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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

Your Valued Possessions Are SERVPRO’s Priority: What Happens To My Things During Restoration?

7/14/2023 (Permalink)

Household items covered during restoration process Personal items in a North Leon County home are covered for protection during the restoration process with SERVPRO team.

SERVPRO takes several measures to manage and prevent damage or loss of valuables during the restoration process. Here are some key practices we follow:

1. Pack-Out Services: SERVPRO offers pack-out services where we carefully inventory, pack, and transport the contents of a property to our secure storage facility. This ensures that valuable items are safely stored away from the restoration area, protecting them from further damage.

2. Detailed Documentation: Before the restoration process begins, our team conducts a thorough inventory of the property's contents, including photographs and detailed descriptions. This documentation helps keep track of valuables and ensures their safe return.

3. Secure Storage Facilities: SERVPRO maintains secure storage facilities equipped with advanced security systems to safeguard valuable items. The facilities are protected against theft, fire, or water damage, minimizing the risk of loss.

4. On-Site Protection: During the restoration process, our technicians take precautions to protect valuable items that cannot be moved. They use plastic coverings, tarps, or other protective materials to shield possessions from dust, debris, and potential damage.

5. Skilled and Trained Technicians: We employ skilled and trained technicians who understand the importance of handling valuable items with care. Those technicians follow specific protocols and techniques to minimize the risk of damage while working on the restoration.

6. Specialized Cleaning and Restoration Techniques: When restoring damaged items, SERVPRO utilizes specialized cleaning and restoration techniques tailored to different materials and valuables. This helps minimize any further damage or deterioration during the restoration process.

7. Constant Monitoring: SERVPRO staff closely monitors the restoration process, ensuring valuable items are not overlooked or accidentally damaged. We continuously assess and adjust our procedures to ensure the highest level of protection for the contents.

By implementing these measures, our team aims to provide comprehensive protection and minimize the risk of damage or loss to valuable items during the restoration process.

IICRC Qualification Is Part Of Our Commitment To The Community

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Leon County takes pride in IICRC Certification SERVPRO is an IICRC Firm in Tallahassee

SERVPRO of North Leon County 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.

IICRC Certified Firms must:

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

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

SERVPRO Shares Homemade Cleaning Solutions For Savings in Emergency Service Needs and Cleaning Supplies.

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO team gathers items to demonstrate homemade cleaning supplies SERVPRO of North Leon County Connects with customers by helping make homemade cleaning supplies.

Our team at SERVPRO knows that helping our community with prevention and money-saving tips is what makes us truly the best SERVice providers in restoration. Making homemade cleaning supplies is a sure-fire way to “save” yourself from disasters in the future.

While there are several great green cleaning supply brands that are safe, healthy, and effective, some people like the option of going “full green” and making their cleaning supplies using simple ingredients. By making your own cleaning supplies, you know exactly what’s in the solution and can reduce waste. Not only will you help the environment, but you can also save money.

You might be surprised to learn what ingredients you can use to clean and which ones might already be sitting in your pantry.

The following are common ingredients that can be used to clean, either alone or with other ingredients:

  • Lemon
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Cornstarch
  • Eucalyptus oil
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Borax
  • Citrus extracts
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Castille soap

Here are a few essential cleaning products you can make yourself:

Carpet Cleaner

If your carpet is a little smelly or just needs to be freshened up, simply sprinkle baking soda or corn starch onto the carpet and let it sink in for up to an hour. Then vacuum.

Air Freshener

You can easily make your own air freshener by boiling lavender or citrus extracts in water.

Window Cleaner

Forget common cleaning products that use ammonia. Make your own window cleaner by combining four cups of water to every one cup of vinegar. Add a couple of drops of essential oils for a pleasant smell.

Disinfectant

Behold the wonder of citrus! To disinfect, just use lemon juice. Lemon can even remove oil stains on laundry.

All Purpose Cleaner

Mix a quart of water with four tablespoons of baking soda for a quick and easy all purpose cleaner.

Furniture Polish

For every one cup of vegetable oil, mix in one teaspoon of lemon oil. Mix together and use a dry rag to make your furniture shine like new.

Grout Cleaner

Using a 50-50 mixture of water and white vinegar, clean your grout with a toothbrush. For more hard-to-budge dirt, mix baking soda with water to create a paste and scrub with a toothbrush.

Increase the Shine of Stainless Steel

Simply use olive oil on a dry cloth and buff to make your stainless steel appliances shine bright.

Rust Remover

Have a buildup of rust on a metal pan? Use salt and lime. Sprinkle salt onto the rust and add lime juice over the salt. Let sit for three hours and then use the lime rind to remove the mixture.

Whether you make or purchase your cleaning supplies, it is important you keep your space clean in order to create a defensive strategy against home health breakdowns. 

Restoration Company Uses Innovative Shifts in Marketing to Reach the Community.

7/17/2022 (Permalink)

Local Businesses Join Hands in Connecting with the Community SERVPRO hosts a key tag campaign that bring community and SERVice solutions into partnership with local businesses of all types.

Being the local leader in restoration services is something out team is most proud of. Being the local leader in partnerships, community support, and a major contributor of easy access resources is beyond a bonus for our eager to SERV staff. When our Marketing Director came on board, she onboarded a sentiment of community care that our franchise stand for, but she has done much more than that. 

When Jackie Chelly settled in, she took the community by storm by finding ways to unify and support one another, while giving the Tallahassee residents added value wherever they shopped and sipped! “My goal has always been to ensure that people knew who to call when it was crunch time. Having emergency contacts in the palm of their hands seemed like the best way.” Jackie shares that she was determined to find a way to incentivize the community to utilize the key tags with emergency contacts QR codes embedded. 

After some brainstorming, and contemplation, she landed on the “other side” solution. Jackie created a second side with he fun stuff, as she puts it. “I decided to go to local businesses and give them free advertising- offering a code with ever-changing offers for patrons. I manage the code pages, our company pays for the cost of the key tag, and all the partners have to do is pick an offer/pass them out.” This lane has served just like her team hoped. The businesses feel a sense of togetherness, the community feels excited to see rotating offers, and they are all armed with the contacts needed if an emergency should occur! 

The teams at SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee and North Leon County started out with 2000 key tags and have had to add another 3000 as the demand continues to increase. Now, more than ever, businesses need support and residents need to reconnect over entertainment and pleasure. We are seeing a rise in the traffic and the sentiment which is exactly what we were hoping would happen. Jeris CafeHanger 38Argonaut CoffeeKwench Juice Cafe, and many more are all seeing big results with the code offerings. 

Being that this medium is limitless, we will shift to back to school offers and keep things exciting. “The partnership sky is the limit,” Jackie says. Evidence to date shows she is absolutely right.

From DIY to Calling in the PROS- SERVPRO Has the Resources You Need!

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

Residential home endures water damages SERVPRO DIY tips help Tallahassee residents manage water damage.

When it comes to  experts, we are it! Still, there are times where you may be able to remedy restoration issues, and you deserve to know how to do just that when you can.

Storm damages, sewer line bursts, pipes leakage and other water damaging scenarios can cause really serious, long-term consequences. This damage can be toxic and cause mold growth. To avoid this, and other long-lasting complications, you can try the steps below on your own.

Timing is a huge factor in the success of DIY tactics. The sooner you can act, the better. This helps prevent a worsening issue and even more health challenges to you, your family and co-workers. From the moment you notice signs, get moving ASAP for best results.

The first thing you should do is disconnect the outlets in the area. Water and electricity can be a fatal combination, so make sure to disconnect all outlets the moment you discover water damage in your home. Even if it is not apparent that high impact damages are in store, the first step MUST always be this one. If this step is not prioritized, and you go into the home without disconnecting the outlets, electrical shock explosions can take place.

The next thing to do is to check for mold in the area. As most know, mold thrives in  moist spaces, so taking the time to inspect the entire home or building immediately is key. Here are a few common signs to look for:

  • The prevalence of a musty, earthy smell
  • Darkening of the grout in your shower tiles
  • Wallpaper peeling
  • Dark or colored spots on your walls

Most obviously, it’s important to dry the water out! Also was dry asap to prevent the damage from worsening. Leaving still water in any spaces, for any period of time, is a haven for germs and bacteria- weakening the structure of your home. A few ways that you can do this are using fans, dehumidifiers to dry out walls and carpets as well. 

Another thing you can do on your own is remove any damaged items. All too often, water damage will wreak havoc on the items inside the home as well. It’s important to inspect furniture, carpet, flooring, drywall and other items that are of no use and are holding moisture ongoing.

The last DIY tactic we recommend is to disinfectEven if it seems a small area has the damage, you can’t be certain that bacteria has not reached other areas. We use the “better safe than sorry” method here and always suggest sanitizing the property with bleach as quickly as possible. 

