Commercial Property Damage

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a Treasure Valley commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a treasure valley commercial fire successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert. 
Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records. 
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately. 
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building. 
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, Treasure valley fires can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Call SERVPRO For Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Services 
If your business caught on fire, don't worry. Instead, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Boise and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process. Choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the sophisticated services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition, so call us now at (256) 533-5335 to attain your free estimate.

Commercial Cleaning

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the Madison County offers specialty cleaning services ranging from cleaning office upholstery to getting your commercial property clean, safe, and healthy again. Your business represents you.  A clean and attractive business keeps customers coming and leaves a positive impression. We want every inch of your facility to be showcase material. 

Our commercial specialty cleaning services include:
•    Air Ducts and HVAC
If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating dust, pollen, odors, dirt, debris, and other contaminants.
•    Biohazard and Sewage
SERVPRO is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.
•    Trauma and Crime Scene
Many times, crime and accident scenes have blood and other biohazard contaminants that can cause serious health effects. SERVPRO of South Madison County will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.
•    Carpet and Upholstery
Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery.
•    Drapes and Blinds
We carefully inspect and test fabrics to determine which of SERVPRO’s five cleaning methods is best suited to your fabrics. 
•    Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
Ceilings and walls are exposed to dirt and dust, pet dander, cooking oils and grease, cigarette smoke, and other contaminants. Your heating and air conditioning system can distribute these contaminants throughout your property.
•    Odor Removal and Deodorization
SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other short cuts do not work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.
•    Vandalism
Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner.

Call SERVPRO of Madison County at 256-533-5335 anytime. We offer estimates prior to starting your job and work with your insurance company with covered claims.  If you find your business in need of a cleaning or emergency restoration, call today for your inspection and estimate.

Commercial Water Damage

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

There’s never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike your business. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

• 24 Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
• Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Water Damage or Flooding? Call Us Today (256) 533-5335

Commercial Water Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of Madison County has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or big box store, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion. 

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Madison County can respond immediately to your commercial water damage emergency regardless of the size or scope of the damage. We are part of a national network of over 1,600 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large scale events and disasters.

We proudly serve Huntsville and the entire Madison County area.

Cleaning and Restoring Flood Damage in Huntsville, AL

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Flood Damage Procedures

When you call in professionals such as SERVPRO for flooding from storm damage, the first stage of the job is to make you feel at ease and explain what will happen. They will then inspect your home and its contents. They will write down all their findings and figure out safety and drying procedures. Then they will begin protecting the structure.

For any type of flood damage in Huntsville, our technicians at SERVPRO will need to determine where the water came from and make sure that the source of water has been contained or stopped.

• We will first figure out if the water is clean, gray, or black. If the water has sat for some time, clean water could become gray, and gray water could turn black.
• We will explain what we are doing and why and go over the proper forms, so you fully understand what we are going to do.
• You’ll then sign the proper documentation before we begin any work.
• We will look for any possible safety hazards next, such as electrical hazards, ceilings loaded with water, and if the flooring is strong enough to hold up people walking on it.
• We will use moisture detection equipment to figure out where the water migrated, starting with the source of the water and working outward. We will check all areas which could have been affected.
• We will note the kind of materials which need to be dried and make sure to test the baseboards, walls, cabinets, insulation, crawl spaces, hidden areas, ducts, registers, pads, carpets, subfloors, and wet contents. We will write down everything, from the kind of material to preexisting conditions to how damp everything is.
• Then, we will measure the damaged areas and photograph the damage.
• A complete report will be drawn up of all our findings.

The 10 Most Important Things We Look For When Scoping A Contaminated Water Damaged Structure 

1. How many materials were contaminated?
2. Are the materials non-porous or porous?
3. Can the area be ventilated, and is containment necessary?
4. Can the affected materials be decontaminated and restored, or do they need to be replaced?
5. Does the amount of contamination pose a health risk to the occupants or us?
6. Will it be more expensive to restore or replace? Do porous materials automatically need to be replaced?
7. Are there local, state, or federal regulations that apply?
8. Was the HVAC system affected?
9. What do we need to do to prevent more damage?
10. How will we dispose of the waste?

