Is your Columbus Commercial Building Ready For Winter?

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

As the colder months approach around Ohio, commercial property owners and managers should prepare for the challenges that winter brings. Proper winterization is essential for maintaining a safe, efficient, and functional property during the frosty season.

1. Conduct a Winter Maintenance Check:

Before the winter weather sets in, schedule a thorough inspection of the property. Check the roof for leaks, the gutters for blockages, and the windows and doors for proper sealing. Addressing any maintenance issues early can prevent costly damage and energy inefficiencies during the winter.

2. HVAC System Maintenance:

A well-maintained HVAC system is crucial for keeping the property warm and comfortable during winter. Have a technician inspect and clean the heating system, change air filters, and ensure that all components are functioning optimally.

3. Protect Pipes from Freezing:

Frozen pipes can lead to significant water damage and expensive repairs. Insulate exposed pipes and consider installing heating cables in areas prone to freezing. Encourage tenants to keep the property heated, even during periods of vacancy, to prevent pipe-related disasters.

4. Snow and Ice Removal Plan:

Create a comprehensive snow and ice removal plan in collaboration with a reputable snow removal contractor. This plan should include designated snow removal areas, priorities for clearing different parts of the property, and an emergency response plan for severe weather events.

5. Stock Up on Winter Supplies:

Ensure an ample supply of winter essentials, such as salt, sand, snow shovels, and ice melt. These supplies are essential for maintaining safe walkways and parking lots, reducing slip and fall risks for tenants and visitors.

6. Landscape and Tree Maintenance:

Trim tree branches that could potentially break under the weight of snow and ice, posing a hazard to the property and its occupants. Additionally, remove any dead or weak trees that could fall during winter storms.

7. Check Exterior Lighting:

With shorter daylight hours in winter, proper exterior lighting is crucial for ensuring safety and security on the property. Inspect and replace any burnt-out bulbs or damaged fixtures to maintain a well-lit environment.

8. Communicate with Tenants:

Open lines of communication with tenants and inform them of your winter preparation plans. Encourage them to report any maintenance issues promptly and provide them with guidance on winter safety measures.

9. Plan for Power Outages:

Prepare for potential power outages by having a contingency plan in place. Consider investing in backup generators to keep essential systems, such as emergency lighting and security, operational during power disruptions.

10. Review Insurance Coverage:

Review your property insurance coverage to ensure it adequately protects against winter-related risks, such as snow damage, burst pipes, and slip and fall incidents. Make any necessary adjustments to your policy to avoid potential financial losses.

Winterizing commercial properties is a proactive approach to safeguarding investments, maintaining tenant satisfaction, and ensuring smooth operations during the colder months. By conducting proper maintenance checks, preparing for snow and ice removal, and focusing on tenant safety, commercial property owners and managers can navigate winter with confidence. Remember, early preparation and attention to detail are key to a successful and hassle-free winter season for your commercial property.

The Aftermath Of A Commercial Fire

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call SERVPRO, the fire remediation experts.

When a fire strikes on your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a Columbus commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a commercial fire successfully, follow the tips below:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert.
Once the fire department has put out all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records.
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business' essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately.
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Re-enter The Building.
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can re-enter your building. In some cases, a fire can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that re-entry is safe for you and your tenants.

If you experience a fire at your commercial property, call our experts at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus today at                  (614) 888-5700!

Does Your Business Have a Fire Evacuation Plan?

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

If your commercial property has suffered a fire, call our SERVPRO experts who are faster to any size fire disaster!

Workplace fires may not seem like a common occurrence, but they are something that any business owner is wise to prepare for. Not only are commercial fires more commonplace than many people realize, but they can also be rather dangerous—especially when they occur at businesses that do not have a proper fire evacuation plan in place.

Not only is having an emergency action plan an OSHA-mandated requirement for many businesses, but it is also a smart choice for keeping you and your staff safe in the event of a fire breaking out. Fires can be a frightening occurrence, and without a clear course of action, panic can quickly derail the scenario and prohibit people from acting rationally.

Elements to Consider When Drafting Your Workplace Fire Evacuation Plan

- Consider Where a Fire is Likely to Break Out - 

• Fires can break out for a variety of reasons—issues in the office kitchen, overloaded electrical outlets or equipment malfunctions are all common sources of commercial fires, and these all have very different origin spots. It is important to consider where a fire is likely to break out in your space and draft plans that account for all possible scenarios so everyone can escape a fire of any kind.

