Carpet Cleaning For Your Business

12/27/2023 (Permalink)

Most carpeting is designed to camouflage dirt, and that’s especially true for commercial carpeting. If the carpet in your business is looking dull or rough around the edges, it’s probably time for a commercial cleaning.

Dingy carpet can hurt your business in several ways. For example:

• A carpet that isn’t well cared-for will need to be replaced sooner than one that receives regular cleanings and maintenance, costing you money.
• If you own commercial building space, keeping your carpets in good repair can cut down on complaints and liability.
• Clean carpeting and flooring are part of the good image of your business; clients will be more comfortable with you, and your employees will feel more positive about their work environment, affecting productivity.
• Clean carpets reduce loose particles, which protects indoor air quality. It has even been proven to reduce exposure to cancer-causing substances that can collect in carpet fibers! A clean carpet also reduces illness-causing biological contaminants such as bacteria, mold and viruses that can negatively affect your clients and work staff.
• You should consider cleaning your commercial carpet as a regular part of your business maintenance program, which will also cut down on odors lingering throughout the building.

Commercial Property Services

8/21/2023 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage 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 SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen a call, and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

Commercial Restoration

6/30/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen offers a variety of cleaning and restoration services for businesses both large and small in nearby communities.  Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to respond to your emergency business damages, including sewage backups, water damages, and flooding occurrences.

When disaster strikes, our team responds as quickly as possible, working to mitigate the severity of damages, lessen the amount of time your business flow is interrupted, and begin getting your building back to its preloss condition.  Our top priority is to deliver the highest caliber of service, not only providing a full line of water, fire and mold damage remediation options, but also working with your insurance company to help alleviate the stress of the damage situation.

SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen's Large Loss Response Team, along with the backing of over 1,700 franchises nationwide, has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle any size commercial loss.  We have worked with a variety of local business owners, from small restaurants to multi-unit condominiums, and are Here to Help you and your business in your time of need.  To learn more about our services, please give us a call at 708-301-4200.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

6/27/2023 (Permalink)

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities reopen, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral, pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry-leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique. 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

Consult 

Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high-frequency touchpoints, foot traffic, and congestion points.

Clean 

Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials. In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 

Certify

Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Consultation

SERVPRO Provides "Deep" Cleaning Commercial Services

3/22/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is called to perform all types of cleaning services, in addition to fire and water damage clean up and restoration.  In this case, a local restaurant owner called on SERVPRO to do a "deep" cleaning of the hardwood floors.

The normal wear and tear of this of this hardwood floor was beyond cleaning with traditional methods.  As a result, it was recommended that the floors be sanded and refinished, which would make these floors look shiny and new.  In this case the restaurant owner elected for our standard floor cleaning services but she will be using us in the spring when she will be ready for a complete sanding and refinishing of the entire restaurant.  SERVPRO of Lockport, Lemont, and Homer Glen works with numerous subcontractors in many different industries to accomplish the task at hand.

Your Business and Water Do Not Mix

2/21/2023 (Permalink)

No matter the cause of flooding, water damage can have a detrimental effect on your commercial building. Whether a pipe burst in a bathroom overnight or floodwaters from torrential rains caused your building’s basement to flood, you may believe that since the damage is already done, there is no rush to have the water drained. However, floodwater can cause damage quicker than you might think, and there are several benefits to having it removed as soon as possible.

1. Mold Can Form Rapidly After a Flood

The environment indoors changes quickly after a flood. Water might be absorbed by carpeting and drywall, which can increase a room’s humidity. In fact, humid conditions can contribute to mold growth and cause this fungus to grow as soon as 24 hours after a flood. Having a professional water damage and mold remediation company come in right away to drain away flood waters and perform mold cleanup may reduce overall repair costs.

2. Humidity May Warp Wood

After a flood, the humidity that builds indoors can cause any wooden building materials to warp if mitigation does not take place within at least a day or two. If standing water is not removed, it can increase the amount of water vapor in the air and cause considerable damage to wooden furniture, molding or flooring. It is wise to remove furniture as soon as it is safe to do so and store it in a cool, dry room, away from sunlight, until affected rooms are repaired and restored.

3. Clean Water Floods Can Cause Damage

If flooding in your building was caused by a plumbing mishap, the results can be just as detrimental. For example, if a pipe burst in the break room, the water can affect electrical systems and equipment or short them out, which can increase the risk of fire. Draining away standing water can reduce these potential hazards.

Flooding in your commercial building can create a variety of problems for you as a business owner. However, whether the flooding was caused by a pipe burst or by a storm, acting quickly can prevent the worst of the damage and lower repair costs.SERVPRO® of Lockport, Lemont, and Homer Glen is always here to help and to make it "Like it never even happened," for you!

Call Before You Dig!

1/26/2023 (Permalink)

Let’s be honest, spring and summer are the seasons in that you want to enjoy the nice weather while making home improvements. I know that every year, my mother will always plant Sunflowers. Whether you add a garden or put in an inground pool, or even the new Tik Tok Trend “garden ponds” when a pool is emptied, the client adds microorganisms to help build a small ecosystem. Here are some of the key things to remember before you create a DIY disaster:

Getting your land surveyed is important because you need to locate and mark where the gas or water lines are. You will not be the most well-liked neighbor if you dig and strike a sewage line, causing human waste to flood your backyard. 

If you were to call 811, you would be directed to a service that can come and adequately mark the underground service lines. Before you start digging for your inground pool or your new Masterchef grilling pit, please call 811; your neighbors will appreciate it more.

Damage from a leaky Toilet

11/8/2022 (Permalink)

A toilet leaking or overflowing can lead to water damage and possible containments in your residential or commercial space. A situation like this requires swift action and the right team doing the job. Luckily, SERVPRO of Lockport, Lemont, and Homer Glen offer emergency services 24 hours a day and is committed to making a fire, water or storm disaster “Like it never even happened.”   

There are various reasons why a toilet may leak, and steps should be taken immediately to prevent further damage. The supply line, which brings new water into the tank and is part of the flush mechanism, may become worn or cracked which leads to leaking. A malfunctioning flapper or valve could also be the culprit. If this happens in your property, make sure to turn off the water supply to prevent further damage. This can be found behind the metal supply line with the valve near the wall's connection point. Then, remove all the water from the tank.   

Our SERVPRO team has the skills needed to handle a job of this type. We are able to safely clean an affected area and restore it after damage. We are here to help! 