When it comes to cleaning and restoring flood damage, safety always comes first for us at SERVPRO of Madison County. You can be assured when you give us a call at (256) 533-5335 for your storm damage issues that we will put you and your family first and follow all the proper steps to get your home in order.

Don't Wait!! Call SERVPRO to Begin the Process of Removing Water in your Commercial Building

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Your janitorial team may not be equipped to handle large water damage issues. That's why our SERVPRO team is here for you!

A flood can be a nightmare for a customer-facing business. Unfortunately, they are not easy to prevent due to the myriad of potential causes. A customer could leave a faucet on, an aging pipe could finally burst, or even extreme weather conditions could result in flooding. These all can cause temporary closure, and those that happen overnight can be particularly damaging. To limit the loss of revenue and be able to return your staff to work, you can use our professional restoration service.

The job of commercial water removal in Huntsville properties is usually one that goes beyond the scope of your janitorial team. SERVPRO has access to national resources and can train local technicians while providing them with the right equipment to work on larger job sites. We operate our emergency line twenty-four hours a day to help our commercial businesses in times of need.

A water issue in a property is not always a case of large quantities of standing water. Sometimes a leak can spread out across a large surface area. This excess water is then absorbed into floors or wall cavities, primarily if the problem occurs during the close of business hours. We can conduct mitigation tasks quickly to help to ensure that no lasting damages are sustained to your property.

One method of removing water from a property is by creating airflow. SERVPRO uses rapid air movers in a variety of ways to start this process. This equipment works by blasting air out at the surface level which pushes moisture into the air. Working with an open system, the circulation can replace wet air with drier air from outside the property.

Air movers can also be adapted to create circulation in areas of the property that would usually be hard to access. By attaching shrouds to an air mover, SERVPRO can re-purpose them to send air currents through wall cavities or beneath floorboards. These steps can often be essential in mitigating microbial growth.

The benefit of professional assistance is that it can help to guard against expensive secondary damages, contact SERVPRO of Madison County at (256) 533-5335.

Trust SERVPRO for Huntsville, AL commercial water cleanup

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Madison County technicians beginning the initial process of cleanup to this commercial water damage in Research Park.

The Techs at SERVPRO are Available 24/7 for Water Removal in Madison County, AL.

Water damage cleanup brings with it the need for assessment of the situation. SERVPRO technicians have various methods to ascertain any hazards present at a job site.

Scoping before water removal in Huntsville properties is vital. The technicians use both visual inspections and equipment to determine areas that threaten safety for both people and property. Common issues caused by water that technicians routinely deal with on-site are:

• Electrical shock hazards
• Unsafe structures
• Biological or pathogenic hazards

Sagging ceilings can get filled with water and collapse, causing injury or further damage to articles within the room. In cases where there is a threat of wall or ceiling failure, the techniques can perform a pack-out and remove presently undamaged items to a safe and secure area. Wet, deteriorated floors and subfloor can cause slipping or falling problems. The technicians can cordon off areas where it is unsafe for individuals to walk until repairs get made.

SERVPRO of South Madison County at (256) 533-5335 brings professional equipment and years of experience to every water removal job in Huntsville, AL or anywhere in Madison County.

Commercial Losses Hit Hard

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO® of South Madison County, we handle both residential and commercial losses. We understand that commercial losses are significantly different due to any down time having an impact on business. We want to help you get your business up and running again as quickly as possible.

Water Damages

Has your business fallen victim to water damage? Whether caused by a leak in the AC, pipes, or toilets, call us! The quicker we are able to arrive on site, the quicker you will be back to running like a normal day. Typically, water damages take around 3-4 days to dry out.

Fire Damages

Fire can cause a lot of damage. Not only the fire itself, but when the fire department responds, they may break windows and kick in doors to quickly access the fire. In order to secure the building, our first step would be to board up windows and doors to protect from outside elements, as well as anyone who may try to access the building.

COVID Cleanings

With 2020 and the coronavirus, SERVPRO® of South Madison County now offers commercial COVID cleanings. We use FDA approved chemicals sprayed as a fine mist and wipe down/sanitize touch points.

Have a commercial loss? Don’t hesitate to contact us today at 256-533-5335.

Don’t Forget to Clean Your Carpets!

