Recent Why SERVPRO Posts
What It’s Really Like to be a Restoration Professional: Hidden Challenges of the Disaster Recovery Industry
3/7/2023 (Permalink)
While on the job, crews learn some of the unique challenges that are not immediately apparent to those outside the industry.
Hidden Challenges of the Disaster Recovery Industry
The restoration industry is critical to the rebuilding and recovery process of commercial and residential properties after disasters, such as fires, floods, and storms. These industry professionals work tirelessly to help homeowners and business owners return to their properties as quickly and safely as possible.
While on the job, crews learn some of the unique challenges that are not immediately apparent to those outside the industry.
These challenges, while daunting, are actually a great opportunity to showcase skills and problem-solving abilities. Here are some of the hidden challenges faced by restoration professionals and what it's really like to work in the disaster recovery industry.
What It’s (sometimes) Like to Work as a Restoration Professional
- Limited Accessibility
Some areas of the building may be difficult to access, such as CRAWL SPACES, attics, or basements. Restoration professionals must be able to navigate these spaces safely and effectively in order to properly assess and mitigate the damage. Thankfully, the International Residential Code (IRC) now requires crawl space entrances to measure a minimum of 16 inches high and 24 inches wide.
- Time Constraints
Restoration work needs to be done quickly in order to minimize the damage and PREVENT FURTHER DETERIORATION. This can be challenging, particularly in the aftermath of a major disaster spanning a large region, like when Hurricane Ida hit the gulf. When a large region is affected, multiple buildings need to be restored at the same time. In general, a 24/7 emergency service restoration professional should be on-site within a few hours of being contacted—if not sooner—to assess the damage, develop a plan to mitigate it and begin the restoration process. The specific timeline for response may vary based on factors such as the severity of the damage, the location of the property, and the availability of resources.
- Unforeseen Complications
Sometimes, the damage is more extensive than originally thought, or hidden issues are discovered during the restoration process. Anyone who has taken on a home renovation project knows the construction adages all too well. Restoration professionals must be able to adapt to these complications and develop new plans of action as needed to keep the project going, as is within their means.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies
Restoration professionals often need to work with insurance companies and their adjusters to get the necessary coverage for the restoration work. This can be a time-consuming and complicated process, particularly when dealing with large-scale damage. However, the frequency of these transactions can make professionals familiar with insurance claims, creating a more efficient experience for all parties.
- Keeping Up with the Latest Technologies and Techniques
The restoration industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and techniques being developed all the time. Restoration professionals must be able to stay up-to-date with these changes in order to provide the most effective and efficient service. Thankfully, SERVPRO takes training seriously and invests heavily in their employees' frequent education and development.
Rewarding
Working as a restoration professional can be as rewarding as it is demanding. It takes a dedicated individual to pursue this line of work, but there are many positives to the job that make it all worthwhile.
Why Choose Restoration?
- To help people in their time of need and make a real difference in their lives
- To work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with new challenges every day
- To develop a wide range of skills, from construction to communication and customer service
- For career growth and industry advancement opportunities
- To work with a team of like-minded individuals who share a common goal of helping others
- To CONTRIBUTE TO THE COMMUNITY and make a positive impact on the local area
- For job security in a career, as disasters and emergencies will always occur and restoration services will always be in demand
Can SERVPRO be a Career?
The restoration industry offers a diverse range of career paths and opportunities for professional growth. If you're looking for a dynamic work environment that allows you to make a difference in people's lives, then SERVPRO may be the perfect fit for you.
With over 50 years of experience in the industry, SERVPRO offers a wide range of career paths.
Overview of our Cleaning Services
1/20/2022 (Permalink)
We're cleaning experts!
At SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood, we offer a large variety of cleaning services. We can handle the simple cleaning that comes from general day-to-day wear and tear and significant cleanups after sewage spills, biohazard contamination, and crime scene messes. This article showcases the range of cleaning services we provide.
Standard Cleaning Services
Life is busy, and you don't have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your property. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood for prompt service. Whether it's removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.
Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning
Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in low indoor air quality. If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating dust, pollen, odors, dirt, debris, or other contaminants. Keeping your HVAC system clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can, in turn, save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.
Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning
Even the highest-quality carpet and upholstery can show soiling over time. Protect your investment by cleaning and maintaining your carpet and upholstery. SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood offers a range of specialized cleaning methods and products to treat the various carpet and upholstery types.
Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floor Cleaning
Ceiling, wall, and floor cleaning should be part of your home or business's cleaning maintenance. These surfaces are exposed to dirt and dust, pet dander, cooking oils and grease, cigarette smoke, and other contaminants. We have specialized training in time-tested and industry-approved cleaning methods. Our proprietary cleaning system allows our professionals to clean and restore your ceilings, walls, and floors properly.
Odor Removal and Deodorization
As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. These odors can come from several sources, both inside and outside a structure. Masking and other shortcuts don't work when your odor problem is severe or persistent. We have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors.
Contents Cleaning
SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood specializes in restoring contents damaged by fire, water, or mold. We pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored to their preloss condition. We utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, depending on the extent of the damage. We also specialize in restoring your damaged electronics. We have the training and equipment to restore many of your electronic devices.
