Recent Commercial Posts

SERVPRO Handles Large Commercial Damage Restoration

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial properties come in all shapes and sizes. Some buildings like large hotels, dormitories, warehouse facilities, factories, etc. can encompass hundreds of thousands of square feet of space. It’s easy for a water damage in a facility like this to quickly grow into a huge mess with damage across multiple floors and rooms. Here at SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks we have the commercial large loss division that can handle jobs of any size.

Our Disaster Recovery Teams are composed of elite technicians who have the training and resources to handle large-loss events for industries that have included hospitals, universities, and government facilities. Our franchise network consists of 2,000 franchises located all over the country, allowing us to respond to disasters anywhere. Each large loss project is managed by a project manager from your local SERVPRO location. They’re backed by the SERVPRO headquarters operations team to help you have the smoothest restoration experience possible. Having such a large franchise network gives us the unique advantage of being able to share resources and expertise that help us to tackle jobs that smaller companies could not handle on their own.

Damage to a large facility can be a daunting task, but our teams are available 24/7, 365 days a year to respond to your fire, water, or storm emergencies, and make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Shares Insurance Tip for Your Business

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

While insurance for your business is typically a given, oftentimes people forget a crucial step of the process. Keeping a well-documented picture inventory of the items in your store or office can often save you both time and money when it comes to filing a claim after a disaster or loss. It’s easy to assume that the process for replacing damaged property or belongings is a pretty straightforward process but you’d be surprised to find out that is not often the case without proper detailed documentation.

Insurance companies value items in losses based on market value and/or age and without picture documentation of what condition your items are in, you might find yourself with an inaccurate valuation for your damaged items. For example, your “expensive vintage decor” that burned up in a fire may be valued based on the fact that they are old, or at the cost of current décor. Sometimes, especially with vintage items these valuations are less than what the products are worth. This is where a picture inventory of your items comes into play. You’ll be able to show your insurance company that the “old wooden chair” isn’t actually just an old wooden chair but is actually a mint condition vintage piece of furniture that is worth quite a bit of money.

We sincerely hope that you’ll never actually have to use that list ever, but if you do it can save a lot of headaches, and if you need someone to come in after a disaster to help mitigate your losses, give us a call here at SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks.

We Handle Large Losses

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Call Us for The Big Jobs

SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks is always here to help with any size disaster to your business. There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your business. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we'll be there fast with the help you need. Our highly-trained teams respond 24/7 providing excellent service to insurance companies, building owners, facility managers and property managers throughout the area.

Independently owned and operated by Andrew and Theresa Bahen as of September 2020, SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks is operated by a team with 35 years of experience in the restoration industry. Our experience, people, capacity and equipment uniquely qualifies us to handle large jobs no matter how extensive the damage.

In the unfortunate event of a fire or water damage to your business, call SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks. We will respond 24/7 with trained employees, state-of-the-art equipment and the resources required to perform emergency services to help limit property damage. 252-331-7889.

Why You Should Get Your Business' Ducts Cleaned

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

We think you would agree that the quality of your indoor air is as important as the quality of the air you breathe outside. There are indoor irritants in the air you breathe like pollen, dust, and pet dander that encompass more than simply changing your equipment's air filter.

These irritants and contaminants collect in your air duct system and can only be removed with scheduled cleanings. You should consider it as a part of your HVAC maintenance and a vital part of ensuring your employees health and your business cleanliness. Here are a few reasons why you should keep your ducts cleaned.

  • Clogging of the ducts- Irritants like dust can clog your air ducts causing your HVAC equipment to work less effectively. The clogging can also cause health issues.
  • You may be losing efficiency- If your air ducts are clogged, your equipment will be forced to work harder to maintain your temperature settings. This results in higher utility bills and an inefficient system.
  • Presence of mold- There is a possibility of moisture creating growth in your ducts. An odor like the smell of dirty socks coming from your air vents can indicate the presence of mold in your HVAC system.
  • Presence of trapped critters- Occasionally rodents, birds or insects can become entrapped in the air duct system.  Any odor coming from the air vent system requires attention.

SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks offers air duct system inspections at no cost. You will receive results and a recommended plan of action. Commercial cleaning and maintenance plans are available. Call us today at 252-331-7889

Cleaning Your Building's Duct System

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

Do You Have Your Commercial Ducts in A Row?

Commercial buildings’ HVAC and air duct systems are the key players for good air quality. HVAC and duct cleanliness have a direct impact on how efficient your equipment functions. When the system is clean, it should function at maximum capacity and provide good indoor air quality and be more energy efficient, meaning lower electric bills.

