Mold and Insurance Claims: What You Need to Know

7/17/2024 (Permalink)

Mold can be a homeowner's nightmare, not just due to the damage it causes but also because of the complexity it introduces into insurance claims. At SERVPRO®, we understand the intricacies involved in dealing with mold and insurance claims. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this challenging process.

Understanding Mold Coverage in Insurance Policies

The first step in dealing with mold is understanding your insurance policy. Not all policies cover mold damage. Typically, homeowner's insurance may cover mold damage if it results from a covered peril, such as water damage from a burst pipe or a storm. However, damage caused by neglect or long-term exposure is often excluded.

Key Points to Check in Your Policy:

• Covered Perils: Review the list of perils covered by your policy. Look for any mentions of water damage and how it relates to mold.
• Mold Exclusions: Check if there are specific exclusions for mold. Some policies explicitly state that mold damage is not covered unless caused by a specific event.
• Mold Endorsements: Some insurers offer endorsements or riders that add mold coverage to your policy for an additional premium.

Filing a Mold Damage Claim

When mold damage occurs, prompt action is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to filing a successful claim:

• Document the Damage: Take photographs and videos of the mold and any related damage. This visual evidence will support your claim.
• Contact Your Insurer: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Delaying this step can complicate your claim process.
• Mitigate Further Damage: Take immediate steps to prevent further mold growth. This might include stopping water leaks or improving ventilation. Your policy likely requires you to mitigate further damage to maintain coverage.
• Professional Inspection: Engage a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO® to assess the damage and provide a detailed report. This report will be essential for your insurance claim.
• Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of all communications with your insurance company, including dates, times, and the names of representatives you speak with.

Working with a Mold Remediation Professional

Hiring a professional for mold remediation is not only essential for effective mold removal but also beneficial for your insurance claim. Professional mold remediation companies can provide comprehensive documentation and detailed reports that insurance companies require.

At SERVPRO, we offer:

• Thorough Inspections: We assess the extent of the mold damage and identify the source.
• Detailed Reports: Our reports include findings, recommended actions, and an estimate of the costs involved in remediation.
• Expert Remediation: Our trained technicians use advanced equipment and techniques to remove mold safely and effectively.

Understanding Claim Denials and Appeals

If your mold damage claim is denied, you’re not without options. Understanding the reason for the denial is crucial. Common reasons include:

• Policy Exclusions: If mold is excluded from your policy, an endorsement might be necessary.
• Negligence: Claims may be denied if the mold resulted from long-term neglect.

If you believe your claim was wrongfully denied, you can:

• Review Your Policy: Ensure you understand the terms and conditions.
• Provide Additional Documentation: Additional evidence or expert testimony from mold remediation professionals can strengthen your case.
• File an Appeal: Follow your insurance company’s appeal process, and consider hiring a public adjuster for assistance.

Navigating mold damage and insurance claims can be daunting, but with the right knowledge and professional help, you can effectively manage the process. At SERVPRO, we’re here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring your home is restored and your insurance claim is handled efficiently. If you face mold issues, don’t hesitate to contact us for expert advice and remediation services.

Understanding the Risks of Standing Water in Your Home

6/10/2024 (Permalink)

The sooner you address standing water, the better off you'll be in the long run.

Standing water in your home can pose significant risks to both your property and your person. Whether it's the result of a plumbing leak, flooding, or a malfunctioning appliance, standing water should be addressed promptly to mitigate potential dangers. In this blog, we'll explore the various risks associated with standing water in homes and discuss why it's crucial to take action quickly.

Structural Damage

One of the most immediate risks of standing water in your home is structural damage. Water can weaken building materials such as wood, drywall, and insulation, leading to warping, swelling, and deterioration. Over time, prolonged exposure to standing water can compromise the structural integrity of your home, leading to costly repairs and renovations.

Mold Growth

Standing water creates the perfect environment for mold growth, which can begin to develop within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure. Mold thrives in damp, humid conditions, and can quickly spread throughout your home if left unchecked. 

