SERVPRO Offers Disaster Prevention and Restoration for Commercial Buildings

9/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Offers Disaster Prevention and Restoration for Commercial Buildings

SERVPRO is a disaster restoration company that offers extensive services to commercial buildings. They provide emergency response and disaster prevention, as well as water and fire damage restoration for your property. Have you ever had the unfortunate experience of being without power because of an outage? SERVPRO understands how frustrating this can be, so they offer preventative measures such as backup generators to keep offices up and running during emergencies. If your commercial property has experienced a flood, fire or storm damage in the past, SERVPRO is prepared to work with you to restore it.

Consult Regarding Your Cleaning Needs

If you are looking for a cleaning company to maintain your office space, contact SERVPRO. They offer commercial carpet and upholstery cleaning as well as floor stripping and waxing services that can keep your work environment clean year round. Consult SERVPRO over the phone or through our website and communicate your needs. We would be more than happy to design a cleaning plan for your commercial building that is specifically designed for you. Once you consult us we would tell you how we are going to go about the process and we will also share the quote. Once you accept we would then move on to the next step of cleaning.

Get the Cleaning Process Done

We will then start the cleaning process. Once we are done with the cleaning process you would see all of your carpets, rugs and floors look very clean. We make sure that our clients are 100% satisfied for their satisfaction is what matters to us most. You can contact SERVPRO over the phone or through our website if you have any questions about how we work or anything else in general.

Boast Our Logo on Your Front Door to Show That You Are SERVPRO CERTIFIED CLEAN

Once we are done cleaning your commercial building we would provide you with certificates and stickers that you can boast on your front door and even mention on your website that your place is SERVPRO certified clean. This will not only attract more hardworking employees but it will also showcase a good image for your company. This will show that you care about the health and wellbeing of your staff and your customers.

SERVPROs team of restoration experts provides fire damage restoration, water damage restoration and mold remediation services to both commercial businesses and homeowners. If you own a business establishment such as an office building or shopping mall then it's important that rely on experienced professionals when disaster strikes so give SERVPRO a call. We are available 24/7 so you don’t have to worry about your work getting disturbed during the day. We can perform all the cleaning after the office hours so the workers don’t get disturbed and so your business productivity isn’t effected.

Why Hire SERVPRO for Storm Damage Restoration?

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

Why Hire SERVPRO for Storm Damage Restoration?

SERVPRO of Woodbury has the expertise and training to mitigate storm damage to your residential or commercial property. Our Storm Damage Restoration Technicians are highly trained in water removal, structural drying, mold remediation, odor control, and more. We also have equipment that can help us work much faster than traditional restoration crews so we can minimize disruption to you and your family.

SERVPRO Can Better Assess the Damage

When a storm rolls through, you may not know if your property sustained any damage. If debris is blocking roads or knocking out power in the area, it can be difficult to get someone over right away for an assessment.

With SERVPRO on the job however, we have equipment that allows us to pinpoint exactly where water and moisture are coming from so they can begin drying the structure faster. This helps minimize potential mold growth as well as structural issues which could become worse if left untreated too long.

Fast Emergency Response and 24/365 Services with Years of Success

SERVPRO of Woodbury has been helping its clients with their restoration needs for many years now! We're locally owned and operated so our customers always come first. We also understand that when disaster strikes, you need someone to act fast and restore your home or business as quickly as possible. We're available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year so we can be there for whatever restoration needs arise!

We Have a Highly Trained Staff of Technicians

Our Storm Damage Restoration Technicians are highly trained in water removal, structural drying, mold remediation, odor control and more. We continue our education with regular seminars on the latest techniques and equipment involved in storm damage restoration work so we stay current on industry best practices.

Our company is fully insured which means you don't have to worry about us leaving any gaps in coverage if an unexpected event occurs during the course of our services - like fire from damaged electrical wiring or injuries sustained while working on the property. Our technicians are certified which ensures that our company is meeting diversity hiring goals and providing equal opportunities to all their employees.

SERVPRO Can Also Help You with Preventing All Types of Damages during Future Storms

We know what areas are most vulnerable during a storm and what part of your property can get hit by the most damage. That's why we can work with your insurance company to better prepare you for the next storm that comes through.

Our technicians will visit your property during a calm time before any bad weather hits and assess what needs to be done in order to ensure minimal damage if another large storm should come along. We'll make sure gutters are clear, rain plans are working properly, sump pumps are free of debris or blocked by soil so they can do their job as intended when it counts most!

Why Hire SERVPRO for Water Damage Restoration

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

Why Hire SERVPRO for Water Damage Restoration

Water damage can strike anywhere and at any time. It's a good idea to be prepared for the worst by hiring SERVPRO, the top water damage restoration company in your area. We specialize in helping homeowners get back to normal after they've been struck by this unfortunate event.

Water Damage Inspection

The first thing SERVPRO will do is send a professional to inspect your property. The inspector will carefully assess the damage, taking note of how it occurred and where in your home or business you can find signs that may indicate future problems with water intrusion.

Water damage cleanup when an emergency strikes, time really matters when dealing with water removal from your home or business. We understand this which is why we offer 24/hour services so no matter what time you are faced with this unfortunate event, our team of technicians will be there quickly to restore things back to normal for you as soon as possible.

Get help recovering from water damage as soon as the initial inspection by one of our professionals has taken place they'll immediately get started on removing the water from your home or business. SERVPRO of Northwest Bergen County uses a multi-step process for this part of the restoration effort, removing not only excess moisture but also cleaning and disinfecting every surface in order to prevent any mold growth.

Advanced Water Extraction Equipment

We'll be sure to use the right tools and equipment for getting rid of water from your home or business as quickly as possible. Our team has access to powerful, professional grade dehumidifiers and air movers that can effectively dry out even the deepest areas in a quick amount of time before moving on to cleaning everything using specialized solutions made specifically for restoring homes and businesses after they've been damaged by water.

SERVPRO's technicians are well-trained when it comes to dealing with such situations so you don't have to worry about doing anything yourself because we will take care of absolutely every aspect involved with helping restore things back to normal for you as efficiently as possible. We know how much an unexpected situation like this can disrupt your life so let us work hard at putting everything back in order while you go ahead and take care of the rest, knowing that we'll have everything handled for you once our team has finished working.

SERVPRO Can Help You with the Drying Process

Your property has sustained water damage and you're wondering what the next step is. The answer, if it's a home or business that SERVPRO deals with regularly, will be to get in touch with our team of professionals so we can provide you with help recovering from this unfortunate event as soon as possible. We'll send someone out there right away to inspect your property and talk about how we can best approach things for getting rid of all excess moisture while also taking care of any other concerns such as mold growth etcetera before moving on to drying everything using industrial strength equipment capable of handling even the largest spaces without issue.

The Water Damage Restoration Process

We'll get started by extracting standing water with powerful equipment before moving on to drying everything out using industrial fans and dehumidifiers. We continue our work with an extensive cleanup that includes sanitizing both surfaces and furnishings as well as restoring items such as drywall, flooring and upholstery back to their original condition so you can rest easy knowing we did everything we could while working hard at bringing things back to normal for you after the damage had occurred.

