Tag Archive for: burst pipe

, ,

How Water Damage Leads to Mould Growth in Your Home

How water damage quickly snowballs into a complex problem through mould.

When your home experiences water damage, whether from a leaking pipe, storm flooding, or a hidden plumbing issue, the immediate concern is often drying out what you can see. But what many don’t realise is that hidden behind walls or beneath flooring, a more serious threat may be forming: mould.

Mould is more than just an unsightly nuisance. It can silently spread, damage your home’s structure, and contaminate your indoor air. Even worse, it poses health risks, particularly for individuals with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. That’s why professional mould remediation is not just helpful, it’s essential.

At ServiceMaster Restore, we see firsthand how quickly mould can escalate after water damage and how thorough, certified remediation makes all the difference in protecting both property and people.

In this blog post, we share how mould spreads after water damage and what you can do to prevent risk and protect your peace of mind.

Does Water Damage Lead to Mould?

Even minor water damage can set the stage for mould to take hold in your home. Mould spores exist naturally in the air, but they only become a problem when they find moisture. Water from a roof leak, a burst pipe, or excessive condensation provides the ideal breeding ground. Once exposed to moisture, mould can start growing indoors in as little as 24 to 48 hours.

Plasterboard, carpeting, insulation, and wood absorb moisture easily, making them particularly susceptible to mould damage. These materials can stay damp long after surface water is removed, allowing mould colonies to thrive unnoticed. While you might be able to mop up a puddle or open a window to air things out, mould problems are rarely visible at first. Without professional tools to detect moisture in hidden areas, the underlying issue often remains unresolved.

How Does Water Affect Mould Growth?

When a home has excessive moisture, from leaks, high humidity, or poor ventilation, mould spores find fertile ground to multiply. Moisture problems support the transformation of otherwise harmless spores into thriving colonies.

Environmental factors inside your home can worsen this. Anything from poor airflow from closed spaces to the habit of keeping open windows during humid weather can all contribute to the ideal conditions for mould growth.

In bathrooms, kitchens, and even cellars, where steam and humidity linger, the absence of working exhaust fans can further exacerbate the issue. So, if you’re wondering how to stop mould growth, the first and most important step is to eliminate the source of moisture. Mould can’t survive without water.

However, it’s important to understand that removing moisture doesn’t automatically remove mould. Mould won’t simply dry up and disappear once the surface looks clean or dry. Mould growing in your home can go dormant when conditions become dry, but it doesn’t die. The moment moisture returns, it can reawaken and continue to spread.

That’s why professional drying and remediation are critical. It’s not just about removing water; it’s about eliminating the conditions that allow mould to return.

Can I Sleep in a Room with Water Damage?

After water damage, especially if you suspect mould is present, it may not be safe to continue living in or using the affected space. Mould spores can contaminate indoor air, even before visible signs appear.

These spores can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and other health problems in sensitive individuals. People with asthma, seasonal allergies, or compromised immune systems are particularly at risk.

Even healthy individuals may experience symptoms like persistent coughing, eye irritation, or sinus congestion. Some moulds, especially toxic moulds like black mould (Stachybotrys chartarum), can produce mycotoxins with serious health consequences. If there’s a musty odour or you see discoloured patches on walls, ceilings, or flooring, these could be signs of a larger mould issue developing out of sight.

In these cases, it’s best to avoid the area and contact a professional for assessment and cleanup.

What Causes Mould to Grow After Water Damage?

Mould needs four things to thrive:

  1. Spores
  2. Food (organic material like plasterboard or wood),
  3. The right temperature
  4. Moisture

And after water damage, your home may inadvertently provide all of these in abundance.

Dark, damp areas with limited airflow become ideal environments for mould colonies. Materials such as carpet padding, insulation, and even wallpaper glue can trap moisture and become breeding grounds for mould.

The Type of Mould That Grows Indoors (Including Black Mould)

Not all mould is created equal. While some moulds are relatively harmless, others can produce toxic byproducts that impact your health.

Black moulds are the most well-known and feared, but even common indoor moulds, such as Cladosporium and Penicillium, can cause irritation and allergic responses. Colour and appearance alone are not reliable indicators of danger. Mould may appear black, green, white, or even orange, depending on the environment and surface it’s growing upon.

