Emergency Property Restoration After a Flood

5/6/2024 (Permalink)

Floods can be devastating to your property, leaving behind a trail of destruction. But with the right approach, you can restore your property to its former glory. Here are some tips for homeowners to tackle emergency property restoration after a flood.

• Immediate Response: As soon as it is safe to do so, assess the damage. If necessary, contact professional restoration services like SERVPRO® to help with the cleanup and restoration process.

• Safety First: Before entering your property, ensure it is safe. Check for structural damages, such as cracks or collapses, that might make the building unsafe.

• Water Removal: Begin by removing standing water. This might require pumps or professional equipment, depending on the severity of the flooding.

• Drying Out: After water removal, it’s crucial to dry out the property to prevent mold growth. Use dehumidifiers and fans to circulate air and dry out the premises.

Remember, acting quickly can minimize damage and help in faster restoration. Call us at 805-919-8339 and we will be on site as soon as possible. 

Water Removal Challenges

8/28/2023 (Permalink)

Apartment ceiling collapse.

The Significance of Water Classification

Within the realm of water-related intrusions, it's essential to consider three primary categories: rainwater, fresh water, and sewage. The specific type of water present in your home determines the approach coming into contact and residual cleanup efforts. Sewage water, in particular, can harbor harmful bacteria that pose serious health risks. Fortunately, identifying the type of water is often straightforward, as sewage water tends to emit a strong, unpleasant odor. If you suspect sewage involvement, enlisting the services of a professional water damage cleanup company like SERVPRO® equipped with the appropriate tools and expertise is crucial for safe resolution.

Lingering Challenges Beyond Water Removal

While the removal of water from your home might seem like a sigh of relief, it's important to acknowledge that lingering moisture can persist in concealed areas. Moisture hidden within walls, crawlspaces, and beneath floorboards has the potential to foster mold growth over time. Mold is not only toxic but also capable of causing structural damage to homes, resulting in significant consequences. Engaging a mold prevention expert to assess your property is vital to ensure that this hazardous substance isn't infiltrating your living space.

SERVPRO: Here to Make Your Life Easier

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, we take pride in strong customer service and experts in the industry. Our team has years of experience and constant training.

Did you experience a fire, a flood or a plumbing problem in your home or business? There’s no one better to call for your reparations and restorations than SERVPRO® of Moorpark / Fillmore / Santa Paula. We will make it “Like it never even happened.” Our quick and professional response team will know just what to do when you need assistance.

Highly Trained Professionals

Our restoration technicians are experts at restoring salvageable items from water or fire, and they document their work every step of the way. We guarantee our team will do their best job on your remediation and/or restoration project.

Customer Care

At SERVPRO, we take pride in strong customer service and experts in the industry. Our team has years of experience and constant training to ensure we do the best job in getting your home or business back to normal after we come through it.

Easier Insurance Claims Process

Insurance claims can be confusing and challenging, but we are here to help. Our team assists you in documentation for a quicker, easier insurance claim experience.

Don’t wait, the technicians at SERVPRO® of Moorpark / Fillmore / Santa Paula are waiting to assist you today! Give us a call at (805) 529-5600, we are 24/7/365.

What to do After a Flood

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience a flood on your property, let our experienced team of franchise professionals assess the flooding for any potential water damage.

Even while in a drought, Southern California is an area of high flood risk. Floods, when not treated properly, can potentially result in hundreds of thousands in damages. Heavy rain is just one potential cause of flooding. In reality, there are a variety of ways that your property could flood.

Top 3 Common Causes of Floods

1. Poor drainage
2. Broken pipes
3. Damaged foundations

Floodwater often becomes contaminated with sewage and chemicals, and it is unsafe to live in these conditions. It’s important to keep pipes in good condition as water damage is costly to repair.

If you experience flooding in your home perform the below actions to help keep damage down, but only when it is safe to do so:

• Stop the flooding from its source
• Turn off electricity (take extra care to avoid any moisture or collected water)
• Safely evacuate the structure affected by flooding

Once in a dry, safe location:

• Contact your insurance company
• Document the flooding (Take note of what was damaged by the water)

If you experience a flood on your property, let our experienced team of franchise professionals assess the flooding for any potential water damage. We will get your home back to pre-flood condition. Contact SERVPRO® of Moorpark / Fillmore / Santa Paula at (805) 529-5600 to begin the flood restoration, we are 24/7/365.

Mold, the Water Damage Unseen

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Understanding the early signs of mold or water damage will help to minimize the extent damage can occur.

Mold thrives in unseen places, and less rather than more property owners are successful in identifying mold. In order to be vigilant, understand the importance of carrying out proper inspections and maintenance. Inspections should be performed at least twice a year, especially for those who live in areas where temperatures and moisture levels rise and fall frequently.

Inspecting for Mold

Check for water damage at the same time you inspect for mold growth. Water damage typically provides the prime spot for mold growth to occur. See below for the more common signs of water damage.

Bubbling walls: 

A telltale sign of mold is bubbling forming on painted walls. These are the areas contain the most moisture and are more likely to bubble up.

Musty odor:

When pipes begin to leak and mildew forms, it will create a very unpleasant scent. This is one of the first signs to check for water damage and mold. The closer you are to the affected area the more extreme the odor.

Rusting in open and/or enclosed spaces: 

Rust is the result of corrosion after the iron particles in an object have been exposed to oxygen and moisture. This can be a sign of excessive moisture in your commercial building. Humidity can also create the optimum conditions for mold growth.