Electrical Hazards

Water and electricity don't mix, and standing water in your home can create electrical hazards. If water comes into contact with electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring, it can lead to short circuits, electrical fires, and even electrocution. It's essential to avoid contact with standing water until you can safely shut off the electricity to the affected area.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Standing water on floors or stairs can create slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of slip and fall accidents. These accidents can result in injuries ranging from minor bruises to more severe fractures or head trauma. It's essential to exercise caution and avoid walking through standing water until it has been properly removed.

Contamination

Standing water can become contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens, especially if it originates from sources such as sewage backups or floodwaters. Exposure to contaminated water can lead to a wide variety of issues. It's crucial to wear protective gear, such as gloves and boots, when dealing with standing water to minimize the risk of exposure to harmful contaminants.

Damage to Belongings

In addition to causing damage to the structure of your home, standing water can also ruin personal belongings such as furniture, carpets, clothing, and electronics. Water can seep into porous materials and cause irreparable damage, leading to the loss of valuable items. Prompt action is essential to salvage as much as possible and prevent further damage to your belongings.

Pest Infestations

Standing water can attract pests such as mosquitoes, flies, and rodents, which thrive in moist environments. These pests can pose additional risks and exacerbate existing problems in your home. Removing standing water and addressing any underlying issues can help prevent pest infestations and maintain a healthy living environment.

In conclusion, standing water in your home poses numerous risks to both your property and your health. From structural damage and mold growth to electrical hazards and contamination, the dangers of standing water should not be underestimated. If you encounter standing water in your home, it's essential to take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate the associated risks. Whether you tackle the cleanup yourself or enlist the help of professionals like SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando, the sooner you address standing water, the better off you'll be in the long run.

SERVPRO's Emergency Storm Response Team: Your Trusted Partner in Florida

5/16/2024 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO's Emergency Storm Response Team is here to help.

As hurricane season approaches, it's essential to have a plan in place to protect your home or business from the devastating effects of severe weather. At SERVPRO®, we understand the urgency and importance of timely storm response, especially in the Southeast where hurricanes and tropical storms are a common occurrence. Our dedicated Emergency Storm Response Team is prepared to assist residents and businesses in the Southeast with prompt and reliable service when disaster strikes. In this blog, we'll explore how SERVPRO's expertise and resources can help you navigate the challenges of storm damage and restoration.

1. Rapid Deployment

When a storm hits, time is of the essence. Our Emergency Storm Response Team is strategically positioned throughout the Southeast, allowing us to quickly mobilize and deploy resources to affected areas. Whether it's flooding, wind damage, or structural issues, our team is prepared to assess the situation and initiate the necessary steps to mitigate further damage and begin the restoration process.

2. Trained Professionals

At SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando, we prioritize training and expertise to ensure that our technicians are equipped to handle any storm-related emergency. Our team undergoes rigorous training in water damage restoration, mold remediation, and structural drying techniques, enabling them to deliver efficient and effective solutions in challenging conditions. Additionally, our technicians adhere to industry best practices and safety protocols to ensure the highest standards of service and customer satisfaction.

3. State-of-the-Art Equipment

To expedite the restoration process and minimize downtime, our team utilizes advanced technology and specialized equipment designed specifically for storm damage restoration. From high-powered water extraction tools to industrial-grade drying equipment, we have the resources and expertise to address water intrusion, structural damage, and other storm-related issues with precision and efficiency.

4. Comprehensive Services

Whether your property has suffered water damage, wind damage, or mold growth as a result of a storm, our SERVPRO team offers a wide range of services to address your needs. From emergency board-up and roof tarping to water extraction, drying, and mold remediation, we provide comprehensive solutions to restore your property to its preloss condition. Our goal is to minimize disruption and help you get back to normal as quickly as possible.

5. Trusted Partner

During times of crisis, you need a trusted partner you can rely on. With years of experience and a proven track record of excellence, SERVPRO has earned the trust and confidence of homeowners, business owners, and insurance professionals throughout the Southeast. Our commitment to quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction sets us apart as the premier choice for storm damage restoration services.

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO's Emergency Storm Response Team is here to help. With rapid deployment, trained professionals, state-of-the-art equipment, comprehensive services, and a reputation for excellence, we are your trusted partner in storm damage restoration. Whether you're facing the aftermath of a hurricane, tropical storm, or severe weather event, you can count on SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando to provide prompt, reliable, and compassionate service when you need it most. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with your storm damage restoration needs in the Southeast!

