A Guide to Navigating the Insurance Process

8/6/2024 (Permalink)

Experiencing property damage, whether due to water, fire, or storm, can be incredibly stressful. Navigating the insurance claims process can add another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation. At SERVPRO®, we understand the intricacies of the insurance claims process and are here to help guide you every step of the way. This guide will educate you on the claims process, highlight common pitfalls, and offer tips on how to document damage effectively.

The Insurance Claims Process

The insurance claims process for property damage typically involves the following steps:

1. Immediate Action: As soon as you discover damage, take immediate action to prevent further harm. This may include turning off water sources, boarding up windows, or covering damaged roofs.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with details about the damage and inquire about the next steps in the claims process.
3. Document the Damage: Before making any repairs, thoroughly document the damage by taking photographs and videos. Keep a detailed inventory of damaged items, including their value and purchase date.
4. Temporary Repairs: Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, such as covering leaks or securing broken windows. Keep receipts for any materials or services you purchase, as these may be reimbursable.
5. Meet with the Adjuster: Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the payout amount. Be present during the inspection to ensure all damage is noted and addressed.
6. Submit Your Claim: Submit all necessary documentation, including photos, videos, receipts, and repair estimates, to your insurance company. Ensure all paperwork is complete and accurate to avoid delays.
7. Review the Settlement Offer: Once your claim is processed, the insurance company will provide a settlement offer. Review it carefully and negotiate if necessary to ensure it covers all repair and replacement costs.
8. Repair and Restoration: After settling the claim, proceed with the repair and restoration process. Choose a reputable restoration company, like SERVPRO, to ensure high-quality work.

Tips for Documenting Damage and Working with Adjusters

Proper documentation and effective communication with insurance adjusters can significantly impact the success of your claim:

• Photograph Everything: Take clear, detailed photos of all damaged areas and items from multiple angles. Capture the overall damage and close-up shots of specific issues.
• Create a Damage Inventory: List all damaged items, including their make, model, age, and estimated value. This inventory will be essential for your claim.
• Keep Records of Communication: Document all interactions with your insurance company, including phone calls, emails, and letters. Note dates, times, and key points discussed.
• Be Honest and Thorough: Provide accurate information about the damage and the events leading to it. Honesty and transparency will facilitate a smoother claims process.
• Accompany the Adjuster: Walk through your property with the adjuster to ensure all damage is noted. Point out hidden or less obvious issues that may require attention.

How SERVPRO Assists Clients with Insurance Claims

At SERVPRO, we understand that dealing with property damage is stressful enough without the added burden of navigating insurance claims. Our team is here to help you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and successful restoration experience.

Our Support Includes:

• Claims Assistance: We work closely with your insurance company, providing them with detailed reports and documentation to support your claim. Our goal is to streamline the process and secure a fair settlement.
• Expert Assessment: Our trained professionals conduct a comprehensive assessment of the damage, ensuring no detail is overlooked. This thorough evaluation helps us develop an accurate repair plan and cost estimate.
• Efficient Restoration: Once your claim is approved, our experienced team gets to work quickly, restoring your property to its pre-damage condition. We use advanced equipment and proven techniques to deliver high-quality results.
• Customer Advocacy: We advocate for our clients throughout the claims process, ensuring their needs are met and their concerns are addressed. Our team is always available to answer questions and provide guidance.

Understanding the insurance claims process for property damage is essential for a successful recovery. By documenting damage thoroughly, avoiding common pitfalls, and working with trusted partners like SERVPRO, you can navigate the process with confidence. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction means you can trust us to restore your home and peace of mind. If you’re facing property damage, contact SERVPRO today for expert assistance and support.

Why Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team always wears PPE to protect ourselves!

Personal protective equipment, commonly referred to as "PPE", is equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses. These injuries and illnesses may result from contact with chemical, radiological, physical, electrical, mechanical, or other workplace hazards. Personal protective equipment may include items such as gloves, safety glasses and shoes, earplugs or muffs, hard hats, respirators, or coveralls, vests and full body suits.

It is important at SERVPRO of South Columbus that our technicians are as safe as possible while working for our wonderful customers so we can get the job done right and efficiently.  

