What To Expect With Fire Damage Restoration

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

When fire hits your home, you may be in the market for a professional fire restoration team such as SERVPRO of Boise. You may also be wondering what exactly our professionals can do to get your home back to pre-fire condition. Keep reading to learn about a few things you may be able to expect during this process:

Services That May Be Included

When choosing a fire restoration team there may be several related services offered as well.

• Damage cleaning, including debris and water damage, clean up
• Removal of soot and smoke damage
• Personal item restoration
• Structural repairs
• Smoke odor removal
• Board up and tarping services

Steps in the Process

There are several steps you can expect to see in the fire restoration process. In most cases, it will start out with a damage assessment by our trained professionals so that repairs can be conducted in the best order. Boarding and tarping up damaged areas to protect against further damage may follow. The damaged materials will then be removed and the area will then be dried of all water if needed, and smoke and soot removal will begin. After this, cleaning and repairs can start, and will continue until the restoration is complete.

The End Result

While it might take some time depending on the damage severity, you can rest assured that your home can be restored to its pre-fire condition. Even unpleasant smoke orders can be removed. In most cases, a restoration team can conduct the repairs without causing to many complications to your everyday life.

Knowing what to expect when it comes to fire restoration in the home may help you be better prepared for the process. Many services may offer cleanup and board-up options, as well as the ability to clean personal items and the structure. The process itself may involve inspections, damage removal, and finally, any repairs needed. Trust our dedicated fire team to help you with some time, your home can be restored back to “Like it never even happened.”

Helpful tip for an ongoing water leak!

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

A helpful tip for an ongoing water leak from a broken supply line is to shut the main water valve to the structure off immediately to minimize the amount of water intrusion. If you are not sure of where the main water shut-off valve is or it becomes buried from outside debris and is taking more time to locate and turn off the water to the structure there is something else that you can do to help minimize the water intrusion. To minimize the water intrusion while the main shut-off valve is being located you can go around the structure and turn on all water faucets throughout. This would include sinks, showers, bathtubs, dishwashers, washing machines, and anything else that is connected to the water supply for the structure. What this does is reduce the amount of water pressure throughout the structure allowing less water to pump out of the broken supply line.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a Treasure Valley commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a treasure valley commercial fire successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert. 
Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records. 
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately. 
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building. 
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, Treasure valley fires can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Call SERVPRO For Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Services 
If your business caught on fire, don't worry. Instead, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Boise and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process. Choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the sophisticated services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition, so call us now at (208) 375-0300 to attain your free estimate.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Boise is strategically located to respond quickly to your commercial fire emergency event. When commercial fire damage occurs we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (208) 375-0300

Restoration Industry

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

The restoration industry is a chaotic yet fulfilling industry. It presents many challenges along
with opportunities to help customers in ways that very few industries do. As an industry-leading
restoration company, we experience the emotions with the homeowners. Their normal routine has just been turned upside down. Their home is now being torn; it can be a very stressful experience. It is our job as a restorer to take into consideration each customers’ needs and provide a custom drying or cleaning strategy that will best accommodate the customer. We strive to provide the experience for both a residential or commercial client. During residential losses where we need to be concerned with one family and their needs, and during a commercial loss we need to take into account the needs of possibly multiple owners, tenants, and their entire client base!
Commercial projects offer very unique and often challenging opportunities to show the customer that we care for not only their business but also their wellbeing. During a water damage loss in an assisted living home here in the treasure valley, we were presented with not only the needs of our direct customers but also the needs of up to 65 residents. Taking the time to go a little bit further for your customers can show you care. We spent half a day setting up containments and negative pressured air to prevent dust and debris from getting into any of the units. During lunch and dinner time we only used hand tools to keep down on noise. Most importantly of all whenever we passed a resident in the hallways we always greeted them with a smile. By the time we left the project many of the crew were on a first-name basis with some of the residents.
Taking the extra step for not only our residential customers but also ensuring that our
commercial livelihood is intact during the restoration process is again very challenging but when done properly you can be the hero that they need.

Assessing Water Damage

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

By: Layton C. 

Whenever a homeowner has a water loss, it is important to understand the damage the water can do, and how to asses it properly. One of the first things that SERVPRO does after meeting the homeowner is to inspect all affected materials in all affected areas. This allows us to gauge what is wet and how wet the material actually is. SERVPRO technicians use moisture meters and thermal cameras to map out the wet area. Most homeowners don’t own this equipment so they may not be able to see the full damage, but it is possible to get a general idea if one knows what to look for and understands how water travels.

Having the appropriate equipment and tools are essential for the quality of work performed. We see many homeowners extract water with a wet vac and place office fan’s around the wet area. This is a great start to prevent further damage, but the equipment used will not have the same efficiency as ours. When SERVPRO needs to remove a material we are trained on removing it in a specific way. We want to make the repair as easy and as quick as possible. 

Depending on what material we are trying to dry and the saturation level of the material could call for a specialized drying plan with more equipment than the traditional box fan and dehumidifier. Our goal is to get all 10’s with the customer satisfaction survey. Assessing the damage correctly and having the correct equipment is a must.  Meeting the expectations makes the mitigation process faster and cheaper.

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage When You're Not Home

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it is, if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended amount of time – even just over night – it’s a smart idea to turn off your water until you return home. Why? Because it doesn’t take very much water to cause a whole lot of damage! If your pipes freeze and burst while you’re gone, or if a washer hose ruptures or a supply line leaks, major water damage can occur! There are a few things you can do before heading out of town to give you peace of mind when it comes to the state of your home’s water.

Shut off the Main Water Valve

Your safest bet is to turn off the main water valve. Make sure the adults in your home know where the main shutoff valve is and know how to turn it on and off. (Knowing this will also come in handy if you’re at home during an emergency, so the water can quickly be shut off!) Locate the main water valve near your water meter usually located in the basement, near the front of the house, attached to the outside of the home’s exterior, or in an underground box in the yard.

There are two types of main shutoff valves. You’ll probably find what’s called a “gate valve” if you’re in an older home. Turn the rounded handles a certain number of times to open or close the valve. The “ball valve” is more common today. Turn the lever-like handle 90 degrees in order to turn the water on or off. If this valve crosses the pipes, it’s closed; if it’s parallel to them, it’s open.

Test shutting off the valve ahead of time by locating the main shutoff valve, turning it off, and running a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off your home’s water supply!

Turn off Individual Water Valves

But what if you’re leaving during the summer and you can’t turn off your entire water supply because you have automatic sprinklers? If this is the case, you can simply turn off individual water valves to the water sources with the highest damage risk. These sources include the dishwasher, washing machine, and ice-maker. Individual shutoff valves tend to be located directly on the supply lines leading to most appliances, including toilets and faucets. Usually, this will be a small rounded handle that you’ll turn clockwise. Doing this will turn off the water to that source. (Take note that the ice-maker shutoff valve may be under the sink or in the basement!)

If you’ll be shutting off individual water supplies, it’s a good idea to kill two birds with one stone and check your supply lines themselves. They can become weak over time, resulting in leaks, cracks, or bulging. If you notice these or other forms of corrosion, you may want to repair or replace them before leaving.

Turn off Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets

If you’re leaving during the colder seasons, it’s a good idea to also shut off the water to your outdoor faucets as well. Their shutoff valve will most likely be located inside your house. Shut it off before you head out the door. Once you’ve shut off the valve, turn on the exterior faucet to drain any excess water. And remember to detach the hoses, too!

If you follow these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing your home won’t be at risk of water damage while you’re away!

For immediate service, call SERVPRO of Boise

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being Faster to Any Size Disaster in the Treasure Valley.  We respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (208) 375-0300

Residential Services

If your home needs emergency flood damage you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and can assist in getting your property to the pre loss condition. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Boise commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Therefore, 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. Learn more about our commercial services.  

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration 
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Don't take a risk, be sure to have the adequate business insurance coverages

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Don't take a risk, be sure to have the adequate business insurance coverages All types of insurance coverage are required for businesses such as, worker's compensation, employer's liability, commercial auto and property insurance.  The failure to obtain the proper amounts of coverage can be disastrous to a business.Property insurance helps cover the damage or loss of property like buildings and structures and can include items like supplies, equipment, furnishings and inventory.  It may also help cover costs of repair or replacing stolen or damaged property.  Some commercial property insurance policies may provide business interruption coverage that will help supplement the businesses income if they cannot operate.  SERVPRO of Boise also works fast to assist your business in reopening. Call our team of highly trained professionals to work on your small or large business.   

Gas Detectors Urged by State Fire Marshal

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

The Idaho State Fire Marshal is urging Idahoans to purchase and install gas detectors at their households. This safety reminder comes as the State Fire Marshal’s Office has investigated an alarming number of propane-related fires and explosions that have resulted in significant injury and deaths..

In all the cases, the occupants were either unaware of the propane leak or disregarded the foul odor that is purposefully mixed with propane. Propane itself is odorless. A chemical known as ethyl mercaptan is added to give propane a foul odor and alert occupants that a leak exists and to act appropriately.

The greatest number of incidents happen in winter, with snow slides and snow removal often being the culprit. Snow builds up on roofs and may slide off during daytime heating, or the homeowner will clear snow from the roof to reduce the risk of collapse. If the propane tank is located on the downside of the roof, snow can accumulate on piping or the propane regulator, causing additional weight on those items and leading to cracks. Homeowners should remember to clear snow away from the regulator and allow it to function properly.

Advances in technology now make available a home propane and natural gas detector that will sound an alarm, alerting the occupants of danger. These devices are available over the internet and big box stores. The cost is relatively low (between $30-$75) and some interface with the internet and communicate with cell phones.

About the Department of Insurance

The Idaho Department of Insurance has been regulating the business of insurance in Idaho since 1901. The mission of the Department is to serve and protect Idahoans by equitably, effectively and efficiently administering the Idaho Insurance Code and the International Fire Code. For more information, please visit us at doi.idaho.gov or email us at consumeraffairs@doi.idaho.gov

About the State Fire Marshal

The State Fire Marshal’s Office participates in and coordinates an integrated statewide system designed to protect human life from fire and explosions through fire prevention, investigation and public education activities. The program involves fire prevention activities, fire/arson investigation, code enforcement and the operation of the National Fire Incident Reporting System. The State Fire Marshal’s Office provides assistance to local fire agencies throughout the state.

If you require fire related clean up services contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Boise.

Different Types of Mold

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

There are different types of mold.  The most common are aspergillus, cladosporium and stachybotrys atra (commonly known as black mold).

Aspergillus is non-toxic to humans but it can aggravate health effects.  It is found on foods and in air conditioning systems.

Cladosporium is non-toxic to humans but can aggravate health effects.  This is found as a black or green mold that grows in little dots in bathrooms or painted surfaces and possibly in flexible air ducts. 

Stachybotrys is commonly called black mold. This type should be removed to prevent health effects.  This type of mold grows on building materials and needs a trained professional like SERVPRO of Boise to be removed. 

To prevent mold growth make sure that water leaks are dried up quickly and properly and humidity levels are maintained in your home or business. Do NOT place a fan.  Mold thrives in warm damp conditions.

Our staff at SERVPRO of Boise provides mold remediation services and are IICRC AMRT (Anti Microbial Remediation Training) certified. This is vital to make sure that services are provided properly. A lack of training and education can be harmful to the structure, occupants as well as our employees.   Protecting the health and safety of all involved while dealing with microbial growth is important.    

SERVPRO of Boise cleans for health and safety first.  It is so important to contain contaminants when performing mold remediation services and cleaning. We work hard every day to make it "Like it never even happened." 

Esporta Machine

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

The Esporta Wash System is the disaster restoration industry’s only wet-wash machine designed exclusively to recover “soft contents” damaged in fire and water disasters. Soft contents include items such as footwear, linens, outerwear, leathers, bedding, outdoor items, athletic equipment, survival gear, sleeping bags, life jackets, stuffed toys, and almost all of your personal clothing.

The patented system breaks down unwanted organic materials and kills bacteria, viruses, and mold spores on contact. The system also removes organic and inorganic contaminants without degrading or damaging the materials. It is five times more effective than traditional front-loading washing machines. 

If you have favorite items of clothing that have been affected by mold, ask our SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian remediation technicians about what type of options you have for salvaging them! 

Is Mold Covered Under Insurance?

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Mold remediation covered under insurance can alleviate much stress associated with the fungus. However, you must understand your insurance policy fully to receive compensation for mold damage. If you have mold growing somewhere in your home, you may not have to pay to remove and repair the damaged areas. However, not all instances of mold come as part of your policy. Learn when mold covered under insurance is partially or fully your responsibility below. Also, find out what to do about it if you do or do not have the proper coverage.

Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

Some homeowner’s insurance does cover mold. However, the mold-covered under insurance must fall under a covered peril. The language of your policy includes the conditions qualifying for a covered peril. As long as the specific thing causing the mold is a peril on your plan, you have coverage. Examples of peril include water damage resulting from accidents, or other factors. Some claims handle the removal of the mold, as well as reimburse you for any property damage.

Keep in mind, insurance companies limit the amount of coverage they offer so that additional coverage may cost a lot more. Again, it all depends on your insurance policy stipulations. There are also different types of claims to consider depending on your status as an owner with tenants or the owner or renting party.

First-Party Coverage Claims

When you have mold in your home and make a claim with your insurance company, it’s known as a first-party property claim. You must be the policyholder to receive insurance coverage for the claim.

Third-Party Coverage Claims

If you rent a home or apartment and your tenants file an insurance claim for mold, this falls under the third-party claim.

Tips for Dealing with Mold Damage

Whether insurance covers the mold in your home, you must address it as soon as possible. Allowing it to grow may lead to health effects. Mold thrives in moist areas. If your home has vulnerabilities to water leaks, you must address the incident quickly. Doing so can mitigate some of the health effects and property damage brought on by mold.

How to File a Claim for Mold

Each insurer has its own set of policies, but the general order to file a mold claim is as follows:

1. Call your insurance company and set up an appointment with an adjuster.
2. Try to dry the impacted area with fans, open windows, and other means of removing excess moisture. Avoid cleaning or removing mold because the adjuster must first assess the damage.
3. Take pictures of the damaged areas.
4. Talk to your agent about mold coverage limits.

In most cases, the homeowner must prove the mold is a result of a water damage claim resulting from burst pipes or some other event. Even if your policy covers your mold event, it may only cover a certain amount.

Without Proper Coverage

To get mold covered under insurance, you need qualifying circumstances. Your insurance company cannot remove or repair mold damage due to your lack of upkeep. For instance, failing to fix a minor leak that becomes a significant leak does not qualify you for mold coverage.

Other examples include mold resulting from:

• Long-term leaks
• Long-term moisture
• Construction defects

Tips for Handling Your Claim

Because insurance companies can make handling your mold problem a significant process, there are a few things to keep in mind before you make a claim.

• Never offer a guess as to the origins of the mold
• Do not agree with your insurance company if they suggest the mold has been around for a long time
• Allow the company to conduct a full investigation before signing off on any paperwork provided by the insurance company

Other Tips for Handling Mold

The best way to handle mold is to prevent its growth at the onset. You can limit mold growth by doing the following:

• Use air humidifiers and air conditioners to keep air moisture between 30 percent and 60 percent
• Do not place carpets or rugs in damp areas such as basements
• Fix small leaks immediately
• Inspect faucet fixtures and nozzles under sinks and toilets to check for leaks

There are several measures you can take to decrease the chances of mold growth. It is especially important in humid states where moisture collects easily in different parts of the home.

Do you need more information about dealing with mold damage or mold remediation? Our trained mold remediation specialists at SERVPRO offer 24-hour emergency services. Using the most advanced technology, our team keeps the mold from causing any further damage. Failure to act immediately can result in the denial of your claim, call us today at (208) 375-0300!

How Water Damages Hardwood Floors in Nampa

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Drying Saturated Waterproofed Floors in Your Home

Hardwood floors present aesthetic appeal to your home, but it can also be susceptible to saturation and the absorption of water loss effects when they occur. From burst pipes to overflowing toilet reservoirs, these loss incidents can happen with no warning and leave you contending with several inches of standing water in the affected areas. With many homeowners choosing waterproof wood flooring materials for areas like their bathroom, they unknowingly assume that the material is impervious to penetration from standing water and exposure.

While these waterproofed materials installed in your home might get designed to resist moisture and direct penetration better than other options, without effective water removal from trained professionals, your home is still susceptible to widespread water damage. Our SERVPRO professionals have highly effective extraction equipment that can remove standing water fast from the affected areas of your home.

Waterproof plank flooring does have a specific density, composition, and an added coating to prevent direct penetration from standing water. However, areas like the tongue and groove where these planks seam together present penetration points and vulnerabilities for the standing water to bleed through over a brief exposure. As the planks become exposed to this moisture, they can begin to distort and swell, allowing moisture to penetrate even further to impact the subflooring.

Our SERVPRO professionals arrive with powerful extraction equipment for the bathroom such as portable sump pumps and wet-vacs with extraction wands. Once the excess gets removed, our team can utilize thermal imagery to gain perspective on moisture penetration and damage to the flooring and other structural elements surrounding the affected area. We can set up our high-efficiency drying equipment to begin removing this moisture content from exposed materials to preserve both the flooring and construction elements like your drywall, vanity, and cabinetry.

While waterproof flooring in water-prone rooms of your home is a wise investment, they are not entirely able to prevent moisture exposure and damage without prompt action from trained professionals like our SERVPRO team.

Soot, Smoke, and Fire Damage Restoration Services

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Correct Removal of Fire and Soot Related Stains Is a SERVPRO Area of Expertise

Fire is an essential part of the lives of residents. It is necessary for cooking, heating, and even burning certain substances. However, when it goes out of control, the results can be very destructive to your property. Soot and smoke particles from the fire can land and stick to different surfaces in the structure. Restoration involves getting rid of these residues. The process requires a professional who understands the behavior of smoke during a fire and knows where to locate the heaviest deposits when inspecting the damage.

If your home sustains soot and smoke damage, you can rely on SERVPRO to restore your property. Our technicians are highly trained, experienced and can respond quickly to your fire damage emergency. As usual, we are dedicated to bringing back your contents to preloss conditions, "Like it never even happened."

Smoke and Soot Damage

Soot residues come in different forms - some are easier to clean while others tend to be stubborn. SERVPRO fire damage technicians are trained to deal with various types of soot, namely protein smoke residues, wet smoke residues, fuel oil smoke residues, and dry smoke residues. Factors that determine whether the smoke residue is wet or dry include:

• The type of substance or material burning
• The level of oxygen present
• The rate of combustion

These types of combustion byproducts require different cleaning methods. We use mild cleaning procedures for dry smoke because it does not cause embedded stains and has relatively fewer pungent odors. Natural materials often produce dry smoke when they sustain fire damage. Getting rid of wet smoke residues is more difficult because it is packed with aerosols such as solvents, varnishes, and other components. You can expect wet smoke if any synthetic materials are burning in the structure.

Ignoring smoke damage can lead to permanent consequences. Furniture, carpeting, and personal items with severe soot and fire damage could become irreparable. The soot can irreversibly discolor porous materials within minutes. After a few hours, it can rust or corrode metallic furniture and even damage your flooring. In the end, this can cause greater cleanup and replacement costs.

Mold Growth

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

How to recover from mold growth.

Moisture and high humidity can attract mold spores into your Treasure Valley home, where they can grow across a variety of surfaces. While mold commonly grows on building surfaces like drywall and carpeting, it can also affect your belongings such as clothing and furniture. Mold cleaning can be difficult; however, before you throw items away, you may want to learn about which could be saved by different types of professional cleaning processes used by SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian and which cannot. 

1. Throw Away Porous Items 

Most porous surfaces can absorb water and encourage further mold growth. As such, some items like mattresses, thick rugs and stuffed toys that already show signs of mold damage are usually not salvageable. If your child has a favorite stuffed toy that you want to attempt to save, ask our SERVPRO remediation technicians if they have any mold cleaning processes that may help. You may want to remember, however, that porous items affected by black mold are usually considered unsalvageable because this type of fungus is particularly hard to eradicate. 

2. Freeze Documents and Books 

If you have important documents and books that developed mold, place them in sealable plastic bags and store them in your freezer. Freezing these items can inhibit further mold growth and protect them until they can be inspected by our SERVPRO expert mold remediation and restoration technicians This can salvage items like original birth certificates, wedding albums, and baby books. 

3. Set Aside Moldy Clothing 

If you have favorite items of clothing that have been affected by mold, ask our remediation technicians about what type of options you have for salvaging them. Wet, dry and immersion cleaning may all be possible, especially for leather jackets and shoes. SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian uses an Esporta Machine, which cleans soft contents by removing tough odors, dirt, and molds in a way that even commercial-grade units cannot. 

Mold can have a devastating effect on your home’s contents. However, professional mold cleaning processes may be able to salvage your treasured possessions, even if you believe they are beyond repair.  

Let us try to help you with this problem, call SERVPRO of Boise at 208-375-0300.

When Storms or Floods Hit Boise, SERVPRO is Ready!

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise 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 Boise 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 Boise, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 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 208-375-0300

Storm Damage Preparedness

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

Our team of experts will be there soon, but your health and safety are our main priorities. While you wait for help to arrive, follow these tips to keep you protected while facilitating a more rapid recovery:

Communications

• Discuss preparedness with your family
• Identify an out-of-state contact in case you are separated. Long-distance calls may work when local calls do not
• Teach children how and when to call 911 post emergency contact numbers near phones in your home
• Teach children how to use a cell phone

Evacuation

• Determine two escape routes from each room in your home
• Pick three places to meet - One right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, pick a location in your neighborhood if your property isn't safe and a regional meeting place if you can't return home

MAKE A PLAN

Water

• Water will keep you alive. If you have enough water, you can live on half of your normal food intake. Make sure to store at least one gallon of water per person per day and store enough water to last two weeks. 
• People in hot environments, children, people who are ill and nursing mothers should store more.
• Rotate your water supply every six months
• Other sources of water in your home: water heater, ice cubes, pipes and toilet tank (not the bowl)

Food

Unlike water, food can be rationed. Store at least a three to five day supply of non-perishable food in a dry place where the temperature is not above 70 degrees. 

Select foods that require little or no preparation, water or refrigeration. Select foods that are high in calories, nutritious, compact and lightweight. Choose foods your family will eat.

Pets

Pets are an important member of your family. Plan for them as well. Remember that emergency shelters typically do not allow animals. Only service animals are allowed in shelters.

But you should know safe places to keep your pets if you have to evacuate with them. Where are hotels and motels outside of your area that accept pets? What friends or family members could keep them for you? Which boarding facilities, veterinarians or shelters could be used?

Utilities

Your water heater can be a critical source of water in an emergency, but only if it’s still standing. Go to your home improvement store of choice and buy the metal straps to secure the water heater to nearby studs.

A falling water heater can break gas lines and water lines or spill your water.

Gas

If you have natural gas coming into your home, it’s easy to turn off, but not so much for turning it back on. Only qualified people should turn gas back on.

When you should shut off your gas meter:

• You smell natural gas
• You hear gas leaking
• There is a fire (unless shutting off the gas would jeopardize your safety)
• If you need to shut off the gas, use a wrench to turn the valve a quarter turn in either direction
• Take some time to become familiar with which utilities enter your home and where they can be shut off. As you practice emergency plans, locate and map the gas, water and electricity mains. During family drills, go through the movements, but do not practice shutting off gas lines.

If you are facing the aftermath of a storm or natural disaster, call us at (208) 375-0300!

10 Things You Should be Doing to Prevent Mold

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless if you’re a new homeowner or if you’ve been in the same home for forty years, it’s absolutely vital to make sure you take the proper precautions to fight off and prevent mold and mildew in your home or office. Mold is basically tiny fungi that grow in branch-like filaments called hyphae. While some mold and mildew can be scrubbed away with the right cleaning products, other types of mold can do severe damage to the structure of your home and it can be very expensive to repair. Not only is mold horrible for your home, but it’s also very dangerous. Unfortunately, certain kinds of toxic mold are undetectable by the naked eye. That’s why it’s so important to follow these guidelines to make sure that you’re protecting your home from the potential risks of mold and mildew.

1. Be Aware of Air Flow

When trying to prevent mold, take note of the arrangement of furniture and other items in your home. You want to make sure you have a proper airflow throughout the house. When moisture gets trapped, you’re increasing your chances of mold. Always be aware of odd smells or odors in the home that may represent mold or mildew. Any kind of musty smells will most likely be a sign of mold growth.

2. Know Your Moisture Levels

Most people don’t really know how much moisture they have floating around their home, but it’s important to keep an eye on these levels, especially in basements. Basements should always be below 50% humidity to prevent mold. If you’re worried about how much humidity is in your home, you can purchase a hygrometer. A lot of the new thermometers for central air and heat in more modern homes will include a humidity level setting on the monitor.

3. Check All Storage

When moving into a new home, it’s easy to toss unwanted cardboard boxes and bins into the garage and then forget they were ever there. If it’s been a while since you’ve explored through the storage in your garage, basement or attic, you may want to give it a good check. Cardboard boxes in low ventilated areas are a breeding ground for mold. You also want to stay away from keeping your items in cardboard boxes or on wooden shelves.

4. Keep Moisture Rich Areas Clean

To prevent mold it’s important to consistently clean areas of the house that are exposed to moisture often, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Routinely remove all of the items on your counter-tops and use anti-mold or mildew cleaning products. If water gets trapped in areas for longer than 48-hours, then mold can become apparent.

5. Utilize Exhaust Fans

When showering or cooking, remember to always use your exhaust fans. Some people will only turn exhaust fans on after showering, but this is a big mold prevention no-no. Always be sure to have the fan on during a hot shower, as well as for some time after a shower to make sure that all of the humidity has dissipated.

6. Be Aware of Leaks

It’s important to have your house checked randomly throughout the year for leaks. A leaky pipe that goes unnoticed can create havoc in a household. Something that might be simple to fix one day, can turn into a nightmare if it goes undetected. Have a mold remediation company occasionally check your home for potential leaks to save yourself money in the long run.

7. Remove Carpet in Basements

While some carpets may feel cozy and look great in a basement, they can turn into a fuzzy hotel for fungus. Basements are infamous for holding in moisture and carpets can make these matters much worse. If you’re looking to upgrade your home in the near future, tearing out carpets in the basement not only saves you from potential mold, but it can also increase your property value.

8. Keep Roof and Gutters Clean

With heavy rain, moisture can clog up your gutters and cause cracks in your roof.  It can build up near corners or crevasses in doorways. Keeping your roof and your gutters clean throughout the year can help you to prevent mold in these areas.

9. Use Mold Prevention Based Paints

If you happen to be renovating or moving into a new home, it’s the perfect time to find quality mold inhibiting paints and primers. Ask an expert at your local home improvement store which kind of paints are best for fighting off mold and mildew.

10. Change Out Air Filters

Everyone should always be aware of the air quality in their home. As mentioned above, many of the airborne illnesses that come from mold are very difficult to detect. Changing out air filters or purchasing air purifiers can add an extra layer of protection in your home.

Having the above ten steps on your checklist will help you to prevent mold in your home. If you do suspect there is mold in your home, call the experts to inspect and remove it for you.

SERVPRO and the equipment we use!

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise has the technology to get the job done!  
The past few decades have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Boise professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

Drying Equipment

Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from the ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

• Air scrubbers
• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Antimicrobial Treatments

The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.

• Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
• Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

For more information on the services we provide at SERVPRO of Boise, call us at 208-375-0300.

Mold – Understanding What It Is & How It Can Affect Your Boise/Meridian Home

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

While mold occurs naturally in our environment, there are certain situations where mold can be
harmful to an affected property. In addition, excessive amounts of mold, certain types of mold
and exposure to molds have the potential to present health concerns to some people. And yet,
some types of molds are beneficial and a necessary part of our environment.
Water intrusion into a residential or commercial property is most often the cause of excessive
mold growth. If ideal conditions are present, mold is a fungus and can germinate and grow
within 24-48 hours. Mold spores begin colonize in 3-12 days and can become visible in 14-21
days. Mold typically grows on organic materials such as wood products, ceiling tiles, drywall,
fabric, insulation, cardboard and carpet. Eventually, mold will destroy the organic material it grows on.
FEMA has issued guidelines that suggest a property owner can remedy mold growth that affects an area of 25 square feet or less. Larger areas of 25 square feet or greater affected with mold should be handled by a mold remediation professional that is highly trained, such as SERVPRO of Boise.

Mold Prevention Tips

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Mold will grow where there is moisture, such as around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been a flood. Mold grows on paper, cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood. Mold can also grow in dust, paints, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabric, and upholstery. Here is a partial list of tips to help protect your Boise/Meridian home or business:

• When water leaks or spills occur indoors - ACT QUICKLY. If wet or damp materials or areas are dried 24-48 hours after a leak or spill happens, in most cases mold will not grow. 
• Clean and repair roof gutters regularly. 
• Make sure the ground slopes away from the building foundation, so that water does not enter or collect around the foundation. 
• Keep air conditioning drip pans clean and the drain lines unobstructed and flowing properly. Keep indoor humidity low. If possible, keep indoor humidity below 60 percent (ideally between 30 and 50 percent) relative humidity. Relative humidity can be measured with a moisture or humidity meter, a small, inexpensive instrument available at many hardware stores. 
• If you see condensation or moisture collecting on windows, walls or pipes - ACT QUICKLY to dry the wet surface and reduce the moisture/water source. Condensation can be a sign of high humidity. 

Actions that will help to reduce humidity:  

• Vent appliances that produce moisture, such as clothes dryers, stoves, and kerosene heaters to the outside where possible. (Combustion appliances such as stoves and kerosene heaters produce water vapor and will increase the humidity unless vented to the outside.) 
• Use air conditioners and/or de-humidifiers when needed. 
• Run the bathroom fan or open the window when showering. Use exhaust fans or open windows whenever cooking, running the dishwasher or dishwashing, etc.

Actions that will help prevent condensation: 

• Reduce the humidity
• Increase ventilation or air movement by opening doors and/or windows, when practical. Use fans as needed. 
• Cover cold surfaces, such as cold-water pipes, with insulation. 
• Increase air temperature.

Call SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian and have one of our professionally trained staff members inspect and recommend the next steps. 208-375-0300

What To Expect With Fire Damage Restoration

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

When fire hits your home, you may be in the market for a professional fire restoration team such as SERVPRO of Boise. You may also be wondering what exactly our professionals can do to get your home back to pre-fire condition. Keep reading to learn about a few things you may be able to expect during this process:

Services That May Be Included

When choosing a fire restoration team there may be several related services offered as well.

• Damage cleaning, including debris and water damage, clean up
• Removal of soot and smoke damage
• Personal item restoration
• Structural repairs
• Smoke odor removal
• Board up and tarping services

Steps in the Process

There are several steps you can expect to see in the fire restoration process. In most cases, it will start out with a damage assessment by our trained professionals so that repairs can be conducted in the best order. Boarding and tarping up damaged areas to protect against further damage may follow. The damaged materials will then be removed and the area will then be dried of all water if needed, and smoke and soot removal will begin. After this, cleaning and repairs can start, and will continue until the restoration is complete.

The End Result

While it might take some time depending on the damage severity, you can rest assured that your home can be restored to its pre-fire condition. Even unpleasant smoke orders can be removed. In most cases, a restoration team can conduct the repairs without causing to many complications to your everyday life.

Knowing what to expect when it comes to fire restoration in the home may help you be better prepared for the process. Many services may offer cleanup and board-up options, as well as the ability to clean personal items and the structure. The process itself may involve inspections, damage removal, and finally, any repairs needed. Trust our dedicated fire team to help you with some time, your home can be restored back to “Like it never even happened.”

Water Damage Prevention Tips for your Boise home

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

The old adage ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure certainly applies to water damage prevention at residential properties. The cost of water damage and the disruption it causes can be significant. In most cases, the result of the water damage is covered by insurance, but in some instances, maintenance-related water damage may not be covered.

Here are a few tips to be proactive in preventing water damages issues:

1. Inspect appliance hoses and faucets at least annually. This would include checking water supply lines to the dishwasher, refrigerator ice maker, washing machine, water heater and bathroom and kitchen plumbing fixtures. Replace supply line hoses every 5-7 years.
2. Inspect showers and tubs regularly to ensure the caulking and seals are watertight and reseal if necessary.
3. Turn off the water to the washing machine and dishwasher when not at home. During extended absences from home, shut off the main water supply to the home.
4. Know where the main water supply shutoff valve is located so if a water leak happens, the resulting damage can be minimized by quickly shutting off the main water supply.
5. Consider installing water sensors or a water leak monitoring and shutoff system at your home.
6. Caulk and seal windows and doors to prevent water from entering the home.
7. Inspect your roof, gutters, and downspouts to identify any issues that would route water into your home.
8. Check sprinklers and irrigation systems to ensure they are not spraying water against the foundation walls and puddling near the home. Remove hoses during the winter and drain outside faucets to protect against frozen pipes.
9. Store off-season and personal belongings in waterproof bins or totes especially when near plumbing.
10. Store personal belongings off of the floor in basements.

In addition to these preventative measures, review your insurance policy with your insurance consultant to determine if you have the right coverage against water damage. However, if a water damage issue occurs, it is highly recommended you use the services of a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Boise our experience and methodology can save you money and minimize the areas of your home that are affected and in need or repair.

Disaster Plan

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise can assist you with a disaster plan for your business

Business owners know the importance of planning ahead, but many of them do not prioritize disaster planning for their business.

Unprepared businesses that are hit by disaster are frequently devastated, even being rendered unable to reopen. By evaluating your current preparedness levels and determining where you can improve, you can ensure this does not happen to your business.

