How to Prepare Your Home, Family, and Pets for North Dallas Storm Season

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Without the necessary preparations, your home could become severely damaged by strong winds or other elements.

The Office for Coastal Management had reported a combined total loss of $136 billion from weather disasters in both 2018 and 2019. This total loss was mostly due to hurricanes Dorian, Florence, and Michael, as well as western wildfires that impacted California.

While there’s no way to prevent storms from attacking your home, there are ways you can prepare your home, family, and pets for the North Dallas storm season.

If you ever find your property damaged from a powerful storm, feel free to reach out to SERVPRO of Richardson at (972) 690-1414. We can provide you the highest quality Richardson storm damage restoration you won’t find anywhere else.

Top Tips to Prepare Your Home for Storm Season

We often take for granted what our homes offer us. Your home is your place for comfort and rest. But your home also provides shelter from the outside elements. Unfortunately, it’s all too easy to forget to prepare for storms and secure the property.

These are our top tips to prepare for storm season that won’t break the bank or take a lot of time to complete. 

Prepare for Outages

Take note of what you can live without during a power outage. If you find that you need continuous power, consider buying a generator before meteorologists start calling for a big storm. Generators sell out fast. 

Unplug Electronics

Unplugging your electronics is the best method to prevent surge-related damage.

Trim your trees

Branches can easily be torn off during a storm, causing them to fly into your home and break windows or other structures. Trim your trees and other shrubs to reduce the chance of damage.

Budget for Storm Restoration

It’s possible that your home will become damaged after a storm even with the best preparations. Check your home insurance policy. Budget for restoration services in case you need to hire Richardson storm damage restoration services.

Preparing Your Family

The best way to prepare your family for a storm is to create a disaster plan and rehearse it before the wind starts howling. 

When you prepare your plan, the first thing you should consider is what the safest part of your home is. Basements are often the go-to for many homes during a storm. 

If you don’t have a basement, bathrooms are usually a safe space, too. Regardless of where your safe place is, make sure you communicate with your family and let them know where to meet in case a dangerous storm hits the area. 

Preparing Your Pets

Because they’re a part of your family, you should also have a plan in place for your pets.

Make sure they are comforted during the storm and that you stock up on food for them. Ration out food accordingly if you think you’ll be staying indoors longer than expected. 

Create an evacuation plan for your pets, too. Long in advance of a storm, be sure to identify which evacuation shelters allow pets.

Don’t Delay in Preparing Your Home for Storms

It’s important you prepare your home before a powerful storm arrives. Without the necessary preparations, your home could become severely damaged by strong winds or other elements.

If your home is still damaged after a storm despite your best efforts, hire SERVPRO of Richardson today. Call us at (972) 690-1414 or fill out our online form.

How Often Should You Repair Your Roof?

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

If your house suffered damage in a storm, it is vital to check the roof and make repairs as soon as necessary.

The old saying out of sight, out of mind shouldn’t apply to your roof. Your roof is subject to the harshest of elements. Failing to repair your roof can cause significant damage inside your home — not to mention put you at risk of building code violations.

A lack of visible signs of damage inside your home might make you think you don’t need to repair your roof. However, structural damage can occur before you realize it. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends checking your roof twice a year for possible damage.

When checking your roof, look for the following issues:

• Missing, cracked, broken, or lose shingles
• Sagging caused by excess weight (snow, too many shingle layers, etc.)
• Mold or rot or other signs of water damage
• Dark spots — a type of algae that isn’t harmful to the roof itself but over time, it can dry out the shingles and cause damage.

If your house suffered damage in a storm, it is vital to check the roof and make repairs as soon as necessary. In Dallas, you can call on SERVPRO of Richardson to help remediate any storm damage to your roof.

How Often Should You Repair Your Roof?

As soon as you spot any damage to your roof, you should repair it. Repairing your roof fast protects it and your home from the elements. Roofs have an average lifespan. The underlying structure should last as long as the structure of the house. Depending on the materials, you should also replace the entire top layer of your roof.

Asphalt Shingles

Three-tab asphalt shingles will last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. But if you have architectural asphalt shingles, the average lifespan can be longer — 25 to 30 years, since they’re more resilient.

Cement or Clay

Cement is one of the most durable types of roofs. Cement or clay tiles are resilient and heavy. They’re installed on extra-strong roofing reinforcement, so your home has greater protection. Clay tile roofs can last from 50 up to 100 years.

Slate

Slate is another excellent, if not superior, material for roofs. Slate is the most fire-resistant material for roofs and one of the most aesthetically pleasing. In addition, slate can last for 125 to 200 years.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles require maintenance to get the most out of them. If you don’t keep the roof clear of leaves and decay, you can shorten the lifespan. On average, wooden shingles will last around 25 to 30 years. However, with the proper care, it may be around 50 years until your roof needs repairing.

Metal

How often you need to repair a metal roof depends on the type of metal. Aluminum and steel will have to be replaced every 50 years or so. Metals such as zinc and copper will last approximately double that time.

Repairing a roof: The bottom line

Repairing a roof is not something anyone can do. Climbing up ladders and working on a sloping roof can be dangerous. And you can’t afford to make mistakes. So it is usually advisable to call in a licensed roofer to make any roof repairs.

If severe storms and flooding have damaged your roof in Richardson, SERVPRO professional Flood Remediation and Storm Damage contractors can help. Give us a call at (972) 690-1414 for a free estimate. 

Preparing Trees for Storm Season in North Dallas

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO of Richardson and their team of experts to help recover and restore your storm-damaged property.

Trees beautify any property and give us much-needed shade during the hot months. However, storms can be unkind to trees, forcing them down with strong winds or sending destructive lightning bolts down their trunks.

When a tall tree comes down, it can damage a roof, break a window, or down utility lines. When there are heavy soil saturation and persistent gusts of winds, even the strongest trees can collapse.

While we can’t defend our trees from nature’s fury, we can take measures to mitigate damage to trees and other objects. Make time to tend to your trees before the next storm season hits.

Examine the Trees

Inspect each tree for damage such as “deadwood,” decomposition, dense canopies, splits, or damaged trunks. Infestation, illness, or other weaknesses can topple a tree in a storm.

Next, consider proximity to structures and powerlines. Tall trees too close to these things are a risk. Sometimes utility crews will come through and trim back problem trees. While this should solve the problem, the tree is vulnerable to infection or infestation if the cuts are done incorrectly.

Once you become aware of any tree problems on your property, you can plan the best course of action for each issue you discover.

Perform Maintenance

Trees need seasonal pruning, pest control, mulching, watering, fertilization, and care by an arborist when needed.

Plan to prune your trees in the late fall or early spring. Removing branches that are too close to structures plus dead or weak branches reduces the chance of damage. Pruning the low damage of young trees helps you avoid instability from multiple leaders.

Be careful not to overcut the limbs or cut into the root system. If you are unsure of how to properly prune a tree, consult the experts or hire an arborist. 

Thin the crowns by cutting back limbs and foliage from inside the crown. This reduces the weight and allows more air and sunlight to come through.

As for new planting, there are other best practices. New trees should be planted where roots won’t be intrusive or where they won’t tower over things they can fall on. Use stakes and ties to train trees to grow straight up so they don’t bend down.

Be mindful of where you dispose of cut wood and branches. These can become projectiles during a storm.

Call an Arborist

Some tree challenges can leave the average homeowner stumped. Arborists will be able to properly assess storm damage risk factors and help you save your favorite trees from infection and decay.

When in doubt, call the experts. Being proactive saves you emergency tree removal expenses and inconvenience.

Call SERVPRO for Help After a Storm

While we may not be arborists, we specialize in Richardson storm damage restoration. We’ve been recovering storm-damaged properties for over 30 years. If a fallen tree damages your home or business, we’re ready 24/7 to come help! After you call your insurance company, call us at (972) 690-1414.

Richardson Flood Remediation and Storm Damage Services

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Has your home experienced damage from a recent storm? SERVPRO can help! We provide professional storm damage restoration services in Richardson.

Texas weather keeps meteorologists busy. When weather warnings are issued, they often include a flash flooding advisory to let us know that torrential rain is coming. 

A downpour from a Texas storm drops many gallons of water in a short window of time. When the influx of floodwater has no place to go, it ends up where it does not belong -  inside our homes and businesses.

Storms come on suddenly and it’s hard to predict how much damage will be left in its wake. Because storms don’t happen every day, they tend to catch homeowners and business owners off guard. However, SERVPRO is always prepared for a major weather event in Richardson with a team ready to respond with flood recovery and storm damage clean up. 

Professional Flood Remediation in Richardson, TX

When floodwaters rise inside your home or business, don't panic. SERVPRO has your back. 

SERVPRO of Richardson is your full-service flood remediation company! We are the most experienced Texas disaster restoration industry. 

We are always faster to any size disaster. Our team is on call 24/7 and ready to begin flood damage remediation action items right away. 

What You Need to Know About Storm Damage

If being knee-deep in water wasn't bad enough, the force of rushing water damages plumbing and wastewater lines that create an even bigger mess that is potentially toxic. Flooding may bring contaminated water into your home or business.

SERVPRO assesses flood damage on a scale of water contamination. This determines whether or not the home or business carries the risk for toxin exposure when contaminated water penetrates the walls or flooring.

Category 1: "Clean Water"

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 water depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line.
• If left untreated can degrade into category 2 or 3.

Category 2: "Gray Water"

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses.
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated.

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes.
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup.

Blackwater happens when clean water mixes with wastewater containing any of the following: sewage, human waste, garbage, motor oil, fertilizer, etc.

Severe flooding causes extensive damage, and the solution is usually more complex than just letting it dry out with time. The aftermath of storm damage can be overwhelming but an experienced storm recovery cleaning company like SERVPRO knows from experience how to handle it all.

It’s extremely important to remove all floodwater from your home or business to remove toxins and prevent mold growth. SERVPRO uses professional water extraction equipment to ensure that any contaminated water is eradicated, but also to remove clean water and prevent the growth of mold from flood damage.

Water Damage vs Storm Damage

You might assume that all damage caused by a single storm event would fall under the same category (including water damage).  It may come as a surprise when your insurance company tells you that not all types of damage qualify under the terms of the policy.  This could complicate your claims process or lead to a denial of coverage.

SERVPRO works directly with the insurance company on the property owner’s behalf to move the claims process along. With our extensive experience in working with insurance companies, we know the process well and know how to get it done more efficiently. We’ll even handle the paperwork.

Our Flood Remediation Process in Richardson

Texas storm damage aftermath can be so extensive that you may not even know where to even begin! So, consider a call to SERVPRO as your first step. We have a team of IICRC trained professionals who have the experience to put together an optimal flood remediation action plan.

Our emergency contact customer service team is available to take your call 24/7. Once an agent has collected all the necessary information, we immediately dispatch the right team members out to assess the damage and get started on the recovery as soon as possible. 

We have all the right equipment and supplies to do any and all of the following:

• Water damage restoration
• Debris removal
• Roof tarping
• Board up services for doors, windows, outer walls
• Reconstruction
• Roof replacement or repair
• Clothing and textile sanitation
• Carpet restoration service
• Moving services
• Storage

After all the cleanup and restoration procedures are complete and the property has had time to dry out, secondary issues such as mold growth may occur. 