Understanding the early signs of mold or water damage will help to minimize the extent damage can occur. If an inspection happens and a mold infestation discovered, reach out to SERVPRO® of Moorpark / Fillmore / Santa Paula at (805) 529-5600 to return your business or home to its preloss condition.

You Can Control Mold

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Increase the circulation and raise the temperature of cold surfaces where moisture condenses.

There are many ways to control the internal moisture of your business or home to help with mold prevention. Review below for a comprehensive list of actions that can be taken to help prevent mold growth.

• Fix any leaks and / or seepage. If water is entering your business from outside, remediation efforts can range from simple landscaping to extensive excavation and waterproofing. Water collecting in your basement could be a result from a lack of gutters or water flowing toward the house. Water leaks from pipes or around tubs and sinks are a perfect breeding ground for microbial growth.
• Use plastic coverings over dirt in crawlspaces to prevent moisture from coming up from the ground. Make sure crawlspaces are well-ventilated.

• Exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens help to relocate moisture to the outside.
• Increase the circulation and raise the temperature of cold surfaces where moisture condenses. To increase air circulation, keep doors open between rooms, use fans to increase circulatory air, and place furniture away from corners. This promotes better air and heat circulation and carries heat to cold surfaces.

Moisture problems and their solutions vary from place to place. While the Southwest is hot and dry, the Northeast is cold and wet, the South is hot and wet, and the Western states are cold and dry. All these regions have different and complex moisture problems. The area you live will directly affect the remediation process.

Dealing with Commercial Sewage Backup

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water extraction after flooding occurs.

Sewage backup in your office is not a basic cleaning task. The cleanup process should only be handled by professionals. If signs of sewage backup occur, call SERVPRO of Moorpark / Fillmore / Santa Paula to return your business to its preloss condition.

Common Causes of Sewer Backup Issues

Sewage issues are difficult to recover from, however, knowing how they occur is the first step to preventing the worst from happening. Some common reasons why commercial properties experience sewage backups are:

• Stress on your plumbing and sewer system from soil settling in and around your building.
• Misaligned connections or cracked pipes within your plumbing system.
• Tree roots infiltrating plumbing / pipes.
• Irregular maintenance and cleaning. Commercial settings usually experience high-volume and require regular maintenance to make sure facilities stay functioning.

Preventative Measures for Sewage Backup

Here are some preventative maintenance measures that can be taken to lessen the impact of what may occur. See below for suggested guidelines:

• Semi-annual / Annual plumbing and sewer inspections.
• Make sure you use a water pressure reducing valve to limit stress on your building's system.
• Add pop-up sewer release valves if your plumbing system does not have them.

It is difficult and potentially unsafe to deal with sewage backup yourself and is a job that should be left to the professionals. With SERVPROs expert processes, training, and customer experience, we are here to help!

Steps To Minimize Water Damage

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage on cabinets

1. Call a professional immediately. They can coordinate your next steps best and get you scheduled for assistance. A professional will give you advice that you can trust. In addition, remember to turn off your water and power to the affected areas. 
2. Take safety precautions. Even if you are aware of the source of water it still may contaminated. Water can be clear and still contain harmful bacteria and other contaminants.
3. Protect your belongings. If you have things that have objective or sentimental value to you or your family, scoop these things up and store them away in a safe place so that they won’t be exposed to water. It can be helpful to put a dry layer (some plywood, plastic, etc.) between legs of furniture and wet ground to prevent water seeping into the legs and deforming it. 
4. Begin water removal. Follow any specific instructions that were given when you were on the phone when you called for help. Don’t do anything potentially dangerous.

SERVPRO of Moorpark / Fillmore / Santa Paula has 24-hour emergency services, so don’t hesitate to contact us. Almost everyone experiences a flood in their home at some point make sure you have a plan to address.

5 Common Causes for Bathroom Flooding

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in bathroom

1. PLUMBING BREAKS

Pipes age over time and can rupture. Excess water pressure is the main cause and can result in a quickly flood a bathroom.

2. OVERFLOWED TOILET

Toilet overflows are common occurrences and can often be the result of blocked toilet traps or backed-up sewer laterals.

3. BLOCKED PIPES

Wet wipes down toilets and hair down sinks are a few examples of the items that we routinely find as the primary cause of loss when performing water mitigation in a bathroom.

4. DRAINING ISSUES

When your overflow drain fails, simply running your bathtub fills the tub to overflowing and can send water cascading behind the shower wall and across the bathroom floor.

5. SEWER BACKUPS

Flooding from storms will often be one of the causes of loss and can cause sewer main backups that fill the bathroom with sewage, but tree roots also can crack, clog and back up sewer lines.

Hidden Water Leak Signs

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO team inspecting crawl space under home.

Leaks can lay hidden within walls and ceilings and go unnoticed for a long time. Knowing the common signs of water damage can save you time and money. Some common warning signs of a hidden leak are:

• Peeling and Bubbling Paint
  • Once drywall has absorbed too much water, the excess moisture will cause the paint to lift off from the drywall resulting in peeling or bubbling paint.

• Staining
  • Water trapped behind walls and ceilings eventually bleeds into the adjacent drywall. This is where and when a stain will occur. If you notice a stain growing larger over time it can be a sign of a hidden leak.

• Warped walls
  • Sheetrock is highly absorbent material. After its structural integrity has become compromised drywall will become soft and weak resulting in wall warping.  

