Tips for Protecting Your Commercial Business from Vandalism

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Local pet supply store broken into and vandalized.

What is Vandalism and Who is at Risk?

The legal definition of vandalism varies from state to state, but the term generally means the intentional damage, defacement, or destruction of someone’s property without the owner’s permission. It is a criminal act and is prohibited by state laws, which may qualify as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the financial damage that is involved. Additionally, there are some states that refer to vandalism as malicious mischief or criminal mischief.

As far as who may be affected by vandalism, the answer is all business properties, especially vacant buildings. Unfortunately, experiencing vandalism can impact a business in numerous of ways. The most obvious is that it creates damage to the property, which will take time and money to repair.

Tips for Preventing Vandalism

While it is impossible to prevent all acts of vandalism, you can prepare your property so that it discourages vandals.

• Maintain good lighting. The property should remain well lit, especially at night.
• Install and properly maintain cameras. If a crime does occur, police can use your surveillance to identify and catch the perpetrators.
• Keep property tidy. An unorganized area tends to attract vandals.
• Plant shrubbery or fencing. Not only do fencing and shrubbery offer cosmetic appeal to any property, but they also function as the first line of defense against potential intruders.
• Invest in break-resistant glass. Utilizing a break-resistant glass will make the act of breaking in more difficult for vandals to break in.
• Don’t ignore it! If you do experience vandalism, don’t put it off. Vandalism encourages more vandalism.
• Contact authorities. Report vandalism to your local department as soon as possible. If it is not reported, nothing will be done. The department may increase the number of patrols in your area if it is known.
• Share information. Check in with the neighboring businesses to see if they have experienced any sort of vandalism. Sharing information helps reveal the criminals’ patterns that could potentially aide in stopping the vandals.
• Join a business watch group. Like neighborhood watch groups, there are resources available to either start a group or join one. It is a good way to reduce crime by keeping an eye on each other’s property.

Has your place of business been affected by vandalism? SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana can assist with any damages that have occurred. 

Commercial Insurance Basics

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Downtown commercial property. Understand what your commercial insurance policy covers.

Property coverage is an essential item in every business budget. Most commercial insurance policies cover damage to your structure in Bolivar, Washington, or Sunflower County, as well as any equipment, furniture or other items that are marred or destroyed in a fire. The answers to the following questions can help you decide which policy to purchase.

What Does a Commercial Insurance Policy Cover?

A basic policy is designed to pay for sudden, accidental occurrences that cause harm to your property. It prevents you from having to pay the cost of fire damage mitigation services out of pocket, and it doesn't just cover the building itself. Other features of your property may be included in the policy:

• Office equipment
• Furniture
• Landscaping
• External structures
• Fences
• Inventory
• Important documents
• Manufacturing machines

What Factors Affect Cost?

Most commercial insurance coverage provides comparable protection, but if there are factors that put your business at a higher risk of fire, your policy will likely cost more. For example, a restaurant owner is probably going to pay more for insurance than someone who runs an office building. Newer buildings with better safety features such as fire-resistant building materials and a state-of-the-art fire suppression system can often get better insurance rates. When you meet with your insurance agent, be sure to ask about the factors that affect the cost of your policy.

Does It Matter Whether You Own or Rent?

If you own property, you need insurance to cover all the items listed above in the event of a fire. If you are renting from someone else, though, you still need to protect yourself. Your landlord's policy will probably only cover the items he or she owns. You still need coverage for the items inside, such as computers, phones and files.
A commercial insurance policy can save you a lot of money in the event of a fire. Make sure you have the right coverage for your business.

Handling Commercial Losses With Ease in Champaign/Urbana

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Property that uses SERVPRO Champaign/Urbana for any size loss

Handling Your Commercial Loss

When it comes to commercial restoration, you shouldn't leave anything to chance. That's why property managers all over Champaign/Urbana rely on professionals like SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana. Compared to other restoration companies, our skilled technicians and the advanced equipment we use to take care of any-scale disaster is unmatched. Our use of professional equipment and train technicians allows us to restore your Champaign/Urbana commercial property or retail business back to its pre loss condition quickly, reliably, and more efficiently.

Here are some of the unique tools we have to restore your property:

• Infrared cameras can be used to identify hidden water locations for the thorough removal of moisture that is hidden from the naked eye.
• Sensitive moisture meters/detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.
• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water from events like floods. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace.
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
• Air Scrubbers that are able to filter the air of contaminants and fumes.
• Thermal Foggers and environmentally-safe Deodorization Agents to leave a pleasant scent upon use.

When disaster strikes, you can count on SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana to take care of your property, so you can put your commercial business back in order. Give us a call at 217-355-0077 24/7!

What Do I Do About Mold in the Kitchen of my Champaign/Urbana Restaurant

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Mold in your Champaign/Urbana restaurant will reduce sales and reputation. Call SERVPRO for mold remediation.

Our SERVPRO team can help with effective remediation solutions that can keep you going while mold removal efforts continue

You might not realize how likely mold damage and other microbial threats are in your Champaign/Urbana restaurant. With so many pieces of equipment generating heat and creating steam in an already humid environment, you have more than met the conditions necessary for facilitating mold growth. Addressing these concerns might not seem like a pressing matter. Still, in many cases, traditional cleaning methods are ineffective against structural mold.

It is more complicated than remediators showing up and getting the job done regarding mold removal for your Champaign/Urbana restaurant. In the recent legislature, the state of Illinois has mandated that a third party assess the damage that the mold has caused and allow this third party to dictate what efforts must occur to provide a safe working environment for your restaurant again. We can follow up quickly on these decisions to limit anytime that your kitchen might need to stay closed.

What Happens if I Do Nothing About Mold?

Many property owners mistakenly believe that doing nothing for mold growth allows the problem to dissipate naturally. Unfortunately, in many situations, these conditions only worsen as humidity and steam remain persistent problems in the active kitchen.

What Are Effective Strategies for Removing Mold from Brick and Tile? 

Tile is often resistant to mold colonization, but grouted joints surrounding these tiles are not. Brick and grout can both become hosts for active colonization, which can continue to spread beyond the boundaries of your kitchen area. Some of the removal solutions include:

• Soda Blasting
• Wipe Cleaning
• Controlled Demolition

Mold can be an unexpected and threatening presence in your restaurant, but our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana team can offer effective remediation solutions. Give us a call anytime at 217-355-0077.

