Why to Call SERVPRO for Fire Damage

7/3/2024 (Permalink)

When you call SERVPRO of Society Hill/Downtown Philly for fire damage restoration, we follow a comprehensive process to ensure your home is restored to its pre-fire condition as efficiently as possible. Here’s an overview of the typical steps involved:

1. Initial Contact and Emergency Response

Initial Call:

• 24/7 Availability: SERVPRO® offers emergency services 24/7, so you can contact us immediately after the fire.
• Gather Information: During your initial call, a SERVPRO representative will ask for details about the fire damage, such as the extent of the damage, the cause of the fire if known, and any immediate concerns you have.

Emergency Response:

• Immediate Dispatch: Based on the information provided, SERVPRO Team Paparone will dispatch a team to your location as quickly as possible to begin the mitigation process.

2. Inspection and Assessment

On-Site Evaluation:

• Comprehensive Inspection: The SERVPRO team will conduct a thorough inspection of your property to assess the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. They will inspect all affected areas, including the structure, contents, and air quality.
• Damage Assessment: They will document the damage, take photographs, and determine the scope of work needed for restoration. This assessment helps in creating a detailed restoration plan and an estimate for the insurance company.

3. Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Services

Securing the Property:

• Preventing Further Damage: If the fire has caused significant structural damage, SERVPRO Team Paparone will board up missing windows, walls, and doors, and place tarps over damaged roofs to prevent further damage from weather or unauthorized entry.

4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

Water Mitigation:

• Water Extraction: If the fire was extinguished with water, SERVPRO will begin by removing any standing water using pumps and vacuum units.
• Drying and Dehumidification: They will use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out the affected areas. This helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

5. Removal of Smoke and Soot

Cleaning and Deodorization:

• Soot and Smoke Cleaning: SERVPRO uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. They employ advanced cleaning methods to restore your home’s structure and contents.
• Odor Removal: They use industrial air scrubbers, fogging equipment, and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate smoke odors and sanitize the area.

6. Cleaning and Sanitizing

Content Cleaning:

• Personal Belongings: SERVPRO will clean and restore personal belongings affected by the fire. This includes furniture, clothing, and other items. 
• Documentation: They will document and inventory items that are beyond repair for insurance purposes.

Sanitizing and Disinfecting:

• Sanitization: The team will thoroughly clean and disinfect all affected areas to ensure a safe living environment.

7. Restoration

Repair and Reconstruction:

• Structural Repairs: SERVPRO provides comprehensive repair and reconstruction services. This may include minor repairs such as drywall replacement, painting, and installing new carpet, as well as major repairs like rebuilding entire rooms.
• Restoration: Their goal is to restore your home to its pre-fire condition. They work with your insurance company to streamline the claims process and ensure that all repairs are completed to your satisfaction.

Conclusion

The process of calling SERVPRO for fire damage restoration involves several critical steps, from the initial emergency response and thorough inspection to water removal, soot and smoke cleaning, and complete restoration. SERVPRO’s professional approach ensures that your home is restored efficiently and effectively, minimizing the disruption to your life and helping you return to normal as quickly as possible.

What To Do After a Storm

10/2/2023 (Permalink)

No matter how much preparation or planning, there is no telling what damage a storm can leave behind!

Collapsing roofs, broken windows, hazardous debris, and standing water in your home are just a few damages that can be left behind - along with possible mold growth from water getting into carpets and furniture.

Following these steps after a storm strikes will help keep you and your family safe:

If you smell any gas shut off the gas line. 
Look out for any broken glass, sharp objects, or nails that could cause a risk. 
While taking these immediate precautions, contacting a reputable restoration company such as SERVPRO of Society Hill as soon as possible to help in the recovery process. Our goal is to dispatch out a team out to inspect damages within the hour of your initial call to us.
Next you will want to photograph any damage they may have occurred to have on record for your insurance company, as well as contacting your insurance company to get an adjuster out to survey the damage.

After all these steps are take just leave the rest to SERVPRO of Society Hill to clean up any mess no matter the extent. We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week including holidays.

Soot, Soot, go away!

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can be devastating to personal property and structures. Quick action is the only way to minimize the destruction.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, IICRC, is a globally recognized organization whose mission is to establish higher industry standards. As a referral source for consumers, IICRC certified firms are more likely to provide a faster, better service than non-certified competitors.

Restoration costs increase and damages escalate when the cleaning process is extended. By using an IICRC certified technician, owners will be rewarded by having the damage stopped so repairs can begin.

