Steps to Stay Prepared for Storm Damage

1/18/2023 (Permalink)

The most important thing is to be prepared.

Storms, tornadoes, and winter storms can cause devastating damage to homes and businesses. While it's impossible to completely keep your home safe from these natural catastrophes, there are some steps you can take to prepare for storm damage. So whether you're in the path of an incoming storm or just want to be prepared for the worst, we've got some tips that'll help protect your house from Mother Nature's fury. 

Prepare in advance

Prepare in advance. The best way to prepare for a hurricane, or any other natural disaster, is to have your supplies ready and organized. You should know where they are and how much of each item you have at all times.

Stock up on supplies before the storm hits. It's easy to forget that storms can last for days or even weeks, so it's important to make sure you have enough food, water, and anything else you might need during this time period.

Protect windows

One of the most important things to protect in your home is your windows. If a storm were to hit and you don't have any type of protection over them, it could cause major damage. To protect the glass from shattering, use plastic or wood sheeting and secure it around the window. 

Clear yard clutter

In the days leading up to the storm, it's important to clear away any yard clutter that could be blown away by the wind. Remove any large branches that could fall on your home and clear away loose leaves and other debris from the yard. If you live in an area known for severe storms, consider hiring someone with experience removing fallen trees after a storm so that you can stay safe while performing tasks on your property.

Maintain gutters and downspouts

This is the number one way to prevent leaves, debris, and water from clogging your roof drains, which can lead to costly repairs. You should clean them regularly (at least twice a year) and make sure they are not clogged with debris. If you do notice any damage or gaps in your gutters, make sure to repair them before heavy rains come so that the problem doesn't get any worse than it already is.

Stay informed on the latest forecast

Monitor the forecast and look for any changes that might indicate a storm's path is changing, such as:

• Changes in wind speed and direction
• A shift in temperature
• Clouds or fog forming over your area

Create an evacuation plan

Even if you live in an area that is not prone to severe storms, it's still important to have a plan for evacuation. If your home does happen to be hit by inclement weather, you will be glad you had time to prepare.

The most important thing is to be prepared. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or business owner, it’s crucial that you take the time to protect your home from potential damage during storms. If you haven’t done so already, now is the time!

These 5 Things Make Filing a Flood Claim Much Smoother

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

An insurance claim takes time

Five Ways To Prove Your Case

Are you nervous about filing a flood claim? The thought of dealing with insurance can be a bit intimidating. You want your home fixed. The insurer wants to be sure it falls under a plan. To make the situation a bit easier, it’s best to think about what the agent needs and how you can best provide that information.

1. Initiate Contact
Call immediately to start an insurance claim. The quick response shows concern and an attempt to make immediate repairs.

2. Secure the Premises
When you file a flood claim, the residence is usually uninhabitable. How are you keeping the property safe while you are out? Are broken windows boarded up? Is the roof in good condition? Make sure trespassers cannot enter and that inclement weather cannot continue to deteriorate the place.

3. Tend to Immediate Damage
An insurance claim takes time. Don’t wait to fix anything in great demand. A broken pipe or busted sewer line cannot be put off. Go ahead and get the source of trouble corrected, saving receipts to verify the repair.

4. Assess the Property
Allow professionals from several fields to complete overviews of the home. An electrician should check on wires, ensuring that everything is okay within the walls. A water restoration company in Roxborough Park, CO, should test the air and structural materials. These experts provide essential knowledge about the type and extent of contamination, putting together an action plan for appropriate cleanup.

5. Document Everything and Anything
Save all overviews and photograph anything that the water touched. Visual proof validates an appeal to seek financial compensation for personal and property loss.
Homeowners must demonstrate not only a desire to start a flood claim but also a legal and fair reason for seeking financial compensation. Remember to think about what the insurer needs, concentrating on providing an arsenal of information and a solid reason for the request.

Five Types of Storm Shutters to Protect Your Home

7/24/2022 (Permalink)

Rolling shutters are a highly effective and more permanent solution.

