Recent Posts
Winter Fire Prevention: 5 Essential Tips for a Safe Season
2/13/2024 (Permalink)
Stay safe & warm!
As the winter chill settles in, our Rogers County, OK, homes become sanctuaries of warmth and comfort. However, the increased use of heating devices, candles, and festive decorations also raises the risk of fire hazards. To ensure a safe and cozy winter season, it's crucial to be proactive in preventing fires. Here are five essential tips to help you safeguard your home:
Inspect and Maintain Heating Systems: Before the cold weather sets in, schedule a professional inspection of your heating systems, including furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters. Ensure that they are in good working condition, with no signs of damage or malfunction. Regular maintenance not only improves efficiency but also reduces the risk of fire caused by faulty equipment.
Practice Safe Fireplace Usage: There's nothing quite like gathering around a crackling fireplace on a chilly winter evening. However, it's essential to use fireplaces responsibly to prevent accidents. Always use a sturdy screen to contain sparks and embers, and never leave a fire unattended. Remember to extinguish the fire completely before going to bed or leaving the house.
Be Cautious with Space Heaters: Space heaters can provide much-needed warmth in drafty rooms, but they can also pose a significant fire risk if not used properly. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from combustible materials such as curtains, bedding, and furniture. Never leave them unattended or operating overnight, and always plug them directly into wall outlets, avoiding the use of extension cords.
Use Candles Safely: Candles add a warm and inviting ambiance to any room, especially during the holiday season. However, they should be used with caution to prevent fires. Place candles on stable, heat-resistant surfaces, away from flammable objects and out of reach of children and pets. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep.
Check Smoke Detectors and Fire Extinguishers: Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are your first line of defense in the event of a fire. Test smoke detectors monthly to ensure they are functioning correctly, and replace batteries as needed. Keep fire extinguishers in accessible locations throughout your home, especially in the kitchen and near heating sources. Familiarize yourself with their proper use and maintenance.
By following these five simple yet crucial tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire and enjoy a safe and worry-free winter season. Remember, fire prevention is a responsibility we all share, and taking proactive measures can make a world of difference in protecting your home and loved ones. Stay warm, stay safe, and embrace the beauty of winter with peace of mind.
3 Ways Rain Affects Mold
1/3/2024 (Permalink)
The presence of moisture supports mold growth.
You may notice an increased reaction to the presence of mold after rain in Claremore, OK. The effects of this natural phenomenon may be exacerbated if black mold or another potentially toxigenic species is present in a residence. Here are three effects of rain on fungi.
1. Rain Supplies Moisture
Rain is an important part of the natural water cycle. Precipitation replenishes moisture levels and provides one of two components necessary for mold spores to settle down and start to grow on surfaces that provide a food source. It is important to address any indoor moisture problem, as it can make mold growth more likely.
2. Moisture Stimulates Growth
A combination of water and nutriment from plant cellulose in building materials and other sources can support indoor mold growth. Spores present everywhere in the air will determine whether the fungus that grows is a toxigenic black mold, also known as Stachybotrys Chartarum, or another species. There are anywhere from tens to hundreds of thousands of species of mold, and professional sampling and lab analysis are necessary to identify any fungus.
3. Rain Worsens Mold
Once mold has started growing, rain can replenish moisture levels through a leak or cause indoor humidity levels to rise. It will be necessary to fix leaks prior to scheduling mold cleanup. Homeowners may also need to take preventative measures to control indoor moisture levels, such as running a dehumidifier in mold-prone areas after remediation is complete.
The presence of moisture supports mold growth. You may notice an increased reaction to the spores and microbial volatile organic compounds fungi produces during the growth cycle, particularly if black mold or another toxigenic species is growing at a residence in Tulsa, OK. Homeowners should rely on professionals to provide mold cleanup services and identify ways in which the conditions in a structure can be adjusted to prevent fungal growth.
Dealing with Sewage Backups
11/3/2023 (Permalink)
Sewage backup in a toilet
Title: Dealing with Sewage Backups: How SERVPRO Can Come to the Rescue
Sewage backups in your Catoosa, OK home is one of the most unpleasant and potentially hazardous situations a homeowner can face. These incidents can cause significant damage to your property, not to mention health risks due to exposure to harmful pathogens and contaminants. When a sewage backup occurs, you need immediate assistance to mitigate the damage and ensure your safety. That's where SERVPRO of Rogers County comes to the rescue.