How to Choose Your Commercial Restoration Company

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

The ability to know what to do in certain situations as a business owner defines your business entity's success or failure. Situations such as losses, damage to the business caused by water, fire, and weather-related problems go beyond a business owner's expertise when there is a need for control measures to be taken. A business owner needs a company with a proven track record of solutions to restore the business back to its normal day to day operation. Commercial restoration helps businesses to control the impact of fire damage and water damage.

Some things you must look out for in the search for a commercial restoration company

EFFICIENCY: the key to getting back in business requires swift action. Look for a company that delivers good results in a short period to handle your restoration processes. A good turnaround time helps you to keep your customers serviced and satisfied immediately, and for you to get back into the business.

AVAILABILITY: in the event of fire damage or water damage, the availability of expert damage control experts and commercial restoration companies cannot be overemphasized. They ensure that you get back in business as early as possible to cover your losses.

COMMUNICATION: Because of the resulting disturbances that come with damages resulting from flooding, leaks, and fire outbreaks, actionable plans need to be communicated to the business owner by the restoration company. It helps them to make informed business decisions for long term efficiency.

In all these, SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana provides you the security that your business needs to stay in production. Our experience as a commercial restoration company during a situation of fire damage and water damage spans across different exercises carried out over the past years. Other damage control plans we have cover damages resulting from inclement weather change, damages from equipment failure, damages from vandalism, accidental damages, and aging property damage control.

Our 24 hours service runs to solve and control your losses to a bare minimum where you will be able to get back in business in a smooth transition. For any questions related to commercial restoration, don’t hesitate to call us at 217-355-0077.

Why Disaster Planning Is Important For Commercial Buildings

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

Do you know why most businesses shut down when hit by a disaster? It is because they do not have an emergency plan to deal with these disasters. Among the businesses that survive, almost all of them have a working and effective emergency plan. This is why planning for a disaster is extremely important for commercial buildings.

Importance of Disaster Planning For Commercial Buildings

Protecting a commercial building from natural disasters is just as important as protecting the place that you live in. If the building is not prepared to face these disasters, its whole operation will shut down. As a result, the business will face huge losses as well. According to an estimate, 50% of the businesses shut down when a natural disaster hits them because they do not have an effective plan to deal with these disasters. Not investing in an emergency plan is one of the huge mistakes that businesses make. It can cost you a lot more than you ever imagined.

So, if you do not want your business to be among the 50% that shuts down, you need to make sure that the commercial building where the operations of your business are taking place has an effective emergency plan.

What Will Happen to Your Commercial Building If You Do Not Secure It?

When your office is building is secured against disasters, it will ensure the smooth operation of your business. Want to know what will happen to your business if you do not take the necessary steps to secure it against disasters? Keep reading then.

• Your Building’s Exterior Will Get Damaged

The exterior of the building will be the first thing that will get damaged when hit by a storm. Therefore, it is extremely important that the roof, doors, and windows of your commercial building are prepared to face any unsuitable weather. If you have not reinforced the doors and the windows with any sturdy form of protection, make sure that you invest in it.

• The Inventory And The Equipment Will Get Flooded

In areas where flooding is common, you must take the necessary steps to keep the office warehouse secure and dry. If you have not taken any preventive measures for it, it can cost you greatly as many important inventories are kept in the warehouse. When the level of the water will rise, the entire inventory will get damaged. Additionally, the equipment placed on the ground level will get damaged as well. This is why you need to keep the place secure and dry.

How To Ensure That Your Commercial Building Is Safe From Disasters?

To make sure that your commercial building is ready to face any unpleasant circumstances, you need to keep it maintained. Evaluate all the systems of the building on regular basis. Make sure that the heating, conditioning, and ventilation systems are working effectively.

You can also partner with an expert company that will help you ensure that all the features of the building are in working condition and the safety equipment is installed correctly or not. So, if you need expert advice, feel free to contact SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana at (217)355-0077.

How Can a Champaign/Urbana Office Remove Fire Odors Before Reopening?

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can Handle Any Size Fire Damage Cleanup in a Champaign/Urbana Business

One of the biggest post-fire cleanup concerns property owners have is regarding the time frame needed for restoration before reopening. SERVPRO technicians can estimate the downtime necessary to enable a safe reopening for the business.

The odors left behind after fire damage in a Champaign/Urbana business can be significant; because soot can be caustic to surfaces and airborne particles can cause issues, it is crucial to get them removed before reopening.  SERVPRO technicians have a multi-layered approach to fire clean-up, which includes:

• The use of professional cleaning agents on surfaces
• Controlled demolition techniques as needed
• Odor control applications to remove fire scents from the structure and contents

SERVPRO Has a Large Tool Box of Equipment and Products

SERVPRO techs have different types of fire odor removal processes depending on the part of the business getting treated. Hydroxyl generators are beneficial for eradicating airborne particulates that cause pungent odors. This method of odor control is safe for use around people and plants. When the technicians use thermal fogging to neutralize odors, the building needs to be cleared of people, and the technician wears protective clothing. The heated solutions permeate porous items such as reception area furnishings and carpet, where it latches onto smoke molecules and eradicates them. 

SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana has the training and experience to handle any size fire damage mitigation in commercial properties. The technicians work fast and efficiently to get your business back to, "Like it never even happened."

How Small Leaks Can Damage Your Champaign/Urbana Property

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

Small leaks like this can quickly turn into larger issues.

When you think of severe water damage, the first images that come to mind are probably severe flooding with cars floating down the street and a basement fully immersed in water. Rain and flooding do cost business and home owners tens of millions of dollars in repairs annually, but a slow and persistent water leak can also lead to catastrophic damage if not addressed in a timely manner. We explore the consequences of allowing a slow leak to continue.

Structure Damage

Your Champaign/Urbana business or home relies on wood and metal materials. Water can weaken wood and corrode metal. Over time, this weakening can lead to floors buckling and walls and ceilings collapsing.

Sheetrock is also prone to water damage. The gypsum materials in sheetrock can act as a sponge, drawing in the water and weakening the walls. This is also prime breeding ground for mold growth.

Untreated brick and concrete are also susceptible to damage. Continued exposure to water can cause cracks and erosion. If the water freezes and then thaws out, the damage left can be severe, requiring expensive and extensive repairs to the foundation.

Flooring and fixtures

Water can weaken the backing of your carpeting and rugs and make them more susceptible to damage. Additionally, carpeting is not intended to get wet and can attract mold, mildew and insects when it is not dried out right away.