Why You Should Hire SERVPRO for Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Why You Should Hire SERVPRO for Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

One of the most important things you can do to maintain a clean and safe environment for your family is to have professional carpet and upholstery cleaning done on a regular basis. The experts at SERVPRO know that these types of services can be expensive, which is why they offer affordable rates. In addition to having experienced professionals come out and do the work, they also take care of all the heavy lifting! Instead of hiring out this type of job yourself or paying someone else to do it, contact SERVPRO today for more information about their services.

Reasons You Should Hire SERVPRO for Carpet Cleaning

Let’s take a look at some of the reasons of why hiring a professional carpet cleaning company life SERVPRO can do wonders for you.

It Can Help You Remove Hidden Allergens and Bacteria from Your Carpet

One of the biggest reasons for having your carpet professionally cleaned is that it can help remove bacteria and allergens from deep within. Allergies are a common problem, especially during certain times of the year when pollen levels rise or in areas where there is an abundance of trees and plants to attract small insects. Bacteria typically thrives in damp environments such as carpets so by hiring SERVPRO they will use special equipment to extract all moisture which also kills any existing germs at their root source.

Your Carpet Will Be Smelling Fresh and Clean Longer

Over time dirt, dust, dander and other particles get trapped down into your pile - even if you vacuum regularly! So how often should you have this done? Usually every 12 to 18 months is the best time to have your carpets cleaned. SERVPRO will use a special type of cleaning solution so they can remove stubborn stains and deep down dirt, meaning it's more effective than using just water alone.

You Will Be Assured That the Job Is Being Done Professionally

There are many companies that offer carpet cleaning services out there but not all of them have had proper training or experience doing this work. This means some may even cause more harm than good if they aren't careful! By hiring SERVPRO you know their technicians undergo extensive training with an industry leader in order to make sure the job is done properly every single time -up to IICRC standards. They also take care of all heavy lifting for you which is another bonus!

Professional Carpet Cleaning Can Increase the Life of Your Carpet

By having SERVPRO come in and give your carpet a deep clean you will ensure that the fibers on your carpets are free of dirt and dust. This means they won't wear down as quickly over time, which is what causes them to look old or need replacing before their time. You can also reduce how frequently you need to replace them by having this done every 12-18 months!

When it comes to hiring someone for professional cleaning services in Woodbury there's only one company to choose- SERVPRO!

SERVPRO Can Help You Around Your Property

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can Help You Build A Safer , Cleaner and Healtheir Environment Around Your Property

If you're looking for a company that can help you build a safer, cleaner and healthier environment around your property in Woodbury then SERVPRO is the answer. We are an industry leader in providing fire damage restoration services to homes and businesses throughout the country. Because of our extensive training and knowledge of water damage restoration techniques, we offer some of the best solutions available to homeowners today.

Make The Air Cleaner By Removing Mold

Mold can be poisonous and should not be taken lightly. It emits toxins that you do not want to breathe in, especially if it is left untreated. SERVPRO has the proper equipment needed for removing mold from your property with speed and efficiency. We also have a team of professionals who are highly trained at removing allergens such as dust mites which make their way into a home through air vents or other openings around the house.

Comfortable And Clean Floors Will Improve Your Quality Of Life

One of the most common complaints homeowners have is about dirty floors due to pets, children or even just general foot traffic throughout various rooms in their homes. When dirt gets ground into tile grout lines over time they start to lose color until one day they no longer look clean. SERVPRO offers the best tile and grout cleaning services available in Woodbury to restore your floors back to their original state, giving you a cleaner house for healthier living.

Sewerage Cleaning Makes The Environment Cleaner

Sewerage is a source of many health and cleanliness problems throughout homes. When it comes into contact with oxygen, sewage pipe pollutants can be released and contaminate the air you breathe around your house or business. SERVPRO has highly trained technicians who know how to remove these contaminants from properties quickly without causing any damage in the process. If you need fast sewer drain restoration services for your home or office, call us today!

SERVPRO Can Offer You Safety By Offering Preventive Maintenance Advice

Our company offers preventative maintenance plans to keep you home or office at its best all year round. We offer an annual plan that gives your house a step by-step inspection of all potential trouble spots including drains, roofs and heating systems. By focusing on these areas we are able to help homeowners avoid the most common causes for mold growth in their homes which can lead to extra expenses down the line if they're not dealt with quickly enough.

Hire SERVPRO Today

For more information about what SERVPRO can do for you, call us today! We are open 24 hours a day and seven days a week to handle any of your emergencies. Our company is available even during holidays so there's no time that we won't be here when you need help the most. Give us a call or visit our website to learn about all the ways in which we can help restore your house back into its preloss condition quickly and with efficiency.

SERVPRO Is the One Stop Shop for All Your Cleaning and Restoration Needs

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Is the One Stop Shop for All Your Cleaning and Restoration Needs

If you are looking for a company that can help with everything from fire damage restoration to water damage, SERVPRO is the one stop shop for all of your needs. This trusted name in disaster response offers services like emergency cleaning and mold removal. No matter what kind of disaster strikes, we'll be there to help you get back on your feet quickly.

Let’s take a look at some of the major services offered by SERVPRO

Water Damage Restoration

If a pipe bursts or your roof starts leaking, you don't have time to waste. SERVPRO professionals know what it takes to get the job done right and get you back to normal as soon as possible. We will quickly dry your home and restore your belongings that were damaged by water.

Fire Damage Restoration

Whether it's the fire alarm going off or smoke filling the air, a house fire is a frightening experience. At SERVPRO we have highly trained professionals who know how to manage the damage from start to finish - minimizing additional loss and getting you back inside as soon as possible. We'll continue restoration work until every item has been cleaned, restored and repaired to pre-fire condition if not better!

Carpet Cleaning Services

Do some rooms in your house seem musty year after year? Do food spills on carpet leave an embarrassing stain? SERVPRO can make your carpets look like new again. We offer a number of different cleaning services for carpet, upholstery and more!

Commercial Cleaning Services

Your business is vital to the community - don't trust it with just anyone. As professional commercial cleaners we will help you maintain a clean workspace that helps set your business apart from competitors in the area.

Mold Removal

The damage left behind by flooding or water leaks may not always be immediately noticeable but what if there was mold growing within those damaged areas? SERVPRO professional teams remove all traces of mold no matter how large or small so you can rest easy knowing it’s gone once and for all.

Storm Damage Restoration

A strong storm can leave behind a lot of damage that needs to be addressed quickly. If your business or home has suffered roofing, siding, fencing or floor damage in the recent past you need someone who knows how to make things right again - SERVPRO can help you do just that!

Give Us a Call Today

If you've been looking for a company that can help with emergency cleaning and restoration for either your home or commercial building, look no further than SERVPRO of Woodbury and Deptford. Our highly trained professionals understand the stress and worry associated with property damage emergencies and we're here to make things right again as quickly as possible! Call us or contact us online through our website.

3 Reasons You Should Rely on SERVPRO For Large Loss Response

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

In the event of a major storm, fire or flood in Southern New Jersey commercial property owners may obtain a quicker and more professional response from a local franchise location of a national restoration company. Here are three reasons to choose SERVPRO to handle any catastrophic loss.

