Recent Posts
SERVPRO New Hire Expectations vs Reality
1/3/2023 (Permalink)
Our new hire Chelsea posing with her dog Bauer
I’m Chelsea and I was recently hired as the Administrative Assistant at SERVPRO. Previously, I had no experience in this type of industry or emergency services. I knew it would occasionally be fast paced, but that’s the only expectations I had. Since I have been here 3 months, I’ve learned a lot and realized that there is something new to do every day, and every job is different. I’ve also gained appreciation for our technicians! To run or assist on a project in this industry requires talent, to not only know how we can help in almost any type of situation, but also to do the work.
Since being here we have done not only water, fire, mold, biohazard, and cleaning jobs, but also assisted and completed work I never knew SERVPRO could help with. We have worked on cleaning and reconstruction in RV’s, houses damaged from lightning strikes, and even removing mold and odor from cars. There are things that truly make SERVPRO one of a kind and truly “Ready for Whatever Happens”.
Storm Season 2022
1/3/2023 (Permalink)
Technician taking a break next to a SERVPRO truck at a storm job site
Here in Florida, we have had quite the storm season! When we saw Hurricane Ian was going to make a direct hit, our team jumped into action and was ready for whatever happened. We didn’t get directly hit here in the Tampa Bay Area, however, that didn’t stop us from helping our fellow Floridians. Shortly thereafter, Hurricane Nicole passed through the Sunshine Sate as well.
Here’s a breakdown of what storm season looked like for Team George:
- We responded to one of the sites most heavily impacted within 24 hours of landfall.
- We had over 10 commercial large loss jobs running at one time, including the Braves Training Facility, multiple Publix’s, and Sarasota Memorial Hospital, while also assisting local residents as well.
- Many of our Project Managers and technicians worked around the clock, most putting in 15-hour days.
- We are still actively working on jobs there, that’s 10 weeks and counting that our team has been putting effort into restoring the lives and homes of the people that need it most right now.
While our hearts are saddened that so many people’s lives have been affected by this, we are beyond grateful that so many people have trusted SERVPRO to help restore their community, and that we have the opportunity to help.
Water Damage? What you can expect when you call SERVPRO.
1/3/2023 (Permalink)
Our snack manager, Loki, managing a loaded trailer ready to dispatch to a water damage.
One of the most common calls we get is for Water Restoration Services. It can be very stressful when there is water damage in your home, and you might not know what to expect, especially if this has never happened before.
Here’s what you can expect when you call:
- Our receptionist will take your information and try to help walk you through the process. Once we get all the required information from you, we will dispatch a team to respond to your home.
- When the technician arrives, they will be thorough and quite literally walk you through the process, explaining what they see, what they’re doing and why. Our technicians are experts in this industry and will be more than happy to answer any of your questions and guide you through the process.
- Once the equipment is placed, our technicians will continue to monitor and make sure affected areas are drying properly.
- We work with almost every insurance company in the country, if a claim is filed, the office staff will speak to your adjuster and work directly with your insurance to make the process as streamlined as possible.
We understand the process and want to help you understand it as well. Even though these situations can be overwhelming, we are here to help you.
How to prepare for Hurricane Season 2023
12/19/2022 (Permalink)
Equipment lined up in Commercial Building hallway following water intrusion.
As hurricane season 2022 ends, preparing your commercial building for Hurricane Season 2023 is essential to preventing flood damages that could be quite costly.
There are two phases to building preparation:
The Preventative Phase can be taken at any time throughout the year and should include having your building inspected and retrofitted for common risks, including flood water and heavy winds. You should also make data backup a part of your everyday routine and implement an alternate means of communication for when lines go down. Starting this process well before we enter storm season could save you valuable time and resources.
The Pre-Storm phase should include closing all your storm windows, covering equipment and moving it to a secured area, disconnecting electrical equipment and turning off gas and electricity.
Stay Safe
When a flood warning is issued, get to higher ground as soon as possible. If flooding is already underway, stay put until authorities say that it is OK for everyone to go home. Heed all evacuation warnings, and don’t wait to act until flood water has already entered your building.
