Recent Storm Damage Posts

Fulfilling Basic Cleaning Requirements After a Flood

8/21/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded and damage home due to storm Flood damage in a Westchase, FL home

Fulfilling Basic Cleaning Requirements After a Flood

Storm damage, flooding, and similar natural disasters can bring contaminants to your home in Westchase, FL. Therefore, you must meet several cleaning requirements to make your house safe from these agents. Even if you hire water damage professionals to repair and perform a storm or flood clean, you should still ensure they meet the right guidelines for the best results.

Disinfecting Surfaces

The surfaces throughout the house are the areas most affected by pollutants and the ones most people touch. Technicians should use EPA-approved flood disinfectant and tools to clean surfaces. Note that some procedures are different than others depending on the surface or material. A piece of cloth submerged in a chlorine and hot water solution works with most surfaces, while others require boiling water, slow drying or outright removal and replacement. Talk to your specialist about specific treatments for each.

Removing Contaminated Materials

There are certain items like mattresses, wallboard and wood veneered furniture that cleaning requirements consider complete losses. They may either absorb floodwater too easily or the costs of repairing them are too much to be worth it. Even though it is tempting to salvage them, the water may alter them too much to do so. These items lose their intended function and the contaminants can place others in peril. Experts will decide whether this measure is necessary.

Drying Out Property

Sometimes the best way to expedite the flood clean and repair process is to dry out surfaces, equipment and objects. This process makes the materials less vulnerable and easier to disinfect afterwards. It also prevents mold from growing on the surface. Drying methods vary depending on the items, from using air conditioner and fans on furniture and cloths to cutting off wet wallboard to air out the less affected sections.

While every affected surface and object in your Westchase, FL, house requires different cleaning methods, they all follow common cleaning requirements. Ensure the company working with you follows these basic rules.

Types of Flood Contamination

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Water Category Water damage can result from any type of flooding

Not All Types Of Floods Are Handled The Same Way

It's important to prepare your business in Lake Fern, FL, to face any type of flooding or water damage. That being said, not all types of floods are handled the same way. There are three primary types of floods, each categorized by the types of contaminants present in the water itself.


Clean Water Floods
Category 1 floods are also called clean water floods. They are categorized by an absence of contaminants and are the least dangerous types of floods. Even though the water is clean, you still need to make sure that you take the situation seriously to avoid suffering unnecessary water damage. If left untreated, clean water floods can quickly turn into more serious disasters. Category 1 floods are typically a result of one or more of the following:

  • Supply line rupture
  • Water pipe burst
  • Flooded sink, shower or bathtub

Gray Water Floods
Also called Category 2 floods, these waters are categorized by a minor amount of contamination. They are often the result of a Category 1 situation that either wasn't resolved quickly enough or came into contact with some type of external contamination. Likewise, Category 2 situations will become Category 3 if left untreated for more than 48 hours. Gray water flooding is typically caused by:

  • Malfunctioning appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines
  • Rain or snowmelt flowing off of the roof
  • Broken aquariums

Black Water Floods
Category 3 floods, also known as black water floods, are the most dangerous types of floods. They are categorized by the presence of lethal contaminants, such as human/animal fecal matter, raw sewage, chemicals and other dangerous biohazards. You should never attempt to remediate a Category 3 flood by yourself; always consult professional assistance. Category 3 flooding is often caused by:

  • Sewer line bursts
  • Toilet overflow
  • Riverbank flooding

Water damage can result from any type of flooding. It's important to take immediate action as soon as the incident occurs. Contact flood remediation experts for assistance dealing with any type of black water flooding that your business suffers.

How To Address Odors After a Flood

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

A professional disinfector in overalls processes the walls from mold. Removal of black fungus in the apartment and house. Mold growth is common after water damage. Addressing and repairing the source of the problem is critical to eliminating lingering odors and problems.

How To Deal With Flood Odors. 

If your Oldsmar, FL, home has sustained water damage, it often means that you also have to deal with mold growth. Even if the affected area has been cleaned, lurking odors are a sign that more damage was sustained than thought. Properly addressing the situation is essential to eliminating a potentially ongoing problem.

