Catching Water Damage Before It's Too Late

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

To avoid severe damage after weeks or even months of water buildup, the key is to act fast in getting expert help.

Often, water will create problems in a building without being noticed in the slightest. Water damage can accumulate fast, the longer a leak goes on the higher the affected cost will be. To avoid severe damage after weeks or even months of water buildup, the key is to act fast in getting expert help. Water can ruin flooring, furniture and walls, but it can also cause more severe damage to structural components within the property.

There are many causes of water damage:

• Leaky roof: An old or damaged roof may suffer from rainfall leakage, leading to the accumulation of damage over time.
• Broken pipe or gutter: Broken plumbing can cause leaks or gushes of water when not handled properly. You may notice a broken pipe due to backups in the toilet or sink, but bursts are not always apparent.
• Condensation: Over time, air conditioning units can leak if not properly maintained. When this happens, small water droplets penetrate the foundation of buildings, leading to mold.

By responding quickly to water leaks, you increase the chances of preventing further damage. Water damage can become significantly worse in a matter of hours, but taking the proper steps will put you in the right place to stop the problem. Call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282, we are 24/7/365.

How We Respond to your Calls

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® can guarantee to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today and let us help you.

Did you suffer a disaster in your home or business and don’t know what to do next? Well, after safely removing yourself from the scene, you can begin taking steps forward. It’s difficult to know how to proceed following fire, water or smoke damage, but our team of experts at SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village will help you through the dilemma. Call SERVPRO® as soon as you can and let us assist you!

When You Call

We have a supportive team of representatives ready to answer your call. They will likely ask you a variety of questions which will help SERVPRO® determine the resources and equipment necessary to assist you. By answering our questions, you are allowing our representative to best prepare for response to your disaster.

Some Questions to Expect

• Name and contact information (Phone number, email address)
• Street address of home or business
• What year was the structure built?
• What type of damage has occurred? (Flood, fire, water, etc.)
• What caused the damage? (If known)
• Is there electricity and water available?
• Your insurance company?

SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village

SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village is here for you. With the best training in fire, water and smoke cleanup and restoration, we guarantee our SERVPRO® staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your home or business. In addition to our restoration services, we also offer mold mitigation and deep cleans of properties. SERVPRO® can guarantee to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today and let us help you. No disaster is too big or small. Call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282, we are 24/7/365.

Call SERVPRO® After Your Interior Flood

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® is the best choice for restoration after water damage.

Even the slightest amount of flooding or leaking pipe can cause an unimaginable amount of damage. Water can begin damaging floors and furniture as soon as it hits them, so fast action is required to protect your home or business. At SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village, our rapid action and trained staff will achieve the best results in making your hardwood floors like new again. SERVPRO® is the best choice for restoration after water damage.

Potential Damage to Hardwood Floors

• Crowning: The planks arc upward due to excessive moisture
• Cupping: The planks bend downward and curve due to excessive moisture
• Buckling: Planks lift from place in the floor

To avoid this damage, SERVPRO® responds as quickly as possible to begin water cleanup and removal. Our team at SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village is given industry leading training to handle the extraction, drying and replacement of flooring that has been damaged thus far. We use controlled methods to remove specific flooring safely. Additionally, our team will contain the water to further control contamination of unaffected areas. Following our restoration and treatment of the damaged area, we sanitize the home to ensure it’s “Like it never even happened.” Call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282. We are the best water restoration team, ready 24/7/365!

Get Your Business Back Up and Running!

7/22/2022 (Permalink)

In addition to restoring your property, SERVPRO® will help with the complicated insurance process to make for a simple experience.

At SERVPRO®, we understand how disheartening it can be to close your store or restaurant doors due to water or fire damage. That is why our franchise professionals work diligently to return your property to its preloss condition as quickly as possible. Having to shut down business operations due to an unforeseen problem can be seen as a shock to your employees, so it’s important to know that SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village is your community specialist in disaster recovery. Seeking professionals when there is damage to your property is best for a complete job. At SERVPRO®, we have the right infrastructure in place necessary to handle the smallest to largest problems. Additionally, our staff is made up of experienced franchise professionals who know just what to do to when water, fire or other damages occur.

Our team works hard to restore as much property as possible. We always limit damage to the best of our abilities, and we will save as much as we can. In addition to restoring your property, SERVPRO® will help with the complicated insurance process to make for a simple experience. We will work with you every step of the way, from the initial disaster to the end of restoration, the team at SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village is ready to answer your calls 24/7/365. Give us a call at (818) 508-7282.

SERVPRO: Here to Make Your Life Easier

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we take pride in strong customer service and experts in the industry. Our team has years of experience and constant training.

Did you experience a fire, a flood or a plumbing problem in your home or business? There’s no one better to call for your reparations and restorations than SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village. We will make it “Like it never even happened.” Our quick and professional response team will know just what to do when you need assistance.

Highly Trained Professionals

Our restoration technicians are experts at restoring salvageable items from water or fire, and they document their work every step of the way. We guarantee our team will do their best job on your remediation and/or restoration project.

Customer Care

At SERVPRO, we take pride in strong customer service and experts in the industry. Our team has years of experience and constant training to ensure we do the best job in getting your home or business back to normal after we come through it.

Easier Insurance Claims Process

Insurance claims can be confusing and challenging, but we are here to help. Our team assists you in documentation for a quicker, easier insurance claim experience.

Don’t wait, the technicians at SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village are waiting to assist you today! Give us a call at (818) 508-7282, we are 24/7/365.

What to do After a Flood

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience a flood on your property, let our experienced team of franchise professionals assess the flooding for any potential water damage.

Even while in a drought, Southern California is an area of high flood risk. Floods, when not treated properly, can potentially result in hundreds of thousands in damages. Heavy rain is just one potential cause of flooding. In reality, there are a variety of ways that your property could flood.

Top 3 Common Causes of Floods

1. Poor drainage
2. Broken pipes
3. Damaged foundations

Floodwater often becomes contaminated with sewage and chemicals, and it is unsafe to live in these conditions. It’s important to keep pipes in good condition as water damage is costly to repair.

If you experience flooding in your home perform the below actions to help keep damage down, but only when it is safe to do so:

• Stop the flooding from its source
• Turn off electricity (take extra care to avoid any moisture or collected water)
• Safely evacuate the structure affected by flooding

Once in a dry, safe location:

• Contact your insurance company
• Document the flooding (Take note of what was damaged by the water)

If you experience a flood on your property, let our experienced team of franchise professionals assess the flooding for any potential water damage. We will get your home back to pre-flood condition. Contact SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282 to begin the flood restoration, we are 24/7/365.

Count on SERVPRO to Fix Your Property

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what time it is or how large the job, the SERVPRO team is always ready to quickly respond to your emergency. Just give us a call today!

SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village is the restoration service for you! Whether it’s an issue with fire, water, mold or more, the team at SERVPRO is dedicated to responding to your emergency. When there is significant water or fire damage to your property, always seek out professional help. Our professionals have the proper skills, techniques and equipment needed to quickly combat any problems. Quick action to restore damaged property is our number one priority. By trusting the SERVPRO experts, we can ensure as many items will be salvaged as possible, in a safe and healthy way.

In addition to our restoration services, you can contact SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village for any of your cleaning service needs. From air duct cleaning to removing biohazard contaminants, our team will take care of what you don’t want to for a safe, clean and comfortable home.

All it takes to getting your disaster taken care of is a visit to our website or a call to our dedicated 24-hour emergency line. They’ll have all the answers to your questions about next steps following damage to your home or property. No matter what time it is or how large the job, the SERVPRO team is always ready to quickly respond to your emergency. If you don’t know where to turn after your home suffers damage, just call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282, we are 24/7/365.

Steps to Take After Smoke Damage from a Wildfire

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Even if it's not visible, smoke damage still remains following wildfires.

Wildfires are all too common in Southern California, and smoke and ash damage cause devastating damage to a home if not addressed properly. Contact SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village, as well as your insurance company, and provide information about the damage that has occurred. Most of our work starts off by first contacting your insurance with you or on your behalf and scheduling an inspection of the property. We will go through the difficult process of returning your business or home to its preloss condition. Since smoke damage can be invisible to the naked eye, it is important for qualified experts like SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village to conduct the inspection.

While the inspection takes place it will benefit you to do the following:

• Take note of any damage you observe. Make sure to photograph any noticeable damage due to smoke and ash. The more you can document from the damage, the more it will assist you for insurance claims purposes.
• Move children, pets and anybody else away from the home and to a smoke-free area. Stay away from the residence until restoration is complete.

Smoke released in the air contains an array of toxins, and these toxins may persist if not treated correctly.  Let us work with your insurance company to help with your home’s wildfire recovery. Call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282, we are 24/7/365.

What is My First Step After a Business Fire?

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

Review the list of items damaged to determine what can be salvaged.

Call The Insurance Company

Your insurance company will need to know the full details of what occurred. Prepare yourself for the first call by collecting as much information as possible. Give the adjuster the extent of the water and fire damages. The following are important point to cover.

• Insurer’s damage documentation requirements
• Scheduling inspection of property with adjuster
• Proof of loss statement deadlines
• Request possibility of extensions and approvals

Don’t Throw Away Your Things

Items can be saved, and you will want to review the list of items damaged to determine what can be salvaged. Leave everything in its place so when the adjuster / inspector arrives onsite they can see the full extent of the damages incurred.

Our experienced franchise professionals frequently save business items after a fire. Special techniques developed in the field can salvage nearly any item from paper records to electronics. When speaking with your designated claims manager and project manager, the entire process is discussed and documented from start to finish.

Call a Remediation and Restoration Professional

We regularly work directly with your insurance and keep you in the know on the details. Call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282, we are 24/7/365.

Water Mitigation or Restoration?

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration is the process of restoring your property to its preloss condition, even after being damaged by leaks, sewage, floods, storm

Restoration and mitigation are the two most important process to be carried out as soon as possible. There are some who would argue that water damage restoration and water mitigation are the same, however, this is not always true.

Water mitigation refers to any and all services involved in reducing and/or preventing additional damages resulted from leaking pipes or flooding. This can include moisture mitigation between walls after a storm event.

Water damage restoration is the process of restoring your property to its preloss condition, even after being damaged by leaks, sewage, floods, and storms. Water damage can affect your property from floor to ceiling and everything in between. Request assistance from the water damage experts at SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village to help prevent further property damage from developing.

SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village tackles the tough issues from start to finish. We have experienced franchise professionals and the infrastructure to handle any sized loss 24/7/365. We are fully insured and bonded, so you can rest assured that your property is in good hands. Call us today – (818) 508-7282 – for more information on how we can help with all your water damage needs.

Mold, the Water Damage Unseen

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Understanding the early signs of mold or water damage will help to minimize the extent damage can occur.

Mold thrives in unseen places, and less rather than more property owners are successful in identifying mold. In order to be vigilant, understand the importance of carrying out proper inspections and maintenance. Inspections should be performed at least twice a year, especially for those who live in areas where temperatures and moisture levels rise and fall frequently.

Inspecting for Mold

Check for water damage at the same time you inspect for mold growth. Water damage typically provides the prime spot for mold growth to occur. See below for the more common signs of water damage.

Bubbling walls: 

A telltale sign of mold is bubbling forming on painted walls. These are the areas contain the most moisture and are more likely to bubble up.

Musty odor:

When pipes begin to leak and mildew forms, it will create a very unpleasant scent. This is one of the first signs to check for water damage and mold. The closer you are to the affected area the more extreme the odor.

Rusting in open and/or enclosed spaces: 

Rust is the result of corrosion after the iron particles in an object have been exposed to oxygen and moisture. This can be a sign of excessive moisture in your commercial building. Humidity can also create the optimum conditions for mold growth.

Understanding the early signs of mold or water damage will help to minimize the extent damage can occur. If an inspection happens and a mold infestation discovered, reach out to SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282 to return your business or home to its preloss condition.

Facts and Falsehoods about Fire Suppression Systems

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

Acting fast when a fire breaks out in your business will be the difference in mitigating your losses.

Fire suppression systems are typically the first response to any fire in a commercial building. Acting fast when a fire breaks out in your business will be the difference in mitigating your losses. It is important to know what is true or false when it comes to your fire sprinkler system.

False: Water Damage from Fire Sprinklers is More Costly Than Fire Damage

Fact: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) advise sprinkler systems as more cost effective than damaging comparatively to other fire fighting efforts. Since they can keep the fire contained within a single room rather than allowing the fire and smoke to spread throughout the building.

False: Every Fire Sprinkler Will Trigger

Fact: First, confirm with the manufacturer and/or installer what the activation and release methods are for your buildings commercial fire suppression system. Typically, when one sprinkler in your commercial sprinkler system goes off, the others do not. Fire sprinklers act individually and should only release when high levels of heat are detected.

False: Fire Sprinklers are Overly Sensitive

Fact: Fire sprinklers only activate when high heat is sensed. Meaning, employees burning their lunch in the break room will not set off the fire alarm. Protection and safety are most important when keeping operations running.

When the unexpected happens, you are not alone. SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village at (818) 508-7282 is 24/7/365 and committed to helping you every step of the way. Use our fire, smoke, and water damage clean up services to return your business to its preloss condition.

3 Facts About Water Damage

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Additional inspections are performed after the water extraction process to confirm the extent damage has occurred.

Dealing with water damage is a nightmare. Uneasy questions about what to do, what insurance will cover, and what to save first will begin to pile up. When a pipe bursts or fire suppression system fails, life is put on hold until everything is dried and secured. That is not always the easiest of tasks.

Here are a few facts about the water restoration process to help educate you, and help in securing your property should a water damage disaster occur.

1. Water Type

Generally, water damage invades a property in (3) types: sewage, rainwater, and freshwater. Depending on the water type invading your property, it may need the expertise of a professional remediation company like SERVPRO®. It is critical when dealing with water damage to understand the source of the issue so as to safely remediate current damage and limit any potential future damage. If sewage water damage is suspected, a professional and experienced water damage restoration company will have the appropriate tools to return your property to it’s preloss condition safely and effectively.

2. Water Damage Continues After Extraction

It may be tempting to breathe a sigh of relief once water has been extracted from your property, however, be wary and know that moisture likes to hide. Additional inspections are performed after the water extraction process to confirm the extent damage has occurred. This helps to remove the potential for mold growth. Mold can cause damage to the structural components of a home, leading to serious consequences. Make sure a mold prevention expert inspects your property post clearance to ensure no mold growth has transpired.

3. Attic Spaces Are Cause for Concern

Most common water damage sources include roof leakage and gutters malfunctioning, meaning your attic is at a higher risk for water damage. Have your attic space inspected regularly by water damage professionals to make sure any small leak doesn’t turn into a serious problem.

If your home is flooded, or suspect of water damage, call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village (818) 508-7282. All forms of water damage require immediate attention to minimize further losses. We will help you stay safe and protect your assets.

What to Do When Your Toilet Overflows at Work

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

Toilet overflow at a business is a Category 3 water loss, with damage sometimes reaching beyond the scope of the bathroom. This water is known as black water damage and is filled with contaminants from urine and fecal matter. It is vital to block off the area until it is cleaned professionally. Review the below steps to help reduce the time and money it will take to return your property to its pre loss condition. More damage will occur the longer that water is left sitting.

1. Stop flushing, use a plunger.

If pipes are clogged, flushing again will increase issues and not alleviate them. Be aware of your surroundings and perform this in the safest manner possible.

2. Turn off the water.

If water is overflowing already, spreading all over the floor, turn off the water to the toilet. The shut off valve is usually located on the wall near the base of the toilet, below the tank.

3. Inspect the water damaged area.

Water travels, and depending on the extent of the leak, damage may not be isolated to the bathroom. Water travels farther than you think. You will need to call in a professional to ascertain the extent of damages.

4. Close the Bathroom with Safety Signs.

Being safe is the most important. Safety signs hung up around the affected areas are a good way to notify others the bathroom is off limits. Provide signs to guide people to an alternate restroom until the issue at hand is resolved.

5. Call your insurance company.

Reach out to your insurance agent about what options are available to you. Sometimes damage will go beyond the bathroom. Your insurance will assist greatly with the appropriate next steps.

6. Call a water damage restoration company specializing in sewage backup cleanup services.

Hire a professional, certified remediation company to safely return your home to its preloss condition. Black water contains numerous pathogens which can carry bacteria, parasites, and viruses. Most of what is touched by this water remains unsalvageable. Cleanup doesn’t stop at waste and water; a professional restoration company will sanitize the area before conducting repairs. SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village is here 24/7 - (818) 508-7282.

You Can Control Mold

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Increase the circulation and raise the temperature of cold surfaces where moisture condenses.

There are many ways to control the internal moisture of your business or home to help with mold prevention. Review below for a comprehensive list of actions that can be taken to help prevent mold growth.

• Fix any leaks and / or seepage. If water is entering your business from outside, remediation efforts can range from simple landscaping to extensive excavation and waterproofing. Water collecting in your basement could be a result from a lack of gutters or water flowing toward the house. Water leaks from pipes or around tubs and sinks are a perfect breeding ground for microbial growth.
• Use plastic coverings over dirt in crawlspaces to prevent moisture from coming up from the ground. Make sure crawlspaces are well-ventilated.

• Exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens help to relocate moisture to the outside.
• Increase the circulation and raise the temperature of cold surfaces where moisture condenses. To increase air circulation, keep doors open between rooms, use fans to increase circulatory air, and place furniture away from corners. This promotes better air and heat circulation and carries heat to cold surfaces.

Moisture problems and their solutions vary from place to place. While the Southwest is hot and dry, the Northeast is cold and wet, the South is hot and wet, and the Western states are cold and dry. All these regions have different and complex moisture problems. The area you live will directly affect the remediation process.

4 Tips for Business Owners After Fire

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Any delay in seeking professional help could result in damages extending past where they could have been mitigated.

When fire damage does occur, reach out to SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village to assess your fire damage restoration needs. Any delay in seeking professional help could result in damages extending past where they could have been mitigated. Smoke, a byproduct of fire, is acidic. It’s corrosive elements are capable of corroding away nearly any surface. Smoke and soot damage should be addressed immediately by experienced fire restoration professionals.

1. Call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village – you need professional services, so before moving to the next step, call the experts.
2. Move children and pets to a smoke-free area. Move them to a relative's or friend's home until the fire cleanup or restoration is complete.
3. Open all the windows to get air circulating to help alleviate the smoke smell.
4. Inventory your belongings. Create a list of your business’s or home’s contents, this will assist when filing a claim with your insurance. Taking pictures of the affected items or damage is also a good idea. You will need these for insurance claims purposes, and for your own records.

Prepare Your Business for Fire Season

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

Fire suppression systems require a minimum of (4) annual inspections performed by a 3rd-party fire protection expert.

As summer and fire season approach, it is important to have your property inspected to ensure your business’s readiness should a fire break out. Keep workspaces clear of combustibles, and have any damaged electrical cords replaced. Work with your team to develop an evacuation plan and have your staff trained on the safety procedures unique to your commercial property. Once determined, the fire escape routes will need to be posted in multiple areas around the office. This way, everyone has an equal opportunity to see them. It takes minutes for a fire to become an inferno and knowing the proper routes for evacuation may be the difference in getting out safely. Fire drills should be performed with your team on a semi-regular basis to help ensure their knowledge of escape routes is up to date. Many commercial properties have fire suppression systems in place that require a minimum of (4) annual inspections performed by a 3^rd-party fire protection expert.

Call the Professionals

Our franchise professionals at SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village are familiar with the risks associated with fire damage to your home. As a leader in the fire damage disaster industry, we use proven systems to address fire damage when the call comes in. If a fire affects your property, contact us 24/7 - (833) WTR-FIRE (987-3473).

Team Safety and Training

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

We never know when or where we can be of service.

As SERVPRO® Franchise of the Year 2020 and consistently in the top five of all SERVPRO® franchises we have a mission and responsibility to our team that helped get us here. As Americans we value life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village insists on its team’s participation in CPR training as we never know when or where we can be of service.

The premiere training company we use, HOMESAFE, Inc. a Division of ACADISAFE, is only made possible with their Training Director and Principal Instructor Gio Fanelli. We’ve included a brief bio on his background and the trainings HOMESAFE, Inc. offer and how to make contact. CPR is only ONE of the many trainings that they offer.

