How smoke damage affects your business

How smoke damage impacts your commercial property. 

Even the smallest fire can wreak havoc through smoke damage on your business. And not just from the fire itself. Smoke can have lasting repercussions that span far beyond any damage you can see on the surface.

Smoke damage repair is also a time-sensitive process, as smoke and soot contain high levels of acidity that can harm almost any material. Following a fire in your commercial property, it is imperative that you know the effects of smoke and take immediate action once the flames are extinguished.

Smoke Damage Timeline

Minutes after a fire breaks out in your commercial building, soot begins to destroy your property. That’s why it’s crucial to call in restoration experts as soon as the fire is out. The longer you wait, the greater the loss your business could incur.

In minutes, Soot and smoke will leave a yellow stain on your walls and items made with plastic, marble and other porous materials.

In hours, the acidic content in soot can cause metal objects, grout, and other materials to become tarnished and stained.

In days, your walls may be permanently yellow. Metals can corrode or rust. Wooden furniture is destroyed. Flooring, upholstery, cubicles, and other fabric-based items will need replacing.

In weeks, when soot damage has a chance to permeate through your materials, it can cause permanent corrosion and release toxic fumes into the air. Office supplies, furniture and electronic equipment may need replacing.

How to reduce smoke odours

There are a few steps you can take before restoration arrives on the scene to reduce damage and costs to your business. Once it’s safe to enter your building, you can attempt to reduce the smell of smoke odours in your business by doing the following:

  • Open all doors and windows to air out the building, if the temperature is above 60 degrees.
  • Replace the air filters on your furnace if it uses forced air.
  • Tape some muslin cloth over returns, and supply registers to capture loose soot in the air.

While you attempt to reduce smoke odours in your building, do not:

Touch anything in the building with your bare hands. Oils from your skin can permeate through materials like upholstery, walls and woodwork. As this can lead to extensive damage.

Attempt to wash yellowed or damaged walls. The wrong cleaning technique could compound soot residue. So, it’s best to leave the clean-up to the professionals.

Don’t know what to do next? We do. 

Dealing with a disaster can be stressful, but you’re not in it alone. With over 65 years in the cleaning and restoration industry, you can count on ServiceMaster Restore to be at your side every step of the way. Our commercial fire and smoke damage removal services include expert processes for electronics restoration, document and data recovery, smoke and odour removal, and more.

To completely restore your company to its pre-loss conditions, think ServiceMaster Restore. We’ll guide you through every step of our process to ensure you can get back to business as usual right away.

Learn more about our services by finding your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today. Or in an emergency, call 0845 762 6828.

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Navigating the Claims Process for Disaster Restoration

How to know when to claim on restoration work on your property.

When the unexpected happens, time is of the essence. Whatever the nature of the damage to your property, whether water and flood, fire and smoke or mould damage and vandalism, you need to be prepared to take the best course of action for the issue at hand.

But with so many variables and moving parts, it can be hard to know when, in the process of restoring your property, you need to claim on your insurance and what the restoration timeline is for your property.

In this blog post, the disaster restoration experts at ServiceMaster Restore, who regularly work with insurance brokers, loss assessors and adjustors to ensure swift and professional restoration work, walk you through the claims process for disaster restoration work and what to do when.

  1. Stay Safe and Conduct a Damage Assessment

Once you are safe, your first step to determine when to claim on restoration work will be to assess the damage promptly and/or professionally. An early and thorough assessment of the damage will help you know what you’re dealing with to prevent further deterioration, especially with water or mould issues and ensure accurate cost estimates later on, which are crucial for insurance claims.

At this point, you may want to engage restoration experts to conduct an accurate assessment and perform cost estimates, as they are more likely to have the tools and expertise necessary to identify hidden damages to your property.

  1. Make Contact

Whether your property is residential or commercial, the next step is to contact your building’s insurance company.