If you attempt some or all of the above, and you are still not reaching a remedy stage, calling our crew in is a sure bet to getting a solution in place and restoring the routines you need to carry on life as usual. We pride ourselves on being both educational with tips and hands on when the help is needed. That is how we SERV!

Restoration Needs for Florida Residents Must be Met By Seasoned Professionals.

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

Water meter used by SERVPRO professionals. Leon County team uses meter readings in crawl space to assess service needs.

Restoration Needs for Florida Residents Must be Met By Seasoned Professionals.

Calling the right crew can be a game changer both financially and for your productivity. If you need solutions NOW, you need to be SERVed by a team ready and able to meet your needs ASAP. We know the importance of performing water cleanup to crawl spaces for our Tallahassee residents.

Flooding is always a persistent threat to Tallahassee homes and businesses, as the city often falls in line with storms making landfall from the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico. Heavy storms and gale-force winds can be damaging enough, but substantial rainfall over days can cause groundwater flooding in various ways. Oversaturated earth cannot absorb rain, and it can sit on the surface and pool until it becomes a hazardous situation.

Flood from groundwater under Tallahassee homes can threaten areas like the crawlspace of residences. This open area beneath a structure can be the ideal installation point for utility connections like the water and gas. Because this is a hub for your in-house services, addressing Tallahassee flood damage in the area is critical to protect these fixtures and exposed structural elements supporting the house. When standing water exists underneath the house, there are several strategies to dry up the area.

Extraction 

Groundwater extraction is more complicated and problematic than removing standing water inside the house. Instead of electric submersible pumps that can continually remove volumes of water quickly and quietly, our SERVPRO professionals must utilize more powerful equipment like gas-powered trash pumps and engine-driven truck-mount pumps.

Drying 

Drying up the lingering moisture in the area is the only way to address potential threats like mold and microbial growth. Lingering dampness can feel active spores in this environment to use organic materials like wood framing and supports to colonize. With centrifugal air movers carefully positioned, we can begin universal evaporative drying for the entire damaged space. We can also assess at this time if any reconstruction or other build back needs exist for your residence before we conclude restoration.

Flooding can often be one of the most damaging situations for homes and businesses in the area. Even if the standing water is underneath your home in the crawlspace, you might still be at risk for the effects that this elevated moisture and humidity can cause. No matter how we can help.

Flushed... Not so Far Away: How to Clean up a Sewer Line Leak and Why you Should Call SERVPRO of North Leon County.

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage Line to be Serviced in Killearn Lakes Area Killearn Lakes home serviced for sewer line leaks in Tallahassee.

Flushed... Not so Far Away: How to Clean up a Sewer Line Leak and Why you Should Call SERVPRO of North Leon County.

Even a small sewer line leak can turn into a major issue quickly. Make sure you keep reading this guide to learn how to clean up the mess.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, people are seeing a 25 percent increase in plumbing issues due to more frequent use. One of these common problems is a sewage backup or a sewer line leak. 

Not only can these types of leaks cause serious damage, but they can also cause bring major contaminants into your home. 

If you own a home, small business, or restaurant, you need to know the best ways to spot signs of a sewer line leak and how to clean up effectively. 

Here is your quick guide on everything you need to know about fixing a sewer line leak and the following clean-up. 

See if You Can Stop the Leak 

If you come upon a plumbing failure like a sewer line leak, first try to see if you can safely stop it. Turn off the water to the entire house. This will prevent further leakage. 

If you can, try to determine where the leak is coming from. Is the main sewer line leaking or is it happening somewhere else? Calling a professional who specializes in sewer line leak repair can help you identify the source of the leak to better inform the clean-up. 

Take Picture for Your Insurance Company

A critical part of any sewer line leak clean-up process is to take pictures for your insurance company. Take pictures of any damage caused by the leak, including to the walls, floors, and furniture. 

The Importance of Cleaning and Sanitizing

If you have a sewer line leak, clean-up and sanitization are critical. Bacteria and other contaminants can cause infection or illness if not cleaned properly. 

If the resulting mess is relatively small and you can manage the clean-up, first try to mop up or wet-vac any excess water. Wear protective gloves and shoes. Use hot, soapy water to clean off any surface the water from the leak touched. 

Do your best not to track the water into other parts of your home not affected by the leak. You do not want to spread any contaminants any farther. 

If the sewer line leak is extensive, you need to call a professional team to clean and sanitize your home effectively. 

Need to Clean a Sewer Line Leak Fast? 

Whether you have a sewer line leak in a yard or indoors, it is critical that you fix it fast and begin the clean-up process. While you should try to clean the best you can, calling a professional team can help give your house a deep clean that will give you peace of mind. 

If you suspect you have a sewer line leak, be sure to reach out and give us a call here at SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee. In addition to fire and water cleanup and restoration, we can help you fix a sewer line leak fast before it can cause any further damage. 

Reach out and give us a call to get help cleaning up your mess today. 

What to Look For When Hiring Water Damage Services

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage Services How to know what you need.

What to Look For When Hiring Water Damage Services

What to Look For When Hiring Water Damage Services

Are you on the lookout for water damage services but don't know how to choose? Learn what to look for here and make choosing easier.

Owning a home comes with a lot of attractive perks and benefits. It's an investment that pays off while you're living in the home and after. Many homeowners go on to sell their homes for far more than what they paid. 

However, being a homeowner also comes with a lot of responsibilities. All maintenance and repairs fall on you. This can be particularly problematic if you've experienced a flood, burst pipe, or any other type of situation that has led to water damages. 

Fortunately, you aren't alone. There are affordable and reliable water damage services out there that can help you get your home back into perfect condition. 

We can help you find the right water damage repair company. Keep reading for everything you need to know. 

Water Damage Experience and Expertise

First, look for water damage services that are fully qualified to inspect your home for damage, extract water, dry the affected area, and make repairs. At SERVPRO, our water damage specialists are all IICRC-certified

Furthermore, we have years of experience and training to effectively mitigate damages and restore your home. This includes decontamination and cleaning services to help prevent the spread of disease. 

Positive Customer Reviews

Next, when looking for "Water damage near me," you should only consider water damage restoration companies that have positive reviews from their customers. Customer reviews can tell you a lot about a service provider's integrity, workmanship, professionalism, and customer service skills. 

For example, at SERVPRO, we have 5-star ratings on both Facebook and Yelp and a 4.7 rating on Google. We make it our mission to ensure every one of our customers is satisfied before we call it a day. 

All-Inclusive Services

To make your life easier, the best water damage services will provide everything you need to complete the job from start to finish. This includes taking care of water damage mold. SERVPRO offers mold remediation, on top of water excavation and drying to ensure you and your family won't be vulnerable to any complications. 

Availability

At SERVPRO, we understand that disaster can strike at any time, including nights, weekends, and holidays. For this reason, we offer 24-hour emergency services. You shouldn't have to sit by and wait for Monday while your house continues to flood with water. 

Similarly, we take great pride in responding faster to all sizes of disasters. We don't want to keep you waiting. 

Affordable Rates

Finally, before hiring water damage services, make sure you're paying competitive rates. While you can't place a price on the safety and security of your home, you shouldn't accept exorbitant fees. 

Fortunately, many homeowners' insurance policies lend a hand with disaster restoration services. Regardless, this doesn't mean you should let a dishonest company overcharge you in your time of need. 

Do You Need Water Damage Services?

Have you experienced a flood or a burst pipe in your home? Maybe you have negative drainage that filled up your basement after a heavy rainstorm?

No matter what's going on, you can count on our water damage services to get dry, clean, and restore your home. Contact us today to get ahold of one of our specialists and get a quote for our services. 

5 Questions to Ask a Water Damage Restoration Company

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

water leak in ceiling of home rain causes leak inside Tallahassee home

5 Questions to Ask a Water Damage Restoration Company

Before hiring a water damage restoration company, there are several things you should bring up. These are the important questions to ask.

Being a home or business owner has profound benefits. However, these benefits come with certain responsibilities. For example, if your property has been exposed to flooding or suffered damages from a burst water pipe, you are responsible for handling the cleanup. 

Fortunately, you can find a water damage restoration company out there that can help. They specialize in water damages and mold removal. This is vital, as being exposed to black mold can have health effects. 

The question is, how do you find the best restoration company? 

We can help. Keep reading for five questions to ask a water damage restoration company before hiring them.

1. Are You Fully Licensed?

First, verify the company's qualifications by asking about their licensing. Is the business licensed through the state? Additionally, what contracting and mold removal certifications do they possess?

For example, at SERVPRO, we are certified through IICRC, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. All of our employees are highly trained to ensure our customers receive the best services. 

2. How Long Do You Expect the Process to Take?

Next, ask about availability and potential timelines. Whether your home or business was affected by water damage, you need to know how long it will be until things can return to normal. 

Ask how long they expect the process to take. Of course, the water damage restoration company will likely need to inspect the damage to give you a proper assessment. 

