When Your Business Needs Help, We Are Here | SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms

8/28/2024 (Permalink)

If your business has been damaged due to unexpected conditions, SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms wants to help. Call us now!

Owning a business is not for the faint of heart, and we are constantly impressed by all of the amazing restaurants, entertainment venues and specialty stores in our community!

We know what it takes to run a successful enterprise, and we are grateful that there are so many great opportunities in the Palms area. We want to help ensure the long-term success of businesses like yours, which is why we proudly offer our restoration and cleaning services to our entire business community!

Restoring Your Business

Disaster can strike at any time, and if you aren’t prepared, it can leave you with serious damages and the potential for long-term closures. No business owner wants that! 

We can help you recover faster so you can avoid those costly closures. We can handle everything from a simple breakroom fire to severe structural damage after a storm or flood. 

Our large-loss recovery team will take you through every step of the restoration process to ensure everything is addressed and the scale of the project matches your needs. We know that every minute you are closed or have to operate in a reduced capacity can have a negative effect on your business, so we work hard to be as quick and as thorough as possible. 

Keeping Your Space Clean 

We would assume that you didn’t open your business to spend all of your free time cleaning it. While a general janitorial staff can handle day-to-day messes, they sometimes don’t have the equipment needed to tackle certain cleaning projects. Our commercial cleaning crew can be your solution to this problem. 

We can handle anything from deep carpet cleaning to odor removal and everything in between. When was the last time you had your air ducts cleaned out? We can handle that, too, and make it a regular occurrence so your business always has the cleanest and freshest air possible. 

Cleaning Up the Hazards

You probably have a plan in place for fires, floods and storms, but do you have a plan for exposure to biohazards? The unexpected can happen at any time and leave you with a seriously dangerous situation that should be handled by professionals. Biohazard substances like sewage, blood and even crime scene residue should be addressed by a trained team with the right safety gear.

We have extensive training in the cleaning and sanitization of situations like animal waste and remains removal, hoarding situations, crime scene cleanup, bloodborne pathogens, and sewage leaks. With the right gear and attention to detail, we can ensure everyone will stay safe and protected from the biohazard situation at hand. 

We are proud to help our community’s businesses thrive! Contact us at SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms today. 

The Dangers of Compounding Damage After Storms | SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms

5/28/2024 (Permalink)

Storms can be extremely damaging to your home. That’s why SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms wants to help you. Call us today to restore your house!

Our homes do an amazing job of protecting us from everyday weather threats. The heat, humidity, strong wind and occasional downpours can make a big impact on our homes while we stay safe and dry inside. 

However, our homes are not invincible! Strong weather elements can cause serious damage to occur in the blink of an eye, leaving you with a destroyed home and a lot of questions. 

Getting started on the cleanup right away is important when it comes to avoiding long-term damage or issues that will only continue to worsen the longer the damage is left unaddressed. 

The Power of Wind

The wind can really pick up speed around here, especially when a storm is brewing off of the coast. Regular storms can bring wind around 30–40 miles per hour, but serious storms like coastal storms or hurricanes can easily top 100 miles per hour or more. 

These sudden bursts of wind can topple trees, overturn trampolines and even rip roofs off houses. Once your home is exposed, water damage can also set it in if it is raining. It can leak down walls or sneak in through broken windows and then you also have to deal with water damage on top of structural damage.

The Power of Water

Water damage is frustrating because it will only continue to worsen the longer you wait to address the issue. It will continue to leak and seep along any cracks or crevices in your home and can become stagnant behind your walls. 

Simple puddles or water spots can be cleaned up by yourself, but if the water gets behind your walls or under your floors, it can be virtually impossible to get at on your own. If any sort of moisture is left behind, mildew can begin to form and even mold can take hold. Over time, this can become a health hazard for your entire family.

How We Can Help

We are here 24/7 to respond to your call for help, and we will get moving as soon as you reach out to us. We know that the longer we wait, the higher the risk of compounding damages and a worsening situation, so we get started right away. 

