Flood and Fire Interrelationships

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Read FEMA policies and guidelines in order to protect your property in the event of a natural disaster.

Interactions Between Floods and Fires

Many homeowners don’t know that their typical home insurance policy doesn’t cover flooding. Read on to understand how FEMA NFIP policies and guidelines can protect your property in the event of a natural disaster.

1. Why Be Concerned?

Wildfire damage isn’t just a huge economic burden in its own right—it also exacerbates local flooding problems. This is because the natural equilibrium is disrupted after vegetation burns. Since this first line of defense against erosion no longer exists, water continues to move through the landscape. Instead of being wicked into the soil and the trees, the water flows to lower elevations and carries ash and mud along with it.

2. What Can I Do?

FEMA NFIP, which is a National Flood Insurance Program, advises that most homeowners purchase an additional flood insurance policy if they are in any kind of wildfire zone, even if they are otherwise at low risk of flooding damage. Since most policies do not go into effect until around a month after the initial purchase, planning ahead is a necessity. Allow yourself the extra time to guarantee that you’re getting a good deal.

3. Are There Other Precautions?

Emergency services cannot always make it to the scene of a flood or fire immediately. If you suspect severe fires or storms are incoming, be sure that you have food and water on hand to last for a few days. It may also be helpful to devise an evacuation plan. Seal important documents away in a fire- and flood-proof safe, and take an inventory of any critical or valuable belongings so that insurance adjusters can assess your claim after the disaster.

With the appropriate forethought and know-how, homeowners in Virginia Gardens, FL, can protect themselves against the ravages of the elements, even in fire-prone areas. Just remember to follow FEMA NFIP guidelines and have the contact information of a qualified fire and flood cleanup professional at the ready.

3 Things To Do Before Buying a Home in a Flood Zone

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

If your dream home is in a flood zone, you don't have to give up. Consider the risk and potential additional costs when deciding whether to bid.

Three Things To Consider Before Purchasing A Home In A Flood Zone

Buying a home is an exciting process. You see so many and finally find your dream home in Virginia Gardens, FL. The realtor said it's in an area prone to floods. Before you write it off as a no-go, here are three things to do before buying a home in a flood zone.

1. Understand Your Flood Zone Risk

There are different categories of flood risk. Do some research on your own to understand the different zones and associated risks for the home you hope to buy. Once you know that, consider some options. Could you mitigate the flood risk by landscaping differently, installing drainage systems, or constructing flood barriers? Is the flood risk the same now as when the home was built? What future factors could change your risk? After answering these questions, decide if you are comfortable with that degree of risk before making an offer on the home.

2. Buy Insurance

When flooding is a significant risk factor, your insurance company may require a flood insurance rider on your homeowner's policy. In a low-risk area, however, you may not need it. As a precaution, purchase flood insurance if your home is in any type of flood-prone area. Your risk can change over time. It's better to be prepared than to wish you were.

3. Estimate Acceptable Repair Costs

If you've determined that the flood risk is reasonable and can add a rider to your insurance, the last step is to estimate repair costs. Imagine a storm came through Virginia Gardens, FL, and caused a historic flood. Contact a water damage restoration company and ask for an estimate of repairs to the basement or main living area. Find out how much would be covered by insurance and how much you would pay out of pocket. If the amount is acceptable, it's time to make an offer.

When your dream home is in a flood zone, you don't have to leave disappointed. Instead, consider the risk and potential extra costs when deciding to make an offer on the home.

Can Commercial Tenants Get Flood Insurance?

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

Renters policies for commercial structures tend to cut out damage caused by flooding.

Is It possible For commercial Tenants To Obtain Flood Insurance?

Renter’s insurance covers the contents of a space rented by a commercial tenant. A lessee can obtain insurance coverage that specifically applies to damage caused by flooding, which is often excluded from general commercial renters policies. The availability of National Flood Insurance Program policies varies based on the location of rented property in Miami, FL.

Renters Policies May Exclude Flood Damage
Renters policies for commercial structures tend to cut out damage caused by flooding. Exposure to contaminated water can damage or destroy any of the following high-value contents:

• Appliances and devices
• Fixtures
• Inventory

While a property owner and lessor is responsible for restoring a structure damaged by flooding, a tenant or lessee is responsible for replacing damaged contents. For this reason, it can be helpful to seek out dedicated flood coverage for commercial renters.

The NFIP Offers Renters Insurance

The NFIP is administered by FEMA. While this program does offer renter's insurance, a tenant must see whether the NFIP is available in the area in which a property is located. In general, the NFIP is more likely to be an option in designated flood zones.

