Common Mistakes You're Making with Your "Small" Water Damage in West Riverside

8/12/2024 (Permalink)

The most critical mistake to make is failing to hire a professional restoration company to do the dirty work for you.

When Water Damage Strikes

When finding themselves in the midst of a water damage event, many people immediately react by jumping in and cleaning up the mess. Beginning the restoration process as soon as possible is important, but starting before you have taken the necessary steps or know exactly what you are doing could actually make things worse in the end. To help avoid these mishaps, a few of the most common mistakes in water damage clean up are listed below. The most critical mistake to make is failing to hire a professional restoration company to do the dirty work for you. SERVPRO of West Riverside City is your local expert to help you navigate the “waters”.

Mistake #1- Not Having the Job Done RIGHT the First Time

Adopting the “do it yourself” approach when it comes to water damage clean-up is often the go-to mindset. However, this is usually a more difficult process than people think. It can be a long process and following the proper procedures is very important. For example, if you neglect to begin airing out your home by opening up windows and doors for ventilation and using fans to dry things out as soon as possible, the damage will eventually be worse.

Mistake #2- Not Being Completely Thorough

As mentioned above, the water damage restoration process done right requires that you be very thorough. Cutting corners and major shortcuts will not make a big difference and can actually cause more damage. It is better to have the job done right up front, but it will not happen overnight. To ensure all the water is removed and mold will not begin to grow on and in your walls, ceilings, and carpet, you will want to make sure your contractor is certified to do the work needed in an appropriate time frame.

Mistake #3- Waiting Too Long

It can be tempting to put off dealing with flooding or water damage when it’s just a small incident, especially when life is hectic. Even minor flooding can lead to major damage in the long run. The water seeps into walls and flooring over time when not dried properly and can cause structural damage and mold growth. It’s not worth the risk to procrastinate. It could save you a lot of time, heartache, and money in the long run.

Mistake #4- Not Involving a Certified Restoration Company

Trying to tackle the water damage restoration process on your own is great undertaking. Having it done right the first time requires the proper expertise, the right equipment, and enough time to be as thorough as required. Though it may seem like you have the time and resources to clean it up, you will soon realize the process is more involved than originally thought. Should you ever find yourself in a situation where your home or business has been compromised by flooding or water damage, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at SERVPRO of West Riverside City.

Let SERVPRO of West Riverside City help you recover your property properly following a water damage event. Call us today 951-351-8033.

Learn To Secure Your Riverside Property From Water Damage Related Problems

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

Preventing Leaks to Your Riverside Home Is Better Than Mitigating Damages

Water damage can occur in many ways and all we have to do is to know our options to mitigate the effects. For instance, think about the kind of challenges that a clogged gutter can make your Riverside home experience. By failing to address it in time, the water leaks and accumulates around the foundation of your house. Within no time, cracks appear, and that means foundation damage could be the end-result.

Even when the foundation of your Riverside home does not suffer from water damage, there are chances that the resulting dampness may lead to mold growth. Mildew growth may lead to health effects and to avoid that you need to work with a restoration company like SERVPRO. This is when you need the right equipment to extract that water within the shortest time possible. When there is stagnant water on your property, our team may use water extraction method. Vacuum pumps work in such a way that they remove the water from a given area and direct it to a distant place or in a tank outside the house.

One of the most important activities we undertake during a typical water removal exercise is to identify concealed areas that might contain the moisture. Our SERVPRO technicians use specialized equipment such as infra-red cameras, moisture meters, and detectors to sense the presence of water in such areas and work towards removing it. In the process, we inspect whether the ceilings and wooden floors in your property are safe, and if not, we recommend a replacement.

While some water-related challenges are hard to prevent, there are some that our SERVPRO team can help you reduce chances of happening. I am referring to having an inspection of your plumbing system, washing machine, water heater and air conditioning units which are known to cause moisture build-up.

SERVPRO of West Riverside City is a proven industry leader in water damage restoration. Call us at (951-351-8033)  at any time of the day for service.

How Do Homeowners Choose Among Riverside Water Restoration Companies?

7/30/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO delivers the assistance you and your water-damaged property needs, adhering to the industry’s best practices for restoration

Have Confidence that Water Clean Up Success Will Follow Your Call to SERVPRO After Burst Pipes Cause Basement Flooding in Riverside

As if you do not have enough on your plate when the supply line to your home ruptures, the task of sifting through dozens of Riverside water restoration companies now delays recovery efforts. Finding a reputable local firm is vital for arranging water removal services and regaining your peace of mind. 

How Does SERVPRO Stand Out Compared to Other Riverside Water Restoration Firms?

The sum and substance of premier water mitigation and remediation company is high-caliber workforce training and a scalable inventory of commercial-grade water removal and drying equipment. SERVPRO insists on the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training for all our managers and technicians. Our evaluations, plans, and interventions for your project offer you a clear advantage by prioritizing:

What Does SERVPRO’s Response Look Like at Your Riverside Residence?

SERVPRO delivers the assistance you and your water-damaged property needs, not only adhering to the industry’s best practices for restoration but also working closely with you and your family to minimize disruptions and stress. Our on-site crews use state-of-the-art equipment to extract all water, clean and disinfect thoroughly and dry all wet materials and contents to proper specifications. At the same time, our office staff facilitates insurance claims and finds answers to all of your water damage restoration questions.

The team at SERVPRO of Riverside awaits 24/7. Call us at (951) 351-8033 for prompt and professional water damage repairs.

How to Clean Water Damage in Your Riverside Home

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians evaluate all contents of your home exposed to water or high humidity for cleaning and restoring.

Water Damage Restoration and Cleanup for Your Home in Riverside

Any kind of water disaster in your home in Riverside can be stressful and overwhelming. One minute your home is safe and dry, the next minute it could be underwater from a leaking pipe, overflowing tub or toilet, or a broken washing machine. Whatever the cause, you need help cleaning up the mess and restoring your home.  

Water damage to your Riverside property requires fast action to get it cleaned up before additional damage occurs. When you call our professionals at SERVPRO, you get trained staff who do not hesitate to get to you quickly. Once we get all the excess water out and your home dry again, our job is to clean and sanitize everything that was affected.  

Structural items like subflooring and walls may need cleaning. We use appropriate cleaning methods for each restorable material that was affected by the water using professional products made just for the job. For carpeting, we use a method of cleaning that is right for the level of soiling. We inspect the carpets to see if the dirt is primarily on the fiber tips or ground down into the fibers. We also see if the threads are very matted, or sticky and stiff.  If carpet is not restorable, we remove carpeting and padding and dry the surface below.

SERVPRO technicians evaluate all contents of your home exposed to water or high humidity for cleaning needs. Some wooden furniture can require cleaning and polishing from high humidity exposure. We check all storage areas, closets, and clothing for anything needing deodorizing and cleaning. We also look at wall hangings and photographs for damage from high humidity and condensation. Electronics might need special cleaning and drying services to restore them, as might sensitive items like pool tables, pianos, and clocks.  

When all our restoration services are complete, we finalize the job by ensuring you are happy with our work. We do one last check on the moisture levels to make sure your home is dry and do a complete walk-through as well, and if any issues are found we fix them before leaving.  

SERVPRO of West Riverside City prides ourselves in communication and maintaining a relationship with you throughout the restoration process of your home in Riverside. When you reach out to us at (951) 351-8033, you are getting a trusted company who cares about our customer.  

Steps That Must be Completed When Dealing with Water Removal in Riverside

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Our moisture reader on this Riverside home shows a high level of moisture within the walls. If you're not sure how bad the water damage is, call us!

SERVPRO Offers Swift, Professional Water Extraction to Mitigate Damages for your Riverside Home

Water damage might occur in your residence in Riverside when you least expect. It can be a shattering experience, and not too many individuals may know what to do when it happens. Note that it demands reaction as soon as possible to help reduce damage and salvage as much property as possible.

Homeowners in Riverside may not have the know-how to deal with water damage efficiently. You are better off working with professionals who have the training and equipment to extract the water and restore your home to its preloss condition.

SERVPRO is your go-to partners when seeking a reputable water damage restoration company that offers 24-hour emergency service and has the expertise and training to handle the removal and drying services. A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry, our SERVPRO technicians, can arrive swiftly to identify the source of moisture in your house. If the water intrusion is caused by a plumbing or appliance issue, we can attempt to shut-off the valve, preventing further water from spilling onto your home.

From here, our experts identify the category and classification of water damage. We do this to ensure that correct techniques are utilized that are based on industry guidelines. Contamination levels affect the restoration process. Many water issues do not soak large areas of possessions and building elements but require a vacuuming to mitigate damage and then the removal of lingering moisture.

Our SERVPRO WRT water damage restoration technicians move property contents and furniture from the affected areas to mitigate secondary damage. We also can block the items to prevent further stains, rust, and degradation. We inspect the carpet pad to determine if it can be salvaged or discarded. We try to restore rather than replace whenever possible. Depending on the extent of damage, experts may also utilize deodorizers and disinfectants as part of the treatment process.

Our SERVPRO crew typically discards non-salvageable items with the approval of the homeowner and if involved, the insurance adjuster. Our aim is complete customer satisfaction with our services. Our technicians go the extra mile.

Contact SERVPRO of West Riverside city anytime you need professionals to handle a water problem. We proudly serve Inland Empire and surrounding areas. Reach us at (951) 351-8033.

Planning Ahead in Case of a Burst Pipe | SERVPRO of  West Riverside City

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for restoration assistance.

Burst pipes are something that can happen when you least expect it, causing serious damage in a brief amount of time.

While there is no way to know when a pipe may burst, knowing what to do in the event that one does can help you act quickly to mitigate the damage that the water can cause.

In a perfect world, water damage would be a rare occurrence—but many people are surprised to find out how often it occurs. Every year, one in 50 homes will experience some type of water damage, but a plan can significantly lessen the impact that it has.

Having a Plan in the Event a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

Shut off your water main. When a pipe bursts in your home, in some situations, it can continue pouring water into the area, creating even more damage. If it is safe to do so, shutting off your water main can reduce the overall damages that are caused.

Shut off your electricity. Water and electricity definitely do not mix, so if you are able to get to your circuit breaker to cut your electricity off safely, it is wise to do so. This will ensure that if water comes in contact with outlets or appliances, there is not a shock or fire hazard.

Contact your restoration company. Setting your restoration in motion quickly is one of the best things you can do for water damage, so it is wise to get in touch with your restoration company right away. We recommend always choosing a company that is available 24⁄7 so you never have to wait for a call back when you report your damages.

Take a record of the damages. Not only is keeping good records helpful for you, but it will also be helpful if you are eligible to file a claim with your insurance provider. Take photos and videos in addition to making a list of everything that is damaged by the water.

Contact your insurance company. The type of coverage you will receive for water damage of this nature can vary, so your insurance company is the authority on what is and is not eligible to be covered by filing a claim. Contacting them quickly can help you set this process in motion so you can get it settled as fast as possible.

Open windows and doors if possible. If the weather permits and it is safe to do so, increasing the airflow around water damage by opening windows and doors can speed up the drying time by encouraging evaporation.

If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for restoration assistance. Contact us at any time 951-351-8033 to learn more about our restoration services.

Water and Flood Damage in Riverside: What's the Difference?

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

If you are experiencing water or flood damage, SERVPRO of West Riverside City can inspect the damage, remove the moisture, and make repairs!

Water is a necessity, but not when it is causing damage to your home or business.

If water damage does occur, SERVPRO of West Riverside City can clean and restore your home to make it as though it never happened. However, the cleaning and restoration after damage occurs is not the only piece of the puzzle. When water causes damage, consult a restoration company before submitting an insurance claim.

Filing an insurance claim because of unwanted water can be complicated. The first step is knowing the difference between a water damage claim and a flood damage. This information is crucial to the policyholder because it determines what is covered and what is not.

What is Covered

The distinction between a water damage claim and a flood damage claim can best be defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) flood definition. According to FEMA, a flood is a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres and two or more properties of normally dry land.

To simplify the matter, if the water that caused the damage occurred from a natural source and any neighbors are experiencing the same water issues, it is safe to say the situation is a matter of flooding. According to FEMA, flood damage can only be caused by overflow of inland or tidal waters, unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source, mudflow, or collapse of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels that result in a flood.

If a flood has caused damage to your home, it is important to know if you currently have flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, because home insurance companies do not offer coverage on flood damage. Having flood insurance is extremely beneficial to homeowners who think they might even have the slightest chance of being affected by a flood. The official site of the National Flood Insurance Program states that flood insurance policies cover physical damage to your property and possessions.

Everything from the actual building and its foundation to the refrigerator and the food inside of it is covered by flood insurance and will be taken into consideration when claims are filed. Flood insurance does cover basements and areas below the lowest elevated floor, but it depends on the flood zone and the date of construction. It is important to remember that flood insurance does not cover the sentimental value of any property, so be sure to remove any precious items such as photos, documents, or personal items that cannot be replaced as quickly as possible.

When Water Damage Occurs

When water damage occurs in your home, did not originate from a natural source, and is not affecting any surrounding buildings, a water damage claim is necessary. Circumstances such as overflowing bathtubs, broken toilets, burst water mains, and broken pipes are all grounds for water damage claims that should be filed by contacting your home insurance company.

Working through the process of filing both a water damage claim and a flood damage claim can be tricky and seem overwhelming. SERVPRO offers a Contents Claim Inventory Service for customers who already have enough stress to deal with. What this service does is provide a detailed and accurate list of all of your belongings. Our Technicians have the experience needed to deliver detailed and accurate reports to insurance companies and help settle claims fast.

If you are experiencing either water or flood damage in your home, SERVPRO of West Riverside City can inspect the damage, remove the moisture, and make repairs using state of the art extraction equipment as quickly as possible.

It is important to take immediate action when it comes to both water and flood damage. Refer to our Water Damage Emergency Tips and keep safety as your primary focus. Do not fret, SERVPRO has the ability and resources to go beyond just basic restoration by repairing electronics such as televisions and computers and also dry photographs and documents.

Highly trained Water Restoration Technicians are available around the clock for when damage occurs and are only a phone call away- 951-351-8033

Not Home For the Holidays, Protect Your Riverside Home!

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

Be sure to notify a trusted neighbor. Ask them to keep an eye on your house and report any suspicious activity and pick up your mail.

Traveling to visit family and friends during the holiday season is a perfect time since many have the time off work and kids are out of school.

For many, we live in another city or state than our family or friends. Which means start packing and get the family ready to head out. Before you leave, it’s important take the proper precautions to keep your house safe while you’re away. The holiday break can be enjoyable, as long as you take the steps needed to protect your house for when you return.

 Here are few to keep in mind:

Turn Down your Thermostat

Not only will you save money on your electricity or gas bill by turning off the heat or AC, but you limit your chances of an AC leak or furnace malfunction while you’re away from you home.

Notify a Neighbor

Be sure to notify a trusted neighbor. Ask the neighbor to keep an eye on your house and report any suspicious activity. You’ll also want this neighbor to pick up your mail and newspapers while you are away. Make sure your house looks like somebody is home to deter a burglar.

Check your Holiday Lights for Fraying or Damage

December is the deadliest month for electrical fires. Before you string lights on the house or the tree, be sure to inspect the strands to make sure there aren’t any frayed cords or cracked lamps. Replace any broken lamps and throw away strands with frayed cords. This will help prevent any accidental fires.

Heating-equipment

Can cause many deaths every year in the United States. In fact, in 2008, the U.S. Fire Administration reported approximately 2,650 people were killed by house fires. Take the time to have a professional come inspect your furnace and clean the chimney before you need to heat your home.

Turn Off your Water

By turning off your water, it ensures that you won’t come home to water damage. Appliances malfunction when you least expect it and if the water is turned off there is no chance your water heater or pipes will leak.

Locally owned, with national Resources SERVPRO of West Riverside is locally owned and operated. When you have a fire, flooding or water emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help. As fire and water damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly.

Please Call: 951-351-8033

What to Do When Making an Insurance Claim After Water Damage

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

If you are not sure if your damage will be covered by your insurance, contact your insurance agent first!

How to begin a water damage claims process

Whether it comes from bursting pipes, a broken appliance or a leaky roof, water can cause significant damage to your Riverside home. It can damage building materials, cause mold growth and ruin electronics. Homeowners insurance can help you pay for repairs. Take the following steps if you find yourself in this situation.

1. Call Right Away

It is important to start your insurance claim as quickly as possible. Not only will this result in completing the process sooner, but it will also help ensure that your claim isn’t affected. Some policies require you to report water damage within a certain time. If this is not done, it can reduce the amount you receive or can result in your claim being denied.

2. Document the Damage

Your insurance adjuster will need information on the areas of the house that were damaged, including whether there are bursting pipes and flooding, as well as any belongings that may need to be repaired or replaced. You should provide a list with pictures and the estimated value of included items.

3. Perform Mitigation

Mitigation is the process of preventing damage from spreading and worsening. This should be done quickly to reduce the amount of time and money needed to make repairs. An emergency cleanup and restoration company can inspect your home, fix broken pipes, remove water and repair the building along with damaged belongings.

4. Go Over Your Policy

Because individual insurance policies will vary, you should read over yours carefully. Make sure that you are familiar with anything that is required of you while making a claim as well as what is covered by your insurance. This will help the process go more smoothly.

Bursting pipes and other causes of damage can be frustrating to deal with. Making an insurance claim can also be stressful if you are unprepared. Following these steps can help you get through the situation more easily.

For help with your water damage claim call the experts at SERVPRO of West Riverside City

 Phone us at 951-351-8033

Do you Know the Difference Between Disaster Assistance vs. Flood Insurance?

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Flood insurance gives you peace of mind that you’ll receive the maximum amount available to fully recover after a flood.

If you experience property damage during a flood, you’ll likely be able to cover your recovery costs through disaster assistance funding—right? Possibly wrong.

In fact, federal disaster assistance isn’t guaranteed, and many residents overestimate the amount of funding they’ll receive (if any). As climate change worsens and residents face an increasing risk of damage from things like hurricanes, levee failures, and post-fire flooding, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared. Take the first step by visiting FloodSmart.gov to learn how flood insurance can best protect you against the financial impact of flooding.

Ready.gov helps us understand five key differences between disaster assistance and flood insurance:

• Disaster Declarations: Federal disaster assistance requires a Major Disaster Declaration from the president to authorize funding for FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Flood insurance does not require a disaster declaration, so policyholders can make a claim almost immediately after any flood event.
• Coverage: Both disaster assistance and flood insurance cover flood damage to your primary residence—but disaster assistance is only designed to make a home “safe, sanitary, and fit to occupy,” not to restore it to pre-disaster condition. Disaster assistance can sometimes be used for additional expenses like vehicle repairs, temporary housing, or medical fees, but only flood insurance offers building and contents coverage that is customizable to meet your needs.
• Payout: Federal disaster assistance often comes in the form of a FEMA disaster grant, which averages about $5,000 per household, or a Small Business Administration (SBA) loan. By comparison, the average flood insurance claim payment over the past five years was approximately $69,000. Unless purchased through a private vendor, flood insurance policies are backed by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) . You will never need to repay the NFIP for your flood insurance, but certain forms of federal assistance, like SBA loans, must be repaid with interest.
• Duplicative Expenses: FEMA cannot provide financial assistance when any other source—such as flood insurance—has already provided such assistance. For example, if your flood insurance company has already provided money for home repairs, you would not be able to receive additional disaster assistance for that claim; however, you could still receive FEMA disaster assistance to cover a separate, not-covered expense like vehicle damage.
• Future Flooding: If you do receive disaster assistance after a flood, you may be required to purchase and maintain a flood insurance policy going forward in order to be eligible to receive aid for any future flooding events.

Flood insurance gives you peace of mind that you’ll receive the maximum amount available to fully recover after a flood. Visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more about how to get started.

How to Locate Hidden Water Leaks Before They Cause Severe Water Damage

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Vigilance is the best prevention for water damage. Knowing where to look and what to look for can detect many leaks before they get out of control

Finding water can sometimes be difficult. Water often travels the path of least resistance, which means water coming in from one area might enter your home in another area.

The water damage mitigation and restoration experts at SERVPRO of West Riverside City are the leading water damage restoration professionals in the Riverside area. A water leak that remains undetected and continues to leak for more than a short time can cause serious property damage. When homeowners or property managers suspect the presence of a water leak, there are several ways to detect the leak before it can do more damage.

SERVPRO of West Riverside City is sharing five tips on how to detect water leaks. Once the leaks are detected, homeowners can either fix the leak as a DIY project if the issue is easily resolved, or they can bring in a qualified, bonded and insured plumber to repair the leak. If the leak is inadequately repaired and not restored to professional standards, the problem could arise again in the future, causing another water damage disaster.

To repair the water-damaged areas of the home, the homeowner should secure the assistance of trained water damage restoration professionals who can safely, efficiently, and properly perform the restoration process. Water leaks that have persisted unnoticed for weeks, months, or even years can cause damage that compromises the structural integrity of the home. Rotted flooring, floor joists, or support beams require special expertise to repair or replace.

Long-term water leaks can also create serious health hazards. An undetected water leak can create a perfect environment for the growth of mold and mildew. In just a few days or weeks, a massive mold infestation can erupt, requiring extensive and expensive mold mitigation. A simple leak that could have been repaired for less than a $100 plumbing bill or for a few dollars in parts from the hardware store ends up costing thousands of dollars to remedy.

Here are the five important hidden water leak detection tips that can save the vigilant homeowner time, money, and stress.

Water leak detection tip #1: Monitor the monthly water bill.

Riverside Public Utilities is proud to serve a city of over 300,000 residents with high-quality water. Monitoring water usage does not require physically reading the meter by the road or sidewalk. Riverside residents can find all the information they need on their monthly water bill. Simply compare last month’s usage with the current month’s usage.

What constitutes a spike in water consumption?

• Standard bath: 27 gallons
• Ten-minute shower: 20 gallons
• Leaky faucet: five gallons per day or 150-300 gallons per month
• Broken or cracked pipe: As much as 500 gallons per hour
• Garden hose left running at an outside faucet (5/8”): 1,000 gallons per hour

An extra bath or two or a long, hot shower after a hard day at work will not show up as a spike in the water usage total or the amount of the water bill. Watering the garden or yard a few times a week or leaving the outside faucet on all night will significantly increase the water bill.

A higher water bill with no known increase in usage signals a problem. At this point, the homeowner may need to run a water usage check at the meter. Make sure all the water in the home is turned off. If the installed meter has a leak indicator, watch for movement. Otherwise, take a meter reading and check back in an hour or two.

Water leak detection tip #2: Conduct a faucet inspection.

A worn rubber washer under the faucet handle is responsible for a portion of the one trillion gallons of water wasted due to household water leaks. The fix for the leak is simple: replace the rubber washer.

Water leak detection tip #3. Perform the toilet tank dye test.

Hundreds of gallons of water can be wasted by a leaking toilet. Remove the tank lid and add some food coloring or a dye tab. If the water in the bowl is still clear after thirty minutes, the system is leak-free. Replacing the flapper takes care of most leaks.

Having to jiggle the handle to stop the toilet from running may indicate that the flush bar and chain are sticking. The remedy may be adjusting the nut that holds the mechanism in place. In other cases, the handle may be so corroded it must be replaced. Plumbing can be intimidating to some homeowners, so do not hesitate to call a qualified plumber to address these simple maintenance issues. The cost of the repairs is worth the peace of mind and the money saved by stopping the leak.