Understanding disaster preparedness takes planning for each scenario, allowing you to quickly identify strengths and weaknesses and make changes accordingly. Here are the top three categories for disaster preparedness:

Your Commercial Insurance Coverage

While it is logical to assume that a commercial business policy will cover any damages sustained from a natural disaster, many business owners are dismayed to find that is far from the case. Most commercial insurance policies exclude common specifics such as flood damage, and do not provide coverage for the loss of revenue that business owners sustain. Talk to your insurance agent to determine exactly what is and is not in your policy in advance.

Your Emergency Plan and Supply Kit

When an alert is sent out about a natural disaster, or if an emergency such as a fire occurs, there will often only be minutes to react. Having an evacuation plan is vital to keep both you and your employees safe in this scenario. It is also wise to plan for a situation in which you will have to await help and stay on-site during an emergency such as a power outage. Stock an office emergency supply bag with enough food, water and medical supplies to cover anyone who may be present.

Your Plan for Restoration and Recovery

Getting your business reopened as quickly as possible following a disaster is the top way to minimize the impact that the damages have on the future of your business. By researching and deciding on a restoration company in advance of the disaster, you can make the call as soon as your business is safe to reenter in order to have restoration started right away. In the aftermath, the Small Business Administration offers disaster loans to assist business owners at a lowered interest rate, as well.

If your business has been impacted by a disaster, you can contact us 24-7 for guidance on how to begin the commercial restoration process.

SERVPRO of Boise is Ready and Available 24/7

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to water damage the first few hours are critical in mitigating further damage. That's why SERVPRO is ready and available 24/7. The sooner our company can arrive and get the drying process started the better and less chance you will have lasting damage to your property. This also prevents the risk of mold growth which depending on the conditions can occur in as little as 24-48 hours. If you can locate the source of water damage the first step is shutting off your supply line if it's coming from the interior of the home. 

Once the extent of the damage is assessed we use moisture meters to detect hidden water in flooring, walls and ceilings. The next step is creating a drying plan to quickly remove moisture from the building materials using dehumidifiers and air movers. Sometimes contents are affected in which case we will inventory affected items and determine whether they are salvageable or not. Salvageable items will be packed out of the area for cleaning if necessary and stored until the job is complete. 

When the drying process is complete we will determine any further structural repairs and a construction estimator will inspect to start the reconstruction process. They will work with you in determining any changes you might want to make and bringing your property to a state of it "Like it never even happened." All salvageable contents will have been cleaned and returned to the home once the reconstruction process is complete. You’ll be involved each step of the way right up to the certificate of completion.

Storm Events

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

Any time a storm event takes place that SERVPRO decides to get involved in, the moment we decide to
travel to wherever that event takes place, it’s a race to get there and find work as soon as possible. On
occasion, SERVPRO travels because they are guaranteed a good job, but more often, we arrive and hope
that the set of leads available to us can make us money. The first couple days of a storm event involve
running around trying to get work. Some leads that we are given sound good on paper, but end up being
small, and vice versa, so you never know what you’re going to run into until you are actually on-site
looking at the loss. It’s important to try and get work started as soon as possible, which usually isn’t too
difficult because most customers usually push you to get work started.

A helpful tip for an ongoing water leak!

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

A helpful tip for an ongoing water leak from a broken supply line is to shut the main water valve to the structure off immediately to minimize the amount of water intrusion. If you are not sure of where the main water shut-off valve is or it becomes buried from outside debris and is taking more time to locate and turn off the water to the structure there is something else that you can do to help minimize the water intrusion. To minimize the water intrusion while the main shut-off valve is being located you can go around the structure and turn on all water faucets throughout. This would include sinks, showers, bathtubs, dishwashers, washing machines, and anything else that is connected to the water supply for the structure. What this does is reduce the amount of water pressure throughout the structure allowing less water to pump out of the broken supply line.

Why choose SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian?

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Why Choose SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian? See what our customers have to say on Google...

Kirby made a stressful situation just a blip on the screen. He came right out, assessed the situation and he and Antonio got to work.

They did a great job, the communication and professionalism were outstanding. Thank you so much!

~Amy Wattles, Meridian

Great company! LT, Nate, & Bobby were very informative and detailed!

They showed up fast & ready to tackle my water damage! I appreciate the service and quality.  

~Austin family, Meridian

I had met Erick previously and joked that I hoped I'd never need his services. But well life happens. His team has been so easy to work with.

Ashley and Keith do an amazing job getting the estimates to the insurance quickly. The crew that came to clean up before construction starts so I can still live in my home... Incredible.

Kirby and Antonio are so easy to work with and friendly while they're in your home. I couldn't be more happy with the service I'm receiving. Thanks to the SERVPRO team!!!

~ Ally Jacobson, Boise

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Treasure Valley property managers, you need to take action within 4 hours of water damage to minimize secondary and permanent damage

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Treasure Valley Property managers - Taking action during the first 24 hours following water damage will help prevent secondary or permanent damage to your units.

That is why within 4 hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian franchise professional will be on-site to help ensure water damage is handled by completing the following steps:

1. Intake – ask client questions to determine which size crew, how many pieces of equipment, and what precautions to take.
2. Inspection– Using information from phone intake, SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian will inspect all affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning work.
3. Emergency service- SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian will begin by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying for each unit. They will explain the needed emergency services to you as well as the tenant, step by step.
4. Document pre-existing damage and damage caused by water.
5. Arrange for contents to be restored or disposed of, with the owner's signature and insurance approval (if applicable).
6. Monitoring- monitor drying of structure and contents to ensure they are dried to appropriate industry standards; updates will be consistently communicated with you and your insurance company.
7. Reinstall flooring and clean the affected areas of your property as well as arrange for the reinstallation of walls, baseboard, or other materials.
8. Final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was restored to preloss conditions.

By following these steps, SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian will efficiently dry and restore your structure to its preloss condition with minimal impact on tenants, the structure, and contents while also reducing secondary damage and permanent damage to your property following water damage.

About SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian

SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration by the IICRC-industry certification standards.  Rest assured that our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. We serve the Treasure Valley residents and property managers.

Why SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian is a better choice

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Not all Restoration companies are equal: Here is how to pick the best one.

Get to know your options and make sure to read their reviews from their website and ask for certifications. Water damage restoration is not something that anyone can do, in fact, the proper equipment and chemicals aren’t even available to those who are not properly trained, licensed, and insured in this field. These licenses and certifications cost thousands and thousands of dollars each year to renew, not to mention the countless hours to get trained. Someone not trained properly will not know how to completely dry a structure or prevent mold growth.

Hiring an amateur or someone who considers themselves a handyman (or plumber with water damage experience) will lead to future problems and a bigger bill in the long run.

Often the costs are triple what a normal emergency restoration company would charge in the first place. SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian has systems in place to guarantee accurate, fair, and consistent pricing using Xactimate. If you are filing your water damage as an insurance claim then the bill will be approved, finalized, and processed efficiently through both SERVPRO and your insurance adjuster to make sure it is accurate, fair, and correct.

SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian has access to disaster recovery specialists and “Storm Teams”. If the area is inundated with catastrophic flooding or fires. By calling SERVPRO during a large local weather event, you will automatically be put into the system and you will be seen by either us or a “Storm Team” who come to our area from other states to help with large-scale disaster recovery.

SERVPRO of Boise is ready!

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

When catastrophic weather events happen SERVPRO of Boise is ready to help. The planning and preparation of equipment, vehicles and logistics started months ago.  The trailer has already been stocked, inventoried, and sits ready to roll. When people need our help we want to be there fast. One of the most challenging aspects of working in storm events is logistics. The local residents are displaced and need the same hotels and restaurants as those who are traveling into the area. We are shipping our trailers full of supplies into the area where flooding is occurring while roads are closed, blocked, or unpassable from water or debris. Once the crews have a place to stay, food to eat, and equipment in the area the helping starts. Long days of work go by fast because we are constantly working with a goal to help as many people as we can. SERVPRO of Boise will stay as long as people need help. Once the last resident is helped we pack our trailer back up, inventory, and replace any used items so we are ready for the next event. Helping cities recover to "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Loss

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise responds to both commercial or residential losses regardless of the size. Commercial buildings have the same opportunity for damage to occur as residential. The main difference is the scale of the property. The average residential square footage is much smaller than the average commercial building square footage. This means if something happens in a commercial building the amount of damage could be much greater in reference to square footage. The losses are handled very similarly with a main difference in the equipment used.  Ceiling heights may need to be reached with commercial-grade lifts, large generators may be needed to power emergency equipment, spider boxes with long cords may need to be placed in many different areas to supply power, lights may need to be hung, etc. There are a lot more considerations in commercials depending on the size of the loss. When it comes to drying equipment we prefer to use a few larger pieces of drying equipment instead of lots of small equipment. A skilled project manager is a must to make the best decisions to accomplish the goals of the building owner. Insurance generally pays out more in loss of income than for the property damage. The faster we can get the company back to work the better it is financially for all parties. Water, fire, or mold SERVPRO of Boise is here to help!

Treasure Valley Fire Prevention

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Safeguarding against potential fire hazards will significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire affecting your home and family. Make fire prevention and safety a priority in your home.

• Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it monthly.
• Prevent electrical fires by never overloading circuits or extension cords.
• Use appliances only as directed by the manufacturer. Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from anything combustible.
• Keep the fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned annually.
• Install an affordable home fire safety sprinkler system. In addition to keeping you safe, they can increase property value and lower insurance rates.
• Plan your escape. Practice your exit strategy from every room in the house.
• Take the time to educate your children about the dangers of fire.

Dealing with a house fire in your home

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

The process involved will definitely differ depending on the severity and size of the fire and damage caused, as you can see in the image to your right this is quite severe fire damage. However, the principles of fire damage restoration will for the most part be the same.

Like in most restoration projects the main goal you are trying to reach is preloss condition, that is you want your property to be restored back to how it was before the damages occurred; you want it to be safe, clean, free of smokey odors, and of course, looking "Like it never even happened."

Now at this point, we are going to assume that the fire has been put out, everybody is safe, and you are now looking at the damage caused and are wondering what to do next.

Before you start any work ensure that:

• the property is structurally sound and is safe to re-enter
• you have identified any safety hazards that may be present

As you re-enter the property you will want to get rid it of any lingering smoke and gasses that may still be present. You can do this by opening windows and doors and releasing them outside. In situations where there is a lot of smoke still lingering inside the property and you have neighbors close by then you will want to exhaust the air through an air filtration device (AFD). An AFD unit will process the air through a series of filters reducing its potency and potentially harmful contents.

Once you have taken care of these initial steps and are ready to assess what work needs to be done. You should be taking note of the two main types of possible damage; the obvious burnt and charred materials and the less obvious smoke and soot damage.

Now, you will need to make a decision whether to repair or replace the affected items or property. Any items or property that got burnt and charred will be easier to spot and will likely need replacement if you are not sure on what to do with a certain item you should get it out of the property until your decision is made. As once we start the cleaning process we will want all burnt and charred materials out of the property.

Once all the burnt materials are out of the home you can start looking at what got damaged indirectly. It becomes trickier to decide whether to repair or to replace an item that has been affected by smoke and soot as the process can be difficult and costly.

Okay, so now you know the first few steps on how to get started on a fire damage restoration project. If your property has suffered a fire damage incident that is of a large scale or simply outside your comfort zone to handle yourself give SERVPRO of Boise a call at (208) 375-0300

What to Expect When You Call SERVPRO of Boise

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call SERVPRO of Boise Today

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Boise has specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information including your phone number and email address
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?
• Is there standing water (if applicable)?
• What year was the home or business built?

About SERVPRO of Boise

SERVPRO of Boise specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

SERVPRO and the equipment we use

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

Drying Equipment

Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from the ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

• Air scrubbers
• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Antimicrobial Treatments

The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.

• Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
• Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

For more information on the services we provide at SERVPRO of Boise, call us at 208-37

Protect Your Property From Winter Damage

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

"Winter storms are the third-largest cause of catastrophe losses, behind only hurricanes and tornadoes" -Insurance Information Institute, Inc.

It is a known fact that winter weather trends can be unpredictable throughout the United States. Homeowners in colder climates, including the Northeast, Midwest, and mountain areas should now be weather-proofing their properties, preparing for the potential cold-weather storms ahead. 

Winter storms often bring with them an array of extreme cold, snow, high winds, and icy conditions, which can cause potential outages for days or even immobilize entire regions. Basic communication services, power and heat sources can be knocked out for days until usage is safe again. The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as "deceptive killers", as statistics highlight that most deaths around this period are indirectly related to the weather. 

The past five years have highlighted how towns and cities around the country can be completely shut down by the challenges of winter weather. Snow and ice dams can be large threats to the exterior structures of properties, so it is crucial to take steps to ensure your property is structurally sound. 

Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing

When the weather gets colder, unprotected water pipes can often freeze, leaving you without water (and in some cases without heating, too). Without steps to protect them during the winter months, water pipes can freeze and sometimes burst. Allowing heat to circulate around your home and having sufficient insulation can help ensure the pipes remain at a constant temperature.

If you do identify a frozen pipe, you can thaw it out slowly by using a hot water bottle or towels soaked in warm water. If you have a burst water pipe, turn off the water supply immediately, by turning the valve to stop the flow of water – this will prevent any further damage until you can get it fixed.

Monitor Ice Dams on Roofs

Ice dams are formed by layers of snow and ice building up in the eaves of your roof or guttering. This build-up of snow and ice then backs up and “dams” the natural flow of water off the roof. It is this damming that causes the water to run down the interior wall surfaces.

A constant increase in the amount of snow on a roof can lead to potential structure damage, as well as leaks or water damage in your home. Sturdiness and slope are all variables and can react differently in adverse winter weather conditions. You may seek professional help if you think your roof may need modifications.

After a storm and only when safe to do so, you can use a long-handed rake to remove snow from your roof. The amount of snow that your roof and gutters can take will depend on the type, age, and condition. Ensure that downspouts and gutters are clear in an effort to prevent flooding.

One of the best long-term methods for preventing ice dams is to install a water-repellent membrane in your roof. This is installed under the shingles and acts as an extra barrier, helping to prevent water from seeping into your property.

Winterize the Interior

Making updates to your home, including using silicone foam, caulking any holes, and adding insulation to walls can have a significant impact on your home’s energy bills. Make sure that your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is regularly serviced too, as a failing system can result in wasted energy and wasted money.

Doors and window-sills are also major culprits when it comes to letting heat escape. Caulking and weather-stripping can help to reduce the likelihood of heat loss, as well as the possibility of water seeping into your home due to ice dams.

You may want to consider installing a generator for emergency outages to help when your main power sources are disturbed. This will allow you to connect lights, refrigerators, and electrical heating devices and stay warm and safe in your home.

Inspect the Exterior of Your Home and Clear any Leaves and Branches

Make sure you clear any leaves and branches from your drain pipes before the winter season arrives. Safely cut away any branches that are hanging over your house and repair any damage to your gutters and roof. These issues could pose a risk to structures, people, and vehicles. Trimming trees can be dangerous in icy weather though, so try and get this done before the cold winter period begins.

Clear Pathways and Property Entrances

After a storm, it’s vital that you remove snow and ice from walkways and parking lots if you are a business owner. Use rock salt or grit to avoid any slips or trips. Removing snow and treating icy surfaces with a safe snow melting product will allow customers safe access to your business.

By following these few basic precautions, you can ensure that the interior and exterior of your home or business is safe this winter. Remember that snow and unpredictable weather patterns can potentially threaten your property’s structure, so be sure to seek professional advice if there are signs of damage.

Our 1-4-8 commitment to our customers

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

Our 1-4-8 commitment to our customers. SERVPRO of Boise aims to bring every customer the 1-4-8 experience. 1-4-8 is our way of ensuring each customer receives our quality service in a timely manner. It means that within ONE hour from the notice of a loss, SERVPRO of Boise will contact you to arrange for service. Within FOUR hours of the loss notification, our team will be on-site to start services. The key to reducing damages and saving money is responding quickly to your damage. Within EIGHT hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the main contact person. After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction. By beginning services within just 4 hours, we can reduce the amount of damage and get our clients back into their homes or business as quickly as possible.  About 50% of businesses never reopen after a disaster, but SERVPRO of Boise is here to help by being “Faster to any size disaster” thanks to our 1-4-8 commitment.

Coverage for Mold with Commercial Insurance

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial insurance policies can have vague or complicated wording when they describe the coverage of mold damage and it is sometimes difficult to understand when damage is covered by mold insurance and when it isn't. However, there are some general guidelines that may simplify the issue:

• Damage due to aging and wear and tear is usually not covered.
• When mold is the result of a covered type of damage, mold may be covered.
• Sudden damages, such as fire, may cause mold that your insurance will cover.

Most of the time, mold removal is covered when the source of the contamination is already covered by your commercial property owner's coverage. Sudden accidents may include burst pipes, overflows, fires, natural disasters, etc.

Damages That Aren't Covered
If it's evident that you haven't kept up with maintenance and proper care for your building, related damages probably won't be covered. For example, if you notice drops of water gathering on a pipe, but you don't do anything about it, the resulting damages aren't covered by your commercial insurance. Regional flooding could lead to damages that aren't covered unless you've purchased flood insurance separately.

Coverage, Exceptions and Exclusions
There are several differences between residential and commercial property coverages, so the best way to determine how much coverage you have available to pay mold cleanup and mitigation professionals, is to consult with your insurance agent. Carefully read and understand your mold insurance policy, taking notice of terms such as "specified peril" and "exclusions." Some policies have long lists of exclusions, including corrosion and pollution. Sometimes, there are exceptions to exclusions.

Quick Action Prevents Spread
Ultimately, you need to take quick action when you discover mold damage. The best way to avoid further contamination is to hire SERVPRO of Boise professionals right away. Make sure you understand your commercial insurance coverage before you find mold.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a Treasure Valley commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a treasure valley commercial fire successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert. 
Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records. 
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately. 
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building. 
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, Treasure valley fires can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Call SERVPRO For Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Services 
If your business caught on fire, don't worry. Instead, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Boise and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process. Choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the sophisticated services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition, so call us now at (208) 375-0300 to attain your free estimate.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Boise is strategically located to respond quickly to your commercial fire emergency event. When commercial fire damage occurs we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (208) 375-0300

5 Common Reasons for House Fires in the Boise Area

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

1. Cooking Equipment 

When a pot and pan splatter grease, it can take seconds to cause a fire. When cooking stay close by, especially if using oil or high temperatures. Keep combustibles away from the heat source (e.g. oven mitts, dish towels, paper towels).

2. Electrical Equipment

1. Make sure your outlets aren't overloaded 
2. Don't have electrical wires under heavy equipment 
3. Your Electrical appliances don't have loose or frayed cords/plugs

3.Candles 

Keep candles on a level surface, away from combustible materials and out of reach of children or pets. Always blow them out before leaving the house. 

4. Barbecues 

Use Barbecues away from the house, deck rails, and tree limbs. Maintenance them on a regular basis, clean removable parts (inside and out) with soapy water. Check for potential leaks in the connections by spraying them with soapy water; Watch if bubbles form when you open the gas.

5. Fire Pits

1. You may need a permit depending on where you live to have a fire. 
2. You have to have a permit if your fire is bigger than 2 ft tall and 3 ft diameter. 
3. Keep at least 25 ft away from structures and tree limbs. 
4. Use a screen over your fire to keep the sparks from flying 
5. Keep a bucket of water or a hose close by.

Water Damage From a Burst Pipe

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Boise from a Burst Pipe Should be Promptly Addressed

A burst pipe can cause significant water damage in a home.  Water leakage can also be terribly expensive, possibly causing personal schedule changes and insurance claims. Additionally, mildew and mold can become a problem long after the initial damage. Thankfully, there are experts in water damage that can help the problems from a burst pipe be much more manageable.

Leaking Pipes

Pay attention to leaking pipes! Diligence can minimize the collateral damage from a burst pipe. Pay attention to where water has leaked. The water and moisture may have already caused a small amount of damage. Call a professional to determine the best course of action as soon as possible. An inexperienced homeowner attempting to fix the problem may just make it worse.

Preventing Structural Damage

The possibility of structural damage is the key reason homeowners should be extra vigilant regarding the plumbing in their homes. Structural damage may be difficult to spot. You should always contact an experienced contractor such as SERVPRO Boise to assess possible structural damage from leaky or burst pipes.

Mold Hazards

Mold is another serious problem that stems from water damage. Mold can be particularly vexing to homeowners. Because mold is living, it can grow and fill large portions of a home without the homeowner being aware. Eventually, mold can lead to structural damage. Mold can be in basements, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Mold removal can be a very difficult task once a foothold has been secured.

Additional Considerations

The above factors illustrate how complicated the ramifications of a burst pipe can be. A homeowner should not attempt to deal with any of these issues without the assistance of an expert well versed in water damage repair and mold remediation. The skills needed to deal effectively with mold, structural damage, and leaking pipes are beyond the average homeowner. Homeowners that attempt these tasks quite often worsen the existing problems. It is always best to hire an expert to inspect the damage after experiencing a burst pipe. SERVPRO Boise has the experience as a full-service water restoration company to rectify and repair all the problems related to a burst 
pipe.  Solving the problem of a burst pipe correctly will protect the investment of your home for years to come.

Fire Season

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

As soon as I see an article online about wildfires or pass a TV with flames engulfing the screen, I’ll likely be packing my bags. There’s little notice in this industry, so paying close attention to the fire season is crucial. I constantly check to see if evacuations have been lifted because as soon as we go, my life is in for dramatic changes.

Since I began my career in the restoration industry in 2016, I’ve worked on three separate storms, the last two only a few months apart. I was nervous on my first firestorm, but well-trained, so I jumped at the opportunity.

It isn’t easy. I’ve witnessed devastation on every trip and it’s just as heartbreaking as the first time, but also a good reminder of why I’m there. I’ve experienced a whirlwind of emotions, but the work is so rewarding I’ve volunteered to go on every occasion since.

What to do Immediately After a House Fire

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

1. Ask whether it is safe to enter the home. Do not enter if the fire authorities deem it unsafe. They may establish a safety zone, but never assume a room is safe until it has been cleared to enter.
2. Know who to call.
   1. Contact family members and let them know you are safe and unharmed.
   2. Contact your insurance agent. They will be able to talk you through the necessary steps, including proper documentation and emergency lodging and living expenses (keep all of your receipts!) The insurance company may assist in securing a company to help with clean-up options.
   3. You may request SERVPRO at this time for contents cleaning, restoration, etc. Contact SERVPRO.
   4. Another call may be to your landlord if applicable and to your local American Red Cross. SERVPRO is the preferred restoration partner to The American Red Cross.
3. Secure the property to prevent possible looting. SERVPRO is available to assist with securing property/ Board Ups.
4. If water hoses were used to exterminate the fire, drying your home is critical. It is best to call the professionals at SERVPRO to do water/ fire cleanups. Water can lead to mold damage if not dried properly. SERVPRO is an approved restoration contractor for many major insurance carriers and adheres to the highest standards in the restoration industry.
5. Seek counseling if needed. Children and adults can feel a traumatic sense of loss and may need help to avoid a lasting sense of sadness and disorientation after a house fire. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. A house fire is a traumatic event and individuals need to be treated with respect and compassion by those close to the process of rebuilding.

For more information on contents and structural drying, extinguisher residue and soot removal call SERVPRO at (208) 375-0300.

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage When You're Not Home

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it is, if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended amount of time – even just overnight – it’s a smart idea to turn off your water until you return home. Why? Because it doesn’t take very much water to cause a whole lot of damage! If your pipes freeze and burst while you’re gone, or if a washer hose ruptures or a supply line leaks, major water damage can occur! There are a few things you can do before heading out of town to give you peace of mind when it comes to the state of your home’s water.

Shut off the Main Water Valve

Your safest bet is to turn off the main water valve. Make sure the adults in your home know where the main shutoff valve is and know how to turn it on and off. (Knowing this will also come in handy if you’re at home during an emergency, so the water can quickly be shut off!) Locate the main water valve near your water meter usually located in the basement, near the front of the house, attached to the outside of the home’s exterior, or in an underground box in the yard.

There are two types of main shutoff valves. You’ll probably find what’s called a “gate valve” if you’re in an older home. Turn the rounded handles a certain number of times to open or close the valve. The “ball valve” is more common today. Turn the lever-like handle 90 degrees in order to turn the water on or off. If this valve crosses the pipes, it’s closed; if it’s parallel to them, it’s open.

Test shutting off the valve ahead of time by locating the main shutoff valve, turning it off, and running a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off your home’s water supply!

Turn off Individual Water Valves

But what if you’re leaving during the summer and you can’t turn off your entire water supply because you have automatic sprinklers? If this is the case, you can simply turn off individual water valves to the water sources with the highest damage risk. These sources include the dishwasher, washing machine, and ice-maker. Individual shutoff valves tend to be located directly on the supply lines leading to most appliances, including toilets and faucets. Usually, this will be a small rounded handle that you’ll turn clockwise. Doing this will turn off the water to that source. (Take note that the ice-maker shutoff valve may be under the sink or in the basement!)

If you’ll be shutting off individual water supplies, it’s a good idea to kill two birds with one stone and check your supply lines themselves. They can become weak over time, resulting in leaks, cracks, or bulging. If you notice these or other forms of corrosion, you may want to repair or replace them before leaving.

Turn off Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets

If you’re leaving during the colder seasons, it’s a good idea to also shut off the water to your outdoor faucets as well. Their shutoff valve will most likely be located inside your house. Shut it off before you head out the door. Once you’ve shut off the valve, turn on the exterior faucet to drain any excess water. And remember to detach the hoses, too!

If you follow these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing your home won’t be at risk of water damage while you’re away!

Who Is Responsible For Apartment Complex Water Damage?

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, water damage is a common issue both homeowners and renters can face. The aftermath can be devastating making the property unlivable and permanent damage may occur to personal belongings. When water damage occurs in an apartment, who is responsible for the damage cost? The property owner or renter?

Renter Rights

Water damage can be unpredictable and it is important to understand your renter rights and understand who is responsible for what in such an event. In general, a landlord is responsible for maintaining the property ensuring that the apartment is livable and functioning up to code. The landlord may refuse repairs, or fail to address them quickly enough – causing further damage such as mold. In the United States, basic principles in tenant rights are in place and outline the party liable for damages.  Depending on the state, rent details can vary so check with your local housing authority.

Review Your Lease

It’s important to know what your lease states regarding property damage. Most properties have property insurance and will list what type of damage that is covered and what is not. The lease may specify actions that may be in place depending on the severity of the water damage. If the damage is severe and the apartment is unlivable is the tenant still required to pay the rent? Can the landlord evict the tenant or can the tenant cancel their lease without penalty? In general, if the damage is minor, the tenant will not be able to cancel the lease agreement. If the terms regarding property damage are not listed in the lease, speak to your landlord about who is responsible in the event when water damage strikes.

Renters Insurance

Accidents happen which is why it is essential to have renters insurance. Most places require you have it before allowing you to move into an apartment. Depending on the plan you select, coverage can vary from damages to the building, personal content and may even cover the cost of lodging while repairs are being completed.

Landlord Responsibilities

The landlord is responsible for maintaining a functional apartment and ensuring that it is livable. The upkeep of basic plumbing such as sinks, toilets, and tubs fall on the shoulders of the landlord. Failure to maintain or repair these functions may lead to property damage and the landlord is liable due to negligence.

Damage to Property and Personal Belongings

Water damages caused to the building itself such as flooring, walls, and utilities should be covered under the landlord’s property insurance. Personal property damages fall to the responsibility of the party at fault for damages, which can be the tenant. For example, if the tenant leaves a faucet on and falls asleep causing water damage.

How We Can Help

Water damage requires a rapid response in order to minimize loss to both the property itself and belongings inside. SERVPRO technicians are experts at water damage cleanup in apartments and buildings of all sizes no matter the severity of the damage. Our team of experts will assess the damage and develop an appropriate plan to restore and recover your property and contents. Contact us by calling 208-375-0300 to learn more about our water damage clean-up services.

Mold Growth

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

How to recover from mold growth.

Moisture and high humidity can attract mold spores into your Treasure Valley home, where they can grow across a variety of surfaces. While mold commonly grows on building surfaces like drywall and carpeting, it can also affect your belongings such as clothing and furniture. Mold cleaning can be difficult; however, before you throw items away, you may want to learn about which could be saved by different types of professional cleaning processes used by SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian and which cannot. 

1. Throw Away Porous Items 

Most porous surfaces can absorb water and encourage further mold growth. As such, some items like mattresses, thick rugs and stuffed toys that already show signs of mold damage are usually not salvageable. If your child has a favorite stuffed toy that you want to attempt to save, ask our SERVPRO remediation technicians if they have any mold cleaning processes that may help. You may want to remember, however, that porous items affected by black mold are usually considered unsalvageable because this type of fungus is particularly hard to eradicate. 

2. Freeze Documents and Books 

If you have important documents and books that developed mold, place them in sealable plastic bags and store them in your freezer. Freezing these items can inhibit further mold growth and protect them until they can be inspected by our SERVPRO expert mold remediation and restoration technicians This can salvage items like original birth certificates, wedding albums, and baby books. 

3. Set Aside Moldy Clothing 

If you have favorite items of clothing that have been affected by mold, ask our remediation technicians about what type of options you have for salvaging them. Wet, dry and immersion cleaning may all be possible, especially for leather jackets and shoes. SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian uses an Esporta Machine, which cleans soft contents by removing tough odors, dirt, and molds in a way that even commercial-grade units cannot. 

Mold can have a devastating effect on your home’s contents. However, professional mold cleaning processes may be able to salvage your treasured possessions, even if you believe they are beyond repair.  

Let us try to help you with this problem, call SERVPRO of Boise at 208-375-0300.

Esporta Machine

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

The Esporta Wash System is the disaster restoration industry’s only wet-wash machine designed exclusively to recover “soft contents” damaged in fire and water disasters. Soft contents include items such as footwear, linens, outerwear, leathers, bedding, outdoor items, athletic equipment, survival gear, sleeping bags, life jackets, stuffed toys, and almost all of your personal clothing.

The patented system breaks down unwanted organic materials and kills bacteria, viruses, and mold spores on contact. The system also removes organic and inorganic contaminants without degrading or damaging the materials. It is five times more effective than traditional front-loading washing machines. 

If you have favorite items of clothing that have been affected by mold, ask our SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian remediation technicians about what type of options you have for salvaging them! 

Is Mold Covered Under Insurance?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Mold remediation covered under insurance can alleviate much stress associated with the fungus. However, you must understand your insurance policy fully to receive compensation for mold damage. If you have mold growing somewhere in your home, you may not have to pay to remove and repair the damaged areas. However, not all instances of mold come as part of your policy. Learn when mold covered under insurance is partially or fully your responsibility below. Also, find out what to do about it if you do or do not have the proper coverage.

Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

Some homeowner’s insurance does cover mold. However, the mold-covered under insurance must fall under a covered peril. The language of your policy includes the conditions qualifying for a covered peril. As long as the specific thing causing the mold is a peril on your plan, you have coverage. Examples of peril include water damage resulting from accidents, or other factors. Some claims handle the removal of the mold, as well as reimburse you for any property damage.

Keep in mind, insurance companies limit the amount of coverage they offer so that additional coverage may cost a lot more. Again, it all depends on your insurance policy stipulations. There are also different types of claims to consider depending on your status as an owner with tenants or the owner or renting party.

First-Party Coverage Claims

When you have mold in your home and make a claim with your insurance company, it’s known as a first-party property claim. You must be the policyholder to receive insurance coverage for the claim.

Third-Party Coverage Claims

If you rent a home or apartment and your tenants file an insurance claim for mold, this falls under the third-party claim.

Tips for Dealing with Mold Damage

Whether insurance covers the mold in your home, you must address it as soon as possible. Allowing it to grow may lead to health effects. Mold thrives in moist areas. If your home has vulnerabilities to water leaks, you must address the incident quickly. Doing so can mitigate some of the health effects and property damage brought on by mold.

How to File a Claim for Mold

Each insurer has its own set of policies, but the general order to file a mold claim is as follows:

1. Call your insurance company and set up an appointment with an adjuster.
2. Try to dry the impacted area with fans, open windows, and other means of removing excess moisture. Avoid cleaning or removing mold because the adjuster must first assess the damage.
3. Take pictures of the damaged areas.
4. Talk to your agent about mold coverage limits.

In most cases, the homeowner must prove the mold is a result of a water damage claim resulting from burst pipes or some other event. Even if your policy covers your mold event, it may only cover a certain amount.

Without Proper Coverage

To get mold covered under insurance, you need qualifying circumstances. Your insurance company cannot remove or repair mold damage due to your lack of upkeep. For instance, failing to fix a minor leak that becomes a significant leak does not qualify you for mold coverage.

Other examples include mold resulting from:

• Long-term leaks
• Long-term moisture
• Construction defects

Tips for Handling Your Claim

Because insurance companies can make handling your mold problem a significant process, there are a few things to keep in mind before you make a claim.

• Never offer a guess as to the origins of the mold
• Do not agree with your insurance company if they suggest the mold has been around for a long time
• Allow the company to conduct a full investigation before signing off on any paperwork provided by the insurance company

Other Tips for Handling Mold

The best way to handle mold is to prevent its growth at the onset. You can limit mold growth by doing the following:

• Use air humidifiers and air conditioners to keep air moisture between 30 percent and 60 percent
• Do not place carpets or rugs in damp areas such as basements
• Fix small leaks immediately
• Inspect faucet fixtures and nozzles under sinks and toilets to check for leaks

There are several measures you can take to decrease the chances of mold growth. It is especially important in humid states where moisture collects easily in different parts of the home.

Do you need more information about dealing with mold damage or mold remediation? Our trained mold remediation specialists at SERVPRO offer 24-hour emergency services. Using the most advanced technology, our team keeps the mold from causing any further damage. Failure to act immediately can result in the denial of your claim, call us today at (208) 375-0300!

