Archived Commercial Blog Posts
Emergency Ready Plan
8/23/2022 (Permalink)
Get your free emergency ready plan
Its important to have your business READY. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you are "Ready for whatever happens."
In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. The ERP also establishes SERVPRO of Sumner County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future. By downloading the free SERVPRO Ready App, this information is stored electronically and can be accessed using your mobile device, making help just a few clicks away.
Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster. Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Sumner County to establish your Emergency READY Profile, and be "Ready for whatever happens"
Advantages of the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile
- A no-cost assessment of your facility
- A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the even of an emergency
- A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
- Establishes SERVPRO of Sumner County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
- Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
- Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information
Benefits of Commercial Air Duct Cleanings
5/6/2022 (Permalink)
Having your air ducts cleaned at your home or business is a benefit
During this time of year its important that your HVAC unit is operating properly. There is nothing worse then waking up in the middle of the night sweating because your air conditioner isn't working. This can also be a major issue on the commercial side. This blog will focus on the benefits of having you commercial air ducts cleaned regularly.
- Better air quality: You want the air in your commercial building to always be fresh and clean. When your ducts are dirty, they're lowering the air quality in your space.
- Reduces fire risk from clogged air ducts: When you run the heat in the colder months, heated air moves through your air ducts. This heat has the potential to cause a fire if the air ducts are too dirty. You don't want to put your employees or commercial building at risk with a fire hazard.
- Increase the energy efficiency of your HVAC system: It seems like each year the cost of your utility bills increases. When your ducts are clean, the air passes more easily through them. The system doesn't need to work as hard to push the air, and this can lower your electric and gas bills, depending on the type of heating.
- Lowers the number of employee call-outs due to illness: It's no secret that pollutants in the air create poor air quality. Your employees may experience more allergies or breathing problems when the air quality is lower, meaning that they stay home while they get better. With improved air quality, you might see the number of people missing work begin to lower.
- Removes or reduces unpleasant odors: Does your commercial building have a smell that you can't get rid of? It might be because the source is inside your air duct system. Cleaning the air ducts on a regular schedule helps airflow more properly throughout your building and minimizes any unpleasant scents.
Commercial Air Duct Cleaning
2/2/2022 (Permalink)
Commercial air duct cleaning can help improve your building
When it comes to commercial buildings there is a lot of routine maintenance that must be done to keep the facility up and running. Various cleanings and inspections are done throughout the year to ensure employees are happy as well the building remains safe. One service that often gets over looked in commercial facilities is air duct cleanings. This blog will focus on two benefits of having the air ducts cleaned at your commercial building regularly.
Indoor Air Quality
One of the best ways to keep employees happy and productive is to make sure the environment that they are working in has good clean air. By cleaning air ducts regularly, it will provide your employees a safe and clean place to work. It can also eliminate allergies.
Saves Money
An air duct cleaning can potentially save the life of your HVAC unit, which in return saves you money in the long run. A unit that is clean will not have to work as hard as a unit that is dirty.
If you own a commercial building and are interested in an air duct cleaning please reach out for free estimate!
Air Quality in Commercial Buildings
1/19/2022 (Permalink)
Air duct cleanings can help improve indoor air quality
Air quality is an important aspect of every building or home. It affects health, production, and income. This blog will focus on some tips to improve the air quality in your commercial building.
- Vent bathrooms, kitchens, toilets and laundry rooms directly outdoors. Use energy efficient and quiet fans.
- Avoid locating furnaces, air conditioners and ductwork in garages or other spaces where they can inadvertently draw contaminants into the house.
- Properly vent fireplaces, wood stoves and other hearth products; use tight doors and outdoor air intakes when possible.
- Vent clothes dryers and central vacuum cleaners directly outdoors.
- Store toxic or volatile compounds such as paints, solvents, cleaners and pesticides out of the occupiable space.
- Minimize or avoid unvented combustion sources such as candles, cigarettes, indoor barbecues, decorative combustion appliances or vent-free heaters.
- Provide operable windows to accommodate unusual sources or high-polluting events, such as the use of home cleaning products, hobby activities, etc.
- Use sealed-combustion, power-vented or condensing water heaters and furnaces. When natural-draft applications must be used they should be tested for proper venting and should be located outside the occupiable space when possible.
- Put a good particle filter or air cleaner in your air handling system to keep dirt out of the air and off of your ductwork and heating and cooling components.
- Distribute a minimum level of outdoor air throughout the home, using whole-house mechanical ventilation.
For other information or to schedule a HVAC or ductwork cleaning call us today!
Commercial Water Damage
11/19/2021 (Permalink)
A dehumidifier is one of the many pieces of equipment we will use on a commercial water damage
Despite a push to digital, some record keeping must still be done on paper. These documents record valuable city and county information needed for tracing the history of a title, property boundaries, and other legal requirements.