1.   Several Franchise Locations

SERVPRO has over 1,700 franchise locations. This means that the closest professionals can arrive on site in four hours or less, which may be faster than other regional mitigation and restoration services. In the event of widespread damage from fires, flooding or storm damage, additional experts and equipment may report from nearby locations to assist in the cleanup and repairs.

2. National Corporate Support
   
   The support of one of the nation's leading mitigation and restoration companies allows the local franchises to be better trained and equipped than most independent companies. Insurance jobs are only offered to locations that satisfy all the requirements of a 21-point Participation Agreement. This oversight and company-wide services such as the Claims Information Center elevate the standard of service and make SERVPRO the perfect choice in the event of catastrophic loss.
   
   3. Industry-Leading Standards
   
   This national corporation is also a certified training school for the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration. Each franchise must employ at least one technician who specializes in a particular area such as storm or fire damage to maintain certification. The IICRC requires technicians to obtain continuing education credits to ensure that professionals keep up with current best practices in the mitigation and restoration field. This means that the work performed by these employees will be up to the highest standards in the industry. Allowing for our customers to have the best experience possible. All of these factors enable SERVPRO to respond to catastrophic loss caused by fires, flooding or storms faster and handle them more effectively than independent mitigation or restoration companies. Within one hour of contacting the national corporation, property owners can expect a response from a franchise in Southern New Jersey.

Who Should Be Included In A Disaster Recovery Team?

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Disasters can impact your workplace in a number of ways. This is why it is extremely important that you come up with a plan to deal with the situation. Apart from making an effective plan to deal with natural disasters, you need to build a disaster recovery team as well. This team will ensure that everything is going according to the plan and the business runs smoothly even after it has been affected. As the disaster recovery team ensures the smooth flow of business, the team members should be taken from all levels of the organization as well.

So, if you want to know who should be included in your organization’s disaster recovery team, then keep reading. You will find everything that you need to know below.

Executive Leaders

Although the organization’s executive leaders do not need to be involved in all the aspects of disaster recovery, but they do need to be involved in the team for making important decisions. Without the participation of the executive leaders, it is impossible to make important decisions that would protect the organization from these natural disasters. Their role in the team is also important because the budget cannot be approved without them. This is why you need to involve them in the team.

IT Team

Many technical aspects of the disaster recovery plan are carried out by members of the IT team. They understand all the infrastructure requirements, and also know how to ensure system availability to the organization in case of disasters. They know about all the storage and database systems and how to protect them as well. This is why their involvement in the team is extremely important.

Unit Advisors

Even though the IT team knows everything about the company’s system and data and how best to protect the data, the advisors from other units of business should also be included in the disaster recovery team. IT personnel do not have the knowledge about how important the company’s system and data is to the other departments and units. This can only be evaluated by the unit advisors more correctly. This is why you need to involve them in the team as well.

Compliance Management

An effective disaster management team is one in which the security and compliance management team is included as well. A natural disaster may expose the organization to some heavy legal liabilities. The organization will need advice from the compliance team if it wants to deal with the liabilities incurred as these requirements can be quite complex. So, if you want to make sure that all the compliance requirements are met with the standards prescribed, you need to involve the members from compliance management in your disaster recovery team.

A disaster recovery team is just as important as a disaster recovery plan for the organization. This team ensures that the plan runs smoothly when the organization is hit by a natural disaster. But, you also need the services of a professional company that will deal with the damage caused by natural disasters. Looking for the best company in town? Contact SERVPRO of Cherry Hill / Haddonfield now to avail the expert services.

Why You Need The Services Of A Professional Restoration Company After A Disaster

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

A disaster brings chaos in its wake be it of any kind. The after-effects can be devastating and it can take a while before your home fully starts recovering from it. This is why it is important to hire a professional restoration company.

They will assess the damage from the disaster and take all the necessary steps that are required to bring your property back to its original shape. Here are three reasons why you should hire a professional restoration company after a disaster.

#1. Safety

This should always be your number one priority. You need to feel safe in your home or business and others should feel that too. If the damage on your property is not professionally assessed then there may be underlying problems you have no idea about.

After a while, these problems can intensify and cause even further damage. For example, flood and fire damage can damage your structure and your walls. If not taken care of properly they can collapse anytime.

Apart from that, flood damage can cause mold, and fire damage can cause smoke exposure. So, you need someone to make your property safe for you.

Of course, the right professionals will ensure that your property is cleaned and restored so that it is safe to use.

#2. Fire Damage 

Fire damage needs to be dealt with by a professional. It may not seem that bad to you but there are many dangers of smoke inside the home. The particles from smoke can be a cause of lung irritation and respiratory issues.

If you don’t have any knowledge then you can’t assess the areas in your property that have been damaged by smoke and fire. On the other hand, a professional restoration company will figure these spots out and then clean them properly so that you don’t develop any health effects later on.

#3. Flood Damage

Even a small flooding incident can cause damage to your home. This is because it has the power to saturate your home and cause problems such as mold. Even if you have soaked up the water it is not enough to just mop and dry your home.

You will have to get a professional inspection done so that the damage can be accurately assessed. This way you can come up with a plan to recover from this damage and prevent it from happening in the future.

A professional restoration company will assess the damage and then come up with a cost-effective solution to reverse the damage. By doing this, your home will look and function as well as if it was new.

Final Words

Never underestimate the power of a professional restoration company when it comes to dealing with disaster damage. If you incur any sort of fire, flood, or natural disaster damage then it is time to call SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/ Haddonfield now.

We will assess your property and make sure everything is up and running in no time. For more information, feel free to get in touch with us now.

Importance Of Having A Disaster Response Program For Your Workplace

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Natural disasters don’t let anything come in their way. They destroy homes, buildings, offices, and anything else that comes in its way. This is why as a business you should always have a disaster response program in place for quick recovery.

Importance Of A Disaster Response Program

Here are the many reasons why such a plan is important to have for your business:

• Ensures the safety of employees
• Provides quick recovery
• Better communication during emergency time
• A better settlement from your insurer

Having such a strategy in place is important to recovering fast from any natural disaster. However, many businesses don’t know how to prepare such a plan.

What To Include In Your Disaster Response Plan

Here is everything you should include in your program:

#1. Identify Risk Of Disaster

Identify the kind of disasters that take place mostly in your area. Are you more prone to flooding, earthquakes, hurricanes, etc? This will help you in putting the rest of the plan together.

#2. Preventative Measures

Once you have identified the risks, your second step should be to prevent your place of business from being extensively damaged because of these disasters. Maintain your systems and appliance regularly and provide your staff training on evacuation in case of an emergency.

#3. Make A Comprehensive Plan

There should always be one person appointed who should carry out the plan. This person should be responsible for making a plan that ensures:

• Safety of employees
• Securing hazardous chemicals or objects on the premises
• Keeping the business operational

Apart from that, you should develop a detailed evacuation plan with exit routes, a list of employees, an emergency contact list, and a team that will be responsible for any duty that is related to first aid.

#4. Prepare An Emergency Kit

It is always good to be prepared, especially if you are responsible for the lives of many people. You should always keep a spare emergency kit in the workplace in case of disasters. This kit should include:

• Extra batteries
• Flashlight
• First aid
• Nonperishable food
• Water
• Radio

These are all essential items that people will need in case there is a disaster and they have to stay in the office or need supplies to make their way out.