Water leak detection tip #4: Perform a visual inspection of ceilings and walls.

Stains and discoloration on walls and ceilings can go unnoticed for quite a while because the evidence and damage occur so gradually. An infrequent guest may walk into the home and instantly spot the stain, discoloration, bubbled paint or wallpaper, or warping. When dusting or vacuuming, take a few seconds to inspect the walls and ceilings.

Water leak detection tip #5: Be aware of underground water leaks.

Outdoor water leaks may require expensive repairs. A broken pipe can add hundreds of dollars to a monthly water bill. Soft spots, darkened areas, and the smell of water may indicate a major outdoor water leak. If an area of the lawn is moist after many days of dry weather, the cause may be a water leak. Look for unexplained puddles or water flows next to the driveway or along the curb. If an outdoor water leak is suspected, contact the local water company for assistance. If the leak is outside of their coverage area, they can recommend a plumber.

Vigilance is the best prevention for severe water damage. Knowing where to look and what to look for can detect many leaks before they get out of control and cause a water damage disaster and a potential mold infestation.

Trust the water damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of West Riverside City  for water, fire, storm, and commercial damage restoration. For more information about water damage restoration in Riverside, contact the office by phone at (951) 351-8033 or by email at office@SERVPROwestriverside.com

Experience a Flood in Your Riverside Home? Here are 3 Important Tips

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

There's nothing worse than the sight of a broken pipe, flooded room, or soaking wet possessions.

If your home in Riverside has suffered from flooding, it can feel overwhelming, but with the right ideas in mind, your home is well on its way to being good as new.

1. Don't Touch Anything

Even if the damage in your home looks minor, hidden electrical wires and waterlogged drywall cause big safety issues. It's best to leave the dangerous work to the professionals. Many people don't realize how dangerous water in homes can be. Think of water damage in the same light you view fire damage: Unpredictable and risky. It may be tempting to wade in and recover a precious item but don't.

2. Schedule Repairs

Before the cleanup can get started, the source of the water must be found and stopped. If you suspect a broken pipe, call a plumber to get it fixed.

3. Call a Professional

After the leak has been repaired, it's time to call in the experts in water damage cleanup to restore your home to normal. With the right equipment, the pros restore homes to a pre-flooded state within a few days. Among several other processes, one of the most important steps that an expert takes is the removal of water from the walls and ceilings. Waterlogged drywall is a serious issue that can lead to collapse, but professionals will save as much as possible by drying the area. Most also employ industrial fans and heaters to dehumidify the area. Along with this, they also test for hidden moisture behind walls. Both of these steps help prevent the growth of mold. A specialist also comes equipped to dry your furniture and other personal items.

Whether it's a broken pipe or another source of water damage, with the right knowledge, you can quickly return your home to normal.

Contact SERVPRO of West Riverside City, we can help.  We are located in Riverside, CA and we can inspect your damage free of charge!

Call us at 951-351-8033

Visit our Website for more information and tips to guide your through the process!

For more information on flood damage visit IICRC

Our Water Damage Experts Can Save Delicate Items In Riverside Home

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage from sprinkler system wet the ceiling and caused the insulation to soak up water. Removal was done by SERVPRO of West Riverside City!

Saving Delicate Items Affected by Water Damage Incidents in Riverside

When there is a water spill, some items in the house are more prone to damage because of their structure and material composition. Some actions can help save the items if taken promptly after discovering water damage.

How Water Damages Carpets

If there is carpet in the area that was hit by water damage in your Riverside home, you might end up disposing of it if you do not take any action. Common problems include delaminating, whereby the backing separates from the rest of the material due to water action. Stains can also develop, especially if there are other items such as furniture resting on carpeted areas.

Saving Wet Carpets

Saving the carpet from water damage takes several actions, including removing items that can cause stains immediately after the spill. Our SERVPRO technicians expedite water extraction to reduce the exposure time using sophisticated equipment such as truck-mounted extractors and other high-speed pumps, which minimizes chances of delaminating. Depending on the amount of water spilled, we can do in-place drying. Floating the carpet helps ensure even drying on the bottom surface of the carpet, reducing the chances of mold developing.

Hardwood floor

Water spills on hardwood floors might necessitate replacement of the entire floor, which is quite costly. When wood absorbs significant amounts of water, it swells. Because they are tightly packed, the floorboards buckle at the joints to accommodate the swelling. Apart from reducing the time wood has to absorb water through fast extraction, our SERVPRO technicians also use specialized moisture control methods such as drying, setting up a drying chamber over the floor surface.

Wet Insulation

Wall materials such as drywall and insulation lose structural integrity when they absorb water. Drywall crumbles when wet, while insulation loses R-value. Although it is rarely possible to save these materials after they are wet, stopping the damage from spreading further from affected areas through wicking is necessary. Our water restoration crews from SERVPRO make flood cuts removing all the wet wall materials.

Quick action can help reduce losses incurred from water loss incidents.

Call SERVPRO of West Riverside at (951) 351-8033 to help save some items affected by the incident, “Like it never even happened.”

How to Recover from Water Damage to Your Riverside Property After a Fire

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and water damage due to a microwave that effected 3 floors of this apartment. SERVPRO was able to mitigate all damage.

Water Removal After Fire Suppression In Your Riverside Home

Disasters occurring in your Riverside home often do not exclusively fall into one category of damage or another. Recovering from an instance like a fire in your house requires specialists in the effects of the fire, but might also require those with certifications to contend with water damages and drying efforts as well.

While the fire damages to your Riverside home might be more than enough to get overwhelmed as a homeowner when you compound that with the need for water removal services, you need trusted technicians that can arrive quickly like our SERVPRO team. Our rapid response unit is available 24/7 to begin mitigation practices and early stages of restoration work to keep the situation from getting worse.

When it comes to contending with water damages that require extraction, time is of the essence. Our SERVPRO technicians have the tools and equipment to rapidly pull high volumes of water from the affected areas. Extraction is not the only point of concern about the need for water removal, as this damage can spread and saturate quickly through materials in the affected region of the property.

Oversaturation is a common occurrence in these situations, causing construction materials and surfaces to bloat and distort as the abundance of water warps their composition. If managed at the appropriate times, our professionals can work with air movers and dehumidifiers to pull the moisture from the area entirely, pulling the relative humidity in your home back to acceptable parameters to avoid effects like mold growth.

Contact SERVPRO of West Riverside City, we can answer your questions and we provide free estimates.  Call us 951-351-8033

Or you may visit our website with all our contact information. 

SERVPRO of West Riverside Website

Minor is Major When it Comes to Water Damage in Your Riverside Home

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

No job is too insignificant for SERVPRO of West Riverside Cit. If you suspect a tiny leak has become a major problem, give us a call at (951) 351-8033

Prevention and Maintenance Help Impede Significant Damage Due to Leaks.

Homeowners frequently make the mistake of thinking slight leaks cause no problems for their homes. Allowing a slow leak to continue depositing water inside a wall, on the floor, or under a cabinet are examples of things that cause significant damage to the structure of a building without the owner noticing. Eventually, you need our help to restore the harm and prevent collateral damage. 

A small but steady leak in the waste pipe connecting your kitchen sink to the main drain below contributes to a gradual spread of water damage in your Riverside home. Because the pipe damaged by the leak runs behind some cabinets and then down the basement stairs, you rarely take any note of it. Your neglect now results in a massive bulging of the wall near your water heater and furnace, and dirty water has begun to puddle on the floor and run in a ragged stream to a floor drain. There is a musty smell with a note of decaying food. 

One of our SERVPRO water damage teams arrives and assesses the area. We identify problems and devise a plan. Water is extracted from inside the wall with our specialized equipment. If we find mold, we employ EPA approved procedures to contain the area, remove the moldy material, and then sanitize. Our team coordinates with your plumber to replace the drain pipe, essential to make sure the mold remediation is successful. 

We then take moisture measurements and use our high-efficiency air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out the lower level area. SERVPRO’s mission is to restore, but because of the mold growth, we likely replace a portion of the wallboard that was soaked by the leaking over time. Porous materials are difficult to sanitize, and drywall is relatively inexpensive to install new. 

The cabinets in the kitchen also need inspection, and our team tests for moisture as the leaks may have extended closer to the sink. We take off the kick plates to scan for current or old water damage. If standing water reveals itself, SERVPRO team members extract it and aim air movers into the recesses and position a dehumidifier nearby. Again we evaluate for mold involvement and remediate if necessary. 

Although this type of water incursion is hardly dramatic, it is prevalent and causes serious water damage. Our team recommends you remain vigilant for this kind of leaking as it destroys structure from the inside out. 

No job is too insignificant for SERVPRO of West Riverside Cit. If you suspect that a tiny leak has become a major problem, give us a call at (951) 351-8033 to schedule a consultation. 

Smell Something Funny? It Might Be Water Damage in Your Riverside Home

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Most new homeowners are not water damage specialists, but the human nose is an excellent tool for sniffing out trouble.

How To Spot Water Damage in Your Riverside Home

Do you know when to be worried about a funny smell? Most new homeowners are not water damage specialists, but the human nose is an excellent tool for sniffing out trouble. Your nose is not the only way to spot water damage in your new home. SERVPRO technicians are certified at Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and can help handle any moisture problems you may discover after moving in. 

The sooner you notice a problem, the sooner you can call us to help mitigate ongoing damages. With summer in full session in Riverside, some water damage will be easier to spot. When you notice a problem, a highly trained SERVPRO professional can assess the extent of your damages. We can use our specialized equipment to remedy the issue fast. 

What should you keep an eye out for when cleaning your Riverside home? Start at the top. When looking for roof damages, obvious water stains aren't the only problem. Swollen insulation is usually an indication of water retention. Check your flashing (where the roof meets the walls) for cracks and look for missing shingles as well as more obvious signs like holes. Look at door frames and molding. Unusual stains or dark spots on the walls can mean trouble. 

Inside, make sure you check your appliances after you move in to be certain they are not leaking where you cannot see easily behind them. Cracked hoses and loose connections can be tricky. Ripples, buckling, and changes in texture can tell you the flooring has a water problem. Remember to trust your nose. If it smells wrong, it probably is. 

Outside water damages and mold are often caused by improper drainage. Check your spouts to see that they are clear and make sure you do not have water pooling around the foundation of your new home. At the first sign of damage, you can contact SERVPRO of West Riverside City.

No one wants to find water damages in their new home this spring. If you do, SERVPRO of West Riverside City is available at:

951-351-8033 7 days a week 24 hours a day.

We can make things “Like it never even happened,” so you can relax in your new house.

Protect Yourself Against Water Flooding in Your Riverside Home

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Check appliances such as washers, dishwashers, water heaters regularly and replace water lines when needed.

You can’t prevent every catastrophe that might come along, but we pulled together a few solid tips to protect yourself against water flooding in your home. Take a moment to check these out to minimize your flooding risk.

Clean your downspouts and gutters

With the many trees and windy conditions Riverside residents should add this task to their list.  Make sure to clean out your gutters at least once every six months or more often if you have a lot of trees near your Riverside home. When water collects in the gutters it can cause damage to your roof and the gutters themselves. Check to ensure water is running off properly and draining away from your house. Downspouts that aren’t clean can cause damage to walls and even your foundation. At SERVPRO of Riverside City, we see this issue surprisingly often. Clean those gutters and spouts!

Switch off the mains

If you are going on vacation or you are going to be away for a length of time, switch the water off at the main. This will stop any dripping or other water issues while you are away. You wouldn’t want to come home to water rushing out your front door to greet you! Unfortunately, our parched ground often absorbs the water so at first you may not even know you have a leak but at some point, the ground becomes saturated and then you have a big mess on your hands! If you have a drip system or sprinkler system, it may make sense to ask a neighbor, house sitter or your landscaper to turn these on and off manually. There are some systems you can control from your phone to water your landscaping too!

Keep your garden in check

While we’re on the topic of landscaping, trees and shrubs can cause damage to your pipes from the roots wrapping around the pipes. Keep your garden maintained and avoid planting large plants near piping if at all possible.

Take care of those small leaks immediately

Found a little leak? It may seem like a harmless drip, but a small leak can become a big water damage problem if not dealt with as soon as possible. Even tiny drips can cause mildew and mold in your home and even lead to structural damage and dry rot over an extended period of time. If you fix the leaks as they occur, you have less likelihood of the small issue becoming a huge problem later. If you have a sudden spike in your water bill, make sure you investigate for underground water leaks as well.

Check the appliances

Most people think toilets are the cause of most home floods but don’t forget about your appliances! Monitor appliances for leaks and replace any cracked and brittle piping. Things like a dishwasher or washing machine can flood your house out quickly if the appliance is not maintained adequately.

Flood damage in our homes is something most of us experience at some point in our lives. It could be caused by something as simple as an overflowing bathtub or something more serious such as a burst pipe or sewerage pipe rupture.

Flood damages to your home can range from minor to severe and dealing with the issue can be overwhelming. While some water issues cannot be foreseen, there are a few things you can do to prevent flood damages to your home from factors you have some control over.

If you experience flooding in your home, immediately call the water damage experts!

Get the help you need from SERVPRO of West Riverside City

951-351-8033 

Can I Afford the Cost of a Restoration Company?

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help homeowners understand issues to make appropriate decisions for their situation.

SERVPRO works with you and your Insurance company.

Once homeowners get over the initial shock of finding a water leak in their home, most begin to worry about the cost of restoration. How much are the restoration and repairs going to cost? Can their budget afford it? Can they cut any corners? Does their homeowner's insurance cover everything? These and other questions can quickly overwhelm people.

SERVPRO provides water damage services in Riverside, as well as restoration and repair and surrounding areas. We have been providing water damage services for many years. Our experience and technical certifications, combined with 24/7 availability and 4-hour response times, are aimed at mitigating the damage and controlling the total cost of recovery. There may be an additional cost and even health effects if homeowners do not take the proper steps to remove all moisture from their homes.

Making Informed Decisions

One of the first actions our crew chief takes upon arriving at your home is to complete an assessment of the damage. We make sure that the source of the water is under control, and we develop a plan to remove standing water, remove the moisture, and lower the humidity. If repairs are required, these can also be discussed with the homeowner and the insurance company adjuster. We prepare an estimate of the cost to complete all of this work.

Homeowners can quickly decide in conjunction with the insurance adjuster what action should be undertaken. Note that it is essential to act quickly to avoid long term damage to floors such as hardwood floors and also the growth of mold and mildew in your home. SERVPRO can deploy a team of people within hours of the initial leak to mitigate the damage.

Homeowners without insurance coverage must carefully decide what action to take. Delays or taking no action at all can lead to costly damage more significant than the initial cleanup and drying. Hardwood flooring can cup, crown, or crack, leading to total replacement. Cabinet structures may swell, become unsightly, and lose structural integrity. Worst of all, mold infestations may appear, leading to structural damage, health effects, and very unsightly looking conditions. All of these conditions can be much costlier to repair. SERVPRO can help homeowners understand these issues and make appropriate decisions for their situation.

Call SERVPRO of West Riverside City at (951) 351-8033 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Riverside and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Are you covered by your Insurance?

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

If disaster strikes SERVPRO can help by working with your Insurance agent or adjuster.

A question everyone should ask themselves, "Do I understand my homeowner’s insurance?"

This is a question everyone should ask themselves, Do I understand my homeowner’s insurance Policy? 

SERVPRO of West Riverside City has witnessed many who have a misunderstanding of how insurance coverage works or what is covered.  Protecting your home and valuables with coverage will give you more security if you have a good understanding.  Many policies are different and insurance carriers also have different guidelines or stipulations that you should be aware of.  After reviewing this article from Investopedia make an appointment with your insurance agent and have them go over your policy.  You will feel more at ease if damage occurs to you home or you experience water or fire loss and you understand exactly what is covered. 

Here are a few tips from Investopedia  Homeowners Insurance Guide:  A Beginners Overview-by Troy Segal:

• Homeowners insurance policies generally cover destruction and damage to a residence's interior and exterior, the loss or theft of possessions, and personal liability for harm to others.
• Three basic levels of coverage exist: actual cash value, replacement cost, and extended replacement cost/value.
• Policy rates are largely determined by the insurer's risk that you'll file a claim; they assess this risk based on past claim history associated with the home, the neighborhood, and the home's condition.
• In shopping for a policy, get quotes from at least five companies, and definitely check with any insurer you already work with—current clients often get better deals.

The article covers "What a Homeowner Policy Provides"

Some key takeaways:

• If you experience damage from fire, lightening, vandalism and other covered disasters you can be compensated for repairs or rebuild. 
• If maintenance on your property is lacking it can impact coverage, such as roofing that may need to be replaced.  If rain causes a leak due to this, it may not be covered.  It is important to keep up the maintenance of your home and keep records of those updates. 
• Most contents within the home would be covered if destroyed or damaged. 
• It is advised that you check with your insurance agent regarding coverage for valuables such as jewelry.  There may be a dollar limit and additional coverage may be needed. 

The article also discusses the "Different Types of Homeowners Coverage":

There are essentially three levels of coverage.

Actual cash value

Actual cash value covers the cost of the house plus the value of your belongings after deducting depreciation (i.e., how much the items are currently worth, not how much you paid for them).

Replacement cost

Replacement value policies cover the actual cash value of your home and possessions without the deduction for depreciation, so you would be able to repair or rebuild your home up to the original value.

Guaranteed (or extended) replacement cost/value

The most comprehensive, this inflation-buffer policy pays for whatever it costs to repair or rebuild your home—even if it's more than your policy limit. Certain insurers offer an extended replacement, meaning it offers more coverage than you purchased, but there is a ceiling; typically, it is 20% to 25% higher than the limit.

It’s a good idea to compare coverage with different Insurance companies.  If premiums seem cheaper with one company, it could mean some coverage may be lacking.  It's important to compare prices and coverage!

Should you experience damage from water or fire, remember to contact SERVPRO of West Riverside City before submitting a claim.  We can help determine from our free inspection whether the damage might be covered by your insurance and if it is worth the claim based on your deductible.  We are here to help.  We can make it, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of West Riverside City

951-351-8033

Chemical Drain Cleaners: Should They be Used on Your Riverside Home?

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

There are some drawback using chemical drain cleaners, be informed!

Are you pouring and flushing the wrong things down your pipes? Have you ever had water damage at your property because water was coming out of your toilets, bathtubs, or sinks?

Most water damage at times is caused due to the fact that a main line got clogged. If it's an indoor blockage, it could have occurred because of heavy materials or objects being flushed down into the drain. Blocked drains are often caused by sanitary products, paper towels or other hard to flush materials which can clog pipes and obstruct drains.

When you pour grease down the drain it sticks to the inside of your pipes and the pipes in the street. This can cause the entire pipe to become clogged over time. Other oil-based products are also dangerous to pour down your drain, such as... cooking oil, salad dressings, butter, mayonnaise, and fat. 

Are Chemical Drain Cleaners the Best Option?

A clogged drain has frustrated residents of homes across Riverside City. The fast and easy solution is to pour a bottle of commercial drain cleaner down the problem drain to clear away the blockage. Do they work? Can they damage your home's pipes? Here are some facts and a few tips on alternatives:

Chemical Drain Cleaners

Widely-used and powerful, chemically-based cleaners (caustic, oxidizing, and acid types) can help open up a partially clogged drain. They work by generating heat to break down a clog until it can be flushed out. However, there are drawbacks to their use:

Alternatives to Chemical Drain Cleaners

There are safer ways to clear blocked drain pipes. Mechanical options include flexible drain snakes or augers. Available in manually-operated, hand-cranked, battery-operated and electric models, this device can successfully clear drains without resorting to calling in a professional.

Enzymatic drain cleaners use bacteria or enzymes to devour organic materials like the hair, soap and food waste that collect and clump in drains. Although this biological option requires more time to clear a clogged drain — typically 24 hours — it's non-toxic and environmentally safe.

There are many home remedies, including the use of clothes hangers, wet/dry household vacuums and various mixtures of natural ingredients like salt, baking soda, vinegar and boiling water. All are effective depending on the severity of the clog.

Whether in the kitchen or bathroom, there are a range of proven solutions to stubborn blocked drains. With mounting concerns about health and the environment, chemical drain cleaners should be the option of last resort.

SERVPRO of West Riverside City uses State of the Art Equipment for Water Damages

11/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Riverside City understands that to continue to be the leader in restoration we need to use cutting edge technology.

SERVPRO of West Riverside City understands that to continue to be the leader in restoration we need to use cutting edge technology. That's why we've made it a point to add new equipment to our inventory regularly. We want to provide excellent work to our customers and to do that we need the right equipment. 

Here are a few pieces of equipment we use regularly for resolving water damage

Detection Equipment

Scoping damage involves our trained team members locating the areas affected by water and determining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Our trained team member’s use:

• Moisture Sensors – These are us to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.
• Moisture Meters – These are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate moisture readings that enable our SERVPRO® of Sumner County team member to monitor the drying process.
• Thermo-hygrometers – These measure both temperature and relative humidity. In capturing these two readings our trained team members calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.

Extraction Equipment

The most effective method of removing moisture from a structure is extraction. This is why it is crucial to respond quickly to a water damage and to provide emergency mitigation services. When the water is extracted quickly, the environment can usually be dried much faster.

• Extractors – These are used in cleaning carpets and upholstery and in removing water from floors following a water damage. Extractors can either be truck-mounted or portable, allowing for greater access inside structures.

Air Moving Equipment

Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level, thereby reducing drying time. As airflow at the surface level increases, the moisture in the air increases. This moisture is then eliminated via the use of dehumidification equipment.

Dehumidification Equipment

By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity, which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water damaged, structure, dehumidifiers pull in the moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials. SERVPRO® of Sumner County uses two types of dehumidifiers:

• Refrigerant Dehumidifiers – These work similarly to an air conditioner.
• Desiccant Dehumidifiers – The use chemicals, called desiccants, which readily absorb moisture from the air.

Need immediate help? Please call SERVPRO of West Riverside City 951-351-8033. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We can handle your emergency.

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Water Damage Inspection at City Landmark Home of Rosie Bonds

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Photo of technician inspecting underneath sink, Marketer Letty with Rosie Bonds, High school photo of Rosie Bonds, Front yard landmark.

SERVPRO of West Riverside had the pleasure of meeting Rosie Bonds former Olympic hurdler. 

We received a call from her agent My Tran of Farmers Insurance in Riverside of water damage asking if we could help Rosie out by inspecting the damage.

We sat down and chatted with Rosie about her family home in Riverside and the "hurdles" she's endured during her life.  Rosie was raised in Riverside, California.  Rosie's father worked on the homes built in the neighborhood of her family home in 1956, and purchased it in 1957.  She referred to it as, "a middle class house back in 1956, but it's small now… and although it is old, it's made very well."  With 4 children and 2 adults in a 3 bedroom home they managed as a family.  She compared homes back then to nowadays, "where rooms are large and homes are larger than life".  Everything in the house from furniture to flooring is original, her mother didn't want any changes made and also emphasized they could never sell the house. I was sitting on a sofa that had been with the family since the 1940s and very well taken care of.  She has plans to update some things, but everything costs money. 