Commercial water removal in Gallatin doesn't stop at pumps and vacuums. Once the standing water has been removed, it is just as important to remove any excess moisture from your property and the air around it. To do this, SERVPRO uses a series of dehumidifiers. This is a very safe way to pull moisture from plat books and other records kept by county offices and construction companies as well as the offices they are kept in.
The most common type we use is a refrigerant dehumidifier. It extracts moisture from the air by condensation. It operates by air flow forced through refrigerated coils. The condensed water is collected in a tray where it is either drained or pumped out of the machine.
Our SERVPRO technicians use this on job sites where the temperature is usually over 50 degrees Fahrenheit and the available power is limited due to local electrical service being down. It is especially effective on surfaces that are moderate to highly porous and permeable to air and water; carpet, carpet padding and drywall for example.
Another machine we use when the temperature is lower is the desiccant dehumidifier. Moisture is removed by air flow which passes over silica gel. This substance attracts and captures air vapor very effectively. The condensed water is disposed of by heating it and venting it outside of the business structure.
This method is preferred for jobs where the temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and the power supply is unlimited. It is particularly useful for dense materials which have low permeability and porosity, hardwood floors, and wall framing for example.
If the structure has a large amount of porous and dense materials each, both types of dehumidifiers may be used. Both methods are good for drying out title records and other paper documents without damaging them.
Gym Floors in Robertson County
11/2/2021 (Permalink)
If you have any type of damage to your gym flor please give SERVPRO a call
How To Care for Gym Floors in Cheatham County
Gym floors are an important part of schools, churches and recreation centers. They are used for various events throughout the year and regular maintenance is important to keep them in good condition. While you want them to look nice it is also important for them to be safe for use. Unkempt floors in disrepair can be hazardous as well as unsightly.
Daily Maintenance
- It is important that gym floors be swept daily with a dust mop. Dirt and dust buildup will scratch the finish of the floor when it is walked on and can create a slipping hazard.
- Vacuum all walk off mats daily to ensure that the dust and dirt does not transfer to the gym floor.
As Needed Maintenance & Preventative Measures
- Use a damp mop once or twice a week to clean the gym floor and prevent dust.
- Ensure that there is no standing water left on the gym floor. Excess water on the floor can damage the wood
- Ensure that all tables and chairs have felt pads or use a floor covering to protect the gym floor.
- Walk-off mats are a great way to minimize the amount of tracked in dirt and water. These are placed at the entries and help absorb debris and water that would otherwise be tracked onto the gym floor.
Call SERVPRO of Robertson County at 615-672-1905 to learn more about our cleaning services or to schedule an inspection. Our team would love to help ensure that your gym floors are in great shape!
Commercial Cleaning Services
8/27/2021 (Permalink)
When most people hear SERVPRO they immediately think of emergency services. While cleaning up disasters is our bread and butter, we also specialize in other services. This blog will be dedicated on going over some of our lesser known services. It will be focused on commercial cleaning services. These are a few of the more recent jobs we have completed.
Carpet Cleanings- One of the best ways to welcome new customers or clients into your commercial building is to have the carpets cleaned regularly. If you are interested in having your carpets cleaned please reach out to us for a free quote!
Air Duct Cleanings- Having your ducts cleaned periodically is very important for a commercial building. It not only helps with the air quality for your employees but can also help lower your electricity bill if your unit is nice and clean!
Covid Disinfections- Unfortunately these types of cleanings have picked back up for us recently. If your commercial building has any type of bacteria or disease outbreak we have the ability to come disinfect. We offer two types of cleanings: preventive and confirmed cases.
Hopefully you never have to call us for a fire or water damage. But if your commercial building is needing any other kind of service please reach out to us and we will be happy to come provide you a free estimate!
Does Your Commercial Building Have Mold?
5/6/2021 (Permalink)
Does Your Commercial Building Have Mold?
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
- Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
- Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
- Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
Cleaning Hard Surfaces In Your Commercial Building
2/3/2021 (Permalink)
When a person purchases a commercial building, they are making an investment for their future. Proper care of the facility, including cleaning hard surfaces like hardwood, ceramic or concrete correctly is absolutely essential to maintaining the value of the building and extending the life of flooring and countertops. While daily, weekly and monthly cleaning and maintenance are important, having a trained and certified technician perform a yearly cleaning (at minimum) is necessary to maximize the lifespan of flooring and countertops.
Whether the surfaces need basic maintenance or full restoration, the technician having the proper methods and experience needed for the job will surely make the difference. Each type of flooring is different. Cleaning hard surfaces such as stone requires knowledge of the porousness of the stone in order to choose the right solution, while surfaces such as hardwood require the application of effective sealants to keep the wood from soaking up bacteria and liquids that can eventually cause the floor to rot. Factor in the age of the surface, any potential damage from improper cleaning in the years prior, and a possible lack of appropriate maintenance of the surface, and the need for a trained professional becomes alarmingly clear. Certified technicians are the best way to keep your investment’s value.
