Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

It's All About the System

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

Fall Out Clean Up Aisle 7

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO franchises follow a standard set by our corporate office in Gallatin, TN. The franchise system places standard operating procedures to be uniformly followed in all franchises. SERVPRO's vast experience in fire, water, mold, and restoration has set precedent for some of the finest work processes in the restoration industry.

Here at SERVPRO of Mt Prospect/ North Des Plaines of office staff follows corporate procedures and guidelines in order to avoid the work office overload depicted in this photo. Clearly these office personal could have benefited from some corporate guideline assistance.

Next time, they'll avoid this mess by following the corporate office procedures and guidelines.

It should be noted that no office staff members were injured in the making of this blog. ;-)  

The SERVPRO Difference

5/8/2023 (Permalink)

Containment barrier The containment barrier keeps any dust or debris from entering the unaffected areas of the home.

When disaster strikes at your home, it is important to us at SERVPRO to ensure that nothing else gets damaged when we are performing emergency mitigation services. There are a few steps we may take to protect your contents as well as unaffected areas of the home and neighboring rooms. At SERVPRO we pride ourselves on going the extra mile to ensure your home and your belongings are safe throughout the entire process. 

One thing we may do is set up a containment barrier to separate the affected area from the unaffected area. This can be done by using poles that keep the containment up or by just taping the plastic barrier to the ceiling and walls. By doing this we are eliminating the possibility of any dust or debris being blown into the unaffected area while our equipment is running. Containing the dust to only one area makes the post cleanup much easier. Another thing the containment barrier can help do is eliminate cross contamination. 

 In addition to setting up the containment barrier, we will also use plastic sheeting to cover any items that are still in the affected area such as couches, beds, entertainment centers, etc. It is common for bigger furniture items to be left on site or in the room to remove the possibility of the item being damaged while being moved. Keeping these things covered stops them from being affected by any dust or debris which eliminates the need to have the items cleaned at the end.

In the event there are books or pictures or any small items of that sort, we use boxes to store them. Putting these items in boxes gives us an easy way to remove them from the affected areas and place them in another area of the home. The boxes are labeled by room, making it easy to distinguish where the items came from. 

What Sets Us Apart for Mitigation?

10/7/2022 (Permalink)

If you are experiencing water damage of any type in your home, contact our emergency service line 24/7, 365-days a year. We are here to quickly take care of water damage situations for you. Water leakage can cause significant damage to your home and belongings, which is why it is vital to respond to this situation immediately. Our highly trained staff makes your restoration process as stress-free as possible by keeping you informed and communicating with your insurance company to get the most out of your claim.

SERVPRO has IICRC-certified professionals who follow strict safety and health guidelines throughout the restoration process. Rest assured, our team has the equipment, resources, and expertise to perform any repairs, replacements, or reconstruction projects necessary for the restoration.

SERVPRO always strives to be Faster To Any Disaster. With an entire Green Fleet of vehicles, stocked and ready to deploy, our technicians are ready to provide you with professional restoration done right. Contact SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines at 847-956-1880.  

Why You Should Choose SERVPRO for Your Home!

10/7/2022 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines, we make it a priority to ensure  our customers are taken care of from the first call to our office until the final walkthrough of the mitigation project. We are consistently taking the extra steps to let our customer know we are with them through every step. Our crew chiefs and technicians are exceptionally trained in water mitigation, mold removal, fire restoration, cleaning of structures and contents as well as carpet cleanings. No matter what your need is- our team can handle it.

We love to work alongside your insurance company and adjusters to make sure you are up to speed on every aspect during the project. From our initial inspection at the property, we will be communicating with your adjuster to let them know our plan and course of action to get your home back to the way it was. Additionally, our highly trained crews will be letting you know how we plan to restore the damaged areas before the work has been started so that you can prepare to help move your personal contents from affected areas.

Not only does SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines have a knowledgeable staff, they also will come equipped with the most efficient drying equipment there is on the market. From air movers to large dehumidifiers and HEPA air scrubbers- this equipment matched with the training of our crew chiefs will be the most effective way to dry the affected materials in the shortest time frame possible. Thus, resulting in getting your home back to the way it was sooner.

For more information be sure to check out our SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines website for more insight on how we take care of water, mold, fire, cleaning, and contents!

SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines On Speed Dial

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

When fire or water damage puts the things that matter to you most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines is so important.
To get the team that’s faster to any size disaster we recommend you tell your building engineers and property managers to add the following contact to their mobile devices:

Emergency Fire Water Cleanup

847-956-1880

Having this important contact information will increase the response time for our technicians to mobilize and act swiftly to get your home or business back to the way it was.

We’re a leader in giving control back to homeowners, property managers, and even entire
communities after the ravaging effects of water or fire. So whether you’re responsible for
1,000 square feet or 100,000 – be ready for the worst with the very best: Your trusted, local
SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines franchise professional. We can help make it "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines IICRC

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines is a certified member of the IICRC.

SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines is an active member of the IICRC. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification is the leader in industry standards when it comes to restoration. In addition to setting the standards, they also provide training and certification to restoration companies. Here at SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines we proudly display the IICRC logo on all of our vehicles as well as in the entrance to our office. 

When you are a member of the IICRC, there are certain things that you must do, among them are the following;

  • Require at least one technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and has passed all required tests.
  • Present accurate information to customers and maintain integrity and honesty.
  • Maintain liability insurance to protect everyone involved in the event of an accident.

There are a few other requirements to be met in order to maintain your status in the IICRC, but those are three of the major ones. SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines is a proud member of the IICRC and we ensure we will represent them in the best way possible. 

Emergency Services For Your Healthcare Facility

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Hospital systems operate on numbers. So does the one company they call when fire or water damage strikes. The #1 Choice in Commercial Cleanup and Restoration. SERVPRO. 


At SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines, our professionals are trained in adhering to the highest sanitation standards. We understand that time is crucial for both your operations and your patients. Our employees know how to handle regulated medical waste and undergo specialized training to work in operating rooms and other restricted areas, always adhering to HIPPA regulations. We also coordinate with environmental and infection control teams to establish containment areas, monitor progress and make sure that all necessary health certifications are obtained prior to completing any job.

Our number one priority is to quickly and safely take full responsibility of your cleanup needs so that you are free to focus on your number one priority: the patients.

Our experience in the healthcare industry has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following:

  • Hospitals
  • Assisted Living Centers Outpatient Surgical Centers
  • Hospice Facilities
  • Rehab Facilities
  • Medical Office Buildings

Carpet Cleaning

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines for all your carpet cleaning needs!

Since 1907 SERVPRO has been handling stains and soils of all types, from residential homes to commercial facilities. Using IICRC standards for carpet cleaning care as a guide, SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines Professionals will guide you in the best decisions to care for your carpet. This includes:

  • Showing you what cleaning options would be best for your level of soiling
  • Giving you an estimate of time and cost for the carpet cleaning
  • Explaining the benefits of soil protection and the advantages of a clean carpet for good indoor air quality

Here are some examples of our carpet care options:

Bonnet Cleaning-cleaning/maintenance for light soiling

Hot Water Extraction-cleaning for light to moderate soiling

Deluxe Precondition and Rinse-cleaning for moderate to heavy soiling; pre-treat and rinse

Showcase Premier Cleaning-cleaning for moderate to heavy soiling

Trained, Experienced, and Compassionate Staff

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

From our technicians to our office staff, each one of our team members aims to provide the restoration services you need with a compassionate smile.

At SERVPRO, it is one thing to have staff who are highly qualified and experienced in restoration. We are IICRC-certified, and our work is based on standardized restoration techniques used across the industry. However, it is important that we not only offer quality work, but also quality care. 

We understand the difficulties a water or fire loss can bring to you and your loved ones, and we aim to work alongside you and help you navigate through these stressful times. From our technicians to our office staff, each one of our team members aims to provide the restoration services you need with a compassionate smile. 

SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines is ready and available 24/7 to provide you with the restoration services your property needs. Do not hesitate to give us a call! 847-956-1880

Nothing But The Best

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is committed to meeting all of your restoration needs.

Here at SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines, we are committed to providing the best service possible to all of our customers. One way we are committed to doing this is by putting our employees through various certification courses through the IICRC. The IICRC stands for the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. The IICRC offers certification courses in areas such as water damage restoration, fire and smoke damage restoration, odor control and various other topics. By completing these courses, our employees are able to take the knowledge learned in the classroom and directly apply it to the current job at hand. When you call on SERVPRO, you can have confidence that the employees doing the work have the best training and know what it takes to effectively and efficiently handle all of your restoration needs. 

Water Removal and Restoration in Homes Done Right by SERVPRO!

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Moisture meters will detect any moisture in walls, flooring, or any affected areas.

