The Process of Making a Flood Cut

8/14/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding often leads to water damage, and water damage often leads to the removal of affected items and structures. If your home in San Diego, floods during a storm, mitigation experts may have to use a flood cut to determine how much of your wall to tear out. A flood cut is a mark that is made 12-18 inches above the perceivable water damage to a wall to mark the point to which the technicians need to remove the drywall. Here are the steps of using a flood cut.

1. Determine Necessity

A flood cut is not always necessary. If water damage is minimal or the water is clean, the wall probably doesn't need to be removed. When the flooding is the result of a storm, however, the contamination of the water seeps into the walls. It's best, therefore, to mark them with a flood cut and remove the walls, especially if they are saturated.

2. Prepare for Mess

Removing the drywall is usually a pretty messy process. You will probably see the professionals put a tarp down before they begin. It's also advisable for them to wear gloves and protective clothing, especially if they will be removing damp insulation that's behind the wall.

3. Remove Wall

Once there is a tarp down to catch the falling drywall, the demolition process can begin. Technicians start at the flood cut and remove everything below it, ensuring that all the water damage is gone.

4. Clean the Mess

The wall that they tear out has to go somewhere. Another benefit of using the tarp is that it makes for easy cleanup. They can just gather the edges to contain the mess and head to the dumpster.

5. Replace Wall

Many mitigation professionals are also restoration experts. They can put new insulation and a new wall back up and blend the paint so that it looks "Like it never even happened."

If you have flooding in your home, you may need a flood cut to mark the spot where the wall gets removed. Understanding the steps of the process can help you know what's going on when the professionals arrive. 

The More You Know, the Better

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

We know that storms are always chaotic and that knowledge is invaluable when a disaster approaches; having a plan to keep us safe is of the utmost importance, so here are some tips about thunderstorms.

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has 58 miles per hour wind gusts.

Every thunderstorm produces lightning, killing more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

Severe thunderstorm watch:

Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a strict thunderstorm warning is issued. 

Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. Unfortunately, people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms every year despite warnings. While some did not hear the warning, others listened to the warning and ignored it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives. 

The above is of the utmost importance since sometimes we do not measure the great chaos that this can cause; hoping you consider all these factors.

If you are in that situation, don't hesitate to contact us, and we'll be right away. 

How to Increase the Value of Your Home After a Storm

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

No one ever plans to experience a natural disaster, but when they do, it's important to be prepared. A natural disaster can cause extensive damage to your home, which can lead to a decrease in its value. And if you have plans on selling your property in the future, this can be a major setback. If you want to increase the value of your home after a storm, there are a few things you can do.

Make all the necessary repairs as soon as possible.

One way to increase the value of your home after a storm is to make sure all repairs are made on time. This includes things like fixing any damage to the roof, siding, or windows. If there is any water damage, it's important to have this fixed as well, as this can lead to mold growth which can further decrease the value of your property. This is why you must contact storm damage specialistsfor an emergency storm damage restoration so that they can help you get your home back to its pre-storm condition as soon as possible.

Update your home's appearance and features.

Another way to increase the value of your home after a storm is by updating its features. This could include things like installing new windows, doors, or siding. It could also involve adding on a new room, such as a sunroom or home office. And if your budget allows, you could also update your home's appearance by painting it a new color or adding landscaping. If the storm has caused any major damage to your home, it's important to have this repaired as soon as possible so that it doesn't further decrease the value of your property.

However, keep in mind that certain renovations can also make your home less attractive to potential buyers, so be sure to weigh the pros and cons before making any major renovations.

Keep thorough records of all repairs and updates.

It's also important that you keep thorough records of all repairs and updates made to your home after the storm. This will not only help you keep track of the work that's been done, but it will also be useful if you ever need to file an insurance claim. And if you do plan on selling your home in the future, these records will help prove to potential buyers that the necessary repairs have been made and that your home is in good condition.  

Conclusion

A natural disaster can cause a lot of damage to your home, which can lead to a decrease in its value. But by making repairs as soon as possible and updating your home's appearance and features, you can help increase the value of your property. If your home has recently been damaged by a storm, contact your local storm damage specialists for emergency storm damage restoration. And while it may take some time and effort to get your home back to its pre-storm condition, it will be worth it in the end.