If you rent your property, inform your landlord about the damage, as they are likely responsible for the repairs. If you are the property owner, contact your insurance provider for any damage covered by your policy as soon as possible.

They are likely to advise you to take one of the following courses of action:

  • Contact their approved disaster restoration company
  • Send them photos for the insurance company to contact a disaster restoration expert
  • Find and contact a disaster restoration company

Logging the Claim with your Insurer

In some incidents, like a flood or burst pipe, which often occur out of hours or during high-demand periods, your insurer may not be able to immediately assist you.

Many restoration companies like ServiceMaster Restore operate 24/7 due to the unexpected nature of the majority of disasters property owners face. Therefore, we’ll be able to assist whenever you need us. In this instance, log a claim with your insurer and utilise their approved contractors or contact a restoration company yourself.

At ServiceMaster Restore, we understand that this aspect of the claims process can often be what hinders essential restoration work from happening as quickly and effectively as it should. That’s why, with ServiceMaster Restore Plus, we have streamlined the claims process. A service that understands the diverse needs across sectors, ensuring that everyone gets a tailor-made experience with a hassle-free add-on to your insurer’s existing cover, offer or policy, which allows us to act quickly 24/7, ensuring rapid response times, reduced costs and an exceptional service.

  1. The Claims Process for disaster restoration

Once the claim has been logged, your insurer is likely to provide a claim form, which you should complete accurately and keep for your records.

After the claim form and emergency repairs are done, your insurer may appoint a loss adjuster to investigate the cost of claims, the cause of the incident, and how much is covered by the insurance policy to agree on a cost.

A restoration expert will then likely provide a quote on restoration and reinstatement work for the property. This quote will then be sent to your insurer to agree on before work commences.

If you disagree with your insurer’s offer, utilise their complaints process if necessary.

When Not to Claim

There are a few reasons why claiming restoration work may not be in your best interest. Including…

  1. Policy Limits

If the damage is extensive and estimated repair costs exceed the maximum payout under your insurance policy, you may instead consider a partial claim or paying for the remaining costs yourself.

Even if repairs are underway, if the policy limit has been reached, the insurance provider might refuse to cover further costs, like alternative accommodation (AA), even if the property remains uninhabitable.

Your insurance provider will assess individual circumstances to determine if a property is truly uninhabitable or unsafe, considering factors beyond the availability of basic amenities.

  1. Lack of Coverage and Exclusions

Some policies might exclude certain types of damage, like certain events or to specific parts of the property. Be aware of any limitations or exclusions in your policy, as this may affect your ability to claim.

  1. Qualifying Repairs and Specific Schemes

Some schemes, like the Right to Repair Scheme, have specific criteria for repairs that are considered qualifying repairs.

If the damage doesn’t fall under the scheme’s definition of a qualifying repair, e.g.:

  • It’s beyond the cost limit
  • The local authority isn’t responsible

Then you won’t be able to claim under this particular scheme.

Furthermore, if the repair is considered an improvement rather than a restoration to the original condition, it might not be covered under certain schemes.

  1. Timing and Delays

When repairs take longer than expected and there are no undue delays caused by you, the insurance provider is likely to cover your alternative accommodation costs, even if the policy limit has been reached. However, if it is established that unnecessary delays were caused on your part, the insurance provider may appropriately refuse to cover additional alternative accommodation costs beyond the policy limit.

  1. Third-Party Claims or Disasters

In certain situations, property damage may occur due to factors entirely beyond your control. If a third party is responsible for the damage, pursuing a claim against them could be the most effective course of action instead of relying on insurance.

Additionally, if the property has been significantly affected by a natural disaster, considering rebuilding or renovating may be a better choice than attempting to restore it to its original state, particularly if the original structure is no longer feasible.

Need help navigating the claims process for disaster restoration?

At ServiceMaster Restore, we work closely with insurance companies to restore your property following most disasters, but if that aspect isn’t covered within your policy, we are happy to take on private cases.