Gio Fanelli, Training Director and Principal Instructor:

Gio is authorized by Federal OSHA as a Construction Safety Outreach Trainer (10 hr & 30 hr), By EPA as a Principal Course RRP Instructor (Lead), State of California CDPH (Lead) and DOSH (Asbestos) Approved Instructor and Director of Training at HomeSafe / AcadiSafe.

He has performed Radon testing evaluations, Clandestine Methamphetamine "Meth" Drug Lab Cleanup, Crime & Trauma Cleanup also called "Biohazard or Biorecovery"?, Healthcare & Life Science, Infection Control, Disaster Response, Critical Cleaning in Sensitive Environments, Project Design & Monitoring, Phase I, III ESA, Initial Site Surveys to Clearance Sampling, H.E.P.A Challenge Testing by "DOP" on Portable Exhaust Equipment Vacuums and Negative Air Machines as well as Respirator Fit Testing Services, Rotameter / Flowmeter NIST Traceable Primary Source Calibration.

HOMESAFE, Inc. a Division of ACADISAFE - State and Federal Accredited Asbestos, Bio, Lead, Mold, HazWoper, Infection Control, Occupational Safety & Health Training Company.

Office | Website | Email
800.789.SAFE (7233) | acadisafe.com / homesafe.org | gio@homesafe.org / gfanelli@acadisafe.com

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giofanelli

Office Address: 18012 Cowan Suite 200, Irvine, CA 92614

Training Location: 16601 Ventura Blvd 3rd floor, Encino, CA 91436

Preparing a Commercial First Aid Kit

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

Search for OSHA's First Aid Kit Checklist to get started!

Your Commercial property is important and needs protection, and the people inside it even more so. Know that if the unforeseen happens to your commercial property, the experts at SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village are here to help. We are faster to any disaster and will strive to make it “Like it never even happened.”

There are steps you can take to ensure your workplace is compliant and safe, starting with a First Aid Kit.

Continue reading for tips on putting together a commercial property first aid kit:

Use OSHA’s First Aid Kit Checklist

Go online and search for OSHA commercial first aid kit checklist to start. There you will find the necessary items as required by Occupational Health and Safety Administration; they are the industry experts on these matters. Most items are found at local drug stores or local retailers.

Continued Education

No emergency response is straightforward, and there is no such thing as too much training when it comes to ensuring the safety of the people on your property. Once you finish your kit make sure everyone knows where to access it and that the regular people onsite are trained in it’s use.

OSHA Resources

To find more information on putting together first aid kits or how to use them when needed, consult OSHA’s website. And remember, once you can ensure the health of all the people on-site, you can call SERVPRO® of Studio City / Valley Village 24/7 to respond to any restoration emergency at (833) WTR-FIRE (987-3473).

What is Gray Water?

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Burst pipe in wall and deteriorating drywall.

What is Gray Water?

Water Damage is extremely difficult to deal with. Responding in a timely manner is important but take it a step further and prepare yourself in case something should happen to your property. Knowing how to respond is as equally important to responding quickly, prevent further problems from developing by creating an emergency plan. See below for more about where Category 2 and 3 water damage comes from and what you can do to keep your property and family safe with the following information.

How We Determine Next Steps

One of the most critical steps to recovering from water damage is determining what kind of contamination you're dealing with. There are three different types of contaminated water according to The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) which are based on:

• The source of the water damage
• The length of exposure to the structure
• The likelihood of harmful chemicals or contaminants that may be present

What is Category 2 Water?

Also known as gray water or sullage, Category 2 water damage can harbor some amount of contamination that would be harmful to humans and animals. The sources most common to Category 2 water damage are toilet bowls containing urine, dishwasher or washing machine water, and sump pump failure resulting in flood damage.

What is Category 3 Water?

Category 3 is the most extreme and should be handled by the professionals. Also referred as blackwater, this category includes sewage, rising flood waters, seawater, as well as river and ground water. When category 3 water damage occurs, often many items and materials will need to be removed from your property, then after drying has occurred your home will need to undergo significant disinfecting.

Call the Professionals

Our franchise professionals at SERVPRO® here in the Studio City / Valley Village area are familiar with the risks associated with water damage to your home. As a leader in the water damage disaster industry, we use proven systems to address water damage when calls come in. There may not be a single source of water damage, so using specific procedures to minimize loss is essential.

How Long Does Residual Smoke Damage Last?

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Aftermath of fire in utility room.

Ridding a property of smoke damage is a difficult task unto itself. One of the worst things a home or business can experience is a fire as it not only destroys household items but can also affect structural materials as well. The damage can sometimes extend after the fire has been extinguished in the form of water damage due to the fire-fighting efforts.

Residual smoke odor can linger within your business or home until affectively treated after the flames have been put out. If a fire affects your home or are, such as is the case with when a wildfire occurs, take the necessary steps to rid yourself of the smoke smell effectively and fast.

It can be quite difficult to remove the odor of smoke from your property. When the smoke first infiltrates your home, the small imperceptible particulates can stick to all household surfaces and even become embedded in porous materials – carpeting, furniture, fabrics, books, and even paint. Removing them requires a lot of effort and, often, specialized cleaning equipment. SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village have the expertise and industry leading equipment (air scrubbers, nano filters, ozone generators, hydroxl technology, etc.) that is required to effectively deodorize after a fire loss. We use safe and efficient odor removal techniques to make it "Like it never even happened."

Difficulties When Choosing Commercial Remediation

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Water from ceiling leak pouring into bag held by SERVPRO production team member.

It is important to have a plan before disaster strikes. Plan before the worst happens so you know who to call when disaster strikes. As a business owner you know that every day your business is closed or partially operational, you are losing profit. Consider the below when researching and deciding on the right remediation company for you:

Location

As far as the location of the remediation service provider goes, you will want to choose a local company. SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village works daily in the community remediating and restoring business and homes to their preloss condition.

Response Time

Choose a restoration company that shares your sense of urgency. SERVPRO accepts calls 24/7/365. You need an immediate response, and our team of best-in-class project managers and technicians gets the work done correctly and quickly.

Size & Experience

SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village has the infrastructure to handle any sized loss. Our team of restoration and construction experts can handle even the largest projects with ease. A company that does both the cleanup and the reconstruction work will greatly simplify the entire process for you.

You can count on SERVPRO to:

• Respond immediately
• Identify the cause of loss
• Find the right solution
• Perform work accurately and fast

5 Common Types of Smoke Damage

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire damage.

Depending on the substance that a fire consumes determines the type of smoke damage which occurs. Prior to inspection, in the initial call, we may ask what burned or request photos to get a better grasp on the extent which fire and smoke damage occurred. Below are some common types of smoke damage SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village may inquire about.

1. Tenant Smoking

This is the most common type and is caused by residents that smoke. In multifamily buildings, property managers / owners deal with these odors on a regular basis. This smoke can cause a great deal of damage to the structure, from unpleasant odors to surface damage. Smoking damage typically requires intense cleaning. 

2. Protein Smoke Damage

Second to tenant smoke kitchen fires are the most common. They typically produce protein smoke. Protein smoke damage occurs when food burns and clings to wood or painted surfaces and has the potential to discolor the surfaces it affects permanently.

3. Wet Smoke Damage

This smoke damage occurs when a fire is slow burning with a low temperature. It is one of the more difficult forms of smoke damage to address and is sometimes the hardest form of smoke damage to clean. It tends to be sticky and thick, and latches to almost all surfaces.

4. Dry Smoke Damage

Usually, this is one of the easier forms of smoke damage to take care of. It is nearly the opposite of wet smoke damage and occurs from high-temperature fires. This damage produces finer particulates, however, if it lands on porous surfaces this will make it more difficult to clean up.

5. Petroleum Smoke Damage

When an oil-based substance is burned, petroleum smoke damage occurs. This smoke is darker and lingers on nearly all material it comes in contact with, and often stains surfaces.

How Can Water Damage Structures?

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

Flood cut drywall.

Water damage is never an experience a property owner or tenant wishes to experience. Water is meant to stay in drainpipes, supply pipes, basins, and sinks. It should never run unabated within the dwelling or structure. Simple repairs and maintenance can help you to avoid minor to major water damage.

We do not always experience water damage from hurricanes and floods. More commonly, business and homes experience water damage from:

• small, pinhole-sized leaks in pipes
• poor grading techniques on soil
• gutter blockage
• sump pumps that may be malfunctioning

Many cases of water damage result from non-professionals attempting to remediate the problem(s) themselves without the proper equipment or experience. If left unchecked water damage can increase exponentially and will even rot out drywall and cause mold to grow. Talk with a professional like SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village when you experience water damage to get best practices and next steps in addressing your loss.

Mold Can Grow Anywhere

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Thermal imaging of water loss.

Mold can grow on any surface. It is most seen in places of high moisture or lower lighting such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, cabinets, and near pipes or ducting. Behind drywall is one of the most regular placements to find mold as wood and drywall are excellent potential sources for growth. Ceilings with a lack of ventilation will accumulate moisture over time and can become an additional location for mold to grow. If the temperature is correct, and there are adequate amounts of moisture and oxygen, mold can grow.

Below are some typical ways mold can infiltrate your home or business.

1. Constant Humidity – ensure to ventilate your home properly, especially during warmer months.
2. Leaking Pipes in the Home – Mold behind drywall can also signify a faulty or broken pipe.
3. Poorly Ventilated Homes – A dehumidifier will help humidity stay below a certain range.
4. Leaking AC Unit – leaks anywhere on an AC unit can cause moisture to form and prevent the AC working correctly.

Conclusion

Make sure you have proper ventilation and low moisture content to limit the potential that mold will develop. Mold is a common issue, and many businesses and homeowners have to deal with it. It is important to get the source inspected by professionals and a professional remediation company to perform the remediation work. Call SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village once you need remediation work performed.

Dealing with Commercial Sewage Backup

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water extraction after flooding occurs.

Sewage backup in your office is not a basic cleaning task. The cleanup process should only be handled by professionals. If signs of sewage backup occur, call SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village to return your business to its preloss condition.

Common Causes of Sewer Backup Issues

Sewage issues are difficult to recover from, however, knowing how they occur is the first step to preventing the worst from happening. Some common reasons why commercial properties experience sewage backups are:

• Stress on your plumbing and sewer system from soil settling in and around your building.
• Misaligned connections or cracked pipes within your plumbing system.
• Tree roots infiltrating plumbing / pipes.
• Irregular maintenance and cleaning. Commercial settings usually experience high-volume and require regular maintenance to make sure facilities stay functioning.

Preventative Measures for Sewage Backup

Here are some preventative maintenance measures that can be taken to lessen the impact of what may occur. See below for suggested guidelines:

• Semi-annual / Annual plumbing and sewer inspections.
• Make sure you use a water pressure reducing valve to limit stress on your building's system.
• Add pop-up sewer release valves if your plumbing system does not have them.

It is difficult and potentially unsafe to deal with sewage backup yourself and is a job that should be left to the professionals. With SERVPROs expert processes, training, and customer experience, we are here to help!

What To Do When Your Property Floods

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Hydrometer Reading by SERVPRO Technician

Property damage adds up fast. Whether you are dealing with a burst pipe or a flash flood, water fills up your house within minutes and spreads through each room, causing significant structural damage. Know what to do when your property floods.

Stop the Water Supply

Try to identify the source and prevent additional flooding from happening. It is important to remember to stay safe. If the cause of loss is in unsafe area call a professional to assist you.

If the leak is coming from a flash flood or natural disaster, there could be little you can do to stop the flow of water. However, you may be able to slow the water down. A best practice method for minimizing impact is to start from the bottom and work your way up. If you can, try to place sandbags around the base of your external doorways. This is a good method to reduce flood impact.

Reach Out to a Professional

Remember you are not alone. We are here to help. When the unexpected does happen count on SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village to guide and support you through the recovery process and help get your home or business back up and running again as quickly as possible.

Choosing the Right Water Restoration

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Project Manager performing inspection.

A professional water damage company offers many benefits to both business owners and homeowners. Licensed work is one of the biggest advantages of hiring a water damage restoration company as they are licensed under local government. This means that their methods of restoration have been reviewed and are legally accounted for. Post work being performed, should you find some problem with the electrical restoration or other physical repair work, then you can easily locate the agency and request additional repair work. Government Agency registration is one of the most important aspects of a professional company and is of immense benefit to clients.

1. Reputation is important! Review the online reputation of the selected water damage restoration company you go with. Do not choose a company under the radar, but one with an established presence on the web and in the community.
2. Tried and true, effective and fast protocols. Immediate action during emergencies proves the reliability of any emergency remediation service.
3. Well established and fully geared. SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village has the infrastructure to handle any sized loss, commercial or residential.
4. Best Working Tools and Resources. One advantage of a licensed water damage company is that they are likely to have access to the best tools of the trade. This is because a licensed agency will be able to apply for authorial permission to get some of the best water damage control equipment that is available in the market. All in all, opting for a well renowned water damage company is a sure way to restore your home effortlessly.
   

Whether it is a natural flooding incident or some other flooding damage, water damage poses some major risks to your home. By hiring a professional water damage company, you will not only minimize risks but also ensure you the restoration services are handled correctly.

Holiday Emergency Services

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment setup

With holidays coming and going throughout these winter months SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village knows that these times are the worst possible moments to deal with the headache of a fire or water loss. Everyone should be with their loved ones this holiday season. We would much rather everyone be with their loved ones celebrating the joyous season. However, disaster waits for no one and never occurs at convenient times.

We are here to help! Even on holidays our teams are available and working around the clock. No job is too big, too small, too far, and too much of a hassle for us to handle. We have the infrastructure to handle any sized loss. If you suffer from a holiday water and/or fire loss this holiday season, be sure to call the professionals at SERVPRO first.

Recovery After a Storm

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO van towing generator

Storm damage wreaks destruction on buildings as well as surrounding area. Wind damage can loosen the shingles or tiles on a roof which can allow moisture such as rain or snow to infiltrate the roof itself. This can allow said moisture to enter the protective surface of the roof, which will result in swelling wood with later disintegration, and sometimes becoming mold ridden. This outcome leads to a sagging ceiling and further problems. The elements such as wind, rain, lightning, or hail can result in catastrophic losses, turning lives upside down.

This is what you can expect from SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village storm restoration service professionals.

• Regardless of whether it is a business or residence, our company will come to your property with trained experts and perform a thorough inspection of your loss. This helps us to understand and discover the full extent of damage.

• Once the scope of work is confirmed and agreed upon, the work begins. Depending on what type of damage is present, this will determine the type of equipment SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village will use.

• Generators may be brought in to operate the dehumidifiers and air movers to combat potential mold and mildew to not have a change to make matters worse.

It is important to reach out immediately to reduce the extent that damage may occur. Once contacted and scheduled we will work tirelessly to rescue your building from greater structural issues.

Steps To Minimize Water Damage

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage

1. Call a professional immediately. They can coordinate your next steps best and get you scheduled for assistance. A professional will give you advice that you can trust. In addition, remember to turn off your water and power to the affected areas. 
2. Take safety precautions. Even if you are aware of the source of water it still may contaminated. Water can be clear and still contain harmful bacteria and other contaminants.
3. Protect your belongings. If you have things that have objective or sentimental value to you or your family, scoop these things up and store them away in a safe place so that they won’t be exposed to water. It can be helpful to put a dry layer (some plywood, plastic, etc.) between legs of furniture and wet ground to prevent water seeping into the legs and deforming it. 
4. Begin water removal. Follow any specific instructions that were given when you were on the phone when you called for help. Don’t do anything potentially dangerous.

SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village has 24-hour emergency services, so don’t hesitate to contact us. Almost everyone experiences a flood in their home at some point make sure you have a plan to address.

Commercial Fire Cleanup Steps

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

pressure washing foundation

1. Inspection

Call your local SERVPRO to come and inspect the damage to your property. Our highly trained Project Managers and Technicians thoroughly inspect your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. Hiring a professional restoration company will allow for a complete comprehensive review of the property damage. They will also record and document all damage for your insurer if needed.

2. Safety Work

Property damage can continue even after the fire has been extinguished. The priority should be to prevent further damage to your property. A restoration company will look at what needs to be protected and take the proper steps to do so. With a lot of your windows, walls, and roof potentially damaged, the restoration company will look at what needs boarding up or if your roof needs tarping. This helps to protect your property from further damage.

3. Water Removal

Water removal post firefighting efforts is top of the list. Hiring a professional team to investigate the possibility of leaks or places where mold can develop is very important.

4. Smoke and Soot Removal

Odors and staining left behind from smoke or soot damage go beyond surface level. With SERVPRO’s specialized techniques, the next step for SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village is to remove the smoke and soot left behind on the ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

5. Cleanup

There are a variety of cleaning techniques that can be used to clean up these damaged items and structures, along with equipment such as industrial air scrubbers and foggers that will help remove smoke odors.

Commercial Restoration Challenges

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage

Every property loss is different. Being a local business ourselves, we understand the importance of getting your business reopened as soon as possible. Our job is to return your property to its preloss condition and the doors opened.

It’s hard to be prepared when disaster strikes. You can take steps to both prevent disaster from ever happening and make an emergency plan if they do.

Plumbing Maintenance

Make sure your plumbing is well-maintained and in good condition. Plumbing problems cause the biggest share of water damage, so regularly get your plumbing inspected. Regular inspections will end up saving you money over time. Another part of preparing for a disaster is drafting an emergency plan.

If you’re not sure where to start, consider some of the following suggestions:

• Create an emergency contact list
• Make clear emergency procedures
• Train Employees in common emergency scenarios
• Back up data storage offsite

These are suggestions and not a full list. When it comes to water, fire, and smoke damage, keep SERVPRO of Studio City / Valley Village in mind and call us right away.

Five Steps Towards Water Damage Recovery

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage resulting in mold.

First, get in touch with your insurance.

Insurance claims take time and paperwork. It is a good idea to check with your insurance company what they cover in terms of water damage to be prepared.

Second, Get an Inspection

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is a water damage restoration expert in Studio City and Valley Village that offers inspections, and our best-in-class technicians work tirelessly to return your home to its preloss condition.

Thirdly, Take Care of Your Home

Commercial buildings tend to have water resistant materials, some parts can still receive damage, especially from corrosion or mold growth.

Fourth, Check Your Electrical

Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Make sure the contractor you go with is properly licensed and has the experience to handle the job at hand.

Fifth, Cleaning and Remediation

Mold growth is the most common outcome from water damage. Restoration contractors should be able to detect the source and take proper remediation measures during the restoration process. Untreated mold can easily grow and spread, especially through your home or business’s ventilation system.

Choosing the Right Restoration Company

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Crew cleanup.

Companies which are local to your area are usually the most accessible in emergencies. Local restoration companies understand your area better, allowing them to trace the common causes of damages in your area quickly. Local professional restoration companies often find the cause of loss faster than other companies.

Vet your chosen restoration company and make sure they are licensed and insured. If they are uninsured and not licensed, they are not professional. Before hiring anyone ask for their credentials. A reputable/transparent company will have their credentials readily available and be happy to share. Being licensed means the company has met the regulations for their profession and are currently not in any legal disputes.

Confirm the Company’s availability. The more time that transpires the more damage will occur. Over time water can cause more wood rot and structural damage can occur. When having remediation work performed make sure to receive an appropriate timeline of when the work will transpire/finish.

Hiring a damage restoration company for your home or business is a stressful decision, especially when speed is of the essence. Choose a company that holds its proper certifications, is local, available, and meets insurance requirements.

5 Common Causes for Bathroom Flooding

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in bathroom

1. PLUMBING BREAKS

Pipes age over time and can rupture. Excess water pressure is the main cause and can result in a quickly flood a bathroom.

2. OVERFLOWED TOILET

Toilet overflows are common occurrences and can often be the result of blocked toilet traps or backed-up sewer laterals.

3. BLOCKED PIPES

Wet wipes down toilets and hair down sinks are a few examples of the items that we routinely find as the primary cause of loss when performing water mitigation in a bathroom.

4. DRAINING ISSUES

When your overflow drain fails, simply running your bathtub fills the tub to overflowing and can send water cascading behind the shower wall and across the bathroom floor.

5. SEWER BACKUPS

Flooding from storms will often be one of the causes of loss and can cause sewer main backups that fill the bathroom with sewage, but tree roots also can crack, clog and back up sewer lines.

Round the Clock Emergency Services

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO team on jobsite.