We’ll apply preventive measures to combat mold growth. We are also the top provider for Richardson mold remediation so if toxic mold growth does progress after flood damage, we have the solution to eradicate it.

Don’t Wait - Contact SERVPRO Richardson for Storm Damage Restoration Services Today

SERVPRO in Richardson, Texas has one goal in mind when it comes to disaster recovery: make it like it never happened. With round-the-clock service, we are always at the ready to assist with storm damage clean up. 

Our team is experienced with major events:

• Hurricane Flooding
• Severe Thunderstorms
• Tornado Damage
• Hail Damage / Wind Damage
• Wildfire

Our team is experienced with all types of property:

• One-Room Damage
• Hi-Rises: Apartments and Office Buildings
• Schools and Universities
• Retail
• Warehouses
• Security Clearance Ready

When a storm warning turns into more than you bargained for, call us right away. We are here to assist you through every step of the process that comes with the storm damage restoration and flood remediation process. Call us any time, 24/7 at (972) 690-1414!

How Long Should I Run a Dehumidifier After a Flood in Richardson?

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has experienced water damage after a flood, our storm damage restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Richardson can help.

How long should I run a dehumidifier after a flood in Richardson? If your home has sustained water damage from storms and flooding, this might be a question that’s on your mind right now. In most instances, you’ll want to use a dehumidifier for water damage to dry porous materials and surfaces completely. That usually takes two days on the low end, to several weeks in more severe water damage cases. 

Mold Control: Using a Dehumidifier After a Flood

After a flood, high humidity can feed mold spores and cause damage to walls, floors, carpets, and more. You can use a dehumidifier for water damage to suck the moisture out of the air and prevent mold from taking hold. 

Certain materials will take much longer to dry than others. For example, plaster and insulation can take weeks to dry if the only tool in your arsenal against mold is a dehumidifier. It might be a good idea to replace these water-damaged materials. Mold will continue to damage the property even if everything else is dry because mold spores don’t need much to survive on. 

How Low Should You Go?

To prevent mold and mildew from ruining your property, you’ll want to keep ambient, indoor humidity levels below 50%. Anything above that will feed mold. 

There are many affordable and effective moisture meters on the market that can give you accurate indoor humidity levels. Once you reach below 50% humidity and sustain it for a few days, it’s probably safe to turn off the dehumidifier. 

What if My Home is Severely Water Damaged?

Running a dehumidifier for a few days to several weeks can prevent mold growth in many cases. But it won’t restore water-damaged materials. Even a small flood can lead to severe water damage. Another thing to consider is that mold can grow in places you can’t see, like behind walls and underneath baseboards. 

For homes that are water damaged, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Richardson for our water damage restoration services. We’re experts when it comes to getting rid of and preventing mold growth from flood damage. We’ll clean and restore your home to tip-top shape. Contact us today for more information.

How to Dry Wood Floors After Flood in Richardson?

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Have water damaged wood floors after a flood? Contact the experienced professionals at SERVPRO of Richardson for storm damage restoration.

Water damage in your house after a Texas storm can severely hinder the structural integrity and look of wood floors. If you’re wondering how to dry hardwood floors after a flood, you’ve come to the right page. You’ll need to mop up the water and use a dehumidifier to completely dry the wood and prevent damage from flooding in Richardson. Cleaning the water from a wet hardwood floor as soon as possible is the trick to preventing you from needing a total floor replacement. 

Buckling, Cupping, and Crowning in Wet Hardwood Floors

A hardwood floor’s number one enemy is water. If they aren’t quickly dried, water damaged floors can start buckling, cupping, and crowning. When water gets under the hardwood, the boards will warp and, in some cases, pull away from the subfloor. Cleaning up any spills as quickly as possible is the key to preventing severe water damage, leading to a costly floor replacement. 

Steps to Dry Wood Floors After a Flood

Remove Soaked Objects

Wet furniture, area rugs, and other belongings should be removed immediately. Wet furnishings can seed mold and mildew growth, and also trap moisture against the wood floor. 

Clean Any Spills

Standing water and puddles should be cleaned as soon as possible. Mops and towels can take care of the visible water, but water might still be pooling deep within the wood pores. Water may also have gotten under the hardwood. 

Turn on a Dehumidifier

Run your dehumidifier at full blast for at least a couple of days after a flood. This will suck the moisture from the air and help dry any water trapped within the wood pores or underneath the boards. Running a dehumidifier will also prevent mold growth. 

What if the Boards Are Water Damaged Beyond Repair?

Even after all water has been mopped and the house dehumidified, water damage may still be present. In this case, you’ll want to contact a water damage restoration company right away. 

At SERVPRO of Richardson, we help Texas property owners clean and restore their flood-damaged homes. Contact us today to learn more about our water and storm damage restoration services. Our experienced team is here to help you get things back to normal after a flood.

Is Storm Damage Covered by Insurance in Richardson?

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

If your property is damaged by a severe storm, contact the storm damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of Richardson.

Spring and summer mean increased storms and flooding in Richardson. Most homeowners insurance policies will cover storm damage. But the devil’s in the details. If your property has been hit and you’re wondering if storm damage covered by insurance, we hope to shed some light on this issue below. 

What’s Usually Covered in a Homeowners Storm Insurance Policy

Most homeowner's insurance policies will cover any storm damage that occurs to the house structure, other buildings (such as garages), and personal property. These damages are covered up to the amount outlined in the policy. 

Homeowner's insurance policies also cover loss of use and costs of personal liability to a neighbor’s property. Suppose a person is injured on your property from storm damage. In that case, your homeowner's insurance will cover part or all of the medical liability costs. 

But, some types of storm damage won’t be covered under a typical homeowner's insurance policy. These damages will need to be added to the policy. So what exactly isn’t covered? 

What’s Not Automatically Covered Under Storm Insurance

Homeowners have to do their homework when it comes to picking an insurance policy. Some storm damage types aren’t automatically covered and will need to be added to the initial policy. Contact your home insurance provider to get the exact coverage details for your policy. Your risk tolerance will most likely determine what you want to be added to your policy. In some cases, one or more of the following types of storm damage may not be covered by your policy:

• Tree damage
• Wind and flood damage
• Lightning damage

If you live in a storm or flooding-prone area or have many mature trees on your property, it might be prudent to add these types of coverage to your policy. Homeowners must check with their insurance company before storm season starts to see exactly what their policy covers. 

Certain types of storm damage can be incredibly costly to clean and repair out-of-pocket. Opting for additional coverage can protect your bank account and peace-of-mind. 

Storm Damage and Insurance in Richardson: The Bottom Line

Are you dealing with the aftermath of a storm or flood? At SERVPRO of Richardson, we’ve helped homeowners clean and restore their property with our Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Services for years. Best of all, we’ll handle the insurance paperwork for you. Contact us today for immediate help.

Richardson Carpet Cleaning After Flood

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Has flooding damaged your carpet? SERVPRO of Richardson provides storm damage cleanup to help prevent mold growth and get you back to normal.

Texas storms can be intense and the Richardson area is no exception. As property owners, we don’t get much time to prepare as thunderstorms with flash flood warnings can come on suddenly. 

When Mother Nature gives us more water than we can handle, it ends up inside our homes and buildings causing damage to things like walls, electronics, papers, photos, and furniture. 

Flooded carpets are another casualty of torrential rains. In such cases, the carpet needs to be treated to prevent mold growth. Dive into this guide to learn the steps to take with water damaged carpet.

Category Types of Floodwater

When it comes to floodwater, there’s more than one type. Some kinds are more harmful than others, so we give each type a different floodwater category.

Water category identification lets our technicians know if the water is likely to be toxic or not. That way we can treat the water with chemicals to prevent further microbial growth. 

Knowing the contamination level of the water of a flood scene also helps our team determine whether or not soaked items can be salvaged. When things a property owner wants to save ends up contaminated, we can treat those items in our Esporta Wash System - one of the most advanced cleaning systems in the industry that uses powerful detergents.

Category 1: Clean Water

The water quality scale starts with relatively clean water. Category 1 water is considered low-risk as it doesn’t pose a health hazard.

“Clean water” doesn’t necessarily remain uncontaminated. Carpet water removal must happen as soon as possible. The longer floodwater is left unextracted, the greater the chances are of it becoming contaminated and progressing into the next category. 

Category 2: Gray Water

“Gray water” is assumed to harbor unsafe levels of microorganisms and so it is significantly contaminated. Persons coming into contact with this water are at risk of becoming ill or nauseated.

Can wet carpet be saved after Category 2 water damaged? Maybe. It depends on the carpet type and how long it’s been soaked with gray water. Our team will dispose of the contaminated carpet padding and evaluate if the carpet layer can be recovered or not. In the event that it can’t be saved, we’ll replace the carpet with the closest color match.

Category 3: Black Water

Finally, there is the dirtiest of water. “Black water” is considered to be extremely contaminated and highly toxic for humans and pets.

At this stage of contamination, the water has mixed with wastewater that may contain any of the following: sewage, human waste, garbage, motor oil, fertilizer, etc.

Question: should carpet be replaced after water damage? At the black water stage, the carpet is dangerously toxic cannot be salvaged. 

All carpet in the area affected by black water (along with the padding) must be carefully disposed of and replaced with new carpeting. SERVPRO will present evidence of this contamination to the insurance company alongside the replacement cost estimate.

Do I Need Professional Flooded Carpet Cleaning?

When flood damage is minimal and you’re certain that the carpet didn’t come into contact with gray or black water, you can probably handle the recovery on your own (steps on how to clean carpet are given later). 

In the event of severe flooding or contaminated water, it’s best to get help from a cleaning service. SERVPRO is equipped with professional-level extractors and disinfectants. Having the right kind of PPE allows our team to get close to contaminated carpets so you won’t have to get close to any toxic materials.

Other benefits of calling SERVPRO for both minor and major flooding are:

Save time: Carpet cleaning after a flood can be time-consuming (especially when done on your own). Our cleaning team takes it off your hands to get it done faster while you tend to your daily life.

Prevent mold: Our team knows the drill on how to recover a flooded property all too well. We will leave the space completely clean and dry so that mold doesn’t have the chance to grow. Even with a Category 1 situation, not having the carpet dry enough can welcome mold spores to take root and in this case, we’ll see to it that it’s moisture-free.

Trained eye: Our years of experience with water damage allows us to identify other issues that may go unnoticed by property owners. We’ll catch other coincidental water damage issues and get them squared away before it gets worse.

Need a hand cleaning your flooded carpets? Call us 24/7 at (972 )690-1414. SERVPRO is always on standby for Richardson flood damage restoration and we’re faster to any size disaster!

Steps for Carpet Cleaning After Flood Damage

Whether you decide to handle minor flood damage on your own or just want to know what is involved with a proper carpet cleaning, we’ve provided these steps below.