No matter what disaster you’re facing, as a trusted provider for insurers across the UK, we’ll be on hand quickly to deal with the damage to your property.

Call 0845 762 6828 or 0800 021 3970 24/7 in an emergency, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.

Case Study: Clearing Contaminated Loft Insulation in Swansea

Helping recover in the aftermath of a rat infestation in Swansea.

Anyone unfortunate enough to have had rats in the home knows they leave more damage even after they’re gone.

In this case study, we share how Jamie Williams and his team at ServiceMaster Restore Swansea helped restore a property that had been contaminated by rats in just a matter of days.

What was the issue?

Jamie had been contacted by Swansea City Council to restore a property that had been affected by rats.

While the rat infestation had been dealt with before the team arrived, the damage still lingered in the roof space, as the loft insulation had become contaminated with droppings and deceased rats.

What we did

Over the course of two days, the team removed the contaminated insulation and sanitised the void space by removing the droppings.

They then re-insulated the loft to a minimum of 270mm thickness, opting for 300mm on this job to be on the safe side.

The impact

Within a matter of days, the loft was restored to its former condition, free of any contamination and lingering damage and smells from the infestation.

Need expert disaster restoration?

If you’re in Swansea and the surrounding areas and need help immediately after or in the aftermath of a disaster, contact Jamie and his team on 01792 439940.

Or nationwide, call 0800 021 3970 in an emergency, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

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Budget-Friendly DIY Home Restoration Projects

The experts at ServiceMaster Restore share their expert tips on DIY home restoration.

Recently, there has been a surge in homeowners undertaking do-it-yourself home restoration projects. In fact, a survey from Yell has found that 68% of Brits have attempted DIY home improvements over the past year, with 64% doing so to save money.

Many other factors, like the accessibility of information and tutorials online, and the satisfaction of personal accomplishment, drive this rising trend. But regardless of rationale, DIY home restoration has gained popularity among those seeking to improve their living spaces without incurring significant costs.

In this blog, we’ll explore a variety of DIY home restoration projects that are both feasible and rewarding for homeowners.

These projects, ranging from simple cosmetic upgrades to more involved renovations, aim to empower homeowners to take charge of their living spaces and transform them into the homes of their dreams.

Preparing for DIY Home Restoration

Preparing for DIY home restorations is vital for a smooth and successful project.

The first step involves assessing your skills and capabilities. Take stock of your experience with similar tasks and be honest about what you can handle independently versus what might require professional assistance.

Next, gather all the necessary tools and materials for the project. Make a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need, from basic hand tools to specialised equipment, and ensure you have everything on hand before you begin.

Additionally, don’t overlook safety precautions. Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as goggles, gloves, and masks, when handling tools or working with potentially hazardous materials. Be mindful of electrical hazards, use proper lifting techniques to prevent injury, and work in well-ventilated areas when using chemicals or paints.

Taking these safety precautions seriously can help prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment throughout your DIY home restoration project.

