Essential Fire Damage Preparedness Tips for Property Managers

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

Fire damage preparedness is a critical aspect of property management.

As a property manager, one of your top priorities is ensuring the safety and well-being of your tenants and the properties you oversee. Fire damage can be devastating, causing significant property loss, disruption, and potential harm to occupants. By implementing proactive fire damage preparedness measures, property managers can help minimize risks, protect their investments, and keep tenants safe. In this blog, we will explore essential fire damage preparedness tips specifically tailored for property managers.

Conduct Regular Fire Inspections and Maintenance

Schedule routine inspections of the property's fire safety systems, including smoke detectors, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers. Ensure that they are properly installed, functioning correctly, and meet current fire codes and regulations. Regular maintenance and testing will help identify and address any potential issues promptly.

Develop and Communicate Fire Safety Policies

Create clear fire safety policies for the property, outlining evacuation procedures, designated assembly areas, and emergency contact information. Communicate these policies to all tenants and regularly remind them of the importance of fire safety practices, such as not blocking fire exits, keeping common areas clear of flammable materials, and reporting any potential fire hazards.

Provide Fire Safety Training and Resources

Organize fire safety training sessions for both property staff and tenants. This training should cover essential topics such as fire prevention, evacuation procedures, and proper usage of fire extinguishers. Additionally, equip common areas and units with fire safety resources, including informational posters, escape route diagrams and emergency contact information prominently displayed.

Maintain Adequate Fire Insurance Coverage

Ensure that the property has comprehensive fire insurance coverage to protect against potential damages. Regularly review and update the insurance policy to reflect any changes in the property's value or renovations. It is advisable to consult with an insurance professional to understand the specific coverage needed for your property.

Establish Relationships with Fire Professionals

Develop partnerships with reputable fire protection companies and disaster restoration specialists. These experts can provide valuable guidance, conduct thorough fire risk assessments, and assist in creating comprehensive emergency response plans. Having trusted professionals readily available can expedite the restoration process in case of fire-related incidents.

Create an Emergency Response Plan

Work with your team to establish a detailed emergency response plan specifically tailored for fire incidents. This plan should outline roles and responsibilities, evacuation procedures, communication protocols, and coordination with local fire departments. Regularly practice fire drills to ensure that all staff and tenants are familiar with the procedures and can respond quickly and efficiently in an emergency.

Fire damage preparedness is a critical aspect of property management. By implementing these fire safety tips, property managers can proactively protect their investments, minimize risks, and ensure the safety of tenants. Remember, prevention is key, but in the unfortunate event of a fire, prompt action and cooperation with trusted fire restoration professionals will aid in swift recovery and restoration.

At SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo, we specialize in fire damage restoration and are here to assist property managers in mitigating the effects of fire incidents. Our experienced team is equipped with the knowledge and resources to restore properties efficiently and effectively, minimizing downtime and ensuring a safe environment for occupants.

Common Types of Storm Damage in California

1/11/2024 (Permalink)

Our experienced team specializes in storm damage restoration and can help mitigate the effects of water, fire, and structural damage.

California, known for its diverse landscapes and beautiful weather, can also experience severe storms that pose risks to homes and properties. Understanding the common types of storm damage and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the impact on your property. Let's delve into some of the typical storm damage scenarios in California and how you can safeguard your home.

Heavy Rain and Flood Damage

California occasionally faces heavy rainfall, leading to flooding. To prevent flood damage:

• Ensure proper drainage around your property by cleaning gutters and downspouts regularly.
• Install sump pumps and consider elevating appliances and electrical systems if you live in flood-prone areas.
• Seal any foundation cracks and invest in flood barriers or sandbags as a preventive measure.

Wildfires and Fire Damage

California is susceptible to wildfires, especially in dry seasons. To protect against fire damage:

• Clear flammable debris from around your home, maintaining a defensible space.
• Use fire-resistant materials for roofing and siding.
• Keep an accessible and functional fire extinguisher in your home and create an evacuation plan.

Strong Winds and Structural Damage

High winds during storms can cause significant structural damage. Consider these measures:

• Regularly inspect and maintain your roof for loose shingles or weak spots.
• Trim overhanging branches and secure outdoor furniture and objects that could become projectiles.
• Reinforce garage doors and windows with impact-resistant materials or shutters.