3. What Restoration Services Do You Offer?

Not all restoration services are qualified to offer the same types of services. At SERVPRO, we believe in offering an all-in-one service to our customers. We handle water damage restoration, mold removal, and even commercial building services. 

You shouldn't have to hire multiple companies to complete a single job. By hiring a company that handles water damage clean-up and all of the related services, you can save time and money. 

4. Do You Have Positive Customer Reviews?

When searching for "restoration companies near me," consider customer reviews and testimonials. Find out what other homeowners and business owners think about the company in question. At SERVPRO, we're proud of our reputation in the community and post our customer reviews on our website. 

You deserve to know what other people are saying about a service provider before trusting them with your home or business. Are the contractors professional, friendly, and efficient? Are property owners satisfied with the services completed by the water damage restoration company?

5. Can I Get a Quote for Your Services?

Finally, ask to get a quote for the water damage services you need. This is a great way of identifying your potential costs and finding affordable restoration companies. 

In most cases, the company will need to inspect the damage in-person to provide you with an accurate quote. Then you can compare costs and services and find the best company for your needs. 

Looking for a Water Damage Restoration Company You Can Trust?

If your home or business has recently suffered water damages, we understand the stress and frustration you're experiencing. We want to help you put your life back in order. 

For a water damage restoration company your can trust and rely on, contact us today to get a free quote for our services. Let's take of this problem together. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fire Damage Company

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

fire damage on roof fire and smoke damage inside home

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fire Damage Company and Why you Can Trust Us!

Finding the right company to fix fire damage requires knowing your options. Here are factors to consider when choosing a fire damage company.

Did you know that that 37 percent of all fires occur in or on structures? Ideally, we’d be able to prevent that from happening, but it’s essential to prepare for the unexpected.

These disasters don’t only cause property damage. They cause emotional damage as well. 

When a fire occurs, you’ll need to contact a fire damage company. They’ll be able to offer cleaning services as well as refurbishment, coordination, and construction. You can focus on restoration and moving forward.

You shouldn’t settle for the first contractor you find. This guide will go over the factors to consider when choosing a fire damage company. Let’s get started. 

1. Work With Contractors in Your Local Area

The first thing you want to do is support your local business by working with contractors located nearby. Local contractors will understand how to deal with the problems that affect the neighborhood.

There’s already an establishment and familiarity with your area. They built a reputation for themselves and have valuable knowledge regarding the city. This ensures that they’re likely a better choice than a contractor from a different area.

2. Fire Damage Restoration Experience 

If you want peace of mind, you’ll need to hire a licensed and certified fire damage company. You should also look for contractors that have a significant amount of experience. Licensed companies are reputable and have few client complaints. 

Be sure to check how many years a company has been in service and what customers have to say about them.

3. Online Customer Reviews

Thankfully, it is easier than ever to get an idea of the type of company you should hire. With the click of a mouse, you’ll be able to see customer reviews for practically any business. 

While customer reviews aren’t the only reference you should use, it does provide valuable insight. Look for different fire damage companies and compare what past customers had to say.

4. What Services Do They Offer?

As you look for different companies, you’ll want to get a complete list of services offered. That way, you can see which place aligns with what you’re looking for. This is also a great way of comparing restoration fees.

5. Property Should Be Inspected First

You can expect a reputable company to inspect your property before they start working. You should make sure that they do an initial inspection before they provide a quote. This will ensure that they can properly access the situation and make the entire process easier.

6. The Company’s Response Time

Property fires happen unexpectedly, and the company you select should be able to respond right away. You’ll want to find a company that responds whenever you need their help. They should also start cleaning immediately to prevent your home from getting exposed to additional damages.

Choosing the Right Fire Damage Company

Having your property damaged by fire can leave you stressed and anxious. The right fire damage company will reduce your worries. It will also ensure that your home or business will be restored in the right way. 

Are you looking for the best fire and water restoration in Tallahassee? Look no further than SERVPRO of North Leon County. Be sure to contact us for more information!

A Musty Smell In Your Tallahassee Home Means It's Time To Call Us

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

woman holding nose from oder oder removal for your tallahassee home

Have you noticed an odd, musty smell in home or part of your home? This smell happens in a lot of homes, especially older homes.

There are several things that have caused this smell, from mold issues, to neglect, or just the age of the home. It could have nothing to do with the home at all. 

Perhaps it's left over from the previous occupant. There have long been jokes about 'old people smell,' but it's a real thing.

Knowing the cause of the smell is one thing, though, and knowing how to get rid of it is another. We'll talk more about possible causes and solutions in this article.

1. Mold and Mildew

One of the most common causes of a wet, musty smell in the home is mold or mildew. There are a few differences between mold and mildew.

The main difference is severity. Mildew only shows up on the surface of affected areas, and can be easily cleaned.

Mold, on the other hand, can be a much bigger problem. It's not confined to surfaces, so visible mold might be a sign of a more serious problem.

If you do have a mold problem, we'd recommend calling a professional. In rare cases, mold can be dangerous.

2. Poor HVAC Maintenance

Sometimes, a bad smell in the air can be something as simple as the air itself. Trapping air in one place can cause it to grow musty. 

This occurs because the air isn't be circulated and filtered, meaning that dust, tiny particles, and various other contaminants aren't being pushed into larger spaces or filtered out.

The solution for a musty smell in home AC vents is often replacing the filter in the HVAC system and turning it on. Keep in mind that the air may be musty when you first start running it. That air's been in there for a while and it might take some time to get it clean.

If you'd prefer to get professionals to clean the system, you can always call an air duct cleaning service.

3. Second-Hand Smoke

Despite all the bad press smoking has gotten over the years, there are still people who do it. If you happen to buy a house from one of those people, you may notice the smell of tobacco smoke still lingering in the air.

Unfortunately, the smoke clings to objects and surfaces, which makes it harder to get out.

Again, this isn't much of an issue. You may need to give the house a thorough cleaning, but otherwise, there won't be too much trouble.

Musty Smell in Home: What It Is and How to Get Rid Of It

If you're looking for the source  of a musty smell in home, house, and hearth, look no further. We've talked about some of the most common causes of musty odor in this article, but there are other potential causes, as well.

For more information on home ownership and various home maintenance issues please visit our site. If you have any questions, or are thinking of hiring us for a maintenance job in your home, feel free to contact us.

SERVPRO of North Leon County Cleans Sewage Backup

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

toilet leak in bathroom water leak emergency in Tallahassee home

Get this: A whopping 1.8 million people drink from contaminated water sources every day. On the bright side, though, there are plenty of ways to figure out how to clean after sewage backup problems head your way.

On the hunt for some sewage backup cleaning tips?

If you are looking for a quick sewage backup fix, we are here to help you out. Take a look at the five steps to recover after a sewage backup below!

1. Avoid Flushing Toilets and Drains 

To reduce your sewage damage significantly, do your best to avoid flushing toilets or drains immediately after the problem has occurred. This includes sinks too. The point is to prevent any additional water from being used in your house until the sewage problem has been taken care of by a trusted professional!

2. Ditch Any Harsh Cleaning Products

The next step that you should take after a serious sewage issue is to ditch any harsh cleaning products. Not only can this make your sewage clog even messier, but it may cause damage to your sewer lines and pipes as well.

Pro tip: Instead, we recommend that you use more eco-friendly cleaning products that rely on enzymes rather than chemicals.

3. Close off the Sewage Area

Once you spot the sewage area in your home, we encourage you to close off the impacted area in your home. For those of you who are unaware, this includes removing your pets and your children from the sewage area too.

4. Turn off Your Power Source 

If the infected area in your home isn't flooded yet, you might want to try to turn off your power source if it's still somewhat safe. If not, you should avoid your electrical box until a trusted professional arrives at your home.

5. Don't Forget Your PPE

In case you didn't know, it's important to wear your personal protective equipment while cleaning up any sewage backup. This includes everything from:

  • Gloves
  • Eyeglasses
  • Rubber boots
  • Face mask

In addition to this, washing your hands in between cleaning sessions is always a smart choice!

Searching for Sewage Backup Help?

Are you still searching for sewage backup help? If that's the case, then your search is officially over.

From a sewage backup in the basement to a sewage backup in the house, we've got you covered!

Not only can you help to prevent sewage damage by avoiding flushing toilets and sinks, but you can also ditch any harsh cleaning products to prevent further damage too.

Besides this, closing up the sewage area to your kids and pets and turning off your electrical source are great ways to deal with the sewage backup as well. Last but not least, wearing protective personal equipment like gloves, eyeglasses, rubber boots, and face masks might do the trick too!

Need help with sewage damage cleanup? If so, don't hesitate to contact our team of experts today!

