Dealing with Sewage Backup: Guide by SERVPRO®

8/31/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage in bathroom of commercial building.

Facing a backed-up toilet or sink can already be a source of stress for commercial property owners and small business operators. However, when sewage becomes part of the equation, a minor inconvenience can quickly escalate into a hazardous and complex cleanup situation. Refer to this informative resource from SERVPRO experts to understand the immediate steps to take after a sewer backup occurs, along with effective prevention strategies to avert such incidents in the future.

Navigating Sewer Backups: Critical Actions to Take

Tackling a sewage backup within your commercial establishment transcends routine cleaning tasks. Given the inherent dangers of handling sewage, it's imperative that only trained professionals undertake the cleanup process. The moment you detect signs of a sewage backup, promptly reach out to a reputable professional company to address the issue and restore normalcy to your business operations.

Seasoned experts possess the knowledge to manage health risks while effectively eradicating all biohazards. An adept cleaning crew can adeptly perform the following crucial tasks related to sewage cleanup:

• Removal of All Items Damaged Due to Sewage Backup
• Appropriate Disposal of Irreparable Items
• Proper Disinfection of Salvageable Materials Off-Site
• Thorough Extraction of Water and Sewage Using Specialized Equipment
• Dehumidification of Affected Areas
• Dispersal of Hazardous Fumes and Airborne Particles
• Disinfection of Flooring and Surfaces in Contaminated Zones

The Perils of Ignoring Water Damage

8/28/2023 (Permalink)

Thermal camera depicting water damage.

Ceilings tainted with discoloration to sudden basement floods or pipes rupturing in your kitchen, these are all indicators of a water damage problem. Cleanup is not enough – it's imperative to tackle the root cause to avert more severe repercussions. Unattended water damage can inflict irreversible harm, like fostering rot and or mold growth on your property. Beyond the unappealing sight, it can erode your property's overall value.

Savings through Timely Water Damage Intervention

The silver lining lies in promptly and effectively managing water damage by taking immediate action. Waiting only escalates costs and potential destruction. When caught early, water damage typically yields to basic maintenance and repairs, such as replacing water-damaged drywall or flooring. Yet, if neglected, it can transform into a colossal issue necessitating weeks or months to correct – translating into a significant financial burden.

Takeaway

Unchecked water damage bears serious consequences, underscoring the urgency of addressing any indications as soon as they surface. From the perils of physical and mental health concerns due to mold proliferation to the avoidable hefty restoration expenses, the fallout of overlooking water damage is extensive.

In the unfortunate event of water damage afflicting your property, it's imperative to enlist professional assistance before the situation exacerbates. SERVPRO® stands as your dependable resource for swift and trustworthy water damage restoration services. Recognizing the urgency, we offer same-day, on-site assessments to swiftly manage the issue. Our certified, fully insured technicians safeguard you throughout the process. Don't postpone until it's too late; reach out to SERVPRO today for an evaluation and unparalleled water damage restoration services. Let us guide you back to the path of recovery!

Have Water Damage? Here's What to Do.

8/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito knows the safe and best way to remove excess water and minimize the chance of mold growth.

Oh no! You notice a leaking pipe or a plumbing issue in your home or business. Don’t fret, SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito is here for you. Before we arrive, however, here are some tips to safely take care of water damage. Keep in mind, these tips apply to clean water only. Sewage water causes different kinds of damage, and it is contaminated, so SERVPRO® treats that damage differently. SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito is the perfect call to begin the water removal process, as our professional team will quickly and properly dry out your home or business from any water damage.

• When you notice damage occurring, immediately shut off the water source and turn off the power.
• If safe, remove as much water as possible with a mop and towels to soak up water.
• Place aluminum foil between wood furniture legs and carpet. Do not keep rugs and furniture upholstery wet against each other, as more damage will occur.

Safety is number one priority, so these steps are only recommended if they are safe to do so. Do not enter a room with standing water, as there could be a risk of an electrical shock. Ensure all power is disconnected as soon as flooding occurs. Do not use an ordinary household vacuum to try and remove water. SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito knows the safe and best way to remove excess water and minimize the chance of mold growth. Call us at (805) 669-6662 to assist you today, we are 24/7/365.

