Mold and Insurance Claims: What You Need to Know

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

When it comes to mold and insurance claims, navigating the fine print of your policy can be as tricky as identifying mold itself.

Mold issues can be a concern for homeowners and property managers in Portland, ME. When dealing with mold, understanding how insurance comes into play is crucial. In this blog, we'll provide valuable insights into mold and insurance claims, helping you navigate this potentially complex process with confidence.

Understanding Mold Coverage in Insurance Policies

When it comes to mold and insurance claims, navigating the fine print of your policy can be as tricky as identifying mold itself. Understanding what your insurance policy covers and doesn't cover is essential for making informed decisions. From standard homeowners' insurance to specialized endorsements, we'll explore the ins and outs of mold coverage to help you make well-informed choices in protecting your property.

Standard Homeowners Insurance 

Most standard homeowners' insurance policies typically do not cover mold damage. They often view mold as a result of long-term maintenance issues or neglect, making it an excluded peril. However, exceptions may exist if the mold resulted from a covered peril like a burst pipe.

Mold Endorsement or Rider

Some insurance providers offer mold endorsements or riders that you can add to your policy for additional coverage. These endorsements usually have specific limits and may only cover particular types of mold-related damage. It's crucial to review the terms carefully.

Flood Insurance 

Mold resulting from flooding is typically not covered by standard homeowners' insurance policies. For protection against mold damage caused by floods, you would need a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Water Damage Coverage 

Mold often follows water damage. If your policy covers water damage resulting from issues like burst pipes or roof leaks, it may indirectly cover mold remediation resulting from those water-related issues.

Steps to Take When Filing a Mold Insurance Claim

1. Assess the Damage: Before filing a claim, thoroughly assess the mold damage in your Portland, ME property. Document the extent of the mold growth, take photos, and gather evidence to support your claim.
2. Review Your Policy: Carefully review your insurance policy, including any endorsements or riders related to mold coverage. Understanding what your policy covers is crucial when filing a claim.
3. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Notify your insurance provider as soon as you discover the mold issue. They will guide you through the claims process, provide the necessary forms, and assign an adjuster to your case.
4. Mitigate Further Damage: Take steps to mitigate further mold growth and damage. This may include hiring professionals for mold remediation to prevent the problem from worsening.
5. Keep Detailed Records: Throughout the claims process, maintain detailed records of all communication with your insurance company, receipts for expenses related to mold remediation, and any other relevant documentation.
6. Follow the Claims Process: Work closely with your insurance adjuster to ensure your claim is processed smoothly. Provide all requested information promptly to expedite the process.

Navigating mold insurance claims can be intricate, but with the right information and proactive steps, you can effectively protect your Portland, ME property. Remember to understand your policy, document damage, and follow the claims process diligently. If you need professional mold remediation services to address the issue, SERVPRO® of Portland is here to help. Our experts are trained to handle mold-related problems efficiently and effectively, ensuring a safe and mold-free environment in your home.

Navigating Water Damage Safely: Understanding Electrical Hazards

10/8/2023 (Permalink)

Contact a qualified electrician to assess and repair any electrical damage caused by water damage.

Water damage is a common concern in our coastal community, and it often brings along unseen dangers—especially electrical hazards. When water and electricity mix, it can lead to serious risks for homeowners and businesses alike. In this blog, we'll delve into the critical importance of understanding electrical hazards during water damage incidents and how to stay safe in Portland's picturesque surroundings.

1. Risk of Electric Shock

Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, and when it comes into contact with electrical systems or appliances, it increases the risk of electric shock. Even a small amount of water can pose a significant danger if it reaches outlets, switches, or electrical equipment.

2. Potential for Fire

Water damage can compromise the insulation of electrical wiring, leading to short circuits or exposed wires. This can generate sparks, heat, and potentially start a fire. Electrical fires are a severe risk during and after water damage incidents.

