Commercial Fire Safety and Prevention Tips  HTML view Note

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Hiring a professional company with experience is the only way to get past the damage that can be done by fire in a commercial space.

A fire can quickly become a horrific event that destroys property, endangers lives, and leaves the occupants with limited resources to rebuild. But fires in commercial spaces can also be a costly business interruption. Fortunately, there are steps that companies can take to reduce the possibility of fire in their space while maintaining productivity and avoiding potential legal liabilities.

Tips for Fire Safety and Prevention in a Commercial Property

A comprehensive fire prevention plan for an office or retail space includes a range of steps, from providing adequate smoking areas and removing combustible items from the premise to testing alarms and forming an evacuation plan. Some states mandate that companies with a certain number of employees have a business fire safety plan. Here are five additional tips for ensuring safety by preventing fires in commercial spaces:

1. Designate an area outside that space for smokers to use. Many fires start through smoking materials or careless disposal of smoking materials. Designate a smoking area away from the building and any flammable material, with adequate drainage to protect the soil from cigarette butts and ashes. Choose an area that is covered to keep people dry in the case of rain or snow.

2. Consider using fire-resistant tape on floors, carpets, and drapes, especially in high-traffic areas. It is inexpensive and may prevent the rapid spread of fire. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use.

3. Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach and in a locked drawer. Children have many chances to experiment with fire during their childhood years—either on purpose or unintentionally. The result of a child playing with fire could be an awful tragedy.

4. Install smoke detectors in all commercial spaces, particularly near sleeping areas or areas where paper is burned. Smoke detectors will be your first warning in case of fire, so the fire doesn’t get the upper hand.

5. Keep a fire extinguisher handy. An ABC-rated (A-B-C) fire extinguisher near common areas can offer a better chance of rapid containment of a small fire before it gets out of hand. Fire extinguishers should be regularly tested and maintained to ensure they are ready to use if needed.

Avoiding fire hazards in a commercial space is not difficult but does require some effort. These simple steps can help keep you and your employees safe and protect your investment against the risks of fire. And when the proper measures are taken to prevent fires, occupants can focus on their work instead of worrying about a potentially life-threatening event.
Fire safety is a responsibility that falls to all parties involved in managing a commercial space—from the owners to the manager and staff to any visitors. By following these simple steps, building occupants can have peace of mind knowing that they are doing their part in fire prevention.

Fires can be devastating, and the victims of such tragedies are usually left with limited resources to rebuild. Those in charge of the property must know how to create an effective fire safety plan for their commercial spaces and follow their plan. But even if you follow your plan meticulously, you may still face costly consequences. When a fire takes place, it’s essential to know what happened so you can gather evidence that can help win your case.

Get Your Orlando Business Ready for a Hurricane in 5 Steps

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

If you don’t keep records of your inventory, your insurance provider may cheat you in case of disasters.

Hurricanes in Orlando run from June to November. These hurricanes stem from the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean tropical storms. Since Orlando is not a tropical city, the storms aren’t as disparaging. Orlando may never experience category five hurricanes that are the most destructive.

Yet, it does experience category 1 and 2 hurricanes. Storm damages include downed power lines, roof damage, and structural damage to your property. Observe these five precautionary measures to safeguard your Orlando business against storm damage.

Backup Your Company Data

Tornadoes can leave your onsite data center a wreck. High-speed winds and floods can destroy your business premise, damaging computer systems. Business data loss comes with many repercussions. Lost company data can ruin normal company operations.

Backup data systems can protect your business data in case of such disasters. Backing up your company data to cloud-based systems is the most recommended solution. The benefits of cloud-based data backup solutions go beyond saving costs.

Reinforce Onsite Business Safety

The tornado season comes with floods and winds that can destroy power lines. Install solar-powered batteries and generators for power backups. Board up doors and windows, and reinforce the glasses against damage. Create many backups of computer records and physical files. Have them stored miles away in an offsite location. If your business location is prone to floods and storms, operate from a safe location.

Outsource Data Recovery

Outsourcing data recovery does more than save you money and time. Data recovery companies use the latest, most-advanced data storage and recovery tools. They offer premium outsourced data storage and recovery systems that can grow with your business. In case of storms and floods, you won’t lose your data. Even if the storms ruin your in-house computer and data recovery systems, you won’t lose your data. The cost of recovering your data is also lower when you outsource to the right company.

