Commercial Water Restoration for Mattapan Businesses

9/26/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale at (857) 399-9797 for assistance from a professional remediation company.

SERVPRO Water Restoration Technicians Can Help

Business premises with water intrusion are non-functional. Customers and staff can feel the impact of an emergency like this. It can also affect the company's bottom line by forcing a temporary closure of the premises. Resolving unexpected property damages as quickly as possible is essential to a healthy, fully-functional business. At SERVPRO, we have a roster of qualified technicians available to local companies that can help minimize the disruption of a burst pipe, slow leak, sewer backup, or plumbing malfunction. Our call lines operate twenty-four hours a day to help local businesses. At the same time, our qualified and licensed team can assist companies with:

• Water Restoration
• Water damage 
• Water Cleanup

The challenge of commercial water restoration in Mattapan depends on the property's size and the damages' scope. For example, a burst pipe left over the weekend can cause significantly more harm to your business than a plumbing or appliance malfunction. Our team can work around your business, posting signage and barriers to inform staff of potential restoration work. This process is often suitable for minor water impacts where the damages are confined to a single space. Substantial damages or contaminated water issues may require a more comprehensive approach to the premises. Our technicians can communicate with the premises manager throughout the restoration to meet all needs. Returning premises to their pre-damaged condition relies on water extraction, cleaning, and fast drying. Our equipment includes:

• Dehumidification, air-movers, and venting fans allow rapid warm air circulation and speed up the drying process.
• Truck-mounted extraction units can store hundreds of gallons of water in their tanks before emptying.
• After cleaning, rotary machines can buffer fabrics, carpets, and other textiles. 

If your business faces water intrusion, contact SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale for commercial water restoration at (857) 399-9797.

When Flood Damage Happens in Hyde Park, SERVPRO Rebuilds for You

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

When a flood hits your property, you need to call the technicians at SERVPRO.

Flood Damage Can Start Elsewhere With Some Help

It doesn’t take a tree falling on your roof for rainwater to cause flood damage to your Hyde Park residence’s interior. Strong winds that force heavy rain into your home can use broken-down shingles, loosened siding, or a badly warped window frame.

Our reconstruction team knows how to repair these unwanted openings while our water extraction team gets water out of your Hyde Park home. Afterward, flood damage becomes easier to assess, letting us determine what we can salvage and what we must replace. 

 Different things can determine if something requires rebuilding and replacements of areas in your home with flood damage, like:

• What the water passed through,
• How long the water occupied your home’s interior, and
• The severity of the damage.

Some houses contain asbestos in different forms. Insulation, ceiling tiles, shingles, floor coverings, and wallboards are all possible sources of asbestos. When water passes through these materials, the water can carry asbestos fibers away, contaminating the water. Anything saturated with this water might require specialized cleaning. 

Some families choose to use specific rooms only for special occasions or for guests. During inactive periods, flooding occurring in only such areas can go undetected. Although it may have been relatively clean rainwater at first, also known as Category 1, this can slowly degrade to Category 2 and eventually Category 3.

While flooding remains inside your residence, the affected areas’ degree of damage steadily worsens. Carpeting, padding, and even floorboards can become rotted and require removal. Because of the porous nature of drywall, dirty water can travel upward. Such moisture can corrode wiring, possibly causing a fire. 

When damage from flooding occurs, SERVPRO is ready to help restore everything, from cleaning to salvaging to rebuilding. We do all of this in a manner that provides you with the most cost-effective response.

You can reach the rebuilding experts at SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale by calling (857) 399-9797.

We do Water Restoration of Furnishings in Your Mattapan Residence

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale fix it, Don’t stress it.

Water Restoration Lowers Costs & Saves Keepsakes

After a leak from a water line or a hole in your roof, SERVPRO is available to help with expert water restoration of your Mattapan residence’s interior. From walls, ceilings, and floors to furniture, carpeting, and hardwood flooring, we can help preserve these costly investments so replacing them doesn’t need to happen. 

Restoring these things happens faster and generally costs significantly less than replacing everything with new furnishings. Our water restoration team in Mattapan makes everything less stressful for you and helps get everything back to normal quickly, “Like it never even happened.” Furniture, family heirlooms, paintings, and more can sustain damage from unwanted moisture.

SERVPRO uses teamwork to make water restoration services as targeted as possible. When we encounter something that has sustained so much damage that restoration looks unlikely, we discuss alternative outcomes with you. These are some of the things we do as part of restoring your home’s furnishings:

• Ensure dry conditions,
• Use different methods of cleaning, and
• Restoring the interior and your belongings.

After removing any standing water, we dry out any leftover moisture with dehumidifiers and air movers. When necessary, we can also use desiccant machines that work faster.

Cleaning different things requires various methods, tools, and cleaning agents. A stiff brush and foam from an agitated cleaning compound can do a spectacular job where a damp sponge would fail. Other methods involve more vital cleansing agents, detailing, or electronic cleaning with an ultrasound bath. 

Rebuilding and restoring also include the interior structure and furniture items. Sometimes, your home needs professionals to replace soggy drywall, paint it, and clean everything up. When furniture sustains damage from moisture, noticeable discolorations can appear on the upholstery or wood, and the underside’s framework can start to warp. Our technicians know how to save you money and get the job done as quickly as possible.

For excellent service by experienced and highly trained technicians, call SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale at (857) 399-9797. We can assist with this and any other disaster that affects your property.

Mold Remediation Services in Mattapan Is Better with SERVPRO

8/22/2022 (Permalink)

Don't let mold take control of your Mattapan property. Call SERVPRO today!

Homeowners Trust Our Expert Mold Remediation Techs

When you encounter an area in your Mattapan home coated in a flurry of discolored and musty stuff, your home needs expert mold remediation. SERVPRO technicians receive specialized training in performing scaled services beyond what many people consider “mold removal.”

When our technicians work on your home in Mattapan, they perform mold remediation tasks proven to protect your family’s personal belongings. Our technicians and their training are why we are a highly trusted company.

In-depth training, using IICRC-certified technicians, extensive experience, and high-tech equipment make mold remediation work quickly, creating less inconvenience for our customers while ensuring the following:

• Elimination of damp conditions,
• Cleaning of the air, 
• Protection against re-infestation, and
• Rebuilding of any destroyed structures.

Setting up our dehumidifiers and desiccation machines isn’t enough. We need to locate all the places where mold is obtaining moisture and get them sealed off to keep your home’s interior environment at the correct humidity. Completing everything might require more than a plumber. Much can contribute to increased moisture in your residence, from gaps in your roof to cracks in your basement.

To help protect your property from future infestations and dense mold colonies, we use our air scrubbers to remove airborne spores. These spores float along on air currents, with those landing on a food source with close access to enough moisture forming new colonies. A reduced number of spores means a reduced chance of future mold problems.

Spraying porous surfaces with a particular mold inhibitor can prevent future infestations. New mold particles and spores continually enter your dwelling. Making the interior less hospitable can keep microbes from re-colonizing.

Microbes can destroy drywall by causing it to disintegrate. The frame under the drywall can also become mold-infested. We can use dry ice pellets to freeze and blast the mold. Once mold-free, we can do reconstructive work and make everything “Like it never even happened.” 

The technicians at SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale know what your home needs when mold gets out of hand. Call us at (857) 399-9797 for fast service.

Why Trash Pumps Are Beneficial for Mattapan Office Water Removal

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides commercial damage restoration services for Mattapan business owners. We are here to help.

Water Removal is Efficient with Trash Pumps

There is a finite restoration window to start water mitigation for your business. Open areas like the office can have water spreading quickly through workspaces, shrinking any possibilities of maintaining limited production for your services. We start this process with water removal and content relocation.

Making the Right Extractor Choice

Water removal for Mattapan offices ultimately requires several types of extractors and drying tools. When choosing among available options, several factors inevitably play a part in this decision. Some of the variables that might encourage the use of trash pumps over wet vacuums include:

• Depth of the water damage
• Trapped water
• Impacted materials

Fast Extraction for Deep Damage

One of the advantages of choosing trash pumps is the power of the unit itself. When several inches of standing water is a concern, you need a formidable extraction machine that can move a large quantity of water over a short period. Gas-powered trash pumps can reach gallons per minute (GPM) movement in the hundreds compared to the limitations of two-inch intakes and discharge hoses common with high-pressure or submersible pump units.

Water Removal That Does Not Require Electric

Electricity is not a guarantee for your office after water damage emergencies. In some situations, it can be safer to temporarily sever electrical services through the early mitigation steps to prevent shock hazards, but this limits available equipment not being run on a portable generator. Trash pumps offer powerful draw and discharge without requiring steady electrical power sources.

Water damages can destroy your business, and some may never recover after prolonged exposure. You cannot wait to get mitigation started, and our SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale team is standing by now to help with water removal services and cleanup. Call us when you need us at (857) 399-9797. 

Hyde Park Building Materials Need Focused Fire Damage Restoration

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

Hyde Park residents with fire damage to their home need the services of SERVPRO. We are ready 24/7 365 days a year.

Cleaning Soot with Fire Damage Restoration

Removing and managing soot threats can be an important element of the restoration process for homes after a fire. Based on the expected behavior of smoke during the disaster, several areas of the property could be impacted and need cleaning services. 

How Does Smoke Move in Your Home?

Fire damage restoration in Hyde Park residences is directly connected with how smoke damage moved in the property and its impact on building materials. During the fire, the air is turbulent, allowing smoke and subsequent aerosolized particulates to churn through currents of warm and cool air. This turbulence propels smoke damage against the upper portions of the wall and the ceiling under force. The pressurized smoke damage does not usually leave loose debris but rather a more complicated, thin deposit on surfaces like:

• Flooring
• Contents
• Ceilings
• Wall Surfaces

Needed Approaches for Dry Smoke

Dry smoke is common and easier to clean than other types of smoke damage after a house fire. Our SERVPRO professionals identify the thin, chalky residues on surfaces after extinguishment. SERVPRO can mostly manage smoke deposits like these using chemical sponges rather than attempting wet cleaning solutions that might stain or damage materials.

Practices to Clean Wet Smoke

Wet smoke continues to be among restoration professionals' most formidable soot obstacles. Solvents are often needed to dissolve thick, moist residues. The contact time for this approach varies depending on the deposit's composition and the underlying materials.

Understanding the movement and potential pathways of smoke and soot solids in the residence can show our responding team members where necessary restoration and recovery. Our SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale roster has experienced fire restorers who understand and appreciate the impact of smoke on a residence and the importance of fast mitigation. Give our professionals a call now at (857) 399-9797.

Basic Fire Restoration Cleanup in Mattapan Starts Right Away

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage restoration is no DIY project. Call SERVPRO, we are here for you in Mattapan.

The Factors of Fast Fire Restoration

Restoration benefits from a swift response from competent professionals like our SERVPRO team. Our knowledge of this industry niche helps us to manipulate and regulate specific cleaning principles for effective and direct restoration of impacted materials.

Where Should SERVPRO Start Cleaning?

When fire restoration in Mattapan homes gets started, SERVPRO technicians require to focus on where cleaning and recovery are needed. An efficient inspection can help narrow the work area.

Elements of Basic Fire Restoration Cleaning

Despite the dozens of possible cleaners and products available to help, specific cleaning principles and elements are most directly connected to surface cleaning success. 

• Time – The longer materials remain exposed to soot and smoke damages, the more challenging restoration and cleanup become. 
• Action – After surface cleaning solutions are applied, agitation and scrubbing are often required to have the greatest penetration into the soiled surface. 
  
• Contact – The term contact refers to the time that chemical solutions applied to soiled surfaces need before SERVPRO can remove these impacted soils through wiping. Contact time depends on factors like residue thickness and severity of the soot damage, as well as the temperature of the work environment. 
• Temperature – Changing the temperature of the work area or the surfaces requiring cleaning can be an effective strategy for restoring a property after fires. While extreme temperature differences can be effective against pathogenic threats, raising the workspace temperature increases molecular movement and the pace of chemical processes. 

While cleaning products and overall approaches might vary from job to job, the underlying principles of efficient soot removal and surface cleaning do not change. As leading Fire & Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT), we provide effective strategies to restore washable surfaces and prevent unneeded reconstruction and repairs. Give our SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale team a call at (857) 399-9797. 

Water Mitigation Should Start Immediately for Boston Residences

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides the highest quality when it comes to water damage restoration. We use the latest technology and equipment for every disaster.

How Do Homeowners Start Water Mitigation?

Homeowners can be overwhelmed by an emergency in their homes, like a burst pipe or a broken appliance spewing water. Fast action is vital, however. House occupants should assess the situation quickly and begin their own form of water mitigation with four early steps:

• Contact restoration professionals
  
• Contact your insurance provider
• Get to safety if hazards exist
• Move items that could be in the damage path 

Needed Water Damage Repairs

Water mitigation for Boston homes and businesses relies on our general contractor license, between controlled demolition and replacing damaged plumbing fixtures. We have skilled professionals capable of helping erect containment barriers, remove damaged bulk materials, and install new plumbing and fixtures after breaks and bursts. These early construction services pave the way for other mitigative actions needed.

The Need for Water Removal

Standing water can be a considerable threat to any property, especially those with sensitive materials exposed like carpeting and wood flooring. Preventing water absorption through these surface elements and into padding and subflooring requires prompt water removal services with extraction devices in our inventory. We have a combination of pumps and vacuums to help in this effort, followed by specialty equipment for specific circumstances.

Continuing Effective Restoration After Mitigation

While mitigation is a critical component to the overall recovery of a property, it is not the full spectrum of the work to be done in a structure. We have several actions to continue after these initial efforts, including structural drying, surface cleaning, repairs, and content move-back services.

Mitigation provides the most direct measures by our professionals to protect your property and reduce the need for demolition or repairs. Emergency services and early cleaning actions vary by the job, but our SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale team is ready to help Boston area residents make it "Like it never even happened." Call now at (857) 399-9797.

Hyde Park Contents Cleaning and Flood Damage Restoration Services

6/18/2022 (Permalink)

Content cleaning and storm damage restoration services for Hyde Park are second to none. Call now for fast and immediate help.

SERVPRO’s Flood Damage Restoration Gets Your Hyde Park Property Back to Normal

Whenever a storm creates a flood situation, the water could be riddled with contaminants. Also known as black water, you never want to attempt cleaning it on your own due to the potential impact on your health. Not only that, but DIY methods alone with water emergencies open the door for migration where water could leave hidden moisture in various areas. SERVPRO can come to your Hyde Park home with our disaster response team to begin assessment and water removal services as soon as possible.

What about contents impacted by flood damage in Hyde Park? Some items may be able to handle successful content cleaning; others might need to get discarded. Our team of water restoration technicians (WRT) knows how to inspect everything touched by floodwater to determine salvageability carefully.

We handle every aspect of floodwater cleanup, including:

• Muck-out services – You may have debris that came in through a broken window or with the floodwater. We arrive with rakes, shovels, and powerful extractors to pull out water and waste. Our crew wears personal protective equipment (PPE) for safety throughout each phase.
• Unsalvageable items/materials – Any porous belongings touched by floodwater should be disposed of. This will include items like pillows, mattresses, furnishings made with MDF, and more.
• Drying – We have proven drying and dehumidification methods that involve industrial-grade equipment and tools. If the weather permits, we may also utilize open windows to help improve airflow to achieve our drying goals.
• Sanitizing – All surfaces must get thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. SERVPRO’s Green Fleet comes stocked with the best cleaning agents to sanitize and deodorize everything. We make it “Like it never even happened.”

Please talk with us at SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale when you require help after recent storms. With one call to (857) 399-9797, we can be there to handle your flood damage cleanup.

Fire Restoration and Handling Smoke Damage in Mattapan Businesses

6/11/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage restoration for your Mattapan building should be handled by SERVPRO. We have the manpower and equipment for ever job.

Commercial Fire Restoration with SERVPRO in Mattapan Gets Results

You already have plenty going on with daily operations throughout your Mattapan commercial space. Whether you have an office or retail store, you need everything to be up and working at all times, or you could run the risk of financial loss. Should a fire occur, you not only have to think about reconstruction but also the possibility of foul-smelling smoke damage. SERVPRO features knowledgeable fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) ready to address charred debris, inventory cleaning, and smoke remediation.

With any project for commercial fire restoration in Mattapan, smoke mitigation efforts must be part of the process. We have Odor Control Technicians (OCT) on our team to help address powdery ash, stubborn protein smoke residue, and other soilings. With our knowledge about malodors and the best way to tackle them, you can count on your business back to normal, “Like it never even happened,” after we get done.

Things you should know about smoke damage:

• Smoke can lead to structural and material damage. Not only is the smell a problem, but the soot is acidic. It can cause etching, pitting, rot, and corrosion when not handled promptly.
• Smoke can impact your business even if a fire occurs outside the building. Whether it was a car fire in the parking lot, a dumpster fire in the alley, or another fire-related event, the smoke particles can enter through your doors, windows, and HVAC system.
• Smoke can create hidden damage. Even with the best cleaning efforts while taking the DIY route, you could miss cracks and crevices inside your business where smoke particles settled. You could also have heat from industrial processes or muggy weather that could re-release the smoke smells once again.

SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale is the team you want in your corner if you require commercial fire restoration. Get in touch with us by calling (857) 399-9797 or request help online. We can send a crew out in as little as 4 hours.

How to Handle Flood Damage After Mattapan Storms

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage restoration for Mattapan homes is a job for SERVPRO. We use the latest technology and equipment for every disaster.