Note: The sooner you get the carpet clean, the better. Mold spores are always in the air and will root into the damp carpet. The longer it sits, the better the chances are that mold and mildew will start to grow in the carpet fibers.

Step 1: Remove the Water

Carpet cleaning after a flood begins with full and complete water extraction. 

Remove all furniture and other objects from the carpet. Once the area is clear, use a shop vac or other extraction equipment to suck out as much water as possible from the flooded area and soaked carpet. 

The more water you remove at this step, the faster the drying process will be.

Step 2: Dry the Whole Room

Important: to prevent mold growth, the entire area must be completely dry. 

Ventilation and airflow is a huge help in the drying process. Open windows and use several fans to promote air circulation.

Step 3: Dry the Carpet

It’s vitally important that the carpet be totally dry to prevent mold growth. It’s best to dispose of and replace soaked carpet padding as it’s difficult to dry it out completely.

Increased air circulation helps, but it may not be sufficient. Here are three other things to help it dry fully and faster:

• Turning on the heater 
• Sprinkling some baking soda
• Placing wet carpet sections in the sunshine for a day

Step 4: Deodorize and Clean the Carpet

Once the carpet is completely dry, treat it with a steam or carpet cleaning machine. Again, make sure the carpet dries completely after cleanings.

Next, apply your carpet deodorizer of choice - baking soda works well for this. Sprinkle the baking soda, let it sit for a while, then vacuum the carpet.

SERVPRO of Richardson Is Ready to Help With Carpet Cleaning After Flood Damage

At SERVPRO of Richardson, we promise to be faster to any size disaster. When the floodwaters get to be too high and create carpet water damage, our Richardson carpet cleaning services team will be there to get to work and make it like it never happened!

For your health and well being, Richardson mold removal and mold mitigation is SERVPRO’s top priority. Our professional staff will ensure that all water and moisture is eliminated from the affected area to prevent further water damage and mold growth.

Let SERVPRO handle the carpet cleaning after a flood. Call us 24/7 at (972)690-1414 or complete our convenient contact form anytime!

Neighbor's Tree Fell On My House in Richardson, TX - Who Pays for the Damage?

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

If your house has been damaged by a falling tree, call the experienced professionals at our SERVPRO location, serving the Fort Worth area.

The addition of a couple of trees can enhance the natural beauty of any property, and offer a refreshing respite from the hot Texas sun. With roots that go deep into the soil to support its towering heights, it takes quite a bit of force to uproot a tree - either it’s removed by a person using equipment or severe storms break its stronghold. 

A professional arborist will pay careful attention during landscape planning to ensure that trees are planted in spots that aren’t likely to land on people or property. However, prevention can only go so far, and storms are indiscriminate. It’s rare for trees to fall on property, so when it does happen it often comes as a shock. 

A tree falling in the front yard or even your car is inconvenient enough, but when it slices through your roof it’s an alarming situation. 

In this case, an expensive repair is literally hanging over your head. In most instances, a good homeowners insurance policy will cover storm damage to your home. 

But what if the tree that caused this timber intrusion wasn’t yours? Who’s in charge of handling the damages? The neighbor's tree fell on my house, so aren’t they responsible?

It’s reasonable to assume that you won’t have to pay for the damages because the destruction wasn’t due to your own negligence. So do you call your insurance company or call the neighbor to file a claim on theirs?

At SERVPRO of Richardson, we’ve seen our fair share of storm damage and we’re your tree damage restoration experts. When sunny skies are overtaken by wind gusts or the occasional tornado, we cross our fingers that the damage will be minimal. But if the worst does happen, we’re here to help with useful guides or to assist you by phone 24/7. 

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tree Removal After a Storm?

Like any kind of insurance policy, the coverage provided depends on your policy. You may be responsible for a deductible. Typically, “act of God” events are covered by insurance. This means that the damage is not anyone’s fault and beyond human control. This applies to natural disaster scenarios.

Tree removal is more likely to be covered by the policy if it causes property damage. Examples of property damage are a tree crashing on your roof, car, or fence.

It’s wise to reach out to your homeowner’s insurance providers and ensure you have sufficient coverage for significant storm damage.

Who is Responsible if a Tree from My Neighbor’s Property Damages My House?

“My neighbor's tree fell on my house or property, so who pays?” 

We sincerely hope you never have to ask this question. But, if you find yourself in this situation, unless it was due to someone’s negligence, the responsibility is in your hands. You pay the deductible or anything not covered with insurance. So with that settled, you’ll want to get in touch with your insurance company and start a claim.

In some cases, your neighbor might be responsible, but those situations are rare. You’d have to prove that the neighbor was negligent and didn’t take reasonable steps to remedy a faulty tree issue. To do this, you’d need documentation to support your claim that you identified a problem, notified the neighbor, and they did nothing to fix the issue. Keep in mind that this potentially leads to a time-consuming dispute.

Let’s say the tree didn’t fall because of a storm but because of a human error. For example, the neighbor got out the chainsaw and started removing a tree near the property line. If the tree fell on your property because of human actions, then the other party is responsible. 

Here’s What to Do if a Tree Falls On Your House

When a storm rolls through the city and knocks a tree over onto your house, it’s important to get to the safest place possible. 

If it’s safe to leave the home (meaning no active tornado warnings or dangerous winds) this is your best option. Richardson storm safety should be your top priority. If at any point you are in imminent danger while the storm is underway, call 911 for rescue.

The alternative is to stay on the side of the house opposite from where the tree fell. This is where you should remain while you wait out the storm or when staying elsewhere isn’t an option. A tree crashing onto the house may stir curiosity, but it’s best to steer clear of the impact site. The ceiling or other debris could fall through and injure someone.

Again, stay where it’s safe. Consider booking a hotel. Once you are safe and settled, call your insurance company. 

Next, call our Fort Worth area SERVPRO so we can send out our Richardson storm damage restoration technicians. We are faster to any size disaster! 

Reach Out to SERVPRO Richardson for Tree Removal and Storm Damage Restoration

Your local SERVPRO has extensive experience in Richardson building reconstruction for residential and commercial properties. 

After we complete an initial damage assessment, we board and tarp your home to keep it safe and secure while tree removal and storm restoration is in progress.

SERVPRO of Richardson stays in contact with your insurance company so the process is as smooth as can be. 

When severe storms bring tree damage to your house, please be safe. Don’t attempt to remove the tree or clean it up yourself. Take pictures and video with caution, then leave it to the professionals to take care of the damage. 

Storms can strike at any hour, so we’re here to answer the call 24/7 at (972) 843-7879. Call us or fill out our quick and easy contact form anytime!

Repair Tornado Damage in Richardson

10/27/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richardson is repairing Richardson tornado damaged homes and businesses. We are a 30+ year experienced disaster industry company.

Steps to Tornado Damage Repairs

First - Roof Tarping and Board-Up

Roof tarping and board-up are the first steps to take after tornado damage.  From an insurance viewpoint, these are called temporary repairs, and they help protect your home from sustaining additional damage.  

A roof tarp is a thick, waterproof piece of plastic that covers all broken or damaged portions of your roof.  The most popular color for these tarps are blue, but you can also find high-quality tarps in green, brown, and other colors.  Roof tarps help prevent additional weather from entering your property. 

Board-up or boarding-up is when sheets of plywood are attached to the outside of damaged doors, windows, and outer walls.  Like roof tarps, board-ups help prevent weather from coming inside the property, and they also help deter theft. 

These temporary repairs are essential and help satisfy your insurance company’s homeowner insurance temporary repairs requirement.  Your insurance company will want to see that you took emergency steps to protect your home, even after major damage.

Then, Debris Removal

After emergency repairs are done, it’s a good idea to remove all the debris from your home and yard.  It’s important to get rid of as many tripping hazards as possible for the safety of your family and any technicians that will be working on your home.  Having a clean space is essential to move in and out of your home. Clearing your home’s yard will also help restore the grass underneath.  

Look for a restoration company that is capable of removing any kind of debris -- including large trees and hazardous elements.  Ask that all debris be hauled away and not remain on the curb.  

After, Move-Out / Pack-Out / Moving Services

All of these terms basically mean the same thing.  A move-out or pack-out is a moving service where the restoration company packs everything inside of your home and moves it away temporarily. 

A move-out may be necessary if your home was extensively damaged and technicians need to clear room(s) of your house to properly and safety rebuild it.  Sometimes only a few rooms of a home need to be moved-out, and sometimes an entire home does. The decision will depend on the severity of the damage. 

Move-outs have to be approved by an insurance adjuster if it’s part of an insurance claim. 

The process can be time-intensive.  A professional restoration company will document every single item they are taking, which will involve taking inventory, photos, and videos.  This documentation is necessary to validate your insurance claim, and it will help everyone involved know which items were salvaged and taken versus broken items that need to be thrown away. 

A full-service restoration company will typically take your items back to their in-house cleaning facility.  Your items, if they need it, will be sanitized, re-packed, and then stored until you are ready to receive them again.  If you are moving to a temporary location and need your items, your belongings may also be dropped off there. 

Cleaning Your Belongings - Content Cleaning

If your belongings were contaminated, they need to be sanitized so they can be safe to use again.  Content cleaning should be approved by your adjuster before any cleaning begins.  

One of the most efficient ways to clean contents is with an ultrasonic machine, and many full-service restoration companies have one.  Hiring a restoration company that will clean your belongings at their own facilities will prevent them from taking your items to a secondary company; in turn, your items should be cleaned faster and be less expensive. 

Ask your restoration company how they plan to clean your belongings. 

Cleaning Your Clothes - Soft Goods or Textile Cleaning

Soft goods or textiles are things like clothes, shoes, belts, stuffed animals, blankets, sheets, towels, hats, and sports equipment. 

If your textiles need to be cleaned, ask your restoration provider if they clean them in-house. 

Just like content cleaning, a full-service restoration company can clean textiles in-house.  Many use a process called the Esporta Wash System, which is the most effective way to sanitize clothing today.  Esporta Certified Operators are businesses that have a machine and have been trained to use it.  

Textile cleaning is almost always covered as part of a claim, but some insurance adjusters may only approve a restoration company if they can clean your items in-house.  The reasons why vary, but a popular one is because in-house cleaning (as opposed to contracting a second company to do it) will typically result in less expensive claims and faster cleaning. 

We are a Certified Esporta Wash System operator, and you can learn more about our process here. 

Demolition

After your home has been cleared, then demolition begins.  Demolition may play a big part in the reconstruction of your home if it has been severely damaged.  Everything that cannot be fixed must be taken out of your property. 

Demolition can take days or weeks, depending on the extent of the damage. 

Trash and Junk Removal

At the end of every day, all the debris and trash from your home should be hauled away.  Leaving a clean workspace is essential for safety, and it also discourages unwanted visitors from picking through your items as they sit on the curb. 

Then - Repairs, Rebuild, or Reconstruction

After your home has been cleared of debris, belongings, and has had demolition completed, it’s time to repair or reconstruct your home. 

Repairs or Reconstruction is also offered by full-service restoration companies.  Make sure the company you choose has an in-house Reconstruction Manager that will personally work with you through this process.  

