6 Important Steps to Creating a Business Continuity Plan

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

Business continuity planning is a way to help you recover from unexpected disruptions to your operations.

Business continuity planning is an essential element in the risk management process. It's a way to ensure that your business can recover quickly and effectively from unexpected disruptions. There are many factors that should be considered when creating a business continuity plan, which will vary depending on the type and size of your organization. In this blog post, we'll discuss some of the basic steps for developing a continuity plan for your business and how it will help keep your company up and running during times of crisis.

Assemble a Business Continuity Team

Before you begin, it's important to assemble a Business Continuity Team. This team should include members from all departments and levels of your organization. This is because each department has unique needs during an emergency situation and each person on the team will have different responsibilities based on their role within the company.

Prioritize the safety of your employees

Safety is the most important aspect of business continuity planning. A plan that leaves your employees in danger is no plan at all.

In order for your plan to be effective and successful, you need to ensure that everyone involved understands how it will affect them and what they need to do if there's an emergency.

Identify your risks

Identifying your risks is the first step to creating a business continuity plan. Although it may seem like an overwhelming task, it's important to take time and think through all of the potential risks that could impact your business. You should consider:

• What are the possible risks that our business might face?
• What are the possible consequences of each risk?
• How likely is it that these risks will occur? (Consider both external factors and internal conditions.)
• How much money would be lost if these risks were realized?

Determine critical activities needed to run your business

The next step in creating a business continuity plan is to determine what activities are critical for your business. Critical activities are those that, if interrupted or delayed, could cause severe financial loss and/or harm to the business in some form. Critical activities should be listed in order of importance, starting with the most critical activity and working down the list until all of them are identified.

Create a Continuity Plan for each risk

Once you've identified the risks that could affect your business, it's time to create a plan of action for each and every one. The first step is to determine how likely the risk is and how severe its impact would be if it were to occur. Also consider whether there are any steps you can take now (i.e., purchasing insurance) that will reduce or eliminate the likelihood of said event taking place in the future. Then, create a plan of action for each individual risk. This might be time-consuming but will ensure that you are prepared for anything and everything.

Test the plan and update it regularly

The best way to make sure your business continuity plan is up to date is to test it at least once a year. If you make changes to your business or add new technology, then update the plan accordingly. You should also train employees on how they should respond in an emergency and what they need to do if they are affected by an emergency themselves.

Business continuity planning can help you get back on track quickly

Business continuity planning is a way to help you recover from unexpected disruptions to your operations. It's important because it can help prevent problems and save money, as well as ensure that your business continues to run smoothly in spite of any challenges that might arise.

Business continuity planning is a process that takes time and effort to complete, but it's worth the investment. If you want your business to continue operating in an emergency situation, then you need a plan in place. The key is to take it slow and make sure you're doing everything right before moving on to the next step. You'll also want to make sure that everyone involved understands what they need from each other so that when something does happen they know exactly what steps they should take next!

What Should I do if My Roof is Damaged in a Fire?

10/16/2022 (Permalink)

We recommend asking your insurance company if they offer money for tarp-overs and temporary repairs after storms or fires before you commit to paying.

What Should I Do If My Roof Is Burned Down?

After a fire, your roof is likely the last thing on your mind. But if you don’t repair it immediately, water damage can cause more problems for your home down the line. 

It’s always best to seek professional help when repairing a roof after a fire or other natural disaster. SERVPRO of Scarsdale/Mount Vernon has been helping families just like yours recover from fire damage for years, and we want to help you too!

Start With Assessing the Roof

When it comes to figuring out what to do first after a fire, we recommend beginning with your roof. The damage may be hard to see from street level, but heavy rains will reveal weak spots in the roof that need to be repaired.

The most important thing is to have your roof inspected by a professional who can tell you if repairs are necessary or if a new shingle installation is required. It's also important that you protect your property from further damage while waiting for repair work on the damaged area of the home's exterior and interior walls/ceilings/floors by putting up tarps over these areas until they're fixed as well!

Tarping Your Roof

A quick tarp-over is an affordable solution for repairing a roof after a fire. A professional roofer can cover the entire roof with a sturdy tarp and make sure it doesn’t come loose during inclement weather. The tarp will keep out the elements and prevent further damage. It should be replaced as soon as possible, but it will offer temporary protection in the meantime.

Talk With Your Insurance

We recommend asking your insurance company if they offer money for tarp-overs and temporary repairs after storms or fires before you commit to paying for them out of pocket. If your insurance company doesn’t provide money for tarp-overs and temporary repairs, you should ask if they will reimburse for them. If not, consider asking the fire department if they can help out. If neither of them is able to pay for it, then consider getting a quote from a roofing company. You may find that paying a roofing company will be cheaper than replacing the entire roof yourself.