3. Hidden Hazards

Some electrical hazards may not be immediately visible. Water can seep into walls, ceilings, and floors, making it challenging to identify potential dangers. Hidden electrical hazards can persist even after visible water has been removed.

4. Impact on Appliances

Water damage can affect electrical appliances and equipment. Moisture can damage sensitive components, rendering appliances unsafe to use. Attempting to operate water-damaged appliances can lead to electrical accidents.

5. Damaged Electrical Panels

Electrical panels or circuit breaker boxes can be vulnerable to water damage. If these essential components are compromised, it can result in power surges, outages, or other electrical issues.

Safety Measures During Water Damage

The safety of you and your family or employees should be the top priority. If it's safe to do so, turn off the electrical supply to the affected area or the entire property. Never enter areas with standing water until you're certain it's safe to do so. Standing water can conceal electrical hazards, and contact with it can be life-threatening. Avoid using any electrical appliances or equipment that have been exposed to water until they have been inspected and declared safe by a professional.

Contact a qualified electrician to assess and repair any electrical damage caused by water damage. DIY electrical work is highly dangerous and should be avoided. After water damage, have your electrical systems thoroughly inspected to ensure they are safe for use. This step is essential to prevent future hazards.

Understanding the dangers of electrical hazards during water damage is crucial for the safety of your home or business in Portland, ME. By being aware of these risks and taking appropriate safety measures, you can minimize the dangers associated with water damage incidents. If you ever find yourself dealing with water damage and electrical hazards, remember that SERVPRO® of Portland is here to assist Portland residents with professional cleanup and restoration services. We prioritize safety and are dedicated to helping you navigate the challenges of water damage while ensuring a safe and secure environment.

Storm Preparedness for Pet Owners: Keeping Your Pets Safe

9/5/2023 (Permalink)

Having a plan in place for your pets to ensure they are safe incase of a storm.

Storms and severe weather events can be unsettling, particularly for our furry friends. If you're a pet owner living in the Northeast, it's crucial to be prepared for potential severe weather conditions and to know how to keep your pets safe during these events. In this blog post, we will discuss Northeast storm preparedness for pet owners and top strategies to keep your pets safe during severe weather events.

Keep Identification and Medical Records Handy

In the event of a severe storm, it is crucial to have current identification and medical records for your pets. Make sure all identification tags or microchips are up to date and secured on your pet's collar. Keep a copy of your pet's medical records in a waterproof bag, and don't forget to pack any necessary medications or supplies that your pet may need.

Have an Emergency Kit for Your Pet

Assemble an emergency kit for your pet that includes food, water, and any necessary medications. Pack a few days' worth of food and water in a waterproof container and bring any feeding or water dishes your pet may need. Additionally, include a leash, a crate or carrier, waste bags, and any other essential items, such as a favorite toy or blanket to keep your pet calm during the storm.

Plan for Potential Evacuation

In the event of an evacuation, it's important to have a plan for your pet's safety. Make sure all identification tags or microchips are up to date and secured on your pet's collar. Research pet-friendly locations and have a list of potential shelters or hotels where you can take your pet in the event of an evacuation. Contact them ahead of time to confirm they accept pets and to determine any specific requirements.

Prepare for Power Outages

Severe storms can often result in power outages. It's essential to have a plan for your pet's safety during these events. Keep a supply of battery-operated fans, blankets, or other items to keep your pet comfortable during a power outage. If your pet is on any necessary medications that require refrigeration, plan accordingly to keep them safe and secure.

Stay Informed

Finally, staying informed about weather conditions is crucial to ensuring your pet's safety during severe weather events. Monitor local weather conditions and keep up-to-date with any potential storm warnings or mandatory evacuations. Additionally, make sure you understand any specific risks associated with your geographic location and take the necessary precautions to keep your pet safe.

As a pet owner, it's essential to have a plan in place for your pet's safety during severe weather events. To keep your pet safe during a storm, make sure to update their identification and medical records, have an emergency kit prepared, plan for potential evacuation, prepare for power outages, and stay informed about weather conditions. With a little bit of planning, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of your furry friend during Northeastern storm seasons.