Assess and Document Your Business Inventory

Insurance companies are notorious for paying the least of what is payable. If you don’t keep records of your inventory, your insurance provider may cheat you in case of disasters. Get videos and photos of your inventory, including the prices. Keep a virtual record of everything available on your business premises. If possible, send some of your inventory videos and photos to your lawyer.

Insurance Coverage for Your Business

Once the responsible bodies in Orlando announce the hurricane date, confirm if you have insured your business against threats. There are many insurance covers you can add to your insurance policy in preparedness for tornadoes. The most recommended insurance covers to add to your policy are property coverage, flood insurance, and business interruption coverage. Look for an insurance provider with a track record of making most insurance payouts.

The hurricane is around the corner, and the least you can do is safeguard your business against it. The benefits of preparing a business against storm damages are more than the costs. Regardless of the service, you’re seeking to prepare your business for a tornado, look for the experts in that area.

Storm Flood Cleanup Checklist

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

A checklist of items that may be necessary and helpful during storm cleanup can help get you prepared ahead of time.

In the aftermath of a storm, whether from a thunderstorm or hurricane, you need to be prepared for cleanup. Cleanup can take days and should start as soon as the storm begins. The following is a checklist of items that may be necessary and helpful during cleanup: paper towels, garbage bags, tarp or plastic sheeting, shovels and rakes, and rubber gloves to protect your hands from bacteria in trash piles since they may not wash your hands or use gloves when cleaning up. Many areas will require you to drain standing water and empty couches at the local fire department. If there are items determined to be hazardous by local officials, they will be disposed of. 

During cleanup, you should wear protective clothing, including rubber boots. You could get injured or cut if you step on a sharp piece of wood or glass. If you have questions about what to do with certain items after the storm, contact your local health department or other authorities as necessary. Temporary power generators can help if your electricity is off for an extended period after a storm.

Steps To Cleanup After A Storm Flood

• If you have a generator, have it charged & ready to go after a storm. *If you don't have a generator, charge or buy one immediately.*
• Get shovels/ rakes, and do not try to haul water with hand tools. It can cause damage to your materials and equipment.
• Do not use gas-powered tools after the storm except for generators in case of a power outage.
• Storm drains should be swamped with heavy debris. It is best not to throw these into dumpsters or on the curb unless it is a trash bag.
• If you cannot lift a large item, such as a container, do not put it in your car. Call the city office to request a pickup.
• Bulk items that are heavy, such as refrigerators and furniture, should be wrapped in plastic sheeting and placed in the bed of your car.
• If you have standing water, drain it immediately. If your house is damaged, call the city office. If there is no place to drain the water right away, place small pieces of wood underneath a hazardous object and wait until the water has settled; then remove it.
• Trees blown over by strong winds may become hazardous because they may have broken branches or other parts that could come off and possibly harm someone.
• If you remove the carpet, use a duct cleaning machine to avoid the spread of mold.
• Do not use gas-powered machines or grills for cooking during cleanup.
• Do not throw fish in the grass or put them in bins at the curb or dumpster; it attracts other animals that could spread diseases.

Fire Damage: The Do's and Don'ts

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

Until the fire department has declared it safe, do not enter your home. There could be structural damage that makes it unsafe to enter.

A fire can be one of the most devastating things to a home. Not only is there the damage from the fire itself, but often water is used to put out the fire, which can cause additional damage. If you have experienced a fire in your home, it is important to know what to do and what not to do to minimize the damage.

The DO's

• Make safety a priority: Your safety and your family's safety should be your number one priority after a fire. Be sure to check for any structural damage to your home before re-entering and be aware of any potential hazards.
• Call a professional: Once you have ensured that everyone is safe, the next step is to call a professional fire damage restoration company. They will be able to assess the damage and start restoring your home.
• Call your insurance company: As soon as possible after the fire, you should call your insurance company and let them know what has happened. They will be able to help you determine what coverage you have and what steps you need to take next.
• Make a list of damaged items: Once the fire is out and it is safe to enter your home, make a list of all the items that were damaged by the fire. It will be important when you are making an insurance claim.
• Take pictures: If possible, take pictures of the damage. It will provide documentation for your insurance claim.
• Clean up what you can: Once you have documented the damage, start cleaning up what you can. It will help prevent further damage and will make the repair process easier.
• Be very careful when walking around your home. There may be loose floorboards or other hazards that you cannot see.
• Take advantage of any resources your local community may offer. Many communities have resources available to help homeowners who have experienced a fire. These resources may include temporary housing, financial assistance, or counseling services.