We will secure your home, protect it from further damage by laying down tarps and boarding up windows, and then we get to work removing the water and damaged debris. 

Once your space is dry, we can tackle structural repairs. We can handle everything from a simple broken window to an entire roof replacement. SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms can truly do it all! We can help you recover faster and more thoroughly after suffering storm damage.

Don’t let storm damage linger in your home. Contact us at SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms today

Taking Control of Water Leaks at Home | SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms

2/28/2024 (Permalink)

When water damage invades your home, SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms is Here to Help®. Contact us now!

Water has a mind of its own and can cause some serious issues for your home and property. Once a leak starts, the water can quickly seep down your walls, get under your floors and spread everywhere in your home.

The longer the leak is unaddressed, the worse the problem can become! Addressing leaks quickly can help you avoid the more serious damage, and you can avoid serious issues like structural troubles or even mold infestations.

How Leaks Happen
We don’t get a lot of rain here, but when it does rain, it can cause serious issues. If the ground is really dry, it can cause flooding to occur and water can quickly get into our basements. 

Water leaks are also common inside the home through various issues. Burst pipes, faulty appliances and even a slow drip from your sink can all cause serious damage over time.

If you notice a new puddle on your floor or come home to an obvious water problem, try to stay calm and avoid walking through the water. Locate where the water is coming from and find the appropriate water valve to stop the flow of water. 

If the leak came from an appliance, consider shutting off power to the appliance as well so it can’t start back up again and leak the rest of the water in the pipes onto your floor. After that, give us a call! 

What to Do Next

We will get started on your restoration from the moment you call us. Our team is highly trained and ready to respond to whatever sort of situation you have discovered. We will ask a lot of questions about the damage to make sure we have the right crew and right equipment, and then we will get going on our way to your home. 

While you wait for us to arrive, you can certainly start the drying process on your own! Open some windows to ventilate the area or turn on a fan to get the air circulating. Our industrial-strength equipment will be able to take care of the entire drying process, but every little bit helps. 

How SERVPRO® Can Help 

Once we arrive at your home, we will get to work on locating the source of the leak and setting up our equipment to dry out your space. We will get out our air movers and blowers to remove the standing water, and we will use thermal cameras to detect hidden moisture behind your walls. 

After your space is dry, we will get started on any necessary repairs. Water is known to swell or warp floors, create soggy drywall and soak through carpet, so we will focus our attention on addressing any sort of repairs that are needed. 

We will work hard to make sure your home is returned to its preloss condition as quickly and as efficiently as possible. Call us day or night for immediate assistance with your water damage situation!

A fast recovery is always crucial after suffering from a water disaster. Contact SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms today. 

SERVPRO® Can Make Your Dream Home a Reality | SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms

11/29/2023 (Permalink)

Are you looking to make your home renovation dreams a reality? SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms is here to do it. Call us today!

Have you been saving up for a remodel or dreaming of a new addition or kitchen for your space? One of the best parts about being a homeowner is all of the personalization you can do to make your house a home. 

However, it can also be overwhelming to tackle large projects on your own or juggle multiple contractors to get the work done. That’s where we come in!

In addition to our top-notch restoration services, SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms is also a fully licensed construction company. We can take your dream and turn it into reality quickly and confidently.

What Does Our Construction Process Look Like?
We are a full-service team, which means we can handle any project that you have the vision for. We can take over a DIY gone wrong to help fix the issues and finish it for you, or we can take your dream that is on paper and bring it to life.

We have a project manager who oversees the entire process to make sure everything is done up to code and within regulation. We will start by drawing up the plans, evaluating the space and pulling necessary permits. 

When all of that is done, we will get right to work on the construction process. Our crew proudly remodels bathrooms and kitchens, finishes basements and can confidently add new additions to your already existing home. 

Our Services Speak for Themselves
We know that it can be a little scary to have contractors come into your home and work on it, which is why we focus on providing high-quality customer service every step of the way. We will chat with you because we truly want to get to know you through this process and to help you relax as we work. 

Our team is highly trained, and we are always learning new techniques and procedures to give you the highest quality product possible. We will even work with your insurance company if needed to make sure everything is being documented correctly as we go. 

