Find out why the 12-step Diamond Certified Rating Process is the most accurate of its kind.
Sunday, June 30, 2019
The Diamond Certified Rating Process
Find out why the 12-step Diamond Certified Rating Process is the most accurate of its kind.
Thursday, June 27, 2019
Restoration Contractors - How to Choose the Right Restoration Contractor
Restoration Contractors are specialists in the repair of buildings damaged by perils such as fire, windstorm, flood, water damage, hurricane and tornadoes. They are also specialists in the repair and cleaning of personal property from homes and businesses.
These kinds of cleaning processes and repairs require specialized equipment and knowledge that a normal General Contractor will not have. In addition, the restoration contractor uses estimating software that is acceptable to the insurance companies in the calculation of the repair estimate.
Many times, a claims adjuster who represents the insurance company will bring his favorite contractor with him when he inspects your damages. This is not necessarily bad, but can easily become a conflict of interest for the contractor.
I recommend that you, the policyholder and owner of the property, find a restoration contractor of your own to write your damage repair estimate. Customarily, the contractor will write this estimate at no charge, hoping that he will get the repair job. But even if it cost you a couple hundred dollars for the estimate, it could mean the difference in thousands of dollars of repairs.
But, how does a policyholder with damages locate a reputable restoration contractor?
1. Using your computer search engine, look for "Restoration Contractor" or "Disaster Repair" and your zip code or state.
2. Note which contractors in your area are advertising on TV and radio in your area. A big advertiser is usually having some success. Some national companies, like Servpro, advertise heavily and will have offices nearby.
3. Ask friends and business associates for a referral.
Once you have located two or three contractors in your area, interview them with these questions:
1. How many years have you been a Restoration Contractor?
2. Do you have a specialty, like homes or commercial losses?
3. Can you provide a list of at least ten satisfied customers with phone numbers?
4. Do you have documentation of your success in insurance settlements?
5. Have you ever had a complaint filed against you with the Department of Insurance or the state Office of Consumer Affairs?
6. Please explain your fees and how you are paid.
7. Please provide a copy of your repair contract.
Based upon the information you glean from your interviews, you can make a choice of the best Personal Injury Attorney to consult.
These kinds of cleaning processes and repairs require specialized equipment and knowledge that a normal General Contractor will not have. In addition, the restoration contractor uses estimating software that is acceptable to the insurance companies in the calculation of the repair estimate.
Many times, a claims adjuster who represents the insurance company will bring his favorite contractor with him when he inspects your damages. This is not necessarily bad, but can easily become a conflict of interest for the contractor.
I recommend that you, the policyholder and owner of the property, find a restoration contractor of your own to write your damage repair estimate. Customarily, the contractor will write this estimate at no charge, hoping that he will get the repair job. But even if it cost you a couple hundred dollars for the estimate, it could mean the difference in thousands of dollars of repairs.
But, how does a policyholder with damages locate a reputable restoration contractor?
1. Using your computer search engine, look for "Restoration Contractor" or "Disaster Repair" and your zip code or state.
2. Note which contractors in your area are advertising on TV and radio in your area. A big advertiser is usually having some success. Some national companies, like Servpro, advertise heavily and will have offices nearby.
3. Ask friends and business associates for a referral.
Once you have located two or three contractors in your area, interview them with these questions:
1. How many years have you been a Restoration Contractor?
2. Do you have a specialty, like homes or commercial losses?
3. Can you provide a list of at least ten satisfied customers with phone numbers?
4. Do you have documentation of your success in insurance settlements?
5. Have you ever had a complaint filed against you with the Department of Insurance or the state Office of Consumer Affairs?
6. Please explain your fees and how you are paid.
7. Please provide a copy of your repair contract.
Based upon the information you glean from your interviews, you can make a choice of the best Personal Injury Attorney to consult.
Monday, June 24, 2019
Some Steps to Protect Your Home From Wildfires
If flames ignite, Cal Fire captain and local resident Scott Green knows that firefighters may be unable to save everything that needs saving. So his rural home protects itself. He shows us how to take defensive steps.
Friday, June 21, 2019
Alltek Restoration Provides 24/7 Emergency Services
Emergency Services
We are here to help when you need it. Providing first response to your needs 24/7. Our team will be dispatched to your loss, will assess the damages, explain the course of action required and with your approval start immediately preventing further loss and damages.