Flooded Property? Act Fast!

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

The sooner you begin the recovery process to stop the flood, the more likely you will be to save damaged items and foundation.

When you experience a flood in your home or business, it is important to act fast and not delay. Water damage quickly builds up and will become more devastating as time goes on. The sooner you react and clear the contents from the flooded area, the more likely they are to be restored to previous conditions. Your items and possessions are important to you, and that’s why SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito is here to help!

The sooner you begin the recovery process to stop the flood, the more likely you will be to save damaged items and foundation.

To prevent further damage and the potential for widespread mold build-up, call SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito within the first 48 hours that you notice flooding. After giving us a call, take these steps to prevent a greater problem:

1. Turn off the electricity. It can be extremely dangerous if your property is flooded and there are items with electrical current nearby. Do not touch flood waters or any surrounding electronics until you’ve turned off the power first.
2. Contact your insurance company. Each insurance policy may differ, but homeowner’s insurance typically covers damages due to water leaks and plumbing malfunctions.
3. Remove water as fast as possible. By now, SERVPRO® will be on their way to begin the water extraction and restoration process. Until then, and if safe, you can try removing water with a shop-vac, “floor sucker” or bucket.

Once SERVPRO® has arrived, our experienced team will take over and determine the next steps to ensure your home or business is dry and safe. Don’t hesitate, call SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito as soon as you notice flooding or additional signs of water damage. Our number is (805) 669-6662, we are 24/7/365.

Steps to Take After Smoke Damage from a Wildfire

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Even if it's not visible, smoke damage still remains following wildfires.

Wildfires are all too common in Southern California, and smoke and ash damage cause devastating damage to a home if not addressed properly. Contact SERVPRO of Ojai / Montecito, as well as your insurance company, and provide information about the damage that has occurred. Most of our work starts off by first contacting your insurance with you or on your behalf and scheduling an inspection of the property. We will go through the difficult process of returning your business or home to its preloss condition. Since smoke damage can be invisible to the naked eye, it is important for qualified experts like SERVPRO of Ojai / Montecito to conduct the inspection.

While the inspection takes place it will benefit you to do the following:

• Take note of any damage you observe. Make sure to photograph any noticeable damage due to smoke and ash. The more you can document from the damage, the more it will assist you for insurance claims purposes.
• Move children, pets and anybody else away from the home and to a smoke-free area. Stay away from the residence until restoration is complete.

Smoke released in the air contains an array of toxins, and these toxins may persist if not treated correctly.  Let us work with your insurance company to help with your home’s wildfire recovery. Call SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito at (805) 669-6662, we are 24/7/365.

Water Mitigation or Restoration?

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration is the process of restoring your property to its preloss condition, even after being damaged by leaks, sewage, floods, storm

Restoration and mitigation are the two most important process to be carried out as soon as possible. There are some who would argue that water damage restoration and water mitigation are the same, however, this is not always true.

Water mitigation refers to any and all services involved in reducing and/or preventing additional damages resulted from leaking pipes or flooding. This can include moisture mitigation between walls after a storm event.

Water damage restoration is the process of restoring your property to its preloss condition, even after being damaged by leaks, sewage, floods, and storms. Water damage can affect your property from floor to ceiling and everything in between. Request assistance from the water damage experts at SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito to help prevent further property damage from developing.

SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito tackles the tough issues from start to finish. We have experienced franchise professionals and the infrastructure to handle any sized loss 24/7/365. We are fully insured and bonded, so you can rest assured that your property is in good hands. Call us today – (805) 669-6662 – for more information on how we can help with all your water damage needs.

What to Do When Your Toilet Overflows at Work

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO®, a water damage restoration company specializing in commercial sewage backup cleanup services.

Toilet overflow at a business is a Category 3 water loss, with damage sometimes reaching beyond the scope of the bathroom. This water is known as black water damage and is filled with contaminants from urine and fecal matter. It is vital to block off the area until it is cleaned professionally. Review the below steps to help reduce the time and money it will take to return your property to its pre loss condition. More damage will occur the longer that water is left sitting.