SERVPRO is known for being “faster to any size disaster,” commercial or residential. When compared to other restoration companies SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is not only on site the fastest. We also maximize our efficiency while on the job to make sure we are fastest at getting you back into your home or place of business as well. Why SERVPRO? Because we understand what it means to be the leader in restoration not just in our city but across the nation, being a company that is available 24/7 we are truly around the clock. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village has a professional always on call to make sure we are ready to jump into action no matter what time it is or what the job call may be! You will never have to worry about what time your emergency may happen knowing that we will be there for you immediately.

Essential 4 Steps Towards Storm Damage Restoration

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Mud on warehouse floor.

1. Guarantee your safety
   If your dwelling experiences storm damage you may be forced to pack up and leave your home.

2. Reach out to insurance
   Confirm the extent of your coverage so that you get the most help already guaranteed to you. Documentation is the most pivotal part of this process and will help you receive the coverage afforded you.

3. Secure your property
   Hire a professional remediation company like SERVPRO to perform the inspection of your property post loss to confirm it is safe to remain. An experienced remediation company knows how to inspect your property and our best-in-class service will assist in returning your home to its preloss condition.

4. Hire a local SERVPRO to perform storm damage remediation services.
   SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village offers full services including inspections, cleaning, mitigation, and remediation.

5 Warning Signs of a Burst Pipe

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Burst pipe and water damage.

Not all broken pipes cause immediate water damage. It can sometimes be a slow leak that eventually causes water damage to your home or business. Be alert to the warning signs of a broken pipe.

1. Fluctuating Water Pressure:

Don’t immediately blame the city. It may be a busted pipe. Pressure changes are hard on plumbing system and can damage pipe fittings.

2. Water discoloration and or smell:

The water has taken on a brownish or “rust” colored feature and or smells of rotten eggs. Fun fact, that rotten egg smell is hydrogen sulfide, a naturally occurring gas that can also form in sewer lines. Make sure to call in a certified technician to handle this type of issue.

3. Recurring sink puddles:

You try to stop any leaks under sinks to no avail. Inspect your home or business carefully just above pipe cover plates, additionally look for damp spots.

4. Noisy pipes/water movement sounds within walls:

If no water is running in your home, you should not be able to hear water. A single broken pipe can influence the water pressure of an entire structure.

5. Rising water bill cost:

Small drips can add up. Make sure to regular check your water bill and plumbing fixtures for leaks to lessen the chance a pipe burst will occur.

Wildfire Season Preparedness Tips

9/18/2021 (Permalink)

Emergency preparedness.

Should a wildfire start in your area you will need to be able to move quickly and efficiently. You may have to leave your home to stay safe. Have different escape routes planned out from your home or community. Make sure to understand the procedure your community follows when making your emergency preparedness plan.

1. Emergency Supplies
   1. Go kit: (3) days of supplies
   2. Stay at home kit: (2) weeks of supplies for home confinement/stay
   3. 1-month supply of medication in child proof container
   4. Keep personal, financial, and medical records in safe, fireproof container.
2. Communication Plan
   1. Sign up for local government emergency alerts
   2. Obtain back up battery/ies for any mobile devices
   3. Obtain a battery-powered radio
   4. Monitor weather conditions near you
3. Emergency Skills
   1. First-aid training
   2. CPR training
   3. Be ready for no power. Plan for your needs, including cell phones and medical equipment.
4. Download American Red Cross Wildfire Safety Checklist: https://bit.ly/Wildfire-Safety-American-Red-Cross

Link to current California Wildfire incidents: https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/.

Reduce Structural Risk Against Wildfires

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

No symbol over wildfire symbol.

Readyforwildfire.org advises that a large step in reducing wildfire risk to your property is creating defensible areas or zones. These are described as (3) zones with varying defined distances and tasks to perform within each Zone: 0, 1, and 2.

Zone 0: (0) to (5) feet

The Immediate Zone is the area closest to the structure and the most vulnerable. Remove any combustible material surrounding your property. This can be dry grass or brush, outdoor furniture, trashcans etc. Clean any fallen leaves and needles regularly and repeatedly during the fire season.

Zone 1: (5) to (30) feet

The Intermediate Zone can include other buildings, structures, trees, etc. Keep it “lean, clean, and green.” Remove dead plants, dry leaves, pine needles, etc. from your rain gutters, roof, and yard. Regularly trim your trees to a minimum of 10 feet from other trees. Branches that hand over your roof should be removed and any dead branches should be kept 10 feet away from your chimney. Move any woodpiles at least 30 feet from any structure.

Zone 2: (30) to (100) feet

The Extended Zone includes space more than 100 feet away if defined otherwise by vegetation conditions, steep slopes, and or your local fire department. Cut down/back annual grass to the regulatory size in your area.

Top 5 Difficulties Faced When Working Commercial Remediation

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in commercial building.

After your home or business structure becomes compromised from unforeseen events such as extreme weather, poor building techniques, or some other circumstance, owners must decide on the best course of action to take.

1. Pathogens

There is a great deal of risk after a disease outbreak when it comes to water damage remediation and cleanup. There is a high risk of potential exposure to bacteria, viruses, mold, and other pathogens. Water damage remediation and cleanup after a disease outbreak both come with the risk of exposure to bacteria, viruses, mold, and other pathogens. This is a special concern relative to sewage and or fire sprinkler water damage. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village ensures that our crews have training in and access to the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleaning equipment.

2. Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals

Meth labs in homes or hotels, industrial spills etc. all require remediation to rid the chemicals on surfaces where they may be present. Knowing the chemicals which are potentially present will help determine what type of PPE is needed to protect crews from touching or breathing them in. Proper precaution is taken so as to limit exposure to the remediation chemicals and the pathogens being treated. 

3. Decontaminating Both Large Areas and Hidden Surfaces

In your home or building, you may encounter a myriad of surface types and materials, including but not limited to:

• Walls and ceilings
• Metal, wood, or concrete
• Ridged or uneven surfaces
• Carpet, upholstery, and other fabrics
• Hidden spaces behind walls or equipment

Some remediation chemicals require mechanical scrubbing to effectively remove contaminants. This can present challenges in large commercial spaces and can require a lot of manpower.

4. Penetrating Walls to Reach Areas Behind Them

Mold remediation costs can also escalate when sections of walls must be removed to access the areas behind them. Those sections require replacement, which adds to the overall remediation cost, and will require additional work to return the space to its preloss condition. 

5. Working in Areas with Limited Access

Small areas such as crawl spaces and attics are difficult to access for remediation and to perform the visual inspections needed to confirm surfaces have been treated. Fire damage remediation also present unique challenges where structural damage may occur preventing access to affected areas. It is important to have both the right products and equipment in order to ensure all affected areas are treated, no matter the difficulty in reaching them.

Call a SERVPRO certified professional. We are experts in all manner of remediation and restoration. Our Project Managers and Technicians are highly trained, certified, and committed to best in class service and production.

SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know 50% of businesses may never reopen after suffering a disaster? According to the latest research, half of the time when businesses are affected by a fire or water damage, they end up having to close down. For the businesses that do survive, the majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.  

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Emergency Ready Program or ERP for short, allows SERVPRO to help commercial properties to be ready in case of a water or fire emergency. By entering detailed information before an event happens, you can minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. 

There's also useful information such as how to turn off electrical panels, main water, gas, etc. to stop any more damage from happening. It's at no cost to your company, as well as a concise profile document, and a guide to help get back into your building after a disaster. 

This approach is a great investment of your time and is designed specifically with the customer in mind. If you or someone you know would love to have an ERP done, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO today! 

Keep Your Home Safe From a Fire

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Protect and fireproof your home with these five tips.

Fire season is upon us and there are some things you can do to minimize damage to your property.  Here are five tips to fireproof your home:

• Apply fire-retardant chemicals:  You can use eco-friendly fire-retardant sprays that can be applied to at-risk areas that are most prone to fire in your home.  They are a great line of defense and decrease the ability of materials to ignite. The chemicals in the fire retardant are applied to materials to create a barrier or slow the growth of the fire. 
• Get rid of Vegetation:  Make sure there is no dry or dead vegetation around your home because it causes the highest risk. Be sure to prune highly flammable shrubberies that are dry. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends creating at least 30 feet of defensible space between your home and surrounding vegetation to reduce the potential for damage.
• Limit roof combustibility:  Complex roofs with a lot of ridges are more prone to fire because wind can cause embers to get caught on the ridges and valleys. A safer option would be to consider replacing your roofing with fireproof material and applying fire retardant chemicals. Cleaning out debris such as leaves and pine needles is helpful along with checking for broken shingles then replacing them to reduce your home catching fire. 
• Keep your gutters clean:  It’s important to clean your gutters because they can accumulate vegetation and other debris when it’s windy. Then the debris in your gutters is more likely to catch fire when the season is dry. Removing the debris regularly can help reduce fire risk.
• Focus on protecting your windows:  Older windows may consist of a single pane of glass. Newer windows are “dual-pane” or “multi-pane.” In general, dual- or multi-pane windows are better choices from both a wildfire resistance and energy efficiency perspective.  Window failure can occur if the glass in the window breaks, allowing embers and flames to enter the building, or the combustible frame ignites and the fire is able to move into the occupied space. The most vulnerable window during a wildfire is one that is left open.

Top Five Reasons Fire Suppression Systems Fail

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage caused by inactive fire suppression system.

Fire sprinkler suppression systems are common in commercial and becoming more common in residential. Top five failures for fire suppressions systems:

1. Improper maintenance – most common: faulty pumps, failing suppression material supply.
2. Typically, in hotels or apartments tenants hang a coat hanger on the sprinkler head.
3. Influx in pressure to fire sprinkler system.
4. Crack or break in the plumbing lines.
5. System shut-off. This is the cause for nearly 2/3 of fire suppression system failures.

It is important to regularly get your Fire Suppression System checked. Four times annually is the recommended amount that it should be inspected.

Regardless of the fire damage source in your home or business, SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is there to support and educate you during your loss. Fire remediation and repair pose many questions and concerns depending on the nature of building materials burned. Our senior project managers are well trained in the science of combustion byproduct cleanup. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village claims managers will be designated to be your liaison between you, our onsite team, and the insurance carrier to make sure your home is restored to its preloss condition with all appropriate post clearance testing, city inspections, and most importantly our customer satisfaction form signed by you our client when we hand back the keys to your home.

How We Dry Your Home After Water Damage!

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

First a detailed assessment must be performed onsite to confirm the extent of water damage which has occurred. Depending on the building materials that are affected our team will provide a detailed scope of work and dry out/mitigation scope of work for your review and that of your insurance adjuster.

Sometimes, the damage is minimal and the dry out plan can happen very quickly with minimal cost. If this is the case an insurance claim may not be required as it the cost of mitigation will be less than your deductible amount possibly. In other instances where the damage is more significant, we are able to communicate all aspects of the scope and cost in a timely fashion. We divide the process into (3) phases. Phase (1) initial moisture mapping, and or fire mapping, stabilization through the use of engineering controls and equipment. Phase (2) is to assess our client’s contents such as furniture, artwork, clothing. Phase (3) is a detailed reconstruction estimate itemizing the building repair scope of work and cost to be performed.  

There are many different types of equipment that can be needed for a significant loss. Some of this equipment includes:

• Dehumidifiers
• Air movers
• Water extraction vacuums
• HEPA vacuum, both backpack and canister type
• Submersible pumps
• Moisture detectors
• Hygrometers
• Infrared
• Floor mat drying system
• Desiccants

The Basics of Commercial Restoration at SERVPRO

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

We specialize in damage restoration for both residential and commercial properties. Properties that have been damaged by weather, mold, water, and fire. Our professionals are experienced and knowledgeable, with the training and equipment necessary to restore your residential and commercial properties. We have extensive years of experience and a full range of restoration services for our clients.

We believe in the importance of ensuring that our customers are happy. No matter how difficult the restoration process, we want to ensure that you understand the steps ahead and that you are confident in our technicians. We understand that your business may well depend on our ability to provide efficient, effective restoration services. You can have confidence in our team to make it "Like it never even happened." 

Are You On Social Media? Let's Connect!

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Do you already follow us on our social media pages?  If you have not done so already, come find us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram!  We aim to provide great content by giving everyday helpful tips, showcasing our work, and keeping it fun overall. 

Some of our posts include the science of identifying and eliminating odors can be tricky, but as professionals in deodorization, we can take care of it.  Some other examples of what we post are many emergency preparedness tips and showing before and after photos.

We also like to share the jobs we have completed in cities such as Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Downtown, Bakersfield, Sylmar, and just all over the West Coast region. 

What would you like to see us share on our pages? Let us know! We would love to connect and hear from you. 

Here are the links to our pages:

Facebook: click here

Instagram: click here

Twitter: click here

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SERVPRO and Farmers Insurance

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have Farmers Insurance? Did you know SERVPRO is part of the Farmers Emergency Mitigation Referral Program (EMRP)?

That means we are here for you and on-call 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We are one call away.  We offer emergency services to mitigate the effects of damage caused by fire, smoke, and water. The goal is to prevent further damage to your home and save as much building material as possible.

We here at SERVPRO are reputable vendors who are properly licensed and insured — and have agreed to follow accepted industry standards and practices. We have the equipment, technology, training, and customer diplomacy for any size disaster. We thoroughly document and communicate each step of the restoration process, because an informed customer is often a happy one.

We Are Number One

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

You can rely on us to be the best restoration company you ever deal with.

When you simply google "fire damage restoration", "water damage", "commercial restoration" lots of information pops up and it seems overwhelming, especially if you have never been placed in a situation like this before.

It can be an absolute nightmare if you don't deal with professionals and you should always do your due diligence check first. With SERVPRO, you'll never have to worry about what other restoration companies are doing, as a franchise, we are held to an industry-standard that holds true for the entire company and we pride ourselves in being #1 not only in the nation but in the Los Angeles County.

All of our technicians are IICRC certified and have continuous training. Our office staff is available to you 24/7 and we are known to get you back into your property as timely as possible.

If you ever suffer fire damage you should always call SERVPRO. 

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know 50% of businesses may never reopen after suffering a disaster? According to the latest research, half of the time when businesses are affected by a fire or water damage, they end up having to close down. For the businesses that do survive, the majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.  By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Emergency Ready Program, ERP for short, allows SERVPRO to help commercial properties to be ready in case of a water or fire emergency. By entering detailed information before an event happens, you can minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. 

There's also useful information such as how to turn off electrical panels, main water, gas, etc. to stop any more damage from happening. It's at no cost of your company, as well as a concise profile document, and a guide to help get back into your building after a disaster. This approach is a great investment of your time and is designed specifically with the customer in mind. If you or someone you know would love to have an ERP done, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO today! 

We Are The Wind Damage Restoration Specialists

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

No matter where you live, you’re prone to some type of storm damage, even if it’s just a little wind damage. This is why we should all be prepared, especially in Southern California with the Santa Ana winds. 

At SERVPRO, we have knowledgeable storm-damage restoration technicians prepared to offer assessment, repairs, and cleanup services. We’re prepared for any challenge, from massive storm damage to minor wind damage. Time and time again, we’ve helped homes get back to the way they were before the damage occurred.

We are here to help you pick up the pieces of your life after wind or storm damage. Wind damage may not happen often but when it does we know it can be a headache to deal with. You can always trust the storm damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO.

Why SERVPRO Should Be Your First Call

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals understand all of your situations when it comes to remediating water, fire, mold, or storm damage. 

Our technicians have regular training, even if they are the most knowledgeable in the game. We make sure to have refresher courses and are constantly studying up with our crews to make sure they always know what to do. You can trust that when a SERVPRO technician enters your home you will be satisfied with them.

Restoring property is SERVPRO's first priority. You will appreciate the immediate response and you will know everything is being done to limit the damage. It doesn't matter what time or what day you call we will have a crew to you in a matter of hours, assessing the damage, and beginning work on your home. 

Secondary Damages

4/25/2021 (Permalink)

While water is essential for our survival, it doesn’t suit well in some situations when it comes into contact with materials at work in your office building suddenly in quantities or consistently over long periods of time. An immediate burst of flooding can cause terrible damage, but undetected water over many months or years can introduce secondary damage and other problems such as black mold. It’s important to understand the issues that can arise when gradual water damage occurs.

So, how does flooding start? You can do all you can to try to prepare and guard your business against disasters, but they’re not always possible to predict or prevent. Floods are among one of the most devastating emergencies you could face at work and one of the biggest causes of secondary water damage. Here’s are a few ways how they can start:

• Sewer backup
• Leaky or broken pipes
• Weak roof or missing roof shingles
• Poor drainage
• Water that finds its way into your building’s foundation

What It Could Leave Behind

When water gets on the floor, onto furniture, or on the drywall, you may still have some damage even after you clean it up. This is known as secondary damage. From this, you may find fungal growth and other bacteria in parts of your building. It usually requires a trained professional mold remediation specialist to remove. 

What Happens If You Do Find Mold

If you spot mold, there’s a good chance it is black mold. This is not something you should try to clean up yourself, and you definitely do not want to ignore it. A professional crew will use specialized chemicals and processes to get rid of the mold and sanitize the affected area so you feel comfortable resuming your work duties in the building.

What You Should Watch For To Stay Proactive

Parts of your building with high humidity, such as laundry facilities, bathrooms with showers, or exercise rooms, may be susceptible to mold growth before or after a flood. Checking your plumbing systems regularly is recommended as well.

You can count on SERVPRO. We're Here to Help.

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

We're Here to Help.

Texans are going through one of the worst catastrophic freeze storms and are in dire need of help. Our team has the resources, equipment, and manpower to do what we can to help recover the community in Texas. Our teams are on-site on location and ready to take action to bring back Texas. We are humbled that we have the opportunity to participate to support the community in Texas. 

If you are experiencing any water damage from a storm, please give us a call and we will take care of you.

We are a mission-driven company and we strive to be there for our customers doing everything we can to help restore both your residential and/or commercial properties. A dedicated claims manager will be your point of contact for white-glove service and communication with your insurance adjuster!

We Are The Professional Water Damage Experts

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Today

There’s a number of ways for property damage to happen but most often it is from the result of excess water.  The particular reason for the circumstance of water damage can be so many different things. Some of them included are caused by rainstorms and internal property issues like a pipe burst.

Do act fast in making the call to seek a professional like ourselves at SERVPRO,  if you think you have experienced water damage to your property because the water will spread quickly, and the longer it’s left untreated, the damage could get worse.  The affected areas can become rotted, warped, and could possibly be affected by mold growth.

Also, trying to restore the damage yourself is not the best course of action in such a situation. Give us a call. We offer a range of services for customers suffering from water damage for residential and commercial properties. We are available 24 hours a day seven days a week.

Texas Winter Storm 2021

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

Here is our incredible team in Texas up early to serve and respond to our Texan customers in their time of need.

Texas, our team has arrived to help the state after the freezing storm. We have deployed over 200 people to help. We have over 1 million dollars worth of equipment on hand to dry out the damage. We want to help get your commercial or residential property dried out if you have suffered any water damage.

Our team has mobilized to provide best-in-class production, service, and discounted pricing for Commercial and Industrial clients.

Thank you to all Insurance Adjusters, Insurance Consultants, and Independent Adjusters for working so hard to get Texas up and running!

If you need assistance please email texascatteam@SERVPROwestcoastdrt.com

Here is our incredible team in Texas up early to serve and respond to our customers in their time of need. We want to send a big special thanks to our team members for all their efforts, working long hours providing every single customer the best white-glove service. We see you and appreciate everything you are doing to make a difference in people's lives. This is what One Team is all about!

Texas, we know Mother Nature is challenging us during this time but know that we are here for you. We doing everything we can to restore your homes and businesses. Thank you for being patient with us as we are working long hours providing white-glove service to each and every one of our customers.

Water Damage: Five Things To Know

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

A pipe burst just happened in your California home and you might be wondering what to do next and how to avoid water damage. There are a few things you should know to prevent long term problems after flooding:

1. Damage Can Happen Numerous Ways

A waterline may break, a storm could lead to flooding, or you might have a leaky seal around a window. No matter what type of water damage you could be worried about, a SERVPRO professional should still be able to help. Give us a call! 

2. Repairs Should Be Taken Care of Quickly Once Discovered

Any time you have any water damage, whether, from a pipe burst or roof leak, it’s important to make repairs as quickly as possible. A quick cleanup may help save your home from more costly problems long term.

3. Untreated Damage Can Cause Long Term Problems

Fix all the damaged areas as soon as possible. Putting off repairs can lead to additional issues like warped wood or mold growth.