SERVPRO’s Flood Damage Restoration Helps Mattapan Residents, Fast

If storms rolled through the Mattapan area and your home is worse for wear, you may be looking into the best ways to begin the restoration process. Contaminated water could enter your home, but you may also have a leaking roof from storms and other issues. Hiring skilled technicians from SERVPRO gives you peace of mind the project gets handled quickly and efficiently. We’re here for water removal services and reconstruction to make your property “Like it never even happened.”

Rather than worrying about trying to go the DIY route to address flood damage in Mattapan, you can reach out to our customer care team at SERVPRO 24-hours a day. The basic steps you can expect once we arrive at your property include:

• Initial inspection and assessment of all water-impacted areas and materials
• Damage control and containment, including spray treatment of contaminated water with antimicrobials
• Removal of all debris and unsalvageable contents and materials
• Water removal services using pumps, extractors, wet/dry vacuums, and other tools
• Drying and dehumidification with air movers, fans, dehumidifiers, etc. 
• Reconstruction using controlled demolition performed by trusted area contractors

Odors are never a problem with our Odor Control Technicians (OCT)

Floodwater is known for bringing foul, musty odors, which you never want lingering throughout your property. We work to eliminate malodors rather than masking them while using industrial deodorizing agents and equipment. Air scrubbers that feature HEPA filtration pull particulates from the air, leaving the space freshened while counteractant odor beads help absorb odors while putting out a pleasant scent.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

Before finishing any flood-related project, our team cleans and disinfects all surfaces with a selection of EPA-registered cleaning agents. All surfaces and areas within your property get the attention they deserve.

Contact us whenever you need help with storm flood damage! You can reach SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale by dialing (857) 399-9797. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Call SERVPRO for Fire Damage Cleanup and Repairs in Hyde Park

5/14/2022 (Permalink)

Fire damage cleanup and repairs are a job for SERVPRO. We use the latest technology and equipment for ever job.

Need Fire Damage Repairs, Cleanup & Controlled Demolition in Hyde Park – Call SERVPRO

The damage caused by fires and the efforts to put them out in Hyde Park can be relatively minor in many situations, whiles others are catastrophic. Even little fires can cause a great deal of smoke and odors to spread throughout the entire home and those of the immediate neighbors. Greasy soot from a grease fire on the kitchen stove clings to everything and smears when residents attempt removal.

SERVPRO has a great deal of experience managing and completing repairs after fire damage in a Hyde Park home. Our team has dealt with almost every situation, from small kitchen grease fires that spread oily black soot throughout the home to fires that engulf an entire room or worse. The whole kitchen may be blackened and need controlled demolition and complete replacement.

Our fire team professionals at SERVPRO assess the situation, develop a plan and work closely with the owner and their insurance company. We remove damaged contents and structure, clean all smoke and soot from remaining rooms and begin repair and restoration to return your home to its original condition, “Like it never even happened.”

We utilize proper cleaning techniques and materials to remove greasy soot, vacuum light fluffy smoke residues, and clean every surface. We use dry cleaning sponges, dusting clothes, crumbly cleaners, and cleaning towels to provide light agitation and remove loose soils. We use abrasive powders, sandpaper, steel wool, roto pads, brushes, or blast cleaning for more vigorous agitation to remove heavier soils. Cleaning products are chosen carefully to avoid absorbing and damaging various porous materials. Our services to our clients include:

• Fire damage restoration
• Smoke remediation
• House fire clean up

Call the fire damage remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale and nearby areas for assistance. We can help 24/7. Call (857) 399-9797.

SERVPRO Provides Flood Damage Restoration in Mattapan

5/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO flood damage specialists will be on-site within 4 hours of the initial call. We are ready at a moment's notice.

Need Help with Flood Damage after a Storm in Mattapan – Call SERVPRO

The flood damage after a storm in Mattapan can be devastating to residents in the city. The cleanup after the storm can take weeks and even months to recover fully. Dealing with insurance companies and the associated claims takes a great deal of time to process and replace any items damaged during the flooding.

Many residents turn to SERVPRO for help with flood damage restoration in Mattapan. We assist residents and owners with processing the paperwork and many of the questions from insurance companies. In addition, our approach is to clean, repair, and restore where possible instead of replacing contents. Many consumers appreciate this approach, especially when family heirlooms are involved.

Floodwaters also carry contaminated debris into homes and onto the property. The floodwaters absorb chemicals, bacteria, viruses, and even biological material and deposit them inside your home. SERVPRO removes all of the debris and standing water. Next, we begin cleaning, disinfecting, and drying the structure and contents.

It is important to begin cleaning and drying immediately to reduce the amount of secondary damage. Wood products and building materials absorb moisture and swell. They can lose their structural integrity, warp, or buckle and require replacement in many cases. Let SERVPRO teams work quickly to prevent water damage to floors and cupboards.

In many situations, demolition of flooring materials, walls, and cupboards must occur. We use controlled demolition techniques to manage the amount of demolition and protect entire areas of your home. We work closely with the homeowner and their insurance company in these situations.

Our flood damage services provided by SERVPRO include:

• Emergency services floodwater damage remediation
• Basement flooding clean up
• Floodwater damage repair and restoration

Call the storm flood damage specialists at SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale and nearby areas for assistance. We can help 24/7. Call (857) 399-9797.

SERVPRO Provides Fire Restoration and Cleaning Services in Mattapan

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO IICRC certified fire damage restoration specialists have all the training and experience needed for your home. Call now!

Concerned About Disposal of Fire Cleaning Materials – Talk to SERVPRO

After a fire in your Mattapan home, there are many issues to deal with. The fire has damaged the contents and perhaps the structure of your home. Smoke and odors spread throughout the house. Everything in the home touched by the swirling smoke, water, and chemicals used by the fire department must be cleaned and restored. We dispose of cleaning materials following state and local guidelines.

SERVPRO provides fire restoration services to residents of Mattapan and surrounding areas. We offer complete services to our customers, including fire cleanup, controlled demolition, restoration, and repair as needed. Our team leaders are on-site in less than four hours from your call to assess the damage and develop a restoration and cleaning plan based on the damage caused by the fire.

Every fire is different in terms of the type of fire (grease or plastics or wood), the extent of the fire (contained to one room or several rooms), the amount of damage caused by the efforts of the firefighters, and the distribution of the smoke residues in the home. The cleaning materials vary greatly depending on the type of fire and the distribution of smoke residues.

Many of our clients are concerned about the proper disposal of cleaning materials. SERVPRO follows all state and local requirements for the appropriate removal and disposal of cleaning materials and residues. For example, dry cleaning solvents are industrial waste material and must be disposed of at an approved disposal site. Cleaning wastes should not be disposed of in a storm drain, gutter, or septic system.

Fire restoration services provided by SERVPRO include:

• Fire damage restoration
• Smoke remediation
• Water and fire retardant damage restoration

Call the fire restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale and nearby areas for assistance. We can help 24/7. Call (857) 399-9797.

Importance of Drying Goals for Damaged Hyde Park Offices

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

Has your business been damaged by water? Call the professionals at SERVPRO. Their technicians are ready 24/7 365.

Establishing Goals Sets the Pace for Restoration and Drying in Hyde Park Buildings 

Production is the heartbeat of every business, so when disasters like water damage impact your office, you need answers as to when you can anticipate your facilities to be up and running once more. Our SERVPRO professionals respond fast to help when every minute counts. 

Containment and Staging

Water damage in Hyde Park office structures can be immensely helped with swift action from experienced restoration professionals like our SERVPRO team. This rapid response means establishing more efficient containment for impacted areas to dry and manage moisture concerns. Similarly, staging areas are created next to the worksite to prevent cross-contamination and keep needed equipment close by for faster restoration.

Establishing the Drying Progress Plan

Any successful drying plan intends to speed up nature’s processes for managing water damage events and working to balance and ultimately dry up this damage. Nature seeks an equilibrium, so in this way, wet goes to dry locations, hot seeks colder environments, and high pressure finds lower pressure conditions. Creating a drying plan means balancing these known principles and using them to calculate:

• Affected materials
• Placement of air movers
• Needed number of dehumidifiers 
• Projected milestones of drying successes

Documenting Progress and Changing Strategies

One of the advantages of SERVPRO for drying and restoration services is our advancements in technology and software. We have proprietary programs exclusively created and managed by SERVPRO like DryBook for documenting the drying process, tracking equipment progress, and notifying the appropriate connected parties of the milestones reached during the recovery and cleanup of the office after a water damage incident. 

To get your business back to helping customers and clients, give our SERVPRO of Hyde Park / Roslindale team a call. We have effective mitigation and drying solutions to help after any disaster your property faces. Call now at (857) 399-9797. 

Storm Flood Damage Calls for Prompt Response in Roslindale

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Is your home or business flooded? Contact team SERVPRO for water removal and flood damage remediation services today.

SERVPRO Helps Roslindale Property Owners Deal with Storm Flooding

Residents in Roslindale know how fickle the weather can be with each season. Whether the East Coast gets a tropical storm in summer or a Nor’Easter in winter, there is always the potential for heavy rains, sleet, and wind. Whether you have a home or business in the area, you want to ensure you are ready and protected. However, once a storm brings flooding and property damage, SERVPRO is there to execute fast, efficient cleanup and restoration!

Unlike clean water situations like a failed dishwasher or burst pipes, flood damage in Roslindale calls for specialized protocols to address any hazards and contamination. SERVPRO features skilled technicians that go the extra mile to ensure your property gets the attention it deserves. 

We Tailor Our Approach to Flood and Water Restoration Projects

No two situations are alike when it comes to any emergency restorations. We carefully inspect all building materials, contents, and structural elements to ensure safety and salvageability. Due to the possible contamination found in blackwater situations from exterior flooding, and sewage backups, anything that comes into contact with the water must get cleaned and sanitized. Many of the areas we look at include:

• Flooring and subfloor
• Carpets and carpet padding
• Clothing and linens
• Mattresses
• Appliances
• Draperies and upholstery
• Toys, utensils, and other belongings

Some items listed are easily cleaned with antimicrobial solutions and sanitized, but others call for disposal. Porous items like stuffed animals, pillows, and mattresses will often be difficult to restore to our standards. 

What Does Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Mean?

Whether you have basement flooding or require water removal services for flood water coming into your main living space, we follow detailed IICRC protocols on restoration and cleaning. Everything gets a thorough cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing to eliminate foul, musty odors, and bacteria.

Flood damage after a storm is an emergency water restoration situation that should not wait. Call SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale at (857) 399-9797 when you need us.

Commercial Fire Damage - Unique Challenges for Hyde Park Businesses

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t deal with fire damage on your own. Our technicians are standing by 24/7 for your emergency call

Call SERVPRO’s Hyde Park Team to Handle Commercial Fire Damage Fast!

Every fire restoration project is different, and our SERVPRO team knows this from years of experience in the field. We have addressed everything from fire and smoke issues to water infiltration from first responders putting out the blaze. Not only do we offer excellent results for Hyde Park homeowners, but you can count on us to be there for small and large-scale commercial fire projects. We can handle all smoke remediations, charred debris, inventory pack-outs, and everything else your business needs to recover from the damage.

At SERVPRO, we know that your commercial fire damage in Hyde Park impacts not only your business but also your staff and their families. It would be best to have a solid team of IICRC-certified fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) to help you get back on your feet. 

We Have What it Takes for Commercial Fire Restorations

• The scope of a commercial fire damage project can be massive in scale, so you want a trusted team like ours to precisely handle the disaster. There is no amount of fire devastation that our skilled crew cannot handle.
• Every hour you must spend restoring your business means you are also losing that hour of revenue. We respond fast with 24/7 availability, so we can be at your business within hours to get started – We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Something that sets SERVPRO franchises apart from other companies is our ability to scale to meet the needs of commercial customers. We have warehouse facilities loaded with equipment, tools, and various products to perform drying, odor control, and reconstruction services.

Insurance Claim Assistance

Are you concerned about filing your business insurance claim for the fire restoration? Let us help! Our customer care team ensures you have all the detailed paperwork to make your claim go as smoothly as possible.

Reach out to SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale at (857) 399-9797 whenever you require a rapid response for any fire damage at your place of business.

The 4 Things That Often Cause Flooding | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.

Natural disasters of any type can be devastating. Whether you are dealing with tornadoes, hurricanes, severe thunderstorms or something else, they can all be quite dangerous. However, most people are surprised to learn that flooding is the most common and the most deadly type of natural disaster within the United States.

There can be a lot of variation in the damage that flooding causes, but the types of flooding and the things that make it occur are often the same—and that is what we will be examining today.

Why So Many Choose SERVPRO

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Call us today for more information regarding our services - 617-903-5055

Why so many choose SERVPRO

It's more than just the brand recognition, it’s also the qualified personnel, the expertise and dedication to the community that make us the place to call. Below are additional reasons why:  

Qualified

We have the best training in the industry. Each team member is trained in clean up and restoration which can range from bio hazard, fire, mold to water damage. We are IICRC certified (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certificate) for fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our job is to make sure our clients understand the loss and how we will help restore their home or facility. We live up to the motto and we leave each location looking “Like it never even happened.”

Immediate

Our team understands that the best way to limit further damage is to begin the clean up and restore the property as soon as possible. For this reason our team is available 24/7 - day, night, or holiday!  This also helps with keeping costs down. We strive to always answer the first call or respond within a few hours.

Latest Technology

We take pride in the fact that we are able to keep up with some of the advancements technology has to offer. This allows us to restore your property as quickly and efficiently as possible so you can get back to what you were doing preloss.

No Loss Too Big or Too Small

Whether you have multiple locations, or a room that has suffered a loss we can help restore your property.  SERVPRO is a national company and as a result our SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale team has access to the 1,800+ other franchises to handle any scope of loss.  You call us and we will handle the rest!

Future Loss Prevention

With every job we ensure we understand what the cause of the loss was. We do this to ensure the cause of loss is addressed to prevent similar damage from occurring again.

Our Community

We love what we do and the ability to help our community. We know the roads, the neighborhoods, and what makes our towns so special. It is important to us that our town thrives so we are highly motivated to do all we can to make this an even better town to live in.

Help is always here

Whether you have a question or a loss give us a call and we will help 617-903-5055. We serve ALL - businesses, home owners, property managers and tenants in the Hyde Park/Roslindale area. ensure that the water is extracted, your property is dried, and mold is addressed if necessary. Third, contact your insurance company to see if you have coverage for the damaged property.

SERVPRO Hyde Park/Roslindale - Your One Stop Shop

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

We are able to help dry your place and put it back to pre loss conditions. "Like it never even happened."

Here at SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale our technicians are not only IICRC certified but they are also very knowledgeable in construction work. Most of our technicians have more than 20 years of construction experience. If your home or business experiences a major loss you can count on our team to not only clean and remediate but you can also count on us if you need your home to be put back to the way it was before the damage (reconstruction). This will ultimately allow you to keep your costs down since you are only working with one contractor. 

We pride ourselves in being able to meet all of our customers’ needs. We understand that at a time of loss the last thing you want to worry about is vetting another reliable contractor to help get your property back. You can be rest assured that with SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale you will receive quality work every time.

We always seek customer satisfaction prior to installation, midway, then at completion. All completed work is reviewed by one of the assigned project managers to further ensure quality. Our office will also place a courtesy call to ensure you were satisfied with the quality of work received from us. Customer service is very important to us, in the rare occasion you are dissatisfied with a job we did do not hesitate to give us a call and we can fix it.

We do every job to the highest standard so you are comfortable referring us to your family members or closest friends.

If you have a job you need our assistance call us today 857-399-9797

The Silent Business Partner You Didn’t Know You Needed | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale are your local commercial restoration experts. Contact us today should you experience any damage.

Owning a business of your own can be a lot of work! We understand that it takes every ounce of dedication to ensure that your company is successful. So, if a major disruption happens, it can truly be devastating as well as chaotic for you personally.

You should know that just because you are alone in running a business doesn’t mean you are alone in dealing with emergencies. You have a partner in SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale. We want to see you succeed, and we will work to get you prepared and back on your feet.

Large loss recovery. Fires, storms and flooding are the top causes of financial losses. This can cause major damages to any business, and even more so if you don’t react quick enough. That’s why we are available ²⁴⁄₇ so that you can count on us any time of the day or night!

Emergency Ready Plan. Your best defense is preparation. Any and every business needs an emergency plan, and we’re here to help you implement one. We will work to create an optimized plan for your company, outlining the specifics of what to do in an emergency and how to do it.

Cleaning of All Kinds. We offer more than simply the general carpet cleaning that you might be thinking of! We also providing specialty cleaning services like biohazard removal. We can find a solution for any kind of mess, because we’ve been in the industry for a long time and we know what to expect.

Restoration Services. Storms bring floodwaters, fires can spark in the kitchen and pipes may burst sometimes! No matter what kind of disaster has taken hold of your business, they will all require cleanup and restoration services of some kind. We can assure you that with SERVPRO of Hyde Park we will have your business back to preloss condition in no time.

Industry Specialization. There’s no commercial enterprise that we can’t help! We have trained our technicians on every in and out that accompanies commercial properties. No matter what type of special needs your place may have, we have you covered. We will also do our best to enclose our work area, in hopes of not disrupting your regular business operations.

Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.

One Less Thing to Worry About

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

Let us help you during this difficult time.

If you have suffered a disaster at your home or business the last thing you want is more things to worry about. For this reason our team ensures they make the claim process as stress free as possible. SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale will help the damage look “Like it never even happened.” That way you and your family or business can get back to what is important.