What happens only minutes after the disaster? Immediately after a fire, soot residue settles onto the property. Discoloration of porous materials is permanent, but other surfaces may be properly cleaned to remove the discoloration. Acidic soot begins staining other surfaces if not treated quickly.

Within hours all surfaces begin to suffer from fire and smoke damage. Wooden furniture may require refinishing. Metal begins to rust, pit and corrode. Painted walls begin to yellow. Clothing can become permanently stained. And finally, flooring may require refinishing or replacements.

If left untreated, within weeks the restoration process will take longer and cost more. Prolonged soot exposure permanently harms all surfaces and embeds in fibers. Replacement of property may be the best option at this point.

The structure may continue deteriorating if not properly restored by SERVPRO of Society Hill.

6 Tips to Protect Your Philly Home While on Vacation

7/20/2023 (Permalink)

Many people go on vacations during the summer months, leaving their properties unattended. SERVPRO is the #1 choice in restoration services to property owners, property managers, and vacation rental agencies. The need for routine inspections, maintenance, and restoration is very important to prevent any potential damage while the properties are vacant.

Here are some tips to make sure your property is taken care of while you’re relaxing! 

• Secure doors and windows: Before leaving, double-check that all doors, windows, and entry points are securely locked. You don’t want water to make its way uninvited.
• Inform trustworthy neighbors or friends about your vacation plans. Provide them with your contact information and ask them to keep an eye on your property. 
• Maintain your property's exterior: Before leaving, ensure that your property's exterior is well-maintained. Trim trees and bushes, mow the lawn, and remove any potential hazards or debris that could cause damage during your absence.
• Unplug non-essential appliances: To prevent electrical fires or power surges, unplug non-essential appliances, such as computers, TVs, and kitchen appliances. This also helps conserve energy while you're away.
• Check water sources: Turn off the main water supply or shut off individual water valves to prevent leaks or flooding. Consider installing leak detection devices that can alert you to any water leaks or pipe bursts.
• IF EMERGENCY OCCURS: Inform your security company and emergency contacts, such as SERVPRO of Society Hill/Downtown Philadelphia. We are available 24/7.
  

Vacation is supposed to be a relaxing getaway from reality. Performing these tips and tricks will help your family have a stress-free trip!

9 Tips to Keeping Your Pets Safe During an Emergency

7/6/2023 (Permalink)

Saturday, July 15th is National Pet Fire Safety Day! It is important to include your furry family members into your emergency plan should a fire ever occur. You want to make sure they know their way out of the house during an emergency.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in the United States, an estimated 500,000 pets are affected by house fires annually, with a significant number suffering injuries or losing their lives. Here are some tips to keeping your pets safe during a fire emergency:

1. Develop a clear and well-rehearsed evacuation plan that includes your pets. designate a meeting point outside where everyone, including your pets, can gather safely.
2. Display pet alert window stickers. 
3. Ensure that your pets wear collars with identification tags at all times.
4. Pets can accidentally knock over candles, lamps, or space heaters, causing fires.
5. Consider installing pet-specific fire alarms or detectors that can detect the unique frequencies of a pet's distress call.
6. Take steps to minimize the risk of fires in your home. Don't leave pets unattended near open flames or hot appliances.
7. Include essential supplies for your pets in an emergency kit, such as food, water, medications, and copies of vaccination records. Keep this kit easily accessible in case of an evacuation.
8. Inform neighbors or nearby friends.
9. During a fire emergency, pets may become frightened and seek hiding spots. Be aware of their favorite hiding places and inform firefighters or rescue personnel about their likely locations. 

Show some love to your pets and make sure they are ready to escape during or following an emergency. Call SERVPRO Team Paparone immediately following any fire damage restoration services. We are HERE TO HELP® 24/7.

Why SERVPRO of Society Hill for Water Damage Restoration

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

Property damage doesn’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Society Hill provides emergency cleanup and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. No damage is too big or small for our team! 

Why is immediate response time crucial?

The short answer: to keep a bad situation from getting worse. In many cases an immediate response will help contain and minimize damage, thus reducing cleaning and restoration costs. The sooner the cleanup process starts, the better.

Here are a few immediate steps you can take to help speed up the process:

1. Call your insurance company as soon as possible. Once you have filed a claim with your insurance company, SERVPRO of Langhorne/Bensalem can take it from there to determine next steps. 
2. Call SERVPRO of Society Hill, who provides 24 hour, 7 days a week emergency service by having a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you.
3. Document the damage by taking pictures or videos for the insurance claim. 
4. Shut off the water source so no further damage is created.
5. Turn off circuit breakers. 
6. Don’t enter affected areas! 

