Prevent Office Water Damage

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

How Can Water Damage In The Office Be Prevented?

Place office supplies and stationery in the appropriate locations.
Keep permeable materials like boxes and paper off the ground. While this may appear to be plain sense, people frequently overlook it, resulting in a disaster. Stationary and paperwork should be stored in higher cabinets so that nothing is lost if the floor floods. It's not a good idea to stack paperwork so near to the ground since water will rise to other papers if it comes into contact with the papers below. Computers and other electronic devices should also be hiked in price. Many offices have a policy of keeping CPUs under their desks.

Damage Structure Costs

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

The Cost of Demolition and Repairing a Damaged Structure

Many water pipes are hidden under walls, ceilings, floors, and other difficult-to-reach places. When an inside pipe bursts, you may need to demolish a piece of the structure to fix it.

Most property insurance policies, fortunately, cover the expense of ripping out and replacing any component of the structure you remove to repair damage to the plumbing system or an appliance (such as a boiler) from which water or another substance has escaped.

Assume that the supply line for the water fountain is positioned inside a wall in the scenario described above. A piece of the wall must be removed to obtain access to the damaged pipe.

Long-Term Moisture

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Long-term flooding or moisture is likely to harm most interior finishes and contents, although the following methods may be viable if the flooding is brief and cleanup started quickly. Delay permanent repairs until the building has completely dried out, which could take many weeks.

Subfloors

Subfloor layers of submerged plywood or OSB will most likely separate or swell. To keep the new floor covering from buckling, affected parts must be replaced.
Allow the subflooring to dry thoroughly after removing floor coverings, which may take months without a dehumidifier.
Before installing new flooring, inspect it for warping.

Wooden Flooring

Remove a board carefully every few feet to prevent buckling caused by swelling. Consult a carpenter or flooring professional if the boards are tongue-and-grooved.
Before replacing boards and undertaking repairs, properly clean and dry the floor, which could take weeks.

Protect Your Business

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your business with adequate wind and hail insurance coverage

A destructive storm can hit anywhere, but certain areas of the country are more likely to experience windstorms – a fact that may be reflected in your business’s insurance coverage. Wind and hail insurance claims are covered through commercial property insurance which can help you pay to repair or replace damaged property, including equipment, supplies, and structures. A business owners policy (BOP), which is specifically designed for small businesses, bundles commercial property with general liability insurance at an affordable price, and can also potentially pay for business property damage in the event of a storm.

If you’re in an area with a high risk of windstorms, review your policy language carefully with your Insureon agent. If you’re located in a high-risk zone, you may be able to purchase coverage as an endorsement to your standard small business insurance policy. This could mean a higher premium but more coverage in the event of a serious storm.

HVAC Maintenance in Commercial Buildings.

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Prevent water damage from HVAC in commercial buildings

A water leak in HVACs in commercial buildings can become a source of distress and damage to property and operations. SERVPRO shares below the maintenance tips for several components of HVAC.

1. Air filters

A monthly inspection of air filters is a must to ensure the equipment is not overworked and isn’t causing the evaporator coils to freeze and defrost. Air filters can be inspected by following the operations and maintenance manual. In case the filters are located inside the furnace or air handler, it is advised to hire a professional to change the filters. In the presence of dust and debris, filters must be replaced as per the manufacturer’s recommendation. A reusable filter must be cleaned and dried properly before being reinstalled. HEPA filters (high-efficiency particulate air filters) are the best option but it is important to install filters that the HVAC needs. Depending on the size of the equipment, multiple filters may need replacement.

1. Condensate drains

The condensate drains and drain pans must be inspected monthly, especially if the HVAC is working across the year to cool the premises. If dirt, algae, or other contaminants are found, the drain line should be flushed with an algae inhibitor once or twice a year. Promptly repair any signs of rust, which could indicate a water problem. Ensure that the line draining outdoors or a rooftop drain is pointed away from the structure of the building. Check for any clogs in the drain line and remove the paper filter and attach a dry/wet vacuum to the drain line to suck out the debris. 

1. Air coils

A yearly inspection of air coils can help ensure the equipment is operating at maximum capacity. Low levels of refrigerant and dirty air filters are common causes of evaporator coils freezing up. Over-sizing an HVAC is another cause of freeze-ups as the unit becomes susceptible to short cycling, inadequate dehumidification, and significant temperature variations. Broken fans, blocked condensate lines, malfunctioning thermostats, and low pressure inside the system are other usual causes of frozen evaporator coils. 