Your Business and Water Do Not Mix

9/26/2022 (Permalink)

No matter the cause of flooding, water damage can have a detrimental effect on your commercial building. Whether a pipe burst in a bathroom overnight or floodwaters from torrential rains caused your building’s basement to flood, you may believe that since the damage is already done, there is no rush to have the water drained. However, floodwater can cause damage quicker than you might think, and there are several benefits to having it removed as soon as possible.

1. Mold Can Form Rapidly After a Flood

The environment indoors changes quickly after a flood. Water might be absorbed by carpeting and drywall, which can increase a room’s humidity. In fact, humid conditions can contribute to mold growth and cause this fungus to grow as soon as 24 hours after a flood. Having a professional water damage and mold remediation company come in right away to drain away flood waters and perform mold cleanup may reduce overall repair costs.

2. Humidity May Warp Wood

After a flood, the humidity that builds indoors can cause any wooden building materials to warp if mitigation does not take place within at least a day or two. If standing water is not removed, it can increase the amount of water vapor in the air and cause considerable damage to wooden furniture, molding or flooring. It is wise to remove furniture as soon as it is safe to do so and store it in a cool, dry room, away from sunlight, until affected rooms are repaired and restored.

3. Clean Water Floods Can Cause Damage

If flooding in your building was caused by a plumbing mishap, the results can be just as detrimental. For example, if a pipe burst in the break room, the water can affect electrical systems and equipment or short them out, which can increase the risk of fire. Draining away standing water can reduce these potential hazards.

Flooding in your commercial building can create a variety of problems for you as a business owner. However, whether the flooding was caused by a pipe burst or by a storm, acting quickly can prevent the worst of the damage and lower repair costs. SERVPRO of Aurora is always here to help! We are here to make it "Like it never even happened," for you!

Whatever Disaster Strikes at Your Business, SERVPRO is Here

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

We are the premier service professionals ready to help your business in even the biggest jobs. Fire, water, mold, we can handle it.

When a fire happens, it can bring your business to a sudden halt. Thankfully, SERVPRO of Lockport, Lemont, and Homer Glen is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year. When a fire happens, give us a call so we can get you back to normal and up and running as soon as possible.

Whether it’s a leaky pipe or like the flood gates opened and there is water everywhere, SERVPRO has you covered. We have the highest quality equipment available so you can get everything up and running in no time.

Noticing a foul odor? Starting to see dark spots? Well, you might have a mold problem. Don’t fret, SERVPRO can help. We are experts at mold remediation. Your business is safe with us

5 Steps You Might Want To Implement At Your Company

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

Five Steps You May Want To Consider Implementing at Your Company

Before the storm arrives at your Bolingbrook, IL, business bringing flood water you may be able to take a few mitigation steps to help prevent large scale damage. Here are five steps you may want to consider implementing at your company.

1. Keep an Eye on the Weather

One of the first steps you can take is to keep an eye on your local weather. This will allow you to know when a storm is coming and prepare ahead of time. Such measures may include protecting the structure, or backing up data.

2. Trim Back Branches

During a storm, old branches from nearby trees may come loose and crash into the structure causing a flooded building. It’s a good idea to keep the landscaping trimmed to help prevent this potential problem.

3. Back Up Data

It’s also a good idea to back up any important electronic data in case flood water gets inside the building. You may choose to have external storage devices which can be moved to a safe location, or an online server.

4. Protect At Risk Areas

Protecting at risk areas around the business property can help prevent water damage. Tarp or board over any parts of the property you may be concerned over, including windows, roofing and skylights.

5. Call a Professional

If damage does occur at your place of business contacting a local storm damage restoration service may also help your company avoid additional damage. Cleaning up flooding quickly can keep it from soaking in and causing further structural or mold issues.

When dealing with flood water in your place of business it’s best to contact a restoration professional. However, before the storm arrives you can take the above steps to help protect the property. Remember to watch the weather, take care of the landscaping, back up important data, and protect any at risk areas.

Extreme Heat Safety Tips

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

The Summer of 2022 has been an extremely warm one. There are things you can do to keep the heat out and the cool in, in your home.

• Install window air conditioners snugly: insulate if necessary.
• Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.
• Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside.
• Weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool are in.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon with drapes, shades, awning, or louvers. (Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80%.)
• Keep storm windows up all year.

Extreme heat is a serious danger. For more information on preparation and prevention, visit ready.gov or cdc.gov.

"Stay safe and be cool!" from SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen.

Commercial Building Restoration Services

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

When fires or water damage happen, they may occur at your office or business. Who do you call? Knowing the right company to help in an emergency is important to get your business back up and running as quickly as possible. 

SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen is available 24/7 to help you restore your Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen commercial property and get you back to business. We have the expertise, equipment, and highly trained personnel to handle your commercial water, fire, or mold damage. We can also access the resources of our national network of 1,650 Franchises to handle large commercial projects and major storm events. Learn more about our commercial restoration services:

Commercial Services

Overview of Commercial Services
Commercial Restoration
Commercial Water Restoration
Commercial Fire Restoration
Commercial Mold Remediation
Commercial Storm and Major Events
Disaster Recovery Team
Commercial Cleaning
Building Services

Call Today!  

(708) 301-4200

SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen

3 Benefits of Professional Fire Restoration

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

3 Advantages Of Hiring A Professional Fire Restoration Company

When fire damages a commercial building in Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen, IL, the quality of the fire restoration determines how quickly the business can reopen and how much secondary damage occurs. A top tier restoration service is one you can confidently recommend to your insurance clients. The following are three ways that SERVPRO stands out from the competition.

1. IICRC Certification Ensures Quality Restoration

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification has been setting high standards for the restoration industry since 1972. The standards cover everything from continuing education requirements to liability insurance. Due to these rigorous standards, IICRC-certified SERVPRO franchises are often given preferred vendor status by insurance companies.

2. Quick Response Prevents Further Damage

The soot leftover after a fire has been extinguished is often corrosive, but that is not the only post-fire risk businesses face. The firefighting efforts may have resulted in broken windows and holes in the roof that can allow vandals and wildlife to enter the property and cause even more damage. Standing water leftover from firehoses can lead to mold growth if not dried up within 24 hours. Boarding up openings and beginning the fire restoration process as soon as possible is the best way to prevent further damage. SERVPRO franchises are open 24/7 and are able to get to work quickly.