Although it isn't the most fashionable outfit of the season, it is absolutely necessary in some situations!

Our SERVPRO Team protects ourselves so we can better serve you!

We've Added To Our Fleet

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team is "Faster to any size disaster"

Our SERVPRO Team has always been dedicated to being “Faster to any size disaster”. In efforts to stay committed to our statement, we are so proud to announce that we have added a 53-foot tractor trailer to our green fleet!

With our Commercial Large Loss Team rapidly expanding over the last few years, our SERVPRO Team wanted to make sure we could continue serving our customers the best way we can during a disaster. Our SERVPRO tractor trailer is stocked with up to 300 pieces of equipment, along with tools, generators, ladders, cleaning chemicals, and PPE. It is ready and fully equipped for our expert technicians for a job the second it arrives on site.

We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When time is of the essence and quality is vital, you need the best. Big or small, we are always here to help!

Why Our SERVPRO Team is "Faster To Any Size Disaster"

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, you need help.... fast!

When disaster strikes, time is of the essence.

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

SERVPRO of South Columbus provides 24-hour emergency services throughout Columbus and the surrounding areas. We are dedicated to providing excellent service no matter how large or small the damage may be. Our highly trained and IICRC certified technicians can respond immediately to your disaster. No matter the hour of the day.

If a disaster strikes your home or commercial property, call our SERVPRO of South Columbus Team today. We are always Here To Help!

We Are Here To Help With Your Insurance Claim

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Our team of professionals take the worry away with your claim.

When you experience an unexpected disaster in your home, you may not know how to handle it. After the shock is over, your first thought is “How am I going to pay for this?”. This is a common question homeowners ask themselves given the high cost of repairing water, fire, mold or trauma damage. Good news for you, our team of professionals is here to help eliminate that concern.

Here at SERVPRO of South Columbus, we set ourselves apart from other restoration companies by how well we work with your insurance company. Our dedicated team of professionals understands the insurance industry. From knowing how the claims process works, to getting your claim submitted and your repairs covered. Many of our team members have a background in the insurance industry.

As one of the largest restoration and damage remediation companies in the country, we work with hundreds of insurance companies to help our customers get their claims processed quickly and fairly. Many insurance companies know that SERVPRO handles losses professionally and often recommend us to their policyholders.

SERVPRO of South Columbus is here for you!

Our Mission Statement

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Industries Vision statement is:

“To be the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world.”  

That statement could not be more true to those of us at SERVPRO of South Columbus. Our goal and core values are to be the best of the best for our customers. This means requiring our technicians to become certified within the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certifications) standards. Whether our team is helping a customer who has had storm or fire damage or if we are cleaning carpet and upholstery, we strive to be the leader in the industry. 

This is why SERVPRO of South Columbus should be your first and last choice for your cleaning and restoration needs. We are always “here to help.”

Call SERVPRO of South Columbus today at 614-863-1392!

Reconstruction Services For Your Home or Business

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Columbus offers a full line of reconstruction services! Call 614-863-1392.

SERVPRO is known as a leader in the Cleanup & Restoration industry, but did you know that SERVPRO of South Columbus also offers a full line of reconstruction options?  As a licensed general contractor, our team can provide a wide array of building services, both commercial and residential, to help restore your property to its preloss condition.  Some of these services include:

• Electrical and Portable Power Needs
• Roof Tarping and Repair
• Tile, Hardwood, and Linoleum Flooring Repair
• Plumbing
• Drywall Removal or Installation
• Painting

By utilizing one company for both your damage mitigation and building reconstruction needs, you can save both time and money for your repairs.  Serving southern Columbus and the surrounding areas, SERVPRO of South Columbus is Here to Help. For more information about our Reconstruction Division, give us a call at 614-863-1392.

IICRC Certified Firm

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team is IICRC Certified!

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

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

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

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

About SERVPRO of South Columbus

SERVPRO of South Columbus specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.

Here To Help

3/19/2021 (Permalink)

We are dedicated to being "Faster to any size disaster".

Our SERVPRO Team Gives You A Five Star Experience Every Time!

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Our goal is to go above and beyond for each and every one of our customers!