Our goal is to make the insurance process as smooth as possible. Therefore, we will:

• create thorough visual and written documentation of the damage to your home or business
• document the condition of each item we remove for cleaning or storage
• work directly with your insurer, communicating with you at all times
• handle the paperwork to make sure the processing and payment of your claim is as fast as it can be

We are so proud that so many insurance companies recommend SERVPRO to their clients because working with us makes their jobs easier.

Our Team is here for you if you experience a disaster. Our technicians have specialized training and years of experience in water, fire, mold and bio-hazard clean up and restoration services. Call SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale 857-399-9797 we are available 24/7.

What Will Spring Weather Bring? | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to severe weather. SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale is here if you experience any damage.

The United States comes in at a close second as one of the largest countries with only Russia and Canada being larger!

Because our country is so large, that means that seasonal weather can look a lot different depending on where you are. With our nation being so spread out, it can create different weather patterns for certain areas, which in turn creates different weather threats.

As the spring season is drawing near, it means that the cold and warm air masses will collide, causing weather hazards. With the official start of spring on March 20 quickly approaching, let’s take some time to review the weather:

Let’s get started on our first region, the Pacific Northwest. This region will experience heavy rains during the spring months, which can cause flooding or water damage. The higher elevations also might have to worry with flooding, but from melting snow or ice, which clearly can cause problems of its own.

Moving to the Upper Midwest and Northeast regions, these areas are still experiencing winter weather. In fact, this region is likely to still be dealing with snowstorms or blizzards until late spring or early summer. We’re intimately acquainted with this weather pattern! While the arrival of spring might bring a little more warmth, we usually don’t fully warm up until summer.

As we move on to the West Coast, this region is experiencing opposite of what we see here. On the West Coast, they may be faced with excessive heat waves. When temperatures get intensely high and the air remains dry, it puts the area at risk of wildfires and also endangers people.

The middle part of the United States, from Iowa down to Texas, has drier air, but it’s very windy! This region has to prepare for windstorms, derechos and wildfires. Part of the Midwest is also home to what’s known as “Tornado Alley,” where tornadoes are incredibly common.

Last but certainly not least, we have the Southeast region, which can experience severe weather hazards during the spring. Intense thunderstorms and even tornadoes are common in the South this time of year, and states along the coast also have to keep an eye out for early-season hurricanes.

So, as you can see, with the United States being so large and spread out, weather patterns can look extremely different. That’s why you must always stay prepared and aware about what is going on in your area!

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.

Common Causes of Fires

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Be safe in your place of business. As always we will be there when you need us!

Electrical Fires

Over 25% of all fires are linked to a malfunction of either a piece of electrical equipment, wiring, or both. Electricity is a common source of ignition for major fires. One way to avoid problems with electrical fires is to establish an electrical safety program.

All employees should be thoroughly familiar with the safety procedures for their particular jobs. To maximize his or her own safety, an employee should always use tools and equipment properly. Extension cords must be inspected before use, and those found questionable, removed from service and properly tagged. Damage or inadequate maintenance can cause equipment to deteriorate, resulting in unsafe conditions.

Flammable and Combustible Materials

There are thousands of chemicals in use in the modern American workplace. One of the most prevalent dangers of these chemicals is their flammability or combustibility. Improper handling of flammable materials brings a great risk of fire. When a flammable liquid is spilled, vapors begin to form immediately. It is the vapors that will ignite, and which pose the greater danger.

Flammable liquid spill cleanup should begin immediately. Vapors will continue to build until the liquid is removed, and they can be ignited by a variety of sources in the average workplace. The best way to avoid fire caused by these materials is to follow all OSHA guidelines when dealing with flammables.

Human Error

The most common reason for a sprinkler system failure is human error. Often times the water supply was turned off at the time of the fire. The success of fire prevention strategies depends primarily on pre-planning, preparation, equipment quality, and the readiness of personnel. Employees and loss prevention practitioners must be knowledgeable about the proper use of extinguishers. If the wrong extinguisher is used, a fire may become more serious.

General Negligence

Negligence is another common cause of fire in the workplace. It’s slightly different from fires caused by human error. Negligence occurs when an employee does not follow established procedures and knowingly undertakes an activity that is a potential fire hazard.

Fire caused by negligence can be the result of:

• Hot surfaces too close to heating equipment
• Open flame that’s not properly located or protected
• Not following smoking restrictions or careless disposal of butts, ashes, and matches

Good common sense, self awareness, and close adherence to policy are a great way to avoid fires caused by general negligence. Posting fire safety signs in common areas is another way to keep fire safety at top of mind.

 Arson

The premise behind arson prevention, like other prevention programs, is to address the opportunity to commit the crime. Arsonists, like other criminals, typically prefer to start fires in locations that are secluded or hidden. Prevention programs often suggest improving the surveillance in these areas by lighting the area, removing visual obstructions to natural observation, and moving the targets such as dumpsters.

If your company, please call SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park 857-399-9797 to assist you with the cleanup.

Plan Ahead of a Burst Pipe

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your property against pipe burst

Burst pipes are something that can happen when you least expect it, causing serious damage in a brief amount of time. While there is no way to know when a pipe may burst, knowing what to do in the event that one does can help you act quickly to mitigate the damage that the water can cause.

In a perfect world, water damage would be a rare occurrence—but many people are surprised to find out how often it occurs. Every year, one in 50 homes will experience some type of water damage, but a plan can significantly lessen the impact that it has.

Having a Plan in the Event a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

Shut off your water main. When a pipe bursts in your home, in some situations, it can continue pouring water into the area, creating even more damage. If it is safe to do so, shutting off your water main can reduce the overall damages that are caused.

Shut off your electricity. Water and electricity definitely do not mix, so if you are able to get to your circuit breaker to cut your electricity off safely, it is wise to do so. This will ensure that if water comes in contact with outlets or appliances, there is not a shock or fire hazard.

Contact your restoration company. Setting your restoration in motion quickly is one of the best things you can do for water damage, so it is wise to get in touch with your restoration company right away. We recommend always choosing a company that is available ²⁴⁄₇ so you never have to wait for a call back when you report your damages.

Take a record of the damages. Not only is keeping good records helpful for you, but it will also be helpful if you are eligible to file a claim with your insurance provider. Take photos and videos in addition to making a list of everything that is damaged by the water.

Contact your insurance company. The type of coverage you will receive for water damage of this nature can vary, so your insurance company is the authority on what is and is not eligible to be covered by filing a claim. Contacting them quickly can help you set this process in motion so you can get it settled as fast as possible.

Open windows and doors if possible. If the weather permits and it is safe to do so, increasing the airflow around water damage by opening windows and doors can speed up the drying time by encouraging evaporation.

If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for restoration assistance. Contact us at any time 857-399-9797 to learn more about our restoration services.

Frozen Pipes Thaw and Cause Damage!

2/20/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure to survey your property year round. Always remember we are here when you need us!

Blizzards and freezing rain are a pain not only for commuting but also for your property. Winter storms and freezing rain can cause ice dams here in Boston, MA and surrounding areas of New England.

Water dams can trap water and freeze pipes. The frozen water causes expansion which is common to burst or leak once the ice melts causing damage throughout your home or business. You should also be aware that mold can grow after frozen water is melted and mixed with humidity.

Mold is a living organism that spread pores throughout the area causing more damage. Mold can cause health effects. The best thing you can do for your home or business is to constantly monitor your property before and after a storm. If you discover damage you need to act fast to prevent further damage. Having emergency contacts (ie. roofer, emergency clean up, GE) is recommended so you can get the issue resolved as soon as possible.  

Check out our emergency ready plan if you are looking for a place to store emergency information (click here)

Give SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale if you experience water damage after a storm 617-903-5055

What SERVPRO Means by “Full Service” | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale to get the job done.

If you drive by a neighbor’s home and see carpets on the side of the house along with a green SERVPRO truck sitting in the driveway, it’s safe to assume that they had some kind of disaster happen to them.

We are well-known as being a cleaning company, but what we want people to understand is that we are actually a full-service company! So if you need cleaning, restoration or even reconstruction, you can rest assured that we will see you through all of it.

Let’s take a deeper look into what SERVPRO provides for home and business owners:

Water damage recovery. If you suffer from some type of water damage, you can bet that we will be there to help in no time. Water damage requires a quick cleanup, and we are available ²⁴⁄₇ so that we can provide that for you.

Fire damage recovery. There is a fire reported every 23 seconds here in the United States. As we’ve seen for ourselves, fires can do a lot of damage to a home or business, but that’s why we know to bring in big help!

Mold removal. Mold damage can creep up on you in no time, and sometimes without you even noticing! It can threaten the structure of your home, and it spreads quickly. That’s why you should leave that cleanup to the professionals.

Storm recovery. Whether you’ve been hit by a tornado or high winds, the damage weather can do to a home or business can be quite catastrophic! We are here and ready to help restore or even reconstruct your home or business following storm damage.

Commercial needs. While we are best known for residential services, we provide the same services (plus a few more) to business owners, too. We work to give your business a shiny look so that your customers and employees see that you care about them.

General cleaning. Sometimes, life can be hectic, and general cleaning can be difficult to keep up with. That’s why we provide these services, along with carpet, curtain and upholstery cleaning.

Specialty cleaning. Businesses sometimes need specialized services for things like biohazard cleanup or document restoration. No matter what it is, we know that if it can get dirty, we can get it clean.

Construction. There are times that a home or business is past the restoration process, and the only option left is reconstruction. And while we understand that is stressful, we will provide you with services to help you get through it, and make your home or business look just as good as before.

Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done.

Be Prepared for the Winter Season

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your business during the winter season against damage

If you are a Boston resident or property owner you know that the winter is unpredictable. Some years we barely get snow and the temperatures are fairly mild. While other years it is frigid with howling winds and never ending snow storms.

No matter what kind of winter is in the cards for us this year, as a property owner you should be prepared. You should not wait until winter is upon us to prepare your property. The time is now, before the fall! During this time you should be making repairs and doing preventative maintenance.

Some areas to consider:

Gutters

Clean and repair the gutter before the temperature drops. Seal leaking caps and if you can add a gutter cover to prevent debris build up. Consider investing in a gutter heating cable. This will help prevent ice dams. 

Windows and walk ways

Check your windows to make sure there are not any air leaks or excessive condensation build up. Most windows are believed to have a life cycle of 20yrs check your windows to ensure they are not at or nearing the end of their cycle. Check your walk way for any major cracks that will need to be repaired.  Pay attention to seams as well.

Boiler Room

Boilers should be serviced once a year by an engineer. The most important part of winterizing is ensuring buildings boiler will operate throughout the long winter. Ensure the pipes are well insulated as extreme cold weather can cause the boiler to shut off - which can result in frozen pipes.

HVAC

Check and replace air filters if necessary. Turn your system on to ensure it is functioning properly. Like a car idleness is not good. Run the heating unit a few weeks before temperatures start to drop to keep it working properly.

Water faucets and water lines

Drain outdoor water faucets and water lines to make sure there is no sitting water. If there is water in the water lines it can freeze in cold temperatures and cause damage to the water line and faucets.

Roof

Roofs typically have a 12 year life span. You can usually do a visual test of your roof to get a better idea of its current condition. Repair or replace any missing shingles. An added benefit of updating your roof is an insurance discount for newly replaced roof!

Fix crack in concrete and asphalt

Water is easily absorbed by concrete given the nature of the materials. If there are large cracks make sure you fill them in because salt during snowy season causes damage.

Whether you are a home owner or a property manager it is important to be proactive so you prevent possible damages to your property. Losses will happen but if you use preventative measures you can possibly help minimize the level of damage thus lowering the amount of money needed to repair/replace your property.

If your business or home experiences a loss give us a call! We are here to help 24/7 857-399-9797

What Happens Next After Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration.

Each day, there are 14,000 Americans who have the unfortunate experience of water damage. That’s a lot of people in a day’s time, but when you have people like SERVPRO on your side, you can stay calm if disaster strikes.

When you call your local SERVPRO team following water damage, this is what you can expect:

Emergency Contact. When you reach out to our team, we’ll ask a handful of questions to get a good understanding of the emergency and damage. Then we’ll schedule an appointment to visit your house and assess the damage in person.

Water Damage Inspection and Assessment. When our technicians arrive on site, they immediately get to the main water source to shut it off, if the leak or source of damage hasn’t curtailed. They will inspect the inside and outside of your home and note any hazards along the way.

Water Removal. This stage is about saying goodbye to standing water. The longer that water lingers, the more damage occurs. We’ll use powerful pumps and extraction tools to rid your home of hundreds and even thousands of gallons of water, which speeds up the drying process.

Damaged Material Removal. We will hopefully be able to restore many of the items in your house, but some items will be rendered unusable after water damage. We’ll quickly remove those items to free up space and air for other items to dry out.

Cleaning, Sanitizing and Deodorizing. Water can and will be absorbed by many things in your home, leaving behind odors and toxins. That’s why we use some of the most up-to-date cleaning agents that will not only clean your property, but also help sanitize and deodorize your home.

Drying. While to the naked eye it may seem that your home is dry, the reality is it’s probably not. We have specialized equipment to help monitor the moisture levels in your home. If excess moisture is still present, we’ll use tools to restore a normal moisture balance and limit mold growth.

Monitoring. Even though it’s a waiting game at this point, we never lose communication with you. We will call and also stop by regularly to confirm that everything is going according to plan.

Repairs and Construction. Now that your home is dried out, you can begin to see a light at the end of the tunnel. Repair of physical damage is up next. We can do any minor or major repair needed in order to get your home back in good working order.

If water damage impacts your property, call SERVPRO for complete cleanup and restoration. We’ll make sure your property is back to normal and “Like it never even happened.”

The Fire Tetrahedron & Why It’s Important | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale is ready around the clock to help you recover.

You might have read that title and wondered why on earth we’re talking about a geometric term, the tetrahedron.

Well, we’re not actually talking about geometry in today’s blog. We are actually going to discuss the fire tetrahedron.

If you think back on your childhood education, you may remember that a tetrahedron is a four-faced shape. That’s the connection, because there are essentially four “faces” to fire, or four things it can’t live without.

Put a Plan Together for Winter Storms and Extreme Weather | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

If winter weather should bring damage to your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale for fast, restorative solutions.

The latter part of the year is busy. Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays are approaching, and you may simply look forward to the new year and a fresh start!

The one thing we want to remind you of is the importance of safety during potentially hazardous winter weather. Massachusetts has cold winters with abundant snow. It’s best to be prepared before the weather arrives.

Let’s take a look at a few items you need to keep in mind as winter storms are on the horizon.

Prep Your Business in Case of Fire

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Let us help you get back to pre loss conditions in the unfortunate event you experience fire damage.

If you own a business, it is important that you are honest about potential risks from every source—including from emergencies and natural disasters. With the possibility of commercial fires and the data behind how costly they can be, preparing for these is key to the longevity of your operations.

There are many ways to get started in fire safety planning, but we always recommend originating from a safety standpoint. Teaching your employees how to perform a fire evacuation is a key element to keeping everyone safe in case the fire alarm were to sound for real.

Teaching Your Employees How to Perform a Fire Evacuation

Consult with your local fire officials. With the internet, you have so many research options at your fingertips surrounding commercial fire safety, but do not forget about your local options as well. You can generally have your local fire officials come and provide you with personalized advice for planning your evacuation routes and boosting your fire safety.

Communicate and mark fire evacuation routes. After you have decided what evacuation routes suit your needs, be sure they are labeled clearly and your staff is aware of the upcoming drill. Keeping everyone looped in will create more transparency and be sure every one of your staff members are prepared when the drill begins.

Have fire drills frequently. Though taking time out of your day for a fire drill is not ideal, generally doing them once every few months is sufficient enough for everyone’s safety. Keep them on the schedule regularly enough so that everyone can remember the protocols, but not so often that they become mundane.

Run different fire scenarios. There are many ways fires start and spread throughout an office space, so your drills should reflect this to better prepare everyone for a real fire. Have your mock fire block different exit routes so your employees can see what it is like to alter their course with little notice just like they may have to if the fire alarm sounds for real.

If your business has experienced fire damage, you can count on us. We specialize in commercial fire restoration and will be here for you at any hour—call us today 857-399-9797.

Where to Look for Water Leaks in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale team if you are dealing with any water damage.

Water damage isn’t something anyone really wants to deal with. However, we never really get notice that a disaster is about to happen. Water is always looking for somewhere to go, and it seeks the path of least resistance.

Understanding your home water system can go a long way to preventing water damage. Practice preventive maintenance with an emphasis on the most common sources for water damage:

Toilet leaks. Whether it’s a broken wax seal or a clogged toilet, these have to be repaired quickly before more damage results. The tank has many moving parts, and these can wear out over time. Proper fixture maintenance in the bathroom can save you time and aggravation in the future.

Ice maker supply line. Ice maker supply lines are common sources of water leaks. If the line is damaged, replace it. If it’s loose, secure it.

Foundation cracks. Foundation cracks are serious and should be repaired by a professional. They can allow water to seep into the basement, and if your basement is finished living space, the damage can add up quickly.

Poor ventilation. Proper attic ventilation is important because it removes moisture from the attic that could condensate, drip and cause mold growth.

Roots in drain lines. Older homes have more problems with roots in the drain lines due to the types of materials that were used in construction. Septic systems utilize field lines, and they tend to attract tree roots due to the moisture in the ground.

Common drain issues. Homeowners face many issues with drain systems, including slow drains, recurring clogs, a foul odor or flooding from a backup.

Staying current on your home maintenance is the best way to avoid a potential catastrophe!

If a water leak erupts into a big problem at home, you’ve got the best team in the business on your side. Contact SERVPRO today so we can get started.

Be Aware of Storms | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale is on the line, ready to make things right.

