Minutes After the Flood

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

Verifying credentials of a contractor is important.  It's not only important to make sure the job is done right, but it's important because you want to make sure they know how to properly secure an emergency to prevent further damages or injuries!

When there is a catastrophic flood event, sometimes the resources to do the cleanup immediately are just not available.  That makes it important for the first responders on-site to be able to do what is necessary to stabilize the environment and secure the building to address the hazards.

There are many hazards you can find in a home that was water damaged such as flooring integrity, electrical wires, contaminated water, and asbestos containing materials being exposed.  A contractor who is well versed in building materials and structural drying can identify and mitigate these hazards immediately after responding.

When you make a decision to call in the professionals to dry up your water damage, never forget that the minutes right after the flood are what matter the most.  Pick a professional that is going to think of everything so that you don't have to! 

Dealing with Storm Damage to your Property

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Dealing with repairs and insurance companies after severe weather hits your property can be difficult. Homeowners can use the following tips to help tackle the storm damage caused by hard rains, flooding, or storm-related issues.

SAFETY FIRST

If you and your family were away from home when the storm hit, do not return until it has been confirmed safe. Contact a storm damage expert like SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua; we’ll help you determine if your home is safe to return to.

INSURANCE

You will need to contact your homeowners’ insurance adjuster as soon as possible. If your neighborhood has sustained widespread damage, find out if any special teams of insurance agents, relief workers, or contractors are coming to the area. Check your policy to find out what actions you need to take or talk to your agent to make sure you are following the proper procedures. Not following these actions correctly could result in a reduced claim. Inspect your property and make a list of all damages; take photographs of all noted damage if at all possible.

RECORDING AND DOCUMENTING

Document your neighbor’s damages, as well; this can prevent the insurance provider from downgrading your claim by saying the damage is from your neglect of maintenance or other unrelated issues by giving them a way to compare. Keep a record of all the communication you have with your insurance provider, and don’t do any unnecessary repair work yourself. Hire a trusted storm damage restoration service provider such as SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua to handle any repairs.

BE SCAM FREE

Always check the adjuster’s identification. If you are evacuated, ask for money from your claim upfront. If they agree, you will be given a check for an amount that will be deducted from your final settlement. Some providers will automatically offer a partial payment early on during the process. Review it carefully and decline it if you feel uncomfortable with any part of it. Never be afraid to ask questions and to expect an answer that makes sense or seems fair. 

Dealing with a storm's aftermath is stressful, but reacting properly will be an immense help and can prevent problems down the road.

The SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua team is ready to help 24/7. Call us for your fire or water damage issues at (585) 393-0310

SERVPRO is here for you 24/7/365

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours, so why would we? At SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua, we pride ourselves on our proximity and response times, during your emergency. Every second counts (and costs), we know that, and we make it our duty to not waste even one.

Emergencies happen. They can be unpredictable. They can be scary. They can be beat.

SERVPRO’s team of highly trained employees never stop preparing. Each and every SERVPRO team member has been thoroughly trained on fire restoration, water restoration, carpet & upholstery cleaning, and mold mitigation before stepping foot into the field. Together we can beat your emergency.

The fast response times by our highly trained employees are only possible because of our state of the art fleet of response vehicles. Our fleet of cars, vans, pickup trucks, flatbed trucks, dumpsters trucks, and trailers, provide a vessel outfitted for your specific needs ready at the turn of a key.

We put the best people, in the best locations, and give them the best resources because our clients deserve nothing but the best!

Any time you need us, day or night, Call SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua at (585) 393-0310

Are you prepared for a Winter Storm?

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

11/28/2020 - Future Scheduled Date

The dreaded time of year for most is coming. The most extreme winter storms bring snow, ice, sleet, as well as strong winds and frigid temperatures. This is nothing new to those who live in Canandaigua and Western New York. Winter comes quick and it’s time to prepare for a storm. To improve your safety in your home during a winter storm, you should make several preparations:

• Create an emergency kit. You will need a home kit that’s stocked for at least three days in case of a power outage. This includes necessary items such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, blankets, and first-aid supplies.
• Insulate your home. Install storm windows and shutters, and insulate your attic and walls to keep the cold air out. Weather-stripping doors and cover windows with plastic from the inside for extra insulation.