4. Affected Areas Can Be Restored

Remember that no matter how bad the damage may appear at first, a restoration company should be able to conduct cleanup and repairs. With a little time and work they can soon have the space looking “Like it never even happened.”

5. A Professional Can Help

Anytime you think you may have flood water issues of any kind, call SERVPRO for details. We are here to help!

How to Reduce Fire Damage

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

Reducing fire damage is one of the first considerations after a fire in a home or a fire in a business. Commercial fire damage can greatly affect the ability of a business to continue operations. In order to recover as much value as possible from a property that has undergone fire damage, smoke damage, and soot damage, a restoration company like SERVPRO should be contacted immediately after the premises are secure. The fire cleanup team can assist in evaluating the damage to the property and listing the items that are present.

They can also perform fire damage restoration and offer an estimate onsite. The fire cleanup will also involve drying up all the water that firefighters may flood the premises with in order to put out the fire. This water can cause extensive water damage causing the growth of mold. A certified technician can dry out the property and prevent mold growth using industrial equipment that sometimes includes a water extractor, a dehumidifier, and an air current mover.

All surfaces are sanitized and cleaned after all the soot damage and smoke damage has been reversed. The fire clean-up team will also instruct property owners how to prevent commercial fire damage in the future. Any residual smoke smell will be ventilated until gone. If the smoke smell continues, chemical solutions like an ozone treatment or thermal fogging are also options depending on the needs of the property owner. Additional treatments may be needed weeks or even months after the initial incident.

Fire cleanup can be extremely daunting for someone who is shocked by a fire whether in a home or a fire at their business. However, fire damage restoration is normal for a fire cleanup specialist, even in the aftermath of commercial fire damage. A specialist who has the experience and the expertise to guide a property owner will ensure that fire damage is minimized as much as possible. 

My Kitchen Still Smells After the Fire Damage Gets Cleaned Up. Why is that?

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can Help Remove Odors in Your Kitchen

Fire damage from cooking is also known as a protein fire is one of the most common fire losses in residential properties. 

Particular actions need to happen to make sure fire damage in the kitchen from this type of loss. This actively demonstrates that the first and foremost thing to do is wiping down all surfaces in the vicinity with a cleaning agent with a solvent base to release the greasy residue's grip. 

Odor control methods are also a part of this type of mitigation. Cleaning lessens the pungent odor, SERVPRO techs usually have to do a multilayered approach for complete scent elimination using methods such as: 

• Thermal fogging 
• Hydroxyl generators 
• Sealants over painted walls and ceilings 

Wind Damage Restoration Specialists

1/24/2021 (Permalink)

No matter where you live, you’re prone to some type of storm damage, even if it’s just a little wind damage. This is why we should all be prepared, especially in Southern California with the Santa Ana winds. 

At SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village we have knowledgeable storm-damage restoration technicians prepared to offer assessment, repairs, and cleanup services. We’re prepared for any challenge, from massive storm damage to minor wind damage. Time and time again, we’ve helped homes get back to the way they were before the damage occurred.

We are here to help you pick up the pieces of your life after wind or storm damage. Wind damage may not happen often but when it does we know it can be a headache to deal with. You can always trust the storm damage restoration specialists at SERVPRO.

Smart Devices to Protect Your Business

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, even the most cautious of business owners can experience fire or flooding in their homes. In recent years, however, it has been possible to diminish that risk with smart devices that can detect danger before it has time to wreak havoc on your business. These devices are connected to your Wi-Fi network and send you alerts via your smartphone if it detects something dangerous.

• Smart Water Leak Detectors
• Smart Smoke & CO Alarms
• Smart Fire Detectors
• Smart Batteries
• Smart Outlets

Even with all the proper safety measures in place, disasters can still occur. If that happens, call the professionals to help you get your home and life back on track. For professional commercial damage restoration and water damage restoration, contact SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village.

Should I File A Claim?

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

When you've had water or fire damage in your property one of the questions to ask is should I file a claim. 

A claim whether how big or small gets on your record so it is important for a company like SERVPRO to perform a FREE damage assessment to you property to determine the scope of work. Once that claim is filed there is no turning back and that is why it is important to have a SERVPRO expert inspect the property for FREE to provide you the best guidance about your damages. 

SERVPRO will perform a moisture mapping of the property to determine the extent of the damages or a fire damage inspection report to determine which areas of the property are affected. 

SERVPRO is also an insurance preferred vendor by major insurance companies like State Farm, Farmer's Insurance, AAA of Southern California, Mercury Insurance, Nationwide Insurance, Travelers Insurance, The Hartford, CHUBB and many more. 

Once next steps are determined SERVPRO will do all the heavy lifting for you to help restore your property "Like it never even happened." We are a full service restoration company that does mitigation, remediation, abatement, packout and construction for all your restoration needs. We're available 24/7 every day so just give us a call and someone will be there to assist you. 

For a FREE Damage assessment please call us at (818) 508 - 7282.

Earthquake Safety with SERVPRO

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Earthquakes are one of the most destructive of nature’s forces and Southern California knows them well. Due to their unpredictable nature and the amount of damage they can cause, everyone should be prepared for an earthquake. 

Creating an earthquake safety checklist can keep you, your family and pets, as well as your home more safe. Having emergency kits that last up to 3 days or practicing the "stop, drop, and hold" protocol can always become of use. 

After an earthquake sometimes home can experience broken pipes or kitchen machines and that brings water damage into the home, or outside forces come indoors. If your home suffers water, fire, or storm damage from an earthquake call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Villatge (once it is safe to do so).

Getting Rid of Smoke Damage in Your Home

12/31/2020 (Permalink)

Any fire restoration professional can tell you when it comes to fire damage, the fire is the easy part. There’s really only one way to get rid of most damage to building materials charred by fire: remove them. Getting rid of the sight of smoke damage is a fairly easy thing to do. You can clean it, paint over it or remove the items. Odor on the other hand is invisible and even more bothersome and must be dealt with immediately. SERVPRO uses scientific methods and quick measures to remove smoke damage after a fire.

1. Get rid of the source of smoke odor

2. Seal salvageable surfaces

3. Clean everything left behind

Having your home professionally cleaned after soot, smoke, and fire damage can impact your health. The hidden damage from smoke can be hard to detect, you should always call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village after experiencing a fire loss of any size. 

7 Most Common Causes for Water Damage

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

About 40% of all homeowners have experienced a loss from water damage. The good news is that 93% of all water damage could have been prevented with the right knowledge. Here are 7 items to be aware of that can cause water damage in your home. 

1. Damaged Pipes

2. Appliances

3. Clogged Drains

4. Natural Disasters

5. HVAC

6. Sump Pumps

7. Structural Damage

Residential water damage can be caused by natural disasters, clogged drains or damaged pipes. Water damage is a headache to any homeowner but with the expertise of SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village we can be on the scene immediately and remediating the damage. Our teams are specially trained and have extensive knowledge in how to deal with all sizes of water damage.

Preventing HVAC Water Damage in Your Home

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system can cause extensive water damage if it’s not maintained correctly. Common causes of HVAC water damage include a clogged drain, frozen evaporator coils, and pipes that are not connected correctly. 

Here are some tips to help you prevent HVAC water damage in your home:

• Change the HVAC filter regularly
• Clean the condenser
• Maintain the condensation line and the overflow drain pan

Knowing how to prevent AC from leaking is sometimes not enough to prevent your unit from causing water damage. When leaks occur, the moisture promotes mold growth that can contaminate the air in your home. If you experience HVAC related water damage be sure to contact SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village for immediate restoration.

How to Prevent Mold Growth in Your Closets

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can grow anywhere in homes, including closets. Moisture can accumulate in closets, providing a breeding ground for mold growth. 

• Make sure that clothes are completely dry before storing them in closets. The moisture in clothing can accelerate mold growth.
• Don’t store items on the closet floor to prevent trapping moisture underneath them.
• Empty, clean, and dry closets thoroughly on occasion. Doing so ensures you keep them fresh and aired out, reducing the possibility of mold growth.
• If you have a humidity problem in your home, use the air conditioning unit or a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air.

Don't let microbial growth take over any part of your home! Make sure to regularly check damp places and help them dry out if you can. If you experience mold call SERVPRO right away. 

Holiday Restoration Experts

11/27/2020 (Permalink)

With holidays approaching rapidly we at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village know this would be the worst possible time to have to deal with the headache of dealing with a water or fire loss. We would much rather homeowners and business owners be with their loved ones celebrating the happy season. But disaster waits for no one and more than likely never happens at the best time.

Don't be afraid to call us! Even on holidays our teams are available and work around the clock. No job is too big, too small, too far, and too much of a hassle for us to handle. If you suffer from a holiday water and/or fire loss this holiday season be sure to call the professionals at SERVPRO first. 

Fire and Smoke Restoration Experts

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Whether you suffered from a local wildfire or had an accidental fire in your kitchen… we will make your property look like new again. We clean every affected surface, furniture, etc. as well as remove soot, ash and smoke. You can have peace of mind with our fire & smoke reconstruction services to renovate your home to make it like new again and we will help you and address all aspects of the project. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village provides all of the services to return your home to its original state. If your home or business has been affected by fire and/or smoke damage, give us a call immediately! Our crews are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and no fire loss is too large or too small for our office to handle. 

Fall and Winter Weather Storm Restoration Experts

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Fall/winter weather can include a wide range of weather activity, such as severe storms with powerful winds that can cause serious damage. Or — heavy rainfall that leads to over-the-ground flooding. Severe weather can thus result in costly storm damage repair. So, when the storm is over, it’s important to know what to do, as well as what NOT to do.

Regardless of the circumstances — damage from storms or floods, fire, smoke, or mold, call SERVPRO. Our mitigation experts are standing by to provide storm damage restoration to return the property to a preloss condition. They are well-trained and use the latest state-of-the-art science. We can help you determine the full extent of the damage and perform services following industry standards and best practices.

Knowing a Good Commercial Restoration Company Could Save You

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

Damage to any property can be highly stressful, expensive and upsetting for the owners. If you have a commercial property then damage can have a whole extra dimension that makes matters all the worse. Fortunately, commercial restoration services exist to help restore your premises and get them back to functioning normally as quickly as possible. 

If you have a damaged commercial property, then you need to look for a company offering commercial restoration services as quickly as possible. As with any type of property damage, leaving your damage unattended could potentially cause it to get worse.

Knowing a good commercial restoration company is a good way to ensure you will be able to start repairing and restoring your property as soon as possible and to get to work fast. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village has handled hundreds of commercial restoration projects and is fully equipped to handle your damage, no matter how large or small.

Untreated Water Damage in Your Home

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

In the event of water leakage, flooding, or other water disasters, it is a sure bet that a little bit goes a long way. A small, slow drip and a sudden, significant flood can both do extensive damage to your home and property and present serious health risks if left untreated. In many cases, the safest way to clean up a water mess is to call on the expertise of water damage restoration professionals who can remove the water and affected materials by following a safe and thorough process that eliminates contaminants. Attempting a clean-up on your own is risky because you place yourself in danger of coming in contact with contaminants, and you can’t be sure that you’ve properly removed all dangerous or damaged materials. If you have a persistent water issue in your home or have incurred water damage of any sort on your property, acting quickly to remedy the situation is the best way to limit property damage and protect your family from health issues that arise as a result of neglected water damage.

Why is Commercial Restoration Important?

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

Nobody expects disaster to strike their business, but the fact of the matter is—it could happen to any business. So, just as it’s important to have insurance in place when you need it, it’s vital to have an emergency restoration management plan in place should your business ever need it. Restoration companies give top priority to businesses that are hit with fire, water, mold, storm, or other damages. 

Specifically with COVID19 posing issues to commercial business lately, it is a good idea to contact SERVPRO of Arleta/Hansen Hills for a professional cleaning. Keeping you, your employees, and your customers safe is our top priority. 

It is important to have a relationship with a commercial restoration team because you may never know when you need them. Our teams are available 24/7 365 days out of the year and no problem is too small or too large for our team to handle. 

Is Water Damage an Emergency?

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

In a simple answer, yes! While it isn't a true emergency in terms of calling 911, it must be dealt with as soon as possible in order to avoid serious damage and potential health risks. The water cleanup process needs to begin as quickly as possible after the damage occurs.

Ignoring water damage has the potential to create the following problems: microbial growth, electrical issues, stains, and increased repair costs. One issue with ignoring water damage is that it can get worse, and it might happen faster than you would imagine. It might not look like much now, and you might think that it’s not going to get any worse. But if there’s an ongoing cause, which you might not know exists, you might find it’s quickly bigger. Water damage is not a DIY project and should always be handled by the professionals at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village.

What Do Fire Restoration Companies Do?

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes it is confusing understanding exactly the purpose of a fire restoration company. We are not the fire department and we cannot put out your fire, however we can clean up the aftermath. The job of a restoration company is to clean up the mess and to preserve and protect the home and its contents so that further damage will not occur. Our crews of professional technicians will enter your home and immediately begin logging your items and begin cleaning your home from soot and smoke damage. 

The fire damage restoration process can reverse the damage caused by a fire in your home or business premises so that you are able to get back to normal living as quickly as possible. If you experience a fire loss always call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village immediately. 

The Best of the Best

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Water and fire restoration companies can seem like they are a dime a dozen. It's hard to know which ones you can fully trust based on a quick Google search because they all promise the same thing. But at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village we have years of experience in our community. 

When it comes to water, fire, mold, or storm restoration our crews and office staff are the best of the best. Every person is IICRC certified, has continual education courses, and is prepped for any level of damage when a call comes through to our office. We work closely with insurance companies and brokers as well as property managers who trust us completely when they have a client call up with an issue. 

You can trust SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Wildfire Restoration Experts

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

When a wildfire takes control of your life, we help you take it back.

The cleanup afterwards is just as important.

Wildfires can strike almost anywhere. A wildfire can cause more than just the damage that you see. If fire damages your property, it can throw your life into chaos, SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village are dedicated to restoring you damaged property back to preloss condition and helping your life get back to normal.

Even if you property didn't suffer fire damage, there may be soot particles and residues left to clean up. If cleaned improperly, the odor and effects can linger long after the fire has been put out. From the structure itself to the contents inside, your SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village professionals use the latest technology and training to leave your property smelling fresh and clean.

How to Spot Water Damage in Your Home

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

Quick signs that could lead to possible water damage in your home. 

1. Check your floors.

No matter what kind of flooring you have, it will manifest signs of water damage.

2. Look for stains.

Unusual stains could indicate there is a leaky pipe or drain inside the wall. Cracks in the drywall or areas that appear swollen and are soft to touch also may signify trouble. Peeling paint is another sign of loose water within wall spaces. As the drywall gets saturated, paint can lose adhesion.

3. Inspect the outside.

What you want to look for are pools of standing water that can indicate poor drainage in the yard, gutter spouts that aren’t transporting water far enough from the house or leaky rain gutters.

4. Watch for rust and mold.

Inspect your water heater and check for rust on the tank or damp spots on the floor.

By following these tips and being aware as a homeowner you can possibly catch water damage early on and save yourself a headache in the future. 

Prevent Leaks In Your Commercial Property

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage happens within a commercial building, it can jeopardize a business’s ability to run and function. Excess water can lead to extensive damage within a building, especially if it is not addressed immediately. Commercial buildings in Century City, Santa Monica, Venice or Culver City tend to use larger amounts of water than residential buildings do because of the amount of people who frequent the space. We have some easy tips to help prevent water leaks and water damage in your commercial space. 

Regular inspections, regular professional maintenance, outside cleaning, regular repairs and upgrades are some ways to prevent water leaks. 

By taking these steps, you can help prevent damage caused by water leaks in your commercial building. While these tips are effective for reducing the risk of leaks and water damage, there is still a chance that leaks can occur. If you do find that there’s water damage in your commercial building, then you need to act right away and call us at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village.

Get Your Home Back to Normal

10/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke restoration experts, that's SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village. While water damage makes up for most of our work, our franchise location prides ourselves in also effectively handling fire/soot/smoke damage as well. 

After a fire, its best to assess your property for visual and hidden damages. In the case of a fire or smoke emergency, SERVPRO provides all of the services to return your home to its original state. Whether you suffered from a local wildfire or had an accidental fire in your kitchen, SERVPRO will make your home new again. We clean every affected surface, content, and furniture and remove soot, ash, and smoke. You can have peace of mind with our restoration services to restore your home to make it better than new.

Small Leaks Aren't Always Small Problems

10/18/2020 (Permalink)

Even though your home might suffer a small leak this does not always mean it's only a small damage. While you cannot always prevent water damage due to sudden, unexpected events, there are some ways you can prepare your home in advance. By practicing regular maintenance, such as checking your roof and your pipes for leaks, you can possibly prevent a significant water event. The longer a home stays wet or moist after a water event, the more likely the overall structural integrity will be compromised.

The technicians at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village are professionals when it comes to water damage in residential homes, we understand the headache that water damage can cause. Therefore we always put our best foot forward and offer the best services in the most stressful of times. Always call SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

The Truth About Water Damage

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

After a water event, you have very little time before damage becomes even more costly and possibly irreversible. You only have 24-48 hours to get the home dried out before mold and mildew begin growing. Additionally, the longer the water sits in the home, the harder it will be to remove water stains. Plus, the longer the home is saturated, the more the overall structure will weaken. Unfortunately, a homeowner’s problems do not simply end after the water is extracted, and the home is dried out. Typically, mold follows a water event, and mold in a home is unsafe and unhealthy. Again, mold tends to follow water events. But, what you may not realize is that moisture has a tendency to accumulate in places you may not look. As a result, you may have mold growing in unknown places in your home. If your home suffers from a water loss you should immediately call the professionals at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village.

Precautions for Storm Damage

10/11/2020 (Permalink)

Violent weather such as storm damage can wreak havoc on buildings and homes. Wind damage can be a hazard to the structure of a building, by loosening the shingles or tiles on the roof. This can cause moisture such as rain to infiltrate into the protective surface of the roof, which will result in the wood swelling and later on disintegration and becoming moldy. This outcome will lead to a sagging ceiling and further problems.

Even though it is still over 90 degrees outside, the winter season is rapidly approaching in SoCal and it will be here before we know it. As a home or business owner we suggest taking the time this season to double check the roof of your home for any prior damage. Taking a few minutes out of your day to check can possibly save you a headache for storm restoration needs later on.

If you experience storm damage to your property, always call SERVPRO. 

Your Certified Commercial Restoration Technicians

10/10/2020 (Permalink)

We are your trusted restoration technicians and when it comes to commercial restoration we are #1. Our size and scalability gives us the ability to handle multiple projects at once, so we can move with maximum efficiency.

It's our business to keep yours moving forward, from minor delays to major disasters. Unforeseen events can have serious consequences for your business. That’s where we come in. We respond immediately, so we can maximize mitigation.

From minor delays to major disasters, unforeseen events can have serious consequences for your business. That’s where we come in. We respond immediately, so we can maximize mitigation. Operating with urgency allows us to help our clients in the face of disaster. 

If your business suffers water, fire, or microbial growth damage call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village for an immediate response.

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Water and fire restoration companies can seem like they are a dime a dozen. It's hard to know which ones you can fully trust based on a quick Google search because they all promise the same thing. But at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village we have 10+ years of experience in our community. 

When it comes to water, fire, mold, or storm restoration our crews and office staff are the best of the best. Every person is IICRC certified, has continual education courses, and is prepped for any level of damage when a call comes through to our office. We work closely with insurance companies and brokers as well as property managers who trust us completely when they have a client call up with an issue. 

You can trust SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Small Leaks Can Lead to Big Problems

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

If not checked frequently, minor plumbing leaks or appliance malfunctions can lead to big water damage problems. We understand that it's hard as a homeowner or renter to always remember to stay on top of your appliances but having a monthly or bi-monthly checklist could save you some headache in the future.

If you have found water damage of any sort on your property, it’s important to take action right away. Simply knowing what to do at the very beginning can save a lot of time and money during the restoration process by preventing the damage from spreading further. Then knowing who to call immediately after to start the remediation process always helps too. SERVPRO is here to make it "Like it never even happened," and we are available to you at any time of day or any day of the week. 

Warning Signs Not To Ignore

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that faulty electrical wiring and overloaded systems are the most common cause of electrical fires?