Outside, you see an ordinary humble home with a chain link fence and a green lawn.  The house was declared a city landmark in 2009.  You can read the inscription on the stone in the front yard, reading, "Bobby Bonds Residence 1957- Elizabeth and Robert Bonds Sr. moved here in 1957 with their 4 children.  Rosie, was a 1964 Olympic Hurdler.  Robert Jr. and David were also top athletes.  After starring in multiple sports at Riverside's Poly High School, Bobby Bonds signed with the San Francisco Giants in 1964.  As a pro baseball player, he was legendary for power and speed.  He was the first to hit at least 30 home runs and steal at least 30 bases in one season, a feat he repeated 5 times.  He was also the first baseball player in the 20th century to hit a grand slam in his first pro game.  A three time All-Star, with 332 home runs, 1024 RBIs and 461 stolen bases, he played in the 1971 National League Championship Series, was 1973 All-Star MVP and won 3 Gold Gloves.  His baseball legend son, Barry, was born in Riverside, while the family lived here in 1964.  Cultural Heritage Board Landmark No. 122 City of Riverside."  Rosie is proud of their family home and says, "We've had some beautiful days here, beautiful days." 

Rosie who was once an Olympic hurdler, set several national records in the hurdles; won the national outdoor hurdle championship (1963, 1964), and competed internationally, represented the U.S. in the Tokyo Olympics (1964).  After retiring from athletics, she started a career in nursing.  She became a licensed vocational nurse working in the Bay area and traveled back and forth to Riverside to care for her mom.  In 2002 she was disabled in a car accident that left her without a job and without a home; she remained homeless living out of shelters and her car for several months.  Her injuries from the car accident left her destitute.  Rosie has a great outlook on life, she has overcome many struggles.   In speaking with her she still has so much to offer.  She runs Bobby Bonds day for kids in the area (although due to COVID it was canceled this year), she delivers food to those in need and she speaks openly about life's hurdles.  Truly a pleasure speaking with Rosie Bonds!

National Preparedness month- Landslides & Debris Flow in Burned Areas

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

With the recent fires and new burn areas, there is a threat of landslides and debris flow during the upcoming rainy season in Riverside County. 

Here are some tips from Ready.gov:

Landslides occur in all U.S. states and territories and can be caused by many factors including earthquakes, storms, fire and human modification of land. The most deadly landslides are the ones that occur quickly, often with little notice.

In a landslide, masses of rock, earth or debris move down a slope. Debris and mud flows are rivers of rock, earth and other debris saturated with water. They develop during intense rainfall, runoff, or rapid snowmelt, changing the earth into a flowing river of mud or “slurry.” They can flow rapidly, striking with little or no warning at avalanche speeds (faster than a person can run). They also can travel many miles from their source, growing in size as they pick up trees, boulders, cars and other materials. Debris flows don’t always stay in stream channels and they can flow sideways as well as downhill.

When a wildfire burns a slope, it increases the chance of debris flows for several years. Although some landslides require lengthy rain and saturated slopes, a debris flow can start on a dry slope after only a few minutes of intense rain. “Intense” rain means a burst of rain at a fast rate, about half an inch in an hour. With debris flows, the rate matters more than total rainfall.

How to protect yourself or your property depends on the type of landslide. Land-use zoning, professional inspections, and proper design can reduce many landslide problems but evacuation is often the only way to protect lives from a debris flow or other fast-moving landslide. Never ignore an evacuation order.

Before a Landslide

The following are things you can do to protect yourself, your family and your property from the effects of a landslide or debris flow:

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Connect with your local emergency services, heed evacuation warnings.
• Leave if you have been told to evacuate or you feel it is unsafe to remain in your home. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).
• Prepare for landslides by following proper land-use procedures - avoid building near steep slopes, close to mountain edges, near drainage ways or along natural erosion valleys.
• Become familiar with the land around you. Learn whether landslides have occurred in your area by contacting local officials. However, don’t assume that what happened last time will happen next time. Debris flows can start in places they’ve never been and return to slopes where they’ve already been.
• Get an assessment of your property by a qualified geotechnical professional.
• Consult a professional for advice on appropriate preventative measures for your home or business, such as flexible pipe fittings, which can better resist breakage.
• Protect your property based on of recommendations from the ‘qualified geotechnical professional’ and/or local city/county guidance on protection from debris flow and flooding.  You can't stop or change the path of a debris flow. However, you may be able to protect your property from floodwaters or mud by use of sandbags, retaining walls or k-rails (Jersey barriers).
• In mud and debris flow areas, consider building channels or deflection walls to try to direct the flow around buildings. Be aware, however, that when a flow is big enough, it goes where it pleases. Also, if you divert a flow and it flows on a neighbor's property, you may be liable for damages.
• If you are at risk from a landslide talk to your insurance agent. Debris flow may be covered by flood insurance policies from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Recognize Warning Signs

Watch for debris flows and other fast moving landslides that pose threats to life:

• If you are near a wildfire burn area, sign up for emergency alerts and pay attention to weather forecasts for the burn area. The weather in the burn area could be very different from where you are.
• Listen and watch for rushing water, mud, unusual sounds.
• Unusual sounds, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together, might indicate moving debris.
• A faint rumbling sound that increases in volume is noticeable as the landslide nears.
• Fences, retaining walls, utility poles, k-rails, boulders, or trees move.
• Huge boulders in the landscape can be signs of past debris flows.

Watch for slow-moving landslides that pose threats to property:

• Changes occur in your landscape such as patterns of storm-water drainage on slopes (especially the places where runoff water converges) land movement, small slides, flows, or progressively leaning trees.
• Doors or windows stick or jam for the first time.
• New cracks appear in plaster, tile, brick, or foundations.
• Outside walls, walks, or stairs begin pulling away from the building.
• Slowly developing, widening cracks appear on the ground or on paved areas such as streets or driveways.
• Underground utility lines break.
• Bulging ground appears at the base of a slope.
• Water breaks through the ground surface in new locations.
• Fences, retaining walls, utility poles, or trees tilt or move.
• The ground slopes downward in one direction and may begin shifting in that direction under your feet.

During a Landslide

• Listen to local news stations on a battery-powered radio for warnings.
• Heed all warnings and evacuation notices.
• During a storm that could cause a landslide, stay alert and awake. Many deaths from landslides occur while people are sleeping.
• Be aware that by the time you are sure a debris flow is coming, that will be too late to get away safely. Never cross a road with water or mud flowing. Never cross a bridge if you see a flow approaching. It can grow faster and larger too quickly for you to escape.
• If you do get stuck in the path of a landslide move uphill as quickly as possible.
• Avoid river valleys and low-lying areas during times of danger.
• If you are near a stream or channel, be alert for any sudden increase or decrease in water flow or water that changes from clear to muddy. These can be signs that a landslide is coming.

After a Landslide

• Stay away from the slide area. There may be danger of additional slides.
• Listen to local radio or television stations for the latest emergency information.
• Watch for flooding. Floods sometimes follow landslides and debris flows because they may both be started by the same conditions.
• Check for injured and trapped persons near the slide, without entering the direct slide area. Direct rescuers to their locations.
• Report broken utility lines and damaged roadways and railways to appropriate authorities. Reporting potential hazards will get the utilities turned off as quickly as possible, preventing further hazard and injury.
• Allow trained professionals to check the building foundation, chimney, and surrounding land for damage.
• Replant damaged ground as soon as possible since erosion caused by loss of ground cover can lead to flash flooding and additional landslides in the near future.
• Seek advice from a geotechnical expert for evaluating landslide hazards or designing corrective techniques to reduce landslide risk. A professional will be able to advise you of the best ways to prevent or reduce landslide risk, without creating further hazard.

Tip Sheets

• Landslide Information Sheet (PDF)

If you live in a burn area, follow the guidance from READY.Gov, keep SERVPRO's number handy and be sure to follow evacuation orders. 

SERVPRO of West Riverside City

951-351-8033

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for tips and updates.

Check out our blogs throughout the month of Sept for more information on how to prepare for disasters, especially those prone in the Riverside area.  Make a plan, and talk to your kids to keep your family safe. 

What can Cause Plumbing Issues on your Riverside Property? Here are 8!

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

A water fountain leaked and flooded this room at a school. SERVPRO of West Riverside extracted the water and complete the drying process.

Plumbing - the home maintenance that nobody wants to do or ever think about until there is a real problem.

It’s not your fault; we’re all guilty. The only way to really understand why you should keep up on it is to educate yourself on all of the worst case scenarios and what causes them. We’ve compiled a list of some of the biggest plumbing issues and we hope it will make you see exactly why you need to stay vigilant.

Is Your Riverside Water Bill Too High?

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

This water filtration system was leaking water causing damage to the kitchen and dining room, SERVPRO of West Riverside was there to help!

It can be normal for your water bill to fluctuate from month to month - you may be watering your lawn more in the Spring or Summer, or doing extra laundry if you have guests visiting.

As long as you know why your water bill is higher, there shouldn't be any cause for alarm. However, sometimes you may notice an unexpected large increase…and that could be a sign of water a water leak causing damage.

To help you prevent severe water damage to your property, here are 4 common kinds of leaks to look out for that may be causing your water bill to be too high:

Leaking Faucets

A leaky faucet may just release a few drops of water, but if you wind up with a severe leak you could be wasting as much as 20 gallons of water every day. That’s why it’s important to check each faucet to make sure there are no visible signs of a leak.

One way to check is by placing an empty cup underneath the faucet and making sure no water collects.  You’ll also want to take a look at the piping in the cabinets underneath the sink, and don’t forget to check your outside hoses and water sources as well!

Leaking Pipes

Plumbing leaks can sometimes be difficult to detect as many of your pipes may be hidden behind walls or above the ceiling.  Still, you can check all the visible fittings and fixtures for any signs of damage or leaking.

As for your hidden pipes, you can pay attention to the ceiling and walls themselves. If you notice any signs of discoloration, deterioration, or mold, that can be a clue to the source of the problem.

Leaking Toilets

A continuously running toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons of water every day and cause your water bill to soar.

One easy way to check if you have a leak is to dispense a few drops of food dye into the tank of your toilet.  If you see the color start to come into the bowl, that’s a sign of a potentially bad leak.

Purification Systems / Water Softeners

If you use a water softener or purification system, that could be the cause of your bill increase. These systems tend to produce more waste water than other plumbing systems.

If you water bill is suddenly high, you want to make sure that these systems are working correctly and not producing excessive water waste. 

Here at SERVPRO of West Riverside City, we are available 24/7 and can be at your home quickly to help you if you do have water damage.  Our local team is made up of the best advanced technicians with the training and equipment needed to handle any size disaster. 

Water Damage? Respiratory Issues? Kitchen Appliance Maintenance Tips That Can Help!

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Riverside homeowner was very happy and his mind was put at ease, when we took all precautions for his son with respiratory issues.

SERVPRO of West Riverside City assisted with a leak from water filtration system where the kitchen cabinets and dining room were affected.

The young son of the homeowner had serious respiratory issues and the homeowner was very concerned about the water damage and the demo. To put the homeowner at ease, we contained off the work area, used air scrubbers and a HEPA vacuum.  The HEPA filter will capture small particles such as mold, bacteria, asbestos, lead, dust and many other airborne contaminants. Air scrubbers will continuously clean the air and provide a clean, healthy and productive environment.  HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) vacuums differ from conventional vacuums in that they contain filters that are capable of trapping extremely small, micron-sized particles. A true HEPA filter can trap 99.97 percent of all airborne particles larger than 0.3 microns.  Finally, we cleaned all affected surfaces. The homeowner was very happy and his mind was put at ease.

What can you do to prevent such damage? 

Some of the home floods commonly occur in the kitchen due to its many water outlets.  For most homes, the kitchen commonly incorporates multiple appliances that connect to a water supply line.   It is important to understand that water damages that occur in the kitchen may possibly spread past the kitchen and create larger damages throughout one's home.  Keep your home prepared by periodically checking the appliances to help reduce water damage incidents from occurring.   

However, a few common items that may lead to a kitchen flood are as follows:

Dishwasher

Over time, the water supply line in a dishwasher may degrade.  This can lead to water leaking into enclosed areas under the appliance and rupture entirely.  Check this line twice a year by removing the kick plate at the front of the dishwasher and use a flashlight to inspect the space and surrounding areas.  If the area is wet with no explanation, this should be taken as a red flag.  The dishwasher water supply line shut off should be located under the kitchen sink; turn it off and call a plumber. 

Under Sink System

Underneath the sink, you may find a water filtration system.  As time passes, the lines can degrade and rupture.  A crack in the line can lead to flooding and potentially much worse.  Check the sink twice a year to avoid any costly damages.  

Leaking Sinks

If your kitchen or bathroom sink is leaking, you can find yourself dealing with water and possibly mold damage. The problem is, sometimes it is hard to know why it’s leaking and where it’s leaking from. So we wanted to go over a list of common causes of sink leaks so if you ever find yourself dealing with one you can go down this list and hopefully be able to either fix the problem yourself or better articulate the problem to a plumber/repairman.

• Drain Leak: Leaks can come from a thinly sealed drain or from a  drain that is old and worn. It is possible to identify and fix this situation on your own by tightening the nuts located at the point where the pipes meet. However, if you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself, you can reach out to a plumber to check it.
• Faucet Leak: This type of leak is easier to identify. Water puddling at the top of the sink when the faucet is turned on or water collecting under the sink can be big indicators. This is a problem generally caused by failing washers or worn-out gaskets, and possibly a faucet that needs to be completely replaced. Either way, you can generally take care of these problems on your own and should only need to call a plumber if you are uncomfortable attempting to do it on your own.
• Leaks from the Rim Around The Sink: Simply put, this leak comes from an unsealed section between the sink and countertop. This can be fixed by re-caulking or tightening whatever connects the sink to the counter.
• Loose Water Supply Connection: This leak is generally constant and is out of sight and fairly hard to identify. Usually caused by corrosion or a bad gasket in the connector. Tightening the connection or replacing the gasket can be the solution to the problem.
• Clogged P-Trap: The P-section is a curved section of a pipe which prevents foul smells from seeping through the drains. If it gets clogged, it can prevent proper draining causing leaks. It’s possible you’ll just need to unclog it, but it might need to be replaced, which is definitely the job for a plumber.
• Damaged O-Rings: This is what prevents leaks in the area where the faucet is being held in place. So if there is an issue with the O-ring, you could have quite the mess on your hands. Luckily this is something you should be able to just replace on your own.
• Worn-Out Washers: This is one of the most common leak causes. Constant friction wears them out, and replacing them is something you can do on your own if you want to.
• Corroded Valve Seat: Corrosion can be prevented with regular cleaning, but if the valve seat gets corroded to a certain point you would be better off contacting a plumber to let you know if it needs to be replaced or not.

Refrigerator

Moving the refrigerator may be tricky sometimes.  It's important to be cautious about its placement.  Moving the refrigerator too close to the wall may kink or break the water supply line.  However, having the refrigerator too far out may cause potential over-stress on the line and potentially cause the line to rupture.    Keep in mind, the plastic water supply line degrades over time and can crack or break.   To prevent water damages from potentially happening, it is advisable to remove the plastic line and replace it with a copper or stainless-steel line that has better durability.  

Being prepared can help prevent a disastrous situation.   By regularly checking on these appliances, you will help avoid any catastrophic damages.  SERVPRO of West Riverside City is faster to any sized disaster, and we are here to help 24/7/365 to make it "Like it never even happened."

Riverside Elementary Schools Faces Major Water Damage from a Water Fountain

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can quickly lead to a mold infestation and prevent kids from going to school. Contact SERVPRO for remediation.

Education is something that Riverside residents take seriously, and that is why when a disaster threatens one of our local schools, it is critical to get this situation resolved immediately. 

Water damage in a Riverside School is often among the situations that get overlooked by overseers as minuscule or non-threatening. Unfortunately, this is not the case. An inadequately or improperly cleaned and restored water damage incident can lead to many severe effects for the building and also those that use it.

One of the first concerns is the penetration into flooring and wall materials like drywall, wood, and linoleum. In just a brief period these materials can become oversaturated and deform, break loose and fail. This hazard can affect both faculty and students and persist gradually after the water was presumably cleaned up with conventional approaches.

Another pressing concern for school officials should be persistent dampness and moisture. These conditions could lead to hazardous secondary effects like mold growth which could affect those occupying the building. Our SERVPRO team utilizes moisture detection equipment to ensure that our efforts have successfully removed all of the water from the affected areas, not just the areas that can be readily seen.

One of our local elementary schools experienced water damage from a drinking fountain. SERVPRO was called to mitigate the damage.  The water ran into several classrooms, hallways and an office area.   Our first step was to extracted the water.  This step removes the majority of the water from the property. By performing a thorough water extraction, SERVPRO of West Riverside Professionals help reduce the drying time and help to prevent mold and secondary water damage. Once the excess water has been removed, the floors and walls may appear dry, but a quick inspection will reveal they are wet to the touch. Nearly all building materials, like wood, drywall, and flooring materials, are porous and therefore retain water. This retained water can cause the materials to break down, warp, or cause mold damage.  We found it necessary to remove the baseboards, drill ventilation holes for drying, and then reset the baseboards. 

The next step is drying and dehumidifying.  We will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers to dry your property. We will carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until the materials return to acceptable drying goals. 

• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers help prevent secondary water damage like swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.
• High-speed air movers create airflow across walls, carpets, pads, and furniture, which accelerates the evaporation of moisture.

Our SERVPRO professionals are available 24/7 to help with water damage emergencies faced by any of our Riverside schools. This commitment ensures that your institution is getting highly trained restoration specialists with industry-leading equipment to overcome any level of water damage incident that you face.

SERVPRO completed the job and made it, "Like it never even happened."  

When you are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of an entire school, there are often hundreds or even thousands of people to consider with every decision. Trust in the experience and rapid response of our SERVPRO of West Riverside City water restoration team to help you through every step of restoring the building. Give us a call today at (951) 351-8033.

Heavy Rains in March caused Water Damage in nearby Riverside City

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

This was the damage that resulted from a water leak from rain last month.

Rainfall and colder than usual weather going into March, is not something Californians are used to. 

Californians experienced wetter than normal conditions into March that led us into our Stay-at-Home order.  Many experienced water leaks and flooding due to this rainfall.  One home owner, and business owner of Kulture Konnect, felt the effects at her place of business and also at her home. 

Niki's work location began with a leak and turned into a stream of water coming through her office ceiling panels.  SERVPRO of West Riverside City, inspected the leak and provided guidance.  As for her home, we were able to inspect using photos, then performed an onsite inspection.  Why address water damage right away?

The initial dangers of a roof leak are damage to the attic area. If there is no attic, or the size of the leak is really big, it will damage the interior ceiling. Affected ceiling paint will darken and ceiling plaster may bubble and expand. The leaking water will also damage paint and plaster on nearby walls. You can also expect damage on ceiling-mounted lights and fans.

Did you know that secondary damage can occur after water damage in your home or commercial building?  If water damage is not properly treated, the perfect environment is created for mold spores to grow in your home and to contaminate the air that is breathed.

After water leaks,  a home or business can develop mold from the moisture.  Black mold is the most common type resulting from chronic water intrusion. Toxic black mold growth is rare, but even non-toxic, black mold attacks wood framing, ceiling tiles, walls and floor coverings. Mold is difficult to get rid of, and can be costly.

 A roof leak repair should take the highest priority on your list of home maintenance issues.

It is crucial that the source of the leak is fixed to make sure that it does not happen again.

It may be hard to identify but this is one of the most important steps of restoration.

Roofing leaks can develop for a variety of reasons: improper roof installation, wind or storm damage, and lack of maintenance. Keep in mind that most roofs are only meant to last 20 to 30 years so it could simply be time to replace your roof.

SERVPRO of West Riverside City strives to prevent secondary damage every time we remediate water damage. Building material and flooring are dried and treated to prevent mold and other allergens/contaminates using specialized equipment and cleaning products.

In Niki's home SERVPRO of West Riverside City contained the area to begin the drying process.  We use scientific drying methods to draw remaining water and moisture from your property with air movers and dehumidifiers.  Then we clean and sanitize.  Water damage also affects your belongings, like furniture, clothing, and personal items. SERVPRO of West Riverside can clean restorable items using a number of specialized cleaning techniques. We also sanitize with antimicrobial treatments and remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Our SERVPRO of West Riverside City team can work directly with your insurance provider to make the claim process simple. We achieve that by recording essential details and communicating with the insurance adjuster throughout the process. We also understand the importance of letting our customers know everything about the procedures we use during the restoration process. 

When your residential or commercial property experiences a water damage incident, call SERVPRO of West Riverside City to know your options. We offer emergency cleaning and restoration services at any time of the day or night, call (951) 351-8033 to work with our experienced technicians.

If you would like more information on how SERVPRO can help you, visit our website, we're available for your emergency needs 24 hours a day 7 days a week, including holidays! We are local to Riverside and ready to help.

About Kulture Konnect

If you would like to learn more about Kulture Konnect and how they can help your business, visit their website or their Facebook page.  They are amazing and offer Full design service, Websites, Social Media Management!   

"Kulture Konnect can serve as your design and marketing department taking care of all – or complementing your internal – graphic design and marketing efforts. We are confident that our expertise in graphic design services like branding, print, website design and development, blogging, email marketing, SEO, content marketing, social media marketing, infographic design, e-book design and more will allow us to provide you with a complete and positive experience. Less"

If you're re-opening your business and need some assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to them!

Understanding Water Damage To Your Riverside Home

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Riverside City can help with your emergency water damage loss. We are open!

Water Damage: Your Quick Reference Guide

If you're like the majority of Americans, your home is your most valuable possession. As such, you want to do all that you can to protect it against man-made hazards and natural disasters. One of the most severe threats to the structural integrity and safety of your home is water damage. By learning more about what causes water damage in Riverside and how to correct it, you can keep your residential property in great condition:

What Causes Water Damage?

As water damage experts know, there are several factors that can lead to water damage. One of them includes natural disasters like floods and storms. Riverside water damage can also transpire as a result of household factors like cracks in the roof, overflowing washing machines, leaky dishwashers, and broken pipes.

The Effects Of Water Damage

Unfortunately, water damage can have a profoundly negative impact on your property. For example, the water can corrode your home's foundation, baseboards, and drywall. It can also ruin your electronics, appliances, upholstery, and furniture.

According to Insurance Business America, “The number of water damage claims resulting from leaks has surged”.

Water Damage Categories

Generally, water damage is classified into three groups. They include:

Category 1- Category 1 is referred to as clean water. This type of water damage poses no significant harm to you or members of your household. Category 1 water typically results from broken appliances and overflowing sinks.

Category 2-  Category 2 water is referred to as grey water. This type results from broken sump pumps and toilets. This water can be contaminated with bacteria and is thus a threat to the safety of you and your loved ones.

Category 3-  Category 3 water is water from the sewer. It is contaminated and can have an adverse impact on your health.

Preventing Water Damage

There are several strategies you can implement to prevent water damage from transpiring on your property. Some of them include:

• Elevating appliances
• Tightening faucets
• Shutting off supply valves

Even when you implement strategies to prevent water damage, excess water can erupt on your property at any moment. To ensure that your home is safeguarded against damage from standing water, call the professionals of SERVPRO of West Riverside City.

