Mastering Insurance Claims: Best Practices from SERVPRO Team Cox

8/28/2024 (Permalink)

Disasters can strike at any moment, leaving property owners in a state of confusion and stress. Whether it’s fire damage, flooding, mold growth, or another unexpected event, dealing with the aftermath is challenging. One of the most complex and critical aspects of recovery is navigating the insurance claims process. At SERVPRO®, we’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming this can be for homeowners and businesses alike. That’s why we’re here to offer expert guidance on insurance best practices that will help you manage your claim effectively and ensure that your restoration journey is as smooth as possible.

Getting to Know Your Insurance Policy: The Foundation of Effective Claims Management

The foundation of any successful insurance claim is a solid understanding of your insurance policy. Unfortunately, many property owners don’t fully comprehend the details of their coverage until it’s too late. Here’s how you can be better prepared:

1. Understand Your Coverage

• Dwelling Coverage: This covers damage to the structure of your home or business. Know exactly what perils are included, whether it's fire, water, wind, or other specific risks. Ensure that your coverage limits are high enough to fully rebuild your property if necessary.
• Personal Property: Review how your policy handles the loss or damage of personal belongings. Some policies may only cover items at a depreciated value, while others offer replacement cost coverage.
• Liability Coverage: Liability coverage protects you if someone is injured on your property or if you accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property. For businesses, this is particularly crucial, as liability risks can be substantial.

2. Be Aware of Exclusions and Endorsements

• Policy Exclusions: All policies have exclusions—types of damage or events that are not covered. Common exclusions include flood damage, earthquakes, and certain types of mold. Knowing these exclusions ahead of time can help you take necessary precautions.
• Endorsements and Riders: These are additional coverages that can be added to your base policy. For example, if you live in a flood-prone area, you might need to purchase a flood insurance endorsement to protect your property.

3. Regularly Review and Update Your Policy

• Annual Policy Reviews: Life changes such as home renovations, the purchase of new valuables, or changes in business operations can impact your coverage needs. Regularly reviewing your policy with your insurance agent ensures your coverage remains adequate.
• Update Your Insurer: Always inform your insurance provider of significant changes to your property or lifestyle to avoid coverage gaps.

Proactive Steps to Take Before Disaster Strikes

Being proactive can make all the difference when it comes to insurance claims. Taking steps to prepare for the unexpected can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.

1. Create a Detailed Inventory of Your Property

• Home Inventory: Document all personal belongings with photos, descriptions, and estimated values. For expensive items, such as electronics or jewelry, consider getting appraisals to ensure they’re accurately covered.
• Business Inventory: For businesses, keep a detailed record of equipment, inventory, and other assets. This documentation will be crucial in the event of a claim.

2. Develop an Emergency Plan

• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your insurance agent, policy numbers, and preferred contractors, in a readily accessible place.
• Evacuation and Safety Plan: Develop and regularly update an evacuation plan for your family or employees. Include clear instructions on what to do in case of fire, flooding, or other emergencies.
• Identify Preferred Vendors: Work with your insurance company to identify trusted vendors, like SERVPRO Team Cox, who can provide fast and reliable mitigation and restoration services. Knowing who to call in an emergency can speed up the recovery process.

3. Routine Maintenance and Property Upkeep

• Preventative Maintenance: Regular property maintenance can prevent many common types of damage. This includes maintaining your roof, inspecting plumbing systems, and ensuring that electrical systems are up to code.
• Safety Checks: Conduct regular safety inspections to identify and address potential hazards, especially in older buildings. These checks can help you catch small issues before they become significant problems.

Navigating the Claims Process After a Disaster

When disaster strikes, navigating the insurance claims process effectively is key to ensuring a smooth recovery. Here’s how to handle the claims process step by step:

1. Report the Incident Immediately

• Prompt Notification: Contact your insurance provider as soon as it’s safe to do so. Timely reporting is essential, as many policies have time limits for filing claims.
• Accurate Reporting: Provide a detailed and accurate account of the incident, including the cause, the extent of the damage, and any steps you’ve taken to mitigate further loss.