Constant leaks can also cause corrosive damage to metal fixtures such as sink and shower heads. The constant water can cause decay over time to rubber gaskets and cause the water pressure to decrease.

In the bathroom, an unattended leak can lead to loosening tiles in your shower or countertops. Leaks in the kitchen can lead to buckling floors and discoloration.

Mold & Other Pests

When water is allowed to remain stagnant for any period of time, it begins to attract mold, insects and germs. If a wet environment is allowed to remain in your business or home, airborne pathogens and mold will be attracted to it.

Financially Devastating    

Water damage becomes especially expensive when attempting to sell your building or home. It’s better to be proactive now, than to wait until your building or home is already on the market. Home inspectors are trained to look for water and mold damage and will document their findings, no matter how big or small, in their pre-sale inspection report. Potential buyers can use this report to offer substantially less than your asking price or, worse yet, abandon the deal altogether because they feel the building or home is too much trouble to repair.

We can determine the scope of your water damage at any stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

If you suspect you have a leak call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana today at 217-355-0077

Business Owners: Plan to Stay In Business

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

We want to keep our local businesses.

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

Ready Business asks companies to take 3 simple steps:

• Plan to stay in business
• Encourage your people to become Ready
• Protect your investment

This year we want to emphasize our encouragement with individuals, families, and businesses to take active steps toward becoming Ready. Let’s work together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are Ready.

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

Tips to Help Your Business be Ready

• Update and Distribute Emergency Contact Information to your Employees. Additionally, you can create and distribute a list of important emergency numbers in the areas you do business.
• Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans.
• Conduct Office Evacuation/Shelter-in-Place Exercises and Drills. Once completed, evaluate how well they worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.
• Put Emergency Items of Display. Showcase an Emergency Supply Kit in your break room or other high-traffic locations and encourage employees to get their own Emergency Supply Kit for their homes.

The Risks of Flooding in a Champaign/Urbana Restaurant

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Flood waters like these can quickly cause damage to your Champaign/Urbana restaurant

Running a restaurant in Champaign/Urbana can come with a list of challenges to maintain your competitiveness with the other eateries in the region. When you factor in situations like disasters, these incidents can derail a business, especially in instances of flooding that do not get addressed quickly. Business owners can benefit from immediately reaching out to the professionals of our restoration team to get mitigation and clean up started quickly.

Restaurants thrive on offering their customers a positive experience from the moment they walk into their walk back out, so flood damage in Champaign/Urbana can substantially hinder this goal. Even in situations where flooding can remain contained to specific areas of your restaurant where it does not entirely hinder production, such as a leaking portion of the roof, addressing the water damage in these areas must happen immediately to avoid costly and destructive effects like mold growth. Our SERVPRO professionals can help.

As you are aware in the food and beverage industry, mold and contaminants are reputation killers and can keep you from serving your customers until you can prove through testing that the situation has gotten sufficiently resolved. Preventing these occurrences beforehand with the application of our high-strength antimicrobial agents to exposed materials, contents, and structural elements can make these wet areas uninhabitable to mold spores in the environment.

Content removal such as the furniture in your dining area and the sophisticated equipment in your kitchen helps to prevent these items from becoming too damaged to preserve. Once the restaurant is dried and cleaned appropriately, we can return these removed items to their original positions. We also utilize specialized equipment and practices to get mitigation started from the time that our response team arrives. With fast water removal and drying solutions for your business, we can get you back up and running quickly after a flooding emergency.

Your restaurant has a reputation to worry about, and too much bad publicity or experiences for your guests can ruin your business model. Let our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana response team help you through flooding emergencies to handle the situation quickly and thoroughly to get you back to business as usual. Give us a call today at 217-355-0077.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in Champaign/Urbana

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

After a fire, the interior and sometimes even the exterior smells of burnt materials and smoke odors. These odors can linger for months unless the smoke odor is removed after a fire.

Fire damage restoration in Champaign/Urbana of a commercial structure is a primary focus of all SERVPRO teams, including the building's deodorization and contents. Every fire is different based on the fire's temperature level and the actual materials consumed. We train our fire team specialists to recognize these sources and the techniques required to remove smoke odors after a fire.

Our process includes:

Removal of the source of the odor, including all fire-damaged materials

We clean all surfaces with odor-causing residues with appropriate cleaners such as soap or solvents

We distribute deodorizers following the path of the smoke residue in the building, including other rooms and HVAC systems

Sealing surfaces such as walls by repainting to lock in the odor-causing molecules

Contact SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana for fire damage restoration services in Champaign/Urbana and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call 217-355-0077.

Get your Commercial Ducts Professionally Cleaned by SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Dust can build up in your ducts and cause various issues

Air quality at home and at your place of work has become increasingly important in the last few years. One of the biggest and easiest actions you can take to increase the air quality inside is to get the ductwork cleaned. SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana has been cleaning residential and commercial ductwork in Champaign/Urbana for over 20 years now. We have the experience, equipment, and expertise to clean your ductwork to the highest standard of clean. 

Why should you get your ducts cleaned?

• Improve air quality: having a lot of dust and particulates in the air reduces the air quality in your building and can cause health issues for employees or customers with sinus or respiratory issues.
• Increase the efficiency of your HVAC Units: dirty or clogged ductwork puts an increased strain on your HVAC system causing it to work harder and use more energy in order to heat and cool your building. Dust build up can even destroy a HVAC system and become very expensive if you need to replace the system.
• Reduce Odors: Mold has a musty smell and can sometimes be found on ductwork. Even decomposing dust can have a strong and unpleasant odor.
• Reduce the duct build up around your building: Dirty ductwork blows dust around causing dust to build up on surfaces quicker and making more frequent cleaning necessary. 

Why SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana should be your duct cleaning choice.

• Experience: We have worked on commercial duct work in single buildings, strip malls, high rises and manufacturing.
• We use equipment with HEPA filters to put your duct work under negative pressure when we clean it. The negative pressure is what is recommended by NADCA for duct cleaning and the HEPA equipment ensures an even greater level of filtration for particulates, even mold!
• No matter how big your project is we can handle it. Even if we need to call in additional people or equipment. We can get the job done.

How do you know if you need a duct cleaning?

• Musty odors or unpleasant smells with seemingly no source.
• Large dust build up on supply or return vents.
• After reconstruction or remodeling there are often elevated levels of harsh dust.
• If you see an excessive amount of dust building up between cleanings that means there is a lot of dust circulating and a lot of dust and particulates that we can take out of the duct work.
• NADCA recommends that duct work be cleaned every 3-5 years. 