Private Insurers Provide Flood Policies

If the NFIP does not offer policies that cover a rented commercial space, a business owner may want to obtain a flood policy through a private company. Check the limits and terms of any policy to ensure that it covers the costs of replacing ruined commercial contents. It may be possible to obtain a rider on a general commercial property insurance policy for rented premises or a business may have to obtain a separate policy.

Flood insurance coverage may be available through the NFIP for business owners who rent property located in a flood zone in Miami, FL. If an NFIP policy is not available, a private insurer may offer renter’s insurance for flooding in addition to general commercial insurance.

What’s a Flood Cut and Is It Always Required?

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

If the water has any sewage in it, they’ll have to tear out the portions below the flood cut, regardless of whether it got behind the walls.

What Is A Flood Cut, And Is It Always Necessary?

Flooding is always a disaster. Every porous item it touches is going to be damaged or destroyed – even if it’s a clean water line break. Even worse, if it’s a large flood, such as one covering multiple properties, the water should be considered dangerous. Floodwater can have a variety of hazards, including: 

• Sewage
• Chemicals
• Dangerous floating debris

Flood damage restoration experts in Virginia Gardens,FL, will determine the degree of damage to commercial buildings and decide what can be saved. The goal is to restore everything possible and replace when required. Tearing out walls is always a last resort, which is where a flood cut may come in.

What Is a Flood Cut?

Flood water can be nasty. If there is water contamination, everything it touches needs to be replaced. To achieve this, restoration technicians will cut out the drywall that’s been impacted by it.
To save time and money, they’ll leave the untouched drywall that's higher than the flood line in place, leaving a sharp line about 12 to 18 inches above the flood line to expose everything behind the wall below the cut. This is known as a flood cut.

When Is It Necessary?

Three factors are considered when examining wall damage caused by flooding:

• Is the water clean?
• Did it get behind the walls?
• Is there insulation behind the walls?

If the water has any sewage in it, they’ll have to tear out the portions below the flood cut, regardless of whether it got behind the walls. If the water is clean and did not get behind the wall, they may be able to fix the damage without a cut.
CLean water that gets behind the walls may sometimes be extracted without a flood cut. This depends largely on whether there’s insulation behind the wall. If there is, you’ll probably have to get a flood cut.

Flooding doesn’t have to be the end of your commercial property. Restoration technicians in Virginia Gardens,FL, can often return the property to its previous condition without replacing everything, and a flood cut is often part of the process.

Business Insurance: Is Flood Insurance Necessary?

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial insurance does not typically cover external flood damage, meaning flooding that occurs because of storms and other surges.

Is Flood Insurance Required For Your Business?

Flood insurance is not necessary for every part of the country. The fact is that certain areas are considered high-risk zones, which indicate a higher than average probability of a flood occurring. If your business operates in one of these areas, it may be beneficial to purchase the extended coverages offered by flood policies. However, this always brings up questions of coverages and comparisons between commercial and flood policies that require some explaining.

1. Commercial Policies

Commercial insurance does not typically cover external flood damage, meaning flooding that occurs because of storms and other surges. These policies will only cover damage done by broken pipes or blockages that are directly related to your property.

2. Flood Policies

Flood coverage is typically offered through the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program. However, some other companies may provide riders to an existing policy, but these are rare for businesses. Flood coverage will only cover the damage done to the building due to flooding; it will likely not include landscaping, vehicles or business interruptions, these are typically only covered partially under the comprehensive option.

3. Requirements

Some businesses will likely be required to have flood insurance, but that is dependent on your zoning and your mortgage lender. Firms in a high-risk flood area are required to have flood coverage, especially when the mortgage is through an insured or federally regulated lender.

4. Coverages

Flood coverage will likely cover all damage within your property that was caused by the flood; for example, flooring, walls, plumbing and electrical outlets. However, a flood remediation specialist in the Virginia Gardens, FL, area or your insurance provider can offer more assistance and information on possible coverages.

Flood insurance is not necessarily a requirement for your commercial property, but it may still be a wise purchase. While it is often required in high-risk areas, other areas can still flood, and coverage ensures protection.

Tips To Help Your Business Prevent Winter Storm Damage

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Doral's team is here to help 24/7, 365. If your home or business is damaged by a storm, don't hesitate to give us a call.

Tips For Keeping Your Business Safe During Winter Storms

Whether you live in Miami, FL, or Bangor, Maine, you have probably experienced winter storm damage to your business at some point in the past decade. As excessive extreme weather assaults become more commonplace, preparation for property damage becomes even more important. Here are some tips to help you prevent harsh weather destruction to your property.

Ascertain Risks

While checking weather conditions may help you prepare for an approaching storm, it is often too late to prevent potential storm damage such as a pipe break or water in the basement. Here are some property areas to check to avoid problems prior to bad weather arrival.