5 Reasons to Include SERVPRO in Your Company's Disaster Recovery Plan

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

business papers with eye glasses on top commercial disaster cleanup and restoration

Roughly 40 percent of businesses that experience a disaster are unable to reopen. Of the businesses that do reopen, a quarter of them close within a year following the disaster. 

Fires, floods, storm damage, and mold damage are all common types of disasters that can happen to any business. These may seem like unavoidable events. However, there is something your business can do to protect itself in the event of a disaster. 

It is critical that your business has a disaster recovery plan in place should you experience any major business disruptions

Here are the top 5 reasons why your business needs a disaster recovery plan with SERVPRO.

1. Reduce Your Revenue Losses

A reason why so many companies fail to reopen after a disaster is that they were unable to earn any income in the days, weeks, or even months following the disaster. 

Businesses without a disaster recovery plan have no easy-to-follow plan on getting operations running again once a disaster hits. They experience major unexpected costs in the clean-up process that can deplete their funds quickly. 

By having a disaster recovery plan in place with SERVPRO that you can implement rapidly after a disaster, you can minimize your revenue losses. 

2. Get Up and Running Faster

After a disaster, you need to get your operations back up to speed. By having a disaster recovery plan in place, you can focus on the high-impact areas that can help you start earning revenue again.

For example, the faster businesses restore water damage, the sooner they can reopen to customers. 

3. Maintain Strong Company Reputation 

One of the most important things to a business is its reputation. Reputation is everything when it comes to keeping old customers and gaining new ones. 

If your company is unable to deliver on promised services following a disaster, you are more likely to lose your valued customers

Having a disaster recovery plan with SERVPRO also communicates to customers that come rain or shine, your company can be trusted to continue to provide great service, no matter the circumstances. 

4. Increase Flexibility and Scalability

A great benefit of having a disaster recovery plan with SERVPRO is that it is extremely customizable to fit your unique needs.

If you are more likely to experience mold damage than a flood, then you can adjust your needs with a service provider when developing your plan. 

5. Prioritize Cost Effectiveness

At the end of the day, the greatest benefit of having a disaster recovery plan is that it is the most cost-effective option for your business.

It allows you to prioritize your spending in places where it can help you get your operations up and running faster while maximizing customer retention. 

Connect With Us to Make Your Disaster Recovery Plan Today

Experiencing a disaster can wreck a small business. Business disruptions like fires, floods, and storm damage can cause permanent damage to your business. That is why it is critical that you have a disaster recovery plan. 

Contact us here at SERVPRO to learn how to create a disaster recovery plan customized to meet your needs. We specialize in helping keep your business up and running faster after disasters. 

Can Water Restoration Companies Accurately Estimate the Cost of Renovating A Damaged House Before Starting the Process?

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO vehicles and equipment staging area Here Is Why SERVPRO Is the Water Cleanup Restoration Company of Choice for the Greater Tallahassee Region!--Plus--We're Faster To Any Size Disaster!

In Your Search for Water Restoration Companies in Tallahassee Consider SERVPRO To Get Accurate Estimates and Superior Services

After you discover water intrusion at your property, one of the greatest concerns you might have is whether you have the wherewithal to restore everything to the preloss state. Your worries could center around cost or the time taken to complete the process. Getting estimates early in the restoration process can help eliminate the uncertainty. SERVPRO offers Tallahassee homeowners looking for water restoration company solutions that include precise estimates and a comprehensive restoration plan.

How much trust should I have in the estimates provided?

An estimate is only useful if the water restoration companies fixing your Tallahassee home use the right approaches when evaluating the damage left by water intrusion. Before our SERVPRO technicians inform you of the expected cost of restoration, or the time it might take to mitigate the damage at your house, we consider a couple of factors like:

  • The number of equipment needed for water extraction or drying
  • The percentage of affected areas including hidden ones
  • The procedures needed to restore the damages

Performing initial evaluation without taking adverse steps such as demolishing walls and other assemblies within the structure and getting good information is the ideal approach because it helps you determine the steps you need to take before you make irreversible decisions.

Our technicians use various approaches to make such evaluations. We can use penetrative moisture meters to check the actual moisture levels within materials. We also use thermal cameras to check for wet areas hidden behind other materials. Thermal cameras identify temperature differences in materials, making it easy to pinpoint the affected areas without removing the covering materials first.

What else does evaluation reveal apart from the spread of moisture?

Water intrusion in a house can cause a wide range of problems, so any evaluation done must factor in other aspects, including:

  • Mold growth
  • Presence of stains
  • Soiling patterns
  • Physical deterioration levels in materials

Such factors can extend the time it takes to complete the restoration by several days, if not weeks. The issues might also necessitate the use of specialized cleaning procedures, thus increasing the costs incurred to renovate the home to its preloss state. For instance, when you notice stains on the carpet, you have to stop other cleaning procedures and focus on spot removal to ensure the stain does not set. In the case of mold, various time-consuming procedures, including setting up containments and removing the infested materials, are necessary before proceeding with the cleaning. Drawing on past experiences, our SERVPRO technicians can factor in these aspects to the timeline we quote.

Why should the equipment estimate matter?

Some aspects of an estimate, such as the number of equipment, crews, or other resources set aside for the restoration, may not matter to you. However, they affect the outcome, so even if you do not need to get into the specifics with the restoration crews, you need to know that the restorer you have chosen has a systemic way of determining what is needed to do the job. When estimating the number of equipment needed, especially for major tasks such as drying or water extraction, our IICRC Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification SERVPRO technicians rely on factors established as having a big impact, including:

  • The depth of standing water
  • Percentage of porous materials affected
  • Level of wicking on the walls

The total surface area affected by the water intrusion

For the air movers, which we use to boost the evaporation rates, we need one unit for every 10 to 16 linear feet. Since such equipment is placed along the walls for typical drying situations, it is easy to estimate the number. In case a significant percentage of porous materials are affected, we can estimate the number of air movers by square feet, placing a unit every 50 to 60 feet. For dehumidifiers, we consider the number of pints a unit can remove per day. We also factor in the level of wetness in the materials to establish the square feet each unit can cover and thus an accurate estimate of how many units are required.

Using specific formulas to make estimations of the equipment needed minimizes chances of making errors and thus protecting you from accidental secondary damage such as mold development when the process drags on too long because of underestimating the resources needed.

Many aspects of water restoration require a technical understanding of the situation. Call SERVPRO of North Leon County to handle any challenging aspect at your Centerville, Florida State University FSU, Midtown Tallahassee property, “Like it never even happened.” You can reach us at (850) 536-6599.

Why Should You Look For Mold Removal Companies In Tallahassee That Carry Out Restoration?

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

Black Mold on basement walls of a home If you are looking for a company that will help restore your home after mold damage, call SERVPRO of North Leon County at (850) 536-6599.

Tallahassee Homeowners Need To Know The Job Is Complete

Tallahassee residents are looking for remediation companies they can trust to complete a job on time, to budget, and without cutting any corners. Letting a cleanup crew into your home is a big step, and it is essential to know they will see the job through till the end.

If you’re looking for mold removal companies in Tallahassee, be sure to choose one that includes restoration as part of the job.

What should I look for in a mold removal company?

SERVPRO understands you want to find a mold removal company that will do a good job. We suggest looking for a company that:

    •    Trains its staff thoroughly (all our team go through a rigorous training process)
    •    Arrive quickly (we are available 24 hours a day which makes us Faster to Any Size Disaster)
    •    Equips its staff with quality equipment (our teams have powerful up to date equipment)
    •    Will deodorize your home after mold remediation (our technicians come equipped with deodorizers and air scrubbers)
    •    Carries out restoration if needed (restoration is part of the SERVPRO process)

What is restoration?

Restoration is the rebuilding and repair of any parts of your home, which have been damaged by mold growth. For example, you might need to:

    •    Replace drywall because of mold growth on the existing material
    •    Put down new carpets because there was too much mold growth on the current carpets
    •    Hang new wallpaper if your present paper has been warped and discolored by mold
    •    Repaint walls after mold removal

Choosing a mold removal company that will also carry out restoration saves time and is a lot less stressful than employing a separate company for the restoration part.

What can SERVPRO restore?

Our technicians can take care of minor repairs such as replacing drywall, hanging new wallpaper, repainting, or laying new carpets. We can also handle significant maintenance, such as replacing subfloors or reconstructing part of your home.

If a job requires more specialist intervention, we will bring in hand-picked experts for the job, so you do not have to worry about it.

If you are looking for a company that will help restore your home after mold damage, call SERVPRO of North Leon County at (850) 536-6599.

I Fear Water Is Hidden Inside Walls and Ceilings of My Tallahassee House -- Who Can Help and How Is the Water Removed?