Creating a Home Escape Plan: Your Guide to Household Safety

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Have a fire evacuation plan in place to ensure your prepared to handle an emergency.

Having a home escape plan is crucial for the safety of you and your loved ones in the event of a fire or any other emergency. A well-designed and practiced escape plan can save valuable time and potentially save lives. In this blog, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to create a comprehensive home escape plan.

Identify Exit Routes

Start by identifying all possible exit routes from each room in your home. These routes should include doors, windows, and any other accessible exits. Make sure that everyone in the household is familiar with these routes.

Create a floor plan of your home and mark the identified exit routes on the map. Include important details such as the location of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and emergency contact numbers. Keep a copy of this floor plan in a common area and individual copies in each room.

Determine a Meeting Point

Choose a safe location outside your home where everyone can gather after evacuating. This could be a neighbor's house, a designated spot in your yard, or a nearby landmark. Make sure everyone in your household knows the meeting point and understands the importance of going there immediately.

Regularly practice evacuation drills with your household members. Start with simple scenarios and gradually increase the complexity of the drills. Emphasize the importance of staying low to avoid smoke, checking doorknobs for heat before opening doors, and crawling to safety if necessary.

Assign Responsibilities

Assign specific roles and responsibilities to each household member during an evacuation. For example, one person may be responsible for helping young children or elderly family members, while another may be in charge of grabbing essential items like a flashlight or a phone on the way out. Clearly communicate and practice these roles to ensure efficiency during an emergency.

Educate everyone in your household about fire safety measures. Teach them how to safely use fire extinguishers, when to call emergency services, and how to react when the smoke alarm sounds. Encourage regular maintenance and testing of smoke detectors to ensure they are functioning properly.

Consider Special Needs

If anyone in your household has special needs, such as young children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities, take their specific requirements into account when creating your home escape plan. Ensure that exit routes and evacuation methods are suitable for their needs, and develop contingency plans if necessary.

Take part in community efforts and initiatives related to home safety, such as fire safety seminars or neighborhood watch programs. Share your home escape plan with trusted neighbors and offer to assist them with creating their own plans. Encourage open communication and support within your community.

Review and Update Regularly

Periodically review and update your home escape plan to account for any changes in your household or your home's layout. This could include renovations, new furniture arrangements, or changes in family dynamics. Regularly practicing and reviewing your plan will help ensure its effectiveness.

In the event of an emergency, remaining calm is essential. Remind everyone in your household to stay calm, follow the established escape plan, and communicate clearly. Having a well-prepared and practiced home escape plan will provide peace of mind and increase your chances of a safe evacuation.

By following these steps and regularly practicing your home escape plan, you will be better prepared to handle emergencies and protect yourself and your loved ones. Prioritizing safety and taking the time to create a comprehensive plan will ultimately contribute to a safer and more secure home environment.

Upgrade Your Plumbing: Reasons to Replace Your Supply Lines

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Replacing supply lines in your home can help prevent your kitchen faucet from leaking

Supply lines play a critical role in your plumbing system, delivering water to fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and appliances. Over time, these supply lines can deteriorate, corrode, or become worn out, potentially leading to leaks, water damage, and even plumbing emergencies. In this blog post, we'll explore some compelling reasons to consider replacing your supply lines, ensuring a reliable and efficient plumbing system in your home.

Prevent Leaks and Water Damage

Supply line failures are a common cause of water leaks and subsequent water damage in homes. As supply lines age, they may develop cracks, fractures, or weakened connections, leading to leaks. Replacing old and worn supply lines with new ones reduces the risk of leaks, minimizing the potential for costly water damage and associated repairs.

If your current supply lines are made of outdated or inferior materials, it's advisable to upgrade to high-quality options. Modern supply lines are often constructed using materials such as braided stainless steel or reinforced PVC, which offer improved durability, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion. Upgrading to these superior materials ensures a longer lifespan for your supply lines.