2. Thoroughly Document the Damage

• Photo and Video Evidence: Before starting any cleanup or repairs, take extensive photos and videos of the damage. This documentation will be vital in supporting your claim.
• Written Records: Keep detailed written records of the damage, including any actions you’ve taken to protect the property from further harm, such as boarding up windows or placing tarps on damaged roofs.

3. Partner with a Trusted Restoration Company

• Professional Damage Assessment: Engage a professional restoration company like SERVPRO Team Cox to assess the damage and provide a detailed report. This professional evaluation can help ensure that all aspects of the damage are recognized and properly documented.
• Coordination with Insurance Adjusters: Our team at SERVPRO Team Cox frequently works directly with insurance adjusters to streamline the claims process and ensure you receive fair compensation for the damage.

4. Make Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage

• Temporary Measures: If possible, take immediate steps to prevent further damage, such as patching a leaking roof or shutting off the water supply to prevent flooding. Document these repairs and keep all receipts, as these expenses are often reimbursable.
• Maintain Safety: Ensure that temporary repairs do not pose any additional safety risks. If unsure, consult with professionals before proceeding.

5. Stay Organized and Informed

• Keep Detailed Records: Maintain a dedicated file for all claim-related documents, including correspondence with your insurer, estimates, receipts, and damage reports.
• Regular Follow-Ups: Stay in touch with your insurance adjuster to monitor the progress of your claim. Regular communication can help prevent delays and keep your claim on track.

Working Effectively with Your Insurance Adjuster

The insurance adjuster plays a crucial role in your claim, as they assess the damage and determine the compensation. Building a good working relationship with your adjuster is vital for a successful outcome.

1. Cooperate and Communicate

• Be Transparent: Provide all necessary information to the adjuster promptly and be clear about the extent of the damage. Transparency helps build trust and can expedite the claims process.
• Be Available: Ensure you are available for site inspections or meetings as requested by the adjuster. Prompt cooperation can help speed up the assessment and settlement process.

2. Know Your Rights as a Policyholder

• Second Opinions: If you disagree with the adjuster’s assessment, you have the right to request a second opinion or hire an independent adjuster. SERVPRO Team Cox can provide an additional assessment to support your claim if needed.
• Dispute Resolution: Familiarize yourself with your policy’s dispute resolution procedures, such as mediation or arbitration, which can be used if you and your insurer cannot agree on the settlement.

3. Advocate for a Fair Settlement

• Detailed Estimates: Work with your restoration company to ensure that repair estimates are thorough and accurate. A detailed estimate can support your case if there is a dispute over the settlement amount.
• Negotiation: Don’t be afraid to negotiate if you believe the initial settlement offer is too low. Presenting clear evidence and documentation can strengthen your position.

Preventing Future Claims: Protecting Your Property

Once your property is restored and your claim settled, take steps to prevent future damage and protect your investment. This proactive approach can also help reduce your insurance premiums.

1. Invest in Protective Upgrades

• Storm-Proofing: Consider investing in storm shutters, sump pumps, and other protective measures to reduce the risk of future damage from storms or flooding.
• Fire Prevention: Install fire-resistant materials and ensure that your property is equipped with functioning smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and, where appropriate, sprinkler systems.

2. Regularly Review and Adjust Your Insurance Coverage

• Reassess Coverage: After a claim, it’s wise to reassess your insurance coverage to ensure it’s still adequate. You may want to increase your policy limits or add additional coverage based on your recent experience.
• Consider Deductibles: Higher deductibles can lower your premiums but be sure that the deductible is something you can afford if another disaster occurs.

3. Stay Educated and Prepared

• Training and Drills: For businesses, regular training and safety drills can help employees respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, reducing the potential for damage.

Why SERVPRO Team Cox is Your Ideal Partner for Insurance Claims

At SERVPRO Team Cox, we’re more than just a restoration company—we’re your partner in navigating the complexities of insurance claims. Our experience, combined with a commitment to customer advocacy, makes us the best choice when disaster strikes.

1. Comprehensive Restoration Services

• We handle everything from emergency response to full restoration, providing a seamless service that covers all your needs.