Steps to Dealing with Flood Water Odors

At the first signs of a musty odor, the following steps should be taken:

  • Find the Source: The musty smell means there is damage somewhere. If you had a sewage loss or broken pipe, it is likely in that vicinity. Sometimes mold growth is difficult to locate. Since it likes to grow in damp, warm and dark places, check bathrooms, the basement and the attic.
  • Fix the Source: Once you know what is causing the issue, time is of the essence. Mold quickly grows and spreads, so it is imperative to quickly repair the source of the problem.
  • Dry Everything Out: The quicker the affected items and areas dry the better. Along with ensuring excess water is extracted, opening windows and using fans may speed up the process.
  • Eradicate the Mold: In most cases, this is best left to the professionals. If only a small area has been affected following recommended safety and cleaning protocols.
  • Sanitize and Deodorize: Once the mold is gone, the entire area should be cleaned and deodorized to eliminate lingering odors. Keep windows open and use fans to enhance airflow.

Ensure Proper Mitigation

While those steps seem simple enough, there is a lot that goes into ensuring the mold issue and odors are properly eradicated. If the affected area is more than 10 square feet, it is best to contact a professional mold and water damage restoration company. A certified provider will have the all-around expertise to find and fix the issue, as well as ensure that no mold or odors linger.

Mold growth is common when there is water damage. Addressing the source of the problem and fixing it is essential to eradicating lingering odors and problems.

Routine Maintenance Can Protect Your Business From Storm Damage

4/9/2022 (Permalink)

Construction worker wearing safety harness and safety line working on a metal industry roof new warehouse Once a year, before storm season, have your building inspected by a professional. Examine the walls for cracks, gutters, and weak spots in the ceiling

Storm Damage Can Be Avoided With Routine Maintenance

Routine exterior maintenance of your East Lake Woodlands, FL, commercial building can help the structure better withstand inclement weather. Whether you are anticipating strong thunderstorms or heavy snows, a strong exterior will keep your business protected.

Inspection

A thorough building inspection will alert you to any weaknesses or problems that make your building more vulnerable to storm damage. A full exterior inspection will cover all of the following areas:

  • Roof
  • Foundation
  • Windows
  • Doors
  • Brick, stucco, siding, etc.
  • Gutters and downspouts

The frequency of inspections depends on a variety of factors, including the age of the building and local weather patterns. At minimum, have the building professionally inspected once a year, ideally before the stormiest season. Make sure the building is checked for cracks in the walls and foundation, loose gutters and weak spots in the roof. A trusted building inspector can let you know what areas of your structure may need more frequent inspections.

Even a building that passes an inspection can still be vulnerable to storm damage. If this happens, an experienced restoration service can get your property back to normal so that it can successfully weather the next storm.

Maintenance

In addition to routine inspections, it is important to keep your building maintained. Exterior maintenance involves more than simply repairing the issues discovered during inspections. Keep gutters and downspouts clear and make sure they are not loose. Remove debris from the roof. Pressure wash as needed to minimize fungal growth. Make sure all signage is securely attached to the building.

The nearby landscaping also affects the structural integrity of the building and should be properly maintained. Keep limbs trimmed and make sure trees are healthy and strong to prevent them damaging the building. Consider grading the lawn away from the building and installing plants and mulch to prevent flooding.

Stormy weather can cause serious problems for your commercial building. However, a little routine exterior maintenance can prevent many situations.

How To Handle Post-Flood Cleanup

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

Restoration machines are cleaning water damage in an office When disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Oldsmar/Westchase. Our staff is available 24/7, 365 and can help with all types of flood damage restoration

How To Deal With Flood Cleanup

Don’t let the idea of content cleaning after a flood get you down. It’s never impossible to restore your business to its former glory with proper cleaning and sanitization as long as you know the ins and outs of how to properly recover from flood damage in Tampa, FL

1. Create a Cleanup Plan

The very first step in reclaiming your property after flood damage is to establish a structured, methodical cleanup plan. Identify which cleanup tasks are dependent on others and prioritize key areas first. Section off your floor plan into places that are most to least critical regarding what needs to be handled for health and safety reasons versus what is just part of cosmetic damage restoration.

2. Identify What You Can Salvage

Although content cleaning can feel like razing everything down and starting from scratch, you don’t have to throw the baby out with the bathwater. Some of your belongings can be salvaged simply by drying them out, particularly if they are made of non-porous materials that don’t absorb water. Set aside what can be rescued to dry out properly in a sunny, well-ventilated place.