Some toxic moulds may be hidden behind walls or under floors, escaping notice until they cause significant damage or health symptoms. For this reason, a professional mould inspection is invaluable. Certified mould remediation specialists can identify the type of mould, assess its spread, and develop a safe and effective plan for removal.

Signs of Mould Growth After a Water Incident

After water damage, be alert for subtle signs that mould may be growing indoors. A musty or earthy smell is often the first indication. You might also notice peeling paint, warping walls, or staining on ceilings.

But mould isn’t always visible. Invisible signs, such as a rise in allergy symptoms, ongoing headaches, or unexplained respiratory problems, can also signal the presence of mould spores in the air.

Professional detection tools, including thermal imaging and air quality tests, can locate mould that the eye can’t see. By identifying the source early, experts like ServiceMaster Restore can prevent the problem from spreading and help protect your family’s health.

How to Clean Up the Mould Safely and When to Call a Pro

Some homeowners attempt to clean up the mould themselves, especially if it appears in small, isolated areas on tile, glass, or other non-porous surfaces.

A bleach solution can be effective in this case, but up to a point. If mould has penetrated porous materials such as plasterboard, carpet, or ceiling tiles, or if the problem covers more than 10 square feet, it’s not safe or effective to handle it yourself, as you risk spreading mould spores throughout your home and exposing yourself to potential health hazards.

Professional mould remediation teams are trained to contain contaminated areas, use negative air pressure systems, and safely dispose of mould-damaged materials. It’s not just about cleaning, it’s about protecting your home and everyone in it.

How to Prevent Mould Growth After Water Damage

Once water damage occurs, time is critical. The faster you act, the better your chances of avoiding long-term mould problems. That’s why our experts and processes at ServiceMaster Restore stress immediate water extraction, structural drying, and proactive mould prevention through

  • Proper ventilation
  • Using and regularly maintaining exhaust fans
  • Utilising dehumidifiers
  • Keeping indoor humidity levels below 50% to prevent spores from turning into colonies
  • Replacing water-damaged materials quickly and repairing leaks

But even with the best intentions, it’s hard to be certain you’ve eliminated all risk. That’s why professional mould remediation is such a valuable investment; it provides peace of mind that your home is safe, dry, and healthy.

Why Professional Mould Remediation Protects Your Health and Property

To recap, mould is not something to take lightly. Beyond property damage, it threatens the very air you breathe. For homeowners and renters who have experienced water damage, professional remediation isn’t just about cleanup; it’s about restoration, prevention, and protection.

At ServiceMaster Restore, we combine advanced technology with 65 years of expertise to deliver thorough mould inspections, safe removals, and complete structural restoration.

We don’t just eliminate mould, we ensure it doesn’t come back. Our certified specialists understand how mould grows, how to stop it, and safeguard your property from further harm. When it comes to your home and your health, there’s no room for guesswork.

Don’t wait for mould problems to worsen. Find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business or call 0800 021 3970 24/7 365 days a year for immediate help with mould prevention, cleanup, and water damage restoration.

,

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.

Expanding the Fleet in Swansea

A new vehicle hits the road in Swansea.

The owner of ServiceMaster Restore Swansea has expanded his fleet with the addition of a brand-new ServiceMaster Restore pickup truck.

This addition to his existing fleet of branded vehicles will allow Jamie to better serve a broad range of clients in residential and commercial properties across the area needing expert disaster restoration services.

Disaster Restoration from ServiceMaster Restore

Fire and Smoke Damage

Our expert fire and smoke damage restoration services help you return to your home or business as quickly as possible.

All our technicians are fully trained in fire mitigation, restoration and corrosion control, giving you the reassurance and results you need in a difficult situation.

Furthermore, acidic residue may continue to cause damage, even after the fire has been put out.

Even a small fire can cause dangerous smoke damage and create soot that needs expert removal to be dealt with.

Our professionals can evaluate what damaged items are salvageable and act quickly to save them.

Flood and Water Damage Restoration

All of our technicians are fully equipped to carry out professional extraction and drying processes to protect your assets and restore your property as close as possible to its prior condition.

Our top-notch equipment is also non-invasive and can be run quietly, so you don’t lose sleep while your home dries.