What do Do and What to Avoid After a Flood

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

When your home or business in San Diego floods, whether from a storm or a broken pipe, your first instinct is probably to start getting rid of water and cleaning up. To makes sure the repair process goes smoothly, however, there are a few steps you should follow. The first priorities are safety and documentation, and then you can call flood restoration specialists to lead in the cleanup efforts.

Safety First

There are a few things to look for when you return:

• Damage to water, sewer or power lines
• Warped surfaces, such as floors or walls
• Damaged foundation
• Visible cracks or holes in any part of your home’s structure

Try to avoid wading in standing water, as it could be electrically charged. Just in case, it is a good idea to wear knee-high rubber boots to absorb possible shocks. Even if the water looks clean, avoid contact with your skin, as it could be contaminated, especially if you suspect it might have come from a broken pipe or sewer line.

Document Damage

Your insurance adjuster is going to need to know the extent of the damage. Be vigilant about keeping your cell phone charged so you can take pictures for the report. Avoid cleaning before you document the damage, or your settlement could be smaller because the problem will seem smaller than it actually is. Once you have adequate documentation, call your insurer. The earlier you file a claim, the sooner you can get the money for repairs or reimbursement.

Cleanup

Rather than attempt to clean up the water yourself, it is a good idea to hire a professional. Experienced restoration specialists can help locate the cause of the problem, whether the flooding came from groundwater or a broken pipe. They also know how to overcome water damage so that you do not experience mold or mildew problems later. 

When your home or business in Tangipahoa Parish experiences flooding, it is natural to want to put it behind you quickly. With the proper process, however, you can be assured that the resolution is complete.

Faster to Any Sized Floor Disaster

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), "Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding." NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failures

Just because you haven't experienced a flood doesn't mean you will not in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the United States.

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO of Point Loma can help. They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in your home as soon as possible.

SERVPRO of Point Loma is ready to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Examining your Roof after Storm Damage

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

When a significant storm blows through your property, it's probably a great idea to inspect your property for any potential storm damage. Storm damage can stem from high winds, flying debris, hail, and heavy rainfall. Your main line of defense for your property is the roof and in these instances, it surely can take a beating. Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to things like dings and holes in your gutters, as well as tears in your window screens. These examples are telltale signs of hail damage.

After inspection, you may see missing tiles or other signs of roof damage from the ground. However, most leaks don't represent a need for a whole roof replacement. Usually the leak, coming from the roof damage, is coming from something requiring minor repair. Find the source of the leak, stop the leaking, and clean up the water damage that has occurred.

Finding the Source of the Leak

Wind damage, hail damage, and debris that crashes into your roof can create holes that lets rain into your property. By examining the ceilings and corners of the walls from inside, you may be able to identify stains that indicate a leak source and discover areas that need roof repair. There may be a chance that you discover water stains that run down the wall. If found, grab a light source and head over to that area immediately. Try to find the source of the water stain. Some examples include:

• Vent Pipes
• Chimneys
• Fans and vents
• Window Dormers
• Unsecured nails and nail holes

Fixing the Water Damage

When you find hints of water damage or a leak in your roof, it's time to complete a roof repair! Begin by looking for materials that have been damaged by water. Check for discolorations, rotting wood, wet drywall, and soggy insulation. When you find potential microbial growths, be careful not to spread it during cleanup. Complete drying of water damage and repairing of roof leaks is critical to preventing mold growth and secondary damages.

For any of your storm damage, mold damage, or roof leak repair needs, contact us at 619-275-2802! We have knowledgeable technicians to clean up water damage and a growing reconstruction division to fix any structural damages.

Every state in the US is vulnerable to flooding

12/19/2021 (Permalink)

San Diego homeowners may be surprised to know that every state in the US is vulnerable to flooding--even the dry ones. Storm damage repair in San Diego will always be a valuable resource. Changes in sea level, as well as weather patterns, are enough to create sudden floods that cause damage to homes and infrastructure.

Homeowners with flood coverage will still need complete restoration from our professional cleanup team if a flood was to occur. Being prepared and asking your insurance agent about flood coverage is the first step. Once you're aware of what's needed and what a flood policy would cover for your home, you will know exactly what to do if an event like this was to occur.

Water can make its way through any structure causing long-term damage. It is important to hire professionals to provide a thorough water damage restoration process to prevent secondary damage. You can potentially need mold remediation in the future if microbial issues are detected.