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

flooding in home Give us a call at (850) 536-6599 to explore the opportunities we offer to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Countless Cavities Capable of Collecting Leaking Water Exist In Every Residence in Tallahassee, Why SERVPRO Prepares for Water Removal Scenarios That Can Be Challenging

Water can quietly and slowly damage the structures and fixtures of your Tallahassee home, often without realizing there is a problem. A minor leak in a pipe or a poorly sealed connection can seep or drip water for days, weeks, or longer. The building materials near the leaking absorbs moisture, perhaps drying out periodically at the inception of the leaking. Eventually, the materials cannot manage the moisture load and are always damp. The silent leaking then finds its voice, signaling the problem in ways you might not read correctly, but that water removal professionals recognize. Determining where the water has found shelter before removal is difficult, why you need a reliable recovery company.

What Are Some Signs of Hidden Leaks?

One hint that your Tallahassee home needs water removal can come in the mail. If you note that your water bill shows an unexpected increase, it could mean a leak is active. Tip-offs more directly related building materials in your home include:

    •    Blistered paint on walls or ceilings
    •    Stains on surfaces unrelated to other soiling
    •    Peeling wallpaper
    •    Bulges on walls or ceilings
    •    "Sweating walls"
    •    Cracks on walls
    •    Squeaking floors
    •    Spongy feeling floors
    •    Unusual musty odors
    •    Visible mold growth

How Can a Restoration Company Help Interpret the Signs Before Water Removal?

Your honesty in sharing information about the confusing things you see in your house is why SERVPRO can start to narrow down the location of the water loss. We listen because no one knows your home better than you do. Then our crews use the tools described, and the skills learned during the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training to determine the extent and severity of the water incursion. This data allows the development of a best practices-based plan to remove the water and dry out the space:

Detection and Monitoring Devices
Moisture Sensors
Sensors have probes that detect the presence of moisture and must be calibrated for the materials tested

Moisture Meters
Meters measure the current moisture content of structural materials
Penetrating moisture meters can check the moisture levels within building cavities and underneath wood flooring
Metering of unaffected materials in a different space in the house help during the active drying phase, providing a comparison goal as the moisture in the damaged materials reduces

Thermo-hygrometer
This tool measures temperature and relative humidity -- we use it during drying to ensure the proper balance is struck to facilitate evaporation of water locked into structures

How Do We Move from Detection to Water Removal?

Once we know where the water lurks, the next task is to decide how to evacuate it. Different strategies work for different scenarios. Sometimes a reasonably non-disruptive approach can release the trapped water, like when a toe kick beneath a kitchen cabinet pries out to allow access. Other times our crew might need to employ different techniques to reach the water for release, including limited, controlled demolition:

    •    Weep holes -- punched through the ceiling when water is overhead. The safest way to accomplish this water release is to start by a wall and let the water drain entirely through one hole before another is punched closer to the middle of the room. This avoids the trapped water from pouring through in uncontrollable quantities.
    •    Holes cut or drilled at the baseboard level of a wall -- reduce the pressure of the water trapped gradually. The holes also allow for the insertion of hoses connected to a negative air pressure to suction out the water below the drilled opening.
    •    Flood cuts -- if the drywall has crumbled, sawing several inches above the water line removes materials that cannot be saved and permits the water to be extracted.

Is Water Extraction Enough?

Although water extraction is critical to getting wet building cavities back to preloss condition, it is also necessary to dry the still-wet porous materials to normal moisture levels. The limited demolition used to extract the hidden water enhances structural drying efforts by opening the spaces to air movement and the dehumidifiers' effect.

Water removal can be a tricky business in your home, why SERVPRO of North Leon County seeks out and enrolls our team members in advanced training developed by the IICRC. Give us a call at (850) 536-6599 to explore the opportunities we offer to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Who Has the Time to Help Me with Tallahassee Water Removal?

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Faulty appliance Homeowners have to deal with many things which may include water damage caused by faulty appliances. Contact SERVPRO right away.

Plumbing Leaks or Appliance Breakdowns Happen Year-Round in Tallahassee, Why SERVPRO Prepares for Water Removal Requests Large and Small in Our Community

Severe storms and hurricanes are far from being the most common reason for significant water damage in your Tallahassee home. Still, during the tropical storm season, you might feel that restoration companies will have no time to help with more mundane water removal. Do not fail to reach out because of our perceived lack of capacity to manage the aftermath of an overflowing dishwasher or plumbing leak. Varying needs of our customers are why we make sure we can scale up and down our response.

Why Is It Crucial to Rid My Home of Water After an Accidental Loss?

If you think all that appropriate water removal in Tallahassee needs is a bucket and a mop, the long term damage you experience might show this opinion to be an error. Water flowing from a plumbing leak or spreading across the floor after a dish or clothes washer spewed fluids from a broken hose or pump moves quickly. It seeps into building cavities and soaks into the many porous building materials used in residential construction. If the escaped water remains, progressive breakdown of structural components and the risk of mold growth are constant.

What Can I Expect from a Restoration Company for a Household Leak?

Just because the damage done is not yet cataclysmic does not mean we do not take your water removal project seriously. Our attention to detail and commitment to proceed appropriately for any size water emergency are among the reasons why SERVPRO is an excellent fit for your concerns. We assess the circumstances thoroughly, and craft a mitigation and remediation plan scaled precisely for your needs. We will:

  • Extract visible liquid water
  • Test spaces for hidden and absorbed water
  • Use proven strategies to release, contain, and dispose of hidden water
  • Set up an efficient and effective drying plan, and implement it   

A commitment to help any member of our community with their water removal issues is why SERVPRO of North Leon County should be your first call after a water loss. We can be reached 24/7 at (850) 536-6599.

Want to see more about Tallahassee?

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Table tent signs describing the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program on top of a wooden table. Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open in Tallahassee, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

  • Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
  • Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
  • Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned,but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of North Leon County today at (850) 536-6599 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Count on SERVPRO to Clean Your Tallahassee Place of Worship

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

close up of virus cells on a red background Cleaning and sanitizing are both keys to helping stop the spread of viruses.

SERVPRO Follows Cleaning Protocols at Tallahassee Houses of Worship  

Some Tallahassee area churches, cathedrals, chapels, temples, halls, synagogues, parishes, mosques and meeting houses continue to hold services, encouraging social distancing, and adapting rituals such as communion practices to decrease the possibility of viral spread.  

Because concerns about adequate cleaning of viruses and other pathogens, several local
Protestant and Catholic churches in Leon County are choosing an alternative approach to their
regular weekly service such as home-based gatherings. Some faith groups are even
choosing temporary closure of their buildings. These approaches provide ample opportunities
for focused cleaning when congregants are not in the building.

choosing temporary closure of their buildings. These approaches provide ample opportunities for focused cleaning when congregants are not in the building. 

Why Your Regular Cleaning Routine Needs Changing  

Although not yet established that transmission of the virus always occurs when individuals touch contaminated surfaces and then their face, preventative cleanup of potentially infectious areas is a best practice. SERVPRO follows a protocol developed in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The procedure recommends professional cleaning and then applying disinfectants that meet the established criteria. 

How Cleaning and Application of Disinfectant Work Together 

The CDC stresses that routine cleaning of touchpoints removes soils and germs from surfaces. Following up with the application of a disinfectant registered by the EPA with emerging viral pathogens claiming it can reduce the risk of spread. Typical touch points include doorknobs, push bars, light switches, railings, fixtures in restrooms, and more. SERVPRO technicians concentrate on cleaning the following location-specific surfaces in a house of worship: 

  • Pew tops and armrests
  • Communion rails
  • Confessional kneelers
  • Altars
  • Holy water dispensers  

Buildings that serve as a place for people of faith to gather are considered sanctuaries by community members. SERVPRO of North Leon County is here to inspire continuing confidence in your holy space as a refuge. Call (850) 536-6599 for a consultation. 

Click here for more about Tallahassee

Advice from the medical and scientific community regarding how to deal with the coronavirus is based on present knowledge, which is subject to change as the situation continues to develop. There can be no assurance that disinfectants alone will be adequate to fully eliminate the virus.

Mold Damage Tallahassee – Avoiding Mold Infestations

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Mold spots on a ceiling. Let us be there Tallahassee to guide you through the mold.

SERVPRO knows best when it comes to your Tallahassee mold issues.

Consumers may not realize that mold is present in their homes, outdoors, and just about everywhere. Mold spores are microscopic and float in the air until the spores find the right conditions to grow into colonies. Warmth, moisture, and a food source can provide the right conditions for mold to grow in your home. Mold produces mycotoxins that can seriously affect your health.

SERVPRO has extensive training in the control of mold damage in Tallahassee. We understand how to remove mold infestations and, more importantly, how to remove moisture in your home that mold needs to grow. Mold cannot be eliminated; however, it can be controlled, and consumers can avoid the associated health problems.

Checking for Sources of Moisture

Mold needs moisture to establish a colony. SERVPRO uses moisture sensors to help find any area in your home that may be contributing to moisture and high humidity. Lowering the humidity to below 45% in your home can help to deter mold growth.