#5. Insurance

Identifying the risks will let you know the kind of insurance policies you can opt for. This way you can go for a policy that provides adequate coverage for the kind of disasters your business may be prone to. So, choosing a suitable policy for such an event is also an important part of the disaster response plan.

Final Words

Prevention is better than damage. As a business, you should always be prepared so that your employees can be safe during such a time. You can also consult a professional to develop a comprehensive disaster response plan.

If you go through any sort of disaster or damage, then SERVPRO of Cherry Hill / Haddonfield can help with the restoration of your property. For more information, feel free to get in touch with us now.

SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield, NJ is the Premier Cleaning and Restoration Company

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

The Importance of Fast Response Time

SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield understands the importance of quick response time when disaster strikes. Water damage occurs upon entrance into the home/commercial property. In order to mitigate damage to your property, it is imperative to call the pros at SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield, who are trained, experienced, and equipped to arrive and prevent further destruction. Water contamination spreads faster than one may think. Within minutes your claim cost can increase as water quickly spreads throughout the home or residential property.

SERVPRO Handles the Insurance Companies

In time of tragedy, the last concern a customer wants to face is the burden of dealing with their insurance company. SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield communicates directly with your insurance company to secure the proper funding for your fire, wind, water, and hail damages. The franchise professionals at SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield understand the costs associated with restoration and have the experience to assure you get the most out of your homeowner’s insurance.

SERVPRO is a Trusted Leader in the Cleaning and Restoration Industry

SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield is a local franchise with the power of over 1,700 national franchise. Our team has the training, certifications, and experience that enables them to handle a diverse set of restoration and cleaning inquiries. As a preferred vendor for many national and local insurance companies, it is no wonder why customers often come to SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield for their cleaning and restoration demand.

Cleaning Beyond COVID Chaos - 7 Steps for Small Businesses

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

In recent months, the world has changed beyond recognition. Business of all sizes have had to pivot and adjust at breakneck speed in response to the pandemic breakout of the coronavirus. Whether you’re a shop-fronted business, an office-based organization, or a startup working from a co-working space, no one has been left unaffected.

In the coming months, each country will gradually go at their own pace to start lifting restrictions. Communities will slowly start to come back together. Store entrances will tentatively reopen their doors. Staff will eventually return to their desks, and meetings will resume their place in time.

But what will the future hold, beyond this?

In order to overcome this crisis, it’s vital to hold on to the facts. We need to gather together to implement strong, clear hygiene practices in our workplaces going forwards. We must embrace the relevant information provided and turn it into positive practices for a clean, safe working environment.

Our staff teams are relying on us to keep them safe.

At SERVPRO, we work with a wide range of customers in need of specialist support services from domestic disasters. Fire restoration, specialized cleaning and water damage are just some of the services we provide. With the arrival of COVID-19, we are working harder than ever to keep our customers and staff safe!

Here are our 7 effective steps that we recommend for your business through the coronavirus chaos and beyond:

1. Remain informed.  At the moment, the updates are changing hourly, yet alone daily. It can seem overwhelming, but staying informed about the latest advice is crucial. Gather information from trusted sources, such as the World Health Organization rather than hearsay from colleagues or newsfeeds. By doing so, you will be empowering your business team rather than scare mongering them.

2. Educate your staff.  Are your managers fully clear on how social distancing should operate?  Do your office team understand the government precautions and what they implicate?  Use simple, positive language to deliver training on hand washing practices, cleaning scheduling, and personal hygiene.  By doing so, you will be creating a safer workspace for everyone.

3. Reassure your team.  Your staff groups are likely going to be hyper vigilant when they return to work, as they have been impacted by the scarier news stories they have seen on their screens during lockdown.  They may be more anxious than usual, and concerned about how they can do their jobs safely while still achieving their goals.  Use positive, straightforward language in all communications to reassure each person that their safety is in good hands.  They will appreciate your constructive approach and be much more likely to adhere to safety practices.

4. Provide appropriate products.  Hand sanitizer should be a standard product you supply for those working within your small business.  Make sure you have plenty stocked up.  Depending on the type of business you have, you might also want to purchase specialist cleaning products and equipment.  If your staff needs training to use them, head back to step 2 of this guide.

5. Use floor markings.  We are all doing our best to stick to the distancing rules, but it can be easy to forget them when we become engaged in a conversation.  To help your staff and clients stay safe, mark out 6 feet gaps between workstations and places where people might be likely to gather.  This will also provide a handy frame for someone to refer to if they need to politely remind a colleague who is overstepping boundaries accidentally.

6. Utilize effective signage.  While your staff team adjust to new practices of health and safety, help them by placing guidance signage in easy to see places.  This will help to normalize the changes whilst also providing additional educational opportunities.  Remember, knowledge is power. Equip your staff with the right information and you will be avoiding further issues down the line.

7. Consider shift cycles.  Depending on the type of business you have, consider creating shift patterns for safety purposes. Even an office-based business can benefit from doing this in helping to lessen the numbers of groups of people in the space at the same time. Try out various pattern styles to see how it could work for your business. You can also continue implementing remote work for those staff members who don’t necessarily need to be physically present.

During these challenging times, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. With so much noise coming from news desks and newsfeeds, it’s difficult to navigate forward. However, it’s important to stay focused on the facts of this situation rather than the fearful guessing games that are so common at the moment.

This is not a time to panic - it is a time to plan.

We all want to be back in business as soon as possible.  We want to overcome these unprecedented times.  Not only that, we want to return to a clean environment that our staff can feel safe within.  This, above all, is vital practice for an organization of any size going forwards.

If any of your staff team show any of the key symptoms of the virus, then take immediate action to gain medical support for them.  Remove them from your workplace as soon as possible, in order to keep your staff team safe.  Wellbeing practices such as this will become the norm for some time, and we must accept this in order to keep our businesses and our staff safe.

This too, shall pass.  Despite how it might feel right now, we will survive this chaos, and move on from its clutches.  We will overcome this, ultimately. Perhaps as we emerge from lockdown, we will move into our collective futures with an even greater sense of value for the teams who work with us and the customers who facilitate our successes.

Stay safe, stay well, and stay positive. We are in this together!

Odd Places You Find Mold Growth in Your Home

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can be found in many unusual spots in your home. If left to grow, mold can become a dangerous problem for your home’s value, your health, and as a cosmetic eye sore. Here are some places to check and clean to avoid these problems.

Your Toothbrush Holder

While your toothbrush gets replaced every few months (hopefully), your toothbrush holder is in an ideal location for mold growth. The moist environment of the bathroom combined with the wide array of germs from your mouth create the perfect location for mold growth. A few times a year, you should clean and disinfect your entire toothbrush holder.

Your Appliances

Specifically, your dishwasher and clothes washer are susceptible to mold growth. Check behind and underneath them to see if the darkness and moisture has caused growth. You can then clean the area before it grow into the walls and flooring, which is more costly to remove and repair. Also check INSIDE your appliances. Look under coverings and around rubber moisture seals to expose mold which has developed inside the machine where the cleaning process does not reach.