• Gutters – Make sure clogs are removed so water can flow freely, and check that connections are secure with no corner leaks.
• Landscaping – Trim trees away from roofing and clear parking lot of objects that can become airborne and break windows.
• Roofing and windows – Leaking sealants around windows, skylights, doors, and siding can allow water damage during a storm.
• Utilities – Surge protectors and portable generators help keep data safe and employees warm during even the worst storm.

Mitigate Damage

Power outages often come with huge winter storms. When that happens, your business may be without heat for days. As snow and ice build up on roof tops and frozen pipes burst, the potential for damage can become catastrophic. For this reason, consider calling a professional at the first sign trouble. A restoration team may know just how to handle even the worst winter conditions before severe damage occurs to your building’s structure.

Prevent Destruction

By being aware of the condition of your building and considering repairs to areas of concern before storms occur you can help prevent property destruction. Sometimes Mother Nature can win in Miami, FL, but by being aware of weather conditions and preparing for possible damage, you and your employees can stay safe and warm during even the worst winter storm.

When and Why to Use Flood Cuts

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help you immediately in any flooding emergencies. Our licensed technicians have the complete trained to assist you

When And Why Should Flood Cuts Be Used?

If your business property in Doral, FL, floods, chances are that the floors are not the only part of the building that will be affected. Walls with water damage from flooding can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold, and it can compromise the structural integrity of the building. A flood cut marks the spot 12 inches above the water damage to tell water damage restoration specialists where to begin when they tear out damaged walls.

Is a Flood Cut Necessary?

While flood cuts are common when businesses have taken on water damage, in certain circumstances, replacing the wall can be avoided. The walls may be salvageable if the following conditions exist:

• The water that caused the flooding is clean water.
• The walls are not insulated.
• There is no sign of mold spreading into the wall.

If all these conditions are met, it is possible that technicians can drill small holes in the wall and use industrial dryers to prevent further damage. If, however, the water in question holds the possibility of contamination, everything it touches must be removed and replaced. As insulation cannot be dried and used effectively after it has been wet, it must be replaced as well.

How Does a Flood Cut Help?

Measuring a whole foot above where the visible damage lies might seem like overkill at first. However, when it comes to flood damage and the potential complications it poses, you will probably agree that it is better to be safe than sorry. Humidity does not have the courtesy to stop at the flood line. To ensure that every inch of your business is protected from mold growth and contamination, restoration professionals remove any drywall and insulation that might have been affected.

Flooding can seem like a disaster, but it does not have to turn into an ongoing devastation. With the help of a flood cut, technicians can replace the drywall and keep your building in Doral,FL, and all its inhabitants safe from further issues.

What To Expect After Major Storm Flooding

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Storm causes residential damage in Virginia Gardens, FL.

What to Expect After a Flooding Storm

When you experience the devastation of a big storm in Virginia Gardens, FL, you need some guidance on what to expect in the cleanup process. It’s a huge undertaking to recover from water damage and bring your home back to pre-storm conditions, but experts bring you some peace of mind in their experience and thorough the tear-out and remediation procedures. Here is what you can expect during the restoration process:

1. Water extraction. Powerful pumps and vacuums may be used to remove standing water immediately. A quick response to water removal is key to prevent consequential damage of long-term exposure to flood water.

2. Tear out. Personal belongings and ruined building materials are removed. Mostly porous, absorbent materials will be in this category, like carpet padding, drywall or plaster,

3. Clean personal belonging

4. Dry completely. Air movers and additional venting may be used. Experts monitor moisture levels to ensure complete drying. Many materials may look or seem dry, but professionals rely on specialized instruments to make sure they are.

5. Repairs. Finally, when all other steps are complete, repairs can begin.

Start Right Away

The job seems impossible, but you need to start right away. The longer materials are exposed to flood water, the more damage is done. Initial storm damage may just be structural and messy, but water damage that is left too long is subject to damage from mold growth. Mold starts to grow colonies in as little as 48 hours, so timing is critical to prevent further damage.

Finding the Right Company

Finding the right company is key to managing this critical process. When looking for experts for your storm restoration, make sure you choose a company with experience responding to major disasters and floods. The right team will respond quickly, have professional and technical training, and will have access to resources like powerful pumps, air movers, and monitoring equipment. They will help you understand what materials they must tear out and what they can save. The right company will also be capable of managing all aspects of your cleanup from the beginning water extraction to the finishing repairs.

Disaster Preparedness for Your Business

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

Contact a professional storm damage company to have your business back and safe as possible.

4 Steps To Create a Disaster Preparedness Plan

The weather in West Miami, FL, can change in a blink. While surprises can be fun for birthday parties or movie cameos, you don’t want to be caught off guard by severe weather at your commercial property. Here are four steps for creating a disaster preparedness plan.