Understanding Sewage Backups
Sewage backups can happen for various reasons, such as clogged sewer lines, heavy rainfall, or malfunctioning septic systems. When sewage backs up into your home, it can contaminate your living space with a toxic mix of waste, bacteria, and other harmful substances. Dealing with such a situation requires a professional touch, and that's where SERVPRO's expertise comes in.
1. Immediate Response: When sewage backs up into your home, time is of the essence. SERVPRO understands the urgency of the situation and responds promptly. Our 24/7 emergency services ensure that you don't have to wait, and they can arrive at your property swiftly to assess the damage and start the cleanup process.
2. Safety First: Dealing with sewage backups can expose you to harmful microorganisms and pathogens. SERVPRO's team is equipped with the necessary protective gear to ensure their safety and yours. They follow strict safety protocols and guidelines to minimize health risks during the cleanup process.
3. Professional Cleanup: SERVPRO professionals have the training and experience to handle sewage backups efficiently. They use specialized equipment and cleaning agents to remove sewage, sanitize affected areas, and ensure your home is safe and clean once more. Their expertise extends to both the visible damage and hidden moisture that can lead to long-term issues like mold growth.
Dealing with a sewage backup can be a stressful and challenging experience. SERVPRO of Rogers County's expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction can provide much-needed peace of mind during a difficult time. They have the knowledge, tools, and experience to handle the situation effectively, ensuring your property is restored to its former glory.
The Importance of Gutter Maintenance in Preventing Water Damage
10/18/2023 (Permalink)
Always be sure to maintain your gutter system!
Gutters might not be the most glamorous part of your home, but they play a vital role in protecting it from water damage.
Neglecting your gutters can lead to a host of problems, from structural issues to mold growth and costly repairs. In this blog, we'll explore why regular gutter maintenance is crucial in preventing water damage to your home.
1. Water Diversion: Gutters are designed to channel rainwater away from your home. When it rains, gutters collect water from your roof and direct it to downspouts, which then carry it safely away from your foundation. Without proper gutter maintenance, water can overflow and accumulate near your home, leading to potential damage to your foundation, basement, or crawl space.
2. Preventing Roof Leaks: Clogged or damaged gutters can cause water to back up on your roof, leading to leaks and rot. Over time, this can compromise the structural integrity of your roof and result in costly repairs. By keeping your gutters clean and in good condition, you can safeguard your roof from damage.
3. Avoiding Basement Flooding: When rainwater isn't effectively directed away from your home, it can seep into your basement or crawl space. This can lead to flooding, causing damage to your belongings, structural issues, and even health hazards like mold growth. Regular gutter maintenance helps ensure that water is diverted away from these vulnerable areas.
4. Avoiding Ice Dams in Winter: In colder climates, the accumulation of ice dams on your roof can be a significant concern. Clogged gutters can contribute to ice dam formation, leading to water seeping under your shingles and causing further damage. Keeping your gutters clear can help prevent this winter headache.
Regular gutter maintenance is a simple and effective way to safeguard your Catoosa, OK home's structural integrity, protect your belongings, and maintain a safe and healthy living environment. By taking the time to care for your gutters, you're investing in the long-term well-being of your Catoosa, OK home.
Protecting Your Commercial Building from Fire Hazards
10/18/2023 (Permalink)
Always exercise caution regarding the potential causes of a fire.
Fire safety is a critical aspect of this responsibility.
Fires can be devastating, causing not only damage to your property but also putting lives at risk. Here are some essential ways to prevent your commercial building from becoming a fire hazard:
1. Install and Maintain Fire Detection Systems: Investing in a reliable fire detection system is a fundamental step in fire prevention. Smoke detectors, heat detectors, and fire alarms are your first line of defense. Regularly test and maintain these systems to ensure they are in working order. Consider upgrading to advanced systems that can alert emergency services automatically.
2. Fire Extinguishers and Suppression Systems: Place fire extinguishers at strategic locations within your building. The type of extinguisher should be suitable for the potential fire hazards in that area. Additionally, consider installing fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers, to automatically extinguish or control fires.
