

• Rita rents Unit 1 on the first floor from her landlord Lucy. Owen lives above Renter Rita in Unit 2 on the second floor and he owns the property. At 2:00 am on a Saturday night, Owner Owen’s toilet starts to overflow.   Owner Owen doesn’t get home until 6:00 am, at which time he discovers the water damage. He shuts off the supply line to the toilet (which actually work because he is a good homeowner who replaced them last year) and calls Renter Rita. Renter Rita answers her phone, telling Owner Owen she is on her way home from the airport after a redeye flight and in no mood to deal with this situation.
• When Renter Rita gets home, she discovers that the toilet water has saturated her bathroom and entire closet full of clothing. Renter Rita calls her Landlord Lucy in tears to give her the news. This is when Renter Rita finds out that her Landlord Lucy is not responsible for any of Renter Rita’s personal belongings. Landlord Lucy says, “Renter Rita, I told you to get Renter’s Insurance when you moved in!” Renter Rita starts to seriously panic at this point. She has a big meeting tomorrow with nothing to wear, not to mention she is already exhausted from her business trip. She starts to soak up water with towels, which does little good but she doesn’t know what else to do.
• In the meantime, Landlord Lucy calls her insurance hotline and asks a lot of questions. Landlord Lucy’s next call is to Owner Owen to yell at him, letting him know that he is responsible to fix her unit and pay for Renter Rita’s stay while the work is being done. Owner Owen tells Landlord Lucy to calm down, mentioning that neither of them is responsible. Alas, Owner Owen has reviewed the CC&R’s, which state that toilet overflow is covered by the HOA, with a few exceptions that they can work out later.  
• At this point Owner Owen and Landlord Lucy start a 3-way call with HOA President Horatio. HOA Horatio is not a morning person, so he tells them that they both need to file their own claims immediately, including Renter Rita if she has insurance. HOA Horatio explains the HOA policy covers only part of the claim, and the final responsibility is worked out at the end of the claim between the insurance carriers. The HOA is required to meet to discuss the claim once it is determined who is responsible for which parts of the claim. This could be a month or more out. If they don’t call SERVPRO of Downtown Long Beach, their preferred Water Mitigation vendor, 
  ASAP, then the claim price will most likely go up since the damage gets worse the longer the water sits.
• Owner Owen and Landlord Lucy hang up and call their insurance carriers back. They too are told by their insurance hotline that SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood is their preferred vendor. They decide to make separate claims and call SERVPRO.
• Before they know it, a friendly SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood team is on site, taking measurements, setting up equipment, and moving affected items aside for assessment.
• While the SERVPRO team is working, Renter Rita calls her insurance carrier, still in tears, hoping for a miracle. Mr. Insurance places her on hold for several minutes while he reviews her policy. Renter Rita bites her nails, waiting impatiently for them to give her the news. Mr. Insurance gets back on the line to tell Renter Rita that, Yes! You do have a renter’s policy. It turns out her local broker added it at her last renewal, per her request. Renter Rita works so much that she sometimes forgets all the ways she sets herself up for success. She was thrilled to find out that her policy covered her damaged clothing. Mr. Insurance issued Renter Rita an emergency check, as outlined in her policy, to buy a few items while her damaged clothing is evaluated for restoration or repair by the SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood team.
• A month later after the repairs are all completed and all affected parties are settled, Owner Owen, Renter Rita, HOA Horatio, and Landlord Lucy meet up at their local wine bar, to catch up and laugh about their big fight. The HOA ended up covering part of the claim and their personal policies covered the balance. They say a group “Cheers!” to their insurance carriers.

 This story could have ended very differently if all parties were uninsured or underinsured. Here are some helpful tips:

• Make sure you understand your coverage.
• Spend time with your agent asking questions to ensure you fully grasp what is and is not covered by your policy.
• Go through different made-up scenarios with your agent to find out what your coverage would be in different situations.                                                    

For example, “What if I left a candle burning and there was smoke damage in my apartment?” Or “What if my neighbor’s refrigerator line leaked and ruined my ceiling?”

• Take the time to review your coverage if anything changes with your property or living situation.
• If you are a renter purchase a renter’s policy. If you are a landlord, encourage your renters to obtain a renter’s policy.
• Moral of the story – insurance is part of our daily American life. Set yourself up for success by purchasing an insurance policy that fits your needs  

Water Damage at your Rental Condo, Multi-Unit Property, or High-rise? We are ready to help. Call SERVPRO of NE Long Beach/Lakewood at 562-420-0030

FLOODS CAN TAKE PLACE ANYWHERE-USE CAUTION!

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

Heavy rains can lead to flood conditions-use caution!

Throughout the US, floods remain one of the most widespread and common natural disasters that affect us. No matter where you’re located, in the mountains, along the coast, in the city, close to a river or out in the desert, you can still be impacted by a flood. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:

• Even 6 inches of quickly moving water can sweep you off your feet so steer clear of floodwaters. If you find yourself in an area where water reaches above your ankles, find another path, walk another way.
• When driving, the same rules apply: If you approach a flooded road, turn around and go another way. Most vehicles can be carried away by less than 2 feet of moving water. If caught by rising waters and the situation warrants it, get out of your car quickly and move to higher ground.
• Protect children from the dangers and disease carried by contaminated floodwaters. What might look like a fun activity to them could prove deadly.

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood has the experience and knowledge to assist you when a flood strikes your home or business. No matter the size, floods have the potential to cause extensive damage to property when not treated quickly and properly and the cleanup can be an overwhelming task. We’re here 24/7 to help. Contact us at 562-420-0030.

WATER EMERGENCIES -DAMAGE BEGINS WITHIN MINUTES

2/16/2018 (Permalink)

Basement Flood in Long Beach business before extraction

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood 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 NE Long Beach / Lakewood 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 –562-420-0030

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 NE Long Beach / Lakewood

SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood 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.

CERTAIN SPECIES OF MOLD SPELLS TROUBLE

2/16/2018 (Permalink)

Mold growth and water condensation in Long Beach home

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow. Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply. 

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at 562-420-0030

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

Contact SERVPRO of NE Long Beach / Lakewood for mold remediation services.