Damage From Water Should Be Cleaned By Professionals
1/20/2021 (Permalink)
The amount of damage water can cause is amazing, and often underestimated by commercial building owners . Excess moisture is bad enough, but when a commercial building is flooded or hit with a plumbing disaster (like a burst pipe), the situation can quickly get out of hand. There’s a reason why these incidents are among the most expensive problems a property manager can face. Contaminated water not only creates immediate structural problems, it can leave serious biological threats behind after it has been removed.
Floods, sewage backflows, and other sources of contaminated fluid usually cause the worst damage. Dirty water is filled with all kinds of deadly substances, ranging from chemical residues to animal feces to parasites. Bacteria, viruses and fungi grow explosively in contaminated fluid, and severe health risks, like salmonella and hepatitis, are common in flood waters.
This problem is compounded by the composition of most buildings, which are filled with organic materials. Drywall, wood and the matter that is trapped in carpet fibers are just a few examples, and they can give pathogens room to grow. Within 48 hours, mold may begin creeping behind the walls and releasing spores, and any organic materials that have been soaked through by contaminated fluid will usually have to be destroyed.
That’s why restoration firms, in addition to surveying the building for structural problems, will dry the building quickly and apply antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal agents to all surfaces that had contact with the water. This ensures the employees or tenants can return to a safe building, and not one harboring a collection of deadly pathogens.
Preventing Fires in Commercial Buildings
12/22/2020 (Permalink)
Preventing Fires in Commercial Buildings
Steps you can take now:
- Keep items that can catch on fire at least three feet away from anything that gets hot, such as space heaters.
- Never smoke inside.
- Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room.
Smoke Alarms:
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your commercial building.
- Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.
- Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Never disable smoke or carbon monoxide alarms.
- Carbon monoxide alarms are not substitutes for smoke alarms. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.
Cooking Safely:
- Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen, turn off the stove.
- Stay in the building while simmering, baking, roasting or boiling food. Check it regularly and use a timer to remind you that food is cooking.
- Keep anything that can catch fire – like pot holders, towels, plastic and clothing – away from the stove.
Why Tenants Move Out if Water Isn't Removed
11/19/2020 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO to Extract Water and Maintain Your Cash Flow
When apartments or hotels flood, it can be a disaster for managers and tenants alike. While an owner is probably most concerned with the financial loss from the incident, tenants will also probably not want to continue staying somewhere with damage, even if it is not extensive. Fast, proper water removal and damage restoration are essential to keep residents and guests. SERVPRO is trained and prepared for these scenarios and can work effectively to remove water damage in as short a time as possible, especially if the business has a profile in our ERP system. Here are some of the main motivators for tenants looking to escape a flooded apartment or hotel.
Drenched Belongings
Quick water removal in apartments and hotels is the only way to save many tenants' belongings. Materials such as wood, fabric, and leather can only remain soaked for so long before the damage becomes permanent, so our fast responses are critical in keeping them functional and in good condition. This also goes for materials and items belonging to the building itself, and you might also be stuck paying extra for replacement belongings if water is not removed quickly.
Structural Damage
Nobody enjoys living in a structurally damaged building, and persistent signs of damage may be enough for many tenants to pack up and leave, even if the damage is only superficial. Some people simply see staining on walls or warping in carpets and decide that the building is not quite up to their standards. SERVPRO follows up water removal with damage restoration, ensuring that lasting signs are minimal and non-intrusive.
Unsafe Conditions
Some floods can create unsafe conditions and situations in a building, weakening walls and ceilings enough to potentially collapse on residents. Also, mold damage may result from a flood if water is not removed quickly, which can aggravate some people's health. Especially at risk are individuals with respiratory conditions or weakened immune systems. The chance of residents being forced out by safety concerns increases as water stands and is allowed to degrade with contaminants.
SERVPRO of Sumner County has extensive experience in water removal for buildings and businesses of all sizes. Give us a call 24/7 at (615) 822-0200.
How to care for gym floors
11/2/2020 (Permalink)
Gym floors are an important part of schools, churches and recreation centers. They are used for various events throughout the year and regular maintenance is important to keep them in good condition. While you want them to look nice it is also important for them to be safe for use. Unkempt floors in disrepair can be hazardous as well as unsightly.
Daily Maintenance
- It is important that gym floors be swept daily with a dust mop. Dirt and dust buildup will scratch the finish of the floor when it is walked on and can create a slipping hazard.
- Vacuum all walk off mats daily to ensure that the dust and dirt does not transfer to the gym floor.
As Needed Maintenance & Preventative Measures
- Use a damp mop once or twice a week to clean the gym floor and prevent dust.
- Ensure that there is no standing water left on the gym floor. Excess water on the floor can damage the wood
- Ensure that all tables and chairs have felt pads or use a floor covering to protect the gym floor.