3. ‘Restore Versus Replace’ Saves Money

SERVPRO technicians are taught to approach every job with a “restore versus replace" mentality. This means that the goal is to restore when possible and replace only when there’s no better solution. Although complete rebuilding services are sometimes necessary after a fire, the this approach saves money and allows business owners to keep more of their original possessions.

Business fires are upsetting and stressful, but the fire rebuild process does not have to be. When insurance companies choose IICRC-certified companies with a customer-centric approach to fire restoration, the damage to the property and the stress on the client are both minimized.

Here in your community, here to help

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

During these uncertain times, SERVPRO of Aurora, IL is prepared to help you when it matters the most.

Responding during difficult times is what we do, it’s who we are and what we know. Right now, during this most unprecedented moment we share with you, we continue to answer the calls of our neighbors who need us most.  

SERVPRO of Aurora, IL remains open to you as our employees and services are essential during this coronavirus pandemic. If your home or business is in need of cleaning and sanitizing, or any of our core water and fire services, call SERVPRO of Madison Wisconsin at 630-862-3930. We are here and ready to serve our community 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Commercial Services Spotlight: Hospitality Facilities

4/2/2022 (Permalink)

After months of canceled and postponed weddings, concerts and conventions, it is exciting to see the return of in-person social and business events to central Illinois. At SERVPRO of Aurora we understand that resuming these activities is especially important to the hospitality industry. Therefore, when disaster strikes in the form of fire, smoke or water damage, it is imperative that facilities are able to quickly get back to business. From small independent venues to large convention centers, we have the knowledge and experience to assess your situation and restore the affected area with as little inconvenience to your guests as possible. Our priority is to isolate the impacted areas of damage so that your facility can continue to function and maintain your high level of service to your customers. We offer a variety of services to the hotel, casino, entertainment and convention industries:

Our Experience Includes:

• Facilities Cleaning and Restoration
• Flooding and Water Damage Cleanup
• Biohazard
• Odor Removal
• Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning
• Smoke and Soot Cleanup
• Mold Removal
• Vandalism Cleanup
• Document and Records Recovery
• Total Project Management

If your commercial property has been impacted by fire, smoke or water damage, contact SERVPRO of Aurora today! We are the locally-owned, trusted leaders in the restoration business and we can make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen's Emergency Response Program

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Surviving a big commercial property loss successfully takes planning. Fire, water, or storm damage is unpredictable and can happen to any property at any time. 

Consider taking these steps with SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen to be prepared if you are faced with a commercial loss:

• ERP - The Emergency Response Plan
  • We make an Emergency Response Plan for your specific property. The plan permits us to collect information before a disaster strikes your business. That means we are already set to get work if your property suffers a loss.
• Pre-disaster consultation 
  • We will visit and inspect your commercial property so that we know what to expect if you suffer a loss.
• Response Time ALPHA 
  • You're our Emergency Response Plan (ERP) Client, our 1st priority whether its a big weather event like a hurricane or tornado. Our crew will be on-site fast.

Call SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen if your commercial property suffers any damages which require our mitigation.

Available 24/7 365 days a year.

Odor Removal In Your Apartment Complex

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

As the owner of an apartment complex, you are familiar with the handling of odor issues. When there are lots of people living close to one another, there are bound to be situations that arise that create unpleasant, and sometimes overpowering, odors. Many times they are easily dealt with by opening doors and windows, allowing spaces to air out, such as unpleasant cooking smells, for example. If a tenant has had a leak or small flood in their unit and wet carpeting is causing a bad odor, the carpet can always be professionally dried and cleaned if necessary. It may even require the removal and replacement of the carpeting (and it might be time to consider renovation of all units to wood or linoleum floors to alleviate this kind of issue in the future). Whatever you decide, you’ll need to get carpeting dried as soon as possible, completely and thoroughly, because we all know what comes next in a damp environment: Mold, along with all its odors and unhealthy aspects.

Sometimes an odor event is just too big, and you know it is going to require professional help;  that’s where SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen comes in. We are experts in deodorization, and our team is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors by determining the conditions that are causing the issue. Many times, the problem can be removed without a trace, given a little time.

SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes for our crew members on the proper removal of odors, and our team members know that simply masking them or using shortcuts just won’t work when it comes to a serious and persistent problem.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be tricky, so give SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen a call and leave the restoration to us! We are here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are experts when it comes to mold prevention and remediation and damage from fire or water, and we are proud to serve our homeowners and entrepreneurs. Call us today!

We are a Team - Large Loss Response

12/26/2021 (Permalink)

Living in the midwest, we all know how unpredictable the weather can be. One day it can be sunny with clear skies and the next day there it could be hailing and cold. Our SERVPRO of Aurora team knows that storm damage can happen and damage the business at any time.  We are currently the only certified Large Loss Response Team in the state of Illinois. We have the training, equipment, employees to help with any size disaster. We want to make your life easier and stress-free. Our certified response team is comprised of trained technicians who get in the field and help with any storm damage. Every loss is managed by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation for your large loss. Our employees are trained residential and commercially for any size disaster. We are stocked for any large job that could come in. We are ready to help.

Disaster At Your Rental Property

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Our First Priority is to Return Damaged Property to Pre-Loss Conditions

When disaster strikes at one of your properties, we know your first priority is the safety and well-being of your clients. Whether it's an industrial facility or multi-family properties, our professionals are experienced in maintaining the security and safety of the facility and tenants while isolating the damage. We work efficiently to minimize the interruptions for your tenants' daily lives.

Types of Facilities:

• Multi-level Commercial Buildings
• Multi-tenant Facilities
• Small Office Buildings
• Shopping Malls
• Apartment Complexes
• Hotels
• Industrial Facilities

SERVPRO of Aurora Professionals are available 24-7/365 to help remediate any damage, regardless of the cause, scale of the loss, or the size of your facility.

Is Renter's Insurance Enough

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

The main advantage of living in an apartment is you needn't concern yourself with the typical structural maintenance and repairs of homeowners. However, that doesn’t mean a renter is completely without concern or need of a robust renter's insurance policy or a storm mitigation specialist in Aurora, Illinois.

Flooding, for example, is a complex issue involving structure and personal property. What happens in this situation? Are you or the landlord responsible, and if you are, will your standard insurance coverage be enough? There are a few things to understand in such complex situations.