Our IICRC-certified technicians will provide you with the detail-oriented, client-centered care that keeps you calm throughout the remediation process and leaves you satisfied with the results.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of West Riverside City is strategically located to respond quickly to your flood and water emergency event. When water damage occurs in Riverside, we have the resources and personnel to help.  951-351-8033

Preparing Your Riverside Home to Transition from Winter to Spring

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

Is your Riverside property prepared for spring? Call us at 951-351-8033!

There’s the feeling of spring in the air in West Riverside City.

There are birds in the yard, and in Southern California wild flowers have made their appearance. Spring is just around the corner! And we know you are ready for it. Is your home? Here are a few things to think about when it comes to the transition from cold winter weather to the warmth and sunshine of spring.

First on your list should be your gutters. They can be full of dead leaves, small branches, and even dirt from the rough weather. Get those gutters cleaned out right away so the spring showers don’t cause mold problems and water damage to interior walls, because that can be a big issue. Make sure the downspouts are directing water the right way, as well. Tough West Riverside winter weather could have caused them to change position.

How’s your roof faring? Keep an eye on it to see if any leaks have started due to storm damage over the past few weeks and months. Take a look at any vents to see if vegetation or mold has take hold, obstructing air flow.

The filters in your HVAC unit likely need to be changed, and you will want to clean out ducts, vents, and the system itself. Duct work can be hard to check, so you may need to contact West Riverside professionals to come out and help.

Your windows have taken a beating, so you will want to inspect them for storm and water damage. Cracks, damaged weather stripping, improper fit; all these issues can cause problems down the road. Now is a great time to get them professionally cleaned and let that warmth and sunshine in!

You can check your hoses and sprinkler systems at this time and replace anything damaged by all the storms and the water from rain. Fertilize the lawn and garden!  

While you are inspecting your home, if you notice any severe storm damage, take pictures for insurance purposes, in case you need to file a claim.

And don’t forget to call us here at SERVPRO of West Riverside City for all your repairs and clean-up needs! We specialize in water and storm damage, fire damage, and mold prevention. You can contact us by phone at (951) 351 8033, or visit us on our website: SERVPRO West Riverside City

Filing a Water Damage Claim for your Riverside Home in 5 Easy Steps

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Leaking water heaters that are not caught immediately always create problems for the homeowners. Call us right away so we can begin restoration.

There are unique aspects to every type of insurance claim.

When dealing with water damage, there is an urgent need to dry out your home before mold becomes a problem. Follow these steps to get the claims process moving as soon as possible:

1. Notify the Insurance Company

Once the flow of water from the pipe burst stops, contact your insurer. Do this immediately, even if it is 2 a.m. on Sunday. Leave a voice mail if nobody answers.  Explain your problem and ask the agent about your coverage. Ask for instructions, then write them down and confirm that you understand them. Request the preferred vendor list so that you can select water damage recovery experts in the Riverside area.

2. Follow the Agent’s Instructions

Instructions may involve filling out an insurance claim and preparing for a visit by the adjuster. It is essential to complete these tasks as quickly as possible. If the agent authorized you to contact a cleanup company, do so quickly. Cleanup needs to start as soon as possible.

3. Take Photographs of the Flood Damage

Now is the time to take photos to show what was affected. The adjuster needs to see the original damage. A smartphone is a terrific tool for documenting any issues.

4. Begin the Recovery Process. Make sure that the damaged area is safe to enter. It may be necessary to turn off the power. Next, you should proceed to remove everything you plan to keep. Store undamaged items in a dry area. Send the damaged items out for restoration.

5. Give the Adjuster a Tour of the Damage

Provide the adjuster with your pictures and the information requested by the agent. If all the information is available, this should go smoothly.

Once your insurance claim approval is complete and the local water damage recovery experts are on the job, your home will be on the fast track to restoration.

The first 24 hours following a water loss is the most important in

preventing secondary or permanent damage. Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO  West Riverside will be on-site to help ensure a water damage is handled by completing the following steps.

Inspection

SERVPRO of West Riverside will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of water damage

and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning any work.

Emergency Services

SERVPRO of West Riverside will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal belongings and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

Monitoring

To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, a SERVPRO West Riverside will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated to you.

Restoration Services

SERVPRO of West Riverside will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets, and clean affected areas of your property and belongings. A final walkthrough of the job site will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to preloss condition.

Emergency Water Damage Tips

Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source. Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock. Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks of furniture legs and wet carpeting. Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive valuables to a dry place. Don’t enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards. Don’t use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water; this could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.

Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enters rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

For more information on

recovering from water damage,

contact your local SERVPRO

West Riverside City 951-351-8033.

Riverside Area's Premier Option for Professional Water Removal Services

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Is this something your seeing after heavy rains? Call SERVPRO of West Riverside City 951-351-8033.

Take No Chances, Call in SERVPRO for Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration

Having a flood of any type occur on your property can leave behind overwhelming amounts of damage. Everything in your home that comes into contact with water requires special handling that you may need help with for cleanup.

Water removal services are key to restoring your Riverside area property after leaks or flooding; they often help eliminate a variety of secondary damages that develop over time. You might not understand it, but ignoring it is totally out of the question. Do yourself a favor, locate a qualified restoration company to help get things under control.

Small floods with less than 2-inches of water in any location of your home often have a pretty basic solution. SERVPRO technicians enter your home, assess the damages, and explain their services. If their tests show that the water does not contain contaminants of any kind, they bring in a variety of portable extraction equipment and remove water from your home safely. More or less a straight forward job that may or may not lead to repairs, painting, or general construction work in your home. Drying out all wetted materials is crucial to controlling any need for replacement.

Large area floods often bring dirt and muck along for the ride, leaving large amounts of unknown waste throughout your home. These types of flooding incidents may not allow such an easy, simple solution. SERVPRO technicians run into more contaminants, biohazards, and safety issues with this kind of flood. Safe and secure services with specifically trained personnel accomplish the task. However, once they have taken care of the contamination, the restoration continues just like any smaller job would.

The amount and type of water exposure you experience in your home have a severe impact on the results you receive. However, SERVPRO technicians have years of experience performing water removal services, obtain IICRC industry certifications, and have access to the equipment and resources necessary to handle any size job that occurs on your property.

SERVPRO Technicians are on Call to Remediate Water Damage on Your Property

While having water damage in your home is bad enough, the effects of water damage on your living environment should be more concerning. Several types of microorganisms spread throughout your home over time. Given the right conditions, these organisms pose a severe health concern, especially after making their way into your ventilation system, carpeting, and the indoor living environment.  

 Locating a company, like SERVPRO, in your area can give you access to air duct, carpet cleaning, and water damage services that make handling areas of vital importance easier. It is important to keep your living environment free of contaminants, ensuring that everyone in your family enjoys the best indoor environment quality possible. 

Waterproofing is serious business, providing you with a way to keep the structure of your home intact while also maintaining a healthy living environment. SERVPRO can help you perform waterproofing services on your home and be there to provide you with emergency plumbing, water extraction, carpet cleaning, and a way to locate hidden moisture in your home. 

SERVPRO makes every effort to provide 24-hour emergency services to all customers. With an array of advanced equipment, expertise, and other resources available, there is not much they cannot do. For those specialty items like electronics, we have contacts within the industry to provide you with restoration services that exceed your expectations. 

 With the sheer amount of situations involving water damage and natural disasters on the rise, water related cases soar throughout the area. It is becoming more and more meaningful for homeowners to locate a quality restoration company near them to reduce problems involved in water incidents. 

We want to be the partner in home protection that you can count on to help during an emergency, someone you trust to protect the environment that you and your family call home. Our technicians care about your situation and provide you with the attention you deserve.  

SERVPRO of West Riverside City can respond to your call for help, anytime, day or night. With 24-hour emergency services and expertly trained technicians, you could not receive a more qualified solution. (951)-351-8033. We stand ready, willing, and able to help!

If an Appliance Leaks in Your Riverside Home You Need to Call Our Experts

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Riverside City for effective and rapid water removal services at (951) 351-8033.

Get Quick Water Removal Services For Your Riverside Residence After An Appliance Leak.

Coming home to find that your living area is soaked with water from a leaking appliance like a washing machine, water heater, or air conditioner is irritating. Such leaks can ruin your house and its contents. Water can damage porous materials like carpets, insulation, and wood by warping or shrinking them. When a leak happens, you need to find its source and stop it.

You also need to remove the water and fix the damage in an expedited manner to prevent further destruction to your hardwood floors, walls, carpets, and other items. With water intrusion, the best way to minimize damage is to hire professionals who provide water removal services in Riverside. The minute you notice that there is water in areas it should not be, you can contact SERVPRO franchise professionals to help you with the cleanup process. Our Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRT) can remove the water quickly and dry the affected areas thoroughly.

There are different categories of water damage, and we classify them according to severity. The severity varies from clean to gray to black. A big concern with appliance leaks is that the soaps and detergents you use daily contain chemicals that can diminish the quality of your flooring if they sit too long on it or if you do not clean them up properly. Clean water becomes gray water and gray water turns into black water the longer it remains on a surface.

If the leak was significant and water spread to different rooms of the house, our crew can use powerful pumps to extract the water. Our extractors have three major components: a heater, pump, and vacuum. These three components remain in use when cleaning carpeting and upholstery. It's also crucial to identify all the moisture and remove it. Our SERVPRO crews have advanced moisture detection tools that can identify water pockets. 

Our experts can use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the moisture that could be on the floors, walls, ceilings of your house effectively to prevent wood rot and stifle the possibility of mold infestation. Our intention in every water removal job is to return a house to the condition it was in before the leak.

Prompt Water Cleanup In Your Riverside Home Can Prevent Further Structural Damage

You can feel the effect of water damage in your home within minutes when the water loss incident is caused by malfunctioning appliances, or an overflowing sink. The damage to the structure of the building or your belongings can be significant and needs prompt attention.

Water can wreak more havoc the longer it goes without proper cleanup. The remediation specialists at SERVPRO understand a good deal of water damage situations and provide effective water cleanup services for Riverside homes. Time is a critical element in preventing permanent water damage to homes and their contents.

If water pools on wooden flooring for an extended period, it can warp, cup, or buckle. Our technicians can dry your hardwood floors to prevent buckling, warping, or cupping from becoming permanent. Drying hardwood floors soon prevents secondary damage. Our crews position air movers to apply airflow underneath and on top of wood flooring. We use moisture meters to check the moisture content of the wood floors. If the moisture content is below 16%, we increase air temperature to expedite the evaporation process. If the floor finish delays evaporation, we can remove it or use a pin roller to perforate it so that moisture can escape.

If water has pooled on your carpeted floor, our SERVPRO crew can use water damage mitigation and drying systems that can dry the carpet and pad without having to remove the pad. We call this method in-place drying, and it involves extracting water from the carpet thoroughly and using air movers and dehumidifiers than usual. In-place drying is only suitable if a carpet has not been exposed to water for over 72 hours. It offers the benefit of minimal disruption and less damage to the carpet since it is unnecessary to reinstall the carpet or cut seams.

If the walls of your home are wet, we can dry them using the appropriate technique. Materials that impede evaporation of moisture from walls can slow down the drying process. Our technicians can remove such materials to speed up the process.

At the initial sign of damage in your Riverside home, you can call SERVPRO of West Riverside at (951) 351-8033 for cleanup and restoration services. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Handling Water Removal from Ceiling or Attic in Your Riverside Home Due to Rain

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Water loss can affect any section of your Riverside home.

While most spills leave water primarily on the floor of your main rooms, some cases might touch unusual spaces such as the ceiling or attics. These mostly happen when there is a leak in a supply line, or the roof is damaged allowing rainwater into the structure. Such situations are harder to deal with, so it is better to work with a professional water restoration team.

If your home has an attic or ceiling, look for obvious leaking signs or any water spotting. Survey the rest of the home to be sure you don’t have a problem.

Hopefully, you have already cleared out your gutters. If not, either get up on the roof yourself to remove the leaves that can cause a build-up leading to water finding its way into your home – or hire someone to do it. This is a common cause for leaks – during heavy rain, the water has to go somewhere, and its beyond frustrating, let alone expensive, when it gets into your house.

While you’re on the roof, if its shingled, inspect all of it to ensure none of the shingles have blown off. Given the recent wind storms we had, that’s always a possibility. If you have a chimney, make sure there are no gaps, and seal them as soon as possible if you find one.

Don’t forget to make sure your patio drains aren’t clogged from leaves. This time of year, a lot of trees are losing their leaves. With all of the wind and rain, it’s possible the drain could get clogged.

Oh, and hopefully you also turned off your sprinklers if they are on a timer. There are few things more wasteful than having your sprinklers operating when in the midst of a rain storm. California still faces a drought, no matter how much rain fell.

Efficient water removal from your West Riverside  home is possible when you understand the extent of the problem. A leak in the ceiling might spill over to the rest of the house or remain confined in the ceiling with the only visible signs being bubbling and sagging sections. You can take some steps to mitigate the problem before professional restorers arrive. Look for the main water line and shut it off. You should also try to catch the dripping water by placing buckets directly under the leaks or using towels to soak it up from the floors.

Water removal from the ceiling requires considerable expertise for thoroughness and to minimize the amount of demolition needed. Having the right equipment also helps, especially during the drying phase to extract all the moisture. Our SERVPRO team includes IICRC certified WRT, Water Restoration Technicians, and ASD, Applied Structural Drying Specialists. We punch weep-holes to release water from the ceiling and minimize the weight on the panels without necessitating major demolition.

In case the leak is caught in time before the water permeates deeply into the panels and joists in the ceiling, it is possible to avoid demolition. However, this makes the drying process more difficult. Our SERVPRO technicians combine the use of advanced equipment and advanced skills. For example, we can make dehumidification more effective by covering the wet ceiling with a plastic barrier and venting it into a dehumidifier. We bring a wide range of moisture control equipment to the loss sites, including:

Dehumidifiers

Water damage restoration dehumidifiers are key tools for drying and restoring your environment after water damage caused by leaky plumbing or a flood. Heavy duty and rugged, these dehumidifiers quickly and efficiently extract water, dry flooring and walls, and curb harmful mold growth. 

Air Movers 

Air movers are designed for water removal after flooding. The powerful airflow they create is able to move air rapidly around the affected space, allowing moisture to be evaporated from under carpets and sub-flooring, behind walls, upholstery, and more.

Moisture Meters

This tool searches for the presence of moisture in various building materials including drywall, wood, siding, tile, insulation, and carpeting.

To deal with water damage effectively, call SERVPRO of West Riverside City to help. You can reach us at (951) 351-8033 any time. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Four Questions Riverside Residents have asked Regarding Water Damage Restoration

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Riverside city has assisted Riverside County residents with almost every type of water damage situation imaginable.  As professionals in the water damage restoration industry, we field questions about the recovering from water damages.  Below are a few of the questions that we are asked.

Q: Should I clean up water damage myself?

As a business, you may expect us to say no.  The honest answer is that it depends on the situation.  If the water damage that your home or business has incurred is minimal, it may be easy to handle the job yourself.  Nevertheless, one consideration to keep in mind is how to determine the depth of the water damage.  If there is water leakage behind a wall or above a ceiling, the amount of damage that you see could be limited.  Water between walls or above the ceiling can lead to massive amounts of mold damage.

Keep in mind, we do free service call inspections, so our Project Managers or Crew Chief are more than happy to tell you whether or not this is something they think you can handle on your own.

Q: How long does the drying process take?

Naturally, all homeowners wonder when their house will be back to its normal self, and the answer usually depends on the extent of the damage.

Dry out times vary to a number of conditions.  For instance, the amount of humidity in the air has a great effect on how fast an area can dry.  As a rule of thumb, a normal-sized residence takes about 2 to 3 days to dry completely when it has sustained substantial water damage.

Further processes include:

1. Water Mitigation and Extraction

First, the company needs to curtail the effects of the flood water and moisture. This involves bringing in a heavy-duty extracting machine to remove the standing water. Next, the team has to prevent mold from growing. It only takes one day for mold to start growing. Finally, the professionals need to dry out the room using dehumidifiers and powerful drying systems. It generally takes about three days to do all this. The team needs to ensure the room is free of water damage before continuing on to the tear out stage.

The IICRC further separates water intrusion into four classifications:

• Class 1: Where a minimal amount of water has flowed onto materials that are predominately low porosity. This class of water damage requires limited mitigation and little moisture is left after the bulk of the water is removed, leaving a minimal amount of evaporation needed to finish drying. Examples would be a burst hot water tank on a sealed concrete floor or an overflowed toilet on a tile floor.
• Class 2: Where there is a significant amount of water discharged and the exposed materials are medium to high porosity. There is a greater absorption of water into the materials and the water damage process is lengthened by the volume of water that needs to be removed and a lengthened drying time. Examples would be a ruptured pressurized water line inside a gypsum board wall, or a wooden floor joist system.
• Class 3: Where a large amount of water, regardless of its category, is absorbed by highly porous materials, resulting in the highest rate of evaporation necessary to affect the water damage restoration process. Examples are a storm-forced leak, which floods a building’s interior and soaks carpeted areas, or broken water mains filling an underground parking area.
• Class 4: Where water intrudes and is trapped by building materials and assemblies, which makes the restoration process difficult, time-consuming and expensive. Affected areas are highly porous or tightly confined and require special methods and equipment, longer drying time or substantial vapor pressure differentials. Examples would be storm water flooding of wooden, plaster, masonry or concrete enclosures or a severe sewage backup that permeates floor and wall systems.

2. Reconstruction

The amount of time it takes to reconstruct a room ultimately depends on how much the water affected. Professionals typically need to remove the drywall because it often absorbs moisture. Any insulation behind the wall usually also needs to be removed in case the water has compromised that. If the flooding occurred in a room with carpeting, then all of it must be taken out and replaced with something else. Depending on exactly how much damage occurred, it can take anywhere between a few days and a couple weeks to complete the work.

Q: Do I need to leave my home during water damage restoration?

If your residence has sustained a lot of water damage, the first concern you should have is your safety.  When major repairs are taking place, the indoor air quality suffers greatly.  Breathing in water-damaged (and often activated mold spores) air is unhealthy.  When we are commissioned to handle major repairs it is extremely likely that we’ll recommend for the client to evacuate the home.

Q: Do I have to use the Restoration company my insurance company recommends?

Absolutely not.  As a homeowner (or business owner) you can and should use the restoration company of your choice. 

Do I have to use SERVPRO?  Nope, you don't have to!  But you should.  SERVPRO is an industry-leader when it comes to water damage cleanup.  We are backed by a fantastic team, excellent training, and we have all divisions in-house to help you handle your job from start to finish so you aren't dealing with various contractors.

Do you have additional questions?  Give us a call today!

SERVPRO of West Riverside City

(951) 351-8033

Indicators Your Riverside Home May Have Hidden Water Damage

1/13/2020 (Permalink)

If you are hearing sounds of dripping water, rushing water, it seems that your home might have already become a victim of water damage

When most people hear the phrase Water Damage, they think of water heater issues, overflowing sinks, and water leaking through the ceiling.

And while those are disastrous examples of what a water damage event can look like, sometimes a less dramatic situation can cause quite a scene.

Detecting water damage can be a difficult task as often water damage losses don’t become evident right away. In fact, most of them exist over a prolonged period before being identified and restored. By that time, the underlying problem causing the water damage becomes really severe and managing it becomes extremely difficult. For avoiding any such situation and ensuring that you contact the water restoration company before the problem turns bigger, you must get acquainted with the preliminary warning signs. The section below would introduce you to the most common indicators of water damage.  

Sound- If you think that all the signs of water damage are meant to be seen, you are wrong. There are some signs that can be heard. If you are hearing sounds of dripping water, rushing water, or creaking floorboards, it seems that your home might have already become a victim of water damage. It’s true that such sounds might also occur in spite of having a healthy plumbing system; however, still, you must get your home checked for water damage if you hear the sounds constantly.  

Smell- You must also keep your nose alert for detecting moisture or water damage in your home. Dampness boasts a distinct odor; it might resemble the pungent smell we usually associate with mold. So, when checking your home for water damage, you should look for smell besides other obvious indicators.  

Puddles- If there’s a leak in your home’s plumbing system or if something in the system is dripping, you might soon see pools of water develop along the problematic area. Whenever you find any unusual puddle, do monitor it and find out whether it returns after being cleaned up. A puddle that comes back even after being cleaned up might be a sign of a seepage or leak.  

Mold- Mold typically occurs only when there’s water damage. You might not need to hire a water damage restoration service provider if condensation in the bathroom has resulted in mold formation. However, you will have to treat mold as a sign of excessive moisture formation in certain parts of your house and do the needful for getting those affected areas dried as quickly as possible. Getting rid of mold is also necessary for health reasons; that’s because exposure to mold might make you and your family members suffer from allergy, headaches, and nausea.  

Coolness- Are you finding it hard to heat up your home? If yes, treat the problem as a sign of dampness in your walls. Accumulated moisture will tend to draw out heat of the walls so that it can get evaporated. This makes the walls and the entire home much colder.  

Discoloration- Here, it must be noted that discoloration can occur due to a number of reasons; so, it’s important to make sure that the discoloration in your home is actually a result of water damage. If the discoloration has been caused by water “streaks” running down along an end of your house, it’s definitely a sign of water damage. In most cases, those streaks occur due to an overfull gutter. 

 If you notice any of these or other signs of a potential water loss contact a plumber to determine and repair the source of the loss, and if you are having trouble locating a plumber we can make a referral. After the cause of water loss has been fixed contact SERVPRO of West Riverside City for restoration and repair of your damaged property.  

Notice Standing Water? 3 Surprising Threats to Be Aware Of

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

A car is stranded in Riverside after heavy rain caused flooding on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2014. (Picture Credit : ABC7 viewer Matt Willhite).

3 Surprising Threats Associated With Standing Floodwaters

A flood can be one of the most devastating natural disasters you will experience during your lifetime. Floodwaters have the potential to completely devastate any area they pass through. At their worst, floods can lift homes off their foundations and crash through walls. Even a small flood can cause damage to your home by saturating your flooring and wall materials with water.

All homeowners need to be aware of the dangers that floodwaters pose so that they can take action to protect themselves in the aftermath of a flood. Standing floodwaters come with a variety of damages and threats. Learn about three surprising threats you should be mindful of as you assess the damage to your home following a flood.

How Riverside Residents Can Avoid Claim Denials for Water Damage

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Asking your insurance adjuster if you're more likely to be approved or denied when they're on-site is an opportunity to get answers to concerns.

Home insurance claims stemming from water damage are among the most frequent of insurance claims around. We will cover water damage types, what damage is covered and what claims are typically made by homeowners. We will also cover why home insurance companies deny certain claims and how to avoid these denials.

Types of Water Damage

There are many kinds of water damage. Different homeowner’s insurance policies will cover different types of damages and situations. Some of the more common sorts of water damage that will show up on a policy as either covered or excluded from coverage include:

• Water damage caused by heavy storms

• Flood damage

• Water backup or sewer backup

• Accidental or sudden discharge

• Overflow

Home Insurance Claims for Water Damage

Homeowners usually want to know what sorts of water damage will be covered by their policies. Common types of water damage inquiries are for leaks, such as from leaky roofs, toilets or pipes around the house that distribute water. Coverage for water damages will be determined by the damage’s origin, the policy that the homeowner signed up for and if the claimed damage is both sudden and accidental or if the damage was gradual.