- Walk-off mats are a great way to minimize the amount of tracked in dirt and water. These are placed at the entries and help absorb debris and water that would otherwise be tracked onto the gym floor.
Call SERVPRO of Sumner County at 615-822-0200 to learn more about our cleaning services or to schedule an inspection. Our team would love to help ensure that your gym floors are in great shape!
Commercial Cleaning Services
10/9/2020 (Permalink)
When commercial building owners think of SERVPRO fire, water, and mold are the first things to come to mind. While these things are our specialty, there is also a long list of other services we provide to our commercial clients. This blog will provide a spotlight on some of the lesser known services that we perform on commercial buildings.
-Carpet Cleanings
It’s important for commercial facilities to have a professional appearance inside and out. One effective way to keep the inside looking and smelling nice is to have the carpets cleaned regularly. One main benefit from this service is that it extends the life of the carpet.
-Air Duct Cleaning
Keeping the air ducts clean is important for many reasons. The most important one is that it will save you money in the long run. If your ducts are dirty and congested it makes the unit work harder and uses more energy. This will cause your HVAC unit lifespan to decrease dramatically. Clean air ducts not only keep the facility smelling better, but it also increases the life of your unit.
-Bio Hazard Cleanup
Although this doesn’t happen everyday its good to know a company that can help you with this type of cleanup. If an employee cuts his hand on a machine, we can clean up the mess that is left behind. This type of cleaning isn’t done by regular janitorial companies. There are extra safety measures that must be in place to clean up biohazard.
-Corona Virus Cleanings
We offer two different types of corona cleanup. Preventative cleanings as well as confirmed cases. We can sanitize and disinfect large commercial facilities. By doing so your company can safely return to work if an employee tests positive.
These are just a few of our lesser known services. If anything ever goes wrong at your commercial facility please reach out and we will be happy to assist your needs!
SERVPRO® of Sumner County - Master Service Agreement
6/23/2020 (Permalink)
Master Service Agreements are customizable to each individual business.
SERVPRO® of Sumner County strives to make sure that your businesses are prepared for anything that happens.
We offer a specialized MSA (Master Service Agreement) to businesses at no cost. These are not contracts, but they do put everything in place to ensure that work can begin as soon as possible after a damage.
Master Service Agreements are customizable to each individual business. When going over the information to be contained within the agreement we will include whatever fits your business model. These agreements are great to put in place for your employees and staff to know what to do in case of an emergency loss. Because business owners are not able to be on site at all times, this document would ensure that everyone would know the protocol during an emergency. These are given as hardcopies to keep on site and also downloaded to our Emergency Ready Plan App so they can be accessed by anyone in your company with the proper permissions.
MSA’s generally include the following:
-Contact information
-FIRE & POLICE Departments
-SECURITY Company
-Water Department
-Electric Company
-IT Department
-Time & Material Pricing
-This includes labor, equipment and material cost
-Insurance Information
-Payment Information
-Contingency Business Information
-SERVPRO® of Sumner County Contact Information
Again, these are customizable. The basis behind these is to have one location for pertinent information in case of a damage. Having this information together before a loss happens helps to expedite the remediation process and in turn helps to lessen the extent of the damage. If you have any questions regarding our MSA’s or would like to schedule a time to sit down and put one together for your Sumner County business call our office at 615-822-0200.
Commercial Carpet Cleanings
5/7/2020 (Permalink)
Help to reduce the effects of wear and tear to high traffic areas
Does your business have regularly scheduled carpet cleanings? Although having the carpets professionally cleaned is probably not on the top of anyone’s to-do list it is an important item to attend to.
Regular Professional Cleanings:
-Restore the natural texture of the carpets and extend their life
-Help to reduce the effects of wear and tear to high traffic areas
-Remove spots and stains from frequently trafficked areas
-Reduce the spread of bacteria, germs and mold
Move that regularly scheduled cleaning to the top of your to-do list and let SERVPRO® of Sumner County check it off your list for you. Call our office today at 615-822-0200 to schedule your appointment.
SERVPRO® of Sumner County Mold Services
2/14/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO® of Sumner County presents: Mold in Drywall
Even a tiny bit of moisture can lead to mold growing in drywall.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ruled that only licensed professionals can clean any surface that has more than 10 square feet of mold. The EPA can’t know how you take care of your own home, but you will need an inspection to sell your house. You might not see all of the mold. The sooner you get rid of mold, the less damage it can do.
SERVPRO® of Sumner County is licensed for mold remediation.
Mold remediation means that you have to get rid of the mold spores that become mold. You also have to fix whatever caused the dampness.
