The Role of SERVPRO® of Alamo Ranch in Storm Damage Recovery

9/13/2023 (Permalink)

When it comes to storm recovery, SERVPRO® is here to help.

When a storm strikes, leaving behind a trail of destruction, homeowners and businesses are left to deal with the aftermath. Recovering from storm damage can be a daunting task, requiring expertise, resources, and time. This is where SERVPRO®, a leader in storm damage recovery, plays a vital role. In this blog post, we will explore the various ways in which SERVPRO® of Alamo Ranch helps in storm damage recovery and why they are the go-to choice for many.

Immediate Response

One of the most critical aspects of storm damage recovery is a prompt response. SERVPRO® understands that time is of the essence when it comes to mitigating further damage. They have a 24/7 emergency response team ready to spring into action at a moment's notice. Whether it's a fallen tree, a flooded basement, or extensive water damage, SERVPRO®'s immediate response ensures that the recovery process begins swiftly, reducing the risk of additional damage.

Expert Assessment and Planning

After a storm, it's essential to have a comprehensive assessment of the damage and a well-thought-out plan for recovery. The SERVPRO® team of experts is trained to conduct thorough assessments, considering all aspects of the damage and its potential long-term effects. They then devise a detailed plan, tailored to the specific needs of each property, ensuring an efficient and effective recovery process.

SERVPRO® of Alamo Ranch is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and cutting-edge techniques to handle even the most challenging storm damage scenarios. From water extraction and drying equipment to specialized cleaning tools, they have the resources to tackle any restoration project. This enables them to expedite the recovery process while ensuring the highest quality of workmanship.

Comprehensive Services

Storm damage recovery often involves multiple aspects, including water damage restoration, mold remediation, structural repairs, and content restoration. SERVPRO® offers a wide range of comprehensive services, covering all these areas and more. This means that homeowners and businesses can rely on a single company to handle all aspects of their storm damage recovery needs, streamlining the process and minimizing the hassle.

SERVPRO® takes pride in its highly trained and certified professionals. Their team members undergo rigorous training to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle various types of storm damage. This expertise allows for efficient and effective restoration, giving property owners peace of mind during a stressful time.

Insurance Assistance

Dealing with insurance claims can be overwhelming, especially after a storm. SERVPRO® understands the complexities of the insurance process and works closely with insurance companies to facilitate a smooth claims experience for their clients. They provide detailed documentation of the damage, assist with the claims process, and ensure proper communication between all parties involved, easing the burden on property owners.

SERVPRO®'s commitment extends beyond individual properties. In the aftermath of large-scale storms, they often mobilize their resources to support the affected community as a whole. Through their Disaster Recovery Team, SERVPRO® can bring in additional personnel, equipment, and supplies to help communities recover faster and more efficiently.

When it comes to storm damage recovery, SERVPRO® of Alamo Ranch plays a crucial role. With their immediate response, expert assessment and planning, advanced equipment, comprehensive services, highly trained professionals, insurance assistance, and community support, they are the trusted choice for many homeowners and businesses. If you find yourself facing storm damage, consider reaching out to SERVPRO® to help navigate the recovery process and restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Navigating Flood Damage as a Tenant: Protecting Your Belongings and Peace of Mind

7/6/2023 (Permalink)

Be prepared is key to ensuring your home is safe in case of a flood.

When it comes to renting a home or apartment, there are various concerns that tenants must consider, one of them being the potential risk of flood damage. While property owners typically have the responsibility to maintain the structural integrity of the building, it is crucial for tenants to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to protect their belongings. In this blog, we will discuss the factors tenants should consider regarding flood damage and offer practical tips to mitigate risks and ensure peace of mind.

Understand Your Lease Agreement

The first step for tenants is to carefully review the lease agreement. Look for any clauses or provisions that mention responsibility for flood damage. Typically, landlords are responsible for maintaining the property's structural elements, including plumbing, roofing, and drainage systems. However, it is important to clarify these details with your landlord to avoid any misunderstandings.

Assess the Flood Risk

Familiarize yourself with the flood risk in the area where your rental property is located. Research local flood zones, historical data on flooding incidents, and the proximity of the property to bodies of water. This information will help you gauge the potential risk and take appropriate precautions.

Renter's Insurance

Regardless of the flood risk level, it is highly recommended for tenants to obtain renter's insurance. This insurance can provide coverage for personal belongings in case of flood damage or other unforeseen events. Review the insurance policy carefully to understand the extent of coverage for flood-related incidents.