Gradual Damage

Gradual damage is water damage deemed to occur slowly over a long period of time. Some forms of gradual damage will be hard to spot until it is too late, such as when the damage is occurring within the interior walls of a home. Though these sorts of issues can lead to structural damage down the road, most of these damage claims would be denied since they didn’t occur both accidentally and suddenly.

Homeowners frequently make claims ultimately caused by gradual damage such as the following:

• Leaky pipes, plumbing, and faucets damaging walls, floors, and ceilings.

• Watering seeping in from foundation weaknesses or from holes around the home’s exterior.

• Worn down tiles, flashing or other roofing materials that are allowing water to enter the home.

• Damage due to corroded, moldy or rotting materials.

• Electrical wiring that has become worn and less effective.

• Sub-standard home repairs or non-repairs.

Though not always, insurance companies may cover the “resulting damage” of issues or parts that originally wouldn’t have been covered by the present policy.

If a homeowner wants to know the finer details of what is covered and not covered in their policies, then it’s best to consult the insurance company or their insurance broker or advisor. They can go over the exclusions and details of a homeowner’s insurance policy for complete coverage details.

Reasons that Claims can be Denied

Homeowners insurance claims can be denied for a variety of reasons. Gradual damage, coverage lapses or miscommunications are just a few reasons for claim denials. No matter the reason, the homeowner should request a complete explanation of why the claim is not being granted. This includes an elaboration of which part of the wording within the policy doesn’t apply to what the homeowner is seeking compensation for.

Keep in mind that many people represent the home insurance organization during the claims process, so it’s a good idea to determine from whom the denial is coming from. Was it the contractor, an insurance agent or a claims adjuster? Each person has a different role within the organization, opening different paths for reviewing or negotiating through the process.

One reason for the claim being denied was that it was for an issue that the homeowner had to specifically request or endorse beforehand. It’s one of the homeowner’s rights to know what conditions were covered on their policies for present and future reference, including the optional endorsements and features.

How to Avoid Claim Denials

• Keep records of home repairs, including the names of the professionals hired for the home’s maintenance.

• Maintain an accurate account of the homeowner’s responsibilities and of the policies and exclusions of the insurance coverage package.

• Implement periodic home maintenance, at least every spring and fall to mitigate and prevent damage.

• Select the best insurance package for the specific needs of the home and look into extra features that can provide added value.

SERVPRO Of West Riverside is "Always Here To Help" If You Experience Water Heater Overflow, Even During the Holiday!

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Riverside has helped many home owners with water damage leaks due to water heater issues. Call us were available 24/7!

Water Heater Overflow Cleanup

One of the most prevalent causes of indoor flooding is water heater overflows. These water heaters are usually located in, attics, garages, or a utility room closet; places people don't go very often. So, if a burst or leak happens, the homeowner or tenant likely would not find the problem until after a significant water intrusion has already occurred. If this were to happen to you, you'll want to stay calm, shut off the heater and water, and contact the SERVPRO of West Riverside professionals for help.

SERVPRO of West Riverside has the professionals who are equipped to handle a water heater overflow. They have the knowledge, tools, and experience to deal with the situation safely and effectively whether it's your home or workplace that is in jeopardy.

How Do Water Heater Overflows Happen?

Water heater related floods usually occur due to a worn out seal or gasket, or from a leak in an older tank that rusted through. Sometimes a tank can actually explode or burst in a violent and dangerous manner. This could cause serious harm to anyone who is in the immediate vicinity of the water heater at the time of the explosion. Leaks are more common than bursts and have the potential to flood large portions of a home or garage if the leaking is undetected for days on end.

A malfunctioning thermostat is usually the cause of a water heater burst. These thermostats are used to measure the temperature inside the tank to turn the heating elements off and on so that a preset desired temperature range can be maintained. In the event of a broken thermostat, the heating system inside the tank could stay on indefinitely and cause the water to boil. This boiling water turns into steam and builds up internal pressure inside the tank. This internal pressure will build up and eventually reach a point where the tank cannot hold it, which will result in a burst or even explosion.

When such a burst occurs, steam and boiling water rush out of the tank, while cold water from the intake line flows into the tank. Normally, the line will shut itself off, preventing water entry when the tank if full. However, in this situation, the burst tank is never full because of the continual leaking, and the water from the main line flows through indefinitely. Water is entering the tank only to leak back out and flood the area around and below the water heater. The only upside to this scenario is that someone will likely hear the loud burst  and investigate and discover the problem before too much damage has occurred and remediation can be started.

A leak, on the other hand, operates quietly and floods your home, garage, or workplace a little at a time. Usually, it will happen when one of your heating tank's fittings becomes damaged or corroded. This can provide a gap that allows water to escape. This flooding is not violent like a burst or explosion, but it can still be extremely destructive to property and sometimes dangerous to humans or pets. Regular maintenance and inspections of your water heater will increase awareness of possible problems. A professional can replace the anode, flush the corrosion from your tank, as well as check all valves and gaskets for problems or warning signs.

What are the Hazards of Water Heater Overflows?

With the added elements of high temperature and late detection, the number of threats with water heater flooding exceeds that of normal flooding. Here are some things to look out for in the event of a water heater overflow:

Riverside Landlord Versus Tenant Flood Responsibilities

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding can be stressful and confusing. Once you and your family are safe, it is time to think about repairing and restoring your home or business.

Flooding  can be stressful and confusing. Once you and your family are safe, it is time to think about repairing and restoring your home or business.

Homeowners, business owners and renters alike now have to navigate the waters of insurance coverage. For homeowners, the process is likely clear. For landlords and tenants, however, it may be a bit more complicated. What does commercial property insurance cover? What does renter’s insurance cover?

Landlord Responsibilities

The first step as a landlord is to know your insurance coverage. Flood insurance is not typically part of general property insurance. Talk to your agent about your specific policy. Landlords are responsible for the following in the case of a flood:

• Whether insurance covers flooding or not, you as the property owner are still responsible for returning the dwelling to a safe, livable situation for your tenants. This must be done in a reasonably timely manner, so contact a water restoration specialist as soon as possible to avoid secondary damage from occurring. 

• Damages to the building are covered by the landlord, including all appliances that were not purchased and installed by the tenants. Flooring, drywall, electrical and other structures are under the property owner’s purview as well. 

Tenant Responsibilities

The landlord is not responsible for all damage, so as the tenant it is important to obtain renter’s insurance and know what is covered. As with landlords, flood coverage is not typically included in basic insurance, so talk to your agent about the details. Tenants should know the following information:

• As a renter, your personal belongings are covered under your insurance. 
• Relocation, if the apartment or dwelling is unlivable, is usually covered by your insurance and rent does not need to be paid during that time. You may choose to discontinue the lease if the damage is severe. 

Whether you are the landlord or tenant, obtain the appropriate insurance coverage. Understand what your property or renter’s insurance covers, and what your responsibilities are in the case of a flood in Riverside. 

What's Next

You went downstairs to switch over your laundry and realize your laundry room is flooded and you need to call SERVPRO of West Riverside City, what are they going to ask? 

National Preparedness Month Week 3: Teach Your Youth to Prepare for Disasters such as Wildfires, Earthquakes of Flooding Sept 15-21

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Help children know what to do before, during and after a flood, wildfire or earthquake. This will help Riverside children "Be Prepared not Scared."

In recent years, devastating earthquakes, floods and wildfires have highlighted the need to prepare for natural disaster.

However, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), half of Americans have not discussed or developed a family emergency plan.  View the tips below from our friends at FEMA.  Understand the disasters that could hit our Riverside area. 

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are the shaking, rolling or sudden shock of the earth’s surface. Earthquakes happen along cracks (called fault lines) in the earth's surface. Earthquakes can be felt over large areas, although they usually last less than one minute. Earthquakes cannot be predicted — although scientists are working on it!  All 50 states and 5 U.S. territories are at some risk for earthquakes. Earthquakes can happen at any time of the year.

What to do before, during and after an Earthquake

 Before

• Build an emergency kit.
• Make a family communications plan.
• Know the safe spots in every room – under a sturdy table or against an inside wall.
• Ask your family to hold earthquake drills – drop, cover, and hold on!

During

If inside:

• DROP to the ground.
• Take COVER under a sturdy table or other heavy  furniture. If there is nothing to get under, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch near an inside wall.
• HOLD ON until the shaking stops.
• STAY AWAY from windows, glass, lighting fixtures, or furniture that could fall – like bookcases.
• STAY INSIDE!
• Do not use elevators!

If outside:

• Stay there. 
• Move away from buildings, streetlights, and wires.
• Stay out in the open until the shaking stops. Buildings could collapse and hurt you.

If trapped under debris:

• Cover your mouth with your shirt.
• Do not scream – you could breathe in dust.
• Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can find you.

After

• Expect aftershocks. They are usually not as strong but can cause damage.
• Open cabinets carefully. Objects that have moved could fall on you.
• Wear long pants, long sleeves and shoes to protect your skin from getting scratched by broken objects.
• Text, don’t talk. Unless there’s a life-threatening  situation, if you have a cell phone, send a text so that you don’t tie up phone lines needed by emergency workers. Plus, texting may work even if cell service is down.

Words to know

• Seismic Activity

Another word for earthquakes, along with tremors, quakes and shakes

• Fault Lines

Cracks in the rocks below the earth’s surface

• Aftershock

A smaller earthquake that follows the main shock or previous earthquake

• Epicenter

The center, or focus, of an earthquake, from which seismic waves are sent spherically in many directions

• Seismograph

A machine that measures an earthquake

WildFires

Each year more than 2,500 people die and 12,600 are injured in home fires in the United States. But unlike other disasters, home fires can be prevented! It’s important to know this: Fire is fast! There is no time to gather anything or make a phone call. In just two minutes, a fire could kill you. In five minutes, a house could be swallowed in flames. Fire is hot! Heat and smoke could be even more dangerous than the flames. Breathing in really hot air could burn your lungs, and fire produces poisonous gases that can make you sleepy and unable to escape. Fire is dark! It can be hard to find your way out of your house in a fire. Fire is deadly! Fire uses up oxygen you need to breathe and produces smoke and poisonous gases that kill.

Every single person in The United States, no matter where they live, or what kind of home they live in is at risk of a home fire.

Before

• Create a fire escape plan and practice it twice a year.
• Have smoke alarms in every bedroom and every floor of the house.
• Remind your parents to test the smoke alarms in your house every month.
• Find two ways to get out of each room. A window might be a second way if the door is blocked by fire or smoke.
• Practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed.
• Sleep with your door closed. It helps prevent fires from spreading quickly.

During

• Get low and go! Crawl under smoke to an exit. Heavy smoke and deadly gases collect along the ceiling.
• If you hear a smoke alarm, get out fast! You may only have a few seconds to escape.
• If smoke is blocking the door, use your second way out of the room or house.
• Feel the doorknob and door before opening it. If either is hot, leave the door closed and use the second way out.
• If you see smoke coming around the door, use the second way out.
• If you do open a door, open it slowly and be ready to shut it quick if there’s smoke.
• Don’t hide from firefighters! They may look scary with all of their equipment, but they are there to help you.
• Tell firefighters if there are any pets trapped in the house. Don’t try to get them yourself!
• If your clothes catch on fire, stop-drop-roll! Stop, drop to the ground, and cover your face with your hands. Then roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out.

After

• Don’t go back into any building unless a firefighter or your parents say it is safe

Floods

Flooding happens during heavy rains, when rivers overflow, when ocean waves come onshore, when snow melts too fast, or when dams or levees break. This is the most common natural-weather event. Flooding may be only a few inches of water, or it may cover a house to the rooftop. Floods that happen very quickly are called flash floods.

Floods can occur in every single U.S. state. Some floods develop slowly, and some can build in just a few minutes. People who live in low-lying areas – near water or behind a levee or dam – are at even greater risk.

Did you know?  Flooding can change familiar places, like walkways, roads and fields. Avoid walking through water. It might be deeper than you think!

Before

• Build an emergency kit.
• Make a family communications plan.
• Tell an adult if you hear a flood warning on the TV or radio.

During

• Listen to authorities and safety officials.
• If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground.
• Help your family move important items to an upper floor.
• Do not walk through moving water. Even 6” of water can make you fall.

After

• Stay away from flood water. It could be contaminated, meaning contain dangerous substances.
• Stay away from moving water. It can knock you off your feet.
• Stay out of the way of emergency workers so they can do their job easily.

Words to know

• Flood Watch -A message that flooding is possible and to listen to local radio or TV news and weather for more information. You may receive an alert on a cell phone.
• Flood Warning- A message that flooding will occur soon, if it hasn’t already, and to move to higher ground or evacuate immediately
• Flash Flood- A flood that can happen within minutes or hours of heavy rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or city drains overflowing
• Levee/Dam -A manmade structure to contain or prevent water from moving past a certain point

Riverside it prone to earthquakes, flooding and wildfires.  Teach your kids about these natural disasters so they understand the damage they could cause and what they should do before, during and after a natural disaster.  Be Prepared Not Scared.  Be ready.  Contact SERVPRO of West Riverside City, we are "Faster to Any Disaster". 

How to Handle Unexpected Water Damage in Riverside City

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Unexpected water in your Riverside home or water in your business can cause a lot of problematic flood damage. It can ruin your possessions and the building you store them in. If you act quickly, you can mitigate water damage and your restoration efforts can be successful.

Don’t treat flood damage lightly. Even if the water in your Riverside home is only a half an inch deep, it can be a breeding ground for unwanted mold. The growth of mold from water in your house can ruin walls, carpets, and flooring. Water damage can also cause mold that leads to poor air quality and respiratory illness like asthma. The key to keeping your house safe and mold-free is to mitigation water in your home or water in your business very quickly. Before doing any water cleanup or drying, call your insurance company and let them know what you plan to do about the flood damage. After speaking with your insurance, use these tips for mitigation and prevention any further water damage.

Disconnect Power

Remove and unplug any electronics in the vicinity of the water in your home. The quicker you do this, the more likely you can save them from being destroyed and get the water cleanup process started. If the water has risen past the level of electrical outlets, turn off power to the area of the building. Pull up carpets and underpadding that have flood damage. You can potential save carpets if you start the water cleanup, drying, and disinfectant process immediately. You probably won't be able to save the underpadding because of they act like a sponge and absorb large amounts of water.

Water Cleanup

Getting rid of the water quickly is important to mitigating the water damage. If you can't use a wet-vac because of a power issue, the old fashioned way works just fine. Grab some old towels and bucket to sop up as much water as you can. You can pour the water down the drain or out outside onto permeable surfaces. If the situation is more than you and your wet-vac can handle, consider renting a sump pump from a hardware store. The most important thing you can for water damage mitigation is to get rid of the water in your business fast and star the drying and restoration process.

Dry the area

Once the water is out of the way, it's helpful to utilize a dehumidifier and fans for drying. Open up all the windows and get the area dry as soon as possible. If drywall has been affected, you’ll need to cut away the areas that were damaged by the water to prevent mold. Take out the baseboards if they are not real wood, as they are probably not salvageable. If it was real wood, you might get lucky and be able to save them.

Disinfecting

After the water damaged area has dried out, you’ll want to use a strong disinfectant for restoration to rid the area of any bacteria that and contribute to mold growth. Make sure to include walls and furniture.

Dispose of damaged items

Rather than throwing everything into the dumpster, consider organizing the damaged goods into piles of recyclables and non-recyclables. This way, you can help alleviate pressure on landfills and do a little good for the environment. Contact your local waste management authorities to find out how to properly dispose of electronics, furniture, and drywall. Many materials can’t be thrown into the general trash for safety and environmental reasons, so find out the correct place to dispose of the water damaged items.

It’s a nightmare to have to deal with water in the home or water in at your business, but by taking quick action, you can start the mitigation process and get the restoration done fast. Whether it's a broken pipe or a natural flood water, you can minimize the damage by acting quickly. Don’t forget to let your insurance company know what happened so they can give you the go-ahead for taking action. 

Every water damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. So, before you risk further damaging the value of your home or facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself, call your local SERVPRO of West Riverside City.  

Calling SERVPRO of West Riverside City eases the restoration process. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  We are here to help during holidays too!

If you find yourself with water damage, call us today! 951-351-8033

Wet Carpets? You Can Rely on SERVPRO of West Riverside City for Water Damaged Carpets!

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

We provide emergency water restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including all holidays.

A fast response is needed to salvage we carpet.

When your experience a water main leak, or a kitchen appliance breaks down and floods the ground floor or a pipe cracks and leaks water, a fast response is needed. Residential water damage is very common, but it can escalate quickly, so speed is of the essence.  

It applies in particular to fabrics and soft items. Furniture and carpets are often the most damaged objects after a flood because they soak up water so easily. The good news is that we can rescue these materials, as long as the water damage in your Riverside home is ‘clean.’ 

Clean water is a liquid that is from an uncompromised source; a drinking supply, a household appliance (when not used with chemicals), or rainwater. If it gets into carpets, the IICRC certified experts at SERVPRO know just how to fix it. 

The Drying Method 

If a relatively controllable amount of water is quickly cleaned up and steps are taken to dry the sub floor surface, padding, and carpet, then the prevention of mold and mildew growth is high. Without moisture, the organic debris within the carpeting cannot sustain mold growth.

There are three ways to dry a water damaged carpet – in place, partially lifted, or fully lifted. The technique used in your home depends on the degree of water intrusion. In the case of mild flooding, only the top fibers are wet, and the carpet remains in place. 

Lifting equipment gets used when there is a high chance of water damage to the under flooring as well. The top fibers can be dried out with dehumidifiers (which extract water vapor from the material), but the sub floor is closer to the ground and less accessible. 

 At SERVPRO, we normally lift (float) the carpet a few inches off the ground and suspend there. It allows the technicians to place portable fans and air movers underneath. They direct the clean, dry air from the dehumidifiers beneath the carpet and speed up the drying process. 

The Repair Process 

In some cases, the water causes the backing of the carpet to come loose. It is something that we may be able to fix if the problem is limited to small sections of the floor. If the structure of the carpet is in an extremely unsuitable condition, we would advise a full replacement. 

Natural fibers usually respond very well to drying, as long as the issue is addressed quickly. However, if the water intrusion originated from a ‘black’ source (containing sewage or chemicals), there is no chance of repair. It is not safe to retain the flooring, and it requires removal, but this is a relatively uncommon situation.  Wall-to-wall carpeting must first be released from the tack boards. SERVPRO technicians can work with the carpets and padding to ensure complete drying by utilizing special pumps, wet-vacs, and dehumidifiers. This drying out process may take from several days to several weeks depending on the amount of water intrusion and the speed of extraction. Evaporation can only go so fast though we expedite the process with state of the art dehumidifiers. 

Now that we have dried the carpets and area, do we need to clean them and why?

Yes, even though you have taken all the right measures to correctly dry out your carpets after having experienced water damage, you still really should make the effort to clean your carpets. Cleaning can be completed by steam cleaning them and by cleaning the back of the carpet with a disinfectant to stymie the growth of mold. 

Do we need to sanitize the carpets after we try to dry them? 

Of course, by having SERVPRO spray an antimicrobial product to the carpet and the padding (if it was rescued) it will lessen the chance of infections and diseases. If the carpets were covered with contaminated sewage or ground rising water, called Black Water, there is only one option. Our technicians will safely wrap and dispose of the carpet and padding and then proceed to sanitize the sub floor. 

When the extent of water damage to a carpet encompasses a large area, the best call is to SERVPRO. Our skilled IICRC trained technicians will utilize all the equipment and expertise required to restore your carpet "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of West Riverside City is a local water damage cleanup and repair service. We help homeowners in the Riverside area and surrounding cities to restore their properties after flooding and residential leaks. Our repairs are fast, effective, and leave homes spotless.

 Flooding or Water Damage? Call Us Today – (951) 351-8033

24-Hour Emergency Water Removal Service

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. We provide emergency water restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – including all holidays. Riverside residents can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

How to Find Your Riverside Home's Main Water Shut Off Valve

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

No one expects pipes to burst, water heaters to break, or toilets and washers to overflow.  If this happens, your quick response along with the highly trained specialists from SERVPRO of West Riverside City will limit your damages and potentially save you thousands of dollars! Here are some tips for locating water shut-off valves on your property.

Source: The Spruce…

Finding the Water Shut-Off Valves

Some things in life are worth learning before it's too late—like the locations of your water shut-off valves. If a water pipe springs a leak, knowing where the shut-off valve is could save you thousands in water damage repairs. What's more, you can't make those major plumbing repairs or improvements unless you first turn off the water.

Home water systems contain two types of shut-off valves: main or master shutoff valves for stopping the flow of water to the entire house and individual or supply shut-off valves for specific appliances and fixtures.

Before Anything Else, Try to Cut Off Water Close to Source

If you have a leak at your toilet, sink, clothes washer, or ice maker, shut off water close to the source:

• Toilet:  Look under the toilet, against the wall.  You will see flexible metal tubing.  Turn the handle clockwise until the handle stops.  Do not force.
• Sink:  Look under the sink cabinet.  You will see two sets of flexible metal or plastic tubing.  Turn clockwise.
• Clothes Washer:  Some houses have the valves clearly exposed above and behind the washer.  Turn both valves clockwise.  If you do not see these valves, slide the washer outward and you will likely see them.
• Dishwashers: The water supply tube running to the dishwasher often has a fixture shutoff valve controlling it. In many cases, this is also located under the kitchen sink base cabinet, and it may be close proximity to the sink faucet shut-off valves. 
• Refrigerator ice makers/water dispensers: The small copper or mesh supply tube running to the refrigerator usually has a small saddle valve or other devices that can be shut off to close down the water supply. 

Now for the main water shut-offs to the house…

•  Water Main:  Locate Shut-Off Valve Within the House

This is the best way to shut off water in your house.  It will cut off your home's entire water supply, allowing you to open up any pipe within the house.

Unlike the main water valve, it should be easy to access and not involve special tools or digging. (The only problem is that not everyone has one. In this case, turn off the pump at the electrical box.)

But where would you find yours?  Put on your detective's hat for this one.  Suggestions:

• Inside/Outside Perimeter:  In most cases, it will be near the perimeter of the house—like the outside wall in a utility area where the main water line enters the house, or on an outside wall near the water meter. This valve will always be located on the house side of the water meter and is usually a rather large valve. 
• Ground Level:  Keep your focus on-grade.  If on a ground level floor, you will be looking down.
• Path of Least Resistance:  Imagine a straight line extending from your outdoor water meter to the nearest point of your home's exterior perimeter.  Water lines will take the shortest path to get to a house.  Where that line meets your house is likely where the house's shut-off is located.
• Check Inspection Report:  If you still have your property inspection report from when you purchased the house, it should indicate the location of the shut-off valve.  Inspection reports often follow a standardized format, so you may find this information located in Section 6.1.
• Access Panels:  Look for any kind of access panel.  Water cut-off valves are not supposed to be sealed up behind drywall.  However, your home's previous owner may have unwisely sealed the valve behind a wall.  Most homeowners--and any legitimate contractor--will create an access panel around the valve.

Where It Is Not:  It is likely not under a sink.  The shut-off to the water heater may look promising, but that only affects the outflow of hot water from that point.  Do not confuse the gas shut-off to the furnace or water heater with water lines.

• Water Main:  Locate Main Shut-Off Value Outside By Meter

If the previous two options fail, try to shut off the water main outside.  