Overloaded systems tend to have strong electrical currents running through the wires, causing them to heat up in the process. The situation can become a real danger when the system heats up enough for ignition to happen, causing a fire in the process. Don’t ignore the most common electrical malfunctions that could cause an electrical fire. Taking the precautionary steps to protect your home from fire damage can save you from a massive headache in the long run. 

If you experience an electrical fire in your home, your best chance at fully restoring your home and belongings requires a quick call to the professionals at SERVPRO. 

How To Go About Flood Damage

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

What should you do after flooding? Are you in need of some tips for what to do after flooding?  Either way, being prepared just in case it might ever happen is helpful as well!

Here are some tips:

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after the removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in the summertime.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe and dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

Avoid additional risks and do not hesitate to call us at SERVPRO.  We are ready and here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days all year!

Recent Fire Damage in Southern California

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

The 2020 fire season is rapidly approaching Southern California, a mixture of the record breaking temps and the Santa Ana winds are cause for natural disasters. 

SERVPRO is your storm restoration experts, our teams and crews have traveled far and wide to clean up after some of the most damaging fires in Southern California history. Removing debris, soot, and smoke damage from even the most damaged homes and businesses we are able to get your space back to preloss condition and make it "Like it never even happened." 

No-one is every truly prepared for a storm damage claim but you can always be prepared to call SERVPRO in case there is ever an emergency. Our crews are available 24/7 and 365 days out of the year whenever you may need us, we will be there. 

City of Los Angeles Certificate of Appreciation

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

We are proud to be serving ur community!

It was such an honor to receive a Certificate of Appreciation for the work our SERVPRO has done for the City of Los Angeles, California. Absolutely privileged to have Councilman David Ryu to tour our facility.  We were also happy to be able to help and donate much-needed gloves, masks, and supplies to our front line medical workers that are fighting this pandemic.

We are professionals that are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Fitness Equipment
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment

Summer Heat Safety At Home

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

In sunny southern California, it's hot enough to be outside!  Beat the heat this summer and stay cool indoors with the following tips:

• Cover windows to block extra heat from direct sunlight coming in.
• Use fans strategically. Your ceiling fans should be turning counter-clockwise to force the air downwards. 
• Cook with small appliances, such as a slow-cooker or tabletop grill to minimize the heat level.
• Check on your elderly and disabled neighbors regularly. 
• Stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water steadily; don't wait until you're thirsty.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol which causes us to lose water more rapidly.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightly colored, and lightweight clothes.
• Do not exercise outdoors. If you must exercise outdoors, only exercise in the early morning hours, before 8 a.m.
• Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
• Check the local news and other outlets for important safety information.

How To Go About A Water Loss

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

We assume everyone around us knows about water losses because that’s the bread and butter of our business. But we often forget that it’s not every day our clients suffer a water loss, thank goodness, so we want to get back to basics. 

If you, unfortunately, suffer from a water loss it’s good to know your resources. 

Two main priorities are calling your insurance company and getting a water restoration company out to you. The longer you wait the more damage you risk in your home, standstill water can lead to microbial growth and that’s another headache you don’t need on top of a water loss. 

And most importantly, even if you think you can handle it and dry out the water yourself, you should always, and no matter what call SERVPRO. We would hate for you to not be able to complete the job and create a bigger problem for your home, and it’s what we are here to do. We want to handle your water loss!

Commercial Owners Be Prepared When It Comes To Mold Testing

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Mold becomes a problem only when there is too much of it. In commercial buildings, mold overgrowth occurs in places that collect too much moisture such as air conditioning ductwork, trash chutes, and around water leaks from pipes, fixtures, or into the building envelope. Sometimes overgrowth is obvious to the eye and nose, drawn by a moldy smell, you discover a patch of greenish mold in the bathroom under a dripping sink valve. 

Other mold problems flourish out of sight with faint or no odor clues: behind the wall, for example, fed by a failing roof. 

Always schedule professional cleaning if you suspect the following on your property(s):

• There is no visual evidence of mold but the smell of mold is present.
• There has been a history of leaks or standing water issues.
• Tenants complain of allergy or health symptoms that could be caused by mold such as sneezing, coughing, and headaches.
• Tenants suspect mold issues or are unsure whether mold may be present.

You should call SERVPRO for any mold infestation that is more than a few feet in diameter; related to flooding or water damage; inside ventilation or heating systems or inside walls.

Here Are 10 Tips To Avoid Water Damage To Your Home

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

In Southern California, there are ways to protect yourself against costly water losses and claims. Follow these 10 easy tips to keep your home safe and well-maintained:

On The Outside:

1. Maintain Trees and Vegetation

Thriving shrubs can be a beautiful thing – except when their roots wrap around your pipes and break them.  That’s why it’s important to minimize landscaping near utility pipes or, if necessary, remove trees and shrubs that have become too big.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clean your gutters at least twice a year to avoid blockage and ice dams. Standing water can cause damage to your gutters and roof, and unmanaged overflow may create puddles that could damage your foundation. Don’t forget to clean downspouts to ensure water can flow through, and secure downspouts so that they point away from the home.

3. Disconnect Hoses

Standing water in a hose may freeze back into the pipe and create an ice block that may bust your pipes and create damage to walls, floor, and foundation.

On the Inside:

4. Know your Water Main

Know the location of your water main and shut it off if you leave for an extended amount of time.  If no water goes into the house, chances are no faucet drips can wreak havoc on your home.

5. Check Appliances Regularly

Check and maintain your appliances regularly for leaks according to the manufacturer’s directions.

6. Investigate Leaks Right Away and Fix Promptly

If you opt to ignore moisture damage or postpone making the necessary repairs be prepared to experience mold, mildew, dry rot, or even structural damage to your home.  Keep in mind that homeowner’s insurance provides coverage for damage that is sudden and accidental.  Damage that results from a lack of maintenance is not covered on a standard homeowner’s insurance policy.

7. Upgrade Washing Machine Hoses

Old, brittle, or leaky washing machine hoses are among the most frequent causes of water loss for homeowners.  Replace yours regularly to avoid a mighty mess and expensive damage.

8. Install Water Detection Devices

A water detector is a small electronic device that sounds an alarm when its sensor is in contact with moisture.  Its main benefit is that it detects low moisture levels or slow leaks that often go unnoticed.  Install it near water heaters, sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets to prevent extensive damage and mold growth.

9. Check Your Water Pressure

If the water pressure to your home is set too high, pipes and hoses may fail under the pressure. Buy a water pressure gauge at a local hardware store, attach it to an outside faucet, and turn the faucet to full force. The gauge will give you a reading of the home’s water pressure. Typical residential water systems are designed for water pressure of 40 – 70 psi. If your home’s water pressure exceeds 100psi, install a pressure regulator (which is available at hardware stores as well.)

10. Do Monitor Your Water Bill

Sometimes, the only way you know that water is leaking is by taking a closer look at your water bill.  If your usage jumps significantly from one month to the next without explanation, put your “water detective’s hat” on.  Is there a leak in your crawlspace? Or, is it a pipe in your front yard? Don’t leave mystery leaks unattended!  

Call us if you have any questions!  We are here to help!

Area Disinfection Certification Program

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

As America gets back to business, we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean. In fact, 89% of consumers are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations. At SERVPRO, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in communities across the country as we find our way to a new normal. And we’re doing just that with our Area Disinfection Certification Program.

Our new defensive pathogen disinfecting program goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is a proactive viral pathogen disinfecting. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO professionals to bring a higher standard of sanitizing to the places we gather.

Let us know when you are ready for us to help your facility become certified. When everyone sees our SERVPRO disinfected shield, they will enter with confidence knowing that the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.

Contact Genna Grinblat, Executive VP at (818) 730-1434, or email at genna@SERVPROwestcoast.com

3 Signs Your Crawlspace Needs Professional Attention

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Sign # 1 - Moisture:
Moisture can seep into the foundation in your property and cause damage over time. If that’s not bad enough, a dark and moist environment like a crawlspace can offer an excellent breeding ground for mold. Most of the air in your house goes through your crawlspace at some point. That air can carry mold spores into your home and reduce the air quality of the entire house.

Especially after it rains, keep an eye out for moisture in your crawlspace. You can detect it in the air if you have a good nose. You can also touch the ground and the walls looking for wet spots.

#2 - Rodents, insects, and other pests:
Keep an eye out for critters and signs of their presence, such as animal feces, nests, and gaps in the crawlspace that could serve as the entrance and exit points. Insects and rodents should be eliminated quickly, as unchecked activity can quickly grow into an infestation. 

#3 - Wood rot:
This form of fungus grows inside the wood, weakening it as it spreads. Rot can be a very costly problem but some good news is that there are lots of chemical products on the market that can kill and remove rot from wood.

The bad news is that these methods don’t work when rot damage is too extensive. Detecting the early signs of wood rot can save you the expense of having to replace huge chunks of a house’s foundation.

There are two types of rot that may affect your crawlspace: wet rot and dry rot.

Signs of wet rot include the wood becoming darker, feeling soft or spongy when pressed, and the appearance of cracks in the affected area, as well as localized fungus growth, which may resemble mushrooms.

Dry rot will also cause wood to feel weak and spongy. This tends to be a more destructive variety of rot, but it’s also easier to spot due to the growth of the mycelium — a white substance that looks a bit like cotton or wool and clings to the affected wood. If you spot that, or any other sort of fungal growth or rot, call us today at SERVPRO to come to help you!

Keeping our workplace safe!

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Call us to disinfect and sanitize your office! SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village professionals is uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC.

We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff performs on a daily basis.

Here are other ways to keep the workplace safe:

Practice good hygiene. 

Stop handshakes and use non-contact greeting methods.

Clean hands at the door and schedule regular hand washing reminders.

Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, tables, and desks regularly.

Avoid touching your face and cover your coughs and sneezes.

Increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting air conditioning.

Limit meetings and non-essential travels

Use video conferencing instead of face-to-face meetings.

When video calls are not possible, hold your meetings in well-ventilated rooms and spaces.

Suspend all non-essential travels and trips.

Stay home if you are feeling sick. Also, consider staying at home if you have a sick member at home. 

Take care of your emotional and mental well-being is just as important as the others on the list. Let us take care of all your deep cleaning and disinfecting your workplace to put your mind at ease. 

Yearly Home Maintenance Checklist

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village are always here to help and in this blog, we want to provide you a detailed yearly home maintenance checklist to follow to stay on top of being a great homeowner.  

• Check your furnace filters.
• Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
• Clean range hood fan
• Vacuum refrigerator coils
• Run water and flush toilets in unused spaces.
• Clean garbage disposal.

• Clean and vacuum curtains.
• Check caulking around showers and bathtubs.

• Inspect roofing for damage.
• Check exterior drainage.
• Get A/C serviced.
• Flush hot water heater and remove sediment.

• Check water softener.
• Clear dead plants/shrubs.
• Clean out window wells of debris.

• Oil garage door track.
• Trim trees, bushes, shrubs.
• Maintain yard growth.
• Fertilize lawn.
• Clean window screen.

• Remove lint from dryer exhaust.
• Clean garage.
• Inspect plumbing for leaks.
• Power wash windows and siding.

Seven Tips To Avoid Bursting Pipes

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Here are seven tips to avoid bursting pipes both inside and outside the house.  Let us start with the outdoor area:

Number one: Wrap outside faucets. 

Number two: Caulk around the pipe where they enter the house.

Number three: Disconnect garden hoses.

Number four: Drain in-ground sprinkler systems.

Now, moving onto the indoor areas for more tips on where you can avoid your pipes from bursting:

Number five: Let a stream of water run, if the temperature dips below freezing.

Number six: Open cupboard doors in the kitchen and bathrooms.

Number seven: Shut off and drain your water system if you are leaving home for several days. 

If all fails, please do not hesitate to give us a call.  We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days out of the year to help with all your water damage needs.  We are always here to help!

Keep our workplace safe!

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Practice good hygiene.

Stop handshakes and use non-contact greeting methods.

Clean hands at the door and schedule regular hand washing reminders.

Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, tables, and desks regularly.

Avoid touching your face and cover your coughs and sneezes.

Increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting air conditioning.

Limit meetings and non-essential travels.

Use video conferencing instead of face-to-face meetings.

When video calls are not possible, hold your meetings in well-ventilated rooms and spaces.

Suspend all non-essential travels and trips.

Stay home if you are feeling sick. Also, consider staying at home if you have a sick member at home. 

Take care of your emotional and mental well-being is just as important as the others on the list. Let us take care of all your deep cleaning and disinfecting your workplace to put your mind at ease.  

Coronavirus Cleaning Services

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help disinfect, sanitize and clean your home and business!

As we are learning new developments about the Coronavirus COVID-19, we must do our part and take advised measures to flatten the curve and protect ourselves and the ones we love.  

Need Specialized Cleaning Services? 

Call Us Today 818-730-1434

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

Our professionals are trained to perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of waste.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks

• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), here are 10 key indicators of Coronavirus symptoms which can appear two to two weeks after exposure:

1. Shortness of Breath
2. Fever
3. Dry Cough
4. Chills and Body Aches
5. Sudden Confusion
6. Digestive Issues
7. Pink Eye
8. Loss of Smell and Taste
9. Fatigue
10. Headache, Sore Throat, Congestion

It is important to consult your medical provider if you develop any severe or concerning symptoms.  

Tips from the CDC on stopping the spread of germs is to:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth.
• When in public, wear a cloth face covering over your mouth and nose.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touch objects and surfaces.
• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

As a vendor of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, we are always here to help the community. For more information about our services, please contact our Executive Vice President of Sales, Genna Grinblat at Genna@SERVPROwestcoast.com or at 818-730-1434.  Let us know how we can help. 

Sources: 

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/stop-the-spread-of-germs.pdf
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html
• https://www.cnn.com/2020/04/15/health/10-key-coronavirus-symptoms-wellness/index.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/summary.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fsummary.html

Stop The Spread of Germs!

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

Do your part to stop the spread of germs!

Here are some helpful tips to prevent the spread of germs.  This is to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases.  The first tip is to avoid close contact with people who are sick.  If you feel any ill symptoms, make sure to cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

Another helpful tip to avoid getting germs to attack into your immune system is to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.  Also, clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.  Some more tips include staying home when you are sick, except to get medical care.  Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the important ways to spread germs.

Another way to fight germs in your home or business is to call SERVPRO to professionally disinfect and clean it for you.  Call us anytime!  We are here to help!  

Leave It To The Professionals

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO at your service!

We have been busy disinfecting to make a clean and safe environment for our customers!  Not all heroes wear capes.  We just try to do our part for the community.  Our SERVPRO team follows the process of proper donning and doffing of PPE when entering and exiting the decontamination chambers. The decontamination chamber is a three-stage chamber consisting of; clean room, decontamination chamber and equipment/dirty room. We used hospital-grade disinfectants called SERVPROXIDE.  

Our SERVPRO team utilized foggers for the decontamination of areas before cleaning was performed. 5-10 minute dwell time for high contact, non-porous surfaces. 60 minute dwell time for all porous surfaces. Our team decontaminated up to 8 feet of high contact areas. We cleaned and removed containment upon completion of cleaning.

Working From Home? Here Is Our Guide To Staying Productive And Being Successful

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

As coronavirus changes the daily lives of Americans, lately many of us get the privilege to work from home to be safe.  There are certain perks to working from home. You officially have the shortest commute and your meetings do not happen in the conference room.  But, if you are not careful, working from home can also come with some downsides.  If you are the type to get distracted easily, do not worry, there is hope.  

Here is our guide to staying productive.  Want to know if they work?  Well, this blog you are reading right now was written from home sweet home.

1. Get an office. Set aside a whole room or a portion of your home that is for all business and only business. Your bed would not be the ideal location to set up your office because that is where you sleep. 

2. Get rid of background noise. Be aware of how productive you are while listening to music.  Playing music all day helps some people while it can distract others. So, find out which one you are.

3. Break a sweat! Since gyms are shut down in California for a while due to the Covid-19 virus outbreak, make it apart of your job to set aside about 30 minutes to an hour to get your body moving at home. Working from home can reduce the amount of calories we burn in a day. You can still workout outside in nature. You could even throw on workout video to your liking on YouTube. So, grab that jump rope, some light weights or both.  No excuses.

4. Keep essentials in your workspace. Keep items such as snacks, coffee or a cozy sweater near your desk.  This is a way to prevent you from getting up to grab something and encountering who-knows-what distractions around the house.

5. Know when to take a break.  When your home is also your office, it can feel like you are always working.  Decide when you are done for the day, and stick to it. 

6. Communicate! Make sure to stay in communication with people throughout the day.  Chat with colleagues, schedule phone meetings or even check in on Zoom.  This will make you feel less lonely and it will also make you feel like an asset to the company you are working for.

7. Get Dressed. Keep your outfit casual and comfortable, but not in the pajama family.  It might sound unnecessary, but you will feel more professional, and you will be prepared if a last-minute meeting comes up.

8. Keep things clean! Make sure to always have your workspace clean by the end of the day, so when you come back to it the next day, you are ready to work without clutter.  Also doing this will help reduce trash from piling up.  

9. Look at the perks of working from home.  You are home during the day. Do you realize what that means?  You save on gasoline because you don't have to drive to the office.  Most importantly, you won't get anyone sick if you come to work with a sniffle.  The more you enjoy working from home, the more you will enjoy your job.  Now, get back to work!

Who To Call For Your Worst Cleanup?

3/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here To Help!

It might be an embarrassing phone call to make but rest assured that SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is prepared to handle it all, and we mean all. Biohazard cleanup can be challenging work that requires technicians to handle potentially hazardous materials and proper handling of the viruses, and a crime or trauma scene, which is crucial to the safety of everyone involved. Biohazard cleaning is NOT the same as a standard cleaning company or janitorial service; it involves cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing the affected area(s). If you’re facing the task of cleaning up a biohazard, don’t do it alone. Leave it to the professionals and not the NCIS pros you see on TV. Biohazards can be extremely serious and if not handled properly can be an even bigger issue in the long run. 

Follow us on our Social Media pages!

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Do you already follow us on our social media pages?  If you have not done so already, come find us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram!  We aim to provide great content by giving everyday helpful tips, showcasing our work and just keeping it fun overall.  Some of our posts include the science of identifying and eliminating odors can be tricky, but as professionals in deodorization, we can take care of it.  Some other examples of what we post are many emergency preparedness tips and showing before and after photos. We also like to share the jobs we’ve done in the past in cities such as Los Angeles, Century City, Hollywood, Downtown, Bakersfield, Sylmar, and just all over the West Coast.  What would you like to see us share on our pages? Let us know! We would love to hear from you. 

Here are the links to our pages:

Facebook: click here

Instagram: click here

Twitter: click here

LinkedIn: click here

Like It Never Even Happened!

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Our technicians are proud to work for us and with you!

Like it never even happened! How many other restoration companies can say that? At SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village we take pride in knowing that when you call us we hope to never see you again unless it's in a community setting! Our entire goal as a water and fire remediation company is that in your most stressful hour we are there for you to reassure you that you have chosen the most professional and knowledgeable company possible. Between our office staff, our field technicians, and our CEO you should feel as if you have gotten the white glove treatment from us at SERVPRO. To make a water or fire damage "like it never even happened!" is tough work but we are here for it and you can trust the big green trucks when they pull into your driveway!

Your Commercial Retail Property

10/26/2019 (Permalink)

Our Project Managers are happy to be helping you!!

At SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village it is our number one priority is getting your business back in operation as quickly as possible.

When disaster strikes your store, you need the expertise of a specialized team who is experienced in limited business interruption. At SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village, we are able to work around unaffected areas and after hours to allow you to continue your business operations. SERVPRO of Studio City/valley Village is experienced in working with retailers to make sure that all merchandise and structure materials are restored to preloss condition and you get back to normal retail operations.

Call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village for information or help with any disaster help. We are constantly available 24/7 for all of your disaster needs and/or questions.

Commercial Damage Can Present Unique Challenges

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

Trust us! We handle commercial jobs all the time.

Flooding and water damage events in Los Angeles County commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Home Sprinkler System

10/19/2019 (Permalink)

They're almost invisible and blend in with the decor of your home.