Stay Alert

Storms may be more common in summer but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take them less seriously. Storm alerts are issued for a reason so take notice.

Consider canceling or postponing outdoor events if bad weather is in the forecast.

Local meteorologists try to provide the most accurate forecasts possible. Get yourself an NOAA Weather radio if you think a power outage could happen.

Plan to stay home and off the roads if storms are in the forecast.

Consider tree maintenance to remove dead or low hanging limbs that could be susceptible to strong winds. Also, store outdoor lawn furniture in a secure location.

Unfortunately, with all of these precautions, people still die each year from storm-related weather. Don’t take storms for granted.

If lightning accompanies the rain, stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder you hear. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from the storm.

Stay away from windows, and don’t shower or bathe during a thunderstorm. Consider unplugging sensitive electronics.

Make sure you have an emergency kit prepared, and know the evacuation route for your area.

If flooding materializes, stay on high ground and avoid flood water if possible.

Don’t attempt to drive or walk through moving water, as it can easily knock a person off their feet. Flood waters can also conceal hidden road damage, and that could be catastrophic for you and people in your car.

There are any number of dangers that can come into play in a thunderstorm, and it’s always best to be cautious and put things on hold until storms safely pass. If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is on the line, ready to make things right again.

Here’s How to Find a Restoration Provider You Can Trust | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

11/13/2021 (Permalink)

You can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line, SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale

When an emergency strikes, it causes chaos. It doesn’t make any difference how the disaster occurred, all that matters is you find a local reputable restoration company that can restore your property to pre-disaster condition.

When that time comes, you’re going to be in a situation where you have to make a decision quickly, as you decide what company is going to get your business and handle your restoration.

Keep these points in mind when evaluating a partnership with a restoration company:

Are They Legit?

Keep in mind that not everyone who shows up after a disaster has the best of intentions. Unfortunately, major storms and disaster situations bring scammers to your area who try to rip you off for money when you’re most at risk, deliver nothing and then disappear.

We have been part of the national landscape for over 50 years. You don’t get that kind of longevity without satisfied customers.

National brands like the PGA Tour trust us with their disaster needs. We provide high-quality service to maintain their affiliated facilities.

Can They Act Fast?

When disaster strikes, there’s no time to waste. You have got to reach someone right away so resources can be mobilized and your restoration can begin. Even a small delay can lead to more damage and costs.

That’s why we’re on call 24 hours a day to respond to your emergency situation.

Does They Have Access to National Resources?

SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale is locally owned and operated, which means there’s always a team right here in Cambridge ready to act. But if major storms come and a surge of activity is at hand, your local franchise is supported by the full, coast-to-coast network of SERVPRO franchises.

This means when trouble hits, we’ll be sending in a surge of help and powerful tools to make sure every local homeowner in need gets the service and attention they deserve.

When you call SERVPRO, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line. When disaster hits home, contact us to get our local experts and nationwide network on your side.

With Fall Weather Comes New Fire Dangers | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

11/13/2021 (Permalink)

Be mindful about fall fire safety. Always remember that SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale is the trusted leader in the restoration industry.

One nice aspect of living in Boston is that we get to experience all four seasons. And fall is quickly approaching! The official start of the season is Sept. 22 this year.

Fall is a favorite season for campers, leaf-peepers and of course trick-or-treaters. There are lots of fun activities to do during autumn.

But along with the fun comes a few potential fire hazards. So grab a pumpkin spice latte, and let’s look over fire safety tips for the season.

Campfires and Fire Pits

This is the season for campfires and fire pits. But when you’re indulging, be sure to do so safely.

Knowing where and how to build a campfire is as important as knowing how to put it out. Start small with twigs and tinder and then ad larger stick and wood.

Use an extended lighter to start the fire if you have one. If not, consider buying one. Accelerants like kerosene or lighter fluid should be avoided.

Build your fire away from structures and other flammable items. And finally, extinguish your fire completely before leaving your campfire or fire pit.

Slowly douse it with a bucket of water to make sure no embers remain. A slight breeze can restart an ember and possibly cause a fire.

Fall Burning of Yard Debris

This time of year, yards are becoming full of dried leaves and many people like to burn leaves as a method of disposal. Make sure you check with your local Fire Department to obtain a burn permit prior to burning.

Never burn household trash or debris can that can have adverse effects like explosions or the release of toxic fumes.

Safety With Space Heaters

Portable space heaters are one of the most frequent causes of home fires in fall and winter. Following the proper safety precautions with space heaters is important for life and property safety.

Always keep your heater away from flammable objects. Make sure your heater has an automatic shutoff in case the heater turns over or overheats.

Plug any space heater directly into the outlet and avoid extension cords if possible.

If a fire hazard should turn from potential to reality in your home, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry and contact SERVPRO to get your property fully restored right down to the smell of smoke.

The Leading Causes of House Fires & How to Prevent Them | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

11/13/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale is here for you if your home is affected by fire.

No homeowner wants to face a home fire. Fires cause devastation and spread unpredictably. It’s best to be prepared and have a plan in the event a fire occurs.

But despite all the technological advancements and advocacy campaigns, home fires still account for a quarter of all reported home fires.

Prevention is the key, so let’s look at the top causes of these house fires and see if we can get that number down by learning how to prevent them:

Cooking. This is the leading cause of home fires, by far! Almost half of all house fires start in the kitchen, and the main reason is unattended cooking. Want to reduce your chance of a home fire? Don’t leave the kitchen while you’re cooking.

Heating equipment. Nationally, 14% of all home fires are started by heating equipment. It’s a combination of things that cause this, including equipment malfunctions and accidents, but the biggest culprit is space heaters and having flammable items too close.

Electrical fires. These fires are generally caused by higher electrical demand in the home due to the increased amount of electronics. Add to that faulty or overloaded circuits in older homes, and these are the factors that contribute to electrical fires at home. Using ungrounded plugs or even placing high-wattage bulbs into low-wattage sockets can also start these fires.

Intentional fires. Arson is still an issue as well. Over 28,000 home fires are intentionally set each year. We use the word intentional because the fire was started with the purpose of burning the structure instead of an accident causing the fire.

Smoking materials. Way too many people still smoke and fall asleep. While smoking materials account for only 5% of all house fires, they are the leading cause of civilian fire deaths. These often start because cigarettes are left burning as people fall asleep and that makes the victim more susceptible.

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO is here for you if your home is affected by fire. Contact your local team today to see how we can help.

Cleaning and Restoration Solutions for Businesses | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Are you ready to have the cleanest business in town? Contact SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale for all your cleaning needs.

SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale has been providing disaster recovery services for our residents for many years. Did you know we also provide restoration from storm damage, fire damage, flood damage and mold remediation for business owners?

That’s right! Besides providing these services for homeowners, we also provide them to commercial enterprises. And the services don’t end there—we also provide commercial cleans.

Many commercial businesses usually have a higher level of cleaning requirements because customers and suppliers use their facilities as well as their employees. Knowing your business has been cleaned at the highest level can give you peace of mind knowing you have provided a clean and sanitized work environment for all that use it.

SERVPRO Custom Business Solutions

Satisfying your customers is your business—ours is making your business sparkle for them. We provide professional cleaning and sanitization services for all types of businesses:

Community grocers, as well as national chain stores, strip malls and other business locations. Facility cleanliness is our mission, whether you’re the mom-and-pop store on the corner or a mega-chain big-box retailer. We provide a superior level of cleanliness to all clients.

Academic institutions including preschool through universities and everything in between. Faculty and student cleaning is inadequate, according to a recent study. It appears that only half of the bacteria is cleared from desks. The number get even worse if items aren’t cleaned daily.

Any healthcare facility, including hospitals, assisted living centers and even hospice centers. Cleanliness in these institutions is critical and must be done properly and often. We can make sure your medical facilities are cleaned above CDC standards.

Bowling alleys, night clubs, recreational facilities and other entertainment venues. Recreational facilities require a high level of cleaning due to the number of people that utilize these facilities. We can make your venue sparkle.

Food service facilities, warehouses and manufacturing facilities. Cleanliness in these facilities is crucial for the safety of their customers. Let us handle the cleaning so you can focus on the food.

Office buildings to high rises, commercial complexes to property management companies. SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda provides the best environmental care and sanitation service for their clients.

Did you know workplaces lose an outrageous $260 billion per year due to the lost productivity that comes from sick days and lost productivity? Let SERVPRO help you turn the tide of workplace germs and ensure a healthy, clean environment for your teams and customers.

When you’re ready to have the cleanest business in town, we’re ready to help. Contact your local SERVPRO to get the pros working on the cleaning so you can work on the work.

Water Damage - Trust the SERVPRO Process

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

You can count on us to get you "Like it never even happened."

Every situation is different and may require a unique solution. However, the general process is always the same!

Step 1: Emergency Contact

We are always available for you in the event of a water emergency. When you call in, no matter the day or time someone will return your call. The main goal during the initial contact is to understand what is going on so we can dispatch someone to your home or business as soon as possible.

Step 2: Inspection and Assess Damage

When we arrive on site our goal is to know what caused the damage if it is not apparent. This way we can have the issue addressed. The damage may require a third party to be involved (ie. plumber). You may contact your own contractor we are also happy to provide a few recommendations. Once we know what has caused the damage we can continue move on to the next step!

Step 3: Water Removal/ Water Extraction

A licensed technician will use specialized water extraction equipment to remove water from your home. Removal and extraction may result in removal of flooring depending on the type of water damage (ie. sewage back up). Our technicians will document and removal items that cannot be restored.

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

We will place machines in your home or business to ensure the space is dry and prevent the possible growth of mold. The average run time for drying machines is between 3-5 days. Of course, it may be more or less depending on the extent of the water damage to your property. It is important that you not unplug or move the equipment from where they were placed by the technician to ensure the space dries properly.

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Our technicians will clean the affected area and neighboring areas with anti-microbial cleaning products to prevent the possible growth of mold. We ensure we clean every crack and crevice!

Step 6: Restoration

We have the capacity to put your home back to preloss condition with our reconstruction team. When you are ready call our office to discuss with our Reconstruction Manager. 

In all, the first few steps my take place upon the first to second visit. The remaining steps will depend on the extent of the damage. In situations where we are working with your insurance carrier we will happily communicate with your adjuster directly to keep the work moving smoothly so restoration can begin as soon as possible. For questions please do not hesitate to call our office at 857-399-9797!

Natural Disasters Happen - Always Be Prepared

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

Call us when you need us 24/7 365!

When natural disasters occur most times we have little time to prepare. A common natural disaster that not only affects coastal property is a flood. Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

A flood can be a result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems. They can develop slowly or quickly – Flash floods can come with no warning. When there is a flash flood there is typically no warning or very little time between when the warning is given and the onset of the flood. Floods have been known to cause electrical outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.

It is very important if you have been warned of a potential flood that you do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. It is very easy to drown during a flood - Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Be safe by evacuating if you are told to do so or moving to higher ground and/or level where possible. It is also recommended that you stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.

The best thing you can do is prepare yourself well in advance. Gather and store supplies in a safe place in case you have to leave immediately, or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each family members specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets either. Keep extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment so they are functioning during the time of need.

Once the warning is over and the storm has passed assess any damages to your home or business. Your top priority is still safety! Call your insurance provider if there were any damages – for a flood it would typically be FEMA on a specialized flood policy. Call SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park for the remediation and reconstruction of your property – 857-399-9797.

When Disaster Strikes, Choose SERVPRO | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with any damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont is your local restoration expert.

Homeowners, business owners and property managers, it’s your job to make sure operations run smoothly. Keeping morale high and the family happy is a priority.

When something like a disaster strikes, the status quo is upset! All of those responsibilities take a back seat, and you now have a new focus. You may have never managed a crisis before—and that’s why we’re here.

Managing and handling a crisis is our job, not yours! Let us handle the pressure, we do it for a living.

When life tries to get a fast one by you, trust SERVPRO to take over and get you back to normal.

Equipped, Qualified & Ready

Our job is to be ready when needed. When you call, we’ll be on the way in a moment’s notice. We understand there is no time to spare when fire damage, flooding or a natural disaster is at hand.

When a crisis happens, we’re queued up and ready to go.

Being Faster to Any Disaster Is What We Do

When a disaster hits, we understand that we need to drop everything and come running. After all, in a disaster situation, every second counts.

For every minute that passes, mold can grow, and you can have more smoke or water damage. A fast response is critical, and with a local office right here nearby, you’ll be the beneficiary of a local company with national resources.

We Know the Best Disaster Recovery Techniques

Disasters don’t care where or when they strike, and homes and businesses can suffer accidental or natural damage.

We have custom plans for many situations, and we’re prepared to get your home or business back to normal ASAP!

Our Expertly Trained Techs Restore Your Property "Like it never even happened."

We’re not a “here today and gone tomorrow” type of operation. SERVPRO is an expert in the recovery and restoration business because we care about your satisfaction enough to ensure your property is restored to its original condition.

We are committed to ensuring your restoration is exceptional from start to finish.

We Modify Our Approach When New Disasters Arise

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, illness prevention is high on the priority list. With that in mind, we now offer sanitization and disinfecting services that go beyond normal office cleaning.

If you want your customers to feel safe and welcome, we can give you that ultra-clean space and ease the worries of your customers and employees at the same time.

Fires burn, storms rage, pipes leak—it happens. Your local SERVPRO is ready to take on the challenge so you can get back to life.

Regardless of why you need cleanup or disaster recovery, SERVPRO has the tools, the technicians and the training to get your situation under control. When you’re ready to get help from the best, get in touch with SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont.

Precautions to Take to Keep Your Home Safe From Wildfires

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged by fire or any other reason, SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale is ready and able to repair any damage.

While flooding is a major concern in the greater Boston area, there is also a risk of wildfire. While the risk may be lower in Massachusetts than in other parts of the country, it is still a risk, and wildfires by their very nature can cause great damage.

There are a number of steps you can take in advance to minimize the risk of a wildfire affecting your home and property. First and foremost, it’s important to simply be more careful when it comes to fire hazards.

But defensible space is another important protocol you can implement.

Create a Barrier of Protection Around Your Home

Creating a fire break around your home is recommended by most communities and its law in a few states. State and federal agencies have coined the term “defensible space.”

This essentially creates a buffer zone around your house that removes most, if not all, of the fuel available for a wildfire. Things like dead trees, broken-off tree limbs and gutters full of debris are all examples of the fuel that makes wildfires extra dangerous around a home.

Defensible space involves removing combustibles and incorporating nonflammable elements in landscaping, which creates a barrier around your home from the flames, embers or even heat from a wildfire. This is the best way to slow down or stop a wildfire.

States like California require defensible space by law and all homeowners must comply. In Massachusetts, it’s simply recommended.

The Rising Number of Wildfires

While California is a hot spot for wildfires, they happen in other parts of the country as well. Last year, we experienced over 59,000 wildfires.

Of the 59,000 wildfires, over 10,000 occurred in California! That still leaves each state in the union an average of 1,000 wildfires per month. Here in Massachusetts, we had 1,189 wildfires in 2020.

Creating defensible space is something tangible we can do in advance a wildfire, so it’s a great place to begin when it comes to protecting your home.

If your home is damaged by fire of any sort, wild or not, SERVPRO is ready and able to repair the damage caused. Get in touch today to get the pros on your team.

SERVPRO Will Help During Storm

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

We are here 365 24/7!

Severe weather is a powerful thing, and it can cause significant damage to homes, property and businesses. In recent years, the cost of treating storm damage has continued to rise nationwide, but not treating it can lead to much larger problems with your structures later on.

Choosing the right restoration company is one of the most important things you can do if you have sustained storm damage. They will be responsible for taking care of your building and belongings, as well as making sure that every aspect of the damage is thoroughly handled.

Picking the right company for the job will provide you with great peace of mind and ensure that any damage is properly addressed.

Why We Have Become Leaders in Storm Restoration

Our reputation has been earned over time. We are proud to be not only a member of the local community but also to be considered a leader in the restoration industry as a whole. We have worked hard to earn our reputation, and we are proud of it. After disasters, there are many scams afoot that take advantage of those who are vulnerable, but when you trust us, you can be certain you are getting the best in the business.

Our resources allow us to take on more jobs. If there is a large area that is impacted by a storm, you do not want a company that is struggling to keep up with demand to be in charge of your restoration. Thanks to our national partners, we can handle disasters that are any size with the same service and expertise we always do. When there is a large storm, we can call for backup in the way of extra resources and workforce to handle the issues.

Our emergency response is truly ²⁴⁄₇. Severe weather never takes a day off, so we won’t either. You can call us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to report your damage and receive exceptional service, so as soon as you discover you need us, we can be there. No matter what time you discover you have received damage, you can call us and be certain you will receive a rapid response from our expert technicians.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

Be Prepared for Severe Weather

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Make Sure You Are Prepared for a Storm Anywhere

When the sky is clear and the weather is warm, it seems silly to think about thunderstorms ruining the fun—but unfortunately, this happens quite often on hot, humid days, as that creates the ideal condition for a sudden storm to form.

When storms catch people off-guard, they are often extra dangerous because people are not sure of what to do. With these tips, you can make sure you are prepared for a storm anywhere.

Make Sure You Are Prepared for a Storm Anywhere

Know your options for shelter. When you hear that a storm is a possibility and you are somewhere you can wait out the threat, this would be the ideal thing to do. That being said, when storms come up suddenly, this will not always be an option. You can set up shelter in your vehicle with the proper guidelines in mind, enabling you to wait out the storm anywhere you are.