Other Cleaning Services
When cleaning goes beyond the everyday cleaning needs, give SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood a call. We offer a wide array of services to help you get back to business after your property experiences a crime, death, or other disaster.
Biohazard Removal and Cleaning
Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can cause health effects. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood is trained to safely remove biohazards and adequately dispose of them by OSHA and health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices.
Sewage Cleaning
Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits – these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. We remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture and help ensure the structure is properly cleaned, disinfected, and deodorized, making it "Like it never even happened."
Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup
After the police have finished processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, crime and accident scenes have blood and other hazardous contaminants can cause health effects. SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood will respond immediately and has the specialized training, protective equipment, and experience to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.
Vandalism Cleanup
Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting. It can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Often, simple vandalism acts, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed promptly. SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood will quickly remove vandalism and graffiti from your home or commercial spaces. In addition to removing spray-painted graffiti from exterior walls, we can also clean driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, wood, glass, plastic, and masonry.
Our large range of restoration and cleaning services allows us to restore your property, no matter what is needed. If your property has cleaning needs, give SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood a call at (407) 830-9899.
Career Opportunities at SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood
1/20/2022 (Permalink)
Interested in being a part of the SERVPRO family? Apply today!
With 19 franchises in 6 locations throughout TN, FL, and TX, SERVPRO Team Nicholson is an exciting, diverse, innovative place to work. We foster positive company culture, offer competitive compensation packages, and prioritize community involvement. Come find out what it takes to be a part of our team!
Our mission is to be a proud, laser-focused team holding each other accountable while creating positive opportunities for our people and becoming the most efficiently run organization in the markets we serve. We value honesty, reliability, relationships, trustworthiness, and authenticity! Our team develops and provides solutions; we are go-getters and carry a “bring it” attitude to our work environment. We listen and value each other’s thoughts and ideas and strive to bring them to life. We are built on hard work, transparency, good business, and integrity. We believe “You can’t go wrong doing the right thing.”
Bill Repsel, our Regional Administrator, shared his testimony on what it's like working for SERVPRO. He said "Every day is a new day. It is an opportunity to serve others in our community in a time of need. We have an incredible team of people with great talent that strives to make a difference every day."
SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood is proud of the work we do and is always looking for like-minded people interested in a rewarding career. Please submit your resume to recruiting@SERVPROclarksville.com or check out our current job openings.
What to Look For in a Restoration Company
1/14/2022 (Permalink)
The Ability to Deal with Multiple Damage Types
Many professional restoration services like SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood offer the ability to work with multiple damage types. This is because one kind of damage can lead to another. For example, fire eliminated by water can result in mold if the water stands long. Most restoration companies can help with fire, water, mold, and storm damage.
A Quick Response Time
Being faster to any size disaster means arriving with the materials and equipment required to do the job. Locally owned franchises such as SERVPRO® have locations across the country that allow them to respond faster when a disaster strikes.
They Offer a Variety of Services
A restoration company such as SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood offers various services designed to help your agent process the insurance claim. These include an electronics inventory service and an online database that provides access to information.
Having a company that can coordinate the whole process from start to finish makes your life easier and gets you back in your home or business faster. “Like it never even happened.”
If you would like more information on hiring a team experienced in multiple types of restoration, Call SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood at (407) 830-9899 today.
When was the Last Time you Cleaned your Air Ducts?
1/14/2022 (Permalink)
Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in low indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your Florida home or business.
If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating the following:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Odors
- Dirt and debris
- Other contaminants
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used in homes for heating or cooling is wasted. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten your system's life. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use.
When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn't have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness.
In addition to normal accumulations of dust and dirt found in all homes with air ducts, several other factors can increase the need for regular HVAC system cleaning:
- Pets
- Occupants with allergies or asthma
- Cigarette or cigar smoke
- Water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
- Home renovation or remodeling projects
Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers and young children, and the elderly, tend to be more susceptible to the types of low indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.
SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood professionals routinely inspects the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe. For additional information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call us today, (407) 830-9899.
A Smoother Claims Process
1/14/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood works with your insurance to make your restoration experience stress-free.
If you have suffered a disaster at your home or business, the last thing you want is to worry. For this reason, our team ensures they make a claim process as stress-free as possible. SERVPRO of Altamonte Springs/Longwood will help make it "Like it never even happened." That way, you and your family or business can get back to what is essential.
Our goal is to make the insurance process as smooth as possible. Therefore, we will:
- Create thorough visual and written documentation of the damage to your home or business.
- Document the condition of each item we remove for cleaning or storage.
- Work with your insurer.
- Handle the paperwork to make sure the processing and payment of your claim is quick
We are so proud that so many insurance companies recommend SERVPRO to their clients. They are aware of the benefits that come along with our partnership. We do everything we can to make the entire process as easy as possible.
Our team is here for you if you experience a disaster. Our technicians have specialized training and years of experience in water, fire, mold, and biohazard cleanup and restoration services. Call today; we're available 24/7 at (407) 830-9899.
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