We’ve seen them in commercial and industrial properties and public buildings, but did you know you can get fire sprinklers installed inside your home? 85% of all US fire deaths occur inside the home and installing an automatic fire sprinkler could potentially save your life and your home. There is an 80% reduction in the risk of occupants dying in a fire when fire sprinklers are present. Additionally, there is a 70% reduction in direct property damage per fire. On top of reducing fire damages, fire sprinklers are cost effective. A report commissioned by the Fire Protection Research Foundation places the average national cost of installing sprinklers in new homes at $1.35 per sprinklered square foot, or about one percent of the total construction cost. Sometimes smoke alarms just don't cut it and if you want extra protection against fires home sprinkler systems are not a bad investment. If you or someone you love suffers from a fire loss be sure to call us at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

Water Damage Science

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Encino/Sherman Oaks professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chance of any secondary damages. If your business suffers from water damage, our SERVPRO professionals will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether that materials are drying
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does “speed up Mother Nature” mean? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material- but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. For this reason, the professionals at SERVPRO have been trained to use top-of-the-line equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village has state of the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

The bottom line? Your local SERVPRO have the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.” 

About Water Damage with SERVPRO

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

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 Studio City/Valley Village 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.

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
• 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)?

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village 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 of Studio City Valley Village

10/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Studio City was taken over by its new owner, Alan Reed, about 4 months ago and since then he has built a successful multi franchise operation in Southern California. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village has been added to a team that has been onsite for the Thomas Fire in 2017 and the Malibu Fires in 2018 as well as other natural disasters around California. His offices are filled with technicians that are passionate about their line of work and claims managers that are compassionate about restoration. There is not a job that Alan and his team cannot handle and they thrive in hard situations where they can pull through to fix everything in their power. If you ever have any doubts about working with SERVPRO please feel free to read our testimonials page or Yelp reviews from clients we have had the pleasure of working with in the past to be assured that you are making the best decision when it comes to hiring a restoration team. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village can and will make it "Like it never even happened."

Lightning Strike Warnings

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Although lightning can strike anytime, the chance for lightning increases in the summer months. Stay safe with these basic tips from SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village:

• Have a lightning safety plan, and cancel/postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are expected. Lightning can hit trees and split them into the roads or onto cars.
• If you do get caught outside, avoid high ground, open spaces, and all metal objects including electric wires, fences, etc. Seek shelter in a substantial building or a fully enclosed metal vehicle. 
• If you are indoors, stay away from doors and windows. Do not use the telephone and consider unplugging computers, power tools, & TV sets. Lightning may strike exterior electric/phone lines, inducing shocks to inside equipment.

It is rare to see lightning in a storm in Southern California but that doesn't mean you shouldn't be prepared for it. 

Our Promise To You - The Homeowner

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

You would think this questions would be easy but it isn’t. In your city there could be dozens of restoration companies that you could choose from. Our top competitors include 911 Restoration, Restoration Management Company, Service Master, etc. Most of the time your insurance agent will recommend a restoration company to you, but sometimes you might want to take research into your own hands and that’s why we are here to let you know that SERVPRO is not only the best but SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is the only place you need. We work hand in hand with you to make sure that you are understanding of everything happening in your home and what your next steps are. We also communicate with your insurance agent to keep them in the loop about the work we are performing. We promise you will never be in the dark about what our technicians are doing and when you will be back to living like normal.

Prepared for Any Size Disaster

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

Don't hesitate to call, we have the tools and man power to get you back into business.

While everything is going well, and no disaster is on the horizon, take proactive steps to manage the potential risk disaster could bring your commercial property. Take time to establish a working relationship with a commercial emergency restoration management company, such as SERVPRO, that you may need in the future. Here are some things to look for when you are shopping around.

• Are they a 24 hour emergency response team? If 25/8 was a thing SERVPRO is on it, never be afraid to call us because we will be there.
• Do they work with your insurance? Of course, we want you to be covered so we will do our part to help you and communicate with all parties involved.
• Are they safe and reliable? Absolutely, we hold team meetings every morning to go over a new or refresher topic of safety to keep everyone reliable and aware.
• Do they have expert technicians and the experience? All of our technicians and office staff are IICRC trained and have continual training to ensure they are up to date and aware of all possible losses.
• Will they update you and keep your file safe? Yes, we promise daily updates to both you and your insurance company so you will never be in the dark.

These are all great questions to have and to ask. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village can guarantee that you will be satisfied with us as your primary commercial disaster response team because we know we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Water Damage Experts

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

When you google “water damage restoration” or “water damage” hundreds of thousands of entries pop up and it seems overwhelming. On that page you will see “the best water damage company” and “water restoration pros” but when you see SERVPRO you should know that we are the best in the business. In our franchise alone we operate with 4 other franchises under one owner who has taken the time to thoroughly understand the water damage business, is IICRC trained, and has built a reputation as the water damage experts in the Los Angeles County. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village has dealt with over hundreds of water damaged homes and will continue to service those in the Simi Valley community. Trust your home and property with SERVPRO we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Tips to Prevent Water Damage in Your Garage

9/17/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let this be you. Keep your garage and everything stored in it safe.

You garage is one of the largest storage spaces in your home, however, it is also the most susceptible to the elements of the outdoors. We want to provide you with some helpful tips to keep the flood waters out!

• Check the doors – get into the habit of checking your door regularly and replacing the weather stripping along the bottom.
• Examine the gutters – properly channel water down and away from your garage, where it puddles up and flows in the wrong direction.
• Check the roof for leaks – and do it regularly.
• Seal the floor – an excellent way to prevent water damage in your garage. It will not only make the flooring more attractive but also protect the surface in the event that water does get into the area.

By using these helpful tips we hope you are able to avoid some storm damage this upcoming season!

Six Classes of Fire Damage

9/8/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are some of the most devastating forces of nature a home, household, or business can face. Here are some of the most common fires you may see.

Class A Fire Damage

The result of a fire involving flammable solids, including, various plastics, paper, rubber, wood, and cloth.

Class B Fire Damage

Consists of damage as a result of flammable liquids or solids that can become liquefied. This includes gasoline and various forms of petrol, oil, various waxes and plastics, and paint. However, fires caused by cooking oils and fats are excluded from this list.

Class C Fire Damage

Involves flammable gasses, such as hydrogen, propane, butane, and natural gas.

Class D Fire Damage

Consists of fires caused by combustible metals. This may include magnesium, potassium, and sodium.

Class E Fire Damage

Results from the factors found in both Class A and Class B fire damage. The difference being, this particular class introduces electrical elements onto the list. This makes fighting the fire and the resulting damage vary from that in Class A and B.

Class F Fire Damage

A fire that results from the cooking of oils and fats. These fires are significantly hotter and pose more severe damage than those found in Class B.

If you suffer from a fire loss always call both the fire department and SERVPRO.

When You Should Clean Up After a Storm Damage

9/8/2019 (Permalink)

Severe flooding causes structural damage and creates health and fire hazards. While we don’t experience tornadoes or hurricanes Southern California does experience heavy rain during the year, and it can lead to massive floods.

Mold exposure poses series health risks, so it’s important to begin flood cleanup as soon as it’s safe to return to your home.

Always wait for severe weather to calm down before trying to call professionals out to come help, it may not be safe still. But don’t wait too long after because it’s a fine line for microbial growth to start forming in your home. It’s better to let the SERVPRO crew handle this process due to potential hazards. Floods can bury and move chemical containers and hazardous waste far from their original locations. Let officials handle chemical and electrical hazards. The longer you wait after a storm the more hazards you risk, insurance companies stress that storm clean up begin as soon as possible. Always call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village if you ever experience storm damage.

Who Ya Gonna Call?

8/11/2019 (Permalink)

Our crews taking a quick break on a commercial job site before starting up for the evening.

No, not Ghostbusters. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village. When the panic sets in of “this is my job” it’s suddenly way more daunting than if a water or fire loss were to have happened in your home. Multiple to hundreds of people could be affected and it’s always very stressful because this is people’s likelihood and their source of income. With an understanding of being open 24/7 we are always available to you , even if your commercial loss happens at 8pm or 2am we will be readily and willing to come out. We have the technicians and the resources to have both a day crew and night crew to work around the clock and help you to get back into work even quicker than you had originally thought. It is our number one goal to get you up and running again.

Back to Commercial Loss Basics

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

You’d never imagine it’d happen at your place of work, but it can and it might all when you least expect it. No one plans for a commercial loss and no one wants to deal with the headache that comes with it. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is available 24/7 and has a really handy tool so that you can be prepared even before a commercial loss happens. When a loss happens in a commercial building it can be a lot of confusion as to who is supposed to handle what. SERVPRO offers what is called an ERP (Emergency Restoration Program) which details your commercial building and everything you need to know in case of a loss; how to turn off the water, where the breaker is, etc. Distributing this ERP to everyone in the building will hopefully help anyone there during a situation.  

Commercial Fires are No Joke

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

We are both ready and equipped to help you with your commercial loss.

One of the most devastating things to see in this field of work is commercial fires.. Different from residential fire losses, commercial fire losses affect many more people depending on the size of the loss. 

Making sure that your commercial property doesn't have cluttered stairwells, tightly packed appliances, and have a planned fire escape route for your employees.

Unfortunately, we can't plan for these situations but we can be as prepared as possible in case something were to arise. If you suffer from a fire loss and once the fire department has put out the flames and deemed the building as enter-able you should immediately call SERVPRO. The sooner you call us, the better. We will be able to get out there and start remediation which will hopefully help more of the commercial property to be saved. 

Proper Fire Extinguisher Clean Up

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

95 percent of fires can be successfully quenched if extinguishers are deployed quickly after ignition. But once the fire is out and the household calms, what’s the best way to clean up the messy aftermath? There are 3 different types of fire extinguishers; A is ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth; B is flammable liquids, such as gasoline or cooking oil; and C is live electricity. The label also discloses the “ingredients” inside the canister that fight the fire. Read the label to determine what that powdery substance is.

Sodium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate: Vacuum residue thoroughly, making several passes over affected areas to remove all visible residue. Apply hot water mixed with a little vinegar, which neutralizes the pH of the powder. Allow to sit for a few minutes and rinse with warm water.

Silicone types: Vacuum residue thoroughly, making several passes to remove all visible residue. Spray the area with rubbing alcohol to break down the silicone. Allow the solution to penetrate for several minutes then rinse with warm water.

Monoammonium phosphate: Do not vacuum residue left by monoammonium phosphate. This residue must be cleaned by hand without delay; if it remains in contact with sensitive electronics and other equipment it can cause further damage. Begin by wiping the residue away with a clean cloth. On surfaces that can be wet-washed, clean with a mixture of warm water and baking soda. Thoroughly dry and sanitize the area as needed.

By knowing this information you will only help yourself and your home from further damages.

Don't Take a Chance by Waiting

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

The worst thing you can do when experiencing water damage is waiting. Other problems can arise if you wait too long after a water loss starts, even if you think you were able to dry it out on your own. You should always call out a professional. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village has all the tools, machines, and technicians with knowledge that you will need in your home to properly remove all water and dry out what you cannot see. By waiting you put yourself at risk of microbial growth and other long term damage to your home. It is never too early to call us, even if water is still running in your home we can help point you in the direction of a plumber and work side by side with them to help you start the process and we will see it all the way through until your home is completely back to being dry. You'll be thankful you didn't wait to call SERVPRO.

All Around You

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

We want to be there for you in your time of need!

Unless you work in restoration, construction, or insurance we're sure you never knew there was such a need for a niche company like SERVPRO. But once you are in this world you start to see commercials, big green trucks with orange houses, and banners at schools. SERVPRO is quite literally all around you; working on your neighbor's homes, restoring the bathroom on the 3rd floor in your office building, or participating in the local golf tournament. We don't only do house calls, in fact, we are the #1 in commercial restoration across Southern California. Hundreds of companies have chosen to trust us with their offices, retail, spaces, bathrooms, etc. and we have helped them to come out on top of a loss. If you ever experience a need for restoration in your workplace you should always call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

Water Damage in Your Apartment

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage from the unit above, tenant immediately notified her property manager and we were able to come out same day.

It's one thing if you are the homeowner of a house or property that experiences water damage but it is completely different when you are a tenant. We know it can be frustrating and a longer process and you have to go through other people to get it done. The best way to get it handled efficiently is to contact your landlord immediately and take pictures and start doing your own research, document everything possible. Once your landlord or property management company has gotten back to you with the restoration company they use to be sure to schedule with them directly and work side by side with them to make sure everyone is on the same page. With SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village we will communicate with you and your landlord to understand what is going on and get the problem remedied as quickly as possible.

#1 in Fire Damage Restoration

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

It's never fun to deal with but when it happens we will be there.

When you simply google "fire damage restoration" lots of information pops up and it seems overwhelming, especially if you have never been placed in a situation like this before. It can be an absolute nightmare if you don't deal with professionals and you should always do your due diligence check first. With SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village, you'll never have to worry about what other restoration companies are doing, as a franchise, we are held to an industry standard that holds true for the entire company and we pride ourselves in being #1 not only in the nation but in the Los Angeles County. All of our technicians are IICRC certified and have continuous training, our office staff is available to you 24/7 and we are known to get you back into your property as timely as possible. If you ever suffer fire damage you should always call SERVPRO. 

Should You Be Worried About Storms?

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

When a storm hits we will help your family or business get back to it's pre-storm conditions

Living in California might have you wondering why we too should be ready for when storms come. California does not see many major storms throughout the year but storms should still be something we prepare ourselves for.

Specifically during the rainy season, we must be extra careful.  After our super dry, hot summers and how often we have wild fires, a lot of the time our mountains are left without the trees and bushes.  We are left more vulnerable to landslides and flash floods from the rain we receive.

When your home is hit by a flood or storm, remember that your local SERVPRO is here to restore your home to its pre-storm condition. We specialize in restoring homes and buildings in a quick and timely manner, so that you and your family could go back in to your normal routine.

Call SERVPRO at 818-995-6444

The Essentials After Fire Damage

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage experts will perform a thorough cleaning of all areas of your property affected by the fire.

When fire damage occurs, you need to get immediate fire damage restoration help to prevent further damage to your property. Any delay in getting professional assistance could result in extensive damage to your property.

After a commercial fire damage, the probability of further damage due to standing water or excessive moisture is higher. It is imperative that you protect your investment by acting fast to get professional help.

Smoke is a byproduct of fire and because it is acidic, it is capable of causing corrosion and staining of surfaces such as counters and walls. In some cases there is extensive smoke damage, soot damage and smoke, which need to be addressed appropriately.

Flooding and methods used to extinguish fire in home or fire in business lead to excessive water in the affected area. Fire cleanup professionals provide fast services for smoke damage, soot damage and smoke smell.

What You Should Do

• Call the professionals – you will need the services of professionals, so before you do anything else, call the experts.
• Open all the windows to get air moving to remove the smoke smell.
• Move kids and pets to a smoke-free area. Move them to a relative's or friend's home until the fire cleanup or restoration is complete.
• Inventory your belongings. Make a list of the contents of your home or business that need replacing. Taking pictures of the affected items or damage, is a good idea. You will need these for insurance claims purposes, and for your own records.

The Initial Assessment

Fire cleanup professionals enter the property to conduct the necessary assessment and determine how to approach the situation. During the assessment, they will be able to come up with an approximate estimate for the fire cleanup.

Filing The Insurance Claim

Fire damage restoration teams can also file your insurance claims for you to accelerate the process. They will be able to provide details about the fire in home or commercial fire damage to your insurance company. This gives you immediate access to money to pay for fire damage restoration services.

They will answer your questions, address your concerns, and explain the entire process to you. They get everything taken care of so you can get back to your normal life.

Water Removal

The most important step for remediation is removing all water in home or water in business. All standing water increases the risk of weakening the framing and support. Fire damage restoration professionals use state-of-the-art vacuums and high power dryers to remove all water and moisture from the area.

Eliminating Damaged Materials

Fire cleanup experts remove all damaged materials and smoke smell using appropriate protocol. They wear protective clothing and remove the materials prior to beginning the fire cleanup efforts.

Commercial fire damage experts will perform a thorough cleaning of all areas of your property affected by the fire, smoke damage, soot damage and smoke smell. Fire damage technicians will examine your property after the fire in home or fire in business cleanup to ensure that their efforts are successful.

Reputable Fire Damage Team

Dealing with a fire in business or fire in home is something most property owners have never had to experience. Restoration teams deal with this type of crisis often and they know exactly how to handle it. 

It is crucial that a highly experienced and dedicated restoration team of professionals can get in quickly to provide the fire cleaning service.

If you need commercial fire restoration, you should contact a reliable commercial fire damage company with a team of professionals. Experienced technicians have great expertise in mitigating fire in home, fire in business as well as smoke damage and soot damage.

After your commercial fire restoration service has been handled by a reliable team, you will be certainly amazed at the quality and condition of your property. If you need fire restoration, do not hesitate to contact a fire damage restoration company right away.

Roof Damage in Studio City, CA

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

With all the rain we've been experiencing in the Studio City/Valley Village area it's no wonder the number of roof leak calls into our office has been skyrocketing. Water damage can affect all family members, human or not. 

The roof in question was only a few years old, but the wind of the last storm was too much. If you experience a roof leak, here are some suggestions about how to go about fixing it:

Step 1: Stop the water. Hire a roofing company to either fix the leak or to install a temporary roof tarp to keep more water from entering the structure. If you suspect the water intrusion is gutter related, contact a gutter cleaning company.

Step 2: Perform water remediation:  Open affected areas to perform drying and to prevent mold.  Install drying equipment and apply anti-microbial to discourage mold growth. Caution: If you are unsure about your property's lead paint or asbestos status, test first before any demolition.

Step 3:  Perform repairs to affected areas. Always research your contractors make sure they hold valid licensing.

Are you prepared for a storm?

4/19/2019 (Permalink)

A storm can devastate your home and community

There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather-related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:

-Stay away from flood waters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet.

-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are riding rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water. 

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village at (818) 995-6444.  Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. Let us help you get your life back on top.

Diagnosing a Shower Leak

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a shower head leaking in your Studio City, CA bathroom it is time to replace it

Amidst the many aspects of maintaining your home in Studio CIty, CA, attending to a bathtub leak can be frustrating without an idea of what to look for. It is important to remember that some signs of damage are easier to distinguish than others; however, confirming the occurrence of a leak is possible with a keen eye and a thorough bathroom inspection.

Check for Telltale Signs

Identifying any immediate indicators of a leak can help determine how best to handle the situation. Giveaway signs may include the following:

• Pooling water near the shower pan. This is often the result of a shower door with a poor-quality seal and is one of the simplest leaks to repair.
• Wet spots and dampness on any walls near the shower. If the leak is occurring within the plumbing system, the pipes behind the wall may expel water, thus leaving visible wetness.
• Water leaking from the shower head. When lime scale and other minerals accumulate in the spray holes, water may leak from other parts of the fixture. Cleaning the shower head and replacing the O-ring may solve the issue.
  
  

Scratch Beyond the Surface

Unfortunately, a bathtub leak may cause damage that is not as apparent and may require a more in-depth analysis. One critical factor to be aware of is the presence of mold or mildew anywhere in the bathroom; this includes any odors that occur. The flooring underneath and walls connected to the shower should be examined for breakages, moisture, loose tiles, and stains. Finally, any crawl space area underneath the bathroom should be investigated for moisture, dripping, or mineral buildup. Typically, these signs indicate a leak that may need to be addressed by a professional.

Determine the Best Course of Action

Generally, a shower pan leak with telltale indicators can be repaired without the need for professional intervention. For more internalized leaks, it is wise to consider contacting a water damage repair specialist for further analysis.

While diagnosing a shower or bathtub leak can be challenging, an informed approach can simplify the process. Understanding what to look for and when to contact a professional can make all the difference in preserving your home.

Some Reasons You Need to Stop Stressing About Water Damage Remediation in Studio City

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Rapid Solutions for Standing Water in Your Studio City Home

When water loss incidents threaten your Studio City home, getting the right professional assistance responding quickly to the disaster is critical to protecting both your property and its contents. Effective solutions for removing standing water and drying out saturated elements is only the beginning to fully recovering your property exposed to higher volumes of spreading water. Our team has a 24/7 response to these emergencies, arriving with the full measure of our recovery equipment and experienced technicians to begin effective mitigation tactics right away.

There are many steps to water loss recovery in your Studio City home, but water removal is among the priorities for technicians responding to the emergency. Standing water can pose significant risks to exposed materials including flooring, walls, and ceiling spaces. Without adequate removal and drying techniques to follow, you can find this water damage continuing to spread throughout your home and degrading construction materials, weakening structural elements, and facilitating the growth of hazardous secondary effects like mold.