Document Your Belongings

Take inventory of your possessions and create a detailed record of valuable items. This includes taking photographs, noting descriptions, and keeping receipts if possible. In the unfortunate event of flood damage, having a comprehensive inventory will simplify the insurance claim process.

Elevate Essential Items

If you live in a flood-prone area or your rental property is at risk, consider elevating your essential belongings. Move furniture, electronics, and other valuable items to higher floors or elevated areas within your home. This proactive step can minimize potential damage and protect your belongings.

Communicate with Your Landlord

Open communication with your landlord is crucial when it comes to addressing flood-related concerns. Report any signs of water damage, leaks, or drainage issues immediately to ensure prompt repairs. Discuss potential preventive measures, such as installing flood barriers or improving drainage systems, with your landlord to jointly mitigate risks.

In the event of a flood warning or severe weather conditions, it is essential to stay informed and follow local authorities' instructions. Familiarize yourself with emergency evacuation routes and assemble an emergency kit containing essential supplies.

While tenants may not have complete control over the property's infrastructure, taking proactive steps and being prepared can significantly reduce the potential impact of flood damage. By understanding your lease agreement, obtaining renter's insurance, documenting belongings, and communicating effectively with your landlord, you can protect yourself and your possessions from the potential risks associated with flooding. Remember, being informed and prepared is key to ensuring your safety and minimizing the potential consequences of flood damage as a tenant.

What are Flood Cuts?

8/27/2022 (Permalink)

On the right side, you see a 2 foot flood cut, on the left, a 4 foot cut.

Whether you’re dealing with flooding for the first time in San Antonio, TX or you’re a veteran storm survivor, there’s always something new to learn. While reading about restoration options, the term “flood cut” may have peaked your interest. Here’s why professionals consider it an essential mitigation technique.

Damage Isn’t Always Obvious

Once a storm has passed and you survey the wreckage, it’s easy to see how high the water level reached. Before you start the demolition stage, though, it’s important to consider a subtle aspect of tear out projects. In the case of drywall, the flooding was likely wicked up well above the visible dirt line. That’s why the standard flood cut for discarding damaged walls is 12 inches above the high water mark.

Amplifying Your Circulation Area 

Even after the waters have receded, you’ll need to work fast to get rid of excess indoor humidity. Those who don’t act decisively risk dealing with widespread contamination and greater repair costs. For this reason, your cleanup and restoration company will put an air movement plan into place. To decide how many fans are needed, where to place them and at what velocity they should be run, a professional will calculate an evaporation rate based on the following parameters:

• Current ambient humidity
• Wet material temperature
• Air movement across moist surfaces
• Water vapor pressure differential
• Wet surface accessibility
  
  

By using flood cut to open walls well past the water line, you’ll be in a better position to prevent additional damage to structural members and utilities that were left vulnerable by the storm and its aftermath. It’s also part of the process of removing unpleasant odors from your building.

Take Back the Control

Although you may have done everything in your power to take the needed precautions, flooding makes it necessary to work incessantly to get your site back into shape. Extended cuts are key to doing a thorough job to make your facility look and smell like new again.

Preparing Your Home for Flood Damage

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Keep your gutters clean.

Four Ways To Avoid Flood Damage

Imagine a fierce rainstorm pounding outside your home in San Antonio, TX, waking you from your sleep. You decide to get up to get a snack from the kitchen, but when your bare feet touch the carpet in the hallway, you discover it’s soaking wet, and your linoleum floor in the kitchen is covered in standing water. Could these raging waters have been avoided? Possibly. Here are four ways to avoid flooding and the damage it can bring.

1. Take inventory of your possessions. Make a list of your personal belongings, supported with photographs and/or video. This will be valuable in the event you have to report an insurance claim for flood damage. This inventory should be stored in a waterproof container, with a backup copy in a secure off-site location, such as a safe deposit box.

2. Have your roof inspected and repaired if necessary. It is a good idea to have a reputable roofing contractor inspect your roof for any hidden leaks and make any necessary repairs. This can prevent you from having to make costly repairs at a later time, such as after flooding.

3. Have your trees trimmed. To prevent storm damage caused by overhanging tree limbs blowing against your house, have your trees trimmed ahead of time. Remove any dead limbs or trees. They are more likely to be broken during a storm, leading to damage to your home.