Leak Detection

We also carry out sophisticated leak detection services to identify water damage before it happens and stop it in its tracks, sparing you the cost and stress of dealing with damage from water in your property.

Our top-of-the-range and non-invasive equipment uses infrared cameras, acoustic sensors and moisture metres to identify a leak and check for moisture to mitigate potential damage and give you peace of mind.

Graffiti and Vandalism Restoration

Graffiti and vandalism can have a huge impact on your corporate image.

First impressions count, and an unsightly building could lead to a loss of business, a reduction in staff morale and a negative public perception

Our specialist products can remove unwanted graffiti from walls to signage, with a rapid response and effective restoration to get your property back to normal in no time.

Trauma Restoration

Whether you need to clean up blood, bodily fluids, drug paraphernalia and other biohazards, we’re here to help.

Once at a scene, we’ll evaluate the extent of the damage and when authority is given, we will immediately begin trauma scene cleanup and restoration procedures.

We sanitise, clean, and deodorise all affected areas for infectious pathogens including HIV, Hepatitis A, B and C and Tuberculosis.

Once the infectious pathogens have been eradicated, we take all steps to return the residence or business to its original state before the incident.

Mould removal and inspection

We’re here to protect you and your property from mould damage by using advanced tools to detect and effectively remove it.

If you have even the smallest suspicion that there may be mould in your property, call the experts and we’ll be here to help put you at ease.

Sanitisation, Deep Cleaning and Disinfection Services

Prevent flu or cold viruses from stopping your commercial property with ServiceMaster Restore’s comprehensive sanitisation, deep cleaning and disinfection services and products.

We carry out room and building contamination, fogging and surface sanitisation services using BDMA-qualified technicians and specialist products that meet the Emerging Pathogen Standard to be effective against many virus strains.

This includes SaniMaster, our effective sanitising and decontamination product widely used within hospitals, food preparation areas and schools to kill 99% of viruses like Cdiff, HIV and enveloped viruses

ServiceMaster Restore Plus

ServiceMaster Restore Plus caters to professionals navigating the intricacies of property claims.

Say goodbye to lengthy claims processes and say hello to being the local hero for your customers through this hassle-free add-on to your existing cover.

Our network of restoration specialists streamlines the claims process, preventing bottlenecks so that we can all be there for the people who need our support, when they need it most, with a guaranteed same-day callout for any disaster restoration work.

This offering also ensures cost efficiency through a tangible decrease in claims costs due to our proactive approach to damage mitigation.

Don’t know what to do next? We do.

Whatever damages your residential or commercial property is facing, ServiceMaster Restore is here to help.

If you’re in Swansea and the surrounding areas, keep your eyes out for Jamie’s new truck or give him a call when you need him on 01792 439940.

Or, nationwide, we’ll be there on 0800 021 3970  in an emergency or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today for support with a range of premium disaster restoration services from your local heroes.

ServiceMaster SOS: About our emergency callout services

How ServiceMaster Restore helps you in a crisis.

Need an emergency callout?

Disaster can strike without warning, leaving you blindsided by the trauma of a damaged property and no clue how to start picking up the pieces.

ServiceMaster Restore has been delivering premium disaster restoration services in the UK since 1959, from fire, water and trauma aftermath restoration to sanitisation and graffiti vandalism cleanup. 

Don’t know what to do next? We do.

In a crisis, whatever the day, whatever the time, we will be there.

But how do our emergency callout services work?

Emergency Callouts

As of June 2024, ServiceMaster Restore covers much of the UK with 30 dedicated locations from Barnsley to Belfast.

There are many ways of contacting your local experts, from our find your nearest tool or filling out a contact form from our homepage.

But in an emergency, you can also call 0800 021 3970, no matter the time of day or night, to contact the people best equipped to help you.

ServiceMaster Restore Plus

In a disaster, time is of the essence.

Acting fast saves you property damage and often a lot of money.

Especially when facing flooding or smoke damage, a lot of the damage can come from secondary sources if left to linger – like smoke or mould. 

However, due to lengthy claims processes, often your property doesn’t get the rapid response to prevent these damages due to an abundance of red tape.

At ServiceMaster Restore, we don’t let this stop you from saving your property from damage.