• Warped and Buckled Floors
  • Hidden leaks very often come from below flooring and behind walls. This can require complete replacement depending upon the material and can become costly to repair.

• Musty Odors
  • Moisture in excess leads to mold and mildew if left untreated. Musty smells with no obvious signs of water or mold may be the result of a hidden leak.

• Visible Mold
  • Mold can grow on virtually every surface. If there is visible mold, but no visible water anywhere, you may have a hidden leak that needs to be repaired.

The longer a leak goes unnoticed the more harm occurs to your home or business. Water leaks are serious regardless of if they are hidden or not. No matter the location of water damage it is important to reach out for assistance by an experienced remediation company as soon as a loss occurs.

5 Warning Signs of a Burst Pipe

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

Not all broken pipes cause immediate water damage. It can sometimes be a slow leak that eventually causes water damage to your home or business. Be alert to the warning signs of a broken pipe.

1. Fluctuating Water Pressure:

Don’t immediately blame the city. It may be a busted pipe. Pressure changes are hard on plumbing system and can damage pipe fittings.

2. Water discoloration and or smell:

The water has taken on a brownish or “rust” colored feature and or smells of rotten eggs. Fun fact, that rotten egg smell is hydrogen sulfide, a naturally occurring gas that can also form in sewer lines. Make sure to call in a certified technician to handle this type of issue.

3. Recurring sink puddles:

You try to stop any leaks under sinks to no avail. Inspect your home or business carefully just above pipe cover plates, additionally look for damp spots.

4. Noisy pipes/water movement sounds within walls:

If no water is running in your home, you should not be able to hear water. A single broken pipe can influence the water pressure of an entire structure.

5. Rising water bill cost:

Small drips can add up. Make sure to regular check your water bill and plumbing fixtures for leaks to lessen the chance a pipe burst will occur.

How We Dry Your Home After Water Damage!

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

First a detailed assessment must be performed onsite to confirm the extent of water damage which has occurred. Depending on the building materials that are affected our team will provide a detailed scope of work and dry out/mitigation scope of work for your review and that of your insurance adjuster.

Sometimes, the damage is minimal and the dry out plan can happen very quickly with minimal cost. If this is the case an insurance claim may not be required as it the cost of mitigation will be less than your deductible amount possibly. In other instances where the damage is more significant, we are able to communicate all aspects of the scope and cost in a timely fashion. We divide the process into (3) phases. Phase (1) initial moisture mapping, and or fire mapping, stabilization through the use of engineering controls and equipment. Phase (2) is to assess our client’s contents such as furniture, artwork, clothing. Phase (3) is a detailed reconstruction estimate itemizing the building repair scope of work and cost to be performed.  

There are many different types of equipment that can be needed for a significant loss. Some of this equipment includes:

• Dehumidifiers
• Air movers
• Water extraction vacuums
• HEPA vacuum, both backpack and canister type
• Submersible pumps
• Moisture detectors
• Hygrometers
• Infrared
• Floor mat drying system
• Desiccants

We Take Your Water Damage Details with Serious Consideration

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

We work as quickly as possible to get you back into your home.

The rains have stopped for now, but plumbing issues still happen to California homes just like they always have. The damage from a broken kitchen sink or a pipe behind a wall is indistinguishable from stormwater that finds its way in from under the roof.

Regardless of the water damage source in a home, SERVPRO has four key actions we take before moving on to restoring furniture. First, we move every piece of furniture off the carpeting. Next, we clean any furniture stains before we even start to dry the home. Next, we tent all cushions to prevent color bleeding and speed up drying time. Finally, we calculate the restoration cost against the replacement price for the customer.

With that accomplished, our technicians move on to drying and protecting the upholstery. They take the first step by tenting the cushions. Tenting is simply standing the cushions up and leaning them against each other with a sheet of waxed paper between them to stop or at least reduce color bleeding. Now, they place air movers and dehumidifiers underneath or next to them to speed the process. Zippers and most metal buttons quickly rust, which they are hand-dried immediately. We also insert waxed paper between the zippers and cushions and place pads around the buttons to prevent any possible transfer of rust, no matter how small.

It may be necessary to dampen the entire fabric of a piece of furniture to keep a uniform color. Then, water extractor wands are used to draw out any moisture evenly. We use a variety of upholstery tools to ensure the nape of the fabric is carefully brushed out to its correct form as it dries.

Restoring furniture damaged from broken plumbing is an intensive, drawn-out process. To do it correctly takes a professional restoration company. SERVPRO is ready to walk you through every step and make sure you understand the costs associated with restoration, replacement, and when to choose. 

How to Protect Your Hardwood Floors

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

Water is arguably one of the biggest enemies of hardwood floors. After a flood, your best chance of recovering your flooring is to hire a professional restoration company immediately. However, failing to protect your floor from moisture or spills on a daily basis can also cause irreversible damage.

• Remove wet, moist, or damp items, such as carpets, clothes, boots, or appliances, from contact with the floor as soon as possible.
• Wipe up any spills from the surface immediately to prevent the liquid from penetrating the floor.
• If a room with a hardwood floor has an exterior door, place a rug in front of the door.
• Inspect the plumbing and fix any leaks that might contribute to water getting onto the floor surface (or any structural component, for that matter).
• Control the humidity in your home. During the summer, the air tends to be moister and during the winter, the air is dryer. Both moist and dry air can affect wood, so adjust your humidifier accordingly.