Potted Plants

If you overwater your plants there is a tendency for mold growth underneath where the sunlight does not reach. While this may actually be good for your plant, it is not worth the risk. Be careful not to overdue the watering and if you notice mold, try repotting the plants and putting it in direct sunlight for a few days

Outdoor Rugs and Floor mats

Floor mats invite mold buildup underneath as the organic material from the rug, when wet, creates a dark, moist environment with enough air flow to sustain mold growth but not enough to dry it out. By regularly cleaning your rugs or simply flipping them over and leaving them in the sun for a day, you can prevent mold buildup which can spread throughout your entry ways, steps, and porches.

Top Cleaning Tips To Disinfecting Your Workplace

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

COVID-19 has brought many changes with it and the most important one is that of cleaning and disinfecting. This has become a part of our daily lives as many of us are now using disinfectants in our homes and carrying sanitizers with us 24/7.

However, as an employer, you have to keep your employees safe. This is why you should disinfect surfaces regularly and keep strict cleaning guidelines in the workplace to keep it germ-free.

You need to boost your efforts so the work environment can be healthy. Here are a few tips that will keep your workplace clean.

Get Regular Cleaning Done By A Professional

The pandemic is a serious problem and should be treated as such too. This is why you should get a deep cleaning done every week or every two weeks so that your workplace can remain bacteria-free.

A professional cleaning service will ensure that everything is disinfected and even systems such as air ducts and vents are cleaned. This will regularly ensure that everything is in top condition with no germs around.

Even though this is the first step, you need to maintain this cleanliness. This is why following the tips below with regular professional cleaning will maintain the best level of hygiene.

Wipe Everything In One Direction

If you are cleaning a surface with a disinfectant then wipe it once and don’t go back in the opposite direction. This is because it will make your wipe redundant as you will carry the germs you just cleaned back up again.

This is why all surfaces in the workplace such as desks, doorknobs, laptops, and everything else should be cleaning with a one-way wipe method.

Remind Employees To Wash And Sanitize Their Hands

These signs should be spread all around the workplace so employees can wash their hands regularly. Firstly, this will ensure that there are minimum germs around the office and secondly it will stop the spreading of germs as well.

Hands should be washed for more than 20 seconds and this is a reminder that needs to be put everywhere so workers can keep staying clean.

Don’t Mix Cleaning Cloths

Have a different cloth for every surface that you are cleaning. This means that a separate cloth for every surface. These should be marked or color-coded so the cleaning staff can remember this and clean accordingly.

Using one cloth for a variety of surfaces will contaminate all these surfaces and your cleaning efforts will remain ineffective. It is also important you wash or disinfect the cloth as well after use, or you can discard it completely.

Final Words

Take care of your employees and your office through these methods and most of all make your office safe with professional cleaning services to disinfect everything 100%.

If you are opening your business again and looking for professional cleaning services then hire our services now. We have years of experience and we leave no stone unturned when it comes to disinfecting and cleaning.

For more information visit our website and contact us now!

Impact Of COVID-19 On Businesses And The Importance Of Cleaning

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

This year has been a complete shock. However, if there is one thing it has taught us then that is the importance of cleaning. Cleanliness leads to good hygiene, sanitation, and discourages any disease being born.

COVID-19 has had a major impact on the way people conduct business. In the beginning, everything shifted to remote work. However, slowly and steadily work is opening back up with the proper precautions of course.

This is why if you are an employer or you own a business then it is important you get it cleaned regularly. This should be done by a professional and here are a few reasons why.

Guidelines Set By CDC Followed

To make public spaces more clean and safe, the CDC has issued cleaning guidelines. They are extensive and some are technical as well. A layman can't possibly get the job done especially in a place of business.

A professional cleaning service will ensure that all the guidelines are followed so you can have an office that is thoroughly cleaned. It will mitigate all risks and maximize the safety of you and your employees.

Cleaning Equipment

Trained professionals are experts in disinfection and removing any sort of hazard. This is because they have the right equipment and tools to carry out this process.

Such equipment ensures that every surface area is cleaned including the air ducts, vents, and other systems that may be hard to reach. This way every nook and corner will be cleaned thoroughly with the right tools and equipment.

Safety Of Staff

In times of COVID-19, the priority of all businesses and employers is to keep their staff safe. People are risking coming to work and this is why they deserve to work in an environment that is safe and clean.

Hiring a professional to do a deep cleaning of your premises will ensure the safety of your staff. This way there will be no harmful bacteria or anything else looming in the workplace.

Apart from the cleaning, proper precautions should also be taken to ensure the maximum safety of employees. Professional cleaning regularly will keep your workplace risk-free.

Trained Professionals

You can get your business back up and running in no time by hiring professional cleaning services. This is because they have professionals that are specially trained in cleaning during such times.

Their expertise will ensure your office is sparkling like a diamond with no contaminants whatsoever. Everything will also be done in no time and so you can easily have your office running while keeping everything safe for yourself and your employees.

Proper cleaning during COVID-19 is more important than ever. It has become the basis of everything and now people don’t go to places that they feel aren’t cleaned properly.

This is why if you are tired of the impact this year has had on your business and you want to be up and running again then you must get professional cleaning services that provide you with everything stated above and much more.

If you are looking for a service then browse our website for more information or contact us now!

Making Washing Hands Fun

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

It is always important to regularly wash your hands. Now more than ever washing your hands is so very important. While it is easy for older kids and adults to remember to wash their hands properly, it may be harder for little kids to understand the importance of thorough hand washing. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has put together a list of steps and tips to help kids wash their hands.

• The five essentials of hand washing:
  • wet 
  • lather 
  • scrub
  • rinse 
  • dry
• Key times to wash hands:
  • After eating
  • before bed
  • after working out
• There are many short songs to sing that are not only fun but helpful in timing out the recommend time to hand-wash of 20 seconds.

For more information on hand washing tips visit www.CDC.gov 

3 Reasons You Should Rely On SERVPRO For Large Loss Response

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

In the event of a major storm, fire or flood in Southern New Jersey commercial property owners may obtain a quicker and more professional response from a local franchise location of a national restoration company. Here are three reasons to choose SERVPRO to handle any catastrophic loss.

1.   Several Franchise Locations

SERVPRO has over 1,700 franchise locations. This means that the closest professionals can arrive on site in four hours or less, which may be faster than other regional mitigation and restoration services. In the event of widespread damage from fires, flooding or storm damage, additional experts and equipment may report from nearby locations to assist in the cleanup and repairs.

2. National Corporate Support

The support of one of the nation's leading mitigation and restoration companies allows the local franchises to be better trained and equipped than most independent companies. Insurance jobs are only offered to locations that satisfy all the requirements of a 21-point Participation Agreement. This oversight and company-wide services such as the Claims Information Center elevate the standard of service and make SERVPRO the perfect choice in the event of catastrophic loss.