Mold:
- can start growing on a damp surface within 24 hours
- destroy the materials they grow on
- spread and destroy adjacent materials
- grows from tiny spores that travel through the air
It is impossible to get rid of all of the mold spores. SERVPRO® of Sumner County can:
- remove drywall
- disinfect certain surfaces
- find the source of moisture
- stop the moisture problem
How can SERVPRO® of Sumner County help your business?
12/27/2019 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO® of Sumner County we understand that it is important for your business to be operational. We pride ourselves in offering the best methods to ensure that your business can be back up and running in the event of a loss occurring.
Plan Ahead
We offer a FREE facility inspection and ERP (Emergency Response Plan) that is accessible through an app that you can download and pass along to the individuals in your company that would be most likely to be on the front lines after a damage. This plan includes shut off locations, information for your local police and fire departments, contact information for the individuals in your company that need to be kept up to date on situations that could occur. ERP’s are printable as well, and can be kept with your business contingency plan.
Take Action
Here at SERVPRO® of Sumner County we take pride in the level of service that we offer to our customers. We know it is important to mitigate the damage and get your doors open as soon as possible. We are available 24/7 and have the resources necessary to mitigate your damage quickly and effectively.
If you would like to schedule for a FREE ERP to be completed on your business call our office and we would be happy to schedule an inspection. If you have damage and need assistance with mitigation, call our office and we will send someone to assess the damage and create a plan of action.
Document Restoration
11/19/2019 (Permalink)
In the aftermath of disaster, some of your most valued contents, (documents, photographs and books), could be lost forever. As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO® of Sumner County knows that timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged possessions. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, SERVPRO’s restoration professionals will help you recover your papers before it is too late.
The SERVPRO® Document Restoration Facility Is:
Innovative:
We use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing
Secure:
Managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance
Digital:
We use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents
Flexible Capacity:
We can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs
Full Service:
We offer a range of services including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing and deodorization
Our Technology
SERVPRO® document restoration team uses innovate vacuum freeze-drying techniques; in fact, we use the same freeze-drying methods used by the Library of Congress to dry valuable historic documents and books. Our vacuum freeze-drying process is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA).
Here to Help® With
- Paper Documents
- Books and Magazines
- Manuscripts and Files
- Photographs, Films, Negatives and Microfiche
- X-Rays
- Blueprints and maps
- Parchment
Document Cleaning and Disinfecting
In many water damage situations, like sewage or flood water, documents will be exposed to bacteria, viruses, pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Our team uses a gamma irradiation process to safely and effectively sterilize your documents.
Digitizing Services
In the digital age, converting your paper files and photos to digital formats can have an invaluable impact on your business or home. With the help of SERVPRO’s restoration professionals to digitize your documents, you can save storage space and have access to your records at the touch of a button. Perhaps most important of all, you will have digital copies of your valuable documents that can’t be lost in a flood or fire.
Why SERVPRO®?
SERVPRO® of Sumner County will get the job done right. For document restoration backed by state-of-the-art equipment call us today!
Tips for Preparing Your Evacuation Plan
11/4/2019 (Permalink)
Keep panic away with an evacuation plan. When you are faced with an emergency situation, the last thing that you want to do is panic. Having an evacuation plan in place helps you to keep some control during an unexpected and difficult situation. Planning ahead gives you a plan and a course of action.
Understanding Your Insurance Coverage
Many business owners are unaware of the coverage's that are laid out in their insurance policy. Unfortunately, there are certain naturally caused disasters that would not fall under their coverage. Make sure that you review your policy and are aware of the coverage's within. During an emergency situation the last thing that you want to be worried with is money. Having an insurance policy that you understand and fits your needs gives you peace of mind.
Include All Employees
Make sure that all of your employees are aware of the evacuation procedures that are put in place and review it regularly. Include in your plan, whom within the company will be assigned with certain tasks.
Keep It Flexible
Having a plan in place in case of an emergency is the first step, but always be open to change within the plan when complications arise. Always try to stick to the plan, but know that if something were to go wrong the plan can be changed to accommodate the situation at hand.
Set Up a Practice Schedule
Practice makes perfect! Once you have discussed a plan and have it put in place for your company make sure that you practice the plan with your employees often. This will ensure that everyone is aware of the plan and any necessary changes can be made according to trial and error. Practicing the plan without an actual emergency looming will help to ensure its un-flawed execution during an emergency.
Don’t Wait
Talking about creating an evacuation plan and implementing an evacuation plan are two totally different things. It’s easy to talk about creating a plan and continuing to put it off. Make sure that you take the time needed to create a plan for your company and employees.
Set Up Emergency Alerts
Be sure to set up alerts on your phone to let you know of an impending emergency situation. You can also get weather alert radios for different areas of the building. Knowing about what is happening around you is the only way to keep your employees and business as safe as possible.
Attention to Detail
No detail is too small. Don’t overlook tiny details because you believe that they might not make a difference in the plan that you would like to put in place. Sometimes the smallest details can make the biggest difference.