Why SERVPRO Can Help Reduce the Impact of Water Damage in Your Home

When water spills occur, it can lead to widespread damages unless the right actions are taken immediately. Water is a natural solvent that causes a wide range of materials to deteriorate, especially when left exposed over extended periods. A professional water damage restoration like SERVPRO has the skills and other resources to deal with the issue reducing the overall impact it might have on your property.

Working Faster

Time can be a friend or foe after water damage incidents in Mount Prospect or Des Plaines areas. Taking long before responding to an incident creates an opportunity for secondary damages like mold and degradation of building materials and contents to add to the restoration service. Our SERVPRO crews work faster because we have the necessary resources, such as equipment. For example, we have truck mounted water extractors, and high-speed pumps to hasten water removal. We also have cavity drying systems such as the injecti-dry devices, which reduce the amount of demolition work needed to dry property. Because We're Faster To Any Size Disaster, we can often salvage hardwood flooring from permanent damage with the use of drying mats and injecti-dry equipment. Customers always appreciate it when our team can cut costs, deconstruction, and restore their homes to pre loss condition as rapidly as possible.

Using Superior Techniques

Fixing water damage takes skill, especially when saving wet items. Issues such as the setting of stains, mold development, and damage to electrical appliances can drive the cost of restoration higher because such items have to be replaced. Our SERVPRO technicians use various superior approaches such as freezing documents to halt deterioration, then drying them through sublimation. We also quicken the drying process of wet areas by regulating temperature, air movement, or isolating them by creating drying chambers.

Identifying Potential Long-term Issues Early

Some effects of water damage can have long-term implications if not addressed. An issue like moisture remnants in semi-porous materials can lead to health effects in the future due to mold development. Our SERVPRO technicians can preempt mold development by drying all materials to normal levels. We have many moisture detection devices, including borescopes, thermo-hygrometers, penetrative, and non-penetrative moisture meters, and infrared camera imagery, which help us, identify whether there is any hidden moisture that might cause future problems.

Water loss incidents can have far-reaching effects. Call SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines at 847-956-1880 to help clean up and dry your property, restoring the pre loss conditions. "Like it never even happened."

Benefits of Air Scrubbers

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Air Scrubber

Air scrubbers, or negative air machine, is a portable air filtration machine. It draws air from the surrounding environment and passes through a series of filters. These filters efficiently remove particles from the air to help improve indoor air quality.

Why does SERVPRO® use Air Scrubbers?

The goal of every restoration job is to safely and efficiently return the indoor environment to pre loss condition for the customer.

Any job that involves cleanup of sewage, mold and or fire damage will generate significant amounts of particulates and odoriferous (smelly) gases.  These contaminants are a direct result of the damage itself, as well as the necessary process of treating and cleaning damaged materials. An air scrubber helps prevent these undesirable and potentially harmful particles and gases from remaining in the indoor environment.

Mold Remediation

Mold remediation projects can release large quantities of mold and fungal spores into the air.  These indoor air pollutants can affect the health and comfort of occupants.  Air scrubbers are equipped with multiple pre-filters for removal of visible airborne particles. The final stage filter, HEPA, captures microscopic particles and microbes such as fungal spores. HEPA filters can capture particles as small as 0.3 micros.

If you have odors from sewage, mold, fire or water damage, let one of our professionals remove and remediate odors “Like it never even happened.”

Why Call SERVPRO When Water Damage Strikes?

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes your home or business, it can be tempting to "go it alone" and try to clean up the mess and resulting damage on your own. Unfortunately, water damage is often sneaky, creating wet walls, damaging flooring and leaving musty smells in its wake. Trust the restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines to clean and restore your property the right way utilizing the latest technologies in drying and deodorization. Have the piece of mind that comes with knowing you have experts in your corner to make the process of restoring your home as painless as possible. Our technicians receive continuous training to stay up to date on the most effective techniques in the industry to quickly and efficiently restore your property. Call us anytime day or night at 847-956-1880 and let us help you make your home "Like it never even happened."

Three Reasons You Shouldn't Use Bleach To Remove Mold

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Don't use bleach to remove mold

Here Are Three Reasons Why Not To Use Bleach

If you find a little bit of mold in your building in Mount Prospect, IL, you might think you can get rid of it with just some bleach and a scrub brush. This is not the best way to do some fungus cleanup. here are three reasons why.