If the water has started to damage your floors, call the professionals of SERVPRO to help dry out your precious floors.

Are You On Social Media? Let's Connect!

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Do you already follow us on our social media pages?  If you have not done so already, come find us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram!  We aim to provide great content by giving everyday helpful tips, showcasing our work, and just keeping it fun overall. 

Some of our posts include the science of identifying and eliminating odors can be tricky, but as professionals in deodorization, we can take care of it.  Some other examples of what we post are many emergency preparedness tips and showing before and after photos.

We also like to share the jobs we have completed in cities such as Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Downtown, Bakersfield, Sylmar, and just all over the West Coast region. 

What would you like to see us share on our pages? Let us know! We would love to connect and hear from you. 

Here are the links to our pages:

Facebook: click here

Instagram: click here

Twitter: click here

LinkedIn: click here

Preventing HVAC Water Damage in Your Home

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system can cause extensive water damage if it’s not maintained correctly. Common causes of HVAC water damage include a clogged drain, frozen evaporator coils, and pipes that are not connected correctly. 

Here are some tips to help you prevent HVAC water damage in your home:

• Change the HVAC filter regularly
• Clean the condenser
• Maintain the condensation line and the overflow drain pan

Knowing how to prevent AC from leaking is sometimes not enough to prevent your unit from causing water damage. When leaks occur, the moisture promotes mold growth that can contaminate the air in your home. If you experience HVAC related water damage be sure to contact SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula for immediate restoration.

Signs To Help You Spot Water Damage In Your Home

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Quick signs that could lead to possible water damage in your home. 

1. Check your floors.

No matter what kind of flooring you have, it will manifest signs of water damage.

2. Look for stains.

Unusual stains could indicate there is a leaky pipe or drain inside the wall. Cracks in the drywall or areas that appear swollen and are soft to touch also may signify trouble. Peeling paint is another sign of loose water within wall spaces. As the drywall gets saturated, paint can lose adhesion.

3. Inspect the outside.

What you want to look for are pools of standing water that can indicate poor drainage in the yard, gutter spouts that aren’t transporting water far enough from the house or leaky rain gutters.

4. Watch for rust and mold.

Inspect your water heater and check for rust on the tank or damp spots on the floor.

By following these tips and being aware as a homeowner you can possibly catch water damage early on and save yourself a headache in the future. 

Is Water Damage An Emergency?

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

In a simple answer, yes! While it isn't a true emergency in terms of calling 911, it must be dealt with as soon as possible in order to avoid serious damage and potential health risks. The water cleanup process needs to begin as quickly as possible after the damage occurs.

Ignoring water damage has the potential to create the following problems: microbial growth, electrical issues, stains, and increased repair costs. One issue with ignoring water damage is that it can get worse, and it might happen faster than you would imagine. It might not look like much now, and you might think that it’s not going to get any worse. But if there’s an ongoing cause, which you might not know exists, you might find it’s quickly bigger. Water damage is not a DIY project and should always be handled by the professionals at SERVPRO. 

Water Damage Is Not A DIY Project

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

While water damage isn't a true emergency in terms of calling 911, it must be dealt with as soon as possible in order to avoid serious damage and potential health risks. The water cleanup process needs to begin as quickly as possible after the damage occurs.

Ignoring water damage has the potential to create the following problems: microbial growth, electrical issues, stains, and increased repair costs. One issue with ignoring water damage is that it can get worse, and it might happen faster than you would imagine. It might not look like much now, and you might think that it’s not going to get any worse. But if there’s an ongoing cause, which you might not know exists, you might find it’s quickly bigger. Water damage is not a DIY project and should always be handled by the professionals at SERVPRO. 

Summer Heat Safety At Home

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

In sunny southern California, it's hot enough to be outside!  Beat the heat this summer and stay cool indoors with the following tips:

• Cover windows to block extra heat from direct sunlight coming in.
• Use fans strategically. Your ceiling fans should be turning counter-clockwise to force the air downwards. 
• Cook with small appliances, such as a slow-cooker or tabletop grill to minimize the heat level.
• Check on your elderly and disabled neighbors regularly. 
• Stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water steadily; don't wait until you're thirsty.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol which causes us to lose water more rapidly.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightly colored, and lightweight clothes.
• Do not exercise outdoors. If you must exercise outdoors, only exercise in the early morning hours, before 8 a.m.
• Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
• Check the local news and other outlets for important safety information.

How To Go About A Water Loss

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

If you, unfortunately, suffer from a water loss it’s good to know your resources. 

Two main priorities are calling your insurance company and getting a water restoration company out to you. The longer you wait the more damage you risk in your home, standstill water can lead to microbial growth and that’s another headache you don’t need on top of a water loss. 

And most importantly, even if you think you can handle it and dry out the water yourself, you should always, and no matter what call SERVPRO. We would hate for you to not be able to complete the job and create a bigger problem for your home, and it’s what we are here to do. We want to handle your water loss!

Area Disinfection Certification Program

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

As America gets back to business, we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean. In fact, 89% of consumers are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations. At SERVPRO, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in communities across the country as we find our way to a new normal. And we’re doing just that with our Area Disinfection Certification Program.

Our new defensive pathogen disinfecting program goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is a proactive viral pathogen disinfecting. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO professionals to bring a higher standard of sanitizing to the places we gather.

Let us know when you are ready for us to help your facility become certified. When everyone sees our SERVPRO disinfected shield, they will enter with confidence knowing that the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.