Practice electrical safety. Claps of thunder are caused by lightning strikes, so any thunderstorm has the potential to cause lightning damage. If you are sheltering in a building, unplugging your electronics can help prevent damage from a power surge in case lightning strikes the building. Surge protectors are also a smart thing to invest in, both for your home and your office, in case you are not around when a storm starts.

Avoid direct contact with concrete. While concrete structures do have sturdiness going for them, they also pose risks when it comes to lightning strikes due to their metal framework. When lightning strikes a concrete building, the electricity can transfer from the metal and through the concrete, so be careful to not sit or lean against any concrete surfaces during a storm.

Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes. If you are interrupted by a thunderstorm, you will likely want to get back to your summer fun as soon as you can, but it is important to give yourself ample time in your shelter spot. Lightning can travel nearly 30 miles from the center of a storm cell, so experts recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before heading back outside.

If your home sustains damage due to a storm, you can count on us to help. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our storm restoration process.857-399-9797

With Outdoor Activities in Spring, the Risk of Fire Increases | SERVPRO® of Roslindale/Hyde Park

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park to learn more.

As old man winter starts to ease its grip on Boston and with the long cold days behind us, spring is right around the corner. Spending more time outdoors is now a priority since the weather is milder. However, with the increased outdoor activity, there also comes and increased risk of fire.

Spring brings with it the increased risk of fire mainly due to the increased outdoor activity around the grill. Unfortunately, spring is responsible for the largest increase in average daily fires.. But if you are diligent, we can all work to prevent fires this spring.

The Fire Marshall Say Pay Special Attention to These Areas Around the Home

BBQing. Single-handedly, the grill is responsible for a large percentage of outdoor fires, with lack of proper cleaning being the major cause.. When you have fuel, flame and grease in close proximity, that recipe has all the ingredients for a grill fire. Food particles that fall through the grill grates and the accumulation of grease are the biggest cause of unintended grill fires. Clean the grill before each use, and replace defective or worn parts.

The fire pit. The grill gets its share of blame for accidental fires, but the fire pit is another source of unplanned outside fires. We all enjoy a nice spring evening, but temperatures can get cold after the sun goes down. The fire pit provides an opportunity to interact outside with others. These safety tips are important to remember: Don’t leave children unattended around a fire. Keep water close by. Adding debris or other materials, other than wood, to a fire pit should be avoided. This can cause “flare-ups” and embers can be carried away by gusting winds. Roasting food should be done over the embers and not the open flame.

The dryer vent and chimney. Chimneys and dryer vents are another cause of outdoor fires. Warmer weather brings fewer fires in the fireplace or woodstove. Ash, soot and creosote build up during the winter in the stove pipe, and unless it’s removed, the risk of fire increases. Professional chimney sweeps are well worth the investment. It’s hard and dirty work. Clogged dryer vents are another opportunity for fire damage. The leading reason for fires in a clothes dryer is clogged lint in the dryer vent. Don’t become a statistic; keep dryer vents cleared of excess lint.

Has your home or business recently suffered fire or smoke damage? Our tech’s will be there fast and have it cleaned up quick. We’re available ²⁴⁄₇ for emergency situations. Call today 857-399-9797 and experience the SERVPRO difference.

A Look at the Types of Damage Associated With Thunderstorms | SERVPRO® of Roslindale/Hyde Park

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can pop up at any moment. Contact SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park if you experience any damage.

Thunderstorms are quite a dangerous weather event, and though they occur frequently, it is important to not become immune to the threats that they pose. Every thunderstorm brings the potential for injury and damage along with it, and between hail, high winds, heavy rains and flooding potential, there are lots of issues that can be present each time a storm happens.

Every storm that contains thunder and lightning has the potential to be dangerous, as lightning strikes and heavy rain are major hazards. Additionally, a thunderstorm can become severe when winds over 58 miles per hour and hail over one inch are present, posing even more possible hazards to those in the path of the storm.

Various Ways That Thunderstorms Can Cause Damage

Damage and injury from lightning strikes. Every thunderstorm will also contain lightning, as thunder and lightning always go hand in hand. Lightning strikes are responsible for over 300 injuries each year, which does not include how often they cause structural fires or fell trees that cause additional damage.

Property damage due to hail. Though hail may seem like a minor occurrence compared to something like lightning, its damages can be quite far reaching. People without adequate shelter can receive injuries from hail, and it can also dent cars, cause damage to homes that lead to water entry and lead to leaking roofs. Large hail is extremely dangerous because of the sheer speed with which it can fall.

Harm from flash flooding. Though most people consider flooding something that is only likely to happen around bodies of water, with flash flooding, it can be a threat nearly anywhere. Flash flooding is often caused when rainfall is heavy and drainage systems or ditches get backed up, which can quickly lead to standing or flowing water. Flash floods are particularly dangerous because of their force, which can knock people over and carry cars away in its tide.

Thunderstorms are dangerous and can cause significant damage to homes or commercial spaces. If you have damage due to a thunderstorm, you can count on us to help. Contact us ²⁴⁄₇  857-399-9797 for more information about our storm restoration practices.

Signs of Water Damage in the Basement | SERVPRO® of Roslindale/Hyde Park

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park is a full restoration company. Our restoration experts are on call 24/7 and ready to help.

Many homeowners find their basement to be a great resource. It’s very utilitarian, serving as everything from a storm shelter to a bonus bedroom to some much-needed storage space.

Basements, however, have an inherent issue: They’re dug into the ground, which means they’re susceptible to water damage from the ground around them over time.

While this is not an absolute certainty, you’ll definitely want to be aware of the risks of water damage from the underground as you go forward in home ownership. Let’s examine some of the most likely indicators of water damage and leaks, so you know what you’re looking for in the fight against interior moisture.

What to Look for to Determine Possible Water Damage

Unpleasant, musky odors. Water that seeps into the basement from underground may in fact be clean to begin with, but it doesn’t take long for it to stagnate, causing that signature musty odor. This happens so frequently, in fact, that many people assume basements simply smell that way all the time. In actuality, though, the pungent smell will only arise when mold and mildew are present in the environment,. While you may not see mold or mildew right away, the smell is a dead giveaway that there may be a problem.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. Many people assume that waterproof paint is a foolproof solution for basement dryness. Unfortunately, even the most advanced paint will give way over time, beginning to crack, flake and bubble, eventually creating a larger problem than you would have encountered without waterproof paint.

Foundational cracks. Homes do often experience some mild shifting over a period of many years, but a real crack in the foundation is a tipoff that there may be a major leak somewhere that needs immediate attention. Cracks can also show up in the floor, the ceiling or in your walls and are often a sign that there is water damage that could progress into something worse. Hairline cracks are no cause for alarm, but if they become any larger, they should be treated immediately.

If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.

Time To Check Your HVAC System

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your HVAC system running its full term with regular maintenance checks

As facility-maintenance professionals prepare for summer, it is important they make sure evaporator-coil cleaning and maintenance is on their to-do list states John from SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park.

“Not only do you want to make sure your HVAC system is running properly, but uncleaned coils can shorten the life of your equipment and force your system to work harder than it should,” John said, “Dirty coils can drastically increase the cost of running your HVAC, but one of the quickest and safest ways to maintain your system is through a comprehensive coil-cleaning program.”

Citing a Southern California Edison report, while uncleaned evaporator coils decreased energy efficiency by 35 percent, dirty condenser coils caused energy efficiency to drop 60 percent, meaning much more power and money was required to cool at the same rate as a system with clean coils.

Additionally, dirty evaporator coils can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria as airborne contaminants are filtered through the system, negatively impacting indoor-air quality.

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont recently released a checklist for effectively cleaning coils:

• Obtain the best possible access. Cleaning coils works best when a maintenance technician can get the cleaning wand close to the areas that need to be cleaned. Consider using flexible wands if access is difficult.
• Vacuum coils and fins. Before cleaning, remove dry debris from coils with a vacuum that can reach dust and dirt in tight spaces. Other options include using compressed air.
• Clear blockages. Condensate pans and lines need to be free of blockages before wet cleaning can begin, as any obstructions can cause major damage from flooding and because of HVAC-system condensate. Consider a wet/dry vacuum to remove any debris prior to cleaning.
• Use a wet cleaning process. Pressurized water forces deeply embedded dirt and debris to come loose, vastly improving the cleaning process.
• Use a powerful-yet-delicate cleaning system. High-pressure equipment can damage fins, especially on evaporator coils. The ideal system should deliver 125 to 200 psi and up to a half-gallon of flow per minute.
• Apply an alkaline non-caustic cleaning foam. Use of a non-caustic cleaner helps to protect coils from corrosion.
• Apply a mold-control agent. Adding a mold inhibitor that is U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-registered and approved for use in occupied spaces can help to keep coils clean and free of odor and allergy-causing mold and mildew.

If you need Your Air Conditioning unit checked out, please call SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park (857) 399-9797

You Can Keep Heavy Rains From Damaging Your Home | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

If you need help dealing with any damage caused by water, contact SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale today.

Water damage to your home can come from expected and unexpected sources. If you’re like most homeowners, you probably know that natural disasters (like flash floods) and home accidents (like plumbing failures) can cause water damage.

But have you thought about the damage heavy rains can do?

Heavy rains might not have been at the top of your list of water damage causes. But it can be a real problem for homeowners, and it’s common.

Drenching rainstorms are a common prediction during spring and summer forecasts. If your home is not properly maintained, these rains can cause costly damage.

Water Damage Is a Common Hazard

If you have to file a claim for water damage, you’ll be in good company. One in every 50 Americans will also be filing a claim this year. Depending on your neighborhood, that means several people you know may file a claim soon.

You can’t avoid all water damage hazards. Flash flooding can’t always be predicted and can cause serious damage to entire neighborhoods and communities.

But sometimes, homeowners can avoid the damage caused by heavy rains if they take the right steps.

<h2your-home-safe-during-heavy-rains">Keep Your Home Safe During Heavy Rains

We see many water-damaged homes, so our teams have valuable insights into how you can protect your home from suffering water damage. Basic home maintenance can make a difference, and many of these projects might be on your list already.

Take stock of your yard. Knowing how your yard drains (and how it works with your home) is vital. If you notice that your yard is draining toward your home, then you might want to get in touch with a landscaping expert to look for ways to protect your yard.

Choose to landscape your yard thoughtfully. Many people choose plants and flowers because they like the aesthetic they create. But choosing landscaping items for protection can ensure your home is ready for heavy rain. Native plants, trees and bushes can be vital in protecting your home from water damage.

Look into sealing your roof. Experts estimate that almost 95% of damage is caused by water finding its way through gaps in your shingles, which can be prevented with this step.

If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, we’re here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time 857-399-9797 to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.

Use A Ladder The Right Way

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

Take the time to learn how to properly use a ladder. It could save you from a bad injury.

With the weather getting warm here in Boston its common to use this time for building maintenance. One of the handiest tools is the ladder. Unfortunately, there have been many preventable injuries due to misuse.

Take the time before you climb. Check to see if your ladder is safe to use before stepping foot on a rung. Ladders get thrown in and out of trucks and closets which may cause the ladders to get beat-up. A damaged ladder is unsafe to use and should be immediately taken out of service. 

If you notice any cracked or damaged uprights, braces, or rungs, the ladder should not be used. Loose nails, screws, bolts or other metal parts are also a huge red flag. The ladder rungs should be secure and clean of any oil or dirt. Foot treads should not be worn out and all of the ladder’s labels should be present and legible. As always, only use a ladder on a stable surface. If the ladder is rocking even slightly, or if you need to place something underneath the feet of the ladder to keep it stable, the ladder is unsafe for use.

Why is inspection so important? According to the World Health Organization, the United States has the most number of deaths caused by falls from ladders. Falls from ladders are also the leading cause of deaths in the construction industry. There are over 164,000 emergency room visits and 300 deaths from falling from ladders. The majority of falls from ladders that lead to death are from heights of 10 feet or less from the ground. The number of deaths has tripled over the past decade. Most of these deaths may have been prevented by inspecting ladders before use and putting defected ladders out of service. Another factor that may decrease the amount of fatalities and injuries due to falls from ladders is proper training.

The following list outlines just a few items to train employees in regards to the safe and proper use of ladders.

Always maintain 3-points of contact at all times when climbing

 Do not carry any materials up or down a ladder

 Wear a tool belt

 Use a hand line

 Face the ladder when ascending or descending

 Never overreach

 Work only within an arm’s reach of the ladder

 Keep your belt buckle between the sides rails of  the ladder at all times

Only allow one person to climb the ladder at a time

Extension Ladders:

Position the ladder at the proper pitch (1/4 rule)

Extend the side rails at least 36 inches or 3 rungs above

Secure the top of the ladder to help prevent shifting

If you have water or fire damage, please call SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale (857) 399-9797

We Can Do It All

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

We can remediate and reconstruct - Your One Stop Shop

Here at SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park our technicians are not only IICRC certified but they are also very knowledgeable in construction work. Most of our technicians have more than 20 years of construction experience. If your home or business experiences a major loss you can count on our team to not only clean and remediate but you can also count on us if you need your home to be put back to the way it was before the damage (reconstruction). This will ultimately allow you to keep your costs down since you are only working with one contractor. 

We pride ourselves in being able to meet all of our customers’ needs. We understand that at a time of loss the last thing you want to worry about is vetting another reliable contractor to help get your property back. You can be rest assured that with SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park you will receive quality work every time.

We always seek customer satisfaction prior to installation, midway, then at completion. All completed work is reviewed by one of the assigned project managers to further ensure quality. Our office will also place a courtesy call to ensure you were satisfied with the quality of work received from us. Customer service is very important to us, in the rare occasion you are dissatisfied with a job we did do not hesitate to give us a call and we can fix it.

We do every job to the highest standard so you are comfortable referring us to your family members or closest friends.

If you have a job you need our assistance call us today 857-399-9797

Emergency Ready Profile for Your Business

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

We are here to help you get ready to handle loss when it strikes

When accidents strike they do not care whether you are prepared or not! As a business it is vital that you know what to do, who to call, and how you will bounce back in the event of an emergency.  The fact is that as many as one in four businesses that suffer a major disaster will not reopen afterward. Do not let your business become a statistic!

Here at SERVPRO Mattapan & Hyde Park we pride ourselves in being a resource to the businesses in our community. It is important to us that the businesses in our community and surrounding communities survive. SERVPRO has a Free Emergency Ready Profile that your business can use to help prepare you in the event of a major disaster. Studies show that the faster you can react to a disaster it lowers the damage done. The profile helps store everything you need such as contact information, locations of shut off valves, pictures and so much more to help in the event there is a disaster. The profile you create for your business is also useful to us as it will inform us of where our vehicles should park in the event of a loss. This is helpful in the event you do not want to bring public attention to the fact that your business is experiencing some kind of loss. 

We understand you may already have a facilities manager or be a facilities manager who knows the ins and outs of the building. The profile is not meant to replace a facilities manager in any way – it’s a resource for them.  Anything can happen and as a business you want to make sure whoever is nearby can pick up your profile and depending on the type of disaster know exactly who to contact and what to do if anything.

The Emergency Ready Profile can be distributed in digital form and/or hard copy. We understand that as a business too much time cannot be wasted, for that reason the profile can be completed within 30 minutes.  If you are interested in creating an Emergency Ready Profile for your business Call us today 857-399-9797. We will set up a time for an office representative to go to your business to fill out the profile for you for free!

Why Choose Us?

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

So many choose SERVPRO because we have the technology and resources to get the job done.

Why so many choose SERVPRO

It's more than just the brand recognition, it’s also the qualified personnel, the expertise and dedication to the community that make us the place to call. Below are additional reasons why:  

Qualified

We have the best training in the industry. Each team member is trained in clean up and restoration which can range from bio hazard, fire, mold to water damage. We are IICRC certified (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certificate) for fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our job is to make sure our clients understand the loss and how we will help restore their home or facility. We live up to the motto and we leave each location looking “Like it never even happened.”

Immediate

Our team understands that the best way to limit further damage is to begin the clean up and restore the property as soon as possible. For this reason our team is available 24/7 - day, night, or holiday!  This also helps with keeping costs down. We strive to always answer the first call or respond within a few hours.

Latest Technology

We take pride in the fact that we are able to keep up with some of the advancements technology has to offer. This allows us to restore your property as quickly and efficiently as possible so you can get back to what you were doing preloss.

No Loss Too Big or Too Small

Whether you have multiple locations, or a room that has suffered a loss we can help restore your property.  SERVPRO is a national company and as a result our SERVPRO of Mattapan and Hyde Park team has access to the 1,800+ other franchises to handle any scope of loss.  You call us and we will handle the rest!

Future Loss Prevention

With every job we ensure we understand what the cause of the loss was. We do this to ensure the cause of loss is addressed to prevent similar damage from occurring again.

Our Community

We love what we do and the ability to help our community. We know the roads, the neighborhoods, and what makes our towns so special. It is important to us that our town thrives so we are highly motivated to do all we can to make this an even better town to live in.

Help is always here

Whether you have a question or a loss give us a call and we will help 617-903-5055. We serve ALL - businesses, home owners, property managers and tenants in the Mattapan and Hyde Park area. ensure that the water is extracted, your property is dried, and mold is addressed if necessary. Third, contact your insurance company to see if you have coverage for the damaged property.

We Help with Insurance Claims

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

We help make the process seamless

If you have suffered a disaster at your home or business the last thing you want is more things to worry about. For this reason our team ensures they make the claim process as stress free as possible. SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park will help the damage look “Like it never even happened.” That way you and your family or business can get back to what is important.