3. Discard Porous Materials

Even if you may be able to salvage some things, other things are too risky to keep. Anything porous that may have absorbed contaminated water may have to be completely destroyed. This can range from furniture that was completely soaked in water to even the sheetrock of the walls, and for more complicated tasks, you may require the assistance of restoration services to help.

The problem with porous materials absorbing contaminated water is that even when they dry out after some content cleaning — and they will take much longer to dry out — any residual particles from the water may still remain in the material, trapped in porous fibers and openings. Unfortunately, “residual particles” often mean fecal matter since is wastewater from toilets and sewage mains. 

How To Remove Odors After a Flood

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Restoration machines are cleaning water damage in an office SERVPRO of Oldsmar/Westchase was quick to the scene after a rain storm flooded this local salon. When water finds a way inside, call us!

How To Get Rid Of Flood Odors

Even after the flood water has receded in Westchase, FL, it can leave its legacy behind. One of these legacies is a litany of foul odors, which can indicate anything from mold growth to sewage loss left behind in the building. When cleaning and restoring after flood damage, odor elimination is one of your top priorities.

1. Dry Everything Thoroughly

Your first step in preventing odors is to dry everything as thoroughly as possible, as quickly as possible, before standing water has time to set and seep into any porous surfaces. Drain standing water as best you can by using vacuum suction if you need to. Mop and blot every surface. Open all windows and doors to let air in to further dry out, and use fans to hasten the process. Water left behind can lead rapidly to mold growth and should be addressed quickly.

2. Remove Anything That Might Hold Odors

Unfortunately, some of your possessions and inventory will have to go. Fabric, carpets, and other items may hold odors that are impossible to get out of porous surfaces without particular types of deep chemical or steam cleaning. Even if you intend to have them cleaned, remove them from the premises during initial cleanup before the odors start to set.

3. Make Use of Disinfectant and Odor Absorbers

Disinfectant is your friend in preventing mold growth. Every surface you mop dry should also be thoroughly disinfected. Odors can hang in the air, however, and can cling to surfaces. Believe it or not, kitty litter is a great odor absorber to spread over surfaces. You can also buy chemical odor absorbers and special steam cleaning and humidifier devices specially intended to remove odors from the air and open surfaces.

4. Hire Professionals

If those pesky odors still won’t abate, you may have to bring in professionals. Professional storm restoration and flood water damage cleaners often have commercial equipment not readily available to most homeowners and business owners, and they are licensed to handle more hazardous but effective chemical cleaners.

Flood Damage Looks Worse Before it Gets Better

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

One of the first actions SERVPRO technicians take upon arrival to begin restoration services for flood damage in homes is to test the water. Knowing if they are dealing with bacteria, toxic chemicals, sewage, or all of the above allows them to choose the appropriate level of disinfection necessary for a safe work environment.

Removal of Saturated Flooring

In many types of water loss situations, technicians save both carpet and padding through careful extraction and drying methods. However, due to the categorization of groundwater as a class three biohazard, there is no restoration potential if the carpeting absorbed it. Technicians extract the water to make it easier to handle and cut into strips for disposal. On a case by case basis, delaminated tiles, hardwood flooring, and baseboards receive an inspection to see if they are candidates for restoration and disinfection for reuse dependent on their construction materials.

Removal of Damaged Sheetrock

This type of controlled demolition often looks the worst but speeds the drying of the property. When water enters a structure, sheetrock readily wicks the moisture, and as it travels upward through the core, the sheetrock buckles, and warps. Technicians perform flood cuts by measuring above the highest area wicked into and cleanly cut it away. The open area allows for much more significant amounts of airflow and dries the property quickly.

Proactive Treatments Against Mold

Because mold infestations have the potential to begin as fast as 24-hours after a flood loss event in the home, SERVPRO technicians work quickly to lower the ambient humidity to make the environment inhospitable to mold growth. They hold a state certification for Mold Remediation and perform treatments on any early signs of establishment of colonies, so it is not an issue.

Eliminating the Stress of Reconstruction

After a water loss in the home, coordinating reconstruction is stressful. SERVPRO strives to make it easier for homeowners by offering a one-stop service for restoration, repair, and rebuilding as needed. They hold a residential general contractor license, and since they did the cleanup, the technicians already know the areas in the home that require addressing, taking the anxiety of finding and qualifying a contractor off of the homeowner.