Enhance Water Efficiency

Older supply lines may have restricted flow or inadequate water pressure, resulting in inefficient water usage. By replacing your supply lines, you can improve water flow and pressure, optimizing the performance of your fixtures. Upgrading to more efficient supply lines can also contribute to water conservation, reducing your environmental impact and potentially lowering water bills.

In some cases, outdated or non-compliant supply lines may not meet current building codes or insurance requirements. When renovating your home or making plumbing upgrades, it's crucial to ensure that your supply lines meet the necessary standards. By replacing outdated lines, you can ensure compliance, safeguard your insurance coverage, and meet the safety regulations in your area.

Minimize the Risk of Contamination

Older supply lines made from materials such as galvanized steel or lead can pose health risks. Galvanized steel supply lines can corrode over time, potentially introducing rust and contaminants into your water supply. Similarly, lead pipes, commonly found in older homes, can leach lead into the water, posing serious health hazards. Replacing these outdated supply lines with safer, modern alternatives is essential for maintaining a healthy water supply.

If you're planning a remodeling or renovation project that involves plumbing work, it's an ideal time to replace your supply lines. Upgrading the supply lines before the project ensures that you have a reliable and efficient plumbing system in place, reducing the likelihood of disruptions or issues during the renovation process.

Investing in new supply lines provides peace of mind, knowing that your plumbing system is equipped with reliable and high-quality components. By proactively replacing supply lines, you can prevent unexpected plumbing emergencies, reduce maintenance needs, and enjoy the reassurance of a well-functioning plumbing system.

Replacing your supply lines is a proactive step toward maintaining a reliable and efficient plumbing system in your home. From preventing leaks and water damage to upgrading to high-quality materials and improving water efficiency, there are compelling reasons to consider replacing old and worn supply lines. Prioritize the safety, performance, and longevity of your plumbing system by consulting a professional plumber and investing in new supply lines. By doing so, you can enjoy a worry-free plumbing experience while protecting your home from potential water-related issues.

Why Waiting for an Adjuster After Storm Damage Can Cost You More in the Long Run

6/29/2023 (Permalink)

Don't wait. It is essential to have storm damage assessed after a storm.

When a storm hits, it can cause significant damage to your home or property. From flooding to wind damage, storm damage can be devastating, and it's natural to want to wait for an adjuster to assess the damage before taking any action. However, waiting for an adjuster to arrive may not always be the best course of action. In this blog, we'll explore why you shouldn't wait for an adjuster after storm damage.

Safety Concerns

First and foremost, your safety is paramount. If your home or property has suffered storm damage, it's essential to ensure that it's safe to enter and assess the damage. Waiting for an adjuster to arrive may delay necessary repairs or cleanup, putting you and your family at risk. If there's a risk of further damage or collapse, it's best to take immediate action to mitigate the damage and ensure everyone's safety.

Additional Damage

Storm damage can worsen quickly, especially if left unattended. Waiting for an adjuster to assess the damage may result in further damage to your home or property, leading to additional costs and headaches. Acting quickly to mitigate damage, such as covering broken windows or tarping damaged roofs, can help prevent further damage and save you money in the long run.

Insurance Coverage

While it's essential to have your insurance adjuster assess the damage to your home or property, waiting for their assessment before taking any action may not be necessary. Your insurance policy likely requires you to take steps to mitigate damage and prevent further loss, regardless of whether an adjuster has assessed the damage. By waiting for an adjuster to arrive, you may be neglecting your duty to mitigate damage, which could affect your insurance coverage.

Time Constraints

After a storm, adjusters are often inundated with claims and may not be able to assess the damage to your home or property for several days or even weeks. Waiting for an adjuster to arrive can be frustrating, especially if you're eager to get your home or property back to its pre-storm condition. Taking action to mitigate damage and begin repairs can help expedite the process and get you back to normal as soon as possible.