We can come inspect your building and give you an estimate for what it would take to clean your system today – 217-355-0077

Hardwood Floor Repair? SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana can do that

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Hardwood floors look stunning when running throughout commercial businesses, but they come at a price. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to keep your business’ hardwood floors in good condition for as long as you can. Water, fire, storm, and other kinds of damage can all negatively affect the quality of your business’ hardwood floors. However, sometimes, there’s no way to predict a flood, fire, or storm that will threaten the integrity of your hardwood floors. Luckily, SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana is standing by, always ready to help.

How Are Hardwood Floors Damaged?

Damage to hardwood floors is usually instigated by intense heat or excessive moisture. Your business’ hardwood floors can be exposed to these elements in fire, water, or storm damage. If the damage is significant, they may require replacement.

Heat Damage

When exposed to intense heat, hardwood floorboards tend to shrink, which can cause gaps to form in the floor. On the other hand, if your floors have sustained solely soot or smoke damage, they can often be salvaged and restored. In order to prevent hardwood floor damage due to heat, be sure to prevent the temperature from climbing too high inside of your commercial business.

Moisture Damage

While intense heat causes hardwood floors to shrink, excess moisture causes floorboards to expand, as they absorb the water. In their expanded state, hardwood floorboards can buckle, become concave or convex (also known as cupping and crowning), and even come loose. Another danger when hardwood floors are exposed to moisture is mold growth. The moisture residue stemming from water damage or high humidity levels inside of your commercial business can both produce ideal breeding grounds for mold. Moisture damage and mold growth can both be prevented in your commercial business by maintaining low humidity levels indoors. Should you discover mold growing on your hardwood floors, be sure to give us a call and take advantage of our Commercial Mold Remediation services.

Let Us Be Your “One-Stop-Shop”

While we’re known here at SERVPRO for our commercial mitigation and restoration services, it is important to note that we also offer an extensive list of building services, such as hardwood floor repair. We take pride in being our customers’ “one-stop-shop”, as they can trust us to take care of the entire job from start to finish, instead of complicating the process by going through multiple companies. We understand that damage of any kind to your commercial business, whether it be water, fire, storm, or mold, disrupts business and interrupts schedules. Trust SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened,” after any emergency by letting us handle both the mitigation and rebuild processes. Call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana today at 217-355-0077 or check out all of our building services to learn about the many ways in which we can help restore your business after an emergency.

SERVPRO Can Help Your Business

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana is trained to adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitization standards.

SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana is the leading professional in restoration and cleaning. Provides a multitude of different services for any commercial business. We are equipped to handle any job small or disaster. Here are just some of the services we will gladly provide in your time of need.

Restoration:

• Fire, smoke and soot
• Water removal and dehumidification
• Catastrophic storm response
• Move outs and contents restoration
• Contents claim inventory services

Cleaning

• Air ducts and HVAC
• Carpet, upholstery, drapes, and blinds
• Ceilings, walls and hard floors
• Odor identification
• Deodorization

Whether you need your carpets cleaned or need help with water damage from a terrible pipe burst, SERVPRO will help your business. SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana can be at your place of business to give a pre-estimate for the work needed. If you have any questions, please give us a call at (217) 355-0077. 

Why SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana for commercial cleaning services

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Cleaning

SERVPRO offers the unique value of a one-stop resource for all your commercial and damage repair needs. First and foremost, we offer a variety of cleaning services, including:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

 When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look it's very best. In addition, if our commercial cleaning team finds signs of damage from water or mold during our services, we can not only alert your business promptly but can work with you to address the situation, regardless of how substantial the damage is.

Call us here at SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana for help with all your commercial cleaning needs. We are experienced in cleanup after water and fire damage, and mold remediation is one of our specialties! Our phone number is (217)355-0077.

Soot Happens

11/10/2020 (Permalink)

The damage caused by soot can result in smoke marks, streaks and discolorations of walls and ceilings as well as health issues. Soot travels quickly and penetrates deep into surfaces.  Bedding, personal belongings, clothing, furniture, walls, ceilings, floor coverings, heat ducts, window blinds and all other surfaces that come in contact with soot can also be affected.  Unless proper cleaning takes place, soot can often bleed back through cleaned surfaces, causing further damage and at the least, requiring the surface or item to be re-cleaned.

How do I clean it up?

• Never assume that simply painting over the soot will solve the problem.  If not cleaned properly, painted soot will bleed through within 6 months or less.  Attempting to remove soot from painted surfaces could actually smear and grind the particles further into the surface.  Proper equipment, like a dry chemical sponge, is often used to remove soot.
• The home or office HVC cold air return duct can actually distribute soot particles, causing damages throughout.  Special air duct cleaning is often required.  HEPA air scrubbing equipment is often needed as soot floats and contaminates rooms that have been previously cleaned.  This recontamination is referred to as “Fall Out”.
• Clothing, curtains, bedding, carpets, upholstery often need extensive cleaning using Infused Ozone Gas and other products that break down soot.  Pressurized Ozone and Hydroxyl chambers are typically needed after the cleaning process to remove the strong odors caused by smoke and soot.
• Wallpaper can streak unless a dry chemical sponge is used first.   Even then, due to the paper based materials, wallpapers are often damaged beyond repair.  We will give you a quick assessment of the damaged items and area and secure the areas that are not affected to prevent contamination.  SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana will secure and move contaminated items to a separate location for proper cleaning and deodorization.  We can even clean damage to the structure or even repair/replace as needed!  

Our Biggest Tip.

The biggest mistake many home and business owners make is attempting to clean up the damage themselves or ignoring it completely. Contact SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana who has 30 years of restoration experience and has a highly trained staff and are properly equipped in removing soot damage.  Talk to one of our friendly staff today by calling 217-355-0077, we are here to help!

What to Do After a Commercial Fire

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

Should your business experience a fire, the damage can be devastating.  In addition to issues created by flames and soot, the business can suffer more loss due to water damage created by firefighters trying to douse the blaze with water.  Mix in the smoke odors and you are looking at a lot of issues to deal with after the final flame is extinguished.  Don’t despair. When a fire impacts your business, the best thing to do is to follow the following steps that will help you get things back to normal as quickly as possible.