Proper Documentation before and after a storm:

10/23/2021 (Permalink)

When a disaster hits and causes damage to your home it can be very devastating specially after your valuables get destroyed or your home needs extensive repairs. Here at SERVPRO we have put together a list of things you should document to have the most information available for your insurance company to help cover for most of the damage. Insurances love documentation.

  • Take Pictures of your home and valuables before a storm arrives
  • Write a detailed list of your valuables
  • Take pictures as soon as you see the damage so that they -and you- have a record of the damages
  • Don't throw away damaged items without first talking to your insurance
  • Contact your insurance company and file a claim
  • If needed to evacuate your home, keep a list of hotel receipts and related expenses

What to do when a Hurricane is coming?

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricanes are one of the most disastrous natural events that affect the lives of thousand of people each year. While we can not control hurricanes and their impact. We can take some control and prepare for them. Here at SERVPRO we have put together a list of steps to follow when a Hurricane is approaching your area:

  1. Keep your emergency supply kit in a place you can easily access.
  2. Pack a bag with change of clothes, flash light, non perishable foods and medicine in arms way
  3. Stay aware of local news radio or TV for updates on the hurricane.
  4. Stay inside. Even if it looks calm, don't go outside.
  5. Stay away from windows—you could get hurt by pieces of broken glass or flying debris during a storm.
  6. Be ready to leave.

A Floridian's Guide to Hurricane, Flood, & Storm Surge Preparation

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

While June 1 is the official start of hurricane season, Florida residents know all too well that extreme weather events have no regard for the calendar. Hurricanes, floods, and storm surges can occur at any time, and every Sunshine State homeowner should take steps to prepare properly. This allows you to protect your house and family while also reducing the likelihood that extensive disaster restoration services will be needed in the future. Below, discover a few important preparation tips, as well as some pointers on how to assess storm-related damage.

What Should You Do to Get Ready for Hurricanes, Floods, & Storm Surges?

Preparation Tips

A hurricane kit is an essential part of your preparedness measures. Gather a large, durable container, such as a plastic storage bin with a top that latches or a hard suitcase. Place enough nonperishable foods inside it—like canned goods and shelf-stable items— to last for three days; include a three-day supply of water bottles, a first-aid kit, and hygiene and sanitation supplies, like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and feminine care products. Make sure to pack flashlights, a variety of batteries, and pet food, as well.

If a storm is predicted, start securing your home. Board up all windows, and bring inside items that could easily blow away, like trash cans, patio furniture, and toys. Clean your gutters to ensure healthy water flow through the channels, and attach hurricane clips to the roof to help hold them in place.

Be ready for power outages. They could last anywhere from hours to days, depending on the extent of the storm and subsequent damage. Take a reserve of cash out of the ATM, and store it in a secure place. Fill all vehicles up with gas. Charge your cellphone and all portable electronic devices; consider investing in a solar charger that doesn't rely on electricity, and keep it in your hurricane kit.

Storm Damage Assessment Tips

Once the storm has passed, take photos and videos of all damage. Keep detailed notes of everything that will need repair or replacement. This information will be crucial when it comes time to file a home insurance claim.

Hire a disaster restoration professional to professionally evaluate your property. The sooner you can get them to inspect the house, the lower the likelihood is that the damage will worsen or spread. They can prescribe an appropriate course of action for effectively removing water, drying the property, and restoring the structure's stability and habitability. These professionals will monitor the progress of the disaster restoration work and document everything done so your insurer has a breakdown of all services completed.

Storm team travel

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

On the road to Dallas SERVPRO of Oldsmar Westchase on the way to Dallas.

Did you know when a large scale Storm or National Disaster impacts a community, SERVPRO puts out a call for all available storm teams to mobilize?

2020 brought a prolonged deep freeze to parts of the South which are unaccustomed to that type of severe cold.    Many homes and business were impacted in the form of broken pipes, water pumps and structural damage.   

170+ SERVPRO franchises answered the call for help and traveled to various parts of Texas, Louisiana, Kansas, Oklahoma and Missouri for the 2020 Texas Freeze.   

In our case, we spent 4 weeks in Dallas and helped numerous families and businesses get their properties on the path to reconstruction.   

We arrived in Texas to 20 degrees Ice and Snow, and when we left Spring had arrived! 

Roof leak in Oldsmar Florida

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

Pool of water on flat roof This pool of water on the roof leaked into living room below

As rainy season sets into the Tampa Bay area, now is a good time to review your home and roof line for weak spots.