3. Maintain Electrical Systems: Electrical issues are a common cause of fires in commercial buildings. Regularly inspect and maintain your electrical systems to prevent shorts, overloads, and other fire risks. Replace damaged wiring and keep an eye on potential hazards like frayed cords.
4. Manage Flammable Materials: Be mindful of flammable materials in your building. Store them properly and away from potential ignition sources. Implement strict guidelines for handling, storing, and disposing of flammable substances to reduce fire risks.
5. Maintain Heating and Cooling Systems: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can also pose a fire hazard if not properly maintained. Regularly service and clean HVAC systems to prevent overheating or malfunction that could lead to fires.
Preventing fires in your commercial building requires a combination of vigilance, education, and proper maintenance. By taking these proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of a fire and, in turn, protect your property, employees, and visitors from potential harm and damage. Fire safety should always be a top priority for any responsible commercial building owner or manager.
Understanding Limited Fungus Coverage
9/25/2023 (Permalink)
Commercial mold clean up in Claremore, OK
Does Traditional Coverage Cover The Cost Associated With Mold Remediation?
Many property owners do not understand the specifics of their commercial insurance policies, especially as it relates to mold damage. Does traditional coverage cover the costs associated with mold remediation in Claremore, OK? The answer is complicated. Some policies will cover a portion of the damage, but many policies have mold exclusions, which means you would need to purchase additional coverage. The most beneficial plans, however, have limited fungus coverage built into the program, which covers several vital elements of mold remediation.
Direct physical loss of covered property
Testing after remediation
Tear out and replacement costs
Direct Physical Loss of Covered Property
With limited mold insurance coverage, your policy will cover the removal and replacement of specific damaged elements in your facility. For example, if mold is covering sections of drywall, the plan will most likely include the removal and replacement of the affected drywall.
Testing After Remediation
There is nothing worse than resolving a mold problem only to have it reoccur later in the same area. Most commercial insurance policies will also cover the cost of testing after mold remediation to avoid such issues because no insurer wants to risk further expenses through neglectful mitigation.
Tear Out and Replacement Costs
With limited fungus coverage, the costs associated with tear out and replacement will be covered regardless of how the mold spread. For example, if the mold spread into a wall cavity that is only accessible through the removal of uncontaminated drywall, the limited coverage would cover the cost of drywall removal and replacement.
Commercial insurance policies are complex documents, and it is impossible to say what is covered or not without examining the real plan. Fortunately, business and commercial property owners can reach out to their agents to discuss specific coverages and the existence of limited fungus coverage. You may also consider the benefits of mold testing with a licensed remediation expert.
Lasting Risks of Poor Fire Clean Up Job
2/13/2023 (Permalink)
When fire damage is left in your home, call the professionals for fire clean up
Fires are a serious matter, and it’s important to take the proper precautions when cleaning up after one. Professional fire clean-up services can help ensure that you don’t expose your property or yourself to any unnecessary risks. If you choose not to use a professional fire cleanup service, there are still steps you can take to minimize the damage from smoke and soot.
Smoke and Soot Damage
Smoke damage is a serious issue. Smoke and soot damage can leave your belongings with signifiant damage and hard to remove. The lasting risks of poor fire clean up job can leave smoke damage to walls. Cigarette burns in carpet and upholstery and charred odors on wallboard and insulation materials.
Odor Removal and Deodorization
Odor removal and deodorization is a key part of fire cleanup. It's a complicated process that requires specialized equipment and trained professionals to safely remove odors from your home or business. With the right expertise and equipment from a professional restoration company, you can get your property back to normal in no time.
To begin, you'll want to take steps to control any lingering smoke in the air before beginning odor removal procedures. This can be done by shutting off ventilation systems and opening doors and windows for at least 10 minutes so that all remaining fumes have a chance to escape. Next up you'll need to identify exactly what type of oil-based materials were affected by the fire, this will help determine how best to approach odor removal from this point on.
Risks of Poor Fire Clean Up Jobs
There are several other potential risks of a poor fire cleanup job. Property damages is an obvious concern for any homeowner who has experienced a loss from a fire, but it can also cause financial hardship for businesses when they don’t have coverage included in their plan. Also consider that some types of damage may not be immediately apparent after a fire has been extinguished.