2. Expert Insurance Coordination

• Our team has extensive experience working with insurance companies, making us a valuable ally in ensuring that your claim is handled efficiently and fairly.

3. Customer-Centric Approach

• We prioritize your needs, ensuring you are supported, informed, and satisfied throughout the entire claims process.

4. Local Expertise

• With roots in the Charlotte and Columbia areas, we understand the unique challenges property owners face in these regions. Our local knowledge allows us to provide tailored solutions that meet your specific needs.

Navigating an insurance claim after a disaster doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation, knowledge, and support from a trusted partner like SERVPRO Team Cox, you can manage the process with confidence. By understanding your policy, taking proactive steps before disaster strikes, and following best practices during the claims process, you can ensure that your property is restored quickly and efficiently. Remember, SERVPRO Team Cox is here to guide you every step of the way, from the moment disaster strikes until your property is fully restored. Call us at 803-419-0470.

Why choose SERVPRO of Richland County for your cleanup and restoration?

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Richland County work van at facility.

Why should you choose SERVPRO of Richland County for your cleanup, mitigation, and restoration? We could go on and on about how we’re the best choice for you. However, we’ll let people just like you- perhaps even your neighbor- speak for themselves about their own unique situation.

Water Damage

"I can't say enough good things about these people. They stand behind their work and do what they say they will do. Ask yourself: How many people can you say that about?"

"SERVPRO of Richland County is AMAZING!!. We had a water leak with some pretty extensive damage. The crew came in and removed all damaged materials. They dried out our house, leaving it ready for repair. They were professional, quick and always on time. A very knowledgeable crew, to add Troy and Peter provided outstanding support. I highly recommend this company..."

Fire Damage

"Responded almost immediately, kept me in the loop throughout the whole process, worked all through the night to make sure we could conduct business as usual the next day. Definitely would recommend their services."

Mold

"We are so grateful for the opportunity to support local small business and SERVPRO did not disappoint. They were so nice and helpful when scheduling. They were running ahead of schedule the day of service and made sure to call ahead. We have almost 20 year old tile that needed freshening up and it looks practically new again! They even cleaned our fiberglass tub in the bathroom that was not included as part of the “tile and grout” cleaning. My only regret is that we didn’t call sooner to get this done. We are so pleased and would recommend to anyone!"

Sewage Leak

We had a broken pipe leak underneath our crawl space of our home. We call SERVPRO and Joey Corley, Crew Chief responded to our home within 2hr. Very professional hook a sump pump to get rid of water and after that he used these fans to dry out the crawl space. My husband and I was definitely appreciative of the quality work that was done"

How can we assure that you will be satisfied with choosing SERVPRO of Richalnd County?

We set the bar high by ensuring our professionals have completed extensive training and certifications including meeting the industry standard with The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), SERVPRO employee and franchise training, continuing education courses on emergency mitigation, and more.

You can rest assured that our staff is equipped with the latest training and proven methods to restore your property as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Call SERVPRO If You Notice Or Smell Mold

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Crawlspace mold can go undetected for years yet still affect your health.

It seems all too often SERVPRO receives calls regarding either a musty odor, or spots on the walls or ceiling which could potentially be mold.  Yes, it sounds scary, looks scary, and the smell is yucky.  These days to just hear the word mold is enough to make one listen to see how it might affect them, and their home or business.  Mold can cause health effects without one even realizing that it is the mold causing the problem.

SERVPRO technicians are ready to help resolve your mold issues once it is determined it is indeed mold, and what type of mold as each is treated differently. What caused the mold issue will also be addressed to completely resolve the mold issue. SERVPRO uses an anti-microbial to clean up the mold. AT SERVPRO our goal is to get you back to a safe and healthy home, or business “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO Today To Schedule Your Duct Cleaning

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

For your health and longevity of your HVAC System call SERVPRO to schedule your Duct Cleaning

It is easy to forget that your ducts need to be cleaned every three to five years, and possibly more if you have pets, and are in a high pollen area.  If you notice after you have dusted the furniture is quickly covered with dust, you need your ducts cleaned.  Dirty ducts will also have an impact on your power bill as the HVAC system is working hard to get the air out to you. Not keeping your ducts clean will also have an impact on the longevity of your HVAC system.  It will run more, and for longer periods of time.  Dirty ducts can also have a direct impact on the health of those living in the home.