The DON'Ts

• Please don't enter your home until it is safe: Until the fire department has declared it safe, do not enter your home. There could be structural damage that makes it unsafe to enter.
• Don't try to clean up on your own: Many people think they can save money by cleaning up the damage themselves. However, this is not recommended. Cleaning up fire damage is a complex process and, if done wrong, could cause further damage. It is best to leave it to the professionals.
• Don't throw away damaged items: Until you have talked to your insurance company, do not throw away any items that were damaged in the fire. They may be able to be repaired or restored, and you don't want to get rid of something that your policy could cover.
• Don’t use any fans or air conditioners until you have consulted with a professional restoration company. Fans and air conditioners can spread soot and smoke damage if they are not correctly used.

Conclusion

If you have experienced a fire in your home, follow these dos and don'ts to minimize the damage. And, be sure to call your insurance company as soon as possible so they can help you through the process.

The Difference Between Water Mitigation and Damage Restoration

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

There is sometimes confusion and misunderstanding between water mitigation and restoration companies.

Nobody ever thinks they will be involved in a water damage incident, but once the unfortunate happens, how do you know whom to call? There is sometimes confusion and misunderstanding between water mitigation and restoration companies. In this article, we'll cover the differences between the two types of services and clarify exactly who should take care of what part.

What is water mitigation?

Water mitigation is the process of stopping or slowing the spread of water through a building so that it can be dried out without causing further damage to property or home contents. If you have experienced flooding in your home or business, it’s important to contact an experienced professional as soon as possible. Quick response ensures that your property is properly dried out and restored before irreparable damage occurs.

What are the pros of water mitigation?

It reduces the risk of damage to property and contents. If there's no water in your home or office, then there's no risk of mold growth.

It prevents further damage to property and contents like furniture, carpeting, and electronics if they're still salvageable after water removal.

What are the cons of water mitigation?

The downside of using a water mitigation company is that it can be expensive. If there's not much damage, then hiring a company may not be necessary. If there is extensive damage and mold growth, then using one could save you money in the long run by preventing further damage and needing further repairs down the road.

What is water damage restoration?

Damage restoration is the process of repairing the structural damage caused by water intrusion. Damage restoration professionals are trained in drying out your property while also making structural repairs to return your home or business back to its original state. Damage restoration can include removing wet carpeting, wallboard, insulation, sheetrock, and other materials that have been damaged by water intrusion.

What are the pros of water damage?

Water removal: When a flood happens, it's important that all water be removed immediately. If not, then mold and mildew can start growing within 24-48 hours after the event occurs. A professional team of water damage restoration experts will have equipment on hand to help them suck out all standing water from your property so that they can begin drying it out right away

Drying out your property: After the standing water has been removed, it's time for drying out your property. This is one of the most important steps when dealing with any kind of flood because it eliminates any remaining moisture still present in your home or business.

What are the cons of water damage?

The main disadvantage of hiring a professional team is that it can be expensive. Depending on how much work needs to be done, you could end up spending thousands of dollars on the repairs alone.

What is the difference between water mitigation and damage restoration?

The main difference between water mitigation and restoration is that mitigation focuses on stopping further damage to your property, while restoration focuses on repairing the damage that has already occurred. Mitigation may require sealing off areas that have been damaged, removing damaged materials from the site, drying out wet surfaces, and performing other tasks.

Restoration may involve cleaning up any remaining debris left over from the flood, replacing flooring and insulation where necessary, repairing holes in walls or ceilings caused by water damage, painting over any damage done by moisture stains on walls, and ceilings, installing new drywall to replace old damaged drywalls if necessary.

As you can see, the two terms are very similar and can often be used interchangeably. But generally speaking, there is a difference. Hopefully, this post has provided you with a better understanding of the distinction between water mitigation and damage restoration services.

SERVPRO of Winter Park has the knowledge and capabilities of handling both sides of the water damage process. Please call our office for questions regarding our services!