We are so confident in our skills that we will keep working and remodeling until you are 100% satisfied with the final product. Our crew will work hard for you no matter what type of project you hire us for.

We are Here to Help® with your latest construction project. Contact SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms today. 

What to Do During a Flash Flood | SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms

11/29/2023 (Permalink)

The aftermath of flash floods can be disastrous. That’s why SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms is Here to Help®. Contact us now!

Our community is not known for heavy and frequent rainstorms, which is actually why we are more likely to suffer from flash flooding situations from time to time. If we are going through a drought, the ground gets really hard and dry and cannot keep up with any heavy rain that falls. 

If the ground can’t absorb the water, it will back up onto streets and flow through our community and into basements with ease. 

While flash flooding situations certainly can be scary, you can prepare for them to avoid serious damage! Incorporate these tips into your preparations the next time a flash flood warning is issued. 

Preparing for the Water

Stay connected to the local authorities and listen to the daily forecasts so you are always in the know. If a flash flood warning is issued or we are predicted to get a lot of rain in a short amount of time, that should be your signal to start preparing your property and home. 

Clean up your yard to remove anything that could easily be swept away by the water. Outdoor lawn equipment, yard tools and even children’s toys should be taken inside or stored in the garage, and consider pulling your car into the garage as well. Even just a few inches of fast-moving water can sweep away objects and damage your car.

Tie down the things that can’t be brought inside like trampolines, grills and patio furniture, and then head inside to get your house ready. Remove anything fragile or sentimental from the lowest level of your home and pull things away from the wall in case water starts leaking from your ceiling. Locate your emergency kit, and find a safe location on a higher level to ride out the storm. 

Dealing With Floodwater

If your home does start to flood when the storm comes to town, stay calm and avoid the area while the water is rushing in. Eventually the storm will move on and you will be able to assess the damage. 

Avoid walking through the water, since floodwater can contain toxic chemicals, storm runoff and even sewage. Get us on the phone right away, and take photos of any damage you see. These images will become a great starting point for your insurance company. If you must walk through the damage, wear appropriate clothing that will protect your skin. 

Once we arrive, we will get right to work extracting the standing water and addressing any structural damage that you suffered as a result of the water. Water can easily warp floors, ruin walls and soak through ceilings and can make your home dangerous to live in. We can tear down compromised sections of your home and rebuild it completely. We will make sure every inch of lingering moisture is removed and your home is returned to its pre-flood state as quickly as possible.

Call us immediately if you suffer from flood damage this season. Contact SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms for quick assistance. 

When Disaster Strikes, Consider Us Your Solution | SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms

11/29/2023 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms is Here to Help® and be your number one choice. Call us today!

No one expects to suffer through home damage, but it is a reality that many of us face throughout a normal year. Water damage caused by a leaky dishwasher, broken windows during strong storms and even fire damage caused by a kitchen mishap can happen at any moment!

Choosing a reliable company to come help you recover is one of the most important choices to make. After all, your home is in their hands. That’s where we come in. SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms is the restoration company that you know and trust to get you through hard times.

We Pride Ourselves on Our Customer Experience

Our reviews speak for themselves! We know how scary it is to suffer through a home disaster, and it can cause some pretty intense emotions after the fact. 

We fully understand all of the emotions that come with the reality of home damage situations, and we work hard to meet you where we are at. Our team is full of friendly, compassionate and caring individuals who will help you every step of the way.

We will explain every process and procedure that is going to happen and work alongside you to develop your restoration plans. We also have a project manager that will act as your liaison throughout the process to listen to concerns, help navigate insurance claim information and keep everyone on track. 

We Take Care of Everything

One of the frustrating parts about having work done on your home is having to navigate all of the different contractors to get your single job done. Working with plumbers, electricians, builders and even cleaning crews can make your head spin! That’s why we are proudly a full-service restoration company, meaning that you will only ever need to work with us to get your job done. 