• Contact your insurance company– Call your insurance provider ASAP.  Informing them as quickly as possible will help with the claims process.  Even while firefighters are still battling the blaze, placing a call to your insurance company is a good idea.  SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana can assist you with this.
• Take notes and document the damage. Once the fire is out, don’t remove anything. Instead, take stock of the damage and document it with pictures, videos, and lists of what you lost in the blaze. Don’t move anything or try to salvage items before your insurance adjuster gets there. Simply documenting the damage and preparing it for your insurance company is what is needed at this point.
• Contact SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana. We know that getting your business back on track as quickly as possible is crucial to its survival.  At SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana our employees are certified experts who know exactly what needs to be done to get your business back on track following a fire.   Other damage restoration work we can do for you and your business includes Commercial Water Damage, Board Ups, Content Restoration and, and Biohazard Restoration.

To get in touch with SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana, simply call one of our friendly staff at 217-935-2992 at any time and we will send someone over to help you with what you need.  We are here to help!

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Board-ups, we got you covered!

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Should your building ever be damaged by fire, you need to secure it quickly and safely to avoid any further damage.  With 30 years of experience in providing top notch restoration services, you can count on SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana to respond quickly with emergency tarping and board-up services to keep out the elements and unwanted guests.  We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.   We are here to help guide you through this difficult time and get your business back to operational.

We will board up any damaged windows, walls or doors to prevent further disruption and ensure the security of your property.  We also provide tarping for damaged roofs.  When shielding the compromised areas, we help prevent further damage to your building.  With SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana, you can feel confident knowing that we bring 30 years of experience to your property restoration, with a solid commitment to guiding you through the process from start to finish.  We have the expertise, equipment and dedication to handle the entire project, from initial damage assessment through site cleanup and preparation and rebuilding to preloss condition.  Through it all, we’ll strive to minimize disruptions, answer all your questions and guide you through the process.  Questions about our services?  Call one of our friendly staff here at SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana today at 217-355-0077.  We are here to help!

Water Damage Timeline For Your Business

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

One of the services that SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana offers is water damage and mold mitigation. When an unfortunate and sudden water loss occurs, time is very much of the essence. Here is a general timeline for a water loss.

In Minutes

• Water rapidly spreads and penetrates even the smallest of spaces, saturating everything in its way.
• Water is absorbed into porous materials including drywall, flooring, sheet rock, upholstery, and personal contents.
• Furniture finishes may bleed causing permanent discoloration on flooring.
• Paper belongings including photographs, books, and hard copy records become saturated, causing them to expand and become distorted.

1 – 24 Hours:

• Musty odors appear.
• Drywall and sheet rock begin to swell and crumble.
• Furniture begins to expand and fissure.
• Metal surfaces begin to discolor and blemish.
• Dyes and inks from textiles and paper goods that are saturated start to run, staining nearby surfaces.

2 Days - 1 Week:

• Paint begins to bubble.
• Wood flooring swells and buckles.
• Mold and mildew start to spore, thriving in the moist environment.
• Metal begins to oxidize and crumble.
• Furniture distorts and shows signs of mold growth on surfaces.
• Doors, windows, and structural studs enlarge and warp.

Longer Than 1 Week:

• Mold development and structural safety could be a great risk factor to occupants.
• Restoration time may be substantial (including replacement of affected materials and structural restoration), creating monetary expenses to increase drastically every day it is left untreated.

The sooner our highly experienced and trained team can get on-site and begin mitigation for the water damage, the better; not only for you, but for the business and contents as well. Give our SERVPRO® of Champaign/Urbana a call at 217-355-0077. We will quickly have your property and contents back to pre loss condition, “Like it never even happened.”

Widespread Mold in Champaign/Urbana Business Requires Professional Remediation

7/17/2020 (Permalink)

One of the most troublesome disasters that affect a high volume Champaign/Urbana businesses throughout the year is not fire and storm damages as much as might think. Developing conditions like mold growth can spread quickly throughout the property and adversely affect your property and its occupants that become exposed to an active colony. The trouble with mold growth in businesses is that these colonies often form where the owner does not go, and so it goes unnoticed and unreported until the spread of these colonies forces their way into the main work areas of the business.

For areas like a crawl space, it is not an uncommon occurrence for mold damage in your Champaign/Urbana business to spread beneath the first floor. With moisture present through precipitation, springs, and other occurrences, remedying its effect on the underside of your business can help to limit the spread of an active mold colony into the main floors of the property. Our SERVPRO professionals can help to assess the materials that are at risk and determine if our mold removal techniques can be as effective as just removing the damaged elements entirely and reinstalling them.

Additionally, our SERVPRO team could install diversion equipment like sump pumps to drain water away from the affected area to prevent pooling. These solutions help to preserve a dry environment that reduces the possibility of mold and microbial growth.

Crawlspace mold can prove hazardous to the structural elements of your business and the occupants inside of it. Give our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana professionals a call if you suspect mold growth or have encountered this emergency in your home. You can reach us 24/7 at 2147-355-0077

Raccoons are so cute, BUT not in your business!

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Raccoons

Raccoons are cute and fun to watch.  However, they are very destructive when they are living in your attic.  Here are list of problems that can be caused by wild animals in an attic:

Nesting materials and food debris throughout the attic

Odor problems inside the home

Parasites, roundworm, and other pathogens

Pheromone scent that can attract new wildlife

Lots of feces and urine in the insulation

Growth of mold on contaminated attic areas

It is important to act as soon as possible when you have confirmed that you have guests in your business.  You would need to call someone to clean, decontaminate, and restore the attic to its original state. This is just another job for SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana.  These Professionals will do the following in complete Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

1.  Vacuumed animal droppings throughout the attic and or insulation.
2. If the insulation has high concentration of droppings /remove the insulation and replace with new after cleaning and sterilizing.  
3. Larger debris must be picked up by hand.  
4. Nesting material such as sticks, leaves, and etc. used for nesting.  Keep in mind that often the nesting materials are often full of parasites. 
5. Clean with an antimicrobial  

When unexpected guests come your way, remember to call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana (217)-355-0077. 

Common Sources of Water Damage in a Commercial Building.

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

For a commercial property owner, unforeseen water problems can be a big issue. Luckily, a water damage professional can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in a number of ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can also affect a pipe’s reliability. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and eventually burst.

2. Plumbing Backup

Blocked plumbing can even lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. When a pipe is blocked, water can take the shortest path out regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages can occur from a number of things, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

3. Weather

Extreme weather conditions can also lead to leaking pipes. Cold temperatures can cause the water in pipes to freeze and expand. The extension puts pressure on the pipe and can create a crack or even cause it to burst altogether. If you know cold weather is coming, you can check with a local professional about what preventive measures to take.