Our goal is to make the insurance process as smooth as possible. Therefore, we will:

• create thorough visual and written documentation of the damage to your home or business
• document the condition of each item we remove for cleaning or storage
• work directly with your insurer, communicating with you at all times
• handle the paperwork to make sure the processing and payment of your claim is as fast as it can be

We are so proud that so many insurance companies recommend SERVPRO to their clients because working with us makes their jobs easier.

Our Team is here for you if you experience a disaster. Our technicians have specialized training and years of experience in water, fire, mold and bio-hazard clean up and restoration services. Call SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park 857-399-9797 we are available 24/7.

Planning Ahead in Case of a Burst Pipe | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, contact us right away. SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park

Burst pipes are something that can happen when you least expect it, causing serious damage in a brief amount of time. While there is no way to know when a pipe may burst, knowing what to do in the event that one does can help you act quickly to mitigate the damage that the water can cause.

In a perfect world, water damage would be a rare occurrence—but many people are surprised to find out how often it occurs. Every year, one in 50 homes will experience some type of water damage, but a plan can significantly lessen the impact that it has.

Having a Plan in the Event a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

Shut off your water main. When a pipe bursts in your home, in some situations, it can continue pouring water into the area, creating even more damage. If it is safe to do so, shutting off your water main can reduce the overall damages that are caused.

Shut off your electricity. Water and electricity definitely do not mix, so if you are able to get to your circuit breaker to cut your electricity off safely, it is wise to do so. This will ensure that if water comes in contact with outlets or appliances, there is not a shock or fire hazard.

Contact your restoration company. Setting your restoration in motion quickly is one of the best things you can do for water damage, so it is wise to get in touch with your restoration company right away. We recommend always choosing a company that is available ²⁴⁄₇ so you never have to wait for a call back when you report your damages.

Take a record of the damages. Not only is keeping good records helpful for you, but it will also be helpful if you are eligible to file a claim with your insurance provider. Take photos and videos in addition to making a list of everything that is damaged by the water.

Contact your insurance company. The type of coverage you will receive for water damage of this nature can vary, so your insurance company is the authority on what is and is not eligible to be covered by filing a claim. Contacting them quickly can help you set this process in motion so you can get it settled as fast as possible.

Open windows and doors if possible. If the weather permits and it is safe to do so, increasing the airflow around water damage by opening windows and doors can speed up the drying time by encouraging evaporation.

If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for restoration assistance. Contact us at any time 857-399-9797 to learn more about our restoration services.

A Guide to Flash Floods After Severe Weather Occurs | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale is your local water & storm restoration expert. We will get the job done right, contact us today.

While many weather events get a bad reputation as being dangerous or deadly, many people do not consider flooding to be included in this list. Many people are surprised to find that flooding is second only to heat deaths in total weather-related fatalities in the United States, and flash floods are especially dangerous.

One of the reasons why flash floods can be so deadly is because they come about suddenly, and even areas not prone to flooding can be impacted. Even a small drainage pond or blocked sewer system can lead to a dangerous flash flood if enough rain falls, which is why knowing the facts about safety is key.

How Are Flash Floods Defined?

While regular floods occur slowly, flash floods start within six hours of extreme rain after a storm or other severe weather, and often occur in as little as three hours. Additionally, they are rarely found in known floodplains and instead are frequently occurring in urban areas and other parts of towns that are not used to floods occurring traditionally.

What Are the Levels of Warning Present for Flash Flooding?

Because flash floods happen so quickly, it is important to tune into your local weather broadcast during storms and severe weather so you can always be alerted to their possibility. If there is a flash flood watch issued, that means that it is a possibility that a flash flood might occur and you should be sure you are ready to evacuate. For a flash flood warning, flooding is more imminent and everyone should move to higher ground. If an emergency is issued, that means to move immediately as there are life-threatening flood issues taking place.

How Can I Increase My Safety During a Flash Flood?

Being safe is so important during any storm or severe weather event, especially when flash floods become a possibility. These are some of the best rules to keep in mind to make sure you and your family are always as safe as possible:

• When storms involve heavy rain, stay inside and away from low-lying parts of properties.
• Always have an evacuation plan for floods and be sure your family is aware of it.
• Avoid trying to cross floodwater, whether in a vehicle or on foot.
• Avoid touching floodwater or allowing children to play near it, as it can be heavily contaminated.
• Always turn around if there is water on your intended route of travel.

If your home or business has been damaged due to a flood or other severe weather, you can depend on us. Contact us at any hour 857-399-9797 to learn more about our services or to report damage to your property.

Practicing Fire Safety This Holiday Season | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure your fire risk is low during the holidays. If you experience any damage, SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont will be here to help.

The holiday season always arrives rapidly, and as we get our homes and ourselves ready to celebrate, it is still important to keep the importance of fire safety in focus. Winter is the peak of fires in the home according to the Red Cross, partially because of the risky activities that occur primarily in the wintertime.

Cooking is always a concern, but winter also brings about the concerns of heating and decoration that are not present at other times of the year. Do not give fires the opportunity to spark by focusing on fire safety as you celebrate the best of winter.

Wintertime Tips for Fire Prevention

Keep safe when cooking. The top cause of house fires is cooking at any time of year, but more people tend to prepare large meals and increase the frequency of their baking when it is cold outside. It is wise to practice fire safety each time you cook, keeping a fire extinguisher nearby and keeping flammable items at least three feet from the stove. Make sure children and pets are not allowed near open flames in the kitchen as well.

Heat the house with proper precautions. Many people make use of space heaters and fireplaces to supplement their home’s heating system, but it is important that you always use these tools with caution. Space heaters should always cut off if they get too hot or tip over, and should never be used on carpet or near flammable items. If you use a fireplace, be sure to get your chimney inspected every year and never allow a fire to burn unattended.

Decorate with care. The decorations commonly associated with Christmas, such as trees and lights, present an electrical hazard if they are not installed correctly. Christmas tree fires due to electricity are extremely common, often as a result of the lights being plugged in improperly. Make sure to not overload outlets or power cables, and never use decorations with frayed wiring.

If you have damage due to a house fire, you can depend on us to help. Contact us 24 hours a day to report damage and receive a quick response from our certified restoration technicians. Get in touch today 857-399-9797. 

Why Our “Restore First” Mentality Is Best for Customers | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Have you sustained property damage and feeling overwhelmed? We are here to help, contact SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale.

If your home sustains damage for any reason, it can be a frustrating and fraught time for your entire family. There are many emotions that people will cycle through after a fire or other disaster, and having to go through the process of handling the damage can further complicate the recovery process.

While there are always difficulties to consider throughout the recovery period, having a good restoration company on your side can truly make all the difference.

We will work with you and your insurance company to make the entire procedure as seamless as possible, and with our restoration-first mentality, we will do our best to preserve your belongings so you do not have to replace them.

How Our Restoration-First Mentality Helps Our Clients

We can help you save money on your insurance. Homeowners insurance is designed to help you cover the cost of losses in case of many types of damage, but filing a claim can also raise your premium tremendously. In the event of water damage, for example, the average claim is over $10,000. We can help lower the cost you have to claim with insurance by restoring objects where possible.

We can protect your sentimental items. We have invested in some of the most advanced restoration equipment available to us, which is what enables us to save items that may seem like a lost cause. In the past, we have been able to restore irreplaceable objects such as family photos, documents and art, as well as valuables such as electronics. Some things can’t be replicated, which is why we do our best to keep these sentimental objects intact.

We make sure your home feels like home again. As we have helped many people in the community with losses and damage, we understand all the complex emotions involved. To help make the return home easier, we focus primarily on restoring your house to its pre-damaged state and placing your belongings just how they were before the damage occurred. This will help your house feel like home again so your family can focus on healing.

If you have damages and are feeling overwhelmed, we are here to help. You can call us as soon as you need to in order to begin the restoration process. Contact us today 857-399-9797 to learn more.

Preparing your home and business for the cold season

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare your home or business for cold weather before the cold gets here

If you are a Boston resident or property owner you know that the winter is unpredictable. Some years we barely get snow and the temperatures are fairly mild. While other years it is frigid with howling winds and never ending snow storms.

No matter what kind of winter is in the cards for us this year, as a property owner you should be prepared. You should not wait until winter is upon us to prepare your property. The time is now, before the fall! During this time you should be making repairs and doing preventative maintenance.

Some areas to consider:

Gutters

Clean and repair the gutter before the temperature drops. Seal leaking caps and if you can add a gutter cover to prevent debris build up. Consider investing in a gutter heating cable. This will help prevent ice dams. 

Windows and walk ways

Check your windows to make sure there are not any air leaks or excessive condensation build up. Most windows are believed to have a life cycle of 20yrs check your windows to ensure they are not at or nearing the end of their cycle. Check your walk way for any major cracks that will need to be repaired.  Pay attention to seams as well.

Boiler Room

Boilers should be serviced once a year by an engineer. The most important part of winterizing is ensuring buildings boiler will operate throughout the long winter. Ensure the pipes are well insulated as extreme cold weather can cause the boiler to shut off - which can result in frozen pipes.

HVAC

Check and replace air filters if necessary. Turn your system on to ensure it is functioning properly. Like a car idleness is not good. Run the heating unit a few weeks before temperatures start to drop to keep it working properly.

Water faucets and water lines

Drain outdoor water faucets and water lines to make sure there is no sitting water. If there is water in the water lines it can freeze in cold temperatures and cause damage to the water line and faucets.

Roof

Roofs typically have a 12 year life span. You can usually do a visual test of your roof to get a better idea of its current condition. Repair or replace any missing shingles. An added benefit of updating your roof is an insurance discount for newly replaced roof!

Fix crack in concrete and asphalt

Water is easily absorbed by concrete given the nature of the materials. If there are large cracks make sure you fill them in because salt during snowy season causes damage.

Whether you are a home owner or a property manager it is important to be proactive so you prevent possible damages to your property. Losses will happen but if you use preventative measures you can possibly help minimize the level of damage thus lowering the amount of money needed to repair/replace your property.

If your business or home experiences a loss give us a call! We are here to help 24/7 857-399-9797

Our Water Damage Process

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Being proactive can save you time and money

Every situation is different and may require a unique solution. However, the general process is always the same!

Step 1: Emergency Contact

We are always available for you in the event of a water emergency. When you call in, no matter the day or time someone will return your call. The main goal during the initial contact is to understand what is going on so we can dispatch someone to your home or business as soon as possible.

Step 2: Inspection and Assess Damage

When we arrive on site our goal is to know what caused the damage if it is not apparent. This way we can have the issue addressed. The damage may require a third party to be involved (ie. plumber). You may contact your own contractor we are also happy to provide a few recommendations. Once we know what has caused the damage we can continue move on to the next step!

Step 3: Water Removal/ Water Extraction

A licensed technician will use specialized water extraction equipment to remove water from your home. Removal and extraction may result in removal of flooring depending on the type of water damage (ie. sewage back up). Our technicians will document and removal items that cannot be restored.

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

We will place machines in your home or business to ensure the space is dry and prevent the possible growth of mold. The average run time for drying machines is between 3-5 days. Of course, it may be more or less depending on the extent of the water damage to your property. It is important that you not unplug or move the equipment from where they were placed by the technician to ensure the space dries properly.

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Our technicians will clean the affected area and neighboring areas with anti-microbial cleaning products to prevent the possible growth of mold. We ensure we clean every crack and crevice!

Step 6: Restoration

In all, the first few steps my take place upon the first to second visit. The remaining steps will depend on the extent of the damage. In situations where we are working with your insurance carrier we will happily communicate with your adjuster directly to keep the work moving smoothly so restoration can begin as soon as possible. For questions please do not hesitate to call our office at 857-399-9797!

How Can I Check for Water Damage in My Home? | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Do you have any water damage to your home? Contact SERVPRO of Hyde Park/Roslindale, we are your local water restoration experts.

When it comes to keeping your home structurally sound and well-maintained, watching out for water damage is one of the best things you can do. Not only can water damage cause cosmetic problems and lead to unsightly spots throughout the home, but it can also significantly damage structures when it is allowed to fester.

Fortunately, homeowners can easily perform their own routine checks to look for water damage throughout the house, which can help them catch issues early and avoid having to make costly claims on their homeowners insurance.

Tips for Doing an At-Home Water Damage Inspection

Inspect your walls and ceilings. Drywall and paint can quickly show water damage, making walls and ceilings one of the best and easiest places to begin your search. Any discoloration, particularly soft spots or peeling areas of paint, might indicate that there is water damage present. It is also wise to check up on your external window and door frames for weather-related leakage.

Don’t forget to look down. It is not uncommon to find water damage that shows itself in the floor, since that is the lowest spot in every room. Water can pool and begin to saturate the subfloor, not causing surface issues but instead showing up with warped floorboards, buckling or a general smell of mildew, which should always be checked out.

Inspect your roof. It is important to keep your roof in good shape to make sure it is keeping out all the elements it can when it rains. A pair of binoculars can give you valuable insights into the quality of your roof and help you spot any loose shingles or peeling places. Additionally, it is smart to check that your gutters are doing their job the next time it rains to prevent water from building up around your foundation.

Pay close attention to the basement. Though basements have a reputation for being damp, if you have moisture problems under your home it can be a serious issue. Look for signs of water running down foundation walls or musty odors, which might indicate there is too much moisture present that should be addressed.

If you have water damage anywhere in your home, we are here to help. You can contact us at any hour to learn more about our services or to report damages. Get in touch today to speak with a water damage restoration expert 857-399-9797.

What Sets Our Storm Restoration Methods Apart?

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Choosing the right restoration company is crucial to getting things back to normal. Call SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park to set up an appointment.

Severe weather is a powerful thing, and it can cause significant damage to homes, property and businesses. In recent years, the cost of treating storm damage has continued to rise nationwide, but not treating it can lead to much larger problems with your structures later on.

Choosing the right restoration company is one of the most important things you can do if you have sustained storm damage. They will be responsible for taking care of your building and belongings, as well as making sure that every aspect of the damage is thoroughly handled.

Picking the right company for the job will provide you with great peace of mind and ensure that any damage is properly addressed.

Why We Have Become Leaders in Storm Restoration

Our reputation has been earned over time. We are proud to be not only a member of the local community but also to be considered a leader in the restoration industry as a whole. We have worked hard to earn our reputation, and we are proud of it. After disasters, there are many scams afoot that take advantage of those who are vulnerable, but when you trust us, you can be certain you are getting the best in the business.

Our resources allow us to take on more jobs. If there is a large area that is impacted by a storm, you do not want a company that is struggling to keep up with demand to be in charge of your restoration. Thanks to our national partners, we can handle disasters that are any size with the same service and expertise we always do. When there is a large storm, we can call for backup in the way of extra resources and workforce to handle the issues.

Our emergency response is truly ²⁴⁄₇. Severe weather never takes a day off, so we won’t either. You can call us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to report your damage and receive exceptional service, so as soon as you discover you need us, we can be there. No matter what time you discover you have received damage, you can call us and be certain you will receive a rapid response from our expert technicians.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

Smoke & Soot - How to handle

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot will cause a lot of damage - Call us for help

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.

• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.

• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (857) 399-9797

Most Common Causes of Fire in the Workplace

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Be aware of possible fire hazards in the work place

Electrical Fires

Over 25% of all fires are linked to a malfunction of either a piece of electrical equipment, wiring, or both. Electricity is a common source of ignition for major fires. One way to avoid problems with electrical fires is to establish an electrical safety program.

All employees should be thoroughly familiar with the safety procedures for their particular jobs. To maximize his or her own safety, an employee should always use tools and equipment properly. Extension cords must be inspected before use, and those found questionable, removed from service and properly tagged. Damage or inadequate maintenance can cause equipment to deteriorate, resulting in unsafe conditions.

Flammable and Combustible Materials

There are thousands of chemicals in use in the modern American workplace. One of the most prevalent dangers of these chemicals is their flammability or combustibility. Improper handling of flammable materials brings a great risk of fire. When a flammable liquid is spilled, vapors begin to form immediately. It is the vapors that will ignite, and which pose the greater danger.

Flammable liquid spill cleanup should begin immediately. Vapors will continue to build until the liquid is removed, and they can be ignited by a variety of sources in the average workplace. The best way to avoid fire caused by these materials is to follow all OSHA guidelines when dealing with flammables.

Human Error

The most common reason for a sprinkler system failure is human error. Often times the water supply was turned off at the time of the fire. The success of fire prevention strategies depends primarily on pre-planning, preparation, equipment quality, and the readiness of personnel. Employees and loss prevention practitioners must be knowledgeable about the proper use of extinguishers. If the wrong extinguisher is used, a fire may become more serious.

General Negligence

Negligence is another common cause of fire in the workplace. It’s slightly different from fires caused by human error. Negligence occurs when an employee does not follow established procedures and knowingly undertakes an activity that is a potential fire hazard.

Fire caused by negligence can be the result of:

• Hot surfaces too close to heating equipment
• Open flame that’s not properly located or protected
• Not following smoking restrictions or careless disposal of butts, ashes, and matches

Good common sense, self awareness, and close adherence to policy are a great way to avoid fires caused by general negligence. Posting fire safety signs in common areas is another way to keep fire safety at top of mind.

 Arson

The premise behind arson prevention, like other prevention programs, is to address the opportunity to commit the crime. Arsonists, like other criminals, typically prefer to start fires in locations that are secluded or hidden. Prevention programs often suggest improving the surveillance in these areas by lighting the area, removing visual obstructions to natural observation, and moving the targets such as dumpsters.

If your company, please call SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park 857-399-9797 to assist you with the cleanup.