Call SERVPRO

When you’re ready, call SERVPRO of Scarsdale/Mount Vernon at (914) 699-5181 and we will help guide you through the rest of the cleanup process! We offer professional fire cleanup services to help with any home or business that has been damaged by fire.

We are your first point of contact when disaster strikes and can be there within minutes. Our trained technicians use the most advanced tools and techniques available to get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.

So, if you’re ready to get started on the rest of the cleanup process, give us a call at 914-699-5181. We’d be happy to help guide you through it!

Who Is Financially Responsible for an Apartment Fire?

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Structural fire damage is the responsibility of the landlord. It includes the building itself and its electrical, plumbing and other systems.

Who Is Financially Liable For A Fire In An Apartment?

Landlords take on various responsibilities when they rent a property in Bronxville, NY. They must provide a safe, clean and livable space for their tenants. Keeping up with maintenance, repairs and safety codes is part of a landlord's duties. Paying the mortgage and property taxes is also necessary. Property insurance is vital, too, and if your property experiences an apartment fire, it's good to know what damages landlords must cover.

Landlord Duties After a Fire

Immediately following a fire, landlords should take care of some urgent tasks:

• Contact your insurance agent to file a claim.
• Call a fire restoration company to secure your property from further damage and begin repairs.
• Check on your tenants to ensure they have received medical treatment. Ask them what they know about the fire.
• Check with a fire officer before entering the property with your tenant to collect belongings and assess the damage.

Financial Responsibility for an Apartment Fire

Once the initial shock is over and your tenants have temporary housing, repair work can begin. You may have questions about financial responsibility.
Structural fire damage is the responsibility of the landlord. It includes the building itself and its electrical, plumbing and other systems. Landlords are not liable for the tenant's personal belongings. Tenants should have renter's insurance to cover their items.

Your property insurance policy typically covers your portion of the damage. If the fire resulted from the negligence of your tenants or their guests, they must be accountable for paying the deductible and your out-of-pocket costs. It's a good idea to explain this in the lease agreement so that if you have a fire, there's no question about responsibility. Typically, your insurance company reaches out to the tenant's insurance company to seek liability compensation.

An apartment fire is something landlords prefer to avoid. However, knowing what to do in an emergency helps you be prepared if the unthinkable happens.

What To Expect During Commercial Fire Cleanup

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

If a fire disaster occurs, it is important to know who to call for your commercial fire cleanup and restoration needs! Call SERVPRO!

What To Expect When Cleaning Up After A Commercial Fire

After a commercial fire, business owners in Eastchester, NY, face many challenges. As the fire crews drive away, you have the daunting challenge of cleaning the water and smoke damage left from rescue efforts. Over the next few weeks, turn to experts in fire remediation services to assist you in the fire cleanup process. These professionals should complete the following stages, focusing on restoring and sanitizing the premises.

1. Immediately Secure the Facility

The fire created moisture and soot damage, possibly leaving you with drenched and crumbling structures. However, additional secondary conditions could set in if the experts do not defend the property from other future hazards. The remediation crew evaluates the team for possible exposures, such as openings within the walls and roof. Once identified, workers fortify the vulnerabilities with thick plywood and tarps.

2. Determine the Extent of Water and Smoke Damage

Before cleaning begins, the specialists perform tests to learn more about the fire's structural impact. Using moisture reading tools, employees determine the amount of saturation. In addition, they assess concerns with odor, smoke and ash. Using this information, professionals develop a thorough plan to remediate the property.

3. Tend to the Fire's Harm

Water hoses quenched the blaze; however, it also penetrated porous objects such as papers, cloth, drywall and carpeting. Before completing the smoke cleaning, the restoration staff tends to this concern. Fluid and organic material serve as a host for fungus, allowing spores to reproduce and spread within days. To mitigate this trouble, the crew must dry out the property immediately. They use air movers and dehumidifiers to extract the dampness. In addition, they may tear out pieces and remove contents that cannot wholly air out.

Once specialists complete this phase, they rely on sophisticated equipment to scrub the premises, removing soot stains. In addition, they use innovative technology such as fogging equipment and air scrubbers to deodorize rooms.

Fire devastates building structures, creating many problems for owners. Remediation professional services can handle the cleanup process, from securing the premises to managing the smoke damage.

What You Should Expect From a Fire Damage Estimate

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team is in action on a commercial fire cleanup job. Our crew is working hard to clean up the smoke damage left behind after a fire.

What To Look For In A Fire Damage Estimate

After a business fire in your facility in Eastchester, NY, you are likely looking for a little clarity. Even after a small fire, your building probably looks like a disaster zone with burned walls and soot and smoke damage everywhere. One of the first steps toward recovery is receiving a complete and understandable estimate of restoration services from a trusted fire mitigation company. This important document should tell you a lot of things about the costs and time frame for the cleanup.