A roof leak during a wind and rain storm in Oldsmar, Florida caused the living room below to show signs of water damage.   As storm season approaches, be mindful to check your roof and walls for cracks or areas where water can pool. 

SERVPRO of Oldsmar Westchase can help with tarping of roofs or drying out the impacted area after the storm passes.  Flat roofs are an example of places which should be given extra scrutiny.  Make sure all the fallen leaves and pollen have been cleared off.   It is also a good opportunity to check or clear out your gutters.  

5 Ways To Prepare for Floods

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Excavation contractor using a track excavator during the installation of a new large block retaining wall at a new commercial Build a retaining wall it can help you divert floodwaters away

Do You Think About Flood Prevention?

When you think about building in Heritage Harbor, FL, do you think about flood prevention? Flooding is a common issue that affects many communities and structures. By being prepared, you can ensure that your new construction project is ready to withstand rough waters.

1. Make a plan. Knowing the weather patterns, major waterways and potential flood hazards for your building site can help you prevent flood damage. This information is beneficial when designing the drainage system and deciding on the upkeep of those systems when it comes to debris and clogging.

2. Plant vegetation. Incorporating sturdy shrubs, trees and other plants into your plans is a good way to help prevent flooding. Plants create an expansive root system that loosens soil and makes more room for water to be absorbed. This reduces the chances of standing water and adds curb appeal.

3. Build retaining walls and overflow areas. Blocking and redirecting water is one of the main flood prevention tactics used in construction. Some of the most common retaining walls used are dams and levees. You can also create flood plains or spillways to help divert floodwaters away.

4. Educate people. Once people start to move in, teaching them simple ways they can help prevent flooding can have a big impact. For instance, just keeping fallen leaves and other waste out of storm drains can help a drainage system handle flood water efficiently.

5. Have a backup plan. No amount of planning can completely prevent natural disasters. Even if you’ve done all of this preventative planning, it is good to have a plan for flood cleanup. Research professional flood cleaning resources in your building area and know who you can call.
Flood prevention means being ready before, during and after a storm surge. Covering all of your bases lets you rest easier knowing that you’ve done all you can to combat flood damage.

Understanding Your Options for Flood Recovery

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

disaster recovery centers staffed with recovery specialists from FEMA FEMA also provides assistance through grants and their Housing Assistance program

It’s impossible to predict flooding from a natural disaster, even if you live in a flood plain. Unfortunately, given the right conditions, flooding can take place nearly anywhere, so it’s not a bad idea to purchase flood insurance, especially when it’s affordable. If your property in East Lake Woodlands, FL is ever inundated, you need to know what options are available for recovery. In addition to insurance coverage, the Federal Emergency Management Agency or FEMA also provides assistance through grants and their Housing Assistance program. Low-interest disaster loans are also available to homeowners and renters from the Small Business Administration, or SBA.

Federal Disaster Assistance

If you’re a property owner or renter in a disaster-designated area that has sustained damage to your property and possessions, you can register with FEMA for disaster relief aid. These grants cover several expenses related to your disaster, including the following:

  • Temporary housing
  • Emergency home repairs
  • Uninsured/underinsured personal property losses
  • Medical and dental expenses
  • Funeral expenses

Income-dependent assistance is also available that covers housing through the agency’s Housing Assistance program. If you are not a legal US resident, you can still request assistance on behalf of a child that is a citizen or qualified alien that lives with you. Applicants with flood insurance policies should check with their providers first before registering. Even if you’ve already repaired your property, you should register as you still may be eligible for assistance.

Understanding Coverage
Federal disaster relief is not intended for bringing your property back to pre-flood conditions. Disaster grants are intended to pay for losses not covered by property or flood insurance. Each relief request is analyzed on a case-by-case basis. You may need to apply for an SBA loan to cover the expenses of a full home restoration which should be completed by a qualified provider that is equipped and experienced when it comes to best cleanup and repair approaches.

5 Flood Safety Tips You Should Know

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

Breaker box with the word CUT THE POWER! Make sure to turn off the electricity to avoid shocks or fires

Safety Tips Before You Begin Working on Your Home

If you experience a large storm at your Cheval, FL, home that causes flooding, then flood safety can be an important part of getting everything cleaned up and repaired. Here are three safety tips you should know before beginning work on your home.