We can handle every project on any scale, and we will be your point of contact throughout the process. If we need to pull in another contractor to help, we will handle it and be sure the right permits are being pulled and the codes are being followed. You can say goodbye to those complicated contracts and negotiating all of those frustrating bids!

We Offer a Smoother Restoration

Another frustration when it comes to overcoming home damage is working with your insurance company. Insurance claims are notoriously tricky to understand and get right, so let us handle it for you instead. We will make sure you are getting the most money and most reliable repairs possible.

We know that it can be jarring to have crews working on your house while you are there getting things done, which is why we have flexible scheduling to fit the needs of your busy family. You don’t even have to be home while we are working if you don’t want to be! Our goal is to make your restoration as seamless and as positive as possible.

We are the top choice when it comes to your restoration needs. Contact SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms today.

Getting Out: Building a Reliable Escape Plan | SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms

11/28/2023 (Permalink)

Has your home been damaged by a disastrous fire? Call SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms today! We are here to restore your space.

No one wants to think about the potential of suffering a house fire, but unfortunately, it is a serious reality for thousands of Americans across the country every year. Fire can break out at the most unsuspecting time, leaving you in a panic with only minutes to get out of your home safely.

All homes should have a reliable escape plan, and it should be reviewed annually to make sure everyone in your household understands what to do and where to go. Our team explains some easy ways to create your fire escape plan below!

Creating the Plan  

Grab a piece of paper and draw up your house, including all of the rooms with their windows and doors. Have your kids lead you around your house and point out each exit point in each room. 

Since windows are a reliable way of exiting your home in an emergency, window safety and responsibility should be addressed now as well. Once all of the exits are identified, head outside and choose an exterior meeting location. It should be easy enough to get to so that everyone can make it there quickly, but far enough away to be removed from the danger. A mailbox across the street or a neighbor’s porch are both good options.

If you live in an apartment or a high-rise, you still need to make a map of your home and locate the regular exits. However, you also need to know where to go once you are out in the hallway. Find the stairs and also the fire escape location. You should also be sure to find an exterior meeting location once you are out of your complex. 

Putting the Plan Into Action   

Now that you have your plan, it’s time to do a little practicing! Have your kids find different places in your home and act out a normal day. Push the test button on your smoke alarm, and have your kids take you through their emergency exit strategies for the rooms they are in. 

As they safely exit their rooms, have them get down and crouch or crawl their way down the hall, simulating what it would look and feel like to stay below the smoke line. Make sure they understand the dangers of fire smoke and to stay as low as possible. Once you are all outside safely, head to your meeting location and explain how to call 911 and what to tell the dispatcher.

Steps to Recovery

House fires are known for creating extensive damage, even if they remain relatively contained. You could be dealing with debris, soot, smoke and even water damage due to the fire fighting efforts. Our team is here to ensure you recover faster and more thoroughly. 

We will clean, sanitize and repair the entire affected area, and we will make sure that all of the soot residue and smoke odors are removed from your home as well. Our team will return your home back to its pre-fire condition in no time at all. 

Suffering a house fire can be devastating. Let SERVPRO of Cheviot Hills/Palms handle your entire restoration and recovery! 

Safeguarding Your Business: Navigating Fall Natural Disasters in Los Angeles

9/11/2023 (Permalink)

LA susceptible to natural disasters, including wildfires, earthquakes, extreme heat, and landslides

In Los Angeles, fall is a season that brings both beauty and potential risks for businesses. While the city is known for its economic opportunities, it's also susceptible to natural disasters, including wildfires, earthquakes, extreme heat, and potential landslides. To ensure the safety of your business and the well-being of your employees and assets, it's essential to take proactive measures during this season.

1. Wildfires:

Mitigation Strategies:

• Defensible Space: Create a defensible space around your commercial property by clearing dry vegetation and establishing a buffer zone to reduce the risk of fire damage.
• Early Warnings: Stay informed about local authorities' warnings and evacuation orders. Sign up for emergency alerts and monitor real-time news updates during fire incidents.

• Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit for your business, including water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, and essential documents. Include face masks and hand sanitizer to address smoke exposure and COVID-19 concerns.