A List of Fire Damage Services

A vague document with few details probably raises more questions than it answers. You deserve clarity at this time, and the bid for services document should cover the status of the following typical restoration services provided after damage by fire:

• Fire board up services
  
• Roof replacement
  
• Security provisions
  
• Damage restoration
  
• Smoke and fire odor removal
  
• Debris removal

The document should also include the name of a contact person, a project manager who oversees the entire process. This is who you will contact when you have questions or concerns. The estimate should also provide details on how long each stage should last, anticipated expenses and costs, and any additional services that could become necessary.

A Transparent Process

Many benefits exist for working with a full-service contractor after a commercial fire. The project manager should be involved in all aspects of the restoration process so you won't have to deal with multiple contractors who can't see the overall picture. This makes the process simpler, especially when it comes to dealing with the insurance company, which could result in a faster and more accurate claims settlement. In most cases, working with one contractor speeds up the cleanup and also results in lower expenses. 

An accurate and complete estimate can take away some of the stress of dealing with the aftermath of a fire. It also means your company is one step closer to recovery.

Tips To Reduce Commercial Damage and Loss

3/12/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of Scarsdale/Mount Vernon team is in action on a commercial fire cleanup job. If you need help, just call us today!

Tips For Minimizing Commercial Damage And Loss

If you are suffering from devastating damage to your commercial building in Yonkers, NY, it is critical to act quickly. Finding a restoration service that has professionals standing by all hours of the day and night is crucial to reduce damage and loss. A quick response to the problem is important when you submit an insurance claim as well.

Reduce Claim Costs with SERVPRO

Restoring property is always preferable to replacing it because it keeps expenses down. SERVPRO understands this process. Each professional is trained to follow certain steps aimed at reducing the costs associated with your claim.

Pretesting - An expert will examine the property to determine what can be restored and what must be replaced.

Claims Inventory - The inventory list itemizes the materials, furniture and equipment that you have lost, along with pictures of the more important items that can’t be saved.

Electronic Claims Files - Insurance claim information is stored in a database to help your adjuster determine an accurate accounting of the costs in restoring the property.

Assure That Professionals Are Properly Trained

SERVPRO professionals go through a rigorous, self-paced training program to properly restore your property. There are a number of certification programs available to employees, including modules in fire and water restoration, carpet and upholstery cleaning and crew training.

SERVPRO franchises are individually owned and operated, but each one also has access to corporate training and materials. Approved as a training facility for the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, corporate classes are offered all year in water restoration, fire restoration, applied structural drying and carpet cleaning.
Training at the corporate facility is also available to new franchises in mold mitigation and fire and water restoration.

These training programs and cost reduction techniques are among the many reasons your insurance agent is likely to prefer you to work with a SERVPRO franchise.

Before you file that insurance claim, make sure you are working with a professional.

Mold and Mildew: Bad Smells and Where To Find Them

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the expertise and trained technicians and equipment to knock out the mold in your building or any business. Call us!

Mold And Mildew: Unpleasant Odors And Where To Look

Building owners in Scarsdale, NY quickly realize that mold is much easier to smell than it is to locate. The mold smell can be strong and overpowering without being directly visible, leaving you to wonder just where exactly it’s coming from. Following is a discussion about what causes a mold smell, mildew smell, fungus smell or any variety of the three and how best to find the sources throughout your commercial property.

What Makes Mold and Mildew Odor So Distinct?

Mold and its similar species are quick to grow in areas with a lot of moisture and humidity. Mildew and mold thrive in such places as they’re both different kinds of fungi that need the presence of water to survive and multiply. These fungal inhabitants create their smells through the basic function of their existence, meaning any time they eat and reproduce the smell becomes stronger. Mildew brings less of an odorous presence with lighter, musty smells, but moldy smells become quite overbearing the more they continue to grow and spread around your building.

Where Can You Find Non-Visible Mold on Your Property?

The mold smell itself often leads you closer to its original growth point, though it’s not always an exact indicator. Thermal cameras are available these days to help find previously undetected sources of water, but mold is generally found in common areas like:

• Kitchens, bathrooms and other sources of consistent water usage
  
• Air conditioning units or water heaters
  
• The walls below leaky windows or door frames
  
• Cellars or basements where light to heavy flooding occurs regularly
  
• Refrigerators or freezers that create high condensation in dark corners

When you’re trying to find the presence of mold in your Scarsdale, NY, property, following your nose towards the mold smell is a great first step. However, remediating the fungus smell, mildew smell and any other similar odors that are harder to pinpoint requires checking these suggested places to find their non-visible locations. Once the mold is found, call remediation specialists to clear out your building.