1. Turn Off the Power

One of the most important safety procedures you can follow is to turn off the power to any area that has been flooded. Water conducts electricity so it’s important to have the power off before entering a flooded area to ensure that it’s safe to even begin work. Only after it’s determined to no longer be a possible hazard should the electricity be restored.

2. Wear Safety Gear

Another important flood safety tip to observe is the wearing of safety gear any time you deal with flood water or other repair needs. This gear can include boots, gloves, coveralls for clothing, face masks, and work goggles. This equipment can help you avoid skin contact with possible contaminated water, as well protect you from air-blown debris.

3. Call a Restoration Service

It’s also highly recommended to contact a local damage restoration service to help with any storm damage or flooding to your home. These professionals should already have the safety gear and equipment needed for the job, as well as training on how to correctly conduct repairs. Allowing a professional to work on your home can help prevent many of the possible accidents that could be caused by inexperience.

When it comes to flood safety one of the first things to remember is to turn the powers off to the area. It’s also important to wear safety gear such as gloves when dealing with floodwater. Lastly, it’s recommended to contact a professional restoration service to safely make repairs. If you have any questions about the repair process or other safety precautions you can take, a professional should be able to help.

Introduction to Buying Flood Insurance

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

a graphic that says flood damage SERVPRO of Oldsmar/Westchase is available 24/7 to assist with flood damage!

As a Florida business owner, you have important decisions to make about protecting your employees, your company, and your assets. Because commercial insurance does not cover flood damage to your property, it is wise to consider flood insurance and ask yourself the following questions.


1. What Determines a Flood and Are You at Risk?


To be considered a flood, the resulting water damage must be to two or more properties (or over two acres). If your property is at risk for flooding, your mortgage broker will require you to carry insurance. Even if your broker didn’t include this in your policy, do your research to see if Westchase, FL, and its surrounding towns have had any flood or storm damage in recent years.
Examine what their plans are for capital infrastructure improvements as well. This research is essential because both heavy rains and damaged infrastructure, such as blocked storm drains, can cause flooding. As a result, if your city has not modernized its drainage systems, you could have a higher risk of flooding.


2.What Are Your Insurance Options?


Some private insurance companies offer flood protection, but most of the time, they are managing the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program. NFIP typically covers up to $500,000 for your building and an additional $500,000 for its contents, but you can buy excess coverage to insure against business closures that resulted from flooding.


3. Did You Include Flooding in Your Emergency Plan?


To ensure the safety of your employees and business, be sure you have a plan for what happens in case of different emergencies. Include contingencies for flooding into your emergency plan and double-check that your local restoration company is prepared to assist with flood cleanup.
Do your research about flood insurance when you start your business. That way, if the worst does happen, you can focus on the safety of your employees, knowing that your flood and commercial insurance will cover your livelihood. Visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Westchase,_Florida for more information on flood and storm damage.

Property Manager Storm Preparedness

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

A graphic that says storm safety tip When thunder roars, stay indoors.

Storm preparedness can help keep people safe and minimize damage caused by heavy storms. The United States experiences an average of 10 tropical storms and 1000 tornadoes each year. With statistics like that, you can see why it is a good idea to have a plan. Here a few things you can do to prepare your property in case of a storm in Oldsmar, FL.


1. Plan Ahead

Those responsible for property management and property owners need to work together to create a contingency plan. Contact information for all key players must be easily accessible and current. This document should include locations for emergency exits and how to notify residents if the need for an emergency message were to arise.


2. Staff Responsibilities

Employees should be trained on which duties they would have during a disaster. Special attention must be given to ensuring the safety of the staff while assisting the community. Once an evacuation order is given, all people must exit the property. Employees should be given instructions on whom to contact and when to return to the building.


3. Secure Property

When there is advance warning that a storm is coming, and it is safe to do so, employees should initiate their storm preparedness action plan. This may include securing outdoor furniture, using the emergency alert system, telling people to remove items from their balconies, securing the pool area, or emptying dumpsters. Anything that could be carried away by high winds should be brought inside or protected.


4. Gather Information

If a storm leads to damage, you may need to file a claim with your insurance company. To help your adjuster assess the damage, you can take some pictures of the property before the storm. Another option is to have someone conduct a pre-storm analysis.


Even with the best storm preparedness, you may still experience damage to your property. If this happens, you can hire a professional storm remediation company to restore your building to its previous condition. Visit https://www.SERVPROoldsmarwestchase.com/storm-flooding-restoration for more information on storm damage!