2. Earthquakes:

Safety Measures:

• Secure Your Environment: Safeguard heavy furniture and equipment to prevent damage during an earthquake. Use earthquake-resistant brackets to secure shelves and cabinets.
• Drills: Conduct earthquake drills with your employees so they know how to react when an earthquake occurs.
• Emergency Kit: Assemble an earthquake preparedness kit for your business, including water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a comprehensive first-aid kit.

3. Extreme Heat and Drought:

Adaptation Strategies:

• Hydration Protocol: Implement a hydration plan to ensure your employees stay well-hydrated, particularly during heatwaves. Provide access to water stations and encourage regular breaks.
• Energy Conservation: During extreme heat, conserve energy to prevent disruptions to your operations. Use fans, window shades, and minimize the use of energy-intensive equipment during peak hours.
• Water Management: Continue water conservation efforts, fix leaks promptly, explore drought-resistant landscaping, and adhere to water usage restrictions.

4. Landslide Awareness:

Risk Mitigation:

• Risk Assessment: If your business is located in hilly or mountainous areas, be aware of the potential for landslides. Stay updated on weather forecasts and advisories.
• Property Inspections: Regularly inspect your commercial property for signs of soil erosion or instability, such as ground cracks or shifting foundations.
• Stay Informed: In case of heavy rain, stay informed about possible landslide risks and any evacuation orders issued by local authorities.

In conclusion, safeguarding your commercial enterprise in Los Angeles during the fall is essential for business continuity and the well-being of your employees. Prioritizing preparedness ensures the continued success and safety of your business in this dynamic urban landscape.

Emergency Preparedness in Los Angeles: Protecting Your Loved Ones and Property

9/4/2023 (Permalink)

The city's allure and diverse geography come with an inherent unpredictability – earthquakes, wildfires, power outages

Amid the vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles lies an undeniable truth: uncertainties can disrupt even the most dynamic lives. The city's allure and diverse geography come with an inherent unpredictability – earthquakes, wildfires, power outages – events that demand readiness. Emergency preparedness isn't merely a choice; it's an imperative.

Picture confronting a sudden disaster without a plan – the vulnerability, the chaos. This is why preparedness matters. It empowers you with the tools and knowledge to navigate crises confidently, securing your loved ones and assets. By embracing preparedness, you embrace control and responsibility, not only for yourself but for your community's resilience. As we explore the essence of readiness in Los Angeles, remember: investing in preparedness today yields safety, security, and peace tomorrow.

1. Understand the Risks:

Los Angeles is prone to a range of emergencies, including earthquakes, wildfires, floods, and even power outages. Research and understand the specific risks that your area within the city might face. Stay updated on local news, alerts, and advisories to be aware of potential threats.

2. Create a Family Emergency Plan:

Developing a comprehensive family emergency plan is vital. Discuss with your family members how you will communicate and where you will meet if you're separated during an emergency. Assign responsibilities to each family member to ensure everyone knows their role.

3. Build Emergency Kits:

Prepare emergency kits for your home and vehicles. These kits should include essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, medications, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, a multi-tool, and a battery-powered radio. Tailor your kits to meet the needs of your family and any specific considerations.

4. Secure Your Home:

For earthquake preparedness, secure heavy furniture and objects to prevent them from becoming hazards during shaking. Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on each level of your home, and ensure they're functioning properly.

5. Stay Informed:

Stay connected to local emergency management agencies and sign up for alerts and notifications. Download relevant apps to receive real-time updates on emergencies, weather conditions, and road closures. Being informed will help you make timely and informed decisions.

6. Evacuation Plans:

In case of evacuation, know the designated evacuation routes for your area. Plan how you will evacuate with pets, as not all emergency shelters might accommodate animals. Keep your vehicle's gas tank at least half full and consider alternative routes.

7. Prepare for Power Outages:

Power outages can occur during various emergencies. Keep a supply of backup batteries, power banks, and solar chargers for your devices. Additionally, having a generator can provide temporary power for essential appliances.