4 Reasons To Have a Commercial Flood Policy

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

Property owners should consider these reasons to obtain flood coverage for a commercial property Tuckahoe, NY.

4 Reasons Why You Should Have A Commercial Flood Insurance Policy

Most general commercial insurance coverage excludes damage caused by flooding. The National Flood Insurance Program or an endorsement on a private policy can cover this type of damage. Here are four reasons why commercial property owners should consider taking out a flood policy.

1. A Business Is Located On a Flood Plain

The Federal Emergency Management Agency maintains flood maps that can help business owners determine whether a commercial building is located in an area prone to flooding. Most insurance providers define a flood as water damage that originates from outside water sources such as rain or rising bodies of water.

2. A Federally-Regulated or Insured Mortgage

Owners of property located in a flood zone with mortgages regulated or insured by the federal government are required to purchase and maintain flood coverage. Contact an insurance agent that offers NFIP policies or add a flood endorsement or rider to a general commercial insurance policy.

3. Owners Want To Be Prepared

If there is any reasonable risk of flooding at a commercial building, the owner of the property may want to obtain coverage for this peril. According to FEMA, the average flood insurance claim is approximately $33,000 and total property damage due to flooding tops $6 billion every year.

4. Mold and Other Secondary Damage

In addition to excluding flooding, most standard commercial property policies also cut out coverage for any secondary damage that results from this uncovered peril. Without a flood policy, it may be more difficult or prohibitively expensive to pursue mitigation and restoration. As a result, a structure may be prone to mold growth.

Property owners should consider these reasons to obtain flood coverage for a commercial property Tuckahoe, NY. This commercial insurance will apply to cleanup and restoration costs for primary damage and extend to secondary damage as long as owners do everything they can to limit damage.

Bread Is Superfood for Mold

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Bread mold is fascinating in science class, but it is not appetizing.

Why Does Mold Grow On Food?

Mold is everywhere, frustrating as that is. What’s even more frustrating, however, is growth on the new loaf of bread you just purchased at the market. Bread mold may be interesting in science class, but it isn’t edible, so why does mold grow on foods? It needs nutrients.

Understand Why Color Means Nutrition

A variety of colorful foods equates to better nutrition. This does not mean that the black, blue or green fuzz growing on your bread is healthy, nor is fridge mold, so steer clear. Just like humans, however, mold needs proper nutrition to flourish, and food provides it with the necessary fuel it needs to sustain life.

Learn Fun Fungi Family Facts

Mold is fungi, just as mushrooms are, and fungus growth excels in humid climates, such as the climate found in Tuckahoe, NY. Although fungi are a plant, they do not contain chlorophyll, which is an important pigmentation that allows plants to absorb solar energy. Therefore, fungi must find energy elsewhere.

Bread mold can grow quickly, particularly during the summer, because

• The bread itself provides the mold with a highly palatable nutrient source.
  
• The bread is wrapped in plastic, which holds in moisture.
  
• The bread is kept in warmer areas of your home, such as the pantry.
  
  

Basically, mold is a carbohydrate junkie, and it can thrive on a loaf of bread. In fact, it can double within an hour. Even if you wrap the bread tightly in its packaging after each use, the mold spores in the air, which number in the millions, have already settled on the unused loaf.

Toss the Bread

If your loaf is growing bread mold, wrap it tightly, toss it, and work toward a better storage solution. For example, store only what you’ll use within a day or two in your pantry and keep the rest of your bread frozen to prevent the loaf from becoming a Petri dish.

Mold is a common occurrence in Tuckahoe, NY, that can affect more than your loaf of bread, but there’s no need to worry about fungus growth when you work with restoration specialists. They can deal with the problem quickly and effectively.

A Basic Understanding of Mold

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial mold damage.

The sensational descriptions of it in media might deter one from seeing mold as anything more than a nightmarish substance wrought with risks of danger and damage. Whether it is black mold or a more benign colony, an understanding of mold can help prevent its spread; conveniently, the most effective way to handle the funky fungus.

What Causes Mold Growth?

Microscopic mold spores are everywhere, outdoors and indoors. They can be carried in the air, transported through HVAC systems or on the backs of pets and the bottom of shoes. Inherently harmless, the spores only become a fungal nuisance when exposed to four key elements:

• Darkness
  
• Moisture
  
• Organic nutrients
  
• A surface to grow on
  
  

Thus, a moisture problem can quickly become a mold problem when left unattended. The spores feed on dirt and dust remnants from the surface material, developing into a colony when exposed to increased moisture levels. Any water damage, leaking pipes, high humidity, or excessive levels of condensation can be breeding ground for any mold, including the black mold strain known for its higher risk of toxins. Before mold remediation can begin, all issues of water and moisture must be addressed so that the mold doesn’t have an opportunity to return.