If your home has been affected, you need a water restoration company that can provide storm damage restoration and rapid flood damage cleanup.

SERVPRO of Point Loma technicians are ready to restore your home or business to a preloss condition. Our team has received training from the IICRC to provide the highest standards of cleaning for fire, water, and mold damage.

We work with insurance companies and homeowners to ensure all cleanup processes comply with policy in the event an insurance claim does need to be made.

Completing a Proof of Loss for Your Flood Claim

Your insurance adjuster can assist you in the process of filling out the right paperwork and completing this portion of your claim. Make sure you file as soon as possible, and everything complies with the needs of the Standard Flood Insurance Policy. This will help ensure you are paid within 60 days of the flood.

SERVPRO of Point Loma technicians will take photos of the damage, document inventory of all possessions, and coordinate with both you and your insurance adjuster. If there are important documents that need to be restored, we can scan and create electronic copies so you can have access to them promptly.

A successful cleanup begins with thorough monitoring of the situation. We use a variety of moisture meters to evaluate the extent of damage before extracting, disinfecting surfaces, and drying your home.

Throughout the drying process, we can use penetrating and non-penetrating moisture sensors and meters to determine the progress from our restoration services. Infrared imaging allows technicians to see behind structures to determine if subfloors, studs, or fiberglass insulation require further drying.

Every surface in your home has an ideal humidity level to maintain its integrity, from hardwood flooring to drywall or your furniture. Our team strives to ensure your items that can be safely restored are handled with the utmost care. Possessions that require replacement are not removed without documentation and the informed consent of homeowners and insurance adjusters.

Your home could potentially need general contracting services for restoration services, which we can walk you through once you decide. SERVPRO of Point Loma is licensed to handle both restoration and rebuilding this type of work.

How to Prepare for a Storm

8/6/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can be as unexpected as the damage they cause. Often, with the right preparation, much of the storm damage can be minimized or prevented altogether. Here are some tips to help prevent the damages storms may cause.

Clean Your Gutters

When it rains, and your gutters are clogged, it could cause the overflow to run down into your home. Often, this water can go undetected and sit. Over time, mold can grow in these areas that remain wet. Having clean and sturdy gutters before the rain comes can minimize the damage a storm may cause.

Landscaping and drainage

Depending on the land your home is built, water runoff can accumulate around your foundation, and flood your homes. Fortunately, there are solutions with the right landscaping. Better pathways can be created for water runoff, guiding the water away from your home. If you have noticed puddles or water accumulation near your home when it rains, contact a professional to help, before a storm comes. That can make the difference in whether your home is damaged or not.

Damaged or Dead Trees 

Storm damage often occurs when a tree or limbs break off and falls onto a home. Snow and rain can weigh down trees, while wind can make them bend. If this happens to trees and limbs that are dead or damaged, there’s a high chance that they will break. Before the storm season comes, be sure to trim your trees, and remove all dead limbs.

5 Things to do After Storm Damage

7/31/2021 (Permalink)

Five Things to Do After Storm Damage

You can mitigate some of the damage caused by a storm by following this checklist:

1. Check your home for damage. 

While not all storm damage will be apparent immediately after the storm has passed, checking your home's condition will give you a clearer picture of the extent of the damage left by the storm.

SERVPRO of Point Loma's experts provide a word of caution to take all the necessary safety precautions when checking your home since unexpected damage may cause injuries. Watch out for loose or exposed ceiling tiles or floorboards, broken electrical lines, and slippery floors. Fortunately, some safety tips can help:

• Avoid standing water
• Avoid checking for storm damage in the dark.
• Watch out for exposed nails, window damage, collapsed walls and roofing materials, and broken glass
• Switch off the electricity and shut off the main gas line before entering a damaged home

2. Assess the potential damage

During a storm, some areas in a home are more susceptible to damage than others. One site that is often vulnerable is the roof. Common signs of roof damage include:

• Split seams
• Dented, missing, or broken shingles
• Holes in the roof
• Leaks in the ceiling or roof

Other areas that are susceptible to storm damage include doors and windows. Inspect all windows for damaged frames, broken panes, cracks, and holes. Remember to board up any broken windows.

Also, assess your home's exterior, looking for damage such as dents, holes, cracks, and chipping to any brickwork, paint, or siding. The storm could have also damaged outdoor appliances such as air conditioning units.