This will cut off all water in the house.  This is the most rigorous option and will involve tools, and possibly even tools that you do not have on hand.  It is dirty work and may involve digging.

Locate the round, square, or rectangular steel or iron lid.  Lift the lid and set the lid to the side.  If there is dirt or sand, remove gently with your hand or a garden trowel.  Do not discard.  If you live in a climate that freezes in the winter, this sand/dirt is required to prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting.

After clearing the box, you will see three things:

• Water Meter:  A glass-covered meter that may have a secondary cover to protect the glass.  Ignore this as it has nothing to do with shutting off the water.
• Water Company's Shut-Off Valve:  This will be on the street side of the water meter.  See attached image.  This turn-off is designed so that only the water company can turn it off with a special tool.  Do not turn this off.  Even if you manage to get a Vise-Grip or Crescent wrench on this, you would find it exceedingly difficult to turn.
• Your Shut-Off Valve:  This will be on the house side of the water meter.  It may have a knob for turning or it may have a nut.  There is no standard size for this nut.  For example, some are 3/8" and require a ratchet wrench with an extender for access.  Turn this clock-wise.

If you need help locating your main water shut-off valves, you can schedule a service call for SERVPRO of West Riverside City to come out and assist you. Call us at 951-351-8033 if you are interested. It would be money well spent to protect your home investment.

The Difference Between Flood Claims and Water Damage Claims in Riverside

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

After experiencing water damage, you may be left wondering what your options are.

In most cases, you should make sure that you fix all water damage as quickly as possible. Once you have done this, you can then proceed to file for claims. Fixing your home immediately can prevent problems from getting worse due to mold or decomposition. However, afterward you will still need to deal with the consequences of the bills. For some homeowners, it may be possible for insurance to cover some of the losses. However, many homeowners insurance policies do not always come packaged with flood insurance. To provide assistance, this will take a look at the differences between flood insurance and water damage claims.

Water Damage Claims

After experiencing water damage, your first impulse was probably to call your insurance company. Hopefully, you haven’t done this yet. There is a big difference between water damage and flood insurance. Water damage can be caused by storms, accidents, or bursting pipes. These claims are only valid when water damage is associated with water that did not first touch the ground (such as lakes, ponds, & rivers). This means that water coming from a regular thunderstorm, plumbing, or appliance is usually covered under water damage claims. In contrast, a flooded lake or stream that inundates a person’s home is not covered.

Flood Insurance

It is important to keep in mind that flood insurance is a special form of insurance contract. It does not automatically come with a standard homeowners insurance policy. In almost all cases, individuals have to purchase flood insurance separately from homeowners insurance. Since many homeowners are not aware of this, homeowners are often outraged when they discover that their insurance contract does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is generally available for just a few dollars each month. Without this insurance, homeowners cannot expect to have any damage associated with flooding covered under their homeowners insurance policy.

Implications of Denied Coverage

If an insurance company declines your application to cover water damage, it could still have a big impact on your monthly insurance rates. Insurance companies can take advantage of information in your claims application to increase your monthly insurance bills. It is not uncommon to see insurance companies viewing homes that have experienced flood damage as high risk. As a result, they have the right to appropriately increase your monthly rates according to this information.

The reality that your insurance rates could increase after being denied coverage makes it even more important to understand the difference between flood damage and water damage claims. Many individual homeowners make the mistake of filing claims for costs associated with flood damage, only to find that these costs are not covered. When the bill comes the next month, there is nothing that homeowners can do to bring their rates back down. Therefore, it is important to only file a claim if flood damage is explicitly covered in the homeowners insurance contract. In some cases, it may even be recommended for homeowners to work with an attorney to ensure that it is appropriate to file a water damage claim.

If you have questions about your coverage, we strongly advise you to contact your insurance agent and review your policy. What incidents and perils are you covered for? What are your deductibles? At SERVPRO of West Riverside City we are here to help you in any we can.

Top 5 Reasons for Water Damage in Your Riverside Home

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

Call your neighbors at SERVPRO of West Riverside City if you have water damage or flood damage 951-351-8033

Discovering that your home was destroyed by a leak or a flood can be devastating, and repairing water-damaged walls and floors are often very expensive.

Water damage and freezing issues were the third most common reason for a homeowner’s insurance claim between 2011 and 2015 with an average payout per claim of $8,861.

Plumbing Issues

Water damage is often caused by plumbing issues. That’s why it’s important to inspect the plumbing systems in your home at least once a year to ensure that there aren’t any problems with hoses or pipe joints. You should also keep in mind that plumbing pipes have a long lifespan. Brass pipes can last for as many as 70 years while copper pipes can last for more than 50 years. The average lifespan for galvanized steel pipes is often between 20 and 50 years.

Drain pipes are usually made of either cast iron (which can last for as many as 100 years) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Properly maintained PVC pipes can last indefinitely. Check your home inspection report or consult a licensed plumber to learn about the lifespan of the plumbing pipes in your home.

If your water bill is unusually high, that might be an indication of an undetected leak. Buying a water leak sensor that sends alerts to your phone is one way to safeguard your home. You should also check around your toilets, tubs, showers and sinks for any soft spots or moisture. Keep an eye out for loose tiles as well. If you have a dishwasher or a refrigerator with a water line, look for warped or discolored floorboards.

Washing Machine Leaks

Unless you’re doing laundry, you probably don’t think twice about your washing machine. But if it breaks down, the results could be catastrophic. For example, if the supply hose is damaged or has a faulty connection to the wall or washing machine, more than 600 gallons of water could potentially spill out within an hour. That could lead to significant water damage, especially if your washing machine is located on the second floor of your home.

To prevent water damage, you should replace your washing machine supply hose at least once every five years. Also, resist the temptation to overload your washing machine. Constantly stuffing too many clothes into your washing machine could loosen gaskets and valves or cause cracks. Take good care of your washing machine and your washing machine will take good care of you.

Bursting Water Pipes

During severely cold winters, pipes can freeze over and burst. That’s more likely to happen if you have certain types of pipes, such as swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines and pipes with minimal insulation that run against exterior walls.

If temperatures tend to freeze in your area, be sure to protect your pipes. Insulate both hot and cold water pipes using heat tape or pipe sleeves available in your home improvement store. If you have water supply lines in your garage, keep the garage door closed as often as possible. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate. If you plan to spend some time away from your home, leave the heat on and set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees. You can’t control the weather, but you can put up a good fight to save your pipes.

Aging Water Heaters

Water heaters have a shelf life. You could wait until your water heater starts leaking to replace it. But if you’re being smart about avoiding water damage, you should replace it every 10 years. A tankless water heater can last for as many as 20 years.

You can find out how old your water heater is by looking up the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker near the top of the water heater. Make sure to regularly inspect your water heater to check for signs of moisture build-up, mold or corrosion. If your water isn’t as hot as it used to be or there’s rust coming from your faucets, it’s time to call a plumber or water heater specialist.

Inclement Weather

Snow may look lovely. But if your home is not weatherproof, a bad snowstorm could damage your roof, walls and ceiling. Make sure your home is ready for inclement weather by ensuring that your rain gutters and downspouts are clean. You should also check doors and windows to ensure that your caulking hasn’t cracked.

If it snows where you live, be wary about the formation of ice dams on your roof. This happens when the heat inside your home causes water to melt in the middle of your roof. The water then refreezes near the edges, forming a dam that prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up can leak into your home and damage ceilings, walls and other areas of your home. To prevent ice dams from forming, insulate your attic to keep heat from rising and reaching the roof.

Roofs should be inspected annually. A professional roof contractor can look for exterior and interior warning signs that your roof’s condition may lead to water damage, including cracked or missing shingles and areas where water is prone to pool. An inspection can cost several hundred dollars, but in exchange for your peace of mind, it’s priceless.

When to Replace Your Hot Water Heater In West Riverside City

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

If your water heater is leaking or not heating up, you may be able to repair it rather than replace it. Regular maintenance will extend the life of your water heater. Some repairs, such as replacing a pressure-relief valve or heating element are pretty simple. Follow our tips to troubleshoot your gas or electric water heater issues and learn how long a water heater should last.

Safety First

Some water heater repairs are simple. However, if you aren't comfortable working with gas or electricity, always call a professional.  

Repair or Replace

Based on the manufacturer's suggested service life, the life expectancy of a water heater is about 8 to 12 years. That varies with the location and design of the unit, quality of installation, maintenance schedule and water quality.

If your water heater is more than 10 years old, leaks around the base of the tank, and / or works erratically or not at all, it's probably time for replacement. However, before you begin the replacement process, make sure that an electrical problem, such as a blown fuse or tripped breaker, is not the reason for the unit's failure.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Perhaps the most common problem connected with a water heater is water that isn't as hot as you want it to be. This is usually caused by a faulty thermostat or a defective heating element. Check the following when your water is not hot enough:

Electric water heater

Gas water heater

Other common problems and possible solutions

Water Heater Maintenance

Today’s water heaters are manufactured to require little or no maintenance, but these maintenance tips could prolong the life of your water heater:

When Replacement Is Necessary

If you're replacing a water heater, you can replace it with the same type of unit. However, upgrade possibilities should be considered. For example, you may choose to increase or decrease the unit's holding capacity to accommodate a changing family. Or, you may opt to go tankless. 

When looking for a water heater, consider these features:

Before making repairs or purchasing a new water heater, check the nameplate on the side of your current unit. Here you will find helpful information including the tank capacity, insulation R-value, installation guidelines, working pressure, model and serial number. If you have an electric water heater, the nameplate will also list the wattage capacity and voltage of the heating elements.

Caution

If you intend to convert from electric to gas or vice-versa, or if you don't feel comfortable doing the repair or maintenance work, hire a professional.

Caution

Make sure your home is equipped with carbon monoxide detectors when gas-powered appliances are present.

Top Culprits of Water Damage in Riverside Homes

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

By knowing the top causes of water damage to Riverside homes, reduce the chance of water damage occurring to your home. Below are the top causes of water damage to homes, outside of a natural disaster like flooding.

Refrigerator

If you notice water pooling below your kitchen refrigerator, you most likely either have a water line that is leaking or a freezer that is not cold enough. Check the bottom of your freezer to see if there is standing water or ice forming. As the water or ice forms, it can melt and leak every time you open the freezer. If you don’t find ice or water forming at the bottom of your freezer, you may have a water line that is loose or leaking.

The water line is used to make ice and sometimes provide water in the refrigerator door. The line is usually located in the back of the refrigerator and can be knocked causing a slow leak. It’s a good idea to occasionally check around your refrigerator for standing water and fix the problem before the water gets worse or causes damage to your floors.

Dishwasher

Much like your refrigerator, a dishwasher can leak water for a while until it is discovered. The water line and/or the drain to the dishwasher is usually connected at the back of the dishwasher and any leaks could take weeks or months to appear. While you can’t do anything about hidden leaks, the other commonplace that a dishwasher leaks is around the door. If the seals around the door have been cracked or compromised, water can leak out while it is running and pool below the dishwasher.

It’s always a good idea to check on a regular basis around the bottom of your dishwasher for any standing water or signs of water. If you do find any signs, you can then further investigate to determine if it’s around the door or if it’s coming from the water or drainage line hidden behind your dishwasher.

Washing Machine

You can probably start to see a pattern here. While water can come through a damaged roof or windows or under doors, it’s common appliances and household items that are hooked up to water that tend to cause most water damage in homes.

The washing machine is no exception to leaking, with its water intake and water drainage. Water can also leak out around the door of the washing machine from old or damaged seals. Just like your dishwasher, it’s important to regularly check around your washing machine for any signs of water leakage. Check the water hookup, water drainage, and around the door for signs of water.

Toilet

The water leaking from a toilet can be particularly bad. If the water is leaking from the back tank, then the water is most likely clean and while it is still bad, it’s not as bad of a situation if the water leaking is coming from around the toilet drain. Toilets usually drain the content of their bowl down underneath the toilet where it connects with the sewer drain. To prevent leaking and odors, the toilet drain is seated with a wax ring into the sewer drain. If your toilet is not completely bolted down or becomes loose over time, the wiggling can break the wax seal causing dirty, contaminated water to seep out below the toilet. If not discovered, this water can seep into the floor and cause serious water damage and most likely mold damage.

If you notice your toilet wiggles, check for any signs of water leakage and tighten down your toilet. If you do find water, then you may have to buy a new wax ring and reseat your toilet although you might want to have a water damage professionals check for any water or mold damage

Air Conditioner

The last common source of water damage in homes is the air conditioner. Whether you have a central air conditioner or window ac units, they both can cause water to leak and damage your home. In both systems, the air conditioner typically creates a lot of condensation when running in the hot summer. This condensation is usually gathered in a pan where it then drains outside or into a drain. If the drain becomes clogged, the water in the pan can overflow and drip inside your home or into other parts of the air conditioner where it can promote mold growth.

If you notice your vents are blowing air that smells moldy then you need to check for standing water or mold growth around the blower, filter, and cooling coils of the unit. You might also find water dripping or pooling around the unit. Again, just like your other appliances, it’s a good idea to regularly check your air conditioner as well as maintain it.

If You Do Have Water Damage, Call the Pros

If you do discover water damage from any of the above culprits or from other places like a leaky roof or burst pipe, it’s important to call water damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of West Riverside City as soon as possible. Water damage can quickly get much worse if not treated immediately. Water can seep and soak further into the floors and walls causing more damage and it can also promote mold growth if not removed and treated quickly. Hopefully, you don’t have any water damage and catch it in time by regularly checking the culprits above. 

Give us a call today! - (951)351-8033

What to do if your roof is leaking in Riverside

12/20/2018 (Permalink)

This Riverside home experienced a roof leak due to rain.

What to do if your roof is leaking?

With winter coming upon us and approaching rainy season, there’s a chance for some possible roof leaks. A leaky roof can certainly cause a rain on any homeowner’s parade. Rainy weather is often when roof leaks get discovered. That's when it's too late for anything but a repair. No time to contemplate, no time to plan with the rain causing interior damage right now, just get to the phone and get a roofer there as soon as possible. But what can you do to temporarily stop the leaks from causing more damage until help arrives?

First Things First - Deal with inside the house to minimize interior damage

In most cases, a leak will slowly pool at the ceiling until it finds an escape route -- usually a penetration point like at a light fixture or heat register. After several hours, the leak will start to find multiple escape routes, making the leak look much worse than it actually is. To minimize your ceiling damage, find the wettest spot or a bulge in the ceiling and poke a small hole in the middle. Use a bucket to collect the draining water. 

Second Step – Locate the point of entry

Start with the inside, such as an attic. It will prove to be quite difficult to stop a leaky roof in the rain. Try to locate the leak but keep in mind that the leak in the ceiling and the leak in the roof may not align. If your roof covering is over a layer of plywood, then you should keep in mind that water will generally travel from the leak in the roofing material to the nearest joint in the plywood, depending on how the roof slopes.

Third Step – Maintain the situation until help arrives

Once you locate the point of entry from the inside, there are a couple of options for temporary repair such as roofing cement, roofing tape or a tarp. Available for purchase at any home improvement store, roofing cement or tape can be applied to the inside of the roof decking inside your attic, as well as to the outside of the roof. If you feel confident enough scale your rooftop, tarping is a quick and easy option to control any further leaking until your roofing contractor arrives. When using a tarp to cover your roof, a good rule of thumb is to cut the tarp so that it adequately covers the damaged area. Leave at least an extra four feet of tarp on each end to cover the roof damage. Secure the tarp with 2 x 4 boards. You can staple or nail the tarp to the boards, but be sure to use nails that are not so long that they will go through your roof.

These steps will help you prevent further damage to your home until a professional can arrive. Keep in mind when hiring a roofing contractor you want to have a reputable company, someone who is going to stand behind their work. Your roof will last a long time so you don’t want someone working on it who is not a local, reliable company.

Contact  if you have water damage from a leak in your roof. 

If you are in Riverside and find yourself in this vulnerable position, make a call to SERVPRO of West Riverside City and let the professionals take over. After you have done all that you as a homeowner are capable of doing to lessen the damage, let the experts use both their knowledge, experience, and resources such as vacuums and fans to dry out the water and the damage that has already taken its toll.

Next in the damage restoration process is to deodorize the building where it needs to treated. Depending on the assessed level of damage and the kind of water that did the dirty work--disinfecting may also be a necessary step to take. The goal is to get the residence or building structurally back to the standards it was at before the water accident. In some cases, further action may need to be taken such as structural repairs.

Unfortunately, homeowners may learn that they are not covered like they thought--or hoped--that they were. When that happens, the cost of repairing water damage might default to the homeowner. If you are not sure if you are covered for flooding and other water damage, call your insurance company to find out what is what. If you choose to, add coverage and discuss your location, possible natural disasters in your region, and other related matters. Insurance is there to ease your worries for a price. Put those worries to rest and get the coverage you think you need so that you can continue to live your life with as few financial surprises as possible.

So what happens when you need water damage restoration services for your Riverside residence? SERVPRO of West Riverside City Professionals concentrate on safely drying, deodorizing and disinfecting any areas flooded or damaged by water. Water damage in Riverside residences or businesses is not desirable, but there is hope and help to get you out of the mess you are in.

Protect your home while your out of town this travel season

12/10/2018 (Permalink)

Do you have plans to head out of town for the holiday season? 

Do you know how to prepare your home before you head out of town? Follow these tips to help prevent possible damage while you are gone.

Water Damage

The last thing you want to find on your return from a relaxing vacation is flooding and water damage in your home. There are a variety of potential causes of water damage. Plumbing and appliances in your home can malfunction and leak while you are away. When you leave consider turning off your water, or have someone come check your home regularly and have them flush your toilets and run several faucets to ensure they are working.

Make sure windows are closed and sealed, and check to make sure there are no small leaks before you leave the home. A small leak can lead to significant water damage and potential mold growth.

Examine the Flooring

Depending on the type of flooring you have in each room of your home, you’ll want to look for different warning signs of water damage.

In rooms with tile, laminate, or wood, look for warning signs such as:

Look for white or dark stains on wood floors as well.

Carpet can mask problems that lie beneath the surface. Watch for more obvious signs like wet spots in your carpeting, but also pay attention to any gradual rises underneath the floor. Damp, moldy smells can also be a sign of water damage.

Check the Walls and Ceilings

Walls can easily hide small leaks, but the water buildup will usually reveal itself in time. Regularly examine your walls and ceilings for the following signs of water damage:

If you’re not the original owner of the home, you may want to look for areas on the ceilings and walls with a lot of localized paint buildup. Make sure the previous owner did not simply paint over water damage.

Inspect the Bathroom and Kitchen

It’s easy to neglect the cabinets beneath your sinks—especially if you don’t keep anything you regularly use down there. Check the area for the following signs of a problem:

In addition to looking under the sink, you should inspect all fixtures for signs of wear including missing grout, leaks, rust, or mold. Examine your laundry room and water heater for similar potential signs of water damage.

Survey the Attic and Roof

You can often find signs of roof damage in your attic; however, these signs may go unnoticed since attics tend to be a low-traffic area. Examine your attic regularly to look for key indicators of potential problems.

The insulation should be dry and in good condition. Pay attention to points where two roof planes come together and the flashing where the roof meets the walls. Watch for signs of damage such as:

Your roof is one of the largest surfaces of your home that is exposed to the outside elements. As such, even small problems, if unnoticed or ignored, can lead to potential home damage.

After clearing debris that could hide potential problems, search your roof for signs of damage including:

While you are outside, pay attention to the foundation of your home as well. Make note of any standing water along the foundation, as this can also indicate otherwise unseen issues.

Mold Damage

To help reduce the risk of mold growth while you are gone, make sure to clean your kitchen and bathrooms before leaving. Clean out your refrigerator before you leave and get rid of any food that might spoil while you are gone, such as milk, meats and produce. Spoiled food can cause bad smells and even lead to mold growth in your refrigerator and freezer. Also, clear out any perishable foods in your pantries, and don’t leave any food open. Be sure to take out your trash, especially if it contains spoiled food or other smelly items. Clean your sink drain and disposer to get rid of food buildup.

Along with cleaning before you leave, check for any water leaks or wet spots. Wet, damp areas create a perfect environment for mold growth.

Fire Damage

Make sure your smoke detectors are in working order before you leave. Also unplug appliances like computers and TVs to reduce power usage, the risk of power surges damaging your devices and of cords shorting out and starting a fire. Finally, make sure your oven and grill are off before you leave.

Burglary/ Vandalism

This is one of the big concerns when leaving town. One of the biggest keys is to make your home look like it’s still occupied. Set lights on a timer in your home and have your mail and newspapers put on hold while you are out. Don’t say you are out of town on your answering machine or on social media. This tells the world that you are gone and that your home is unoccupied. Have a friend come check in on your home regularly. Make sure your doors are locked and windows closed and locked before you leave.

We all want our homes to be safe while out of town. These tips can help prevent potential damage to your home. If things do happen while you are out, give us a call and we can get your home back to normal in no time. SERVPRO of West Riverside City can clean and restore most damage, from broken windows and other vandalism to water and smoke damage. Give us a call at SERVPRO of West Riverside City, 951-351-8033, to start the restoration process. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Flooding After Wildfires in Riverside County – Reduce Your Risk

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding is the most common and costly natural hazard in the nation.

Wildfires carry a one-two punch. After the damage caused by the wildfire, flooding is the most common and costly natural hazard in the nation. And, after the record-breaking wildfires in California, the risk of flash flooding and mud flows increase significantly. Even light rain can lead to devastating flash flooding and mudflows.

Residents of California’s Riverside, Los Angeles, Butte, Ventura counties and surrounding areas are urged to protect themselves by planning evacuation routes, collecting supplies and purchasing flood insurance today. Even if your home was not directly impacted by the wildfires, you are at increased risk of flooding. All surrounding areas are at risk of flooding for up to several years. To learn more, visit FEMA-Flood-after-fire.

Large-scale wildfires like Holy, Camp, Hill and Woolsey will dramatically alter the terrain and ground conditions. Normally, vegetation absorbs rainfall, reducing runoff. Wildfires, however, leave the ground charred, barren and unable to absorb water, creating conditions ripe for flash flooding and mudflow. Flood risk remains significantly higher until vegetation is restored—up to five years after a wildfire. Flooding after a fire is often more severe, as debris and ash left from the fire can form mudflows. As rainwater moves across charred and denuded ground, it can also pick up soil and sediment and carry it in a stream of floodwaters, which can cause more significant damage.

A flood does not have to be a catastrophic event to bring high out-of-pocket costs; and you do not have to live in a high-risk flood area to suffer flood damage. Around 20 percent of flood insurance claims occur in moderate-to-low risk areas.

Property owners should remember to:

Buy Flood Insurance. Most standard homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is affordable and important to protecting your investment. By law, there is a 30-day waiting period from the date of purchase until the flood insurance coverage takes effect.

Just an inch of water in an average-sized home can cause more than $25,000 in damage. An average flood policy costs around $890 a year, and rates start at less than $516 a year for homes in moderate- to low-risk areas.

Prepare Now. Gather supplies in case of a storm, strengthen your home against damage, and review your insurance coverages.

Plan Ahead. Plan evacuation routes. Keep important papers in a safe, waterproof place. Conduct a home inventory; itemize and take pictures of possessions and the inside and outside of your home.