1. Identify Risks
The first step in implementing an emergency plan is identifying what the most likely threats are to your business. While this can depend on geographical location to an extent, it is a good idea to have a plan in place for every kind of weather. Fires, floods and tornadoes can strike anywhere at any time.

2. Determine a Course of Action
Once you have identified the possible risks to your business, the next step in business preparedness is picking a course of action. This plan should be tailored to each type of emergency. For example, you should shelter in place for a tornado but evacuate quickly for a fire. Identify the safest areas in which to take shelter and plot escape routes for every room in the building. Do practice drills for both.

3. Keep Communication Lines Open
After a disaster event, regular communication such as cell phones may not be an option due to lack of signal or overloaded towers. It's always a good idea to have a backup system for checking in. This can mean including walkie-talkies in your emergency kit or establishing a meeting point as part of your disaster preparedness plan.

4. Plan Ahead for a Smoother Recovery
The aftermath of severe weather and similar events can be just as overwhelming as the disaster itself. To make your road to recovery smoother, keep up-to-date photos of your assets for insurance claims. Enlist the help of a professional storm damage restoration crew to have your business back and thriving as quickly and safely as possible.
Disaster preparedness is integral to the success of any business. Creating and practicing a contingency plan is the best way to protect your property, your assets and — most importantly — your workforce.

The Top 3 Commercial Flood Preparation Tips

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Flood cuts performed in Doral, FL.

Flood Preparation Tips

Owners or occupants of commercial buildings prone to flooding should take measures to prepare properties in Doral, FL. Planning ahead for flood damage can be beneficial, as it is more difficult to make good decisions when time is limited. Here are three of the most effective flood preparation tips.

1. Make a Flood Level Checklist
The critical utilities in a building should be installed above the Base Flood Elevation level. Any portable items used below this level should be listed and elevated above the level at which they are likely to be exposed to black water prior to flooding. Electric appliances used in office settings are likely to be ruined by exposure to any type of water, and grossly contaminated water can destroy many other types of contents.

2. Get Commercial Flood Insurance
Most commercial general property policies exclude flood damage. For this reason, commercial property owners may want to obtain a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer. The NFIP General Property Form can insure building property up to $500,000 and personal property up to the same amount.

3. Consider Interruption Insurance
Neither a general commercial property or a NFIP Commercial policy will offset financial losses that result from the inability of a business to operate for days or weeks due to damage. Business owners can calculate ongoing expenses during a shutdown and take out an interruption insurance policy with a high enough limit to offset these losses during the typical time frame for storm damage restoration.
When flooding is expected to occur in Doral, FL, property owners or commercial tenants can use a checklist to remember to elevate delicate or important contents and take important safety measures. Maintaining business interruption or commercial flood insurance can also give a building or business owner more peace of mind in the event of a flood.

Why Protecting Your Roof Is So Important

1/8/2021 (Permalink)

Roof mitigation services in West Miami, FL

Your roof system offers vital protection to your home in West Miami, FL, whenever a storm sweeps into your neighborhood. It can work perfectly for many years, even a decade or two, but eventually, the roofing materials will begin to wear out. This is the moment when a roof repair can save you time and money. If you miss this opportunity, the time may come when a powerful storm breaches the protective layers of your roof, allowing water to stream into your attic. Once this happens to you, you will likely spend more time appreciating the importance of having a quality roof over your head.

Watching for Roof Damage

If your roof is old, it is important to inspect its condition once or twice a year, or more often if your locality has experienced any recent storms. A few telltale signs can alert you to the imminent need for a roof repair:

• Ripped or torn shingles
  
• Discolored marks on the roof
  
• Displaced flashing materials
  
• Crumbled masonry around chimneys
  
• Covered shingles from moss growth
  
  

While there are many obvious signs of roof wear, others are more subtle. A trusted roofing contractor can perform an annual inspection and spot signs of storm or wind damage that you might miss. This is your first line of defense against major water damage to your home.

Hiring Restoration Services
If water does come streaming into your home, you will definitely want to minimize your damage. One of your first steps is to call a storm mitigation company. A crew of experienced technicians will arrive at your home and take quick action to stop the influx of water. They will work on a roof repair to prevent any additional damage. The next step will be to work on removing the water. Then they will dry out materials such as attic insulation and anything else impacted by the storm.

How To Prevent Flooding in Your Commercial Building

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded building in Miami, FL

A flood can have a devastating impact on your Miami, FL, business. One major storm can carry away your entire building. Even if the water just rises a foot, properties can sustain severe damage. That is why you need to implement flood prevention strategies.

What Are Floods?