The post-loss condition of a structure or dwelling can vary and is specific to each type of loss and the severity of the damage that has occurred. Determining the cause of the loss and the affected area is the first step and often most important. How and what steps are taken can have a significant impact on further damages and what is necessary to prevent or limit further damages to a structure. Alltek Restoration, Inc. provides all emergency or temporary services which your property may require.
Board Up Services
Are very common requirements after storm or fire losses. The damages caused by the actual fire and tactics use to extinguish can leave your property with broken or blown out windows, burnt doors or broken doors, ventilation holes in roofs, and structural deficiencies all of which leaves the property open to access, in distress, and insecure. We will secure all loss related openings with temporary measures securing the property and temporary structural repairs to help prevent further damages.
Temporary Weather Proofing
Your property may require temporary weatherproofing as a result of a loss. Both storm and fire damages can leave your property exposed or vulnerable to weather elements which will cause further damage to your property. Preventing additional damages is key as secondary damages can exceed the preliminary damages.
Content Services
Depending on the type of loss and severity will determine what needs to be done.
Services can include the following: manipulation, both salvageable and non-salvageable / total loss inventory, packing for on or off-site storage, cleaning and restoration, and pack back after repairs.
Mitigation Services
Includes initial loss assessment, determination of cause and source, water category/classification, moisture mapping, and determining the affected areas that require structural drying. Removal of both salvageable and non-salvageable building components, and the placement of required drying equipment as well as monitoring the drying progress until completed. After the drying process, repairs may proceed.
Temporary Utility Services
After a loss, a structure's utilities can be interrupted or shut off until safe operation and use can be confirmed. All utilities are subject to interruption which can make your home uninhabitable or unsafe. After a fire, if the electrical system is damaged emergency personnel will have the utility provider interrupt service to prevent the risk of injury and further structure damages. We can provide emergency repair or provide temporary utilities that are required so repairs may begin.
Tuesday, June 18, 2019
Disaster Prep: A Simple Way To Make Sure You Recover Your Stuff | Consumer Reports
In the case of a disaster like a house fire -- the more detail you have about your valuables, the more you'll be able to recover in an insurance claim. Consumer Reports says it's a pretty easy thing do to: use your smartphone!
Saturday, June 15, 2019
What Are the Steps Involved in Water or Flood Damage Restoration Work?
When it comes to water damage, the major issue is that you usually can't see the full extent of the problem with the naked eye. This is where a professional water or flood disaster restoration team comes in. With their specialized tools, equipment, and knowledge, these experts will be able to properly assess the situation, fully dry and restore your home, and check in afterward to make sure the restoration is complete. That means that you don't have to worry about lingering dampness, mold, or bacteria growth. Instead, you can get back to enjoying your home in comfort.
If you've experienced water damage in your home and you call on a water and flood restoration service for assistance, the first thing they will do is to perform a moisture assessment. Your restoration company will determine the location or source of the moisture and the extent of the area affected. This part of the process ensures that all the damage is taken into account--even the parts not visible--before the restoration process begins. Once the assessment has been made, your restoration professionals will use specialized equipment to remove standing water, complete drying with air movement, and clean any carpeting thoroughly. With these different steps, your restoration professionals will be able to totally dry your home and sanitize the area.
After the core drying out work comes the most important part of the water damage restoration process: the follow-up. Water damage is a very difficult problem to deal with because it can be so hidden. Even if you get the most thorough flood or water damage remediation company in to take care of the problem, it's possible that there will be a lingering issue or dampness somewhere. However, most restoration professionals offer follow-up services because they know of this potential. After completing the restoration and drying work, and depending on the severity of the damage, they will either come back for a post-job assessment, or you can call them if you notice any issues. This crucial stage in the restoration process should not be skipped. If there's any chance that some dampness may have gone untreated, get it taken care of immediately so that it doesn't lead to more serious issues down the line.
Experiencing flood or water damage in your home is unpleasant, but it does not have to be an impossible situation. With assessment, restoration, and follow-up services provided by a professional water restoration company, you can get your home back to normal in no time.