Who Is Responsible For Apartment Complex Water Damage?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, water damage is a common issue both homeowners and renters can face. The aftermath can be devastating making the property unlivable and permanent damage may occur to personal belongings. When water damage occurs in an apartment, who is responsible for the damage cost? The property owner or renter?

Renter Rights

Water damage can be unpredictable and it is important to understand your renter rights and understand who is responsible for what in such an event. In general, a landlord is responsible for maintaining the property ensuring that the apartment is livable and functioning up to code. The landlord may refuse repairs, or fail to address them quickly enough – causing further damage such as mold. In the United States, basic principles in tenant rights are in place and outline the party liable for damages.  Depending on the state, rent details can vary so check with your local housing authority.

Review Your Lease

It’s important to know what your lease states regarding property damage. Most properties have property insurance and will list what type of damage that is covered and what is not. The lease may specify actions that may be in place depending on the severity of the water damage. If the damage is severe and the apartment is unlivable is the tenant still required to pay the rent? Can the landlord evict the tenant or can the tenant cancel their lease without penalty? In general, if the damage is minor, the tenant will not be able to cancel the lease agreement. If the terms regarding property damage are not listed in the lease, speak to your landlord about who is responsible in the event when water damage strikes.

Renters Insurance

Accidents happen which is why it is essential to have renters insurance. Most places require you have it before allowing you to move into an apartment. Depending on the plan you select, coverage can vary from damages to the building, personal content and may even cover the cost of lodging while repairs are being completed.

Landlord Responsibilities

The landlord is responsible for maintaining a functional apartment and ensuring that it is livable. The upkeep of basic plumbing such as sinks, toilets, and tubs fall on the shoulders of the landlord. Failure to maintain or repair these functions may lead to property damage and the landlord is liable due to negligence.

Damage to Property and Personal Belongings

Water damages caused to the building itself such as flooring, walls, and utilities should be covered under the landlord’s property insurance. Personal property damages fall to the responsibility of the party at fault for damages, which can be the tenant. For example, if the tenant leaves a faucet on and falls asleep causing water damage.

How We Can Help

Water damage requires a rapid response in order to minimize loss to both the property itself and belongings inside. SERVPRO technicians are experts at water damage cleanup in apartments and buildings of all sizes no matter the severity of the damage. Our team of experts will assess the damage and develop an appropriate plan to restore and recover your property and contents. Contact us by calling 208-375-0300 to learn more about our water damage clean-up services.

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage When You're Not Home

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it is, if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended amount of time – even just overnight – it’s a smart idea to turn off your water until you return home. Why? Because it doesn’t take very much water to cause a whole lot of damage! If your pipes freeze and burst while you’re gone, or if a washer hose ruptures or a supply line leaks, major water damage can occur! There are a few things you can do before heading out of town to give you peace of mind when it comes to the state of your home’s water.

Shut off the Main Water Valve

Your safest bet is to turn off the main water valve. Make sure the adults in your home know where the main shutoff valve is and know how to turn it on and off. (Knowing this will also come in handy if you’re at home during an emergency, so the water can quickly be shut off!) Locate the main water valve near your water meter usually located in the basement, near the front of the house, attached to the outside of the home’s exterior, or in an underground box in the yard.

There are two types of main shutoff valves. You’ll probably find what’s called a “gate valve” if you’re in an older home. Turn the rounded handles a certain number of times to open or close the valve. The “ball valve” is more common today. Turn the lever-like handle 90 degrees in order to turn the water on or off. If this valve crosses the pipes, it’s closed; if it’s parallel to them, it’s open.

Test shutting off the valve ahead of time by locating the main shutoff valve, turning it off, and running a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off your home’s water supply!

Turn off Individual Water Valves

But what if you’re leaving during the summer and you can’t turn off your entire water supply because you have automatic sprinklers? If this is the case, you can simply turn off individual water valves to the water sources with the highest damage risk. These sources include the dishwasher, washing machine, and ice-maker. Individual shutoff valves tend to be located directly on the supply lines leading to most appliances, including toilets and faucets. Usually, this will be a small rounded handle that you’ll turn clockwise. Doing this will turn off the water to that source. (Take note that the ice-maker shutoff valve may be under the sink or in the basement!)

If you’ll be shutting off individual water supplies, it’s a good idea to kill two birds with one stone and check your supply lines themselves. They can become weak over time, resulting in leaks, cracks, or bulging. If you notice these or other forms of corrosion, you may want to repair or replace them before leaving.

Turn off Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets

If you’re leaving during the colder seasons, it’s a good idea to also shut off the water to your outdoor faucets as well. Their shutoff valve will most likely be located inside your house. Shut it off before you head out the door. Once you’ve shut off the valve, turn on the exterior faucet to drain any excess water. And remember to detach the hoses, too!

If you follow these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing your home won’t be at risk of water damage while you’re away!

Treasure Valley Fire Prevention

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Safeguarding against potential fire hazards will significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire affecting your home and family. Make fire prevention and safety a priority in your home.

• Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it monthly.
• Prevent electrical fires by never overloading circuits or extension cords.
• Use appliances only as directed by the manufacturer. Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from anything combustible.
• Keep the fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned annually.
• Install an affordable home fire safety sprinkler system. In addition to keeping you safe, they can increase property value and lower insurance rates.
• Plan your escape. Practice your exit strategy from every room in the house.
• Take the time to educate your children about the dangers of fire.

For immediate service, call SERVPRO of Boise

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being Faster to Any Size Disaster in the Treasure Valley.  We respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (208) 375-0300

Residential Services

If your home needs emergency flood damage you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and can assist in getting your property to the pre loss condition. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Boise commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Therefore, 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. Learn more about our commercial services.  

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration 
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Mold Control and Prevention

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

The key to mold control is moisture control. Mold produces tiny spores to reproduce.
When mold spores land on a damp surface, they may begin to grow and digest whatever
they are growing on in order to survive. Typically, mold grows and digests organic
materials such as wood, paper, carpet, and foods.
To prevent or minimize the risk of mold growth, early detection and removal of excess
moisture are the key. In areas that are not commonly inspected such as crawl spaces and
basements, there are moisture sensors that can be installed that will alert the consumer
when moisture reaches unacceptable levels. Moisture sensors can be purchased at retail
outlets such as Home Depot, Lowes, and Ace Hardware.
Very few homeowners inspect their crawl spaces throughout the year. A simple
reminder to do so would be to inspect your crawl space when the time changes twice
each year. Installing lights in the crawl space that can be turned on or plugged in can be
very useful by illuminating the crawl space prior to entering.
Bathrooms are another area of the home where mold or mildew is typically found. Poor
ventilation or excess water on the floor and walls are the primary causes. Inspect your
exhaust fans and vents to ensure they are working properly and the moisture is being
vented completely out of the home and not into the attic.
According to the EPA, mold growth covering an area of ten square feet or less can be
remedied by the property owner. If there are larger areas affected by mold, a mold
remediation professional such as SERVPRO is strongly recommended.

Fungi and mold

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment.  In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified.  Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful.  Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health effects for some people.

The intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth.  Water intrusions can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks, and poor humidity control.  When water is present and is not immediately addressed, the resulting damage can present an increased risk of potentially harmful mold growth.  If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply.

SERVPRO of Boise handles water damage every day and knows that prompt action is very important to prevent mold growth.  If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, be on the lookout for:

• Presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odors, which are a strong indicator of mold.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems.
• Excessive humidity.

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified indoor air quality/environment professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.

If you think you may have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Boise today to protect your health and your property

Why SERVPRO of Boise?

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO of Boise?  Unmatched customer experience!  One of the keys to producing an unmatched customer experience is to provide effective communication during a stressful and uncertain time for our customers.  Our approach at SERVPRO of Boise includes:

Inspecting the Project and Customer Consultation – Identify and shut off the source of the water damage. Determine the category of water causing the damage. SERVPRO will then conduct a safety inspection and damage assessment to prepare an emergency scope and restoration plan. Discuss the customer’s expectations and the restoration scope and plan.

Project documentation – Project documentation is one of the most important parts of the service and work performed by SERVPRO. SERVPRO is the industry leader in project documentation providing services including, but not limited to, material readings, moisture mapping, atmospheric readings, 3D imaging, thermal imaging, psychrometric calculations, mold testing, and virtual tour imaging.

Emergency Services – Extract water if necessary. Protect and preserve contents. Remove unsalvageable materials. Set drying equipment in the affected areas. Establish drying goals. Wear appropriate PPE if needed. 

Post EMS Mitigation – Execute a drying strategy, demolition of building materials as needed, cleaning of contents, and any other service to restore your property and contents to preloss condition. Schedule an appointment with the reconstruction team to coordinate the replacement of any building materials removed during mitigation.

Monitoring/Project Completion – When EMS has been completed, the project enters the monitoring phase where SERVPRO professionals monitor daily the drying progress of the structure and materials. Once drying goals have been reached, we will conduct a final walkthrough with the customer to ensure we have met or exceeded your expectations. Reconstruction work will begin as soon as possible following the walkthrough.

When the customer feels reassured about what to expect and when their lives will return to a preloss condition, their confidence in a restoration contractor increases.  An unmatched customer experience is achieved when the process appears to be seamless and they believe we truly care about them.

Call SERVPRO of Boise today.

When Storms or Floods Hit Boise, SERVPRO is Ready!

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise 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 Boise 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 Boise, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 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 208-375-0300

Storm Damage Preparedness

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

Our team of experts will be there soon, but your health and safety are our main priorities. While you wait for help to arrive, follow these tips to keep you protected while facilitating a more rapid recovery:

Communications

• Discuss preparedness with your family
• Identify an out-of-state contact in case you are separated. Long-distance calls may work when local calls do not
• Teach children how and when to call 911 post emergency contact numbers near phones in your home
• Teach children how to use a cell phone

Evacuation

• Determine two escape routes from each room in your home
• Pick three places to meet - One right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, pick a location in your neighborhood if your property isn't safe and a regional meeting place if you can't return home

MAKE A PLAN

Water

• Water will keep you alive. If you have enough water, you can live on half of your normal food intake. Make sure to store at least one gallon of water per person per day and store enough water to last two weeks. 
• People in hot environments, children, people who are ill and nursing mothers should store more.
• Rotate your water supply every six months
• Other sources of water in your home: water heater, ice cubes, pipes and toilet tank (not the bowl)

Food

Unlike water, food can be rationed. Store at least a three to five day supply of non-perishable food in a dry place where the temperature is not above 70 degrees. 

Select foods that require little or no preparation, water or refrigeration. Select foods that are high in calories, nutritious, compact and lightweight. Choose foods your family will eat.

Pets

Pets are an important member of your family. Plan for them as well. Remember that emergency shelters typically do not allow animals. Only service animals are allowed in shelters.

But you should know safe places to keep your pets if you have to evacuate with them. Where are hotels and motels outside of your area that accept pets? What friends or family members could keep them for you? Which boarding facilities, veterinarians or shelters could be used?

Utilities

Your water heater can be a critical source of water in an emergency, but only if it’s still standing. Go to your home improvement store of choice and buy the metal straps to secure the water heater to nearby studs.

A falling water heater can break gas lines and water lines or spill your water.

Gas

If you have natural gas coming into your home, it’s easy to turn off, but not so much for turning it back on. Only qualified people should turn gas back on.

When you should shut off your gas meter:

• You smell natural gas
• You hear gas leaking
• There is a fire (unless shutting off the gas would jeopardize your safety)
• If you need to shut off the gas, use a wrench to turn the valve a quarter turn in either direction
• Take some time to become familiar with which utilities enter your home and where they can be shut off. As you practice emergency plans, locate and map the gas, water and electricity mains. During family drills, go through the movements, but do not practice shutting off gas lines.

If you are facing the aftermath of a storm or natural disaster, call us at (208) 375-0300!

Protect Your Property From Winter Damage

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

"Winter storms are the third-largest cause of catastrophe losses, behind only hurricanes and tornadoes" -Insurance Information Institute, Inc.

It is a known fact that winter weather trends can be unpredictable throughout the United States. Homeowners in colder climates, including the Northeast, Midwest, and mountain areas should now be weather-proofing their properties, preparing for the potential cold-weather storms ahead. 

Winter storms often bring with them an array of extreme cold, snow, high winds, and icy conditions, which can cause potential outages for days or even immobilize entire regions. Basic communication services, power and heat sources can be knocked out for days until usage is safe again. The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as "deceptive killers", as statistics highlight that most deaths around this period are indirectly related to the weather. 

The past five years have highlighted how towns and cities around the country can be completely shut down by the challenges of winter weather. Snow and ice dams can be large threats to the exterior structures of properties, so it is crucial to take steps to ensure your property is structurally sound. 

Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing

When the weather gets colder, unprotected water pipes can often freeze, leaving you without water (and in some cases without heating, too). Without steps to protect them during the winter months, water pipes can freeze and sometimes burst. Allowing heat to circulate around your home and having sufficient insulation can help ensure the pipes remain at a constant temperature.

If you do identify a frozen pipe, you can thaw it out slowly by using a hot water bottle or towels soaked in warm water. If you have a burst water pipe, turn off the water supply immediately, by turning the valve to stop the flow of water – this will prevent any further damage until you can get it fixed.

Monitor Ice Dams on Roofs

Ice dams are formed by layers of snow and ice building up in the eaves of your roof or guttering. This build-up of snow and ice then backs up and “dams” the natural flow of water off the roof. It is this damming that causes the water to run down the interior wall surfaces.

A constant increase in the amount of snow on a roof can lead to potential structure damage, as well as leaks or water damage in your home. Sturdiness and slope are all variables and can react differently in adverse winter weather conditions. You may seek professional help if you think your roof may need modifications.

After a storm and only when safe to do so, you can use a long-handed rake to remove snow from your roof. The amount of snow that your roof and gutters can take will depend on the type, age, and condition. Ensure that downspouts and gutters are clear in an effort to prevent flooding.

One of the best long-term methods for preventing ice dams is to install a water-repellent membrane in your roof. This is installed under the shingles and acts as an extra barrier, helping to prevent water from seeping into your property.

Winterize the Interior

Making updates to your home, including using silicone foam, caulking any holes, and adding insulation to walls can have a significant impact on your home’s energy bills. Make sure that your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is regularly serviced too, as a failing system can result in wasted energy and wasted money.

Doors and window-sills are also major culprits when it comes to letting heat escape. Caulking and weather-stripping can help to reduce the likelihood of heat loss, as well as the possibility of water seeping into your home due to ice dams.

You may want to consider installing a generator for emergency outages to help when your main power sources are disturbed. This will allow you to connect lights, refrigerators, and electrical heating devices and stay warm and safe in your home.

Inspect the Exterior of Your Home and Clear any Leaves and Branches

Make sure you clear any leaves and branches from your drain pipes before the winter season arrives. Safely cut away any branches that are hanging over your house and repair any damage to your gutters and roof. These issues could pose a risk to structures, people, and vehicles. Trimming trees can be dangerous in icy weather though, so try and get this done before the cold winter period begins.

Clear Pathways and Property Entrances

After a storm, it’s vital that you remove snow and ice from walkways and parking lots if you are a business owner. Use rock salt or grit to avoid any slips or trips. Removing snow and treating icy surfaces with a safe snow melting product will allow customers safe access to your business.

By following these few basic precautions, you can ensure that the interior and exterior of your home or business is safe this winter. Remember that snow and unpredictable weather patterns can potentially threaten your property’s structure, so be sure to seek professional advice if there are signs of damage.

Esporta Machine

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

The Esporta Wash System is the disaster restoration industry’s only wet-wash machine designed exclusively to recover “soft contents” damaged in fire and water disasters. Soft contents include items such as footwear, linens, outerwear, leathers, bedding, outdoor items, athletic equipment, survival gear, sleeping bags, life jackets, stuffed toys, and almost all of your personal clothing.

The patented system breaks down unwanted organic materials and kills bacteria, viruses, and mold spores on contact. The system also removes organic and inorganic contaminants without degrading or damaging the materials. It is five times more effective than traditional front-loading washing machines. 

If you have favorite items of clothing that have been affected by mold, ask our SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian remediation technicians about what type of options you have for salvaging them! 

Treasure Valley Fire Prevention

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Safeguarding against potential fire hazards will significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire affecting your home and family. Make fire prevention and safety a priority in your home.

• Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it monthly.
• Prevent electrical fires by never overloading circuits or extension cords.
• Use appliances only as directed by the manufacturer. Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from anything combustible.
• Keep the fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned annually.
• Install an affordable home fire safety sprinkler system. In addition to keeping you safe, they can increase property value and lower insurance rates.
• Plan your escape. Practice your exit strategy from every room in the house.
• Take the time to educate your children about the dangers of fire.

Classification of Water Damage in Your Home

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

In this post, we will be explaining some of the basics of water damage and how it can affect your home and health. Water damage is the leading culprit when it comes to property damage and restoration service needs.

Now, this actually surprises a lot of folks, when they hear water damage they usually imagine a flood from a nearby river, a natural disaster, etc. While events as such do occur, there are more common ways for water damage to affect your home, including:

• appliance leaks from your fridge, ice machine, washing machines, etc.
• toilet overflows
• sinks and bath/shower overflows or left running without attendance
• broken/leaky water pipes within walls and ceilings
• drainage issues around the property
• roof leaks and compromised exterior
• rain/wind storms

As you can see, water damage can originate from either internal or external sources and once it gets into your home it is important to know what kind of water you are dealing with.

What do we mean by what kind of water? Well in the restoration industry we recognize water in THREE different categories:

• CATEGORY 1 – Also referred to as “Clean Water”, this means that the water originated from a sanitary source and does not generally pose a risk to our health.
• CATEGORY 2 – This could also be referred to as “Grey Water”, meaning it contains some contamination and would not be sanitary enough for human consumption, posing a health risk if ingested.
• CATEGORY 3 – Commonly known as “Black Water”, this is water that is grossly contaminated and could contain disease-causing organisms, pathogens, and other harmful materials.

Now you know the 3 different categories of water and how it can enter into your home. Each of these different categories of water damage comes with their own do's and don'ts on how to deal with them. Restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Boise have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience to handle any water damage emergency

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a Treasure Valley commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a treasure valley commercial fire successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert. 
Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records. 
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately. 
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building. 
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, Treasure valley fires can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Call SERVPRO For Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Services 
If your business caught on fire, don't worry. Instead, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Boise and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process. Choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the sophisticated services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition, so call us now at (208) 375-0300 to attain your free estimate.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Boise is strategically located to respond quickly to your commercial fire emergency event. When commercial fire damage occurs we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (208) 375-0300

Who Is Responsible For Apartment Complex Water Damage?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, water damage is a common issue both homeowners and renters can face. The aftermath can be devastating making the property unlivable and permanent damage may occur to personal belongings. When water damage occurs in an apartment, who is responsible for the damage cost? The property owner or renter?

Renter Rights

Water damage can be unpredictable and it is important to understand your renter rights and understand who is responsible for what in such an event. In general, a landlord is responsible for maintaining the property ensuring that the apartment is livable and functioning up to code. The landlord may refuse repairs, or fail to address them quick enough – causing further damage such as mold. In the United States, basic principles in tenant rights are in place and outline the party liable for damages.  Depending on the state, rent details can vary so check with your local housing authority.

Review Your Lease

It’s important to know what your lease states regarding property damage. Most properties have property insurance and will list what type of damage is covered and what is not. The lease may specify actions that may be in place depending on the severity of the water damage. If the damage is severe and the apartment is unlivable is the tenant still required to pay the rent? Can the landlord evict the tenant or can the tenant cancel their lease without penalty? In general, if the damage is minor, the tenant will not be able to cancel the lease agreement. If the terms regarding property damage are not listed in the lease, speak to your landlord about who is responsible in the event when water damage strikes.

Renters Insurance

Accidents happen which is why it is essential to have renters insurance. Most places require you have it before allowing you to move into an apartment. Depending on the plan you select, coverage can vary from damages to the building, personal content and may even cover the cost of lodging while repairs are being completed.

Landlord Responsibilities

The landlord is responsible for maintaining a functional apartment and ensuring that it is livable. The upkeep of basic plumbing such as sinks, toilets, and tubs fall on the shoulders of the landlord. Failure to maintain or repair these functions may lead to property damage and the landlord is liable due to negligence.

Damage to Property and Personal Belongings

Water damages caused to the building itself such as flooring, walls, and utilities should be covered under the landlord’s property insurance. Personal property damages fall to the responsibility of the party at fault for damages, which can be the tenant. For example, if the tenant leaves a faucet on and falls asleep causing water damage.

How We Can Help

Water damage requires a rapid response in order to minimize loss to both the property itself and belongings inside. SERVPRO technicians are experts at water damage cleanup in apartments and buildings of all sizes no matter the severity of the damage. Our team of experts will assess the damage and develop an appropriate plan to restore and recover your property and contents. Contact us by calling 208-375-0300 to learn more about our water damage clean-up services.

Traveling For Storm Events

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

By: Ryan M. Traveling away from home to help others is a normal part of working in the restoration industry. When disaster strikes someone has to start the process of cleaning things up and making things "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO is right there with the first responders. We often travel before the major storm event hits; to be nearby, so we have experienced how scary it can be.  SERVPRO understands the calculated risk of being in the area so that we can respond quickly and help businesses and homeowners start the recovery process quickly. The scale of damage is insurmountable at times. It's overwhelming and devastating to return home only to see that everything has been nearly destroyed. We help walk you through the phases of recovery and work with insurance directly keeping you updated the entire time. We can help you understand the coverage of your policy and provide timely estimates to help you make good decisions all while knowing the costs.  Our team of service professionals explains exactly what needs to happen and can set timelines for the work needed. We have resources for labor and equipment that are on standby before you even need them. Like clockwork, we can start the job as soon as we have the green light from our customer with multiple teams so no one is stuck waiting for work to start. The biggest challenge and why SERVPRO sends teams from all different states to aid in a natural disaster is finding a company that can meet the demands of the area after a devastating storm or fire. SERVPRO is there for you and is constructed to meet those needs. When disaster strikes your area remember we are here to help and only a call away. 

Year 2020

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

The year 2020 was unlike any other in recent memory. And with that came new challenges and expectations especially in the hotel industry. With the hotel staff following the new precautions the last scenario they would want to handle is a flood, unfortunately for some, this was their reality. When dealing with a commercial water loss in a hotel; it is important to not only consider the needs of your client but the needs of their clients (guests). The most successful way to do this is to treat the hotel guests as though they are our clients as well. A good way to consider said needs is to use noise reduction methods such as installing temporary walls and using appropriate equipment. When I approach a new water loss in a hotel I work closely with management to identify what will impact the guests the least while also ensuring the loss is taken care of in a timely and efficient manner. I have found using this technique most often guarantees a successful resolution for all those involved.

Water loss

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

By: Andrew V.

I have been working in water loss for the last eight years. During that time I have learned a lot and have been able to pass my knowledge on to many. Some of the most important things I have learned are building construction, communication skills, and attention to detail. Without these three skills, your ability to succeed will be impossible. The understanding of building construction gives you the knowledge of how water may travel and how this may affect a home. Communication skills allow you to take the knowledge you have and present it to the client in a clear and concise manner. This benefits both you and the client as you can ensure you are both on the same page in the process of resolving their water loss. Finally, attention to detail allows you to guarantee that the job has been completed to the highest standard and that all affected materials are dry and the job meets both the customer’s and industry’s standards. By making sure that you are using all three skills you can make certain you are succeeding in the world of water loss.

Communication and Customer Service

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

In an industry like this, one of the most important aspects of being successful within it is effective communication and customer service. For a lot of people, they have never dealt with a water loss in their home. As a result, they know very little about the mitigation process or any insurance involvement, so they usually have a lot of questions and/or concerns. A technician could know everything about mitigation, but if he can not efficiently explain all of the finer details of the processes to a homeowner, then it can potentially create problems between the company and the homeowner. A lot of homeowners are eventually okay with everything if it’s all explained to them, but they do like to understand why you are about to demo and dry out their home. The same goes for other parties a mitigation company deals with, including insurance agents, insurance adjusters, and property managers. These parties like to make sure a mitigation company knows what they’re doing before any work is started and that things will go smoothly from start to finish.

When a Storm Event Hits

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

When a storm event hits, like a major fire, flooding, tornadoes, hurricanes, or freezing weather, it can take us almost anywhere in the country. Most fires in the past year have been along the west coast but can show up elsewhere. A lot of hurricanes have hit along the east and south-east coast, but we also learned that hurricane-force winds and rain can also hit in the middle of nowhere, like the Derecho in August 2020. We also helped out with flash flooding up north in the Wisconsin area, as well as severe freezing in the Massachusetts area. There were also a couple of times we almost left to go help out outside the country.

As you can probably guess, there are many struggles with going to work in these disaster zones. One of these examples would be that trying to get into the area can take some work. Depending on the type and severity of the disaster, airports in the area may not be open. So, unless you’re driving straight from your home town to the area, you could be forced to fly into an airport that is a couple hours away.

Same goes for getting hotels close by. If a hurricane hits a big area and causes a lot of damage to residential homes, chances are the hotels outside of the disaster zone will fill up quickly with people who can’t live in their homes. So, unless we get really lucky, most of the time we have to stay at a hotel around an hour away. Because of this, it adds a ton of driving time for the day. It also means we have to leave the hotel early, work a full day (which is, on average, 10-12 hours), then drive back to the hotel. While yes, traveling to various areas can be fun and interesting, most trips are very busy and very exhausting. But these trips aren’t supposed to be a vacation. The whole point of traveling is to work and to help out as many people as we can.

Why SERVPRO?

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage doesn't only come from burst pipes or flooding to damage your home. In most cases, undetected water damage can cause the most damage and be quite a headache.  By calling SERVPRO of Boise, we'll help you access the following: 

Here are 5 indicators that there is water damage that may be hidden in your home:

• Stains on walls and ceilings: Nobody purposefully looks up at their ceiling. However, it is important to thoroughly check the ceilings in your home for stains. There might be a bathtub or shower leak from one floor to the next, or your ceiling could be leaking into the attic.
• Musty or unpleasant smells: Do you smell something musty, or even earthy, in your home? Hidden water can cause mold to grow and a nasty smell is a good signal that something is wrong.
• Peeling paint: Not only can water stain your walls, but it can also cause the paint to lift. If you see your paint starting to peel, quickly find the source of the problem, or call a professional to fix it.
• Mold Growth: Just like with ceilings, we do not exactly pay attention to the corners of our homes, but often these small hidden areas can tell us about potentially harmful leaks or spills. Check to see if there are any discolored or fuzzy looking spots in isolated corners or hidden areas.
• Flooring: When allowed to flow, water naturally seeks the lowest level. Therefore, rivers flow downstream. Water can seep under your flooring and collect – damaging your sub-floors. Check for warping or deformation to make sure there is no water hiding beneath the floorboards. When this happens, it is important to act as quickly as possible, so we can restore your flooring to good as new.

Here at SERVPRO of Boise we are water damage restoration specialists and are ready to restore your home back to pre-water damage condition. Whether water damage sneaks up on you or not, we are available 24/7 to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Jobs

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

By: Leonard T. You would think if you’ve never had to restore a house after a fire, that it would be an easy process. Most people don’t realize the detail that it takes to restore a home that has been damaged due to a fire. For example, soot travels throughout the home to all cold places. Curtain rods, wire hangers, windows, plates, and silverware. It also leaves soot webs throughout the home while damaging electronics because of its ability to eat away sort of like acid to the inner components as each day goes by. Before joining the fire side of SERVPRO I had no clue. But after a year of training and experience, I now understand that you really have to pay attention to detail and not miss anything. From the h-vac to the smallest closet under the stairs. I must say it’s been an exciting journey and I’m continuing to learn and improve every day. I enjoy the positive responses from owners and adjusters when we’re done

Fire Storm

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

By: Leonard T. It was Thanksgiving day when I got the call informing me that I would have to go to Malibu, California. It was my first fire storm and I really didn’t know what to expect. Although I had been on 2 water storms before, this would be different. While at the airport I began watching the news just to get some information on what to expect after arriving.

Seeing all the devastation that the Santa Ana winds, along with the fires, had caused. When we arrived, diving from the airport to the hotel, we saw lots of damage to this once nice area. There were million dollar homes burned throughout multiple neighborhoods. We had a meeting first, and then went straight to work. The first home wasn’t too bad. I learned the cleaning process from start to finish. The customer was pleased and that gave me a good feeling that I was part of the process to help them out.

In some areas, 90% of the block was burned. We proceeded to help as many people as we could within the next month.

5 indicators that there is water damage that may be hidden in your home

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage doesn't only come from burst pipes or flooding to damage your home. In most cases, undetected water damage can cause the most damage and be quite a headache.  By calling SERVPRO of Boise, we'll help you access the following: 

Here are 5 indicators that there is water damage that may be hidden in your home:

• Stains on walls and ceilings: Nobody purposefully looks up at their ceiling. However, it is important to thoroughly check the ceilings in your home for stains. There might be a bathtub or shower leak from one floor to the next, or your ceiling could be leaking into the attic.
• Musty or unpleasant smells: Do you smell something musty, or even earthy, in your home? Hidden water can cause mold to grow and a nasty smell is a good signal that something is wrong.
• Peeling paint: Not only can water stain your walls, but it can also cause the paint to lift. If you see your paint starting to peel, quickly find the source of the problem, or call a professional to fix it.
• Mold Growth: Just like with ceilings, we do not exactly pay attention to the corners of our homes, but often these small hidden areas can tell us about potentially harmful leaks or spills. Check to see if there are any discolored or fuzzy looking spots in isolated corners or hidden areas.
• Flooring: When allowed to flow, water naturally seeks the lowest level. Therefore, the rivers flow downstream. Water can seep under your flooring and collect – damaging your sub-floors. Check for warping or deformation to make sure there is no water hiding beneath the floorboards. When this happens, it is important to act as quickly as possible, so we can restore your flooring to good as new.

Here at SERVPRO of Boise we are water damage restoration specialists and are ready to restore your home back to pre-water damage condition. Whether water damage sneaks up on you or not, we are available 24/7 to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why SERVPRO of Boise?

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO of Boise?

When a property damage issue strikes your residential or business property, hiring a professional restoration company can save you time, money, frustration, and possible secondary damage. But, not all restoration companies are alike.

SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian/Star/Eagle bears the unique distinction of being a leader in the restoration industry for over 52 years. We are a full-service restoration company and offer water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, smoke and odor removal, asbestos abatement, contents restoration, and reconstruction services.  

SERVPRO’s approach to offering a variety of restoration services includes being mindful that this may be the first property damage issue or claim a property owner has experienced. Good communication with the property owner and explain the process we will use to remedy the issue is paramount to assuring them we will try to make this as seamless as possible and to gain their trust.  

From start to finish, meeting and exceeding customer expectations is the holy grail we strive to reach. As a testimony to our performance and the results we have achieved, we currently average over twenty five-star reviews online per month.  

When you or someone you know has a property damage issue, SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian/Star/Eagle is the clear choice to make it just "Like it never even happened."

Did you know?

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know? 

About 1 in 20 homes have a claim each year.    There continues to be a disconnect between beliefs and behavior, especially when it comes to protecting against the most common source of property-related damage:  water.  That’s according to the annual Chubb Homeowners’ Risk Survey, which found that when it comes to water damage, homeowners express concern about property protection yet continue to take a passive approach to risk management. 

The study also found that no more than one of every five homeowners surveyed takes any single water-related risk mitigation best practice.  Of those homeowners that tried to mitigate water risk, the Chubb survey found that many are not taking the right steps.  The percentage of homeowners taking the necessary risk mitigation best practices for water has decreased year over year.

Two-thirds of homeowners report that when reflecting back on their most recent home improvement or maintenance project, they were motivated by an approaching storm or in response to weather-related damage.

WINTER HOME MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST:

• Install weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows.
• Insulate water lines that run along exterior walls.
• Clean out gutters and repair roof leaks.
• Have your heating system serviced professionally to make sure that it is clean, working properly? And ventilated to the outside.
• Inspect and clean fireplaces and chimneys.
• If you do not have a working smoke detector, install one. Test batteries monthly and replace them twice a year.
• Have a safe alternative heating source and alternate heating source and alternate fuels available.
• Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) emergencies.
• Install a CO detector to alert you of the presence of the deadly, odorless, colorless gas. Check batteries when you change your clocks in the fall and spring.
• Check the basement for leaks during thaws.
• Vacuum refrigerator and freezer coils, and empty and clean drip trays.
• Clean drains in sinks, tubs, showers, and dishwashers.

Relocating to Boise?

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Maybe you're moving to Boise to accept a job. Maybe you're doing it to be closer to your family. Or maybe you just want to experience something new. Whatever the case may be, moving out of state can be really intimidating. It can also be a logistical nightmare if you don't make the proper preparations. Fortunately, there are some relatively simple steps you can take to make your move as smooth as possible. Take a look at these 10 tips for moving out of state.

1. Do as much research on Boise as you can
2. Search for a new home
3. Use the move as an excuse to purge
4. Pack up the things you're going to move properly
5. Hire a reliable moving company
6. Save all the receipts related to your move
7. Forward your mail right before you move
8. Let your friends and family know you're moving
9. Obtain a new driver's license when you arrive
10. Take time to explore your new surroundings

Boise is a fast-growing city that's teeming with culture, natural beauty, and job opportunities. It encompasses a whole lot of open spaces and a little bit of a big city. This city boasts almost non-existent crime, great schools, friendly people, and easy access to any outdoor activity you could dream of. Who wouldn't want to move here?

6 Things to Consider When Buying Life Insurance

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all life insurance policy. You might need more, or less life insurance than your neighbor down the road, depending on multiple factors. 

Of the 60 percent of Americans who have life insurance, 1 in 4 felt they needed more coverage.