Water Damage Procedure in Orlando Office Spaces

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO drying equipment placed in an Orlando office

When professionally dealing with any hazards, you must include a step-by-step procurer that should be followed for accurate results. In the case of water damage, it has five steps: inspection and assessment, water removal, drying and dehumidifying, cleaning and sanitizing, and complete restorations.

1. Inspection and Assessment

In this step, water-damage restorations professionals make a detailed assessment by using technological equipment to identify the extent of the damage. These inspections and assessments help experts understand how to go about the damage identified, including the duration it takes to clean the damage.

2. Water Removal

After a successful assessment and inspection, the experts proceed to extract the water from the damaged surface. During this activity, experts use equipment such as submersible pumps, truck-mounted vacuums, and portable wet/dry vacuums. Water is removed from the damaged areas to avoid further damage and to pave the way for the next cause of action. When all water has been extracted, the experts conduct an additional inspection to determine the remaining moisture levels for further actions.

3. Drying and Dehumidifying

This is the third stage where restoration firms begin the dehumidification and drying procedure once the water has been physically removed from the premises. At this stage, any items that still contain water or were too difficult to reach during extraction are dried out using industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers.

Your office may appear dry at this point, but certain items may be damp to the touch. If left unattended, these materials may suffer more harm, such as warping, cracking, or developing mold. Water-restoration professionals avoid this by drying and dehumidifying the affected area thoroughly. During this step, water remediation professionals monitor moisture levels in the damaged regions' walls and floors to decide when your office is dry enough for professional cleaning to begin.

4. Cleaning and Sanitizing

All hygienic-restoration projects require thorough, professional cleaning with the aim of preserving as much property as possible. Cleaning and sanitizing are done in different ways such as spraying and wiping, dry cleaning, wet cleaning, foam cleaning, and abrasive or immersive cleaning techniques. Being a sensitive step, experts put on protective equipment as they are exposed to many dangers.

5. Complete Restoration

The actual restorative repair is the final step in the water-damage restorations method. Professionals restore your home to its pre-damage condition during the restoration procedure. Any irreversibly damaged or deleted materials will now be fixed or restored. Restoration attempts may be simple or complex, depending on the level of irreversible damage. In some instances, restorations may need relatively basic repairs such as drywall repair or carpet cleaning. However, the restoration work is extensive, and parts of your home must be reconstructed in other circumstances.

In conclusion, water mitigation measures are considerably less expensive than those of water restorations. To avoid all these restorations, one can ensure they dry surfaces ultimately, sanitize as thoroughly as possible and take away materials that might cause water damage or have been affected by water damage. After the damage has already occurred, the most important thing to consider is professionalism. Once experts have done a job, you can expect minimal mistakes hence having a conducive office environment.

Predictions for the Upcoming 2022 Hurricane Season

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricane Michael was the last major storm to hit Florida and devastated the panhandle.

Florida hasn't experienced a major hurricane since 2018, but forecasters are predicting a more active hurricane season for 2022. This could mean an increased risk of Florida experiencing a major hurricane for the first time in more than three years.

For the 2022 hurricane season, forecasters say that there is a more than 44 percent chance that Florida will be impacted by a major hurricane during the 2022 season. This prediction was made by Colorado State University's Tropical Meteorology Project.

During a typical hurricane season, the same forecasters at Colorado State offer a 29 percent chance that Florida will be struck by a major hurricane. To be exact, the university's predictions say a major hurricane could strike within fifty miles of Florida.

The lead researcher at CSU, Phil Klotzback, says, "In the last couple of years, Florida has generally gotten 'lucky.'"

Klotzbach says that Florida has experienced some impacts from major storms in the last few years, but these impacts haven't been direct ones. Klotzbach points out Eta in 2020 as well as Elsa, Fred and Mindy. "But they weren't huge impacts. Obviously, Louisiana has been the state that has been kind of ground zero in the last two years."

CSU ranks a major hurricane as one that has been categorized as a Category 3, 4, or 5. These storms contain winds of at least 111 mph or higher.

The hurricane season begins on June 1 and ends on November 30.

The research team at Colorado State University has predicted seven consecutive years of an above-average hurricane season, beginning in 2015. This year's forecast holds that at least nineteen named storms will develop, four of these will be major hurricanes and nine storms will upgrade to hurricane status (this means winds reach 74 mph or higher).