What Gets Rid of Mold?

Due to the near-universal presence of the spores, removal isn’t an accurate term for mold cleanup. Instead, Yonkers, NY, professionals can remediate the problem using a variety of tactics:

• Mold containment: HVAC systems and fans are turned off to limit the spread of spores.
• Air filtration: Clearing the air of spores that may have spores from the presence of mold growth.
• Removal of mold-infested materials: Porous materials such as drywall and carpet may need replacement if exposed to heavy mold or black mold.
• Cleaning: A thorough cleaning of personal belongings and air quality can remove any odor and ensure a complete mold cleanup.

How To Protect Your Business During a Thunderstorm: 3 Tips

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your lightning rod maintained.

How To Protect Your Business and Employes From Storms

When thunderstorms march across West Mount Vernon, NY, they can cause serious damage to your business. Power outages, downed tree limbs and flooding from a torrential rain storm are all possibilities. However, there are several strategies you can use to protect your business and employees from harm when these storms appear.

1. Keep Your Lightning Rod Maintained

If your business is located in a tall building that may attract lightning, then maintaining the lightning rod can be essential. Have the rod checked annually for damage and ask your certification professionals to verify that it is up to code. If your business is located in an area where lightning is common, it is wise to have the unit cleaned and inspected at least twice a year.

2. Maintain All Trees on the Property

High winds can turn tree limbs into projectiles that may shatter your building’s windows and cause serious injury to your customers or employees. While trees can add aesthetic beauty to your property, take care to have them trimmed and maintained so dead branches do not detach and strike people entering your business below. Trimming trees away from your building’s power lines can protect its power source during a thunderstorm, where they might otherwise become entangled.

3. Have a Flood Plan in Place

A heavy rainstorm can cause flooding, which can happen suddenly and cause a considerable amount of damage to your business. Having a flood plan in place can prevent this, especially in the case of mitigation services. Contacting a storm damage and flood cleanup service before the wet season can be a wise choice because if your building should experience flooding, you will have help on hand right away instead of trying to find it during a disaster.

Your Tuckahoe, NY, business can take a pounding during a rain storm that includes wind or hail. Knowing how to protect your employees, customers and property can give you an edge over bad weather, no matter when it might happen.

Fire Risk Assessment and Mitigation for Businesses

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial fire cleanup in Eastchester, NY

Fire prevention is critical for every business. Is yours optimally prepared to avoid catastrophe? Here's a quick guide to making your workspace as safe as possible.

Business Fire Risk Assessment

Determine what factors place you at risk for an uncontrolled blaze in Eastchester, NY. Weaknesses can be found by consulting:

• Safety handbooks published by The National
• Fire Protection Association
• Your local fire marshall
• Professional workplace fire risk assessors
  

You are not limited to one resource for identifying improvements. Use as many as you can to enhance workspace safety.

Business Fire Risk Mitigation
There are many ways in which your business can better its fire prevention capabilities. Here are a few that may be used to your advantage.
Periodically review safety procedures with employees. Make sure everyone knows how to dial an outside number so that they can quickly contact the fire department. Conduct bi-annual fire drills. Assign a safety officer to craft and assign escape routes, as well as outdoor meeting points.
Sprinkler systems are extremely effective; have one installed if you do not already have one. Allow an electrician to examine your wiring and immediately address any cracked insulation, frayed cords or broken connectors.
Appliances such as computers and coffee machines heat up when they are against walls. Give them space to breathe so that they never overheat. Keep combustible materials, such as printing paper and files, away from these areas. Consider instructing staff to unplug electrical devices before they leave work each day.
Assemble a first aid kit in case disaster strikes and a staff member becomes injured. Place it in a spot that can be easily accessed no matter where a fire breaks out. Place fire extinguishers where users will always be able to create escape paths. Employee safety is priority number one. Structural fire damage can be handled later by a commercial fire restoration service professional.
Attending to your company's fire prevention responsibilities is vital for every office manager. Use these tips to keep your building and those inside it free from danger.

3 Steps You Should Take If You Find Mold in Your Apartment

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth in a residential home

Three Steps To Take If You Find Mold In Your Apartment

Mold is a common issue that is usually caused by a moisture problem. If left untreated, mold can cause property damage, so you should take steps you perform mold cleanup promptly. These are three steps you should take if you find mold in your apartment.

1. Determine Whether It Is Mold or Mildew
Unlike mold, mildew only grows on the surface and can be removed with household cleaners. Mold spores are embedded in the surface, which makes mold more difficult to remove. Mold usually has a fuzzy or slimy appearance and is green or black. Mildew is usually gray, yellow, or white and has a fluffy or powdery appearance. Mildew tends to grow in high moisture areas, such as shower stalls and windows, while mold grows on organic materials, such as walls, wood, ceilings, paper, and leather.

