Tag Archive for: disaster restoration

BBQ Safety and Forest Fires: How to Protect Your Property This Summer

Summer is the season for outdoor cooking. Gardens fill with friends and family, parks become busier, and disposable barbecues appear across the country.

Most BBQs end without incident. Unfortunately, some do not.

As temperatures rise and vegetation dries, the risk of grass fires and wildfires increases significantly. A single spark, a discarded disposable barbecue, or a poorly positioned grill can quickly escalate into something much more serious.

Understanding BBQ safety and forest fire risks can help protect your home, your community, and the surrounding environment.

Why Summer Increases Fire Risk

Many people associate fire damage with electrical faults or accidents inside buildings. However, during summer, outdoor fires become a growing concern.

Dry grass, hedges, fences, decking, and garden furniture all provide fuel for fires. Warm weather and a lack of rainfall create ideal conditions for flames to spread quickly.

Even a small barbecue fire can be difficult to control if the surrounding area is dry.

Common BBQ Safety Mistakes

Most barbecue-related incidents stem from simple mistakes.

Common examples include:

  • Positioning a BBQ too close to fences or sheds
  • Leaving a barbecue unattended
  • Using accelerants such as petrol or paraffin
  • Disposing of hot coals incorrectly
  • Placing disposable BBQs directly onto the grass

These actions may seem harmless at the time, but they significantly increase the risk of fire.

Safe BBQ Practices

A few precautions can significantly reduce the risk.

  • Position your barbecue on a flat, stable surface, away from buildings, fences, trees, and garden furniture.
  • Keep children and pets away from cooking areas.
  • Never leave a lit barbecue unattended, even for a few minutes.
  • Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.
  • Once cooking is finished, allow the coals to cool completely before disposal.

The Growing Risk of Grass and Forest Fires

Wildfires are becoming more common in the UK.

Periods of hot weather, combined with dry vegetation, create conditions in which fires can spread rapidly. What starts as a small grass fire can affect woodlands, farmland, businesses, and residential areas.

Disposable barbecues are frequently linked to these incidents. Even hours after use, they can remain hot enough to ignite dry grass.

What To Do If a Fire Starts

If a fire starts and you cannot extinguish it immediately, move to a safe distance and call 999.

Do not attempt to tackle large fires yourself.

If the fire threatens buildings, leave the area and follow the advice of emergency services.

Quick action can prevent injury and reduce damage.

Fire Damage Doesn’t End With the Fire

Even when flames are extinguished, damage often persists.

Smoke spreads throughout properties. Soot settles on surfaces. Water used to fight the fire can cause secondary damage.

This is why professional restoration is often needed after a fire.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

ServiceMaster Restore provides fire and smoke damage cleaning and restoration across the UK. Our teams respond quickly to assess damage, remove smoke contamination, and restore affected properties.

If your property has been affected by fire damage, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

Signs of water damage

If you are looking to buy or rent a property, it’s wise to watch for signs of water damage. Signing a contract is straightforward, but exiting it can be difficult if you discover water damage after you’ve signed.

Here are some signs of water damage to watch out for.

Outside of the property

  • Look around the exterior window and door frames; is there any separation? A separation often indicates the potential for leaks or moisture entering the property.
  • Check for missing or cracked roof tiles. This can show if water might enter through the roof.
  • Ensure guttering is intact so that water can flow away from the property freely.

Inside the property 

  • Look for water rings on the ceiling or walls, as these indicate leaks from pipework.
  • Check for any signs of a leak; even small watermarks tell a story.
  • Look for soft or sagging areas in the flooring, especially near water appliances like sinks, baths, dishwashers, and washing machines. While this might simply be faulty appliances, it’s worth investigating.
  • Inspect for cracked and warped flooring, which can reveal previous water damage that caused further problems.
  • Notice any recent repairs to ceilings, walls, and floors, as this may indicate past water damage has been repaired.
  • Remember to check the loft, basement, and garage—all can provide important clues about water damage.