1. Stop flushing, use a plunger.

If pipes are clogged, flushing again will increase issues and not alleviate them. Be aware of your surroundings and perform this in the safest manner possible.

2. Turn off the water.

If water is overflowing already, spreading all over the floor, turn off the water to the toilet. The shut off valve is usually located on the wall near the base of the toilet, below the tank.

3. Inspect the water damaged area.

Water travels, and depending on the extent of the leak, damage may not be isolated to the bathroom. Water travels farther than you think. You will need to call in a professional to ascertain the extent of damages.

4. Close the Bathroom with Safety Signs.

Being safe is the most important. Safety signs hung up around the affected areas are a good way to notify others the bathroom is off limits. Provide signs to guide people to an alternate restroom until the issue at hand is resolved.

5. Call your insurance company.

Reach out to your insurance agent about what options are available to you. Sometimes damage will go beyond the bathroom. Your insurance will assist greatly with the appropriate next steps.

6. Call a water damage restoration company specializing in sewage backup cleanup services.

Hire a professional, certified remediation company to safely return your home to its preloss condition. Black water contains numerous pathogens which can carry bacteria, parasites, and viruses. Most of what is touched by this water remains unsalvageable. Cleanup doesn’t stop at waste and water; a professional restoration company will sanitize the area before conducting repairs. SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito is here 24/7 - (805) 669-6662.

Team Safety and Training

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

We never know when or where we can be of service.

As SERVPRO® Franchise of the Year 2020 and consistently in the top five of all SERVPRO® franchises we have a mission and responsibility to our team that helped get us here. As Americans we value life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

SERVPRO® of Ojai / Montecito insists on its team’s participation in CPR training as we never know when or where we can be of service.

The premiere training company we use, HOMESAFE, Inc. a Division of ACADISAFE, is only made possible with their Training Director and Principal Instructor Gio Fanelli. We’ve included a brief bio on his background and the trainings HOMESAFE, Inc. offer and how to make contact. CPR is only ONE of the many trainings that they offer.

Gio Fanelli, Training Director and Principal Instructor:

Gio is authorized by Federal OSHA as a Construction Safety Outreach Trainer (10 hr & 30 hr), By EPA as a Principal Course RRP Instructor (Lead), State of California CDPH (Lead) and DOSH (Asbestos) Approved Instructor and Director of Training at HomeSafe / AcadiSafe.

He has performed Radon testing evaluations, Clandestine Methamphetamine "Meth" Drug Lab Cleanup, Crime & Trauma Cleanup also called "Biohazard or Biorecovery"?, Healthcare & Life Science, Infection Control, Disaster Response, Critical Cleaning in Sensitive Environments, Project Design & Monitoring, Phase I, III ESA, Initial Site Surveys to Clearance Sampling, H.E.P.A Challenge Testing by "DOP" on Portable Exhaust Equipment Vacuums and Negative Air Machines as well as Respirator Fit Testing Services, Rotameter / Flowmeter NIST Traceable Primary Source Calibration.

HOMESAFE, Inc. a Division of ACADISAFE - State and Federal Accredited Asbestos, Bio, Lead, Mold, HazWoper, Infection Control, Occupational Safety & Health Training Company.

Office | Website | Email
800.789.SAFE (7233) | acadisafe.com / homesafe.org | gio@homesafe.org / gfanelli@acadisafe.com

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giofanelli

Office Address: 18012 Cowan Suite 200, Irvine, CA 92614

Training Location: 16601 Ventura Blvd 3rd floor, Encino, CA 91436

Mold Can Grow Anywhere

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Mold can grow on any surface. It is most seen in places of high moisture or lower lighting such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, cabinets, and near pipes or ducting. Behind drywall is one of the most regular placements to find mold as wood and drywall are excellent potential sources for growth. Ceilings with a lack of ventilation will accumulate moisture over time and can become an additional location for mold to grow. If the temperature is correct, and there are adequate amounts of moisture and oxygen, mold can grow.

Below are some typical ways mold can infiltrate your home or business.