Floods do not just occur inside buildings. An entire community or city can suffer flood damage when submerged by water. There are several different causes of floods:

• Hurricanes
  
• Ice or snowmelt
  
• Dam breaking
  
• Rain
  
• River overflow
  
  

How Can You Prevent Floods?
Floods are weather events that humans cannot stop. However, people do take steps to limit the impact of the floods.
If you are worried about rising water affecting your property, see if you can get a retention pond or reservoir constructed that will hold excess water during a flood. You can also ask your local government about building a flood prevention gate or sea wall near the coastline.
Before you construct a new building on your commercial property, you should also talk to your town representatives. They will make sure the property does not block any drainage systems.
Indeed, clogged drains and heavy rains are a dangerous combination. Your employees must keep any nearby drainage systems free of debris or litter.
Finally, you can add some color to the premises and protect it from flooding by planting some grass, trees or shrubs. Vegetation can help reduce the power of the flowing water during the flood.
Even if you put all of these flood prevention measures in place, your building could still sustain damage during a storm. That is why you should prepare for the worst-case scenario. Have an emergency action/evacuation plan in place before the rain comes.
You should store the phone numbers for your insurance provider and your local flood cleaning company in an easy-to-access location, as well. The insurer can work with the restoration professionals to repair any damage to the property.

How To Obtain Government Flood Assistance

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Money from FEMA is only given if you reside within a federally confirmed flood plane

If flooding compromises your home and you are unable to pay for repairs, you may be able to obtain federal assistance in place of private flood insurance. Homeowners who lack conventional coverage can take advantage of two unique government-backed options.

Flood Facts

Those harboring doubts concerning the risk floods present should consider the following realities:

• Out of all natural disasters, floods are the most common and costly.
  
• Approximately only 15% of homeowners own flood policies.
  
• Nearly half of all homeowners incorrectly believe their homeowner’s insurance covers flooding.
  
  

The fact remains that floods present great peril, both to people’s safety and their bank accounts. Before a storm strikes Virginia Gardens, FL, and triggers damage that requires the expertise of a water restoration specialist, become familiar with the following financial flood protection avenues.

Flood Relief
Your first flood insurance option is a loan provided by the Small Business Administration. The second is a disaster grant endorsed by FEMA.
SBA disaster loan repayment terms can extend for up to 30 years. Individuals unable to obtain cash elsewhere face a maximum interest rate of 4%. For those who do possess the ability to acquire outside backing, it rises to 8%. Around half of all applicants receive approval, with low credit scores being the explanation for most rejections.
Money from FEMA is only given if you reside within a federally confirmed flood plane. Unlike with the above, these funds do not need to be repaid if you lack coverage. The limit is $33,000, although the average payout amounts to $5,000. Those with insurance can even access this funding to help with expenses excluded by their policy.
Both selections present eligibility requirements. For instance, you may be required to prove that the area in which you reside has been declared a federal disaster zone.
It is highly recommended that you obtain private flood insurance if you live inside a vulnerable territory. However, know that alternatives exist even under circumstances where you lack a traditional monetary safeguard.

Maintaining the Roof on Your Commercial Building

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial roof inspection in Virginia Gardens, FL

Tips On Extending The Life Of Your Commercial Roof

Because severe weather can strike at any time in Virginia Gardens, FL, your roof is continually prone to damage caused by high winds and torrential rains. Maintaining the roof of your commercial building can lessen the severity of potential roof damage. Follow these tips on extending the life of your commercial roof.

Preventative Maintenance
Your roof should be inspected at least a couple of times a year. Whether the inspector is you or a maintenance crew, a thorough visual inspection can catch any potential problem areas before they become severe.

Keep an eye out for the following signs:

• Broken or cracked shingles or tiles
• Clogged drainage systems
• Peeling edges
• Flashing that needs to be replaced or repaired
• Overhanging branches from surrounding trees
  

Roof damage caused by wind can include lost roofing material and fallen trees. Making sure your roof is clear and maintained is your best line of defense when high winds occur.

Repairing Your Roof
If you find damage to your roof, don't delay in getting it repaired. Moisture seeping in can cause further damage to the structure of your building.
A good investment is waterproofing your roof. There are numerous products that can seal your roofing materials to prevent damage caused by rain and high winds. These products can also stop cracking caused by the sun.
If you experience massive roof damage during a storm, make sure the building remains unoccupied and call your insurance company and storm restoration specialists to assess the damage and perform any cleanup that is necessary. They can also inform you if a complete roof rebuild will be necessary to maintain the safety of your property.
By familiarizing yourself with your roof and your building's surroundings, you'll be able to spot signs of potential hazards of wind damage sooner. You'll also feel secure in the knowledge that your roof can withstand severe weather. Regular roof maintenance not only protects the occupants of your building, but it also protects your investment.