- Consider Your Exits -

• Every area of your commercial space should have two exits at minimum so that people can get to safety even if one exit becomes blocked. If you are not on the ground floor, this may require purchasing safety ladders that can be routed outside of windows. Make sure that every area has at least two exits that are clear from debris and remain passable at all times.

- Consider Your Communication Plan - 

• It is important that you communicate with staff as well as emergency officials in the event of a fire. Designate a person on your staff to be in charge of calling 911, and designate another member to be in charge of communicating with employees and relaying instructions. That way there will be no confusion, and everyone will know what their role is in the scenario.

Signs You Have A Sewer Line Issue

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

A blocked sewer line can wreak havoc on a business and may even lead to significant business interruption.

While a blocked sewer drain is relatively common in commercial properties, legitimate concerns over sewer line functionality may be few and far between. However, when major sewer line issues occur, it is essential to remedy the problems quickly to avoid potential backups and structural damage. Be aware of these four signs, which may indicate sewer line problems.

1. Odors

While drain or toilet overflow are frequent problems in commercial properties, you should pay attention to odors surrounding these problems. For instance, if after clearing a clog you smell sewer gas, you may want to call a plumber for an inspection, as strong sewer smells can be an indicator of issues further in the line.

2. Clogged Drains

A blocked sewer will not only cause unpleasant odors to occur in your building, but the blocked pipe can also cause frequent clogging of your drains and toilets. This problem may also cause sewer backups into your facility.

3. Indentations in Landscaping

Also, while you may not have any clogging issues, it is still possible that your sewer lines have failed. Pipe breaks may cause indentations in your landscaping, like divots on the lawn. If the break is severe enough, it is possible that sewage is leaking into the grounds of your property. Eventually, this can also lead to a sewage backup in your building.

4. Deformations in Landscaping

In addition to indentations in the lawn, you may notice perpetual puddling in certain areas. You may also see that areas of your parking lot have sunken or cracked along with sidewalks. Depending on how close the break is to your building, you may even notice cracks in the foundation. These issues often require the expertise of a disaster restoration specialist in the area to resolve, which depending on your insurance policy may be covered.

You should be aware of the warning signs of such a problem so that you can resolve the issue as early as possible.

Water Damage In Commercial Buildings

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Our certified technicians are on call 24/7 to quickly get your building cleaned up and minimize any potential downtime for your business.

Due to the wide variety of issues that can stem from water damage, it is one of the most difficult challenges a property owner can face. Depending on the severity, water damage can compromise structural integrity and damage belongings. When left unresolved or if not taken care of properly, water can result in the growth of mold. 

What is water damage?

Water damage is the type of damage that occurs on a structure and to personal property due to excessive moisture and collected water. Most often water damage will occur where water can collect without notice. For example, they will occur in the lowest depths of one's property such as crawl spaces and the basement.

Here are some examples of the equipment used for water damage repair services:

• Air Movers - help dry water-damaged flooring and surfaces by forcing moisture to evaporate more quickly
• Dehumidifiers - by maintaining the humidity of the room, a dehumidifier is a catalyst for drying an area that has excessive moisture
• Air Scrubbers - filter out any particles in your indoor air which may include airborne contaminants including the smell of musk and smoke
• Moisture Meters - gauges the severity of water damage on a surface or an area by assessing the moisture preset

At SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus, we have state of the art equipment to ensure that your property is taken care of properly. By reducing the time it takes to dry your property, you'll be saving time and money. Call our SERVPRO Team today at (614) 888-5700.

Tips to Keep in Mind for Warehouses with Water Damage

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

It is important to keep an up to date list of all inventory in your warehouse or commercial space in the case of water damage.

The nature of most warehouses means that floods can create unique and challenging safety situations. If the warehouse space begins to flood, restorations can be complicated, and safety conditions are often less than ideal. While SERVPRO technicians are experienced enough to recognize the risks and stipulations of water damage to a warehouse in Columbus, employees, managers, and other individuals associated with the building may not be. Keep these words of advice in mind if your warehouse should ever flood, in a storm or otherwise.