1. Constant Humidity – ensure to ventilate your home properly, especially during warmer months.
2. Leaking Pipes in the Home – Mold behind drywall can also signify a faulty or broken pipe.
3. Poorly Ventilated Homes – A dehumidifier will help humidity stay below a certain range.
4. Leaking AC Unit – leaks anywhere on an AC unit can cause moisture to form and prevent the AC working correctly.

Conclusion

Make sure you have proper ventilation and low moisture content to limit the potential that mold will develop. Mold is a common issue, and many businesses and homeowners have to deal with it. It is important to get the source inspected by professionals and a professional remediation company to perform the remediation work. Call SERVPRO of Ojai / Montecito once you need remediation work performed.

Recovery After a Storm

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO van towing generator

Storm damage wreaks destruction on buildings as well as surrounding area. Wind damage can loosen the shingles or tiles on a roof which can allow moisture such as rain or snow to infiltrate the roof itself. This can allow said moisture to enter the protective surface of the roof, which will result in swelling wood with later disintegration, and sometimes becoming mold ridden. This outcome leads to a sagging ceiling and further problems. The elements such as wind, rain, lightning, or hail can result in catastrophic losses, turning lives upside down.

This is what you can expect from SERVPRO of Ojai / Montecito storm restoration service professionals.

• Regardless of whether it is a business or residence, our company will come to your property with trained experts and perform a thorough inspection of your loss. This helps us to understand and discover the full extent of damage.

• Once the scope of work is confirmed and agreed upon, the work begins. Depending on what type of damage is present, this will determine the type of equipment SERVPRO of Ojai / Montecito will use.

• Generators may be brought in to operate the dehumidifiers and air movers to combat potential mold and mildew to not have a change to make matters worse.

It is important to reach out immediately to reduce the extent that damage may occur. Once contacted and scheduled we will work tirelessly to rescue your building from greater structural issues.

Five Steps Towards Water Damage Recovery

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage resulting in mold.

First, get in touch with your insurance.

Insurance claims take time and paperwork. It is a good idea to check with your insurance company what they cover in terms of water damage to be prepared.

Second, Get an Inspection

SERVPRO of Ojai / Montecito is a water damage restoration expert in Ojai and Montecito that offers inspections, and our best-in-class technicians work tirelessly to return your home to its preloss condition.

Thirdly, Take Care of Your Home

Commercial buildings tend to have water resistant materials, some parts can still receive damage, especially from corrosion or mold growth.

Fourth, Check Your Electrical

Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Make sure the contractor you go with is properly licensed and has the experience to handle the job at hand.

Fifth, Cleaning and Remediation

Mold growth is the most common outcome from water damage. Restoration contractors should be able to detect the source and take proper remediation measures during the restoration process. Untreated mold can easily grow and spread, especially through your home or business’s ventilation system.

Wildfire Season Preparedness Tips

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Emergency preparedness.

Should a wildfire start in your area you will need to be able to move quickly and efficiently. You may have to leave your home to stay safe. Have different escape routes planned out from your home or community. Make sure to understand the procedure your community follows when making your emergency preparedness plan.

1. Emergency Supplies
   1. Go kit: (3) days of supplies
   2. Stay at home kit: (2) weeks of supplies for home confinement/stay
   3. 1-month supply of medication in child proof container
   4. Keep personal, financial, and medical records in safe, fireproof container.
2. Communication Plan
   1. Sign up for local government emergency alerts
   2. Obtain back up battery/ies for any mobile devices
   3. Obtain a battery-powered radio
   4. Monitor weather conditions near you
3. Emergency Skills
   1. First-aid training
   2. CPR training
   3. Be ready for no power. Plan for your needs, including cell phones and medical equipment.
4. Download American Red Cross Wildfire Safety Checklist: https://bit.ly/Wildfire-Safety-American-Red-Cross

Link to current California Wildfire incidents: https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/.

4 Steps Towards Preventing a Complete Business Shutdown

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Side by side SERVPRO vans.

Storm damage can be serious, but it does not mean the end of the world. By creating a plan and partnering with the support and help you will need, there is no reason why you should have to shut the doors to your business. When the damage to your building is serious enough to need repairs, but not catastrophic, you may be concerned about running your business while the emergency mitigation services are being performed. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village works with countless various industries and are experts in commercial remediation. Our various customers’ industries include those such as: residential, hospitality, medical, manufacturing, law, and government.  