Guess who’s one of the most highly recommended restoration company in the Columbus area? That’s right, it’s us! We don’t need to toot our own horn, because we’ve got over 250 reviews between our 2 franchises to do that for us. We are really proud of them, because we’ve worked really hard to make sure each and every one of those reviews is well earned. Our SERVPRO of South Columbus Team strives hard to make sure every one of our customers has a five-star experience, no matter the size or type of job. Whether it’s a fire or a water loss, whether it’s a home or a commercial building. We want you to have the same experience no matter what, and if you aren’t happy, we aren’t happy! We want to make it right every time and ensure that you receive the same care and compassion that everyone else has.

Give our SERVPRO Team a call today at 614-863-1392!

Leave The Drying Equipment On!!

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

We understand that the drying equipment can be noisy and annoying, but please leave it on! We promise it helps!

When you call SERVPRO of South Columbus to help restore your property after suffering a water damage, our professional technicians will place the appropriate equipment to dry out the area as quickly as possible. It is important to always following our instructions and keep the equipment running at all times. We realize that the equipment is noisy and can become bothersome if you remain in your home during the restoration process, however, turning off the air movers and/or dehumidifiers can delay the drying time and can cause further damage to your property such as mold growth. It is also important to note that oftentimes your insurance coverage will only pay for the drying equipment for a specific length of time, depending on the category of damage. Your SERVPRO of South Columbus project manager will monitor the moisture readings of the equipment daily to determine the appropriate time for removal. If you have any concerns or questions about the drying equipment, be sure to speak to any of our highly trained technicians!

Leave The Mold Clean Up To Our SERVPRO Team

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

These homeowners were unaware that mold was growing behind their baseboards.

If you see visible mold on your residential or commercial property, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home or business. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What To Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of South Columbus for mold remediation services.

What Not To Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services:

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

If you discover mold in your home or business, call our professionals at SERVPRO of South Columbus.

Why Choose A Team Who Is IICRC Certified?

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

With the proper training, our SERVPRO Team sets themselves apart to serve you!

SERVPRO of South Columbus is proud to be an IICRC certified firm. IICRC, or the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, is a non-profit organization for the cleaning and restoration industry. The goal of the IICRC is to establish and advance globally recognized standards and certifications for the inspection, cleaning, and restoration and installation industries. To accomplish this goal, the IICRC sets standards and certifications for inspection, cleaning, and restoration. The IICRC ensures that when consumers hire a certified firm or technician that they have hired experts who will provide reasonable assurance that work will be completed in accordance with the industry's "standard of care." The technicians of SERVPRO of South Columbus sets themselves apart through training, experience, and comprehensive examination.

For more information about the IICRC, please visit https://www.IICRC.org/. 

We are Your Local Cleaning Experts!

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team is here to help!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of South Columbus at 614-863-1392!

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

To File A Claim Or Not To File A Claim

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Columbus works with your insurance company!

As a homeowner, renter or business owner it is important to fully understand your insurance policy. Every policy is different, with exclusions and named perils. Being knowledgeable about your insurance as much as possible will help you in deciding if it is necessary for you to file a claim in the event your home or place of business suffers water damage. Here are some things to consider before filing an insurance claim:

If the total amount of repairs is less than your deductible, avoid filing, especially if other claims have been filled in the last ten years.

If it is an uncovered loss, you are responsible for the mitigation and repairs, be aware of what is covered under your insurance.

Claim frequency could affect you in the form of non-renewal for being a high-risk.

If damage occurs due to lack of maintenance that is your own responsibility, do not submit a claim. But remember, continuously maintaining your home or business can get you better premiums in the future.

Ultimately, being aware of all exclusions and coverage limits is important by knowing your options in which direction you need to go to mitigate and repair damage that occurs on your home or business.

What Our Customers Can Expect When They Call Our SERVPRO Team

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Our team can help with all of your water restoration needs!

You can never plan for a water loss to occur in your home or business but it’s a good idea to keep handy the name and number of a local cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO. A disaster like this may seem like the end of the world but to our SERVPRO team it’s just an average day. This is our specialty. Our job is to provide state-of-the-art service to our customers that are in need of water damage restoration experts.

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. That is why it is imperative to call SERVPRO as soon as possible, so our team can start extracting the water.