For more information about flood insurance, please call your insurance agent or contact the National Flood Insurance Program Call Center (NFIP) at 1-800-621-3362 for information about the NFIP or questions about an existing policy.

Visit the National Flood Insurance Program at FEMA National Flood-Insurance Program to learn more about flood risk and flood insurance.

Getting Prepared-Evaluating your Property

After a fire, it is important to thoroughly evaluate and plan for storm events in order to help protect your property. First, start by determining where water and debris are likely to flow and collect. Once you have located potential routes where water and debris may flow, plan and implement diversions in those identified flow pathways. Pay particular attention to steep, barren slopes, low spots, and high flow areas when planning for structure and property protection. General Precautions During a storm event, property damage can be attributed to stormwater runoff, debris (mud, rocks, branches, etc.), or both. When devising a protection strategy for your property, pay special attention to the following general rules:

o Never underestimate the power of stormwater and debris flows.

o Try to direct stormwater and debris flows away from any structures.

o Avoid altering natural or existing drainage patterns in a way that might worsen conditions for you or your neighbor. Work cooperatively with your neighbor to achieve the best results.

o Avoid trying to control or confine flows more than is absolutely necessary; remember that the water and debris flows need to go somewhere.

o Place protection devices in such a way so as to deflect debris; do not try to create a dam or stop the flows in any way; this may cause flooding.

o In extreme condition, board up windows as necessary to prevent debris from entering structures.

o Protect your most valuable property first - your home; then consider what time and money are available to protect other less valuable objects such as swimming pools, landscaping, or other minor structures.

o Be prepared to sacrifice the use of portions of your property to achieve the greatest amount of protection.

o Don’t take unnecessary risks; if your debris control problems appear to warrant solutions beyond the scope of this guide, consult a competent expert such as a civil or geotechnical engineer or a landscape architect for additional advice.

To get life back on track after flooding and storm damage, call  SERVPRO of West Riverside City 951-351-8033

Most Common Causes of Water Damage in Your West Riverside Home

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Riverside City if you have water damage in your home or commercial property, we are here to help! 951-351-8033

Most Common Causes of Water Damage in the Home

Sometimes, homeowners and property managers may need urgent West Riverside water damage restoration and not even be aware of it. At SERVPRO, we know that it's quite common for homeowners to assume that they won't don't need any help from the professionals until something dramatic like a burst pipe or heavy rain fall occurs.

Though, it is far more normal for water destruction to come as a thief in the night, sneaking slowly throughout your home, causing graduation deterioration and damage. Standing water may also cause sanitary, and health issues, and will decrease your home's efficiency. Even worse, slowly-spreading West Riverside water damage can play host to mold colonies, weaken critical structural beams and cause other forms of widespread damage throughout your home.

Here are a few common situations that could potentially lead to slow water destruction:

Flat Roofs

While many homes are perfectly legal with a flat roof, a more standard sloped roof is far more efficient and redistributing rainwater. Of course, most flat roofs are not completely flat and are build with a small slope, but if branches or other debris build up, water can deform and damage your roof.

Leaky Plumbing

Sometimes people dismiss leaking pipes and other parts of their plumbing system, assuming that it won't be a big problem. A water leak that affects your floor boards might be more than enough to invite toxic black mold into your home. Homeowners should check the acidity of their home water to make sure that the copper lining of their pipes is not being destroyed.

Gutters & Drains

When installed properly and clean, your gutter and drainage system should easily be able to disperse rainwater safely away from your home or building. Unfortunately, if gutters and drains get clogged with leaves and other debris, a dam can form, leading water to overflow its bounds and cascade down the walls of your home. When your walls start to become continually wet, they will begin to break down and cause severe damage to the structural integrity of your home or property.

Other Problems

Homeowners worried about these, and other potential sources of water destruction should contact their local Riverside city restoration professionals. A professional will be able to help you quickly restore your home to its full comfort. At SERVPRO West Riverside City, we have years of experience in helping homeowners and property managers quickly remove and repair water problems.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of West Riverside City is close by and ready to respond to your flood or water damage emergency.

Common Mistakes You're Making with Your "Small" Water Damage in West Riverside City

10/15/2018 (Permalink)

When Water Damage Strikes

When finding themselves in the midst of a water damage event, many people immediately react by jumping in and cleaning up the mess. Beginning the restoration process as soon as possible is important, but starting before you have taken the necessary steps or know exactly what you are doing could actually make things worse in the end. To help avoid these mishaps, a few of the most common mistakes in water damage clean up are listed below. The most critical mistake to not make is failing to hire a professional restoration company to do the dirty work for you. SERVPRO of West Riverside City is your local expert to help you navigate the “waters”.

Mistake #1- Not Having the Job Done RIGHT the First Time

Adopting the “do it yourself” approach when it comes to water damage clean-up is often the go-to mindset. However, this is usually a more difficult process than people think. It can be a long process and following the proper procedures is very important. For example, if you neglect to begin airing out your home by opening up windows and doors for ventilation and using fans to dry things out as soon as possible, the damage will eventually be worse.

Mistake #2- Not Being Completely Thorough

As mentioned above, the water damage restoration process done right requires that you be very thorough. Cutting corners and major shortcuts will not make a big difference and can actually cause more damage. It is better to have the job done right up front, but it will not happen overnight. To ensure all the water is removed and mold will not begin to grow on and in your walls, ceilings, and carpet, you will want to make sure your contractor is certified to do the work needed in an appropriate time frame.

Mistake #3- Waiting Too Long

It can be tempting to put off dealing with flooding or water damage when it’s just a small incident, especially when life is hectic. Even minor flooding can lead to major damage in the long run. The water seeps into walls and flooring over time when not dried properly and can cause structural damage and mold growth. It’s not worth the risk to procrastinate. It could save you a lot of time, heartache, and money in the long run.

Mistake #4- Not Involving a Certified Restoration Company

Trying to tackle the water damage restoration process on your own is great undertaking. Having it done right the first time requires the proper expertise, the right equipment, and enough time to be as thorough as required. Though it may seem like you have the time and resources to clean it up, you will soon realize the process is more involved than originally thought. Should you ever find yourself in a situation where your home or business has been compromised by flooding or water damage, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at SERVPRO of West Riverside City.

Let SERVPRO of West Riverside City help you recover your property properly following a water damage event. Call us today – 909-351-8033.

What Happens When You Call Us?

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Got Water Damage? Wonder What Happens once you Call?

Within Minutes

Hours 1 - 24:

48 Hours to 1 Week:

More Than 1 Week:

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

Water Damage in Upstairs Laundry Room, Riverside CA

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Drying the subfloor and drywall in upstairs laundry room.

When someone mentions they have a laundry emergency, most people’s first thought would be a red wine or grass stain, but here at SERVPRO of West Riverside City a laundry emergency is a much BIGGER deal! What you aren’t thinking about is without proper inspection and maintenance those appliances you rely on can really lead to a serious disaster in your home.

Washing Machines typically run a few times per week in most homes, and the typical life expectancy of a washing machine is 10-11 years, during that time it can wash up to 5,000 loads. Washers come with 3 hoses filled with water: hot water, cold water and a drain, that gives that appliance 3 opportunities to suddenly leave you with a laundry room flood, or worse widespread water damage.

To complete a full cycle of laundry you have to put those wet clothes somewhere, and it is convenient that the clothes dryer is located right next to the washing machine, right? No one forgets to throw in the laundry detergent when doing a load, but forgetting to dispose of your dryer lint, well that can cause BIG problems. Dryer lint is very combustible, the accumulation of lint in your dryer and vent can reduce airflow, causing your dryer to overheat. An improperly vented dryer can have dangerous consequences and is a leading cause of fire damage in homes.


Steps to prevent a laundry emergency in your home:

1. Inspect the hoses on your washing machine regularly, remember to check for leaks thoroughly but be sure not to disconnect them. The best way to check is to start a small load on a short cycle and make sure you don’t see any water, with each cycle. Better yet replace rubber hoses with a stainless-steel option, they have a longer life span.

2. Give your washer some room, keeping it 6” away from the wall can help prevent the hoses from kinking. Also, make sure you don’t see a lot of movement, an imbalanced washer can move around enough to loosen or cause added stress on your hose connections.

3. If you seem to have continued problems with your washer install a flood stopper. It’s placed on the floor near your washing machine and when it detects water it can shut off the water supply.

4. It is recommended to have your dryer exhaust system cleaned at least twice a year. Make sure you remove lint from your filter and underneath it every time you start a new load. Don’t use dryer sheets and fabric softener and remove the back of the dryer regularly to remove trapped lint.

5. Check that your dryer vent outside is lifting/venting properly. When installing the duct line keep it as short as possible to accumulate less debris. Keep the area around your dryer free of dust and other debris.

Accidents sometimes happen even after taking proper precautions and performing routine maintenance in your home. We here at SERVPRO of West Riverside City have responded to dozens of calls for water or fire property damage caused by laundry emergencies. We specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after fire, smoke or water damage. Our professional staff has the equipment, expertise, and experience to respond faster to any size disaster.

If you have a laundry emergency caused by Fire/Water Damage! SERVPRO of West Riverside City is always here to help!

Providing 24 Hour Emergency service, 7 Days a week, 951-351-8033 we are just a phone call away!

Water Damage Prevention Tips

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

We all know what water damage to homes and businesses look like after a flood or a heavy rain. Oftentimes, events such as these are unexpected, and if we aren’t prepared for what may happen during a stormy season, we can suffer more water damage than we need to.

• DO REGULAR INSPECTIONS. Take a good look around your home or place of business; are you prepared for wet weather? Do exterior doors fit as tightly as they should, and are both doors and windows properly weather-stripped? The roof of your office or warehouse needs to be well-maintained, too, to protect your machinery, product, and staff furniture from water damage. The parking lot or driveway of your home or business needs to have a well-planned drainage system so that clients, employees, and family members can get to and from their vehicles safely. If people have to wade in from their cars, floors will suffer, and a slip-and-fall accident due to wet floors can be a disaster. Inspect the parking lots of your business regularly for potholes, especially after a storm. If you know you’ll see a lot of run-off from the parking area, consider using sandbags. Low-lying buildings next to a parking lot full of water can end up flooding, and you will want to plan ahead to prevent that from happening.

• DO REGULAR UPKEEP AND MAINTENANCE. Rain gutters and spouts need to be checked on a regular basis. If your rain gutters become clogged with debris such as dead leaves or small branches, they aren’t going to be able to drain away rain water. As water backs up, it can leak back into the walls of your building, sometimes without you knowing it, and you can find yourself with water damage, and even mold. These types of issues can be alleviated by regular maintenance.

• COMMUNICATE WITH PUBLIC SERVICES. Power lines and telephone poles near to your home place of business can be an issue when storm season comes if they are not in good condition. Contact your utilities companies and have them come take a look prior to wet weather to make sure you, your business, and your employees and loved ones will be safe. Be aware of the condition of any large trees on your property. If the grounds of your place of business become saturated, a tree with an unstable root base can fall and create problems for you, your employees, and your customers. Some trees and plants are the city’s responsibility, depending on where they are placed. Make sure you know who to call should the time come.

The team here at SERVPRO of West Riverside City is standing ready to help in any way we can! We have the expertise to handle water and fire damage, and specialize in mold remediation. If you have sustained water damage to your property, give us a call today at 951-351-8033, or visit  on our website: SERVPRO of West Riverside City

Emergency Water Damage on Your Hands?

7/25/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Experts Ready to Respond 24/7 365 Days a Year

Have A Water Damage Emergency? Call 951-351-8033

         What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.
  
  
  What NOT to Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Sewage Backups Means Black Water Damage in Norco

6/27/2018 (Permalink)

This photo shows how we remove the affected flooring and drywall when dealing with a category 3 water emergency.

Sewage backups are a dirty business—literally. Thankfully, we at SERVPRO of West Riverside City know exactly how to handle it. When toilets backup or start to overflow, sometimes it’s just a little toilet water that needs to be removed, but sometimes it is infinitely worse. The category of the sewage water (Category 1, 2 or 3) will directly affect how we treat the situation. With Category 1, we clean, disinfect and remove anything too saturated. On the other hand, Category 3 requires us to remove anything the water touched. Category 3 means you, the homeowner, could be in danger if we do not remove everything.

A Norco homeowner recently experienced a Category 3 sewage backup. As with most sewage backups, it originated in the bathroom. It happened while the homeowner was not home, so when she returned it had already spread to other rooms. She knew she would need a professional to help her remove the damage, so she called her property manager who referred her to SERVPRO of West Riverside City. 

As soon as the call came in, we sent our Project Manager to the home. His initial inspection found that the kitchen, bathroom and hallway were all affected. He also determined the water to be Category 3 sewage water, so he informed the homeowner anything the water touched would have to be removed for her safety. As soon as we had her approval (and the approval of her insurance), he called out our technicians.

Our technicians ended up removing the lower cabinets in the kitchen as well as the backsplash and counter tops. From there, they moved to the bathroom where they removed the vanity, tile floor and shower tile. And then finally they moved to the hallway where they removed all the hallway carpet, baseboards and a foot of drywall. Once everything was removed we worked to disinfect every area and then we set up air scrubbers and dehumidifiers to make sure everything was dry and sanitary for the homeowner.

She was so grateful for our work! She told us she could not have picked a better water damage company to come out to her home. Though her damage was extensive, she knew our ultimate priority was her safety and for that, she was grateful.

To read more about what categories of water exist, click here.

Call us today at 951-351-8033

Slab Leak Affects Riverside Kitchen with Water Damage

6/20/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Riverside Kitchen

Water damage can happen to anyone at any time. Thankfully, you always have SERVPRO of West Riverside City at your disposal for any of your water damage remediation needs. Some of the calls we receive lead to projects that can be completed within a day or two, but others take a little bit longer. Depending on the damage, we will make sure to be at your house until the water damage is completely removed and safe for future living. We pride ourselves on our efficiency, so taking too much time should not be much of a problem.

A homeowner in Riverside recently contacted us with a slab leak. His first call had been to his plumber, who came out and diagnosed the leak after the homeowner had noticed some damp laminate flooring. From there, the plumber told him that he needed to call a water damage company to take a look. The plumber recommended that he call SERVPRO of West Riverside City. 

We immediately dispatched our Project Manager to the home to take a look at the damage. He found that the kitchen was luckily the only room affected, but unfortunately the damage was pretty extensive. He called our Crew Chief and technicians out to the scene to get the work started. 

Our technicians ended up removing the lower cabinets as well as some drywall and laminate flooring. Then we set up air movers and dehumidifiers to make sure everything was completely dried all the way through and that mold would not be a threat in the future. Between the removal and the drying, the entire project took a full eight days to complete. 

The homeowner was so happy with our work! Though it was a long eight days for him, he knew his home was safest in the hands of SERVPRO of West Riverside City and he would absolutely be calling us again in the future.

Sewage Backup in Riverside High School

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

This photo shows a recent sewage backup in a Riverside High School.

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. SERVPRO of West Riverside City have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Toilet Overflow or Sewer Backup?
Call Today 951-351-8033

Water damage can be classified by the three types of contaminated water. SERVPRO of West Riverside City will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Hour Emergency Service

Water contaminated with sewage backup should be considered an emergency situation and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of West Riverside City are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We are water damage restoration specialists with specialized training, equipment and protective gear to safely restore your home or business.

Water Leak Affects Two Homes in Riverside,CA

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Equipement in place to start the drying process.

One Water Leak Affects Two Homes

At SERVPRO of West Riverside City, we understand that water damage can be rather stressful for a homeowner to deal with, especially if they are trying to tackle it all by themselves. Cleaning up water damage correctly and effectively requires knowledge, experience and the proper tools. That’s why it is so important to hire a professional water damage company like SERVPRO of West Riverside City to take care of the remediation process for you. We’ll get your home back to normal in no time at all, so give us a call today!

A homeowner in Riverside called us after discovering water damage in his home. Originally, SERVPRO of West Riverside City was doing work on his neighbor’s home after a pipe had burst. However, the homeowners shared a wall, which caused the water damage to spread to the other house, affecting the living room, bedroom and their shared wall. Because their neighbors had used SERVPRO of West Riverside City to remedy the problem, the homeowner decided to give us a call.

We immediately went out to the home to inspect the damage. The neighbor’s pipe burst did in fact affect the living room and bedroom. He knew this was the perfect job for SERVPRO of West Riverside City, so he called the rest of our crew out to get started on the remediation process.

As soon as our technicians arrived, we began removing the drywall in both the living room and bedroom. Fortunately, the laminate flooring in the living room and carpet in the bedroom were dried in place.

The homeowner was very satisfied with our work. He appreciated how fast our team responded to his call and was pleasantly surprised in our ability to remove the water damage in its entirety. 

For more information on our water damage services, give SERVPRO of West Riverside City a call today! 951-351-8033

SERVPRO helps Corona Homeowner after Regular Business Hours

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Drying equipment in place to dry out drywall and flooring.

At SERVPRO of West Riverside City, we understand that water damage can come and damage your home at any time and day of the week. Whether it’s a Saturday morning or a Monday night, water damage is most often unexpected and unwanted by homeowners. While many water damage remediation companies only operate during usual business hours, SERVPRO of West Riverside City is different. In order to help and respond to our customers’ needs as soon as possible, we are open every hour of every day of the week. No matter what time of day it is, our team will be at your house to remove the water damage in no time at all.

We recently received a call from a homeowner in Corona, who happened to call on a Saturday evening for help. Homeowner explained to our call center that she had discovered leaking water from her toilet, which ended up causing water damage to multiple rooms. Not sure how to clean up the damage on her own, the homeowner decided to contact a water damage remediation company that was open 24/7: SERVPRO of West Riverside City.

As soon as we got off the phone with the homeowner, we sent our Operation Manager, Gary, out to inspect the damage done to the home. After taking a look around, he detected water damage in the bathroom, hallway, closet and dining room.

With a plan in place, the rest of our crew made their way over to the house to begin the cleanup process. In the bedroom, we had to float the carpet and remove some of the walls. In the hallway, we removed the hard wood flooring, but were able to dry the walls in place. We also removed some of the ceiling in the dining room. To make sure everything was completely dry, our team set up drying equipment in all of the affected areas of the house. 

The homeowner was very pleased with our end results. She appreciated how fast our response time was and our ability to remove every sign of water damage in the home. We were happy to help!  

Call us if you notice a water leak in your home after hours! We will be there to help no matter what time it is! 951-351-8033

Slab Leak leave Behind Major Water Damage

5/21/2018 (Permalink)

Pin hole in pipe caused Water Damage in Riverside Home, affected several rooms with carpet and wood. SERVPRO was there to help immediately.

Slab leak affects Riverside and Norco Homes

At SERVPRO of West Riverside City, we see firsthand all the many ways a home can be affected by water damage. One of the most popular sources of water damage we see is water damage caused by a slab leak. A slab leak occurs when the water lines beneath your home’s concrete slab start to leak. When this happens, the leak can end up damaging multiple areas throughout your home. 

But fortunately, companies like SERVPRO of West Riverside City exist to help remove the water damage from your home. Our staff has the experience and knowledge required to remove water damage properly and efficiently. 

In the past few weeks, we have received quite a few phone calls from homeowners finding signs of water damage caused by slab leaks. Here are just a few of their experiences:

Slab Leak Affects Multiple Rooms in a Riverside Home

Our call center recently received a call from a homeowner in Riverside who had detected water damage in her home. Not sure how the damage originated, she decided to call her plumber for assistance. Her plumber stopped by and let her know that the water damage was coming from a slab leak. He repaired the leak and recommended that she call SERVPRO of West Riverside City for help with the water damage removal process. She gave us a call immediately.

With our team of technicians present, we started by removing some of the laminate flooring in each room. Because of the severity of the slab leak, the laminate started to come up, which gave us no other option than to remove the affected areas. We then removed some of the affected drywall. To make sure that every ounce of water damage was completely removed from the home, we completed the project by setting up our heavy duty drying equipment in all the affected areas. 

In the end, the homeowner appreciated our ability to remove all signs of water damage from her home. She let us know that if water damage affected her home in the future, she knew exactly who to call: SERVPRO of West Riverside City.

Slab Leak Causes Severe Water Damage to a Norco Home’s Wood Flooring

Another homeowner in Norco, CA reached out to us through our call center after he discovered some water damage affecting his wood flooring. Having never dealt with water damage before, he decided to go on Yelp and searched for the best water damage remediation companies in Riverside County. After reading several positive reviews, he knew that there was only one company he could go with: SERVPRO of West Riverside City.

When we talked to the homeowner on the phone, he let us know that the damage seemed to be coming from a slab leak. We decided to send our technician, Gary, out to the home immediately to perform an initial inspection. After taking a look around the home, it appeared that the wood flooring as well as some drywall had been affected by water damage in the bathroom and hallway. 

With a plan in place, the rest of our team made their way out to the home to begin the cleanup process. We ended up removing the affected drywall, but fortunately, we were able to save the wood flooring. By strategically placing drying equipment in the affected areas and drying out the saturated framing studs, there was minimal removal required.

The homeowner was very impress with our results. He appreciated our hard work and excellent customer service. We were happy to help!

Don’t let a slab leak ruin your home – contact SERVPRO of West Riverside City! Our team will help remove any and all signs of water damage from your home. Give us a call today and we’ll have your space back to normal in no time at all.

Can I dry my carpet after a water leak?

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

This photo shows how we can save your wet carpet and dry it out in place after a water damage.

It doesn’t matter where the water damage stems from; discovering soggy, wet carpet in your home is never ideal. We at SERVPRO of West Riverside City understand how unfortunate it is to stumble upon water damage in your flooring and want to help. That’s why we’re sharing these important facts to know about water damage pertaining specifically to your carpet. Take a look! 

1. Know if your carpet can be saved:

Depending on how extensive the damage is, you might not need us to remove any of your carpet. It all comes down to the source of the water damage. If the damage is coming from a sewage-contaminated leak, then you will most likely have to remove the carpets for health safety reasons. Sewage contains dangerous bacteria that can be hazardous to you and your family’s health. So if your carpet is wet with this type of water, it’s probably safest to remove the carpet. However, if the water damage is coming from a non-sewage leak source, SERVPRO of West Riverside City will do everything we can to save your carpet. 

Whether or not we are able to save your carpet also depends on how long the water damage has been there. If the damage has been soaking for a long time, it becomes more difficult to properly remove all of the water from the carpet. And if the water damage is not cleaned up in its entirety, you might have to deal with removing mold from your carpets as well. The amount of mold will affect whether or not your carpet can be saved.  That’s why it’s so important to contact a professional like SERVPRO of West Riverside City as soon as you detect the water damage. 

2. How to dry savable carpet:

If you accidentally spill water on the carpet, it’s easy to dry it out by stomping on the area with some dry towels until it stays dry. But anything bigger than a tiny spill should be checked out by a water damage remediation professional like SERVPRO of West Riverside City. We’ll send out our talented team and set up the proper drying equipment, like air movers and dehumidifiers. If the damage is more severe, we have the proper training to remove any water damage that cannot be dried in place. 

3. How to take care of the carpet pad: 

The carpet pad, located in between the flooring and carpet, will most likely need to be replaced once it’s been hit by water damage. If the pad gets soaked with water, fortunately SERVPRO of West Riverside City’s team of technicians can come in and remove the pad. This is because if the pad is wet, the underlying flooring will need thorough drying as well. 