Types of Storm Shutters

If your Acequia, CO home is at risk of storm damage from high winds, you might consider some protective measures. Storm shutters are a good option, but with such variation in quality and price, where do you start? Read on to learn about some of the different choices of storm shutters for homeowners.

1. Storm Panel

Metal storm panels are to be used only when there is an imminent threat of a hurricane or severe storm. This means that for the rest of the year, your windows will be exposed. At about $7-$15 per panel, this is an extremely affordable choice for homeowners.

2. Rolling

Rolling shutters are a highly effective and more permanent solution. In addition to protection from high winds, they also offer privacy, insulation and an attractive appearance to homes. This option costs $20-$30 per square foot and is customized for every window on the house.

3. Accordion

Accordion coverings are similar to rolling shutters in that they are permanently affixed to a home in a box attached to the exterior of the building. The big difference, however, is that they are manually operated. Because of this, their price point is a little lower at $15-$25 per square foot.

4. Colonial

Colonial shutters are an aesthetically pleasing option for homes. They are similar to the decorative variety and made from metal or wood materials. They can be latched shut when a threat arrives. They come at a cost of around $200-$500 per window.

5. Bahama

Bahama awnings are permanently attached to homes with hinges. They are a great solution for warmer climates because they also provide shade. They can cost anywhere from $200-$1,000 per window.

There are many ways to protect your windows and home from the high winds and flying debris associated with hurricanes. Use your budget and personal preferences as a guide to finding the right solution for your home.

What Causes a Sewage Backup in the Basement?

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

A flooded basement in Carriage Club, CO.

If you experience a flooded basement at your home due to a sewage backup, you may wonder what happened and what the appropriate cleanup measures may be. Fortunately, storm damage cleanup and home restoration professionals in Carriage Club, CO, can help identify the cause of the flooding and clean up affected areas.

Common Causes of Sewer Backups

The most common causes of basement flooding due to sewage backing up include the following:

• Clogs
  
• Bulky flushed items, such as paper towel wads
  
• Grease in pipes
  
• An aging septic system
  
  

While these culprits may most immediately come to mind, storm damage is also a frequent cause of backups.

How Storm Damage Can Lead to a Flooded Basement
If sewage lines are damaged during a particularly strong storm, it can result in problematic water flow and backups. Additionally, a prolonged period of heavy rain can be difficult for the sewage system in Carriage Club, CO, to weather, which can also lead to backups. This may cause flooded basements at individual residences during or after the storm.

How To Have Your Basement Cleaned
A flooded basement requires thorough cleaning to remove damage and restore your items. A remediation and restoration company can use a professional-grade pump to remove excess water and moisture after addressing sewage, dirt, and debris. The company will wash and disinfect areas affected by the backup and take measures to identify causes and ensure your pipes and drainage systems are in working order.
It's crucial to have your basement restored to avoid long-term damage to your items and your home. While you may be able to clean small backups on your own, it's always wise to have a professional assessment and cleaning to help prevent future issues and repeat flooding. Identifying the cause, be it aging pipes or a recent storm, also gives you the best possible chance of preventing damage in the future.

Can I Claim Commercial Property Losses on My Taxes?

4/16/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial storm damage in Acequia, CO.

Can I deduct Losses from Commercial Property On My Taxes?

Unexpected commercial property losses have the potential to be devastating financially, mentally and time-wise. They can massively derail operations and cause a great deal of hassle. Even if you have coverage, it can be a big headache to deal with the insurance adjusters, filling out paperwork, contacting a professional cleanup and restoration service in Acequia, CO, and/or handling anything else that needs to be done in the wake of an incident resulting in one. One thing you may be glad to know is that storm damage, fire damage and other business-related losses are tax-deductible regardless of whether they are in a federally declared disaster area or not.

Casualty Losses

These include damage, loss or destruction arising from any kind of unexpected or sudden incident like a natural disaster (storm damage, smoke damage and etcetera). Normal wear and tear or time-related deterioration are not casualty losses. The three kinds (labeled as federally declared disasters) are:

• Qualified disaster losses
  
• Federal casualty losses
  
• Disaster losses
  
  

Since it involves income-producing property, your loss amount is the adjusted basis of said structure/possession (your cost, with deductions and additions for things like depreciation or renovations).