From the time that our SERVPRO professionals first arrive at your home, we work to establish the full scope and spread of the water damage. We can utilize moisture detection equipment for areas difficult to see clearly. We must gain a fast understanding of affected materials and determine when flood cuts and other controlled demolition techniques are necessary to gain access to damp or highly saturated areas of your property.

With industry-leading extraction equipment like our extractor trucks, wet-vacs with wands, and portable submersible pumps, we have a variety of options to handle standing water we encounter in your home. Our SERVPRO professionals can work quickly to remove all excess water to ensure that we can get to critical drying efforts as promptly as possible.

While standing water might be difficult to see in your home, our SERVPRO of Studio City professionals have a broad inventory of recovery equipment designed to reduce this threat quickly. You can count on our IICRC-certified professionals to respond 24/7 to this water loss emergency and make it “Like it never even happened. Give us a call today at (818) 508-7282

Candle Safety Tips

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

There is something calming about candles. They look pretty and enhance the ambiance in a room, they give off a fragrant smell that can be so luring, but they can also be the cause to a house fire. December has been noted as the peak month of candle fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 3 out of every 5 candle fires started when they were placed to something that can burn, such as furniture, bedding, or decorations.  Review the tips below to prevent any house fires this holiday season:

• Blow out candles before leaving a room or going to bed
• Keep candles one foot (30 centimeters) away from anything that can burn
• Use a sturdy candle holder, that will not tip over easily
• Put candle holders and a sturdy and uncluttered surface
• Light candles carefully, keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame
• Do not let the candle burn all the way to the bottom; put it out before it gets too close to the container or holder
• You should not light a candle if oxygen is used in the home
• During a power outage, use a flashlight or battery-operated lighting instead of a candle

Although candles can add to the decor in the room, however, they can also add danger. Remember candles are an open flame which means they can easily ignite. Create an environment that is safe for you during this holiday season, use alternatives to prevent any candle fires in homes like using flameless candles. As always, remember SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is here to help!

What Sets Smart Smoke Detectors Apart?

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Protect your Studio City, CA home with a smart smoke detector

Smart smoke detectors are a relatively new technology that can send push notifications to smartphones and may be controlled remotely. Find out how a next-generation smoke alarm can protect your home.

Smart Alarms Types

There are three types of smart fire safety devices:

• Smart batteries
• Smart detectors
• Listeners

Smart batteries can be used in standard battery-powered smoke detectors or as backups in hardwired units. Smart detectors may cover more square-footage than standard alarms and can be controlled remotely. Listeners send alerts when any alarm is triggered.

Technological Differences

A smart battery is an affordable way to monitor your home while you are out. This technology functions like a nine-volt battery but has Wi-Fi connectivity to send notifications. You can silence battery-powered alarms remotely, but this function does not work for hardwired alarms with smart battery backups. 

A smart smoke alarm also sends notifications, can be remotely controlled, and may be capable of monitoring more than one floor of your home. Some devices alert users to elevated carbon monoxide levels. Listeners send notifications whenever an alarm sounds in your home, though these devices are not capable of silencing alarms.

Smart Alarms Effectiveness

A single smart alarm may monitor an entire floor of your home, or more. If your home is spacious, you may want to just install a listener to notify you of any alarms.

Smart Detector Costs

Smart fire safety solutions are available in a wide price range:

• The initial smart battery unit retails for about $35 with $15 replacements once or twice a year
• Smart detectors start around $100
• Listeners range from $50 to $100

Consider a smart smoke alarm or smoke detector device to receive timely push notifications about alarms. All of these devices can increase overall safety at your residence in Studio City, CA. If a fire results in damage, rely on the expertise of damage restoration professionals. 

Mold Cleanup Steps

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Mold cleanup can be a complicated process. If you have house mold in Studio City, CA, you will likely need to enlist the help of mold remediation specialists. If your problem covers a space smaller than 10 square feet, however, you may be able to address it yourself. To do so, you will still need to follow certain steps. If at any point in the process you discover that the problem is bigger than you can resolve, contact the professionals immediately.

1. Wear Personal Protective Equipment

Before experts start a mold remediation job, they will don several items:

• Protective coveralls
• Goggles
• Face mask with ventilator
• Gloves
• Rubber boots
  
  

If you are going to take on a cleanup job yourself, you must also wear protective gear. Try to avoid direct contact with the mold growth.

2. Use Detergent to Scrub

Getting rid of mold requires some elbow grease. Most surfaces can be cleaned with detergent, water and a scrub brush. If an item cannot be scrubbed or if you don’t know how to clean it, leave it to the professionals.

3. Dry Area Completely

It doesn't do any good to get rid of house mold if you leave the moisture that attracted it behind. After the surface is clean, make sure it is also completely dry.

4. Replace Unsalvageable Items

Mold tends to root itself into the pores of the surface on which it grows. If the fungus has infested an item too deeply, that item will need to be thrown out. Mold experts can help you distinguish between items that can be saved and those that must be replaced. If unsalvageable areas are part of the structure, such as walls or ceiling tiles, the work must be done professionally.

No matter the size of the problem, these four steps are essential to getting rid of house mold. If the problem is small, you may be able to clean it, but when in doubt, call the professionals.

Understanding Mold Growth in Commercial Property

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding mold in your commercial property is key

Upon noticing the smell or sight of black mold in your Studio City, CA business, you probably wonder what caused it to appear. Despite so many different varieties, molds have a single process of growing and spreading. Knowledge of how and why these fungi infest businesses teaches how to prevent them from taking over yours.

Knowing the Water Where Mold Often Grows

Mold needs time, temperature, food, and moisture to thrive. A moisture problem is often the cause of mold growth. Water that gets into building materials, utilities or flooring comes from plenty of sources:

• Burst or leaking pipe
• Flooding from nearby overflowing bodies of water
• Humid weather
• Broken supply line
• Defective sprinkler systems
• Clogged gutter drainage systems
• Defective HVAC systems accumulating condensation

Once identified, any broken utility or component should be fixed by an appropriate professional. This prevents additional water damage and the mold that comes with it.

Preventing Spores From Finding Ideal Conditions

Microscopic spores float through the air looking for a suitable place to settle. Even if the spores are floating in the air of a room, no mold species will grow without a place to settle that has food and water. The parasitic nature of black mold and other organisms means that they can be stopped from being a problem by denying environments they desire.

Treating the Mold That Grows

Proactive water cleanup can prevent the need for mold cleanup. Fixing any existing water damage stops the airborne mold from ever finding a place to survive inside your property.

Contacting a professional water cleanup crew with mold expertise is advised to make sure any water is completely removed with the power of their industrial-grade tools. Additionally, experts can find mold and water hiding in unnoticeable locations that most people miss. This prevents mold from quickly recolonizing.

Getting a Hold on Mold

Black mold may seem daunting at first, but prevention can make it seem like a nonissue. Even if mold does take advantage of a water accident at your property, there are ways to remove it without much hassle.

Which Types of Mold Grow in Houses?

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

There are many different types and subspecies of mold that may grow in a house. If you have found mold in your home or smell an odor that leads you to suspect the presence of hidden mold, you should contact a certified service that provides testing, clean-up, and restoration services. Skilled professionals can determine whether mold growth poses a risk to any member of the household and limit your family's exposure. 

• Aspergillus is a common genus of mold found on food such as bread or potatoes and in HVAC systems. This type of mold is highly aerobic and depends on the presence of oxygen in order to thrive.
• Cladosporium is black or green mold growth that often forms on air ducts, toilets, or painted surfaces in high humidity or when excessive moisture is present.
• Black mold is a type of mold that is known to cause problems for residents in homes with substantial growths. The scientific name for black mold is stachybotrys chartarum. This type of mold should be identified and handled only by mold experts. 
• White mold tends to be in the early stages of growth. A reputable service should be able to prevent this type of mold from continuing to grow into mature colonies. White or light grey molds on plants are mildew – a related type of fungus.

These are just a few of the major types of mold growth that you may see in a home in the wake of water damage. You may attempt to identify visible mold in your home, but when it comes to determining the real risk posed by mold and eliminating its presence, you should rely on trained hygienists and remediation experts in Studio City, CA. These specialists can provide accurate results with either microscopy or culturing and determine the type or subspecies of mold and the best way to eliminate it from your home.

Spring Cleaning Tips For Your Business

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

The warmer months are finally just around the corner. Finally! And this is always the time of year that we all consider changes and upgrades to help us start fresh. You will want your business to reflect the upbeat mood of Spring with fresh and clean surroundings and atmosphere; it is a great way for your business to be inviting to your clients, customers, and workforce, too.

Here are some spring-cleaning tips for your business:

The Professionals. Any type of commercial cleaning project needs professional assistance. Connect with area services that are well-established and highly respected. Those reviews on social media platforms can actually be a big help here. These companies will come right to you, and they will make sure that your spring cleaning is done right by following your instructions precisely.

Going green. Using green products is always a good idea. These products aren’t composed of harsh chemicals, so there is no danger of negative reactions to your working environment and those with sensitivities. There are a wide variety of environmentally friendly cleaning items these days, and your customers will be happy to know that you are going green, too.

A weather eye. Whenever you plan any seasonal job, always keep an eye on the weather. It can change at the drop of a hat sometimes, making your project difficult or impossible. When you are scheduling spring cleaning services for your business, select alternate days or a full range to allow for a change of plans. Extreme temperatures can have a negative effect on some products, as well.

Working together. Every member of your team has something valuable to add. When planning for the spring cleaning of your business, ask for input from everyone. Perhaps there is something they have noticed that needs attention that has escaped you, or maybe they have a perspective on how to streamline the process that will help you avoid work disruptions. Teamwork will help any project get done faster and more efficiently, and a cleaning job is no exception!

Fire Damage? Here's some things to avoid doing before we arrive!

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

When faced with fire and smoke damage, we're Here to Help®.

If you experience fire or smoke damage in your home, here are some things that you should NOT do while waiting for your remediation team to arrive.

Don't:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water (they may be contaminated).
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create a secondary damage.
• Send garments to dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Stay in Business after a storm!

4/9/2019 (Permalink)

You can't predict a disaster, but you can be prepared for one.

As a business owner or manager, you are a leader in your community, and have the opportunity to set an example for your employees, customers, and community to follow.

This year, join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared.

Disasters not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including businesses of all sizes. As an employer in your community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees, and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster.

Ready Business asks companies to take three simple steps: - Plan to stay in business - Encourage your employees to become ready - Protect your investment

Ready Business, an extension of the Ready Campaign, helps business owners and managers of small and medium-sized businesses to prepare their employees, operations, and assets in the event of an emergency. At ready.gov/business, companies can find vital information on how to get started preparing their organization and addressing their unique needs during an emergency.

Community Lives in Us

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

Our extreme response team!

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village wants to serve our communities in the best way possible; we participate in our city chamber events, love to sponsor the Boys & Girls club, and you can catch us at all the emergency readiness preparation meetings. We find it necessary to be connected with those surrounding us and not only show up when there is a loss or disaster. . It’s very important that we are not just another company entering your home but we are truly someone that you would trust to take care of you when a not so happy situation happens. Our previous clients have loved the work we provided and wish it wasn’t under bad circumstances and we take true pride in being involved. If you have a community event you think we would fit in please feel free to reach out, we want to benefit anyone anyway we can!

Faster To Any Size Disaster

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

Our crews ready for the day with proper PPE, always!

SERVPRO is a leader in the restoration industry and its professionals are faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is a trusted leader in the restoration industry and we pride ourselves on truly being available 24/7 to all of our customers. We understand that a fast response is very crucial and can change the outcome of any water loss, this helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. Every situation is different and we take our professional time to act quickly but within reason to make sure all losses are handled properly. Our clients can rely on us to get crews mobilized and in action, and get there faster to any size disaster. No matter how big or small you think your loss is you should always call a SERVPRO professional.

Vendor Qualifications & Professionalism

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

A fun night filled with go-karts thanks to our fellow vendors saying thank you for our business.

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village only uses the best of the best when it comes to vendors that we bring in on clients claims. Whether it’s a fire claim and we have to bring in someone to clean the smoke smell out of your clothes, or a storage pod after a water damage to make sure other items are not involved we only trust sub vendors that we hold to SERVPRO standards. We treat clients like family and we want all of them to know that their claim is just as serious as the next, no matter the damage done or the size; everyone is important and will be treated as such. We also expect the same from our vendors when they interact with any customers and are proud to be working with them, if you ever experience water, fire, or mold damage you should always call SERVPRO for immediate assistance.

Around the Clock

3/12/2019 (Permalink)

Our crews jumping into action!

SERVPRO is known for being faster to any size disaster, commercial or residential. When compared to other restoration companies SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is not only on site the quickest but maximizes the job to make sure they are faster when also getting you back into your home or place of business. Why SERVPRO? Because we understand what it means to be the leader in restoration not just in our city but across the nation, being a company that is available 24/7 we are truly around the clock. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village has a professional always on call to make sure we are ready to jump into action no matter what time it is or what the job call may be! You’ll never have to worry about what time your emergency may happen knowing that we will be there for you immediately.

IICRC

3/5/2019 (Permalink)

IICRC, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoring Certification, is a nonprofit organization that develops and publishes standards detailing the proper procedures for safe cleaning and restoration. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village prides ourselves on having our technicians as well as office staff to be IICRC certified.  Being up to IICRC standards allows all of our employees to have the best knowledge industry standard training giving each and every one of our customers the best service.  We are constantly holding classes for employees and professionals be up to date and work towards new certifications in areas such as: Applied Structural Drying, Commercial Drying, Fire and Smoke, Mold Removal, etc. This helps us to ensure that no matter what situation clients can always rest assured that they are choosing the best restoration company.

Why SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

2/18/2019 (Permalink)

Our field technicians out on the job.

Studio City/Valley Village is the fourth franchise owned by Team Reed.  Having the scale to own a fourth territory allows us to have the best in class service providers.  We have increased our capacity to over 35,000 square feet of warehouse and office space and provide a range of services including restoration (fire, water, mold), content cleaning, storage, packout and more.  We continue to support the local community of Studio City / Valley Village.  After the acquisition we have earned the highest designation, Extreme Response Team which allows us to travel assist other communities during a disaster event.  The ERT designation is earned by less than 1% of all franchises within SERVPRO.  If you ever experience water, fire, or mold damage call us any time and our friendly and professional staff will be available to help you.

Water Damage Prevention for Commercial Buildings in Studio City/Valley Village

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

All buildings are different, but each is at risk for water damage.

The components of a commercial building envelope are as varied as its occupants and uses. Brick and glass, bitumen and composite panels, marble and stone, all can be used. And, all respond differently to the forces of wind, rain, snow, and ice. Ideally, the envelope ensures that the weather stays on the outside, where it belongs, and that the people and property inside are protected. One of the best ways to minimize a building’s risk of water damage is to develop, maintain, and follow a systematic Operations and Maintenance inspection routine that includes all elements of the building envelope.

Follow a Regular Inspection Routine

Monthly:

• Check all at-grade plumbing systems.
• Check all at-grade drainage systems.
• Test basement flood control and sump systems.
• Replace any leaking fittings or drains immediately, even if small.
• Does the irrigation system spray water against the foundation wall?
• Are roof drain outlets clear of debris?
• Are any water elements at-risk for vandalism?
• Do downspouts direct water away from the foundation?
• Investigate the source of any standing water.

About SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Water Damage Prevention in your Studio City/Valley Village Commercial Building

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Large-scale losses can be prevented by following a few simple guidelines.

Know where your emergency water shut-off valves are located, and have a contingency plan in place in case you are not available. Create an emergency plan with directions for what to do in an emergency as well as a list of phone numbers of approved companies to call in an emergency situation. Make sure someone you can trust has the authorization to make decisions if you are unavailable.

Commercial Water Damage Prevention

Flooding may affect your commercial property by way of pipe bursts, rising river beds, tropical storms, heavy surface rainfall, or excessive rainfall in a short period of time, to name a few. As a property owner or manager, your disaster preparedness plan should address flood concerns. While you may not be able to stop the rain from falling, you can take efforts to keep your commercial buildings safe from impending damage, by conducting regular inspections of the building.

About SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village Wildfire Damage Event

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

As many as 90 percent of wildland fires in the United States are caused by people, according to the U.S. Department of Interior. Some human-caused fires result from campfires left unattended, the burning of debris, negligently discarded cigarettes and intentional acts of arson. The remaining 10 percent are started by lightning or lava. 

According to Verisk’s 2017 Wildfire Risk Analysis 4.5 million U.S. homes were identified at high or extreme risk of wildfire, with more than 2 million in California alone. Losses from wildfires added up to $5.1 billion over the past 10 years.

Ready to help Here at SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village we are monitoring any wildfire situations closely. Our thoughts are with those neighbors who may be put in harms’ way during this event. In many cases, a wildfire can result in a total loss for a home or business, but in others it may be a partial loss, or can result in mild smoke damage. If your home or business is affected by a wildfire, SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is Here to Help®. 

About SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village 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.

Studio City/Valley Village Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Studio City/Valley Village basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – (818)508-7282

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (818)508-7282

Helpful Tip to Prevent Storm Damage To Your Home

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

The gutter will become heavier from the excess debris and water, potentially causing it to break. If your gutter breaks away from the house, you’ll have to cover the costs of a new gutter, as well as any damages done to your siding and/or windows. If the gutter is barely hanging to your roof and there is resting water, it can lead to the risk of rusting. Excess water in the rain gutter can lead to spilling over onto the house’s siding, and flooding in the basement etc.  These complications and costs of repair can be avoided by keeping your rain gutters clean.

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.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

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

Studio City/Valley Village Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading microbial growth throughout your home.

If you see visible microbial growth, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the microbial infestation throughout your home. When microbial growth is disturbed, it can release microscopic 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 Studio City/Valley Village for microbial growth 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 Studio City/Valley Village specializes in microbial growth 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 microbial growth problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Microbial Growth, Call Us Today – (818)508-7282

Faster to your Studio City/Valley Village Water Damage Event

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Studio City/Valley Village

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into the floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. The immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (818)995-6444

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 Studio City/Valley Village

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village 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.

Studio City/Valley Village 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Studio City/Valley Village.

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (818)508-7282

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 Studio City/Valley Village 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
• 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)?

About SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village 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.

Does your Studio City/Valley Village Home Have A Mold Problem?

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

In Studio City/Valley Village, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

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, 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.

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today (818)508-5600

Studio City/Valley Village Smoke and Soot Cleanup

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Order in Your Studio City/Valley Village Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (818)508-7282

Restoring Your Studio City/Valley Village Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges.

Flooding and water damage events at Studio City/Valley Village commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

When Storms or Flood hit Studio City/Valley Village. SERVPRO is ready!

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village 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.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Studio City/Valley Village, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams (Storm Flooding Restoration) that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today! (818)508-7282

Commercial Restoration: Water and Mold Damage

6/27/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial crews working around the clock.

When commercial damages arrive SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village and our sister SERVPROs have been given the Large Loss Response Team designation title. This ensures companies that we are capable of handling any size loss. 

This hotel is just one example of the commercial restoration that we handle monthly. Our crews set up hundreds of pieces of equipment, monitored every single one for progress, sketched all affected rooms, removed all affected material, and worked diligently to help the hotel to reopen these rooms to guests wanting to occupy them on their visit. 

Our office staff stayed on site and worked around the clock providing proper paperwork and documentation to help the process run smoothly and to make sure there were no bumps along the way. Always call SERVPRO for any water or mold damage needs. 

Hotel Mold

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

Mold forming on the hotel walls.

We think it won't happen to the best of us but then it does, mold attacks! Over the last month and a half our Large Loss Response team has worked around the clock to get this hotel back up and running to fill rooms with visitors. It started when they had a massive water damage through out several floors and since it was so big and the conditions were perfect microbial growth began to form on the walls, in the carpet, and other various places. The hotel could not allow guests to stay because microbial growth is not good for respiratory system when exposed to it. All of our supervised technicians wore proper PPE to clean up the water, get rid of the mold, and remediate the damage.

Is Smoke Damage Really That Harmful?

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

Power washing helps to get rid of soot after a fire loss.