Contractor Availability

After a storm, contractors are often in high demand, and waiting for an adjuster to arrive before calling a contractor may result in further delays. By taking action to mitigate damage and contacting a contractor as soon as possible, you can ensure that your repairs are completed in a timely and efficient manner.

In conclusion, while it's essential to have your insurance adjuster assess the damage to your home or property after a storm, waiting for their assessment before taking any action may not be necessary. By acting quickly to mitigate damage, prevent further loss, and contact a contractor, you can ensure that your home or property is repaired and back to its pre-storm condition as soon as possible. Remember, your safety and the safety of your family should always come first, and taking immediate action to mitigate damage is crucial to preventing further damage and keeping everyone safe.

Clearing the Air: Can Air Purifiers Help with Mold?

5/25/2023 (Permalink)

Ensuring you have indoor air quality to keep your home safe from mold damage.

Mold is a common problem in many homes and can cause a variety of damages to your property. It thrives in damp and humid environments, making it a persistent problem in areas with high humidity levels or water damage. Many people turn to air purifiers as a potential solution to combat mold growth and improve indoor air quality. But do air purifiers really help with mold? Let's explore this topic in more detail.

Understanding Mold and Its Dangers

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in the form of multicellular filaments called hyphae. It can be found both indoors and outdoors, and there are many different species of mold, some of which are more harmful than others. Mold reproduces by releasing spores into the air, which can then settle on surfaces and grow into new colonies.

Mold needs moisture to grow, and it can thrive in areas with high humidity levels, leaks, or water damage. Common areas where mold can be found in homes include basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and areas with poor ventilation. Mold can produce a musty odor, and visible signs of mold growth include discoloration, black spots, and fuzzy or slimy textures on surfaces.

Air Purifiers and Their Role in Mold Prevention

Air purifiers are devices designed to remove airborne contaminants from the indoor air, including particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and mold spores. They work by drawing air through a filter or other purification technology, trapping particles, and then releasing clean air back into the room. Air purifiers come in various types, such as mechanical filters, activated carbon filters, UV-C purifiers, and ozone generators, among others.

So, can air purifiers really help with mold? The answer is yes and no. While air purifiers can be effective at capturing mold spores from the air, they are not a complete solution for mold remediation. Air purifiers can help prevent mold spores from circulating in the air, reducing the overall mold spore count and improving indoor air quality. 

Air purifiers can also help in preventing mold growth in certain situations. For example, if you live in an area with high outdoor mold spore counts, an air purifier with a HEPA filter can capture these spores and prevent them from entering your home. Additionally, if you have a mold allergy, an air purifier can reduce your exposure to mold spores and help alleviate allergy symptoms.

Additional Tips for Mold Prevention

In addition to using an air purifier, there are other steps you can take to prevent mold growth in your home having proper ventilation. Ensure that your home has proper ventilation in all areas, including bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Use exhaust fans or open windows to allow moisture to escape. Regularly clean and dry surfaces prone to mold growth, such as shower curtains, windowsills, and other areas with condensation.

Air purifiers can be a helpful tool in improving indoor air quality and reducing mold spores in the air. However, they are not a substitute for addressing the root cause of mold growth, which is moisture. To effectively prevent mold, it's crucial to control humidity levels, improve ventilation, and promptly clean up any mold growth. If you have a mold problem in your home, it's best to consult with a professional mold remediation service to identify and address the issue at its source.

Why SERVPRO is the Best Choice for Rebuilding After a Fire

4/22/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for your fire and water restoration emergency.

Fire and water damage are two of the most common types of damage that a home can suffer. While they can be completely different, they often occur together as well. When this happens, it's important to understand how each type of damage works so you can find the best way to handle both issues.