Damage Can Happen High Up, But Only If You Let It

Even if the floodwaters stop short of specific elevations in your Columbus warehouse, water damage may still occur to items and materials above water level with time. This is a result of relative humidity: whenever an enclosed space floods, the relative humidity in that space tends to rise drastically. Only by contacting SERVPRO quickly and receiving emergency mitigation service can you avoid the risks associated with high humidity. With time, excessively humid conditions can foster mold growth, oxidize some metals, and hasten the degradation of sensitive organic matter such as paper and cardboard. We bring in heavy dehumidifying equipment to take care of humidity before it becomes an issue.

High Places Should Be Accessible in an Emergency

Should the flood happen suddenly, you want to make sure that higher places in the building can be reached quickly. While it may make sense to cordon these places off from most workers during day-to-day operations, keeping them locked away could lead to a costly lawsuit in an emergency. Try to keep access points spread out so that two workers on opposite ends of the facility can both be safe.

Keep Your Inventory Updated and Verifiable

When insurance adjusters and representatives come to do their business, they typically want to see recent, verifiable, and complete inventory lists to determine appropriate coverage. Remember that it is in their best interests not to cover your losses - make sure that you have proof of everything lost in the disaster. SERVPRO can assist here on request with professional inventory evaluation services.

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus has the tools, personnel, and contacts necessary to take on even the most significant industrial-scale disasters in the local area. Contact us at (614) 888-5700.

Preventing Fires At Your Commercial Property

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Call the trusted experts at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus for all of your fire restoration needs.

Fire damage to your business is a serious concern. Even moderate damage can result in your facility being closed for repairs for weeks on end, and this can be financially devastating.

The unfortunate reality is that no business is immune to the risk of fire. Some facilities may be more likely to endure damage from a fire, such as a restaurant that uses open flames throughout the day. However, there are many fire hazards that are present in most workplaces on a daily basis regardless of the type of activities that take place in the building. When you know what these hazards are, you can take proper steps to address and mitigate those risks and prevent possible fire damage and smoke damage.

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

Poor Equipment Maintenance
Other hazards in workplaces are related to poor equipment maintenance. For example, failing to service your furnace regularly may result in the accumulation of 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 also include dusty, dirty or greasy components, such as air ducts and vents, kitchen exhaust vents and many other features that are used throughout your facility. Scheduling necessary maintenance can decrease fire risk in these areas.

Flammable or Combustible Materials
Flammable and combustible materials are most commonly associated with industrial and warehouse environments, but even restaurants, hotels, dry cleaners and many other types of business may store combustible materials on-site. These materials should remain properly sealed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations at all times.

As you can see, there are numerous fire hazards that could result in serious damage to your business. If your business has already experienced fire damage, it is essential that repair work is completed as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is your trusted leader in the restoration industry. We can quickly restore your building to its previous condition so that operations can resume in your place of business. Call us today!

Keeping Your Store Clean

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team helps you stand up against harmful bacteria!

Every day more and more shoppers visiting grocery stores, it means more and more hands touching things you’re going to buy. Scary right? By giving more attention to germ-prone areas, store workers play a significant role in preventing the spread of viruses. 

How do you properly clean sections of a grocery store?  Read our store checklist below!

Store Cleaning Checklist

• Shopping carts: As carts are used throughout the day, constantly wipe down the touch areas of the cart (especially the handles) with disinfectant cleaner.  Treat hand baskets the same way.  Nightly power washing serves as a proactive measure to sanitize and prepare the carts for use the next day.
• Checkout aisles: Cashiers (and with the assistance of baggers) should frequently clean the checkout area.  The conveyor belt, rails on each side of the belt, customer counter, and the bagging area should be wiped down at pace with the number of customers passing through. 
• Credit Card Machines: Keep credit card reading machines clean.  Cash and plastic cards are known for harboring germs.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms in a store probably already receive several cleanings per day, but with a recent emphasis on public health, it’s wise to increase the frequency of cleaning.  Customer and employee restrooms should be sanitized throughout the day: floors, doors, stall walls/doors, all handles (including paper towel and soap dispensers), sinks, counters, baby changing sections, etc.  Once the store is empty for the day, a more comprehensive cleaning should be done from top to bottom.  You should sanitize everything.
• Floors: Floors are high-traffic areas, and grocery store floors get even more foot traffic now that restaurant traffic is prohibited beyond carry-out.  For more efficient and thorough floor sanitization, consider using an industrial auto-scrubber.
• Walk-in freezers and refrigerators: Because freezers and refrigeration units house more prepared food these days, it’s a best practice to keep them clean for food safety. Give extra attention to these areas where products are handled by customers.  These areas should be routinely cleaned.  At a time that works best for your store schedule, remove the items from the refrigerator or freezer and clean the surfaces with no-touch products.  This helps mitigate any contamination.