During an average hurricane season, the odds of a named storm impacting Florida is 86 percent; however, this year, CSU is predicting that there is a 96 percent chance that a named storm will hit Florida. The odds of a hurricane (a named storm with at least 74 mph winds) will impact Florida is 75 percent; on an average, the chances are only 56 percent.

Researchers at CSU predict that a major hurricane will impact the East Coast, including Florida, during the 2022 hurricane season at a 47 percent probability. Typically, this is only a 31 percent chance. The odds that a major hurricane (Category 3 - 5 with winds above 111 mph) will impact states along the Gulf Coast (from the Florida Panhandle to Texas) is 46 percent this year. On average, that chance is only about thirty percent.

NOAA's Climate Prediction Center has announced that they believe conditions are favorable for at least fourteen named storms during 2022 and seven hurricanes. NOAA predicts there will be three major hurricanes in the Atlantic this year.

Why is Water Damage Restoration Important?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Having the proper equipment is only half the job. Our techs are trained to handle any sized water damage disaster.

Professional Restoration Companies

In the age of technology, water damage is an important issue. Many people don’t realize the importance of a good damage restoration company. A good Restoration company like SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando can help you to get your property back in good condition as quickly as possible. Ten of the best reasons for water damage restoration are mentioned in this article.

1. It Aids in the Prevention of Water Contamination

Water contamination is a very serious issue, and thus it is important that we take care of our homes and offices so that they do not become contaminated with harmful bacteria or viruses. Such damage can cause many problems, such as mold growth. Having concrete damage control methods in place will prevent these issues from occurring.

2. It Helps Reduce Mold Growth and Other Hazards

The reduction in the growth of molds and other hazards will help prevent additional damage from occurring. If there is some kind of water leak, then it is necessary to have a professional come over and check out the situation. They will also be able to tell if there is any kind of leakage in the home or office. In this case, the problem should be fixed immediately.

3. It Ensures All Contents of the House Remain Safe

If there is any kind of leak in the home or office, then it is very likely that the content inside the home or office could get damaged. This means that all the items stored within the home or office may get ruined. The presence of water damage can lead to the destruction of furniture, electronics, etc. Therefore, it is important that the condition is repaired as soon as possible.

4. It Makes Sure that the Home or Office Remains Dry

Having a wet home or office can be extremely uncomfortable. There are chances that the moisture present in the home or office can make the air feel damp. This makes it difficult to breathe properly. Also, the humidity level in the home or office increases when there is water damage. This can result in various kinds of diseases. Thus, having a professional come over and repair the leak is highly recommended.

5. It Helps Remove Odors

Odors are one of the most unpleasant things about water damage. When there is such a situation, there is always a strong smell associated with it. This is because the water has been leaking into the walls, floors, ceilings, etc., for quite some time now. Once the odor starts to dissipate, it is advisable that the professionals come over and fix the leak.

6. It Improves the Appearance of the Home or Office.

When there is water damage, it is usually accompanied by a lot of mess. This includes water stains on the floor, walls, etc. The presence of such damage can also result in the discoloration of the ceiling and walls. This is why it is important that the leak is fixed as soon as possible. The sooner the leak is fixed, the better the results will be.

7. It Prevents Further Damage to the Home or Office.

When there is water damage, the first thing that happens is that the walls start to crack. This is due to the fact that the water pressure is too high. As a result, the walls start to break down. This leads to more cracks appearing. Over time, the leaks can spread throughout the entire wall. This is why it’s imperative that the leak is fixed right away.

8. It Reduces the Risk of a Fire

Fire is another major concern that people face when their homes or offices become flooded. This is because the water can easily find its way into electrical outlets, appliances, pipes, etc. This can cause a serious fire hazard. Therefore, it is essential that the leak is fixed so that the fire does not occur.

9. It Protects the Value of the Home or Office

The presence of such a situation can affect the overall look and feel of your home or office. This can lower the value of your property. However, a properly executed restoration will prevent that from happening.

10. It Increases the Lifespan of the Home or Office.

If no immediate action is taken after a flood occurs, the home or office will continue to deteriorate. This is because the moisture will remain trapped inside the walls and other parts of the house. Eventually, the walls will begin to crumble. This will lead to mold growth which will eventually rot the wood.