A flooded building is dangerous to both your assets and your personnel. Keep everyone safe and protect your assets from water damage by implementing the tips above and contacting SERVPRO of West Tampa at 813-855-0888 for all your restoration needs.
Fire damage? We are here to help!
12/19/2022 (Permalink)
Roof damage as a result of a stove catching fire
Fire damage usually isn't on the mind of most homeowners until a situation arises. While fires typically happen unexpectedly, their severity can offer a range of different effects to your home. This hurdle requires professional restoration services as they have the tools and expertise to do the job thoroughly, and it is a requirement for most insurance companies handling a claim.
While you might not be adequately prepared for the fire damages that you now face in your Tampa residence, SERVPRO of West Tampa is always ready to help. Our technicians are trained to deal with all levels of fire restoration from smoke/soot cleaning to water damages left behind after extinguishment.
When our technicians arrive, we work quickly to fully restore your home. This process begins with an initial assessment of the damage that your home faces and what restoration techniques to implement. We then set out to cover and board off any openings that the fire has left in the house, which might expose your home to further external damages.
Water damage is a common problem after a fire and cleaning up the damage must occur before fire restoration gets underway to prevent compounding damage like mold growth. Addressing the most pressing issues of the recent fire ensure that you can exist more comfortably in your home, and this process includes smoke and soot removal from all affected surfaces.
While there are several layers to the restoration process, our experienced restoration specialists can handle any damage that a recent fire has presented to your home and can help you take the necessary steps to make it "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (813) 855-0888.
Professional Restoration After a Tampa Fire
6/13/2022 (Permalink)
After a fire call the specialists at SERVPRO of West Tampa (813) 855-0888.
Residential and commercial fires are unpredictable and can be devastating.
Hopefully you have given thought to fire prevention for your home. In addition to taking these steps, you have also developed an escape plan with your family. In the unfortunate case of a serious fire, would you know where to turn after the fire crews leave?
SERVPRO of West Tampa (813) 855-0888 is the simple, effective solution. We'll respond quickly and get to work restoring your property.
One of the first steps in our fire damage restoration process is the inspection.
Without proper and careful inspection, we cannot be sure of risk factors in the environment, the extent of damage, critical utility locations, and numerous other important factors. Inspection can sometimes be a lengthy process, as SERVPRO of West Tampa inspectors have to look for and catalog many different factors.
Here are some of the things that we look for in homes that have taken fire damage.
Structural Instability
One of the most important considerations when inspecting fire damage in Tampa is structural stability. Fires, as they burn through supports and other structural components, can create unstable conditions and high potential for collapse. Our technicians look for signs of structural weakening to ensure the safety of both you and SERVPRO of West Tampa technicians, such as warped walls, burned columns, caved-in ceilings, buckled door frames, and scraping between doors, windows, and their upper frames. Any of these may be an indicator of a weakened structure, so knowing of them before any work begins has the potential to save lives.
Spots for Tarping and Boarding
Immediately following inspection, our crews move in with tarps and boards to seal up any windows, doors, or holes in the home that leave it open to the elements. Inspectors look for these openings and compose plans to seal them most effectively.
Damage Inspection
Of course, the central part of any fire damage inspection is what has been hurt, and how much. Inspectors will catalog items, surfaces, and areas which have taken damage, describing in detail for our other teams how bad the situation is and what factors caused it. From there, our technicians can work to apply appropriate cleanup processes and measures. If you have used our ERP (Emergency Ready Profile) system, this process may be greatly accelerated as our inspectors will have access to plans and inventory lists beforehand.
SERVPRO of West Tampa works with you to get fire damage cleaned up quickly at a fair price. Call us at all hours at (813) 855-0888.
Local Restoration Experts in Tampa
6/7/2022 (Permalink)
Being prepared for severe weather is just part of living in Florida. Part of living in coastal Florida is accepting the fact that hurricanes, severe thunderstorms, the rainy season, and living so close to sea level on the Gulf of Mexico, may result in water and flood damage.
If you are experiencing flood damage in Tampa, SERVPRO of West Tampa will help you get your home or business back to normal after the devastating water deluge has occurred. It is important that damage from flooding is taken care of immediately to minimize losses to your home or business.