Heavy Rain & Back Ups

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

City Sewage Diagram

The heavy rains that occurred in the Boston area caused not only flooding but also many sewage back- ups. The town & cities sewage system gets overwhelmed causing the sewage to flow into basements through toilets and sinks. When a storm drain suffers a partial or complete blockage, rain water gets trapped in the pipes and must go somewhere. Unfortunately, the only exit point is the pipe servicing your home that connects to the sewer line. With nowhere left to go it goes up through your pipe, pushing whatever refuse and filth it’s carrying into your basement and other areas of your home. Contact your local plumber to install a backwater valve to prevent this from happening to you! If your basement gets flooded or has sewage issues, please call SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park (857) 399-9797 to assist you.

Did you know that SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park also helps Commercial and Industrial customers?

Water Damage - 24 Hour Emergency Service

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

We are always here to help!

SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

Call SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park Today - (857) 399-9797

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

Your name and contact information

Your insurance information (if applicable)

The street address of the water-damaged home or business

When did the flooding or water damage occur?

What caused the water damage (if known)?

Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park

SERVPRO of Roslindale/Hyde Park 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. 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.

Create a System for Evacuation Drills at Your Business | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

If your business experiences any fire damage, you can count on us. SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont specializes in fire restoration.

If you own a business, it is important that you are honest about potential risks from every source—including from emergencies and natural disasters. With the possibility of commercial fires and the data behind how costly they can be, preparing for these is key to the longevity of your operations.

There are many ways to get started in fire safety planning, but we always recommend originating from a safety standpoint. Teaching your employees how to perform a fire evacuation is a key element to keeping everyone safe in case the fire alarm were to sound for real.

Teaching Your Employees How to Perform a Fire Evacuation

Consult with your local fire officials. With the internet, you have so many research options at your fingertips surrounding commercial fire safety, but do not forget about your local options as well. You can generally have your local fire officials come and provide you with personalized advice for planning your evacuation routes and boosting your fire safety.

Communicate and mark fire evacuation routes. After you have decided what evacuation routes suit your needs, be sure they are labeled clearly and your staff is aware of the upcoming drill. Keeping everyone looped in will create more transparency and be sure every one of your staff members are prepared when the drill begins.

Have fire drills frequently. Though taking time out of your day for a fire drill is not ideal, generally doing them once every few months is sufficient enough for everyone’s safety. Keep them on the schedule regularly enough so that everyone can remember the protocols, but not so often that they become mundane.

Run different fire scenarios. There are many ways fires start and spread throughout an office space, so your drills should reflect this to better prepare everyone for a real fire. Have your mock fire block different exit routes so your employees can see what it is like to alter their course with little notice just like they may have to if the fire alarm sounds for real.

If your business has experienced fire damage, you can count on us. We specialize in commercial fire restoration and will be here for you at any hour—call us today 857-399-9797.

Know What to Do No Matter Where a Storm Catches You | SERVPRO® of Hyde Park/Roslindale

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Its always best to know what to do in the event of a disaster

When the sky is clear and the weather is warm, it seems silly to think about thunderstorms ruining the fun—but unfortunately, this happens quite often on hot, humid days, as that creates the ideal condition for a sudden storm to form.

When storms catch people off-guard, they are often extra dangerous because people are not sure of what to do. With these tips, you can make sure you are prepared for a storm anywhere.

Make Sure You Are Prepared for a Storm Anywhere

Know your options for shelter. When you hear that a storm is a possibility and you are somewhere you can wait out the threat, this would be the ideal thing to do. That being said, when storms come up suddenly, this will not always be an option. You can set up shelter in your vehicle with the proper guidelines in mind, enabling you to wait out the storm anywhere you are.

Practice electrical safety. Claps of thunder are caused by lightning strikes, so any thunderstorm has the potential to cause lightning damage. If you are sheltering in a building, unplugging your electronics can help prevent damage from a power surge in case lightning strikes the building. Surge protectors are also a smart thing to invest in, both for your home and your office, in case you are not around when a storm starts.

Avoid direct contact with concrete. While concrete structures do have sturdiness going for them, they also pose risks when it comes to lightning strikes due to their metal framework. When lightning strikes a concrete building, the electricity can transfer from the metal and through the concrete, so be careful to not sit or lean against any concrete surfaces during a storm.

Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes. If you are interrupted by a thunderstorm, you will likely want to get back to your summer fun as soon as you can, but it is important to give yourself ample time in your shelter spot. Lightning can travel nearly 30 miles from the center of a storm cell, so experts recommend waiting at least 30 minutes before heading back outside.

If your home sustains damage due to a storm, you can count on us to help. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our storm restoration process.857-399-9797

Air Conditioners - To Do List

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

Regular maintenance is a must

As facility-maintenance professionals prepare for summer, it is important they make sure evaporator-coil cleaning and maintenance is on their to-do list states John from SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park.

“Not only do you want to make sure your HVAC system is running properly, but uncleaned coils can shorten the life of your equipment and force your system to work harder than it should,” John said, “Dirty coils can drastically increase the cost of running your HVAC, but one of the quickest and safest ways to maintain your system is through a comprehensive coil-cleaning program.”

Citing a Southern California Edison report, while uncleaned evaporator coils decreased energy efficiency by 35 percent, dirty condenser coils caused energy efficiency to drop 60 percent, meaning much more power and money was required to cool at the same rate as a system with clean coils.

Additionally, dirty evaporator coils can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria as airborne contaminants are filtered through the system, negatively impacting indoor-air quality.

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont recently released a checklist for effectively cleaning coils:

• Obtain the best possible access.Cleaning coils works best when a maintenance technician can get the cleaning wand close to the areas that need to be cleaned. Consider using flexible wands if access is difficult.
• Vacuum coils and fins.Before cleaning, remove dry debris from coils with a vacuum that can reach dust and dirt in tight spaces. Other options include using compressed air.
• Clear blockages.Condensate pans and lines need to be free of blockages before wet cleaning can begin, as any obstructions can cause major damage from flooding and because of HVAC-system condensate. Consider a wet/dry vacuum to remove any debris prior to cleaning.
• Use a wet cleaning process.Pressurized water forces deeply embedded dirt and debris to come loose, vastly improving the cleaning process.
• Use a powerful-yet-delicate cleaning system.High-pressure equipment can damage fins, especially on evaporator coils. The ideal system should deliver 125 to 200 psi and up to a half-gallon of flow per minute.
• Apply an alkaline non-caustic cleaning foam.Use of a non-caustic cleaner helps to protect coils from corrosion.
• Apply a mold-control agent.Adding a mold inhibitor that is U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-registered and approved for use in occupied spaces can help to keep coils clean and free of odor and allergy-causing mold and mildew.

If you need Your Air Conditioning unit checked out, please call SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park (857) 399-9797

We are here to help!

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

Yesterday a pipe broke in the middle of the night causing water to pour into 2 retail businesses. At 5:30 Am the commercial property owner was notified and he immediately called SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park.  SERVPRO’s crew arrived and immediately began to extract the water. The business owner was hoping to be open for business at his usual 9:30 AM opening time. Additional crews were dispatched to take care of the 2 other business affected.  The crews worked feverishly to ensure that both businesses could open at their usual time.  The SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park project manager using a moisture detector and infrared camera created a moisture map to determine all affected floors, walls and ceilings. The project managed related this information to the crews so that they could strategically place the necessary drying equipment. The equipment was set up and the businesses were open at their usual time. If your home or business has undergone water damage, please call SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park (857) 399-9797 to assist you.

Furnace Puffback

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

We are always ready to help!

If your home has an oil burning furnace, there are several dangers to be aware of. Any furnace can experience a puff back. While puff backs are more common with oil systems, a furnace puff back can also occur with forced air, gas and hot water heating systems. A puff back in a furnace is a volatile explosion that occurs inside your furnace. The result of this explosion is fire and smoke being spewed out from your furnace. This fire, smoke and soot will damage your home's building materials and contents. This explosion will not be lethal, but can cause thousands of dollars in costly repairs and damage restoration, and can also cause health problems for you and your family. The explosions are caused by a buildup of vapor inside your furnace. This build up can occur with furnaces which have not been maintained properly. Parts sometimes need to be replaced, and bi yearly cleaning of your furnace and heating system will help prevent puff backs. Conducting a yearly exam of your heating system or having a professional check your heating system yearly will oftentimes fully prevent a puff back from ever occurring.

 If you have experienced a puff back avoids doing the following: Try to clean or wash away soot residue yourself. This soot and smoke residue needs special cleaning methods, as it spreads easily. Soot stains can also set very quickly, making soot damage especially tricky to clean if you should do it wrong. Soot is black carbon, and black carbon will stain extremely quickly when mixed with water and common household liquid cleaners. Should you attempt to remove the soot yourself and end up staining something with soot in your home, a professional cleaner may be required to remove the stain. Should you have soot damage, you should leave it to a professional to clean. SERVPRO professionals trained in soot damage have special cleaners and cleaning methods to use to remove your soot and soot damage. Use furniture or walk on carpeting affected by the fire or puff back. Do not use furniture that has been exposed to heat, soot or smoke. You can cause further damage to your furniture, until it is professionally cleaned and restored. Do not turn on any electronics such as computers, stereos, and TVs until you have had them checked for soot damaged. Computers can be especially vulnerable and ruined as soon as they are turned on if soot has made its way inside them. This soot also contains a corrosive element, which will damage home's building materials, and contents such as your electronics, furniture, clothing and more. Not only can this soot damage your property, it can also affect the health of your loved ones by causing respiratory problems. This soot will often have a very terrible odor that will swiftly travel throughout the home, and will need to be cleaned and deodorized in order to remove the offensive odor from your home. If the soot and smoke travels through your home's duct work, it will need to be cleaned and deodorized as well. You also need to have a professional check your furnace following a puff back, to avoid further incidents. You may have a faulty part or an oil burner that may need replacing. If the problem is ignored, it can cause repeated and long lasting effects to your home. Should you experience a furnace puff back, you should contact SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park at (857) 399-9797 to help with the cleanup.

Fire Safety Tips

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

Safety should be your priority especially when dealing with fires

The following are things you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your property in the event of a Fire:

SMOKE ALARMS AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

Install smoke alarms. Properly working smoke alarms decrease your chances of dying in a fire by half.

Place smoke alarms on every level of your residence, including the basement.

Install a working carbon monoxide detector in the common area of the bedrooms.

Test and clean smoke alarms once a month and replace batteries at least once a year. Replace smoke alarms once every 10 years.

COOKING SAFETY

Never leave cooking unattended.

Always wear short or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook.

Keep towels, pot holders and curtains away from flames

Never use the range or oven to heat your home.

ESCAPING THE FIRE

Have an escape plan. Review escape routes with your family.

Make sure windows are not nailed or painted shut.

Teach family members to stay low to the floor, where the air is safer, when escaping from a fire.

In high-rise, never lock fire exits or doorways, halls or stairways. Never prop stairway or other fire doors open.

HEATING SOURCE

Place space heaters at least three feet away from flammable/combustible materials.

Use only the type of fuel designated for your space heater.

MATCHES/LIGHTERS AND SMOKING

Keep matches/lighters away from children.

Never smoke in bed or when drowsy or medicated.

If you must smoke, do it responsibly.

ELECTRICAL WIRING

Inspect extension cords for frayed or exposed wires or loose plugs

Make sure outlets have cover plates and no exposed wiring.

Make sure wiring does not run under rugs, over nails, or across high traffic areas.

Do not overload extension cords or outlets.

If you do have a fire, please call SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park (857) 399-9797 to assist you in the cleanup.

Ladder Safety

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

Ladder safety is important

Take the time before you climb. Check to see if your ladder is safe to use before stepping foot on a rung. Ladders get thrown in and out of trucks and closets which may cause the ladders to get beat-up. A damaged ladder is unsafe to use and should be immediately taken out of service. 

If you notice any cracked or damaged uprights, braces, or rungs, the ladder should not be used. Loose nails, screws, bolts or other metal parts are also a huge red flag. The ladder rungs should be secure and clean of any oil or dirt. Foot treads should not be worn out and all of the ladder’s labels should be present and legible. As always, only use a ladder on a stable surface. If the ladder is rocking even slightly, or if you need to place something underneath the feet of the ladder to keep it stable, the ladder is unsafe for use.

Why is inspection so important? According to the World Health Organization, the United States has the most number of deaths caused by falls from ladders. Falls from ladders are also the leading cause of deaths in the construction industry. There are over 164,000 emergency room visits and 300 deaths from falling from ladders. The majority of falls from ladders that lead to death are from heights of 10 feet or less from the ground. The number of deaths has tripled over the past decade. Most of these deaths may have been prevented by inspecting ladders before use and putting defected ladders out of service. Another factor that may decrease the amount of fatalities and injuries due to falls from ladders is proper training.

The following list outlines just a few items to train employees in regards to the safe and proper use of ladders.

Always maintain 3-points of contact at all times when climbing

 Do not carry any materials up or down a ladder

 Wear a tool belt

 Use a hand line

 Face the ladder when ascending or descending

 Never overreach

 Work only within an arm’s reach of the ladder

 Keep your belt buckle between the sides rails of  the ladder at all times

Only allow one person to climb the ladder at a time

Extension Ladders:

Position the ladder at the proper pitch (1/4 rule)

Extend the side rails at least 36 inches or 3 rungs above

Secure the top of the ladder to help prevent shifting

If you have water or fire damage, please call SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park (857) 399-9797

Water Damage and Your Business

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to get you back to business!

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

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

SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. If your business has sustained a fire or water damage, please contact SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park (857) 399-9797 to assist you.

Stay Safe During Summer Time

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Stay safe during the summer

Don’t let your summer plans go up in flames! Simple ways to prevent a fire

Summer time is here and the last thing you want to deal with is a house fire! Some of the most common causes of fire damage are:

1. Cooking equipment
2. Careless smoking
3. Electrical equipment
4. Lawn Mowers
5. Barbeques
6. Flammable liquids

Many cooking fires are caused by grease or oil that ignites while unattended. A lot of grill fires are caused by mishandled propane gas. Smoking indoor or outdoor and not properly putting out the bud can spark a fire. Also lawn mowers can build up flammable vapors and when combined with heat source go up in flames in your garage. Short circuits and electrical malfunctions can also cause a fire to start in a home.

The good news is that all of these causes of fire can be prevented. When cooking for large group have a designated cook who will watch over the food on the stove or grill until it has cooked and then properly shuts the stove or grill. Always grill outdoors and away from any structures.  Have baking soda or a bucket of sand nearby in case you need to put out a fire. NEVER add water to grease fire. Try to smoke outdoors when you can, ensure the bud is completely put out by dipping in water or a bucket of sand.  Check the batteries on your smoke detectors regularly. Also, keep flammables away from fire sources. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby!

Accidents happen, in the unfortunate event that there is a fire call 911 immediately and get to a safe location!  

When the fire has been put out assess the damages to determine if you need to put in a claim with your property insurance carrier. Once complete begin the remediation process by reaching out to a professional like us! Although we cannot get what was lost back - Our job is to make it look like the fire never happened.

Lightning Cause Fires Too!

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help 365 24/7

Lightning peaks during the summer months around June – August here in Massachusetts. Lightning – related fires typically happen during the late afternoon and evening.

A simple Google search returns numerous counts of lightning fires that have occurred in our state in the recent years. One of the highest profiles was in 2018 where a 150 year old church in Wakefield, Ma went up in flames after being struck by lightning.

Lightening is normally accompanied by a storm which turns the day into darkness and at times is followed by rumbles in the air. To some it’s a scary experience. What is most important and the purpose of this post is that you know what to do in the event you find yourself near or in a property that is in flames due to being struck by lightning.

How do you know if your home was struck by lightning – one insurance company states: Expect to hear an explosive sound so loud and powerful that everything inside your house shakes.

Because lightning storms are so common, many newly constructed homes have been designed to withstand lightening strikes. Most homes are also equipped with some sort of surge protection. It is still recommended that you are still extra cautious with these simple steps:

1. Protect electrical equipment by unplugging them when you know a thunderstorm has surfaced.
2. If you have to talk on the phone during a lightning storm its best to use your cell phone
3. Stay away from windows and doors
4. Stay away from water until the storm has passed

In the event you believe your home was struck most times a fire will follow. Call 911 if you suspect there is a fire in your home and get to a safe location.

After the storm assess the damages (if any) to determine if you need to put in a claim with your property insurance carrier. Once complete begin the remediation process by reaching out to a professional like us 857-399-9797! Although we cannot get what was lost back - Our job is to make it look like the fire never happened.

Storms in the Summer Time

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Always be prepared, we are here to help when you need us

If you are a Boston resident you typically were looking forward to the warm weather given some of the cold days we experienced this past winter. Long behold summer is finally here! It’s a great time to visit the beaches and the beautiful towns of Boston. Just keep in mind, the summer weather also brings an increase in thunderstorm activity.

July is typically one of the hottest months of the summer in Boston with temperatures averaging over 80 degrees.  We also see the most thunderstorms in July than any other month. According to weather experts there is a higher chance of a tropical storm coming within 100 miles of Boston during the month of July.

What does this means for you as a home or business owner? It means you need to ensure your home and/or business is properly protected to prevent damage due to storm. One of the most common losses caused by storm is water seeping into the property causing a flood and damaging personal belongings. In addition, if moister is left then coupled with warm temperature it creates a breeding ground for mold. Fire’s can also start as a result of a storm. In the summer months it’s common for lightning to strike and cause a fire. Prepare yourself and business for anything that can happen this summer – good and bad.

In June our office answered to multiple water damage calls after rain fall. So far we have had more than 3 major rain fall this summer – each resulting in a few claims that our office attended to in the Mattapan & Hyde Park area. We were happy to be called but at least four of the losses could have been prevented had the business properly closed a window or checked if the sump pump was functioning properly. None the less, our team was available to help. We were able to address the cause of the damage, dry the area, then restore/replace the area “Like it never even happened.”