Before shopping for a policy or purchasing additional life insurance protection, it's important to understand the factors that affect how much life insurance you need. So how do you determine how much life insurance you need? Here are six things to consider:

1. Income

The amount on your tax return plays a significant role in your life insurance calculations. The more you earn the more coverage you need. Your agent can help you determine how much life insurance you may need.

2. Debts

The proceeds from a life insurance policy need to take care of all of your debts, including mortgage balances, car loans, student loans, credit card balances or other debts that would be a burden to your family and will need to be paid in full. More debt necessitates more life insurance.

3. Savings

Review your existing assets. If you have significant savings and investments that can be used to cover burial/estate expenses, pay off debts and provide a financial cushion for your family, you'll need less life insurance than someone with few assets. 

4. Existing Coverage

Do you have life insurance coverage through an employer? One 2016 survey found 19 percent of policyholders had life insurance through work. Depending on the amount of that coverage, having your own policy may be a good idea.

5. Family Size

The more dependents you have, the more life insurance you need. In addition to thinking about the number of children depending on you for coverage, take their ages into consideration as well. You'll need more life insurance to protect young children through adulthood than you would for college graduates with their own policy.

6. Future Needs

Life insurance helps protect your family, and that means purchasing enough coverage for their future including educational expenses. When calculating your life insurance needs, determine how much it'll cost to send your children to college.

To determine how much life insurance you need, an online calculator is a good place to start. And you'll want to make an appointment with your agent for a detailed analysis of your life insurance needs. 

Thanksgiving Fire Safety

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

For most, the kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. From testing family recipes to decorating cakes and cookies, everyone enjoys being part of the preparations. With that being said, keeping fire safety top of mind during this joyous but hectic time is important, especially when there's a lot of activity and people at home. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safer. 

Statistics

• Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by the day before Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
• In 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,760 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving.
• Unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in cooking fires and deaths.
• Cooking equipment was involved in almost half of all reported home fires and home fire injuries.

Safety Tips

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove-top.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids.
• Keep the floor clear so you don't have any slips, trips, or falls.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords are not dangling off the counter.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of reach.
• Ensure your smoke alarms are in working condition.

ONE TEAM

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

By: Ryan M.

Traveling away from home and your family is not easy; especially when it's directly into the site of a natural disaster. Here at SERVPRO we never hesitate to set aside our personal lives to help others. We are a team of individuals that thrive under times of pressure and love helping people. We are supported by families who have our backs and understand the sacrifice is for the good of humanity. Helping others get back to normal and returning their homes or businesses to a state of "Like it never even happened," is what we do and pride ourselves on.

Once onsite after a hurricane or natural disaster has struck we are searching out for those who need our help most. We have a huge number of individuals from the corporate level down at all positions taking calls and scheduling inspections. We have teams onsite sometimes the same day at the disaster site ready to respond. Vehicles and crews are mobilizing at the first word of a storm and preparing to stock the area with the needed consumables, PPE, and equipment to help restore your home or business. Different states with different teams of SERVPRO superheroes are ready to lend a hand or help coordinate efforts to have the most effective and efficient response possible. We work as one big team, (ONE TEAM) to meet the need for our service and assistance. No matter what that is we will find a way to take care of our customers and those in need.

How To Protect Your Home And Love Ones In A Wild Fire!

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

By: Beth B.

A wildfire is unexpected, unwanted, and can be damaging to communities. While wildfires are out of the control a home or business owner there are things that can be done to remain safe and minimize damage. The first action to take is to evacuate if there is danger. Pay attention to fire warnings and local evacuation orders. It is important to leave early with your family and pets. Come up with an emergency plan before disaster strikes. While coming up with the plan consider how you will communicate, what emergency items will be needed and where you could evacuate to. To protect your home or business remove items that can burn easily from outside the premises. Keep all windows and doors in your home or business closed to prevent smoke and soot damage in your home. Move all flammable items inside to the middle of the building. While natural disasters are unplanned your reactions to them do not have to- stay informed and stay safe!

Classification of Water Damage in Your Home

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

In this post, we will be explaining some of the basics of water damage and how it can affect your home and health. Water damage is the leading culprit when it comes to property damage and restoration service needs.

Now, this actually surprises a lot of folks, when they hear water damage they usually imagine a flood from a nearby river, a natural disaster, etc. While events as such do occur, there are more common ways for water damage to affect your home, including:

• appliance leaks from your fridge, ice machine, washing machines, etc.
• toilet overflows
• sinks and bath/shower overflows or left running without attendance
• broken/leaky water pipes within walls and ceilings
• drainage issues around the property
• roof leaks and compromised exterior
• rain/wind storms

As you can see, water damage can originate from either internal or external sources and once it gets into your home it is important to know what kind of water you are dealing with.

What do we mean by what kind of water? Well in the restoration industry we recognize water in THREE different categories:

• CATEGORY 1 – Also referred to as “Clean Water”, this means that the water originated from a sanitary source and does not generally pose a risk to our health.
• CATEGORY 2 – This could also be referred to as “Grey Water”, meaning it contains some contamination and would not be sanitary enough for human consumption, posing a health risk if ingested.
• CATEGORY 3 – Commonly known as “Black Water”, this is water that is grossly contaminated and could contain disease-causing organisms, pathogens, and other harmful materials.

Now you know the 3 different categories of water and how it can enter into your home. Each of these different categories of water damage comes with their own do's and don'ts on how to deal with them. Restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Boise have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience to handle any water damage emergency

Who Is Responsible For Apartment Complex Water Damage?

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, water damage is a common issue both homeowners and renters can face. The aftermath can be devastating making the property unlivable and permanent damage may occur to personal belongings. When water damage occurs in an apartment, who is responsible for the damage cost? The property owner or renter?

Renter Rights

Water damage can be unpredictable and it is important to understand your renter rights and understand who is responsible for what in such an event. In general, a landlord is responsible for maintaining the property ensuring that the apartment is livable and functioning up to code. The landlord may refuse repairs, or fail to address them quickly enough – causing further damage such as mold. In the United States, basic principles in tenant rights are in place and outline the party liable for damages.  Depending on the state, rent details can vary so check with your local housing authority.

Review Your Lease

It’s important to know what your lease states regarding property damage. Most properties have property insurance and will list what type of damage that is covered and what is not. The lease may specify actions that may be in place depending on the severity of the water damage. If the damage is severe and the apartment is unlivable is the tenant still required to pay the rent? Can the landlord evict the tenant or can the tenant cancel their lease without penalty? In general, if the damage is minor, the tenant will not be able to cancel the lease agreement. If the terms regarding property damage are not listed in the lease, speak to your landlord about who is responsible in the event when water damage strikes.

Renters Insurance

Accidents happen which is why it is essential to have renters insurance. Most places require you have it before allowing you to move into an apartment. Depending on the plan you select, coverage can vary from damages to the building, personal content and may even cover the cost of lodging while repairs are being completed.

Landlord Responsibilities

The landlord is responsible for maintaining a functional apartment and ensuring that it is livable. The upkeep of basic plumbing such as sinks, toilets, and tubs fall on the shoulders of the landlord. Failure to maintain or repair these functions may lead to property damage and the landlord is liable due to negligence.

Damage to Property and Personal Belongings

Water damages caused to the building itself such as flooring, walls, and utilities should be covered under the landlord’s property insurance. Personal property damages fall to the responsibility of the party at fault for damages, which can be the tenant. For example, if the tenant leaves a faucet on and falls asleep causing water damage.

How We Can Help

Water damage requires a rapid response in order to minimize loss to both the property itself and belongings inside. SERVPRO technicians are experts at water damage cleanup in apartments and buildings of all sizes no matter the severity of the damage. Our team of experts will assess the damage and develop an appropriate plan to restore and recover your property and contents. Contact us by calling 208-375-0300 to learn more about our water damage clean-up services.

What to Expect When You Call SERVPRO of Boise

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call SERVPRO of Boise Today

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Boise has specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information including your phone number and email address
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?
• Is there standing water (if applicable)?
• What year was the home or business built?

About SERVPRO of Boise

SERVPRO of Boise specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

When Storms or Floods Hit Boise, SERVPRO is Ready!

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise 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 Boise 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 Boise, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 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 208-375-0300

Dealing with a house fire in your home

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

The process involved will definitely differ depending on the severity and size of the fire and damage caused, as you can see in the image to your right this is quite severe fire damage. However, the principles of fire damage restoration will for the most part be the same.

Like in most restoration projects the main goal you are trying to reach is preloss condition, that is you want your property to be restored back to how it was before the damages occurred; you want it to be safe, clean, free of smokey odors, and of course, looking "Like it never even happened."

Now at this point, we are going to assume that the fire has been put out, everybody is safe, and you are now looking at the damage caused and are wondering what to do next.

Before you start any work ensure that:

• the property is structurally sound and is safe to re-enter
• you have identified any safety hazards that may be present

As you re-enter the property you will want to get rid it of any lingering smoke and gasses that may still be present. You can do this by opening windows and doors and releasing them outside. In situations where there is a lot of smoke still lingering inside the property and you have neighbors close by then you will want to exhaust the air through an air filtration device (AFD). An AFD unit will process the air through a series of filters reducing its potency and potentially harmful contents.

Once you have taken care of these initial steps and are ready to assess what work needs to be done. You should be taking note of the two main types of possible damage; the obvious burnt and charred materials and the less obvious smoke and soot damage.

Now, you will need to make a decision whether to repair or replace the affected items or property. Any items or property that got burnt and charred will be easier to spot and will likely need replacement if you are not sure on what to do with a certain item you should get it out of the property until your decision is made. As once we start the cleaning process we will want all burnt and charred materials out of the property.

Once all the burnt materials are out of the home you can start looking at what got damaged indirectly. It becomes trickier to decide whether to repair or to replace an item that has been affected by smoke and soot as the process can be difficult and costly.

Okay, so now you know the first few steps on how to get started on a fire damage restoration project. If your property has suffered a fire damage incident that is of a large scale or simply outside your comfort zone to handle yourself give SERVPRO of Boise a call at (208) 375-0300

Summer Water Saving Tips!

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Every state is experiencing the effects of drought, and saving water is on everyone’s mind these days. We waste a lot of water; our showers are too long, and we are often obsessed with an emerald green lawn. We need to change the way we handle and view water and leave behind the outdated and inefficient water management systems of the past.

Here are some tips that will help you save water this summer. Your water bill will be reduced, and you can save yourself some time into the bargain as well as doing some good for the Earth.

1. Water your yard in the cool parts of the day. Water evaporates more quickly when it’s hot, so run your irrigation system while it’s most likely to stay with your lawn. Make sure you are not watering your sidewalk or your driveway, too. A drip system works quite well in this respect. Replacing your thirsty lawn with a drought-tolerant garden would be a great way to save water, and it won’t have to be mowed every week!
2. Check for leaky toilets. Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If the color shows up in the bowl, your tank is leaking, and could be wasting up to 100 gallons of water a day!
3. Take shorter showers. Trimming just two minutes off of your showers can save up to 1700 gallons of water a year. One way to do this is to turn off the shower while you shave or soap up. Install water-efficient showerheads, toilets, and faucets for a savings of thousands of gallons per year as well.
4. Cover the pool. Make sure the water in your pool stays there by covering it when you are not using it. This will prevent water loss by evaporation.
5. Use a car wash. Washing your car by hand can easily use 100 gallons of water, and takes a lot of time and effort, as well. Commercial car washes average 40 gallons or less!
6. Trap rainwater. Collect the water from summer rainstorms by getting a water barrel. You can reuse this water for your garden. Green roofs, rain gardens, and other water-saving techniques are called green infrastructure and go a long way towards saving this most precious resource. More and more landowners and city governments are choosing to invest in these and other innovative strategies as ways to save water, reduce pollution, and save millions, and even billions, in costs for new water tanks, tunnels, and other traditional water infrastructures.

SERVPRO of Boise is here to help you with all your home and business needs. Call us today at (208) 375-0300, or visit our website: SERVPRO of Boise

How do molds affect people?

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Exposure to damp and moldy environments may cause a variety of health effects or none at all. Some people are sensitive to molds. For these people, exposure to molds can lead to symptoms such as stuffy nose, wheezing, and red or itchy eyes, or skin. Some people, such as those with allergies to molds or with asthma, may have more intense reactions. Severe reactions may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of molds in occupational settings, such as farmers working around moldy hay. Severe reactions may include fever and shortness of breath.

In 2004 the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found there was sufficient evidence to link indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, cough, and wheeze in otherwise healthy people; with asthma symptoms in people with asthma; and with hypersensitivity pneumonitis in individuals susceptible to that immune-mediated condition.

In 2009, the World Health Organization issued additional guidance, the WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality: Dampness and Mould pdf icon[PDF – 2.65 MB]external icon Other recent studies have suggested a potential link of early mold exposure to development of asthma in some children, particularly among children who may be genetically susceptible to asthma development, and that selected interventions that improve housing conditions can reduce morbidity from asthma and respiratory allergies.

There is no blood test for mold.  Some physicians can do allergy testing for possible allergies to mold, but no clinically proven tests can pinpoint when or where a particular mold exposure took place.

Who is most at risk for health problems associated with exposure to mold?

People with allergies may be more sensitive to molds. People with immune suppression or underlying lung disease are more susceptible to fungal infections. Individuals with chronic respiratory disease (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, asthma) may experience difficulty breathing. Individuals with immunosuppression are at increased risk for infection from molds. If you or your family members have these conditions, a qualified medical clinician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment.

How do you keep mold out of buildings and homes?

Inspect buildings for evidence of water damage and visible mold as part of routine building maintenance. Correct conditions causing mold growth (e.g., water leaks, condensation, infiltration, or flooding) to prevent mold growth by contacting SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian.

Inside your home, you can control mold growth by:

• Controlling humidity levels;
• Promptly fixing leaky roofs, windows, and pipes;
• Thoroughly cleaning and drying after flooding;
• Ventilating shower, laundry, and cooking areas.

Specific Recommendations:

• Keep humidity levels as low as you can—between 30% and 50%–all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. Bear in mind that humidity levels change over the course of a day with changes in the moisture in the air and the air temperature, so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
• Use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.

• Be sure your home has enough ventilation. Use exhaust fans which vent outside your home in the kitchen and bathroom. Make sure your clothes dryer vents outside your home.
• Fix any leaks in your home’s roof, walls, or plumbing so mold does not have moisture to grow.
• Consider not using carpet in rooms or areas like bathrooms for basements that may have a lot of moisture.

Mold Growth

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

How to recover from mold growth.

Moisture and high humidity can attract mold spores into your Treasure Valley home, where they can grow across a variety of surfaces. While mold commonly grows on building surfaces like drywall and carpeting, it can also affect your belongings such as clothing and furniture. Mold cleaning can be difficult; however, before you throw items away, you may want to learn about which could be saved by different types of professional cleaning processes used by SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian and which cannot. 

1. Throw Away Porous Items 

Most porous surfaces can absorb water and encourage further mold growth. As such, some items like mattresses, thick rugs and stuffed toys that already show signs of mold damage are usually not salvageable. If your child has a favorite stuffed toy that you want to attempt to save, ask our SERVPRO remediation technicians if they have any mold cleaning processes that may help. You may want to remember, however, that porous items affected by black mold are usually considered unsalvageable because this type of fungus is particularly hard to eradicate. 

2. Freeze Documents and Books 

If you have important documents and books that developed mold, place them in sealable plastic bags and store them in your freezer. Freezing these items can inhibit further mold growth and protect them until they can be inspected by our SERVPRO expert mold remediation and restoration technicians This can salvage items like original birth certificates, wedding albums, and baby books. 

3. Set Aside Moldy Clothing 

If you have favorite items of clothing that have been affected by mold, ask our remediation technicians about what type of options you have for salvaging them. Wet, dry and immersion cleaning may all be possible, especially for leather jackets and shoes. SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian uses an Esporta Machine, which cleans soft contents by removing tough odors, dirt, and molds in a way that even commercial-grade units cannot. 

Mold can have a devastating effect on your home’s contents. However, professional mold cleaning processes may be able to salvage your treasured possessions, even if you believe they are beyond repair.  

Let us try to help you with this problem, call SERVPRO of Boise at 208-375-0300.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a Treasure Valley commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a treasure valley commercial fire successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert. 
Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records. 
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately. 
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building. 
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, Treasure valley fires can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Call SERVPRO For Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Services 
If your business caught on fire, don't worry. Instead, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Boise and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process. Choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the sophisticated services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition, so call us now at (208) 375-0300 to attain your free estimate.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Boise is strategically located to respond quickly to your commercial fire emergency event. When commercial fire damage occurs we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (208) 375-0300

Secure Flood Insurance Before the Potential for Spring Flooding Occurs

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

BOISE, ID – It takes only a few inches of water to cause thousands of dollars in property damage.  As spring temperatures begin to rise, so does the potential for area flooding. The Idaho Department of Insurance (DOI) urges consumers to protect their homes and families by securing flood insurance long before the area snow-pack begins to melt and seasonal rains occur.

Consumers should be aware that only flood insurance covers flood damage, while most standard homeowner’s policies do not. Also, flood policies typically mandate a 30-day waiting period before coverage becomes effective. DOI Director Dean Cameron says flooding does not have to be a “catastrophic event” to cause severe financial issues.

“Many consumers remain unprotected, but you don’t have to live in a flood zone or high-risk area to suffer major flood damage,” said Cameron.  “Don’t get caught off guard. Meet with a licensed agent to discuss and review your coverage now.”

What to know about floods and flood insurance coverage:

• The time to prepare is now; where it can rain, it can flood.
• Flood insurance is affordable and anyone can purchase it.
• FEMA statistics estimate more than 20 percent of flood claims result from properties considered outside high-risk areas.
• Only about 12 percent of U.S. homeowners have flood insurance.
• Flood damage costs exceed $8 billion annually nationwide.

American Red Cross Home Fire Campaign

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

It’s time to spring forward! As people TURN their clocks forward one hour, the American Red Cross reminds everyone to TEST their smoke alarms.

This weekend is also a good time for everyone to take these lifesaving steps to help prepare households for home fires, the nation’s most frequent disaster:

• Check smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed. Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire by half. Test smoke alarms once a month. Change the batteries at least once a year, if your model requires it. Place smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms, and sleeping areas.
• Create and practice your home fire escape plan. Fire experts agree that people may have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late. This weekend, create a home fire escape plan with your household and practice it until everyone can escape in less than two minutes. Escape plans should include at least two ways to escape from every room and a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone knows where to meet.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVING LIVES

Each year, the Red Cross responds to more than 62,000 disasters—the vast majority of which are home fires. Every day, seven people die in home fires, and most tragedies occur in homes without working smoke alarms. That’s why the Red Cross launched the Home Fire Campaign with community partners in 2014 to reduce needless deaths and injuries.

So far, the Home Fire Campaign has reached more than 1.7 million people and is credited with saving more than 500 lives across the country. The campaign’s volunteers and partners have also:

• Installed more than 1.5 million free smoke alarms
• Reached more than 1.3 million children through youth preparedness programs
• Made more than 660,000 households safer from the threat of home fires

People can visit redcross.org/homefires for free resources and to learn more about how to protect themselves and their loved homes from fire, or contact their local Red Cross to find out about smoke alarm installation events in their community.

10 Things You Should be Doing to Prevent Mold

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Regardless if you’re a new homeowner or if you’ve been in the same home for forty years, it’s absolutely vital to make sure you take the proper precautions to fight off and prevent mold and mildew in your home or office. Mold is basically tiny fungi that grow in branch-like filaments called hyphae. While some mold and mildew can be scrubbed away with the right cleaning products, other types of mold can do severe damage to the structure of your home and it can be very expensive to repair. Not only is mold horrible for your home, but it’s also very dangerous. Mold can cause a number of health problems, especially for those with allergies or immune disorders.

Mold can bring on coughing, nasal congestion, throat irritation, upper respiratory tract infections, and other cold-like symptoms. For those with compromised immune systems, the effects of mold can be much more serious. Unfortunately, certain kinds of toxic mold are undetectable by the naked eye. That’s why it’s so important to follow these guidelines to make sure that you’re protecting yourself and your home from the potential risks of mold and mildew.

1. Be Aware of Air Flow

When trying to prevent mold, take note of the arrangement of furniture and other items in your home. You want to make sure you have a proper airflow throughout the house. When moisture gets trapped, you’re increasing your chances of mold. Always be aware of odd smells or odors in the home that may represent mold or mildew. Any kind of musty smells will most likely be a sign of mold growth.

2. Know Your Moisture Levels

Most people don’t really know how much moisture they have floating around their home, but it’s important to keep an eye on these levels, especially in basements. Basements should always be below 50% humidity to prevent mold. If you’re worried about how much humidity is in your home, you can purchase a hygrometer. A lot of the new thermometers for central air and heat in more modern homes will include a humidity level setting on the monitor.

3. Check All Storage

When moving into a new home, it’s easy to toss unwanted cardboard boxes and bins into the garage and then forget they were ever there. If it’s been a while since you’ve explored through the storage in your garage, basement or attic, you may want to give it a good check. Cardboard boxes in low ventilated areas are a breeding ground for mold. You also want to stay away from keeping your items in cardboard boxes or on wooden shelves.

4. Keep Moisture Rich Areas Clean

To prevent mold it’s important to consistently clean areas of the house that are exposed to moisture often, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Routinely remove all of the items on your counter-tops and use anti-mold or mildew cleaning products. If water gets trapped in areas for longer than 48-hours, then mold can become apparent.

5. Utilize Exhaust Fans

When showering or cooking, remember to always use your exhaust fans. Some people will only turn exhaust fans on after showering, but this is a big mold prevention no-no. Always be sure to have the fan on during a hot shower, as well as for some time after a shower to make sure that all of the humidity has dissipated.

6. Be Aware of Leaks

It’s important to have your house checked randomly throughout the year for leaks. A leaky pipe that goes unnoticed can create havoc in a household. Something that might be simple to fix one day, can turn into a nightmare if it goes undetected. Have a mold remediation company occasionally check your home for potential leaks to save yourself money in the long run.

7. Remove Carpet in Basements

While some carpets may feel cozy and look great in a basement, they can turn into a fuzzy hotel for fungus. Basements are infamous for holding in moisture and carpets can make these matters much worse. If you’re looking to upgrade your home in the near future, tearing out carpets in the basement not only saves you from potential mold, but it can also increase your property value.

8. Keep Roof and Gutters Clean

With heavy rain, moisture can clog up your gutters and cause cracks in your roof.  It can build up near corners or crevasses in doorways. Keeping your roof and your gutters clean throughout the year can help you to prevent mold in these areas.

9. Use Mold Prevention Based Paints

If you happen to be renovating or moving into a new home, it’s the perfect time to find quality mold inhibiting paints and primers. Ask an expert at your local home improvement store which kind of paints are best for fighting off mold and mildew.

10. Change Out Air Filters

Everyone should always be aware of the air quality in their home. As mentioned above, many of the airborne illnesses that come from mold are very difficult to detect. Changing out air filters or purchasing air purifiers can add an extra layer of protection in your home.

Having the above ten steps on your checklist will help you to prevent mold in your home. If you do suspect there is mold in your home, call the experts to inspect and remove it for you.

Proactive Cleaning

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® professionals are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. SERVPRO® franchise professionals offer cleaning services including the removal of biohazard contaminants. They have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. About Coronavirus The CDC is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and has spread to 60 locations internationally (as of this publication), including cases in the United States. The virus known as “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”).

It is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Scope of Cleanup Protocol SERVPRO professionals can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection where the customer states that there is no active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. The customer will be required to acknowledge that cleaning and disinfecting will only apply to the current state of the structure and contents. The structure would not be protected from future COVID-19 contamination if an infected person was to enter and occupy the building. Cleanup Scope of Work and Planning The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum.

These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces as well, including: • Kitchen/Food Areas • Bathrooms • Schools/Classrooms • Offices • Retail Spaces • Water Fountains • Shelving and Racks • Sales Counters • Carpets and rugs • Stair Handrails • Elevator Cars • Playground Equipment • Fitness Equipment

Cleanup and Disinfecting Procedures 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 cleanup process, and disposal of waste. The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID-19. SERVPROXIDE™, SERVPRO’s proprietary disinfectant, is a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDE™ currently has dozens of EPA-approved claims including Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, Staphylococcus (MRSA), E. coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, Swine flu (H1N1) and more. Porous surfaces that are not water-sensitive, such as carpet and other fabric material, cannot be disinfected but can be sanitized using SERVPROXIDE™.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html ii https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/transmission.html iii https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-preventspread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-preventspread.html iv https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Esporta Machine

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

The Esporta Wash System is the disaster restoration industry’s only wet-wash machine designed exclusively to recover “soft contents” damaged in fire and water disasters. Soft contents include items such as footwear, linens, outerwear, leathers, bedding, outdoor items, athletic equipment, survival gear, sleeping bags, life jackets, stuffed toys, and almost all of your personal clothing.

The patented system breaks down unwanted organic materials and kills bacteria, viruses, and mold spores on contact. The system also removes organic and inorganic contaminants without degrading or damaging the materials. It is five times more effective than traditional front-loading washing machines. 

If you have favorite items of clothing that have been affected by mold, ask our SERVPRO of Boise/Meridian remediation technicians about what type of options you have for salvaging them! 

Disinfection Cleanings

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

precautionary cleanings

Keep calm and wash your hands...it's a funny meme right now, but did you know that there is so much more than just that involved?

SERVPRO has always been a cleaning company first and foremost, even though most folks think of us for water damage and restoration.  We are currently on the frontlines across the country and here in the Treasure Valley assisting in responses and performing precautionary cleanings.   If you hear of anyone needing disinfectant services we are here to help.  Please contact us for a free consultation to assist in any preparations your company or facility may be considering.

Who Is Responsible For Apartment Complex Water Damage?

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, water damage is a common issue both homeowners and renters can face. The aftermath can be devastating making the property unlivable and permanent damage may occur to personal belongings. When water damage occurs in an apartment, who is responsible for the damage cost? The property owner or renter?

Renter Rights

Water damage can be unpredictable and it is important to understand your renter rights and understand who is responsible for what in such an event. In general, a landlord is responsible for maintaining the property ensuring that the apartment is livable and functioning up to code. The landlord may refuse repairs, or fail to address them quick enough – causing further damage such as mold. In the United States, basic principles in tenant rights are in place and outline the party liable for damages.  Depending on the state, rent details can vary so check with your local housing authority.

Review Your Lease

It’s important to know what your lease states regarding property damage. Most properties have property insurance and will list what type of damage is covered and what is not. The lease may specify actions that may be in place depending on the severity of the water damage. If the damage is severe and the apartment is unlivable is the tenant still required to pay the rent? Can the landlord evict the tenant or can the tenant cancel their lease without penalty? In general, if the damage is minor, the tenant will not be able to cancel the lease agreement. If the terms regarding property damage are not listed in the lease, speak to your landlord about who is responsible in the event when water damage strikes.

Renters Insurance

Accidents happen which is why it is essential to have renters insurance. Most places require you have it before allowing you to move into an apartment. Depending on the plan you select, coverage can vary from damages to the building, personal content and may even cover the cost of lodging while repairs are being completed.

Landlord Responsibilities

The landlord is responsible for maintaining a functional apartment and ensuring that it is livable. The upkeep of basic plumbing such as sinks, toilets, and tubs fall on the shoulders of the landlord. Failure to maintain or repair these functions may lead to property damage and the landlord is liable due to negligence.

Damage to Property and Personal Belongings

Water damages caused to the building itself such as flooring, walls, and utilities should be covered under the landlord’s property insurance. Personal property damages fall to the responsibility of the party at fault for damages, which can be the tenant. For example, if the tenant leaves a faucet on and falls asleep causing water damage.

How We Can Help

Water damage requires a rapid response in order to minimize loss to both the property itself and belongings inside. SERVPRO technicians are experts at water damage cleanup in apartments and buildings of all sizes no matter the severity of the damage. Our team of experts will assess the damage and develop an appropriate plan to restore and recover your property and contents. Contact us by calling 208-375-0300 to learn more about our water damage clean-up services.

SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

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

SERVPRO of Boise 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. Fires 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 businesses 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

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

Fire Safety During Winter Storms

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storms can happen almost anywhere. They can cause us problems. Know what to do before and after a storm. This will help keep you and your family safe from a winter fire. 

• Test all smoke alarms. Do this at least once a month. This way you will know they are working. Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Test the alarms.
• Plan two ways out of the home in case of an emergency. Clear driveway and front walk of ice and snow. This will provide easy access to your home.
• Make sure your house number can be seen from the street. If you need help, firefighters will be able to find you.
• Be ready in case the power goes out. Have flashlights on hand. Also, have battery-powered lighting and fresh batteries. Never use candles.
• Stay aware of winter weather. Listen to the television or radio for updates. Watch for bulletins online.
• Check on neighbors. Check on others who may need help.
• Generators should be used outdoors. Keep them away from windows and doors. Do not run a generator inside your garage, even if the door is open.
• Stay away from downed wires. Report and downed wires to authorities. 
• Be ready if the heat stops working. Use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm. If you use an emergency heat source, keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away. 
• Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room. Turn them off when you go to bed. 

IMPORTANT REMINDER

There are more home fires in winter than in any other season. Half of all home heating fires happen in December, January, and February.

As you stay cozy and warm this winter season be fire smart!

Treasure Valley Fire Prevention

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Safeguarding against potential fire hazards will significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire affecting your home and family. Make fire prevention and safety a priority in your home.

• Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it monthly.
• Prevent electrical fires by never overloading circuits or extension cords.
• Use appliances only as directed by the manufacturer. Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from anything combustible.
• Keep the fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned annually.
• Install an affordable home fire safety sprinkler system. In addition to keeping you safe, they can increase property value and lower insurance rates.
• Plan your escape. Practice your exit strategy from every room in the house.
• Take the time to educate your children about the dangers of fire.

Protect Your Property From Winter Damage

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

It is a known fact that winter weather trends can be unpredictable throughout the United States. Homeowners in colder climates, including the Northeast, Midwest, and mountain areas should now be weather-proofing their properties, preparing for the potential cold-weather storms ahead. 

Winter storms often bring with them an array of extreme cold, snow, high winds, and icy conditions, which can cause potential outages for days or even immobilize entire regions. Basic communication services, power and heat sources can be knocked out for days until usage is safe again. The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as "deceptive killers", as statistics highlight that most deaths around this period are indirectly related to the weather. 

The past five years have highlighted how towns and cities around the country can be completely shut down by the challenges of winter weather. Snow and ice dams can be large threats to the exterior structures of properties, so it is crucial to take steps to ensure your property is structurally sound. 

Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing

When the weather gets colder, unprotected water pipes can often freeze, leaving you without water (and in some cases without heating, too). Without steps to protect them during the winter months, water pipes can freeze and sometimes burst. Allowing heat to circulate around your home and having sufficient insulation can help ensure the pipes remain at a constant temperature.

If you do identify a frozen pipe, you can thaw it out slowly by using a hot water bottle or towels soaked in warm water. If you have a burst water pipe, turn off the water supply immediately, by turning the valve to stop the flow of water – this will prevent any further damage until you can get it fixed.

Monitor Ice Dams on Roofs

Ice dams are formed by layers of snow and ice building up in the eaves of your roof or guttering. This build-up of snow and ice then backs up and “dams” the natural flow of water off the roof. It is this damming that causes the water to run down the interior wall surfaces.

A constant increase in the amount of snow on a roof can lead to potential structure damage, as well as leaks or water damage in your home. Sturdiness and slope are all variables and can react differently in adverse winter weather conditions. You may seek professional help if you think your roof may need modifications.

After a storm and only when safe to do so, you can use a long-handed rake to remove snow from your roof. The amount of snow that your roof and gutters can take will depend on the type, age, and condition. Ensure that downspouts and gutters are clear in an effort to prevent flooding.

One of the best long-term methods for preventing ice dams is to install a water-repellent membrane in your roof. This is installed under the shingles and acts as an extra barrier, helping to prevent water from seeping into your property.

Winterize the Interior

Making updates to your home, including using silicone foam, caulking any holes, and adding insulation to walls can have a significant impact on your home’s energy bills. Make sure that your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is regularly serviced too, as a failing system can result in wasted energy and wasted money.

Doors and window-sills are also major culprits when it comes to letting heat escape. Caulking and weather-stripping can help to reduce the likelihood of heat loss, as well as the possibility of water seeping into your home due to ice dams.

You may want to consider installing a generator for emergency outages to help when your main power sources are disturbed. This will allow you to connect lights, refrigerators, and electrical heating devices and stay warm and safe in your home.

Inspect the Exterior of Your Home and Clear any Leaves and Branches

Make sure you clear any leaves and branches from your drain pipes before the winter season arrives. Safely cut away any branches that are hanging over your house and repair any damage to your gutters and roof. These issues could pose a risk to structures, people, and vehicles. Trimming trees can be dangerous in icy weather though, so try and get this done before the cold winter period begins.

Clear Pathways and Property Entrances

After a storm, it’s vital that you remove snow and ice from walkways and parking lots if you are a business owner. Use rock salt or grit to avoid any slips or trips. Removing snow and treating icy surfaces with a safe snow melting product will allow customers safe access to your business.

By following these few basic precautions, you can ensure that the interior and exterior of your home or business is safe this winter. Remember that snow and unpredictable weather patterns can potentially threaten your property’s structure, so be sure to seek professional advice if there are signs of damage.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a Treasure Valley commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a treasure valley commercial fire successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert. 
Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records. 
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately. 
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building. 
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, Treasure valley fires can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage When You're Not Home

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it is, if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended amount of time – even just overnight – it’s a smart idea to turn off your water until you return home. Why? Because it doesn’t take very much water to cause a whole lot of damage! If your pipes freeze and burst while you’re gone, or if a washer hose ruptures or a supply line leaks, major water damage can occur! There are a few things you can do before heading out of town to give you peace of mind when it comes to the state of your home’s water.