5 Steps To Take if Your Plumbing Backs Up

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

It may be best to temporarily shut off water to the house to prevent flooding

The Following Steps Can Help You Limit The Damage

A sewer backup can cause many problems for your West Miami, FL, home. If the water backs up too much into your bathtubs, sinks, or toilets, it can start to overflow. If this happens, the following steps can help you limit the damage.

1. Turn Off the Water
If there is any water in use in the house, it might be contributing to the overflow. Turn off any appliances that use water, such as dishwashers and washing machines. In some cases, it may be best to temporarily shut off water to the house to prevent flooding.

2. Relocate Items From the Area
In order to keep them from becoming too damaged, you should remove any items that you can from the area. Move belongings to a dry location and set aside anything that has already been affected as they may be able to be salvaged.

3. Remove Excess Water
When it is left to sit, water can cause a number of different problems. It can weaken building materials and cause wood to warp. It can often cause mold to grow as well. For this reason, water should be removed as quickly as possible.

4. Clean and Sanitize
The water involved in a sewer backup is often category 3 or black water. This means that it carries a large number of bacteria and contaminants. Anything that comes into contact with this water will need to be thoroughly cleaned. If this is not possible, it will need to be replaced.

5. Address the Underlying Issue
If you don’t figure out the cause, you might continue to have a sink, toilet, or bathtub backup. In some cases, this can be as simple as a clogged pipe. In others, there may be more significant damage to the plumbing system. It is often best to hire a professional to determine the problem.
Because the problem can be difficult to fix on your own and the water is often unsafe to handle without the proper gear, you should have a professional cleanup and restoration company take care of a sewer backup. They can locate the source of the problem and return your home to its previous condition.

Add Sump Pump Maintenance to Annual To-Do List

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

A sump pump is only as good as its maintenance

Add Sump Pump Maintenance to Annual To-Do List

For many homes in Doral, FL, when stormwaters rise, they rely on the sump pump for protection against flooding. Typically installed in the lowest portion of a house, if it is working correctly and activates to drain water above set levels, homeowners won’t even notice it hard at work. As with any other part of a house, the pump is only as good as its maintenance.

Annual Inspection

Luckily, pump maintenance is easy, as long as it is done. Below are annual maintenance steps to ensure a sump pump will work when it needs to:

• Verify the power source is plugged in and connected to a GFCI outlet.
  
• Inspect the cord for tears, wear, or other damage.
  
• Ensure the pump maintains an upright, level position.
  
• Test the pump by filling the basin with water.
  
• Remove the pump from the basin to clean potential debris from the grate.
  
• Examine pipes and joints, ensuring they are tightly connected and properly drain.
  
• Check that the discharge pipe is debris-free.
  
  

Extra Protection
For homeowners who have experienced flooding and required the services of water remediation experts, they know how important a properly functioning sump pump is. For those who haven’t had a flooded basement, if the pump is old, it might be time for a basement inspection.
Along with maintenance and verifying that the pump works and is not impaired, there are simple steps to keep water from infiltrating your home. While there are more complex and costly ways to waterproof lower levels, tasks, such as regular cleaning and maintain gutters and downspouts, can go a long way to keep water at bay. Additional yard grade and landscaping can also help keep your home more secure.
For many people, a sump pump is something that can easily be forgotten. If maintenance isn’t already on your to-do list, adding it can provide peace of mind and keep your investment running longer.

Understanding Contamination Levels for Commercial Water Damage

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

If the water originated from a broken water supply line, you have very little toxicity

Understanding Contamination Levels for Commercial Water Damage

If your business sustains water damage, it’s smart to begin the cleanup process swiftly. Water damage is affected by the level of hazardous material present in the water. Flood water, for instance, is more toxic than a dishwasher leak. This overview of water toxicity levels may help you assess the damage and begin the restoration process.

Category 1

This level, also known as clean water, reflects the least toxic category. If the water originated from the following supply-line sources, you have very little toxicity:

• Broken water supply line
• Overflowing bathtub or sink
• Leaking ice maker
• Rain entering a damaged roof
• Leaking water heater
  

Low-toxicity water can still cause damage, so it is smart to contact your insurance agent to confirm the damage will be covered by your conventional insurance policy.

Category 2

This level of contamination, known as gray water, describes a moderate degree of chemical, biological, or physical toxicity. Less hazardous than flood water, Category 2 water may contain food, dirt, or grease. Water leaking from under your sink or a shower drain would fit in this category. Your commercial insurance will generally cover this level of cleanup and restoration.

Category 3

This high-level contamination is referred to as black water. It includes water from any source that could possibly contain seawater, sewage, chemicals, or flood water. This unsanitary water can be toxic to pets and humans. Category 3 contamination should be cleaned up by a water remediation specialist as soon as possible.