Contact Genna Grinblat, Executive VP at (818) 730-1434, or email at genna@SERVPROwestcoast.com

Are You Experiencing Water Damage?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

If you are experiencing water damage you are going to need more than just a mop and a bucket to clean up.

The Institute of Inspection and Cleaning and Restoration Certificate (IICRC) advises that every water damage be treated the same as soon as it begins, regardless of the size of water in your home.

SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula provides fast and reliable water damage restoration services to homeowners and business owners.

We are available on-call 24/7/365 and will start work immediately in your home or business with the proper drying tools used to stop microbial growth, wood rot, and other unforeseeable damages if the water loss is not properly taken care of.

Water damage can be an expensive setback, call us, the restoration professional, to take care of the problem and take some of the stress off of you.

Do You Have a Plan for Commercial Water Damage?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike your commercial property at any time without notice. The after-effects of commercial water damage can be devastating to a business owner who is now faced with having to clean up the water damage and reopen their business as soon as possible.

Do you know how to handle water damage at your commercial property?

Are you prepared to make the necessary decisions after a pipe breaks, your roof leaks, or the streets flood to protect your property?

What is your plan?

Thankfully, this doesn’t have to be as scary as it sounds. A little preparation for a water damage emergency and a plan of action in the event it ever happens can significantly reduce property damage and will get you back to business as soon as possible. 

Simply just call SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula, we provide 24/7 emergency commercial service and we will be there quickly to begin the job.

In the meantime, you should call your property manager, insurance adjuster, and turn off the water to the building.

Leave the rest to us! 

Tips From The EPA About Mosquitos and Water Damage

10/12/2019 (Permalink)

We only see mosquitoes every few months a year but they can can huge problems. 

https://www.epa.gov/natural-disasters/flooding

Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed. 

Mosquitos can sharply increase after a flood, due to the sudden availability of standing water which they require for breeding -- even very small amounts of water. As flood waters recede be sure to drain, overturn, or empty areas -- no matter how small -- to reduce mosquito breeding areas and help reduce the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.

• Get rid of standing water in rain gutters, old tires, buckets, plastic covers, toys, pools, or any other containers.
• Empty water from damaged materials that aren't usually outdoors, such as discarded furniture, household items, bookshelves, building materials, trash, etc.
• Drain wet areas and puddles of water, or fill them with dirt.
• More ideas for controlling mosquitoes
• Why? The importance of controlling mosquito-borne diseases, such as West Nile Virus or Zika

Common Causes of Water Damage - Non Storm Related

9/8/2019 (Permalink)

Many people believe the weather is the leading cause of water damage, but in reality, non-weather-related issues account for more residential water damage claims. Here are some of the most common causes of water damage:

• Plumbing Supply System Failure - This involves any of the pipes that are bringing water to your property’s plumbing system.
• Toilet Overflow - One-third of toilet failure claims cited an overflowing or clogged toilet as the source of damage.
• Water Heater Failure - Most often due to a tank reaching or exceeding its life expectancy.
• Drain System Failure - This involves any of the pipes or structure carrying liquid/waste away from your plumbing system.
• Washing Machine Overflow - More than 50% from supply hose failure.

Some of these can be prevented while others are almost inevitable. If you or someone you know suffers a water damage in their home you should always call out a professional.

What Should I Do Next?

8/11/2019 (Permalink)

It's never expected but when it happens be sure to call SERVPRO.

In case of a water emergency you should first always call a plumber to come stop the leak, then your insurance agent, then SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula. We work hand-in-hand with any outside parties as well as your insurance company to ensure that you have the smoothest process possible. From there let us do the rest, our office staff and field crew are trained professionals and will help you and walk you through the process of everything being done. Water damage can be complicated but it doesn’t have to be when you call in a reputable company such as SERVPRO. You've done your part once you have contacted your insurance agent and SERVPRO the rest is up to us and we will make it "Like it never even happened."

Back to Water Loss Basics

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Common water loss in a residential bathroom.

We assume everyone around us knows about water losses because that’s the bread and butter of our business. But we often forget that it’s not every day our clients suffer a water loss, thank goodness, so we want to get back to basics. If you unfortunately suffer from a water loss it’s good to know your resources, your two main priorities are calling your insurance company and getting a water restoration company out to you. The longer you wait the more damage you risk in your home, standstill water can lead to microbial growth and that’s another headache you don’t need on top of a water loss. And most importantly, even if you think you can handle it and dry out the water yourself, you should always and no matter what call SERVPRO. We would hate for you to not be able to complete the job and create a bigger problem for your home, and it’s what we are here to do. We want to handle your water loss!

California Water Damage Laws

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Every winter Southern California always receives a crazy amount of rain that we never seem to be prepared for. If you’re a renter in California, you may have been displaced during these storms, or perhaps in another instance where water intrusion from rain, a broken pipe, or a faulty drain damaged your home. You may not know where to turn, but you have legal rights. According to California Civil Code section 1941, the landlord is responsible for providing tenants with habitable living conditions and repair any problem that makes the property uninhabitable, including water damage, with the exception of problems caused by the tenant, guests, children, or pets. It is, however, up to the tenant to report damages and repairs needed diligently. This information should be included in your rental agreements. If your landlord does not have a specific water damage company you should refer them to use SERVPRO as we partner with my landlords and understand from both sides of the party and want to help everyone.