Mudslides and Erosion

In hilly or mountainous regions, heavy rains can trigger mudslides. Mitigate these risks:

• Plant vegetation and install retaining walls to prevent soil erosion.
• Divert water away from slopes by using drainage systems and redirecting downspouts.

Power Outages and Electrical Damage

Lightning strikes or strong storms can cause power outages and electrical issues. Consider these precautions:

• Invest in surge protectors to safeguard electronics and appliances.
• Inspect and maintain your electrical system, and consider installing a generator for backup power.

Remember, preparation is key to minimizing storm damage. Create an emergency kit with essentials, including water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and first aid supplies. Stay informed about weather forecasts and heed evacuation warnings if issued.

By staying proactive and implementing preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the impact of storms on your home in California. Don't wait until the last minute; take action now to protect your property and loved ones.

In case your property experiences storm damage, contact SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo for immediate assistance. Our experienced team specializes in storm damage restoration and can help mitigate the effects of water, fire, and structural damage.

10 Tips for Preventing Water Damage

12/20/2023 (Permalink)

While Marina Del Rey offers picturesque views of the ocean, it's crucial for homeowners to protect their properties from potential water damage. In this blog, we'll provide essential DIY tips to help you prevent water damage and preserve the beauty and value of your Marina Del Rey home.

1. Maintain Your Roof

A well-maintained roof is your first line of defense against water intrusion. Inspect your roof regularly for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or signs of wear. Repair any issues promptly to prevent leaks during heavy rain.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters and downspouts can lead to water overflowing and causing damage to your home's foundation. Clean them regularly to ensure proper water drainage away from your property.

3. Seal Windows and Doors

Check for gaps or cracks around windows and doors. Seal any openings with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent rainwater from seeping indoors.

4. Inspect Plumbing

Regularly inspect your plumbing for leaks, especially in areas prone to water damage like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Fix any leaks promptly to prevent further damage.

5. Test Sump Pump

If your home has a sump pump, ensure it is in working order. Test it periodically to make sure it can effectively remove excess water from your basement or crawl space.

6. Install a Water Alarm

Consider installing water alarms in vulnerable areas of your home, such as the basement or near water heaters and appliances. These alarms can alert you to potential leaks or flooding.

7. Maintain Landscaping

Proper landscaping can help prevent water from pooling near your foundation. Ensure the ground slopes away from your home, and use mulch or gravel to improve drainage.

8. Regularly Inspect Appliances

Appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators can develop leaks over time. Check hoses and connections regularly and replace them if you notice signs of wear.

9. Store Valuables Wisely

Store valuable items and important documents in waterproof containers or on elevated shelves, especially if you have a basement or are at risk of flooding.

10. Be Prepared for Storms

Monitor weather forecasts, especially during the rainy season. Consider investing in sandbags or flood barriers to protect your property if severe weather is expected.

Preventing water damage in your Marina Del Rey home is a proactive step in maintaining your property's value and your family's safety and comfort. While these DIY tips can help you mitigate potential risks, it's essential to be prepared for unexpected water damage events. If you ever face water damage in your home, SERVPRO® is here to assist you. Our team has the expertise and equipment to handle water damage restoration promptly and effectively, ensuring your home is back to its pre-damage condition. Stay proactive, stay prepared, and enjoy the beauty of Marina Del Rey without worrying about water damage.

How to Remove Dryer Lint from the Exhaust

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

Regularly removing lint from your dryer's exhaust system is a crucial maintenance task that promotes efficient drying and prevents potential fire hazards. Over time, lint can accumulate in the exhaust vent, restricting airflow and increasing the risk of dryer fires. In this blog post, we will guide you through the essential steps to safely and effectively remove dryer lint from the exhaust, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing fire risks.

Turn Off the Dryer and Unplug It

Before starting any maintenance on your dryer, ensure that it is turned off and unplugged from the power source. This precaution is necessary to avoid any potential accidents while working on the appliance.

The dryer exhaust vent is typically located at the back of the dryer, where the flexible or rigid duct connects to the machine. Sometimes, the vent may be located on the side or the top of the dryer. Locate the vent and prepare for the lint removal process.

Disconnect the Dryer from the Vent

Depending on the type of vent connection, you may need to loosen or unscrew the clamps or fasteners that hold the duct in place. Carefully disconnect the dryer from the vent, ensuring not to damage any components or connections in the process.