If your water damage is caused by flood water, it would not be covered by your conventional insurance policy. You would need to have had a government-issued flood policy in place at the time of your damage to obtain coverage. It’s important to contact your agent for help assessing which type of insurance you need.
When your West Miami, FL, business sustains storm damage or any type of water damage, it presents a disruptive and unsettling time for your company. Once you have evaluated your contamination level, you are equipped to implement the best cleanup strategy and return your operation to business as usual.

How To Landscape For Flood Protection

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

Proper rain drainage is important

How To Landscape For Flood Protection

From unexpected downpours to nationally anticipated hurricanes, severe storms can take a toll on your home and yard. As storms grow more intense, it's important to take proper measures to protect your property. You don't want to risk damaging flood water working its way into your home. Here are some ways you can use landscaping as a protective layer against outside flooding.

1. Get Creative in the Garden

Rain gardens are a beautiful and efficient way to lessen the potential damage of a heavy rain storm. Even a small rain garden filled with native plants can help absorb water more efficiently into the ground. Another option is to use heavy mulch in place of lighter pine options. Heavier mulches stay in place better and thus keep soil and rainwater in place better, too.

2. Divert Your Rain Spouts

To help guide water away from your home, proper rain drainage is important. Downspout diverters are effective for moving the water to lower ground and keeping your home safe from outside flooding. You can also consider installing rain barrels, which keep water from entering the ground to begin with. Another benefit of rain barrels is that they provide free water for your gardens during dry spells.

3. Build More Drainage

Harsh storms can greatly damage properties that feature a lot of impervious surfaces. There are many ways to divert water from within and around these areas. In addition to the above tips, you can add drainage alongside, or even within, your driveway and sidewalks. Channel drains move water away from paved areas well. You can also consider using gravel or grass in place of pavement.
When it comes to your Miami, FL, home, consider these steps when thinking about landscape options. If needed, consult professional storm damage restoration experts to help. Diligence in preventing outside flooding from entering your home will help keep it safe and dry.

How to Prepare Your Business for a Flood

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Purchase flood insurance to protect your business from this kind of damage

How to Prepare Your Business for a Flood

If you are expecting flooding during a storm in West Miami,FL, you should take steps to prepare your business. Because it is possible that your building could be affected, you should do what you can to minimize the damage. Be sure to consider the safety of yourself and your employees as well. The following are a few things you can do.

1. Check For Existing Damage

Existing damage, such as cracks or deterioration, can become worse with flood damage. To prevent this from happening, you should inspect the building before severe weather. You should remember to perform regular maintenance as well.

2. Back Up Important Information

If there is flooding and the water enters the building, it could potentially affect your electronics and equipment. If you have important files and data on your computers, you should create a backup in case they are damaged. You can make a physical backup with a USB drive or external hard drive, or you can create a digital backup by uploading your files to cloud storage.

3. Purchase Flood Insurance

Because flood damage is not usually covered under a basic commercial insurance policy, you may want to purchase an additional flood policy to protect your business from this kind of damage. Although it may seem like an unnecessary extra expense, it can save your company money if your building is affected during a storm.

4. Have an Emergency Plan

Along with damaging your building, flooding can be dangerous to your employees. Create a plan for emergency evacuation as well as a severe weather policy. Make sure that everyone knows what is expected during this kind of situation.
During a flood, black water can cause a lot of damage to your building. This water is highly contaminated, so instead of trying to remove it yourself, hire a cleanup and restoration company to do it for you. They can sanitize your building and perform any necessary repairs. They will be able to restore many damaged belongings as well.

4 Options for Working During a Power Outage

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

Along with a power outage, storms can cause a variety of other issues.

If there is a power outage in your building during a storm in Doral, FL you could just call it a day and send everyone home. However, this is likely not ideal as you can lose valuable time and profits. Instead, consider one of the following alternatives.

1. Use a Generator
If you want to continue working for a bit after the power goes out, a portable generator can be a great solution. It can give you enough time to finish up important tasks and shut down your computers safely to avoid damaging them or losing any of your data. However, these are generally only designed to be used for a few hours at a time.

2. Move to Another Location
If you need internet access to continue your work, then you might consider moving to a public space like a library or a coffee shop for part of the day. Many of these offer free wi-fi, so it can be a convenient solution for a short period.

3. Work From Home
Another option is to simply have everyone work from home. If your employees have internet access at home or have work to do that does not require them to be online, then this can be a good time to complete some individual work.

4. Do Tasks That Don’t Require Electricity
While a power outage can be a big inconvenience, it doesn’t have to be the end of your work day. If there are things that need to be done that you don’t need electricity for, then take this time to work on those instead. You can leave other tasks for when the power comes back on.