Top 3 Benefits of Hiring Professional Fire and Smoke Damage Experts

4/18/2024 (Permalink)

Hiring professionals like SERVPRO® for fire and smoke damage cleanup offers numerous benefits.

When faced with the aftermath of a fire, many homeowners are left wondering about the best course of action for cleanup and restoration. While the temptation to tackle the cleanup process independently may be strong, enlisting the help of professionals like SERVPRO® can offer several distinct advantages. In this blog post, we'll explore the top three benefits of hiring professionals to clean up fire and smoke damage.

1. Expertise and Experience

One of the primary benefits of hiring professionals for fire and smoke damage cleanup is their expertise and experience in handling such situations. SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando technicians undergo rigorous training and certification processes, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to assess the extent of the damage, develop comprehensive restoration plans, and execute cleanup efforts with precision and efficiency. With years of experience in the field, our team understands the nuances of fire and smoke damage and knows how to address them effectively, ensuring thorough cleanup and restoration of your property.

2. Advanced Equipment and Techniques

Another key advantage of hiring professionals for fire and smoke damage cleanup is access to advanced equipment and techniques. Our SERVPRO team invests in state-of-the-art tools and technologies specifically designed for fire damage restoration, including specialized cleaning agents, air scrubbers, thermal foggers, and ozone generators. These cutting-edge tools enable our technicians to remove soot, ash, and smoke odor from various surfaces and materials, restoring your home to its pre-fire condition efficiently and effectively. By utilizing industry-leading equipment and techniques, our team ensures superior results and minimizes the risk of secondary damage during the cleanup process.

3. Comprehensive Restoration Services

When you choose SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando for fire and smoke damage cleanup, you gain access to comprehensive restoration services that go beyond basic cleaning. In addition to removing debris, soot, and smoke odor from your property, our technicians can address structural damage, repair or replace damaged materials, and restore salvageable belongings through specialized cleaning and restoration techniques. Whether your home requires minor repairs or extensive reconstruction, our crew has the expertise and resources to handle every aspect of the restoration process, allowing you to focus on rebuilding and restoring your life in the aftermath of a fire.

In conclusion, hiring professionals like SERVPRO® for fire and smoke damage cleanup offers numerous benefits, including expertise and experience, access to advanced equipment and techniques, and comprehensive restoration services. By entrusting your cleanup and restoration needs to skilled professionals, you can rest assured that your property will be restored to its pre-fire condition safely, efficiently, and effectively. Don't hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO for assistance during this challenging time—we're here to help you navigate the aftermath of a fire and restore your home to its former glory.

Laborer to Production Operations Manager - Celebrating Success, Mentorship, and Team Spirit at SERVPRO® of Northwest Orlando

12/6/2023 (Permalink)

Heydrich Kattar Hernandez training his team

In his 2 short years with SERVPRO® Team Nicholson, representing our Orlando location, Heydrich Kattar Hernández has proved endless in zeal, integrity, and a desire for personal and professional development. As we celebrate having Heydrich on board, we not only commemorate his individual successes but also the mentorship and inspiration he offers to our entire team.

In November 2021, Heydrich started with us as a laborer, bringing enthusiasm and an eagerness to learn. His tenure has been marked by significant, quick growth, shaped by his willingness to serve in a variety of roles. He says the diverse experiences—from working on various residential and commercial jobs to the challenges of long hours and extensive travel—have enriched his professional journey.

Now serving as Production Operations Manager within our Training Division, Heydrich continues offering a high standard of service as he uses his passion for making a meaningful impact on our customers’ and employees’ lives. He says, "I've had the privilege of meeting people from all walks of life and contributing to helping others in their homes."

Heydrich embodies the SERVPRO Team Nicholson culture that values knowledge-sharing, encouragement, and opportunity. He says,

“I am sincerely thankful for the belief placed in me, the opportunities to share knowledge, and the continuous support from colleagues who have been mentors and guides. Special appreciation goes to those who have dedicated time to teach, coach, or offer support.“

Heydrich's journey with SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando and SERVPRO Team Nicholson not only marks a personal achievement, but serves as a testament to the power of teamwork and constancy.