  • Every 90 days to keep your commercial ducts in a row change out the system filters. Check any connections, wires, or motors for damage and get them repaired immediately to keep your HVAC system safe and functioning properly.
  • Annually inspect your HVAC system and duct work for any visible signs of mold, excessive amounts of dust and/or debris, and for rodents. Little pellets, odors, or noises coming from your duct work could mean you have a rodent infestation and you need to call a professional, SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks. SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks will give you a free air duct cleaning estimate.

If your HVAC system seem to be running all the time, or the electric bill costs seem higher than normal, or you see humidity on your windows and have unstable temperatures?  Then it may be time for a cleaning as these may be signs or symptoms that your HVAC system is in need of a checkup.

SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks knows the importance of a properly functioning Commercial HVAC and air duct system. When you need a professional cleanup and restoration of your commercial air ducts, call us at 252-331-7889 for that free estimate.

Commercial Air Duct Cleaning

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Air Duct Cleaning in Elizabeth City and the Outer Banks

What about air ducts?

While running a business, you probably don’t think about air ducts and the air quality in the building.   Usually it's not until the building's systems stop heating or cooling, will a facility manager be concerned, but did you know that regular maintenance to your air duct system can help improve the productivity of your HVAC systems and the quality of your air. 

A ductwork system is designed to distribute airflow from your HVAC equipment to your entire commercial building.  This encompasses the air that is sucked from the whole building in the air conditioner/heater where it gets cooled or heated and then pushed back via the ducts into your working space.

The intake and output of the air are determined by how efficient a duct system is.  Only air is moved via ductwork.  What’s more is that there are many ductwork constructions and shapes.  They may be oval, round or rectangular in shape.  It might be fashioned from a wide range of materials like flexible plastics, fiberglass or different metals.

There are several types of commercial HVAC systems and most have an air duct system.   Roof top units are most common and found on the roof or ground and duct the conditioned air into the space. 

SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks will inspect your HVAC air duct system at no cost. After the inspection, you will receive a report and a quote to clean your commercial system.  We offer scheduled maintenance cleanings that will help to keep your system running more efficient and help to provide good air quality.

Think you have dirty ducks?  Call us at 252-331-7889

by Kim Calantropo

Commercial Emergency Planning in Elizabeth City/Outer Banks

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Emergency Planning in Elizabeth City/Outer Banks

The Best Way to Reduce Business Interruption Following a Disaster is to Plan for it NOW.

By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.   All your contacts, your property manager, engineers’ info, etc. accessible at the touch of a button.

SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks offers complimentary ERP services to commercial business owners and facilitators.

Your ERP with SERVPRO® will include:           

  • A no cost assessment of your facility
  • A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in an emergency
  • A guide to help get you back into your building following a disaster
  • Establishes SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
  • Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
  • Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.

Call Missy Burns at SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks at (252)331-7889 today to get started!

Pre-Planning Helps Minimize Business Interruptions

7/20/2018 (Permalink)

Don't Be a Statistic, Call SERVPRO Elizabeth City/Outer Banks

Pre-planning for an emergency can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. Just knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

The SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile is a web-based interface design.  Our app is a no-cost readiness plan that places your ready plan data on your mobile device for quick access during an emergency.  Download the Free App

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

?A no cost assessment of your facility.
This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
 

?A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
 

?A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
 

?Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.

?Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
This saves time, so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
 

?Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Ready to Get Started?  Call 252-331-7889

Does Your Elizabeth City/Outer Banks Business Have the SERVPRO ERP Plan?

6/18/2018 (Permalink)

Let Us Help Your Business to be Ready for the Next Emergency

Your Business Should Have The SERVPRO® ERP System

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile system is a web-based interface designed to hasten our response times to business emergency calls.  The system was designed to help save business owner's time and money, allowing your doors to re-open more quickly.  

The SERVPRO ERP System requires the uploading of relevant information that completes and personalizes your business profile.  Upon your request, one of our Marketing Representatives will help you complete your profile at no cost.

Your business profile will help your SERVPRO Marketing Representative to know your specific emergency contacts, business needs and circumstances before the emergency strikes your business.

Our SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile system is especially beneficial to motels and restaurants when emergency relief workers will need to a place to stay and to eat. 

Here is a brief overview of some of the benefits the SERVPRO ERP System integration can provide your business.

Multiple Business Management 
When water damage strikes multiple business locations in Chesapeake, and surrounding areas at once, it can be difficult for some owners to form an adequate response plan of action for each of those locations.  The SERVPRO ERP System allows you to create a separate profile for each business under your jurisdiction.  This function has proved to be very effective in major storm and flood emergencies.