There may be a leaky pipe, condensation on cold water pipes, or small leaks around windows. Whatever the cause, we can find these sources and propose solutions to control the moisture source.

Removing Mold

Consumers should take action to manage a mold infestation immediately. Waiting, hoping that it disappears or attempting to remove the mold yourself, usually allows the mold infestation to grow and cause more damage.

The mitigation process for dealing with mold infestation depends on the location and the extent of the area affected. Severe infestations may require the removal of drywall, flooring, and even structural elements. We follow appropriate removal and disposal procedures to protect the occupants. We remove porous materials from the affected area. Wash hard surfaces with a chlorine bleach solution. Remove the moisture source, and the environment must be dried. Keep humidity levels below 45%.

Call SERVPRO of North Leon County / Tri-Lakes at (850) 536-6599 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Florida State University F S U, Lake Iamonia, Homestead Ridge, and the surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

To learn more about Tallahassee, click here.

Let Our Team Save Your Tallahassee Home

11/17/2019 (Permalink)

water damage in home “Like it never even happened.”

Why Do You Need SERVPRO in Tallahassee?

When you live or own a home in Florida, you are well aware of the different needs your home has. For example, you may need someone to take care of your pool or trim your palm trees. You also know that your home needs to be ready for severe storms and winds and prepare by installing shutters or impact windows. Overall, you become attuned to the geographic effects Florida has on your property. Consequently, you have a Rolodex of contractors you can call if disaster strikes, and they implicitly become part of your emergency plan.

If you still wonder why SERVPRO is part of your water damage plan in Tallahassee, you may not know enough about our services yet. Our focus is on fire and water cleanup and restoration, and we train our technicians to act under pressure and in stressful situations to minimize your losses. Whenever water causes damage in your home, whether it comes from a storm or a broken pipe, our water restoration technicians (WRT) come into your home carrying industry-grade equipment and expertise designed to help you restore your property to normal as soon as possible.

Some homeowners wonder what the main difference is between a do-it-yourself solution and calling a professional service. For starters, our SERVPRO crew has at its disposal instruments designed specifically for measuring and controlling humidity levels in your home. Contrary to popular belief, the goal is not to eliminate any trace of moisture; instead, we aim to bring it back to balance. Unless you have access to technology such as infrared moisture readers, you run the risk of causing further damage by not drying each surface properly.

Another crucial aspect of our services is that we strive to restore as much of your home as possible. Instead of assuming that all your belongings, floors, and surfaces are beyond repair, our SERVPRO staff applies itself to restore as much as possible. Restoration translates into savings in terms of time and money, both of which are to your benefit.

Whenever you think of your home and its vulnerability to the elements, think of SERVPRO of North Leon County. A call to (850) 536-6599 may be all you need to address the damage and leave your home “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Tallahassee click here.

Tallahassee Mold Infestations Are Everywhere--Call SERVPRO for Mitigation and Remediation

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Workers in Protective Clothing Removing Mold Spit Shot SERVPRO Says "Like it never even happened," Applies to Mold Cleanup and Remediation in Tallahassee

Safely Removing Mold Damage from the Structure of your Tallahassee Home

Microbial growth issues in your home can escalate quickly or be a continual, recurring issue without the correct intervention methods. Homeowners may fear the spiraling costs of mold investigations, but in most cases, Laboratory testing is unnecessary. Our team of qualified remediation technicians is equipped to tackle mold at the source and put in place protective measures to reduce the likelihood of repeating problems.

Uncovering mold damage in your Tallahassee can be an anxious experience. Frequently the materials and structural components of your property must be removed and replaced with non-contaminated materials. Mold, like rot, can spread quickly, causing an extensive infestation. SERVPRO technicians are here to help find the source of mold and then remove the remaining colonies from your property.

While the replacement of materials like drywall may sound costly, these materials are typically inexpensive. SERVPRO can conduct controlled demolitions of infested materials safely. Using a containment barrier, either negative air-pressure or plastic sheeting, we can ensure that demolitions do not cause mold spores to spread throughout your home. We can set up clean rooms and decontamination zones to prevent cross-contamination during the service. Mold typically spreads through spores that become airborne and land on damp spots or places where moisture may reside.

While the replacement of structural contents may be necessary, areas of the home's actual structure can be a considerable project. SERVPRO technicians can use soda-blasting or ice-pellet blasting to remove the surface level damages without causing irreparable harm to the structure. Often natural woods are used in load-bearing walls or the foundations of your property. Woods can suffer from microbial growth. In most cases, a SERVPRO technician can safely sand the wall and refinish it using an anti-microbial primer to prevent excessive damage. Using professional restoration service technicians can tackle mold without the risk of recurring issues. We use fully-licensed, trained mold assessment, and remediation technicians that give your home the best chance of making a full recovery.

The remediation of mold in your property is a professional job, contact SERVPRO of North Leon County at (850) 536-6599.
 

Fire Damage, Water Damage, and Maybe Mold in Tallahassee, Oh My!

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Active blazing fire on a kitchen stove. We know fire damage can consume your home in Tallahassee, if not taken care of properly the damage will get worse.

SERVPRO knows there stuff, when it comes to a fire in your Tallahassee home.

Fire damage delivers a host of issues to a residential property. The charred debris, the water from extinguishing efforts, and then the prospect of mold brings the need for professional restoration services to the forefront. 

Clearing fire damage from a Tallahassee property necessitates several steps to ensure the home is safe for habitation. Soot is unhealthy to breath (not to mention the foul odor) and requires removal for a healthy environment to live in. The challenge comes for SERVPRO technicians as soot particles exist smaller than humans can see, and that is why they deploy specialized equipment to remove these microscopic specks. 

Why SERVPRO?

Consumer-grade equipment simply cannot match the specialized machinery SERVPRO technicians have access to. Air scrubbers for the removal of soot particles to robust odor control units increase the chances of restorability to more of the building structure and contents for the best outcome. 

Fire Debris Cleanup and Removal

It is vital to remove any charred items as they have zero restoration potential and spread odor. Sheetrock frequently shows double damage from not only the fire but also water damage. Once wicked into the sheetrock, it buckles and warps requiring cutting away. 

Correct Cleaning Methods

A single room may show different types of smoke damage and require different methods of cleaning depending on the temperature of the blaze and the items consumed by the fire. For example, high heat fires produce a dry smoke that causes more damage when exposed to liquid cleaners and instead needs a dry-sponge cleaning approach for removal. While wet smoke residues require suspension using oil-based or solvent cleansers to release their grip on the surface for successful removal. Metal beams attract smoke webs around the ceiling; in particular, they are found in corners and can be swept away cleanly. 

When fire damage is a problem, contact SERVPRO of North Leon County at (850) 536-6599. Our emergency response technicians are available 24/7 to make the fire loss to your home and contents "Like it never even happened."

To learn more about Tallahassee, click here.

Why SERVPRO Is The Leader In Tallahassee Fire Damage Restoration

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

A kitchen that encountered a fire with smoke and soot damage Fire Damage in this kitchen began on the stove. The photo shows the hood of the stove and the cabinetry charred by the fire damage.

Why Soot and Smoke Removal Include Residential Contents Cleaning in Tallahassee

When a fire loss occurs in your Tallahassee home, you might be shocked at the extent and severity even after what seems like minor fire. Smoke spreads quickly through a dwelling, drifting on air currents or through the HVAC system if left running. Structural components and fixtures attract soot throughout the house. Contents, from household goods through personal possessions, also risk exposure to the fire residues. Our professional training in all these cleaning needs is why homeowners need to call.

Fire Residues Are Corrosive and Toxic

Cleanup after Tallahassee residential fire damage can pose risks to the individuals completing it. Chemicals, gases, and particles created by the incomplete combustion of burned materials can be health hazards and need to be managed by trained technicians. Our employees complete core and advanced courses developed by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) to be certified as Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) and Contents Processing Technicians (CPT). The precautions we learn and implement during this training are critical for your family’s safety, why relying on our expertise is vital.

Pack-Outs Help Clean Contents and Speed Structural Remediation

Removing smoke and soot-damage contents to a secure place within another area of your home or at our production facility is best practices for two reasons. The contents get the attention needed from our specialized production technicians, and the cleared out spaces in your home are more easily cleaned and treated. Our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) keeps track of items moved, why SERVPRO can clarify restoration and replacement claims with your insurance company throughout the process.

Professional Techniques for Smoke Removal

Merely airing out a fire-damaged space or collection of contents is ineffective to remove smoke. Our team members include containment strategies in the overall mitigation and remediation plan, an important reason why SERVPRO has the reputation of delivering efficient fire recovery services safely. Creating workspaces with plastic sheeting barriers and the sealing properties of negative pressure air scrubbers both in your home and at our production facility promotes HEPA filtering and exhausting of airborne contaminants. 