Here is what you can expect when our highly trained technicians arrive at your home or business.

INSPECTION

Within two hours of receiving the loss notification, our SERVPRO of South Columbus restoration professionals will be on-site to help ensure your water damage is handled in accordance with the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) Standards. Our team will inspect the affected areas to determine the extent of the water damage. We will review the inspection with you, answering any questions you may have before beginning the work.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Our SERVPRO of South Columbus professionals take the necessary steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal property and other contents from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the affected area for drying. Once the area is prepared for drying, our technicians will then place our state-of-the-art drying equipment strategically in the area. Our team will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step and can assist you with filing an insurance claim, should you choose to file a claim. SERVPRO of South Columbus is a preferred service provider for most major insurance companies such as Nationwide Insurance, State Farm, Allstate Insurance, Farmers Insurance and Grange Insurance. We always keep a great working relationship with our local Insurance Adjusters and Claims Agents.

MONITOR

To help ensure the structure and contents of your home or business are dried to the appropriate IICRC Standards, a SERVPRO of South Columbus professional will monitor and document the drying process. These updates will be consistently communicated with you and when applicable, to your Insurance Adjuster or Claims Agent. Continuous monitoring allows our trained technicians to better understand how the property is drying, and the equipment can then be adjusted to dry the area quickly and more cost effectively. The length of drying does depend on the severity of the loss.

RESTORATION SERVICES

SERVPRO of South Columbus will repair structural materials, reinstall carpers and cleaned affected areas of your property and contents. This is where our SERVPRO team lives up to our motto “Like it never even happened.” A final walk through of the property will be conducted with you to ensure your home or business was returned to its preloss condition.

When you contact SERVPRO of South Columbus you can rest assured that you are in good hands and that we have you and your property’s best interest at heart.

SERVPRO

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of South Columbus team is highly trained to handle all of your bio-hazard needs.

SERVPRO of South Columbus professionals are trained to safely and effectively removed bio-hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, along with state and local health regulations. We are equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, our team can help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes, and offices.  

Bloodbourne Pathogens

SERVPRO professionals remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime, or death. Trained SERVPRO technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.

Crime Scene Residues

From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO professionals can clean and restore your property and contents.

Arson and Vandalism

SERVPRO professionals are recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. SERVPRO also provides general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods, and human or animal waste.

Sewage Backup

Sewage backups and black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits- these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. SERVPRO of South Columbus professionals remove the sewage, contaminants and moisture, disinfecting as they clean. Our SERVPRO team help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized.

Our SERVPRO Team Takes Pride In Customer Service

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

A sink leak in this home caused extensive damage, the whole section of the kitchen cabinets had to be removed.

If you ever wonder what makes the difference between all of the contractors you can choose from, the answer is simple. It’s customer service! Here at SERVPRO of South Columbus we strive to make every job the quickest and best quality that it can be. This picture is just a quick photo of an area that was affected by water caused by a continuous sink leak. This is an example of the careful and attention to details that our project managers pour into your projects. Next time if you ever ask the question: Why SERVPRO? It’s because we care about every little detail of our work and your property. Our SERVPRO Corporate office has a 1-4-8 requirement for all SERVPRO job. Which means we must contact the customer within one hour, be on site within 4 hours and have the estimate to the adjuster in 8 business hours.

Emergency Ready Profile

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

This is a free service offered by SERVPRO that provides you with all the information needed in an emergency that you can access directly from our app.

Our SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile is a startup 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 can reduce the amount of damage a disaster can cause to your commercial building. SERVPRO is the leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back to preloss condition.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantages:

• A no-cost assessment of your facility. This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.  
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It takes minimal time to complete and will not take you away from your other current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.  
• A guide to help you get back into your building following an unexpected disaster. This helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.  
• Establishes SERVPRO of North Coast as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by to help you.
• 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 a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.” 

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

Did You Know?

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, many of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens” speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

Call SERVPRO of South Columbus to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today!

No Job Is Too Big Or Too Small For Us

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of South Columbus team responded to a water loss in this warehouse caused by a water main.