Things to Know about Renter's Insurance

1. The Landlord is Only Responsible for the Structure of the Building

A landlord is not responsible for all contents inside of a building, typically. They are liable for any damage to the property and structure of the complex. The landlord must also maintain all essentials and ensure a safe and habitable environment.
However, while a landlord is not responsible for damages to personal property in most situations, they might be liable if they did not take adequate action. If a landlord, for example, waits several days to report the aftermath of a flood, resulting in more water damage and potential mold contamination, a tenant might have ground to sue.

2. Standard Renter’s Insurance Typically Does Not Cover Flood Loss

When reviewing potential renter’s insurance policies, be sure to read through the coverages thoroughly. Most basic policies, while affordable, do not cover flood damage. If you are interested in flood coverage, you will need to purchase supplemental coverage. However, make sure to read the exceptions in the supplemental policy to ensure it covers what you need or are concerned about.

3. Personal Property is Almost Always a Tenant Responsibility

When renting an apartment, you are entering an arrangement with the landlord. The agreement has risks for both parties. The landlord understands things might happen to the structure during your stay, and you understand things might happen to your belongings. Each party is responsible for their property usually.

The best defense against property loss is an adequate renter’s insurance policy. Make sure your policy covers anything you are worried about, and buy a supplemental policy for anything extra.

Water Has Ruined My Office: Now What?

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Call the Specialists At SERVPRO to Handle the Water Damage in Your Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen Office

A leaky roof can cause rainwater to drip from the ceiling and ruin the building materials or items in your office. A pipe can also burst, and water can pool on the floor. It may not be as severe as you think. Still, you need to take action immediately to prevent further damage to the building materials and furniture. 

What can Water Damage Restorers Do?

Water damage in a office can cause severe destruction. In the event of water damage, the items in your office are vulnerable to damage. Moisture can penetrate the wood components of the furniture, causing them to warp, swell or split. Moisture that remains on metal components can cause rusting or a reduction of strength. The steps our SERVPRO team can take include:

• Inspecting the furniture to determine if it is salvageable
• Identifying any safety risks present
• Wiping the water and moisture from the items

What Can Restorers Do to Remove the Water and Moisture?

If water has pooled in your office, our team can use portable pumps to extract it. We can also check the ceiling to see if there is water on it, which can lead to its collapse. Our SERVPRO teams can also inspect the subfloors to ensure they have not deteriorated to the point of being unsafe. We can then dry out the affected areas using air movers and dehumidifiers. 

Ask The Experts: Do I need a professional to help clean up commercial water damage?

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Dealing with a flooded company is never something a business owner wants. Unfortunately, many businesses will eventually experience some kind of water loss, whether a broken pipe, leaking roof, or storm-related event. Fortunately, business owners don’t have to go it alone. A water remediation and restoration professional will have the latest knowledge, equipment, and techniques to get your business back to “Like it never even happened.”

Damage Cleanup
Water damage is never a simple situation. Restoring it back to its former glory requires different methods for different materials. Every structure has many porous and nonporous materials, all of which require their own methods for cleaning. In some cases, drywall or carpeting will need to be removed and replaced. In many cases, much more can be saved. An expert will do the following to help you minimize your loss.

• Inspect and assess the damage
• Extract water
• Dry and dehumidify affected areas
• Clean, sanitize and deodorize, including odor removal from air
• Restore structural components

Content Cleaning
Along with restoring the structural integrity of your flooded company, a certified professional is trained to salvage as much affected content as possible. From furniture to documents and equipment, they use an array of advanced techniques to clean items on-and off-site. These methods include:

Dry Cleaning – Best for minimal residue or pre-treatment before wet cleaning Used for cleaning light
Wet Cleaning – Method for the removal of heavy residues
Spray Cleaning – A solution safe for items too delicate for wet cleaning.
Foam Cleaning – Ideal for textiles that can be wet cleaned.
Abrasive Cleaning – Used for heavily soiled areas.
Immersion Cleaning – Items are dipped in an industrial solution.

When faced with a flooded company, getting back to normal can seem like something that will never happen. By finding the right help that adheres to industry standards and uses innovative equipment and techniques, you can get your business back to normal faster.

So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Property Cleaning & Restoration Services

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Aurora offers a variety of cleaning and restoration services for businesses both large and small in nearby communities.  Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to respond to your emergency business damages, including sewage backups, water damages, and flooding occurrences.

When disaster strikes, our team responds as quickly as possible, working to mitigate the severity of damages, lessen the amount of time your business flow is interrupted, and begin getting your building back to its preloss condition.  Our top priority is to deliver the highest caliber of service, not only providing a full line of water, fire and mold damage remediation options, but also working with your insurance company to help alleviate the stress of the damage situation.

SERVPRO of Aurora's Large Loss Response Team, along with the backing of over 1,700 franchises nationwide, has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle any size commercial loss.  We have worked with a variety of local business owners, from small restaurants to multi-unit condominiums, and are Here to Help you and your business in your time of need.  To learn more about our services, please give us a call at 630-862-3930.

Commercial Fire Damage

4/13/2021 (Permalink)

The fire engines have driven off. It's time for you to get into action to recover from a fire loss and restore your property. Having a fire cleanup action plan ensures you lessen the water damage, smoke damage, and soot damage. The damage may include fire damage from a fire in a home or commercial fire damage. Things get burnt beyond the usable state.

Tips to get you Moving Faster

Here are a few things to help you recover faster from a fire loss.

Is the fire damage critical? A fire in your business may require you to find alternative accommodation or work plans for a fire in business. The fire in a business may have caused irreparable damage to electronics and paperwork.

Do a quick evaluation. Which sections or items are completely gone and which ones are salvageable? A fire in business may require contacting more people. Differentiate between those that need urgent attention and those that can wait.
Determine if you need professional fire damage restoration services. A fire at a home may be easier to handle. A fire in business may require more consultations.

Besides fire loss, water and smoke damage also occur. Additionally, air quality goes to the dogs. Most firefighting is done using water. After a fire in a facility, excess water is left in the rooms and contents. Moisture is neither good on painted surfaces nor wood. Excess water destroys them. Also, in a commercial fire damage, water destroys documents and electronics.

Fire emits smoke which coats the nearest surface. This causes smoke damage and soot damage. Vacuuming, laundering and a little elbow grease may take care of soot damage. Expel out the bad air caused by smoke damage. Deodorize the room to improve air quality. Burning fire produces harmful gasses, smoke, and debris which lead to bad air quality. In some instances, getting the air quality back to normal may take several days.

Commercial fire damage is a double edged sword. A fire loss includes not only damage to property and investments, but also a loss of revenue due to closed operations. It is, therefore, crucial to get fire cleanup services as soon as possible.