3. Industry-Leading Standards

This national corporation is also a certified training school for the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration. Each franchise must employ at least one technician who specializes in a particular area such as storm or fire damage to maintain certification. The IICRC requires technicians to obtain continuing education credits to ensure that professionals keep up with current best practices in the mitigation and restoration field. This means that the work performed by these employees will be up to the highest standards in the industry. Allowing for our customers to have the best experience possible. All of these factors enable SERVPRO to respond to catastrophic loss caused by fires, flooding or storms faster and handle them more effectively than independent mitigation or restoration companies. Within one hour of contacting the national corporation, property owners can expect a response from a franchise in Southern New Jersey. 

Here to keep you and your business clean and safe

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

Even during a global pandemic your business may be considered essential to the infrastructure like SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield. that being said no one wants to get sick so this helpful list of strategies may help you stay safe and healthy.

Workplace Specific Health Strategies

What can employers do to promote a healthy work environment during the COVID-19 pandemic?

A simple and efficient path to promote workplace health includes the following items:

1. Encourage hand washing with real soap for at least 20 seconds.
2. Put hand sanitizer in numerous stations around the office or facility.
3. Provide disinfectant wipes for employees to wipe down surfaces such as keyboards, mouse, desk, chair, pens, stylus, pencils, touch screens, etc.
4. Allow employees to wear disposable gloves.
5. Remind employees of the company's sick policy. Sharing COVID-19 or Influenza with workspace mates or the production crew could be very costly to all involved parties.
6. Coordinate with the facility cleaning team regarding special measures to be taken during flu season or during periods of significant employee sickness.

These measures are very basic, yet they make a huge difference in order to keep the workplace healthy and safe.

When is the right time to call in a professional cleaning service to clean, disinfect, and sanitize the workplace?

Seeking consultation and assistance from a highly trained, well-informed, and experienced cleaning professional to address workplace health and hygiene is both proactive and pre-emptive. Losing multiple teams or crew members to an outbreak of an infectious disease for a week or two could crush production. An office or sales force outbreak could slow or halt sales generation and depress a revenue cycle. The cost of an absentee employee is so much more than paid sick leave.

Qualified cleaning professionals like SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield can provide prevention strategies for a business as well as for a school, daycare or church. People recognize SERVPRO as the industry leader for water and fire damage restoration and disaster recovery. SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield team also specializes in commercial cleaning. Using advanced restoration and cleaning equipment, SERVPRO experts clean to the deepest level.

For a deep clean that can address germs and infection in an office workspace or industrial environment, the team at SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield offers a comprehensive solution that includes disinfecting all floors and flat surfaces. They can also address the more heavy-duty situations if needed.

SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield can make any business look, smell, and feel clean while simultaneously making it a sanitary and safe environment. Most people only think of a flooded house, a sewage spill, fire damage, or disaster recovery when they think of SERVPRO. But the professionals at SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield have been providing deep cleans and restoration services for over 10 years now.

Call SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield today to schedule your cleaning at 856-662-2772

Some Techniques for Preventing Mold Spread in Your Building

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

The last thing you want to do when you discover a problem such as back mold is to make it worse. A good principle with mold is to keep it contained in one area as this will make mold removal faster and easier. To do this, it helps to understand a little bit about how mold spreads throughout a building. All types of mold are made up of microscopic scores that float on the tiniest of breezes. They also like warm, damp locations, such as moist attics and basements, bathrooms, and sometimes laundry areas. There are hundreds of different types of mold, and though they might require slightly different cleaning approaches, most types spread in a similar manner.

The Importance of Air Ducts

One avenue of spreading for black mold is your HVAC system. Once the mold spores are in the furnace ducts, they can easily spread throughout the building. Every time the heating or cooling is turned on, more spores are carried to all corners of the building. The drifting spores will likely only take hold in those areas that have high humidity. One of the first actions a qualified mold remediation company will take is to turn off the furnace. The following measures should be taken to facilitate mold containment:

• Physical barriers
• Negative air pressure chambers
• Air filtration
• HEPA vacuums
  
  

Steps to clean ducts will also be taken by technicians. Once the mold is contained, the process can move onto mold removal and restoration.

The Value of Professional Testing
Testing for mold can tell you the extent of your mold problem, as well as if you have black mold or a different strain of fungus. It could be necessary to test after the restoration process is complete, to determine if mold is still present or if it has returned. Store-bought mold kits sometimes show confusing positives, since most buildings are likely to have some mold present. A certified mold tester is better able to decipher the results of a test.

Cleaning Beyond COVID Chaos - 7 Steps for Small Businesses

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

In recent months, the world has changed beyond recognition. Business of all sizes have had to pivot and adjust at breakneck speed in response to the pandemic breakout of the coronavirus. Whether you’re a shop-fronted business, an office-based organization, or a startup working from a co-working space, no one has been left unaffected.

In the coming months, each country will gradually go at their own pace to start lifting restrictions. Communities will slowly start to come back together. Store entrances will tentatively reopen their doors. Staff will eventually return to their desks, and meetings will resume their place in time.

But what will the future hold, beyond this?

In order to overcome this crisis, it’s vital to hold on to the facts. We need to gather together to implement strong, clear hygiene practices in our workplaces going forwards. We must embrace the relevant information provided and turn it into positive practices for a clean, safe working environment.

Our staff teams are relying on us to keep them safe.

At SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield, we work with a wide range of customers in need of specialist support services from domestic disasters. Fire restoration, specialized cleaning and water damage are just some of the services we provide. With the arrival of COVID-19, we are working harder than ever to keep our customers and staff safe!

Here are our 7 effective steps that we recommend for your business through the coronavirus chaos and beyond:

1. Remain informed.  At the moment, the updates are changing hourly, yet alone daily. It can seem overwhelming, but staying informed about the latest advice is crucial. Gather information from trusted sources, such as the World Health Organization rather than hearsay from colleagues or newsfeeds. By doing so, you will be empowering your business team rather than scare mongering them.

2. Educate your staff.  Are your managers fully clear on how social distancing should operate?  Do your office team understand the government precautions and what they implicate?  Use simple, positive language to deliver training on hand washing practices, cleaning scheduling, and personal hygiene.  By doing so, you will be creating a safer workspace for everyone.

3. Reassure your team.  Your staff groups are likely going to be hyper vigilant when they return to work, as they have been impacted by the scarier news stories they have seen on their screens during lockdown.  They may be more anxious than usual, and concerned about how they can do their jobs safely while still achieving their goals.  Use positive, straightforward language in all communications to reassure each person that their safety is in good hands.  They will appreciate your constructive approach and be much more likely to adhere to safety practices.

4. Provide appropriate products.  Hand sanitizer should be a standard product you supply for those working within your small business.  Make sure you have plenty stocked up.  Depending on the type of business you have, you might also want to purchase specialist cleaning products and equipment.  If your staff needs training to use them, head back to step 2 of this guide.

5. Use floor markings.  We are all doing our best to stick to the distancing rules, but it can be easy to forget them when we become engaged in a conversation.  To help your staff and clients stay safe, mark out 6 feet gaps between workstations and places where people might be likely to gather.  This will also provide a handy frame for someone to refer to if they need to politely remind a colleague who is overstepping boundaries accidentally.

6. Utilize effective signage.  While your staff team adjust to new practices of health and safety, help them by placing guidance signage in easy to see places.  This will help to normalize the changes whilst also providing additional educational opportunities.  Remember, knowledge is power. Equip your staff with the right information and you will be avoiding further issues down the line.