If you have ever had such a situation in your home or office, then you know how expensive it can be. It is very important that you hire a professional who knows what they are doing.

SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando

SERVPRO is able to assist you throughout the entire water damage restoration process. We have years of service experience serving the central Florida area and can handle disasters of any size. If you need assistance with a water damage event, call the professionals 24/7 at (407) 678-5391.

Why is Fire Damage Restoration Important?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has all the tools and knowledge to get your property back on track after a fire damage event, regardless of its extent.

Fixing Physical Damage and More

Fire damage can be one of the most devastating things that can happen to a home or business. Not only is there the physical damage that needs to be repaired, but there is also the emotional toll that fire damage can take on people. It is important to have a professional fire damage restoration company come in and help you get your life back to normal as quickly as possible. In this blog post, we will discuss why fire damage restoration is so important.

1. It Protects Your Property from Thieves and Vandals

Your fire damage repair work will need to be performed soon after your home or business has been damaged by fire. After coming back to your house or business, you may have no idea that someone went in while you were away and stole something. Who wants to discover that the family heirloom is missing? The best way to prevent theft and vandalism is by having the fire damage restoration company fix the damage quickly.

2. Odor is One of the Most Overwhelming Factors in a Home Fire

Many different odors are released into homes or businesses that have been damaged by fire. A professional fire restoration company will be able to find the source of the odor and help you mitigate the problem before it becomes too much for you to handle. Fire destruction repair is not something that should be taken lightly, and having a professional company perform the work for you will help ensure that everything is done correctly.

3. It Cleans Up Smoke and Soot

After a fire department has put out a fire and you have had time to inspect the damage, you will probably notice that there is soot and smoke damage throughout your home or business. Having the proper equipment to remove this is critical to restoring your property. A qualified company will have the knowledge and equipment necessary and insurance coverage to clean up smoke and soot after a devastating fire safely.

4. It Helps Save as Many of Your Items as Possible

Having a good fire reclamation company come to your home or business and help you clean up after a fire is essential, but there is also another benefit to the work they will be doing. If you can save any items damaged by smoke or water, it will help with the emotional distress associated with a home fire. The sight of all of your belongings damaged by fire can be overwhelming, as well as depressing. Also, finding things that were damaged in a fire can become very time-consuming. Having your property cleaned up by professionals will ensure that you can save as many of your belongings as possible.

5. It Prevents Further Damage from Occurring

If you let a fire burn out after it has caused extensive damage to your home or business, there is a good chance that the smoke and water damage will not be able to be cleaned up. If this happens, you face the possibility of mold and mildew issues in your home or business. The best way to prevent further damage from occurring is by having a licensed team complete what should have been an easy task. Fire impacts reclamation companies are trained to minimize the effects of smoke, water, and mold on your home or business. Also, by using the proper equipment, they will give your property the best chance at surviving the fire destruction.

6. It Assists You with Documentation for Insurance Claims

The corporate insurance policies necessary to replace property can be challenging to approve. Most people will find that they cannot get the necessary documentation to approve their claims with the company if their home or business was damaged by fire. This is where a fire destruction restoration company comes in. They can thoroughly document your belongings and any areas where damage may have occurred due to the fire. Also, they will document how much time and money it takes to restore your property. This will help you get the maximum amount possible once the claim is approved.

7. It Gets Things Back to Normal as Quickly as Possible

If a fire causes significant damage to your home or business, the last thing you want is to have it sit idle while you wait for a repair company to tell you when they can start repairing your property. Once a fire starts, there is usually not enough time to properly begin the restoring process. It is important to get things back up and running as quickly as possible to resume your daily life. Having a fire restoration company come in will make this process much easier for you.

Fire Damage Restoration Companies

There are many reasons why fire damage restoration is so important. Not only will it help you and your property, but it will also likely save you money in repair costs later on. If there is one thing that you should remember from reading this article, it is that there is no substitute for a professional fire damage restoration company when it comes to your home or business.

SERVPRO of University, SE Orlando has been serving Orlando and its surrounding areas for over a decade. When it comes to getting things back to the way they were, there’s no time for anything but the best. We are extremely knowledgeable in fire restoration and are capable of handling any size disaster, residential or commercial. After calling 911, give us a call at (407) 678-5391.