Restaurant Fire Safety

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Restaurants have a higher degree of fire risk than most businesses. According to the National Fire Protection Association, approximately 61% of all restaurant fires between 2010 and 2014 were caused by cooking. Restaurants with their opens flames, hot equipment, electrical connections, cooking oils, cleaning chemicals and paper products have all the ingredients for a fire.

Preventative Maintenance:

• Install an automatic fire-suppression system in the kitchen.
• Keep portable fire extinguishers as a backup.
• Schedule regular maintenance on electrical equipment.
• Have your exhaust system inspected for grease buildup.

It is not only important for a restaurant to have preventative maintenance but also an emergency plan and staff training to take control of the situation to lead customers to safety. For help in getting your restaurant back to business, call SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen at 708-301-4200. We'll make it "Like it never even happened."

COMMERCIAL FREEZING PIPES

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

People from the midwest are a different kind of breed, dealing with some of the most crucial winter weather in the U.S.

Although the tenants of commercial properties might be prepared for the furiously cold weather that is to come, commercial property managers need to ensure that their buildings are ready, too. 

5 Winter Safety Tidbits to Prevent Freezing Pipes

1. Insulate water pipes.

This might be one of the easiest solutions. By insulating pipes that are exposed, along with attics, basements, and crawl spaces you will have increased protection from freezing.

2. Check and re-check shutoff valves.

If a pipe bursts, you will need to stop the water as quickly as you possibly can to prevent further damage. Make sure all of your emergency shutoff valves are in working order.

3. Inspect your pipes!

If you do not already, be certain that your pipes do not have any leakage or noticeable fatigue that may need replacing. Even if you have the slightest suspicion, it is much cheaper to be safe rather than sorry.

4. Run water at a slow drip to relieve pressure.

If you believe a pipe is in danger of bursting, running the water at a slow drip, even the smallest of trickles, will help prevent the pipe from freezing and then bursting. If it is starting to freeze, the water will flow through the frozen area and melt the ice. 

5. Plan.

An emergency action plan should be in place in case of flash flooding. Ensure evacuation routes are mapped out, have a backup plan for critical documents, data, and contact information, and call your SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen professionals to manage water damage as quickly as possible. 

SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen has Commercial Property Solutions for You

There is never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Illinois commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. 

3 Commercial Water Conservation Tips

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Consider These Three Tips When Creating Your Water Conservation Plan

In the United States, it is estimated that more than half of the available water is consumed through business use. Because businesses use such a large share of the water supply, they have the largest opportunity to have a positive impact on the Nation's water issues. These three tips can help your commercial operation conserve water.

1. Measure Water Consumption
To improve the amount of water your business is using, you first need to know how much water it is currently consuming. If you do not already have meters installed, install them, and take regular readings to determine which areas of your operation are consuming the most water. It is also a good idea to determine your water cost. It will be easier to get stakeholders on board with making a water upgrade to conserve water if you can demonstrate that the upgrade will also save the company money. Consider hiring a professional in Aurora, IL to perform a water audit.

2. Define Issues and Targeted Outcomes
Before you begin drafting your water conservation plan, you first need to identify the water issues you need to address and the outcomes you hope to achieve. For example, you might identify that you need to establish a regular maintenance plan and hire a water damage mitigation company to assist you with problems caused by leaky plumbing.

3. Improve Water Consumption
Once you have your current issues, goals, and consumption documented, you can begin implementing strategies to improve your water consumption. Strategies to consider include fixing leaks, installing low-flow restrictors on faucets, upgrading toilets to high-efficiency models, reclaiming wastewater, and relandscaping with plants that need less frequent watering.
Identifying and addressing water issues at your company can significantly reduce your negative impact on the environment and save your company money on water costs. 

SERVPRO Commercial Board Up

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

After a fire at a local business, SERVPRO responds with alacrity and expertise working with the commercial property owner, their tenants and their insurance carriers.

Damage to a business from fire and resultant smoke, soot and water damage can be devastating for any business or commercial property with lost revenue, productivity and emotional hardship. The fire damage can cause damage and breakage to windows, walls and roof necessitating board up and tarping of missing windows, walls and roof and also protecting the interior from further damage by the elements. Mitigation will follow instantaneously with our certified fire mitigation technicians. 

With resultant smoke and soot damage there may be recoverable contents on the property. If products that appear viable remain in the building, you should consider boarding up. These items will require assessment and cleaning and may not be fit for sale, but having them properly processed rather than stolen can be helpful for insurance purposes. You want to protect your electronics and other important items. Depending on the extent of the fire damage, you may be able to restore some electronics or other valuable property to working condition.You need to keep your contents out the elements. If the structure of your property has sustained extensive damage, you should try to keep the elements out to prevent additional damage. Exposure to additional water, wind, or sunlight can compound the damage caused by smoke residue and soot.You want to limit soot damage. It is generally a good idea to reduce foot traffic on the scene of a recent fire. When soot gets embedded into carpeting or upholstery, it can be much more difficult to remedy.

All of us here at SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen understand that having dedicated and trained technicians, utilizing professional protocols and equipment make a real difference in down time and in reducing claims and loss expenses. Our adage “Like it never even happened,” is our goal in returning damaged areas to a preloss condition and we are dedicated to both the property and lives of the customers we assist 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year. Contact us at 708-301-4200. 

Common Water Issues for Businesses

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

For a commercial property owner in Joliet unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, a water damage professional can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in a number of ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from a number of things, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

3. Weather

Extreme weather conditions can also lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or even cause it to burst. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional about what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible to determine the best course of action.

Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, a professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

Emergency Readiness Plan

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Commercial After Hours Response

The SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen's Emergency READY Profile Advantage

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

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.

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
   
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
   
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
   
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
   
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage, which can save you time and money.
   
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
  Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens." 

Call today to schedule (708)401-3200

Commercial Facilities that SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen Can Service

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen has serviced many different homes and facilities this year. We have done cleaning, flood cleanup and fire damage restoration for everything from Senior Living Facilities, to Campgrounds and everything else in between. 

Some examples of different structures and buildings we can clean and perform emergency cleaning procedures include:

• Healthcare Facilities (Hospitals, Urgent Cares, Doctor Offices, Dental Offices, etc.)
• Retail Centers and Strip Malls
• Restaurants and Banquet Halls
• Schools 
• Hospitality Facilities (Hotels, Motels, Airbnbs)

Any facility that has a roof and structure we can clean and we aim to be the best restoration experience you will have. We work hard, so that you don't have to. 