Moreover, coils should be carefully brushed or vacuumed to remove dust and debris. The outdoor condensing units should be clean from grass clippings and other debris and must remain level for water to drain properly.

1. Ductwork

When the ductwork is not insulated excess condensation will be formed inside the unit when the cool air comes in contact with warmer ducts. This can lead to leaks from the HVAC and the vents. The condensation can accumulate on the exterior surface of the ducts as well and seep into the ceiling, creating a perfect environment for mold, mildew, and dry rot. The fresh air supply ducts must be devoid of debris and, if necessary, filtered at the inlet. The ductwork must be inspected for dust, insulation, rust, condensation, and tight connections. Repairs at the first sign of condensation and rust will help save a lot of expenses.

1. Condensate pump

The role of a condensate drain pump is to collect and remove the condensate water produced by the HVAC. If the pump breaks down, the water from the HVAC will collect inside the system and eventually overflow. The pump must be checked for any blockages or algae build-up in the check valve to prevent the water leak.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in West Fort Bend County or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For commercial water damage restoration, call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326.

Have An Emergency Action Plan!

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

All employers must have an emergency action plan (EAP) and communicate it to employees. This document covers a number of potential emergencies, including fire, and spells out the responsibilities each employee has when the plan has to be activated. Our video, Emergency Action Preparedness: Checklist takes you through the steps of developing your own EAP checklist, which helps you ensure that everyone at your workplace is prepared in case of emergency.

Part of the EAP includes procedures on how to evacuate. Getting your employees out of the workplace safely is your top priority. Practice this plan throughout the year to help ensure an orderly exit in case of fire or other emergency.

Remember, no matter the size or type of business, the risk of workplace fires is present. Having a plan and training your employees how to react quickly will help protect your workplace and reduce the risk of injuries and fatalities should a fire break out.

Office Fire Causes

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Heating equipment (11%)

Like electric systems, office furnaces and vents are silent threats that can spark fires if they’re not kept in good repair. Central heating systems are the most common type of heating system, responsible for more than half the office fires in this category. That’s a marked difference from home fires sparked by heating equipment, where space heaters are most often to blame, according to a different NFPA study

How to prepare: Get a fire safety assessment, including central heating inspection.

A fire safety professional can identify heating systems that are at risk of causing fires, as well as factors that could exacerbate fires that do occur.

https://resources.impactfireservices.com/the-6-main-causes-of-office-fires-and-how-to-protect-your-organization

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is here for all of your restoration need

Prevent Mold Growth!

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

For commercial cleanup and mold remediation services, call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at (281) 342-5326.

6 ways to prevent mold growth in commercial buildings

Mold grows and spreads swiftly in the presence of moisture and heat. Many building materials provide suitable nutrients that encourage mold to grow. Wet cellulose materials, including paper and paper products, cardboard, ceiling tiles, wood, and wood products, offer a perfect environment for the growth of some molds. Other materials such as dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation materials, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery, also support mold growth. 

If left undetected and unchecked, mold can produce allergens and irritants that can potentially cause several health effects.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County's mold removal experts shares the numerous measures business owners can take to prevent mold growth in their commercial buildings:

1. Regular inspection

Often, spores multiply long before anyone notices. This is usually the case in areas that are not obvious or are hidden from view, such as underneath sinks and around window frames. Therefore, it is advisable to have a regular mold inspection protocol, especially in building areas or geographical locations where the moisture level is bound to be high. Mold must never be approached without gloves or masks.

1. Timely repair 

Any repairs, major or minor, must be made at the earliest because the longer the issues are neglected, the larger the problem becomes. Water leakage of any sort, especially plumbing leaks, must be addressed immediately by a professional water and mold remediation company before it grows into a full-blown water and mold damage disaster. 

1. Minimize moisture

Mold thrives on moisture. Signs of condensation and wet spots around the building foundation, roofs, windows, or ceilings are red flags that must be addressed swiftly to prevent water and structural damage. The following steps could be taken to combat excessive moisture:

1. Insulation: Poor insulation can cause moisture build-up indoors, raising the cooling and heating costs. Proper insulation can reduce heat transfer that causes moisture buildup, preventing the air from outside from getting inside and vice versa.
2. Ventilation: It is crucial to keep the air flowing throughout a building to avoid moisture. Adequate ventilation and change of filters help increase the airflow and keep moisture at bay. 
3. Dehumidification: Indoor humidity should be below 60% relative humidity or 30-50%, if possible. Dehumidifiers are ideal for this purpose.
4. Unobstructed drip pans: Keep any heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, sloped, and flowing properly as they can provide an ideal environment for mold to thrive.
   