Call SERVPRO to schedule your Duct Cleaning and we will get you back to "Like it never even happened."  803-419-0470

SERVPRO Is Your Trusted Restoration And Cleaning Company

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is your trusted restoration and cleaning company,

We want you to have more than just our word when we assure you that: we offer competitive pricing, our team of IICRC certified technicians will perform tasks correctly, and our office staff will make the entire process simple by handling all matters with your insurance provider.

We provide superior customer service, performance, and results. Each morning the SERVPRO Team meets to go over job files – this enables the SERVPRO Team the opportunity to know where we are with each job, what has been completed, and what is expected to complete the job. This creates fluid communication between all divisions of our office.

Should you experience a disaster in your home, or business we are available 24/7/365 which includes holidays. We look forward to making your home or business “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Follows CDC Guide Lines For Commercial Cleaning

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help with your cleaning needs.

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call SERVPRO When Dealing With A Fire In Your Home or Business

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is your number one resource when dealing with a fire in your home or business.

Suffering fire damages at your home can be a very traumatic experience.  Along with the damages from the flames, your home may have soot residue, smoke odor, and water damages from firefighting efforts.  Many times, the hardest part of the experience is determining “What do I do now?” once the fire is out.  The U.S Fire Administration offers these “After the Fire” guidelines to help you through this tough time:

• The top priority is keeping yourself, loved ones, and pets safe. The structure of your home may be unstable, or various hazards present due to the fire damages.  Always follow the instructions of the local authorities pertaining to safety in a fire damaged area.
• Contact your insurance agent. Your insurance agent can help determine what your policy covers regarding cleaning and restoration.
• Contact your mortgage company or landlord to report the fire.
• Secure important documents. If undamaged, gather items such as Social Security Information, Birth Certificates, and Passports.  If these items have been damaged, you will need to formulate a plan for replacement.

In the unfortunate event that you experience a fire at your home in the Columbia area, SERVPRO of Richland County is Here to Help. Our professional team provides fire restoration services, soot clean up, smoke odor removal, and structural drying to help restore your home.  Give us a call at (803) 419-0470, We are Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Mold Should Be Taken Seriously Call SERVPRO If You Suspect Mold

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

If you have a musty odor, or see spots on the walls or ceiling call SERVPRO for a Mold Evaluation

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

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

We can inspect and assess your home or business utilizing our specialized equipment to remediate your mold infestation.

At SERVPRO we want your home or business to get back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Is Your Number One Resource For A Certified: SERVPRO Cleaning

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Richland County to schedule your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned appointment.

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

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables.

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

f your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – [SERVPRO of Richland County, 803-419-0470]

SERVPRO Is Ready For Storm Season Are You Ready

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane season is upon us which means you should have a plan in place for the safety of your family.

With Hurricane Season upon us SERVPRO is prepared to assist with any storm issues.  While we are prepared, we want to make sure that you are prepared as well.  Besides having supplies it is important to have an evacuation plan and make sure the entire family is aware of the protocol you have put in place.  FEMA has provided a list of necessities that you should keep on hand and be sure to check it yearly if nothing has been used.  Any expired items should be replaced.

• Three days' worth of food (nonperishable)
• Water (at least a gallon per family member)
• Battery powered (or hand crank) flashlights and radio.
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Trash bags and duct tape, along with a dust mask
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
• Manual can opener for food
• Regional maps
• Cell phone with chargers, inverter, or solar charger
• Moist towelettes and any personal sanitation or specific family needs, like pet supplies
• Prescription medication along with some generics in case they are needed.

With Fire Damage Comes Soot Damage

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

When there is fire damage the smoke damage can spread throughout the home or business.

Soot and smoke are extremely difficult to clean without the proper knowledge and equipment to do so. We always recommend calling a professional fire restoration service to handle this. SERVPRO of Richland County offers board-up services to secure your property and keep unwanted guests and animals out. We also offer tarping services if damage has occurred to the roof. This prevents water from gaining access to the space and causing further damage.