• Shield your pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting. If your home is left unattended, leave the heat on to a temperature of at least 55° F to prevent frozen pipes.
• Protect your heating equipment. Have your furnace, wood stove or fireplace inspected and cleaned every year to assure they are working properly.
• Know how to shut off utilities. Should you need to vacate your home due to flooding, you will need to shut off utilities. Learn how to shut off natural gas, electricity, and water supplies in your home.

Winter storms are ruthless, even with extreme preparation, there is still damage that is unpreventable. Remember to call SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua at (585) 393-0310 for all of your storm damage needs. As always, we are Here to Help.

Are you Ready if a Storm Hits?

11/29/2020 (Permalink)

Storms can lead to a multitude of damage to your home or business. The overwhelming precipitation, wind speeds, and debris can expose weak points in construction like maintained gutters and downspouts.

The redirection of water off and away from your roof can help prevent roof leaks caused by pressure and/or accumulated water finding the path of least resistance into your home. Having downspout output spouts well connected and directing the water away from your structure’s foundation is also a very important as an already overwhelmed groundwater level around your home.

Checking to make sure that your sump pump is working properly is another great precaution before a storm. Sump pumps can often become unplugged by various tradesmen working in your basement looking for an electrical source to plug their equipment in. Become clogged with debris and animals over time and of course can have mechanical issues. A quick test of the sump pump in anticipation of heavy rains can prevent long on-hold times with the manufacturer and the anxiety of trying to prevent a water loss while time is limited.

Of course, with heavier storms it is always a good idea to have some plywood on hand to board up windows in preparation or as need. Flying debris during heavy winds can easily shatter windows, exposing your home to outside elements.

These are just a few tips for home and business owners, if you would like more helpful tips call SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua at (585) 393-0310

SERVPRO Battles Storm Damage

11/28/2020 (Permalink)

Snow, ice storms, freezing rain, hail, lightning, flash-flooding, high winds, tornadoes and hurricane damage can be constant threats to our communities and our homes.

With the coming of the winter months, there are thoughts of heavy snow, bursting pipes, freezing temperatures and flooding that can cause major damage to your home or business without much warning. When this happens you need a friend you can trust to help you get your property back to what it was. You can find that friend in the professionals at SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua!

Our main goal is to restore not just your home but your personal property, your peace of mind and your life. SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua provides a quality of care with each customer that will make you feel like a part of the family.

We have assisted our communities for over 10 years and have become the most trusted restoration specialists in the area. Don't just take our word for it! Here are some testimonials from local customers who experienced storm damage and called upon SERVPRO for help - 

"Thank You!  We greatly appreciated your service in sanitizing our fire equipment! " - Palmyra Fire Dept. (Palmyra, NY)

"Great job, Great staff - so willing to please!" - Bill (Manchester, NY)

"Thank you for helping our First Responders to stay safe.  Your gift of sanitizing our trucks is greatly appreciated.  Helping us to return home healthy to our families.  Gold Bless!  Thank You!" - Cheshire Fire Dept. (Canandaigua, NY)

Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua be there for you every time. (585) 393-0310

What to Do After Storm Damage

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

When storms wreak havoc on your property, you can immediately feel helpless and vulnerable. Anything from downed electrical wires to trees falling over can pose a major threat to the integrity of your home or commercial building. 

Storm Damage can be one of the most dangerous and unpredictable attacks a property owner faces because the damage itself can create an unstable environment. This is why you need an experienced restoration company such as SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua to bring stability to a shaky scene.

Here are a few things to consider after the storm has passed:

1. Assess the integrity of your property. Specifically, is it safe for you to be there? Check for signs of damage in your home or around your property. 
2. Make sure to keep clear of damaged buildings, power lines, and trees, as these can be dangerous.
3. If you’re driving, beware of road hazards such as flooded areas, damaged roads, bridges, and debris. 
4. Storms are at best, scary, but at their worst, they are unpredictable and dangerous. Make sure to stay safe and away from any secondary storm damage.