Soot Removal Evaluation Followed by Appropriate Strategies

Fire deposits varying types of soot depending on the temperature, oxygen availability, and materials burned. Our training and experience permit a proper fit between the products, tools, and methods used to remove the soot either on structural surfaces or affecting the contents of your home. Our production facility and employees have resources such as ultrasonic immersion tanks, innovative washing and drying systems, deodorization and drying chambers, and other options to return your possessions to “Like it never even happened.” This broad range of options is why SERVPRO is an industry leader in fire damage restoration of homes and their contents.

Explore why SERVPRO of North Leon County has solutions for nearly every challenge presented by structural and contents fire damage mitigation and remediation. One call to (850) 536-6599 gets an assessment team at your home fast, ready to start immediately.

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We Discuss Basic Cleaning Principles For Your Fire Damaged Tallahassee Home

8/13/2019 (Permalink)

If a fire ever starts inside your home call SERVPRO of North Leon County at (850) 536-6599 because We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Fire Damage Professionals In Tallahassee Talk About Basic Cleaning Principles

If a fire ever starts on your property in Tallahassee, there are various problems that could take place. Fire damage can exist in various forms, including burnt materials and soot residues. Many times structural blazes get put out with water which can create other issues. Adding moisture to the situation can create moisture-related issues, including soot getting soaked deeper into your building materials.

Luckily, our SERVPRO fire damage technicians in Tallahasse have vast amounts of experience in mitigating various types of problems. Our highly trained team provides fast 24/7 service so that we can start restoring your structure immediately after the burn takes place. We also have at our disposal advanced technology and techniques that help us be successful when attempting to return your house to its previous state, “Like it never even happened.”

Our fire and smoke restoration technicians or FSTs at SERVPRO know that cleaning soot residues and soils can be a significant portion of your restoration project. Most cleaning procedures involve either changing or altering the soils or residues. Our FSTs frequently use the following chemicals to clean and remove soot residues and other stains.

1. Enzymes
Enzymes are living organisms. They digest protein soils like starch, dairy products, perspiration, body discharges, blood, eggs, and fish slime.

2. Bleaching Agents
Bleaching works by chemically altering a stain to reverse the coloration of a stain.

3. Removing Water Stains
Our SERVPRO FSTs often use a peroxide-based water stain remover called Brown Out.  Brown Out produces a chemical change to remove “browning” caused by overwetting or slow drying of fabrics or carpets.

4. Removing Rust
When removing rust stains, we frequently use a strong acid chemical called rusticide. This strong acid has a pH of 2 and dissolves rust stains on cotton, linen, silk, wool, synthetic fibers, and carpeting.

5. Deodorizing Through Chemical Changes
Ozone is a colorless pale blue gas consisting of highly volatile O3 molecules. When ozone molecules contact odor-causing molecules, they oxidize the odor molecules, neutralizing them and breaking them down to smaller, less offensive materials.

If a fire ever starts inside your Killearn, Centerville, or Meridian home call SERVPRO of North Leon County at (850) 536-6599 because We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

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Our Trusted Experts Will Arrive With Urgency To Restore Your Tallahasse Home

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

If you discover a busted pipe like this in your home call our experts right away, they are available 24/7 and will respond quickly to your emergency.

Restoring Your Tallahassee Kitchen After Water Damage 

Fixtures in the kitchen of your Tallahassee home do not get safeguarded from aging, deterioration, or accidental damages. When something affects one of these fixtures immediately, or even over a long period, leaking and drips can begin. While there are certainly worse situations that a steady leak on one of your water lines, this situation can still allow for widespread damages without the steps taken initially to correct and repair the issue. Our rapid response team can help quickly. 

When water damage occurs in your Tallahassee home, you want assurances that the right steps get taken quickly to prevent worse conditions from developing Our SERVPRO response team is available 24/7 to help mitigate loss and work quickly to contain the spread of the damage to prevent the situation from getting worse until restoration work begins. 

Our advanced equipment is something that helps to set our professionals apart from some of the other options that you might have for restoration work. We arrive with equipment like thermal imagery cameras which can allow our technicians to see behind walls, into affected materials, under flooring, and other inaccessible areas to identify moisture pockets that exist from the steadily leaking fixture or plumbing element. 

Often when a situation like a leak has occurred over a longer period, cabinetry, flooring, walls, and other materials absorb the moisture and can begin to deteriorate. Our SERVPRO technicians who arrive can assess the stability of structural elements, construction materials, shelving, and cabinetry to ensure that what can stay and get restored is structurally sound. Other water damaged materials that have become compromised by the lingering moisture and dampness must get removed with controlled demolition techniques. 

Water loss incidents can occur over a long period, where fixtures and plumbing connections wear and degrade to the point of leaks and openings. The effect that this situation can have on nearby structural elements can be severe without the right professional assistance. Give our SERVPRO of North Leon County rapid response team a call anytime you need us at (850) 536-6599.

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Drilling to the Root Cause: Why SERVPRO Uses Drills to Help Your Water Damaged Tallahassee Home Dry

1/31/2019 (Permalink)

This ceiling has water damage. Call SERVPRO to safely remove the water and restore the ceiling.

Why SERVPRO Uses a Drill during Water Damage Mitigation and Restoration in Tallahassee

Just like the fire department's habit of making holes in a burning Tallahassee home's exterior makes little sense at first, some of SERVPRO's techniques might seem excessively aggressive. However, we do precisely what industry standards require.  

So, why does SERVPRO use a drill when mitigating water damage in Tallahassee? We do this for two reasons. Water can drain from small weep holes made in the area behind baseboards once we remove them, and also from ceilings that hold water. The other reason is to allow our air movers to push air into wall cavities and other enclosed spaces and then exit out another hole. Unless we drill small holes to allow for air movement that would otherwise remain stagnant, mold can begin growing while wallboard continues to deteriorate.  

When we drill holes into different places of your home, we always use the smallest sized bit possible. For weep holes in ceilings, we use very tiny bits that make almost imperceptible holes. We keep this series of holes in a line, so it becomes unlikely to miss individual ones when sealing them. Once dry, they might seem more significant because swelling diminishes, but patching them is something still very quickly done.  

Allowing water to drain out of walls requires a series of holes, also, and we drill these slightly above the floor, and when possible, behind recently removed baseboards. To keep from marring the wall, we use a thin board, so our tools do not damage anything as we pry the baseboard loose and away from the wall's lower portion. Once drained of excess water, we replace the baseboard, making it “Like it never even happened.”  

More massive holes get drilled to let forced air into enclosed spaces where trapped water has mostly drained away, but moisture remains. We can detect hidden moisture with our moisture meters and then tackle these areas. We want to remove all the lost water before it can cause water damage to your home. Drills become an essential tool for our work, and without them, many damp areas of your home would remain inaccessible to us.

SERVPRO of North Leon County uses drills and other tools to mitigate water damage from homes in Centerville and Killearn, as well as those around FSU and Lake Lamonia. Call us at (850) 536-6599, and we can help get your home restored to its preloss condition.

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Did You Know That Fire Damage Remediation in Tallahassee Often Includes Dealing With Both Water and Mold As Well?

12/23/2018 (Permalink)

When fire damage affects your home, bringing in certified SERVPRO professionals immediately creates the best restoration results.

The Effects of Firefighting on Your Tallahassee Home

While homeowners are undoubtedly grateful for firefighters and first responders arriving at their Tallahassee home at the first sign of trouble, often the steps necessary to put out a blaze can leave your home with additional effects to overcome. Understanding not only how fire can affect your property but also the added potential effects of fire extinguishment efforts can show you the benefits of choosing experienced restoration specialists to handle this work.

Fire damages in Tallahassee can spread quickly throughout your home, which can often prove challenging for first responders to overcome. To battle the growing fire, these firefighters often require new access points and high volumes of water. Once the fire has gotten successfully put out, you can reach out to our SERVPRO emergency response team to dispatch our professionals to your address with the tools and equipment to make a difference quickly for your home.

The water necessary to put out the fire often creates substantial water damage throughout the property where the blaze had its highest concentrations. This pooling water absorbs into materials and works to weaken structural elements almost immediately, so the mitigation team we send out works fast to remove this excess from the area with our advanced extraction equipment.

Our SERVPRO technicians must also contend with the access points that firefighters made in the home when such controlled demolition was necessary. Often these situations involve holes cut into a side of the home or into the roof for fast access to where the need for the water is the greatest. We can prepare these areas for reconstruction work with extensive cleanup and further controlled demolition where it is necessary.

With so many different effects that a fire could have on your home, many homeowners do not fully understand the extensive work required to return it to preloss conditions. Our SERVPRO of North Leon County team of fire restoration specialists can quickly assess the damage and overcome both the effects from the fire and the potential additional damages caused by putting it out. Give us a call anytime disaster strikes at (850) 536-6599.