Today, Heydrich is excited about the future as he focuses on scouting for talent that aligns with our core values, and continues to help our team grow and improve. Cheers to Heydrich!

Follow the story on our LinkedIn.

Fire Restoration Services

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and "restore" versus "replace" mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can't be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition. We use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean before wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can't withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage, SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Electronic Cleanup

Fire-damaged electronics can present a severe hazard. Don't attempt to turn on or operate any damaged electrical device. Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces. If not removed, the residues corrode, causing electronic failure in the device.

• Television sets
• DVD players
• Computers
• And more

The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician.

Call SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando today at (407) 698-5155.

Fire Hazards Your Business Should Avoid

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

3 Things to Pay Attention to

1. Electrical Concerns

Damage to electrical wiring can result in sparks that lead to damaging fires. Electrical wiring damage may include frayed cords, such as those connecting desktop computers to the wall power outlets. It may include damage to internal wiring inside the walls, and these damage pests and other forces. Electrical fires may start when power sockets overload or when equipment gets hot. Periodically review your company's wiring to identify areas of concern that need to be addressed.

2. Poor Equipment Maintenance

Other hazards in workplaces relate to low equipment maintenance. For example, failing to service your furnace may result in accumulating dust and other flammable debris. A gas leak in the furnace could result in a fire or an explosion. Fire hazards related to poor maintenance may include dusty, dirty, or greasy components, such as air ducts and vents, kitchen exhaust vents, and many other features used throughout your facility. Scheduling necessary maintenance can decrease fire risk in these areas.

3. Flammable or Combustible Materials

Flammable and combustible materials are most commonly associated with industrial and warehouse environments, but restaurants, hotels, dry cleaners, and many other types of businesses may store combustible materials on-site. These materials should remain sealed according to the manufacturer's recommendations. 

As you can see, numerous fire hazards could result in severe damage to your business. If your company has already experienced fire damage, repairs are needed as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando is your trusted source for quality repair services. We can quickly restore your building to its previous condition so that operations can resume in your place of business. To request assistance with your damaged building, contact us today.

Know How To Prepare for Storms

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Lightning causes around 43 deaths in the U.S. annually (based on statistics from 1989-2018). Thankfully, this number is only 10% of the average lightning strikes, the other 90% are left alive, but with various degrees of disability.

Nationally, lightning ranks second only to flash floods in weather-related deaths. Lightning is the most frequent important weather threat to personal safety during the thunderstorm season. Since the threat of lightning is so common, it is typical that many have a lackadaisical approach to protecting themselves. The main reason is that people stay outside too long as thunderstorms approach or form nearby. 

For example, during the early part of the thunderstorm season, "dry" thunderstorms are quite common. With these types of thunderstorms, little or no precipitation reaches the ground and, as a result, people are less likely to seek shelter.  See lightning facts below for statistics on lightning events. 

Did you know?

• The air near a lightning strike is heated to 50,000 ° F, that is hotter than the surface of the sun!
• The average flash could light a 100-watt light bulb for more than 3 months.
• Lightning occurs with all thunderstorms.

While most lightning casualties occur at the beginning of an approaching storm, a significant number of lightning deaths occur after the thunderstorm has passed.  If thunder is heard, then the storm is close enough for a lightning strike.  DO NOT wait for the rain to start before seeking shelter, and do not leave shelter just because the rain has ended. 

A Cool Lightning Hack

You can approximate the distance of lightning!

Did you know you can approximate the distance a storm is from you but counting the time between the flash of lightning and the thunder sound that coincides with the lightning flash? That means you can, at your own home, with minimal supplies, figure out how far a lightning strike is from you!

What You’ll Need:

1. You Ears
2. Your Eyes
3. A watch with a second counter or a phone

From the time you see lightning, it will take the sound of thunder 5 seconds to travel 1 mile. To approximate the miles a strike is from you, count the seconds between the flash and thunder, divide by 5!

For example, if you see a flash of lightning, start a stop watch and hear a large crash of thunder 5 seconds after the flash, your lightning is only 1 mile away! Anything less than 5 seconds is definitely close, so seek cover!

It's not raining, is there still danger from being struck by lightning?

YES!  Lightning often strikes outside of the heavy rain area and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.