Shut off the Main Water Valve

Your safest bet is to turn off the main water valve. Make sure the adults in your home know where the main shutoff valve is and know how to turn it on and off. (Knowing this will also come in handy if you’re at home during an emergency, so the water can quickly be shut off!) Locate the main water valve near your water meter usually located in the basement, near the front of the house, attached to the outside of the home’s exterior, or in an underground box in the yard.

There are two types of main shutoff valves. You’ll probably find what’s called a “gate valve” if you’re in an older home. Turn the rounded handles a certain number of times to open or close the valve. The “ball valve” is more common today. Turn the lever-like handle 90 degrees in order to turn the water on or off. If this valve crosses the pipes, it’s closed; if it’s parallel to them, it’s open.

Test shutting off the valve ahead of time by locating the main shutoff valve, turning it off, and running a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off your home’s water supply!

Turn off Individual Water Valves

But what if you’re leaving during the summer and you can’t turn off your entire water supply because you have automatic sprinklers? If this is the case, you can simply turn off individual water valves to the water sources with the highest damage risk. These sources include the dishwasher, washing machine, and ice-maker. Individual shutoff valves tend to be located directly on the supply lines leading to most appliances, including toilets and faucets. Usually, this will be a small rounded handle that you’ll turn clockwise. Doing this will turn off the water to that source. (Take note that the ice-maker shutoff valve may be under the sink or in the basement!)

If you’ll be shutting off individual water supplies, it’s a good idea to kill two birds with one stone and check your supply lines themselves. They can become weak over time, resulting in leaks, cracks, or bulging. If you notice these or other forms of corrosion, you may want to repair or replace them before leaving.

Turn off Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets

If you’re leaving during the colder seasons, it’s a good idea to also shut off the water to your outdoor faucets as well. Their shutoff valve will most likely be located inside your house. Shut it off before you head out the door. Once you’ve shut off the valve, turn on the exterior faucet to drain any excess water. And remember to detach the hoses, too!

If you follow these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing your home won’t be at risk of water damage while you’re away!

Water Damage and Mold Prevention

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

By: Ryan M.

Taking proper steps to dry your property quickly and effectively is easy with the help of restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Boise. It is important to create and monitor a dry environment to prevent mold causing further secondary damage and potential health issues.  Although most insurance companies act quickly and help make decisions there can sometimes be unforeseen delays. Allow SERVPRO to provide preventative emergency service steps right away to prevent secondary damage.

Maintaining your home and protecting your family from avoidable diseases are two good reasons to assess the potential impact of mold on your home. Most people wait until mold contamination is very high before acting to correct this problem. Mold is tough and all it really needs to continue growing is moisture and a food source. Mold can even begin to turn up in a matter of days. We suggest you take these 4 preventative steps to ensure you are tackling a problem before it gets out of hand.

1. Maintain your property by performing any necessary repairs and maintenance.

2. React quickly to pipe leaks and moisture infiltrations.

3. Let us help you dry the moisture quickly (within 24-48 hours) – do not wait!

4. Contact SERVPRO to evaluate your property to see if professional structural drying is required.

Storm Experience

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

Anytime I get the chance to travel for work, I take it. Storm season is usually a crazy time, but I enjoy a challenge. It’s nice to be able to travel and see new places. It’s also quite interesting to me to be able to see the damage caused by natural disasters. We are living SERVPRO's motto of Here to Help.

In 2018, we traveled to North Carolina to help clean up damage caused by Hurricane Michael. One of my main jobs on that trip with managing the demo and dry out of a ten-unit condo complex. Five units on the first floor and five units on the second floor. Wind damaged the roof and the rain had flooded both levels. At the time of our arrival, all units had also been affected by a pretty hefty amount of microbial growth. Because of the damage, all units had to be gutted down to the studs and remediated before the dry out could begin.

One of the Challenges of completing the structural dry out it is first we must inventory the contents. Unfortunately, the damage from this event destroyed most of the tenants belongings. During these events, many community members come together and help each other with the removal of wet materials. We leaned on local help to make this project go quickly and smoothly. As you can imagine, with big jobs like this, we had a ton of trash. By the time the demo was done, we had about six massive piles of trash, which wasn’t even able to get picked up by a trash company until the very end of our work. Once the demo was complete, about one hundred pieces of dry equipment were set up to dry out what was still wet. 

With everyone’s help, the whole process took about two weeks. Every day was ten-hour days, plus drive time. The hotel was about an hour to an hour and a half away, depending on traffic. It was quite the experience to manage such a big job. It was a lot of stressful work, but I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Fire Safety During Winter Storms

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storms can happen almost anywhere. They can cause us problems. Know what to do before and after a storm. This will help keep you and your family safe from a winter fire. 

• Test all smoke alarms. Do this at least once a month. This way you will know they are working. Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Test the alarms.
• Plan two ways out of the home in case of an emergency. Clear driveway and front walk of ice and snow. This will provide easy access to your home.
• Make sure your house number can be seen from the street. If you need help, firefighters will be able to find you.
• Be ready in case the power goes out. Have flashlights on hand. Also, have battery-powered lighting and fresh batteries. Never use candles.
• Stay aware of winter weather. Listen to the television or radio for updates. Watch for bulletins online.
• Check on neighbors. Check on others who may need help.
• Generators should be used outdoors. Keep them away from windows and doors. Do not run a generator inside your garage, even if the door is open.
• Stay away from downed wires. Report and downed wires to authorities. 
• Be ready if the heat stops working. Use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm. If you use an emergency heat source, keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away. 
• Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room. Turn them off when you go to bed. 

IMPORTANT REMINDER

There are more home fires in winter than in any other season. Half of all home heating fires happen in December, January, and February.

As you stay cozy and warm this winter season be fire smart!

Classification of Water Damage in Your Home

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

In this post, we will be explaining some of the basics of water damage and how it can affect your home and health. Water damage is the leading culprit when it comes to property damage and restoration service needs.

Now, this actually surprises a lot of folks, when they hear water damage they usually imagine a flood from a nearby river, a natural disaster etc. While events as such do occur, there are more common ways for water damage to affect your home, including:

• appliance leaks from your fridge, ice machine, washing machines, etc.
• toilet overflows
• sinks and bath/shower overflows or left running without attendance
• broken/leaky water pipes within walls and ceilings
• drainage issues around the property
• roof leaks and compromised exterior
• rain/wind storms

As you can see, water damage can originate from either internal or external sources and once it gets into your home it is important to know what kind of water you are dealing with.

What do we mean by what kind of water? Well in the restoration industry we recognize water in THREE different categories:

• CATEGORY 1 – Also referred to as “Clean Water”, this means that the water originated from a sanitary source and does not generally pose a risk to our health.
• CATEGORY 2 – This could also be referred to as “Grey Water”, meaning it contains some contamination and would not be sanitary enough for human consumption, posing a health risk if ingested.
• CATEGORY 3 – Commonly known as “Black Water”, this is water that is grossly contaminated and could contain disease-causing organisms, pathogens, and other harmful materials.

Now you know the 3 different categories of water and how it can enter into your home. Each of these different categories of water damage comes with their own do's and don'ts on how to deal with them. Restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Boise have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience to handle any water damage emergency. 

SERVPRO and the equipment we use

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise has the technology to get the job done!  
The past few decades have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Boise professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

Drying Equipment

Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from the ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

• Air scrubbers
• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Antimicrobial Treatments

The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.

• Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
• Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

For more information on the services we provide at SERVPRO of Boise, call us at 208-375-0300.

Why SERVPRO

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Each morning at 8:00 am sharp, the entire staff of SERVPRO of Boise begins with a meeting in our conference room.  We use this morning meeting to discuss the calls that have come in from the previous day and to assess what work is scheduled for the day ahead.  This daily meeting is just one example of the team approach SERVPRO takes in providing quality work to our customers. As the Corporation celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, we take the corporate theme of “One Team” to heart by making sure that all team members, from the front office to the crew of technicians, know that they each play a role in getting the job done.  SERVPRO of Boise is locally owned and is recognized as a Top 100 franchise among over 1700.  

Offering full-service restoration, not provided by most smaller competition in the Treasure Valley, we are set apart.  There is also a large marketing presence with a team of account managers that work with clients throughout the Boise, Meridian, Star, and Eagle areas. When clients learn that SERVPRO can do all stages of the disaster recovery work, including reconstruction, they often feel relief at knowing that they will not have to deal with a multitude of people to get the job done.  

SERVPRO handles restoration work on both residential and commercial structures for damage from water, fire, smoke, sewage, and mold. Many of our jobs come from everyday mishaps such as leaky supply lines, busted pipes or backed-up toilets. We have staff members who deal directly with insurance claims submitted for damages and with an on-site showroom of flooring samples, tiles, cabinetry and more, we can take the stress out of getting a property back to preloss status. 

One service SERVPRO offers to businesses is the Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) mobile app. Business owners can schedule a free, no strings attached appointment with an account manager to assess their properties and identify where shutoffs are located and whom to call should disaster strike. Having an ERP can help give business owners peace of mind should they need to take days away from their property for vacations or other absences.

Despite being one of over 1,700 franchises nationwide, owner Chis Isaacson makes sure that the local SERVPRO franchise is very involved with the local communities they serve. SERVPRO supports many non-profit organizations in the area such as Boise Fire Department Community Assistance Fund, Idaho Humane Society, Ada County Sheriffs Association, Boise Rescue Mission, Boys & Girls Club of Ada County and numerous other charitable programs.

We're a business no one hopes to need, but our hope is that we can assist both homeowners and business owners to be prepared, and to know who to call in such an emergency. 

Natural Catastrophes: Protect Yourself Before and After a Disaster Strikes

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Ensure proper coverage before a major event; know who you are dealing with after a storm hits.

Wildfires. Earthquakes. Hailstorms.

Mother Nature can be unpredictable. When it comes to natural disasters, ensuring proper coverage beforehand, and knowing whom to deal with to handle repairs in the aftermath can help protect your property and your finances from predatory and unscrupulous contractors looking to make a quick buck. 

"Unexpected events such as the hailstorms in southeastern Idaho this past spring serve as reminders of the value of catastrophe insurance. When making storm repairs, be diligent and always be sure to do business with a local, licensed contractor. 

Hail can quickly wreck havoc on your home and car. For autos, comprehensive coverage will safeguard your vehicle; however, a basic liability policy will not. When it comes to your home, hail damage is covered by a standard homeowner's policy, but coverage can be affected by factors such as where you live and the type of policy you have purchased.

Amy Lambrecht, a supervisor with the Department's Consumer Affairs division, says hundreds of claims have been filed as a result of the hailstorms in southeastern Idaho. She recommends the following tips to avoid becoming a victim of insurance fraud:

1. Be wary of door-to-door solicitors
2. Make sure contractors are licensed
3. Read all documents before signing anything
4. Keep copies of all documents signed
5. Be leery of contractors trying to provide "advice" about insurance coverage

Insurance industry statistics estimate hail damage to exceed $1 billion annually in the U.S., mostly to roofs and cars. Understand the risks of where you reside and the types of catastrophe coverage available. 

For immediate service, call SERVPRO of Boise

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being Faster to Any Size Disaster in the Treasure Valley.  We respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (208) 375-0300

Residential Services

If your home needs emergency flood damage you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and can assist in getting your property to the preloss condition. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Boise commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. Therefore, 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. Learn more about our commercial services.  

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration 
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Top 4 ways to save energy this winter

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

Ready for a huge energy bill to go along with that pile of holiday gifts you received this year? We didn’t think so. We’re here to offer you a little help in keeping some jingle in your pockets during these winter months. 

Deck-the-halls with LEDs.

Check your festive lights so they don't drain your wallet along with the power grid with the help of LEDs. LED lights use up to 90 percent less energy than traditional incandescents, which cost $10/string for 40 days/12 hours a day of operation versus just 25 cents per string for the LED equivalent. 

Tell leaks and drafts to “stuff it.”

Losing heat to air leaks and drafts is like throwing money out the window. Be sure to properly seal leaks around windows, doors, chimneys, and venting. This simple fix can save you up to 20 percent on heating costs. Verifying proper insulation levels and adding more where necessary can save you some serious dough as well.

Give your HVAC system a little gift.

Replace your filters monthly and schedule a winter tune-up. This treat will not only boost efficiency and save you some money but increase comfort levels in your home this winter as well. You can also help your system take a load off with the gift of a programmable or SMART thermostat, which prevents you from paying to heat an empty home, offering substantial savings - about 10 percent a year for those who turn down the thermostat 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours. 

Add a special "Star" to your holiday decorations.

The sun. It may only make a few rare, sparkling appearances in our area this winter, but when it does, open the blinds and drapes and let the sunshine in the west and south-facing windows to naturally heat your home – and save you 2-12 percent on heating costs.

May your holidays be filled with safety, happiness, and savings.

Relocating to Boise?

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

Maybe you're moving to Boise to accept a job. Maybe you're doing it to be closer to your family. Or maybe you just want to experience something new. Whatever the case may be, moving out of state can be really intimidating. It can also be a logistical nightmare if you don't make the proper preparations. Fortunately, there are some relatively simple steps you can take to make your move as smooth as possible. Take a look at these 10 tips for moving out of state.

1. Do as much research on Boise as you can
2. Search for a new home
3. Use the move as an excuse to purge
4. Pack up the things you're going to move properly
5. Hire a reliable moving company
6. Save all the receipts related to your move
7. Forward your mail right before you move
8. Let your friends and family know you're moving
9. Obtain a new driver's license when you arrive
10. Take time to explore your new surroundings

Boise is a fast-growing city that's teeming with culture, natural beauty, and job opportunities. It encompasses a whole lot of open spaces and a little bit of a big city. This city boasts almost non-existent crime, great schools, friendly people and easy access to any outdoor activity you could dream of. Who wouldn't want to move here?

6 Things to Consider When Buying Life Insurance

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all life insurance policy. You might need more, or less life insurance than your neighbor down the road, depending on multiple factors. 

Of the 60 percent of Americans who have life insurance, 1 in 4 felt they needed more coverage.

Before shopping for a policy or purchasing additional life insurance protection, it's important to understand the factors that affect how much life insurance you need. So how do you determine how much life insurance you need? Here are six things to consider:

1. Income

The amount on your tax return plays a significant role in your life insurance calculations. The more you earn the more coverage you need. Your agent can help you determine how much life insurance you may need.

2. Debts

The proceeds from a life insurance policy need to take care of all of your debts, including mortgage balances, car loans, student loans, credit card balances or other debts that would be a burden to your family and will need to be paid in full. More debt necessitates more life insurance.

3. Savings

Review your existing assets. If you have significant savings and investments that can be used to cover burial/estate expenses, pay off debts and provide a financial cushion for your family, you'll need less life insurance than someone with few assets. 

4. Existing Coverage

Do you have life insurance coverage through an employer? One 2016 survey found 19 percent of policyholders had life insurance through work. Depending on the amount of that coverage, having your own policy may be a good idea.

5. Family Size

The more dependents you have, the more life insurance you need. In addition to thinking about the number of children depending on you for coverage, take their ages into consideration as well. You'll need more life insurance to protect young children through adulthood than you would for college graduates with their own policy.

6. Future Needs

Life insurance helps protect your family, and that means purchasing enough coverage for their future including educational expenses. When calculating your life insurance needs, determine how much it'll cost to send your children to college.

To determine how much life insurance you need, an online calculator is a good place to start. And you'll want to make an appointment with your agent for a detailed analysis of your life insurance needs. 

Thanksgiving Fire Safety

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

For most, the kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. From testing family recipes to decorating cakes and cookies, everyone enjoys being part of the preparations. With that being said, keeping fire safety top of mind during this joyous but hectic time is important, especially when there's a lot of activity and people at home. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safer. 

Statistics

• Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by the day before Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
• In 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,760 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving.
• Unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in cooking fires and deaths.
• Cooking equipment was involved in almost half of all reported home fires and home fire injuries.

Safety Tips

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove-top.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids.
• Keep the floor clear so you don't have any slips, trips or falls.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords are not dangling off the counter.
• Keep matches and utility lighters out of reach.
• Ensure your smoke alarms are in working condition.

Fire Season

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

By: Rachel W.

As soon as I see an article online about wildfires or pass a TV with flames engulfing the screen, I’ll likely be packing my bags. There’s little notice in this industry, so paying close attention to the fire season is crucial. I constantly check to see if evacuations have been lifted because as soon as we go, my life is in for dramatic changes.

Since I began my career in the restoration industry in 2016, I’ve worked on three separate storms, the last two only a few months apart. I was nervous on my first firestorm, but well-trained, so I jumped at the opportunity.

It isn’t easy. I’ve witnessed devastation on every trip and it’s just as heartbreaking as the first time, but also a good reminder of why I’m there. I’ve experienced a whirlwind of emotions, but the work is so rewarding I’ve volunteered to go on every occasion since.

Storm Experience

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

By: Ryan M. 

My first experience on a water storm site was in North Carolina when disaster struck. Hurricane Florence caused major flooding from storm surges and heavy rains. The Hurricane caused around 20 billion dollars in damage. It was extremely humbling to see people overcoming the hardships of not having a place to stay and little to no access to essential supplies. It was heartwarming to see the community coming together and volunteers on job sites going from house to house helping neighbors. 

Assessing Water Damage

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

By: Layton C. 

Whenever a homeowner has a water loss, it is important to understand the damage the water can do, and how to asses it properly. One of the first things that SERVPRO does after meeting the homeowner is to inspect all affected materials in all affected areas. This allows us to gauge what is wet and how wet the material actually is. SERVPRO technicians use moisture meters and thermal cameras to map out the wet area. Most homeowners don’t own this equipment so they may not be able to see the full damage, but it is possible to get a general idea if one knows what to look for and understands how water travels.

Having the appropriate equipment and tools are essential for the quality of work performed. We see many homeowners extract water with a wet vac and place office fan’s around the wet area. This is a great start to prevent further damage, but the equipment used will not have the same efficiency as ours. When SERVPRO needs to remove a material we are trained on removing it in a specific way. We want to make the repair as easy and as quick as possible. 

Depending on what material we are trying to dry and the saturation level of the material could call for a specialized drying plan with more equipment than the traditional box fan and dehumidifier. Our goal is to get all 10’s with the customer satisfaction survey. Assessing the damage correctly and having the correct equipment is a must.  Meeting the expectations makes the mitigation process faster and cheaper.

Restoration Industry

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

By: Andrew V. 

The restoration industry is a chaotic yet fulfilling industry. It presents many challenges along
with opportunities to help customers in ways that very few industries do. As an industry-leading
restoration company, we experience the emotions with the homeowners. Their normal routine has just been turned upside down. Their home is now being torn; it can be a very stressful experience. It is our job as a restorer to take into consideration each customers’ needs and provide a custom drying or cleaning strategy that will best accommodate the customer. We strive to provide the experience for both a residential or commercial client. During residential losses where we need to be concerned with one family and their needs, and during a commercial loss we need to take into account the needs of possibly multiple owners, tenants, and their entire client base!
Commercial projects offer very unique and often challenging opportunities to show the customer that we care for not only their business but also their wellbeing. During a water damage loss in an assisted living home here in the treasure valley, we were presented with not only the needs of our direct customers but also the needs of up to 65 residents. Taking the time to go a little bit further for your customers can show you care. We spent half a day setting up containments and negative pressured air to prevent dust and debris from getting into any of the units. During lunch and dinner time we only used hand tools to keep down on noise. Most importantly of all whenever we passed a resident in the hallways we always greeted them with a smile. By the time we left the project many of the crew were on a first-name basis with some of the residents.
Taking the extra step for not only our residential customers but also ensuring that our
commercial livelihood is intact during the restoration process is again very challenging but when done properly you can be the hero that they need.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert like SERVPRO.

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a Treasure Valley commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a treasure valley commercial fire successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert. 
Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records. 
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately. 
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building. 
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, Treasure valley fires can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Call SERVPRO For Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Services 
If your business caught on fire, don't worry. Instead, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Boise and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process. Choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the sophisticated services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition, so call us now at (208) 375-0300 to attain your free estimate.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Boise is strategically located to respond quickly to your commercial fire emergency event. When commercial fire damage occurs we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (208) 375-0300

Regrowth

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

This is a House Burnt to the ground caused by a wildfire.

By: Rachel W.

I remember the first time I was driving through a neighborhood decimated by fire—street
after street of rubble, the rare glimpse of a chimney, and the occasional staircase to
nowhere. I saw entire neighborhoods with one house standing around ashy remains of
cars and driveways.
Families are on sidewalks, sifting through the remains of their homes. I had seen memorials
for first responders who had lost their lives, wildlife moving into neighborhoods, and
groups patrolling their blocks to keep out looters. 
There is so much to process arriving in affected areas, yet within all of that, something
beautiful grows out of the disaster, Community. Seeing everyone come together to help
is one of the most inspiring parts of the job. Being able to stay long enough to see
things being rebuilt and growing again will remind you that even in the worst of times,
things will and can get better.  

5 Common Reasons for House Fires in the Boise Area

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

This fire was caused by a Barbecue on the back porch.

1. Cooking Equipment 

When a pot and pan splatter grease, it can take seconds to cause a fire. When cooking stay close by, especially if using oil or high temperatures. Keep combustibles away from the heat source (e.g. oven mitts, dish towels, paper towels).

2. Electrical Equipment

1. Make sure your outlets aren't overloaded 
2. Don't have electrical wires under heavy equipment 
3. Your Electrical appliances don't have loose or frayed cords/plugs

3.Candles 

Keep candles on a level surface, away from combustible materials and out of reach of children or pets. Always blow them out before leaving the house. 

4. Barbecues 

Use Barbecues away from the house, deck rails, and tree limbs. Maintenance them on a regular basis, clean removable parts (inside and out) with soapy water. Check for potential leaks in the connections by spraying them with soapy water; Watch if bubbles form when you open the gas.

5. Fire Pits

1. You may need a permit depending on where you live to have a fire. 
2. You have to have a permit if your fire is bigger than 2 ft tall and 3 ft diameter. 
3. Keep at least 25 ft away from structures and tree limbs. 
4. Use a screen over your fire to keep the sparks from flying 
5. Keep a bucket of water or a hose close by.

Flooding Tips

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Turn Around, Don't Drown!

Failing to evacuate flooded areas, entering flood waters, or remaining after a flood has passed can result in injury or death. Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Floods may:

• Result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems.
• Develop slowly or quickly - flash floods can come with no warning.
• Cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.

IF YOU ARE UNDER A FLOOD WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don't Drown!
  • Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.
• Determine how best to protect yourself based on the type of flooding.
  • Evacuate if told to do so.
  • Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
  • Stay where you are.

HOW TO SAY SAFE WHEN A FLOOD THREATENS

(Prepare NOW)

• Know types of flood risk in your area. Visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center for information.

• Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

• If flash flooding is a risk in your location, then monitor potential signs, such as heavy rain.

• Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response.

• Gather supplies in case you have to leave immediately, or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets. Obtain extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment.

• Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. It typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect and can protect the life you've built. Homeowner’s policies do not cover flooding. Get flood coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)

• Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies.

• Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. De-clutter drains and gutters. Install check valves. Consider a sump pump with a battery.

(Survive DURING)

• Depending on where you are, and the impact and the warning time of flooding, go to the safe location that you previously identified.
• If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
• Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown!
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
• If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water, then stay inside. If water is rising inside the vehicle, then seek refuge on the roof.
• If trapped in a building, then go to its highest level. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising floodwater. Go on the roof only if necessary. Once there, signal for help.

(Be Safe AFTER)

• Listen to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Avoid driving, except in emergencies.
• Snakes and other animals may be in your house. Wear heavy gloves and boots during clean up.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.
• Avoid wading in floodwater, which can contain dangerous debris and be contaminated. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
• Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

Does Your Treasure Valley Home Have a Mold Issue?

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 208-375-0300

Is Mold Covered Under Insurance?

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Does your homeowners policy cover mold remediation?

Mold remediation covered under insurance can alleviate much stress associated with the fungus. However, you must understand your insurance policy fully to receive compensation for mold damage. If you have mold growing somewhere in your home, you may not have to pay to remove and repair the damaged areas. However, not all instances of mold come as part of your policy. Learn when mold covered under insurance is partially or fully your responsibility below. Also, find out what to do about it if you do or do not have the proper coverage.

Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Mold Damage?

Some homeowner’s insurance does cover mold. However, the mold covered under insurance must fall under covered peril. The language of your policy includes the conditions qualifying for a covered peril. As long as the specific thing causing the mold is a peril on your plan, you have coverage. Examples of peril include water damage resulting from accidents, or other factors. Some claims handle the removal of the mold, as well as reimburse you for any property damage.

Keep in mind, insurance companies limit the amount of coverage they offer so that additional coverage may cost a lot more. Again, it all depends on your insurance policy stipulations. There are also different types of claims to consider depending on your status as an owner with tenants or the owner or renting party.

First Party Coverage Claims

When you have mold in your home and make a claim with your insurance company, it’s known as a first-party property claim. You must be the policyholder to receive insurance coverage for the claim.

Third Party Coverage Claims

If you rent a home or apartment and your tenants file an insurance claim for mold, this falls under the third-party claim.

Tips for Dealing with Mold Damage

Whether insurance covers the mold in your home, you must address it as soon as possible. Allowing it to grow can lead to health problems, such as respiratory issues, throat irritation, and others. Mold thrives in moist areas. If your home has vulnerabilities to water leaks, you must address the incident quickly. Doing so can mitigate some of the health risks and property damage brought on by mold.

How to File a Claim for Mold

Each insurer has its own set of policies, but the general order to file a mold claim is as follows:

1. Call your insurance company and set up an appointment with an adjuster.
2. Try to dry the impacted area with fans, open windows, and other means of removing excess moisture. Avoid cleaning or removing mold because the adjuster must first assess the damage.
3. Take pictures of the damaged areas.
4. Talk to your agent about mold coverage limits.

In most cases, the homeowner must prove the mold is a result of a water damage claim resulting from burst pipes or some other event. Even if your policy covers your mold event, it may only cover a certain amount.

Without Proper Coverage

To get mold covered under insurance, you need qualifying circumstances. Your insurance company cannot remove or repair mold damage due to your lack of upkeep. For instance, failing to fix a minor leak that becomes a significant leak does not qualify you for mold coverage.

Other examples include mold resulting from:

• Long-term leaks
• Long-term moisture
• Construction defects

Tips for Handling Your Claim

Because insurance companies can make handling your mold problem a significant process, there are a few things to keep in mind before you make a claim.

• Never offer a guess as to the origins of the mold
• Do not agree with your insurance company if they suggest the mold has been around for a long time
• Allow the company to conduct a full investigation before signing off on any paperwork provided by the insurance company

Other Tips for Handling Mold

The best way to handle mold is to prevent its growth at the onset. You can limit mold growth by doing the following:

• Use air humidifiers and air conditioners to keep air moisture between 30 percent and 60 percent
• Do not place carpets or rugs in damp areas such as basements
• Fix small leaks immediately
• Inspect faucet fixtures and nozzles under sinks and toilets to check for leaks

There are several measures you can take to decrease the chances of mold growth. It is especially important in humid states where moisture collects easily in different parts of the home.

Do you need more information about dealing with mold damage or mold remediation? Our trained mold remediation specialists at SERVPRO offer 24-hour emergency services. Using the most advanced technology, our team keeps the mold from causing any further damage. Failure to act immediately can result in the denial of your claim, call us today at (208) 375-0300!

What is an Emergency Ready Plan

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Is your business or commercial building prepared for the unexpected?

According to FEMA, around 40% of business fail to reopen after a disaster. And to make things worse, the United States Small Business Administration found that over 90% of business close within 2 years of a disaster. But despite these alarming statistics, you can mitigate the impact of a disaster if you make preparations in advance. One of the easiest ways you can begin preparations is by creating an Emergency Ready Profile. 

All of Our Business' Vital Information

An Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a document comprised of all of your business' vital information. It includes emergency contact information, utility shut-off locations, and other information you or your employees might need in an emergency situation. 

Your local SERVPRO franchise will create an ERP for your business, free of charge! A representative will come in and ask a few questions, then get the necessary information regarding shut-offs and emergency exit points. The whole process should take no more than a few minuets of your time!

After your representative compiles the documents, they will present both a physical and digital copy of the ERP.

Recovering Your Business

After a disaster, your priority should be to get your business back to its normal operations. Fortunately, an ERP allows you the opportunity to quickly respond and take crucial actions. If you are interested in an ERP for your business or commercial building, call SERVPRO of Boise today at (208) 375-0300!

Secure Flood Insurance Before the Potential for Spring Flooding Occurs

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

BOISE, ID – It takes only a few inches of water to cause thousands of dollars in property damage.  As spring temperatures begin to rise, so does the potential for area flooding. The Idaho Department of Insurance (DOI) urges consumers to protect their homes and families by securing flood insurance long before area snow-pack begins to melt and seasonal rains occur.

Consumers should be aware that only flood insurance covers flood damage, while most standard homeowner’s policies do not. Also, flood policies typically mandate a 30-day waiting period before coverage becomes effective. DOI Director Dean Cameron says flooding does not have to be a “catastrophic event” to cause severe financial issues.

“Many consumers remain unprotected, but you don’t have to live in a flood zone or high-risk area to suffer major flood damage,” said Cameron.  “Don’t get caught off guard. Meet with a licensed agent to discuss and review your coverage now.”

What to know about floods and flood insurance coverage:

• The time to prepare is now; where it can rain, it can flood.
• Flood insurance is affordable and anyone can purchase it.
• FEMA statistics estimate more than 20 percent of flood claims result from properties considered outside high-risk areas.
• Only about 12 percent of U.S. homeowners have flood insurance.
• Flood damage costs exceed $8 billion annually nationwide.

For information on flood insurance policies, visit the federal National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or call 800-427-4661. 

American Red Cross Home Fire Campaign

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

It’s time to spring forward! As people TURN their clocks forward one hour, the American Red Cross reminds everyone to TEST their smoke alarms.

This weekend is also a good time for everyone to take these lifesaving steps to help prepare households for home fires, the nation’s most frequent disaster:

• Check smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed. Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire by half. Test smoke alarms once a month. Change the batteries at least once a year, if your model requires it. Place smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms, and sleeping areas.
• Create and practice your home fire escape plan. Fire experts agree that people may have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late. This weekend, create a home fire escape plan with your household and practice it until everyone can escape in less than two minutes. Escape plans should include at least two ways to escape from every room and a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone knows where to meet.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVING LIVES

Each year, the Red Cross responds to more than 62,000 disasters—the vast majority of which are home fires. Every day, seven people die in home fires, and most tragedies occur in homes without working smoke alarms. That’s why the Red Cross launched the Home Fire Campaign with community partners in 2014 to reduce needless deaths and injuries.

So far, the Home Fire Campaign has reached more than 1.7 million people and is credited with saving more than 500 lives across the country. The campaign’s volunteers and partners have also:

• Installed more than 1.5 million free smoke alarms
• Reached more than 1.3 million children through youth preparedness programs
• Made more than 660,000 households safer from the threat of home fires

People can visit redcross.org/homefires for free resources and to learn more about how to protect themselves and their loved homes from fire, or contact their local Red Cross to find out about smoke alarm installation events in their community.

Get Rid of Unpleasant Odors in Your Home

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Our equipment is designed to treat your home of unwanted odors.

Odors from smoke, pets, decomposition or mold can cause lingering odors in your home or business. A simple surface clean doesn’t necessarily get rid of these smells. With technicians certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), SERVPRO of Boise provides specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by smoke, mold or other sources. Our professionals do not cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; they seek out and remove the source of the odor. Once the source is found, we use SERVPRO’s own proprietary line of cleaning products to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies, upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more. Along with our proprietary line of cleaning products SERVPRO of Boise uses various techniques and equipment to treat odors. These techniques are capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly. Some of the tools we use include: Ozone Generator: The Ozone Generator is one of the quickest ways to eliminate odors from a home or office. We use the Ozone Generator to oxidize odor and eliminate odors from mold, mildew, pets, nicotine, smoke and more without the use of chemicals. Though the room being treated cannot be occupied while in use, the generator works quickly to clean, sanitize and remove offensive odors. Hydroxyl Generator: The Hydroxyl Generator has several benefits that the Ozone Generator does not. The main benefit is that the room being treated can be occupied during the deodorization process; though it does work slower. The Hydroxyl Generator can be used to treat fire and smoke, as well as biohazard jobs, water damage, and animal odors. Air Filtration Device: This piece of equipment, also known as an air scrubber, is used to remove airborne contaminants during water, fire, smoke, mold, and sewage restoration work. These work by pulling air through HEPA filtration to remove airborne particles from the air. This helps clean the air and remove odors. Whether you are a building manager who needs an apartment cleaned for the next tenant or a homeowner who wants to get your home ready for sale, getting rid of offensive odors is a high priority. Fire, water, mold damage, or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, SERVPRO of Boise is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at (208) 375-0300 

10 Things You Should be Doing to Prevent Mold

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Regardless if you’re a new homeowner or if you’ve been in the same home for forty years, it’s absolutely vital to make sure you take the proper precautions to fight off and prevent mold and mildew in your home or office. Mold is basically tiny fungi that grow in branch-like filaments called hyphae. While some mold and mildew can be scrubbed away with the right cleaning products, other types of mold can do severe damage to the structure of your home and it can be very expensive to repair. Not only is mold horrible for your home, but it’s also very dangerous. Mold can cause a number of health problems, especially for those with allergies or immune disorders.

Mold can bring on coughing, nasal congestion, throat irritation, upper respiratory tract infections, and other cold-like symptoms. For those with compromised immune systems, the effects of mold can be much more serious. Unfortunately, certain kinds of toxic mold are undetectable by the naked eye. That’s why it’s so important to follow these guidelines to make sure that you’re protecting yourself and your home from the potential risks of mold and mildew.