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Our Team Of Professionals Can Restore Your Mold Damaged Home In Tallahassee!

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Mold issues are not uncommon in a damp climate like Tallahassee’s.

Why SERVPRO Is Tops In Tallahassee Mold Damage Remediation

Mold issues are not uncommon in a damp climate like Tallahassee’s. Despite the general humidity challenge, it is possible to control moisture levels in the majority of homes to avoid significant mold growth. If a leak or spill defeats your vigilance and mold does thrive, engaging the services of an expert mold remediation service sooner rather than later is the key.

Be aware of the possibility of mold damage in Tallahassee. Often the first sign is a distinctive musty smell. Being alert to the possibility of mold growth permits a quick response. It is vital that mold growth is not just treated with a topical treatment like diluted bleach. A bleach solution can lighten a dark mold stain, but it usually does not penetrate deeply enough to kill the growth. Bleach already has a high water content, and dilution can make it more of a fuel than an antimicrobial.

The reason why SERVPRO remediation technicians have a good chance of success is the multistep approach taken to knock back mold damage. We use the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) protocol to clear out ongoing mold activity systematically. Most importantly, we educate our customers to eliminate the source of moisture that supports the mold growth.

When called to a mold damage project, our technicians assess the dimensions of the microbial growth. The EPA guidelines require containment of the active mold colonies during the removal stage. We use physical barriers like heavy duty plastic, taped down to prevent mold spore and debris drift. A reason why SERVPRO mold remediation boasts success is the use of technology like air scrubbers, a negative pressure system that forces the air in the affected area through HEPA filters.

The mold colonies meet their match as SERVPRO technicians scrape and brush them away, bagging the residue for proper disposal. Solid surfaces shed the mold better than porous, but we have strategies like soda blasting that remove the mold from surfaces where the mold infiltrated.

Final steps include vacuuming with HEPA filtered equipment and the application of EPA registered antimicrobials. The goal is to reduce the spore load in the air and on surfaces to normal levels. A company that brags it can eliminate all mold is promising an impossibility. Mold spores are always airborne and settled on surfaces. The honesty and integrity of our crew are why SERVPRO urges prevention of moisture buildup as the best strategy to avoid future outbreaks.

SERVPRO of North Leon County takes mold remediation seriously, following step by step the EPA protocol. Call to schedule an evaluation at (850) 536-6599 when you suspect mold damage.

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Tallahassee Counts on Mold Abatement from SERVPRO-Why Not You?

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Uses High-Powered HEPA Air Scrubbers to Remediate Mold in Tallahassee--That's Why to Hire SERVPRO

Fast Remediation for Mold Growth in Your Tallahassee Home

There are specific circumstances that Tallahassee homeowners can treat and remedy on their own regarding upkeep and cleanup for their property. Certain conditions offer more widespread effects that require immediate attention from highly-trained professionals to overcome. Mold growth in your home can spread fast and cause substantial damage to the structural integrity of the house, which makes it essential to get the right team of certified technicians in to resolve the situation right away.

Even without understanding the full measure of mold damage to your Tallahassee property, many homeowners can agree that this harmful organism is not one that they can contend with on their own. Our SERVPRO IICRC-certified Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians undergo extensive training to learn all about residential mold types and the best methods for removing them from the property.

Not only does each of the technicians on the remediation team go for certifications through the IICRC, but we also offer in-house continued training opportunities to improve the quality of service we can provide every customer. From Mitigation Awareness Response courses to web-based training programs specific to the niche of restoration and remediation a technician belongs to, we can offer an emergency response team that can get prepared for anything we might face.

Much of the work that our SERVPRO technicians can do in your home following the discovery of mold rely on our advanced technology and industry-leading equipment. We can prevent the spread of mold spores throughout your home with the use of HEPA air scrubbers which trap particulates as small as .3 microns or our OSHA-approved anti-microbial solutions that prevent the growth of mold on unaffected or newly affected surfaces. Containment barriers, when needed, offer the perfect complement to air scrubbers.

Our approach to mold remediation focuses on providing the most effective and most efficient service possible. Through the experience and education of our highly trained technicians to the advanced equipment made available to them, you do not have to put up with mold growth in your home for very long. Give our SERVPRO of North Leon County response team a call today at (850) 536-6599.

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Did You Know the Many Factors That Help Mold to Flourish in Your Tallahassee Home?

10/14/2018 (Permalink)

Finding mold on the walls of your home can be stressful. Contact SERVPRO to contain and remediate.

A Fungus Among Us: Factors Contributing To Indoor Mold Growth Tallahassee Homeowners Should Know


Mold thrives in dark and damp environments. As a toxic substance, it can grow on your ceiling, floor, walls, behind walls and wallpaper. As a Tallahassee homeowner, getting to know the factors that contribute to mold growth can save your family.

Poor ventilation
One major cause of mold damage in your Tallahassee home is poor ventilation. Common in homes with single pane windows, indoor humidity builds up and since there is no proper airflow, the surfaces remain cooler.

Moisture can start condensing on such surfaces - walls, ceiling, and floor. If left unchecked, mold spores can thrive. While you may notice small patches of mold on your walls and ceiling, a colony may be growing behind the walls.
To prevent mold growth, allow air to circulate in and out of your home. If need be, use fans. This helps to remove the humid air and keep your home dry.

Low temperature
As you already know, warm air has more moisture than cool air. When warm air comes into contact with a cool surface like your walls, condensation occurs. The water can start running down your walls causing the paint to blister and wooden frames to rot.

To prevent extreme condensation in your home, invest in an air conditioner. This improves airflow in your home and keeps the humid air low. Also, have your walls and plumbing system especially cold water pipes insulated.

Localized sources of humidity
When cooking or boiling water, steam can fill up the air. If you shower with hot water, steam can fill up your bathroom too. Since the walls, ceiling and floors are cool, moisture is going to condense into water.

To lower the level of localized humidity, hire professionals to install dehumidifiers. Using dehumidifiers or air conditioners, you can maintain localized humidity levels below 70%. Doing so denies mold spores a crucial factor needed for reproduction and growth.

As a locally-owned and operated business, SERVPRO of North Leon County technicians have the expertise and equipment to handle mold damage in your home. To protect and keep your family safe, call our 24/7 emergency line at (850) 536-6599.
 
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Protect Yourself From An Assignment of Benefits (AOB) Crisis In Florida

3/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO - informational flyer Five things you need to know about the AOB

Homeowners who face the chaos and confusion commonplace after storm, fire, and water damage in North Leon County Florida look for a restoration company that offers a wide range of services. Many companies including SERVPRO of North Leon County highlight their ability to help with insurance claims and submissions during this stressful time as a critical service, streamlining the financial aspects of a restoration job.

Working with the customer's insurance company can be a great benefit to a property owner when done ethically. Unfortunately, there is a growing trend pursued by deceitful and ruthless home-improvement and disaster recovery companies in Florida that can result in adverse consequences unintended by a trusting client.

These unscrupulous businesses prey upon the anxiety and fear victims of severe weather, and other emergencies feel as they try to sort out the overwhelming crush of concerns and tasks following major catastrophes. Within the hours and days after a storm or flood, some shady vendors deliberately arose panic among victims. They follow up exaggerated statements about the devastation with promises to take care of all aspects of damage restoration if only the customer assigns his or her homeowner's insurance payout directly to the company pledging to fix the damage.

This practice is termed Assignment of Benefits or AOB, and has become of great concern in North Leon County and elsewhere in Florida when pursued dishonestly by disaster recovery companies. The problem stems from the unprincipled actions of dishonest and immoral individuals who inflate the cost of restorations and recommend unnecessary repairs to increase the flow of money into their coffers from unsuspecting customers' insurance carriers. Not infrequently, the vendors that demand a customer sign an AOB also perform low-quality work that does not stand the test of time.

Homeowners trade control over the restoration process and direct communication with their insurance agent and company for a potentially false sense of security. The company assigned the benefits makes all the decisions if an insurance company resists paying. Also, the property owner typically agrees in the AOB documents to cooperate if the restoration company files suit against the insurance company. Because of details in Florida's current AOB statute, insurance companies risk paying significant attorneys fees if claims presented are refused or paid at a lower rate, so they sometimes pay to evade the perceived penalty.

The overreaching effect of the AOB practices of some immoral restoration companies is steep increases in premiums and the unavailability of homeowner insurance coverage in areas where weather damage is predictable. High-pressure tactics to sign AOBs, little history of quality restoration in an area, and fear-mongering are signals that a restoration company is part of the problem, and not the solution you seek.

With decades of top-notch restoration experience and a demonstrated desire to work with you, not instead of you, SERVPRO of North Leon County is a strong contender when you look for a restoration partner. Contact us (850) 536-6599 and set your mind at ease when we explain our clear communication style and transparent dealings with you and your insurance company as we restore the damage.

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