Go outside your home and locate the exterior vent opening. Remove any visible lint or debris from the vent cover using your hands or a brush. This step helps ensure that the expelled air can flow freely and prevents any blockages.

Remove Lint from the Duct

Using a flexible brush or a specialized dryer vent cleaning kit, carefully insert the brush or attachment into the dryer duct. Gently push the brush in, rotating it as you go to dislodge and collect the trapped lint. Pull out the brush or attachment periodically to remove the accumulated lint. Repeat this process until you have thoroughly cleaned the entire length of the duct.

After cleaning the dryer duct, inspect the vent connection on both the dryer and the wall or floor. Remove any lint or debris from these areas, ensuring a clean and unobstructed connection. Reconnect the duct to the dryer, making sure it is securely fastened.

Perform a Test Run

Once you have reconnected the dryer, plug it back in and turn it on. Run a test cycle to ensure that the dryer is functioning properly and that air is flowing freely through the exhaust vent. Monitor the operation for any signs of restricted airflow or unusual noises, which may indicate further maintenance is required.

To prevent future lint buildup, make a habit of cleaning the dryer exhaust vent at least once a year. However, if you notice reduced drying efficiency or experience any unusual issues, consider more frequent cleaning. Regularly clean the lint trap inside the dryer after each use to minimize lint accumulation in the exhaust system.

Removing lint from your dryer's exhaust vent is a simple yet crucial maintenance task that promotes safety and efficiency. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can effectively clear the lint buildup, ensuring optimal dryer performance and minimizing the risk of fire hazards. Remember to perform regular maintenance and keep the dryer exhaust vent clean to ensure a safe and efficient drying process for years to come.

Uncovering the Truth: Does Your Commercial Insurance Policy Cover Mold Damage?

6/8/2023 (Permalink)

Mold damage is the result of mold infestation. Mold spores are microscopic, but Mold can spread quickly.  When you see or smell mold, it's important to take action before the problem gets worse. If you have a commercial insurance policy that covers mold damage and your property has been affected by it, then you may be able to get reimbursed for any repairs or replacements that were necessary after the incident occurred.

What Does Commercial Insurance Cover?

Commercial insurance policies come in a variety of types, but they all share the same basic coverage for mold damage. The following are some common commercial insurance policies:

• Business owners policy (BOP)
• Commercial property policy (CPP)
• General liability insurance (GL)
• Workers compensation insurance (WCI)

How Do I File a Claim for Mold Damage?

To file a claim for mold damage, you will need to document the damage and estimate the cost of repair. You can use this information to help you file your insurance claim.

Once your home has been cleaned up and repaired, be sure to take pictures of the area before repairs are made so that you have a record of what it looked like before any work was done. If there were any items damaged by water or mold (such as furniture), take photos of those items as well so that they can be replaced with new ones by your insurance company if necessary.

The next step is estimating how much money it will cost to repair all of these damages--and this might include more than just replacing damaged property with new items: if there were structural issues related directly with mold growth (such as cracking walls), then those costs may also need factored into determining how much money should be reimbursed by an insurer once they've reviewed all available documentation provided by homeowners who filed claims against them following such incidents occurring within their homes' walls.

How Can I Avoid Mold Damage?

When it comes to preventing mold damage, there are a few things you can do. First, maintain proper humidity levels in your building by using a dehumidifier or air conditioner if necessary. Second, regularly inspect for signs of mold and fix any water damage quickly. If you have an area in your building where moisture is an issue (such as near plumbing), consider installing a ventilation system that will help keep the air dryer and less hospitable to mold growth.

What Should I Do If I Have a Mold Problem?

If you think you have a mold problem, the first thing to do is hire a professional mold removal service. These companies have trained technicians who can identify and remove all traces of mold from your property. They'll also make sure that their work is done safely and according to industry standards.

Mold is a serious problem that can cause significant damage to your business. If you have any questions about mold insurance and how it works, contact SERVPRO® today!

Preventing Disaster: Understanding the Leading Causes of Home Fires

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

Home fires are a devastating and often preventable tragedy. Fires can quickly spread, destroying homes and belongings, and causing injury or even death. It's important to understand the leading causes of home fires in order to prevent them from occurring.