Insurance, Utilities, and Contact Management 
Businesses often have numerous connected suppliers, insurers, and other business partners that must be contacted in the event of an emergency.  The SERVPRO ERP System allows you to store and organize relevant contact lists and insurance information on a location-by-location basis, increasing communications efficacy for both you and SERVPRO.

SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks has been helping local homes and businesses from the effects of water damage through quality care, equipment, and personnel for over 20 years.

For more information on the SERVPRO ERP System call us at (252)331-7889.

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Commercial Properties

6/18/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Preventive Maintenance Tips

It is spring time, but winter conditions may have caused stress to commercial structures. Spring is an important time to make sure certain tasks are completed to prepare for summer and repair any damage caused by extreme cold and wet weather. Proactive maintenance can help prevent damage to a property, saving time and money throughout the year and can also help with insurance claims.  Below are a few items to be examined and cleaned.

Roof and Exterior

Wind, snow and rain can impact a building’s roof and exterior. Walking the property and being on the lookout for standing water or leaks from roofs and gutters is important. Chipped paint, siding dents and damage, cracked or leaking windows, foundation cracks, roof leaks, and clogged gutters should all be photographed, reported and repaired. If left unresolved, long-term issues can lead to more serious issues including foundation erosion and more.

Landscaping and Irrigation

Harsh winds, rain and snow can damage plants and limbs, especially on boxwoods, small shrubs and ornamental trees. Mulching, trimming broken limbs, pruning back plants, and cleaning debris needs to be done to prepare for spring growth.  Irrigation systems need to be checked for damage and proper drainage to be ready for the dry summer season.

Mechanical

Warmer temperatures arriving means the facility mechanical systems should be inspected and maintained. Replacement of air filters, flushing of water heaters, and checking carbon monoxide detectors and sprinkler and fire suppression systems should be done before summer arrives.

Call Us Today to Prepare Your Emergency Ready Profile-(252)331-7889

Commercial Water Damage in Elizabeth City/Outer Banks

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage in Elizabeth City/Outer Banks

Flooding and water damage can strike your Elizabeth City/Outer Banks commercial property at any time. Water damage can sideline your business, regardless if the damage occurs from a major storm event or a broken water line. 

At SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks,  we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area.  Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.  In many instances, normal operation can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Commercial Water Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore while working within your budget line.

Our staff are Highly Trained Restoration Specialists trained in property damage restoration.  From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to regular IICRC industry certification, rest assured that our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Remember, when you have an emergency water event in Elizabeth City/Outer Banks our Professionals offer fast, 24 hour emergency services, 365 days per year. 252-331-7889

Commercial Water Damage Restoration Facts

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage in Elizabeth City/Outer Banks

In the restoration industry, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to water and the havoc it can wreak.  

Water Restoration Facts

  • A sheet of drywall standing upright in 1/2" of water can absorb as much as 6 inches in less than 3 hours.
  • Water is known as a "universal solvent" because it dissolves more substances than any other liquid.
  • Mold typically begins to grow within 24 to 48 hours in an untreated, moist environment.
  • A puddle of water around a water heater indicates a slow leak, or rusted or corroded fittings.  Act quickly as water heaters are under a great deal of water pressure.

Water Contamination Categories in the Restoration Industry

  • Category One-Water from a clean source that poses no risk of sickness or discomfort such as from an overflowing bathtub or from a broken water supply pipe.
  • Category Two-Water that has a significant degree of chemical, biological and/or physical contamination such as water from a dishwasher or washer, or aquarium leak or discharged Category One water that sits untreated for more than 24 hours becomes a Category Two.
  • Category Three- Water coming from a grossly unsanitary source or carrying disease causing agents such as releases from septic systems and flood waters or discharged Category One water that sits for more than 48 hours becomes Category Three, or discharged Category Two water that sits for more than 24 hours becomes Category Three.

The use of chemical agents that act as biocides may be used when there is a need to control or destroy pathogenic microorganisms during a restoration project.  The EPA defines three levels of biocidal activity:

  • Sanitizers which are designed to reduce the number of microorganisms
  • Disinfectants which are designed to destroy or inhibit the growth, but not necessarily  the spores.
  • Sterilizers which are designed to destroy all microorganisms and their spores, such as mold, bacteria, viruses, etc.

Have Commercial Water Damage Questions?  Call 252-331-7889

Emergency Ready Plan in Elizabeth City/Outer Banks

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Our App is a No-Cost Readiness Plan for your Elizabeth City , Outer Banks Home or Business.