The emotional trauma caused by having your home or business damaged by fire cannot be overstated, even if no one was injured in the blaze itself there will likely be some type of residual anxiety surrounding future events involving similar circumstances.
Fire is a devastating situation, and it’s important to have a professional fire cleanup company help you restore your property. When choosing a company for your fire cleanup needs, it is crucial to consider the company have experience in soot and smoke damage, experience with odor removal and deodorization and the ability to meet insurance requirements.
To avoid the risks of poor fire cleanup, call a professional. If you’re unsure about whether or not your crew has the experience and expertise necessary to get your home back to its pre-fire condition in a timely way, ask them for references from past clients with similar issues.
Mold in Your Rental Home
12/20/2022 (Permalink)
If you are experiencing mold issues in your Claremore home, give SERVPRO of Rogers County a call!
Mold in Your Rental Home
Mold is a major problem in many homes. It can cause serious damage to your house, but it's not always easy for tenants to make sure that their landlords deal with mold issues. This article will explain what you should do if you have a mold problem in your apartment or house and how long your landlord may take to fix the issue.
Where does mold come from?
Mold can come from a variety of sources. It is a water-based fungus, so it thrives in damp places. Mold grows best in warm and moist environments: bathrooms and kitchens are common breeding grounds for mold because they experience repeated wetting from people showering or cooking. Mold also loves to grow outdoors, especially near trees and shrubs where there is plenty of natural moisture to keep it going strong!
Habitable Conditions
Common sense tells us that a landlord should keep the premises in a habitable condition—that is, fit to be lived in. But what does that mean? And how long does it take for a landlord to fix an issue like mold?
The lease agreement you signed with your landlord may require them to provide certain services and maintain your rental property at "habitable" levels (which, it bears noting, are not always synonymous with cleanliness). The legal definition of "habitable" varies by state and borough (or county), but generally speaking, if the property itself is safe enough for humans and animals to live there without undue risk of harm, then it's probably habitable under most laws. When it comes down to mold issues specifically, however, the law requires landlords to make repairs within 30 days after their tenants notify them about any problems they notice during the first two weeks after they move into their new homes. Landlords who fail in this duty may be required by law to pay damages equal up until when repairs begin or up until when they're actually completed depending on which comes first.
In most places, tenants are legally entitled to safe and habitable living conditions under state and/or local law. If there are problems with your rental unit that make it unsafe or otherwise uninhabitable, you can report them to your landlord so that he or she can fix them. You may also be able to withhold rent until the problem gets resolved (if you have been paying rent on time).
Document Everything
In the event that you do have to go to court, it is important to have documentation of habitability issues. This includes photos of mold, dates, and times when you contacted your landlord and/or health department or insurance company.
Going to Court
If your landlord does not resolve the mold problem, or if you have any other habitability issues with your rental unit, such as a lack of heat or hot water, you can take them to court. You will be able to sue for damages in civil court. You may be entitled to recover lost rent as well as attorneys' fees and costs if you win the case.
Contact Your Landlord Immediately
If you have a mold problem, you should contact your landlord immediately and start documenting the situation. This is important because it's the first step in taking action against them. If you don't document it, then there's no proof that anything is wrong or that they're responsible for it. Without proof of your claim, you will have difficulty getting compensation or forcing them to take care of things properly.
If you are experiencing a mold problem, the most important thing to do is contact your landlord immediately. The second most important thing is to document every interaction with them, starting with the date and time, who was there, and what was said and done. This can help you in court if necessary because it shows that they were aware of the problem but didn't take proper care of it (or took too long). Pictures or videos taken from different angles showing how bad things look will help bolster your case!
If you are experiencing mold issues in your Claremore home, give SERVPRO of Rogers County a call!
Help! My Washing Machine is Leaking
11/4/2022 (Permalink)
If you have a leaky washing machine, regardless of the reason, SERVPRO of Rogers County can help you clean up the mess
Help! My Washing Machine is Leaking
If your washing machine is leaking, you'll want to fix it as quickly as possible. That's because not only will you see water pooling up on the floor and stains from previous leaks in your laundry room, but also because this problem can lead to mold growth and other long-term issues. So, what causes a washing machine to leak? And how do we stop that leak from happening?