Summer time is for your enjoyment here at SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park we want to make sure you can get back to your summer time fun after a storm without a hitch. Call us in your time of need or if you want to be proactive and set up an Emergency Ready Profile call us today 857-399-9797.

Natural Disasters Can Happen Anywhere

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Natural Disasters Can Happen Anywhere- Be prepared

When natural disasters occur most times we have little time to prepare. A common natural disaster that not only affects coastal property is a flood. Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

A flood can be a result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems. They can develop slowly or quickly – Flash floods can come with no warning. When there is a flash flood there is typically no warning or very little time between when the warning is given and the onset of the flood. Floods have been known to cause electrical outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.

It is very important if you have been warned of a potential flood that you do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. It is very easy to drown during a flood - Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Be safe by evacuating if you are told to do so or moving to higher ground and/or level where possible. It is also recommended that you stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.

The best thing you can do is prepare yourself well in advance. Gather and store supplies in a safe place in case you have to leave immediately, or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each family members specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets either. Keep extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment so they are functioning during the time of need.

Once the warning is over and the storm has passed assess any damages to your home or business. Your top priority is still safety! Call your insurance provider if there were any damages – for a flood it would typically be FEMA on a specialized flood policy. Call SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park for the remediation and reconstruction of your property – 857-399-9797.

Power Outage Due to Storm

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Be safe during power outage

Storms can cause power outages that can span a couple of hours or even days. In the event your town or neighborhood is affected by a power outage here are a few tips to stay safe!

Before the storm:

• Purchase a flash light that runs on batteries
• have extra batteries available
• Invest in a generator if possible or rent one if you know a major storm is coming.
• Keep mobile phones and other electrical devices charged
• Keep your vehicle gas tank full just in case!
• Place a thermometer in your fridge and freezer so you can monitor the temperature during the storm
• Buy food supplies that do not require refrigeration
• Have a plan of where to go if the storm lasts more than 4 days. Community Centers are usually good places to go.

During the storm:

• Disconnect appliances, equipment or electronics
• Use a generator where possible to avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning from running the oven for heat or electrical stove.
• Keep freezer and refrigerators closed. Food will stay cold for about 3 days.
• Stay connected with family or local news so you are up to date on the status of the storm. This will also let you know if evacuation is necessary.

After the storm if you notice damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park 857-399-9797 so we can help get you back to pre loss conditions.

One Stop Disaster Cleanup

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

we are ready to help!

If you are looking for a company that can do it all when you have water, fire, mold or biohazard loss look no further because SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park has you covered. We are open to work with you directly and/or with insurance companies if you choose to put in a claim.

Remediation

During the remediation process if there is water damage entails extracting standing water if any and placing professional grade drying material to ensure the materials (dry wall, hardwood etc.) are completely dry to prevent the possible growth of mold. If there is fire damage our team will remove the affect area, most times it is wet from putting out the fire. If there are contaminants (sewage, plumbing back flow, etc.) our crew will use hospital grade material to remove and disinfect the whole premise. Once affected materials are removed, anti microbial agents are applied throughout the area. Lastly we apply drying equipment to ensure affected materials dry thoroughly.

Reconstruction

Our team has the capability to put your business or home back to pre damage condition with our construction team. We are one of the few businesses that can see a job through from start to finish. Our construction team has more than 20 years of construction experience and they are happy to work with our customers to get their home or business back to pre damage condition or better. Give us an opportunity and our team will not disappoint!

Call SERVPRO of Mattapan/Hyde Park today if you are facing a water damage issue in your home or business! We are available 24/7/365

#Massachusetts #Sewage #Bacteria #AlwaysOpen #LocalBusiness

https://www.mass.gov/guides/flooding-and-sewage-back-ups-home-care-guide

We are Cleaning Experts

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Boston! We are always here when you need us 24/7

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 Mattapan/Hyde Park, 857-399-9797

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html 

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

Your One Stop Shop

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

We remediate and reconstruct so you do not have to worry about hiring multiple contractors for one project.

Here at SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park our technicians are not only IICRC certified but they are also very knowledgeable in construction work. Most of our technicians have more than 20 years of construction experience. If your home or business experiences a major loss you can count on our team to not only clean and remediate but you can also count on us if you need your home to be put back to the way it was before the damage (reconstruction). This will ultimately allow you to keep your costs down since you are only working with one contractor. 

We pride ourselves in being able to meet all of our customers’ needs. We understand that at a time of loss the last thing you want to worry about is vetting another reliable contractor to help get your property back. You can be rest assured that with SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park you will receive quality work every time.

We always seek customer satisfaction prior to installation, midway, then at completion. All completed work is reviewed by one of the assigned project managers to further ensure quality. Our office will also place a courtesy call to ensure you were satisfied with the quality of work received from us. Customer service is very important to us, in the rare occasion you are dissatisfied with a job we did do not hesitate to give us a call and we can fix it.

We do every job to the highest standard so you are comfortable referring us to your family members or closest friends.

If you have a job you need our assistance call us today 857-399-9797

Your Business is Flooded. Now what?

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

We are available 24/7 to help business and residents at time of loss!

If your business has been affected by flood the most important thing you can do is act quickly to reduce the level of damage and try to contain recovery costs. If no one is injured the first thing you want to do is call your insurance company.  Then do the following:

Be Safe

Make sure your building is safe before you enter. Do a quick assessment of the exterior of the building to see if there are any structural damages. You should also check for possible electrical hazards. The safest thing you can do is to turn off the power if possible. Since there is the potential for electrocution if electricity is still running make sure you are wearing protective gear as you walk through the property.

Be Quick

Time is of the essence when dealing with standing water. It takes less than 48hours for mold to grow and spread. For this reason you want to quickly remove the excess water. Open windows and use air movers to help with drying. You then want to ensure there are no pockets of concealed water – either under carpet or on water absorbing material (ie. concrete).  If flood is laden with bacteria or chemicals do not try to clean on your own get a professional like SERVPRO Mattapan & Hyde Park involved.

If you have suffered a flood or other water disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park 857-399-9797

Be Thorough

Make sure you document everything! Take a picture of the damaged condition and anything you are throwing out. This will be important for the recovery process with your insurance company.

If all of this seems like a lot of work that you are not ready or do not have the time to take on do not worry! SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park can ease the stress and complete the entire process for you. All we need is your insurance carrier name and your claim number and we will take care of the rest. We are here for you during this time of need and our trained technicians will make the damage look “Like it never even happened.”

Be Prepared for Natural Disasters

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Inclimate weather is very common in Boston, MA year round.

When natural disasters occur most times we have little time to prepare. A common natural disaster that not only affects coastal property is a flood. Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.

A flood can be a result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems. They can develop slowly or quickly – Flash floods can come with no warning. When there is a flash flood there is typically no warning or very little time between when the warning is given and the onset of the flood. Floods have been known to cause electrical outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.

It is very important if you have been warned of a potential flood that you do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. It is very easy to drown during a flood - Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Be safe by evacuating if you are told to do so or moving to higher ground and/or level where possible. It is also recommended that you stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.

The best thing you can do is prepare yourself well in advance. Gather and store supplies in a safe place in case you have to leave immediately, or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each family members specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets either. Keep extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment so they are functioning during the time of need.

Once the warning is over and the storm has passed assess any damages to your home or business. Your top priority is still safety! Call your insurance provider if there were any damages – for a flood it would typically be FEMA on a specialized flood policy. Call SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park for the remediation and reconstruction of your property – (857) 399-9797.

Insurance Claims Process

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

We make the process easier for you

If you have suffered a disaster at your home or business the last thing you want is more things to worry about. For this reason our team ensures they make the claim process as stress free as possible. SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park will help the damage look “Like it never even happened.” That way you and your family or business can get back to what is important.

Our goal is to make the insurance process as smooth as possible. Therefore, we will:

• create thorough visual and written documentation of the damage to your home or business
• document the condition of each item we remove for cleaning or storage
• work directly with your insurer, communicating with you at all times
• handle the paperwork to make sure the processing and payment of your claim is as fast as it can be

We are so proud that so many insurance companies recommend SERVPRO to their clients because working with us makes their jobs easier.

Our Team is here for you if you experience a disaster. Our technicians have specialized training and years of experience in water, fire, mold and bio-hazard clean up and restoration services. Call SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park 857-399-9797 we are available 24/7.

Common Water Damage Causes

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Flood from plumbing issues in a commercial building in Boston, MA.

Appliances

Household appliances such as a dishwasher, washing machine and refrigerators can malfunction and cause water damage. Review the factory recommended replacement time to avoid damages due to wear and tear. The older the appliance is the more susceptible the pipes and hose are to deterioration. Many of these appliances come with a limited warranty if the appliance is faulty before the warranty is up. Keep a log and include each appliances recommended life cycle so you know when it is time to replace or schedule a maintenance check up for the appliance.

Leaking Pipes

Drains, toilets, and sinks can get backed up and blocked. This blockage creates pressure in the pipe which ultimately leads to the pipe bursting or leaking. If you have a garbage disposal it is wise to have someone look at it if it is not working properly as they are common causes of water damage as well. Set a reminder for you to check all pipes in the home and try your best to replace old rusty pipes because they are more prone to leaking. It’s harder to detect if there is a pipe leak if the pipes are covered by a wall or other items. In this case the only way to know is once there is build up and the surface shows the water markings.

HVAC

Heating, Ventilating, and air conditioning unit are also a common cause of water damage. When not maintained properly they can cause water build up. When the moister settles and cools it can interact with mold spores in any of the HVAC units and cause mold to grow.

What should you do after water leak?

The first thing you should do is see if it is possible to find the source of the water damage. That way you can either turn off the water or try to minimize the damage. Second, you will want to contact a water damage remediation company like us. You do not want to delay the steps above because the longer water sits the higher the changes of mold developing. If water has been sitting for more that 48hrs chances are mold is growing. By contacting a professional like SERVPRO of Mattapan and Hyde Park you will ensure that the water is extracted, your property is dried, and mold is prevented. Lastly, contact your insurance company to see if you have coverage for the damaged property.

Call us today for more information: 857-399-9797

Don't Ignore Your Crawl Space

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Crawl space in Boston home flooded after heavy rain

A crawl space is a small space below your home that some contractors use to place wiring and plumbing. A lot of times this area is neglected by homes owners either because it’s an inconvenient space (small and dark) or they simply do not realize they have a crawl space. The issue with ignoring this space is that it is very susceptible to damages (for example: water, mold, rodent infestation). 

It is common for a crawl space to be flooded by water after heavy rain fall or if a pipe is damaged for whatever reason. Because a crawl space is usually small and dark moister can settle and cause the growth of mold spores which eventually spread throughout the area. The septic tank can also overflow and cause raw sewage to spew into crawl space.

In all, it is very important, if you have a crawl space, that you keep the area clean and have a plan in the event you discover water damage, mold growth, animal infestation and/or raw sewage in the space. You should start by knowing who the professionals are!

Contact SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park today 857-399-9797 and we can answer any questions and help in the event of an emergency.

Trauma & Clean Up

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Technician in personal protective equipment while cleaning a trauma site

If you are in the hospitality business then you know that fatalities happen in the facility. Maybe more than you would like. 

Under the Federal Government and Department of Labor, OSHA has created regulations concerning the handling of items or objects that may have been contaminated with blood and/or bodily fluids. These regulations are in place to not only protect the general public but also, the professionals doing the cleaning. Potential pathogens in bodily fluids include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and prions. It is extremely important that the standards are abided to not only to prevent the spread of possible disease but also to avoid hefty fines from the Environmental Protection Agency EPA.

It is important to note that cleaning cannot and will not begin at a trauma site until police actions are completed and the site is released by police. We stress the importance of performing quality cleaning services to prevent cross contamination. For this reason we clean the ceiling down to the floor. Our techs will be in special protective gear and use EPA certified products to clean the affected areas.

Time is of the essence when dealing with cleaning a trauma site because the longer the pathogen settles the harder it is to clean the surface and eliminate contaminates.  Because we have experience in this field our team already knows the process and what to do – so you can be rest assured the cleanup will be done right and under Federal standards.  Call SERVPRO of Mattapan & Hyde Park when you need us 857-399-9797!

#SERVPRO #Mattapan #HydePark #trauma #cleanup #remediation #safetyfirst #PPE

Sewage Back Up in Commercial Spaces

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Industrial building in Boston affected by sewage backup

Sewer back ups are not only common in residential facilities! They also happen in business facilities! 

One of the most common causes of sewer backups in business facilities is the flushing of items down the toilet. Most businesses have posts in bathroom stalls asking that people not flush items other than toilet paper. Other causes of sewer back up can be worn out piping when the pipes are old it is easier to be damaged. Beware of tree roots as they can enter the pipes or even crush the pipes and cause damage.  

In the picture we responded to sewage back up in a commercial facility due to a sewer line clog. Our customer had posts in their backroom stalls and other forms of non toilet paper waste removal products. Unfortunately, someone flushed something down the toilet which clogged their system and resulted in the flooding of their basement with biohazard material. Due to our previous relationship with this business, they knew exactly who to call - SERVPRO Mattapan & Hyde Park to help remediate the situation.

Raw sewage material is dangerous, because it contains bacteria and other potential pathogens. For this reason it is strongly recommended that you contact a professional for the containment and cleanup process. Our team will be dressed in protective gear and use specialized products to properly clean the affected area. 

If you are a facilities manager, I’m sure this can be frustrating at times since you all are doing everything in your control to try to prevent clogged plumbing. If your business has high traffic like a healthcare facility, school, or retail to name a few, the best thing you can do is prepare yourself and know who to call. Sewage back up is more common than you may think so be prepared.  Worry not! Whether it is a residential or commercial space, we respond fast and arrive with the resources needed to assist you any time, any day. We are located in your backyard!

At SERVPRO Mattapan & Hyde Park we make long lasting relationships with surrounding companies and build trusting partnerships that allow us to engage with our community.  With our help, the business pictured was back to normal "Like it never even happened."

Does Your business Have An Emergency Plan?

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Plan - Multiple ways to access to ensure you are always ready

When accidents strike they do not care whether you are prepared or not! As a business it is vital that you know what to do, who to call, and how you will bounce back in the event of an emergency.  The fact is that as many as one in four businesses that suffer a major disaster will not reopen afterward. Do not let your business become a statistic!

Here at SERVPRO Mattapan & Hyde Park we pride ourselves in being a resource to the businesses in our community. It is important to us that the businesses in our community and surrounding communities survive. SERVPRO has a Free Emergency Ready Profile that your business can use to help prepare you in the event of a major disaster. Studies show that the faster you can react to a disaster it lowers the damage done. The profile helps store everything you need such as contact information, locations of shut off valves, pictures and so much more to help in the event there is a disaster. The profile you create for your business is also useful to us as it will inform us of where our vehicles should park in the event of a loss. This is helpful in the event you do not want to bring public attention to the fact that your business is experiencing some kind of loss. 

We understand you may already have a facilities manager or be a facilities manager who knows the ins and outs of the building. The profile is not meant to replace a facilities manager in any way – it’s a resource for them.  Anything can happen and as a business you want to make sure whoever is nearby can pick up your profile and depending on the type of disaster know exactly who to contact and what to do if anything.

The Emergency Ready Profile can be distributed in digital form and/or hard copy. We understand that as a business too much time cannot be wasted, for that reason the profile can be completed within 30 minutes.  If you are interested in creating an Emergency Ready Profile for your business Call us today 857-399-9797. We will set up a time for an office representative to go to your business to fill out the profile for you for free!

Why so many choose SERVPRO

1/15/2020 (Permalink)

Our fleet of vehicles. We are ready for any size disaster

Why so many choose SERVPRO

It's more than just the brand recognition, it’s also the qualified personnel, the expertise and dedication to the community that make us the place to call. Below are additional reasons why:  

Qualified

We have the best training in the industry. Each team member is trained in clean up and restoration which can range from bio hazard, fire, mold to water damage. We are IICRC certified (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certificate) for fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our job is to make sure our clients understand the loss and how we will help restore their home or facility. We live up to the motto and we leave each location looking “Like it never even happened.”

Immediate

Our team understands that the best way to limit further damage is to begin the clean up and restore the property as soon as possible. For this reason our team is available 24/7 - day, night, or holiday!  This also helps with keeping costs down. We strive to always answer the first call or respond within a few hours.

Latest Technology

We take pride in the fact that we are able to keep up with some of the advancements technology has to offer. This allows us to restore your property as quickly and efficiently as possible so you can get back to what you were doing preloss.

No Loss Too Big or Too Small

Whether you have multiple locations, or a room that has suffered a loss we can help restore your property.  SERVPRO is a national company and as a result our SERVPRO of Mattapan and Hyde Park team has access to the 1,800+ other franchises to handle any scope of loss.  You call us and we will handle the rest!

Future Loss Prevention

With every job we ensure we understand what the cause of the loss was. We do this to ensure the cause of loss is addressed to prevent similar damage from occurring again.

Our Community

We love what we do and the ability to help our community. We know the roads, the neighborhoods, and what makes our towns so special. It is important to us that our town thrives so we are highly motivated to do all we can to make this an even better town to live in.

Help is always here

Whether you have a question or a loss give us a call and we will help 617-903-5055. We serve ALL - businesses, home owners, property managers and tenants in the Mattapan and Hyde Park area. ensure that the water is extracted, your property is dried, and mold is addressed if necessary. Third, contact your insurance company to see if you have coverage for the damaged property.