2. Contact Your Landlord
If you have determined that you need mold cleanup in your apartment, you should contact your landlord. Your landlord should investigate the source of the mold and fix any moisture issues, such as leaky pipes, and may also wish to contact a mold remediation company in Elmsmere, NY, to remove the mold. It is essential not to ignore the problem because it may get worse and there may be a requirement in your rental agreement that you report issues, such as mold or leaks, promptly to avoid being assessed for damages.

3. Locate the Source
Help your landlord find the source of the mold problem. If you have noticed signs of leaks, such as water spots on walls or the ceiling, or you find water on the floor around your shower or toilet, you should let your landlord know that this could be the cause of the mold contamination.
The longer you wait to perform mold cleanup, the more damage mold could do to your apartment. Taking these three steps promptly can help avoid unnecessary damage.

The 3 Things That Happen After an Apartment Fire

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Apartment fire in Bronxville, NY

Here are Three Things That Will Happen After a Rental Unit Sees Fire Damage

After a rental unit catches on fire, both renters and landlords are often confused about what happens between the fire and the professional remediation crew's arrival.

1. Documenting and Investigating the Damage
The first thing that must happen after an apartment fire is that the cause and damage must be investigated and documented. The damage will need to be documented with photographs and written descriptions. These will be objective descriptions.
This investigation is generally conducted with a walkthrough of your building in Bronxville, NY. Both the tenant and landlord should be present. It should include any damage that you can see. Many will include odors as well. During the investigation, the cause of the fire should be noted.
An expert is often brought in to conduct this investigation. They will be able to pick up on things that are not considered by untrained individuals. For instance, they can consider whether any electrical or ventilation systems were damaged. They will also look for water damage from extinguishers.

2. Consulting Insurance Companies
After the apartment fire has been investigated, the landlord should contact their insurance company. This will cover the damage to the building. If the insurance company is not immediately contacted, you could waive your rights to coverage. This will be written in your contract. The renter should contact their insurance company as well.

3. Determining Responsibilities
Depending on the lease terms, fire cause, and damage, both the tenant and landlord could be responsible for restoration costs. A large portion of the responsibility will depend on what the renter and landlord's insurance policies will cover.
Dealing with the aftermath of an apartment fire can be a confusing time. Following these steps will start you towards a successful restoration covered by your insurance and help you return to your position as a landlord.

What Is Business Property Insurance and Why Do I Need It?

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Business insurance covers unexpected events

What Is Business Property Insurance

If you are a new commercial property owner in Scarsdale, NY, you may wonder what kind of insurance you should have to protect your investment from water damage and other issues. Business insurance covers unexpected events and is usually available in the following categories:

• Commercial property insurance
• Professional liability insurance
• Product liability insurance
• General liability insurance

Various property insurance plans cover disasters such as fire and flood damage. Once you’ve found a knowledgeable, licensed insurance agent, ask questions to ensure you’re buying the best insurance available for your property. It is important to understand what the policy’s limits are and what is not covered.

What About Water?
One of the most important things to ask is whether your property falls within a flood zone and if flood insurance is required. Even outside of official flood zones, certain areas receive excess rainfall or snowmelt seasonally, exposing them to greater flood risk.
In any case, you want to protect your property from water damage. Damage can occur suddenly from storms, broken pipes or sprinkler malfunction, or it can happen slowly over time if a problem goes undetected. Because commercial properties often have complex HVAC and plumbing systems, fire and landscape sprinklers or other specialized equipment that utilizes water, flooding at some point is a real possibility.

What Does Commercial Flood Insurance Cover?
Flood insurance covers the physical loss or damage of the contents and structure of the commercial property, including replacement, repair, water cleanup and restoration. It typically does not cover sewer backup unless it was caused directly by flooding. It also does not cover damage to vehicles or property outside of the building, or any water, mold or mildew damage resulting from neglect.

How Much Coverage Is Enough?
Most flood insurance policies cover up to $500,000 for commercial property damage and $500,000 for its contents. You can purchase excess coverage that includes losses incurred from business interruption.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to include a flood insurance policy in your business insurance package. Most policies have a 30-day waiting period before they go into effect, so get water damage protection for your company as soon as possible.

Will My Business Insurance Cover Water Damage?

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Will my business insurance cover water damage?

What Does This Type Of Policy Covers

When you own a commercial building, you’re responsible for making sure the building is safe and usable for your tenants, customers and/or clients, and for ensuring that any water damage is repaired quickly and properly. Insurance coverage can be complicated, so it’s important to understand what your policy covers.