Always ask to meet the Reconstruction Manager.  Ask yourself:

• How many years of experience do they have?  This is not the time for on-the-job training. 

• Are they someone I can trust?  They will be your partner through this process, which can be lengthy. 

• How will they work with my insurance adjuster?  They should have a strict communications protocol with your adjuster; this helps keep the process moving forward efficiently. 

• Will they be available to answer all my questions?  They should be accessible to you. 

• How will they guide me through the rebuild of my home?  They should have a protocol to help you understand the process and keep you comfortable with the work being completed. 

• How long do they think repairs will take?  During these types of situations, it’s unusual that only a few homes need repairs.  The high volume of work needed sometimes may put a backlog on popular items needed for reconstruction, like certain types of flooring.  If this is the case, the Reconstruction Manager should give you an honest timeline. 

The right Reconstruction Manager should be empathetic to your situation.  Both of you must have the same goal -- to rebuild your home correctly, safely, and as quickly as possible.  

Then, Post-Construction Cleaning

After construction is complete, the process is almost done.  Your restoration company should prepare your home for you to move back in by thoroughly cleaning it, especially where reconstruction took place -- including your air duct and HVAC system. 

Finally - Move-Back

This is the moment you’ve likely been waiting for -- it’s time to move back into your home.  The belongings that were being stored for you will be returned. Look for a restoration company that will give you great customer service and will even do the unpacking for you (we’re one of them!).

Note: Water Damage Restoration During Tornado Damage

Some homes in Dallas and Richardson were hit in two ways -- first, by tornado damage.  Then, by water damage.  

Restoring a home that was involved by two damages is more complicated, but something an experienced restoration company can provide easily. 

In this situation, temporary repairs (like roof tarping and board-up) are still the first necessary measures needed.  Then, expect:

• Water Removal.  All standing water should be extracted.  This water will be considered Category 3, so all the areas it touched need to be sanitized. 
• Drying.  To help prevent mold growth and further damage, your home has to be properly dried.  Commercial air movers and dehumidifiers should be installed. 
• Daily Moisture Checks.  Every day, a technician should visit your property to make sure that your home’s drying plan is going to plan.  Changes should be made immediately when necessary. 

Choosing a Restoration Company

You can choose to work with either one full-service company, or you may decide that working many companies on different portions of your tornado damage repairs is the right path for you. 

By law, your insurance company and adjuster must honor your choice of company(ies) to work with. 

Richardson Tornado Damage Repairs

Our franchise has been locally owned and operated for over 30 years.  In that time, we’ve restored thousands of homes and have worked with insurance companies to process claims.  

If you are looking for a company to help you with your home’s tornado cleanup and restoration, we’re here for you. 

We are 1 Company for 100% Restoration.  We routinely help homeowners in need cleanup and restore their properties -- from start to end.  Our full-service restoration services help make an already difficult time easier to manage because we assign you one point of contact that you know you can always count on to guide you every step of the way.  

We live and work in our hometown of Dallas Fort Worth.  When the tornadoes hit, we were fortunate enough to stay safe.  Not everyone is able to say that. Whether you decide to let us be your restoration company or not, we’re here to help our neighbors. 

Contact us for a free consultation.  

We’ll visit you at your property, answer your questions, and give you guidance during this difficult time.  

We’re here to help. 

Hurricane Categories and Disaster Restoration

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richardson is a disaster restoration company based in Dallas, TX.

Studying Hurricane Categories for Disaster Restoration Response

When a community is impacted by a hurricane, SERVPRO is quick to respond.  Our company has access to over 1,700 franchises nationwide, and our storm response teams have decades of experience.

Hurricane Harvey was emotionally impactful for our franchise and all of Texas.  The hurricane hit the Houston and Galveston areas in Texas in 2017. Thousands of homes were impacted, and the damaged cost well over $100 billion.  Days before Hurricane Harvey hit, franchises nationwide were already preparing to deploy to Houston metro and Southwest Texas.

For our franchise in Dallas, our preparation was two-fold.  Our first concern was to receive our friends and family members from Houston.  When it became apparent that Harvey was going to hit as a major category storm and evacuations were going to be suggested, we needed to make sure our loved ones would be safe.  Members of our team prepared their homes to receive guests all the while preparing themselves to dispatch to the storm itself. We understood that we would be traveling to both help strangers and our loved ones as well.  For friends and family that chose not to evacuate, we made agreements to meet them at their homes to make sure their properties were safe.

The second part of our preparation was to study the meteorological reports.  Understanding the category of hurricane helps us prepare for the amount of damage we expect to see.  We take into the consideration the community that is impacted, how much water has fallen, how quickly its fallen, and wind conditions.  All these factors tell us the amount of damage a typical home will have, which then tells us what tools and equipment we need to take to best respond to those that call us for help.

When our franchise is considering how to prepare for a hurricane, we take various aspects of the storm into consideration.  One of them is the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

Hurricane Categories

Category 1 Hurricane

Dangerous winds are associated with Cat 1 hurricanes.  During these storms, we expect to see damage to a home’s roof, gutters, and vinyl siding.  We also expect to see some tree damage, especially branches falling atop of unshielded vehicled or falling onto homes.  In this case, our franchise prepares expects to see some water damage and a large need for roof tarping.

Category 2 Hurricane

The winds in a Cat 2 hurricane are around 100 mph and will cause more damage than before.  Even well-constructed homes have a large possibility of getting major damage to its roof and siding.  We also expect to see trees uprooted and block roadways. Power outages are also extremely common. In this scenario, our franchise will take a large load of roof tarping materials and power tools to assist with debris removal for roadways that are blocked on the ways to homes in need.  We also expect the need for our own power generators.

Category 3 Hurricane

A category 3 hurricane is considered to be a major hurricane.  In a Cat 3 hurricane scenario, we expect to see major damage or even the removal of the roof decking.  We also expect to see trees and branches uprooted and either block roadways or damage homes themselves as they fall.  Electricity and water outage will likely be a factor. In this case, our franchise responds similarly as we do to Cat 2 hurricanes, which is by taking roof tarping materials, power tools to clear debris, and carrying our own generators.  Due to the amount of fallen water associated with this category of hurricane, we also expect to not have immediate access to flooded areas of the community. If this is the case, we will wait for approval from first responders before proceeding.

Category 4 Hurricane

In a Cat 4 hurricane, we expect to see homes lose some or all of their roof and have damage to their exterior walls.  Many trees, even those deeply rooted, will be snapped and often fall onto homes, vehicles, and block roadways. It’s not uncommon to see many homes cut off from emergency services due to debris.  With the loss of electrical power and water plus the flooding and blocked roadways, the areas impacted with a category 4 hurricane may not be accessed for days or even weeks. In this scenarios, our crews are first helping the outer areas and assisting homes that are accessible as we wait for first responders to reach these areas and deem them accessible.  Due to the time it takes the water to recede, our franchise expects major damage to homes and businesses. Flooring and a major portion of the walls in these properties will need demolition. Sanitation will be a major concern, and mold growth may already be present. Roof tarping and board up services will almost always be necessary to secure the property.  

Category 5 Hurricane

In a Cat 5 hurricane situation, we expect to see many homes and businesses experience a roof collapse and damage to the exterior walls.  Sections of a community will be flooded and not be accessible for weeks. Uprooted trees will also damage properties and block roadways. Our response to this category of damage is the same as in a category 4 with our franchise understanding that it will take a longer time for the flood waters to recede and first responders to allow restoration service workers to enter.  

Storm Surge Scales

Storm surge threat is not as easily scalable as wind scales due to local conditions such as bathymetry.  For this reason, our franchise pays close attention to meteorological reports that focus on the depth of inundation expected at the impacted areas.  These storm surge warnings greatly help us know how to approach properties and prepare demolition, sanitation, and drying techniques. Depending on the time it takes for the waters to recede will also tell us how much, if any, of the contents inside a home or business will have a chance to be restored.  This helps us know if debris removal will be necessary, and if mold remediation needs are likely.

Food and Lodging

When a storm is strong enough to call for evacuations, it’s often bewildering to see the green SERVPRO trucks head towards the storm when some are leaving.  Our franchise has studied the storm and is heading to the closest but still safe destination. Our choice of lodging is either a hotel or another SERVPRO franchise location that is safe from the storm.  Wherever we are able to stay, our crews will set up a command center, dispatch, and sleep. During Hurricane Harvey, we had both options ready. We set up a command center as close as possible to the open impacted section and began to help homes in that area.  As first responders allowed more areas of the Houston metro to be open, we relocated closer to the city. Eventually, we traveled to other parts of Texas that were calling for help and were not receiving the saturation of help they needed. These areas included communities in Southwest Texas.  

Hurricane Harvey and Texas Disaster Restoration

Hurricane Harvey was a devastating storm.  SERVPRO franchises nationwide responded to Harvey and spent months in the Houston metro and Southwest Texas regions responding to calls.  For our franchise, we were thankful that no one of our friends and family was injured by the storm. While some of their properties had only minor damage, others needed more extensive restoration and reconstruction needs.  

By many accounts, Hurricane Harvey tested the resolve and preparation of Texas disaster restoration teams.  We were personally humbled by the outpouring of support shown for impacted residents from the thousands of volunteers from across the nation that traveled to south and east Texas ready to help.  We saw volunteers from almost every state come together and assist homeowners, and we were thankful for them. Texas Strong became a rallying cry that we will not soon forget.

Now, over a year after Hurricane Harvey hit, portions of Texas are still rebuilding.  To learn more about the Rebuild Texas Fund, please visit: https://www.rebuildtx.org.

SERVPRO of North Richardson's Disaster Cleanup Services

SERVPRO of Richardson is a leader in the restoration industry and has the expertise to handle storm damage cleanup.  We are based out of Dallas, TX, and we have helped restore communities in our home of North Texas for over 30 years.  Our franchise has traveled to disaster locations such as Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Harvey.  We have performed restoration services in Dallas, Arlington, Garland, Plano, Waxahachie, Midlothian, and other North Texas communities for over 30 years. With our crews responding immediately to jobs, we are faster to any size disaster.  We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections.

You can trust us to handle your disaster restoration needs.  We offer:

• Water damage restoration
• Debris removal
• Roof tarping
• Board up services for doors, windows, outer walls
• Reconstruction
• Roof replacement or repair
• Clothing and textile sanitation
• Carpet restoration service
• Moving services
• Storage
• Read more about our storm damage services. 

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year.  We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 690-1414.  Call us any time!

Follow us:

Facebook  Twitter  Instagram  Linkedin  YouTube

We are locally owned and operated.  Learn more about us. 

“Like it never even happened.” only happens here.

Storm Causes Sewage Backup Cleanup in North Texas

12/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richardson is a trusted leader in Texas disaster restoration. We have restored thousands of homes and businesses since 1986.

When they received an alert about a severe storm warning in her area, Derek and Marilyn made sure they were prepared.  They brought the car into the garage, gave their dog a break outside, and then went back inside to start preparing dinner.  

“I keep up with all the usual home maintenance,” Marilyn said.  “My gutters were cleaned out and all my drains are set up to prevent pooling in my backyard.  Storms had never been a problem before.”