Cooking-related fires are the leading cause of home fires. This can happen when food is left unattended on the stove or in the oven, or when cooking oil ignites. To prevent cooking-related fires, it's important to stay in the kitchen when cooking and keep flammable objects like towels and oven mitts away from heat sources. It's also important to keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it in case of an emergency.

Heating equipment, such as space heaters and wood stoves, is another common cause of home fires. These fires can occur when heating equipment is too close to flammable objects, like curtains or furniture, or when the equipment is not properly maintained. To prevent heating-related fires, it's important to keep a safe distance between heating equipment and flammable objects, and to have the equipment inspected and maintained regularly by a professional.

Electrical fires are also a common cause of home fires. This can happen when electrical appliances are left on for extended periods of time, or when faulty wiring causes a spark. To prevent electrical fires, it's important to use appliances according to their instructions, avoid overloading electrical outlets, and have faulty wiring repaired by a licensed electrician.

Smoking-related fires are another common cause of home fires. These fires can occur when smoking materials, such as cigarettes or cigars, are not properly extinguished. To prevent smoking-related fires, it's important to avoid smoking indoors, and to always use a fire-safe ashtray.

Candles are a common cause of home fires. This can happen when candles are left unattended, or when they are placed too close to flammable objects. To prevent candle-related fires, it's important to never leave candles unattended, and to keep them away from curtains, bedding, and other flammable objects.

In addition to these common causes of home fires, it's important to also be aware of other potential fire hazards, such as children playing with matches or lighters, and flammable liquids like gasoline or propane.

Preventing home fires requires diligence and awareness. By understanding the leading causes of home fires and taking steps to prevent them, we can help keep our homes and families safe. It's important to have working smoke detectors installed in the home and to regularly test them to ensure they are functioning properly. Have an escape plan in place and make sure everyone in the household knows what to do in case of a fire emergency. Taking these steps can help prevent home fires and save lives.

Prepare your company for a Storm

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

Hurricanes, typhoons, and other types of storms can strike suddenly and without warning. If you're a business owner or manager who lives in an area prone to severe weather events, it's important to be prepared for any potential damage that could occur during these storms. Having proper insurance coverage is one way to protect your company's assets, but there are other things you should do before a storm hits as well.

Determine your risk.

The first step to preparing your company for a storm is determining your risk. There are many factors that go into determining how much exposure you have, and it's important to understand them all before deciding how much money should be put aside for disaster relief.

• What is the nature of your business? If you run an e-commerce site, for example, then the risk of losing internet access during a storm may not be as great as if you own an auto repair shop in New York City (which would obviously suffer more damage).
• How likely is it that a particular type of weather event could occur? For example: Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30 each year, however there are other types of storms that can happen at other times during the year.

Prepare for the worst.

The first step is to prepare for the worst. This means having a plan in place for when you're without power, water, food and medical care for days at a time.

If you run an office or business with employees or customers who rely on your facility in order to do their jobs--or if they simply need it as a meeting place--you need to make sure that everyone knows what they should do if there's an evacuation order issued by local authorities. Have your company documents in proper order. Make sure you have copies of all important documents, keep in a secure location, and make sure they are up to date, including insurance documentation.

Perform a property inventory and inspection.

If your company was affected by a storm, it's important to document the damage and make sure you have proof of what happened. Take photos of any damage to your building, including trees that may have fallen onto or near it. Also take photos of any storm-related problems with utilities (gas, water and electricity). If there is evidence of structural damage from wind or flooding in surrounding areas such as broken windows or downed power lines on neighboring properties, take pictures of those too.

Inspect the Roofing and Building

If it's safe to do so, inspect the roof of your building and surrounding areas, including trees near the building or on nearby properties. Look for damage to the roof and any signs of leaks. Check for loose tiles or other debris that could be blown away in the wind. Also look for any trees that may have fallen on your building or nearby properties, as well as wires that may have been damaged during winds or lightning strikes.

Protect Doors and Windows

If you have glass doors and windows, put up temporary protection for them that can be removed after the storm. You can use plywood, plastic sheeting or tarps to cover the window frames. Secure these covers with rope or bungee cords so they don't blow away in high winds. Avoid using nails or screws because they may become loose during a hurricane and damage someone's property when they come loose during a storm surge (a rise in sea level caused by strong winds). Tape will also lose its adhesion after being exposed to humidity for an extended period of time

Stay away from floodwaters

Stay away from floodwaters. Don't ever drink floodwater, even if it looks clear. Don't use floodwater for cleaning purposes, it may contain chemicals such as oil, gasoline and sewage. Do not swim in any standing water; swimming pools are usually safe because they have been chlorinated, but ponds, lakes and rivers may not be so clean.