Can Wet Carpet and Drywall be Saved from a Water Loss?

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

Wet carpet from the outside water through the house creating damage.

By taking swift action as soon as possible soaked carpet and drywall can be saved in many cases. The amount of water isn’t the key factor in determining if irreparable carpet and drywall damage can be prevented.  It’s actually how contaminated the water is and how soon the materials can be completely dried. Anything that comes in contact with sewer water (category 3) must be replaced, the same goes for any type of flooding from a water source that’s been in contact with the ground. With nearly all wall-to-wall carpets and rugs today made of synthetic fibers the primary problem is microbial growth.  So wet carpet can often be saved if it’s thoroughly dried out before that gets going.  The bad news is that you may have as little as 24-48 hours. Wet drywall soon swells, sags, and bows… and supports growing bacteria and especially mold.  So like carpet it needs to be dried as quickly as possible if it’s to be salvaged.  Unfortunately, water damaged drywall often needs to be replaced. Specialized water technicians from SERVPRO are trained to know the level of severity your water loss is and if we can hopefully save anything. Always act quickly with a water loss!

What Category of Water Damage do You Have?

5/11/2019 (Permalink)

If you are dealing with or have ever dealt with a water damage you may hear technical language about your property that you are not used to. Instead of not understanding what is going on here are some quick definitions of different types of water damages:

• Category 1 Water Loss: In this case, the water damage is usually as a result of overflow from the bathtub or sink and leakage from malfunctioning appliances. The water is usually colorless without any odor and as such, does not pose any health threat to your family since it contains no pathogenic agents.
• Category 2 Water Loss: This type of water damage is usually associated with toilet overflows. It could be grey in color and have an odor. When this type of water spreads within your environment, the occupants of the home are exposed to risks of bacterial infection as the water contains harmful microorganisms. It is important to rid the home of such water before further damage is caused.
• Category 3 Water Loss: This is the type of water damage that gives serious concern to homeowners. The water is usually colored black with very bad odor. It contains lots of harmful parasites and bacteria that could easily invade other parts of the house if not treated with the urgency it requires. When this happens, not only is your property at risk, your health and that of your loved ones are also at risk.

Even if you think you can handle any of these water losses you should always call SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula to come out and deal with it for you.

Diagnosing a Shower Leak

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Amidst the many aspects of maintaining your home in Moorpark, CA, attending to a bathtub leak can be frustrating without an idea of what to look for. It is important to remember that some signs of damage are easier to distinguish than others; however, confirming the occurrence of a leak is possible with a keen eye and a thorough bathroom inspection.

Check for Telltale Signs

Identifying any immediate indicators of a leak can help determine how best to handle the situation. Giveaway signs may include the following:

• Pooling water near the shower pan. This is often the result of a shower door with a poor-quality seal and is one of the simplest leaks to repair.
• Wet spots and dampness on any walls near the shower. If the leak is occurring within the plumbing system, the pipes behind the wall may expel water, thus leaving visible wetness.
• Water leaking from the shower head. When lime scale and other minerals accumulate in the spray holes, water may leak from other parts of the fixture. Cleaning the shower head and replacing the O-ring may solve the issue.
  
  

Scratch Beyond the Surface

Unfortunately, a bathtub leak may cause damage that is not as apparent and may require a more in-depth analysis. One critical factor to be aware of is the presence of mold or mildew anywhere in the bathroom; this includes any odors that occur. The flooring underneath and walls connected to the shower should be examined for breakages, moisture, loose tiles, and stains. Finally, any crawl space area underneath the bathroom should be investigated for moisture, dripping, or mineral buildup. Typically, these signs indicate a leak that may need to be addressed by a professional.

Determine the Best Course of Action

Generally, a shower pan leak with telltale indicators can be repaired without the need for professional intervention. For more internalized leaks, it is wise to consider contacting a water damage repair specialist for further analysis.

While diagnosing a shower or bathtub leak can be challenging, an informed approach can simplify the process. Understanding what to look for and when to contact a professional can make all the difference in preserving your home.

Some Reasons You Need to Stop Stressing About Water Damage Remediation in Moorpark

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Rapid Solutions for Standing Water in Your Moorpark Home

When water loss incidents threaten your Moorpark home, getting the right professional assistance responding quickly to the disaster is critical to protecting both your property and its contents. Effective solutions for removing standing water and drying out saturated elements is only the beginning to fully recovering your property exposed to higher volumes of spreading water. Our team has a 24/7 response to these emergencies, arriving with the full measure of our recovery equipment and experienced technicians to begin effective mitigation tactics right away.

There are many steps to water loss recovery in your Moorpark home, but water removal is among the priorities for technicians responding to the emergency. Standing water can pose significant risks to exposed materials including flooring, walls, and ceiling spaces. Without adequate removal and drying techniques to follow, you can find this water damage continuing to spread throughout your home and degrading construction materials, weakening structural elements, and facilitating the growth of hazardous secondary effects like mold.

From the time that our SERVPRO professionals first arrive at your home, we work to establish the full scope and spread of the water damage. We can utilize moisture detection equipment for areas difficult to see clearly. We must gain a fast understanding of affected materials and determine when flood cuts and other controlled demolition techniques are necessary to gain access to damp or highly saturated areas of your property.

With industry-leading extraction equipment like our extractor trucks, wet-vacs with wands, and portable submersible pumps, we have a variety of options to handle standing water we encounter in your home. Our SERVPRO professionals can work quickly to remove all excess water to ensure that we can get to critical drying efforts as promptly as possible.