Be aware of places where hands leave behind germs and coughs/sneezes may leave behind pathogens. As always, SERVPRO is here to help!  It can be overwhelming for your team members and our cleaning teams are ready and available 24/7 to proactively clean your business.  Please call us today! 

Mold In Commercial Buildings

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold found on back side of baseboards in commercial building.

Just like in your home, you also need to be concerned with mold in commercial buildings. Mold can be found almost anywhere and can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as there is moisture and oxygen present. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold starts to grow, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. Although it is impossible to completely eliminate all mold and mold spores, but you can control mold growth by controlling the moisture indoors.

In commercial buildings, moisture problems may include:

• Roof leaks
• Landscaping or gutters directing water into or under the building
• Unvented combustion appliances
• Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance

As mentioned before, the key to mold control is moisture control. Follow these mold prevention tips:

• Fix any leaky plumbing and leaks in the building as soon as possible.
• Look out for condensation and wet spots. Fix sources of moisture problems as soon as possible.
• Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing the surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in the air.
• Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning drip pans clean, properly flowing and unobstructed.
• Maintain a low indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity, 30-50% is ideal.
• Have your building and HVAC inspected and maintenance regularly.
• Clean up and dry out wet or damp spots within 48 hours.
• Never let foundations stay wet.

Call our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus Team for all of your mold remediation needs!

Don't Wait! Call SERVPRO To Start The Water Removal Process In Your Commercial Building

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Your janitorial team is NOT equipped to handle large water damage issues. That's why our SERVPRO team is here for you!

A flood can be a nightmare for a customer-facing business. Unfortunately, they are not easy to prevent due to the myriad of potential causes. A customer could leave a faucet on, an aging pipe could finally burst, or even extreme weather conditions could result in flooding. These all can cause temporary closure, and those that happen overnight can be particularly damaging. To limit the loss of revenue and be able to return your staff to work, you can use our professional restoration service.

The job of commercial water removal in Columbus properties is usually one that goes beyond the scope of your janitorial team. SERVPRO has access to national resources and can train local technicians while providing them with the right equipment to work on larger job sites. We operate our emergency line twenty-four hours a day to help our commercial businesses in times of need.

A water issue in a property is not always a case of large quantities of standing water. Sometimes a leak can spread out across a large surface area. This excess water is then absorbed into floors or wall cavities, primarily if the problem occurs during the close of business hours. We can conduct mitigation tasks quickly to help to ensure that no lasting damages are sustained to your property.

One method of removing water from a property is through creating airflow. SERVPRO use rapid air movers in a variety of ways to start this process. These equipment work by blasting air out at the surface level which pushes moisture into the air. Working with an open system, the circulation can replace wet air with drier air from outside the property.

Air movers can also be adapted to create circulation in areas of the property that would usually be hard to access. By attaching shrouds to an air mover, SERVPRO can re-purpose them to send air currents through wall cavities or beneath floorboards. These steps can often be essential in mitigating against microbial growth.

The benefit of professional assistance it that it can help to guard against expensive secondary damages, contact SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus at (614) 888-5700.

Restoring Your Columbus Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team can handle any size disaster!

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Have Questions about Commercial Water Damage?
Call Us Today – 614-888-5700

Why Call Our SERVPRO Team For Commercial Damage?

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Team is here to help 24-7!

Here at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus, we can help if your business or commercial property floods. You may be wondering why you would need us. Sometimes the damage of water is not as simple and just cleaning up the water. Call us 24/7/365 at 614-888-5700.

Though the water seepage will stop once the source of water has been identified and plugged, the problem does not end there. It is essential to determine the appropriate water extraction method, which may range from the use of a wet-dry vac unit to more heavy duty equipment like submersible pumps. Once this has been completed, the process of drying and dehumidification should start. Often times, affected surfaces and areas look dry once the water has been extracted and removed, but there remains hidden water and moisture.  This would call for the use of drying and dehumidifying equipment. As such, carpets, walls, and flooring require removal, drying, cleaning, and disinfecting.

Duct Cleaning For Your Commercial Property

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

What's lurking in your air ducts?

