Staying Prepared with an Emergency Readiness Profile (ERP)

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

What happens when a main water line bursts inside the building, or, when someone detects the smell of gas in the air while the building is being heated? When severe weather strikes, do your managers know where to go, and where to send your customers? What happens when a tornado, hurricane, or flood impacts your business directly? Communication is the key of course, but without the proper plan, there is nothing to communicate on a consistent level.

An Emergency Ready Profile is what separates guessing from an actual plan of attack should something detrimental happen to your business. Here at SERVPRO of LBL South, we have an entire team of professionals who, upon request, will come to your business, and complete your Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for you. We will ask you some questions in reference to points of contact, service providers, etc., and then we will take care of filling in the remainder of the form. Once completed, you will be provided a copy to share with your managers, and insurance providers, and we will keep a copy as well. In the rare event disaster does strike, you will be prepared, and SERVPRO of LBL South will already know how to respond.

To get your ERP completed, please contact our office at (731) 642-1284 for more information and to schedule a visit by our Sales and Marketing Representative.

Top 5 Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

Air Duct Cleanings result in many benefits for you and your home.

Air ducts in your home provide very important functions for you and other residents. They circulate the air from your HVAC to each room in your home , giving you fresh air and comfort, no matter the season. 

Professionally cleaning your air ducts are as follows:

1. It provides a cleaner living environment for you and your family. 
2. It reduces allergens and irritants in your home. 
3. It allows those in your home to breathe a little easier. 
4. It may remove unpleasant smells and odors.
5. It improves air flow efficiency. 

Keeping your air ducts is important, but can be difficult to do on your own. Give us a call today at (731)642-1284 for an estimate on a cleaning. We get the job done- "Like it never even happened."

5 Reasons Why You Need to Get Your Air Ducts Cleaned

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Air duct cleaning can protect you and your family's health as well as improve the cleanliness of your home.

Air ducts in your home provide very important functions for you and other residents. They circulate the air from your HVAC to each room in your home , giving you fresh air and comfort, no matter the season. 

Professionally cleaning your air ducts are as follows:

1. It provides a cleaner living environment for you and your family. 

2. It reduces allergens and irritants in your home. 

3. It allows those in your home to breathe a little easier. 

4. It may remove unpleasant smells and odors.

5. It improves air flow efficiency. 

Keeping your air ducts is important, but can be difficult to do on your own. Give us a call today at (731)642-1284 for an estimate on a cleaning. We get the job done- "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Water Damage... now what?

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in the workplace, not only prevents you from doing business, but it can also be a safety concern. It is important to take action immediately when you first spot signs of a commercial water damage. 

Most problems can be prevented when the cause of the loss is found sooner rather than later. In this blog, we will talk about the most common water damages in commercial properties and how to deal with them. 

DAMAGED WINDOWS:

Windows may not be properly sealed which can allow for moisture to seep in. This can cause warped wood and drywall. Checking and resealing windows is important as caulk can break down over time. 

DAMAGED PIPES:

Broken pipes can come from many reasons. There may be deteriorated supply lines and drains. Cold weather can also cause pipes to freeze and burst. If bulging walls, water stains on walls or floors, cracked or loose tiles, or a musty smell are detected or seen, these are all signs of water damage. Detecting leaky pipes can be difficult and usually will require specialized water leak detection equipment.

BUILDING FOUNDATION:

When gutters are not properly cleaned, they get clogged causing water to leak into the property through the roof or foundation. poor drainage systems can also lead to water damage in the foundation. One common sign are puddles near the foundation or framing that has become wet. 

ROOF LEAKS:

Exposure to heavy rains and snows can make a roof vulnerable to damage and leaks. Leaks can also be caused by incorrect snow and ice removal. A leaky roof can then cause ceiling damage, mold, or mildew. It can also become a fire hazard from shortened wires and compromised structural integrity. 

HVAC PROBLEMS:

Your HVAC system is a network of ducts that carry heated and cooled air throughout the building. This system needs to be cleaned regularly, and excess water from reservoirs has to be removed to prevent water damage. These ducts can also wear out over time and get damaged resulting in leaks.

SEWER CLOGS:

If you hear gurgling sounds or see water backing up out of a drain or toilet, you should call a water damage professional (SERVPRO) immediately. Sewer water is vary dangerous and contains bacteria and pathogens that can cause illness and infections. 

SPRINKLER SYSTEM LEAKS:

Regularly inspect your sprinkler systems for leaks and moisture. Sprinkler system leaks can be identified  by wet surfaces like drywall and carpet, the presence of mold and mildew, and standing water. 

Water damage in commercial buildings is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately. Call SERVPRO right away because fixing the root of the problem should stop it from getting worse. 

Getting an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

It happens more than you think, but is one of the most seldom discussed subjects at meetings and/or training sessions. What happens when a main water line bursts inside the building, or, when someone detects the smell of gas in the air while the building is being heated? When severe weather strikes, do your managers know where to go, and where to send your customers? What happens when a tornado, hurricane, or flood impacts your business directly? Communication is the key of course, but without the proper plan, there is nothing to communicate on a consistent level.