We keep a clear line of communication open with our customers. Our highly trained claims managers work in tandem with our schedulers daily to confirm and memorialize the scope of work being performed daily. By understanding to our customers’ needs our team is able to devise the proper mitigation plan to minimize business interruption. Over 60% of small businesses don’t have a plan in place, and more than one in four businesses undergo a critical or significant loss every year.

Preventative Steps:

1. Create a plan.
2. Understand your coverage.
3. Get prepared.
4. Make SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village your remediation partner.

We are Number One in Damage Restoration

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

You can rely on us to be the best restoration company you ever deal with.

When you simply google "fire damage restoration", "water damage", "commercial restoration" lots of information pops up and it seems overwhelming, especially if you have never been placed in a situation like this before.

It can be an absolute nightmare if you don't deal with professionals and you should always do your due diligence check first. With SERVPRO, you'll never have to worry about what other restoration companies are doing, as a franchise, we are held to an industry-standard that holds true for the entire company and we pride ourselves in being #1 not only in the nation but in the Los Angeles County.

All of our technicians are IICRC certified and have continuous training. Our office staff is available to you 24/7 and we are known to get you back into your property as timely as possible.

If you ever suffer fire damage you should always call SERVPRO. 

Storm Damage Clean Up in Ojai/Montecito

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

When the wind sends branches and debris hurtling into your home, or other acts of storm related damage, force destruction on your property, we understand that it’s not your favorite thing to deal with. But at SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito we are equipped and trained to handle storm damage cleanup in the aftermath of a storm. We’ll clean up the debris and broken pieces of your home and make sure that all harmful substances are removed from your area so that it’s clean again. DIY storm restoration is never a good idea. As homeowner you can never be sure what storm water and/or mud is contaminated with. 

If you suffer from any storm damage your first call should always be to SERVPRO, we can make it "Like it never even happened."

The Same Day Pros

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

Now that you have survived the storm it’s time to see if your property sustained storm damage. As it’s always important to file claims with your property insurers, many homeowners are too overwhelmed with the stress and hardships of beginning the storm damage restoration process. Our experienced technicians will work efficiently and thoroughly to get your home and your lives back to normal.

SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito understands that not all storm damage is the same. Our community can suffer from wild fires, earthquakes, mudslides, flooding, etc. and we provide same day storm damage restoration all over the Ventura County. When a catastrophic storm strikes we can provide fast help with our crews on call 24/7 365 days out of the year. 

Look for Damage Inside and Out

12/27/2020 (Permalink)

No matter what climate you live in or what time of year it is, storms are inevitable. And, the unfortunate fact is, where there are storms, there is storm damage. Storms can cause a huge variety of damage to a property, both exteriorly and interiorly. 

Exterior Damage: protect your roof! The structure of your home can suffer from wind damage, hail damage, and falling debris.

Interior Damage: water staining on walls and floors, wet insulation, water seepage in the attic or crawlspace, and cracked skylights.

Interior damage is usually easier to spot than exterior damage. Any time you experience a storm it’s a good idea thoroughly look over both the interior and exterior of your home. If you experience storm damage inside or outside of your home immediately call SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito.

Earthquake Safety with SERVPRO

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Earthquakes are one of the most destructive of nature’s forces and Southern California knows them well. Due to their unpredictable nature and the amount of damage they can cause, everyone should be prepared for an earthquake. 

Creating an earthquake safety checklist can keep you, your family and pets, as well as your home more safe. Having emergency kits that last up to 3 days or practicing the "stop, drop, and hold" protocol can always become of use. 

After an earthquake sometimes home can experience broken pipes or kitchen machines and that brings water damage into the home, or outside forces come indoors. If your home suffers water, fire, or storm damage from an earthquake call SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito (once it is safe to do so).

Take Precautions to Storm Damage

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Violent weather such as storm damage can wreak havoc on buildings and homes. Wind damage can be a hazard to the structure of a building, by loosening the shingles or tiles on the roof. This can cause moisture such as rain to infiltrate into the protective surface of the roof, which will result in the wood swelling and later on disintegration and becoming moldy. This outcome will lead to a sagging ceiling and further problems.