Theft Losses

If someone steals from your business, the theft loss is also the adjusted basis. If it is due to a Ponzi scheme, the rules may be slightly different.

Tax Claims Facts

Any expected or received payout from insurance companies or salvage value lowers your loss amount. You must prove any loss you claim, so detailed documentation is important. You also run the risk of acquiring capital gain if you end up with insurance reimbursement that is higher than your adjusted basis.

Storm damage and other forms of harm to your enterprise's property from events like hurricanes are tax-deductible. Theft is as well. It pays to be careful when claiming them on tax forms, especially if you do not know how much your indemnity policy will pay out as it can lead to you owing taxes on a gain instead of gaining a deduction for a loss.

How To Check Your Home for Damage After a Late Winter Storm: 3 Steps

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Check your roof in case you have missing shingles.

How to Assess Damage to Your Home Following a Late-Winter Storm

The arrival of March in Castle Pines, CO, may bring many things, including a late winter storm. These events can crop up quickly and cause considerable damage to your home, especially if a previous warmup had you preparing it for spring weather. If a late storm brought snow, ice and wind to your area, there are a few steps you can take to check your home for damage.

1. Inspect Your Pipes

Freezing temperatures and blizzard conditions can affect your home’s plumbing pipes, especially if they are not protected. After the storm has passed, check all your outdoor pipes and insulate them by wrapping their lengths in cotton rags or with a spray-on foam. Indoor pipes that run along exterior walls may also be at risk for freezing or bursting, so it is wise to check these as well.

2. Check Your Roof

High winds and heavy snow can cause serious roof damage, so you may want to check for missing tiles, exposed flashing and bent or hanging gutters. While the weather may not allow you to access your roof right away, you can check for leaks via your attic. If heavy snow is causing sagging in any areas, you might want to call your contractor right away to prevent collapse, something that could be dangerous and costly to fix as well.

3. Be Aware of Basement Flooding

A winter storm could be followed by lots of sunshine, which leads to a quick thaw. This could cause basement flooding, so check your sump pump and move stored belongings to higher ground for their safety. A flood damage and storm response service may be able to assist you if your sump pump is not operating properly and you are concerned about an imminent flooding event.

When a late winter storm impacts your Castle Pines, CO, home, you may be unsure about what kind of damage may have occurred. Knowing where to look in the aftermath can keep your family and property safe until bad weather passes.

Deducting Storm Damage for a Business

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding isn't fun.

Storm damage to a business in Roxborough Park, CO, doesn’t have to damage the wallet, too. Even if the insurance company doesn’t pay out as much as hoped, Uncle Sam can help. Come tax time, tax breaks are available to help defray the expenses for the repair and replacement of items for a storm-damaged business.

What the IRS Will Cover

The key to the previous statement is the word “help.” The government helps pick up the balance of what the insurance company does not pay for the storm damage. They generally don’t cover everything, and the amount is almost always calculated to be the adjusted value of the property, whether everything or just a portion is destroyed. When making a claim, the owner must also take off the amount received from insurance. The rest is the tax deductible portion and must be filed as an itemized deduction on Form 1040, Schedule A, Form 4684 (Casualties and Thefts).

The Internal Revenue Service considers damage from these types of incidents as deductible:

• Hurricane
  
• Flood
  
• Fire
  
• Volcanic eruption
  
• Earthquake
  
• Tornado
  
  

Here are examples of damage that are not deductible:

• Normal wear and tear
  
• Termite damage
  
  

Is the Business in A Federal Disaster Area?

Something else to keep in mind is whether the business is in a designated federal disaster area. This will entitle the business to more tax breaks and sometimes even more time to file certain tax forms. It also changes the year in which the owner may choose to deduct the damage, providing a refund sooner in some cases. For situations such as this, it may be best to consult a professional tax advisor.