8. Safeguard Important Documents:

Make digital copies of important documents like identification, insurance policies, medical records, and store them securely online. Keep physical copies in a waterproof and fireproof container.

9. Wildfire Preparedness:

If you live in a wildfire-prone area, create defensible space around your home by clearing dead vegetation and maintaining fire-resistant landscaping. Keep gutters clean, and use fire-resistant materials for home exteriors.

10. Community Engagement:

Engage with your local community and neighbors in emergency preparedness efforts. Join or create a neighborhood watch or disaster preparedness group. Collaborating with others can enhance your collective resilience.

Emergency preparedness in Los Angeles is not an option but a necessity. By taking proactive steps and being well-prepared, you can significantly mitigate the risks associated with various emergencies. Whether it's an earthquake, wildfire, flood, or any other crisis, your preparedness measures can make a significant difference in protecting your loved ones and property. Stay informed, stay ready, and stay safe in the vibrant city of Los Angeles.

 The Stealthy Destroyer: How Water Quietly Undermines Your Home's Foundation

8/30/2023 (Permalink)

Water's potential to damage a home's structure

When safeguarding your home, it's crucial to recognize threats beyond the obvious. While storms and earthquakes grab attention, an often underestimated adversary, water, can silently wreak havoc on your home's foundation. From foundation cracks to wood rot and mold growth, water can compromise your home's structural integrity in ways that often go unnoticed. In this article, we delve into the diverse ways water can damage your home, and provide insights on effective strategies to prevent its destructive potential.

The Undermining Foundation:
Excess water accumulation around or beneath your home's foundation can lead to soil saturation, causing shifting, settling, and cracking. These movements result in tilted walls, uneven floors, and stuck windows. Ensure proper drainage to avoid such issues.

Wood's Silent Nemesis:
Water's affinity for infiltrating porous materials like wood can spell trouble for your home's structural elements. Over time, water infiltration into wooden beams, joists, and framing leads to wood rot. This deterioration weakens your home's core, compromising stability and safety. Regular inspections and treatments can mitigate this risk.

The Erosion Effect:
Erosion is a concern not just for landscapes but also for your foundation. Relentless water flow erodes the soil around the foundation, creating voids that cause shifting and cracking. Effective drainage systems divert water away from your home, mitigating erosion risks.

Concrete's Vulnerability:
Despite its appearance, concrete is susceptible to water damage. Infiltrating water can freeze and expand, causing concrete to crack. These cracks compromise structural integrity, emphasizing the need for timely repairs and proper waterproofing.

Mold's Sneaky Growth:
Water's presence provides an ideal environment for mold growth. Leaks, condensation, or infiltration create a damp space that fosters mold. Beyond appearance, mold damages walls, ceilings, and floors. Prevent this with effective moisture control and ventilation.

The Corrosion Conundrum:
Metal components are prone to water-induced corrosion. Nails, screws, and structural connectors can corrode, weakening the structure. Regular inspections and the use of corrosion-resistant materials can extend their lifespan.

Roofing Roulette:
The roof is your home's first defense against water. Leaks compromise this defense, leading to insulation damage, ceiling deterioration, and electrical hazards. Regular roof maintenance and prompt leak repairs are vital.

Cracks and Compromises:
Water's expansion and contraction of materials can cause cracks in walls and ceilings, weakening structural integrity. Professional inspections and proactive maintenance help prevent this issue.

Soil's Influence:
Water's interaction with soil, especially clay-rich soil, can lead to foundation issues. Soil expansion due to moisture can pressure the foundation, causing shifting or cracking. Proper landscaping and drainage management are essential.

Deluge Dangers:
In flood-prone regions, water inundation can severely damage your home's structure. Flood prevention measures, elevated construction, and timely evacuation plans are crucial for mitigating flood risks.

Water's potential to damage a home's structure is a significant concern that demands attention. Understanding the ways water compromises your home is the first step in prevention. Regular maintenance, prompt leak fixes, proper drainage, and waterproofing measures are essential for protecting your home from water's silent but potent destructive power. By staying proactive and vigilant, your home can remain a secure haven for years to come.