Causes and Types of Damage
Water-related damage in commercial buildings is often caused by broken pipes, roof leaks, pipe leaks or clogged toilets, each of which can cause myriad kinds of property damage, such as:

• wet, stained or destroyed flooring, carpet and rugs
• damp, cracked or stained drywall
• structural damage to walls or floor joists
• corrosion
• mold growth
  

Standard Property Coverage
Most commercial property insurance policies cover breaks and leaks that are not due to ordinary wear and tear. In most cases, insurance will pay for the initial restoration and repair, so long as the work is performed by a water remediation company that is approved by the insurance company.

Common Policy Exclusions
Water damage that could or should have been prevented by regular maintenance is almost always excluded. Examples of maintenance mistakes that could negate coverage include failing to properly maintain pipes, not discovering slow leaks within a reasonable time, and allowing gutters and downspouts to become clogged. Property owners often attempt to handle water cleanup themselves to avoid an insurance claim, but if any water remains, it could lead to mold growth or structural weakness. Most commercial insurance policies specifically exclude mold removal or other damage caused by insufficient initial cleanup.
The list of damage-causing events that are typically excluded from most commercial insurance policies is lengthy, so it’s wise to read your policy thoroughly. Locate a restoration company in Bronxville, NY, to call if water damage occurs in your building. Inadequate cleanup can lead to additional damage that insurance won’t cover, so don’t take the risk of attempting to do it yourself.

Understanding Commercial Fire Damage

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a warehouse

What to Do in a Commercial Fire Damage Scenario

Fire damage is a catastrophe. The damage to property is significant. Fast response is critical to prevent an increase in your loss burden. It is, therefore, important to pay attention to some issues if you find yourself in such a situation.

Desist from Using Electricity

The first rule in any fire situation is to avoid operating the switches. The risk of an electrical fire is quite high when the lights are turned on or off. The only switch you should reach out for is that of the fire distress call. The alarm triggers an activation of the fire suppression systems that are inclusive of a warning system, and a fire sprinkler system.

Vacate The Premises

Your first action should be evacuating the building. Once the alarm is sounded, let the skilled individuals deal with the rescue efforts. Every organization ought to have trained personnel on matters of safety in emergency predicaments. Their training qualifies them to use the fire hoses, and anything useful in the utility room with fire combating tools.

Call Emergency Rescue Teams

Alert the local law enforcement, paramedics, firefighters, and any other organization with fire trucks. All fire suppression efforts will be needed to save lives and property.

Clear the Scene

There is the temptation to witness the tragedy. In doing so, you pose a danger to your life. Crowding at the scene affects the fire suppression efforts. Such groups make it hard for firefighters and fire trucks to access the site.

3 Benefits of Choosing a Mold Inspection

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

Take all precautions to ensure a safe environment for your employees and customers by having a mold inspection done and addressing any issues.

If you're considering buying or leasing commercial property, there are many things to consider. You need to have many inspections performed before completing the transaction -- and a mold inspection may be one of them. While this isn't usually included in a standard inspection, you should consider having one done. If the property has experienced water damage or has visible mold, this type of inspection can be crucial. Here are some benefits of having this service done:

1. Be Informed
Buying or leasing property in Scarsdale, NY, can be expensive, so you want to spend your money well. Part of making the best decision is knowing what you're getting. Inspections provide you with the full information on the property's condition so you can make the smartest choice. Having the facts about a potential property can be invaluable for planning your time and budget for success.

2. Be Safe
Inspections help ensure the property is up to standards and safe to inhabit. Even if a building doesn't currently have a mold problem, it could develop issues if the conditions are right. The property may have areas that are at risk for mold, and an inspection can identify potential future issues. A mold inspection may reveal leaks or hidden areas of trapped moisture, and these areas are prime for mold growth.

3. Be Prepared
Inspections help you make plans to bring a property up to standards if it currently fails. When a mold test comes back positive, it doesn't mean that the building can't be used. But it does mean you will have to collaborate with experts to create a mold remediation plan. Taking action quickly helps eradicate mold problems and saves money in the long run, as you can prevent structural damage from occurring.

Choosing a commercial property is a big task. It can be exhilarating to imagine the location of your business. Take all precautions to ensure a safe environment for your employees and customers by having a mold inspection done and addressing any issues.

Should You Choose a Mitigation Company To Do the Rebuild?

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

Ceiling falling after a fire in Secor Gardens, NY

If you have experienced fire damage in Secor Gardens, NY, you probably know that there are many steps needed to get your building back to its pre-fire condition. After the firefighters put out the flames, there will be many more people in and out of your building, each with different expertise. By choosing a mitigation company to do the rebuild, you can streamline this process and allow them to coordinate with each other, instead of with you.

What Needs To Happen?

Each restoration process is unique to the damage sustained. While there is no one size fits all approach, there are general steps that happen with most fire mitigation companies:

• You are assigned an emergency contact.
  