4. Foundation Cracks

Foundation cracks can also become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to further issues such as mold. Any cracks should be investigated and assessed as soon as possible to determine the best course of action.

Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, a professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property. If you have any water damage call SERVPRO of Champaign-Urbana anytime at (217) 355-0077.

(SB)

Water Damaged Business Documents Need Restoration

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Professionally Salvages Water Damaged Docs 

Commercial Water Damage is very devastating, especially when there are paper records that have been damaged. Hard copies are sometimes needed along with digital files during the course of doing business. There are steps that you should implement when trying to preserve your damaged documents. 
 
1. Start with the assessment of the present damage by inspecting the area well to aid in the determination of what type of equipment and work will be necessary in order to repair the damage to the structure, documents, and records. The inspection must be done thoroughly, but quickly. Focus on determining the type and extent of the water damage, items that have been affected, and what can be salvaged by professional commercial water damage experts. And take photos to substantiate initial water damage. It sounds like it is more prudent to call in SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana to restore both the structure and your relevant business documents.
 
2. Be sure to call your insurance provider to make arrangements for an adjuster to assess the water damage and set up the claim. Ask for a recommendation to restore your business space along with rescuing your documents. SERVPRO comes highly touted as a premier company that has the knowledge, experience, and equipment to mitigate water damage losses. We can also help with the insurance paperwork and the claims process to ensure your fair recovery value. 
 
3. It is wise to freeze records that have been heavily water-logged. This is the most proven method of stabilization. This process should be done at approximately minus 20 degrees F if possible. Rapid freezing will prevent additional damage from immediately occurring and will allow more time for the drying process and the actual restoration later. 
 
4. There has been much proof that the most efficient way to dry water-damaged papers and documents that have been frozen is to put them through the process of pressurized freeze-drying. The process is called "Lyophilization." This causes the water molecules to crystallize more rapidly that are in and on the papers and documents. By decreasing the pressure in the  Freeze Drying Chamber the frozen water (crystals) will change from the solid phase of water directly to the gas phase--water vapor. This sublimation process enhances the chances of salvaging valuable documents in bulk. 
 
5. After the documents, records and papers have been freeze-dried, they must be handled delicately and cautiously until they have had the necessary time to acclimate to their environment again. It is rather imperative to make sure that they are stored in a space that is well-ventilated and even air-conditioned. SERVPRO can restore most water damaged commercial documents to get your business back in order "Like it never even happened."

We Use Advanced Drying Equipment and Techniques

SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana invests in the latest technology and equipment because it helps us restore your business and documents more quickly and to minimize cost. Call us for all your Champaign/Urbana water damaging events to your business 24/7 at (217) 355-0077

What are the Best Flood Prevention Strategies for Commercial Business.

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding may seem inevitable, but a few preventative measures can reduce the severity of the situation. From the choice of location to structural improvements, here are three of the top flood prevention strategies.

Look Over Flood Maps and Data before Building or Buying

If you build or buy a commercial property located on a flood plain, you will probably need to obtain flood insurance. Most business insurance policies do not include flood coverage, which is available through the National Flood Insurance Program or private insurers. You should also determine whether the risk of flood at a property will undermine the overall value of your investment. Factor in the presence of local flood prevention connections such as detention basins, retaining walls, sea walls, or tide gates before you decide.

Flood Proof a Commercial Property

Flood proofing involves the use of barriers, pumps, and seals to make a building watertight up to typical flood levels for the location of the property. Depending on the ratio of benefits to costs, some of these improvements may qualify for federal grants. In addition to these improvements, you should also consider the warning time that you can expect to have at this location. Regularly test flood proofing and emergency systems as well as the reliability of the flood panels, floor slab, openings, and walls.

Use Classifying and Undergrowth Strategically

Classifying can prevent water from accumulating around the foundation of a building, where it may lead to basement leaks or structural damage. Undergrowth can also break up the flow of moving water and help to reduce erosion. Drainage and flood waters should be directed away from the building, if at all possible.

These flood prevention strategies can help you make more informed decisions about a commercial property. If you need flood cleaning services, contact a storm and water damage Restoration Company like SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana.

(SB)

Common Sources of Water Damage in a Commercial Building.

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Owning and running a building in Champaign-Urbana means that you have a lot on your plate. SERVPRO of Champaign-Urbana is here to take some of that pressure away!

How Do You Do That?

Drainage

Bathrooms and kitchens in a place of business get a lot of traffic. This means that your drains and toilets are doing a lot of work, so you should do what you can to keep them flowing and avoid overflowing. Have maintenance check on them regularly and consider conducting a camera-scope inspection every so often. Some tips to avoid a clogged toilet:

• Buy thin toilet paper.
• Post signage about what can go in the toilet.
• Provide plenty of labelled waste receptacles.

Pipes

First, you should look into what type of pipes you have. If they are older, they might be copper or galvanized iron. These materials are prone to damage and don't usually last long. Please consider replacing if this is the case. Regardless of material, it is important to check them for corrosion or leaks as often as possible, because even the smallest drip can accumulate. Winters can also be hard on pipes, so be sure to keep your building warm enough to avoid freezing and broken pipes.

Fire Sprinklers

Sometimes your sprinklers can be triggered to go off without a fire- a warm light nearby or burnt food in the microwave can do the trick. This can cause water damage especially if not taken care of right away. You should have a water damage restoration company such as SERVPRO of Champaign-Urbana picked out so you can move forward right away with water repair should something like this happen. Especially if the incident was above a carpet, this may eventually turn into a mold problem.

There's a lot to keep track of in a large building. If you know what to add to a regular maintenance routine and some simple preventative measures, your life could be made a lot simpler.

(SB)

IICRC Certified Firm

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration, and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana

SERVPRO of Champaign / Urbana specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.

Call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana Today! Reach us anytime day or night at (217)355-0077, we are always here to help!

"Like it never even happened!"

Tips for Dealing With Water Damage at Your Commercial Property.

7/19/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you are dealing with a busted pipe or toilet overflow, water damage in your commercial building is never fun. When this happens, there are so many things to think about and people often become overwhelmed and miss some important steps. Preparing your team and yourself ahead of time and having proper protocol in place can make a big difference. Be sure to follow these guidelines when dealing with this type of problem.

Identify the Source

Cleaning up the mess is extremely important, but if you don't identify the source, the issue will keep happening. One of the most common sources of leak in a commercial building are broken pipes. Besides that, you may be looking at a flooded toilet or roof damage. Getting the problem fixed right away may help you avoid larger issues down the road. 