Fire Damage

A fire is an uncontrolled chemical reaction that releases heat and light energy in addition to smoke and gases such as carbon monoxide (CO). The heat causes materials in your home such as wood or carpeting; plastics like PVC pipes; fabrics like curtains or clothing; paper products like books or magazines--anything flammable will burn if it touches flames long enough! This means anything from furniture pieces up through entire buildings could potentially be damaged by fire if left unattended for too long without proper cleanup procedures being followed afterwards.

Effects of Fire Damage

If you have been affected by a fire, SERVPRO of Portland can help. We are the leading provider of fire and water damage restoration services in the region. Our teams are highly trained and experienced in restoring your home or business back to normal after it has been damaged by fire, smoke and soot damage, structural damage and fire suppression systems.

We understand that this is an overwhelming time for you as a homeowner or business owner. You may not know where to start or who will be able to help you with these repairs but don't worry!

Fire Damage and Water Damage Combined

Fire and water damage combined can be a particularly difficult situation. Structural repairs are more costly when they're combined with water damage, and the cleanup process can take longer than usual due to the need for drying out your home's structure.

If you have experienced this kind of combination, SERVPRO is here to help! We have a team of experts who understand both fire and water damage restoration so that you don't have to worry about it anymore!

Preventing Fire Damage

The first step to preventing fire damage is to install a fire alarm system. This can be as simple as a smoke detector and/or carbon monoxide detector in your home, but it's important to have one installed in every room of your house. If you're renting, ask the landlord if they have an existing system or if they will install one for you.

Next up, Fire extinguishers! You should have at least one on hand at all times, preferably more than one so that it's easy for everyone in the house who uses them (such as children) to access them quickly when needed. They should be located near exits or other areas where fires are likely to start.

Preventing Water Damage

Check for leaks. If you have a water heater, check and make sure that it's not leaking.

Use waterproofing products. You can also use waterproofing products to protect the areas around your home that are susceptible to water damage, such as basements or crawlspaces.

Install sump pumps in the event of flooding or high rainfall amounts so that any excess water can be pumped out of your property before it has time to seep into walls and floors through cracks in foundations or foundation walls (which is what causes mold growth).

Insurance Coverage

If you're like most people, you have a homeowners or renters insurance policy. If your home is damaged by fire, this will pay for the cost of repairing the damage. However, there are limitations on what types of losses are covered and how much money can be claimed from your policy.

What I need to know about drying important documents

3/12/2023 (Permalink)

Drying documents can be hard, give SERVPRO a call for professional assistance.

Water damage is one of the most common causes of lost or damaged documents, and it can cause serious problems if not handled properly. The best way to protect your valuable documents from water damage is to take proactive measures to prevent them from getting wet in the first place. If you're lucky enough that your valuable documents have already been exposed to water without causing any harm, then this article will help guide you through the steps necessary for drying them out safely at home or sending them off for professional treatment.

How do I know if my document is water damaged?

Check for physical damage. The most obvious sign of water damage is if your document has been torn or ripped in places, especially along the edges. This can happen when pieces of paper stick together when wet and then separate when they dry out.

Look for discoloration and mold. If there are stains on the surface of your important papers, it may be caused by moisture seeping into them from the outside (i.e., rain) or within (i.e., humidity). Also check for discoloration along with any other signs of mold growth.

Check for odor. If your documents smell musty or damp after being stored away from direct sunlight/heat sources such as windowsills or radiators

What happens if I don't dry my documents?

If you're not careful, water damage can cause a number of problems with your documents. These include:

• Mold and mold spores--Mold can grow on wet paper.
• Ink running--When ink runs, the words become illegible and may be impossible to read later on. This is especially problematic for handwritten documents where the ink will run into other parts of the page as well as overtop any other writing that might be present there already.
• Paper swelling--Swelling occurs when moisture gets trapped between layers within your document or book as well as between pages themselves (especially when there's no protective cover). The swelling will result in warping or curling which makes reading difficult if not impossible altogether.

How can I tell if my documents are in danger of being damaged by water?