The surprise came when the storm continued for almost a week.  Soon, the streets of began to flood. 

Home Flooding Service

“It was at around 3 in the morning that I woke up and noticed the smell.  It was dark in our bedroom, but when my husband got out of bed to check out what was going on, he said the carpet was wet and we had a problem.  When we turned on the lights, we saw water flooding out of our bathroom.”

The water was coming out of the toilet and the bathtub.  The unpleasant smell was just one of the problems.  There was no way to stop the backup.  The rain was still pouring outside and it was spreading to the entire house.  It was in two bedrooms, all the bathrooms, the kitchen, and the laundry room.

Marilyn continued, “The storm had been causing problems in other parts of the town and I had seen SERVPRO’s green trucks everywhere.  I felt bad for my neighbors who were having flooding issues.  For us, we weren't flooded because of the storm’s rising waters, but we still needed help.”

SERVPRO of Richardson received Marilyn’s call at about 3:30 in the morning.  Our on-call manager, Jessica, took in Marilyn’s information.

“We had been receiving storm-related calls for a few days at that point, so I wasn’t surprised we got another call in the middle of the night.  But Marilyn’s case was different.  I was expecting her to say rising water got into her house, but the problem was actually a sewage backup.  There’s never a good time for a sewage backup, but this one was even worse timing because of the surge of storm calls.”

During a storm, our franchise activates its Storm Protocol.  Everyone in our office is well aware of storm and traffic conditions, and we prepare ourselves to work overtime in order to reach all the families and businesses asking us for our help.  

“I was relieved when SERVPRO arrived,” Derek said.  “I knew they were already very busy with the storm, but they assured us they’d be here for us.  They checked out our situation and got to work right away.  A few minutes later, a plumber came to fix the pipes.  That’s when they figured out the sewage backup was actually linked to the storm.”

It’s not a situation we see often.  In the case of Derek and Marilyn’s home, the days of heavy rain had filled their town’s drains and was causing the water in their own home’s drains to be pushed back into their property.  

“We realized that unless the city took care of the drain issue on their end, our house was just going to keep backing up with sewage.  With the storm still happening, the city was busy fixing other flooding problems around town and they were not going to be able to get to us for a few days.  It was a nightmare,” Marilyn continued.

The situation captured the attention of our entire management team.  Leaving a home with a recurring sewage backup wasn’t an option, so we came up with a plan to help our Derek and Marilyn while their city was able to fix the drains.

“SERVPRO came twice a day until the city got their end fixed,” Derek explained.  “Every time they came, they took out all the water and sanitized everything it had touched.  They kept in touch with us to see how we were doing every day."

Marylin said, “They also prepared for the house with the water damage in mind.  They elevated our furniture so it wouldn’t get touched by the water, and they moved everything off the floor that could be damaged."

Sewage Affected Clothes and the Esporta Wash System

“Because our closet was affected and our clothes were in the dirty water, they also rushed everything back to their office and did our laundry for us,” Derek said.  “They made sure our clothes and even our pet bed was sanitized after touching sewage water.  I didn’t know that was possible.”

Our franchise is one of the few water restoration companies in North Texas that is Esporta Wash System certified.  We have the unique ability to take clothing and other textiles affected by sewage, smoke and soot, and mold sanitize them to be food grade safe.  We have cleaned thousands of pieces of clothing, and our restoration rate is one of the highest in the industry at over 85%.

We understand that when clothing is affected, time is of the essence.  We can pick up, process, and drop off 100 pounds of clothing in as little as 48 hours to help you have enough of your wardrobe to be okay while the rest of your claim is processed.  

Filing an Insurance Claim

“This was the first time I’ve ever needed to file a claim,” Marilyn said.  “I thought it was going to be a lot of work, but all I had to do was call my insurance and answer their questions so that I could get a claim number.  SERVPRO has taken care of the rest.”

Many homeowners are concerned when they file a homeowner’s insurance claim.  We have a team of administrators that are experienced in handling the claim’s process for all insurance companies.  

Every claim is different, but the general process is straightforward:

• Call your insurance company and let them know about your situation.
• Tell them SERVPRO of Richardson is the restoration company you’ve chosen to handle your cleanup.  By law, your insurance company must honor your choice of restoration company.
• When they give you a claim number, call our office and let us know what it is.
• The administrator from our office that is assigned to guide you through your restoration project will then contact your adjuster and work with them to process your claim.

“The person from SERVPRO that has walked me through this is Jessica.  She’s kept in touch and let me know what’s going on with our claims process.  I really haven’t had to worry about anything.” Marilyn said.

Flood Repair in Dallas and North Texas

After Derek and Marilyn’s water damage was resolved, it was time to handle the reconstruction needs of their home.  The sewage water had permanently damaged their flooring and kitchen and bathroom cabinetry.

SERVPRO of Richardson is a full-service restoration business, which means we can take care of water damage from beginning to end.  When a property has been cleaned and dried of all water, our reconstruction team will work with you to replace anything that was damaged as a result of the water.  We handle all documentation and processing your insurance adjuster needs to make sure this portion of your claim is also covered.

“SERVPRO removed everything that had to go and worked with us to replace it all,” Derek said.  “They worked with our adjuster to get everything approved, so we didn’t have to worry about costs other than our deductible.”

Texas Disaster Restoration

If you find yourself in need of help during a storm, we’re here for you.  Our franchise has been servicing our home of North Texas for over 30 years, and we have the experience you need to get your property taken care of the right way.

Our storm services include:

• Water cleanup
• Roof tarping
• Board up (windows, doors, outer walls)
• Debris removal
• Textile Sanitation / Laundry Service
• Carpet Restoration
• Moving Services
• Storage
• Reconstruction

Trusted Leader in Dallas Flooding Restoration

SERVPRO of Richardson is a leader in the restoration industry and has the expertise to handle storm damage cleanup company in Dallas, TX.  We have helped restore communities in our home of North Texas for over 30 years, and our franchise has also traveled to disaster locations such as Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Harvey.  We have performed restoration services in Dallas, Garland, Plano, McKinney, Midlothian, and other North Texas communities for over 30 years. With our crews responding immediately to jobs, we are faster to any size disaster.  We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections. You can trust us to handle your restoration needs.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year.  We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 690-1414.  Call us any time!

Follow us:

Facebook  Twitter  Instagram  Linkedin   YouTube

We are family owned and operated.  Learn more about us. 

“Like it never even happened.” only happens here.

Reputable Restoration Companies & Natural Disasters

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richardson is a trusted leader in Texas disaster restoration. We have restored thousands of homes and businesses since 1986.

It’s a story that we hear all too often.  There is a natural disaster in a community and people in need of help are approached by an out-of-town and unknown restoration company.  These folks canvas neighborhoods and solicit homes. They offer water extraction, drying, and needed demolition. They’re willing to either start work or put you on their “list” if you’re willing to put down a cash deposit.  

Many homeowners, understandably overwhelmed and in need of assistance, give them this deposit.  

Then, the restoration company disappears.  

There was never any list.  There was no equipment. The number they left you to call either goes unanswered or has been disconnected.  Your money is gone and your home is still left a mess.

This situation is unfortunate and happens often during natural disasters.  When a hurricane, major storm, or tornado hit a town, many disaster restoration companies travel across the United States to offer their services to the hard-hit community.  While many reputable companies are available, there are also teams of scammers looking to prey on those in need of help.

Horror stories of people being scammed flood the news and people wonder which company they can really trust to help them.  What these scammers do is wrong and unethical. No one deserves to be lied to or stolen from.

How do you choose which disaster restoration company to trust?  Look for these qualities when making a decision.

Trusted Restoration Company

Ask yourself:

• Is this restoration company well known?
• Can I find them online easily?
• Does their website look professional?
• Can I see proof of their previous work?
• Do they have reviews online that speak of their work?

If the restoration company asking for your business is one you have not heard of and you cannot easily find online, then how likely is it that you will be able to find them later?  Even if the company is online, consider the quality of their website. Make sure it’s professionally done and not one that was hastily put together in an attempt to look legitimate just for the storm event.  A reputable company will also have reviews from customers on various social media websites. Check the dates on the reviews and make sure they span a considerable length of time.

National or Local Company?

Ask yourself:

• Is this restoration company from my hometown or did they travel to come here?
• Are they a franchise?
• If they traveled, can I still reach them when they go back home?

Many restoration companies travel to impacted sites, so it is not uncommon to work with professionals that are only in your hometown temporarily.  This should not necessarily dissuade you from working with them. If they are from out of town, check out their credentials online. Ask them how their process works, how long they plan on staying in town, and what plan they have to make sure you’re taken care of.  If they can’t answer your questions, consider a different company that can help you through any situation.

Working with SERVPRO is a great way to make sure you will get service, no matter if the franchise you’re working with is from out of town or not.  If you need additional help after the franchise that serviced you leaves, there will still be another SERVPRO franchise in town to assist you.

Restoration Training and Experience

Ask yourself:

• How long has this restoration company been in business?
• Have they worked in other natural disaster situations?
• Are the technicians trained with certifications?
• Do they have the proper equipment and chemicals?

Make sure your restoration company has had plenty of experience helping other people in a variety of natural disasters.  Ask if their technicians have a certification in water mitigation, specifically from the IICRC.  The IICRC is an independent organization that specializes in the certification of individuals in the restoration industry.  This organization issues certified technicians wallet sized IDs to prove their training. Also, ask what equipment and chemicals they plan on using to restore their home.  If they do not want to answer or can’t show you proof, reconsider hiring them.

Your property is likely one of your most valuable investments.  A natural disaster is not the time for a restoration company to get on-the-job training.

Storm Damage Services

Ask yourself:

• Can this company handle all parts of my restoration project or will they just handle one portion?
• Can this company sanitize my affected clothing and textiles?
• Can this company restore my affected electronics?
• Can this company rebuild my property?

Not all companies can provide you with full service.  Some will only be able to handle the water remediation.  Others will only be able to provide you with construction services.  Ask them what services they can provide and then decide if you want to piecemeal your restoration project or if you’d rather work with a company that helps you from start to end.  

SERVPRO and Natural Disasters

When a community is in need, SERVPRO activates a storm center and calls on franchises nationwide to assist.  With over 1,700 franchises nationwide, we can meet the demand for professional restoration services for everyone in need.

Franchises that choose to respond will pack up hundreds to thousands of pieces of equipment and have professional and trained technicians travel to the community.  Technicians stay anywhere from weeks to months to help every household and business that asks for assistance.

SERVPRO responds to every natural disaster in the United States.  We have responded to:

• Hurricanes.  Our franchise personally responds to hurricanes that impact Texas, Louisiana, and Florida.  Our crews spent months in Houston and Galveston responding to Hurricane Harvey.
• Tornadoes.
• Wind and hail storms.  When North Texas experiences a hail storm, we respond by tarping roofs and boarding up damaged windows and outer walls.  We also remove storm debris and repair homes from fallen trees and other airborne debris.
• Wildfires.  
• Severe thunderstorms.  When a storm is severe and flood-prone areas see damage, our crews respond immediately.  It’s not a common occurrence, but Dallas flooding is possible and is something we are always prepared for.