When it comes to the type of flooding we experience here in Florida, the best option is professional water removal and cleanup for safety and proper restoration.
SERVPRO's highly trained technicians are consummate professionals who are IICRC certified and practice the best methods in cleaning and restoration services. One of the most important parts of preparedness is knowing who to call when you have storm damage, Call SERVPRO of West Tampa at (813) 855-0888.
Flood Damage Restoration and Cleanup Services
Our trained technicians will arrive at your residence or commercial business and assess the flood damage and needs that your structure will require. From water damaged furniture, flooring, walls, and damage as a result of flooding, we do it all.
SERVPRO’s Residential and Commercial-Grade Services include:
• Water Removal
• Water and Storm Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation if necessary
• Cleaning Services
• Building Services including rebuilds and reconstruction with affiliated partners
SERVPRO of West Tampa offers a wide range of professional cleaning services and restoration of flood damage in Tampa. Our locally owned and operated location means that we are close by and ready to serve you in your time of need. Our advanced equipment and tools aid us in cleaning up hazardous damage and mitigating future problems such as mold and structure damage. Our expertise helps us to provide you with the latest methods in flood and water damage restoration and sanitation.
24/7 Emergency Services in Tampa
Storms can be wildly unpredictable. When flooding occurs, you are never fully prepared. You can count on is SERVPRO of West Tampa to be there for you when you need us most. Our friendly and knowledgeable consultants will answer your questions and dispatch our technicians to your location to get to work.
Whether it is your home residence or commercial property that has been affected, time is of the essence after flood damage has occurred. To ensure structural integrity, to mitigate damage, and to provide cleanup and restoration services, we work with the aim of getting you back into your home or business safely and efficiently "Like it never even happened."
Contact Us Today! Call SERVPRO of West Tampa at (813) 855-0888 for any questions or for help via our 24/7 Emergency Service.
Heavy Rain and Wind Damage, All Part of Tampa Storms
5/16/2022 (Permalink)
Tropical storms start forming over large, warm bodies of water, far away from land.
Did you know that a tropical storm only receives an official name after reaching wind speeds beyond 39 mph? These fast-spinning storm systems maintain a low-pressure center, closed low-level atmospheric circulation, strong winds, and steady thunderstorms that produce excessive amounts of rain.
Depending on the location of the storm system, they become categorized as a hurricane, typhoon, or cyclone. Residents living in the Tampa area too often experience flood damage from these types of events. If you are a new resident or have never experienced these types of naturally occurring events before, you should contact someone qualified to help you prepare your home against high winds, storm surges, and flooding.
While the sunny, warm environment and coastal living are appealing, it has its drawbacks. Tropical storms start forming over large, warm bodies of water, far away from land. These storms feed off of the energy caused by water evaporation near the surface of the ocean. Resulting condensation produces cloud cover and rain when moist air rises and cools.
These storms contain powerful winds blowing counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere, or clockwise within the Southern Hemisphere, generating high waves, damaging storm surges, and tornadoes that rapidly reduce in strength after making contact with land mass. However, the resulting power levels affect areas up to 40 miles inland, taking a severe toll on coastal regions.
Research the storm history in the area where you live and consider making home improvements that help prevent future damage. Make the decision to prepare your home now. Never wait until the last minute to protect your property against this type of event, SERVPRO can help.
SERVPRO of West Tampa technicians can perform a full inspection, making recommendations on how to improve how your home fairs during this kind of event. Discuss options for grading, drainage, sump pump, and backflow valve installation that help limit exposure, removing some issues that cause severe damage.
SERVPRO of West Tampa uses advanced equipment and scientific drying techniques, returning your home to a quality pre-flood damage condition using resources to respond quickly to your situation. "Like it never even happened."
Call Us First, for stress-free claims, SERVPRO can help manage the insurance paperwork and process. SERVPRO of West Tampa (813) 855-0888.
Accidents in Busy Tampa Warehouses
5/6/2022 (Permalink)
There are a number of things to be aware of in a busy warehouse. Making sure workers are avoiding injury and accidents is important.
Unfortunately, accidents do happen and when they do, it is not always a situation that custodial staff or employees have the expertise or personal protective equipment to clean up on their own.