Reasons Your Washing Machine is Leaking
If your washing machine is leaking, you should be able to fix it yourself. The average washing machine holds about 15 gallons of water. This is a lot of water! If your washing machine is leaking, there are many reasons why it could be happening. Most of the time, a leaky washer can be fixed by either tightening a screw or replacing something that has worn out or broken.
No matter what type of washing machine you have, there are a number of reasons why it might be leaking.
- A clogged drain can cause water to leak out of your washing machine through the front door or from underneath the unit.
- A broken hose or hose fitting will also cause water to leak from your machine. Sometimes this is caused by using the wrong type of detergent or fabric softener; other times, the fittings themselves are faulty. If you've had a long history of leaks with your washing machine, it may be time for an upgrade!
- Finally—and most importantly—a broken pump can lead to serious amounts of leakage and damage to your Catoosa, OK home's flooring and walls (in addition to ruining clothes!).
If you feel like the repairs are beyond your abilities, reach out to a professional plumber in your area who can help diagnose and repair any issues with no problem at all!
Finding the Leak
To find out whether the source of the leak is your washing machine or some other problem, you should turn off your water supply at the main shutoff valve and then turn on all of your sinks and faucets throughout the house.
If you see water coming out of any faucet or sink, then it’s not a leak in your washing machine. The leak is somewhere else in your plumbing system and needs to be repaired quickly before major damage occurs.
If no water comes from any faucet or sink when turned on, then there may be something wrong with your washing machine.
If there is no leak after turning on all the faucets, then it's likely that your washing machine has a problem. The next step would be to turn off the water supply and drain out as much water as possible into buckets or other containers before calling a professional plumber.
If you have a leaky washing machine, regardless of the reason, SERVPRO of Rogers County can help you clean up the mess. Give us a call to get your Claremore home back up and running as fast as possible after a water, fire, or storm damage event!
Commercial Property Insurance: All You Need to Know
10/13/2022 (Permalink)
Business interruption insurance is another part of commercial property insurance coverage that can be valuable to your business.
Commercial Property Insurance: All You Need to Know
A commercial property insurance policy is designed to help protect your business from the risk of damage and destruction. There are many factors to consider when it comes to protecting your investment, but there is one aspect that can be especially tricky: determining how much coverage you need. The best way to determine what type of coverage is right for you is by learning more about what each type covers.
Let's take a look at the basics of commercial property insurance policies so that you can make an informed decision about what's best for your company's needs.
Property Coverage
The property coverage section of your policy will cover the cost of rebuilding or repairing your property if it is damaged in a covered loss. In addition to covering the physical damage, it also covers some types of losses that occur from theft and vandalism. For example, if someone breaks into your home and steals your jewelry collection, this coverage would reimburse you for those items' value.
Business Interruption Insurance
Business interruption insurance is another part of commercial property insurance coverage that can be valuable to your business. If, for instance, a covered loss causes you to lose income due to the inability to operate, business interruption insurance will pay you that lost income. This type of coverage is usually limited in length, however; it's often provided in weekly installments with a maximum duration of 30 days or less.
The amount paid per week varies depending on how much you have insured and what kind of policy limits are chosen (the higher these limits are set, the more expensive your premiums will be). Some policies also include the option to extend this period up until one year after the date when normal operations were resumed (or when repairs are complete if they took longer than expected).
Liability Insurance
Liability insurance covers you if you are sued for something that happened on your property. This can include slips and falls, property damage, or injuries. Liability insurance will also cover the cost of any legal fees incurred in defending you.
Workers' Compensation
Workers' compensation insurance is designed to protect you from any employee injury or death. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages if an employee becomes disabled, as well as death benefits for the family of a deceased worker.
Directors & Officers Liability Insurance
Directors and officers (D&O) insurance covers legal expenses and damages that you may be held liable for as a director or officer of your company. D&O insurance applies to directors, officers, officeholders, and managers who are responsible for the management of an organization. It also covers their spouses if they’re directly involved in running the business. If you’re a director or manager of a company, no matter how large or small it is, then D&O insurance may be beneficial to you. It can protect against any losses arising from disputes over breaches of duty by directors/officers through mismanagement or negligence (for example, breach of fiduciary duties).
When you have a disaster in your business, SERVPRO of Rogers County is here to help get you covered in any way we can. We work closely with your insurance to make sure your Claremore, OK business is back to normal quickly.
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