If you find that you experience a flood, fire and or bio-hazard situation, call SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen at (708) 301-4200 and we will aim to make the situation within your home or business look "Like it never even happened." 

3 Post-Fire Security Solutions

4/19/2020 (Permalink)

Tarp over a damaged roof in Homer Glen, IL

Three Ways To Secure A Damaged Building

Fires cause costly damage and inconvenience the owners of commercial properties. While general property insurance policies cover most of the expenses associated with cleaning and restoring fire damage, this coverage may not extend to secondary damage that can be prevented by securing the premises. Here are three ways to secure a damaged building in Homer Glen, IL.

1. Board Up Entry Points
Trespassers pose the greatest security risk to a building following a fire. Whether these individuals are looting or simply want to survey the damage, their presence poses a liability risk to owners and may increase damage and losses. The best way to restrict entry is to arrange for mitigation professionals to board up doors, broken windows and damaged walls after a fire has been extinguished.

2. Install Security Fencing
Fencing off the location of a fire is another way to restrict access. Security fencing should be installed in a timely manner and remain in place until fire cleanup and restoration are complete. A general commercial property insurance policy may be able to assist property owners with mitigation measures intended to enhance the security of a structure that has fire damage.

3. Tarp Over a Damaged Roof
Animals, debris and precipitation can all enter the site of a recent fire through holes in the roof. A mitigation service can install durable tarping over roof damage that will last until repairs take place. Tarps can also keep out additional water damage that insurance may not cover and which can intensify fire and smoke damage.
Prevent unauthorized entry into the location of a fire by arranging for boarding up, tarping and fencing services. Any access or exposure can intensify damage and may not be covered by insurance. Taking appropriate mitigation measures in a timely fashion may make it easier to settle a fire damage claim for a commercial property in Homer Glen, IL.

3 Ways To Prevent Mold From Spreading

1/23/2020 (Permalink)

Mold containment in Lockport, IL

Ask About the Following Three Procedures

Has your nose detected a musty odor? Has your establishment recently incurred a water buildup? If so, fungus could be developing, ruining your walls, ceiling or flooring. Don't rely on a household disinfectant to eliminate the problem. Mold cleanup needs to be performed by professionals, so contact a mold restoration company in Lockport, IL, to inspect the property and handle the situation. With their knowledge and specialized equipment, they can limit further contamination and restore your business to proper working condition. Ask about the following three procedures.

1. Restricting Air Circulation

Mold spores spread through air and contact, so you'll want to ensure that the impacted space is cut off from the rest of the store. Negative air chambers, for instance, seal off the section and redirect air, preventing it from entering the HVAC unit or exterior halls.

2. Drying Up the Area

Mold cleanup requires water extraction since fluid acts as a catalyst for development. Inquire about dehumidifiers. These machines suck moisture from the air and material; depending on the severity of the issue, you may need several. Allow them to run for as long as needed. Sometimes, that means days. Then, before they're removed, see that humidity levels are measured from the walls and flooring.

3. Replacing Materials

Finally, any items that experienced mold contamination need appropriate washing or removal. For example, because most cleansers, including bleach, don't penetrate or completely kill the infestation, many permanent fixtures such as flooring, drywall, and ceiling tiles need to be cut out and completely replaced. Getting rid of it is the safest choice. In addition, if documents were impacted, discuss digital scanning or sanitizing processes. Furthermore, furniture and fixtures can, at times, be saved, if the items are not porous. Surface products might be able to eradicate the microbes. The ultimate goal is to exterminate fungus to the best of your ability.
Don't neglect water damage, as it can lead to major trouble. Mold cleanup would be required to provide a sanitary and safe working environment. Once treatment has occurred, your establishment can reopen, providing services to the neighborhood.

Emergency Ready Profile

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

As a homeowner you always want to make sure you have emergency contacts close by in case anything unexpected happens. What if you are a homeowner but also a business owner? I know personally I couldn't imagine the amount of stress! SERVPRO realizes that you might not think about the unexpected things that might happen to your business; flooding, tornado damage, etc. 

That's why we have our Emergency Ready Program available to you! Our ERP, Emergency Ready Profile is the best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster, 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.
 The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage A no cost assessment of your facility. – This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost. A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. – It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed. A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. – This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action. Establishes your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. – You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by. Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. – This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money. Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. – Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”  Give us a call today and set up your ERP!

Water Issues Business Run Into

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Common Water Issues for Businesses

For a commercial property owner in Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, a water damage professional can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in a number of ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can also affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from a number of things, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

3. Weather

Extreme weather conditions can also lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The expansion puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or even cause it to burst altogether. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional about what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible to determine the best course of action. Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, a professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

5 Tips for Broken Pipes

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Bursting pipes can cause extensive damage in a commercial property. There are several steps you can take to limit the extent of the damage. 1. Call a Plumber Contact a plumber with an emergency work order to fix a broken pipe. If more than one person is on site, one person should make the call while the other shuts off or collects water. 2. Shut Off the Water Shutting off the flow of water to your building can limit the amount of water that can cause damage. Notify all occupants that the water is turned off. 2. Collect Water in Containers Collect as much water from bursting pipes as possible in any containers you have on hand. Once again, if more than one person is present, you should cycle out containers as each becomes full. These containers will be heavy, and a sturdy cart may help prevent strain or injury. 3. Fix Broken Pipes A plumber should resolve the source of the leak before you can start removing water and restoring the area. Continue to try to mitigate the damage until help arrives. 4. Eliminate All Standing Water Use any method available such as buckets, mops, towels, or a wet vacuum to start getting rid of standing water. You may want to call commercial damage restoration professionals with specialized equipment to pump out water. Water from a burst pipe is clean Category One water. If water leaks through building materials to another floor, it becomes contaminated Category Two water. 5. Dry the Affected Area Prevent mold or other secondary damage by completely drying the area affected by the leak. Use a dehumidifier to draw moisture out of porous or semi-porous building materials and contents. Follow these steps to deal with bursting pipes and water damage. A plumber can help stop the leak, and restoration experts can help prevent further damage. 

Is Your Business Prepared

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen

An estimated 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster, such as fire and flood never reopen.

SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen has worked with many businesses in the area to ensure they are prepared for any emergency. 