While standing water might be difficult to see in your home, our SERVPRO of Moorpark professionals have a broad inventory of recovery equipment designed to reduce this threat quickly. You can count on our IICRC-certified professionals to respond 24/7 to this water loss emergency and make it “Like it never even happened. Give us a call today at (805) 529-5600.

5 Tips for Preventing Water Damage

2/25/2019 (Permalink)

A classic office water damage.

1. Inspect your roof. If your roof begins to deteriorate roof leaks can develop without you even noticing.
2. Clean the gutters on your house. Poor drainage weakens your foundation and can lead to cracks which can cause uneven pathways for water to find its way inside.
3. Seal your windows. This is one of the easiest ways to protect your home from water!
4. Check your pipes. You should inspect your pipes at least once a year; over time pipes can corrode, rust, and decay all of which can result in leaks.
5. Test your sump pump. This is your first line of defense against your basement potentially flooding. These pumps are used to pump water that has accumulated in a sump basin away from your home to a storm drain.

These are just some simple tactics to keep up on to stay dry in your home! If you suspect water damage in your home you should always call SERVPRO.

Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – (805)529-5600

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (805)529-5600

Faster to your Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula Water Damage Event

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into the floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. The immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (805)529-5600

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula

SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/25/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula.

SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (805)529-5600

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula

SERVPRO of Moorpark/Fillmore/Santa Paula specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Water Restoration

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

A bathroom hallway affected by a bathtub overflow.

Water damage comes in many shapes and sizes, and the source of origin is almost always different. Wether it comes from a broker water supply line that burst, the dishwasher overflowed, the water heater burst, etc. SERVPRO of Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore are your water restoration experts. We have a team that works 24/7 around the clock in case of any emergencies that may happen in either your home or in your place of work. We are able to get crews out immediately to place equipment and start the drying process to ensure that no further damage occurs. An ignored water damage can cause microbial growth and if we can take care of it in the first place we should always be your first call.

Pack Out For Water Damage

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore has a separate division from the water and fire restoration team and that is our pack out team. When a client's house is affected from water damage our pack out team comes in and removes necessary items to help with the mitigation. They have a very detailed process in organizing, tagging, and packing out the items into a storage facility of our own. Pack out is necessary for home owners or business owners because it reduces the risk of any damage, if not more, being caused to the items at hand. And proper pack out is something you can count on SERVPRO for, we take care of all items and return them back to the owner when their remediation is complete. 

Back To Basics

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

An after picture from a home that suffered a large water damage.

Water damage, something SERVPRO of Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore is well immersed in. Over 80% of damages we receive from clients are water related, and they come in all shapes and sizes. All of our technicians are IICRC trained to understand different categories and types of water damages. This way they can best assess the damage and know where to place equipment, where to perform moisture readings, and how to effectively dry the space in the most efficient way possible. Insurance agents, as well as brokers, are also trained in our "world" to understand water damage this way we can work hand in hand in helping home owners, property managers, business owners in dealing with a water loss. We all understand the high pressure you can feel from dealing with something uncommon such as a water loss but SERVPRO will always make it "like it never even happened."

Winter Water Damage

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

Water can enter from anywhere and flood your space.

While Southern California doesn't have as harsh of winters as the rest of the nation your home or business is still at risk for water damage during the winter months. In extreme cases water pipes can freeze and burst and just because it is winter time does not mean mold can not grow as aftermath. Especially in homes with poor ventilation and/or unresolved water leaks. Most home or business owners do not think to have their roofs checked before storm season which leads to many leaks that could have been prevented. SERVPRO Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore is your water restoration industry professional. Our technicians are trained and prepared even for weather related water incidents. Not your typical flooded kitchen from the sink situation. Always call SERVPRO for any of your water restoration needs. 

Faster To Any Size Disaster

11/1/2017 (Permalink)

Mold from ignored water damage.

There's no such thing as a small disaster, especially when the water you don't see has bacteria or causes mold. Water damage can and will affect the value of your property. Before you try and take care of it yourself consider how the damage can affect your home, SERVPRO professionals know how disruptive water damage can be for anyone. Our technicians are trained and equipped to manage the drying process by using equipment and moisture measuring devices. Your home or building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards. Which, in turn, will prevent secondary water damages. With rapid response time SERVPRO of Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore can and will help you regain control and make sure your property is protected. Never put anything you love at risk and let your franchise professionals handle it. 

Flood Insurance 101: What Homeowners Need To Know

10/19/2017 (Permalink)

Home that had about 3in of flooding from their washing machine not being connected properly.

The fact is any property can flood. Your home doesn’t have to be under five feet of water from hurricane flood surges to suffer flood damage. Normal amounts of rainwater can drain under your home, and flood your basement or the lowest floor level, causing flood damage. This kind of flooding can cause mold, increase the risk of termites and cause electrical problems. But the good new is that SERVPRO is able to take care of all your flooding problems with our prompt response and quick timing. 

SERVPRO works closely with insurance companies to ensure that your home and your insurance are both taken care of correctly. We are on multiple preferred vendors list as a corporation with insurance companies such as State Farm and Farmers insurance. 

Restoration VS. Replacement

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

Packing items away that have been saved from a water loss.