Take Safety Measures

If you are dealing with contaminated water, you need to take the proper safety precautions. Sewage contains bacteria and viruses and should be dealt with accordingly. Clearly mark the area off and wear the right equipment when cleaning up. You may want to call a professional to come help you in this situation. 

Document the Damage

Do not try to leave the water damage in place for the insurance company to come look at. Instead, you should take photographs from every angle before you begin the water cleanup. Leaving it can actually lead to more problems, which the insurance agents may view as neglect. Be sure to call them as soon as possible to get the ball rolling. 

Depending on the size and severity of the water damage, you may be able to handle it yourself. If you are dealing with unsanitary water, such as a toilet overflow, or if you are at all uncomfortable identifying and fixing the leak, you may want to call a professional water restoration company such such as SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana.

(SB)

8 Tips To Protect Your Commercial Property from Flooding

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Business Safety Tips for Your Commercial Property

Business Owners - This one's for you!

Establishing a Champaign/Urbana business is an exciting venture, but you might not ask yourself, “What if a flood or natural disaster occur?”. Being prepared for anything in life is so important, especially if a lot of money is on the line. Here are important tips for when your commercial property has encountered flooding or storm damage. These tips will especially come in handy if you have a basement in your Rhode Island business.

8 Flood Prevention + Safety Tips for Your Business: 

1. Develop a Comprehensive Plan – Establishing a simple, straight-forward protocol for when a flood strikes can benefit yourself and your employees. Substantial communication is key.
2. Consider Flood Insurance – Damages from flooding can get very, very expensive. Damages can cost thousands and thousands of dollars. With insurance for your commercial business, you can have some peace of mind in the case of flash flooding or an unexpected storm.
3. Inspect Area – Inspecting the area for any signs of water damage during severe rain is a good preventative measure. Looks for cracks and darker spots in the walls, ceilings, and flooring.
4. Sump pump – Installing a sump pump will prevent water from seeping into the foundation.
5. Waterproof membrane – Apply a waterproof seal around the areas you think water might enter. Filling in any cracks as well can help.
6. Back-Flow Valve - Installing this in your main sewer pipe will prevent sewage backup.
7. Anchor Fuel Tanks – Keep your fuel tanks anchored to prevent them from flowing away, falling over and spilling fuel into the area.
8. Keep Calm and Call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana at 217-355-0077 24/7 for your commercial or residential property.

Have you Considered upgrading your commercial HVAC system?

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

If you are a business owner you know how important it is to have a fully functioning HVAC system.  If you don’t your employees and customers will let you know.  It will be hot or cold and you really are trying to keep it going and keep people comfortable.  Maybe your HVAC system is older and not functioning properly?  You may be thinking to yourself that is too expensive… but in the long run, it may be worth it.  

Here are five reasons to consider upgrading your HVAC System from

Increase Energy Efficiency

Lower operating costs should be one of your biggest goals. Even if it isn’t as much of a priority now, there’s still time to resolve to change now that the New Year has begun. One fantastic way to increase energy efficiency is to upgrade your current commercial HVAC system. Did you know that a newer system can allow for smaller energy consumption – by about 30%, in fact.

Maintain Your Good Reputation

Many businesses depend on a stellar reputation to ensure that they thrive. Reputation is important for your public image, especially in the customer service sector. Aside from downtime that could rob you of future profits, an uncomfortable building environment due to an aging HVAC system can also harm customer and client perception of how you run your organization. 

Make and Keep Employees Comfortable

When the interior of your building is kept at reasonable temperatures, your employees will be comfortable. When employees are comfortable, they will be happier and more motivated. When they aren’t distracted by the office being too hot or too cold, they can focus on getting more work done, improving their overall productivity. Don’t overlook the importance of indoor air quality, either. How often are your employees missing time from work due to being sick? A little-known condition called sick building syndrome exists, and if this syndrome goes unaddressed, it could affect how your business is perceived throughout your industry and cause highly-qualified candidates to find employment elsewhere when you are actively recruiting.

Reduce Repair Costs

Newer commercial HVAC systems will have better warranties attached to them. Whether you choose to overhaul your existing system with brand new components or only add the latest technological advancements to the framework that is already in place, these warranties can help you avoid paying significant repair costs when such repairs are needed.

Begin Switching Refrigerant Now

The refrigerant that is most commonly used in many older models of commercial HVAC systems is being eliminated. R-22 refrigerant will be fully prohibited in January of 2020, and if you think that’s still plenty of time to have your current supplies replaced, remember it’s just two years away.

SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana

(217)355-0077

24-Hour Emergency Service

Independently Owned and Operated

Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Levels of Commercial Damage in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Champaign-Urbana handles not only residential damage and restoration but commercial as well.

There are three levels of commercial damage that are considered:

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include, but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.”

Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and return your business to operation “Like it never even happened.”®

Reach us at (217)355-0077.

How To Make an Office Fire Escape Plan

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Every workplace needs a fire escape plan. This plan should be posted throughout a building and shared with all occupants. Be sure to train new employees and perform regular drills to ensure that the emergency escape plan will prove useful in the event of a fire.

Plan Evacuation Routes

Use an accurate floor plan to determine evacuation routes from every room in a structure. It is a good idea to do the following:

• Identify primary and secondary routes
• Ensure that routes are reasonable for occupants
• Obtain equipment such as an escape ladder

Secondary routes may be less than ideal, but they should still be practical. Keep the age and physical condition of occupants in mind. Post the emergency escape plan at strategic locations.

Test Fire Detection and Suppression Equipment

Many commercial properties are equipped with advanced detection and suppression systems. A fire escape plan should include regular tests to ensure the functionality of detectors and sprinklers. Hardwired alarm systems should have battery backups, and it is important to replace batteries that function as a main or backup power source. Make sure that fire extinguishers are of the appropriate class and filled with suppressant.

Keep Track of Occupants

Every business should maintain a current contact list. This list should include these details:

• Names
• Contact information
• Departments

Keep this list in a location where it can be accessed remotely or physically removed in the event of a fire. Every business should have a safe location where employees can gather outside. This place should be far enough away from the structure without being downwind.

An office fire escape plan may also identify which employees are responsible for attempting to evacuate critical contents. It is smart to plan ahead and back up important records off-site. If a fire damages a building in Champaign/Urbana rely on a mitigation and restoration company to resume business as soon as possible.