Use technology such as alarms and/or smart home monitoring systems that can be managed and monitored even when you aren’t home! 

Is you Philly Business Emergency Ready?

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

ARE YOU READY FOR WHATEVER HAPPENS?
No one plans for disasters, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have too. Partnering with SERVPRO of Society Hill, ensures you’re ready for whatever happens to your business or commercial property. By preparing now, you demonstrate excellence in readiness planning by compiling a comprehensive information resource to use in case of a disaster. 

WHY SERVPRO’S EMERGENCY READY PLAN?

By having an immediate plan, you minimize potential business downtime when disaster strikes. Here’s why SERVPRO’s ERP is the way to go! 

1. 50+ years in disaster recovery experience
2. 2,000+ service provider locations
1. This means there is a SERVPRO in your area within a two-hour distance
3. 20,000+ SERVPRO Personnel
4. No Retainer/Upfront Costs
1. SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan is completely free to utilize. We will come out to do a free assessment of your property while storing all the property information in one place.
5. Largest Supply of Owned Equipment

Our Ready Plan is designed to be a start-up approach that provides critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. 

If you and your business are interested in learning more about our ERP profile, please contact our offices at 215-772-1203.

What Your Homeowner and Renter's Insurance Covers

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Do you live in Philadelphia with renter’s insurance or homeowners insurance? Do you know what your insurance covers if you are hit with water damage?
No worries, SERVPRO of Society Hill has your back. Our partnership with State Farm has allowed our professionals to understand the ins and outs of insurance. Here is what renter’s insurance covers - in short, it covers all the things you own.
1. Accidents - this includes objects damaging your property
2. Weather impacts - any damage resulting from a natural
3. Malicious mischief - this includes vandalism, theft, riots, & vehicle damage
4. Loss of use - if your home or property is damaged and uninhabitable after a covered loss, living accommodations and expenses that accrue will be covered by this type of insurance.
According to Forbes and the Insurance Information Institution, every year about one in 50 homeowners file water damage claims, accounting for 29% of all homeowners insurance claims. It is important to be aware of what your insurance covers and the steps to take in the event of water damage.
SERVPRO of Society Hill takes pride in relieving stress from our customers and clients. Our professionals are equipped with the knowledge and resources to be the middle person between our business and their insurance claims.

What To Do Before, During and After Water Damage

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

We cannot control Mother Nature; when she hits Philadelphia, we need to make sure we are ready to go for whatever damage she leaves behind. We can’t control the weather but we can control what we do to prepare for the before, during and after water damage.

Here are the things you should do before, during and after water damage to make the remediation process easy for you.

BEFORE:

• Make a list of all the things you own; furniture, clothing, valuables
• Fill out a Family Emergency Plan (list of all emergency contacts), or if you are a business owner/property owner - fill out our Emergency Ready Plan
• Have a To-Go Bag that you can grab if you are rushing out in a hurry
• Be aware of what your insurance company covers when damage unexpectedly hits your home or business.

DURING:

• Turn off water valves and electricity circuits 
• Call you insurance company to file a claim
• Stay away from any flood water whether it’s from a storm or a leaking pipe. You’re unfamiliar with where the water came from.
• Call SERVPRO of Society Hill, give them the insurance claim number. After communicating with the insurance company, our crews will be dispatched out to your home to assess the situation and discuss next steps.

AFTER:

• Depending on the damage will determine what happens after the damage is assessed by our professionals. We take pride in making sure the water damage remediation process is as smooth as possible for our customers. 

Flooding is the most common U.S. natural disaster, and Pennsylvania has the highest flooding rate of any state.

If your home or business is suffering from water damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Society Hill now at 215-772-1203.

SERVPRO Host The First Responders College Bowl Game

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

It’s that time of year! Football season is upon us and SERVPRO hosts The First Responders College Bowl Game on December 27th in Dallas, Tx. SERVPRO takes pride in supporting their local first responders and SERVPRO of Society Hill is proud to be a part of that initiative. 

SERVPRO has been sponsoring the bowl game since 2014 and has given our franchises the opportunity to honor local first responders on a national level. Rick Isaacson, CEO of SERVPRO, said, “The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is one way we celebrate these dedicated first responders and their families as the hometown heroes they are.” 

Each franchise will nominate a local first responder to be considered for special recognition at this year's game. One nominee will be selected to experience an all-expenses-paid trip to the game where they will be presented with an award. 

The SERVPRO First Responders Bowl also has a virtual Everyday Heroes Wall that honors these courageous people in our community. If you know someone who has committed to risking their lives every day, view the Everyday Heroes Wall page to submit a photo of your frontline hero!