After a water and/or fire loss replacement may seem like the easiest and quickest option. We are a business of restoration rather than replacement. Some of the pros to restoration include: being more cost efficient, helping our carbon footprint by limiting what we put in landfills, and saving many items with sentiment cannot be replaced. SERVPRO of Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore works seamlessly with insurance companies nationwide, providing them with restoration budgets that not only meet their stringent guidelines, but provide the homeowner with the best possible outcome. After the classification, cost effective remediation methods are tailored to the expected condition of the items in each conditional area. The professionals at SERVPRO will always do their best to act quickly and restore what they can.

Water Damage From Appliances

5/24/2017 (Permalink)

Fridges are a perfect example of appliances that can cause a water loss.

Water damage from appliance and plumbing leaks,  like water heaters, dishwashers, ice makers and washing machines in your home can cause your laminate floors to buckle or warp. Many times, these leaks are quite slow and often go unnoticed. Slow leaks are not easy to identify since they are underneath the laminate where they penetrate the core material. While you might not be able to see the leak, a SERVPRO technician will be able to find excess moisture by using a moisture meter. We arrive ready to protect your home with all necessary equipment to do that. It is common to use dehumidifiers and airmovers to help dry all affected areas. However, if not caught in time, laminate floors will have to be removed because moisture gets trapped underneath the laminate. 

Unexpected Water Damage?

5/1/2017 (Permalink)

Affected ceiling after long term water damage in the attic.

What do you do when you experience a water loss? The obvious answer should be: call SERVPRO. But that might not always be on the forefront of people’s minds. We understand the panic most people feel because they are worried about their items and probably the expenses that might come with everything they are experiencing. We want to let all current and future customers to know that our technicians and office staff are fully prepared to handle anything that has happened. SERVPRO of Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore is the franchise that you can trust with any of your water needs. This isn't something that everyone experiences and most people might not know where to begin, and it can be a lot to deal with in the beginning. We are here to make everything easy and "Like it never even happened!"

Protect Your School

3/8/2017 (Permalink)

School water damage.

Recently, SERVPRO of Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore teamed up with the Moorpark USD to conquer water and mold in schools. When SERVPRO was called out on the first job to take care of a high school dance stage the school district was impressed with the strong work that was performed and continued to use SERVPRO for all their needs. Protecting our community schools and kids is important and when we are given the chance to make a difference we take it. Knowing that there is no possibility of the kids getting sick or worse because our technicians were able to put their skills and knowledge to use. It may be hard to detect water leaks right away with the size of schools but always know that you can call SERVPRO to keep your school safe and water damage free. 

Recent Rains in Southern California

3/8/2017 (Permalink)

Something SoCal ins't used to, rain.A beautiful kitchen filled with water after a roof leaf from the damaging rains.

The recent rains in Southern California have cause a lot of problems from sink holes, to fallen trees, to power outages. No one is ever really prepared in California and after these last rains are we sure this isn't the East Coast? SERVPRO of Moorpark/Santa Paula/Fillmore is ready to help, being a twenty-four seven emergency services company allows us to work around the clock and be there when you need us. 

Best Practices: Do not wait to contact your insurance company to see what you are covered for. Do not wait to contact SERVPRO in hopes that Mother Nature will dry your home out by itself. 

Reminder: Leave wet electronics and appliances alone, do not turn on in case of electric shock.

Always: Call your neighborhood SERVPRO at 805-529-5600

Water Damage on Laminate Flooring

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

What a moisture reading looks like.

Water damage to laminate flooring is one of our most commonly seen  types of damage and can be caused by such things as a slow leak from plumbing, a flood, spills and improper maintenance.  Any way you can get water on a laminate floor can result in some form of water damage. Improper wet cleaning of laminate flooring and spills can cause water damage in the form of swelling at the joints. Many times, these are puffy areas along the edge of the planks, will often cross between plank edges. The damage can sometimes be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty, and other times water damage might be covered under your home owner’s insurance. Depending on the source of water damage may not be covered at all. Depending upon how severe the damage is, it might be correctable by hiring a professional water damage company such as SERVPRO. It could mean a plank replacement, and other times a bigger portion or even the entire floor may have to be replaced. It is always best to call and have us come out to inspect.

Water Damage from Appliances and Plumbing

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

Toilet overflows are the worst.

Water damage from appliance and plumbing leaks,  like water heaters, dishwashers, ice makers and washing machines in your home can cause your laminate floors to buckle or warp. Many times, these leaks are quite slow and often go unnoticed. Slow leaks are not easy to identify since they are underneath the laminate where they penetrate the core material. While you might not be able to see the leak, a SERVPRO technician will be able to find excess moisture by using a moisture meter. We arrive ready to protect your home with all necessary equipment to do that. It is common to use dehumidifiers and airmovers to help dry all affected areas. However, if not caught in time, laminate floors will have to be removed because moisture gets trapped underneath the laminate. 

Water Damage from Concrete in Moorpark, CA

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

One would never think that water pooling in your backyard on concrete could create such damage. Moisture can enter through the stucco of your home where the concrete meets the home. Not to mention when your house sits on a slab of concrete, a whole floor can cup from the concrete being too wet. This can happen even when a vapor barrier is used under the laminate floor. Every concrete floor should be tested for moisture before laminate floor covering is installed. Concrete that is newly poured needs to be allowed to cure for sixty days or more before the laminate is installed. There are several ways to test for moisture. These procedures should be performed by professionals like our highly trained technicians at SERVPRO, such as electronic testing and calcium chloride testing. We will have the right equipment and training to do the job right.