   

1. Service the HVAC unit

The HVAC system must always be clean and well-maintained. Replacing air filters regularly, applying an HVAC mold inhibitor, using a disinfectant before applying mold inhibitor, keeping the ducts dry, and checking for air intakes should be a part of an HVAC strategy to combat mold growth. 

A complicated HVAC system may, however, require professional assistance.

1. Dry foundation

The grade around the building should slope away from the foundation so there is no water pooling. The grade may deteriorate over time and should be checked periodically. The drainage should also be checked for any debris and clogs to ensure proper flow. 

1. Flat roof drainage 

A flat commercial roof generally has poor drainage due to design issues. Well-maintained rain gutters, scuppers, and inner drains can help with the proper drainage and keep mold at bay. 

Mold can be controlled through regular commercial building maintenance and inspections combined with the proper design, installation, and maintenance of commercial HVAC systems. 

For commercial cleaning services and mold removal, commercial property owners can reach out to a professional team such as SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in West Fort Bend County, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.
• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

Commercial Cleaning

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Storm, fire, water, or mold emergency at your commercial property or office?

When crises like these arise, it is imperative to contact a licensed and specialized commercial cleaning and restoration company that will efficiently and swiftly restore your property to its preloss condition. This allows for businesses to resume and for life to return to normal.

SERVPRO has restored and cleaned numerous small office buildings, restaurants, high-rises, and government/military bases. With its unique blend of training, experience, and equipment, SERVPRO has a multitude of commercial cleaning and restoration services that will undo the damage to a business at the earliest.

• Commercial water damage restoration

Left unchecked, moisture from floods, rainwater, burst pipes, and more can leave floors, drywall, and furnishings susceptible to stains and microbial growth.  

SERVPRO team will provide the following resources to manage the damage and restore the property:

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

• Commercial fire damage restoration

Fire and smoke damage to a business or commercial property is often accompanied by secondary water damage - a by-product of firefighting and suppression efforts with water. SERVPRO takes care of the damage with the following experts that address every individual challenge presented by fire:

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

• Commercial mold remediation 

Mold is caused by various factors, one of them being water damage such as a slow roof leak or loose plumbing fitting. A mold problem poses potential health effects to people. A highly-trained team of specialized technicians helps remediate the mold damage caused:

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

• Commercial storm damage restoration

Storms with wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage to properties in the blink of an eye. 

The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of elite, large-loss specialists who are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle disasters of any magnitude. A commercial operations manager supervises the recovery by ensuring seamless communication and timely mitigation.

• Commercial cleaning services

SERVPRO offers cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. 

• Air Ducts and HVAC - It is important to maintain air ducts and HVAC systems to save energy and improve the air quality for everyone in the building. Cleaning the motor, housing, fans, grilles, coils, and register are some of the focus areas of cleaning. 
• Biohazard and Sewage - An unfortunate situation may require sanitation cleanup services to accident, crime scene, or suicide cleanup. This requires meticulous handling and a specialized cleaning process.
• Trauma and Crime Scene - The cleaning and decontamination of trauma scenes are vital to the health and safety of residents and employees. SERVPRO technicians use specialized equipment, protective gear, and specifically designed solutions to make sure the affected area is hygienic and clean.
• Carpet and Upholstery - The technicians determine the best way to clean the building and ensure that each different type of carpet is properly cleaned and cared for. 
• Drapes and Blinds - The team, equipped with state-of-the-art gadgets, inspect and test fabrics to determine the appropriate cleaning system to clean fine fabrics and intricate pieces. 
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors - Following a remodeling or reconstruction, these areas must be cleaned up of the dirt and grime that is inevitable. This allows for cleaner air and prevents dust on the property.
• Odor Removal and Deodorization - The source of the odor is identified by the technicians. It is then eliminated with the help of several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces.
• Vandalism - It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. In addition to removing spray-painted graffiti from exterior walls, SERVPRO also cleans driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, wood, glass, plastic, and masonry.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in West Fort Bend County, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill-upgradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For commercial cleaning and restoration services, call SERVPRO® of West Fort Bend County today at (281) 342-5326.

Choose The Right Commercial Restoration Contractor

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today at 281-342-5326.

Tips on Choosing the Right Commercial Restoration Service Contractor

When selecting a commercial restoration contractor, business owners should consider a variety of factors beyond just their budget and the type of restoration required:

• Response time:  Choose a company with 24-hour support staffed by their employees, not an answering service. Make sure they have a large enough fleet of trucks to send someone out right away to address the issue.