It’s Not Fun, But It Can Be Done

Storm damage isn’t fun, and neither is taxes. However, with an expert restoration specialist to help with the clean-up and a qualified tax professional to help find the right tax breaks, the business doesn’t have to remain damaged for long.

A Flood Policy Isn’t Just an Investment — It’s Peace of Mind

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

If your building is in an area prone to flooding, your commercial insurance policy should include flood coverage

A Flood Insurance Policy Is More Than Just An Investment; It Provides Peace Of Mind.

If your business is located in an area prone to flooding, a commercial flood policy should be a priority. Many business owners don’t take flooding seriously, but they should. Floods can be structurally devastating and, as a result, financially devastating. From replacing damaged items to remodeling a devastated structure, the cost of flood recovery can be outstanding. For this reason, if your building is in a flood zone, you should invest in a commercial insurance policy before the next rainy season.

Flood Insurance Versus Building Insurance

Typical property insurance covers things like the foundation of your building, electrical systems, plumbing, your HVAC system and other vital building components. Flood policies, on the other hand, cover:

• Clothing
• Furniture
• Appliances
• Electronics
• Carpet
• Other building contents

If you don’t want to have to replace tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment, furniture and appliances, a flood policy for flooding is necessary.

Commercial Flood Insurance

FEMA offers two different types of flood coverage for business owners:

1. Building property
2. Personal property

Each type of coverage covers up to $500,000 in damages. Building property refers to property that belongs to the building, such as carpets and light fixtures. Personal property, on the other hand, refers to your business’s contents, such as furniture, appliances, electronics and the like. It is recommended that your Roxborough Park, CO, commercial insurance policy includes both types of coverage.

Mold Damage Coverage

Mold growth is a common problem post-flooding. Unfortunately, though mold is a structural issue, it is not generally covered by property insurance. FEMA, on the other hand, does cover mold or mildew damage that is the result of flooding. However, to be eligible for remediation, an insurance adjuster will need to evaluate your building and make sure that the mold was not present before flooding, and that any bacteria growth is located in an area affected by flood water.

If your building is in an area prone to flooding, your commercial insurance policy should include flood coverage. It may be the best investment you make for your business this year.

Why Waiting For an Adjuster Has Risks

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

What’s great about working with a flood recovery company is that they likely already have established relationships with flood insurance adjusters.

You are relieved that you bought flood insurance, but when there has been widespread flood damage in Castle Pines, CO, it may take a long time before the adjuster makes it to your house. You are probably getting mixed advice. Some people say it is unwise to make repairs before the adjuster comes, but others say it’s your responsibility to prevent subsequent damage. It sounds risky either way, so what should you do? You don’t want to do work that the adjuster denies, but you also have a responsibility and a need to protect your property from further damage. Here are some initial actions you can take and why:

• Document now. Take videos and photos of all property damage to share with your flood insurance company.

• Tarp exposed areas. If there was damage to your home’s exterior, allowing wind and rain to continue entering, then you should try to prevent this exposure.

• Remove water as quickly as you can. Your flood problem can quickly become a mold problem in as little as 24 – 48 hours. Mold spores are abundant in the air, and colonies multiply rapidly.

• Move belongings out of the water. If you have larger furniture items, they can be blocked or separated from the wet floor with foil to prevent further damage. Remove smaller items from the water.

• Begin the drying process. To prevent mold damage, continue ventilating and drying your property after water is removed. If your electricity is on and safe to operate, you should use fans and air conditioning to aid this process.

These actions are all in the category of preventing additional damage, which reduces costs for everyone. What’s great about working with a reputable flood recovery company is that they likely already have established relationships with flood insurance adjusters, paving a smooth path for the claims process and for getting your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

Essential Flood Facts for Drivers

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

Remember that driving on a flooded street is dangerous.

Important Flood Information for Drivers

It’s easy to underestimate the power of floodwaters, and unfortunately, too many drivers make that mistake. According to government statistics, attempted driving is a factor in half of flood drownings. It is crucial to understand what makes driving on a flooded street so dangerous, as well as how to avoid it.