Call our office today to schedule an appointment for one of our representatives to create and Emergency Response Plan (ERP).
Water Damage Responsibility, Landlord or Tenant?
11/4/2019 (Permalink)
Who is responsible for a water damage in an apartment complex? If you are renting you might ask yourself this question if you have a water damage. Water damage is a common occurrence not only for homeowners but for renters as well.
Renter Rights
It is important to understand your rights when renting. In general, a landlord is responsible for maintaining the structure and ensuring that it is still livable and up to codes. Keep records when communicating with your landlord and asking for repairs to be completed. Further damage can be caused if repairs are not made in a timely fashion. Depending on the state in which you live rent details can vary, so be sure to check with your local housing authority.
Lease Agreement
It is important to know what your lease agreement states. Many lease agreements will include the insurance coverage's within that state the parameters. Know your rights and educate yourself. If you are aware of the verbiage and contents of the lease agreement you can discuss damages with your landlord and make informed decisions.
Renters Insurance
As a renter you should have at minimum a content policy to cover any contents in the event of a damage. In addition to being informed on your lease agreement, make sure that you are informed regarding your content policy parameters. If a claim needs to be filed due to damage for structure you will need to understand your policy for claim purposes.
Water damage requires immediate attention and rapid response. If you find yourself with damage call our office to schedule and inspection. We will put together a plan of action with estimate and ensure that the property and contents are restored to the best of our ability.
Plan For the Future of Your Sumner County Business
10/11/2019 (Permalink)
No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you are "Ready for whatever happens."
In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your Hendersonville or Gallatin facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. The ERP also establishes SERVPRO® of Sumner County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future. By downloading the free SERVPRO Ready App, this information is stored electronically and can be accessed using your mobile device, making help just a few clicks away.
Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster. Don't wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO® of Sumner County to establish your Emergency READY Profile, and be "Ready for whatever happens".
Advantages of the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile
- A no-cost assessment of your facility
- A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency
- A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
- Establishes SERVPRO® of Sumner County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
- Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
- Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information
The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® Advantage
4/19/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO® Ready Plan Mobile App available on any smart phone or tablet.
The best way to reduce business interruption following a disaster is to plan for it NOW.
Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Are you ready for whatever happens?”
- A no cost assessment of your facility.
This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
- A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency,
It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects, but it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
- A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having and immediate plan of action.
- Establishes SERVPRO® of Sumner County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and is close by.
- Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save your time and money.
- Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”
Call our office to schedule your free facility assessment today at 615-822-0200.
Is Your Sumner County Business Prepared If Disaster Strikes?
1/25/2019 (Permalink)
As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research.
Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens” speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.
By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire can affect your business.
The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® is a start of approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO® of Sumner County to create your SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile®, your business can receive the benefit of over 45 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO® of Sumner County is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.
Call our office today at 615-822-0200 to schedule your free facility assessment.
Restoring Your Gallatin Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event
11/2/2018 (Permalink)
So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
Flooding and water damage events at Gallatin commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of Sumner County
SERVPRO of Sumner County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Is Your Business Properly Prepared?
10/25/2018 (Permalink)
All businesses should be equipped with fire extinguishers based on their property footprints. The number of fire extinguishers needed are based off of how many floors, the amount of square footage, and what is being completed on these floors (i.e. kitchen, warehouse, etc.). Below is a breakdown of the different types of fire extinguishers based on what your business accomplishes during the day to day operations.
Class A:
This is the most common extinguisher and can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper and many plastics.
Class B:
Used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline and oil.
Class C:
Designed for fires involving appliances, tools or other equipment electrically energized or plugged in.
Class D:
For use on flammable metals; often specific for the type of metal in questions. These are typically found only in factories working with these metals.
Class K:
Intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils or fats in cooking appliances. These extinguishers are generally found in commercial kitchens, but are becoming popular in the residential market for use in kitchens.
Which type of fire extinguisher best suites your business?
Prepare Now. Learn How.
10/24/2018 (Permalink)
As a business owner, insurer or property manager you are a leader in your community and have the opportunity to set an example for your employees, customer and community to follow.
Join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types, and leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared. “Disasters happen” and not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including businesses of all sizes.
As an employer in your community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees and its infrastructure and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster. You can do this by taking three simple steps:
- Plan to stay in business
- Encourage your employees to become ready
- Protect your investment
We must work together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship and neighborhoods are ready. At Ready.gov/business, companies can find vital information on how to begin preparing their organization and addressing their unique needs during an emergency. You can also contact SERVPRO® of Sumner County to find out more on how to be ready when disaster strikes with the Emergency READY Program®.
A Contingency Plan for Your Hendersonville Business
10/3/2018 (Permalink)
An emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses; however, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees and your business during an emergency. OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.
- Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.
- Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all routes and exits are clearly marked and well lit, wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel and that the path is unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.
- Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover and conduct a head count. Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.
Getting Your Ducts In A Row After Home Renovations
9/7/2018 (Permalink)
What's lurking in your ducts? Call our office today for a free quote at 615-822-0200.
Flipping houses is kind of a thing now right? You sit at home watching HGTV and all of a sudden you are looking around and thinking of ways to knock down walls, rebuild walls and are trying to figure out where ALL the shiplap is going to go. Not you? Just me? Okay. Whether you are renovating your current home or purchasing properties to flip, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to finishing your project.
After you have completed your Chip and Joanna inspired renovations things are looking great! What you can’t see by simply walking through a home is your duct work. During construction all of the dust that is produced from drywall and trim cuts is recirculated through your home and finds its resting place in your duct work and HVAC system.
A post construction duct cleaning is a crucial last step to your renovation process. If you are in the process of renovations or have plans for renovations in the future call SERVPRO of Sumner County for a free quote today.
SERVPRO of Sumner County-Employee Spotlight
5/16/2018 (Permalink)
Taylor Richardson: Project Manager with SERVPRO of Sumner County
It’s no secret that team members play a large role in a company’s success. That is certainly true here at SERVPRO of Sumner County.
Taylor Richardson is one of our Project Managers at SERVPRO of Sumner County and has been with us for four years. Taylor brought a wealth of knowledge with him from his years of experience in the environmental services industry. He began with us as a technician and has worked his way up to his current position as Project Manager. Taylor is extremely knowledgeable in the restoration industry and holds IICRC Certifications in: Water Damage Restoration, Applied Structural Drying, Fire and Smoke Restoration, Commercial Drying Specialist and Applied Microbial Remediation. In addition to working locally, Taylor also travels often with our Storm Team when they are needed. Taylor is a key asset to our company and we are happy to have him with us.
Q.) What are three words you would us to describe SERVPRO?
A.) My second family
Q.) If you could switch roles with anyone at the company, who would you choose?
A.) I would not switch with anyone. I love the production side.
Q.) If you were stuck on a deserted island what three items would you bring?
A.) Gun, Ammo, Pillow
Q.) What is on your bucket list?
A.) Move to Alaska
Q.) Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us.
A.) My dream is to own a Disaster Recovery Team, and travel to all natural disasters.
How To Care for Gym Floors in Sumner County
12/5/2017 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Sumner County at 615-822-0200 to learn more about our cleaning services or to schedule an inspection.
How To Care for Gym Floors in Sumner County
Gym floors are an important part of schools, churches and recreation centers. They are used for various events throughout the year and regular maintenance is important to keep them in good condition. While you want them to look nice it is also important for them to be safe for use. Unkempt floors in disrepair can be hazardous as well as unsightly.
Daily Maintenance
- It is important that gym floors be swept daily with a dust mop. Dirt and dust buildup will scratch the finish of the floor when it is walked on and can create a slipping hazard.
- Vacuum all walk off mats daily to ensure that the dust and dirt does not transfer to the gym floor.
As Needed Maintenance & Preventative Measures
- Use a damp mop once or twice a week to clean the gym floor and prevent dust.
- Ensure that there is no standing water left on the gym floor. Excess water on the floor can damage the wood
- Ensure that all tables and chairs have felt pads or use a floor covering to protect the gym floor.
- Walk-off mats are a great way to minimize the amount of tracked in dirt and water. These are placed at the entries and help absorb debris and water that would otherwise be tracked onto the gym floor.
Call SERVPRO of Sumner County at 615-822-0200 to learn more about our cleaning services or to schedule an inspection. Our team would love to help ensure that your gym floors are in great shape!
7 Emergency Supplies Your Sumner County Business Should Have on Hand
10/27/2017 (Permalink)
Inclement weather situations and power outages can give little to no warning, which is why it is important to have basic emergency supplies.
7 Emergency Supplies Your Sumner County Business Should Have on Hand
Is your Sumner County business prepared for an emergency situation? Inclement weather situations and power outages can give little to no warning, which is why it is important for your business to have basic emergency supplies on hand in the event they are needed. These 7 necessities are important to ensure your employees safety in case of emergency.
Food-
Having a 3-4 day supply of non-perishable food items for each employee is important. Stocking up on items such as salt-free crackers, canned foods with high liquid content, protein bars, peanut butter and dried fruits is a great way to ensure that your employees will be taken care of.
Water-
In addition to non-perishable food items, it is important to have a minimum 3 day supply of emergency water per person. You can go about purchasing the water in different ways depending on the amount of usable space you have for storage. The most common methods are cases, gallon jugs or 55-gallon storage barrels. All of these can be used for drinking and sanitation purposes when necessary.