Commercial property managers and facility managers have a lot on their plate, keeping their properties clean and orderly. The one task that should be top of mind is duct cleaning, especially if you notice buildup or tenants complaining about respiratory irritation. Typically, you should have your building's ducts cleaned every 3 to 5 years. Like a residential home, routine maintenance cleaning of your duct system will improve the air quality. Duct cleaning will also assist in the efficiency of your system and potentially prolong the life of the system itself. 

Here at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus we offer commercial duct cleaning. Our team of dedicated and trained individuals focus on quality and customer relationships when handling your commercial property. 

If you're in need of duct cleaning for your commercial business, call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus to schedule your commercial duct cleaning.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned; A Higher Standard of Clean

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean. Being open for business is just the beginning of our new journey forward. Employees may be hesitant to return to work, and customers may wonder whether the businesses they patron are safe.

We are proud to launch Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned—a cleaning and disinfecting program that SERVPRO offers to commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This is a level of clean that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. When businesses chose SERVPRO, their employees, customers, and community can rest assured that they’ve selected a “higher standard of clean”—Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Please contact our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus office at 614-888-5700 to have your building Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. 

Oh No! It's 2 Am, Who Do I Call?

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

This flooded commercial building was caused by a recent storm. The sump pump was unable to keep up with the heavy rains.

Have you ever been sound asleep, and suddenly your phone rings. It's your nighttime maintenance technician notifying you that your building has flooded. And you exact thoughts are "Oh no, it's the middle of the night, who do I call?". The answer to that question is SERVPRO! We take the stress and headache away from you, making the process simple and stress free for you.

Our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus team is here for you not only during normal business hours but also during the night and the early mornings. We have a 24-7 on-call technician ready to address your next disaster and dispatch the next crew out to you.

At SERVPRO we understand that those disasters that happen in the middle of the night, need to be addressed immediately. We don't wait until the morning because we understand that your building needs to operate normally once the clock strikes 8 am. It is our duty to get your building back to a workable state for your staff and/or tenants.

The 2 am disaster calls are our favorite to respond to! Don't wait until the morning to address a disaster.  Waiting can cause secondary damage to your building, leaving the downtime on your building even longer.

Call our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus team today if you experience an unexpected disaster at your property in the middle of the night. We are on standby 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ready to help you! We are only a call away!

Typical Causes of Water Damage in Commercial Buildings

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

This flooded building was caused by a coffee supply line coming loose.

Unexpected flooding in commercial buildings can happen very quickly, especially if there is no one on site to access the problem. What starts out as a small water leak can instantly turn into something larger, and cause significantly more damage than expected. If your commercial building isn’t in pristine condition, there is a much higher chance of water damage occurring. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage in a commercial building:

1. Broken Pipes. Broken or cracked pipes are very common to occur in commercial buildings, especially as they age. When a pipe bursts, water rushes out of them, spraying throughout the whole building. A busted pipe can cause damage to the walls, ceilings, flooring, and any other contents you have occupying that space.
2. Malfunctioning Sprinklers. It is a law that all commercial properties are equipped with an overhead sprinkler system. It works in conjunction with the fire alarm, and is activated when the fire alarm goes off. This causes water damage in two ways. First, if there is a fire in the building, the smoke will set off the fire alarms, activating the sprinklers causing water damage. And second, if the sprinkler system malfunctions and activates on its own, causing the water to cover the entire building.
3. Backed Up Sewer Lines. Bathrooms are another common source of possible problems. Sewer lines can get backed up, releasing water into the building. This type of water damage is extremely dangerous because the water is filled hazardous waste and other contaminants.
4. Damaged Appliances. Almost every office building has a kitchen or break room. Typically these rooms have a refrigerator or a dishwasher and when these appliances malfunction they can leak a significant amount of water, flooding entire room or more.

What To Do And Not To Do When Cleaning Up Vandalism Damage

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience vandalism at your property, call our SERVPRO team!

Vandalism at your property can happen when you least expect it. Taking fast action is critical. Here are some important tips to remember while waiting for SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus to begin property restoration.

DO:

• Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior using water as soon as possible.
• Use a shop vac to carefully vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery.
• Save containers which reveal the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints. 
• Photograph and record all damage when possible.

DON'T:

• Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
• Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
• Discard furniture wood chips, broken pieces from porcelain, furniture or art objects that may be used for repair.

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus at (614) 888-5700 to help with your vandalism needs.

Maintaining Your Fire Sprinkler System In Your Building

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage due to a malfunctioning sprinkler head, call our SERVPRO team.