Taking all the necessary precaution, be sure to remove debris from the gutters and roof, and then check that the downspouts are intact and unobstructed so they can continue diverting water away from your home. Remember to check for mold, which is common after flood damage.

3. Get in touch with your insurance carrier.

Document the damage and loss that has been caused by the storm, taking photos before removing or moving any objects or debris. Remember to document any additional costs incurred due to the loss, such as hotel receipts or other temporary living costs.

Once all this information is together, contact the insurance provider to determine whether your insurance plan covers the damage caused. Likewise, inquire about the steps to take to make a claim.

4. Attend only to the damage you are capable of handling.

In some cases, the storm might not have caused extensive damage, and you may be able to restore what little damage exists with a few repairs before seeking professional repair services. Prompt repairs can go a long way toward limiting the damage. 

If that's the case, you should begin with what you can fix yourself, taking care not to cause additional damage. For example, if wind and water are getting into your home through a broken window, board it up as soon as possible. However, if you're not confident in your repair skills, it's best to get in touch with a company that can offer emergency repair services.

5. Choose the right contractor.

The next step is to hire a professional and trustworthy cleaning and restoration service company to restore your home to its former glory. Choosing a contractor that will promptly attend to your home's restoration, take care of water damage, and immediately mitigate the presence of potential mold is critical. 

It's essential to ensure that your house is once again a habitable, healthy living environment. That will likely require water cleanup (flood cleanup) and mold removal by a specialized commercial cleaning service.

Getting Back to Normal

While storms can wreak catastrophic damages upon a home or commercial building, promptly addressing the storm damage—first, to make emergency patches and then to take care of longer-term restoration—will go a long way in getting your home or business back to normal. 

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO is a leading storm damage restoration company that has served San Diego for upwards of 50 years. They can handle all aspects of the restoration process, from water removal to debris cleanup.

For more information about storm damage cleanup and restoration, contact SERVPRO of Point Loma.

Keep Your Home or Business Dry

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

Flood control fixes you can make to help manage storm water runoff and prevent flood damage to your home:

1. Slope soil away from your home's foundation. Don’t forget to fill and slop soil under decks and porches.
   
   2. Water from your roof, downspouts, and eavestroughs can find its way to your home if they are clogged, leak, or don't carry water far enough from your home. Clean out eavestroughs and downspouts in the fall and spring. You can also use downspout extensions to carry water far enough away from your foundation as an effective flood control.
   
   3. Set up a downspout to empty into a rain barrel. Using rain barrels for rain water storage reduces the cost of watering shrubs, flowers, and vegetables.
   
   4. Plug holes or cracks in your eavestroughs, downspouts, downspout extensions and seal these with silicon caulk. Even a trickling leak can let plenty of water into your basement to become a mold problem.
   
   5. Look for holes or cracks in your foundation and completely fill these with vinyl concrete patching.

What To Do While You Wait for SERVPRO

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Things to Do While Waiting for a Cleanup Crew

A fire in your home, even if it is a small fire, can create a lot of problems that you need to deal with. While the majority of the cleanup is often contracted to a clearing and restoration service, you can do some things while waiting for the restoration company to start your cleanup. 

Limit Traffic in the Home

Once the fire department releases the home to you, keep the number of people walking through the house to a minimum. Things like soot and other debris can quickly grind into carpets and upholstered items, and it will be much harder for the restoration company to remove from the fabric.

If you do need to move around in the house, lay down some plastic runners in the traffic areas, and try to keep everyone out that does not need to be in the building. People often want to see the aftermath of the fire, but if they don't need to be in the house, they just add to the potential problems and could be a safety concern. 

Cover Your Furnishings

If the furnishings in your home are still relatively clean after the fire, put some plastic over them to keep dirt, soot, and ash off the upholstery. The upholstery may smell like smoke or other odors from the fire, but if the fabric is still clean, dealing with furnishing restoration is much easier. 

Clean Out the Fridge and Freezer

The electricity to your home is often shut off during fire suppression efforts, and if you can’t move back into the home for a while, take the time to clean out the refrigerator and the freezer so that the food does not spoil and ruin the appliances. Once all the food is out, prop the door open on both the fridge and the freezer to keep them from getting musty or growing mold inside.