Between 2004-2008 16,360 fires happened in retail stores and other mercantile properties such as grocery stores beauty and barbershops.

Those fires caused $648 million in property damage. Fire damage is worse after normal business hours. Fires that started between 9PM-5AM caused $75,000 dollars in damage. First that started between 5AM-9AM caused $24,000 dollars in fire damage.

More than 60% of U.S. small businesses do not have formal emergency response plans & do not back-up their data off site.

No Plan Means You're Less Likely to Recover

80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business. 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.

70% of small business that experience major data loss go out of business within a year.

43% of companies that experience catastrophic data loss never reopen.

51% of companies with data loss closed within 2 years.

80% of companies that do not recover from a disaster within 1 month are likely to go out of business. 75% of companies without a business contingency plan fail within 3 years of a disaster.

Tips for Creating a Successful Emergency Ready Plan

1.  Let the professionals help you. Work with an emergency restoration company for assistance in creating your emergency ready profile.
2. Identify and label utility shut-off locations.
3. Identify local utility contact information.
4. Identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts.
5. Establish main internal contacts for purposes of employee safety and emergency work authorization.

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. Please contact one our Business Development Representative to setup your free Emergency Ready Profile.

(815) 436-5735

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. "Like it never even happened." Contact us for more information.

Preparing for Bad Weather

3/6/2019 (Permalink)

Business owners control many things, but weather isn’t one of them. Be it a snow storm, heavy rain or flooding, sooner or later, bad weather is bound to cause an inevitable hiccup in your business. Are you ready? The time to prepare is not when the forecast predicts a hurricane. Check out these ways to prepare your business for bad weather in Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen long before it shows up.

Create a Bad Weather Plan

Surprisingly, while business owners make a written plan for many things, weather isn’t always one of the. But bad weather can create a perfect storm of issues, from pipe burst issues to logistical problems. Before those worst cases scenarios become realities, come up with a plan for how to operate in bad weather. It should cover

• Who will communicate with employees in a weather crisis
• Evacuation or shelter in place plans
• What the overall business weather policy is Form Evacuation Plans

There are times when weather poses immediate danger. One example is if a snow storm leads to a fallen tree or debris that damages part of your facility. Having a plan for leaving the building is ideal for such scenarios. Outline the route employees should take to safety and appropriate maps to ensure everyone knows how to get out.  Protect Your Building After your employees, protecting your building is the next priority. Invest in backup generators to keep critical devices running and safe while you’re out of the office for bad weather. If flooding is expected, gather sandbags for doors and windows and consider moving furniture and electrical equipment to higher levels to prevent water damage. Whether your business is devastated or merely derailed by a snow storm or other bad weather depends a lot on how well you prepare. Use these tips as a starting point for facing bad weather and storm damage with ease.

Disasters Happen

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

When you are a business owner, insurer or property manager, you can have the opportunity to be a leader in your community by setting an example for your employees and customers.

Join your community in preparing for all types of emergencies and disasters. It is important that your entire community as a whole is prepared. Disasters happen and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities including businesses of all sizes.

As an employer in your community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees, and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster. We must all work together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are ready. At Ready.gov/business, businesses can find information on how to be better prepared. You can also contact SERVPRO of Lockport/ Lemont/ Homer Glen at 708-301-4200 for information on the Emergency READY Program.

Holiday Decorating Tips To Keep Your Property Safe

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

The holidays are here and it is time to celebrate by getting in the holiday spirit with decorating your property. As holiday decorations can bring loads of happiness and cheer, they can also bring costly disasters if not done safely. A few tips to remember to keep your property safe and keep the holiday spirit going are:

Ensure that you keep all your walkways free from obstructions and make sure that no Christmas trees or holiday lights block any doorways or exists.

Adding a few strands of holiday lights around can be a festive way to brighten your property, however; it is important to inspect all electrical cords and lights for frayed or loose wires and avoid overloading electrical outlets.

Choose decorations that are made of fire retardant materials.

Avoid using decorations that have an open flame and never hang decorations from fire sprinklers.

Some of you may think, who in their right mind would not realize some of these suggestions, but each year approximately 1,300 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries related to improper installation and use of holiday decorations and lighting. Christmas tree related fires cost an average of $20 million in property loss and damage each year.

Keep your property festive and safe and know that SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen is there for you 24/7 even during the holiday season if needed. Call 708-301-4200.

Biohazard Cleanups Need a Specialist

11/15/2018 (Permalink)

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont / Homer Glen offers fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to both residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health issues for building occupants, employees, customers and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen professionals are trained to safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, we help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and businesses. Our biohazard professionals have had special training to help with the following:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

If you or your business is in need of a biohazard cleanup, give SERVPRO of Lockport / Lemont/ Homer Glen a call at 708-301-4200.

Is Your Property Ready for Winter?

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. Heavy rain, freezing temperatures, damaging winds, sleet, or snow can cause serious and costly property damage. To prevent costly damages, consider the information below:

• Check your property for weakened and over grown tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice and snow can cause serious damage to both the property and individuals.
• Roofs, water pipes and gutters should all be inspected and in good working condition to avoid ice damming which can lead to exterior and interior damage.
• Inspect walkways and parking lots for proper drainage to avoid slippery areas.
• Inspect water pipes to make sure they are properly insulated to avoid freezing and breaking.
• Ask SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/ Homer Glen 708-301-4200 about completing an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business.  The ERP is a no cost assessment of your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster.

When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen Franchise Professionals to strike back

Make Your Business, Our Business

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Is your business prepared? From a burst pipe in an office building to faulty wiring in an apartment complex – fire and water losses are never planned, but they do happen. SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen  professionals know there is no such thing as a small emergency when it threatens the welfare of the tenants and the revenue of the property owner.

 During a loss, your objective is to focus on your customers and ours is to focus on your restoration needs. Our quick response and trained professionals may help avoid revenue loss for property owners and minimize inconvenience to tenants. SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen can help you resume normal business functions quickly. We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and we will work hard to restore your property and its contents to preloss condition. Call 708-301-4200.