1. Be Aware of Air Flow

When trying to prevent mold, take note of the arrangement of furniture and other items in your home. You want to make sure you have a proper air flow throughout the house. When moisture gets trapped, you’re increasing your chances of mold. Always be aware of odd smells or odors in the home that may represent mold or mildew. Any kind of musty smells will most likely be a sign of mold growth.

2. Know Your Moisture Levels

Most people don’t really know how much moisture they have floating around their home, but it’s important to keep an eye on these levels, especially in basements. Basements should always be below 50% humidity to prevent mold. If you’re worried about how much humidity is in your home, you can purchase a hygrometer. A lot of the new thermometers for central air and heat in more modern homes will include a humidity level setting on the monitor.

3. Check All Storage

When moving into a new home, it’s easy to toss unwanted cardboard boxes and bins into the garage and then forget they were ever there. If it’s been a while since you’ve explored through the storage in your garage, basement or attic, you may want to give it a good check. Cardboard boxes in low ventilated areas are a breeding ground for mold. You also want to stay away from keeping your items in cardboard boxes or on wooden shelves.

4. Keep Moisture Rich Areas Clean

To prevent mold it’s important to consistently clean areas of the house that are exposed to moisture often, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Routinely remove all of the items on your counter-tops and use anti-mold or mildew cleaning products. If water gets trapped in areas for longer than 48-hours, then mold can become apparent.

5. Utilize Exhaust Fans

When showering or cooking, remember to always use your exhaust fans. Some people will only turn exhaust fans on after showering, but this is a big mold prevention no-no. Always be sure to have the fan on during a hot shower, as well as for some time after a shower to make sure that all of the humidity has dissipated.

6. Be Aware of Leaks

It’s important to have your house checked randomly throughout the year for leaks. A leaky pipe that goes unnoticed can create havoc in a household. Something that might be simple to fix one day, can turn into a nightmare if it goes undetected. Have a mold remediation company occasionally check your home for potential leaks to save yourself money in the long run.

7. Remove Carpet in Basements

While some carpets may feel cozy and look great in a basement, they can turn into a fuzzy hotel for fungus. Basements are infamous for holding in moisture and carpets can make these matters much worse. If you’re looking to upgrade your home in the near future, tearing out carpets in the basement not only saves you from potential mold, but it can also increase your property value.

8. Keep Roof and Gutters Clean

With heavy rain, moisture can clog up your gutters and cause cracks in your roof.  It can build up near corners or crevasses in doorways. Keeping your roof and your gutters clean throughout the year can help you to prevent mold in these areas.

9. Use Mold Prevention Based Paints

If you happen to be renovating or moving into a new home, it’s the perfect time to find quality mold inhibiting paints and primers. Ask any expert at your local home improvement store which kind of paints are best for fighting off mold and mildew.

10. Change Out Air Filters

Everyone should always be aware of the air quality in their home. As mentioned above, many of the air-borne illnesses that come from mold are very difficult to detect. Changing out air filters or purchasing air purifiers can add an extra layer of protection in your home.

Having the above ten steps on your checklist will help you to prevent mold in your home. If you do suspect there is mold in your home, call the experts to inspect and remove it for you.

Commercial Restoration 101

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

When a business needs commercial fire or water damage restoration they should look for a company that provides 24 hour emergency services. SERVPRO of Boise is available 24 hours a day 365 days a year.

Once on site, SERVPRO of Boise will begin assessing the extent of the damage. This will allow our crews to come up with a plan of action moving forward. Often the extent of the damage might be more severe than it appears on the surface – for instance if mold is accruing in another room as a result of water damage, or if smoke got into an adjoining part of the building. SERVPRO of Boise will use top of the line equipment to accurately assess the damage.

If your company is in the position of needing commercial restoration, give us a call. We can board up your building to secure the premise, tarp the roof if there is damage, seal any leaks and prevent any further damage from occurring while we take care of the major issue.

Contents may need to be removed from the building and stored at our warehouse/ cleaned depending on the size of the loss. Once the items are removed we will be able to begin removing any standing water, etc.. and cleaning/drying the affected area.

Once everything is cleaned, dried out and/or removed, we will then involve our reconstruction department. They will be able to discuss repairs with the property owner and select items to replace what was removed and could not be salvaged. This could mean replacing individual items such as cabinets or flooring.

Ultimately, commercial restoration done by SERVPRO of Boise can provide a wide variety of different services which together can help to clean and restore a property after it has been affected by a storm, flood, fire or any other type of damage. This will then allow you to return to business as quickly as possible.

When it comes to your commercial property, we mean business. You need a company that can minimize the disruption to your clients while delivering superior results. Whether you need emergency water or fire restoration services, or mold remediation, SERVPRO of Boise has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

•Small Office Buildings

•Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings

•Apartment Buildings

•Restaurants

•Hotel/Motels

•Small Retail Stores

•Large Retail/Big-Box Stores

•High-Rise Residential

•Manufacturing & Industrial

•Government/Military

Who Is Responsible For Apartment Complex Water Damage?

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, water damage is a common issue both homeowners and renters can face. The aftermath can be devastating making the property unlivable and permanent damage may occur to personal belongings. When water damage occurs in an apartment, who is responsible for the damage cost? The property owner or renter?

Renter Rights

Water damage can be unpredictable and it is important to understand your renter rights and understand who is responsible for what in such an event. In general, a landlord is responsible for maintaining the property ensuring that the apartment is livable and functioning up to code. The landlord may refuse repairs, or fail to address them quick enough – causing further damage such as mold. In the United States, basic principles in tenant rights are in place and outline the party liable for damages.  Depending on the state, rent details can vary so check with your local housing authority.

Review Your Lease

It’s important to know what your lease states regarding property damage. Most properties have property insurance and will list what type of damage that is covered and what is not. The lease may specify actions that may be in place depending on the severity of the water damage. If the damage is severe and the apartment is unlivable is the tenant still required to pay the rent? Can the landlord evict the tenant or can the tenant cancel their lease without penalty? In general, if the damage is minor, the tenant will not be able to cancel the lease agreement. If the terms regarding property damage are not listed in the lease, speak to your landlord about who is responsible in the event when water damage strikes.

Renters Insurance

Accidents happen which is why it is essential to have renters insurance. Most places require you have it before allowing you to move into an apartment. Depending on the plan you select, coverage can vary from damages to the building, personal content and may even cover the cost of lodging while repairs are being completed.

Landlord Responsibilities

The landlord is responsible for maintaining a functional apartment and ensuring that it is livable. The upkeep of basic plumbing such as sinks, toilets and tubs fall on the shoulders of the landlord. Failure to maintain or repair these functions may lead to property damage and the landlord is liable due to negligence.

Damage to Property and Personal Belongings

Water damages caused to the building itself such as flooring, walls and utilities should be covered under the landlord’s property insurance. Personal property damages fall to the responsibility of the party at fault for damages, which can be the tenant. For example, if the tenant leaves a faucet on and falls asleep causing water damage.

How We Can Help

Water damage requires a rapid response in order to minimize loss to both the property itself and belongings inside. SERVPRO technicians are experts at water damage cleanup in apartments and buildings of all sizes no matter severity of the damage. Our team of experts will assess the damage and develop an appropriate plan to restore and recover your property and contents. Contact us by calling 208-375-0300 to learn more about our water damage clean-up services.

Things to Look for in a Commercial Restoration Company

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

When you come face to face with a broken pipe, a leaky faucet, or a hole in the wall, you know that those damages can be easily repaired with do-it-yourself fixes, and home tools, but if you are facing situations that are impossible to fix like flooded basements, mold infestations, and smoke infiltration, it’s time to pick up the phone and call in the professionals. However, how well do you know the restoration company you are calling? When looking for restoration contractors, you must remind yourself that you are allowing workers into your space to fix the damage. You want workers who are expertly trained professionals with years of experience, and are fully equipped with the latest cleaning instruments to solve your dilemma. You might think that, because the contractor says that the company is qualified to repair the damages, they are legitimate; however, we live in a day and age where information can be falsified through advertisements, and easy to create internet sites.

Here are a few things you can do to avoid contacting fake, or unprofessional restoration companies.

Check if Their Website is Genuine

Yes, the internet can be a place for scammers, and false people, but it is also a good place to find restoration companies in the quickest and easiest way possible. You will know if the site is from a professional company when you are presented with links to their services.

Some services for commercial restoration include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Contents Restoration

Once you’ve clicked these links, it should lead you to pages that are informative; if the site is genuine, whatever is written in those pages must be talking about the dangers of, let’s say, water damage in your home, and give you an insight on their restoration process.

Read Client Testimonials

Most service sites have testimonial links; proof that they do their job well. By reading the client’s testament, you get an idea of how this company will handle the situation you are facing.

Call Them Up, and Quiz Them

Professional workers know what they are talking about; they know the history, and services their company provides, and they know how to solve simple restoration questions even when they are on the other line. By going through their site, you too are able to ask the right questions; making it possible for you, and your chosen restoration contractor to communicate clearly.

If the job was done by unprofessional workers, it may do more harm than good to your property. Instead of fixing the problem, they could complicate the situation with sloppy work, and mess-ups; leaving you in a difficult dilemma.

Live in the Treasure Valley and surrounding area, want to try us out? Call: (208) 375-0300, for professional restoration services and more, or visit our website for more information. 

Storm Damage Preparedness

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Our team of experts will be there soon, but your health and safety are our main priorities. While you wait for help to arrive, follow these tips to keep you protected while facilitating a more rapid recovery:

Communications

• Discuss preparedness with your family
• Identify an out-of-state contact in case you are separated. Long-distance calls may work when local calls do not
• Teach children how and when to call 911 post emergency contact numbers near phones in your home
• Teach children how to use a cell phone

Evacuation

• Determine two escape routes from each room in your home
• Pick three places to meet - One right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, pick a location in your neighborhood if your property isn't safe and a regional meeting place if you can't return home

MAKE A PLAN

Water

• Water will keep you alive. If you have enough water, you can live on half of your normal food intake. Make sure to store at least one gallon of water per person per day and store enough water to last two weeks. 
• People in hot environments, children, people who are ill and nursing mothers should store more.
• Rotate your water supply every six months
• Other sources of water in your home: water heater, ice cubes, pipes and toilet tank (not the bowl)

Food

Unlike water, food can be rationed. Store at least a three to five day supply of non-perishable food in a dry place where the temperature is not above 70 degrees. 

Select foods that require little or no preparation, water or refrigeration. Select foods that are high in calories, nutritious, compact and lightweight. Choose foods your family will eat.

Pets

Pets are an important member of your family. Plan for them as well. Remember that emergency shelters typically do not allow animals. Only service animals are allowed in shelters.

But you should know safe places to keep your pets if you have to evacuate with them. Where are hotels and motels outside of your area that accept pets? What friends or family members could keep them for you? Which boarding facilities, veterinarians or shelters could be used?

Utilities

Your water heater can be a critical source of water in an emergency, but only if it’s still standing. Go to your home improvement store of choice and buy the metal straps to secure the water heater to nearby studs.

A falling water heater can break gas lines and water lines or spill your water.

Gas

If you have natural gas coming into your home, it’s easy to turn off, but not so much for turning it back on. Only qualified people should turn gas back on.

When you should shut off your gas meter:

• You smell natural gas
• You hear gas leaking
• There is a fire (unless shutting off the gas would jeopardize your safety)
• If you need to shut off the gas, use a wrench to turn the valve a quarter turn in either direction
• Take some time to become familiar with which utilities enter your home and where they can be shut off. As you practice emergency plans, locate and map the gas, water and electricity mains. During family drills, go through the movements, but do not practice shutting off gas lines.

If you are facing the aftermath of a storm or natural disaster, call us at (208) 375-0300!

Treasure Valley Water Damage Prevention

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

It is possible to prevent and mitigate water damage by taking the proper precautions before a flood. Safeguard your home against heavy rain, natural disasters, frozen pipes, and water dams by following the suggestions below.

Water Damage and Flooding Prevention

• Make sure gutters and downspouts stay clear by checking them regularly and removing any blockages.
• Anchor any fuel tanks.
• Install back-flow valves or standpipes to prevent sewer lines from backing up.
• Elevate your washer, dryer, water heater, oil tank, furnace, and electrical wiring on concrete blocks. If you’re unable to raise an item, anchor it and protect it with a flood-wall or shield.
• Install a sump pump system if you have below-grade floors.
• Landscape with plants and vegetation that resist soil erosion.
• Store irreplaceable family items and important documents in elevated areas of your home, avoiding the basement.
• Install a flood-detection device, usually in your basement, that sounds an alarm when it senses water.
• Create a safety kit with drinking water, canned food, first aid, blankets, a radio, and a flashlight.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

When water freezes, it expands. If ice forms in your water pipes, it can shatter pipe seals or the pipes themselves, sending water pouring through your home or business. If overnight temperatures outdoors drop below freezing, unprotected pipes can burst. To prevent that from happening, SERVPRO suggests the following to prevent water damage:

• Insulate pipes in basements, crawl spaces and the attic where the temperatures might drop below freezing.
• Seal any openings that allow cold air inside – like those around dryer vents, electrical wiring or pipes.
• In areas of potential freezing, have the water drip into the sink to keep the flow moving.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks and closets where pipes are located to let in the heat.
• Keep doors ajar between heated and unheated rooms.
• Disconnect all hoses from outside faucets. Cover outside faucets connected to the house.
• Know where to turn off water to the house. Show everyone in the house where it is located and how to shut it off.
• If the house will be unheated for a period of time, turn off water at the meter and open all faucets to drain pipes. Flush all toilets and add antifreeze to toilet tanks.
• If on vacation, keep heat in your home no lower than 55 degrees and have someone check in daily.

Ice Dam Prevention

During the winter, SERVPRO sees damage to homes and businesses caused by ice dams on rooftops. Ice dams occur when heavy snow buildup melts during the day and then refreezes when temperatures drop overnight. It is common for the melted water and ice to work its way under the shingles until the water eventually enters the attic, causing damage to the ceilings, walls, and furnishings.

• Make sure soffits' and attic spaces are properly insulated and vented.
• Inspect gutters and downspouts; clean them out so water can run unimpeded.
• Use electric de-icing cables on the roof to keep ice from forming.
• Install de-icing cables in gutters and downspouts.
• Call an electrical contractor for information on de-icing systems and proper installation.

Once Ice Dams have occurred, combating the destructive effects becomes more difficult. For help removing ice dams and restoring any damage they might have caused, call a water damage restoration company, like SERVPRO. In the meantime:

• Never use an ax or shovel to remove ice. You could cause damage to your roof.
• Avoid climbing on the roof to prevent accidental injury.

Hopefully you never fall victim to a flooded basement. However, it is one of the more common property damages we deal with in Idaho. Many things can lead to a flooded basement, here are a few of the most common causes:

• Rain Fall
• Snow Melt
• Leaky Pipe
• Burst Pipe
• Bathroom Leaks
• Improper Drainage or Grading
• Sump Pump Backup or Failure

For more detailed information regarding safety planning and flood safety, visit www.ready.gov/floods.

Treasure Valley Fire Prevention

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

Safeguarding against potential fire hazards will significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire affecting your home and family. Make fire prevention and safety a priority in your home.

• Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it monthly.
• Prevent electrical fires by never overloading circuits or extension cords.
• Use appliances only as directed by the manufacturer. Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from anything combustible.
• Keep fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned annually.
• Install an affordable home fire safety sprinkler system. In addition to keeping you safe, they can increase property value and lower insurance rates.
• Plan your escape. Practice your exit strategy from every room in the house.
• Take the time to educate your children about the dangers of fire.

For more detailed information regarding safety planning and fire prevention, visit the U.S. Fire Administration’s website: www.usfa.fema.gov

Protect Your Property From Winter Damage

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

"Winter storms are the third-largest cause of catastrophe losses, behind only hurricanes and tornadoes" -Insurance Information Institute, Inc.

It is a known fact that winter weather trends can be unpredictable throughout the United States. Homeowners in colder climates, including the Northeast, Midwest, and mountain areas should now be weather-proofing their properties, preparing for the potential cold-weather storms ahead. 

Winter storms often bring with them an array of extreme cold, snow, high winds, and icy conditions, which can cause potential outages for days or even immobilize entire regions. Basic communication services, power and heat sources can be knocked out for days until usage is safe again. The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as "deceptive killers", as statistics highlight that most deaths around this period are indirectly related to the weather. 

The past five years have highlighted how towns and cities around the country can be completely shut down by the challenges of winter weather. Snow and ice dams can be large threats to the exterior structures of properties, so it is crucial to take steps to ensure your property is structurally sound. 

Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing

When the weather gets colder, unprotected water pipes can often freeze, leaving you without water (and in some cases without heating, too). Without steps to protect them during the winter months, water pipes can freeze and sometimes burst. Allowing heat to circulate around your home and having sufficient insulation can help ensure the pipes remain at a constant temperature.

If you do identify a frozen pipe, you can thaw it out slowly by using a hot water bottle or towels soaked in warm water. If you have a burst water pipe, turn off the water supply immediately, by turning the valve to stop the flow of water – this will prevent any further damage until you can get it fixed.

Monitor Ice Dams on Roofs

Ice dams are formed by layers of snow and ice building up in the eaves of your roof or guttering. This build-up of snow and ice then backs up and “dams” the natural flow of water off the roof. It is this damming that causes the water to run down the interior wall surfaces.

A constant increase in the amount of snow on a roof can lead to potential structure damage, as well as leaks or water damage in your home. Sturdiness and slope are all variables and can react differently in adverse winter weather conditions. You may seek professional help if you think your roof may need modifications.

After a storm and only when safe to do so, you can use a long-handed rake to remove snow from your roof. The amount of snow that your roof and gutters can take will depend on the type, age, and condition. Ensure that downspouts and gutters are clear in an effort to prevent flooding.

One of the best long-term methods for preventing ice dams is to install a water-repellent membrane in your roof. This is installed under the shingles and acts as an extra barrier, helping to prevent water from seeping into your property.

Winterize the Interior

Making updates to your home, including using silicone foam, caulking any holes, and adding insulation to walls can have a significant impact on your home’s energy bills. Make sure that your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is regularly serviced too, as a failing system can result in wasted energy and wasted money.

Doors and window-sills are also major culprits when it comes to letting heat escape. Caulking and weather-stripping can help to reduce the likelihood of heat loss, as well as the possibility of water seeping into your home due to ice dams.

You may want to consider installing a generator for emergency outages to help when your main power sources are disturbed. This will allow you to connect lights, refrigerators, and electrical heating devices and stay warm and safe in your home.

Inspect the Exterior of Your Home and Clear any Leaves and Branches

Make sure you clear any leaves and branches from your drain pipes before the winter season arrives. Safely cut away any branches that are hanging over your house and repair any damage to your gutters and roof. These issues could pose a risk to structures, people, and vehicles. Trimming trees can be dangerous in icy weather though, so try and get this done before the cold winter period begins.

Clear Pathways and Property Entrances

After a storm, it’s vital that you remove snow and ice from walkways and parking lots if you are a business owner. Use rock salt or grit to avoid any slips or trips. Removing snow and treating icy surfaces with a safe snow melting product will allow customers safe access to your business.

By following these few basic precautions, you can ensure that the interior and exterior of your home or business is safe this winter. Remember that snow and unpredictable weather patterns can potentially threaten your property’s structure, so be sure to seek professional advice if there are signs of damage.

Fire Safety During Winter Storms

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Winter storms can happen almost anywhere. They can cause us problems. Know what to do before and after a storm. This will help keep you and your family safe from a winter fire. 

• Test all smoke alarms. Do this at least once a month. This way you will know they are working. Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home. Test the alarms.
• Plan two ways out of the home in case of an emergency. Clear driveway and front walk of ice and snow. This will provide easy access to your home.
• Make sure your house number can be seen from the street. If you need help, firefighters will be able to find you.
• Be ready in case the power goes out. Have flashlights on hand. Also have battery-powered lighting and fresh batteries. Never use candles.
• Stay aware of winter weather. Listen to the television or radio for updates. Watch for bulletins online.
• Check on neighbors. Check on others who may need help.
• Generators should be used outdoors. Keep them away from windows and doors. Do not run a generator inside your garage, even if the door is open.
• Stay away from downed wires. Report and downed wires to authorities. 
• Be ready if the heat stops working. Use extra layers of clothes and blankets to stay warm. If you use an emergency heat source, keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away. 
• Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room. Turn them off when you go to bed. 

IMPORTANT REMINDER

There are more home fires in winter than in any other season. Half of all home heating fires happen in December, January and February.

As you stay cozy and warm this winter season be fire smart!

Three Ways to Avoid Water Damage When You're Not Home

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

No matter what time of year it is, if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended amount of time – even just over night – it’s a smart idea to turn off your water until you return home. Why? Because it doesn’t take very much water to cause a whole lot of damage! If your pipes freeze and burst while you’re gone, or if a washer hose ruptures or a supply line leaks, major water damage can occur! There are a few things you can do before heading out of town to give you peace of mind when it comes to the state of your home’s water.

Shut off the Main Water Valve

Your safest bet is to turn off the main water valve. Make sure the adults in your home know where the main shutoff valve is and know how to turn it on and off. (Knowing this will also come in handy if you’re at home during an emergency, so the water can quickly be shut off!) Locate the main water valve near your water meter usually located in the basement, near the front of the house, attached to the outside of the home’s exterior, or in an underground box in the yard.

There are two types of main shutoff valves. You’ll probably find what’s called a “gate valve” if you’re in an older home. Turn the rounded handles a certain number of times to open or close the valve. The “ball valve” is more common today. Turn the lever-like handle 90 degrees in order to turn the water on or off. If this valve crosses the pipes, it’s closed; if it’s parallel to them, it’s open.

Test shutting off the valve ahead of time by locating the main shutoff valve, turning it off, and running a faucet. If no water comes out, you’ve successfully turned off your home’s water supply!

Turn off Individual Water Valves

But what if you’re leaving during the summer and you can’t turn off your entire water supply because you have automatic sprinklers? If this is the case, you can simply turn off individual water valves to the water sources with the highest damage risk. These sources include the dishwasher, washing machine, and ice-maker. Individual shutoff valves tend to be located directly on the supply lines leading to most appliances, including toilets and faucets. Usually, this will be a small rounded handle that you’ll turn clockwise. Doing this will turn off the water to that source. (Take note that the ice-maker shutoff valve may be under the sink or in the basement!)

If you’ll be shutting off individual water supplies, it’s a good idea to kill two birds with one stone and check your supply lines themselves. They can become weak over time, resulting in leaks, cracks, or bulging. If you notice these or other forms of corrosion, you may want to repair or replace them before leaving.

Turn off Water Supply to Outdoor Faucets

If you’re leaving during the colder seasons, it’s a good idea to also shut off the water to your outdoor faucets as well. Their shutoff valve will most likely be located inside your house. Shut it off before you head out the door. Once you’ve shut off the valve, turn on the exterior faucet to drain any excess water. And remember to detach the hoses, too!

If you follow these simple steps, you can rest easy knowing your home won’t be at risk of water damage while you’re away!

How SERVPRO Can Help Your Business Prepare for Large Loss Water Damage

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

As a business owner, you are always thinking about the future, and you know that disasters are something you need to be prepared for. When disaster strikes, possessions are often ruined, and the structures of businesses can be negatively affected. Staff can become injured or find themselves in dangerous situations, and these are scenarios you want to be able to prevent or at least be ready for. A professional damage restoration company can be an important and welcomed resource during times like these; such companies are able to complete all necessary repairs in a timely and efficient manner as well as keep you and your workforce out of harm’s way.

While disastrous situations can rarely be foreseen, planning ahead in preparation for any possible commercial water damage will help you be prepared to handle such an event. During extreme weather, some areas of your business are going to be more apt to experience damage than others. For example, low-lying areas like basements, cellars, and parking lots are most likely to experience storm damage.

Planning ahead in these areas will help:

• Basements and cellars should be inspected ahead of wet weather since they have a number of easy entry points for water. If there is heavy rainfall during inclement weather, or if the building is near a body of water such as a lake or river, they are going to be in danger. Let the SERVPRO of Boise professionals look for cracks in the foundation, ceiling, and walls of these areas. Handling the aftermath of flooding and storm damage can be very expensive, but is an event that can be avoided if you plan ahead by enlisting the help of our team.
• A damaged roof, either from weather or fire, is susceptible to water damage, and the areas underneath it will suffer. If rain gutters have not been properly maintained, you may experience some problems stemming from standing water, as well. SERVPRO is skilled and experienced when it comes to maintaining our clients’ property, and we can help you be ready in the event of large loss water damage.
• If areas such as entryways, windows, and doors are not properly sealed against extreme wet conditions, large loss water damage is a definite danger. We can help you make sure they are free of standing water and debris, as well, if flooding occurs. Proper planning in this area can prevent injuries and costly repairs.
• Our professionals can help ensure that all areas around your buildings are kept free from flammable materials and that all plants and trees are trimmed well on a regular basis to prevent fires from spreading if they occur.
• State law requires that you post an evacuation plan in a visible place for your staff and customers. Make sure that your employees understand it and know how to carefully guide clientele to safe areas should a disaster occur. Have a phone tree established so that all employees are alerted to important information whether they are at work or at home. The SERVPRO of Boise team can help in creating a plan.

Our team here at SERVPRO of Boise is ready to help in case of disaster and large loss water damages, and the repairs your business may need in the aftermath. We are also experts in fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial restoration, and much more!

Classification of Water Damage in Your Home

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

In this post we will be explaining some of the basics of water damage and how it can affect your home and health. Water damage is the leading culprit when it comes to property damage and restoration service needs.

Now this actually surprises a lot of folks, when they hear water damage they usually imagine a flood from a nearby river, a natural disaster etc. While events as such do occur, there are more common ways for water damage to affect your home, including:

• appliance leaks from you fridge, ice machine, washing machines, etc.
• toilet overflows
• sinks and bath/shower overflows or left running without attendance
• broken/leaky water pipes within walls and ceilings
• drainage issues around the property
• roof leaks and compromised exterior
• rain/wind storms

As you can see, water damage can originate from either internal or external sources and once it gets into your home it is important to know what kind of water you are dealing with.

What do we mean by what kind of water? Well in the restoration industry we recognize water in THREE different categories:

• CATEGORY 1 – Also referred to as “Clean Water”, this means that the water originated from a sanitary source and does not generally pose a risk to our health.
• CATEGORY 2 – This could also be referred to as “Grey Water”, meaning it contains some contamination and would not be sanitary enough for human consumption, posing a health risk if ingested.
• CATEGORY 3 – Commonly known as “Black Water”, this is water that is grossly contaminated and could contain disease causing organisms, pathogens, and other harmful materials.

Now you know the 3 different categories of water and how it can enter into your home. Each of these different categories of water damage comes with their own do's and don'ts on how to deal with them. Restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Boise have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience to handle any water damage emergency. 

Dealing with Fire Damage in Your Home

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

The process involved will definitely differ depending on the severity and size of the fire and damage caused, as you can see in the image to your right this is quite severe fire damage. However the principles of fire damage restoration will for the most part be the same.

Like in most restoration projects the main goal you are trying to reach is preloss condition, that is you want your property to be restored back to how it was before the damages occurred; you want it to be safe, clean, free of smokey odors, and of course looking "Like it never even happened."

Now at this point we are going to assume that the fire has been put out, everybody is safe, and you are now looking at the damage caused and are wondering what to do next.

Before you start any work ensure that:

• the property is structurally sound and is safe to re-enter
• you have identified any safety hazards that may be present

As you re-enter the property you will want to get rid it of any lingering smoke and gasses that may still be present. You can do this by opening windows and doors and releasing them outside. In situations where there is a lot of smoke still lingering inside the property and you have neighbors close by then you will want to exhaust the air through an air filtration device (AFD). An AFD unit will process the air through a series of filters reducing its potency and potentially harmful contents.

Once you have taken care of these initial steps and are ready to assess what work needs to be done. You should be taking note of the two main types of possible damage; the obvious burnt and charred materials and the less obvious smoke and soot damage.

Now, you will need to make a decision whether to repair or replace the affected items or property. Any items or property that got burnt and charred will be easier to spot and will likely need replacement, if you are not sure on what to do with a certain item you should get it out of the property until your decision is made. As once we start the cleaning process we will want all burnt and charred materials out of the property.

Once all the burnt materials are out of the home you can start looking at what got damaged indirectly. It becomes trickier to decide whether to repair or to replace an item that has been affected by smoke and soot as the process can be difficult and costly.

Okay, so now you know the first few steps on how to get started on a fire damage restoration project. If your property has suffered a fire damage incident that is of a large scale or simply outside your comfort zone to handle yourself give SERVPRO of Boise a call at (208) 375-0300

5 Insurance Resolutions for 2019

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

Are you making a New Year's Resolution? Statistically, more than half of all resolutions fail... but they don't have to. We have some resolutions you can actually keep this year. Even better? You can accomplish most of these in January and be sitting pretty for the rest of the year, worry free with a simple insurance audit!

Update Home Inventory

Your home inventory is a tool that your agent can use to determine the right level of coverage for your homeowners insurance. Plus, if you have a claim, having an up-to-date inventory will benefit you and get your claim paid faster. If you haven't done an inventory on your home in a while, we have some tips on where to start. If you have completed an inventory, right after the holidays are and ideal time to update! Be sure to share the updated home inventory with your agent when you're done.

Right-Size Your Life Insurance

Life insurance is not one-size-fits-all. Your coverage needs to evolve over time. If you don't have a policy yet, now is a great time to talk to your agent about what type of policy would best suit your needs (and your budget.) We have six things you should consider when you are looking at coverage. 

If you do already have life insurance, is it working hard for you? Could you get more benefit out of your policy while you are still living? Maybe. Talk to your agent about the ways you can make your existing policy work for you and your family.

Earn Discounts

Did you know that you can play a part in determining your auto insurance rates? With Driveology, you have the chance to earn discounts based on your good driving behavior. You can also monitor your vehicle health and environmental impact in the process. 

If you have a teen driver in the house, you may be able to save even more with you Young Driver Safety program. With this program, drivers under the age of 25 can learn safe driving behaviors, and help you earn discounts on your auto policy premiums. 

Prepare for the Unexpected

You try to be as prepared as possible, but you never know what is right around the corner. Prepare for unexpected risks with an umbrella policy. Umbrella earns its name because the coverage arches over your vehicle and homeowner's insurance to provide an extra layer of protection: it starts where vehicle and homeowner's insurance liability limits stop. You might be surprised by all the things umbrella policies cover for an affordable price. 

Call Your Agent

When was the last time you evaluated your coverage's with your agent? Your agent can do an annual SuperCheck and make sure you are covered where you need it (and aren't paying for coverage's you've outgrown). Life changes fast, make sure your insurance keeps up. If you have been wondering if you could bundle your policies, need a different life insurance policy, or bought a new boat, you could use a SuperCheck. Contact your agent and schedule a brief review today.

With this new year, if you have resolved to save money, your agent may be able to help. Contact your agent today. It's an easy resolution to keep and can affect your bottom line all year. Can you say that for other resolutions?

5 Simple Steps for a Home Inventory

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

Five Simple Steps for an Insurance Home Inventory

You know how much you paid for that new TV; same for your computer. But what about those plastic bins of toys you keep under the stairs? Your collection of antique china? That expensive woodworking equipment? You might have already taken stock of the big things, but in an emergency, could you do a mental household inventory list and name all your valuables? That's why it's important to do a home inventory. For peace of mind, and for insurance purposes, a home inventory is just a smart move. It can help you decide how much and what type of homeowners' insurance to buy, speed up the claims process, and help verify losses for your income tax return. Where do you start? READ ON!

1. Starting a Household Inventory- Get Organized

First of all, you'll need to get organized. You'll want to document things like the insides of your tool boxes and closets; start a household inventory list. Tidy up; it's easier to see what you have if your possessions aren't in piles on the floor of your closet or crumpled up in a junk drawer.

2. Starting an Insurance Home Inventory- Method to the Madness

Before you start making your home inventory list, plan your starting point. Map your course through your household and move room to room methodically. By plotting your course in advance, you're saving yourself time and also decreasing your chances of missing important inventory items. For an insurance home inventory, remember to include your attic, garage, and even detached structures (like your shed).

3. Making a Home Inventory List- Document Everything

How you document your household inventory is important. Photography is your friend; go from room to room, taking pictures (or even video, provided you narrate!) as you go. Make special note of your most valuable items (jewelry, antiques, electronics) and where you keep them. It's also helpful to keep receipts and to note the serial numbers for your gadgets.

What type of items do you include on your household inventory list?

• Furnishings (bookcases, cabinets, couches, tables, drapes, lamps)
• Appliances (stove, washer/dryer, hair dryer, scale, vacuum)
• Electronics (Flash drives, gaming systems, tablets, chargers, computers, DVD collection)
• Lawn and Garden (patio furniture, lawn mower, snow blower, hoses, bikes)
• Antiques and Collectibles (baseball cards, dolls, signage, toys, stamps, coins, art)

What details do you include about the items on your household inventory list?

• Provide a general description of the inventory item
• List the quantity of those items
• Note the date each item was purchased
• Specify how much you paid for each item on your inventory list

4. Securing Your Insurance Home Inventory- Store It Somewhere Safe

You'll be tempted to keep the inventory list in your home, but that's definitely not the safest place. Create a private album on an online site like Flickr or on the Cloud, and label it "Home Inventory." Print your inventory and keep it in a safety deposit box. Whatever you do, don't keep your only record of your possessions on your property.

5. Maintaining Your Home Inventory List- Update it Frequently

Whenever you make a big purchase, or even just every couple of years, reevaluate. This is also a good excuse to de-clutter as you go. Remember, an out-of-date home inventory could hold up the claims process at a time when that's the last thing you need.

6 Things to Consider When Buying Life Insurance

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all life insurance policy. You might need more, or less life insurance than your neighbor down the road, depending on multiple factors. 