Cash Deposits During Storms

Some restoration companies will ask you for a cash deposit, even a reputable one.  Many times, cash deposits indicate to the company that you are serious about receiving restoration services.  During a storm situation, many households and businesses ask a company to help them remediate their property and agree to get on a waiting list.  When the restoration company schedules technicians and gathers the equipment to help that property, they sometimes find that the property owner has either left or decided not to use their services anymore.  This creates a problematic situation for both the restoration company and other customers they could have otherwise been helping.

Every franchise and every company will have a different way to approach the question of a cash deposit.  Some may ask for a deposit, some may ask for nothing, and still, others will ask for a secure form of payment (credit card) and not charge you anything until services are performed.

Ask the restoration company you are thinking about working what their policy is, and then decide if this is acceptable to you or not.

Storm Safety

It is very likely that you will have to wait for service during a major storm situation.  Even with thousands of restoration professionals coming to service your hometown, the number of calls and infrastructure problems will most likely prevent immediate service.  The wait time may be only a few hours, but at times it can extend to a few days.

Make sure to stay safe while you wait for service.  Keep in mind:

• Rising water is contaminated and should not be touched.  Read about water contamination levels and classifications here.
• Mold can begin to grow in as little as 48 hours when water mitigation services are not performed.  Stay in an environment that is dry.

Please read our article Storm Safety for more information and tips.

Trusted Leader in Dallas Flooding Restoration

SERVPRO of Richardson is a leader in the restoration industry and has the expertise to handle storm damage cleanup company in Dallas, TX.  We have helped restore communities in our home of North Texas for over 30 years, and our franchise has also traveled to disaster locations such as Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Harvey.  We have performed restoration services in Dallas, Garland, Plano, McKinney, Midlothian, and other North Texas communities for over 30 years. With our crews responding immediately to jobs, we are faster to any size disaster.  We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections. You can trust us to handle your restoration needs.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year.  We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 690-1414.  Call us any time!

Follow us:

Facebook  Twitter  Instagram  Google+   Linkedin   YouTube

We are family owned and operated.  Learn more about us. 

“Like it never even happened.” only happens here.

Storm Safety

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richardson is a trusted leader in Texas disaster restoration. We have restored thousands of homes and businesses since 1986.

Planning is essential to keeping your family and property safe during a storm.  While many major storm events are often seen coming ahead of time and allow time for preparation, others happen almost without warning.  

The best plan for safety is to plan ahead.  It’s always better to be over prepared than under prepared.  

When preparing for a storm, keep the following in mind.  

Storm Watch

What is a storm watch?  We’re watching to see what develops.  

A storm watch means there may or may not be severe weather coming.  Keep your eye on the forecast and remain vigilant.

If there is any prep you need to get ready for any severe weather, do it now.  This may include:

• Bringing in pets from the outdoors.
• Tying down or bringing in outdoors items that may go airborne.
• Make sure your safe room is ready.

Storm Warning

What’s a storm warning?  A storm is either happening or is about to happen soon.  Take action now!

When you hear the forecast call for a storm warning, the storm is definitely going to happen.  Get your family and pets to a safe location immediately, and follow local emergency management instructions.  

Weather Apps

There is an abundance of free weather applications that will help you keep updated on weather forecasts.  Choose your favorite application and allow it to send you severe weather alerts. Here are just a few you can use:

The Weather Channel.  This app shows you temperature forecasts on an hourly and daily basis.  It also has an interactive Doppler radar map that shows rainfall and severe weather.  

The Weather Channel on Google Play Store (Android)

The Weather Channel on iTunes (Apple)

Yahoo! Weather.  This app shows you detailed 5-day forecasts and interactive radar maps.  

Yahoo! Weather on Google Play Store (Android)

Yahoo! Weather on iTunes (Apple)

AccuWeather.  This app gives you a 15-day forecast that you can integrate with your phone or tablet’s calendar.  It also gives you detailed forecast information for the next two hours.

AccuWeather on Google Play Store (Android)

AccuWeather on iTunes (Apple)

Dark Sky.  This app gives you the usual array of weather data plus a precipitation map and UV information.  You can customize this app to receive specific notifications.

Dark Sky on iTunes (Apple)

Weather Underground.  This app uses a compilation of thousands of weather stations to gather its data.  You can receive forecasts as specific as by the hour or as general as a 10-day preview.

Weather Underground on Google Play Store (Android)

Weather Underground on iTunes (Apple)

Emergency: Alerts by the American Red Cross.  This app gives you the option to follow information from various cities.  It’ll alert you about severe weather, and it’ll also give you information about Red Cross activities like shelters.

Emergency: Alerts on Google Play Store (Android)

Emergency: Alerts on iTunes (Apple)

Emergency Management for North Texas

North Texas doesn’t have to worry about the immediate effects of hurricanes, but many portions of Dallas Fort Worth are still prone to flooding from severe thunderstorms.  Our home has also seen major wind and hail storms and tornadoes.

Keep up to date with important weather announcements.  There are many local emergency management offices that are charged with instructing citizens on the latest weather threats and helping them stay informed.  Follow your local emergency management office on social media or sign up to receive weather alerts on your phone.

Dallas Emergency Management

• Sign up for Dallas OEM Alerts
• Twitter: @DallasOEM
• Facebook: OEMDallas

Tarrant County Emergency Management

• Tarrant County Emergency Management Website
• Twitter: @TarrantOEM
• Facebook: TarrantOEM

Collin County Emergency Management

Denton County Emergency Alerts

Ellis County Emergency Management

FEMA

• FEMA Website
• FEMA App for nationwide alerts, tips, and shelter information.  
• FEMA on Google Play Store (Android)
• FEMA on iTunes (Apple)

State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR)

If you an individual living in Texas that needs assistance during major emergency situations, consider signing up for the STEAR program.  The State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry is a free, voluntary, and confidential program designed to assist Texans during emergency events such as natural disasters.  Signing up for the program helps emergency responders plan for each community’s needs.

STEAR is made for:

• People with disabilities
• People with access and functional needs such as:
  • Limited mobility
  • Communication barriers
  • Requiring additional medical assistance
  • Requiring transportation assistance
  • Requiring personal care assistance

Register Online at State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry or dial 2-1-1.

Hurricane Safety or Severe Thunderstorm Safety

Hurricanes and severe thunderstorms are the main reasons portions of Texas sometimes find themselves flooded.  In these cases, storm waters may overwhelm our drainage systems and eventually cause the water to rise high enough to enter our homes and businesses.

Texas Flood Zone Map

If your property is in a flood zone, please strongly consider purchasing flood insurance.  Storm flooding is not always covered in homeowner’s insurance!

Learn more about flood insurance at floodsmart.gov. 

Flood zones are areas defined by FEMA.  Input your property’s address in FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to know if you are in a flood zone or not.  

Hurricane Preparedness

• Reinforce doors and windows.  Wind and debris may cause damage to these vulnerable parts of your home.  We recommend boarding up your doors and windows.
• Anchor outdoor items.  Strong winds tend to blow items into the air, which can then cause considerable damage as they are airborne or land once again.  
• Trim tree branches.  We’ve seen the devastation a fallen tree can cause to homes and vehicles.  Consider trimming branches that have a chance of falling on your home.
• Clean gutters and drains.  Backed up water systems can cause damage to your roof, which then trickles water into your home or attic.  The last thing you need on your mind in the middle of a storm is water damage. Take care of this basic home maintenance ahead of time. 
• Buy sandbags.  If your yard is prone to flooding, sandbags may help the water from coming into your house.  Unclogging french drains will help your yard’s drainage.
• Move valuable items away from low lying areas in your home.  If you can elevate items--do this. We saw many families take their first floor items to the second floor during Hurricane Harvey.  Doing this helped save furniture, rugs, and electronics.
• Have basic home supplies to help prepare your home.  Go to the hardware store early as many stores tend to run out of supplies in the event of an emergency.  Purchase:
• Extra plywood
• Hammer
• Nails
• Plastic sheeting - 6mm
• Duct tape
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Multi-purpose tool
• Work gloves
• Protective eyewear
• Prepare a home inventory.  If your property is damaged or destroyed, a home inventory is a great way to prove to your insurance company what items it should help you replace.  
• Have a first aid kit.  Our first aid kit recommendation is easy to build at home.  
• Have a family communications plan.  Know where to meet your family in case you are separated.  Phone lines may not be functioning during the storm.

Tornado Safety

Tornadoes can happen anywhere.  If you see a tornado warning, make sure your safe room or space is prepped for your entire family and pets.  If time permits, you may also consider tying down loose outdoor objects or bring them in to prevent them from being dangerous airborne debris that may cause harm to other objects or people.

What makes up a safe space?  

• Choose a place on the first floor of your property that is away from windows.  
• Make sure its large enough for your family and pets.  
• If possible, keep a battery operated radio and a first aid kit with prescription medications and water with you.  
• Take your charged mobile phones.
• If you are in a multistory building without a basement, choose a hallway.  
• Mobile homes are not safe spaces; please seek a building to shelter in.

Wind and Hail Safety

Be proactive to help protect your property as much as possible.  Damage may not always be possible to avoid, but fixing previous damage to your home or business may prevent serious damage from the storm like water intrusion and roof damage. 

Check for:

• Damaged shingles.
• Missing shingles.
• Clogged water drains.  If your drains are clogged and rain also falls with the storm, you are risking water buildup that could enter your home and cause water damage.

Other considerations:

• Bring all pets indoors.
• Stay indoors.
• Keep away from skylights and windows.
• Close your drapes and curtains.

Dallas Storm Damage Repair

If you’ve experienced storm damage, we’re here to help.  SERVPRO of Richardson is available 24 hours a day every day of the year for emergency flood repair in Dallas Fort Worth.  Our franchise restored thousands of homes and businesses since 1986. We are leaders in Texas disaster restoration having responded to many storms, including Hurricane Harvey.

We offer:

• Water damage restoration / flood cleanup
• Roof tarping
• Board up - doors, windows, outer walls
• Moving services
• Debris removal
• Reconstruction services for any part of your home that was permanently damaged, including roof replacement.

Trusted Leader in Dallas Flooding Restoration

SERVPRO of Richardson is a leader in the restoration industry and has the expertise to handle storm damage cleanup company in Dallas, TX.  We have helped restore communities in our home of North Texas for over 30 years, and our franchise has also traveled to disaster locations such as Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Harvey.  We have performed restoration services in Dallas, Garland, Plano, McKinney, Midlothian, and other North Texas communities for over 30 years. With our crews responding immediately to jobs, we are faster to any size disaster.  We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections. You can trust us to handle your restoration needs.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year.  We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 690-1414.  Call us any time!

Follow us:

Facebook  Twitter  Instagram  Linkedin   YouTube

We are family owned and operated.  Learn more about us. 

“Like it never even happened,” only happens here.

Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

6/7/2018 (Permalink)

Preparing your home against wind and water damage should happen before the storm arrives.  (Photo credit: FEMA)

Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

The best time to prepare your property for an incoming storm or hurricane is before a storm hits.  If your area is a flood zone and has a probability of being affected by a hurricane, don’t wait -- take action now.

Flood Zones

Flood zones are areas defined by FEMA.  Do you know if you’re in a flood zone? Check out FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to find out.  Just put in your home or business address.

If you’re in a flood zone, consider getting flood insurance.  Many regular homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage caused by rising water.  Contact your insurance company to know exactly what is covered and what more you can do to protect your home in case of storm damage.

Hurricane Preparedness Kit: Buy Early

As you prepare your home for a hurricane, know that many other people will, too.  It’s best to stock up early to avoid a run on supplies. Home hardware stores and other retail stores tend to run out of food and supplies as many people in the community rush to prepare.

Don’t depend on your local store being able to restock soon.  If roads are damaged or flooded, stores may not be restocked frequently or at all throughout the duration of the storm.  This was very common during Hurricane Harvey when our own cleanup and restoration crews had to purchase and load our supply trailers with items from Dallas due to a shortage in Houston and Galveston.

Hurricane Damage to Prepare For

Wind Damage

Wind damage is damage to your property that is caused by wind.  The wind does not have to be caused by a hurricane or a tornado.  There are times when places around the nation have wind storms.

There are a few things to consider when thinking about wind damage.  

Damage caused to your property directly by the wind.  Wind may blow out your doors, windows, and even damage your roof.  The most vulnerable areas double doors, large windows, and windows with multiple panes.

To do: Reinforce doors and windows.  Many people choose to board up their windows.

If you do not have permanent wind shutters, strongly consider building some onto your property.

Windborne debris.  When the winds are strong, they are likely to pick up items from the street or backyards and blow them around.  This is when you see trampolines landing on a neighbor’s roof and destroyed potted plants. Go outside to your yard and see what is not anchored down -- how much damage could that object cause if the wind picked it up and hurled it at your home?

To do: Anchor outdoor objects or bring them inside.  

Trees.  If any tree on your property broke due to the wind, would it hurt your home?  We have been called to many tree damaged properties where trees weighing hundreds or thousands of pounds have had to be removed off a property.

To do: trim branches that are likely to snap.  Talk to a lumberjack about removing large trees.  

If you are interested in buying or building a storm shelter, make sure it meets ICC 500 Criteria.

Wind Damage Checklist:

• Purchase window and door board up materials. 
• Have your roof inspected and lose shingles fixed.
• Anchor items outdoors that may be picked up by the wind.
• Trim your yard’s trees.

Water Damage Restoration / Flood Damage

With enough time, water will find a way to get anywhere.  However, there are still steps to make your property more flood resistant such as:

• Clean gutters and drains.  When its raining hard, the water needs to have a place to go.  If your storm drains and gutters are clogged, that water will pool on your roof and eventually find its way into your home.  
• Water alarms and sump pumps.  A water alarm rings its siren when it comes into contact with water.  This won’t fix your problem, but it’ll give you a chance to know something is wrong and try to fix it before it gets worse.  A sump pump may help you remove water to lessen the damage.
• Install “check valves” in your sewer line to prevent flood water from backing up into your drains.  
• Elevate your water heater and electric panel if the areas they’re in are susceptible to flooding.  If your electrical system has been compromised by rising water, the water damage restoration company you use may choose to not use your home’s electricity to run machinery until it’s been checked out by a professional.  This may not sound like much, but finding service professionals during a storm isn’t always easy. 

Water Damage Checklist:

• Buy sand packs if your yard is prone to flooding.  Put them at the base of doors.
• Clean your gutters and drains.
• If you have french drains, make sure they are not clogged or prone to clogging.
• Purchase a water alarm and sump pump.
• Install check valves in your sewer line.
• Elevate your electrical panel if it's too close to the ground.

Contents and Household Items

If your property is prone to flooding and you have a second story, consider moving your valuables upstairs to keep them from being damaged.  During Hurricane Harvey, we met many homeowners who saved their home’s contents by doing exactly this.

Contents and Household Items Checklist:

• Moving blankets
• Tape
• Hand truck

Have a Home Supply of Hardware and Tools

Have extra plywood, plastic sheeting (we recommend 6mm), duct tape, and sandbags to protect your property.  Must have tools to have on hand include a flashlight and a multi-purpose tool.

Home Supply Checklist:

• Extra plywood
• Hammer
• Nails
• Plastic sheeting - 6mm
• Duct tape
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Multi purpose tool
• Work gloves
• Protective eyewear

Other Emergency Preparedness Considerations

• Build a hurricane emergency supply kit
• Build a DIY first aid kit
• Prepare a home inventory of your household items
• Create a family communications plan
• Sign up to receive alerts from your county’s office of emergency management and FEMA
• If you have a disability, consider signing up for the Texas Emergency Assistance Registry Program (STEAR)

Trusted Leader in Dallas Storm Damage

SERVPRO of Richardson is a water damage restoration and fire and smoke damage restoration company on the border of Richardson and Plano Texas.  We have performed work in Dallas, Plano, Grapevine, McKinney, Frisco, Allen, and other North Texas communities in Collin County for over 30 years.  With our crews responding immediately to jobs, we are faster to any size disaster. We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections.  You can trust us to restore your home or business.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year.  We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 690-1414.  Call us any time!

Follow us:

Facebook  Twitter  Instagram  Linkedin   YouTube

www.SERVPROrichardson.com

“Like it never even happened.” only happens here.

Storm Watch versus Warning

5/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richardson offers storm damage cleanup. We are available for 24 hour emergency dispatch.

Storm Watch versus Warning

We hear these terms on TV and read about them online, but what really is the difference between a storm watch vs a storm warning?

Knowing what weather terms mean can help you prepare your home and family for any type of weather event.  The best time to learn them is before any emergency happens.

FORECAST

A forecast tells you what meteorologists think is likely to happen.  A forecast may tell you that storms are possible but not they’re not yet confirmed.  The best action to take with a forecast is just to keep in mind and keep up with the news in case something stronger develops.  

You can stay up to date with future weather forecasts by downloading many free weather apps on Android or iOS.  Make sure you opt for free alerts on your phone or tablet.

Storm WATCH

We remember what a storm watch is by thinking, “We are watching to see if the storm comes towards us.”  

A storm watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather, but will they actually happen?  We don’t know, but the likelihood is yes more than no. Storms are either developing now or will develop.  

Pay close attention to the weather forecast and be ready to take action.  This is a great time to prepare your house if forecasts are calling for a strong storm.  

• Tie down or bring in outdoor items that can go airborne.

• Clean out your gutters to prevent water from pooling on your roof.

• For serious storms, consider boarding up your windows.

• If a possible tornado is on its way, make sure your safe room is ready.

Storm WARNING

A storm warning means severe weather is occurring or is imminent in your area.  It’s actually happening! Do not delay. Take action now to keep your family and pets safe.

What do I do if severe weather is coming?

• Have a plan for shelter in place.
• Where will you place your family?
• What about your pets?  Bring them indoors.
• Choose a place without windows nearby.  We recommend bathrooms or large closets that are not touching outer walls.
• Be ready to live without electricity for a while.
• Make sure you have clean water and food that does not need to be refrigerated.  A refrigerator only keeps food fresh for up to 4 hours if it stays closed.
• Have fully charged flashlights ready.
• Have the means to check the weather forecasts.  A battery operated radio is a great idea.
• Charge your phones.
• Put your mobile phones on their charger prior to the storm to be sure you can make calls in case of an emergency.  
• If you have extra portable batteries, considering charging those as well.
• Just remember -- during severe weather, your cell phone may not work very well.  If you have a landline, that may be your best bet.
• Carry your DIY first aid kit with you in case of small cuts.
• Know where your emergency preparedness documents are.
• Prepare your home for storm damage.
• Make sure your gutters are clean to avoid water pooling and that you have a working drainage system for your yard.
• Is everything outside tied down?  If you have a loose bike or lawn furniture outdoors, bring it in or make sure it’s attached to the ground.  Don’t let your backyard debris get windborne.
• If the storm is severe, consider boarding up your windows to prevent wind damage.

What if my property has storm damage?

SERVPRO of Richardson responds to all types of storm events.  We have serviced many homes, businesses, and schools damaged by storm damage such as large hail, hurricanes, and tornadoes.  

Our technicians and managers were dispatched to Houston for Hurricane Harvey cleanup efforts.  We spent months performing water removal, sanitizing, and drying homes and businesses affected by flood waters.  

We have the experience and expertise you need to put your home back together.  

See some before and after pictures of storm damage we've remediated.

Storm Damage Repair Available 24/7

After the storm has passed and conditions are safe for our technicians, our work begins.  We provide the following disaster cleanup services to all of Dallas Fort Worth:

• Emergency roof tarping
• Window board up
• Home board up (if damaged occurred to the walls of your home)
• Temporary fencing
• 24 hour live security guard to prevent looting

Emergency Restoration Services

We provide 24 hour emergency water removal, cleanup, and drying if water has breached your property.

Trusted Leader in Water Damage Restoration and Fire Damage Restoration in Collin County, North Texas

SERVPRO of Richardson is a water damage restoration and fire and smoke damage restoration company on the border of Richardson and Plano Texas.  We have performed work in Dallas, Plano, Grapevine, McKinney, Frisco, Allen, and other North Texas communities in Collin County for over 30 years.  We are also a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor for Texas and offer free mold inspections.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year.  We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 690-1414.  Call us any time!

Follow us:

Facebook  Twitter  Instagram  Linkedin   YouTube

www.SERVPROrichardson.com

“Like it never even happened.” only happens here.

Winter Storm Damage Restoration Services

1/17/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richardson is always active during storm damage situations in Collin County North Texas.

Winter Storm Damage Restoration Services

Storms are not a very common occurrence in Texas.  In North Texas, we see just a few days of freezing temperatures in a year.  Every few years, a hail storm strong enough to cause damage can occur. Otherwise, we have the luxury of enjoyable temperate or warm temperatures for the majority of the year.

Yet, when there is a winter storm in Richardson or Plano, we see a sharp increase in properties that experience storm damage.  From flooded homes due to frozen water pipes bursting, to fire damages caused by portable heaters, we are always ready to help.  

SERVPRO of Richardson is always active during storm damage situations.  

We offer the following services:

Water Damage Restoration or Flood Damage

Water damage restoration is usually caused by frozen water pipes that have burst.  

Fast water removal is important to prevent further damage to your wet items.  This is why we are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, to start your water damage repair.  

When we arrive, we will inspect your property and determine the extent of the damage.  We will also determine the water category. If the water is Category 2 or Category 3, we will spray sanitizer on all affected areas.  

Then, we will perform water removal services.  Our technicians will either use a truck mounted pump or other water extraction equipment to remove the water quickly.  Moving furniture in affected rooms will likely be necessary to reach every area of the room. If the rooms are carpeted and affected by Cat 2 or Cat 3 water, both the carpet and the pad may have to be removed.

When all standing water is gone, we will place drying equipment in your home.  Our equipment will be strategically placed and other modifications will be made to your room to ensure our drying process is effective.