Need professional water damage restoration?

If you are unfortunate enough to be faced with a property with water damage, we can help!

Visit our water damage page, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business or contact us on 0845 762 6828

Bonfire Night safety tips

How to have a safe bonfire night.

It’s vital to know Bonfire Night safety tips before enjoying the celebrations.

Read on for some helpful Bonfire Night safety tips to keep you, your family and friends safe this Bonfire Night.

Did you know that the Fire Brigade attends thousands of out-of-control bonfires each year?

Help to keep the Fire Brigade accessible for fires that can’t be prevented by following these simple Bonfire Night safety tips:

Bonfire Safety Tips

  • Check there is no wildlife or pets where you build your bonfire
  • Build your bonfire clear away from buildings, sheds, fences and hedges
  • Don’t light your bonfire with flammable liquids
  • Don’t burn dangerous items such as aerosol cans, paint tins, batteries or foam-filled furniture
  • Always have clear access to plenty of water in case you need to use it (buckets/hose pipe)
  • Never leave a bonfire unattended, and ensure it is damped out when finished

To prevent smoke from entering your home, ensure that windows are closed and doors are shut.

Any clothing worn for the bonfire should ideally be washed quickly to avoid the smell entering your home.

Need smoke or fire and smoke restoration?

Call emergency services immediately if you are unfortunate enough to be impacted by a spreading bonfire.

Our fire and smoke damage restoration experts at ServiceMaster Restore can help with the aftermath and restoration.

For 24/7 professional fire and smoke restoration services, call 0845 762 6828

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Service Spotlight: Disaster Recovery

When disaster strikes, it can bring operations to a standstill. From burst pipes to fires, floods or storm damage, the impact on your buildings, staff, customers and tenants can be serious.

In this blog post, the team at ServiceMaster Restore Devon outline how we help businesses recover quickly, safely and with minimal downtime. We provide a rapid, professional response to get you back up and running.

Comprehensive disaster recovery services

Our full range of restoration and recovery services includes:

  • Flood and water damage restoration – water extraction, sanitisation, structural drying and moisture monitoring to make your premises safe and minimise damage.
  • Fire and smoke damage recovery – soot removal, odour control and surface restoration to return your premises to pre-loss condition.
  • Biohazard clean up – safe removal and disposal of hazardous materials, such as sharps and bodily fluids, which pose a risk.
  • Mould remediation – specialist cleaning and treatment of mould to protect health and prevent reoccurrence.
  • Specialist and trauma cleaning – discrete, professional cleaning for sensitive incidents, carried out in full compliance with health and safety standards.
  • Graffiti restoration – removal of unwanted graffiti from walls and signage to return your property to its original condition and maintain your professional image.
  • Leak detection – use of non-invasive methods and cutting-edge technology to quickly locate and address leaks, sparing your property from unnecessary damage.

Minimising disruption and downtime

We know that every hour of lost productivity costs your organisation money. That’s why our response is immediate and coordinated. We prioritise safety, containment and restoration from the moment we arrive, working efficiently to get your facilities operational again as soon as possible.

Our team can work out of hours or in phases to fit around your operations, helping minimise disruption for your staff, customers or residents.

For your peace of mind and insurance compliance, our reports include detailed assessments, photographs, progress updates and completion certificates. You’ll always know what’s happening, what’s been completed, and what comes next.

Why choose ServiceMaster Restore Devon?

As part of the ServiceMaster Restore network, we combine national resources with local knowledge. Our Devon-based technicians are on call 24/7, ready to respond anywhere across Exeter, Plymouth, Torbay and surrounding areas.

  • 24/7 rapid response across Devon
  • Local technicians with national support
  • Industry-accredited restoration specialists

When the unexpected happens, we’re here to help you recover quickly and confidently, protecting your people, your property, and your business continuity.