With ServiceMaster Restore Plus, we’ve streamlined the claims process by working closely with approved suppliers and accredited professionals, allowing us to be on-site and carry out expert disaster restoration services 24/7, 365 days a week, often within the first 24 hours of a disaster – the most vital and time-sensitive period.

Our technicians across the UK are local to you and work closely with other approved local suppliers to ensure we can get to you fast and get your property back to as close as its previous condition in as little time as possible, causing you less disruption and trauma in the long run. 

Need an emergency callout?

Whatever damages your residential or commercial property is facing, ServiceMaster Restore is here to help.

Backed by over 60 years of experience delivering professional and comprehensive disaster restoration, prevention and mitigation services across the UK with the latest tools and expertise to help you recover from whatever life throws at you.

Disasters don’t work just 9-5, and neither do we. Our teams are on hand through our hotline 24/7, 365 days a year.

We’ll be there on 0800 021 3970 if you need us in an emergency.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today for support with a range of premium disaster restoration services from your local heroes.

,

How Cold Temperatures Lead to Water Damage: How To Avoid It

How cold temperatures lead to water damage and what you can do about it.

With temperatures dropping in the UK, you’ll need to do a few things to keep your property safe.

But what does this mean for the safety of your property?

How the cold leads to water damage

During a cold spell, water damage is one of the biggest dangers to your home and business.

The cause of this is likely to be a burst pipe.

This commonly occurs when water in your pipes freezes and expands, leading to pressure build-up and causing them to rupture.

Flooding can also be a concern during the snow. This usually happens when frozen water thaws and leaks from pipes, gutters, or appliances.

This can damage your property in multiple ways, including causing unpleasant smells or odours, wearing away at walls and mortar, causing wood rot, and even fostering mould.

How to spot water damage

When expecting cold temperatures, look out for signs of water damage.

Keep your eyes peeled for:

  • Separations on the doors and window frames
  • Missing or cracked roof tiles
  • Intact guttering
  • Rings on the ceiling or walls
  • Signs of a leak
  • Soft or sagging spots within the flooring:
  • Cracked and warped flooring

How to prevent water damage in cold temperatures

When expecting cold temperatures and the water damage they may bring – there are some ways to optimise the safety of your property.

How to guard against damage:

  • Turn off outside water sources to prevent frozen or burst pipes.
  • Clear your gutters of debris so that any melting snow can flow away easily.
  • Inspect your insulation. Inadequate insulation could cause warmth from the house could rise into the attic, causing a damn of ice on the roof.
  • Keep windows closed where possible.
  • Lay sandbags to prevent flooding from melting snow.

How does ServiceMaster Restore help?

Should the worst happen and your property falls victim to water damage, your local ServiceMaster Restore technicians will be on hand to help with the restoration.

Our experts have the specialist skills and equipment to protect your assets and leave your property as good as new whenever possible.

And, if you choose to claim on your insurance, we work with your insurance company, broker, or loss adjuster on your behalf.

That way, you don’t have to lose sleep worrying about insurance claims when you already have enough on your plate, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

Contact your local restoration experts by finding your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business or by calling 0845 762 6828 in an emergency.

,

What Restoration Services does ServiceMaster Restore Offer?

ServiceMaster Restore has been delivering premium disaster restoration services to commercial and residential clients across the UK for over 60 years.

But when we say ‘restoration services’, what do we mean?

In this blog post, we dive into the services offered at ServiceMaster Restore, including:

  • Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration
  • Flood and Water Damage Restoration
  • Leak Detection
  • Graffiti and Vandalism Restoration
  • Trauma Restoration
  • Mould Removal and Inspection
  • Sanitisation, Deep Cleaning and Disinfection Services
  • ServiceMaster Restore Plus

Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration

After a fire, your property will be damaged from the flames themselves, as well as the smoke.

Our expert fire and smoke damage restoration services help you return to your home or business as quickly as possible.

All our technicians are fully trained in fire mitigation, restoration and corrosion control, giving you the reassurance and results you need in a difficult situation.

Furthermore, acidic residue may continue to cause damage, even after the fire has been put out.

Even a small fire can cause dangerous smoke damage and create soot that needs expert removal to be dealt with.

Our professionals can evaluate what damaged items are salvageable and act quickly to save them.