No matter the size of your property's emergency, SERVPRO of South Columbus is available 24/7 to assist you. We treat all of our customers with respect and thoughtfulness, as we know that even though a job may seem "small" to us, it feels really big when it's happening to you! We treat smaller residential jobs with the same urgency that we do on a large commercial loss.

When it comes to large scale property emergencies at a commercial building, our dedicated team is well equipped to get the job done! We have years of experience handling large floods that affect multiple floors of high rise buildings as well as large warehouses with hundreds of thousands of feet affected from a flood or infested with mold. 

Size doesn't matter to us! You can always trust in our SERVPRO of South Columbus team!

Columbus Property Owners Grappling with Mold Find an Ally In SERVPRO

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

No, Not a Spaceman Invading Your Columbus Home! Just a SERVPRO Technician Grappling with Mold Remediation

Is Mold Currently Growing in Your Columbus Residence?

A troubling aspect of owning your own home is the number of threats that could adversely affect your residence. While as a homeowner, you work to ensure that the appropriate upkeep and maintenance gets performed to keep your house in top form and functioning as it should, there are circumstances beyond your control that require special skills and training to handle efficiently. Mold growth is something commonly misunderstood and underestimated, so you should know if these organisms have begun to colonize in your home.

While you might not become fully aware of mold damage in your Columbus residence as it happens, there are tell-tale signs of this colonization that you should know. Harsh, musty odors are often the best indication of mold growth when no visible damage can get seen. This odor gets emitted from the active colonies as they grow and thrive, so even out of sight, you can still get alerted to its presence. Our SERVPRO professionals can help if you are still unsure as to what you face.

Our mold remediation technicians have extensive training and continued education in the latest methods and practices for removing mold colonies, identifying threats, and restoring damaged property. We can assess the situation from the time that we arrive with an honest evaluation of the house, detailing potential problem areas and indicating where, if anywhere, mold growth has started.

It is important to take care of mold growth in your home as promptly as possible should a colony get discovered through this evaluation by our SERVPRO technicians. We have advanced equipment and techniques to contain the spread of the organism and work to remove it almost entirely, protecting both the rest of your home from structural damage and the occupants of your house from the potential health effects that could result.

It might not always be clear to identify mold growth in your home, but if you have suspicions or lingering moisture in areas of your home, trust our SERVPRO of South Columbus remediation professionals to perform an honest assessment. Give us a call anytime at (614) 863-1392.

Click here for a link to our city.

Why SERVPRO Is The Leader In Water Damage Restoration In Columbus

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

Some water damage jobs require large sized commercial equipment to allow for restoration. We have the right equipment and we are available 2/7.

Restoring Flood Damage to Your Columbus Basement

During the winter months, excessive snowfall and temperature fluctuations can cause rapid freezing conditions against the exposed foundation of your Columbus home. These freezing conditions can destroy mortar joints in the blockwork, leaving open avenues for water penetration when the snow begins to melt. With enough snowmelt, basements can flood quickly. Our professionals can respond 24/7 to emergencies like these to provide immediate assistance to reduce costly structural damages and work to prevent secondary effects like mold growth.

Flood damages can cause hazardous conditions for your Columbus property that continually worsen with passing time. Our SERVPRO professionals have efficient extraction equipment that can work to remove the excess pooling water from the basement fast. Once we have removed the water, we can work on drying out the damage and repairing damaged points in the blockwork that allowed the flooding to occur initially.

Identifying the vulnerabilities can often happen with only a visual inspection of the affected areas, but we check our determinations with moisture detection equipment and thermal imagery to identify points of penetration our inspection might have missed. Once we know the penetration points, we can cover these areas with a coating of hydraulic cement to prevent further flow. For cells that get full of water, we can drill weep holes in the bottom course of block to drain out the wall and seal these points with the same hydraulic cement compound.

Drying the flood damage is critical to eliminate the moist or damp environment necessary to facilitate mold growth. With the use of high-powered air movers and LGR dehumidifiers, we can reduce humidity and moisture levels far below acceptable parameters to keep destructive mold growth from beginning.

Flooding can occur from several sources, but during the winter, your foundation is susceptible to the destructive force of freezing temperatures. If your basement gets flooded, you can count on our SERVPRO of South Columbus team to make it “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime that you need us at (614) 863-1392.