Fires can happen without warning and can cause extensive damage to your commercial property. According to the National Fire Protection Association, property damage from fires totaled in about $12 million in 2012. Luckily we have fire sprinklers that are considered one of the most effective fire suppression systems available. When a building sprinkler system is activated by a fire, they are effective 96% of the time according to the NFPA. That's why it is very important for these systems to be in good condition and maintained regularly.

• Be sure to inspect all control valves to ensure that they are open, accessible, properly locked, and free from any leaks. Examine water and air pressure gauges to make sure they are showing normal ranges in good condition.
• Inspect the condition of sprinkler heads for paint, dust, or obstructions.
• Make sure there is an adequate clearance of at least 18 inches from the height of storage to the sprinkler head. This prevents anything from accidentally knocking into it.
• Have at least 6 spare heads that correspond to the type and temperature rate of the heads in use.
• Inspect all fire department connections to verify caps are in place and that no damage is present.
• Check low points on dry sprinkler systems to remove water to prevent freezing.
• Maintain adequate heat within a dry sprinkler control valve room to prevent freezing.
• Always report damage to any part of a sprinkler immediately.

Does Your Building Have The Flu? SERVPRO Can Help!

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call our office today to get your building cleaned!

About Influenza (Flu)

Approximately 8% of the U.S. population contracts the flu each year. Influenza virus is a contagious respiratory sickness causing mild to severe symptoms. Those with the flu can spread it to others without direct contact. The flu virus spreads mainly by droplets made when people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk. Someone can also get flu by touching a surface or object that has the flu virus on it.

How SERVPRO Can Help Prevent The Spread Of Flu

Our SERVPRO team is here for you! We can treat your buildings for Influenza A, Rhinovirus, and many other harmful viruses. Our team uses a powerful, EPA botanical disinfectant that dries with no residue and is safe for use in the most delicate of applications like nursing homes and schools. Our staff would treat your building with a fogging process then go over heavy touched areas by hand.

Call our SERVPRO office today for more information!

Emergency Ready Profile

9/25/2019 (Permalink)

This is a free service offered by SERVPRO that provides you with all the information needed in an emergency that you can access directly from our app.

According to the latest industry research, as many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. The Emergency Ready Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information.

Call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus at 614-888-5700 to get started on your SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile today!

Restoring Commercial Properties

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage Commercial Property

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Dangers of Electrical Fires

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Electrical Fire

Like residential homes, commercial buildings are at risk of an electrical fires and you should take precaution to prevent these hazards. Electrical equipment, plugs and wiring can all causes a fire. Older buildings can have outdated wiring which poses additional risks. If you are in doubt, call a professional electrician.

Here are a few precautions you can make to minimize your risk of an electrical fire:

1. Outlet & power cords – Make sure outlets are updated and in good working condition. Outlet should not be warm to the touch or make cracking sounds and should fit snugly. Have a professional repair them if you experience any issues.
2. Cords & Wiring – Do not use a damaged cord. If your cords are frayed, pinched or pierced, throw them out. Damaged, worn, cracked or corroded electrical wires can increase the chance of an electrical fires.

The National Fire Protection Agency suggest calling a qualified electrician if you experience:

1. Frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers.
2. Discolored or warm wall outlets
3. Flickering or dimming lights
4. Sparks from an outlet

Call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus if you do experience an electrical fire in your business at- 614-888-5700.

Cleanup Is Tedious...

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning Soot From A Hallway: Before/After

Have You Ever Experienced A Mess Like This?

Commercial fires are among the most dangerous and scariest of losses that we encounter. It encounters someone’s business, or even their home if an apartment or Highrise catches on fire. This can leave a business without a place to operate, or tenants out of their homes. Either way, this makes hiring a contractor experienced in getting you back in business even more critical.

What Makes SERVPRO Different?

Here at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus, we want you to know that you are hiring professionals who are trained in professional remediation. We follow all industry standards, and our crews are trained and certified in the work they are doing. Please call us with any questions to help get your business or home back to preloss conditions and get things put back together.

For A Free Consultation: (614) 888-5700

Cleanup Is Tedious...

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Cleaning Soot From A Hallway: Before/After

Have You Ever Experienced A Mess Like This?

Commercial fires are among the most dangerous and scariest of losses that we encounter. It encounters someone’s business, or even their home if an apartment or Highrise catches on fire. This can leave a business without a place to operate, or tenants out of their homes. Either way, this makes hiring a contractor experienced in getting you back in business even more critical.