More Dangerous Than It Seems

There are many hazards associated with driving in flood waters, making it best to avoid them at all costs.

• The water is often deeper than it looks, and it can be hard to tell whether there is a current and how quickly it is flowing. The street below may also be at risk of washing away.

• It doesn’t take much water to cause a vehicle to float. If you’re in a small car, as little as a foot of water can pick you up off a flooded street.

• Your vehicle’s engine may stall when exposed to water.

• Damaged electrical lines in the water pose the risk of electrocution

• Vehicles are likely to tip if caught in a current, making escape extremely difficult.

Pre-Flood Prep Is Key

The best way to stay safe during a flood is to prepare beforehand. Assemble supplies and a plan. Keep documents and other important objects in a safe place and in waterproof storage. Consider flood insurance and know how to contact your local flood cleanup crew should you need them. Above all, you should evacuate as soon as possible if Castle Pines, CO, authorities recommend it.

Travel Tips

Even with precautions, it’s still possible to run into flooded roads. Stay safe by knowing the area well. If traveling, try to map out alternate routes ahead of time in case you need to turn around. If worst comes to worst and you have no other choice but to drive through, proceed with extreme caution. Drive very slowly, and if the vehicle starts taking on water, it’s time to get out of the car and head to a safer place.

It is always safer to evacuate early or stay home and follow the plans you’ve made. Remember there is no safe way to drive on a flooded street.

3 Reasons Businesses Need Flood Insurance

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Business owners should obtain a flood insurance policy for their commercial property.

Why Should Business Owners Obtain A Flood Insurance Policy?

The standard commercial property insurance policy excludes damage caused by flooding, which could be a big problem if you find yourself in need of professional storm damage repair. Here are three of the most common reasons why business owners should obtain a flood insurance policy for commercial property located in a flood hazard area in Lone Tree, CO.

1. A Business Is Located on a Floodplain
The Flood Map Service Center maintained by the Federal Emergency Management Agency makes it easy to determine whether a commercial structure is located in a known flood zone. If your business is based in a structure that is prone to flooding, it is worthwhile to enroll in a policy that covers up to $500,000 of professional structural damage repair and up to $500,000 of personal property and business contents.

2. A Commercial Property Has a Federally Backed Mortgage
Owners of buildings with mortgages that are federally secured are required to maintain commercial insurance coverage for flooding through the National Flood Insurance Company or another insurer. Even if a commercial property owner is not required to carry a flood policy, this coverage applies to damage excluded from most primary commercial property policies.

3. Business Owners Want Coverage for Flood Damage
General commercial property insurance excludes damage caused by exterior flooding that originates with heavy rain, rising bodies of surface water, or storm swells. Sewer backups are also cut out of most general policies. The ability to file a claim to cover the thousands of dollars of damage that can occur rather than being forced to pay for cleanup costs out of pocket can make or break a small business.
These are three of the main reasons business owners carry flood insurance. Determine whether a location is at elevated risk for flooding, as this may make it possible to get insurance through the NFIP. A federal or private flood policy can provide the peace of mind business owners need to operate in flood-prone areas of Lone Tree, CO.

How Insurance Helps Your Business After a Storm

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

Speak with your insurance agent so that you fully understand your policies and coverage.

Two Types Of Insurance That Come In Handy After Damage

If you need to rebuild after a storm damages your Beverly Hills, CO, commercial building, you may worry about lost income and restoration expenses. Fortunately, there are a variety of insurance policies available that can help you stay afloat while you restore your business to full operational capacity. The following are two types of insurance that come in handy after damage to a commercial property. 

Interruption Insurance
Even a closed business has expenses. Business interruption insurance covers many of those expenses, including:

• Payroll 
  
• Taxes
  
• Monthly payments
  
• Temporary relocation expenses
  
• Training for new equipment
  
  

Interruption insurance also covers lost profits if you have adequate documentation showing earlier profits that can be used to estimate how much earning potential was lost during the restoration period. Speak with your insurance agent to ensure you fully understand what is covered and under what conditions as well as any special documentation that you need.