If water was used to extinguish the fire you may also be facing water damage, this requires a restoration company also. If the water damage is left untreated, you’ll likely be facing issues with mold down the road.

Has your business suffered fire damage? Call SERVPRO of Richland County, the trusted leader in the restoration industry for fire damage restoration.

SERVPRO Recommends You Contact Your Insurance Agent To Confirm Coverage

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Whether it is residential, or commercial it is crucial that you make sure you have the proper insurance coverage

If your home fell victim to a major disaster tomorrow, would your insurance cover the damages? Homeowners insurance may help cover certain causes of storm damage, including wind, hail and lightning. However, damage caused by flood and catastrophic storms are typically not covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy. It's important to read your policy to learn what types of storm damage may or may not be covered.

When purchasing a new home policy, it's important to consider the geographic location, weather patterns and flood risk assessments of the area your property is located in. You might perceive additional coverage as an unnecessary cost but consider the cost to rebuild or repair out of pocket. SERVPRO bases its pricing off national average or market rates, you’ll be thankful you spent the extra funds on these types of coverages rather than having to pay out of pocket. Take the time now to make sure you are prepared for whatever may happen, instead of finding out you’re not covered in the middle of a disaster. 

SERVPRO is Here to Help get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO To Schedule Your Emergency Ready Profile At No Cost To You

6/4/2021 (Permalink)

Put peace of mind in the palm of your hand with an Emergency Ready Profile

If you do not have an Emergency Ready Profile, you may want to consider the risk you are facing. 50% of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen. Are you ready? By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile, you minimize business interruptions, along with possible secondary damage. This immediate plan of action can help minimize how water and fire damage affects your business. We have an app that can be used with your cell phone giving you immediate access to emergency contact numbers for utilities, and it also can include account numbers.  When disaster strikes it can leave you feeling very anxious, and having the information one click away gives peace of mind. Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster. No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be "Ready for whatever happens."

Call SERVPRO of Richland County Today To Schedule Your Emergency Ready Profile IT"S FREE

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

At no cost to you SERVPRO will provide help in the palm of your hand with an Emergency Ready Profile App

If you do not have an Emergency Ready Profile, you may want to consider the risk you are facing. 50% of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen. Are you ready? By developing a SERVPRO ERP, you minimize business interruptions, along with possible secondary damage. This immediate plan of action can help minimize how water and fire damage affects your business. SERVPRO provides this at no cost to you or your company.  When disaster strikes it is comforting to know with one click help can be on the way.  This is so critical for business owners as like a baby most disasters come in the middle of the night.  They are not planned, but you can plan ahead. Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster. No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be "Ready for whatever happens."

Proper Maintenance Of Water Lines And Water Storage Units Can Help Avoid A Water Loss

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid water damage by checking your water lines and water holding units on a regular basis.

Improperly maintained water lines, and water storage units, such as a hot water heater. Once there is a compromise to the water system, or storage unit the ensuing water can cause water damage, and potentially turn into an emergency.

First the home or business with the water damage must quickly be evaluated for the safety of anyone in the home, or business. Be sure there is nothing electric in, or around the water damage to cause either an electrical fire, or electrocution. Make sure there are no ‘slip and fall’ hazards. If it is not safe, keep out and dial 911 for help. Once all is secure regarding safety precautions, shut off the water if you can. 

Call SERVPRO for water damage to your home, or business. We want to get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Do's And Don'ts For Fire And Water Damages

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is prepared 24/7 to help with your fire or water disaster. "Like it never even happened."

Have you ever wondered what should you do after you have suffered a fire or water loss? Here are a few do's and don'ts for Fire and water damages. 

In case of a Fire damage: 

Do's

• Do limit your movement in the property.
• Do keep your hands clean. 
• Do change the HVAC filters if possible.

Don'ts

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without consulting a professional.
• Don't attempt to shampoo carpets or upholstered furniture.
• Don't consume any food or beverages that may have been stored near heat or fire.