What Makes SERVPRO Different?

Here at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus, we want you to know that you are hiring professionals who are trained in professional remediation. We follow all industry standards, and our crews are trained and certified in the work they are doing. Please call us with any questions to help get your business or home back to preloss conditions and get things put back together.

For A Free Consultation: (614) 888-5700

Polar Vortex Commercial Damage

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded Restroom

The Northeast and Midwest experienced a polar vortex this winter that caused many issues for residential and commercial building owners. SERVPRO’s professionally trained technicians were quick to respond to many commercial disasters. The frigid temperatures and heavy snow were the two factors that causes flooding and frozen pipes.

This commercial water loss was caused by a main water line break. Time is vital in starting the drying process to avoid additional cost to structure and contents. If drying is delayed mold and mildew can begin increasing the cost of the loss and time you are out of business.

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus understands the importance of getting your company back in business and will be available to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Please contact us at 614-888-5700.

SERVPRO is Your Best Choice

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

Who should you call?

If you happen to encounter a commercial or residential loss, many people ask, what do we do now? If you don’t have a relationship with a professional remediation company, it can be very confusing after a loss on who to call for help These losses range in all types from water, fire, or mold found during a routine inspection. The importance of working with a professional and trained mitigation company is necessary for most commercial building managers. Here at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus, we want to work with you and help advise you of your best options to move forward after an unfortunate situation is unfolding. If you encounter a fire, we already work with all the major insurance companies, and probably know your adjuster. Mold is a routine problem for us, because we see it and remove it all the time. Water is also our bread-and-butter, as we work with many property managers to take care of water flooding issues and facilities that happen. Whatever your issue is may be, SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is here to help you out of your unfortunate situation. Give us a call and we can advise you through any predicament. (614) 888-5700.

Commercial Services SERVPRO Offers

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Ready to Assist Your Company with Any Loss

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is always ready to assist and you can trust the SERVPRO brand to get your company back in business after any loss. We can minimize the disruption to your clients while delivering professional and superior service. Most people think of SERVPRO when they have a water damage, but we offer many other services.

Services SERVPRO can provide to your business:

• Commercial Water Damage
• Commercial Fire Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm and Major Events
• Commercial Duct Cleaning
• Commercial Carpet Cleaning
• Commercial Disaster Recover Team
• Odor Removal
• Bio-Hazard Clean Up

The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike your business. Regardless of your property type or size, we respond quickly to clean your property and manage your restoration project to its completion.

Call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus should your business need assistance with any type of loss.

"Faster to Any Disaster"

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Structure Drying

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus responded quickly when we received an emergency call early in the morning for a water loss at this local commercial building. Five Thousand square feet of the building was affected by water due to heavy rain in the Central Ohio. Our owner and professional crew were on site within hours to start the water mitigation. They immediately began extracting water and drying equipment was placed to dry the structure and contents. SERVPRO closely monitored the drying daily by taking moisture readings and repositioning the equipment as necessary.

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus offers 24 Hour Emergency Services – We have the training, experience, and equipment to handle any size water loss. If an emergency arises in your business, give SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus a call at 614-888-5700 and we will get you back in business!

SERVPRO Large Loss Response Team

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

Large Loss Water Damage in Downtown Columbus

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is a Large Loss Response Team (LLRT).  This means that our franchise has been qualified by SERVPRO's Corporate  office to handle Large Losses for the Commercial Large Loss Division.  The qualified franchises are required to work under a pre-arranged set of criteria to ensure that the work is completed to the highest of standards.

We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.  It is crucial that your business is back in service as soon as possible.

Our franchise is available 24/7 in the event of a disaster to your commercial property.  Whether your disaster happens at 2:00AM or on a holiday, call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus at 614-888-5700 to respond immediately to your businesses' needs.

Emergency READY Profile

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan For it NOW.

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.

By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Are You Ready?

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever could happen?” The

SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Workplace Emergency Preparedness

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

Get Ready for Any Emergency!

Workplace Emergency Preparedness

The time to prepare for a workplace emergency is before it occurs. We never expect an emergency or disaster to happen in our home, workplace or community. The truth is an emergency or disaster could happen anywhere at any time. Having a well thought out emergency action plan is the best way you can protect your yourself, your family, your business and your employees. These unforeseen emergency situations can be natural or man-made and they threaten us by causing physical harm or environment damages.