An Emergency Ready Profile is what separates guessing from an actual plan of attack should something detrimental happen to your business. Here at SERVPRO of LBL South, we have an entire team of professionals who, upon request, will come to your business, and complete your Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for you. We will ask you some questions in reference to points of contact, service providers, etc., and then we will take care of filling in the remainder of the form. Once completed, you will be provided a copy to share with your managers, and insurance providers, and we will keep a copy as well. In the rare event disaster does strike, you will be prepared, and SERVPRO of LBL South will already know how to respond.

To get your ERP completed, please contact our office at (731) 642-1284 for more information and to schedule a visit by our Sales and Marketing Representative.

Commercial Water Damage Services

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events in North West TN commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of LBL South

SERVPRO of LBL South 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.

Should Your Business Clean The Air Ducts?

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Answer: Yes, because they get dirty!

In addition to normal accumulations of dust and dirt found in all structures with air ducts, there are several other factors that can increase the need for regular HVAC system cleaning:

-occupants with allergies or asthma
-cigarette or cigar smoke
-water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
-renovation or remodeling projects

Some occupants are more sensitive to these contaminants than others. Allergy and asthma sufferers, as well as young children and the elderly tend to be more susceptible to the types of poor indoor air quality that air duct cleaning can help address.

Indoor air quality is one concern that homeowners have when they decide to investigate air duct cleaning. Your heating and cooling system is the lungs of your home. The system takes air in and breathes air out.

Through normal occupation, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants, such as dander, dust, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this re-circulation causes a build-up of contaminants in the duct work.

While dirty ducts don’t necessarily mean unhealthy air in your home, school or workplace, they may be contributing to larger health effects or harboring contaminants that could cause serious problems for people with respiratory health conditions, autoimmune disorders or some environmental allergies.

Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten the life of your system. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use. When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness.

Don't Let COVID-19 Close Your Commercial Business

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

New Delta Variant & Your Commercial Business

According to Dr. Lisa Piercey, who is the Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Health, Tennessee is nearing the same number of COVID-19 cases that it had in early May of 2020. She says that cases have increased by 200% since July 1st, 2021. This sudden surge in cases is due to the new Delta variant of the virus. While this development is concerning for many reasons, it should not be a concern for your commercial business. SERVPRO of LBL South offers COVID-19 cleaning services for businesses across the region through our program, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is our specialized service that prevents the spread of the viral pathogens of COVID-19. In order to keep the doors of your business open, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned goes above and beyond the average cleanings of janitorial crews. Our company has significant experience and expertise in biohazard decontamination and cleaning, making SERVPRO of LBL South the best choice to protect your business from the new Delta variant.

How does it work? Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is grounded in our unique 3 Cs:

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, which is why we’ll start by learning about the unique needs of each space.
  
  
• Clean: Based on the specific needs of the business, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-approved, hospital-grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to CDC standards.
  
  
• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.

So if your business is faced with having to shut its doors due to COVID-19, give SERVPRO of LBL South a call. We'll get your facility Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned and able to reopen just six hours after our cleaning is complete. Call us for your cleaning and restoration needs at 731-642-1284 or email us at SERVPRO@lblsouth.com. 

Top 5 Benefits of Air Duct Cleaning

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning your air ducts can be extremely beneficial to you and those in your home.

Air ducts in your home provide very important functions for you and other residents. They circulate the air from your HVAC to each room in your home , giving you fresh air and comfort, no matter the season. 

Professionally cleaning your air ducts are as follows:

1. It provides a cleaner living environment for you and your family. 

2. It reduces allergens and irritants in your home. 

3. It allows those in your home to breathe a little easier. 

4. It may remove unpleasant smells and odors.

5. It improves air flow efficiency. 

Keeping your air ducts is important, but can be difficult to do on your own. Give us a call today at (731)642-1284 for an estimate on a cleaning. We get the job done- "Like it never even happened."

When the flood waters rise, we're here.

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

On February 27th we received a call from a local business owner with over a foot of water in his business. We responded that night with multiple crews to find that not only one business was affected, but six! We got busy. The owner of the restaurant that had initially called us had a goal of reopening in 4 days. We thought that would be impossible, but we persevered. With the help of some local contractors and his own staff, we were able to get him reopened in 4 days. The owner was thrilled to have his business back open. 

The rest of the businesses are going to require a little more labor and demo to get the job done, and we hope to have them back in business within the month. 

We strive to have satisfied customers. This winter season has brought many difficulties with the weather, but we are continuing to push through.

Your Business and COVID-19

8/14/2020 (Permalink)

Your Business and COVID-19

August 14^th, 2020

            These are most certainly unprecedented times. In January, news of COVID-19 was barely a footnote. In February, the US began seeing a slow rise in cases in a small handful of states. The CDC and the federal government began taking steps to control the virus, indicating it would be under control in a few weeks if all steps were followed. Here we are now six-months later, and the virus lingers on with just north of 5-million cases and over 167,000 deaths and climbing by the day.