Ten Beginner-Friendly DIY Home Restoration Projects

  1. Painting Interior Walls: Refresh your home’s interior by painting walls in different rooms. With proper preparation and the right tools, painting can be a cost-effective way to update your space.
  2. Installing Laminate Flooring: Laminate flooring is relatively easy to install and can dramatically change the look of a room. Many laminate flooring options come with click-lock systems, making installation straightforward for DIYers.
  3. Updating Cabinet Hardware: Give your kitchen or bathroom a facelift by replacing old cabinet hardware with new knobs, handles, or pulls. It’s a simple project that can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic of your space.
  4. Adding a Tile Backsplash: Enhance your kitchen or bathroom with a stylish tile backsplash. With the right materials and techniques, installing a backsplash can be a manageable DIY project that adds value to your home.
  5. Refinishing Furniture: Instead of buying new furniture, consider refinishing or repainting existing pieces to give them a fresh look. Sanding, staining, or painting can breathe new life into old furniture and save money.
  6. Building a Raised Garden Bed: Build a raised garden bed to create a custom garden space in your garden. You can control the soil quality and drainage for your plants by completing this relatively simple project over the weekend.
  7. Installing a Ceiling Fan: Improve air circulation and energy efficiency in your home by installing a ceiling fan. Many ceiling fan kits come with detailed instructions, making installation a manageable DIY project for homeowners.
  8. Weatherproofing Windows and Doors: Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. Caulking and weatherstripping are simple DIY tasks that can make a big difference in your home’s comfort and energy bills.
  9. Building Shelving: Build custom shelving to maximise your home’s space and organisation. You can tailor DIY shelving projects to fit your specific needs and budget, whether it’s a bookshelf, pantry shelving, or garage storage.
  10. Repairing Plasterboard Damage: Fix minor dents, holes, or cracks in your walls with a DIY plasterboard repair project. With the right tools and materials, you can patch and repaint damaged areas to restore your walls to their original condition.

Budgeting & Cost Savings

In the realm of DIY home restoration, budgeting and cost savings are paramount considerations for homeowners.

One of the primary advantages of taking on these projects yourself is the potential for significant savings compared to hiring professional labour. By investing your time and effort, you can often achieve comparable results at a fraction of the cost. However, it’s essential to approach budgeting with careful consideration and foresight.

Calculating the potential savings from DIY projects necessitates a thorough assessment of both material costs and potential labour expenses. Research the prices of materials needed for your project, including tools, equipment, and supplies, and compare them to estimates from professional contractors. Also, consider any additional costs associated with hiring professionals, such as consultation fees or hourly rates. By doing so, you can get a clear picture of the potential savings and make informed decisions about whether tackling the project yourself is financially feasible.

Comparing DIY costs to professional labour costs is another crucial step in budgeting for home restoration projects. While hiring professionals may seem like a convenient option, it often comes with a hefty price tag. By opting for a DIY approach, you can eliminate or drastically reduce labour costs, allowing you to allocate your budget more effectively to high-quality materials and tools. Keep in mind that while DIY projects may require more time and effort on your part, the cost savings can be substantial, especially for those with a limited budget.

To maximise savings without compromising quality, consider several tips and strategies.

Firstly, prioritise projects that offer the highest return on investment and focus on areas that have the most significant impact on your home’s value and aesthetics.

Additionally, research cost-effective alternatives for materials and supplies, such as shopping at discount stores or utilising salvaged materials for certain projects. Take advantage of online tutorials and resources to learn new skills and techniques to help you complete tasks more efficiently and effectively.

Finally, don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced DIYers or professionals in the field to ensure that you’re making informed decisions and achieving professional-quality results without breaking the bank.

By following these tips and taking a proactive approach to budgeting, homeowners can successfully navigate DIY home restoration projects while maximising cost savings and achieving their desired outcomes.

In conclusion, DIY home restoration projects offer many benefits for homeowners, ranging from cost savings to personal satisfaction and skill development.

Homeowners can not only transform their living spaces by taking on these projects, but also gain a sense of accomplishment and pride in their handiwork. As you embark on your DIY journey, remember to explore further opportunities for home improvement and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself with new projects.

However, it’s essential to recognise when a project may be beyond your skill level or capacity. Experts warn that while DIY may seem like the easier option, it should be approached with caution, as 79% of those surveyed revealed they spent money hiring a professional to fix botched DIY jobs. In such cases, seeking professional assistance from a trusted restoration company like ServiceMaster Restore can save time, stress, and potentially costly mistakes.

Need Professional Home Restoration?

If you find yourself in need of expert help or have larger projects on the horizon, don’t hesitate to call ServiceMaster Restore on 0800 021 3970. With our expertise and experience, we can help bring your home restoration visions to life while ensuring quality results.

If you experience water damage during home restoration, reach out to the ServiceMaster Restore experts for 24/7 assistance by finding your nearest business today.