Flood and Water Damage Restoration

Following a flood or when dealing with water damage in your home from a burst pipe, your property quickly becomes at risk from both the water and the mould and bacteria it can leave behind.

All of our technicians are fully equipped to carry out professional extraction and drying processes to protect your assets and restore your property as close as possible to its prior condition.

Our top-notch equipment is also non-invasive and can be run quietly so you don’t lose sleep while your home dries.

Leak Detection

At ServiceMaster Restore, we also carry out sophisticated leak detection services to identify water damage before it happens and stop it in its tracks – sparing you the cost and stress of dealing with damage from water in your property.

Our top-of-the-range and non-invasive equipment uses infrared cameras, acoustic sensors and moisture metres to identify a leak and check for moisture to mitigate potential damage and give you peace of mind.

Graffiti and Vandalism Restoration

The façade of your property is as vital to safeguard as its interiors.

Graffiti and vandalism can have a huge impact on your corporate image.

First impressions count and an unsightly building could lead to a loss of business, a reduction in staff morale and a negative public perception

Our specialist products can remove unwanted graffiti from walls to signage, with a rapid response and effective restoration to get your property back to normal in no time.

Trauma Restoration

Nobody wants to deal with the aftermath of an unexpected trauma.

Our experts at ServiceMaster Restore are trained to help you navigate trauma cleanup cleanly and compassionately.

Whether you need to clean up blood, bodily fluids, drug paraphernalia and other biohazards, we’re here to help.

Once at a scene, we’ll evaluate the extent of the damage and when authority is given, we will immediately begin trauma scene cleanup and restoration procedures.

We sanitise, clean, and deodorise all affected areas for infectious pathogens including HIV, Hepatitis A, B and C and Tuberculosis.

Once the infectious pathogens have been eradicated, we take all steps to return the residence or business to its original state before the incident.

Mould removal and inspection

Mould can be a nasty and dangerous presence on your property.

Responsible for damage to your home or business and likely causing ill-health for its inhabitants, mould must be dealt with swiftly and effectively.

At ServiceMaster Restore, we’re here to protect you and your property from mould damage by using advanced tools to detect and effectively remove it.

If you have even the smallest suspicion that there may be mould in your property, call the experts and we’ll be here to help put you at ease.

Commercial-specific Services

Sanitisation, Deep Cleaning and Disinfection Services

Serious damage to your business, education or healthcare facility can also come from viruses.

Prevent flu or cold viruses from stopping your operation with ServiceMaster Restore’s comprehensive sanitisation, deep cleaning and disinfection services and products.

We carry out room and building contamination, fogging and surface sanitisation services using BDMA-qualified technicians and specialist products that meet the Emerging Pathogen Standard to be effective against many virus strains.

This includes SaniMaster, our effective sanitising and decontamination product widely used within hospitals, food preparation areas and schools to kill 99% of viruses like Cdiff, HIV and enveloped viruses

ServiceMaster Restore Plus

ServiceMaster Restore Plus caters to professionals navigating the intricacies of property claims.

Say goodbye to lengthy claims processes and say hello to being the local hero for your customers through this hassle-free add-on to your existing cover.

Our network of restoration specialists streamlines the claims process, preventing bottlenecks so that we can all be there for the people who need our support, when they need it most, with a guaranteed same-day callout for any disaster restoration work.

This offering also ensures cost efficiency through a tangible decrease in claims costs due to our proactive approach to damage mitigation.

Don’t know what to do next? We do.

Whatever damages your residential or commercial property is facing, ServiceMaster Restore is here to help.

Backed by over 60 years of experience delivering professional and comprehensive disaster restoration, prevention and mitigation services across the UK with the latest tools and expertise to help you recover from whatever life throws at you.

Disasters don’t work just 9-5 and neither do we. Our teams are on hand through our hotline 24/7, 365 days a year.

We’ll be there on 0800 021 3970 if you need us in an emergency.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today for support with a range of premium disaster restoration services from your local heroes.

,

What to do after water damage in your home

The causes of water damage in the home, and how ServiceMaster Restore can help.

Water damage to your home can be devastating.

And at this time of year, in particular, the cold weather makes your home susceptible to damage.

At ServiceMaster Restore, we regularly see and help people whose homes are affected by water-related issues.