If you've experienced water damage in your home and you call on a water and flood restoration service for assistance, the first thing they will do is to perform a moisture assessment. Your restoration company will determine the location or source of the moisture and the extent of the area affected. This part of the process ensures that all the damage is taken into account--even the parts not visible--before the restoration process begins. Once the assessment has been made, your restoration professionals will use specialized equipment to remove standing water, complete drying with air movement, and clean any carpeting thoroughly. With these different steps, your restoration professionals will be able to totally dry your home and sanitize the area.
After the core drying out work comes the most important part of the water damage restoration process: the follow-up. Water damage is a very difficult problem to deal with because it can be so hidden. Even if you get the most thorough flood or water damage remediation company in to take care of the problem, it's possible that there will be a lingering issue or dampness somewhere. However, most restoration professionals offer follow-up services because they know of this potential. After completing the restoration and drying work, and depending on the severity of the damage, they will either come back for a post-job assessment, or you can call them if you notice any issues. This crucial stage in the restoration process should not be skipped. If there's any chance that some dampness may have gone untreated, get it taken care of immediately so that it doesn't lead to more serious issues down the line.
Experiencing flood or water damage in your home is unpleasant, but it does not have to be an impossible situation. With assessment, restoration, and follow-up services provided by a professional water restoration company, you can get your home back to normal in no time.
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
Top Reasons To Contact A Water Damage Restoration Company
Water damage restoration companies know how to restore a
structure after a flood or storm. They can help you if you have a flood because of a leaky pipe, plumbing problem, broken appliance, or a leaky
roof. A flood can cause a myriad of problems. Here are the top reasons
why people should turn to water damage restoration companies when tragedies strike.
Prevent Structural Damage And Mold
Water and excessive moisture can cause structural damage to a house, apartment, or building. That' why you need to hire a water damage restoration specialist. Leaving a serious mold problem untreated can also cause structural damage. Water damage and a mold problem can cost you thousands of dollars to fix, so make sure you hire a professional before it's too late. If you are not sure if you have a mold problem, a specialist can inspect your home and check this for you. After a rainy season, it is always a smart idea to get your home checked for mold, leaks, and other problems.
Professionals Have The Right Tools
The professionals have specialized equipment and all the right tools to get the job done. They use high-powered vacuums, drying equipment, professional cleaning supplies, and other high-tech equipment, and they will make sure the water gets extracted from your home quickly. They will also dry out your home and deodorize it when they are finished. You can contact a water damage restoration company if you need to extract water from your furniture, rugs, carpets, basement, bedrooms, kitchen, or living room. A professional will decide what kind of technique is needed based on your needs and situation.
Fixing Water Damage Can Be Dangerous
Please remember that water damage jobs should be left for the experienced professionals. If you aren't an experienced professional, you can hurt yourself or someone else. Don't take any risks when it comes to your safety and the safety of your family and pets and get the help that you need. The professionals are experts when it comes to water damage restoration and they will send a clean-up crew to your home, so you will feel good knowing that the job will be done quickly.
Prevent Damage To Your Home And Belongings
You can prevent permanent damage by contacting a professional right after you have a flood or emergency. Fixing water damage can cost you a lot of money, so don't procrastinate.
Get Rid Of Bad Odors
A reliable company will eliminate the bad odors from your home. Not only will they will extract the water, dry your home out, clean your furniture, rugs, and carpets, but they will also deodorize your home and make sure it smells clean and fresh when they are finished with the job.
Other Services These Companies Offer
these types of companies also offer other services including fire damage repair, air duct cleaning, wind damage repair, storm damage repair, smoke removal, odor removal, upholstery cleaning, duct cleaning, home inspections and things of that nature.
Prevent Structural Damage And Mold
Water and excessive moisture can cause structural damage to a house, apartment, or building. That' why you need to hire a water damage restoration specialist. Leaving a serious mold problem untreated can also cause structural damage. Water damage and a mold problem can cost you thousands of dollars to fix, so make sure you hire a professional before it's too late. If you are not sure if you have a mold problem, a specialist can inspect your home and check this for you. After a rainy season, it is always a smart idea to get your home checked for mold, leaks, and other problems.
Professionals Have The Right Tools
The professionals have specialized equipment and all the right tools to get the job done. They use high-powered vacuums, drying equipment, professional cleaning supplies, and other high-tech equipment, and they will make sure the water gets extracted from your home quickly. They will also dry out your home and deodorize it when they are finished. You can contact a water damage restoration company if you need to extract water from your furniture, rugs, carpets, basement, bedrooms, kitchen, or living room. A professional will decide what kind of technique is needed based on your needs and situation.