Commercial Property Insurance
Property insurance generally covers the cost of damage to physical property, including lost inventory and structural damage as well as damage to employees' personal property that was at the insured location. As with interruption insurance, it is important to speak with your insurance agent so that you fully understand what is included in your policy. The insurance agent should also be able to provide you with a list of approved restoration service providers to help with the rebuild. 
To make filing a claim easier, it is ideal to have a list of all inventory and property located at the covered address. Include purchase dates and prices on the list and store it in a secure location, such as cloud storage or a fireproof safe. 
Insurance provides a safety net for your business's unexpected expenses, like the need to rebuild after a storm. Make sure you keep your policies up-to-date and speak with your insurance agent so that you fully understand your policies and coverage. 

What Happens When Water Permeates a Building Envelope?

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

A building envelope seals a structure against external moisture

Risks Water Damage Poses

A building envelope seals a structure against external moisture. When a door blows open, a window breaks or rain damage penetrates through any point of a structure from the roof down to the foundation, primary water damage may occur and lead to an elevated risk of secondary damage. Find out more about the risks water damage poses to a commercial building in Castle Rock, CO.

Water Breaches the Envelope
The risk of primary water damage followed by additional damage goes up as soon as water works its way past a building exterior. Once inside the structure, water can reach any of the following building materials:

• Drywall
  
• Insulation
  
• Structural components
  
  

Drywall and insulation are porous materials that get ruined by exposure to moisture, let alone contaminated water. These substances are difficult to disinfect or dry and can support mold growth behind walls.

Water Leaks Into a Structure
In the event of a pipe burst or roof leak, water flows directly into a structure. A broken supply line releases clean water and causes Category One water damage. Rain damage starts as Category Two water damage, meaning that it may be contaminated by having come into contact with building materials or other debris. Over time, flooding will degrade into grossly contaminated Category Three water damage and support black mold or other species of fungi.

Primary and Secondary Damage
Primary water damage saturates building materials and contents. Secondary damage involves the formation of mold, rot or rust. Taking fast action to mitigate primary damage may limit its severity and prevent additional damage from taking place.
Although rain damage may seem less intense than hail or wind damage, it can cause a similarly severe level of issues to a structure in Castle Rock, CO. Building owners and managers should schedule regular external inspections and look for ways to reduce the most common causes of primary and secondary storm damage.

5 Ways to Flood Proof Your House

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

Take good care of your sump pump

Flood Safety Measures

Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters that homeowners in the United States have to deal with. Water damage can wreck havoc, costing you hundreds, if not thousands, in primary and secondary damage. Protecting your home in Carriage Club, CO, starts with taking precautionary flood safety measures. Abide by the following safety tips to help flood proof your property.

1. Protect and Relocate Valuable Possessions.
Any important possessions that aren't waterproof need to be sealed in containers and relocated to high shelves on the top floor of your home. This includes important documents, irreplaceable family heirlooms and electronic devices.

2. Install a Back Flow Valve.
Interior and exterior water valves can help prevent sewage and ground water from backing up into your home. Install these devices on all pipes that enter the home, just to cover all your bases.

3. Modify Indoor Electrical Systems.
The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety recommends that all sockets, wiring, switches and circuit breakers sit at least one foot above the projected flood level. If any of your equipment is below this line, then you need to practice proper flood safety by modifying and moving the devices.

4. Control Water Flow Outside Your House.
Your property is significantly less likely to flood if the water is redirected in the opposite direction. Most homes are built on somewhat elevated surfaces, but you may still need to take additional measures. Modify the slope of the ground near your property so that the water runs away from the house.

5. Take Good Care of Your Sump Pump.
Your home's sump pump is designed to drain ground water and prevent flooding. However, it can't perform its job correctly if you don't practice proper machine maintenance. Make sure to regularly remove accumulating debris, test the pipes and change the backup batteries when necessary.
The above flood safety measures can help prevent you, as a homeowner, from having to deal with unnecessary water damage. If your property has fallen victim to water damage caused by flooding, then you need to contact flood remediation experts as soon as you can.