Of the 60 percent of Americans who have life insurance, 1 in 4 felt they needed more coverage.

Before shopping for a policy or purchasing additional life insurance protection, it's important to understand the factors that affect how much life insurance you need. So how do you determine how much life insurance you need? Here are six things to consider:

1. Income

The amount on your tax return plays a significant role in your life insurance calculations. The more you earn the more coverage you need. Your agent can help you determine how much life insurance you may need.

2. Debts

The proceeds from a life insurance policy need to take care of all of your debts, including mortgage balances, car loans, student loans, credit card balances or other debts that would be a burden to your family and will need to be paid in full. More debt necessitates more life insurance.

3. Savings

Review your existing assets. If you have significant savings and investments that can be used to cover burial/estate expenses, pay off debts and provide a financial cushion for your family, you'll need less life insurance than someone with few assets. 

4. Existing Coverage

Do you have life insurance coverage through an employer? One 2016 survey found 19 percent of policyholders had life insurance through work. Depending on the amount of that coverage, having your own policy may be a good idea.

5. Family Size

The more dependents you have, the more life insurance you need. In addition to thinking about the number of children depending on you for coverage, take their ages into consideration as well. You'll need more life insurance to protect young children through adulthood than you would for college graduates with their own policy.

6. Future Needs

Life insurance helps protect your family, and that means purchasing enough coverage for their future including educational expenses. When calculating your life insurance needs, determine how much it'll cost to send your children to college.

To determine how much life insurance you need, an online calculator is a good place to start. And you'll want to make an appointment with your agent for a detailed analysis of your life insurance needs. 

Important Message From: Idaho Department of Health & Welfare

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

Frequently Asked Questions About Radon

• What is radon and where does it come from?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in the soil.  It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless and invisible gas.

• How is radon measured?

Radon levels are measured in picocuries per liter of air or pCi/L.

• Can radon harm me and my family?

Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon causes 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the U.S. The risk of developing lung cancer from radon depends on the level of radon you are exposed to over a lifetime, as well as other genetic and environmental factors, such as if you are a smoker.

• How does radon cause lung cancer?

Long-term exposure to high radon levels can increase your risk of developing lung cancer.  When radon gas decays, it breaks down into radioactive particles that can get trapped in your lungs when you breathe.  As the particles continue to decay, they release small bursts of energy that can damage lung tissue and may lead to lung cancer in some people. 

• Is radon a problem in Idaho?

Yes, there are many areas throughout Idaho that have high levels of radon. For more information on radon levels where you live, call the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s Indoor Environment Program at 1-800-445-8647.

• How can I find what the radon levels are in my home?

Testing is the only way to know if you and your family are at risk from radon. There are two general tests for radon:  short-term and long-term. The quickest way to test is with a short-term test.  These tests provide a quick radon value within a brief period (typically three to seven days) of time.  Long-term tests are typically placed in the home for at least three months and may remain in the home for up to a year. Long term test kits give a better estimate of the amount of radon in your home throughout the year. 

• Where can I get a radon test kit?

You can purchase radon test kits from hardware stores, home improvement centers, online or other retail outlets.  Reduced price short-term radon test kits may be purchased by Idaho residents from Air Check. 

• When and where should I conduct the test?

Preferably test your home for radon in the winter. Your test should be performed on the lowest floor of your home where you spend time.  If you have a basement and spend time there, test in the basement.  Otherwise, test on the 1^st floor in a bedroom or spare room.

• I just received my test results, what do they mean?

The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that your home have radon levels below 4.0 pCi/L. If your levels are above 4.0 pCi/L you can test again to confirm your test results and/or mitigate your home to lower radon levels. If you have additional questions about your results, call the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s Indoor Environment Program at 1-800-445-8647.

• How can I reduce the radon levels in my home?

A quality radon mitigation system is able to reduce the amount of radon in your home to usually below 2 pCi/L.  Contact an experienced radon mitigation professional for more information or you may also choose to mitigate your home yourself.  There are many instructional videos on YouTube that can guide you through the process. 

• How much will it cost to reduce radon levels in my existing home?

Steps to reduce radon levels in your home depend on many factors. If you do it yourself, average costs for parts range from $300 to $600. The cost to have a certified radon mitigation specialist do the work in an existing home ranges from $1,500 to $2,500. Cost of installing radon-resistant features during construction runs from $300 to $500. Contact an experienced radon mitigation professionalfor more information.

• I'm building a new home, what can I do to prevent radon?

Discuss with your builder how to incorporate radon reduction techniques into the construction of your new home.  

• I'm buying a house, should I have it tested for radon?

Yes, before you buy a house, you should have the home tested for radon.  The most common procedure for testing during a real estate transaction is for the potential buyer to request the radon test as part of the overall home inspection.  If the test is near 4.0 pCi/L, you may negotiate with the seller to have a radon mitigation system installed with the goal of bringing radon levels below 4.0 pCi/L.

• I am a renter. Does my landlord have to test for radon if I ask?

No, your landlord is not legally required to test for radon. You may conduct the test yourself or ask your landlord to conduct the test.

• I tested my rental home and the results were high. Is my landlord required to reduce the radon levels?

No, your landlord is not legally required to reduce radon levels in your rental home. However, you may notify the landlord of the results and discuss with them the need for radon reduction repairs.

• Who can I contact for more information about radon?

If you have more questions about radon, please call the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s Indoor Environment Program at 1-800-445-8647.

Natural Catastrophes: Protect Yourself Before and After a Disaster Strikes

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Ensure proper coverage before a major event; know who you are dealing with after a storm hits.

Wildfires. Earthquakes. Hailstorms.

Mother Nature can be unpredictable. When it comes to natural disasters, ensuring proper coverage beforehand, and knowing whom to deal with to handle repairs in the aftermath can help protect your property and your finances from predatory and unscrupulous contractors looking to make a quick buck. 

"Unexpected events such as the hailstorms in southeastern Idaho this past spring serve as reminders of the value of catastrophe insurance. When making storm repairs, be diligent and always be sure to do business with a local, licensed contractor. 

Hail can quickly wreck havoc on your home and car. For autos, comprehensive coverage will safeguard your vehicle; however, a basic liability policy will not. When it comes to your home, hail damage is covered by a standard homeowner's policy, but coverage can be affected by factors such as where you live and the type of policy you have purchased.

Amy Lambrecht, a supervisor with the Department's Consumer Affairs division, says hundreds of claims have been filed as a result of the hailstorms in southeastern Idaho. She recommends the following tips to avoid becoming a victim of insurance fraud:

1. Be wary of door-to-door solicitors
2. Make sure contractors are licensed
3. Read all documents before signing anything
4. Keep copies of all documents signed
5. Be leery of contractors trying to provide "advice" about insurance coverage

Insurance industry statistics estimate hail damage to exceed $1 billion annually in the U.S., mostly to roofs and cars. Understand the risks of where you reside and the types of catastrophe coverage available. 

F1rst Responder Bowl

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

Do you know someone who deserves this award?!

SERVPRO is proud to be the sponsor of the first-ever First Responder focused bowl game and we extend a heartfelt thank you to all the brave men and women on the front-lines. Their courage and compassion is inspiring to all. We are grateful to live in a country where individuals dedicate themselves to protecting and serving their fellow citizens. We are humbled by their bravery and thank them for putting their lives on the line in order to save those around them. We thank them for their service and sacrifice.

The game will be played on December 26th in Dallas, TX. However and broadcast on ESPN; however, we have an exciting opportunity to take part, here in Boise, at the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl.

We are currently seeking nominees within the Treasure Valley community that are worthy of receiving the "Honor a Responder" award. To qualify, the nominee must have served in fire, police/law enforcement, EMT, National Guard, disaster relief, or military. This includes anyone who has been injured and returned to work, has saved lives during their career, entered retirement (but had served their community for many years), trained or mentored fellow First Responders, or has lost their life in the line of duty (their family members are encouraged to receive the award on their behalf). The nominee shall be someone who has accomplished something remarkable in 2018. The winner of this award, as well as their family and friends, will be given tickets to the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl on December 21^st and will receive media recognition. 

Please forward your nomination, to include the name, affiliation or department, and the reason you feel they deserve this award, via email to; marketing@SERVPROboise.com. The deadline is Monday, December 3^rd. The winner will be chosen by a separate panel of first responders and business community members, not SERVPRO of Boise employees.

We are also seeking persons interested in selecting a finalist. If you are one of those people or would like additional information please contact our marketing manager, Kelly Parziale, at 208-991-6880.

Thank you for your consideration and we look forward to bestowing a local First Responder with this honor for years to come. Because when we lift up those we depend on, we strengthen our ability to serve - our ability to make the memories of Fire & Water Damage "Like it never even happened." ®

Thanksgiving Fire Safety

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

For most, the kitchen is the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. From testing family recipes to decorating cakes and cookies, everyone enjoys being part of the preparations. With that being said, keeping fire safety top of mind during this joyous but hectic time is important, especially when there's a lot of activity and people at home. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safer. 

Statistics

• Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by the day before Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
• In 2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,760 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving.
• Unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in cooking fires and deaths.
• Cooking equipment was involved in almost half of all reported home fires and home fire injuries.

Safety Tips

• Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stove-top.
• Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
• Keep children away from the stove.
• Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids.
• Keep the floor clear so you don't have any slips, trips or falls.
• Keep knives out of the reach of children.
• Be sure electric cords are not dangling off the counter.
• Keep matches and utility lighter out of reach.
• Ensure your smoke alarms are in working condition.

Relocating to Boise?

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

Maybe you're moving to Boise to accept a job. Maybe you're doing it to be closer to your family. Or maybe you just want to experience something new. Whatever the case may be, moving out of state can be really intimidating. It can also be a logistical nightmare if you don't make the proper preparations. Fortunately, there are some relatively simple steps you can take to make your move as smooth as possible. Take a look at these 10 tips for moving out of state.

1. Do as much research on Boise as you can
2. Search for a new home
3. Use the move as an excuse to purge
4. Pack up the things you're going to move properly
5. Hire a reliable moving company
6. Save all the receipts related to your move
7. Forward your mail right before you move
8. Let your friends and family know you're moving
9. Obtain a new driver's license when you arrive
10. Take time to explore your new surroundings

Boise is a fast-growing city that's teeming with culture, natural beauty and job opportunities. It encompasses a whole lot of open spaces and a little bit of big city. This city boasts almost non-existent crime, great schools, friendly people and easy access to any outdoor activity you could dream of. Who wouldn't want to move here?

SERVPRO Assists Hurricane Victims in North Carolina

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

This is a photo of one of our teams in North Carolina

Hurricane Florence has caused unprecedented flooding and widespread devastation in North and South Carolina. In a four day period, many areas received up to 30 inches of rain resulting in catastrophic river flooding. Many rivers in these affected areas exceeded flood levels reached during Hurricane Matthew in 2016 by 2 feet. As of October 4th, 2 out of the 4 SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Teams remain activated in response to Hurricane Florence. Team Hughes is managing response efforts in North Carolina and Team Wilson is managing response efforts in South Carolina. SERVPRO has received over 9,300 job leads and counting. There are currently 131 Franchises involved in responding to those leads, totaling 338 crews. Supporting resources have been made available to ensure a congruent message is being sent to the public so they
hear ONE voice and experience ONE Brand.

Our owner Christian Isaacson and eight of our SERVPRO of Boise crew members have been in Hampstead and New Bern, North Carolina since the second week of September. We split our crew into two teams to allow us to help as many residents and business owners as possible. “You have entire neighborhoods, people crying out front and everything they've ever owned is essentially destroyed. Their house that they have worked their whole life for. Same thing with their business is out of business so they can't make revenue to pay the bills. So it's just a very humbling environment,” Isaacson said.

SERVPRO Assists Fire Victims in Redding, California

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Redding, California neighborhood completely leveled by the Carr Fire

Wildfires are a yearly, often tragic reality in the West Coast states. While we in the Treasure Valley area have been pretty fortunate in this regard, it is easy for us to empathize with those now facing loss from the historically large fires devastating parts of California. We at SERVPRO of Boise feel just as strongly about this, and we want to help.

This is why SERVPRO of Boise has sent a crew of technicians down to California to assist in the recovery and restoration effort. Our crews possess valuable skills, training, and experience related to both fire and water damage restoration that we want to put to use in areas where local resources are overwhelmed. Areas devastated by the Carr Fire are where our efforts have taken place.

The Carr Fire, located near Redding, began on July 23 from a trailer tire that went flat and started scraping the ground, causing sparks to ignite vegetation. Now four weeks old, the fire has burned 229,651 acres and is 88 percent contained. The fire has destroyed 1,079 homes and 22 commercial structures, making it the most destructive fire in Shasta County history. Eight deaths also have been linked to the fire. We at SERVPRO are confident that our team has been able to make a difference to some of the home and business owners affected by this tragedy.

SERVPRO of Boise is always standing by locally to respond if you have a water or fire emergency. Call us at (208) 375-0300 and we’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Summer Water Saving Tips

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Every state is experiencing the effects of drought, and saving water is on everyone’s mind these days. We waste a lot of water; our showers are too long, and we are often obsessed with an emerald green lawn. We need to change the way we handle and view water and leave behind the outdated and inefficient water management systems of the past.

Here are some tips that will help you save water this summer. Your water bill will be reduced, and you can save yourself some time into the bargain as well as doing some good for the Earth.

1. Water your yard in the cool parts of the day. Water evaporates more quickly when it’s hot, so run your irrigation system while it’s most likely to stay with your lawn. Make sure you are not watering your sidewalk or your driveway, too. A drip system works quite well in this respect. Replacing your thirsty lawn with a drought tolerant garden would be a great way to save water, and it won’t have to be mowed every week!
2. Check for leaky toilets. Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If the color shows up in the bowl, your tank is leaking, and could be wasting up to 100 gallons of water a day!
3. Take shorter showers. Trimming just two minutes off of your showers can save up to 1700 gallons of water a year. One way to do this is to turn off the shower while you shave or soap up. Install water-efficient shower heads, toilets, and faucets for a savings of thousands of gallons per year as well.
4. Cover the pool. Make sure the water in your pool stays there by covering it when you are not using it. This will prevent water loss by evaporation.
5. Use a car wash. Washing your car by hand can easily use 100 gallons of water, and takes a lot of time and effort, as well. Commercial car washes average 40 gallons or less!
6. Trap rain water. Collect the water from summer rain storms by getting a water barrel. You can reuse this water for your garden. Green roofs, rain gardens, and other water-saving techniques are called green infrastructure and go a long way towards saving this most precious resource. More and more landowners and city governments are choosing to invest in these and other innovative strategies as ways to save water, reduce pollution, and save millions, and even billions, in costs for new water tanks, tunnels, and other traditional water infrastructures.

SERVPRO of Boise is here to help you with all your home and business needs. Call us today at (208) 375-0300, or visit our website: SERVPRO of Boise

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert like SERVPRO.

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take in the face of a Treasure Valley commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle a Treasure Valley commercial fire successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert. 
Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records. 
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately. 
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building. 
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, Treasure Valley fires can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Call SERVPRO For Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Services 
If your business caught on fire, don't worry. Instead, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Boise and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process. Choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the sophisticated services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition, so call us now at (208) 375-0300 to attain your free estimate.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Boise is strategically located to respond quickly to your commercial fire emergency event. When commercial fire damage occurs we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (208) 375-0300

Dealing With Storm Damage To Your Property

7/10/2018 (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 Boise; 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 Boise 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 Boise team is ready to help 24/7. Call us for your fire or water damage issues at (208)375-0300, or visit our website: SERVPRO of Boise

SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Emergency READY Profile

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

SERVPRO of Boise 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. Fires 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

• Let the professionals help you. Work with an emergency restoration company for assistance in creating your emergency ready profile.
• Identify and label utility shut-off locations.
• Identify local utility contact information.
• Identify local emergency contact information such as fire, police, and hospital contacts.
• 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. 208-375-0300

Three Common Reasons for House Fires in Your Boise Home

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

If a fire starts in your home you may have as little as two minutes to escape. House fires can be devastating and the road to recovery is long and hard. Educating yourself on the leading causes for house fires and prevention is a step in the right direction to ensure that your family and home are safe.

Electrical Outlets

Many electrical fires in homes or businesses are caused by faulty electrical outlets, old wiring, outdated appliances or electrical cords that are frayed.

-If you live in an older home have an electrician complete an inspection. Standards and codes are constantly being revised and updated to ensure safety.

-Do not overload your circuits.

-Understand the difference between surge protectors and power strips. Both devices allow you to plug in multiple electronics, but only the surge protector will help protect your electronics from a power surge.

Kitchen Fires

Carelessness in the kitchen can lead to devastating house fires. The leading cause of kitchen fires is due to unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

-Never leave pots or pans unattended on your stove.

-Keeping your stove an oven clean will prevent buildup of food splatter and grease that could later ignite when the stove or oven is turned on for cooking.

-Keep any items that could ignite away from your stove top

-Ensure that you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen in case of emergency.

Dryers

Dryer vents are becoming a much bigger and more common safety problem. Over time, your dryer vent fills with lint that sneaks by your dryers filter. Fires can occur when the excess lint builds up in the dryer or exhaust duct.

-Clean out the dryer vent regularly.

-Clean the lint filter after EACH load of laundry that is dried.

-Clean underneath and behind your dryer to eliminate any lint that collects.

Different Types of Mold

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO crew member safely removing mold from a home.

From the Ordinary 

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified. Fungi produce some very useful results. Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods, and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages. The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold. An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum). Even though some forms of mold can pass value to our lives, other forms of mold can be harmful.  Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people. 

To the Unhealthy 

Intrusion of water into your home or place of business can result in mold growth. Water intrusion can result from storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth. Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply. Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall, and insulation, provide a food source for mold to flourish. Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health hazard for your family and pets. 

What are Plumbers Saying?

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

As a homeowner you should never underestimate the seriousness of drainage issues. Plumbers have weighed in and have given their expert opinion on what causes these issues and some tips on how to avoid them. Here are the four things to look for.

1. Recurring Clogs- If a clog returns, chances are that there is a deeper clog that needs to be looked at. 
2. Multiple Clogged drains-If you have several clogged drains, you may have a clog in your main drain.
3. Foul odor-Persistent sewer odors coming from your drain or drains can be a major sign of a drainage issue, don't ignore these smells. 
4. Flooding-One of the worst problems associated with clog drains is sewage backup. Getting a professional on the site as soon as you can will help you avoid a big problem.

Routine maintenance is key to keeping those drains open. Use drain catchers or less toilet paper. Remind your small children that toilets are not for playing in. Also, make sure that you run plenty of water into the garbage disposal after use. Just those few things help a lot. If you ever have water damage, call SERVPRO of Boise with your water needs. We will be there to clean up the mess those clogged drains made. 

How to Prepare For a Boise Flood

4/5/2018 (Permalink)

By: Beth Byce

Last year historic flooding cause damage to the Greenbelt, parks, bridges and Boise homes. Flooding can be unpredictable and leaves homeowners feeling like they have no control. Here is how to prepare for a flood:

• Check with City of Boise Floodplains Map to see if your home could be affected
• If you are within floodplain areas purchase flood insurance
• Have a battery operated radio with extra batteries to listen to the NOAA Weather Radio for updates
• Sand-bag doorways parallel to the direction of the flow and stagger the joints if multiple layers are needed
• Raise your furnace, electrical panel and water heater in your home to reduce potential damage
• Keep a first aid kit in your home
• Keep a three day supply of food and water (one gallon per person per day)
• Keep a seven day supply of all medical items and medication
• Take pictures of your home before and after any water damage
• Call SERVPRO of Boise if there is any water damage to your home

The Sensitive Nature of Mold

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

By: Winder Buchanan 

Nobody wants to hear the word mold. Since our youth we have been taught mold is bad and harmful to your health. If you have mold on your food you throw it away. If mold is in the air you pray for rain and head to the drug store for sinuses medicine. If mold is involved there is a problem, especially if it is in your house. But, luckily for everyone mold can be remediated. People forget there are mold spores all around us outside all the time. The purpose of a house is to protect you from the outside elements like keeping mold spores in nature. Some individuals are more sensitive to allergies than others. For any concerns on symptom’s and health safety you should ask a doctor.

Most people won’t find out about having mold until an event happens to cause them to look into it. The most common way to find out is during the buy/sell of a new home. The home inspector will go in the attic, the crawlspace, and check around all plumbing areas for signs of mold and moisture. Most people do not regularly check their crawlspace to see if a pipe is leaking or the snow melt has seeped into their crawl until it is too late.  As the Humidity increases and moisture evaporates to saturate the wood on the floor joist and sub floor, mold is able to grow.

Once, mold is discovered the panic starts to set in. What is it going to cost?, am I going to get sick?, and why do I have mold?. Mold Remediation is a common practice and can be done in a timely manner. Some specific steps must be taken to prevent cross-contamination (spreading mold spores to an area that originally was unaffected) to ensure it does correct. There are multiple ways to remediate mold depending on the building material, access to the area that is affected, and total square footage. Air sampling test post remediation is recommend because it is the only way to ensure the clean-up was done correctly and not just masked to come back at a later time. 

Building Material Saturation in Storm Events and Natural Disasters

3/29/2018 (Permalink)

This photo shows removed drywall and a dehumidifier drying out the affected material

By: Christian Isaacson

Natural disasters can be one of the most unpredictable and impactful weather events that a homeowner or tenant ever face. Often times natural disasters such as hurricanes, deep freezes, and flooding can strike with little to no warning. With this in mind, we must remember that people affected by these disasters typically have little to no time to plan for these events resulting in little to no preventative measures being taken. To put this into perspective, let us use a flood as an example. In a typical, non-storm event water loss you will often have smaller amounts of water affecting different building materials in your home or business. Typically when facing these smaller scale water damages you will find lower saturation levels being retained because the excess moisture has been cleaned up using a variety of methods. This is especially important to note as one of the biggest differences in standard water losses and storm water losses is the amount of time that the water is left to dwell on the building materials.

Whether you are facing a fire damage, water damage, or both, it is important to keep in mind that building materials most homes and business’ are built of are in fact porous materials. Regardless of the difference in porosity, almost all building materials can soak up a substantial amount of water especially if they are left unattended for extended periods of time as is the case with hurricane and other natural disaster evacuations.

So you may be asking yourself, what does this extended dwell time on building materials mean to the restoration of a home after the disaster has passed? Well the short answer is that more dwell time means that more dry time will be needed to restore the moisture levels back to normal. But there is still one more major step to restoring your home or business after a natural disaster and that is the removal of all of those building materials that cannot be dried efficiently. This means that some or most of the cosmetic building materials affected such as drywall will need to be removed as the structural integrity of such materials is often compromised.

Contractor Relations

3/29/2018 (Permalink)

This photo shows flooring and drywall removed, prior to reconstruction

By: Eric Knepprath

Not long-ago contractors survived on referrals from insurance agents and claims adjusters to build their business. Smart contractors built strong relationships with agents and adjusters and maintained a level of trust with them that would keep those referrals coming in. The main things that would drive and protect these relationships were being prompt, fair and honest estimating, communication, and providing great customer service. The industry has changed dramatically over the past 20 years and for several reasons direct referrals have become a thing of the past. Because of this shift in the industry, if you are not a national name or a vendor for every third-party administrator out there, it's getting more difficult to find a consistent workflow than ever before. 

Because of the way the national contracts work, contractors end up working with independent claims adjusters or staff adjusters that are not always local. All communication is done by email and phone and the contractor is relied upon to provide accurate information to the carrier so they can settle the claim. At SERVPRO of Boise we believe those practices that kept our referrals coming in the past are ore important than ever before. If the insurance company is going to rely on us to provide them the information they need to help our customer, we have a much larger obligation in this process than before. We have to be quick, accurate, and thorough so that customer and adjuster have the information they need to keep the process moving forward. Understanding that our clients didn't plan for this project and doing everything we can to make it a smooth process for all parties is what sets us apart from the competition. 

Fire Damage Restoration

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

Complete fire loss due to a kitchen fire

Boise Fire Damage Restoration

A fire can be devastating to any Boise home, causing severe fire damage, affecting its look and value. The restoration process is complex and requires the services of fire remediation experts like SERVPRO of Boise.

The Fire Restoration Process

There are several techniques used to restore a home after a fire. The main goals are to remove anything that cannot be salvaged, extract all excess water, thoroughly dry everything and rebuild all damaged areas.

Water and Mold Issues

One of the effects of fire damage is the water left over after the fire is out. Furniture, drywall, floors, and carpets are soaked and provide a prime breeding ground for mold and mildew. SERVPRO utilizes large fans and powerful dehumidifiers to dry out your home in preparation for cleaning and rebuilding.

The Cooling and Heating System

The filter and coils of an HVAC system of a home are often blocked by soot and particulates from a fire. The parts must be replaced, and the cost depends on the amount of damage caused by smoke and heat. The ductwork must also be checked for soot buildup as it will cause problems if not removed.

Rebuilding the Home

A home that is left structurally unsound by fire damage will need to be reinforced and rebuilt. While this can done through independent contractors, the SERVPRO Boise remediation service team can take care of the rebuilding process, reducing stress and worry for the homeowner.

Removal of Damaged Items

Part of the fire restoration process is the removal of anything that cannot be saved. If smoke-damaged items are allowed to remain, they may contaminate the home. SERVPRO may be able to help with salvageable items or can make recommendations for their repair.

A fire is a sudden, disruptive life event and working with a professional fire remediation service like SERVPRO is the fastest way to clean and restore a home. Our experts will get things back to normal with minimal stress to the homeowner and will often cost less than hiring additional contractors. Most home insurance policies will pay for at least part of the remediation costs.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, we work and live in Boise too. We are close by and ready to respond immediately when you need cleaning or restoration services.

We're Fire and Water Damage Specialists.  Call us to help you.  (208) 375-0300

Water Damage From a Burst Pipe

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

This home had a pipe burst in the ceiling causing damage to both floors of the home.

Water Damage in Boise from a Burst Pipe Should be Promptly Addressed

A burst pipe can cause significant water damage in a home.  Water leakage can also be terribly expensive, possibly causing personal schedule changes and insurance claims. Additionally, mildew and mold can become a problem long after the initial damage. Thankfully, there are experts in water damage that can help the problems from a burst pipe be much more manageable.

Leaking Pipes

Pay attention to leaking pipes! Diligence can minimize the collateral damage from a burst pipe. Pay attention to where water has leaked. The water and moisture may have already caused a small amount of damage. Call a professional to determine the best course of action as soon as possible. An inexperienced homeowner attempting to fix the problem may just make it worse.

Preventing Structural Damage

The possibility of structural damage is the key reason homeowners should be extra vigilant regarding the plumbing in their homes. Structural damage may be difficult to spot. You should always contact an experienced contractor such as SERVPRO Boise to assess possible structural damage from leaky or burst pipes.

Mold Hazards

Mold is another serious problem that stems from water damage. Mold can be particularly vexing to homeowners. Because mold is living, it can grow and fill large portions of a home without the homeowner being aware. Eventually, mold can lead to structural damage. Mold can be in basements, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Mold removal can be a very difficult task once a foothold has been secured.

Additional Considerations

The above factors illustrate how complicated the ramifications of a burst pipe can be. A homeowner should not attempt to deal with any of these issues without the assistance of an expert well versed in water damage repair and mold remediation. The skills needed to deal effectively with mold, structural damage, and leaking pipes are beyond the average homeowner. Homeowners that attempt these tasks quite often worsen the existing problems. It is always best to hire an expert to inspect the damage after experiencing a burst pipe. SERVPRO Boise has the experience as a full-service water restoration company to rectify and repair all the problems related to a burst 
pipe.  Solving the problem of a burst pipe correctly will protect the investment of your home for years to come.

Water Damage Recovery Defined

3/27/2018 (Permalink)

This garage was flooded due to a water heater bursting

Water Damage Recovery Defined

It is very important to make sure water damage recovery is done properly when you are coping with the consequences of a flood or house fire. There is a lot that goes into water damage recovery, and you should understand how crucial it is do know all about the possible dangers of events that could take place when you are going through the recovery process in your house. It is important to understand that you should not be attempting to take on the process all by yourself; you should always enlist the help of a professional restoration company. This is because a professional company will have the needed expertise, experience, and equipment to go through the process in a safe and effective manner. When you are trying to figure out the ideal way to go about the water damage recovery process, it may be beneficial to be knowledgeable about what it entails.

The Water Damage Recovery Process Entails Removing Excess Water from Your House

One of the key parts of water damage recovery is that the process entails removing and cleaning up any excess water that is in your house after a flood or house fire has taken place. Within 24 hours of either of these events, mildew and mold can potentially start to grow and thrive in your home. As such, it is extremely important that you start cleaning up the excess water right away. If you do not do this, the secondary damage (mildew, mold, bacteria, etc.) that can develop can actually cause more destruction to your home than the original flood or house fire did. There are several steps involved in cleaning up water damage that is in your house, and among the most crucial of these steps is drying up the excess water, so that you stop any growth of mildew and mold. When you hire a professional company for this purpose, they will use industrial-grade dehumidifiers to cause the excess water in your house to evaporate, and then begin the repairs that are needed on your house. Make sure to remember that you should enlist the help of a professional when you are dealing with water damage. You should not enter your home after a flood or house fire without the approval of a professional, as you do not know if it is safe to do so without this.

The Water Damage Recovery Process Entails Reparation and Restoration of Your House

The SERVPRO Boise water damage recovery process involves not only the cleaning and removal of excess water, but the repairing of areas in your home and restoration of the building to how it was before the event. Your home may have structural and/or electrical damage if the water damage is severe. Before you can safely move back in, a professional restoration company will need to do the appropriate repairs, which could potentially take several weeks or several months if the damage is severe. In order to figure out which repairs need to be done, it is important to hire a professional company, who can give you an accurate assessment.

When your home needs to go through a water damage recovery process, it is important that you consult a professional restoration company, because they will have all of the resources that will enable them to take on the task. Additionally, they can have several different contractors on site at the same time to make sure that your home will be safe for you to enter. If you would like to know more about these companies, contact a professional company with any questions you may have.

Water Damage Restoration

Basement flooding or storm damage doesn't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. We respond to your residential or commercial water removal and cleanup needs. Our fast response time and advanced drying methods help prevent secondary damage and mold. Common causes of water damage are:

• Flooding caused by severe weather
• Plumbing leaks
• Sink, bathtub or toilet overflow
• Sewage backup

Space Heater Safety Tips

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

9 Do's When it Comes to Space Heaters

1) Keep the heater at least 3 feet away from combustible materials, including beds, sofas, curtains, papers, clothes, etc.

2) Make sure the heaters power cord is not damaged or frayed in any way.

3) Make sure the heater is securely plugged into the power outlet. Ensure it does not come loose or fall out. 

4) Ensure your heater is on a stable and level surface with minimal risk of it getting knocked over.

5) Make sure your space heater has been certified as safe to use. You should see a safety logo on the back somewhere.

6) Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.

7) Ensure your unit is turned off when you go to sleep, in a different room, or unable to keep an eye on it.

8) It is wise to teach everyone in your household how to properly operate your heater.

9) If your space heater requires fuel, make sure you refill it with the right kind... or you will most likely cause a fire. 

What to do if Your Boise Home Has Mold Damage

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

Visible moisture reading

For the vast majority of homeowners in Boise, mold damage does appear, at some point, in or around their property. And, a little spot of mold around the bathtub or the shower screen is nothing to be too concerned about. If it can be easily wiped away and does not produce a nasty smell, it is likely to be a good problem. 

However, if you have spotted creeping patches of mold, which has an unpleasant odor, and makes the room feel clammy and uncomfortable, it is time to call in the experts. It could indicate a serious problem with mold damage. If this is the case, it needs to be handled by a professional team who can make sure that the unhealthy material is completely removed. 

Understanding Containment 

The first thing that will happen, after you have consulted a professional SERVPRO mold damage restoration service, is a discussion about containment. This may mean a number of different things, depending on how extensive the mold is and what type of spores you have in your home. If the problem is severe, containment may have to involve you temporarily moving out of the property. 

However, this is quite a rare situation. Most homeowners take action early enough for it to be avoided. Partial containment helps restoration experts limit the spread of mold damage. Our professionals will seal off the problem area so that movement cannot dislodge and carry mold spores to other parts of the home. This is where heavy duty equipment will be set up to dry, repair, and treat the affected space. 

The Outcomes of Mold Remediation

The primary goal of mold remediation is to restore the property to its pre-mold damage condition. In some cases, this will not be possible. If the damage is very extensive, there may be some parts of the building which cannot be saved. This is extremely rare, however, and a skilled mold restoration team is almost always able to bring a home back to full health. 

The thing to remember is that the quicker you address the issue, the better the chance of a full recovery for your property. If you ignore what appears to be chronic mold, you risk the chance of it moving into walls and floors. This is much harder (and much more expensive) to repair, so invest your money in affordable prevention, rather than a costly cure. 

SERVPRO of Boise is an IICRC Certified Firm

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops the Standards for The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Boise

SERVPRO of Boise specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.

• Meet Our Crew
• SERVPRO Boise Certifications

Why your Business wants an IICRC Certified Restoration Company

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

When Boise water damage impacts your commercial property, you want professionals to help get you back in business. SERVPRO of Boise works closely with insurance companies to get you back up and running in a quick manner.  As business leaders know, contacting a professional water damage restoration company is typically the first step to restoring your property. However, many individuals do not know how to select the most exceptional, ethical company. If this is the case for you, it's important to know that hiring an IICRC-certified company will prove advantageous. Learn more about why this is the case by reviewing this short outline: 

• What Is The IICRC?

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a professional certification organization within the restoration, cleaning, and inspection industries.

• How Do Companies Obtain Certification?