Even though it is still over 90 degrees outside, the winter season is rapidly approaching in SoCal and it will be here before we know it. As a home or business owner we suggest taking the time this season to double check the roof of your home for any prior damage. Taking a few minutes out of your day to check can possibly save you a headache for storm restoration needs later on.

If you experience storm damage to your property, always call SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito.

Erasing the Damage Caused by Wildfires

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Southern California is truly a beautiful place to live, however the last few years it has endured some of the most catastrophic fires in history. Every year SERVPRO is readily available in our community helping those who have been affected by the fires in their homes or places of work.

Our crews will enter your home, clean up any soot or smoke damage, clean and sanitize the areas, as well as remediate and restore the property. The side effects from smoke and fire can leave lasting health problems and by using a professional restoration team you minimize those chances. 

If your home or business has sustained damage from a forest fire or wildfire in your area, contact the experts at SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito for an immediate response. 

Wind Damage in Southern California

10/10/2020 (Permalink)

In Southern California we have seasoned Santa Ana Winds and there are many areas of the United States that have experienced heavy winds and storms this season and the strong powerful winds can cause significant damage to a home.  Wind damage and water damage are the most common results of a heavy storm and it is important to contact a storm damage restoration professional as soon as the storm is over to help limit and repair the damage.  Wind damage can happen to your home directly from the strong wind or indirectly from the wind blowing debris into your house.

Wind damage can be disastrous to your home and if you experience any type of storm damage you should immediately call SERVPRO to come to your property. 

Don't Let Your Pipes Freeze

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Though it is rare for Southern California to get that cold, frozen pipes do happen!

Your body isn’t the only thing that you should be bundling up during the winter, and frozen pipes are more than an inconvenience. Because they affect your home’s water supply, as the water may have difficulty running through the pipes.

Frozen pipes can cause property damage, too.

When temperatures are cold enough, the water inside the pipes will freeze into ice. When water turns into ice, it expands in size. If the water expands enough, then it places pressure on the pipes.

Enough pressure will then cause the pipe to burst, not only damaging the pipe but also spreading water throughout your home and causing water damage.

If you suspect your pipes to be frozen you will need to wrap it with an electric heating pad or a towel and keep the faucet on so you will know when it has thawed.

Knowing the signs of frozen pipes can save you during the winter.

How To Go About A Water Loss

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

If you, unfortunately, suffer from a water loss it’s good to know your resources. 

Two main priorities are calling your insurance company and getting a water restoration company out to you. The longer you wait the more damage you risk in your home, standstill water can lead to microbial growth and that’s another headache you don’t need on top of a water loss. 

And most importantly, even if you think you can handle it and dry out the water yourself, you should always, and no matter what call SERVPRO. We would hate for you to not be able to complete the job and create a bigger problem for your home, and it’s what we are here to do. We want to handle your water loss!

Don't Repair The Storm Damage Alone

12/19/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage is our specialty and we don't want you to have to stress about it.

The storm might be over, but the repairs have yet to begin. Storms can cause a lot of damage, and it can be tempting to tackle the damages yourself. If your home has sustained damages from water, hail or high winds, however, you should avoid jumping into DIY repair efforts. While it’s possible to take a home’s storm recovery into your own hands, you should be wary. Storm damage repair can be dangerous. If you’re sustaining water damage, you may not realize degraded floors, walls or outdoor areas. Additionally, tarping roofs, removing debris and recovering from fire damage can be dangerous, if the proper precautions aren’t taken. Not only does SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito educate homeowners about these dangers, they expertly circumnavigate them during every project. If you’re acquiring emergency services from a quality provider, like SERVPRO, rest assured your home will be restored completely. Water damage can be fully removed, mold remediation can be a complete fix and fire restoration needn’t make your home susceptible to future damages.