Fixing Water Damage Can Be Dangerous
Please remember that water damage jobs should be left for the experienced professionals. If you aren't an experienced professional, you can hurt yourself or someone else. Don't take any risks when it comes to your safety and the safety of your family and pets and get the help that you need. The professionals are experts when it comes to water damage restoration and they will send a clean-up crew to your home, so you will feel good knowing that the job will be done quickly.
Prevent Damage To Your Home And Belongings
You can prevent permanent damage by contacting a professional right after you have a flood or emergency. Fixing water damage can cost you a lot of money, so don't procrastinate.
Get Rid Of Bad Odors
A reliable company will eliminate the bad odors from your home. Not only will they will extract the water, dry your home out, clean your furniture, rugs, and carpets, but they will also deodorize your home and make sure it smells clean and fresh when they are finished with the job.
Other Services These Companies Offer
these types of companies also offer other services including fire damage repair, air duct cleaning, wind damage repair, storm damage repair, smoke removal, odor removal, upholstery cleaning, duct cleaning, home inspections and things of that nature.
Sunday, June 9, 2019
QUICK LOOK: Emergency Management Preparedness Summit in Sacramento 2019
Governor Gavin Newsom and Cal OES kicked off the inaugural California for All Emergency Management Preparedness Summit in downtown Sacramento. The Summit invited emergency managers and first responders across the state to collectively plan and prepare for large-scale disasters, including new ways to integrate a whole-community approach to emergency management.
Thursday, June 6, 2019
Categories of Water Damage Explained
Water can enter a building in many ways. Local flooding, leaking roofs and broken plumbing are all potential water sources that can cause damage to belongings and possible structural damage as well as create potential indoor environmental and indoor air quality concerns.
It’s important for people to understand what type of water has entered a structure so that it can be properly remediated and appropriate measures can be taken to protect workers and building occupants from any potential hazards.
Depending on the water source and possibly the length of time it remains in a building, it may contain bacteria, viruses, mold, chemicals, protozoa and even parasites. There are three categories of water that are typically used when classifying a water damage or flooding event. These include:
Category 1 Water, also known as Clean Water, does not typically result in an immediate health threat to building occupants. This type of water is considered clean at its point of release. Examples include broken water supply lines and the overflow of a sink or tub. Even in properties with this type of initial water damage, mold can begin to grow in as short as 24 hours. It may also become increasingly contaminated over time and as it interacts with materials in the property.
Category 2 Water, also known as Grey Water, typically contains a significant amount of biological or physical contaminants that can cause sickness when humans are exposed or if it is accidentally consumed. Examples include water discharged from a dishwasher or washing machine. Category 2 Water, that is not promptly removed or has remained stagnant for some time, may at times be reclassified as Category 3 Water.
Category 3 Water, also known as Black Water, is grossly contaminated. It may contain harmful pathogens, microbes and chemicals that could cause illness. Sources include sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water or standing water.
These are just a few things to know about categories of water in water damaged buildings, to learn more about this, please contact the professionals at Jimmy Garza Emergency Water Removal today.
Choosing the right contractor is crucial for any project to be successful. Alltek Restoration specializes in Emergency Services, Contents, Restoration, and Reconstruction. You can rest knowing that your project's interest is at the top of our concerns. Alltek is committed to providing our clients with the highest quality work and exceptional customer service, while assuring you of a well-executed plan to complete your project. You and everyone involved in your project will feel confident we are leading the way.
We serve the following counties:
Alameda,
Contra Costa,
Marin,
Merced,
Napa,
Sacramento,
San Francisco,
San Joaquin,
San Mateo,
Santa Clara,
Solano,
Sonoma,
Stanislaus
Monday, June 3, 2019
Water-Related Disaster? Safety First
When it comes to emergency water removal, mold removal, and flood damage restoration, leave it to the pros. Your professional disaster restoration specialist has the industry knowledge, experience, and credentials to guide you and your family through the entire process. The appropriate treatment depends on the specific nature of the damage in your home and will be tailored to meet your specific needs.