(SB)

What To Expect During The Restoration Process After A Water Damage To Your Champaign/Urbana Restaurant

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage To Your Restaurant

Water damage is perhaps one of the worst things that can happen to your restaurant. Not only can the pooled water cause structural and aesthetic damage to your establishment, but the restoration can also take time.

Thankfully, here at SERVPRO, we have a team of experts that have years of experience in handling any size water damage disaster to your Champaign/Urbana restaurant. SERVPRO springs into action as soon as we hear from you and work hard to minimize the damage and keep your doors open. Here is what happens during the initial few hours after we hear from you.

One Hour  
During the first hour of our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana professionals receiving your call, we assemble a team of experts and send them your way.

Four Hours 
Our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana experts reach the site of water damage within four hours of receiving a call from you. We understand that the best chance for a successful restoration is a quick action. Once our technicians are on-site, they walk you through the restoration process step-by-step. They make sure that you understand what to expect after a restoration process. Within the first four hours, our technicians also pretest the restorability of the damage.

Eight Hours 
Within eight hours of our team reaching the site of water damage, the technicians prepare a verbal briefing and communicate it to the concerned person. Once the plan has been agreed upon, our teams start the actual restoration and cleaning process. We use some of the best equipment available to restore and clean the water damage. Our technicians work hard to remove any standing water, clean the carpets and deodorize your establishment. We understand that cleanliness and hygiene is a critical part of restaurant management, and our professionals work hard at ensuring it.

Final Walk-Through 
Your satisfaction is one of our highest priorities. Once the job is done, our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana technicians arrange for a final walk-through to make sure that you are satisfied with the restoration job. After we are done, your restaurant is ready for any inspection from health or related departments.

Call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana at (217) 355-0077 today to schedule an appointment

Have You Established An Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)?

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including: Emergency Contact Information, Shut-off Valve Locations and Priority Areas.  In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.  

Knowing what to do and who to call in advance and having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and gets you back in the building following a disaster. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet. Simply download SERVPRO's free Ready Plan app to access this information anytime. The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you and your businesses are "Ready for whatever happens."

The ERP is a no cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save your business in the future.  Call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana at (217) 355-0077 to start your Emergency Ready Profile.

What To Expect During The Restoration Process After A Water Damage To Your Champaign/Urbana Restaurant

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage To Your Restaurant

Water damage is perhaps one of the worst things that can happen to your restaurant. Not only can the pooled water cause structural and aesthetic damage to your establishment, but the restoration can also take time.

Thankfully, here at SERVPRO, we have a team of experts that have years of experience in handling any size water damage disaster to your Champaign/Urbana restaurant. SERVPRO springs into action as soon as we hear from you and work hard to minimize the damage and keep your doors open. Here is what happens during the initial few hours after we hear from you.

One Hour  
During the first hour of our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana professionals receiving your call, we assemble a team of experts and send them your way.

Four Hours 
Our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana experts reach the site of water damage within four hours of receiving a call from you. We understand that the best chance for a successful restoration is a quick action. Once our technicians are on-site, they walk you through the restoration process step-by-step. They make sure that you understand what to expect after a restoration process. Within the first four hours, our technicians also pretest the restorability of the damage.

Eight Hours 
Within eight hours of our team reaching the site of water damage, the technicians prepare a verbal briefing and communicate it to the concerned person. Once the plan has been agreed upon, our teams start the actual restoration and cleaning process. We use some of the best equipment available to restore and clean the water damage. Our technicians work hard to remove any standing water, clean the carpets and deodorize your establishment. We understand that cleanliness and hygiene is a critical part of restaurant management, and our professionals work hard at ensuring it.

Final Walk-Through 
Your satisfaction is one of our highest priorities. Once the job is done, our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana technicians arrange for a final walk-through to make sure that you are satisfied with the restoration job. After we are done, your restaurant is ready for any inspection from health or related departments.

Call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana at (217) 355-0077 today to schedule an appointment.

What's Fermenting in the Water Damage Inside Your Champaign/Urbana Brewery?

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Technicians in Champaign/Urbana Discuss The Importance Of Sanitization 

If a water leak ever takes place inside your Champaign/Urbana brewery, there are several types of different problems that could occur. Anytime building materials or contents get wet inside your structure, it is wise to get a professional restoration company like SERVPRO to perform commercial water damage mitigation. If structural components inside your building get saturated, they can lose their structural integrity and fall apart. The presence of moisture can also cause microbes that exist naturally in an environment to activate and form mold. When using a professional company to complete your commercial water damage project, we can take extra measures to prevent secondary problems like mold from happening.  

As soon as any organic materials inside a building get wet, our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana technicians know that we have a 48-hour period to remove all moisture before fungi start to develop. During any commercial water damage in Champaign/Urbana, we utilize specialized equipment and techniques to drop moisture levels to normal conditions faster than two days. We start by extracting standing water and moisture out of heavily saturated materials with heavy-duty extraction equipment. We then set up a combination of air movers and dehumidifiers to change the environment so that it is conducive for rapid structural drying. Once the machines get set up, we use moisture sensors to monitor the progress of our drying efforts.  

When working inside your brewery, we know that cleanliness is vital. Our SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana team can take extra measures to make sure areas like your kitchen or brewing room do not get contaminated. When doing work that could stir up any dust we often seal off areas inside your building that must remain clean and disinfected. We know that the presence of water and elevated indoor humidity can create the right environment for harmful bacteria to form. To prevent harmful bacteria from contaminating your clean working environments, we also complete a final cleaning and disinfecting stage before we finalize your project.  

If you ever notice wet items inside your brewery, call SERVPRO of Champaign/Urbana at (217) 355-0077 24 hours a day.

Coffee at Tricoci Beauty School

2/27/2018 (Permalink)

Butch, our Sales and Marketing Manager, hard at work during the Urbana Business Association's morning coffee at Tricoci Beauty School.

Our Marketing Team from Champaign hit the road Tuesday morning to join others involved in the Urbana Business Association for coffee at Tricoci Beauty School, located in the strip mall near the corner of University and Cunningham. Complimentary full body and hand massages was a great addition to a phenomenal breakfast. It is always a great opportunity to meet others from the community and to see all of the new businesses trying to pave their own way to success. There's not much better than getting your day started by brainstorming ideas, learning about different techniques to make your business flourish, make new friends, and catch up with old ones as well. SERVPRO looks to be a staple in the community and we will always be involved in the events around town supporting local business.