Every day afterward, a technician will stop by your property for an equipment check.  This means we will:

• Monitor all equipment to make sure it’s working effectively.
• Monitor the atmospheric conditions of your property to make sure the humidity and temperature are conducive to drying.  We do this to prevent mold growth.
• All data is recorded and sent to your insurance adjuster to validate our drying process.

Fire Damage Restoration

Fire damages are common during the winter months in Collin County.  Many of them are caused by improperly used space heaters or fireplaces.  The holidays also see an increase in oven fires and kitchen fires.

Even when a fire hasn’t happened, smoke damage restoration is necessary when candles and fireplaces are not watched carefully.  

Regardless of the reason for the smoke and fire damage, we provide:

Full Service Fire and Smoke Restoration Process

We are one of the few fire damage restoration companies in North Texas that is full service.  We do everything from cleaning and restoration of your property and everything inside of it, to reconstruction, to 24 hour emergency response service.  We are have honed our fire damage restoration process after 30 years of experience.

Emergency Roof Tarp

We will tarp the fire-damaged portion of your roof using thick, weatherproof plastic.  This will prevent further precipitation from entering your home until the roof can be permanently fixed.  Our reconstruction division will contact your insurance company and request permanent roof replacement.

Board Up

We will board up any damaged portion of your property like doors and windows.  This will prevent precipitation from entering your home, deter theft, and keep unauthorized persons from entering your property.  If our team cannot perform a board up due to bad weather, we will hire a 24 hour live security guard to monitor your property.

Temporary Fencing

We can install a temporary fence around your property to deter the public from entering and provide an extra layer of security.

Security Guard

Sometimes it’s not possible to perform emergency boards ups or install temporary fencing.  This may be true in the middle of a storm, for example. When this situation happens, we will assign a security guard to protect your property.  After the storm cleans, our technicians will provide emergency services.

Moving Services

Moving services are often necessary after a fire damage.  This is especially the case when the majority or entire property has been affected by smoke and soot.  

We will pack out your property’s household items and take them to our facility where they will be cleaned and stored.  Once your property has been cleaned and reconstruction is complete, we will deliver the items back to you. If you have the need to live in a temporary residence, we are also glad to deliver your items there.

Storage

When moving services are needed, we will provide storage space to keep your items safe until they can be returned.

Textile Cleaning

If you have textiles that have been affected by Category 2 Water or Category 3 water, they will be taken to our facility for cleaning.  Textiles include clothing, plush animals, and shoes. We can also clean clothing that requires smoke odor removal, soot removal, or mold removal.  

We are one of the few Esporta certified firms in North Texas.  Our business will pack your damaged clothing and take it back to our in house cleaning facility.  Our Esporta cleaning technicians have cleaned thousands of pieces of clothing with a success rate of over 85%.  This rate of success is among the highest in the clothing cleaning industry.

Most of our customers need some of their clothes back immediately to continue living their day to day life.  We understand this need, which is why priority clothing can be cleaned and returned in as little as 72 hours.  The rest of your wardrobe will be cleaned and kept in storage until you can receive your entire delivery.

Trusted Leader in Water Damage Restoration and Fire Damage Restoration in Collin County, North Texas

SERVPRO of Richardson is a water damage restoration and fire and smoke damage restoration company on the border of Richardson and Plano Texas.  We have performed work in Dallas, Plano, Grapevine, McKinney, Frisco, Allen, and other North Texas communities in Collin County for over 30 years.  We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year.  We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 690-1414.  Call us any time!

Follow us:

Facebook  Twitter  Instagram  Linkedin   YouTube

www.SERVPROrichardson.com

“Like it never even happened,” only happens here.

Hail Damage Repair After Dallas Storm Damage

12/17/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Richardson is a Dallas Storm Damage Restoration Specialist. We offer 24 hour emergency services.

Hail Damage Repair After Dallas Storm Damage

During Spring of 2016, North Texas got hit with a major hailstorm.  SERVPRO of Richardson responded to the city of Wylie, Texas, where softball sized hail and strong winds damaged many homes and businesses, especially their roofs.

In a matter of hours, we were placing emergency roof tarps and board ups on damaged properties.  While it’s impossible to prevent hailstorm damage to our homes, you can still be prepared.

Hailstorm Preparedness

Before the Storm

• Do you know what your property insurance covers?  Check out your policy and make sure you know your deductible.  You want to be sure you can cover your deductible in case of an emergency.  If you’re not sure about your hailstorm coverage, give your insurance company a call if you have any questions.  
• Keep up with weather forecasts.  Turn on your local news, download a free app from the Google Play Store, App store, or visit any national weather website.
• A storm watch means the conditions for a hailstorm are right, but no one is absolutely sure if one will really happen or not.  Keep an eye on the forecast.
• A storm warning means a hailstorm is approaching and you need to take shelter.
• If you have items outdoors that you don’t want to get damaged, bring them inside or put a protective covering on them for the duration of the storm.  This commonly includes glass outdoor furniture and vehicles.

Reducing Hail Damage

Being proactive is always the best way to prevent storm damage.  If the forecast is calling for a possible hailstorm, take a look at your roof or call us for a roof inspection.  Taking care of your roof’s problems may prevent serious damage from the storm, such as a badly damaged roof, water intrusion, and an indoor water damage.

Look out for:

• Damaged shingles.
• Missing shingles.
• Clogged water drains.  If your drains are clogged and rain also falls with the storm, you are risking water buildup that could enter your home and cause a water damage

During the Hailstorm

During the Wylie, Texas hailstorm, we saw baseball sized hail.  During Dallas Texas storms, we can see any size hail. These balls of ice can fall between 50 to 100 miles per hour.  The velocity mixed with size is what will determine the amount of damage.

If a hailstorm is happening, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Bring all pets indoors immediately.
• Stay indoors!  If a piece of hail can break through your roof, it can also hurt you!
• Keep away from skylights and glass objects that the hail is hitting.
• In case a window breaks, close your drapes and curtains.  It won’t prevent damage, but it’ll help prevent the broken glass from spraying into your room.

After the Hailstorm

We are ready to respond to any home or business in Dallas Fort Worth.  For the safety of our technicians, we must wait for the storm to pass to begin emergency services.  However, giving us a call while the storm is progressing will allow us to prepare and be ready as soon as it’s over.  

As soon as you notice damage to your home, give us a call.

Our 24 hour emergency line is (972) 986-7677.  

DFW Storm Damage Services

We are a full service storm damage restoration company.  We can provide you with the following services:

• Emergency Roof Tarp

  We will tarp your roof and skylights with thick, waterproof plastic sheeting to prevent any weather from getting inside your home and causing more damage.  Many insurance companies will not cover secondary damage that is caused by neglect on the behalf of the property owner. Secondary damage includes water damage and mold growth.

• Board up Services

  If any other part of your home was damaged by the hail, we will perform board up services.  We commonly see broken windows and glass sliding doors.

• Water Damage Restoration

  If any water has gotten into your home from the storm, we will immediately perform water removal services.  Our technicians will also place professional drying equipment and begin monitoring your property. Mold growth can begin as quickly as 48 hours after water intrusion, which is why we are available for water damage restoration services 24 hours a day.

• Insurance Claim

  We will document all damage to your roof and interior of the home.  All documentation will be forwarded to your insurance provider to support your claim.  A Project File Coordinator will be assigned especially to your file. It’s their job to bridge communication between you and your insurance to make sure you’re taken care of.  

• Reconstruction and Roof Restoration Service

  A Reconstruction Manager will be assigned especially to you.  They will inspect the damage to your roof and create an estimate to rebuild it.  They will work directly with your insurance provider and rebuild your roof once your claim is approved.

• Full Service 3 Expert Team

  You will be assigned our Full Service 3 Expert Team.  This means that if you ever have a question or concern about your project, one of the three experts that are managing your job will help you from beginning to end.  They include:
• Project File Coordinator - this person works directly with your insurance company to make sure your claim is processed.  They handle all documentation.
• Restoration Manager - this person performs all restoration services your property needs, from debris removal to cleaning and water damage restoration.
• Reconstruction Manager - this person rebuilds any portion of your property that was permanently affected.

Dallas Storm Damage Restoration Specialists

SERVPRO of Richardson is a water damage restoration and fire and smoke damage restoration company on the border of Richardson and Plano Texas.  We have performed work in Dallas, Plano, Grapevine, McKinney, Frisco, Allen, and other North Texas communities in Collin County for over 30 years.  With our crews responding immediately to jobs, we are faster to any size disaster. We also have a Texas Mold Remediation Contractor License and offer free mold inspections.  You can trust us to restore your home or business.

Our crews are available dispatch for 24 hour emergencies every day of the year.  We can be reached 24/7 at (972) 690-1414.  Call us any time!

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www.SERVPROrichardson.com

“Like it never even happened,” only happens here.

Texas Strong: Hurricane Harvey

12/14/2017 (Permalink)

"Texas Strong" logo from the "Harvey Can't Mess With Texas" Relief Concert.

Cat 4 Hurricane

We were watching the news as Hurricane Harvey headed for Houston.  We hoped it would weaken as it approached land, but forecasters warned of the storm strengthening.  The thought of Houston being hit with a Category 4 Hurricane seemed like it out of the question, but in our industry, we know better than to say, “That’ll never happen to us.”

So, we prepared.

We are SERVPRO of Richardson, and our offices are near Dallas, Texas.  Houston is about a four-hour drive southeast of us.  In the days leading up to Hurricane Harvey, our office was divided.  Some of us were working on emergency damages around North Texas.  Others were busy at the office, readying vehicles and trailers and loading them to the brim with supplies.  

All of us had our minds on Houston, Corpus Christi, and Rockport.  We began to receive phone calls from family, friends, and colleagues down there.  Evacuations began.  We prepared our homes up here for those who would be displaced.

For hours, our office searched for open hotels for our crews to stay.  The ones that were still open were full.  Others couldn’t guarantee there would be anyone there when we arrived.  

So, we packed tents.

We told our families we were headed for Houston, and then we left.

A SERVPRO from the Houston community gave us a call and offered our technicians to sleep in his warehouse.  Streets were still accessible to their office for the moment, and that was all the space they had left.  It was a plan.

For over a month, our technicians worked 12 to 15-hour days, 7-days a week.  The schedule was simple and repetitive: get up at 6, work until 6, plan and verify the next day’s schedule, eat, sleep, repeat.  We responded to every call we received, visited homes, sucked out water, dried, and treated properties.  Back home in Dallas, our North Texas crews did the same to compensate for the work their Houston-bound teammates would normally take care of.  

We are grateful to every first responder that bravely faced the storm and saved people’s lives.  

We are grateful for SERVPRO offices from around the nation that left home and came to Texas.  

We are grateful for the many organizations in our state and Louisiana that lent a hand and are continuing to help today.  

Harvey arrived on August 17, 2017.  Our company continued working on homes in Houston, Corpus Christi, and Rockport until a few weeks ago.  It is now December.

“Texas Strong” was on our lips as rebuild efforts began.  It still is today.