Before you can decide what to do with your wet documents, you need to know the cause of the damage. Water damage can be caused by a number of things, A flood or leak in your home or office building (including fire sprinklers). A burst pipe or broken water main in your home or office building. Flooding due to heavy rain or snow melt.

If this is not clear from looking at your documents, contact a professional who can help identify whether they have been damaged by water and what steps should be taken next.

My document is water damaged, what should I do next?

You should first try to dry the document by laying it flat and in a cool, dry place. Letting the document sit in direct sunlight can also help to speed up the process. If this doesn't work and your important documents are still too wet to be handled safely, try using a dehumidifier or vacuum cleaner. A fan can also be used to speed up drying time, but make sure that it isn't blowing directly on your documents! Once your papers have been dried out properly, store them in an airtight container until they're ready for normal use again (or until you need them).

When will my document be completely dry?

The drying time will depend on the type of paper and your drying method. Paper towels are generally much faster than blotting with a cloth or tissue, but they also tend to leave behind more lint.

If you're in a hurry and don't want to wait for your document to dry naturally, consider using a hair dryer or fan instead of air conditioning--both methods work equally well for most documents (and both use less energy). If possible, though, try not to expose important documents directly into any direct sunlight because UV light can cause fading over time.

You may also want to consider using an electric dehumidifier if possible, these machines remove moisture from the air around them so that it doesn't reach dangerous levels within enclosed spaces like closets or drawers where sensitive materials are stored away from direct contact with human hands.

Drying your documents can be a daunting task. However, it is important to remember that if you act quickly and properly, the damage may not be as bad as you think it will be. Give SERVPRO a Portland a call to assist in your document drying process after a water loss.

Risks of Poor Fire Clean Up Job

2/10/2023 (Permalink)

After facing a fire, SERVPRO of Portland is available 24/7

When you have a fire, you want it cleaned up quickly and efficiently. However, depending on the cause of the fire and its extent, professional help may be needed to ensure that smoke damage is minimized as much as possible. If you choose to clean up after your own fire damage or hire someone who doesn't know what they're doing, then you could end up making things worse than they already are!

Damages are not always visible

It's possible that the damage to your home may not be visible to the naked eye.

Smoke damage can leave your structure of your home damaged. Structure damage includes walls, ceilings and floors. It can cause odor problems from mold growth caused by moisture trapped in porous materials like drywall or wood paneling and furniture.

Professional help

Smoke contains many harmful chemicals. Some of these chemicals are toxic and require professional experience and equipment for adequate cleanup. A small amount of smoke can be dangerous. If you don't know how to clean up after a fire yourself, hire a professional who does know how to do so safely.

If the smoke is not cleaned up correctly, it can become permanent. Smoke odor damages property value by devaluing homes on the market or even reducing their resale value after moving out of them due to poor air quality caused by fire cleanup jobs gone wrong.

Done right the first time

It is important to hire a professional fire damage clean up company to ensurer the job is done right the first time. If you don't, your home could be at risk of further damage and secondary damages. A good company like SERVPRO of Portland will have the experience and expertise in this type of work to ensure a job well done.

Poor fire damage clean up jobs can result in long-lasting damage

The first step in restoring your home after a fire is removing the smoke odor. The second step is removing any fire damage that may have occurred to your property, including drywall and other building materials. The third step involves making sure there's no mold growth on or around anything that was damaged by water or smoke during cleanup efforts. Finally, you need to make sure all of your belongings are safe and secure while they're being cleaned up by professional contractors who know what they're doing!

If these steps aren't taken properly, then long-lasting damage could result - which means more money down the line when it comes time for repairs or replacement costs because everything needs fixing again after being exposed so long without proper care being taken previously.

If you are facing the aftermath of a fire, it is important to remember that there are lasting risks involved. Poor fire damage clean up jobs can result in long-lasting damage if not handled by professionals. The best way to avoid these problems is by hiring experts like SERVPRO of Portland who know how to handle this type of job and ensure all areas are clean before leaving your home or business premises.