• Inspectors assess the extent of fire, smoke, soot, and water damage.
  
• Roof-tarp and Board-up services are applied to protect from further damage.
  
• Experts perform water extraction and drying processes.
  
• Smoke and soot are removed from surfaces.
  
• Odor removal, cleaning, and sanitation occur.
  
• Repairs or reconstruction are done by the restoration team.
  
  

With so many different skills needed, it can save you time if you do not have to hunt down experts in each of these areas. A fire damage mitigation company will have a team of experts that work together almost seamlessly.

What Is the Business Owner's Role?
When choosing to work with a mitigation company, your main role is to work with your emergency contact. Let them know if you have any concerns or questions. They will work to understand your needs and dispatch the appropriate professional to address your problem. Otherwise, you can relax while the experts restore your business to its pre-fire condition. If there is restoration work to be done, you may be asked to choose paint colors, flooring, or other aesthetic items. Your mitigation company will work with your insurance adjuster so that you know which items are within your price range.
By letting the experts do their jobs, you can return your business to normal after fire damage. A professional mitigation company can help you get there faster.

5 Tips for Protecting Your Property From Storm Damage

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

Trim trees in your Elmsmere, NY building

Ways To Prepare Your Property Before Storm Winds Blow

When you own property in Elmsmere, NY, severe weather can become a major cause for concern. A single roof leak can cause a lot of damages, especially if the damaged roof goes unnoticed for a day or two. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prepare your property before storm winds blow.


Trim Trees and Shrubs


Any weak, diseased, or dead branches could break away from trees and pose a threat to your buildings. Overhanging branches could break windows or fall onto the roof, leaving areas of missing shingles. These gaps can then lead to water damage within the building.


Upgrade Roof Shingles


When it comes to the best protection of any property, the roof is at the top of the list. When hail, rain, and wind damage or carry away shingles, the potential for leaks and further damages increases. Get high-performance shingles with UL Class 4 IR standard ratings.


Brace Garage Doors and Other Vulnerable Areas


Some exterior doors have welded steel frames with heavy-duty components, but other entrances and exits, such as garage doors, are lightweight. Pay special attention to delivery bays and similar areas. Heavy winds could blow lightweight doors onto the roof or around the property.


Replace Vinyl and Aluminum Gutters With Steel


If you live in an area where hail is a common concern, vinyl and aluminum rain gutters and downspouts are highly vulnerable to damage. When gutters are damaged, become loose, or fall away from the building, the chances of a roof leak developing increase. You may not even realize that water is leaking into the building until it's time to call a wind and water damage remediation company.


Install Protective Screens Around Your Property


Air conditioning units, heavy fans, and other equipment that's outside can be hit hard by thunderstorms and the winds and rain that come with them. Install screens to protect sensitive components of the equipment. Additionally, fencing around your property may catch debris from other buildings in the area.

From a simple roof leak to a branch through a window, it's important to immediately address property damages following a thunderstorm. Start by tarping and boarding up and then contact professionals to return your building to its pre-storm condition.

How To Get Rid of Mold in Bathrooms

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Bathroom mold in Bronxville, NY

Few Tips On Where to Look and How To Remove Mold

If you are a business owner and have discovered a musty smell emanating from your bathroom, you may need to clean mildew. Mold and mildew can both create problems in commercial bathrooms. Once moisture occurs, mold can begin forming in as little as 48 hours. If you suspect your business in Bronxville, NY, has a mold problem, you need to know how to identify it and get rid of it. Here are a few tips on where to look and how to remove it.

Where To Find It

Mold and mildew love to feed on organic materials, including anything made from paper. You can begin your search by checking common areas where mold likes to form:

• Leaky air conditioning duct joints
  
• Behind vinyl wall coverings
  
• Beneath leaky faucets
  
• Near the base of toilets
  
• Around caulking or tile
  
  

The best way to avoid bathroom mold is to not let it grow in the first place. It requires moist environments, so if you keep your bathroom clean and dry, you are less likely to wind up with a mold problem.

How To Remove It

You should clean mildew as soon as you find it. Mold releases spores that travel through the air. If they find another source of moisture, they can take up residence there and begin a new colony. To remove mold and mildew, wear protective clothing, mist the area to reduce airborne transmission before cleaning, and double bag all trash. A solution of bleach and water will usually kill the mold, but several applications may be needed. If it is not thoroughly cleaned, it may begin to grow again, so continue checking the area. Spores can also enter ventilation systems or lurk in unseen places, so if you are suspicious of unseen mold, hire a certified mold specialist to check the area.
Suspecting mildew is the first step. If you discover that you are dealing with a mold or mildew infestation, you may need to hire mold remediation experts to clean mildew and resolve the problem.