            With this, however, the US economy continues to try and push forward, implementing the best policies and procedures possible in order to give employees and customers the best opportunity to work or shop in an environment which has been professionally cleaned. But there are some steps you can take as a business owner and/or manager that will help our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is a supplement to your current cleaning procedures. Here are some elements of consideration when reviewing your current policies and procedures:

• What are some bottleneck areas in your facility where employees and/or customers could get congested? Can a modification of the flow of traffic help mitigate this issue?
• Are tables, counter spaces, kiosks, etc., spaced enough so as to ensure maximum accessibility while keeping close consideration of social distancing.
• Are the current cleaning procedures and products being utilized in line with EPA and CDC guidelines? If not, what needs to be modified by which to align or exceed those guidelines?
• What are other facilities similar to yours doing?

SERVPRO of LBL South has led the way in this area for meeting with business owners, bank managers, and public officials in our area to discuss some of the best ways to combat this ever evolving situation. Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is a great addition to any organization, as it comes with the exchange of information and consultation as to how to best navigate these times, along with the confidence that once our team leaves your facility, your environment has been cleaned by the best in the business.

            For more information, please refer to the CDC website for additional guidance, and the EPA for a list of approved products available by which to effectively limit exposure to COVID-19.

JN

Businesses Adapting to Work at Home Models

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

Business Adaptations Post COVID-19

April 27^th, 2019 

     From every crisis in history, there are lessons to be learned, and adaptions that can be implemented on just about every level. For businesses (large and small) this will likely result in a shift in the operational business model for many. The emergence of COVID-19 has permitted some businesses to see just how well they can operate, even if only for a short period of time, with their employees working remotely.

     At SERVPRO, one of the biggest concern’s businesses have following a major loss, is how long the operation will need to be shut down in order to mitigate the issue. Granted working from home is not conducive for retail outlets and restaurants, but for offices which do not provide a physical product, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown that while the loss is being mitigated, that operations may continue, albeit from remote locations.

     Once a business suffers a loss, the time in which SERVPRO needs to get in, adequately assess the loss, and mitigate it, is often dictated by when the company will need to reopen, close down, etc. It is not always as simple as shutting the doors, however, now with what we have taken away from the COVID-19 pandemic, it could provide quicker response times by SERVPRO, and a smooth temporary transition on the part of the business while SERVPRO mitigates the issue.

JN

References:

Hern, A. (2020, March 13th). The Guardian. Retrieved from Covid-19 could cause permanent shift towards home working: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2020/mar/13/covid-19-could-cause-permanent-shift-towards-home-working

Getting an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

February 7^th, 2020

It happens more than you think, but is one of the most seldom discussed subjects at meetings and/or training sessions. What happens when a main water line bursts inside the building, or, when someone detects the smell of gas in the air while the building is being heated? When severe weather strikes, do your managers know where to go, and where to send your customers? What happens when a tornado, hurricane, or flood impacts your business directly? Communication is the key of course, but without the proper plan, there is nothing to communicate on a consistent level.

An Emergency Ready Profile is what separates guessing from an actual plan of attack should something detrimental happen to your business. Here at SERVPRO of LBL South, we have an entire team of professionals who, upon request, will come to your business, and complete your Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for you. We will ask you some questions in reference to points of contact, service providers, etc., and then we will take care of filling in the remainder of the form. Once completed, you will be provided a copy to share with your managers, and insurance providers, and we will keep a copy as well. In the rare event disaster does strike, you will be prepared, and SERVPRO of LBL South will already know how to respond.

To get your ERP completed, please contact our office at (731) 642-1284 for more information and to schedule a visit by our Sales and Marketing Manager, or a Sales and Marketing Representative.

Is Your Business Prepared for a Disaster?

2/4/2020 (Permalink)

February 4th, 2020

Is Your Business Prepared for Disaster

Running a business, be it a small locally owned business, or large corporate operation, being prepared in the event an unexpected event happens is crucial to making sure whatever situation arises, the right help is identified and the problem is resolved as fast as possible. In fact, over 50% of businesses close down completely following a major disaster simply because no plan or approach was composed leading up to said disaster.

SERVPRO of LBL South can help with this. Our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) will help you with putting this plan together. The best part is, we do it for you. All you need to do is provide us with some vital information, and we go to work putting together your profile which once provided, will give crucial details to law enforcement, emergency responders, SERVPRO and other entities which will come to your rescue in the event of a disaster. For example, our ERP includes some of the following information and more:

• Points of Contact (POC) for your organization
• Locations of all water, electric and gas shut offs (including photos of each element)
• A comprehensive list of service providers (water, gas, electric, etc.)
• A detailed chain of command so as to authorize SERVPRO to get started as soon as possible following an emergency
• …….Much More

ERP’s can also be put together for a residence as well. If you would like an ERP put together for your home or business, contact our office at (731) 642-1284 to schedule a visit to your location.

Resources

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile