5 Ways SERVPRO Can Help You After a Tornado

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath of a tornado can be overwhelming and stressful, but there is help available.

Tornadoes are a common occurrence in many parts of the country and can cause significant damage to homes and businesses. Dealing with the aftermath of a tornado can be overwhelming and stressful, but there is help available. SERVPRO of Brazos Valley is a professional restoration company that specializes in disaster cleanup and restoration, and they can provide invaluable assistance after a tornado.

Here are just a few ways that SERVPRO can help after a tornado:

Emergency Response

SERVPRO understands that tornado damage needs to be addressed immediately, and that's why they offer 24/7 emergency response. When you call SERVPRO, they will send a team of professionals to your property as quickly as possible to assess the damage and start the cleanup process.

Inspection and Assessment

After a tornado, it's important to have your property inspected to determine the extent of the damage. SERVPRO's team of experts will conduct a thorough inspection and provide a detailed assessment of the damage, which will help you understand the scope of the restoration work that needs to be done.

Cleanup and Restoration

SERVPRO is equipped to handle all aspects of tornado cleanup and restoration, including debris removal, water damage restoration, mold remediation, and more. They use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure that your property is restored to its preloss condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Insurance Claims Assistance

Navigating the insurance claims process can be confusing and overwhelming, but SERVPRO can help. They will work with your insurance company to ensure that your claim is processed quickly and accurately. They can also provide documentation and photos of the damage to support your claim.

Peace of Mind

Dealing with the aftermath of a tornado can be incredibly stressful, but SERVPRO can provide peace of mind. They will handle all aspects of the cleanup and restoration process, allowing you to focus on other important matters. They are also dedicated to providing excellent customer service and will communicate with you throughout the process to ensure that you are satisfied with the work that is being done.

In conclusion, tornadoes can cause significant damage to homes and businesses, but there is help available. SERVPRO is a professional restoration company that specializes in disaster cleanup and restoration, and they can provide invaluable assistance after a tornado. From emergency response to insurance claims assistance, SERVPRO can handle all aspects of the cleanup and restoration process, providing you with peace of mind and ensuring that your property is restored to its preloss condition as quickly as possible. If you need help after a tornado, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Brazos Valley.

Stopping Roof Leaks

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Remember, many roof damage and flood scenarios may require professional intervention from a qualified cleanup company.

Preventing Roof Leaks

Many homeowners are aware of the potential roof damage that can come from a hail storm. However, many residents of Bryan, TX, don’t know how to respond afterward to prevent further flooding and structural issues from affecting the home.

1. Inspection and Preparation

The first step toward a leak-free roof happens before any storms are on the horizon. Many insurers will insist on regular roof inspections, especially if you have a more expensive policy or property. This sort of preventative maintenance keeps the roof in good shape in case a severe weather event does occur. Sometimes everyday wear and tear is the first sign that a roof will undergo water or wind damage later on.

2. Points of Interest

Most roofing inspections will involve a number of steps. The layering, position, and condition of the shingles are one of the most important initial markers of potential roof damage. If any of the asphalt shingles are broken or missing, water will begin to flow toward and under the plastic barrier beneath, given enough time. Re-roofing is fairly inexpensive and can save money in the long run by preventing damage to plywood, insulation, and structural beams in your attic.

3. Hail

Of course, the concussive force of large hailstones can accelerate this aging process and necessitate immediate roof repairs. If you find yourself in the midst of a hailstorm, safety should be the first priority. Afterward, if you can safely get to any major roof holes or other visible damage, place a tarp or other moisture shield over it. Many insurers insist that homeowners mitigate any potential site of ongoing roof damage until an adjuster can arrive to assess the claim.

Remember, many roof damage and flood scenarios may require professional intervention from a qualified cleanup company. However, with adequate knowledge and preparation, you can face any inclement weather with confidence.

Yard Flooding and Your Home

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

One easy and inexpensive fix for outside flooding problems is to clean the gutters to guarantee that no water is spilling over.

Yard Flooding and Your Residence

Most homeowners in College Station, TX, see a well-kept lawn and garden as an aesthetic consideration. However, a number of landscaping practices can help to prevent outside flooding and consequent property damage. Read on to discover more about this interconnection.

1. Grade

The grade or slope of your yard is the degree to which the surface level of the soil falls in elevation as you move away from the foundation of the home. Most houses compliant with local codes will have a gentle slope that directs water away from the base of the house. However, minor problems can develop with slight inconsistencies in the landscaping. If you notice water beginning to pool around your home during a rain storm, especially if it begins to leak through the outer walls, there are a few preventative steps you can take.

2. Gutters

One easy and inexpensive fix for outside flooding problems is to clean the gutters to guarantee that no water is spilling over. A high volume of water pouring directly over the edge of the gutter instead of out the downspout indicates the existence of a clog. Most hardware stores sell extensible tools or attachments that can clean gutters and downspouts without any unwanted damage to roofing materials.

3. Soil and Cover

Sometimes the rain drainage issues occur farther from the base of the house. In these cases, extra soil and strategic planting can come in handy. Use heavier mulches and gravel in areas where you notice high water retention or fast water flow that tends to cause erosion. Hedges and small trees can also help hold finer soil types together, preventing your hard landscaping work from washing down the storm drain.