The Best Ways to Prepare Your Business for Disaster

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Disaster preparedness should include having insurance coverage

Disaster Preparedness

You may not spend much time thinking about what would happen in the event of a disaster at your work. You're focused on the day-to-day operations and keeping your company running smoothly. However, disaster preparedness is an essential part of being a responsible leader. You can't afford to wait until the last minute to protect your employees and building. If you start building a plan today, you can have peace of mind when rough weather or other emergencies hit.

Sure up the Drainage
Flooding is one of the most common disasters that Roxborough Park, CO, businesses face. Water damage can occur due to a sudden event such as severe weather or a burst pipe, or it can be gradual issues such as a leaky roof. You can help prevent water problems by doing the following:

• Make sure there is no debris in your rain gutters.
• Ensure that the downspouts are diverting water away from the building.
• Make sure the property slopes away from the building.
• Inspect the foundation for cracks or weaknesses.
  

Purchase Insurance
Disaster preparedness should include having insurance coverage. Your commercial property insurance will cover many types of damage, but you should also buy supplemental plans such as flood insurance and earthquake insurance. This is especially important if you live in areas where these disasters are common.

Know Who to Call
Your safety is at stake if there is a flood, earthquake or other incidents of this magnitude. Your building could also suffer terrible damage. In addition to calling 911 during or immediately after an emergency, business preparedness is about getting in touch with the insurance company to file a claim. You should also become familiar with a reputable professional disaster cleanup company and rely on its expertise to help you recover and rebuild.
If you are smart about disaster preparedness, you will commit to following these suggestions. Your safety and protecting your building depend on it.

Flood Damage Prevention Tips

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

It's always better to prevent a catastrophic event to your business than it is to clean up after one. This is certainly true when it comes to flood damage. Of course, there are some floods and large storms that cannot be avoided, but with preparation your company may be able to reduce the harmful effects of bad weather. In many areas of the country, powerful storms are on the rise, making it more important that you be prepared in Lone Tree, CO. Fortunately, your company can take a number of steps to improve its position when faced with a major storm. Since many businesses never recover from significant storm damage, you owe it to your customers and employees to be prepared.

Flood Proof Your Property

A few of the strategies to limit flooding are difficult to achieve. These include moving your business to a higher, safer area, elevating your building and constructing earthen barriers. However, your company can work to flood-proof its property through the following methods:

• Building sensible and cost-effective barriers
• Installing seals and pumps in areas prone to floods
• Developing a flood emergency plan
• Establishing a flood maintenance and inspection plan.

Flood damage can be costly to a business and flood insurance is not always easy to obtain. Make sure you talk with your insurance carrier and understand your coverage for flooding.

Call in the Experts

If your business does experience water damage in Lone Tree, CO, call in the water remediation professionals right away. The quicker they arrive, the more likely they will be able to limit the damage caused by water. Utilizing special equipment such as fans, vacuums and dryers, they can begin to work on getting your business back in shape again. They will pay special attention to salvaging electronics, upholstery, fabrics and documents, as well as deciding if some areas such as walls or flooring will need to be replaced. Working on the principle of Faster to any size disaster, they will mitigate any flood damage.

How To Keep Your Home Safe After a Flood

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

Good ventilation and a dry environment will prevent mold and mildew therefore improving your home’s air quality.

Flood Safety Plans

If your Beverly Hills, CO, is located in a flood zone, a flood safety plan must address the following:

• Evacuation
  
• Asset protection
  
• Food and water supply
  
• Pet welfare
  
  

Follow these safety tips to resume living in your home after a flood:

Turn Off Electricity
Water increases the risk of electrocution when it seeps into power outlets. It is vital to confirm that all electricity is off before entering your home after a flood.

Remove Excess Water
Water can quickly compromise your home's structure by penetrating hard-to-reach areas like the spaces between floorboards and behind walls. Water that remains in these places can cause warping and mold, leading to irreversible damage. Water extraction professionals can employ industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove large quantities of water trapped within your home's framework.