7. Consider shift cycles.  Depending on the type of business you have, consider creating shift patterns for safety purposes. Even an office-based business can benefit from doing this in helping to lessen the numbers of groups of people in the space at the same time. Try out various pattern styles to see how it could work for your business. You can also continue implementing remote work for those staff members who don’t necessarily need to be physically present.

During these challenging times, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. With so much noise coming from news desks and newsfeeds, it’s difficult to navigate forward. However, it’s important to stay focused on the facts of this situation rather than the fearful guessing games that are so common at the moment.

This is not a time to panic - it is a time to plan.

We all want to be back in business as soon as possible.  We want to overcome these unprecedented times.  Not only that, we want to return to a clean environment that our staff can feel safe within.  This, above all, is vital practice for an organization of any size going forwards.

If any of your staff team show any of the key symptoms of the virus, then take immediate action to gain medical support for them.  Remove them from your workplace as soon as possible, in order to keep your staff team safe.  Wellbeing practices such as this will become the norm for some time, and we must accept this in order to keep our businesses and our staff safe.

This too, shall pass.  Despite how it might feel right now, we will survive this chaos, and move on from its clutches.  We will overcome this, ultimately. Perhaps as we emerge from lockdown, we will move into our collective futures with an even greater sense of value for the teams who work with us and the customers who facilitate our successes.

Stay safe, stay well, and stay positive. We are in this together!

Fire Restoration

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

Fire can cause large amounts of damage on your property. However, there are other damages that can seriously affect the building as well. Smoke odor invades building materials and personal belongings of every kind. Smoke soot damages walls that have not been burned by flames. Experiencing a fire can be devastating, and SERVPRO understands that your cherished possessions and memories are at stake. As fire restoration experts, we specialize in soot and smoke damage as well.

If your home is damaged by fire, it is critical to contact a company that specializes in the fire and smoke restoration process as soon as possible to prevent additional damage. Your local SERVPRO is available 24/7 to help minimize the cost of fire and smoke damage to your home.

Our fire restoration process includes:

• 24/7 emergency services – onsite and assisting you within hours
• Prompt damage assessment, pretesting and estimates
• Emergency board-up and structural stabilization
• Environmentally friendly methods for cleaning soot and other residue from fire damage
• Smoke odor removal, sanitation and air purification
• Careful removal and securing of damaged household goods, personal possessions and other contents for cleaning and restoration
• Industrial grade water extractors, dehumidifiers, air movers and other equipment used to efficiently remove water resulting from fire extinguishing efforts
• Reconstruction of the affected areas
• Disinfectants and antimicrobials used to prevent mold and mildew

Why SERVPRO?

We will get your property back to normal faster. Our specialized training, cleaning methods and equipment combined with our experience means quicker clean up and lower smoke damage restoration costs. We can save your personal possessions using specialized equipment and cleaning methods, often being able to restore the contents of your home to their prior condition. We will assist with the insurance claims process to make it as painless as possible for you.

Humidity and water damage

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Moisture rides on air currents, and warm air carries more moisture than cool air

An air barrier helps control airflow both through and within the building enclosure. By controlling airflow, you also control moisture.

If moist indoor air contacts a cold surface — for example, exterior sheathing in cold weather — condensation can result. An air barrier prevents those cold surfaces from being connected with humid indoor air.

Air has a maximum storage capacity for water vapor which depends on temperature. Warm air can store lots of moisture, while cold air can store very little.

As the temperature falls from 90°F down to 20°F, the amount of moisture that can be stored in the air changes by a factor of ten.

Leaky homes didn’t have condensation problems

Older buildings rarely had condensation problems in cold weather because they were so well ventilated — meaning leaky. The relative humidity in an old home would rarely rise above 25%. As we have built tighter houses (and in some cases failed to provide mechanical ventilation), the indoor relative humidity has gone up.

In a heated, tight, unventilated house, the amount of moisture in the air and the amount of condensation that can occur are dramatically different than in an old leaky house. Condensation can occur wherever water vapor can find a cold spot — on roof or wall sheathing, on the inside faces of the windows, and inside the walls.

Let's say it’s 40°F outside and the outdoor relative humidity is 50%. If you allow that outdoor air to enter a building and heat it up to 70°F, the amount of moisture in the air stays exactly the same, but the “tank” gets bigger because the storage capacity of the air increases with the temperature. As a result, the relative humidity initially drops. Then, as moisture is added to the air, the relative humidity rises, and the absolute moisture content rises as well. How do you add moisture to the air? You breathe, sweat, boil water for spaghetti, take hot showers, grow houseplants — and all of those activities generate moisture.

When does indoor humidity become a problem?

Let’s say that air leaks out of a house through holes in the enclosure. As it reaches surfaces colder than 52°F or 53°F, the air will cool. Once it reaches its full capacity to store moisture, condensation occurs.

If the temperature of the outdoor air is around 30°F, the indoor air will drop all of the moisture that it gained on the way out, dumping it on the cold sheathing surface. That’s a typical example of the air leakage condensation cycle. Since condensation in walls can cause puddles — and in extreme cases, rot the framing — condensation is something you want to avoid. Installing an air barrier is one way to help prevent condensation.

Air conditioning can also create condensing surfaces

The same phenomenon can happen in reverse in the summertime. Let’s say the outdoor air is 85°F and the relative humidity is 75%. When outdoor air leaking inward contacts a surface below about 76°F, the moisture in the air will condense. So if you have an exhaust fan in your home, the air leaking in may cause condensation on the air-conditioned surfaces.

If moist air leaks into a house through gaps in the wall or roof, you can have problems. But in a tight house with a good air barrier and a supply-only ventilation system, most of the air that’s drawn inside is drawn in through the air conditioner, so the first cold surfaces it sees are the cooling coils.

If you find you have signs of moisture in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield to make sure you don't have puddles forming that could lead to something worse.

How to Define an Electrical Fire

7/17/2019 (Permalink)

The most inclusive and direct interpretation of “electrical fire” is a fire involving some type of electrical failure or malfunction. Any equipment powered by electricity can have such a failure.

In 2011, an estimated 47,700 home structure fires reported to U.S. fire departments involved some type of electrical failure or malfunction as a factor contributing to ignition. These fires resulted in 418 civilian deaths, 1,570 civilian injuries, and $1.4 billion in direct property damage. In 2007-2011, home electrical fires represented 13% of total home structure fires, 18% of associated civilian deaths, 11% of associated civilian injuries, and 20% of associated direct property damage. 

In 2011, an estimated 16,400 non-home structure fires reported to U.S. fire departments involved some type of electrical failure or malfunction as a factor contributing to ignition. These fires resulted in 13 civilian deaths, 243 civilian injuries, and $501 million in direct property damage. In 2007-2011, non-home electrical fires represented 13% of total non-home structure fires, 5% of associated civilian deaths, 13% of associated civilian injuries, and 21% of associated direct property damage.

The national estimates in this report are derived from data reported to the U.S. Fire Administration’s National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS).  These statistics include fires reported as “confined fires,” for which detailed reporting is not required. Estimates of detailed characteristics for confined fires require statistical allocation of a large share of unknowns and so involve less confidence. 