Why choose ServiceMaster Restore?

If you need a restoration specialist who can respond quickly and decisively in emergencies, and collaborate seamlessly with other service providers to deliver a safe, efficient, and comprehensive solution, contact the ServiceMaster Restore Devon team on 01395 350065 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.

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ServiceMaster Restore Spotlights Excellence as the Sponsor of the Insurance Broker Awards 2025

ServiceMaster Restore attends the Broker Innovation Awards, recognising excellence from Insurance Brokers and claims teams in the UK.

ServiceMaster Restore UK were delighted to attend the prestigious Insurance Broker Awards as a sponsor, spotlighting excellence in the claims industry from outstanding brokers and claims teams.

And what a night it was, as the awards boasted a record-breaking number of entries!

This blog post has all the details.

Broker Innovation Awards 2025

The event, run by Barker Brooks and Claims Media, was held at the iconic One Moorgate Place, a beautiful Grade II listed venue in the heart of the City of London, and celebrated the excellence of insurance brokers, MGAs and Insurtechs.

The awards cover a range of categories, recognising insurance intermediaries of all types at the cutting edge of customer service, policyholder protection and industry best practice.

Our Sponsorship

This marked our second year sponsoring and attending the awards, where we sponsored and presented the coveted award for Claims Team of the Year.

This was presented to Brown & Brown Claims (UK) Limited for their efforts towards transforming the claims process through collaboration, efficiency, and a customer-first approach – something we echo and hold great value in ourselves.

How ServiceMaster Restore supports Brokers

At ServiceMaster Restore, we work closely with stakeholders throughout the claims process and have developed seamless solutions to support all we service, including insurance brokers, to help them provide the best possible service to their policyholders in times of crisis.

ServiceMaster Restore Plus is our network of restoration specialists, which streamlines the claims process as a hassle-free addition to your existing coverage, catering to the diverse needs across sectors to ensure guaranteed same-day callouts, exceptional service, and cheaper claims costs.

ServiceMaster Restore Connect is our official supplier network, connecting you and your policyholders to the nation’s most reputable trade experts and contractors.

This allows us to provide an end-to-end solution for disaster restoration wherein brokers and their policyholders don’t just benefit from 65+ years of expert disaster restoration services – but from approved suppliers who can support with anything from drainage solutions to waste management and pest control.

Looking for a restoration specialist?

Whether you’re a loss assessor, adjustor, MGA, insurance broker or property owner, ServiceMaster Restore are on hand when you need it most.

With over 65 years under our belt as disaster restoration specialists, providing fire, flood, smoke, vandalism, trauma, and mould restoration services across the UK, you can guarantee that through our end-to-end solutions, we have a way to help you in a crisis.

To see more about how your local expert can help you, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

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Case study: Professional bathroom mould remediation

How we helped a residential customer remove mould from their bathroom in Devon.

When mould strikes at home, it can quickly become more than an aesthetic problem. Left untreated, mould poses serious health risks and can cause lasting damage to your property.

This was precisely the challenge facing the homeowner in Exeter, who discovered black mould in their bathroom. Concerned about their family’s well-being and the potential cost of repairs, they turned to ServiceMaster Restore Devon for a safe, thorough, and lasting solution. Here’s how we responded.

The Problem

The homeowner contacted ServiceMaster Restore Devon after discovering severe black mould growth in their bathroom, which had spread across the ceiling, tiled walls, grout lines, and around the window frame.

This presented two major concerns:

  • Health risks: Black mould can exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma and allergies if not properly treated
  • Property damage: Prolonged mould growth can stain and deteriorate surfaces, causing long-term and costly damage

Our solution

Our team of trained technicians carried out the following steps:

  1. Initial survey

  • A full inspection of the bathroom to assess the severity of mould and identify the underlying cause (which can range from inadequate ventilation to high humidity).
  • Risk assessments were completed to ensure safe working practices by our team.