School Fire Safety Begins with Education

8/15/2018 (Permalink)

According to the National Fire Prevention Association, U.S. fire departments respond to approximately 5,690 fires at education buildings each year. That is why it is very important to stress fire safety education in our schools. Listed below are some important school safety tips to incorporate in your schools:

• Conduct expected and unexpected monthly school fire drills having everyone participate.
• Inspect exists regularly to ensure stairways, doors and windows are unblocked and working properly.
• Train students on how to respond to a fire alarm during a school fire drill.
• Know locations of the fire protection system, such as fire alarm pull stations.
• Make sure every room is equipped with a map showing 2 exits.
• Assign special need students with an adult or other student for extra assistance.
• Have a predetermined location for students to meet once they exit the building and practice during a fire drill.
• Have a roster to make sure every student is accounted for.

Let's keep our children well educated and safe, in the event that a fire should occur remember that SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen is there 24/7 to help with all your fire restoration needs. Call 708-301-4200.

Biohazard Cleanup Services

7/17/2018 (Permalink)

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies nationwide, Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen professionals offer fast, reliable biohazard cleanup and restoration services to residential and commercials properties.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can have serious health issues for building occupants, employees, customers and owners. Our professionals are trained to safely, effectively and discreetly remove biohazardous substances and prepare it for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations. Our services include:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Crime Scene and Suicides
• Infectious Diseases
• Urine and Feces
• Rodent Droppings
• Vandalism
• Extensive Hoarding
• Sewage Backup

SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen can help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe properties and make a difficult or personal situation easier to handle. We are here for you in your time of need. Call 708-301-4200.

Does Your Business Have Our Emergency Ready Profile?

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

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. It consists of:

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Call SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemon/Homer Glen at 708-301-4200 today to get started.

Importance of Sprinkler Systems in Commercial Properties

4/26/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial sprinkler system

Whether you have purchased a commercial property or are in the process of building a commercial building, before a new company can open for business; it must be in compliance with local, state and federal fire safety standards. As a commercial building owner or property manager, one of your biggest concerns is protecting the investment you've made in your business and the people who work there.

Sprinkler systems can help make your business safer in multiple ways. Sprinklers work by detecting the heat from a fire and automatically turning them on. While the spray from the sprinklers is not always enough to put out the fire, it goes a long way to suppressing the fire and allowing more evacuation time until the fire department can get there. 

Fire and water damage not only affects the structure of your building and it's contents but also your emotions. Don't take on the stress of dealing with this on your own, Call SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen at 708-301-4200 and let us make this "Like it never even happened."

May is National Building Safety Month

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

Building Safety Month-in its 38th year-is an initiative of the International Code Council (ICC) and their 64,000 members across the world, as well as their partners in building construction and design and the safety community. Building Safety Month is an opportunity to educate insurance and commercial property professionals, as well as the general public, on what it takes to create safe, resilient, affordable, and energy efficient homes and buildings, according to the ICC website. The theme for 2018 is "Building Codes Save Lives" with a focus on safer communities over the five weeks in May. One of the topics during the third week of the month is Protecting Communities fro Disasters. The general public may not be aware how coded and code officials "improve and protect the places where we live, learn, work, worship and play, and this month can certainly improve that awareness and educate communities on this topic!

Sometimes no matter how prepared we are, a disaster may occur. Take comfort in knowing that SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen 708-301-4200 will be there to help you through it and make it "Like it never even happened."

Faster to Any Size Disaster

3/16/2018 (Permalink)

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen

There is no such thing as a small disaster-especially when the water you don't see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot and other unseen damage.  Water damage can affect the value of your property.  Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your property.

SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen knows how disruptive water damage can be for your business.  SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/Homer Glen employees are trained and equipped to manage the drying process.  By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, your building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary water damages.  With rapid response time and a full line of water cleanup and restoration services we can help you regain control quickly by helping to ensure your facility and its contents are properly dried, deodorized and protected.

Before you risk further damaging the value of your facility by attempting to clean the mess yourself, call SERVPRO of Lockport/Lemont/HomerGlen and we will make it "Like it never even happened."

Are You Prepared?

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

When Disaster Strikes

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest 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.  And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.

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. 

Be Ready With the Help of Technology

1/24/2018 (Permalink)

Technology can be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare, the following will help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.

Store Information Online

There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer free ways to store different types of files, from a Word document to images of important documents. Ready.gov suggests saving an electric version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets, if necessary.

Follow the News

Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed through Twitter.

Mark Yourself Safe

The American Red Cross offers a Safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in situations where communication is difficult to establish.

Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you’re located in the affected area at that time.

Get in Touch

Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in your phone and e-mail for communication with family, friends, business contacts and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during and after a disaster.

Charge Up

Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy a solar-powered charger as well.

The Emergency Ready Profile Advantage

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

"There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure." - Colin Powell

The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it now. The best way to plan for a disaster is with a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile.

Some advantages of the SERVPRO Ready Profile:

A no cost assessment of your facility.
A concise profile document and app that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
Establishes your local SERVPRO Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
For more details about the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, refer to the prior blog post titled Emergency Ready Plan-Are you ready?

Call us today to get started on your business's Emergency Ready Plan!

The Emergency Ready Profile Advantage

11/12/2017 (Permalink)

"There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure." - Colin Powell

The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it now. The best way to plan for a disaster is with a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile.

Some advantages of the SERVPRO Ready Profile:

A no cost assessment of your facility.
A concise profile document and app that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
Establishes your local SERVPRO Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
For more details about the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, refer to the prior blog post titled Emergency Ready Plan-Are you ready?

Call us today to get started on your business's Emergency Ready Plan!

Commercial Cleaning Needs

11/12/2017 (Permalink)

When you need it done right and done fast, call SERVPRO for all of your commercial cleaning needs. When you hire SERVPRO for maintenance cleaning, you get around-the-clock restoration services built with you in mind. Quality cleaning and a quick response - that's the SERVPRO way.

Can't figure out how to get the job done? Call us for your emergency restoration needs. Because when you experience a fire, water or mold damage in your facility, you need fast response and the expertise to get the job done right, ensuring your business can get back into operation as quickly as possible. Through it all, you expect the most reliable information and the very best service at a fair price.

SERVPRO is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs.

SERVICES OFFERED

Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration

Water Removal and Dehumidification

Crime Scene, Biohazard and Vandalism Cleanup

Mold Mitigation and Remediation

Contents Claim Inventory Service

Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning

Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning and Care

Stain Removal, Stain Resistance Applications

Odor Identification and Deodorization

Upholstery and Drapes:Wet or Dry Cleaning Method

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

7/20/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial water damage at an apartment complex in downtown Joliet, IL

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that reuire 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 bedgetary constraints.  We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises i your business, give us a call and we'll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Joliet

SERVPRO of Joliet 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.