We understand the threats your home or property faces each time a storm comes through town. We’re also trained on how to handle them. SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua is Here to Help you pick up the pieces after a storm and help restore your property after storm damage. Give us a call at (585) 393-0310 any time you need us.

Fast, Professional Restoration for Storm Damage

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

We can restore your home and contents after a water damage

Rain, Snow and Wind are a bad combination for New York residents.  Winter Storm season is approaching our area and the predictions are for more precipitation than last year.  Temperatures are expected to be lower than normal which can lead to frozen and busted pipes.  All these predictions mean is that it is time to get prepared! 

Shovels, Generators, Clean Gutters, Roof Patches and saving SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua number (585-393-0310) to your cell are the most important steps. It is unrealistic to think storm damage cannot affect you. If it does you need to act fast for a better chance of restoring your home and possessions. Our IICRC-Certified technicians come equipped to extract water and assess the damage to the structure.  We understand that getting your home dry and your belongings restored is your number one priority. We are here to help!

SERVPRO Storm Team

9/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua is part of a network of over 1,800 restoration specialists, stretching throughout the United States as well as Canada – strategically stationed to be available for whatever happens at a moment’s notice. When things that matter most are on the line, make sure SERVPRO® is too. SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua is faster to any size disaster.

Should a storm or natural disaster situation strike the greater Los Angeles area, our office will notify local and surrounding SERVPRO locations. And as we begin to provide relief to homes and businesses alike, hundreds if not thousands of highly-trained SERVPRO professionals will start to pour into the disaster zone and provide back up and support to our already existing restoration efforts. Whether its damage caused by a leaky water pipe or an earthquake of catastrophic magnitudes, there’s no such thing as a job too big that SERVPRO can’t handle!

The days immediately following a major storm event, such as area-wide flooding, are critical to prevent secondary damages, like mold. SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua suggests the following steps to help minimize additional damage to your property.

• If the water has entered the structure through the flooding of a creek, stream or river, or if it has filtered through insulation during its intrusion, it is considered to be black water and could be hazardous to your health. Avoid contact with contaminated items as much as possible.
• Take the greatest caution while entering your home, and wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing when dealing with flooded areas.
• Do not attempt to operate any electrical equipment while standing in wet or damp locations.
• Throw away all foods - even canned goods - that have come into contact with flood waters.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and pillow cushions for drying. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Place fans at 45-degree angles to walls and move large furniture away from walls to create the best air circulation.
• If your home has a crawlspace, be aware excess moisture in this area can often foster mold growth.

"The first 24 hours after a water damage or flood are so crucial to keeping final costs of the damage down," said Don Turner, Director of SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team. "A lot of flood situations require professional equipment and knowledge of the science of drying to mitigate. By taking these steps, property owners can help minimize damage until the professionals arrive."

Flood Preparation Tips

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Before the Flood:

• Have a qualified professional elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding. 
• Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drain of your home or business. 
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage.

During the Flood:

• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. 
• Disconnect electrical appliances.
• So not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water. Even six inches of water can make you fall. 

After the Flood:

• Listen for news reports to learn if the community's water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid floodwaters, these waters may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

Call SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua Today! (585) 393-0310

Emergency Storm Kits

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

When a storm hits, sometimes it takes you by surprise. You may not have the immediate chance to grab what you need or even have it on hand at all. That is why it is so important to have a Storm Supply Kit ready to go.

A Storm Supply Kit could be described as a pre-chosen group of supplies that could assist with health and safety during or after a storm or disaster.

It would be ideal to keep a Storm Supply Kit at home, work , and in your vehicle. Here are the top 10 things that should be apart of your storm kit.