Following these tips after a storm can help reduce flood damage and ensure your business is back up and running quickly. SERVPRO has the experience and expertise to return your property back to pre storm conditions. 

Tips to Keep your family safe incase of a Fire

2/15/2023 (Permalink)

Fire is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). While there are many safety measures that you can take to protect yourself, including installing smoke alarms and fire extinguishers in your home and practicing fire drills with your children, there's one thing that people often forget, testing your smoke detectors and having a fire escape plan incase of a fire emergency.

How often should you test them? That depends on several factors. If you have central air conditioning or heat that automatically kicks on when it senses smoke, then it may be best to test them once a month. Monthly tests are ideal because this allows homeowners time to notice any problems before they become serious issues. Here's what else you need to know about checking your home's safety against fire hazards:

Check your Smoke Alarms Monthly

If you have a hardwired smoke alarm, check the wiring and make sure that there are no exposed wires. If you have a battery-operated smoke alarm, replace the batteries. If you have a combination smoke alarm (a type of device that combines both smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector), replace the batteries for both devices.

Make sure you have enough Smoke Alarms in your home

Smoke alarms, like all electrical devices, have a lifespan. The average smoke alarm lasts about 10 years, but there are other factors that will shorten or extend the life of your smoke detector. If you have an old home with original wiring from the 1970s or 1980s, it's likely that some of your smoke detectors are older than that and need to be replaced.

Any time you see signs of wear on your existing smoke alarms (mushroom-like growth around the base of the device or discoloration to its cover), it's time to replace them with new ones.

How many? Most people need at least one in every bedroom and hallway in their home. Some people install them in kitchens just to be safe. You can never have enough to help keep your family safe.

Have a Fire Escape Plan

• As a homeowner, you should have a fire escape plan.
• Practice your plan with everyone in your household.
• Make sure everyone knows the plan and can get out of the house in case of an emergency. A good way to do this is to practice going through it once or twice a year or when there’s a change in people living in your home (e.g., a new baby).
• Have fire extinguishers throughout the home: one in the kitchen and one near each bedroom door; also have one outside near the furnace room or basement entrance.

Teach Children what to do in case of a Fire

The most important thing you can do is teach your kids what to do in case of a fire. Teach them to get out, stay out and call 9-1-1 from a safe place.

Teach them to stay low to the ground, crawl and avoid smoke. Remind them not to stop and play in the hallways. Show them what it looks like when smoke comes through an open door or window by blowing gently on a piece of paper until it smokes up.

Also teach your kids what a real fire alarm sounds like so they don't mistake it for their toy whistle or something else that makes noise.

Fire safety is important for everyone, but especially for children and the elderly. If you have elderly or children living in your home, ensure your smoke detectors are working properly. Keeping regular checks on your smoke alarms can help protect and keep your family safe.

How is Mold Identified?

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

Mold is a living organism, so it adapts to its environment. Even if you have seen mold before, it may be different every time because it has grown into different shapes, sizes, and colors. The best way to identify the type of mold in your home is to contact an experienced professional who can inspect your home and determine what type of species are growing there as well as what kind of remediation process will be needed.

Mold Identification is a Complex Subject

It can be difficult to identify mold. This article will explain the basics of mold growth, how to spot it and whether you need to treat your home.

Mold can be found in many places around your home, particularly if there’s been water damage or flooding. While most people think of mold as being black or greenish-black, it can also appear as dark brown or grayish-white. It's important not to confuse molds with other types of fungus that may be growing in your home too – these might look similar but aren't harmful like true molds are!

Why is Mold Identification Important?

The first and most important reason to identify mold is that it can cause extensive damage to your property and belongings. Mold growth can eat through a variety of materials, including wood, drywall, and even furniture. If you find that there is mold on your property, it’s best to act quickly and remove the source of moisture before it spreads further.

Mold identification is also important because it can be expensive! Often times people will try to remove mold themselves in their homes or businesses without knowing exactly what they are doing which can cause additional damage and lead them down a rabbit hole of cost. While this isn’t always true, most times, hiring professionals with experience working with this kind of material is worth every penny you spend on them!