  1. Preparation

  • Protective sheeting was installed to safeguard any unaffected areas
  • Our operatives used the correct PPE (respirators, gloves, coveralls) to handle mould spores safely

  1. Specialist treatment and cleaning

  • We applied professional biocidal cleaning agents designed to kill mould spores at their root
  • We then deep-cleaned the ceiling, walls, and fixtures to restore them to a safe and hygienic standard

  1. Prevention advice

After treatment, we gave bespoke recommendations to the homeowner for aftercare, including making improvements to ventilation, moisture control, and conducting regular maintenance cleaning to prevent any regrowth.

The Outcome

The bathroom was fully restored, with all black mould safely removed; its surfaces were left clean, sanitised, and free from staining. Our team left the homeowner’s bathroom and returned to a safe and healthy environment, and by addressing the root causes, the risk of recurrence was significantly reduced.

Why choose ServiceMaster Restore?

ServiceMaster Restore combines specialist cleaning knowledge, industry-approved products, and 65 years of brand experience in the UK to provide safe and effective mould remediation services. Whether it’s a small patch of mould or a severe outbreak, our team can restore your property quickly and efficiently.

If you’re concerned about mould in your property, contact the ServiceMaster Restore Devon team on 01395 350065 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.

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Awaab’s Law: What it means for social landlords

All you need to know about Awaab’s Law and what it means for you.

On October 27, 2025, Awaab’s Law comes into force in England. Named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who tragically died from prolonged exposure to mould in his home, the legislation aims to prevent similar incidents by placing greater responsibility on social landlords.

From October, the law introduces strict deadlines for social housing landlords to tackle damp, mould, and other emergency hazards.

Here, the experts from ServiceMaster Restore Devon explain what this legislation means for landlords, what they can do to prevent mould problems, and how we can help ensure compliance while protecting tenants.

Implications for social landlords

Awaab’s Law applies to almost all social housing, including temporary and supported accommodation, occupied under a tenancy and let by a registered provider. Under Awaab’s Law, social landlords are legally required to:

  • Investigate emergency hazards (e.g., gas leaks, electrical faults, loss of water supply, and damp or mould posing an immediate health risk) within 24 hours.
  • Address significant hazards (such as damp and mould that could harm health) within 10 working days.
  • Commence necessary repairs within five working days if a hazard is confirmed, and complete them within a reasonable timeframe. Alternatively, landlords must provide suitable temporary accommodation at their expense

Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to legal consequences, including potential compensation claims from tenants and increased scrutiny from the Housing Ombudsman.

Preventing mould problems

While the law focuses on prompt remediation, landlords can also take proactive steps to minimise mould risk, including:

  1. Educate tenants on ventilation and heating: Encourage tenants to ventilate rooms, and use extractor fans when cooking and dehumidifiers when drying washing indoors.
  2. Regular property inspections: Identify damp or mould early, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
  3. Prompt repairs and maintenance: Fix leaks, faulty plumbing, or damaged roofs immediately to prevent moisture buildup.
  4. Use mould-resistant materials: Consider mould-resistant paint or plaster when refurbishing high-humidity areas.
  5. Clear communication channels: Make it easy for tenants to report issues so hazards are addressed before they escalate.

By combining tenant education, regular maintenance, and early intervention, landlords can reduce the likelihood of serious mould issues.

How ServiceMaster Restore can support landlords

ServiceMaster Restore offers professional mould remediation services to help landlords comply with Awaab’s Law:

  • Expert remediation: We use specialist cleaning products and techniques to eliminate mould and prevent its return.
  • Rapid response: Our on-call emergency service ensures a prompt response in emergencies.
  • A flexible service: We can respond at a time that suits your schedule, including evenings and weekends.
  • Safety assured: We provide risk assessments, and all our uniformed cleaning technicians wear appropriate PPE, are DBS-checked and fully trained.
  • Peace of mind: We have comprehensive public liability insurance.