But homeowners, often feeling helpless in these situations, may ask what they can do to help during this time. The answer is simple but important: safety. Taking measures to ensure the safety of your family and your home is advice to heed. Let's take a look at some safety do's and don'ts.
Is The Home Safe?
Determine whether the house is structurally safe to enter or live in; professionals may refer to the structural integrity of the home. If you're unsure, don't enter the house and make arrangements for shelter with the help of local agencies, neighbors, and friends. Contact your insurance company, too.
If it's determined that the home is safe to enter, turn off the power by disabling the main circuit breaker; turn off the main water supply as well. A flooded basement could damage your furnace if the water reaches a dangerously high level. If you have a natural gas supply line, turn that off also; better still, leave that for a professional.
Of course, keep children and pets away from flooded areas; you don't want accidents from slippery, wet floors.
Don't operate televisions, computers, vacuums or other electrical appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially concrete surfaces.
Be sure your valuables are safe. If you will not be living in the house due to the unsafe conditions, remove your valuables including documents and treasured items such as photographs and other keepsakes; store them with a trusted friend or relative. If you are able to stay in your home, move valuables to a dry, safe location.
Is There Mold?
Mold growth is often one of the ensuing problems created by flood damage. The damp conditions in your home after a flood are an ideal breeding ground for these microscopic organisms that spread by producing airborne spores. Those mix with the air inside your house and can lead to health and safety concerns for you and your family. Typical symptoms resulting from mold exposure include everything from respiratory problems and nasal and sinus congestion, to skin, eye, nose and throat irritation.
(Be on the lookout for signs of mold. They vary considerably but may include a smelly odor, a white and thread-like growth, clusters of small black spots; mold can be grayish-brown, grayish-green or white in color.)
Do treat all flood water as contaminated. The water and water-impacted surfaces may not be contaminated but until determined by a professional, don't take chances. Don't track contaminated materials and items into undamaged areas. Do keep children and pets, who are especially vulnerable, out of suspect areas. Absorbent materials such as carpeting and drywall may be unsalvageable after contaminated.
Implementing these tips will put you into action mode versus feeling helpless. More importantly, it will ensure the safety of your family and your home.
But homeowners, often feeling helpless in these situations, may ask what they can do to help during this time. The answer is simple but important: safety. Taking measures to ensure the safety of your family and your home is advice to heed. Let's take a look at some safety do's and don'ts.
Is The Home Safe?
Determine whether the house is structurally safe to enter or live in; professionals may refer to the structural integrity of the home. If you're unsure, don't enter the house and make arrangements for shelter with the help of local agencies, neighbors, and friends. Contact your insurance company, too.
If it's determined that the home is safe to enter, turn off the power by disabling the main circuit breaker; turn off the main water supply as well. A flooded basement could damage your furnace if the water reaches a dangerously high level. If you have a natural gas supply line, turn that off also; better still, leave that for a professional.
Of course, keep children and pets away from flooded areas; you don't want accidents from slippery, wet floors.
Don't operate televisions, computers, vacuums or other electrical appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially concrete surfaces.
Be sure your valuables are safe. If you will not be living in the house due to the unsafe conditions, remove your valuables including documents and treasured items such as photographs and other keepsakes; store them with a trusted friend or relative. If you are able to stay in your home, move valuables to a dry, safe location.
Is There Mold?
Mold growth is often one of the ensuing problems created by flood damage. The damp conditions in your home after a flood are an ideal breeding ground for these microscopic organisms that spread by producing airborne spores. Those mix with the air inside your house and can lead to health and safety concerns for you and your family. Typical symptoms resulting from mold exposure include everything from respiratory problems and nasal and sinus congestion, to skin, eye, nose and throat irritation.
(Be on the lookout for signs of mold. They vary considerably but may include a smelly odor, a white and thread-like growth, clusters of small black spots; mold can be grayish-brown, grayish-green or white in color.)
Do treat all flood water as contaminated. The water and water-impacted surfaces may not be contaminated but until determined by a professional, don't take chances. Don't track contaminated materials and items into undamaged areas. Do keep children and pets, who are especially vulnerable, out of suspect areas. Absorbent materials such as carpeting and drywall may be unsalvageable after contaminated.
Implementing these tips will put you into action mode versus feeling helpless. More importantly, it will ensure the safety of your family and your home.
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