1. It Doesn't Fully Kill the Mold
If the mold you're seeing is on a porous surface such as drywall or wood, you're only seeing the tip of the iceberg. The root of the mold is far beneath the surface, and if you don't kill that, the mold will just keep coming back. Cleaning supplies can't get all the way to the root, so even if you use them to get rid of the visible mold, you won't fully kill it this way.


2. It May Feed Mold Growth
Mold and fungus cleanup is a tricky process because fungi feed on damp environments, which means adding water can actually make the problem worse. Bleach is mostly water, believe it or not, and the chlorine that gives it its cleaning power evaporates faster than water. As a result, putting it on a moldy area can actually make the problem worse, because the water sticks around, allowing the mold to grow back and then spread.


3. It Can Harm Your Surfaces
Bleach is a powerful cleaner for a reason. You've probably seen what happens when you accidentally splash some on your clothes or a towel, and your walls and floors are no different. The damage caused by the substance might be acceptable if it actually worked to cleanup mold, but since it doesn't, the stains are far from worth it. It's best to call in a mold remediation company to have them clean the mold with professional equipment.
Fungus cleanup can be complicated, so if you find some mold in your building, it's best to leave it to the professionals.

Top 5 Places to Look for Mold

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage in North Des Plaines, IL

You Should Check The Following Areas

Mold damage has the potential to ravage your North Des Plaines, IL, home if the situation isn't handled properly. Performing regular home inspections to check for mold and mildew can help you catch the problem while it's still small and ultimately save you time and money in costly mold remediation. If you're not sure where to start looking, try checking the following locations.

1. Your Bathroom
Where there's water, there's the potential for mold growth. Your bathroom comes into a lot of contact with water. Check for mold in the shower, the bathtub, underneath the sinks, around any exposed piping and in the window sills.

2. Your Kitchen
You need to make sure that you regularly remove old food items from your refrigerator and pantry, as these can sponsor unwanted mildew growth. It's also important to check around and underneath the sinks as well.

3. Your Laundry Room
Your washing machine also has the potential to house mold. You need to make sure that you properly air the drum out after each cycle. At least once a month, you should also run an empty cycle on high heat with a cup of white vinegar in the drum. This can help prevent future mold growth and keep your laundry fresh.

4. Your Living Room
While you might not be able to see it as easily, your living room's carpet can also fall victim to mold damage. Neglecting to clean up spills right after they happen can lead to moisture getting trapped underneath the carpeting, causing black mold to grow on the flood boards beneath.

5. Your Basement
If you have an unfinished basement with exposed water pipes, then you need to take extra time checking for mold. Inspect your water pipes and around the water heater for signs of mold.
Performing regular home inspections can help you catch the problem before it has the chance to spiral out of your control. Make sure to contact mold remediation experts for assistance if your inspection does uncover signs of mold damage.

How a Painting Can Be Restored After Mold

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

The professionals will take any damaged artwork for mold cleaning

Restoring A Painting After Mold Damage

During a mold cleaning at your Mount Prospect, IL, you may be worried about any artwork that may have been affected. Fortunately, in many cases, paintings can be restored. Here are three things you should know about this process.

1. Contact a Professional

Anytime you have mold damage in your home you should contact a local mold remediation service. These professionals can help with item restoration as well as removing the mold from your home and inspecting for any contributing factors such as water damage. It’s important to know that many mold remediation services offer the ability to restore damage to multiple household item types, including artwork,

2. Cleaning Should Be Done Carefully

The professionals will take any damaged artwork for mold cleaning. This process will involve an assessment of how much mold damage has occurred and what kind of repairs can be done. Most paintings should be restore-able. During the cleaning, the professional will use special cleaners that can remove the mold without causing further damage. It may be necessary to remove old varnish from the painting to properly clean the piece but once the restoration is complete it should be resealed.

3. Restoration of the Art is Possible

Once the piece is clean the professional performing the restoration can talk over the damage with you as well as what type or restoration level is possible. These professionals can repair frames, remove old varnish, and even touch up paint to damaged sections. Restoration professionals should be using special supplies which allow for any work they do to be removed and redone if there should ever be a need for further repairs.

When performing a mold cleaning in your home it’s important to remember that even damaged paintings can be restored. This process should be carried out by a professional who can carefully clean the painting and then restore any details that may need attention. If you have any questions a remediation professional should be able to help.

Does Commercial Insurance Include Mold Coverage?

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

Does Commercial Insurance Include Mold Coverage?