Being prepared doesn’t have to cost you an excessive amount of time or money. Remember, if you get out of your depth during an outside flooding event, have the contact information of a qualified cleanup industry professional at the ready.

Making a Flood Claim

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

If you have flood insurance, you may not be in as much trouble as others, but filing a flood claim can be daunting if you've never done it before.

How To File A Flood Claim

Storms can bring floods, which can result in many problems for homeowners. If you have flood insurance, you may not be in as much trouble as others, but filing a flood claim can seem overwhelming if you have never been through it. Flood mitigation services in College Station, TX, often recommend following a four-step process for dealing with the aftermath of flooding.

1. Filing an Insurance Claim

You want to keep your insurance provider in the loop. Therefore, as soon as you realize your home is flooding or flooded, call your insurance contact. You want to report the damage so the adjuster can start the claims process, including any necessary paperwork.

2. Mitigating Further Loss

Most insurance companies find it difficult to approve a flood claim if homeowners do nothing to mitigate further loss. Your insurance is only for the initial damage. If you do nothing to protect your home and something else happens, your insurer will likely not cover it. Therefore, contact a mitigation service to help cover any holes or excavate any water.

3. Documenting Damage

The insurance adjuster will want a full inventory of the damage to the home and personal property. Before removing water, try to take as many pictures of the damage as possible. With the water removed, take closer pictures to show the adjuster when they arrive.

4. Waiting for the Adjuster

The insurance adjuster will do their own assessment of the property and any items. However, having photos and receipts ready when they arrive can make the process run a little smoother. Adjusters are busy people, so anything you can do to save them some time is appreciated.

A flood claim is a straightforward process, but it can be time-consuming. Following the above steps can help speed things along and eliminate any potential hiccups in the process.

5 Storm Preparation Items To Keep On Hand

4/1/2022 (Permalink)

The storm may be moving in your direction, but you have SERVPRO. We are available 24 hours a day to help protect and restore your property.

5 Things To Have On Hand In Case Of A Storm

According to FEMA, flood water is the number one concern from a natural disaster within the United States. In fact, within the past ten decades, statistics show that floods cost roughly $2.4 billion a year, making the situation extraordinarily costly and time-consuming. Commercial owners in College Station, TX, face the daunting task of combating Mother Nature's fierceness. While you cannot stop her ferocity, it is possible through preparation to mitigate harm. Here are five useful items to keep in on hand.

1. A Generator

A flooded building requires immediate attention. A water restoration company is prepared to attend to the hazard as soon as possible, often arriving within 24 hours. The sooner the property is assessed, the better. A generator on hand permits these workers to enter the facility promptly, inspecting rooms for saturation concerns.

Electricity is likely out. This device allows for the team to get a closer view.

2. Flashlights

Blackouts are entirely possible, especially if a transformer blows within the vicinity. Also, the flood water may compromise the electrical wiring. Purchase several flashlights so you and the specialists may safely tour the building.

3. Portable, Battery-Operated Radio

Employees or yourself could get stuck within the establishment. Should this occur, those inside need communication with the outside world. If electricity cuts off, a portable battery-operated radio keeps everyone in the loop.

4. Sandbags

Although bulky to store, sandbags create a barrier around the building's perimeter, keeping water from reaching within. Have some on hand for quick access. Line them around the low-lying sections of your place, stacking them like bricks.

5. Plywood

Glass is extremely vulnerable to high winds and projectiles. In fact, sometimes it's more likely that water damage arises from trees or objects busting windows. Have several sheets of plywood cut to window size stored within the back room. When a gale comes through, use them to combat obstacles.
It's possible to get ahead of flood water. It requires getting prepared early with the right supplies. Focus on things that secure the premises and assist anyone who remains inside.

Understanding Business Interruption Insurance

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

When your business operations are interrupted by storm damage, you need professional help to get your property back to business. Call SERVPRO!

Business Interruption Insurance: What You Need to Know

Interruption insurance is a good thing to have in the face of a disaster. It is a good way for business owners to stay financially stable when they need to rebuild their company. Here are some things you should know if you are considering adding this type of policy.

What It Is

This type of premium is available to help cover business expenses during disasters. It only pays out if there is a disaster that forces a business to shut down and rebuild. The amount a policyholder receives is based on the coverage they pay for and past financial records.

What It Covers

While it won't pay to rebuild your business in College Station, TX, there are a few crucial things it covers. These include:

• Income
  
• Fixed costs
  
• Temporary location
  
• Commission and training costs
  
• Extra expenses
  
• Civil authority ingress and egress
  
• Employee wages
  
• Taxes
  
• Loan payments

What It Doesn’t Cover

Interruption is not a substitute for flood or property insurance. Therefore it does not cover broken items, flood damage, undocumented income, utilities, or communicable disease-related shutdowns.

Payouts for Policyholders

Your insurer is only required to pay if you have actually sustained a loss from a shutdown. The amount you receive will be based on your loss and your coverage limit.

This Insurance and Pandemics

One thing that has come under scrutiny recently is how this insurance works for a closed business that shut down due to a pandemic. Unfortunately, most policyholders do not get their expenses covered since no disaster caused them to shut down and storm cleanup professionals to be hired.

Business interruption insurance is a good idea for any company. It can help you remain financially stable amid a disaster that forces your business to shutdown. However, this is not a standard policy and will not cover property damage. It is also not able to pay out if the reason you shutdown is due to a pandemic.