Professional Mold Inspection and Identification

Mold inspectors are trained and experienced in identifying mold. They will use a variety of tools to identify the presence of mold, including microscopes to see visible mold spores on surfaces or in air samples. Moisture meters can be used to measure moisture content in building materials, like wood or drywall. Air quality testing can also help identify if there is an elevated level of mold spores in your home’s air that may not be visible to the naked eye.

The most important thing to remember when trying to identify mold is that there are many kinds of mold and each one has its own set of characteristics. Most people can learn how to identify some types of mold but it takes years of experience with the subject matter before someone can say they know what they’re doing. If you have an issue with mold in your home or business, then call a professional!

How to File a Storm Damage Insurance Claim

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damaged house in Marina del Rey, CA.

What Steps To Take When Filing a Claim After a Storm?

The aftermath of a storm can be devastating. Not only do you have to deal with the damage to your property, but also any other losses that might come from it. Luckily, homeowners’ insurance can help cover many of these costs and get you back on your feet. But you need to know exactly what steps to take when filing a claim after a storm — and how to do it right away. Here are some tips…

Confirm Your Deductible

It’s important to know your deductible amount before you file a claim. If you haven’t already, confirm this with your insurance company.

The deductible is the amount of money that you must pay before the insurance company pays for storm damage repairs. Typically, deductibles are expressed as a percentage of the total value of damaged property or as a flat fee. You will have to pay this amount before they start making payments on your behalf to cover costs associated with cleaning up from and repairing storm damage caused by high winds, hail, lightning strikes, etc.

Find Out If The Damage Is Covered By Insurance

You can do this by calling your agent or company representative and reviewing the policy. If it's not covered, you may have to pay for the damage yourself.

If you can file a claim, start by reporting any storm-related damages as soon as possible. Your insurer will likely ask that you submit photos or videos of the damage and make a list of what happened so they can assess its extent.

Document The Damage

With your insurance agent in tow, take photos of the damage and write down an itemized list of damaged items. If possible, don't move any furniture or appliances until you have a repair estimate from a contractor or repairman.

When you have estimates for repairs and replacements, be sure to make copies with the name and contact information for the contractor or repairman in case you need to get more work done at a later date.

Take Pictures

The next thing you need to do is take pictures of the damage. This will help you prove your claims and avoid disputes with the insurance company. Take photos of the entire building, including any parts that are or were damaged during the storm. You should also take photos of everything inside your home at this time (and keep them for reference).

You should also take photos of any personal belongings that were damaged or destroyed, as well as any other property damage caused by the storm (such as cracks in walls or floors). If there is no visible evidence of damage on a piece of furniture or electronics item, but it still seems like something is wrong with it.

Notify Your Mortgage Company

It's important to notify your mortgage company of any storm damage. If the damage is severe enough, they might foreclose on your home if you don't tell them about it—even if you've already filed a claim with an insurance company. You may also need to pay for repairs yourself and then get reimbursed by your insurance company. If that happens, wait until all the repairs have been made before submitting another claim with your property insurer so that both are covered by the same policy at once.

Call Your Agent or Company Representative Immediately

If you have a claim, call your agent or company representative immediately. Tell them what happened and ask them what to do next. If they are not available, leave a message on their voicemail or send an e-mail with the following information:

• The date, time, and location of the damage
• A brief description of the damage
• Information about any people or pets involved in this loss

If you’ve suffered storm damage, it’s important to file a claim as soon as possible. This will help you get the money you need to repair your home and property in Marina del Rey, CA.

How to Avoid Water Damage While on Vacation

11/7/2022 (Permalink)

Are You Going on Vacation and Worried About Water Damage?

This article is here to help! Here are some top tips for how to avoid water damage while away from home.

Check for Leaks Before You Leave

1. Check for leaks in the basement. Make sure that all pipes are disconnected and that there's no water pooling in any area of your home. If you're leaving a property manager or landlord to take care of it, make sure they know about any problems so that they can fix them before your return date.

2. Check for leaks in the garage. 

3. Check for leaks in the attic. As with basements and garages, check behind storage boxes and furniture to ensure there aren't any hidden sources of moisture (which could lead to mold). 