Fungi are an important part of the natural world. Along with bacteria, fungi are critical for breaking down waste material and the remains of dead life forms. However, when it gets into your building, it can be a serious problem, often requiring a fungus removal expert.
When outside, fungus releases essential nutrients back into the world, including

Carbon
Oxygen
Nitrogen
Phosphorous

Inside, the same process also happens, but it’s usually doing so with construction materials, such as wood and drywall. Once discovered, it’s important to get a detailed inspection in North Des Plaines, IL, to determine how deeply the fungus has penetrated into your building, as well as the cause.

Does the Cause Matter for Commercial Insurance?
In almost every case, yes! If the cause was the result of poor maintenance, such as letting a pipe or roof leak continue, most insurance will find that your negligence has caused the problem. In this case, you can be sure you won’t get a dime.
This also usually applies to commercial building owners with tenants. Commercial building owners are held to a higher standard than residential owners, so it can be important to be particular about what tenants you allow in.

Will a General Commercial Insurance Policy Cover Mold Cleanup?
Almost never! The standard ISO form excludes all forms of fungus removal, including mold, which is the most important fungi as far as building damage is concerned.
There are some exceptions. Some standard policies will cover mold damage from fires, lightning or other sorts of natural causes. You need to carefully review your policy with your agent to make sure!

How Can You Get Mold Coverage for Your Commercial Building?
Typically, fungus removal coverage comes from a rider to your policy, such as a limited fungus coverage rider. Many insurance companies are offering this now, due to the enormous growth in awareness of the dangers of indoor mold.
Mold can form anywhere excess humidity occurs around a food source, such as gypsum and wood studs. If a small, hidden leak occurs, this type of policy can help you pay for an inspection and mold cleanup.

How To Stop the Spread of Mold in Your Home

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

Mold damage

When a homeowner discovers spreading mold, it is time to take quick and decisive action. Letting the mold continue to grow and thrive in the home is not an option. If left untreated, mold will continue to spread throughout the property and look for new places to grow. Furthermore, unchecked fungal growth can damage walls, ceilings, paintings, documents, clothing, and furniture. Fortunately, there are a number of things a homeowner can do to get things under control. The surest way to control mold is to call a local mold mitigation company in North Des Plaines, IL. The company will follow a proven process to clean the home.

Professional Mold Remediation

Though each situation of mold infestation is different, the process of mold removal follows a similar pattern. These steps provide the foundation of mold abatement:

  • Inspection and assessment
  • Moisture treatment
  • Mold containment
  • Mold removal
  • Cleaning and sanitizing
  • Restoration

Particular attention is always paid to locating a problem water source. This is what normally allows spreading mold to infest a home and grow into dark colonies on walls and other surfaces. Whether the fungal growth is the type known as black mold or another type, professional methods are effective in cleaning the home.

Certified Mold Cleanup
Highly-trained technicians have undergone extensive education in the properties of mold. They understand what conditions enable spreading mold to take over a home. They also know how to contain the mold. The technicians will use HEPA vacuums to suck up mold spores and they follow this with a regimen of cleaning and sanitizing. Industry certifications ensure that technicians use the best practices to deal with the problem. These standards have been developed through the efforts of many leading stakeholders in the cleaning and restoration industry. A rigorous process determines which cleaning agents and techniques provide the best results. The final goal is to restore a home to its pre-mold condition.

4 Ways To Reduce Expenses in a Disaster

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

Call the right response team

4 Ways To Reduce Expenses in a Disaster

If not handled properly, a disaster such as a flood or a major storm can quickly spiral out of control. Poor decisions can easily lead to additional, unnecessary expenses. Smart decisions such as pretesting or boarding up a damaged building can reduce expenses. Here a few ways to limit damages.

1. Call the Right Response Team. Not all response teams have the same level of training and expertise. A professional storm remediation franchise employs trained and certified technicians that understand the best methods to limit damages. If the building is damaged and exposed to the weather, the workers will likely recommend boarding up windows and placing a tarp over the roof to prevent additional damage.

2. Embrace Pretesting. This technique enables technicians to test items to see if they are suitable to be restored. A restore versus replace mentality can save money. It can also keep valuable belongings from being tossed out.

3. Prioritize the Insurance Claim. If you are an insurance agent, you know that an efficient claims process is important. When you work with SERVPRO, a preferred vendor for many insurance companies, you gain access to the company's claims inventory service. This helps claims get settled quickly and efficiently, reducing paperwork, confusion, and expenses.