Radios-
Radios are useful to keep you updated on current weather patterns, evacuation notices and much more. Keeping a few AM/FM radios on hand will keep you abreast to any important information during an emergency. We recommend solar powered radios or battery powered radios for this purpose. If you choose to stock your supplies with battery powered radios, try and save battery power whenever possible.
Protection Against Elements-
During inclement weather if your building sustains damage that deems it unsafe to occupy, all employees may need to evacuate the premises. Having weather appropriate gear such as, ponchos, gloves, thermal blankets and a canopy shelter is key in making sure that all employees are safe.
Emergency Lights-
Electricity can go out for any amount of time during inclement weather or emergency situation. Emergency lighting is essential for your employees to navigate the facility in a safe manner. Battery powered flashlights are great short term lighting, but it is best to also have solar powered or hand cranked flashlights for long term use. We also recommend keeping candles and waterproof matches.
First Aid Kit-
A basic first aid kit with bandages, gauze, adhesive tape and other useful items will be a tremendous help in the event one of your employees is injured. Keeping 2-3 of these stocked and in easily accessible locations is best practice.
Sanitation Supplies-
During a disaster or emergency situation, a sanitary water source and plumbing will more than likely be unavailable. To ensure the wellbeing of employees and to keep things sanitary, you should have emergency sanitation supplies available. Common sanitation items are, hand sanitizers, individual packs of tissue and quality cleaning chemicals.
Having an emergency kit during times of crisis will hopefully keep you and your staff safe. Be sure to print this when putting together your Emergency Kit. In the meantime, be sure that you have a vetted vendor for times of emergencies. Call SERVPRO of Sumner County (615) 822-0200. We are always here to help.
Tips for cleaning your Sumner County Restaurant
4/28/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Sumner County offers many cleaning services to help your restaurant stay in compliance
SERVPRO of Sumner County offers many cleaning services to help your restaurant stay in compliance with the National Fire Protection Association and the federal Food and Drug Administration. These services not only help keep your restaurant in compliance, but they are key factors in the health and safety of your employees and patrons.
Carpet Cleaning
Great service and food are not the only things that keep customers returning to your establishment, maintaining a restaurants cleanliness and appearance play a large role in a restaurants success. Although most carpeting is found in the dining area, there are aerosol grease particles that travel through the air and find their final home on the carpeting. The residue is a host for bacteria and a magnet for dirt. With the abundance of foot traffic, as well as food and drink that are spilled regularly, keeping the carpets clean can be a daunting task. Scheduling regular cleanings will help to keep your restaurants carpets clean and odor free.
Exhaust Fan Cleaning
Ensuring that your exhaust fans are cleaned regularly and properly is one of the most important tasks in the restaurant business. Having your exhaust fans cleaned is required by the National Fire Protection Association and the federal Food and Drug Administration. Commercial exhaust fans are a popular place for grease build up, and keeping a regular cleaning schedule decreases your risk of having a grease fire. Cleaning your exhaust fans regularly also increases the lifespan and ensures that your equipment is working at top capacity.
SERVPRO of Sumner County can not only clean the carpets and exhaust fans in your restaurant, we can work around your schedule to ensure that both you and your customers are not inconvenienced. Call our office today for more information and scheduling options.
SERVPRO Commercial Water Removal in Gallatin – Dehumidifiers
4/3/2017 (Permalink)
Commercial water removal in Gallatin doesn’t stop at pumps and vacuums
Gallatin Commercial Water Removal - SERVPRO Dehumidifiers
Despite a push to digital, some record keeping must still be done on paper. These documents record valuable city and county information needed for tracing the history of a title, property boundaries, and other legal requirements.
Commercial water removal in Gallatin doesn't stop at pumps and vacuums. Once the standing water has been removed, it is just as important to remove any excess moisture from your property and the air around it. To do this, SERVPRO uses a series of dehumidifiers. This is a very safe way to pull moisture from plat books and other records kept by county offices and construction companies as well as the offices they are kept in.
The most common type we use is a refrigerant dehumidifier. It extracts moisture from the air by condensation. It operates by air flow forced through refrigerated coils. The condensed water is collected in a tray where it is either drained or pumped out of the machine.
Our SERVPRO technicians use this on job sites where the temperature is usually over 50 degrees Fahrenheit and the available power is limited due to local electrical service being down. It is especially effective on surfaces that are moderate to highly porous and permeable to air and water; carpet, carpet padding and drywall for example.
Another machine we use when the temperature is lower is the desiccant dehumidifier. Moisture is removed by air flow which passes over silica gel. This substance attracts and captures air vapor very effectively. The condensed water is disposed of by heating it and venting it outside of the business structure.
This method is preferred for jobs where the temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and the power supply is unlimited. It is particularly useful for dense materials which have low permeability and porosity, hardwood floors, and wall framing for example.
If the structure has a large amount of porous and dense materials each, both types of dehumidifiers may be used. Both methods are good for drying out title records and other paper documents without damaging them.
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