Unexpected emergencies can include the following categories.

Weather emergencies:

Floods

Earthquakes

Hurricanes

Tornadoes

Environmental emergencies:

Fires

Toxic Gas releases

Explosion

Accidental or deliberate release of hazardous biological agents, or toxic chemicals

Pandemic disease

Man-made emergencies:

Civil Disturbances

Workplace violence

Deliberate release of hazardous biological agents, or toxic chemicals

Active shooter

Most people cannot think clearly and logically in a crisis. The first step in being prepared is to brainstorm all the potential emergencies that could disrupt your workplace. Once you establish your vulnerability you will want to address these objectives.

Steps to create an Emergency Preparedness Plan:

• The most important objective will be to prevent injuries or fatalities.

1. Who is responsibly to alert employees?
2. How will they be alerted?
3. Is evacuation required? What is the evacuation plan?
4. How to determine a safe meeting space?

• Call for help, fire department, police, medics etc.

1. What emergency phone numbers do we need?
2. Who will have access to this list?
3. Who is responsible to make the phone calls?

• When possible act to reduce the damage to your building and contents.

1. Where are the main shut off valves?
2. SERVPRO offers a ERP (Emergency Ready Profile) at no cost. We will send a SERVPRO representative to help you assess your facility.

After all emergency situations are analysis create your Emergency Preparedness Plan and put it in writing. It will then be important to set-up training for all employees. It is also a good idea to have practice drills to prepare employee and this also helps to evaluate your Emergency Preparedness Plan.

Steps to Take if You and Your Business are Victims of a Fire

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damaged Studs

No matter the severity of damages, a fire is a chaotic occurrence for any business owner. In addition to loss, every hour spent restoring your business is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Once the fire has ceased and the site has been cleared, follow these steps to promptly restore order, productivity and profitability of your business.

Account for Everyone Affected

The safety of your employees and patrons is of the most importance. Be sure all of your employees and guests are accounted for proceeding the incident. Check guest sign-in sheets or logs if you use them or surveillance cameras to ensure that everyone is accounted for. Once accounted for, retrieve contact information so that you are able to get in touch with anyone affected by the fire. This may also include board members, external partners and customers. Don’t leave your staff and business partners in the dark regarding the future of your company. Any activities or services that need to be postponed or suspended should be clearly communicated and announced. Communication is key to help keep your staff calm and alerted.

Contact your Insurance Company

Promptly contact your insurance agent to report the incident, damages and loss. The quicker you report the incident the quicker the rebuilding and reimbursement processes may begin. If you happen to rent or lease your space, don’t forget to contact your property owner or manager.

Document Everything.

Once the fire has ceased and you’ve accounted for everyone who may have been affected, survey your property for damages and take photos. Avoid costly mistakes and easily fetch important facts and numbers by documenting and organizing all records. Maintain phone call logs to include times and reasons for each contact. Keep all receipts to document any expenses paid for during your business’s recovery period. Insurance companies will require proof of claimed losses, so have pertinent documentation (receipts, user manuals, credit card statements, photos, etc.) easily accessible.

Recover Critical Data Servers: hard drives and computers that hold data critical to the day-to-day operations of your business. If damaged, you run the risk of losing data as well as exposing employee and customer information. Depending on your exact case, take the necessary steps needed to recover any sensitive data.

Safeguard Your Property

Once the property has been cleared by professionals, collect and remove salvageable valuables, paperwork and data devices. As a business owner, you are responsible for mitigating damages. If the fire has caused significant damage to the structure of the building (exterior walls, doors, windows or the roof) safeguard the premises. Temporarily patch any holes, pitch tarps or make arrangements to have the building boarded up to prevent further damage, vandalism and leaks. Remember to keep all receipts of expenses for reimbursement.

Proceed With Caution

It will be tempting get your business up and running as quickly as possible following the incident, but it is important to be patient and not to rush into any repairs. Contact experienced professionals to assist in the assessment of damages as they will have the knowledge, technology and resources needed to restore your space promptly and properly.

While any disaster to your business, big or small, can be worrisome - know that you have access to the resources to restore your business. Of US based businesses, about 60% have been able to reopen their doors after a disastrous fire and many have gone on to achieve great success and profitability. Above all, it is important to be smart and remain hopeful.

Restoring Your NE Columbus Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

6/6/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of NE Columbus

SERVPRO of NE Columbus specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.