A question we hear at SERVPRO from clients quite often is: is smoke damage really that harmful? The answer is yes! Smoke damage can affect in more ways than one, while direct exposure to smoke is harmful to your respiratory system, it can also negatively affect your property's structure, sometimes in unexpected ways. Smoke from any type of fire is comprised of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and soot. Depending on what’s burning, many other harmful chemicals also enter the air, and are inhaled into your lungs or latch onto walls, furniture, clothing, ductwork, and other areas. While it may not seem like as big of a deal as the flames that burned personal property, smoke damage definitely should never be ignored! ALWAYS call SERVPRO for all your fire/smoke remediation needs. 

Water Damage

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

A bathroom hallway affected by a bathtub overflow.

Water damage comes in many shapes and sizes, and the source of origin is almost always different. Wether it comes from a broker water supply line that burst, the dishwasher overflowed, the water heater burst, etc. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village are your water restoration experts. We have a team that works 24/7 around the clock in case of any emergencies that may happen in either your home or in your place of work. We are able to get crews out immediately to place equipment and start the drying process to ensure that no further damage occurs. An ignored water damage can cause microbial growth and if we can take care of it in the first place we should always be your first call.

Precautions to Take After Storms

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

Damages from a massive storm last December.

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm. A severe storm can change everything in the blink of an eye. It doesn’t always have to be a tornado or hurricane to cause destruction on your home or office, and poor restoration can leave you with an unhealthy home for your family.We specialize in the stabilization and restoration of homes and businesses that have suffered small or large loss from water, flood, wind, storm, fire damage, and smoke disaster. Always remember to be safe during and after a storm.

Flood Facts

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

While it may not be common in Southern California to get a lot of rain but when we do it seems to come in insane amounts. Here are some flood facts from SERVPRO corporate:

Flash floods can bring walls of water 10 to 20 feet high.

Flooding can be caused by spring thawing (snow and frozen grounds melting in the spring), heavy rains, snow melt runoffs, flash floods, and mudflows.

Floods are the most widespread natural disaster aside from wildfires. 

In preparation for a flood, it is important to stock up on first aid items, non-perishable foods, gallons of water, battery operated electronics, extra batteries, and personal hygiene necessities. 

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is your flood expert. We are always here to help.

How Long Do Fire Extinguishers Last?

4/28/2018 (Permalink)

Before picture of an apartment balcony after being affected by a fire.

Fire extinguishers last between five and 15 years but they all ultimately expire and become ineffective, no matter what fire-fighting substance they contain. Household fire extinguishers—which are typically filled with dry chemicals (carbon dioxide or halon)—lose their charge over time. Those with compressed gas can leak contents slowly as their seals weaken, while those with ammonium phosphate will solidify over the years, rendering the entire device unusable. Read on to get a handle on the age and effectiveness of your fire extinguisher, plus tips on how to extend its life, get it serviced, and dispose of it correctly if necessary. Store a fire extinguisher in a clean, indoor location can help extend its life. Exposure to sun, UV radiation, wind, or rain can cause corrosion, rust, and deterioration. If the canister is dented or bruised, or if the tamper seal and pin are missing, there’s a possibility that it might explode unprompted. Examine the entire unit and if it’s not in good shape, properly dispose of it without delay.

How Technology is Changing Insurance

4/28/2018 (Permalink)

A home fire after a towel was left on the stove.

Picture this. You’ve just left your house to head to work, and you forgot to turn off the front oven burner after cooking your morning breakfast. There’s a dish towel sitting on the stove that’s just a little too close to the burner, and it catches on fire. Soon your whole kitchen is in flames. But because you have a traditional smoke detector, all it will do is make a lot of noise. Hopefully, your neighbor sees something is wrong and calls the fire department. However, if your home was equipped with a smart smoke detector, cameras and fire sprinklers, you could receive a phone or email alert notifying you of smoke in the house as soon as the dish towel started to flame up. You could check then out the issue on your cameras, remotely enable your smart sprinklers, and hopefully, contain the damage.  This is great news for homeowners because it’s going to keep damage from happening and their insurance low, SERVPRO works closely with both insurance agents/adjusters and homeowners and understands both of their needs. Technology will start to do the following: lessen risks with early warning, streamline the process of submitting a claim, decrease the number of claims, allow for a more personalized coverage. So, as long as we understand what our clients need we will forever be able to help them in a time of need. 

Break Room Blues

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

The break room after all water had been removed and demo had started.

This advertising company was in a pinch when a pipe burst under their sink and flooded their break room and a few of their offices. When we arrived there was about 3in of standing water in the space and it had spilled over into the hallway and into conjoint offices. Our technicians removed all of the standing water and began demolition immediately, after placed equipment after. Even though they were without a lunch room for a few weeks during the remediation and remodel everyone was thankful to not have to be wading around in the water while they enjoyed their sandwiches. If they would have ignored the water damage it could have resulted in microbial growth, so by them being proactive and calling SERVPRO they were able to dodge an even bigger problem missed.

Commercial Loss: Microbial Growth

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

Here you can see the microbial growth affecting the water tanks.

When it comes to commercial jobs SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village promises to always have all the qualified technicians, trained office staff, necessary equipment plus the skill and knowledge on how to move quickly to get places of business back to work. Recently a client had a very large mold problem that had taken over the entire back of the warehouse and it needed to be addressed immediately. Our crews worked after hours and sometimes all night as to not disturb the business process. Once all of the demolition to remove any mold was complete our project managers had testing done to be 100% sure there was no more mold to be found, and then they monitored the equipment to ensure a job well done. 

What Is Microbial Growth? AKA Mold

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

Without realizing it this home quickly became affected with microbial growth in every room.

You may not be able to see or smell it, yet it may be growing in your home and the reason you feel sick.  So, what is mold? Molds are multiple types of fungi that grow in filaments and reproduce by forming tiny spores that sprout and fly away, invisible to the naked eye. Mold grows in damp, warm, and humid locations, inside and outside. Mold can grow in your bathroom, in the showerhead, or in the corner near your shower, especially if the room is not well ventilated. Mold can attach to your shoes, pets, clothes, carpets, furniture, books, and papers. Mold can circulate in your air system. Overall, water-damaged buildings create a complicated mixture of contaminants present in the air and dust, resulting in a toxic chemical stew. Additionally, mold produces toxic chemicals called mycotoxins, present on spores and fragments of mold released into the air. Would you believe that half of buildings in the United States are water damaged, leading to the growth of mold? Which means you should always call SERVPRO if you suspect microbial growth in your home or place of business. We have expert technicians and trained office staff prepared to deal with all mold emergencies.

5 Places Where Mold Is Comfortable

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

Always check places you would never assume microbial growths to thrive.

We all know microbial growth in your home is not wanted but do you know where to even begin looking? Mold definitely has it's favorite places to thrive, if you were wondering where they are here are the 5 top places that our technicians have recorded. 

1. Basements and cellars after water damage

2. Kitchen and bathroom sinks

3. Your refrigerator

4. Air conditioning units

5. Water Heaters

Now, mold can grow anywhere that gives it a cozy home such as environments that are moist and cellulose. All homes have the key ingredients to house microbial growth, and if you suspect there is mold in your home you should always call the experts at SERVPRO. We have highly trained technicians that are qualified to deal with any and all mold. 

Winter Water Damage

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

Water clean up

While Southern California doesn't have as harsh of winters as the rest of the nation your home or business is still at risk for water damage during the winter months. In extreme cases water pipes can freeze and burst and just because it is winter time does not mean mold can not grow as aftermath. Especially in homes with poor ventilation and/or unresolved water leaks. Most home or business owners do not think to have their roofs checked before storm season which leads to many leaks that could have been prevented. SERVPRO Studio City/Valley Village is your water restoration industry professional. Our technicians are trained and prepared even for weather related water incidents. Not your typical flooded kitchen from the sink situation. Always call SERVPRO for any of your water restoration needs. 

Faster To Any Size Disaster

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

Microbial growth after ignored water damage.

There's no such thing as a small disaster, especially when the water you don't see has bacteria or causes mold. Water damage can and will affect the value of your property. Before you try and take care of it yourself consider how the damage can affect your home, SERVPRO professionals know how disruptive water damage can be for anyone. Our technicians are trained and equipped to manage the drying process by using equipment and moisture measuring devices. Your home or building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards. Which, in turn, will prevent secondary water damages. With rapid response time SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village can and will help you regain control and make sure your property is protected. Never put anything you love at risk and let your franchise professionals handle it. 

Commercial Water Loss: Department Store

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

Empty retail store preparing for remediation demo.

A toilet overflow caused this retail business to have to close it's door for a little bit. The water damage covered the entire square footage of the store which resulted in all of the carpet needing to be removed. Our technicians worked long hours to move quickly, knowing that the owners needed to open their doors and resume business. Once the work was finished the owners felt as if the store looked brand new and were excited with how quickly the process was finished. The picture shown is a few days in after all of the merchandise had been removed from the store and everyone was preparing for demolition to start. As a Large Loss Response Team (LLRT) SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is able to handle an size of loss. 

Dryer Fires

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

You may not think of your clothes dryer as a fire hazard, but these appliances account for tens of thousands of house fires each year. The problem most frequently occurs when lint and dust are allowed to build up. Over time, this can cause the dryer vent to become clogged with highly flammable materials, which easily combust when exposed to high temperatures. Your best option for dryer safety is to clean the lint trap each time before you use the dryer, and to inspect and clean the dryer vent area to remove lint buildup and other potential blockages. Regular cleaning can ultimately make all the difference in avoiding a house fire.

Quick statistics: 2,900 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year and cause an estimated 5 deaths, 100 injuries, and $35 million in property loss.

Bathroom Ceiling Caves In

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

The after math of the ceiling being opened up and removing all the water.

Late one evening this homeowner heard a loud crash in his bathroom and immediately thought it was a burglar. Little did he realize that his roof collapsed in due to all of the rain Southern California experienced one winter. The roof in his bathroom could no longer hold the weight of the water leaking through into his home and pooled over his bathroom and fell in. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village was called in to clean up the aftermath. Our technicians removed all the debris and removed all the standing water from the home's bathroom. The homeowner joked that the bathroom hadn't looked that clean since they bought the house two years prior. You can always trust SERVPRO to get your home back to prime condition.

April Showers, May Flowers

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Roof after a damaging rain.

Storms in SoCal! While they are not common when the storms hit Southern California it seems as if this state falls apart. While we do need the water and California looks much prettier with lots of green, if you were to ever experience a storm damage loss to your home or business your first call should always be SERVPRO. We have the experience, trained technicians, and detailed office staff ready to go in case of an emergency. Mostly we have seen leaking roofs and clogged drains outside causing standing water to seep into homes, even though it doesn't happen often it is always best to be prepared until SERVPRO can get on site. You should check your home's rain gutters and clear them of all debris as well. You can always ask your local fire departments for sand bags if you have water seeping in from under your doors.  Just like SERVPRO they are always here to help.    

We Want Your Large Loss

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Our Large Loss Response Team in proper PPE for a mold job.

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village has been deemed as a Large Loss Reponse Team (LLRT) which means we have the capability to handle any size loss. Within the last few months we have had the opportunity to work with large companies all over Southern California. With this title it allows us to really make a different on corporations and businesses that need to get back to operating hours quickly. But just because we have these opportunities doesn't mean we can or could forget about our other claims, we understand the importance and clients needs to get back to a normal life quickly no matter the size of their damage. You can always trust that SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is reliable and will make it "Like it never even happened".

Water Damage: Appliances & Plumbing

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

One of the biggest water damage culprits, the toilet.

Water damage from appliance and plumbing leaks,  like water heaters, dishwashers, ice makers and washing machines in your home can cause your laminate floors to buckle or warp. Many times, these leaks are quite slow and often go unnoticed. Slow leaks are not easy to identify since they are underneath the laminate where they penetrate the core material. While you might not be able to see the leak, a SERVPRO technician will be able to find excess moisture by using a moisture meter. We arrive ready to protect your home with all necessary equipment to do that. It is common to use dehumidifiers and airmovers to help dry all affected areas. However, if not caught in time, laminate floors will have to be removed because moisture gets trapped underneath the laminate. 

Water Damage: Kitchen Edition

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

A beautiful kitchen affected by a major water loss.

The recent rains in Southern California have cause a lot of problems from sink holes, to fallen trees, to power outages. No one is ever really prepared in California and after these last rains are we sure this isn't the East Coast? SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is ready to help, being a twenty-four seven emergency services company allows us to work around the clock and be there when you need us. 

Best Practices: Do not wait to contact your insurance company to see what you are covered for. Do not wait to contact SERVPRO in hopes that Mother Nature will dry your home out by itself. 

Reminder: Leave wet electronics and appliances alone, do not turn on in case of electric shock.

Always: Call your neighborhood SERVPRO to make it "like it never even happened."

Fire Clean Up

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Before picture shows all the soot damage the wind blew in.

After a massive fire blew through the Santa Clarita Valley SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village was reached out to for help. This golf course was one that fell victim to the strong fires but they were lucky to escape with little damage to their property. Our technicians came in a worked for a little over three weeks to clean both the inside and outside of the country club to ensure that all fire, soot, and smoke damage was gone from the property. This before picture shows just some of the mess left behind after all the fires were put out. The final product looked as if the golf course was going to be opened for the first time, the owner came back from an extended vacation and was thrilled with the outcome.

Who Should You Call For Your Fire Damage?

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a home after the sprinkler system went off.

No one ever plans for a water or fire damage in their homes, but if you were to ever experience one SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village should be your first call for mitigation and remediation. Having a fire in your home can be a life altering event and you want your property to be restored back to the way it was before the fire. When a fire occurs at your house or commercial property, you should take swift action to handle the cleanup and restoration left behind by the fire itself and the efforts of the fire department. At SERVPRO we value your home as if it were our own because we understand clients in their time of need. If you need more opinions on who to call ask friends/family, neighbors, or even your insurance agents they will be able to help you in this process.

Mold Attacks

4/23/2018 (Permalink)

This mold was hiding behind a cabinet and could only be found when moved.

This company experienced two water leaks in their roof within a month of each other during a really bad rain season recently. With water damage comes mold, especially in a situation like this where they were hit hard with water in their offices. The mold came quietly and was hard to find, mostly hidden behind cabinets and on the walls behind decorations. It wasn't until our technicians started the water mitigation they realized the bigger problem at hand, mold. SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village was able to handle the extensive process and remove all the mold that was encasing the office. This before picture shows the mess left behind after all the water damage, we were able to work through the entire process and get the office ready for reconstruction. 

Hidden Microbial Growth: In The Closet

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Mold hidden in this dark closet was unseen by the home owners for quite some time.

Mold can be sneaky, and sometimes goes unnoticed much longer than it should and you cannot get rid of it easily. If you think mold is growing in your home trust your nose and your gut, if you start to feel sick you should always call a specialist, precisely SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village to get the job done quick. All mold needs is food, water and a dark, stagnant environment with steady temperatures that neither freeze nor swelter to grow. By trusting SERVPRO to use high-tech equipment and modern methods to conduct our remediation services you will find that mold has no chance! With mold you want to make sure that it is cleaned up properly and have no lingering microbial growth. Which in turn prohibits any health risks that come with mold. Call SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village today with any mold requests.

After Mold Remediation

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Family den after demo.

Recently, SERVPRO of Studio City/ Valley Village completely gutted this den of the mold that had taken over every square inch. Mold like this family had needed to be "demoed" out and removed from the home. The husband tried to clean and remove the mold himself but it came back fiercer and all at once, they had but no choice to call out the professionals of SERVPRO. By containing the mold area we were able to prevent other mold spores from travelling to other places in the home and contaminating there as well. Mold can also cause serious health issues, which is why containment is so important and necessary, all mold situations should be treated as an emergency. When demolition was completed SERVPRO completed a final wipe down of everything to prohibit the mold from growing back and allowed the family to open back up the space and continuing living their lives. 

Water Damage From Water Heaters

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Water heater hiding in the dark corners of a garage.

Everyone has a water heater in their home here are some helpful tips: 

1. Check your water heater's age. Once your water heater reaches it's life expectancy it is much more susceptible to a leak or burst.

2. Clean out your water heater regularly. This includes removing sediments and flushing the tank regularly every 6 months. 

3. Placement matters. Most people store their water heater in the garage because it is "out of sight" which also means it is "out of mind". The biggest mistake made is waiting for your water heater to start showing troubling signs, such as leaking, before people replace or try to fix them. 

In case of an emergency, you don’t want to feel trapped or out of options. If you experience a water leak call the professionals of SERVPRO Studio City/Valley Village

Stormy Southern California

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

A damaged roof after a massive rain storm in Souther California.

Disasters can come in a variety of different forms, though no matter what version they take, they must be dealt with immediately to avoid the costs of increased damages through stagnation. Among the issues disasters can cause may include: Wood Rot, Roof Leaks, Mold Growth, Flooding, Sewage Back Ups, Clogged Gutters and Downspouts.

Lately in California we have been experiencing a lot of storms which has caused all of the above issues for our customers.

Storm damage disasters require a heightened level of skill and expertise that we require of our crews along with compassion, honesty and integrity make us who we are. 

Our solid reputation with insurance companies will help streamline the insurance claim process and restoration of your home to its beautiful pre-storm condition. Call us if you need storm help.

Warehouse Fire Catches Neighbor On Fire

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

The burnt warehouse after the flames are subdued

This warehouse fire happened late one night, with an unknown cause at the time, when the property manager got a call from a neighboring warehouse that there were flames to be seen from the windows. Once all the soot and smoke had a chance to settle the property manager was able to call the experts of SERVPRO Studio City/Valley Village a Large Loss Response Team to help with his fire damage. After a few weeks of mitigation, demolition, and reconstruction our technicians were able to get this company reopened and back in business. The property manager, as well as the business owner and his employees, were thrilled with the outcome of the mitigation. The warehouse looked brand new and everyone was happy to be back at work. 

California Commercial Losses

4/19/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial loss in Studio City, CA.

If you haven't noticed California is filled with enormous sky scraper buildings and boulevards filled with apartments, condominiums, town houses, businesses, etc. This means if your neighbor has a pipe burst in their bathroom and floods his entire unit you more than likely are going to have some sort of damage to your property as well. Sometimes you might get lucky and escape the wrath of an angry burst pipe, but in the case you don't SERVPRO is the expert to call. We have been able to build special relationships with property managers and building owners that have used us either in the past or have been referred to us which allows us to help them with any properties they own or manage. 

Mold Remediation: West Covina, CA

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

An entire department store affected heavily by microbial growth

In our industry it is common that when water damage occurs and it is not remediated properly, this can lead to microbial growth. 

Our company, SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village was called to inspect a 16,000 square foot commercial building that had obtained water damage from the recent Los Angeles rains. The leaks in the roof, went undetected and moisture got trapped in the walls and ceilings. With no way to dry itself out, mold began to grow. A commercial roofer came out to do an inspection and to his surprise there was mold growth. Because the moisture in the roof went undetected for so long, major damage occurred and cost them not only lost revenue but major out of pocket expenses as well. 

Protect Your School

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

A school auditorium after a roof leak.

This is a perfect example of how a simple water damage became a major mold situation in a commercial building.

Recently, SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village teamed up with this school to conquer water and mold in schools. When SERVPRO was called out on the first job to take care of a high school dance stage the school district was impressed with the strong work that was performed and continued to use SERVPRO for all their needs. Protecting our community schools and kids is important and when we are given the chance to make a difference we take it. Knowing that there is no possibility of the kids getting sick or worse because our technicians were able to put their skills and knowledge to use. It may be hard to detect water leaks right away with the size of schools but always know that you can call SERVPRO to keep your school safe and water damage free.

Emergency Readiness Profile

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

An example of our free ERP.

Emergency Readiness Profile, better known as an ERP, provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information.

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.

SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village offers personalized ERP's to both residential and commercial clients. By developing and utilizing at ERP you are able to minimize business interruption and have an immediate plan of action. SERVPRO is  a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

SERVPRO & The American Red Cross

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Proud partners with The American Red Cross.

SERVPRO began a National partnership in March of 2013 with the American Red Cross as the largest corporate sponsor for the Ready Rating Program. As a Disaster Responder member, SERVPRO of Studio City/Valley Village is among an elite group of companies and foundations from almost every industry. The Red Cross, and SERVPRO alike, are very refutable companies that people know and trust and by working together we are able to come together for our communities and neighbors in any time of need. Even though Southern California may not experience storms like the rest of the country doesn't mean that when storms do hit they are taken lightly. Partnering with the Red Cross allows our company to be apart of something bigger than just water and fire remediation. We are always here to help.