Enjoy one of Columbus's many recreation and park trails click here for more details.

Basements and Crawlspaces in the Columbus Area Benefit from SERVPRO's Advanced Equipment for Water Extraction

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says A Sump Pump Helps Prevent Water Damage to Columbus Area Basements

Removing Water from Your Columbus Basement

Basements throughout the Columbus area get affected by multiple moisture sources that can ultimately damage and weaken blockwork. From outside underground water pressure to severe storm systems passing through the area and pooling water along the exposed portions of the basement, penetration in these situations is only a matter of time. While the blockwork was initially sound and waterproof, over time, mortar joints decay and erode, allowing creases and seams to form that water can pass through.

Once these vulnerabilities have opened up enough, water can pass through unabated and flood this area of your Columbus home, requiring water removal services to restore. Our water restoration technicians can respond quickly to potential flooding situations like these and offer effective removal through our advanced equipment like truck-mounted pumps and extraction wands. However, water extraction is often only the beginning to the work and restorative focus that your home requires.

From the moment that our SERVPRO® technicians arrive at your address, we work quickly to determine the vulnerabilities that exist in the blockwork of your basement. With the use of hydraulic cement, our technicians can seal over these penetration points to prevent further water flow while extraction efforts get underway. Once we have used our equipment to remove the stagnant water, we can accurately assess the damage that goes beyond the surface.

Thermal imagery cameras can help our highly-trained technicians to discover moisture pockets and wet spots that exist out of sight, allowing better placement of our air movers and dehumidifiers to maximize their output and effect on the damaged property. Holes can be drilled in the hollow cell blocks to release water and allow for air drying. We can also offer advanced solutions to divert water from the basement and to maintain acceptable moisture levels in this area of the property such as the installation of sump pumps or permanent dehumidifiers.

From the time that water begins to push through the walls of your basement, you should be considering the best choice that you have for effective water removal and full restoration. Our SERVPRO of South Columbus rapid response team can arrive with our advanced equipment and expertise to offer comprehensive restoration solutions to customers. Give us a call today at (614) 863-1392.

For your convenience, here are quick links to city services.

Ultimate Solution To Columbus Water Damage Situations

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

During the hustle and bustle of daily family life, accidents and overflows happen. Contact SERVPRO to make it "like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Can Bring You Excellent Water Cleanup Services in the Columbus Area

Having children can lead to large messes being created inside of your home, and some of these messes can result in your home requiring professional water cleanup services as quickly as possible. In the case of your home, your child played with the bathtub faucet while your back was turned and allowed the tub to overflow. Water spilled out onto the floor and quickly flooded the floor with a few centimeters of water before you realized what was happening.
 
It is vital for you to stop the tub from overflowing before you reach out for the help of water cleanup services in the Columbus area. The sooner that you contact a professional cleanup and restoration company, the faster they can arrive at your home and remove the water flooding your bathroom. Swiftly addressing the problem makes it so that the water on your bathroom floor cannot cause further damages, such as mold.
 
From the moment of your first call, SERVPRO can begin to assemble a team of IICRC-certified technicians to send to your home. Our motto is always to arrive at your residence as soon as we possibly can after your call, and we always aim to provide you with friendly services. Our SERVPRO technicians can arrive at your home with advanced trade-technology that is designed around swiftly removing water from your home. Our technicians always arrive at your home swiftly, informed, and well-equipped for the job that is waiting for them.
 
SERVPRO can use portable pumps and wet/dry vacuums for the water removal process. These pieces of equipment are specifically designed to carry water away from your home swiftly. Once the majority of the water has been cleaned up, SERVPRO can take it a step further by making sure your bathroom is adequately dry. We can use drying mats, dehumidifiers, and air movers to ensure that any water that has been absorbed by the floor or walls is removed at once. Once we finish the job, we hope to leave your home the way it was during its pre-accident state.
 
If your child causes water-based damages in your home, never wait to call for help. Speak to SERVPRO of South Columbus by using the number (614) 863-1392. No matter the time or the place, our technicians are able and willing to help you.

Click here for more information about Columbus.