Experienced Technicians
Our experienced professionals can respond to your Tampa warehouse quickly to begin biohazard cleanup. With many of the industrial chemicals and solutions needed to maintain a warehouse or production facility properly, a spill of any of these substances can prove harmful to exposed employees. The best thing that you can do is to move all personnel from the affected areas and reach out to our SERVPRO of West Tampa rapid response team to get the mess cleaned up quickly and safely.
A compromised facility can be dangerous not only to the employees working in that area but also to the stock and stored items that you keep in this area of the warehouse.
Our technicians work to set up a containment of the affected area from the time that we arrive to prevent the spread of the spill or any potentially harmful fumes or effects. We can work to remove at-risk contents from the exposure site to protect them from irreparable damage when possible.
To clean up chemical spills, our SERVPRO of West Tampa biohazard team wears full protective gear and works quickly to remove this substance from the flooring. Depending on the chemical or solvent, various counteracting agents or methods might be necessary to make the cleanup more efficient and safer for the professionals involved.
Once the substance has gotten successfully removed, our technicians can work on deodorizing and disinfection that can make the accident “Like it never even happened.”
Accident Response in Tampa
Accidents can happen at any time in your warehouse but knowing how to respond to these emergencies in a way that can keep your employees and your investments safe is good business. Give our SERVPRO of West Tampa biohazard cleanup team a call anytime that you need us at (813) 855-0888.
SERVPRO of West Tampa 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. If you need help with commercial water damage call SERVPRO of West Tampa.
Professional Restoration Response to Fire Damage in Tampa
5/4/2022 (Permalink)
A fire in your home or business can be a frightening experience. Depending on the amount of damage it can be overwhelming. Understanding the restoration process isn't easy. There are so many things to consider and so many decisions to be made.
One Call in Tampa
Call the trained, certified experts at SERVPRO of West Tampa (813) 855-0888, they can even work with your insurance company.
The only way to restore most of the materials in the building is by rigorous evaluation, cleanup, repair, and replacement.
Every fire comes with a unique type of damage. Low oxygen fires tend to leave wet, smoky residues that are harder to remove than the drier smoke residue that a high oxygen fire generates. Additionally, the water used to extinguish the fire can cause indoor humidity to rise significantly, allowing more smoke and residue to penetrate the wood in the structure.
Whichever type of fire you are dealing with, you need to contact a fire restoration company as soon as the firefighting crew departs. SERVPRO of West Tampa can provide quick and efficient fire damage restoration services for your Tampa home. We have highly skilled professionals who are certified by the IICRC, ensuring that you get back control of your home in no time.
SERVPRO of West Tampa Response to Fire Damage
SERVPRO of West Tampa professionals offer specialized services for getting rid of bad odors left by smoke or fire damage. We seek out the odor sources and eliminate them instead of simply covering them with a fragrance.
This process involves using advanced deodorization equipment such as Thermal Foggers and Ultra Low Volume Foggers. Thermal foggers are suitable for confined spaces while ULV foggers can easily penetrate sites with odor-causing residues.
If the house contents are at risk of additional fire damage from prolonged exposure, we may recommend a move-out. Our experts are adequately trained on proper move-out procedures to prevent additional damage to your property, including efficient inventory taking. We use Contents Claim Inventory Service technology to generate comprehensive inventories for each room.
Contents are grouped into questionable, salvageable, and non-salvageable items for easier settlement. To determine the best cleaning services for the job, our technicians must first test the extent of the smoke damage. We use air and fluids to extract soils, either through vacuuming or dissolving. Vacuuming is particularly useful for removing dry particles that are loosely attached to surfaces.
When they come into contact with moisture, solid particles can be difficult to clean off. Dissolving is used to remove soils and residues that are not loose particles. In this case, it is important to consider the type of surface involved to avoid damaging the material being cleaned. Some surfaces are vulnerable to water while others do not react well with solvents.
Small or large, fire can occur unexpectedly and cause considerable property damage. Fortunately, you have SERVPRO of West Tampa to count on for fast and efficient fire damage restoration services. In case of an emergency, contact us immediately at (813) 855-0888.
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