We had a homeowner in Riverside contact us after a supply line in her laundry room burst and started to flood her home. Her plumber suggested that she turn her water off and call a water damage remediation company to help with the rest. What company did he recommend? SERVPRO of West Riverside City, of course ;)

Once we received her call, we sent our Crew Chief, Gary out to the home. He discovered that the damage had made its way to the hallway, bathroom and bedroom. After his initial inspection, Gary brought his team of technicians out to the home and got started on the clean up. 

We ended up having to remove the carpet and padding from the bedroom, but we were able to save the drywall. Drying equipment was also set up in order to clean up the rest of the damage and prevent mold from growing. 

The homeowner was very pleased with our work. She loved and appreciated how fast we were able to come out and get started on her house. She also told us that she’d be calling us again in the future for help with any of her water damage needs. 

4. Mold affecting your carpet: 

As mentioned earlier, water damage that’s left as is in your carpets can lead to a serious mold problem. In fact, after about 48 to 78 hours, mold can begin to grow in the affected areas of your home. That’s because a moist area attracts mold, which if left undetected, can lead to a huge removal process. 

We had a homeowner call us after they found mold and water damage in their carpet. Not sure of how to remove it, they searched the Internet for the best water damage remediation and mold removal companies around. SERVPRO of West Riverside City was at the top of the list. 

After talking to the homeowners on the phone, we sent our crew chief Gary out to the home immediately. His inspection found mold in four different rooms.

Along with our team of excellent technicians, Gary got to work right away. They first removed all of the affected drywall and flooring. Then, to make sure that no future mold would grow, they sprayed down an antimicrobial agent. An air mover was then set up to eliminate any left over water damage and mold. 

The homeowner was so happy with our work! After seeing how thorough we were with removing the mold and water damage, they knew they had made the right choice by calling SERVPRO of West Riverside City. 

5. How to prevent carpet mold from spreading: 

As mentioned earlier, a homeowner never wants to hear that they have mold in their home, especially if there’s water damage to clean up as well. Not only can mold smell, but it can also be dangerous to your health and is always a hassle to clean up. You can’t always prevent water damage from reaching your carpets, but there are some ways to prevent mold from settling in to your floors and spreading to other parts of your home. As you wait for SERVPRO of West Riverside City to come and remediate the damage, try these helpful tips to prevent carpet mold from spreading. 

• Check your furniture. 

To keep your furniture safe from mold, check the bottoms and see if they are wet from the carpet’s water damage. If they are, be sure to tell SERVPRO of West Riverside City and we will dry them to the best of our ability. Regardless of whether or not it is wet, it is best to remove any and all furniture from the affected rooms. This will help minimize the amount of clean up that’s needed on your home and prevent mold from latching on to these items. 

• Sanitize and clean your walls and baseboards. 

If there is mold forming in your carpet, prevent it from spreading to your walls and baseboards by cleaning them off with soap and water. You may not have the ability to control the wet and moldy carpet, but you can try to control how much it spreads to other areas of your house. 

• Wait for SERVPRO of West Riverside City's help.

We know that you want to put your home back together as soon as possible. The best way to do that is to let SERVPRO of West Riverside City come out and clean up the rest of the water damage and mold for you. We’ve got the proper dehumidifiers, fans and all other equipment that’s needed to prevent mold from seeping into your carpets. You can count on us to provide the best service and do everything we can to save your home. 

Whether it’s just water damage or potential mold entering your carpets, SERVPRO of West Riverside City is here to help. Call us to remediate any and all water damage problems you might have! 

Where to look for Water Damage

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO your #1 Cleanup Company in Riverside and surrounding areas

Here are some common causes of water damage and how you can spot the warning signs.

Weather is a common cause of water damage. Rains cause flooding that can get into your home. Even if it isn’t raining there is still moisture in the air. Damp air can lead to condensation and water damage to your walls. This is especially true of basements, bathrooms, and other damp areas of your home that don’t get much airflow.

Appliances like your washing machine, garbage disposal, water heater, toilet, and air conditioner can all contribute to water damage if they leak or stop draining properly.

Water from our pipes and plumbing systems can also cause water damage. Leaks and drips can go on for months, or even years, raising your water bill and doing unseen damage to your home.

So if these are all the ways water can sneak into your home, what are the signs of water damage?

Here are a few warning signs that you have a water damage problem in your home.

Standing water – This may sound pretty obvious, but if you notice water pooling in your house you have a water problem that needs to be taken care of immediately.

Bad smells – While water doesn’t normally have much of a smell, the mold and bacteria that grow in damp environments can give off a distinct musty, wet odor. If you smell mold or mildew you might have a water issue.

Stains and spots – Stains on the ceilings or walls can be a sign of water damage. You might have a leaky pipe or roof. Call a professional to determine the cause of the problem and to clean up the damage before it becomes a serious mold problem.

Peeling paint – Paint damaged by water will start to peel, bubble, or flake off.

Uneven surfaces – Water damage can cause floors, ceilings, walls, and other surfaces to warp and feel uneven.

Cracks – Water is always seeking the path of least resistance out of your home. Water can enter through cracks and once water finds it’s way in, the crack will expand allowing even more to get into your home. Make sure you seal all visible cracks on your property.

If you notice your home has signs of water damage call the experts at SERVPRO of West Riverside City we will immediately come and check it out and assess the situation. 

SERVPRO your #1 Cleanup Company in Riverside and surrounding areas

Sewage Damage and Sewage Cleanup

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Sewage Cleanup/ Toilet Overflow

No one enjoys cleaning up after a flooded toilet, but the process must be done quickly and thoroughly to reduce the risk of your family becoming ill due to sewage backup. The flooded area, whether confined to a small bathroom or spread out over an entire floor of your home, needs to be scrubbed thoroughly and disinfected to remove all traces of bacteria. When you begin the time-consuming process of sewer cleanup, use these tips to restore flooded areas.

Cleaning

Before you can begin disinfecting the area as part of the sewer cleanup process, you must remove every bit of remaining water. Depending on how much dirty water remains in the flooded area, you can use any of the following items to remove it:

• Old towels
• Buckets
• Sump pump
• Trash pump
• Wet vac

Once the water has been removed, use wet rags and household cleaners to wipe down every surface that touched the sewage to remove every trace of dirt, debris, and filth from the area. Any porous items that may have absorbed water should either be thoroughly washed and dry cleaned or discarded.

Disinfecting

Once the area has been cleaned and all filth has been removed, you can begin the process of disinfecting. Mixing household disinfectant sprays with bleach and warm water makes the best solution to kill any remaining bacteria. Apply the solution to every surface that may have been contaminated and let it soak for a few minutes before scrubbing with a clean rag. After the solution has been removed, rinse every surface with clean, warm water.

Dealing with a flooded toilet in Riverside, CA is never fun. Sewage backup presents a hazard, so it should be cleaned up as quickly and thoroughly as possible. For small areas, you may choose the complete the sewer cleanup by yourself, but larger areas may require the help of a qualified restoration company. In either case, use these tips on cleaning and disinfecting to make the cleanup process easier.
Visit http://www.SERVPROwestriverisidecity.comfor more information on water damage.

Water Damage and Restoration Riverside, CA

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Call us for an inspection!

If you have a water loss in your home or business it is important to get it taken care of immediately. 

1. The first step is to get the water extracted. Once all of the water is extracted, SERVPRO can begin to get the drying process started. It is critical to make sure all of the water is removed to prevent secondary damages from happening. 

2. Once all of the water is removed, SERVPRO will place the required number of air movers and dehumidifiers. This equipment will be monitored daily to make sure it is working properly. 

3. After the structure is dry, SERVPRO can start the rebuilding process. In most cases, SERVPRO can handle every job from start to finish. 

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at anytime. 

For more information on the water damage restoration process here.

What to Expect with Professional Water Extraction

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

Whether by storm or by burst pipe, you wake up one morning to find that your Riverside, CA basement is flooded with two feet of water. What can you do next? The next step is usually to call a specialist who can remedy the flood with the proper equipment. If this sounds daunting or you aren’t sure what to expect, here is what happens when you use a professional service to help with your flooded basement.

1. Find the Source

The first thing that any professional is going to do is find the source of your flooding. If you already know where the leak is coming from, you can, of course, point them in the right direction. In some cases, it may be difficult to tell where the leak is coming from on your own.

2. Extract Water

The next step is to extract the water. Experts will have equipment with them that you may not have access to on your own. For example, some people may have a sump pump in their home, but many don’t. Generally, before they can begin to restore the property, specialists will use a trash pump mounted to their truck to extract the flooding in your basement.

3. Salvage Any Materials

If there are any materials that can be salvaged, they will do this for you. Additionally, they will be able to throw out what can’t be saved. This can be anything from drywall, carpets, stuffed animals, bedding and even ceiling tiles. If it’s porous, mold can grow inside the spaces of the object and be impossible to clean.

At the end of the day, hiring a professional service to remove water from your basement and to restore your home is less stressful than trying to handle it on your own. Without the proper equipment, you may not get the job done and it could lead to more issues and property damage down the road. A team of experts will make sure everything is quickly and thoroughly taken care of, giving you your home back as soon as possible. Visit http://www.SERVPROwestriversidecity.comfor more information on storm damage.

Common Types of Water Leaks

1/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will be there to help with any kind of water damage!

SERVPRO technicians deal with all types of water leaks.

Leaks are one of the most expensive types of damage that can happen to a home, but also one of the least detected. In some cases it can take months or even years for leaks to cause visual damage, but by that point, it’s too late to take preventative measures. Leaks can weaken structures, waste water, dissolve building materials, creates dangerous compounds, and foster mold growth. These are some of the most common leaks we encounter on a typical residential call, and how they start:

• Pipe Leaks

• Sink, Shower, and Tub Leaks

• Water Tanks and Heaters

Technicians from SERVPRO of West Riverside City are trained extensively in water damage restoration of all kinds, and we feel confident we can handle any water disaster you have. Call us 24/7 at 951-351-8033 for emergency services or a quote.

Cleaning Up Sewage Backup

1/30/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for your Sewage Backup Problems

No one enjoys cleaning up after a flooded toilet, but the process must be done quickly and thoroughly to reduce the risk of your family becoming ill due to sewage backup. The flooded area, whether confined to a small bathroom or spread out over an entire floor of your home, needs to be scrubbed thoroughly and disinfected to remove all traces of bacteria. When you begin the time-consuming process of sewer cleanup, use these tips to restore flooded areas.

Cleaning

Before you can begin disinfecting the area as part of the sewer cleanup process, you must remove every bit of remaining water. Depending on how much dirty water remains in the flooded area, you can use any of the following items to remove it:

• Old towels
• Buckets
• Sump pump
• Trash pump
• Wet vac

Once the water has been removed, use wet rags and household cleaners to wipe down every surface that touched the sewage to remove every trace of dirt, debris, and filth from the area. Any porous items that may have absorbed water should either be thoroughly washed and dry cleaned or discarded.

Disinfecting

Once the area has been cleaned and all filth has been removed, you can begin the process of disinfecting. Mixing household disinfectant sprays with bleach and warm water makes the best solution to kill any remaining bacteria. Apply the solution to every surface that may have been contaminated and let it soak for a few minutes before scrubbing with a clean rag. After the solution has been removed, rinse every surface with clean, warm water.

Dealing with a flooded toilet in Riverside, CA is never fun. Sewage backup presents a hazard, so it should be cleaned up as quickly and thoroughly as possible. For small areas, you may choose the complete the sewer cleanup by yourself, but larger areas may require the help of a qualified restoration company. In either case, use these tips on cleaning and disinfecting to make the cleanup process easier.
Press here for more information on water damage.

Early Signs of Water Damage

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

If you noticed any signs of water damage in your Riverside Home, call SERVPRO!

While it may seem like water damages should be easy to spot, many times their signs are subtle and hard to find. Water damages, particularly when they go unnoticed for a long period of time, can cause extensive damage to the structure of homes and they encourage mold growth. Early intervention can save you time and money. Here are some signs that you might have a water damage in your home:

Wall Stains – Water damages can leave yellow, brown, or copper colored marks on your walls or ceilings. Excessive moisture can also lead to peeling, cracking, or bubbling paint. If you see any of these in your home, you may have had a water damage in the past or may have one currently. Rust marks under sinks or on water heaters don’t necessarily mean you have a current leak issue, but they are areas that you will want to keep your eye on in the future.

Damage to Floors – Floor boards affected by water may be discolored, but more often will show texture changes. Warped floor boards have gaps between them and curl at the edges. Some boards may have a spongy, soft spot or sink down lower than normal. Water damaged floors may also buckle or expand.   

Water Bill – If you notice that your water bill has been higher than usual then you may have a leak somewhere in your home. A water meter check, either of the flow indicator or an actual reading, can help confirm any potential leaks.

Odor – A musty odor can indicate both mold and a water damage. Mold can grow within 24-48 hours when provided with a source of moisture, so if you see any signs of mold in your home there is a good chance you have had a water damage.

If you suspect a water damage in your home it is time to call in the SERVPRO of West Riverside City. Call us for 24-hour emergency services at 951-351-8033. 

What happens if you have a water damage?

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Questions regarding a water damage, don't hesitate to call us at 951-351-8033.

I Have a Water Damage.  What Happens Now?

We’ve helped restore many homes and businesses after a water damage.  For over 30 years, we’ve responded to water damage emergency calls on a daily basis.  We can help you, too.  

#1 Call us; we’ll be there in less than 4 hours

SERVPRO of West Riverside City’s promise is to respond to all water damages within 4 hours of receiving a call.  We will gather information about your loss and dispatch a prepared crew immediately.  We offer emergency services 24/7/365.

#2 Call your insurance (if you want to file a claim)

While we’re on the way, give your insurance provider a call and let them know what is happening.  Inform them that SERVPRO of West Riverside City is on the way.

#3 Extraction

When we arrive, we will inspect the extent of the water damage and begin extracting all the water.  Our crew will document all affected areas and begin the documentation process for your insurance claim (even when an insurance claim is not filed, our documentation process is still the same).  

#4 Drying and Monitoring

Once all standing water has been extracted, we will set professional equipment to begin drying your home.  We will place air movers, dehumidifiers, and possibly other specialty equipment for hard-to-reach places.  We will return to your property once a day to monitor the drying process and remove equipment.  For more information about our drying process, read here.

#5 Restoration

Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

If you find your property has experienced a water damage, don’t despair.  We’re an experienced, certified, and professional team that can help.

SERVPRO of West Riverside City services Riverside and all surrounding areas.  We can be reached 24/7 at 951-351-8033.  

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Repeat Customer Happy to See SERVPRO

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

Some times when we wrap up a job, a happy customer will joke "It was a pleasure meeting you but I hope we never see you again!" We don't take it personally. We don't wish that stressful situation on anybody. 

But one recent customer was thrilled to see SERVPRO of West Riverside for the second time in as many years. This particular customer was disabled, so when she had a flood late at night affecting all of the bathrooms and bedrooms in her home, a caretaker was tasked with contacting a restoration company to respond. When the homeowner saw Gary walking through the door, she gave him a big hug and said "I'm so happy to see you again, I had no idea who would be coming this time!" We are so pleased to provide our customers with a good experience that leaves a lasting impression. 

Small Mistakes can Lead to Major Water Damage

12/27/2017 (Permalink)

Clogged Water Drains cause Water Damage in Riverside Homes, Call SERVPRO for Water Removal and Dry-Out

Accidents are not always kind to the average homeowner. Something as simple as forgetting to turn off a faucet can have disastrous results to your Riverside house. These unexpected and potentially damaging accidents are amplified considerably when there are young children in the home. Regardless of how it happened, you want to know how to clean up the mess it has left behind.
 
Water damage in Riverside homes is not something uncommon, but it can very quickly put your life to a halt. Though you may return in a short time, this surplus of water can seep into your flooring can create a substantial mess. Even the most careful and diligent of homeowners cannot account for a brief bit of forgetfulness, and it can often require restoration services and water removal efforts.
 
The trouble with excessive water damages is that there are often issues that you cannot even see fully with the naked eye. Structural weaknesses in your floors or walls can be made exponentially worse with the presence of water, and these kinds of lasting damages are not always apparent. That is why giving our SERVPRO team a call can help you to keep total damages to a minimum and provide a peace of mind that you have seen the last of the trouble the accident created.
 
Fortunately, our SERVPRO emergency response team is available 24/7 to help you get your house back in order quickly and mitigate costs associated with the problem being allowed to get worse. Restoration is a process that begins with the removal of all of the water via wet vacs. Pumps are used if the volume of water exceeds the limitations of portable wet vac units, and then drying air movers are set up to remove all trace of lingering moisture from the incident altogether.
 
Accidents are just that: accidents. You cannot anticipate when they might happen or the potential damages they could do, but you do know who can clean up the messes they create. Give our team at SERVPRO of West Riverside City a call anytime at (951) 351-8033.

Click here for more about Riverside.

Hidden Water Damage

10/11/2016 (Permalink)

Crew Chief Gary after he dried water damaged in crawl space and installed new insulation.

Many times water can be very sneaky and hard to find. Such was the case with one of our clients that had their fridge leak and caused more hidden damage than that which was visible. We get the call and quickly show up on site. As the inspection is being conducted, the client was confident that the damage was not too bad. However, our Crew Chief Gary noticed a nearby vent that was in the affected area. He asked the client if he could have access to the crawl space underneath the home. Our client didn’t think it was necessary but gave us access. What Gary found unfortunately was a lot more damage that was not visible from the inside of the house. Water had traveled through the cut outs made for the ground vent and soaked a large area of insulation underneath the house. The client was surprised at the discovery and thanked us for being diligent in the investigation process. The truth is we MUST be diligent and eliminate all moister when dealing with a water loss. Any corners cut or areas overlooked can result in prolonged moister, secondary damage or even worse, mold growth.  

Conclusion

After having identified all affected areas, a complete plan of action was put into place and Gary was able to remove the wet insulation with compromised properties and replace it for new one after the dry down was complete. The client now knowing that all areas were dry and all work completed, was able to come home, relax and carry on with their normal activities being confident that the work had been done thoroughly and correctly by SERVPRO of West Riverside City… Cheers!

Flooded Home In Riverside

8/19/2016 (Permalink)

Different shots of the initial water damage found

The Water Bug Bites...

There is nothing better than coming home from a nice family vacation and getting some rest as you settle back in. But what happens you when you come home only to find a massive water problem?

The Story

That is exactly what happened to a family in Riverside. After a good vacation with their loved ones, they come home late in the evening only to see a horrifying site. Water streaming out from their front door. As they go inside to see what the problem could be, they find that the vast majority of their home is flooded. Carpet, padding, furniture and wood flooring have all fallen victims of water damage. The problem? The toilet supply line in the master bedroom had ruptured and leaked for an indefinite amount of time. Thankfully the client was familiar with SERVPRO and did a quick search for the closest franchise to him.

The Call Out 

Approximately around 10:30PM Christopher gets the call from the home owner and the restoration process begins. Some information of the loss was gathered, tips were given to the home owner and the vehicle was dispatched to give the customer the much needed help.

Upon arrival, the extent of the damage was very apparent but even then a thorough inspection is needed to make sure we find all the areas where water could be hiding from our view. Carpet is completely soaked, walls and lumber are wet and even the reclaimed wood flooring has turned into a water bed. A few hours pass while the water extraction is being conducted to remove all excess water from the scene and the environment is finally getting under control. Equipment was placed to start the dry down process and contents such as furniture and light stands are all propped up to prevent water damage to occur to them or the carpet. The next day our technicians are ready for round two.

The Conclusion 

After a few days of work and great progress, the home owner cheers up and can see the hope for him and his family at the end of all this. He shares with us how happy he is with his decision to call us out and thanks us for being attentive and treating his home with respect. Soon, the home owner and his family will be back at work doing whatever it is that made them happy at home and will not have to worry about mold or any issue relater to this water loss because they know we indeed made it "Like it never even happened".       

Did you know water has different categories?

7/27/2016 (Permalink)

Even water from a clean source like a broken pipe can quickly change category if left unattended.

Water Types play a huge roll in how a professional will decide to tackle any water loss. Many people are not aware that water is categorized by the amount of pollutants it carries or that it picks up as it travels through materials. This is very important to note because as water dries up, these pollutants will be left behind or can even be blown around the area with air movement or foot traffic creating a potential hazarded to health and safety. Sometimes, it’s best to get rid of affected materials instead of drying them and risking your safety and the safety of others.

Categories

Clean – Broken pipe, icemaker, drain overflow  -  No waste or contaminants

Gray – Washing machine, dishwasher, roof leak  -  Some soils and contaminants

Black – Raw sewage, floods  -  High degree of waste and contaminants 

“The safety of our clients and their 100% satisfaction in our services is always part of our goal.” 

Should You Mitigate?

7/1/2016 (Permalink)

Water Damage traveling through carpet & carpet padding

When it comes to Water Damage, it is critical to have proper mitigation as soon as possible to prevent the spread of damage. But what exactly is mitigation?

Mitigation is defined as the action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something. 

In the case of a water loss, part of what is done to reduce the severity of damage is to extract any excess or standing water from the site. Standing water in a structure can be very dangerous and has a very high potential to increase the severity of the damage by seeping through building materials such as carpet, padding, wood floors, vinyl and even walls! But it doesn’t stop there, if left unchecked it can damage furniture, create rust stains, destroy paper goods and worst of all it can accelerate bacterial and fungal growth leading to mold. All of this can also be done by any unchecked moisture and not just by excess or standing water. This is why it is critical to have quick mitigation but also a proper restoration as a whole.

So, Why Mitigate?

• Mitigation reduces the losses of life and property

• Mitigation enables people to recover more quickly from disasters

• Mitigation lessens the financial impact of disasters

When to Mitigate:

• Water damage

• Fire

• Vandalism

• Crime Scene

We are here to help!

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

Quick response with a portable water extractor

A pip bursts. A water heater leaks. A bathtub overflows. A sprinkler system malfunctions. Flood waters rush in. Water damage can happen in any number of ways. But if your business or home is under a few inches of water, everything else takes a back seat. The only thing in your mind will be to find a solution and quick. 

Your local SERVPRO® franchise of West Riverside City is exactly that solution. We understand the stress a situation like water damage can introduce to your life and we want to help you get rid of it quickly and efficiently. We have experienced with our clients that simply having someone show up onsite ASAP, begins to alleviate some of that overwhelming stress. This is because knowing that you have the right people for the job makes all the difference in the world, especially when its your work place or even worse, your home. We understand the importance of diong things as quickly, carefully and thoroughly as possible so you can return to your regular activities. 

Tips

This is why we recommend that you take the time to visually inspect your work area and/or your home and become familiar with were critical things like the main water and gas shut off valves are located. This simple knowledge will empower your ability to take quick actions should anything happen in the future. Also, keep a list of helpful contacts for any number of different situations that could play out in your home or work place. And dont forget that we are ready, local and just a phone call away from serving you. 

Free Inspection Code AC20, call now: 951-351-8033

Water Damage Facts From Discovery

6/2/2015 (Permalink)

May showers can create flood conditions faster than you may realize. Here are some interesting facts about #WaterDamage from our friends at Discovery.

Check out this 30 sec video from Discovery

#SERVPROWestRiverside