Partnering with ServiceMaster Restore ensures that landlords not only comply with Awaab’s Law but also maintain the integrity of their properties and the health of their tenants.

For assistance with mould removal, contact the ServiceMaster Restore Devon team on 01395 350065 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.

Brokers to the Rescue: Have the right solution for policyholders

Most of the time, your policyholders need a hero. As a broker, you want that to be you.

But claims teams have a significant burden to manage. You have to process claims quickly and efficiently while maintaining effective communication in rapidly evolving and complex situations. This balancing act can be daunting. Not to mention, a lack of visibility and collaboration among different processes and parties can hinder your ability to deliver the prompt and straightforward resolutions that policyholders expect.

That’s where we come in.

ServiceMaster Restore is a UK-wide disaster recovery and specialist cleaning company with over 65 years of experience as part of the global ServiceMaster brand. We have the resources to handle any disaster restoration task, no matter how challenging, and assist you in becoming the local heroes their policyholders need.

Our professionals work alongside insurance-approved providers to streamline the claims process, cutting through the red tape that can delay crucial assistance when it matters most, so you can be the local hero your policyholders need in a crisis.

ServiceMaster Restore Connect

ServiceMaster Restore Connect is our UK-wide network of approved suppliers that allows us to connect with some of the UK’s most reputable trade experts and contractors, helping when it is needed most.

Through our ‘Connect’ network, we collaborate with top industry professionals to offer a comprehensive end-to-end solution for any restoration project. Your policyholders benefit not only from our 65+ years of expertise in delivering excellent disaster restoration services but also from access to expert-approved suppliers in various fields, including:

  • Drainage Solutions
  • Pest Control
  • Plumbing, Water & Heating
  • Electrical and Lighting
  • Refurbishment and Reinstatement work (painting and decorating)
  • Furniture and Upholstery Repairs
  • Building Repairs
  • Roofing
  • Floor Covering, Boarding & Scaffolding
  • Waste Management
  • Landscaping

In a crisis, time is money.

As our “Connect” network expands, we can support our customers in more ways, saying yes to more jobs and ensuring your policyholders receive the help they need when it matters most.

Whether for commercial or domestic properties, ServiceMaster Restore Connect seamlessly integrates with our services, bringing together vetted and approved local experts in various trades. No matter where you are in the country, you can trust ServiceMaster Restore to have an expert at your door the same day.

Our end-to-end solution mitigates damage and manages the reporting and completion of all restoration work, allowing you to dedicate more time to your customers while knowing that each client is being taken care of. For brokers, Restore Plus offers a risk-free experience for customers using our services. When making a claim, we work within their excess and report directly before an insurer can attend.

Together, ServiceMaster Restore and Connect ensure our local experts are available quickly to deliver professional solutions, sometimes even preventing the need for a claim.

ServiceMaster Restore Plus

Through our exclusive ServiceMaster Restore Plus offering, we provide a service that meets the diverse needs of different sectors. We guarantee same-day callouts, exceptional service, and reduced claims costs. With a network of restoration specialists providing guaranteed same-day responses, Restore Plus is an invaluable asset for you and your customers. Just one phone call is all it takes to have a professional on-site the same day, eliminating the lengthy and costly claims processes. When disaster strikes, we’ve got you fully covered!

Comprehensive Nationwide Coverage

As a nationwide leader, we operate through locally owned franchises with team members who are part of the communities we serve. Our teams understand that challenging situations require compassion and swift action.

That’s why our services are specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Whether it’s fire, flood, mould, trauma, or vandalism restoration, our skilled technicians across the UK are trained to use the right techniques for each scenario, guaranteeing effective and efficient results.

Ready to connect?

Join the supply chain for premium end-to-end claims management and disaster restoration solutions from an industry-leading brand with over 65 years of providing evolving and expert services across the UK.