There are ways to protect against water damage, and knowing the common causes will help immensely.

But should the worst happen, and your home succumbs to water damage, it can be hard to know what to do next.

That’s where ServiceMaster Restore comes in. Our technicians have the knowledge and equipment to deliver a comprehensive and expert home restoration.

This blog post delves into the common causes of water damage and how we help should the worst happen.

How is water damage caused?

Damage can occur for many reasons, including (but not limited to) a burst pipe, flooding, or even issues with your radiators.

Even a small amount of water can cause problems if left unchecked, so act quickly.

If water is left, it allows mould and bacteria to breed. This can pose a severe risk to your health and cost much more to repair than if immediate action was taken against water damage.

So how can you repair water damage?

Water damage repair and restoration

When your home floods, time is of the essence. Acting fast is crucial to minimise water damage and maximise successful restoration.

If you are worried about any escape of water and need water damage cleaning and restoration, you can rely on ServiceMaster Restore.

Our technicians are on hand 27/4 and have the specialist skills and equipment to resolve things the first time.

We work to insurance industry standards and should you choose to claim on your insurance, we’ll sort everything out with your insurance company, broker or loss adjuster while keeping you informed every step.

Our first port of call however is typically…

Water extraction

The first goal we have when arriving at your home is to determine the contamination level of the water or liquid.

At ServiceMaster Restore, our top-of-the-range equipment initially restores your home to as close to its prior condition by extracting fluids.

The pollution levels tend to vary depending on the water’s origin. But generally, the longer the water has been left to stand, the more contaminated it gets.

We aim to remove the liquid and dry out the space fast.

We pride ourselves on fast, efficient and professional water damage restoration services, enabled through processes like ServiceMaster Restore Plus.

Water damage clean-up

When water damage has affected your home, all affected material must be removed from the property and disposed of safely.

In some cases, you may be able to salvage your belongings, but this will usually depend on the water’s contamination level.

Unfortunately, in most cases, water-damaged materials must be disposed of to prevent the spreading of mould spores.

Sometimes though, the damage isn’t noticeable until the mould has begun to spread.

In these unfortunate circumstances, we will be on hand to restore mould damage to your home by removing mould safely and effectively.

Drying

Mould spores require moisture to develop and spread, so it’s essential to dry the space affected by water as a priority before restoration can take place.

When restoring your home, we protect your assets, leave your property as good as new whenever possible, and are ready to reinstate decor and furniture in severe cases.

Furthermore, when drying, our modern equipment can run in quiet mode so you don’t lose sleep while it dries.

Contact ServiceMaster Restore today

If you’re struggling with water in your home, don’t hesitate.

Act as soon as possible by contacting your local ServiceMaster Restore experts by finding your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business or calling 0845 762 6828 in an emergency.

Who is ServiceMaster Restore?

ServiceMaster Restore is a UK-wide disaster recovery and specialist cleaning company.

With over 60 years of experience as part of the global ServiceMaster brand, we have the resources to take care of any disaster restoration job, no matter how tough.

Delivering disaster restoration services across the UK, from small accidents to large-scale disasters, no job is too big or small for ServiceMaster Restore.

About ServiceMaster

Our History

Founded in 1929 by Marion E. Wade, a former minor league baseball player, ServiceMaster have long stood by its customers and revolutionised how we serve them.

Beginning as an innovator in carpet cleaning by introducing cleaning carpets onsite rather than at a carpet cleaning plant, we have remained ceaseless in our drive to transform what we do.

Franchising in the UK since 1959, we were the first businesses to offer both carpet and upholstery cleaning services.

Later adding disaster restoration amongst other services through other brands, we now have over 700 franchise licenses established throughout Great Britain across seven brands in various sectors.

Our Present

Today, ServiceMaster Restore is committed to helping our communities rebuild after a disaster, helping businesses get back to work, and helping our neighbours restore their homes to pre-loss conditions.

Whether dealing with a burst pipe that impacts one home or a flood that affects the entire community, we’re by your side to restore your property and peace of mind.

We have 24/7/365 UK call centres and over 100 service centres across the UK.

So, when disaster strikes, we can be there…fast.

Nationally trusted, locally owned

When disaster strikes, it hits close to home.