• Water: of course an obvious choice but just think about the amount of water a human body actually needs. On average a single person drinks a gallon of water a day and you should have 3 days worth of water.
• Food: of course another obvious choice but another major necessity for surviving. Again keep in mind the amount of food necessary. Experts say to have at least 3 days worth of non perishable foods
• First Aid Kit: A first aid kit is an extra very important thing to have and you should always have on hand!
• Flashlight: With the flashlight comes the necessity of having extra batteries in case some of them die.
• Pocket knife
• Matches: Make sure you store your matches in a waterproof container to prevent them getting wet.
• Needed Prescription Medication: Make sure you have any vital prescription medication you need to survive.
• Whistles or Signal for Help: Make sure you have the means if signalling for help if it ever becomes a need.
• Sanitation Wipes and any hygiene products: Just the stuff you would want to try to keep yourself in a clean state.
• Sleeping bag and/or blankets: In case of a major disaster you would want the means of staying warm/something to sleep with.

SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua is faster to any size disaster!

What can you expect when choosing SERVPRO?

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Choosing the right vendor for your fire or water damage is important. Here is what you can expect when calling SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua.

• Uniformed Employees with photo ID Badges
• Marked SERVPRO Vehicles
• Drug Tested and Background Checked Team Members
• Advanced Training and Certifications
• On-site arrival within 4 hours (This does not apply to catastrophe situations)

Once they get here, what’s next?

Once our employees arrive on-site the customer will meet with a SERVPRO Supervisor who will explain the mitigation services. Our Supervisor will explain the necessary documents in order for our team to proceed with services.

Here are some of the basic forms that we review with our customers

Authorization To Perform Services & Direction Of Payment Form

This form is the customers consent for SERVPRO to perform restoration services in their home or business. It also addresses how services will be paid for and their deductible amount to be collected as directed by their insurance company.

Customer Information Form

This form is an informational document that addresses many aspects of the customer home such as what the customer should expect during the process and how we will proceed. It also discusses what items are restorable, pre-existing conditions, personal items in the home and understanding our role versus the insurance companies.

Customer Equipment Responsibility Form

This is a document in which the customer can identify and confirm what equipment is left in their home as well as the responsibility they assume with SERVPRO equipment. It also explains who to contact if there are any issues with the equipment.

Certificate of Satisfaction: Job Completion Form

This form is used during the final walk through of services with the customer. It is also used to insure we completed mitigation services to customer’s satisfaction. This document is also needed to provide to the insurance company for final billing for services completed.

Storm Safety Tips

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

No one likes a rainy day, SERVPRO included. But they do happen, and when a storm strikes both you and your home are at risk. Sudden downpour, power outages, and downed wires are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to an emergency. The key is to focus on what you can control in times of chaos.

Taking it back to an elementary level (literally) we here at SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua recommend sharing these safety tips with your family, and even reviewing them for yourself!

Follow these 10 Rules from Alliant Energy Kids to stay in control and stay safe:

1. Have a storm safety Kit Handy
2. Stay Inside During thunderstorms and Blizzards
3. Use flashlights instead of candles
4. Don’t open the refrigerator or freezer unless you absolutely need to
5. If your power goes out, have an adult notify the power company right away
6. Don’t try to use a gas appliance to keep warm
7. Ask an adult to unplug as many as many appliances as possible
8. Don’t play near generators or heaters
9. Stay away from damaged or downed lines
10. Remind adults to watch out for power lines when they’re cleaning up outside

For the full article visit: http://www.alliantenergykids.com/PlayingItSafe/StormSafety/000562

Flood Damage and SERVPRO

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

Say the words flood damage and people rightly think of foot deep water in their basement or entire neighborhoods underwater. This time of year, it can be a common, even multiple occurrences in some parts of New York.

SERVPRO is an expert in reducing the obvious flood damage to Victor/Canandaigua homes. What surprises our clients are just how many ways a flood can destroy a home even after the water has been removed. Here are the most common ways your home can be dry as a bone and still be unlivable. 
Odor - This may seem like a minor thing, but some folks can be allergic to just the smell. If you don't get rid of it, you won't be able to live in your home, and you certainly won't be able to sell it. The smell is also indicative of a worse problem.