Sign up for ServiceMaster Restore Connect and ServiceMaster Restore Plus and get connected to more local opportunities and be the hero your policyholders need. It’s easy and (not to mention) free!

Or, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.

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How to Get Smoke Smell Out of House After a Fire

Eliminating the lingering effects of smoke damage with tips from the experts at ServiceMaster Restore.

Going through a fire is stressful. Fires can cause extensive damage throughout your home or property, which requires the help of professionals to restore.

In addition to repairing items burnt, soot-covered, or damaged by water from firefighting efforts, there’s also the question of how to remove the smoke smell from the house. The smell of soot or smoke can linger well after a fire, causing unwanted discomfort or damage to you and your family.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through removing smoke odours from your home. We’ve included immediate steps, deep cleaning suggestions, and odour-neutralisation recommendations.

4 Immediate Steps to Get Rid of Fire Smoke Smell

  1. Ensure the Fire is Completely Extinguished: This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial. Never attempt to clean or ventilate until you’re sure the fire is out and any investigations are complete.
  2. Ventilate (When Safe): Once it’s safe, open windows and doors to circulate fresh air. Use fans to exhaust smoky air outwards, not just within the house.
  3. Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
  4. Assess the Damage: Carefully evaluate the extent of the smoke damage. This will help determine whether you can handle the cleanup or need professional smoke odour cleaning.

How to Clean and Deodorise to Remove Smoke Smell

Essentially, everything in a home affected by fire smoke needs to be cleaned.

Some items may only require thorough airing to remove the smoke smell. However, most items, such as carpeting, rugs, curtains, upholstery, and clothing, will need a thorough cleaning and possible sanitisation.

While special tools and techniques used by professionals will be more effective, you can still take some steps to mitigate the damage caused by the smoke odour from items.

We’ll break it down by material type:

Cleaning Fabrics (Clothing, Bedding, Curtains, etc.)

  • Wash Everything Washable. Use a high-quality detergent and add a laundry booster designed for odour removal. Don’t forget often-overlooked items like pet bedding, stuffed animals, and even decorative pillows.
  • Dry Clean Delicate Items. Take delicate fabrics to a professional dry cleaner, and be sure to tell them about the smoke damage.
  • Dealing with Oily Soot. If your fabrics have oily soot, avoid using your washing machine, as it can clog. Instead, try taking them to a dry cleaner.
  • Storing Clean Materials. After cleaning, store items away from the affected area to prevent re-contamination.

Cleaning Hard Surfaces (Walls, Ceilings, Woodwork, etc.)

  • Wipe Down Everything. Use mild detergent and water to clean all hard surfaces, including painted surfaces, baseboards, doors, window frames/sills, and the outside and interiors of all cabinets and drawers.

Pro-Tip:

  • Act quickly. The acidic soot can cause metallic surfaces to corrode or rust within hours. Likewise, hard surfaces such as wood, wallpaper, drywall, or paint may start to discolour if soot is not removed shortly after damage. Remove soot as soon as possible to avoid hard-to-remove stains or odours.

Cleaning Carpets and Upholstery

  • Vacuum carpets and upholstery with a HEPA-filtered vacuum. Avoid using an upright vacuum with a beater bar on upholstery, as this can push soot deeper into the fibres. Use a brush attachment and vacuum gently.
  • Spot Cleaning. For smaller areas, try spot cleaning with a specialised smoke odour remover. Test the cleaner in an inconspicuous area first.
  • Professional Cleaning. For heavy smoke damage or if DIY methods are ineffective, consider hiring a professional smoke odour removal company.

Pro-Tips:

  • Upright Vacuums. Avoid vacuuming curtains or upholstery if you’re using an upright vacuum. The brushes can cause soot to go deeper into the material, resulting in more damage. Using the right equipment to remove the soot is important.
  • What to Do with Smoke-Damaged Wood Furniture. When cleaning, keep smoke-damaged wood furniture away from your carpet. The cleaning solutions may leak and cause carpet stains unless there is a protective barrier between the two.