4. Encourage High Standards. When a job is not done correctly, it usually winds up costing more money. Work may have to be repeated. SERVPRO professionals embrace the highest standards of the cleaning and restoration industry. This means work is done correctly the first time and it is done with safety in mind. It also means such problems as mold growth are unlikely to occur.
Pretesting is one of the techniques a local restoration company in North Des Plaines, IL, uses to control costs. Throwing out clothes or furniture that can be restored is a waste of money. Working with professionals is the best way to avoid unnecessary costs.

A Few Facts for a Better Understanding of Mold

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Black mold and other forms of fungus can break down materials over time

Facts About Mold

To the uninitiated, the world of mold can seem a bit disorienting, especially if you find it growing in your place of business in Mount Prospect, IL. Here are a few facts about mold to get you up to speed.

Mold is a Fungus
It is an organism that is neither plant nor animal
Mold is present just about anywhere, though often in small quantities
Black mold is a type that often requires professional cleanup
Mold grows best in warm, moist conditions
It grows on a variety of surfaces including wood, paper, and tile

In small quantities, the growth of mold can sometimes be contained without outside help. In moderate to large outbreaks it is best controlled with the services of a professional mold remediation franchise.

Mold Cleanup
Whether you have a form of black mold growing, or another type of mold that infests buildings, the process of cleanup involves a number of steps. A fast response is important since mold can spread easily throughout a property, often in as little as 48-72 hours. An inspection and assessment by trained technicians using specialized equipment provides information on the scope of the problem. Testing may be needed to find out where mold is located and what types of mold are present. If your building has a moisture problem, a common condition of mold growth, it should be addressed. From there, the technicians go on to mold containment and removal.

Mold Restoration
The final steps in the process include cleaning and sanitizing surfaces affected by mold, and restoration of damaged materials such as drywall, carpeting, upholstery, and clothing. In severe cases, some items may need to be replaced. Black mold and other forms of fungus can break down materials over time. The goal of the restoration process is to remove mold colonies and to prevent their recurrence. The musty odors associated with mold should also be eliminated.

For any mold problems, call SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines at 847-956-1880! 

Who Pays for Mold Damage?

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Who pays for mold coverage?

When homeowners get mold damage, they may have protection under specific policies from their insurance providers. If you live in an apartment in Mount Prospect, IL, however, you may be concerned about whether or not mold is covered by your rental insurance. Understanding your renters policy is key to knowing if a specific situation is covered or not.

Typical Coverage

Most rental policies cover a few basic claims:

  • Damage repair for personal belongings
  • Replacement for items that cannot be salvaged
  • Temporary relocation costs

Mold removal is likely to be covered under a rental policy only if it the underlying peril that led to it was covered. For example, if a pipe bursts and the books in your library were waterlogged and then grew moldy, the work that mold remediation specialists do to save your books or replace the ones that can't be saved will probably be covered by your rental insurance. If the initial damage isn't covered, however, the claim for the resulting mold growth may be denied.

Typical Exclusions

There are several situations that can contribute to mold damage that are probably not going to be covered by your renters insurance policy. Flood damage from a storm or other natural disaster usually requires a separate flood policy. Unless you have such a policy, mold growth that occurs as a result of this type of flooding is unlikely to be covered by your insurance provider. Your rental policy also may not cover mold that results from a sewage backup. Finally, your policy probably won't cover mold growth that happens because you neglected to report a water leak or other maintenance issue.
Having rental insurance is important for apartment dwellers. It covers a lot of the damage that can happen to your personal property while you are renting your space. Mold mitigation doesn't always get covered under this policy, though. Knowing what your provider covers and doesn't cover can help you plan better for possible problems.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

We offer disinfecting services

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need 

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards that there are. 

Specialized Training 

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis. 

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include: 

  • Kitchen/Food Areas 
  • Bathrooms 
  • Schools/Classrooms 
  • Offices 
  • Retail Spaces 
  • Water Fountains 
  • Shelving/Racks 
  • Sales Counters 
  • Carpets and Rugs 
  • Stair Handrails 
  • Elevator Cars 
  • Playground Equipment 
  • Fitness Equipment 

Specialized Products 

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities. 

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning 

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – [SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines, (847) 956-1880

The Benefits of a Full-Service Restoration Company

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

After a loss in North Des Plaines, IL, SERVPRO can assist

The Benefits of a Full-Service Restoration Company

Suffering any sort of disaster in North Des Plaines, IL, can be very stressful for a property owner. From salvaging important documents to meeting with the insurance adjuster, the list of tasks to complete can seem never-ending. However, finding the right restoration company can make the process easier for all involved.