Why SERVPRO is the Trusted Choice for Water Damage in Columbus

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO when water invades your home.

Columbus Area Residents Get More Than Just Water Damage Restoration

Time is not on your side, especially after experiencing a water intrusion on your Columbus area property. Secondary damages can pop up anywhere, and the longer you wait to address the problem; the worse things can get. If you are one of those homeowners, unfortunate enough to have water sitting around for an extended period, you need to contact a top-rated restoration expert for help.

Water itself isn’t dangerous. As you know, we count on water for quite a few things in our daily lives.  However, water damage in Columbus happens when water comes into contact with the contents of your home. In most cases, the building materials used during the construction of your home were not meant to ward against water intrusion. As a homeowner, you benefit from understanding your home’s existing problems and even more from taking the proper steps to protect your investment.

If you are unsure of what your problems might be, hire a professional. IICRC-industry certified professionals, like those offered at SERVPRO, are available 24-7, 365, to inspect and prepare your home. We can help you determine which steps to take and give you a head start in protecting against water damage in your home. Everyone specializes in something; we happen to specialize in providing quality environmental solutions you can count on to protect your property.

SERVPRO technicians understand how water contamination spreads quickly, moving throughout your home after water intrusion begins. When enough moisture exists, the finish on your furniture can turn white, colors on fabric items begin to run, and stains begin to show. Any furniture in waters direct path begins to swell, along with doors, entryways, windows, wallboard, and your flooring all the way down to the subfloor.

If left unattended for days or even weeks, SERVPRO’s Mold Remediation and Decontamination specialists make an appearance. We bring antimicrobial and antifungal solutions that help prevent the spread of mold and help make your house into a home again.

SERVPRO of South Columbus has access to all of the trained personnel, advanced equipment, and resources necessary to clean and restore your property, fast. We do everything possible to help members of our local community stand firm in the face of overwhelming adversity, call us today. (614) 863-1392

The world’s first air cargo flight landed in Columbus.  Click here to read more fun facts about Columbus. 

How SERVPRO Remediates Water Damage in Your Columbus Residence

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

Uh Oh...Time to call SERVPRO before more damage occurs.

How we Help You Deal with Water Damage in Columbus

Water is part of everyday life, so spills can also happen at any time. Although most incidents are easily manageable, some are too widespread to handle on your own. The damage they cause to property requires a systemic restoration process that only a certified WRT, water restoration technician, can manage. If there is a spillage incident in your Columbus property, the steps you take once you discover the issue, play a role in determining the outcome. IICRC, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, certifies us, making us the right partner when your property is damaged. 

In all cases of water damage in Columbus, taking immediate action helps a great deal. Issues like mold infestation and bad odor that happen within 24-48 hours after the spillage, can be prevented by extracting the water from affected areas or taking other preventive actions. At SERVPRO, we have highly trained crews on standby 24 hours a day. Our trucks have all the necessary supplies including water extractors with different capacities to remove standing water within the first few hours. By using desiccant or refrigerant dehumidifiers, our crews can also dry all excess moisture from your structure before mold develops. 

After a water spillage incident, there is the damage that you can see, and what you might not detect. From casual observation, you can tell that there is standing water on a wooden floor. However, you might not tell how deep the moisture penetrates the wood. By using advanced moisture detection tools such as moisture sensors, our SERVPRO technicians probe the affected material to establish the extent to which the moisture spreads. Moisture meters also help us establish the effectiveness of drying efforts. 

When the spill involves clean water, restoration only requires drying the affected area. However, if the water originates from an appliance such as a dishwasher, it might contain waste materials such as food remains or detergents. In such cases, we clean the affected areas to sanitary levels. Our SERVPRO crew helps you achieve this in different ways. Both the portable and truck-mounted water extractors that we use have heating capabilities of up to 220° F, so it is easy to eliminate different types of soiling on carpets or other fabric materials. We also have pressure washers and a wide range of professional cleaning products. 

A water spillage incident cannot lead to long-term problems when you work with SERVPRO of South Columbus during the restoration that follows. Call us at (614) 863-1392 any time. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

Did you know that 48 percent of Americans live within 600 miles of Columbus?  Click here for more fun facts about Columbus.