To obtain IICRC certification, water remediation companies have to conform to specific criteria. Some of the criteria include:

1. Provide consumers with accurate data
2. Conduct business processes with integrity and honesty
3. Ensure that a trained technician is present for all work assignments
4. Ensure that a continuing education program is in place
5. Maintain policies for written complaints
6. Hold liability insurance

• Why Choose an IICRC-Certified Company?

There is a wide variety of forms water damage can take. Some of them include flooding, a burst pipe, sump pump overflow, and sewage backup. Irrespective of the cause; however, the end result is substantive damage. In fact, standing liquid can lead to severe property damage as well as mold infestation. For this reason, it's essential that you attain water damage restoration services from a qualified team of professionals.

Doing a Google search for the key phrase "water damage restoration" will produce over 500,000 results. To narrow your selection, it's a good idea to limit your search to companies that have obtained their certification from the IICRC. Because the IICRC is efficient in establishing reference guides and industry standards regarding water damage restoration and mold removal, companies that have been certified by the organization will likely offer you the excellent, effective services you want.

SERVPRO of Boise also offers  24/7 365 service for their customers. You can call 208-375-0300 for your commercial emergency.

Cooking up Commercial Kitchen Fire Safety

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

Statistics Restaurant Owners Should Know

During 2006-2010, an estimated average of 7,640 structure fires in eating and drinking establishments were reported to U.S. fire departments per year, with associated annual losses of:

• Two civilian deaths
• 115 civilian injuries
• $246 million in property damage

In eating and drinking establishments, direct property damage per fire was 75% lower when a wet pipe sprinkler system was present, compared to fires with no automatic extinguishing equipment present.

Fires are less common during the overnight hours (from Midnight to 6 a.m.) but cause more property damage.

Structure Fires in Eating and Drinking Establishments by Major Cause (2006 - 2010)

Fires

1. Cooking equipment 57%
2. Heating equipment 10%
3. Electrical/Lighting equipment 7%
4. Smoking material 7%
5. Intentional 5%

Property Damage

1. Cooking equipment 40%
2. Electrical/Lighting equipment 13%
3. Intentional 10%
4. Heating equipment 7%
5. Smoking Material 5%

Total annual property damage for eating and drinking establishments = $246 million

http://blog.encorefireprotection.com/blog/commercial-kitchen-fire-safety-statistics-restaurant-owners-should-know

If your commercial kitchen is affected by a fire or in need of a deep clean call SERVPRO of Boise at 208-375-0300. 

We’re Fire and Water Damage Specialists

As fire and water restoration specialists, we have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.

• Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• Water Damage Restoration Technician

When Storms or Floods Hit Boise, SERVPRO is Ready!

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding in Boise

SERVPRO of Boise 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 Boise 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 Boise, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 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 208-375-0300

Disaster Recovery

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Boise not only covers all of the Treasure Valley, but is also a part of all four national SERVPRO storm teams. As a storm team we organize and manage efforts in all 50 states if a wide-spread disaster were to strike. During these catastrophic events, storm teams will mobilize in the area bringing a large number of crews, equipment, and resources to customers affected. Each storm team is managed from one office, where the team receives customer information, organizes that information and responds to the customer quickly and professionally. We recruit crews starting with the closest to the affected area and move outward in concentric circles to ensure we are "faster to any size disaster." As a SERVPRO national response team we respond to disasters as large as Hurricane Harvey and Irma to local flooding or freeze events. 

Most recently the United States has been hit with a few hurricanes including Harvey in the Houston, TX area and Irma hitting the Florida Keys. Northern California was also hit with severe wildfires. Unfortunately, a lot of people were affected by these natural disasters and these jobs are still being taken care of and will be for a long time to insure the homes are in preloss condition. We are thankful that SERVPRO of Boise could be of assistance during these difficult times. 

Gratitude: A Story of Storm Life in California

3/15/2018 (Permalink)

Remains from a wildfire that swept through some of California's most prized wine regions.

By: Kati Sheldon

Upon arrival in Santa Rosa, California in October of 2017, my first thoughts were gratitude: gratitude for sunny skies and palm trees; tepid weather and the smell of eucalyptus. This quickly changed as I was immediately driven through what can only be described as devastation. Entire blocks and neighborhoods had been burned to the ground, leaving ash filled water in dingy swimming pools and still smoking cars in driveways. Sometimes, one home would be left unscathed, with all the surrounding houses sacrificed to the flames due to the ever changing winds. But as our wonderful team worked so diligently and humbly to help the families in the Santa Rosa, Sonoma, and Napa areas whose still standing homes were affected, my mind came back to gratitude. The families showed so much gratitude by allowing us into their homes and lives to provide top quality restoration and give them a new start amidst tragedy. Gratitude radiated from the people at the Rosa Center for Contemporary Art, who put their faith in our team to restore multiple buildings on their grounds, even in the midst of art installations, office hours, and musters of peacocks (the museum’s mascots). And I couldn’t walk away from the experience without feeling immense gratitude towards SERVPRO of Boise and SERVPRO Corporate itself. I am so grateful to work for a franchise and a company that gives so much and works so hard to help our fellow man. I am grateful to work for a company whose service, each passing day, goes above and beyond. This is why SERVPRO exists and this is why gratitude is given.

Call SERVPRO for Water Damage Repair Services in Boise

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

You never want to discover a water damage in your home, but the unfortunate reality is that many homeowners will have to deal with this problem at some point. How you handle the water damage is important because a fast response may minimize the chance of mold growth in your home. There are a few steps that you can take when you discover water damage in your home.

Stop the Flow of Water

In some instances, you will not be able to stop the flow of water into the property. For example, if there is a major flood related to a severe thunderstorm, floodwaters may rise all around the property, and you may not have any way to stop the flow of water. On the other hand, if the flood is related to a damaged pipe in the home, you may be able to turn off the main water valve to stop the flow of water. You can also call a plumber so that the repair work on the pipe can be completed and they can assist you in finding the source of the leak. 

Dry Out the Property

If you have water damage in your home, your next step should be to remove the water and dry out the property. These steps need to be taken quickly to help prevent the possibility of mold growth in the home. SERVPRO of Boise offers professional remediation services to help you dry out the property the correct way. Our team of professionals will extract the water and place equipment to properly dry the property to it’s pre-damaged conditions.

Call for Professional Assistance

No one wants to deal with water damage in their home with moisture that can lead to mold growth. Professional water damage remediation is available to help you overcome the damage in your home quickly. SERVPRO of Boise  is the company to contact when you discover water damage in your home. SERVPRO of Boise is a local company that offers an immediate response to requests for service in the community. Call us today at (208) 375-0300 for 24-hour assistance!

Water Damage in a Basement

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen in any area of your home. However, the basement offers its own unique challenges when it comes to water damages. The most common type of water damage in the basement results from broken water pipes. The first step is to turn off the water at the main valve. You'll need to start cleaning up right away to prevent mold, mildew and bacteria from forming. 

It is important that you remove rugs, furniture and other items that have gotten wet. Take them outdoors where they can completely dry in the sun. Use a heavy-duty vacuum cleaner that is made especially for water cleanup. A submersible pump is a good tool to use if you can rent one. Use a powerful fan to finish drying the room. 

Choose a professional water restoration company like SERVPRO Boise. These types of companies have both the experience and the equipment to remove the water in basement. Call your insurance agent to see if your policy will cover water or flood damage. Water can seem behind walls and other places where major damage can occur. 

Water damage in the basement can also cause structural damage. If this is the case, it will cost a lot more money than simply hiring a restoration expert. Underground water seepage can cause the surrounding ground to shift. Evidence of this type of damage is found with cracks along the walls and ceilings.

Do not hire a carpet cleaning service to restore your basement. They may not have the experience, education or skill to complete the job right. Instead, look in your local yellow pages for an actual fire and water restoration company. Pay careful attention to the contract before you sign it. Most restoration companies will guarantee their work. 

Floods and water emergencies can happen to any homeowner. Be prepared for this type of emergency by choosing experts before you need them. A water emergency can occur in your utility room where your washer and dryer is found. Other common places include the dishwasher, refrigerator with ice maker and pipes underneath the house.

Know where your water main cutoff is located before an emergency. Turning off the water will prevent further damage while you wait for a professional restoration company to come to your home.

SERVPRO of Boise professionals provide fire and water damage restoration services. 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure.

What to Expect When You Call SERVPRO of Boise

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Our location right in the heart of Meridian, Idaho!

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call SERVPRO of Boise Today

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Boise has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information including your phone number and email address
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?
• Is there standing water (if applicable)?
• What year was the home or business built?

About SERVPRO of Boise

SERVPRO of Boise specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

·         Meet our Crew

·         Certifications and Affiliations

SERVPRO: Your First Choice for Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in an Idaho Business

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO: Your First Choice for Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in an Idaho Business

Fire damage in Idaho can be very inopportune for a business owner. If a fire strikes your place of business, the result can be primary and secondary water damage, along with possible structural damage caused by the combustion. Firefighter’s efforts to douse the flames can leave large volumes of water behind. Additionally, business owners will often find that their employees feel unsafe working in the office due to health and sanitation issues. Dealing with fire damage is also challenging given that management teams may have to deal with the loss of valuable inventory, expensive equipment, and important documents. Finally, business owners will be faced with the task of contacting organizations such as the fire department and their insurance provider following the fire. To ensure that you can effectively grapple with your roles and responsibilities following a fire, you should obtain professional assistance from a trained team of fire damage restoration experts. Learn why SERVPRO is the best company to offer you these services by reviewing the following outline:

How SERVPRO Can Assist You:

The by-products of fire can be more severe and costly than the actual fire damage itself. They include water, smoke, and soot damage that results from the flames. If of any size and severity, then the professionals from SERVPRO Boise should be called in. The experts are trained to assess thoroughly the extent of the fire damage and subsequently determine the best course of action for restoration. Depending on the business, the contents that are under duress, documents, cash, and records, may be of more value than the structural damage. Our remediation experts will help you save and restore as much important material as possible. Our goal is always to minimize your expenditures and get your doors re-opened.

Our Talented Technicians

When it's time for you to find the ideal commercial fire damage restoration company, you should select a business known for employing capable technicians. And here at SERVPRO, that's precisely how we operate. Our trained technicians are IICRC-certified and known for offering exceptional customer service. The professionals at SERVPRO also specialize in many aspects of the restoration process, including upholstery restoration, fire damage restoration, and water damage restoration. This encompasses efforts of water removal, drying, cleaning, repairing and restoring whenever possible. Our team offers 24-hour emergency service. Finally, SERVPRO can and will work with the majority of insurance providers to optimize the restoration timeline and to minimize costs.

Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of Boise has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial fire damage emergencies. Whether your fire emergency occurs in a restaurant, motel, or office building, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Boise
• Meridian
• Star
• Eagle
• Middleton
• Ontario, OR
• McCall
• Donnelly
• Mountain Home
• Twin Falls
• Jerome

If your business experiences a fire loss, call the fire and water damage restoration experts and we’ll respond immediately to get you back to business. (208) 375-0300

Why Professionals Should Clean Smoke Damage from a Fire

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

This home was damaged due to a kitchen fire, the entire home had to be packed out and cleaned.

When firefighters leave, your home or business may seem safe from further destruction, but without professionals to help clean the smoke damage, the building will never return to normal. That’s why you can trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Boise to restore your home back to normal. Our team has the experience and the manpower to perform fire damage restoration services adequately. 

Once the Fire is out, your home or business needs to be restored

Ash and smoke, if left unhindered, will cause extensive corrosion, etching and discoloration. There can also be very disruptive, powerful odors. The professionals at SERVPRO of Boise clean fire and smoke damaged to stop this before it becomes an extensive problem. There are many companies that advertise their ability to restore areas affected by fire, but only those with proper training and certification should be considered. The IICRC is the main oversight in this industry and requires its registrants to take extensive coursework before earning their certifications.

Start Restoration as Soon as Possible

Our professional can clean smoke damage and restore items affected by a fire, but they must be brought to our site as soon as possible to halt the ongoing issue that smoke residue can cause. After a few days ash will cause walls to discolor permanently, along with clothing and upholstery, wood and vinyl will need to be refinished or replaced, and metal will start corroding. Our team of experts will identify what can and cannot be salvaged and will assist in the removal of non-salvageable items. All of your items will be handled with the utmost care and documented using iCat Contents Management software immediately. The entire process takes extremely thorough cleaning and attention to detail. Hiring the professionals at SERVPRO of Boise will ensure your home or business is taken care of and returned to its pre-disaster state.

Reconstruction May be Necessary

In the event of a fire, water and smoke can drastically affect the structure of your home or business. This is why it is imperative to hire a team that can take care of all of your needs in one place. SERVPRO of Boise is proud to take care of our customers from start to finish; we will clean and restore your home or business and items and can also perform all of the reconstruction repairs to your property.

If you have had a fire, call us today! (208) 375-0300

Water Leaks Can Cause Mold Damage

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

This mold damage was caused by a leaking drainage line from a washing machine.

Water Leaks Can Cause Mold 

A leaky faucet in your home can be very annoying, but it has the potential to be much more than an annoyance. The moisture caused by leaks can make your home into the perfect environment for Spring mold growth. Mold spores may cause health effects and can grow rapidly if you fail to notice a leak shortly after it starts, especially in humid climates. Knowing the risks that mold presents and quickly fixing your water leaks can help to protect your home from mold growth. 

About Mold Growth

Mold growth will begin in areas of your home that are wet. The mold spores will land on moist surfaces and then start to germinate. The materials on which mold can grow include:
• Sheetrock
• Tile
• Painted surfaces
• Carpet
• Wood

Indications of Mold Growth Due to Water Leaks

If you see black and white spots in the area of the leak, this is a sign that you have mold. Kitchens and basements are some of the areas in your home where there is a high risk of mold growth as these areas are prone to leaks. It is therefore important that you properly maintain your plumbing fixtures.

Preventing Mold Growth after Fixing Leaks

If you discover a water leak, have it fixed as soon as possible to minimize the potential for mold growth. After the leak has been fixed, use a mild detergent to wash the area and then allow it to dry completely. After it has dried, thoroughly wipe the area with bleach to kill any spores present. Boric acid also effective at killing mold spores and can be used as a substitute for bleach. Be sure to keep kids and pets out of the area while handling chemicals.

Get Professional Assistance

If there is a part of your home that is prone to water leaks, contact a plumber. If there are hidden problems that are causing leaks to recur, you may not be able to find them yourself. A licensed plumber who is experienced at finding and fixing leaks will be better able to find and fix the issues. Your plumber will also be able to advise you on how to maintain your plumbing to prevent water leaks and mold growth in the future.

Understanding Mold

Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors, making it impossible to remove all molds from a home or business. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

Preventing Electrical Fires with Nine Easy Tips

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Preventing Electrical Fires with Nine Easy Tips

In today’s society, people are working overtime to meet the pressures of daily life. With technology and electronic accessories being an inescapable part of day-to-day activities, it means that electricity is in high-demand, and it is working around the clock in the home setting. Children need their cell phones charged at all times to keep in touch with their parents, and adults use their computers late into the night to complete work assignments. When work and school are done, dinner needs to be cooked with the appliances in the kitchen and the family likes to unwind with television, video games, music, and a multitude of various electronic devices. In addition, electricity is needed to heat and cool the home and run light fixtures. Undoubtedly, homes today are generating a tremendous amount of electricity, and the greater the electric load, the greater the risk of electrical-related fires. It should be noted that, according to Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), Idaho electrical fires cause approximately 51,000 fires in the home that result in close to 500 deaths, more than 1,400 injuries, and approximately $1.3 billion in property damage per year. Following are nine safety measures one can adhere to in order to reduce the risk of electrical fires in one’s home:

1. On a regular basis, have the home inspected for loose wires, shorts, and faulty wiring that increase the risk of potential electrical fires, as electrical wiring eventually needs to be replaced. This is especially pertinent if one lives in an older home. Signs that faulty wiring is a pressing issue can include flickering lamps, buzzing outlets, or outlets that spark when an electronic device is plugged in. If one of these indications occurs, do not delay in in hiring a certified electrician to give the home an inspection to determine if the wiring is safe or if it is in need of rewiring.
2. Install a smoke detector on every level of the home and inside each bedroom. It is vital to make sure the smoke detectors are working properly by testing them every month. Test the detectors to ensure that all members of the home know the sound of the smoke detector. Also, create a plan so that the entire family knows what to do in case of an actual fire. Once a plan is in place, practice each aspect of fire-escape strategy to guarantee its success.
3. Utilize safety measures with electric cords. This includes replacing cords that are loose, frayed, or contains cracks. Never place cords in areas that receive a large volume of foot traffic, such as under mats or carpeting. Avoid tacking cords to surfaces with nails or staples. If an extension cord is being used on a long-term basis, consider having outlets installed by a certified electrician nearer to your electronic devices.
4. Only use the correct wattage light bulbs in all fixtures. If the wattage is higher than the requirement noted on the lamp or appliance, replace the bulbs immediately. Firmly secure light bulbs in the socket to safeguard them from overheating.
5. Use a surge protector to guard appliances and other electronics in your home. ESFI says it is important that homeowners use a surge protector that is equivalent to the equipment one has while keeping in mind that they only protect the items that are directly plugged into them. Note that there are two basic types of surge protectors: the power strip accompanied by a surge protector and the wall-mount surge protector. When buying a surge protector, locate one that has the Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) mark of approval and always avoid overloading it. As with wiring, surge protectors will eventually need to be replaced, especially if the home experiences a large surge or frequent power surges.
6. Store flammables away from electrical appliances. It is helpful to establish a safe, designated area for flammable chemicals in your home.
7. As the average daily temperature declines, portable space heaters run a high risk of electrical fires. Other risks include lamps, blow dryers, hair straighteners, and clothing irons. Any object made of fabric, such as towels and bath mats, can quickly ignite and spread fire rapidly.
8. Place a fire extinguisher in all major rooms of the home, such as kitchen, bedrooms, and laundry room. The National Fire Protection Association suggests a multi-purpose extinguishers that carry and “A, B, C,” combination classification while also carrying the label of an independent testing laboratory. Have all family members read the instructions on how to use the fire extinguisher. Extinguisher are useful in containing small fires until the fire department arrives, but the first priority should be getting one’s family out of the home safely.
9. Arcs cause numerous electrical fires every year, but this can be combatted by installing an Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) breaker in the home. Arcs in the home’s electrical system occur when an electrical current flows through an inadvertent path generating a sudden, high temperature in electrical wires. When this happens, the extreme temperatures can easily ignite other combustible materials surrounding it, such as wood or insulation. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association says having an AFCI breaker offers greater fire protection for homeowners than a standard circuit breaker. An AFCI monitors the circuits in your home for the presence of hazardous arcing conditions and instantly disconnects the damaged circuit before the arc has time to build enough heat to cause a fire. As of 2008, the National Electrical Code has required new homes to have AFCI protection, but the code varies from state to state, and older homes are at greater risk due to aging electrical wiring. As always, have a qualified electrician install the AFCI breaker.

Reducing the risk of electrical fires in one’s home is relatively simple, but the safety benefits are worth a great deal of peace-of-mind.

What to Do After a Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers. 

What NOT To Do After a Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

Be Careful! Without Proper Training, You Could Be Spreading Mold Throughout Your Home

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Boise for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Boise specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (208) 375-0300

Mold and Your Commercial Building

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

From time to time we run into some fallacies about mold when talking with commercial property and operations team members. While unintentional, many of these fallacies could raise the risk factors for those involved in the cleanup and in the affected area. Whether it’s failing to address the risk factors associated with mold, not remediating contributing factors to the initial growth, or failing to properly identify cleanup methods- mold misconceptions can greatly interfere with the clean-up process.

Myth #1- “Just spray some bleach on it”

One risk factor that we see frequently is failing to mitigate mold properly. According to the CDC, the key factors to controlling mold is monitoring humidity levels, fixing leaky roofs & pipes, thoroughly cleaning and drying affected areas, and ventilating areas prone to moisture. [4] Again, per the CDC, “The best practice is to remove the mold and work to prevent future growth.”

We all loathe intrusions into our spaces. And it would be nice if things always had a quick and easy fix. Spraying a chemical is often part of the mold mitigation process, but rarely the only part of the process. Rarely will professional restoration companies recommend bleach as a suitable treatment for mold growth.

Picture this: It doesn’t make any sense to start cleaning up your yard after a storm if the winds and rains are still ongoing, right? Similarly, the restoration process needs to address risk factors to prevent environmental problems. If water intrusion is still occurring, there will be little any restoration professional can do until the source of moisture is stopped. Often times it will be necessary to coordinate with other contractors and professionals, like plumbers and roofers, to solve an environmental problem and fix potential sources of moisture.

Myth #2- “I don’t want to remove anything”

Finally, we come to the actual cleanup process itself.

Frequently, we are asked as restoration professionals to sign off on an environment where the wet and affected materials have not yet been removed. This goes against the recommendations and standards set by organizations like the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). As long as moisture remains in an environment, mold will continue to be a problem. In addition, many materials, like insulation and drywall, may need to be removed to prevent further mold growth [5]. The bottom line is this: as long as materials that have reached peak saturation levels remain in an environment, the risk for future mold growth remains greatly elevated.

Mold in commercial buildings presents some specific risk factors that should be addressed as quickly and thoroughly as possible. While there is no easy-fix, there is a team of professionals at SERVPRO of Boise ready to help your commercial building recover with minimal hassle and headaches. In the Treasure Valley and the surrounding Idaho area. 

Risk Management Tip- Washing Machine Supply Hoses

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

Are you one of the many homeowners that are currently using black rubber supply hoses on your washing machine? Well then, “how lucky do you feel?”

Water damage from washing machines is one of the top five causes of claims to homeowners’ insurance companies. According to the Institute of Business and Home Safety, approximately 55% of all water damage claims caused by washing machines are as a result of water supply hoses that leaked or burst. These types of claims can be very costly with the average claim running to more than $6000.

In most homes, water will spew out of a burst hose at a rate of 6 ½ gallons per minute or hundreds of gallons in just one hour. Imagine how much water would flood your home if a burst hose is leaking while you are away from home on vacation or at work all day! 

Rubber supply hoses vs. stainless steel hoses? Rubber hoses are typically rated at 800 pounds per square inch (PSI) burst strength. However, stainless steel hoses are usually rated at 1500 (PSI) burst strength. They have a much lower failure rate compared to rubber supply hoses. Stainless steel hoses are also more heat resistant than rubber hoses.

Therefore, it is strongly suggested that you replace your black rubber hoses with stainless steel hoses. Stainless steels hoses cost about $25 - $30 for a pair of them. Seems like such a small investment to help avoid having massive water damage from a burst rubber hose.

Are your washing machine hoses a disaster waiting to happen?

Why More Insurance Agents Choose SERVPRO

8/8/2017 (Permalink)

WHY MORE INSURANCE AGENTS CHOOSE SERVPRO  

SERVPRO blends customer service with accountability! SERVPRO understands your responsibility to provide results to your shareholders and clients. SERVPRO is uniquely qualified to help when disaster strikes, making you their "hero" in their times of need. 

We are here to make you look good.

There are many ways to ensure success as an insurance agent. Having a strong office staff, a company who pays claims in an ethical and timely manner, advertising, being involved in your community, and maintaining a positive relationship with your clients.  Our Treasure Valley team knows how critical it is that every job goes as smooth as possible, ensuring your clients trust you time and time again when they need help. Our teams are trained to reduce the lost time and mitigate the damages as quickly as possible. Whether it’s fire, water, mold or any other cleanup; we are here to help, 24 hours a day. 

Our team members are available for direct cellular calls 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. You earn your client’s loyalty by providing timely solutions. You provide help in a time of need. Instead of offering a call center solution, our team members are available to take the call on their business line! We will personally call your client back, offer a listening ear, and take away some of the fear they are experiencing.

Having a relationship with SERVPRO and our team of highly trained professionals has many benefits. We will ensure help arrives quickly (following our 1-4-8 time commitment), and our production team will help your clients regain control of their lives by treating them with respect, courteousness and working hard to get the job done the right way the first time. There are no unwelcome surprises with SERVPRO. Calling direct reduces wait times. The faster SERPVRO's team can arrive onsite to perform the cleanup, the better the results. 

That’s the SERVPRO difference.

Boise SERVPRO Team Heads to Wisconsin to Aid in Flooding Efforts

7/18/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has been called upon to assist in a major Storm Event in Wisconsin this week.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the flooding,” Governor Walker said in an earlier statement. “I have instructed state agencies and the Wisconsin National Guard to help those affected by the flooding and to continue to provide resources to assist with the response and recovery efforts."

"I thank the Wisconsin National Guard, Wisconsin Emergency Management, and all state agencies for their coordinated response to this emergency.”

SERVPRO sent 5 Boise based employees plus franchise owner Christian Isaacson on a plane late last week to respond and assist in disaster efforts. Our semi-trailer, containing large quantities of drying equipment was also on the road hours after getting the call. As always SERVPRO is Hero Ready! 

What Will Your Sign on The Door Read?

7/17/2017 (Permalink)

Will your business have to close after an emergency? Read our best tips for minimizing downtime!

I recently had a conversation with a maintenance manager, John. His office shares space with one of the buildings he manages.

 I asked, "John, what would happen to this facility if you were at one of your other locations and a emergency happened here?"

"Well, I would have to leave that site and travel here" he stated.

"But what if that building also had an emergency? Who would be able to get access to your mechanical room to get a situation under control?"

"Well, I have the keys. The managers all know to just call me."

"So you are managing a broken sprinkler line at site A and site B calls with a broken water line... What do you do" I asked.

John thought for a moment, I went on. 

"John, you like to fish. You are out on the river with no cell service. How are the people who depend on that space being usable to stay productive going to manage a emergency in your absence?"

His organization had stretched him too thin and had failed to develop contingency plans to help him manage emergencies remotely. His basement office housed the only emergency plans and blueprints for the facility he was in. His office was kept locked when he was not around. And, as you can guess, he had the keys on his person.

Luckily, SERVPRO has a solution. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Program (ERP). A quick cloud based collection of need-to-know information to handle building emergencies. It's not as exhaustive as a complete risk management program, but it can serve as a great starting point to begin those emergency preparedness discussions with important information that key people at every site should know.

Make sure a primary employee at every site has keys to the mechanical room and knowing where the shut off values are.

In John's case it was a relatively painless fix. Every site now has another person with a set of keys to the mechanical room and that data is fed into the ERP cloud so every business in the building can access it. It was a time investment of less than two hours that almost certainly will save both time and money in an emergency.

The best part? John now has a plan to be able to prioritize his response and emergency needs. He also feels a little less worried when goes off grid chasing Steelhead on the Snake River.

For questions or to set up your no-cost Emergency Readiness Program, call 375-0300

Is Your Business Disaster Ready?

7/12/2017 (Permalink)

Your company is expanding, or perhaps you have already opened new locations. On any given day your sales team is firing on all cylinders, your office is bustling with activity and your operations team is running circles around itself trying to keep up.

Maybe your territory is limited to Boise, perhaps regional, or even nationwide. You know one the biggest threat to your organization is operational downtime.

That's where we can help.

SERVPRO of Boise, Meridian, Star & Eagle is a full service commercial restoration firm. We specialize in commercial drying, cleaning and decontamination needs. Our upfront approach uses a collaborative method to reduce operational risks, minimize downtime and save you money.

Consider this: 50% of businesses that suffer a major disaster will never reopen. And of those that reopened, most of them had a plan.

Do your employees know your chain-of-command?

Do your night teams know where your water shut-offs are?

Would your employees be able to direct first responders to your fire riser room?

Put simply: Is your team prepared to deal with situations like fire, water & mold damage? What about situations bigger than your Operations capacity?

Thankfully, SERVPRO of Boise is your ace-in-the-hole with our robust Emergency Readiness Program and Service Level Agreements.

With the Emergency Readiness Program SERVPRO will help you create a functional cloud based data set that can be used for things like staff emergency manuals, emergency contact information and building emergency critical information. Because disasters often happen when you are away, your team will have all of this data at their fingertips, wherever you need it, with a push of a button.

Another robust tool to consider for your facility is a Service Level Agreement, guaranteeing that you and your teams will always have the level of response you need in an emergency. Remember snowpocolypse? Jump the wait que and get the help you need right away. Another benefit of the SLA is guaranteed pricing and staff training opportunities.

To strategically align your building operations to make sure you have the help you need in an emergency, give us a call today. The consultation and Emergency Readiness Program is offered at no cost to your facility. 208-375-0300

What to do Immediately After a House Fire

7/3/2017 (Permalink)

1. Ask whether it is safe to enter the home. Do not enter if the fire authorities deem it unsafe. They may establish a safety zone, but never assume a room is safe, until it has been cleared to enter.
2. Know who to call.
   1. Contact family members and let them know you are safe, and unharmed.
   2. Contact your insurance agent. They will be able to talk you through the necessary steps, including proper documentation and emergency lodging and living expenses (keep all of your receipts!) The insurance company may assist in securing a company to help with clean up options.
   3. You may request SERVPRO at this time for contents cleaning, restoration etc. Contact SERVPRO.
   4. Another call may be to your landlord if applicable, and to your local American Red Cross. SERVPRO is the preferred restoration partner to The American Red Cross.
3. Secure the property to prevent possible looting. SERVPRO is available to assist with securing property/ Board Ups.
4. If water hoses were used to exterminate the fire, drying your home is critical. It is best to call the professionals at SERVPRO to do water/ fire cleanups. Water can lead to mold damage if not dried properly. SERVPRO is an approved restoration contractor for many major insurance carriers and adheres to the highest standards in the restoration industry.
5. Seek counseling if needed. Children and adults can feel a traumatic sense of loss, and may need help to avoid a lasting sense of sadness and disorientation after a house fire. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. A house fire is a traumatic event and individuals need to be treated with respect and compassion by those close to the process of rebuilding.

For more information on contents and structural drying, extinguisher residue and soot removal call SERVPRO at (208) 375-0300.

What to do if You Find Mold in Your Home

6/9/2017 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold. Dead mold spores can be just as harmful as live spores. Bleach and other cleaners will not get rid of mold, but may actually help the mold spread. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

·         Stay out of affected areas.

·         Turn off the HVAC system and fans.

·         Contact SERVPRO for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

·         Don’t touch or disturb the mold.

·         Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.

·         Don’t attempt to dry the area.

·         Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

What to do Before and After a Flood

5/15/2017 (Permalink)

With flood waters rising in Blaine County, Custer County and all around the Treasure Valley, we wanted to share some tips to keep you safe! Minimize the pain of hiring the wrong company after a flood devastates your home or business. 

What to do before a flood

• Create a detailed inventory of the contents of your home. 
• Secure original insurance documents in a safe place – preferably a bank safe deposit box – and keep copies in your home in an accessible place that is not subject to flooding.
• Call your insurance agent to learn how to report a flood claim. Let them know you will be using SERVPRO for water removal and remediation. 
• Set up an emergency contact address and phone number in the event you are unable to stay in your home – share this information with your insurance agent, your SERVPRO representative and your family.

What do to after a flood

• Call SERVPRO. Depending on the amount of flooding in your area, you want to make this call immediately to avoid a lengthy wait time. SERVPRO has national resources to handle multiple losses the right way. Contact your insurance agent and report the loss – have flood insurance policy information at the ready. 
• Separate damaged and undamaged property; do all you can to protect undamaged property.
• Make a list of damages for the adjuster – if you have prepared a home inventory, this should be easy. SERVPRO can also assist with inventory.
• Take photos of all damage, including water lines on walls and cabinetry.
• Make a list of any areas of structural damage you want to point out to the adjuster.
• SERVPRO can begin to dry out the building and your personal property once the adjuster has approved the work. 
• SERVPRO can provide a repair estimate for flood-damaged reconstruction. 

Beware of scams after a flood

• If you do not use a restoration company like SERVPRO, you may be at risk from scammers who travel to flood zones to prey on affected homeowners.
• We recommend you obtain bids from multiple contractors, and request at least three references. We have vetted our contractors and can offer referrals when needed. 
• Ask for proof of licenses, building permits, insurance, and bonding from contractors. 
• If you do hire a contractor, record the contractor’s license plate number and driver’s license number; check for complaints with the Better Business Bureau.
• Call SERVPRO (208) 375-0300 for any and all questions. Not every company has your best interest in mind. Hire a company with staying power like SERVPRO who isn't here today for the flood, gone tomorrow. 
• Contact: CONTACT US. Please note that you were referred via our blog. We'll get right back to you. Stay dry! 

5 Things NOT to Store in Your Garage

3/21/2017 (Permalink)

With the onset of Spring in the Treasure Valley, most of us try to accomplish new goals, get a new fresh start. Getting healthy, organizing our homes, bettering our lives' always seem to be at the top of the list. One space to start cleaning and organizing is the garage! That extra storage area that easily becomes a catchall for excess items.  We have compiled a list of items that should not be stored in your garage. Get them out and reclaim your space.

1. Paint- Because the garage is prone to extreme temperature changes, paint should not be stored in the garage.  Recycle paint according to your county guidelines or donate it.
2. Electronics- If you are putting electronics out in the garage, you must not be using them.  Donate these items because they can’t withstand the temperature fluctuations and will easily break.
3. Propane and Hazardous Chemicals- Proper ventilation is key for storage of propane and hazardous chemicals.  For safety reasons, these items need to be stored outside.  
4. Food- Keeping food in the garage is an open invitation to rodents and insects.  Although shopping in bulk can save money, storing extra food in the garage will cause problems. The moisture and humidity will spoil the food. Find room in the house for food storage.
5. Cardboard boxes- Insects, mice and other rodents love cardboard.  Invest in waterproof plastic bins to store your items.

Hope these tips help you gain back your garage. Happy Cleaning from SERVPRO of Boise!

Water Damage-What Happens When Left Untreated

9/26/2016 (Permalink)

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Boise arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (208) 375-0300

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Boise

SERVPRO of Boise specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.

• Meet our Crew
• Certifications and Affiliations