Our nationwide company has locally owned franchises employing team members who live in the very communities we serve.

These teams have the experience to know difficult situations call for understanding and compassion, as well as a quick response.

That’s why our service is tailored around you and what your business needs.

Our technicians are trained to use the correct technique for every situation to ensure an efficient and effective result.

Better connected

At ServiceMaster Restore, our professionals also work with insurance-approved providers to streamline the claims process and avoid the red tape that often stops the help getting to those in need when it matters most.

Through our exclusive ServiceMaster Restore Plus offering, we’ve sculpted a service that understands the diverse needs across sectors, ensuring guaranteed same-day callouts, excpetional service and cheaper claims costs.

With Restore Plus, lengthy, expensive claims processes are history.

When disaster strikes, we’ve got you covered!

Learn more

Don’t know what to do next after a disaster? We do.

To learn more about ServiceMaster Restore and how we can help you, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

,

Beware of water damage from cold temperatures

How cold temperatures lead to water damage and what you can do about it.

With temperatures in the UK dropping, you may already feel the cold snap.

But what does this mean for the safety of your property?

How the cold leads to water damage

During a cold spell, water damage is one of the biggest dangers to your home and business.

The cause of this is likely to be a burst pipe.

This commonly occurs when water in your pipes freezes and expands, leading to pressure build-up and causing them to rupture.

Flooding can also be a concern during the snow. This usually happens when frozen water thaws and leaks from pipes, gutters, or appliances.

This can damage your property in multiple ways, including causing unpleasant smells or odours, wearing away at walls and mortar, causing wood rot, and even fostering mould.

How to spot water damage

When expecting cold temperatures, look out for signs of water damage.

Keep your eyes peeled for:

  • Separations on the doors and window frames
  • Missing or cracked roof tiles
  • Intact guttering
  • Rings on the ceiling or walls
  • Signs of a leak
  • Soft or sagging spots within the flooring:
  • Cracked and warped flooring

How to prevent water damage in cold temperatures

When expecting cold temperatures and the water damage they may bring – there are some ways to optimise the safety of your property.

How to guard against damage:

  • Turn off outside water sources to prevent frozen or burst pipes.
  • Clear your gutters of debris so that any melting snow can flow away easily.
  • Inspect your insulation. Inadequate insulation could cause warmth from the house could rise into the attic, causing a damn of ice on the roof.
  • Keep windows closed where possible.
  • Lay sandbags to prevent flooding from melting snow.

How does ServiceMaster Restore help?

Should the worst happen and your property falls victim to water damage, your local ServiceMaster Restore technicians will be on hand to help with the restoration.

Our experts have the specialist skills and equipment to protect your assets and leave your property as good as new whenever possible.

And, if you choose to claim on your insurance, we work with your insurance company, broker, or loss adjuster on your behalf.

That way, you don’t have to lose sleep worrying about insurance claims when you already have enough on your plate, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

Contact your local restoration experts by finding your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business or by calling 0845 762 6828 in an emergency.

Snow Safety

Yellow and amber snow warnings are in place across the UK for an ongoing cold snap.

Snow can be more than an inconvenience.

The threat of home and business property damage and personal injury is prominent.

Here are our tips for staying safe in the snow:

  • Use caution when using heaters. Keep space heaters away from flammable materials and turn them off when you leave the room
  • Turn off outdoor water sources to prevent frozen or burst pipes
  • Clear snow and ice from walkways by shovelling and gritting to counteract any slips and or falls
  • If you need to drive anywhere, drive cautiously, slow down, and give yourself plenty of stopping distance on the snowy and icy roads
  • Clear your gutters of leaves or other debris so that any melting snow won’t collect and can flow away easily.
  • Check your insulation. If it is inadequate, warmth from the house could rise into the attic and cause a damn of ice on the roof as snow freezes in your gutters.
  • Keep windows closed – where possible.
  • Put up sandbags to prevent flooding from melting snow, especially if you are near banks.
  • Grit walkways outdoors to avoid slipping on ice.

Stay safe and warm during the snowy weather!

In need of home or business restoration?

Should the worst happen and the weather creates a serious accident or incident in your home or business, we will help with the aftermath and restoration.

For further information on our services, call 0845 762 6828 for emergency help in fire, floor and trauma damage or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business now.