4. Make sure gutters and downspouts are cleaned. Your gutters should be cleaned and any leaks repaired. Check gutters regularly to make sure they are draining properly. Downspouts should be inspected and any clogs removed. To make sure rainwater is directed away from your home, use splash blocks or downspout extension pipes.

Hopefully, your home will never be devastated by flooding. Being proactive and taking steps ahead of time to prepare your home is a decision that can pay off in the long run. In the event that your home does take damage, however, an emergency restoration company can help you in the storm's aftermath.

Are You Winter Weather Ready?

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for the upcoming cold weather? Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures to damaging winds, sleet, or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather. To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

* Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain,ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.

* Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to help ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.

If you experience any of these issues, please call SERVPRO of Alamo Ranch at 210-670-9591.

Source: Restoration Newsline Volume 30, Issue 12

Floodwater Dangers!

2/10/2022 (Permalink)

According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the U.S. Every year than any other weather-related disaster. The American Red Cross offers the following flood safety tips:

*Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around, and go the other way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

*If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

*Keep children out of the water.They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.

If a flood does strike your home or business, contact the professionals at SERVPRO® of Alamo Ranch at 210-670-9591. We are always here to help.

Source: Restoration Newsline Volume 31, Issue 2

Be Alert With a Weather Radio

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Alamo Ranch would like you to be aware that one of the best precautions you can take is to purchase a good quality weather radio. A weather radio is designed to alert you to dangerous weather situations, such as an approaching tornado. It allows you to be warned ahead of approaching storms providing you time to seek shelter. A weather radio is the most reliable source for weather alerts.

Weather radios have made many advancements over the years and are very affordable.Most basic weather radios average around $30 and can be programmed to only alert you for the weather alerts you choose.

SERVPRO of Alamo Ranch wants you to stay safe in the midst of bad weather. If you ever need the services of SERVPRO of Alamo Ranch, please call us at 210-670-9591. We are always here to help.

Source: Restoration Newsline Issue 30, Volume 7

What is a Flood Cut?

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

What Is a Flood Cut?

Whether you’re dealing with flooding for the first time in San Antonio, Texas or you’re a veteran storm survivor, there’s always something new to learn. While reading about restoration options, the term “flood cut” may have peaked your interest. Here’s why professionals consider it an essential mitigation technique.

Damage Isn’t Always Obvious

Once a storm has passed and you survey the wreckage, it’s easy to see how high the water level reached. Before you start the demolition stage, though, it’s important to consider a subtle aspect of tear out projects. In the case of drywall, the flooding was likely wicked up well above the visible dirt line. That’s why the standard flood cut for discarding damaged walls is 12 inches above the high water mark.

Amplifying Your Circulation Area

Even after the waters have receded, you’ll need to work fast to get rid of excess indoor humidity. Those who don’t act decisively risk dealing with widespread contamination and greater repair costs. For this reason, your cleanup and restoration company will put an air movement plan into place. To decide how many fans are needed, where to place them and at what velocity they should be run, a professional will calculate an evaporation rate based on the following parameters:

Current ambient humidity
Wet material temperature
Air movement across moist surfaces
Water vapor pressure differential
Wet surface accessibility

By using flood cut to open walls well past the water line, you’ll be in a better position to prevent additional damage to structural members and utilities that were left vulnerable by the storm and its aftermath. It’s also part of the process of removing unpleasant odors from your building.

Take Back the Control

Although you may have done everything in your power to take the needed precautions, flooding makes it necessary to work incessantly to get your site back into shape. Extended cuts are key to doing a thorough job to make your facility look and smell like new again. Visit http://www.SERVPROalamoranch.com for more information on flooding.

The Cost of Natural Disasters

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Some food for thought from your friends at SERVPRO of Alamo Ranch.Natural Disasters Cost U.S. 247 Lives, Nearly $100 Billion in Damage in 2018.The number of billion-dollar weather disasters in the United States has more than doubled in recent years, as devastating hurricanes and ferocious wildfires that experts suspect are fueled in part by climate change have ravaged swaths of the country, according to data released by the federal government Wednesday. Since 1980, the United States has experienced 241 weather and climate disasters where the overall damage reached or exceeded $1 billion, when adjusted for inflation, according to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Between 1980 and 2013, according to NOAA, the nation averaged roughly half a dozen such disasters a year. Over the most recent five years, that number has jumped to more than 12.Source: Restoration & Remediation magazine