Lightning Strike Storm Damage

12/19/2019 (Permalink)

Although lightning can strike anytime, the chance for lightning increases in the summer months. Stay safe with these basic tips from SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito:

• Have a lightning safety plan, and cancel/postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are expected. Lightning can hit trees and split them into the roads or onto cars.
• If you do get caught outside, avoid high ground, open spaces, and all metal objects including electric wires, fences, etc. Seek shelter in a substantial building or a fully enclosed metal vehicle. 
• If you are indoors, stay away from doors and windows. Do not use the telephone and consider unplugging computers, power tools, & TV sets. Lightning may strike exterior electric/phone lines, inducing shocks to inside equipment.

It is rare to see lightning in a storm in Southern California but that doesn't mean you shouldn't be prepared for it. 

SERVPRO Has the Resources to Remediate Your Storm Damaged Home

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

The wind in our area can get pretty extreme; damage develops on your roof, in your walls, windows, and many other areas of your home, causing you to fall victim to storm damage that often requires professional attention to repair. Making you look for someone you can trust to assist you through a pretty hectic time.
 
Many companies specialize in providing you with a single service, but what you need is someone who can manage the entire situation and perform everything you need to get things under control. A stress-free experience awaits, protect your Bakersfield area home from storm damage today with full-service solutions from your local restoration company.
 
While many of these businesses exist, only a handful offer the services that you deserve and manage the entire process. SERVPRO gives you access to IICRC technicians those who follow EPA and OSHA guidelines, treat you with respect and keep you informed throughout your restoration.
 
SERVPRO offers these services and more, creating an experience that meets or exceeds your expectations and returns your home to a quality pre-damage condition that you and your family can enjoy for years to come. We even work with your insurance company and assist you with any paperwork associated with your claim process.
 
Do you have damage to your roof? Why call a roofer when you have access to a company that provides you with professional roofing contractors as well as water removal, drying, and cleaning experts to get the entire job done correctly after the first call. We help you avoid spending hours on the phone trying to locate individual companies.
 
SERVPRO can help you become more informed, providing you with prevention and preparation methods to prevent excessive damage to your property. Everything from professional grading to assist with drainage, installation of additional drains, backflow valves, as well as submersible pumps to help during an emergency.
 
When damage does happen on your property, we respond quickly and pay specific attention to each and every area of your home. We have many services available designed to protect the contents of your home and keep valuable personal items out of the loss column.
 
Contact SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito today for additional information and schedule the services you deserve.

Frozen Pipe Damage

10/24/2019 (Permalink)

It obviously does not get very cold in Southern California but it is possible for your home to suffer from frozen pipes and damage from frozen pipes. A burst pipe can have a serious and costly affect on your home or business. However, there are things you can do to be prepared for these almost freezing conditions. Any areas of your home or business where pipes are present should be well heated during the winter, or at the very least well insulated.  It’s optimal to keep the temperature well above freezing, not even letting it get below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
If the area is not able to be heated, making sure the area is well insulated is the next best thing to help decrease the chance of a freeze.

When you know temperatures are going to dip below freezing, leaving your faucets dripping can also help prevent pipes from freezing. But what if the pipes have already burst? Know where your main water shutoff valve is.  This is one of the most important things to be aware of to quickly stop the extent of damage being.  Shutting the water off can prevent additional areas of damage from adding to the immediate problem.  Do this assuming it is safe to do so.  Be aware of any electrical devices or open circuits that could cause electrocution.  And if in doubt, always wait for a professional to handle the shutoff.

After all this is said and done and you have suffered water damage from a frozen to burst pipe call SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito.

Are You Prepared For A Storm?

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather-related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:

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

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

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

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Ojai/Montecito at. Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. Let us help you get your life back on top.

The Thomas Fire

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

In December of 2017 the Thomas Wildfire blazed through Southern California, it burned approximately 281,893 acres before being fully contained on January 12th of 2018. Which makes it the largest wildfire in California history and became the seventh most devastating fire in history. The Santa Ana winds were unusually strong and very persistent which were the largest factor of the fire spreading as quickly as it was.

SERVPROs of different counties were onsite in Ojai immediately with water bottles, dust makes, eye protectors, snacks, etc. for first responders and the community displaced from their homes. Spending the next few months out there we restored multiple homes, hotels, offices, and other places of business. 

While Ojai has still be rebuilding since then we have continued our efforts out there and if you or anyone you know is in the Ojai/Montecito area and needs fire restoration please call!