Be Emergency Ready Elizabeth City and the Outer Banks.  Our app is a no-cost readiness plan that places your ready plan data on your mobile device for quick access during an emergency.  Download the Free App

The SERVPRO® Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial.

It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your home or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.

Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your home or business.

Commercial Storm Damage Restoration in Elizabeth City and the Outer Banks

Storms and inclement weather can bring wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding that can devastate any business in a matter of minutes. 

Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

Want a Free Business Assessment? Call Us Today (252) 331-7889

Emergency Preparedness from SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks

9/13/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/ Outer Banks is a 24/7 Emergency Service provider no matter the time or the day, we will respond when disaster strikes.  

We want to help you make a quick recovery which is made possible with a quick response after disaster strikes.  SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks has prepared an Emergency Ready Profile sample for you to view and to consider implementing in your own business. 

Did you know that we will come to you and help you get your business profile set up so that when disaster does strike, the information in your Elizabeth City/Outer Banks Emergency Ready Profile will help to get your business up and running.   Use the Email address SPECityOBX.com, and use Password Ready.

At SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks, We are Here To Help® get your business doors open again and minimize your loss of revenue caused by the loss of operations.  Call us at 252-331-7889 to schedule your complimentary profile. #NatPrep #LikeItNeverEvenHappened #HereToHelp #NationalPreparednessMonth

Water Damaged Contents in Elizabeth City, Outer Banks

8/15/2017 (Permalink)

Ceiling leak caused contents water damage in Elizabeth City, Outer BAnks

Water Damages your stuff too.  At SERVPRO of Elizabeth City, Outer Banks,  we have seen our share of damage from a leaking pipe between the wall,  a leaking upstairs toilet, a relief valve in the dishwasher that failed in the middle of the night, and of course damage from mother nature.

Most often our first thought is about the floors or the ceiling, or the walls that are going to be ruined and your contents, your treasures, your projects, your books can be overlooked.  

We are your Emergency call to action experts when disaster strikes your home or business 24/7.  

For over 20 years, SERVPRO of Elizabeth City, Outer Banks helps to make it#LikeItNeverEvenHappened #HeretoHelp #SERVPROOBX

Rodent Infestation Cleanup in Elizabeth City,Outer Banks

7/24/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City cleans up after a rat infestation 252-331-7889

In most cases, you may never see a mouse or a rat, unless your infestation is severe.  Such is the case with a local business with a serious rodent infestation of rats living above the ceiling and in the walls.  Ceiling tiles had to be removed and replaced, the carpets had to be cleaned and treated to safely remove urine and feces.  

Evidence that you may have a problem is the obvious droppings around drawers, cabinets, or under the sink.  Nesting will produce piles of shredded material, so look for signs of chewing on walls, floors, or food packages.

If you see any of these infestation signs, please take action and precaution.  First,  you need to have the rodents trapped and removed and seal up all point of entry, holes.   This article offers advise on How to get rid of mice.   Once this has been successfully done, then the cleanup process can begin.

SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks technicians are trained and qualified to safely clean and disinfect your home or office to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Restoring Your Elizabeth City/Outer Banks Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

8/22/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Elizabeth City and Outer Banks commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks

SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.

The Levels of Commercial Damage

8/8/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks handles not only residential damage and restoration, but commercial as well.

There are three levels of commercial damage that are considered:

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include, but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include, but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include, but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.”

Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and return your business to operation “Like it never even happened.”®

Vandalism Damage Do's and Don'ts

5/27/2016 (Permalink)

When vandalism damage occurs to your property there are important things to remember while waiting for SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks to begin property restoration.

DO:

  • Hose or wash egg or other residue damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
  • Carefully vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery.
  • Save containers revealing the ingredients of products used in vandalism damage.
  • Record all damage and photograph when possible.

DON’T:

  • Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
  • Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
  • Discard broken or damaged pieces from porcelain, furniture or other contents that may be used for repair.

Always call SERVPRO® of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks first at (252)331-7889/(252)480-8557.

Emergency Ready Profile

5/2/2016 (Permalink)

It is estimated that up to 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster such as fire and flood never reopen! Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.

Are you “Ready for whatever happens?”

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.

The SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile serves as a quick reference of important building and contact information or can be an ideal supplement to any well-designed emergency preparedness or existing contingency program. Rather than simply reacting to disaster situations, most prefer proactive measures to establish a relationship with a restoration services company.

By working with SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks to develop your personalized Emergency Ready Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Call SERVPRO of Elizabeth City/Outer Banks at (252)331-7889/(252)480-8557 today.