When an Inspection for Mold is Necessary

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Your mold assessor will send samples to a lab where they will test for the type of mold as well as the concentration of spores.

When you have a suspicion that your house has mold, it’s crucial to get an inspection from an expert mold tester. The signs of mold will be little spots that spread very quickly. The spots may appear velvety or powdery, and you won't also miss the earthy smell. But you should know that mold can also affect areas in your house that you can't see, and that is when you need an inspection for mold the most. Every home has potential for mold, so even if you haven't noticed any visible signs, you still have to be careful. Here are the tests you should expect from an environmentalist and the benefits of having a professional inspection.

Types of Tests

Air Quality Testing

Air sampling is the best test to decide if you have mold spores in your house. It shows the number of spores in the air and makes it easy for the mold testing professional to know if there is an indoor mold reservoir. You will get all the information you need to make remediation plans. Mold removal may require another professional company. The law in Florida requires two separate companies for inspection and remediation. So after inspection, you will have to find other professionals to get rid of the mold.

Surface Sampling

A surface sample is direct and will show you if there is any mold on different surfaces around the house. If there is a presence of mold on the sample location, chances are you have mold growing around the house. The test will be analyzed immediately; you won't have to wait for a long time to know if there are spores or not. The particulars of a testing protocol may differ, but surface sampling is one of the accurate methods. Sampling surfaces can show you an indoor reservoir of mold that has not become airborne yet. It’s best to catch a mold issue early before it causes a lot of damages.

Post-Remediation Testing

You still need an inspection for mold after remediation. It's necessary because it confirms that the contactor was successful in getting rid of the mold. A mold issue is not good for your health and that of your loved ones. That is why you have to be more than sure that no spores are lingering around the house after the removal project. Mold grows very quickly; a small number of spores can be a big problem in a short time. Get the professional company that deals with an inspection to come back after the contactors are done with mold removal.

Benefits of a Professional Mold Inspection

It Keeps Mold From Spreading

As you already know, mold spreads very fast; an inspection is the best way to discover the spores early and prevent growth. It only takes less than 48 hours for the mold to colonize your house. Locating the mold is the first step to permanently getting rid of them. It’s important to hire a professional because DIY inspection may not be successful.

Reduce Structural Damage

When mold grows in areas that are not easily visible, it can cause structural damage. A mold inspection will help you maintain the structural integrity of your home. You will also discover moisture in your house that you never knew existed. You can work to prevent costly damages when you discover the issue early. Mold grows in damp areas, mold growth and water can cause severe damages to wooden structures. Electrical wiring and insulation around the home can also be affected.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

If you want to improve the air quality in your house, you need an inspection first to determine how bad the situation is. When mold in your home becomes airborne, the quality of air around the house will significantly decline. The spores can be dangerous to your help, and most people don’t know when they are exposed to mold. To be on the safe side, get a professional to perform air quality testing. Mold exposure will start causing minor symptoms, which can be severe if the air quality is not rectified. You may start coughing, experiencing headaches, and sometimes a runny nose and congestion. You need air filtration as soon as possible to return your home to where it was before the mold.

Prevent Health Effects

Mold has the potential to cause various health effects. To prevent health effects in your home, you have to ensure no mold grows anywhere around the house. The first step you need to take is hiring a mold testing professional to inspect different areas in your home. When you locate the mold, you can organize mold removal, also known as mold remediation.

It Helps You Get A Thorough Cleaning.

There is no need to put everyone at risk for medical problems by cleaning the mold yourself. When you leave mold removal to the experts, you will get a thorough cleaning. Once the inspection identifies the source of the mold in your house, the remediating team will have an easy time with the cleaning. The contractors have the experience and skills to get the job done better than you. They will help you prevent any future problems which will save you a lot of money. A proper mold assessment will determine how well the removal job is done.

Conclusion

It's no secret that mold issues can cause many damages and are also dangerous to your health. You need a regular mold inspection to determine if you have mold growing. The experts know where to look and can easily tell the severity of the problem. You will need two different professionals to perform the inspection and removal because of the Florida state laws. Inspection for mold is more of a necessity than a luxury. So get yourself a reliable company and request the services.