Cleaning Hidden Areas (Drawers, Wardrobes, Light Fixtures, etc.)

Smoke can infiltrate even the smallest spaces. Empty and clean drawers and wardrobes thoroughly. Also, remember to clean light fixtures, behind appliances, and other often-overlooked areas.

Here are several tips for cleaning the hidden areas:

  • Drawers and Wardrobes. Empty them, wipe down all surfaces with a mild detergent, and leave them open to air out.
  • Light Fixtures. Wash removable covers and shades, wipe down bulbs and fixtures, and consider replacing bulbs with persistent odours.
  • Behind Appliances. Pull out appliances, vacuum, and wipe down surfaces.
  • Empty and wipe down all interior surfaces.
  • Under Furniture. Move furniture, vacuum, and clean underneath.

Odour Neutralisation Recommendations

  • Bicarbonate of Soda. Place bowls of bicarb around the house. Sprinkle it on carpets, let it sit, and then vacuum it up.
  • Activated Charcoal. Activated charcoal is another excellent odour absorber. Use charcoal bags or filters.
  • Place bowls of white vinegar around the house or simmer vinegar on the stovetop (just be careful not to burn it!).
  • Air Purifiers. A good quality air purifier with a HEPA filter and an activated carbon filter can help remove smoke particles and odours from the air.

Note: These products may not be as effective at removing the smoke smell alone, but could help areas that weren’t as directly affected by the fire smoke.

Factors That Affect Smoke Odour Removal

Removing smoke odours from your home or property after a fire can seem straightforward. However, the amount of time needed to do so will depend on various factors.

These factors include:

  • Type of Soot. There are two types of soot: dry and oily. Dry soot is easier to clean and can be handled with a sponge and a low-alkaline detergent. Oily soot requires special techniques and equipment to be safely removed from your home. If you’re unsure, it’s time to get help from a professional to ensure that your home and belongings aren’t damaged.
  • Size of the Fire-damaged Area. If the affected area is small, the amount of effort needed to eliminate smoke smells will often be lower when compared to a large building with multiple rooms.
  • Size of the Fire. A larger fire can cause more damage, which will, in turn, lead to more potential for smoke odour throughout your property.
  • Time Delay After Fire. The longer you wait, the worse the smoke damage will get. Even if the damage seems minimal, most materials at home can start to yellow, discolour, rust, or corrode due to the impact of acidic soot or smoke particles. Treating them as soon as possible can improve your chances of reducing the need for more care.
  • Types of Materials Burned. Materials throughout your home react differently to soot and smoke molecules. Porous hard surfaces such as drywall, wallpaper, wood, and paint can become discoloured and permanently stained unless treated quickly. Acidic soot from a fire may also cause metallic surfaces to start rusting and corroding. Even cleaning your furniture may be damaging. Cleaning chemicals may seep into your carpet as it dries, carrying soot and smoke molecules that can cause stains.
  • Fire smoke infiltrates all areas of a home. It can seep into carpeting, furniture, clothing, draperies, books and even woodwork. Removing fire smoke smell from a home is a process best left to the professionals with the expertise, specialised equipment, and ability to work safely within your home without causing further damage.

Need Professional Smoke Odour Removal? We Can Help.

Call us if you’d like to trust your smoke-smell removal to the pros. After your home is affected by smoke, contact ServiceMaster Restore for smoke odour removal services that will restore it to normal.

Our team will work with you to ensure that your salvageable belongings are restored and that your home is free from smoke odours. We will also inspect your property after fire damage to ensure no extensive damage results in costly repairs down the road.

The experts at ServiceMaster Restore are standing by to help you remove unwanted odours from your home or office. Find your nearest experts or call 0800 021 3970 in a crisis to see how we can help you today.

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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.