In case of a water Damage:

Do's

• Do shut off the source of water if possible.
• Do remove and prop up wet upholstered cushions for drying.
• Do wipe excess water from wood furniture.

Don'ts

• Don't enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Don't use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floor. Especially not on wet concrete floors!
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

Just a few tips from your local SERVPRO! Here to help make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Recommends You Check Your Insurance For Disaster Coverage

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready for your disaster, are you?

If your home fell victim to a major disaster tomorrow, would your insurance cover the damages? Homeowners insurance may help cover certain causes of storm damage, including wind, hail and lightning. However, damage caused by flood and catastrophic storms are typically not covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy. It's important to read your policy to learn what types of storm damage may or may not be covered.

When purchasing a new home policy it's important to consider the geographic location, weather patterns and flood risk assessments of the area your property is located in. You might perceive additional coverage as an unnecessary cost, but consider the cost to rebuild or repair out of pocket. SERVPRO bases its pricing off national average or market rates, you’ll be thankful you spent the extra funds on these types of coverages rather than having to pay out of pocket. Take the time now to make sure you are prepared for what ever may happen, instead of finding out your not covered in the middle of a disaster. 

SERVPRO Is Ready For The Unexpected. Are You?

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready 24/7/365. No job to big, and no job to small. Here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Richland County 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 - (803)419-0470

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 Richland 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 Richland County

SERVPRO of Richland County 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 Technicians Are Highly Trained For Removal Of Smoke Soot and Fire Damage

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Richland County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire.

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – [SERVPRO of Richland County, 803-419-0470]

We can help!

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

COVID-19 has been an unprecedented experience for most business owners. Almost no one expected at the beginning of the year that we would have to shut our doors and go virtual for three to four months. For some of us, this was an easier prospect than for others. 

Those who already had a strong online presence were hurt far less than those whose services require person-to-person interaction. As we try to recover, we must admit that the pandemic has not been beaten yet. Unlike in a movie, there was no press conference announcing a cure and no all-clear announcement. We have to adapt to a new normal.

Going forward, businesses will have to plan for the ebb and flow of the COVID-19 rates in our community the way we do for other natural disasters and events that are beyond our control.

Do you have a plan for reassuring customers that their safety is your top priority? How can you communicate this? When a customer walks through your door and is greeted by a cheerful, but mask-covered smile, it tells them that you care enough to put their safety over your comfort.

When you allow for social distancing either by providing online ordering options or by reducing the capacity of your building, it tells your customers that you put their safety over profits.

When you have a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned sticker on your door, it shows your customers that you didn’t hire just any cleaning service, but that you cared enough to have a professional bioremediation consultation and the date that the cleaning was performed. 

These small steps can keep your customers loyal through whatever may come over the next several months as we deal with our new normal.

We are Cleaning Experts

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – [SERVPRO of Richland County, (803)419-0470]

Why use SERVPRO of Richland!

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

If you’re in need of services that we provide it’s likely you’ve done your research on companies who also provide the same services in your area. When you’re not experiencing an emergency loss or cleanup, you have time to be selective. We encourage this type of due diligence from our customers! We want you to have more than just our word when we assure you that: we offer competitive pricing, our team of IICRC certified technicians will perform tasks correctly, and our knowledgeable office personnel will make the entire process simple for you by handling all matters with your insurance provider.

We strive to be the #1 Restoration and Cleanup company in the Nation! We achieve that by setting goals to achieve superior customer service, performance and results. Each morning our office meets to go over each customer’s file – where we are, what we’ve done, and what we’re going to do. This creates fluid communication between all divisions of our office.

Our phone lines are open 24/7, 365 days a year for whenever you may need us. We’d love to make your home or business “Like it never even happened.”

We are Cleaning Experts

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – [SERVPRO of Richland County, 803-419-0470]

Do you have an ERP?

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

ERP Sample

If you do not have an Emergency Ready Profile, you may want to consider the risk you are facing. 50% of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen. Are you ready? By developing a SERVPRO ERP, you minimize business interruptions, along with possible secondary damage. This immediate plan of action can help minimize how water and fire damage affects your business. Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster. No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be "Ready for whatever happens."