Full-Service Restoration

Finding a different contractor for different jobs can increase the stress related to recovering from a disaster. Fortunately, SERVPRO, a full-service restoration company can streamline the process. The company provides a wide range of disaster-recovery services, including solutions for the following situations:

  • Mold growth
  • Storm damage
  • Flooding
  • Fire damage

Specialized services, including document restoration and odor removal, are also provided. Different locations may offer unique services, such as crime scene cleanup, so be sure to check with your local Franchise to see the full range of available services to you.

Effective Communication With Insurance Companies

The company can also help with compiling information to file an insurance claim and sharing that information with the insurance adjuster. The company can provide you with a loss inventory. The inventory is an Excel spreadsheet listing all the damaged items. When necessary, pictures are also included in the inventory. Adjusters have access to the online claims center which contains important information, including estimates, loss notices, photographs and other necessary documents.

Quality Service

Although SERVPRO helps clients through every step of the restoration process, the company does not let the breadth of services provided negatively affect the quality. Every Franchise receives training that meets the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification’s rigorous standards. Additionally, the Franchises are provided with high-quality equipment and a wealth of continuing education opportunities, so they can provide you with exceptional disaster recovery service.
After a loss in North Des Plaines, IL, SERVPRO can assist both the property owner and insurance adjuster to make the restoration process as smooth as possible. Visit the easy-to-navigate website for more information.

What Are Landlord Responsibilities Following an Apartment Fire?

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

Apartment fire in North Des Plaines, IL

What Are Landlord Responsibilities Following an Apartment Fire?

If you're in the business of maintaining rental properties, you need to understand your responsibilities if one of your properties is affected by an apartment fire.

Responsibilities Toward Tenants

One of the inherent rights of tenants is that the property is habitable. This is a blanket statement that covers the quality of the living space and the ability to live in the apartments. Some of the duties involved in this include

  • Providing reliable hot water
  • Maintaining heating systems
  • Repairing broken structural components
  • Protecting against pest infestations

Of course, there are many other concerns outlined by federal and local safety codes. When an apartment fire breaks out, you are still responsible in all of these areas, and you have additional responsibilities as well.

Call Your Insurance Agent

There are several things you need to do immediately after the fire and in the days following the event. As soon as you can, begin by contacting your insurance agent to begin the claims process. Your agent may recommend fire damage cleanup and repair professionals; the sooner you call, the sooner they can get the apartment back into a habitable condition.

Talk to Your Tenants

Next, talk to your tenants about their well-being. If they were responsible for the fire (such as by leaving a candle unattended,) keep a record of the specifics of the conversation. Encourage tenants to contact their insurance provider to arrange for temporary housing. If they don't have insurance, the American Red Cross may be a valuable resource.

Leave Cleanup and Repairs to Professionals

Don't attempt cleanup and repairs on your own. It's easy to make mistakes that could cause further structural damage or invalidate your claim. Instead, follow instructions provided by your insurance agent and the fire and smoke damage professionals responsible for cleaning up and rebuilding the property. You may take steps to add security while the property is vulnerable.

When an apartment fire breaks out and damages your North Des Plaines, IL, property. You need to take quick action to protect yourself and your tenants. Make sure you understand your legal responsibilities before disaster strikes.

Does Your Home Have A Mold Problem?

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can spread quickly and cause health risks

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

  • Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
  • Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
  • Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
  • Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
  • Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
  • Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation and get you back to normal.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 847-956-1880

Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

We specialize in mold removal

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home and become harmful.

What to Do:

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
  • Contact SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

  • Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
  • Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
  • Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
  • Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 847-956-1880

Choosing the Right Restoration Company

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Disasters are devastating. Whether caused by fire or water, whether big or small, they can turn your world upside down in a matter of minutes.  Even the strongest of us can feel helpless, not knowing where to turn to get the best help possible; but fortunately for you, SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines is nearby and is ready to help 24/7.

But why SERVPRO? After all, there are other companies who make the same claims.  Consider this: if you have to undergo surgery due to a dangerous and life-threatening condition, wouldn’t you insist on having a surgeon the best surgeon possible with extensive training, years of experience, and a sterling reputation to get you back to good health? Well, your property is probably the biggest investment you’ll make in your lifetime, so it’s also very important to have a company with the knowledge, experience and reputation you can trust to return your property to its pre loss condition or better. We offer a full line of services so we are able to handle your disaster from beginning to end and make it "Like it never even happened."