• Restoration time: Getting a business up and running again after suffering damage is crucial. Make sure to choose a commercial restoration service that can get any damage taken care of within a reasonable timeframe.

• Cost: A reputable commercial restoration service should not overcharge because they know the dire situation of a business suffering water, fire, mold, or storm damage. Make sure to get several quotes to prevent getting overcharged.

• Certified: It is essential to ensure that a commercial restoration service has the proper industry certification and a proven record as a professional and experienced contractor. This trait helps separate the handymen from the trained technician who knows how to handle severe damage.

• Testimonials and reviews: Search for reviews and testimonials of or for potential commercial restoration services. These are great items to get a feel for how services handle different issues.

Doing the research and choosing the right building restoration service can save time and help a business avoid significant and costly disruptions.

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has certified technicians with the training, knowledge, and equipment to get any business up and running again in no time. With the largest Emergency Disaster Response Team in West Fort Bend County, TX, they can handle any size problem with 24-hour service.

Questions to Ask Potential Contractors

To help acquire the previously mentioned information, it is also a good idea to ask potential commercial restoration services the following questions:

• Are all your technicians certified?
• How much commercial building restoration experience do you have?
• Is your company licensed and bonded?
• How soon can you be available?
• Do you provide any assurances or warranties on your work?
• What is the restoration process like? 
• How will I be informed of any updates?
• How long must normal business operations be halted while you work?
• What happens if my building receives any more damage while your crews are on-site?
• Have you received any awards or recognition for your commercial building restoration work?

Professionals know their stuff and do not hesitate to provide information when asked. Thus, it will be easy to sort qualified restoration companies from ones that do not have the expertise or experience to get the job done correctly. 

Unprofessional work can lead to even more costly damage, complicating the situation even further than when it began. Always make sure to get as much information as possible upfront to avoid problems.

Reliable Commercial Restoration Services in West Fort Bend County

When it comes to commercial building restoration services in West Fort Bend County, and its surrounding areas, look no further than SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County. Their team is ready for whatever happens, no matter how extensive the damage. 

Filing For A Commercial Fire Damage

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

4 Tips When Filing a Commercial Fire Damage Claim

#1: Thoroughly investigate and document the damage.

It is important to provide the insurance company with detailed documentation for all the damage to the commercial property, no matter how major or minor.

Fire damage can exist in many forms, including structural damage, water damage, smoke damage, and much more. Thoroughly and carefully investigate the commercial property to look for evidence of damage, even in unlikely places.

Document any damage found through multiple methods, including written descriptions, photos, and videos. If possible, find ways to prove that the damage came from the fire and did not exist on the property beforehand. This can help validate the claim and speed up the claims process even further.

Don’t replace or throw away any damaged items until the insurance adjuster has had the opportunity to see them, even if they have already been properly documented.

#2: Keep track of relevant documents and receipts.

FEMA’s statistics show that fires resulted in over $25 billion in property loss in 2019 alone. In most cases, insurance claims are the only way commercial service providers can recover those lost costs. 

That makes determining the value of possessions and damaged property extremely important during the insurance claims process.

Gathering all receipts and documentation can be extremely helpful when trying to show the insurance company what any lost property is worth. Even if there are no physical copies of the purchase receipts, bank or credit card statements can often offer proof of purchase. 

This process can sometimes be long and difficult. It's crucial to start gathering the necessary documentation as soon as possible to help ensure that the insurance company has what they need to move through the claims process and offer compensation as quickly as possible.

#3: Review insurance policy specifics.

The insurance claims process is complex, and important details are sometimes overlooked. Before filing a commercial fire damage claim, have a copy of the insurance policy on-hand. Review all the policy details and double-check them in reference to any benefits or compensation offered by the insurance company. Policy specifics can be a powerful tool during the negotiation process.

#4: Choose a professional and experienced fire damage restoration team that’s familiar with commercial services.

Choosing the right fire damage restoration team is essential to both ensuring the insurance claims process runs smoothly and returning a commercial property back to its pre-fire condition.

A professional and experienced fire damage restoration team like SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has extensive experience working with insurance companies. They know how to effectively assess the damage, provide proper estimates, and help present detailed documentation to the insurance company.

To learn more about professional commercial fire damage restoration services in the West Fort Bend County area, contact SERVPRO today.