Purify the Air
Your flood safety plan must address the air in your home. Mold spores that develop in damp conditions can create unbreathable air and lingering odors that are challenging to remove. Household items like baking soda or white vinegar can help absorb some odors. However, the most effective way to purify the air after a flood is with advanced humidification and air filtration systems operated by professionals who understand how to achieve a safe, odor-free post-flood environment.

Restore Property
A professional restoration service can advise you about which items you should discard and which are salvageable. It is possible to repair or clean furnishings, electronics, documents, and photographs with state-of-the-art methods including dry cleaning, wet cleaning, foam cleaning, or immersion cleaning. A flood safety plan that accounts for thorough cleaning of water-soaked items might eliminate the need for costly replacements when items become unsafe to use.
If your Beverly Hills, CO, home is prone to flood damage, your local Red Cross chapter and a professional flood restoration service can partner with you to incorporate safety tips during and after a flood.

4 Ways To Hastily Dry Your Home After a Flood To Prevent Mold Growth

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Allowing air to circulate throughout your home is one way to start the drying process

Four Methods That Can Help Dry and Remove Moisture

It doesn’t take long for mold growth to accelerate in your home after a flood, and hazardous bacteria can similarly start to propagate in water left to sit for more than 24 hours. While immediately calling a storm damage restoration company located in Castle Rock, CO, is the safest, most effective way to mitigate water damage after serious flooding, here are four methods that can be used to help dry and remove moisture from your home.

1. Turn on a Dehumidifier
A dehumidifier is useful for removing humidity from the air and extracting moisture from deep inside walls and flooring where mold growth can remain hidden. To effectively reduce the relative humidity of the flooded area, make sure all doors and windows are closed.
2. Open Doors and Windows
Allowing air to circulate throughout your home is one way to start the drying process. As long as it isn’t wet or raining outside, opening all your windows and doors can help moisture escape if you have no other equipment on hand.
3. Move Air With a Fan
Another way to promote circulation is to use fans to push air around. For this method, the more powerful the fan the better. As long as it is safe to use electricity, they should be positioned close to the most flooded areas. If it is possible there is mold growth in your HVAC system, avoid turning it on to prevent spreading the contamination.
4. Save Saturated Carpets With a Wet/Dry Vacuum
A wet/dry vacuum or extractor is one of your best chances at salvaging carpets that have been soaked with water. Make sure to avoid this step if you suspect any contamination.
While mold removal is best handled by the professionals, acting quickly to dry your home after a flood can prevent mold and bacteria growth from getting out of hand. These four methods can help speed up the drying process as you wait for help to arrive.

What To Do Before and After a Flood

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Sandbags or other barriers help keep flood water from entering your building

Flood water in your Acequia, CO, business is never a good situation. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to prepare your building for the next heavy rain and restore it afterward.

Preparation

Before a storm hits, make sure your building is ready. The following are key things you can do to keep your structure and contents safe from water damage:

• performing routine maintenance
  
• installing sandbags
  
• keeping electronic copies
  
  

Routine maintenance keeps your building sturdy enough to weather heavy winds and rain. You can catch leaks and other problems before they become big problems. Sandbags or other barriers help keep flood water from entering your building. Remember to attach a tarp to the side of the building before installing the barrier. Finally, keeping electronic copies of important documents ensures you have access to your records even if the hard copies are water-damaged.

Restoration

A flooded building should be dried out as soon as possible to prevent mold, which can begin growing within 24 hours. The first step is extracting the standing water from the building. There are specialized pumps and vacuums available. You can also use buckets to scoop out the water. After the standing water has been removed, there will still be moisture on porous surfaces. Fans and dehumidifiers can speed the drying process. If the outdoor humidity is low enough, you can open the windows and doors to increase air flow. Next, be sure to disinfect all surfaces that came into contact with the water. Anything that cannot be fully sanitized and dried should be thrown away. After everything is clean and dry, you can begin repairing damaged items. There are specialists who can help restore water-damaged electronics, antiques, and other delicate items.
If flood water damages your building, it may be wise to seek professional help. A professional restoration service can help you get your business back to normal quickly and safely.