Storms can cause a variety of issues including damage to your building. If this happens, you can contact a professional cleanup and restoration service. They can remove any water damage, perform repairs and salvage affected belongings.

Storm Flooding Cleanup vs. Other Flooding Damage

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Pipe burst in Miami,FL

Flood cleanup can be a serious task even for smaller incidents. If water finds its way into your home, you not only have to worry about the integrity of the structure, but you must also consider carpet and hardwood flooring, electronics, documents, furniture and personal items. Depending on the type of flooding, the cleanup effort will require different steps and equipment.

Why Call the Pros

A professional flood cleanup and restoration company should be your first line of defense to take care of flood damage. This isn't a duty you should handle alone or rely solely on friends or neighbors. Professional crews offer many advantages, including:

• Experience handling floods of all sizes and types
  
• The most advanced equipment
  
• Years of training
  
• Proven cleanup methods and safe practices
  
  

Storm Flooding

If water gets into your Miami, FL, home during and after a major storm, the consequences could be hazardous. Often, massive storms will overwhelm an area's drainage system, which could then back up the sewage. This may introduce black water into your home. This is considered Category 3 water damage. It contains harmful materials such as human waste and other hazardous items. Contact with it could cause severe illness or even death. Cleaning Category 3 damage after a storm requires intervention from a certified cleanup team. The crew will not only remove all water from your home but will also thoroughly sanitize if, making it safe once again.

Pipe Burst

Broken pipes and other plumbing issues are also frequent culprits of residential flooding. Though this can also cause damage, there's not the same level of concern because this is a Category 1 situation. This means the water will not contain lethal materials. Still, you should call, a restoration company to remove the water. These teams have the right tools to completely extract the water and dry the area.
Flooding is always a concern, no matter how it starts. It's important to recognize the source of a flood so you can be aware of the danger level.

3 Tips for Preparing for an Upcoming Storm

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

A particularly devastating storm may cause some damage to your building no matter what you do.

"During storm season in Doral, Florida it's important to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature may throw at you. You may not be able to avoid all damage to your building, but you can protect the most vulnerable areas and items. There are several steps you can take to minimize your risk of flooding.
1. Make Your Basement Flood Resistant
The lowest level of your building is the most vulnerable to flood damage. Water from heavy rainfall can seep into cracks in the foundation. The sewer lines can get clogged and back up into your building. To increase your basement's resistance, have the exterior of your building inspected and repair any weak spots or potential points of entry that inspectors find. Hire local plumbing professionals to make sure your sewer lines are intact. Have a sump pump installed so that any water that gets in can be pumped right back out.
2. Protect Sensitive Equipment and Important Documents
Electricity and water don't mix. If your building is in danger of flooding, make sure equipment and electrical outlets are raised off the floor and above the flood line. Store documents in files on higher shelves or digitize them, eliminating the need for storage of physical copies. 
3. Build a Barrier Against Floodwaters
Sandbags can protect your building against storm damage. Place them in any area that is particularly vulnerable. If you have enough time, it is wise to places them around the perimeter of your building, where they can work as a makeshift dam. Set up a barrier around doors and windows, as water is more likely to enter your building at these points. The use of sandbags can delay or maybe even stop floodwaters from encroaching on your building. You can prevent flooding during most heavy storms, though, by taking a few key precautions."

3 Steps To Prevent Mold Growth After a Flood

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

How to prevent fungus after a large storm with water loss.

When it floods in Doral, Florida there is a chance that you could end up with a lot of water inside your house. When this happens, it is important to take action quickly to prevent secondary damage like mold growth. Here are a few ways to prevent this fungus from taking over your home.
1. Remove Water From the House
Mold grows easily in moist environments and can begin to spread in as little as a day. To keep this from happening, you need to remove all of the standing water from your home as soon as possible. It is a good idea to contact a water damage remediation service in this situation. They can perform mitigation to prevent further damage as well as repairs for anything that has already been affected.
2. Clean and Sanitize Surfaces and Belongings
Flood waters are considered Category 3 or black water. This water can carry harmful bacteria, sewage and other contaminants like mold spores. For this reason, you should be sure to clean and sanitize anything in your home that has been in contact with the water. Doing so reduces any health risks as well as the spread of mold.
3. Allow Everything To Dry Thoroughly
Once the water has been removed and everything has been cleaned, you need to make sure your home is completely dry. Even small amounts of water can contribute to mold growth, so this step is crucial. Opening windows and using fans to circulate air can be helpful. If you hire a professional service, these workers have the necessary equipment to help this process go more quickly.
Flood waters in your home can result in a lot of damage to your house. Mold growth is a common problem after water damage, but following these steps can help prevent the fungus from spreading. This can save both time and money during repairs.