Will the rubber soles of my shoes or tires on my car protect me from being struck?

NO! However, the steel frame of a hard-topped car provides a sort of Faraday Cage or Faraday shield. This increases protection if you are not touching metal. Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside the car than outside. When skies darken, or thunderstorms are forecast, look and listen for increasing wind, flashes of lightning, sound of thunder, and static on your AM radio.  While no place is safe from lightning, some places are much safer than others. 

Where you can go…

• Get inside a house or large shelter
• Remain clear of tall, isolated trees and telephone poles
• If possible, move to a sturdy building or hard top automobile
• If you are caught outside, away from shelter, you need to get to a place of safety as quickly as possible. If safe shelter is not possible, lie down on low lying ground or in a ditch.
• If boating or swimming, get out of boats and away from the water, get to land and find shelter immediately

What you can do...

• Watch for signs of an approaching thunderstorm
• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are imminent. This is your best way to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation
• REMEMBER, if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to a storm to be struck by lightning

If your home or property has been damaged by severe winds, water, or storms—call SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando for a free damage restoration estimate.

What To Do If Your Furnace Is Flooded

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

Document Damage

The furnace is most likely your top priority. However, it’s important to note other property damaged in the area. Use the following process to document losses and assign values in a notebook or spreadsheet:

• Photograph the damage,
• Write down the serial number or another unique identifier if available,
• Assign a value.

Don’t forget to include items that may have no monetary value but are still of high importance to you. Professional recovery services are available to try and save irreplaceable items such as documents or photographs.

Investigate Coverage and Decide to Repair or Replace

A burst pipe resulting in a furnace flood is an insurable event, so make sure to check with your provider. The Air-Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) recommends replacement versus repair of a flooded furnace. Property owners may receive advice that the furnace will work again after a total dry-out and perhaps some minor electrical repair. However, the life of the unit is reduced. You likely don’t want to choose repair over replacement and have a related problem surface a couple of years later, long after the claim closes.

Care of Air Ducts

The quality of air from a furnace is only as good as the ducts it travels through. Your final task is to schedule a professional air duct cleaning to ensure ducts are clean, dry, and free of mold and debris. Thankfully, your friends at your local SERVPRO can take care of that for you.

Tasks associated with a furnace flood are something nobody wants on their to-do list. Take this systematic approach for the return of a safe and comfortable home. For additional information, call SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando at (407) 698-5155.

Factors to Consider When Drying Out Water Damage

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

After a plumbing disaster, Northwest Orlando homeowners need a water-vac to pull water off the floor, open the doors and windows, and rent a rug shampooer from the local big box store.

To restore a home takes a professional restoration service. Drying a house with water damage in Northwest Orlando requires attention to four key factors that affect humidity. SERVPRO restoration specialists train to analyze each one, knowing which drying methods and equipment they need to use in each home. It all comes down to heat. 

Humidity levels determine the level of water vapor in the air in a home compared to its capacity. A level of 60 percent or higher indicates the air is saturated. That dramatically slows evaporation and increases drying time. Specialists use dehumidifiers to reduce the humidity level in each affected room. Working dehumidifiers can lower the level up to 20 percent every 24 hours.

Evaporation is the natural process of water converting to vapor. With large amounts of water, it is slow. Our SERVPRO specialists use pumps and smaller extraction devices to remove the bulk of the standing water. They get the amount below two inches in depth; the rate of evaporation increases. An augment rate of evaporation with dehumidifiers are to exhaust fans to increase movement, forcing saturated air outside the home.

Air movement increases using dry air to spread across damp surfaces like walls, tables, and countertops to increase the evaporation rate. Air movers and fans' combination to increase air movement is useful to dry clothing in a gentle manner, which doesn't damage the fabric.

Temperature is an essential factor. Since the preferred range to dry home and property is 70 to 90 degrees, we try to engage the HVAC system if it is operational. If not, specialists use space heaters to raise the internal temperature. They monitor the temperature to keep it under 80 degrees on the first day, however, since a higher temperature can increase the humidity.

SERVPRO of Northwest Orlando uses every tool and method available to return every residence to a dry, safe condition for families to live in once again. If you have had a recent water issue in your home, call (407) 698-5155 to schedule a visit. We are here for you.