Unplug Appliances and Electronics

If appliances or electronics are in the house that may turn on when the power comes on, unplug them from the outlets. If the items do not appear to have damage on them, they could have water damage inside or a short that you can’t see.

Something as simple as a wire with the insulation melted off could create a spark and start another fire when the power comes on. Unplugging the attached electronic or appliance is the safest way to isolate it and make sure everything is in working order.

Retrieve Your Important Documents

If you have documents in your home that are important like birth certificates, death certificates, your marriage license, or important insurance documents, retrieve them from the home as soon as possible. The longer these documents stay in the home, the more likely they are to sustain damage, and some of the documents will be hard to replace. 

Locate the documents and put them in something secure to protect them. Move them to a safe deposit box, or invest in a lockbox to keep with you until you are able to return to your house. If you decide to keep the documents with you, make sure the lockbox is fire-, water-, and tamper-proof so that you don't risk losing these documents again. 

At SERVPRO of Point Loma, we specialize in cleaning up after a fire in your house. We have the experience, tools, and manpower to help you pick up the pieces after a fire of any size. Give us a call and we will assess the damage to your home, let you know what it will take to clean it up, and get started right away so we can get you back in your house.

How To Prepare For Colder Weather

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Getting your home ready for the colder temperatures and stormy weather conditions of fall is smart, whether you are a homeowner, a business owner, or both. Weather may be unpredictable during the fall here in Texas, but you won’t have to worry about it if you prepare now. Here at SERVPRO of Point Loma, we have some preparation projects for you to consider:

• Remove dead leaves and debris from your gutters and drainpipes. This will prevent clogging during wetter weather. Drain all outdoor faucets ahead of freezing weather now, as well. 
• While late summer is not the time to heavily prune trees and bushes, it is a good time to remove any branches that are dead or look like they could prove dangerous during a fall storm. If you have a tree that you think may be dead or dying, contact an arborist to come and take a look at it. If it is actually dead and near your house, you will want to have it removed before anything happens during a fall storm. 
• Examine all your windows and doors for cracks. If you find any, have them sealed now so that you can stay warm and save energy this fall and winter. You’ll be saving both time and money here!
• A roof inspection ahead of colder weather will tell you if your roofing needs any attention before fall storms. Loose shingles can be replaced more easily when it’s warm and dry outside. If you have siding on your home, look it over well for any loose sections; fall storms bring wind that can create problems here. 
• Make sure your entrance walkways are in good shape with no buckling or crumbling. When the surrounding ground is wet it can compromise cement, causing it to crack and split, and that’s an accident just waiting to happen.

Look out for Water Damage After a Storm!

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

Mother Nature can really do some severe damage to your home but SERVPRO of Point Loma is here to help! We specialize in water remediation. We have specially trained professionals for floods, fire and mold. We strive to make your home look "Like it never even happened."®

Heavy rainfall can wreak havoc inside your home. When rainstorms occur, your home may be inundated with water. Here are some things to look for inside your home:

Water pooling in your basement.

• Wet flooring, including carpet, tile, or wood
• Wet furniture
• A roof leak may show up as water running down your walls

If you discover any water in your home, it’s definitely time to speak to the professionals at SERVPRO of Point Loma. Don’t forget that water damage left unaddressed can easily lead to microbial growth. Call us before your water issue becomes even worse for your home and your health.

We here at SERVPRO of Point Loma offer a 24 hour emergency service response. Any time of day or night, we are here for you. Contact our office today at (619) 275-2802 to discuss your needs. We are here to help!

How to Deal With Unexpected Storm Damage

6/13/2020 (Permalink)

Dealing with repairs and insurance companies after severe weather hits your property can be difficult. Homeowners can use the following tips to help tackle the storm damage caused by hard rains, flooding, or storm-related issues.

SAFETY FIRST

If you and your family were away from home when the storm hit, do not return until it has been confirmed safe. Contact a storm damage expert like SERVPRO of Point Loma; we’ll help you determine if your home is safe to return to.

INSURANCE

You will need to contact your homeowners’ insurance adjuster as soon as possible. If your neighborhood has sustained widespread damage, find out if any special teams of insurance agents, relief workers, or contractors are coming to the area. Check your policy to find out what actions you need to take or talk to your agent to make sure you are following the proper procedures. Not following these actions correctly could result in a reduced claim. Inspect your property and make a list of all damages; take photographs of all noted damage if at all possible.