Three of the Best Reasons to Use SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines, Illinois:

  1. Training – We never stop learning and honing our skills. We’re trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) high standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration, biohazard and mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses. Additionally, our industry professionals regularly attend SERVPRO continuing education classes.
  2. Equipment – We use the professional equipment needed to completely clean and remove the effects of water, mold, soot, smoke, odor and more. During the past few years, there’s been a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Mount Prosepct/North Des Plaines to restore your property quickly, reliably, and more effectively.
  3. Experience – SERVPRO is very reputable. They started over 50 years ago and currently have over 1,700 franchises nationwide. The extensive knowledge that SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines has makes us the go-to-disaster restoration company to call. Our experience will enhance your experience with us!

We sincerely hope that you’ll never be in a situation where you need to call a restoration company, however if you are; give us a call and we’ll make it as easy as possible for you. Call 847-956-1880.

The Science of Drying

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction maybe to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines employees are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chance of any secondary damage. If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines will:

  Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening. 

  Measure how much moisture is in what materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly. 

 Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

Hire Professionals Who Understand

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines News And Updates

Whenever you have a problem with your home, the first impulse is usually to tackle the problem yourself. Sometimes this can be the right choice, and the problem’s easy enough to solve on your own. Other times it’s much safer and smarter to call in the pros from the beginning.

Tracking down tricky leaks is one of those times. Sure, some leaks are easy to track down, but water has a way of traveling odd paths. So once finding a leak gets tough, then it’s time to call in some help. And here’s why:

They Know Where to Look

Water can travel strange paths before it finally comes out into your home, and you might be surprised how far it can come. That discolored spot on your basement ceiling could actually be caused by a leak in your roof, or your wall on the opposite side of the house.

Professionals have tracked down hundreds, even thousands of leaks over the years. That experience gives them a wide variety of usual suspects to check, and a good number of unusual ones, too.

They Know What to Look For

That slight, turquoise line along your copper pipe? That’s where water has run along the outside and caused the copper to oxidize. It’s a sure sign that a leak is sending water traveling on the wrong side of the pipes.

Pros know these and dozens of other signs. What looks like a bit of dirt to you might indicate a serious leak in your roof, foundation, or wall. Or it might just be some dirt. A professional will be able to know the difference for certain.

They’ve Got the Right Equipment

Most of us can only use our eyes or sense of touch to lead us to water, but not the professionals. They have a wide variety of specialized equipment that can sense moisture and humidity through walls or probe underground for water deposits using ground penetrating radar.

This equipment can be expensive to buy and tricky to use. They have years of experience using the equipment, and know how to put it to good use.

SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines (847) 956-1880

Making, Processing and Settling an Insurance Claim

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Several features set SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines apart from other mitigation and restoration companies. These distinctions should be clear to an insurance adjuster as well as homeowners. Here are four ways this company facilitates the process of making, processing and settling an insurance claim.

1. Fast Response A fast response on the part of a mitigation and restoration company benefits clients and insurers. The sooner that damage can be professionally assessed, the sooner mitigation can start. A call response time of one hour, a four hour window for an on-site visit and an eight hour window for a verbal briefing can limit extensive primary and secondary damage.

2. Accurate Estimates A company can make more accurate estimates by hiring certified professionals, relying on a national network of locations for training and maintaining data on locations. An insurance adjuster can use the Claims Information Center to obtain information about individual estimates and compare different companies, causes of loss and job files costs. All of this data adds up to more accurate estimates that account for mitigation and restoration.

3. All-In-One Service Rather than working with separate mitigation and restoration companies, clients and insurers may prefer a one-stop shop. A company that handles the damage remediation process from start to finish can provide a more accurate estimate from the start. There will also be less need to worry about adjusting schedules or necessary tasks getting lost in the shuffle.

4. Electronic Claims Service In addition to the aggregated data available through an electronic claims service, this portal can also make it easy for a restoration service and insurer to share information. This resource can speed up insurance claim processing and allow for faster settlements. All of these are ways in which SERVPRO, a national mitigation and restoration company with local and regional franchises, can support insurers and clients. Whether you are an insurance adjuster or homeowner in the Mount Prospect or Des Plaines area, you should consider hiring SERVPRO of Mount Prospect/North Des Plaines for the best results.