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

How often do you clean your carpets at home? We do weekly. Sometimes twice a week because...dogs. Vacuuming weekly seems to be a pretty common metric. And how often do you have your carpets deep cleaned at home? The recommendation is once per year.

Now, think about the carpets in your office/place of business? How often do you have those cleaned? It is recommended that you have them professionally cleaned anywhere from every 3 months to once per year. This truly depends on your type of business and the amount of traffic.

We don’t tend to think about the affects soil has on our office carpets. Obviously, it can make the carpet appear dirty, but there are other factors at play. The not-so-obvious is that soil particles act as a grinding compound. As the carpet is walked on, the particles can cut the fibers, leading to fiber loss and potentially bare spots in the carpeting. Also, soiled carpet can become a breeding ground for mold and other microbes.

Sticking to regular professional carpet cleaning helps reduce the risk of repeated illness in the workplace, as well as reduce symptoms of allergies or asthma.

Ready to have your office carpets cleaned? Call SERVPRO® of South Madison County today at 256-533-5335.

Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned Program

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

As businesses open back up and restrictions are lifted, SERVPRO® of South Madison County is taking ‘clean’ to a new standard. With 89% of consumers reporting they are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations*, we’ve come up with a plan to help you ease that worry by showing your employees and customers you are dedicated to providing a safe-as-possible environment. Introducing Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned.

This new defensive pathogen cleaning program goes above and beyond normal janitorial cleaning practices. With routine service, you will inspire confidence in your employees and customers.

How does it work?

Consult: We give a no-charge, on-site consultation and tailor a plan for your specific needs.

Clean: We put together your cleaning plan and assign a specific technician. An expert deep clean is performed using our EPA-Approved Hospital Grade cleaning solutions and adhere to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.

Certify: Display the Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned seal (optional) at the entrance of your business. This seal demonstrates your commitment to the comfort and security of your employees, customers and community.

Interested in our Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned program? Call us today at 256-533-5335.

Note: We do not do pathogen testing.

*The Harris Poll conducted online on behalf of Fast, between April 28 and April 30, 2020. About 2,048 U.S. adults aged 18 or older participated. https://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/350922/89-of-consumers-concerned-about-returning-to-bric.html

Property Managers Call SERVPRO® in Times of Need

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Property Managers have a lot on their plates. While their main priority is to be profitable for the owners, they deal with maintenance, advertising, tenant relationships, contractors for renovations, creating budgets, and any day-to-day issues that arise. Usually they are doing this for multiple properties as well. So just imagine already having a jam packed day and you walk in to one of the commercial properties to find a pipe has burst and there is water everywhere. Not a great start to the day.

This happened recently at the Regions Bank Building in downtown Huntsville. The Property Manager called us immediately and we were on-site within the hour. In times like these, a fast response is mandatory and invaluable.

Property Managers, we are here for you! Need an immediate response and quick action? Call SERVPRO® of South Madison County at 256-533-5335.

SERVPRO® of South Madison County Supports Local First Responders

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO® of South Madison County, we love supporting and connecting with our community! In May, we were able to treat our first responders at the Madison City Fire & Rescue to a cookout. We also cleaned and sanitized 11 of their vehicles.

For this we use Vanquish, a one-step concentrated cleaner, broad-spectrum disinfectant, virucide, sanitizer, mildewstat, and deodorizer. Vanquish is used in medical, daycare and exercise facilities, as well as many other areas. It is effective against a long list of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It cleans without abrasives and deodorizes by killing the microorganisms that cause offensive odors.

We hope you enjoyed the food and love your super clean vehicles...thank you for all you do Madison Fire and Rescue!

Need a super clean? Call us at 256-533-5335.

SERVPRO® of South Madison County Disinfects Buildings During Coronavirus Concerns

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

With Alabama lifting the Stay at Home order and many professionals returning to work, a major concern for all has been safety and prevention. It is a stressful time, full of uncertainties. Returning to a building adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards is a small yet impactful gesture business owners can provide to employees. If your business has a confirmed case of coronavirus or you are taking a precautionary measure, SERVPRO® of South Madison County is here to help. Our team can provide services to any business...offices, retail stores or restaurants.

SERVPRO® of South Madison County has been fulfilling numerous requests for businesses requesting the proper services to clean, disinfect and sanitize properties. All of our practices are in accordance with CDC guidelines and local authorities.