Commercial Restoration Project

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

As a business owner, you already have a lot on your plate on any given day. You need to know who to call when something goes wrong or your business is damaged. Whether the damage your business is experiencing is from water, fire, or other weather-related issues, you need a company with the expertise and availability to assist you quickly after a disaster. 

Here are some things to look for when seeking a Commercial Restoration Company.

• Efficiency.

Lost time is lost money. When looking for a company to help you restore your business, you need a team that understands how important and necessary it is to get your business back up and running as quickly as possible.

• Availability.

When in the midst of a disaster, you need to be able to pick up the phone and have immediate assistance from a team of highly trained professionals. It is important to pick a company that is available 24/7 for emergencies and near your business. 

• Communication. 

In times of stress, you need people who can talk you through it and communicate a plan, not add to it. When seeking Commercial Restoration, make sure you find someone that is ready to communicate a plan, a time frame, and peace of mind. 

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is ready to be that company for you. We have experience in damage restoration and have covered commercial loss for many clients. Here are examples of restoration projects we’ve handled:

• Flood Damage
• Fire Damage
• Inclement Weather Damage
• Damage from Equipment Failure
• Damage from Vandalism
• Damage from Accidents 
• Damage due to Aging of Property

Tips For Preventing Water Damage At Your Business!

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today at 281-342-5326

Tips for preventing water damage at your business

Inspect gutters and drainage

Fallen leaves and other debris in gutters and downspouts can lead to water damage to the exterior and interior walls of a building. Regularly inspect your business’s gutters, downspouts, and drainage system, and remove any debris or buildup. Have gutters professionally cleaned on a regular basis to ensure water is draining properly and away from the building.

Clear your Roof

Snow and ice accumulation on your business’s roof can result in weakened roofing materials and create “ice dams,” which prevent melted ice and snow from properly draining. Regularly remove snow and ice from your business’s roof to prevent structural damage. Know your roof’s load-bearing capacity, and periodically check to ensure that snow and ice aren’t accumulating beyond its weight limits.

We are here to help!

How To Prevent Water Damage In Office!

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County for your Restoration needs!

How To Prevent Water Damage In Office

Know the location of the main valve
The main valve is the point of control where all incoming flow passes through. Conventionally, it is located in the lower-most part of the building where your supply pipe branches off the main pipe. You need to find this valve and label it, clearly pointing out its location and how to shut or open it. Additionally, you need to teach your employees how to operate all the valves, and not just the main valve. Most offices close for the night after business hours. During this time, the main valve should be shut. Make it a routine that the last person to leave the building should ensure that the valve has been closed. This action will save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

We Are A Large Loss Response Team!

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call us today at 281-342-5326!

If you manage a building, like a high rise or an apartment complex, then you know that it can be stressful to keep up with the upkeep and maintenance of your building. You may not even have time to think about what happens in case your building gets flooded or has a fire. Do you know what your emergency plan is? One of the first questions you may ask yourself is if the team you’re about to bring on to do your restoration is properly equipped to handle such a large loss. But not to worry, because we here at SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County are! We are what’s called LLRT, or Large Loss Response Team. That means that we have the tools, the staff, and the experience to handle those huge jobs. We are held to a higher standard than your just regular restoration team, meaning that your job will be handle right every time.

Call US to Clean Your Home/Business!

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Is productivity in your office on a downward slide and you can’t figure out why? Maybe your team members are getting sick, and have headaches and allergies that are unexplained? Then it maybe the cleanliness of your workspace. You may have a company come in every evening to take out the trash and vacuum, but do they really get down and dirty? How long has it been since your lobby chairs have been cleaned? What about your cubicle walls?

If you can’t answer these questions, then give us a call today! We can sanitize and make your workspace spic and span again so it can raise productivity and promote a happier, healthier workplace. We can even do it overnight and on the weekends, so we don’t disturb your productivity.

Water Damage Sudden Events

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County for your restoration needs! 281-342-5326

Water Damage from Sudden Events

Property damage caused by water leaking from a broken pipe or appliance (such as a water heater) is generally covered under a property policy if the damage occurs suddenly. For example, suppose that a supply line to a water fountain in your office suddenly ruptures. Leaking water damages the floor near the water fountain. Assuming your property policy includes building coverage, it should cover the cost to replace the damaged floor.

Property policies also cover sudden water leaks from fire protective systems. For example, an employee of yours is positioning a ladder in your office to change a light bulb when he accidentally hits a sprinkler head. Water pours out of the damaged head, damaging office furniture. Your property policy should cover the damage to the furniture.

Note that property policies generally don't cover damage caused by water that backs up from a sewer, drain or sump pump. 

How To Clean Up!

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County to clean and disinfect your home/business! 281-342-5326

How to Clean Up

• Wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles during cleanup of affected area. • Remove and discard items that cannot be washed and disinfected (such as carpeting, carpet padding, rugs, upholstered furniture, foam-rubber items, books, wall coverings, and most paper products). • Remove and discard drywall and insulation that has been contaminated with sewage or flood waters. • Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces (such as flooring, concrete, molding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, appliances, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures) with hot water and laundry or dish detergent and disinfect with a solution of 1 cup of bleach to five gallons of water. • Steam clean all carpeting. • Help the drying process by using fans, air conditioning units, and dehumidifiers. • Have your onsite waste-water system professionally inspected and serviced if you suspect damage. • After completing the cleanup, wash your hands with soap and water. Use water that has been boiled for 1 minute (allow the water to cool before washing your hands). o Or you may use water that has been disinfected for personal hygiene use (solution of whichever teaspoon of household bleach per 1 gallon of water). Let it stand for 30 minutes. If the water is cloudy, use a solution of ¼ teaspoon of household bleach per 1 gallon of water. • Wash all clothes worn during the cleanup in hot water and detergent. These clothes should be washed separately from uncontaminated clothes and linens. • Wash clothes and linens contaminated with flood or sewage water in hot water and detergent. It is recommended that a laundromat be used for washing large quantities of clothes and linens until your onsite waste-water system has been professionally inspected and serviced.

Get Your Hurricane Season ERP!

10/11/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane season is officially in swing, and so is cooler weather (hopefully? maybe?) and with that cooler weather brings rain and thunderstorms. Are you and your commercial business ready for the rainy weather? If you aren’t, give us a call today and we can set up an appointment with one of our representatives to come out to start an ERP, which is short for Emergency Ready Program. ERPs are free to you and help us establish a plan of action in the event your office is flooded by water. We can identify where vital things are in your building like water shut offs.

Fire and water damage can cause your business to lose a ton of money, and some businesses don’t even reopen after a disaster. Make sure you’re protected and call us today at 281-342-5326!

Does Your Commercial Business Have A Plan?

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

The holiday season is coming up, and that could mean it’s one of the busiest times of the year for your business! You may not be thinking about it – but do you have a plan in place just incase your office or retail store floods during this busy time? What about if you happen to have a fire? With our ERP or Emergency Ready Program, we can help! With this program, we can walk through your commercial space, document things like water shut offs and floor plans. We will then write up a comprehensive plan and give you a copy – keeping one for ourselves so we know exactly where everything is and what needs to happen in the event of an emergency

So, give us a call today to schedule an -appointment @ -281-342-5326

Commercial Storm Preparedness

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County today @ 281-342-5326

We are in the middle of Hurricane season! And it’s been a REALLY active one so, it’s important that we make sure to protect our businesses against water damage and storm damages. When it comes to being prepared, that’s where we come in. We can write an ERP, or Emergency Ready Plan, for you. We’ll detail everything in our plan, from fire, to water damage and where the shut offs are, to even storm damage. When you’re prepared, it makes mitigation quicker and can get your and your team back on your feet and ready to get back to business and making money.

Where is the Water Shut Off?

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Always Call SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County at 281-342-5326

Many workplaces always call on the boss or the maintenance man when something goes wrong. What if they were home sick, or in a meeting and you need to locate the water shut off, where do you start?

By having a plan of action and including it in your regular training at your office you can minimize the cost if an unplanned event happens like a busted pipe, fire or any other type of disaster.

Some property managers use this as a tool to keep everything organized in one central location.

Is your business ready for a disaster? Even a simple pipe burst can cause a lot of damage and headaches. With a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile it can have the critical information to minimize damages, provide the resources for the employees of the company, and provide property details and information. This is a FREE service that we provide to commercial properties.

Types of Equipment Used in Commercial Large Losses

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to commercial large loss restoration, it is crucial for the job to be done quickly and efficiently to reduce the financial loss to the company.  There are several SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Centers throughout the U.S. The key to effective large loss restoration is having the right equipment to get the job done efficiently.  This guide explains the main types of industrial equipment that are used by SERVPRO to provide commercial restoration services for large losses.

The mobile command center is an important piece of equipment for handling large commercial losses.  These command centers are large trailers that can serve as a temporary space for employees to resume business operations while the property of the business is being restored.

It is common for businesses to lose power when a disaster causes major damage.  If there is no power on-site to power up the restoration equipment, the restoration process will take much longer.  SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss centers use mobile generators that are powerful enough to provide power to any size building

Large scale water damage can result from natural floods, storms, pipe bursts, and from extinguishing a fire if there was one on the property.  Excess water and moisture in a building will not only cause severe structural damage, but also result in the appearance of mold which will make the damage worse.  SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss centers use desiccant dehumidifier units to dry large areas affected by water damage.  These trailer mounted units use low vapor air pressure which speeds up the evaporation process by extracting the moisture from the affected materials.  This is the most effective way to handle large scale structural drying and humidity control.

Commercial Flooding Damage

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is an experienced & trusted water damage remediation company. Call us @ (281)-342-5326.

Clogged drains can cause overflows resulting in water damage, and usually do so with no notice. You suddenly have a massive amount of water where it does not belong. Expert, fast action is needed and is essential to protect your property to minimize the harm.   Since plumbing accidents can happen without warning, SERVPRO has experienced crews ready to respond to your water removal emergency any time of the day, any day of the week. We act quickly to ensure the safety of you and our workers and determine the cause of the overflow problem in your home. If it has not already been done, we shut down the water supply.   Upon arrival, we pre-inspect the damaged areas carefully and look for any dangerous situations such as electrical hazards or soft subflooring. The standing water is then pumped out with industrial, truck-mounted pumps for large volumes of water. If the sink is located on an upper floor, we check the walls and floors underneath it for any water seepage and remove that as necessary.   SERVPRO technicians also use a moisture meter to figure out the extent of the water penetration in flooring, ceilings, and walls. We move and block any furniture when necessary and extract water from hard surface flooring and carpeting. Carpets are detached, and we then extract the water from the padding and floor. The pad is removed from your structure and in most cases, it is discarded.   Once everything affected is checked for additional damages such as delamination in carpets, or visible mold, we treat with an appropriate deodorizer and antimicrobial. We position air movers for drying, so they deliver a rapid airflow to the wet surfaces. We base the number of air movers on the recommendations from IICRC. The driers are often checked, and the positions of them are shifted as needed to make sure your home is dried in the shortest amount of time possible. 

Have You Found Mold?

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is always available to respond to your concerns, call us at (281)-342-5326 to know your options.

Nothing is standard when it comes to mold damage remediation since different areas have different contamination levels. If it is a small section of your business premises that have contamination, we must contain the area to ensure the spores do not disperse to uncontaminated areas. If air vents are supplying and returning from the site, we must block them. Putting the site under negative pressure can also limit the movement of spores in your business. 

The type of material or surface the mold is growing on determines the remediation technique we use to remove the mold contamination from your business. If our SERVPRO technicians notice there is active mold on porous items such as insulation, carpeting, fabrics, and drywall, we have to remove the material from the site. If carpets and some of your upholstered furniture are not extremely contaminated, we may perform steam cleaning with the aim of cleaning them. We do not perform wet vacuuming on porous items since some mold fragments can remain within the item. The type of material or surface the mold is growing on determines the mold damage remediation technique we use to remove the contamination. We can damp-wipe nonporous materials such as metals, glass, and plastics using a disinfectant. If the mold is not firmly attached to such items, we can clean them using HEPA vacuuming. Our SERVPRO team can scrub wooden floors and use a wood floor cleaner when cleaning wooden floors. Some of the methods we use when cleaning semi-porous materials such as concrete and wood include wire brushing, damp wiping, and sanding. Wood that has undergone rotting weakens and should be removed and replaced. Once we complete cleaning, we give the mold spores time to settle before we can repeat the cleaning process. Also, cleaning takes place from the upper parts of a structure towards its bottom parts.

Top 3 Commercial Plumbing Issues

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

A blocked sewer can wreak havoc on any commercial establishment in Houston, TX. A plumbing system is a complex network of pipelines. When it malfunctions, it can cause problems ranging from water leaks to sewage overflows. Whether you own a restaurant, an apartment complex or anything in between, there are a few common issues to look out for.

1. Overflowing Toilet

It's stinky, messy and can happen when you least expect it. Yes, it's the dreaded overflowing toilet. In fact, it's the leading cause of water damage in commercial properties. Overflows occur when there's a blockage in the pipeline. Common causes for these blockages include:

• Tree roots
• Toilet paper buildup
• A shift in the building's foundation
• Poorly installed plumbing drains

If it's a minor mishap, your maintenance crew can handle it. Otherwise, if there's extensive water-related damage, a professional cleaning service has the expertise to come in and straighten things out.