Mold and Mildew - If not found and immediately treated and removed, mold and mildew will cause respiratory problems that will drive you out of the house. It is particularly dangerous to people with asthma. If the mold and mildew get into sheetrock and cannot be destroyed by industrial cleaners, then walls will have to be replaced.

Electrical System - If flooding reached high enough to reach electrical outlets, then those have to be inspected by our SERVPRO professionals and possibly be replaced before the power can be turned back on. If they have been compromised, then there is the possibility of a fire hazard when the lights are turned back on. 
Plumbing and Sewage - Flooding can overwhelm and damage a home's plumbing system. If it stays under water too long, there is also the possibility that raw sewage can flow backward into your home through the toilets. Septic tanks can also be compromised in the same manner. The cleaning process now becomes much more extensive.

Bacterial Contamination - If sewage gets into your home, this also brings the threat of bacteria which can cause more respiratory problems and other health concerns such as having your kidneys and intestinal (digestive) systems compromised as well.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Flood water in a home is a dangerous threat and needs to be removed quickly. SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua understands that this is only the first step. Other hazards have to be addressed before you are safe again in your own home. To begin the process or if you want to schedule an inspection to help prevent problems in the future, call us today at 585-393-0310.

When a Storm or Flood Hits Victor/Canandaigua, SERVPRO is Ready!

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process puts an emphasis on scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring and documentation.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Victor or Canandaigua, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 585-393-0310

FEMA Tips for Flood Preparation

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Before the Flood:

• Have a qualified professional elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel if susceptible to flooding. 
• Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drain of your home or business 
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage. 

During the Flood:

• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
• Disconnect electrical appliances.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water. Even six inches of water can make you fall.

After the Flood:

• Listen for news reports to learn if the community's water supply is safe to drink. 
• Avoid floodwaters. Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

Floods Strike Everywhere

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

On Average, floods coast $6 billion in annual losses in the United States.  The following are a few more little-known facts:

• Floods kill an average of 140 people per year in the United States, making flooding the most deadly natural disaster.
• More than half of all fatalities during floods are auto related, often the result of drivers misjudging the depth of water on a road and being swept away in a swiftly moving current.
• The principle cause of floods in the eastern United States are hurricanes and storms.
• The principle cause of floods in the western United States are snow-melt and rainstorms.
• Underpasses can be some of the most dangerous places during a flash flood - especially at night, when it's difficult to see. 

Call SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua Today !! (585) 393-0310

What To Do Before A Storm Hits

9/6/2017 (Permalink)

BEFORE THE STORM 

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency supply kit and make a family communication plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Remember the 30/30 Lightning Safety Rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minuets after hearing the last clap of thunder.
• Secure outdoor objects that could have blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
• Remember, rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. However, the steel frame of a hard topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close wind blinds, shades, or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.

CALL SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua Today!! (585)393-0310

What To Do During A Storm

9/6/2017 (Permalink)

DURING THE STORM 

• Use a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Use a corded telephone only for emergencies. Cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use.
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. Unplug appliances and other electrical items such as computer and turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage. 
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Do not wash your hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes, and do not do laundry. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
• Do  not lie on concrete floors and do not lean against concrete walls .
• Avoid hilltops, open fields, the beach or a boat on the water.
• Take shelter in a sturdy building. Avoid isolated sheds or other small structures in open spaces.
• Avoid contact with anything metal - tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf clubs, golf carts, and bicycles.
• If you are driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle. 

CALL SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua Today!! (585)393-0310

After A Storm Hits

9/6/2017 (Permalink)

AFTER THE STORM

• Never drive through a flooded roadway.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms.
• Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to local radio and televisions stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked.
• Help people who may require special assistance , such as infants, children and the elderly or those with access or functional needs.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control.
• If you have storm damage to your home or property, call SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua! Timely mitigation is key to minimizing damage to your home and belongings.

CALL SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua Today!! (585)393-0310