Don't Forget To Turn Off the Water

You should also make sure you shut off the water at the main valve. It might be a good idea to use some tape or a marker to mark this valve, so you don't forget where it is when you leave, or if someone else is helping with your vacation preparations. The last thing you want is for someone in your home while on vacation to turn on the faucet in their bathroom and get into trouble because there's no running water!

Don't forget about your hot water heater either — the last thing anyone wants is for their water heater to malfunction while they're away from home.

Know Where Your Water Shut-off Valves Are

If you're not sure where the water shut-off valve is, call a plumber. If it's not available on your property, you can look at an online map of your home to find out where it might be.

If there are children or pets in the house, make sure that someone stays with them and monitors their behavior for any signs of illness following a flood situation.

Turn Off and Disconnect the Dishwasher and Washing Machine Hoses

The first step is to turn off and disconnect the dishwasher and washing machine hoses. To do this, you'll need to locate their water supply valves (usually underneath them) and turn them off. You can also just turn off their main water supply valve if they're connected to one.

Next, there are two ways to disconnect: by sliding the hose out of its housing or by unscrewing it with a wrench (or both). If you opt for the latter method, remember that you'll need a large enough wrench that will fit around your hoses' connections—you don't want them falling apart on you.

Finally, remember that even though these appliances have been unplugged from regular power sources for days now, turning off their water supplies does not mean they are "off." They still contain residual energy in their motors and pumps which could cause damage if not properly stored away from other objects or people.

The last thing you want when on vacation is to come home to a water-logged house. To avoid this from happening, be sure to check for leaks before leaving and make sure that all hoses are disconnected from the washer and dishwasher. Also remember not to forget about your drains! It may seem like common sense, but if left unattended these problems can drain your wallet as well as your home's foundation.

Fire and Water Damage

10/13/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Damage and Water Damage

The damage caused by fire can often be more than just the smoke and soot that is noticed in your business after a fire. The water used for fighting the fire may have damaged walls, roofs, and other surfaces, causing leaks and flooding. These problems should be cleaned up quickly by professional restoration companies. Our team at SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo has the equipment and experience to handle any mess caused by water damage or flooding.

If a fire occurs in your business, you will also likely have water damage from the firefighting efforts.

The second reason to hire a professional remediation company is that the water damage from firefighting efforts can lead to mold and mildew growth, which will cause further damage. If you've ever seen mold growing on your walls, you know that it's not something anyone wants to deal with. Additionally, water damage can cause rot, warping and rust in furniture and other items if they're not properly dried out. This can also be costly to fix later if the problem isn't addressed immediately after the fire occurs.

It's important to hire professionals who are trained in working with various types of fires because they know how best to handle each situation without causing additional damage or making matters worse than they already are (which would end up costing you more money). You should also make sure that you hire a company that can guarantee their work.

The fire may have damaged your walls and roof, causing leaking and flooding.

Water damage can cause mold to grow, which is dangerous and expensive to remove. The best way to avoid water damage is by preventing it in the first place.

SERVPRO has years of experience cleaning up messes caused by fire, smoke, flood, and other natural disasters. We have a team of trained professionals who will be able to clean up any kind of mess your property may have after a disaster like this one.

You may need fire damage and water damage repair services.

Fire damage repair services include removing smoke and soot from walls and ceilings. Water damage repair services include drying out the building, removing water from the building, and making sure that no mold grows inside of your home.

Professional cleanup is always recommended after a flood or leak.

Most of the water damage is caused by a lack of maintenance. When water leaks or floods, it can destroy the structure of your property and cause expensive repairs. If you've experienced flooding, we recommend hiring a professional mold remediation company to help you properly clean up and repair your business.

Mold remediation requires expert techniques to remove all traces of the fungus from your building. Mold growth usually takes place within 24 hours after an area has been exposed to moisture, making it important that any affected areas are dealt with before mold grows out of control and into unseen places throughout your space. The longer you wait, the more damage will be done!

SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo has the equipment to clean up any mess caused by the fire.

Our team of specialists is trained to clean up fire and water damage, and we have the expertise to get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. When you contact us after a fire, we’ll work with you to figure out the extent of damage done to your property so that we can develop a plan that will restore it back to its pre-fire condition in no time.

SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo can also help you get back to business as soon as possible with our water damage repair services. If you need help, contact us today!