2. Blocked Pipes

A blocked sewer system doesn't pop up overnight. This plumbing problem develops over time. The main causes of blockages come from debris buildup and tree root infiltration. As a preventive measure, consider having a commercial plumbing company inspect your pipeline system on a routine basis.

3. Busted Pipes

Can your building's pipes handle freezing temperatures? If not, you may be in for a rude awakening when winter hits. Frigid weather conditions often result in pipe breaks, especially in areas of your property where there's missing insulation, outside walls and drafty areas. Fortunately, many insurance providers cover water damage related to busted pipes.

Sewage problems come with the territory when you own commercial property. To prepare, it's best to know the common issues buildings encounter, such as such as a toilet overflow, a blocked sewer and busted pipes. While your maintenance staff can address minor issues, it's better to hire a commercial cleaning company in Houston, TX for major pipeline disasters. For more information, visit www.SERVPROwestfortbendcounty.com

Commercial Building Restoration and Cleaning Services in Houston

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County is ready to respond immediately and work quickly to clean or restore your business. We understand that your property’s appearance is important and that every hour spent restoring is an hour of lost productivity. When you need a restoration or cleaning professional, SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

Every commercial property experiences wear and tear, including dirt and grime that accumulates from ordinary use. You can count on SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County to make your workspace look its very best. Professional cleaning helps to protect your carpet and upholstery and increase its life-span. Learn more about our commercial cleaning services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation

Have Questions? Call Today – (281) 342-5326

Restoring Your Fort Bend County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Fort Bend County 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 West Fort Bend County

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend 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.

Did your Important Documents Get Damaged During a Loss?

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Businesses have tons of important documents and vital records that they store on-site. When water or fire damage occurs you can depend on SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County to help restore those important documents.  It is key to bring in professionals as soon as possible to begin the document restoration.  We restore building plans, historical documents, tax records, photographs etc.  In commercial businesses there are  many revolving things that can cause water damage to documents.  Documents that are years old but important and need to be maintained are often kept in the basement of a facility.  These areas are subject to water infiltration, sump pump failures, sewer back ups, mechanical room or line failures. 

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County offers many services to our customers other than the typical Fire & Water Restoration.

If you would like to be proactive and get an emergency plan in place for your business before a disaster strikes call us at (281) 342-5326.

Is Your Business Disaster Ready?

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Give us a call today and let's get prepared!

Preparation is a vital component for making it through a disaster, whether its a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time to plan for these events is well before they happen. No one ever plans a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask your self and fellow employees, "Are you Ready for whatever happens."

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a startup approach that provides the important information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It was created to help as a quick reference guide of the buildings most important information.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile Advantage:

• A no cost assessment of your facility
  • This means you do not need to appropriate any funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
• A Compact Profile Document that contains only the important information needed in the event of an emergency.
  • It will only take a short time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. Most importantly it will save you a lot of time if ever needed
• A guide to help you get back into your building after a disaster.
  • This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action
• Establishes  SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County a local franchise as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  • You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader close by.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  • This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.
  • Having  quick reference guide provides solutions in the advance of a disaster, so that during a disaster you are "Ready for whatever happens."

                  Call Today to Get Started!

                         (281) 342-5326

Not Just Your Typical Restoration Company!

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

This a tile floor sealing and grout coloring job we did at a restaurant in Sugar Land, TX. Let us bring back life to those old floors!

SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County specializes in many other fields rather than Fire and Water Restoration. We pride ourselves as one of the best cleaning companies in the Houston industry.

We offer several services to help your business open its doors on time and look its absolute best.

Post Construction Cleaning

• Once the floors are down and the drywall is up, it's time to remove the debris and dirt in order to lay carpet, paint, and decorate. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County can provide the debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design.

Dehumidification and Drying

• During the construction phase, a building can trap moisture. Excessive moisture can result in mold growth. If you feel that one your projects may have a moisture issue, let us provide the help you need to eliminate the moisture and prevent the potential for mold growth

Final Cleaning

• You want the facility to look its best when the doors open. SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County provides cleaning services to give the building that extra shine. Services include:
  • Carpet, resilient floor prep and finish
  • Ceiling, Walls and fixture cleaning
  • Deodorization
  • Air Duct Cleaning
  • Debris Removal
  • Window Cleaning
  • Tile Sealing
  • Grout Coloring

Call today (281) 342-5326 and let SERVPRO of West Fort Bend County make that mess "Like it never even happened."