Half (48%) of 2007-2011 reported non-confined U.S. home structure fires involving electrical failure or malfunction had some type of electrical distribution or lighting equipment as equipment involved in ignition. The leading other types of equipment involved in ignition were fan (6%), washer or dryer (6%), space heater (4%), air conditioning equipment (4%), water heater (3%), and range (3%).

SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield offers numerous services

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

DID YOU KNOW? SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/ Haddonfield provides 24 hour emergency response and additional services to help customers with Fire & Water - Cleanup & restoration and Mold Remediation

Board-ups/Roof Tarping/Property Securing - In some cases it may be important to secure openings to your home or structure using sturdy, durable materials designed to protect it from both weather intrusion and intrusion by outsiders. SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield Professionals may perform the board-up and tarping themselves, or outside subcontractors may be utilized.

Move-Outs - If prolonged exposure to the loss event could cause additional damage to your contents, your contractor requests relocation of the contents, or the safety of your contents is a concern, a move-out may be recommended. In these situations, SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield are trained to properly inventory, move out and control the contents from the structure during the cleaning, restoration and deodorization process.

Reconstruction Services - Once the damaged materials are removed from your home or business other construction may be needed to restore your property to preloss condition. Your local SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield Professional is trained with the proper equipment to replace flooring, carpet, tile, hardwood floors, and doors. We can paint many surfaces, work on  ceilings, trim, bathroom/kitchen remodels and home/office renovations.

Inventory - Utilizing Contents Claim Inventory Service technology, SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield can generate comprehensive room-by-room inventories. Contents are categorized as salvageable, non-salvageable and questionable - allowing for easier contents settlement.

Electronics Cleaning and Restoration - Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces when moisture is also present. If the residues are not removed, corrosion can eat away at the metal casing and can ultimately cause electronic failure in the device. SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield can clean the outside casing correctly, as well as refer your equipment to a qualified electronics vendor.

We also provide the following services: 

• Temporary Power Rental
• Temporary Fencing
• Storage Services
• Packing Supplies
• Furniture & Fine Art Restoration

For all of your restoration needs, contact the Franchise Professionals at SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/ Haddonfield  today! Call 856-662-2772 . We make it, "Like it never even happened."

Are you going on vacation?

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Relax and have a worry free vacation

Going on vacation should be relaxing and worry-free which is why it is important to make sure your house is secure before you leave for your trip. Be SERVPRO ready so you don’t come back to damages in your home. Here are some tips for preparing your home provided by SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield.

Make Arrangements with an Emergency Contact

• Choose a close friend or neighbor you trust as your emergency contact and provide them with all of your itinerary information in case they need to contact you.
• A timer on lights will give the impression someone is home.
• Leave written directions for alarm codes, doors, or other information needed to properly care for your home.
• Make sure your mail is collected; burglars often look for homes with overflowing mail. 
• The Post office can suspend your mail and deliver the day you get back. 
  

Take plumbing and electric precautions

• Prevent leaks and floods from damaging your home by shutting off gas and water at the meter, supply tank or appliances.
• Turn off the water valves to washing machines, sinks, and the dishwasher.
• Unplug electronics to cut down on any possible shortages which could potentially cause a disastrous fire.
• Check your smoke detectors to ensure they are working properly.
• Adjust your thermostat for the season in the winter 55-60 in the summer 75-80 should help control usage.

 Right before you leave

• Notify your security company that you are leaving town.
• Take out the kitchen trash and other trash that could get smelly.
• Go on one last walk through of your home to secure windows, blinds, fences, doors, and plugs. This will ensure all entries are safe from hazardous obstructions.

 If you come back from vacation and encounter damage within your home, call SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield 856.662.2772.

Mold and it's growth

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Mold was caused by a leak in the walls

Molds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the naked eye and float through outdoor and indoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are wet. There are many types of mold, and none of them will grow without water or moisture.

The key to mold control is moisture control. If mold is a problem in your home, you should call SERVPRO to clean up the mold promptly and dry the water-damaged areas .

It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on. You can prevent damage to your home and furnishings, save money, and avoid potential health problems by controlling moisture and eliminating mold growth.

Flooding and what to do

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Flood water in a small town

Whether a flood is caused by ground water, falling water, or home water system malfunction, there are some best practices you’ll need to employ within the first 24 hours after the flood to ensure the safety of your home and family and give you the best outcome possible with your insurance company.

If the flood was serious enough for you to leave your home, be sure you stay safe upon your return. The Federal Emergency Management Agency warns that you should check for any visible structural damage, such as warping, loosened or cracked foundation elements, cracks, and holes before entering the home and contact utility companies if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, and sewer lines. 

In addition, it’s important to have a working flashlight and turn off all water and electrical sources within the home, Even if the power isn’t operational, it’s a good idea to go to your fuse box and turn off the main, plus all of the individual fuse connections. That way, if the power is reactivated, you’re not at risk for mixing standing water and electricity.

Take Pictures: Before you remove any water or make any repairs, fully document the damage for your insurer by taking photos or video.  If you start removing water or making repairs before you photograph the damage, you could potentially decrease the extent of your coverage.

Even if the water in your home is clear, it could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. Be sure to throw out any food that may have come into contact with flood waters. FEMA recommends boiling water until authorities declare the water supply is safe.

Find Out if You're in a Disaster Area: Once a region has been officially declared a “disaster area” by government authorities, property owners have access to increased resources, including public services to protect and remediate the area. In addition, you may have access to financial assistance. Your insurance company will have additional information on this or you can contact FEMA directly.

Since groundwater flood damage typically isn’t covered by conventional homeowners insurance policies, you’ll need to work with your insurer to determine the cause of the flood and the extent of your coverage. 

Advise your insurance representative of the state of your home and any repairs you intend to do immediately. Be sure to follow the insurance company’s direction about whether or not to wait for an adjuster to inspect the property before making repairs. Document the damage and conversations at every stage of the process.

What can you expect in terms of time to get back to normal? It could be as little as one week if the claim and clean up is minimal to five to six months if you’re working with an insurance adjuster and contractor to complete extensive repairs.

Mitigate Mold Damage: Mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours of a flood, says Ashley Small of FEMA, so remove wet contents, including carpeting and bedding, as soon as possible. If an item has been wet for less than 48 hours, it may be salvageable. However, you’ll need to decide whether it holds enough monetary or sentimental value to try to do so. And notify your insurance company before removing items to ensure that you’re not affecting coverage. Always photograph the flood-soaked items.

You may also wish to hire SERVPRO to help in the dry out and mold process

Secure the Property: As the homeowner, it’s your responsibility to secure the property so that no additional damage occurs. Put boards over broken windows and secure a tarp as protection if the roof has been damaged. Again, take photographs to prove to the insurance company that you have done everything possible to protect your home against further damage.

If the home is habitable, take precautions to keep yourself and your family safe from injury. Use flashlights to move around dark rooms, for example. If the home isn’t habitable, don’t try to stay there. Move to a shelter or alternate location. Consult your insurer to find out what provisions the company will make for temporary housing while your home is being repaired.