RECORDING AND DOCUMENTING

Document your neighbor’s damages, as well; this can prevent the insurance provider from downgrading your claim by saying the damage is from your neglect of maintenance or other unrelated issues by giving them a way to compare. Keep a record of all the communication you have with your insurance provider, and don’t do any unnecessary repair work yourself. Hire a trusted storm damage restoration service provider such as SERVPRO of Point Loma  to handle any repairs.

BE SCAM FREE

Always check the adjuster’s identification. If you are evacuated, ask for money from your claim upfront. If they agree, you will be given a check for an amount that will be deducted from your final settlement. Some providers will automatically offer a partial payment early on during the process. Review it carefully and decline it if you feel uncomfortable with any part of it. Never be afraid to ask questions and to expect an answer that makes sense or seems fair. 

Dealing with a storm's aftermath is stressful, but reacting properly will be an immense help and can prevent problems down the road.

The SERVPRO of Point Loma’s team is ready to help 24/7. Call us for your fire or water damage issues at (619)275-2802, or visit our website: SERVPRO of Point Loma

Storm and Insurance Tips

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Dealing with repairs and insurance companies after severe weather hits your property can be difficult. Homeowners can use the following tips to help tackle the storm damage caused by hard rains, flooding, or storm-related issues.

SAFETY FIRST

If you and your family were away from home when the storm hit, do not return until it has been confirmed safe. Contact a storm damage expert like SERVPRO of Point Loma; we’ll help you determine if your home is safe to return to.

INSURANCE

You will need to contact your homeowners’ insurance adjuster as soon as possible. If your neighborhood has sustained widespread damage, find out if any special teams of insurance agents, relief workers, or contractors are coming to the area. Check your policy to find out what actions you need to take or talk to your agent to make sure you are following the proper procedures. Not following these actions correctly could result in a reduced claim. Inspect your property and make a list of all damages; take photographs of all noted damage if at all possible.

RECORDING AND DOCUMENTING

Document your neighbor’s damages, as well; this can prevent the insurance provider from downgrading your claim by saying the damage is from your neglect of maintenance or other unrelated issues by giving them a way to compare. Keep a record of all the communication you have with your insurance provider, and don’t do any unnecessary repair work yourself. Hire a trusted storm damage restoration service provider such as SERVPRO of Point Loma to handle any repairs.

BE SCAM FREE

Always check the adjuster’s identification. If you are evacuated, ask for money from your claim upfront. If they agree, you will be given a check for an amount that will be deducted from your final settlement. Some providers will automatically offer a partial payment early on during the process. Review it carefully and decline it if you feel uncomfortable with any part of it. Never be afraid to ask questions and to expect an answer that makes sense or seems fair. 

Dealing with a storm's aftermath is stressful, but reacting properly will be an immense help and can prevent problems down the road.

The SERVPRO of Point Loma team is ready to help 24/7. Call us for your fire or water damage issues at (619) 275-2802

Storms vs Water Damage

4/25/2020 (Permalink)

External Versus Internal

Storm damage tends to come from outside a home. This damage may originate from any of the following sources:

  • Floods
  • Roof leaks
  • Broken windows

Other forms of damage caused by water tend to be plumbing-related and caused by internal systems. External water may be Category Two or Category Three depending on the source, whereas water from a supply line break is clean, treated Category One water.

Flooding or Leaks

Flood water is considered highly contaminated Category Three water. Flood damage may affect a crawlspace, basement or ground level of a residence and increase the risk of mold growth and structural damage. Water from a roof leak may be slightly less contaminated, but can still cause irreparable damage to porous building materials such as drywall or insulation.

Secondary Damage

Any type of damage that involves water will increase the risk of certain types of secondary damage. Mold growth is the most common consequence of water or storm damage. Mitigation and restoration professionals can quickly eliminate primary damage and minimize secondary damage.

These are a few major distinctions between storm and water damage. Another important factor to consider is that flooding is usually excluded from standard homeowners policies, whereas many other types of water and storm-related damage are covered perils. If you are concerned that exposure to flood water will cause damage at a residence in San Diego you should obtain a flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer.

When Storms or Floods hit Point Loma, SERVPRO is ready!

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Point Loma.

SERVPRO ofPoint Loma specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Point Loma, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (619) 275-2802