The CDC encourages cleaning high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables at a minimum. They also recommend the cleaning be done with labeled hospital-grade disinfectant ratify that or some similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO® product line meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered emerging pathogens claim.

Our team can respond quickly and effectively, helping minimize business interruption.

Interested in scheduling a decontamination, general cleaning or just want to learn more about this service? Contact us at 256-533-5335.

Knowledge to Handle a Commercial Water Damage

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage

This does not mean you need to be worried when an emergency does occur because we have certified technicians who understand the importance of getting your commercial property back up to normal as soon as possible. Our trained technicians work quickly to assess the situation, communicate a cleanup and drying plan, and start work immediately. We have the necessary resources to handle any size job. We understand that quick and efficiency must happen to minimize damage and to resume operations as soon as possible. SERVPRO^® of Madison County has a team specifically trained and ready to go in event of a commercial property water or fire damage. If your commercial property experiences a water damage emergency call SERVPRO® of Madison County. Our teams are readily available to make your property “Like it never even happened.” Our teams are staffed with highly trained technicians in property restoration under IICRC industry certifications, our teams are equipped with the education to restore your property.

Emergency Ready Profile

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

Take the time to download the SERVPRO  Emergency Ready Profile Mobile App.

Follow the app’s lead to answer the questions essential to helping us prepare to restore your commercial property damage. Designing a restoration and a mitigation plan before a crisis strikes is smart, permitting you to share the layout of your building and the location of key water, heating, cooling and electrical systems with us, so we waste no time verifying these essential details. We also recommend sharing with us the contact information of staff members designated by you to make decisions for your business if you are unavailable.

This tool is free to you so reach out to your South Madison County Sales and Marketing Representative today to get your ERP set up! 

Commercial Property Damage

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a special divisions of trained teams composed of quality water, fire, mold, storm, and major event technicians, designed to assist you with the restoration of your business after a disaster.

All of these teams are lead by a manager that assists with communication and mitigation involving the recovery of your business. Services that SERVPRO provides to every business owner involves the mitigation of the wind, rain, and flood damage that causes damage in a matter of minutes, requiring an immediate response and quick, efficient to prevent excessive loss of money and time.

It does not matter how small or large your property is; SERVPRO has the services, equipment, and personnel available to address the emergency affecting your business. 

Call us today, we will help you with your business!

Commercial Services

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Cleaning

Did you know that SERVPRO does commercial cleaning? That's right! WE do! Servicing everything BIG to small: restaurants, hotels/motels, retail, hospitals, industrial, and so much more! We don't just cater to your fire/water/mold damages. We CLEAN your business! Carpet, upholstery, you name it: we'll clean it! We take pride in keeping YOUR business clean and tidy. Appearances are everything and when it comes to business, people do judge a book by its cover. Let us help you make a good impression!

For more information visit our website at SERVPRO of Madison: https://www.SERVPROmadisoncountyal.com/commercial-restoration-cleaning or email: offfice@SERVPRO10930/com  call: (256) 533-5335

Also like and follow our Facebook/Instagram/Twitter pages at SERVPRO of Madison County 

Commercial Damages

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Restoration

When fire/water/mold take control of your business, we help take it back! Locally owned and operated in Huntsville Alabama, we serve our community with pride in ALL we do! We will clean and restore your damages and make it look "Like it never even happened." With 24 hour emergency services 7 days a week 365 days a year and 1,700 franchises, we act faster to any size disaster! 

Clients for the Commercial Large Loss program include the following:

• The Hospitality Industry
• Property Managers
• Universities
• Municipalities
• The Pentagon 

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether you're dealing with a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood.  

 Recent mobilizations of the Catastrophic Storm Response Teams include:

• 2014 Polar Vortex
• 2012 Sandy
• 2010 Nashville floods
• 2008 Ike
• 2007 Chicago floods
• 2007 Ohio floods
• 2007 California wildfires
• 2005 Katrina/Wilma/Rita 

Commercial Water Damage in South Madison County

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

When business owners visualize water damage, they often picture a massive storm wiping out power lines, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days at a time. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms. 
 
However, many entrepreneurs and business space renters forget that storms and severe weather aren't the only causes of floods and water damage. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings. 
 
1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems 
Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment 
This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency. 
 
3. Broken pipes and plumbing 
Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result. 
 
4. Backed up sewer lines 
This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. 

Flood Coverage

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

When you purchase your commercial insurance package, you probably don't think about getting extra coverage for specific damage to your building in other area that may occur if a powerful storm hits. Your property insurance, however, is unlikely to protect you if your building needs services for damage caused by floodwaters. Flood insurance provides extra support if your commercial property is damaged by a natural flooding disaster.

Property policies usually only cover damage that occurs as the result of an internal cause. For example, if a pipe bursts or a fire breaks out, your property insurance is likely to pay for the repairs you need. Flood coverage is necessary, however, when the water damage is the result of an external cause, such as a thunderstorm, hurricane or water main break. If you live in a Special Hazard Flood Area or an area particularly prone to flooding, you may be required by law to have a separate flood policy. Even if you don't live in a flood plain, if your area experiences seasons of heavy rainfall or snow, it is advisable to build extra protection into your commercial insurance portfolio.

Mold Remediation For Your Huntsville Restaurant

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

When mold damage threatens your restaurant, count on the SERVPRO team!

Huntsville restaurants, bakeries, and other food preparation enterprises know inspections are regularly conducted to ensure public health and safety. Mold growth is one of the negative marks your business can receive, so you want to move on mold remediation before the inspector comes. Stick to creating your delicious savory and sweet treats and hire us to manage the mold.

Mold damage in your Huntsville restaurant not only violates health regulations but also repels your customers if they see or hear about it. In a perfect world, your business would never need to deal with mold growth, but the conditions supportive of mold spores are common in most food preparation areas. Mold prefers temperatures from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but some strains thrive at temperatures as low as 30 or high as 120 degrees. Water, even in the form of steam or high humidity fuels the growth of the fungi, and organic materials offer a food source. All commercial kitchens present this type of environment. We are familiar with the challenges of mold remediation in these circumstances.

Expect SERVPRO mold remediation technicians to assess both the current mold damage and the various sources of moisture observed. Unless your business addresses the moisture issues, mold can recur. In kitchens, one of the essentials is an adequate ventilation system, including exhaust fans that move the steam out of the area. Spills, neglected plumbing leaks, and condensation from coolers, freezers, and ice machines all contribute to the water mold spores seek to absorb.

We do our best to complete the mold remediation while allowing your business to operate. The SERVPRO team erects physical barriers to contain the mold area, a zone outside of which your staff and customers remain during the process. Air quality cannot be compromised, so we frequently use negative air pressure machines to prevent the contaminated air from drifting into the rest of your business and employ HEPA filters to catch airborne debris before venting to the outdoors.

Let SERVPRO of South Madison County partner with you when mold damage threatens your food service business. Call us for an evaluation of even a minor infestation at (256) 533-5335, the sooner, the better to retain your hard-earned reputation for unique and tasty delicacies.

Restoring Your Church After A Flood

10/15/2018 (Permalink)

Your Huntsville church serves many residents throughout the community, often several days a week. Even without being used 24/7, elements of the building are prone to wear and tear throughout the drastic weather changes from season to season. 

The resulting flood damages to your Huntsville church might not get noticed immediately due to the sporadic use of the building, which can allow for widespread concerns. Water can move quickly and affect many areas of your church in a brief period.  Prolonged exposure poses even greater concerns for those responsible for the upkeep and maintenance. In any flooding situation, professional restoration experts like our SERVPRO team can help you resolve the situation quickly.

Flooding can do major damage to structural components, but if you contact our technicians immediately, our rapid response team can help to mitigate some of these losses before areas of your church become irreparably damaged. Part of this practice is our pack-out process which removes items that could be at risk for further damage from the area for concentrated restoration work and safeguarding until the building gets restored to preloss conditions.

Our SERVPRO professionals can also help you overcome this situation and guarantee that the job gets done correctly. With flood cuts (where lower portions of drywall get removed throughout affected areas and later replaced), our team can utilize equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers to remove moisture from wall cavities to prevent secondary hazards like mold growth.

While you might never get prepared to face a natural disaster or accident which causes flooding in your church, having the right team of professionals ready to help can take a lot of the weight off of your shoulders. You can count on our SERVPRO of South Madison County to arrive quickly and work to limit your loss and restore your church completely. Give us a call 24/7 at (256) 533-5335.

Don't Neglect Indoor Air Quality

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

Discovering the environment of a new job is often a part of the first day. You figure out who to go to for help, how to use the copier, and what time of day is best to visit the break room to guarantee the coffee will be fresh. But another vital part of our work environments that we often neglect to evaluate is the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). As a business owner or a building manager, this element is a vital part of a thriving business and happy and healthy employees.

The sources of pollutants are sometimes hard to identify and are hard to totally eliminate from a building. They come from multiple sources and some causes, specifically building materials like insulation or paint, continuously emit pollutants. In other circumstances, pollutants that originate in an appliance or building system could be spread at regular intervals or even seasonally when things like air conditioning or the furnace turn on. And still, other pollutants are harder to predict as they are associated with human behavior, such as cleaning or re-decorating.

Thankfully, administrations like OSHA have provided guidelines to give us a baseline for treating and assessing Indoor Air Quality. OSHA suggests considering the following factors when assessing your building’s IAQ: temperature, humidity, ventilation, and the presence of mold and chemicals. Improving these factors can improve the Indoor Air Quality even when the sources of pollutants cannot be totally eliminated.

If you are concerned about the air quality in your workplace, give SERVPRO a call to find out how we can help.  

Inspecting A Commercial Facility For Mold

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

It only takes two to three days for mold to grow indoors.

No commercial building in Huntsville is completely immune from developing a mold problem. Mold can occur any time there is excess dampness or condensation inside a facility. If you’re unsure whether there is mold at your commercial property, an indoor environmental specialist can perform a mold test so you can try to catch it early. 

First, here are a few questions to consider: 

1. Has there been any recent water damage? Moisture is the primary source of mold, so whether it’s a leaky roof or the effects of flooding, any kind of water inside your commercial facility can lead to mold growth. 

2. Are the air ducts cleaned regularly? HVAC and other ventilation systems are commonly known to carry mold, so it’s important to find out when they were last cleaned. 

3. Is there a strong odor in the building? Sometimes a musty smell means there is mold present. If your employees report an unpleasant odor, it could be the presence of black mold, which is often smelled before it is seen.

Mold can hide in many places indoors, such as under carpet, inside walls and paneling, and in piping and insulation. It has also been found behind wallpaper, but it’s important to be cautious about investigating it without an indoor environmental specialist present; once exposed, mold spores can spread easily. It only takes two to three days for mold to grow indoors. If you do suspect a mold outbreak at your commercial facility, stay away from suspected areas until experts can come and perform the necessary tests. 

If mold breaks out, but goes undetected for a long time, it can cause more damage. That could disrupt your operations and impact you financially. If your building has suffered any water damage, watch for mold signs. The sooner it’s discovered, the sooner an indoor environmental specialist can come in to clean it up. 

Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthmadisoncounty.com for more information on mold. 

Commercial Kitchen Fire Safety

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Proper fire safety equipment and regular maintenance can decrease your risk of costly fire damage.

Statistics Restaurant Owners Should Know

During 2006-2010, an estimated average of 7,640 structure fires in eating and drinking establishments were reported to U.S. fire departments per year, with associated annual losses of:

• Two civilian deaths
• 115 civilian injuries
• $246 million in property damage

In eating and drinking establishments, direct property damage per fire was 75% lower when a wet pipe sprinkler system was present, compared to fires with no automatic extinguishing equipment present.

Fires are less common during the overnight hours (from Midnight to 6 a.m.) but cause more property damage.

Structure Fires in Eating and Drinking Establishments by Major Cause (2006 - 2010)

Fires

1. Cooking equipment 57%
2. Heating equipment 10%
3. Electrical/Lighting equipment 7%
4. Smoking material 7%
5. Intentional 5%

Property Damage

1. Cooking equipment 40%
2. Electrical/Lighting equipment 13%
3. Intentional 10%
4. Heating equipment 7%
5. Smoking Material 5%

Total annual property damage for eating and drinking establishments = $246 million

If your commercial kitchen is affected by a fire, or in need of a deep clean, call SERVPRO of South Madison County at 256-533-5335. 

We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists

As fire and water restoration specialists, we have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.

• Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

Lunch & Learn With Us

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Do you work for a real estate office or insurance agency? Are you part of a company that could benefit from having a quick knowledge of restoration and commercial cleaning options for your clients?

We can offer you and your coworkers a great opportunity for to learn all of SERVPRO's services that are relevant to you and your industry. 

But wait...why not do it over coffee and donuts? Or maybe lunch? Or fresh, homemade cookies?

Are we getting your attention yet?

Our SERVPRO marketing representatives would love to chat with you and your coworkers and let you know about all that SERVPRO of South Madison County has to offer you. Whether you find yourself dealing with a disaster situation or you just need to have some general cleaning or mold testing done, we want you to know that SERVPRO is here to help.

There is no cost for a Lunch & Learn, just give us a call and make an appointment and our marketing representatives will come to you! It is only approximately 15-30 minutes in duration, and participants are free to ask questions and chat as long as is needed. 

If you are interested in setting up a SERVPRO Lunch & Learn for you and your coworkers, call us and we will schedule a date and time that works best for you! All you'll have to do is be present and hungry to eat good food and learn a little more about how SERVPRO of South Madison County can help with your cleaning and restoration needs.

Protecting Your Warehouse Inventory From Water Damage

10/18/2017 (Permalink)

Damage in a warehouse needs to be dealt with right away so that the items stored have the best chance of recovery.

Commercial water damage presents double trouble to you as an owner and employer. Not only do you need to recover your premises, equipment, and inventory from the effects of leaks or flooding, you also have employees and customers who rely on you to keep your business running even while restoration efforts are in process. SERVPRO works closely with our commercial clients to avoid closure or a shut down even after a significant water damage to your warehouse or other storage facility affects your business. We encourage business owners to consult with us before any warehouse water disaster by developing an Emergency READY Profile. 

Preventing commercial water damage in Huntsville may not be possible if heavy storms or flooding affect your warehouse but a review of your preparedness can limit the effects to your bottom line. Take advantage of our training and expertise by scheduling a thorough assessment of your warehouse and other operations. There is no charge for our review of your facilities, and we will use the information to ready your team should the worst happen. 

You can also reduce and prevent the impact of flooding and water damage to both business operations and inventory:

• Keep stock off the floor.
• Routinely clean external and internal drains of debris such as leaves, waste, and other vegetation.
• Prevent water entering the building by installing permanent or removable barriers to seal doors, windows and other openings.
• Raise electrical sockets to keep them clear of possible flood water.

Tips To Prevent Fires In The Workplace

10/16/2017 (Permalink)

Last week was Fire Prevention Week and we shared tips on fire safety on our Facebook page.  While the main focus is on preventing residential fires, it is also a good time to revisit workplace fire safety and prevention especially since several Huntsville businesses have experienced fire damage recently.   

12 Tips to ensure a fire-safe workplace:

Step 1. Get Organized– Practice good workplace housekeeping. Clutter contributes to fires by providing fuel and by preventing access to exits and emergency equipment.

Step 2. Designated Smoking Areas – Smoke only in designated areas, and extinguish smoking materials safely. Never smoke in storerooms or chemical storage areas.

Step 3. Fire Extinguishers – Maintaining the appropriate type and number of fire extinguishers and learn how to properly use a fire extinguisher.

Step 4. Electrical Hazards – Report all electrical hazards. Many fires start in faulty wiring and malfunctioning electrical equipment.

Step 5. Access to Control Panels – Electrical control panels need to have free access maintained so that the electric could be shut off easily.

Step 6. Maintenance – Maintain machinery to prevent overheating and friction sparks.

Step 7. Sprinkler Systems & Smoke Detectors – Never block sprinklers, firefighting equipment or emergency exits. Observe clearances when stacking materials. Testing of sprinkler systems and smoke detectors at least annually.

Step 8. Chemical Safety – Use and store chemicals safely. Read the label and the Material Safety Data Sheet to determine flammability and other fire hazards. Provide adequate ventilation when using and storing these substances.

Step 9. Waste Control & Storage – Control the accumulations of flammable and combustible waste materials and residues so that they do not contribute to a fire emergency.

Step 10. Prevent Ignition – Use all precautions to prevent ignition in potentially explosive atmospheres such as those containing flammable liquid vapors or fine particles. Use non-sparking tools, and control static electricity as required.

Step 11. Exits – Emergency exit diagrams should be posted and emergency exits should be well lit with neon-regulation signs.

Step 12. Contact Info – Employees should have a list of emergency contact phone numbers in case of emergency. Remember that people will often panic in an intense situation; therefore basics such as the company address, phone number and floor plan should be posted.

All of these tips can help prevent fires in your business, office or warehouse.  But it's important to note that sometimes the unexpected happens regardless of preventative measures.  The simple truth is that fire emergencies and disasters can strike anyone, anytime, anywhere. If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts and we’ll respond immediately to get you back to business.

Commercial Cleaning Services

7/30/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Madison County wants every inch of your facility to sparkle and shine.

SERVPRO of South Madison County offers specialty cleaning services ranging from cleaning office upholstery to making storefront windows crystal clear. We have the specialized training and products to get your commercial or residential property clean, safe, and healthy again.

A Clean Business Keeps Customers Coming Back
Your business represents you.  A clean and attractive business keeps customers coming and leaves a positive impression. SERVPRO of South Madison County wants every inch of your facility to sparkle and shine. 

Our commercial specialty cleaning services include:
•    Air Ducts and HVAC
If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating dust, pollen, odors, dirt, debris, and other contaminants.
•    Biohazard and Sewage
SERVPRO of South Madison County is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.
•    Trauma and Crime Scene
Many times, crime and accident scenes have blood and other biohazard contaminants that pose a serious health risk. SERVPRO of South Madison County will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.
•    Carpet and Upholstery
Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by calling us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery.
•    Drapes and Blinds
We carefully inspect and test fabrics to determine which of SERVPRO’s five cleaning methods is best suited to your fabrics. 
•    Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
Ceilings and walls are exposed to dirt and dust, pet dander, cooking oils and grease, cigarette smoke, and other contaminants. Your heating and air conditioning system can distribute these contaminants throughout your property.
•    Odor Removal and Deodorization
SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors. Masking and other short cuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent.
•    Vandalism
Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner.

We’re Here Whenever You Need Us 
The team at SERVPRO of South Madison County also has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, mold remediation, commercial services, and natural disaster cleanup. 

Call SERVPRO of South Madison County at 256-533-5335 anytime.

We've served clients in Huntsville, Madison, New Hope, Gurley, Owens Crossroads and beyond. 

Businesses Can Be Prepared

7/27/2017 (Permalink)

Download the SERVPRO ERP App Today

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW.

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.

By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Are You Ready?

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?”

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Visit https://ready.SERVPRO.com/ to get started.  

How clean is the air in your office?

7/17/2017 (Permalink)

Indoor air quality in commercial buildings is a factor in good health.

Indoor air quality is a major concern for businesses, building managers, tenants, and employees. Clean air impacts the health, comfort, well being, and productivity of building occupants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says most Americans spend up to 90% of their time indoors and many spend most of their working hours in an office environment.

More Pollution Inside Than Outside
Studies conducted by the EPA and others show that indoor environments sometimes can have levels of pollutants that are higher than levels found outside. Pollutants in commercial buildings and other indoor environments can increase the risk of illness. The EPA and independent scientific panels have consistently ranked indoor air pollution as an important environmental health problem. While most buildings do not have severe indoor air quality problems, even well-run buildings can sometimes experience episodes of poor indoor air quality.

Interested in discussing cleaning needs for your property? Call SERVPRO Of South Madison County at (256) 533-5335

How To Improve The Air Inside Your Commercial Building
Some simple steps can have a big impact on the quality of the air inside your commercial building:

• Don’t block air vents or grills
• Comply with the office and building smoking policy
• Water and maintain office plants properly
• Dispose of garbage promptly and properly
• Store food properly
• Avoid bringing products into the building that could release harmful or bothersome odors or contaminants
• Notify your building or facility manager immediately if you suspect an indoor air quality problem

Interested in discussing cleaning needs for your property? Call SERVPRO Of South Madison County at (256) 533-5335

Restoring Your Huntsville Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

6/13/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of South Madison County

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

Certifications

• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program