Tag Archive for: mould

Why You Should Never Ignore a Damp Smell

Don’t ignore a damp smell!

You might notice it briefly and then move on. It could fade away, or you may simply become accustomed to it. However, that smell often indicates a problem.

What Causes a Damp Smell?

A musty odour usually arises from moisture trapped in various materials. Walls, floors, carpets, and insulation can all retain water without displaying obvious signs. Common causes include:

  • A slow leak
  • Condensation buildup
  • Previous water damage
  • Poor ventilation

Even if surfaces appear dry, moisture can still be present.

Why Is It Important?

A damp smell often indicates an issue before any visible damage occurs. If left unaddressed, it can lead to:

  • Mould growth
  • Damage to plaster and wood
  • Ongoing moisture problems

It serves as an early warning sign, and you should not ignore it.

What Happens If You Ignore It?

Moisture can spread quietly, and mould can develop within days under the right conditions. Once mould forms, the situation becomes more complicated. It shifts from merely drying out to requiring mould remediation.

What Should You Do?

If you notice a damp smell:

  1. Check for visible signs of moisture.
  2. Improve ventilation in the area.
  3. Monitor the situation regularly.

If the smell persists, seek a professional assessment, as it may indicate hidden moisture that needs to be properly dried.

Getting It Resolved

ServiceMaster Restore helps identify the cause of damp smells and provides drying and mould remediation services when necessary. Taking early action can prevent more significant issues later.

If you have concerns, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore to see how we can help.

How Quickly Does Mould Grow After Water Damage?

How quickly does mould grow after water damage? You’ll be surprised.

When water damage occurs, most people focus on drying visible areas by using towels, opening windows, and turning on fans. This appears to be effective progress. However, many don’t realise how rapidly mould can begin to grow once moisture seeps into walls, floors, or insulation.

Mould growth after water damage can start in as little as 24 to 48 hours. That brief window surprises people. It means acting quickly is not just sensible, it is vital.

Why Mould Grows So Quickly After Water Damage

Mould needs three things to grow: moisture, warmth, and a surface to feed on.

After a leak or flood, your property has all three. Plasterboard, wood, carpets, and soft furnishings rapidly soak up water. Even if surfaces appear dry, moisture can still be trapped underneath.

If indoor temperatures remain above 10 degrees, mould spores can start multiplying quickly. Within a few days, you might notice a musty smell. Visible patches often appear soon after.

Where Mould Starts After a Leak or Flood

Mould does not always appear in obvious locations.

It often forms behind skirting boards, inside wall cavities, beneath flooring, and within insulation. These places remain damp longer because air cannot circulate properly.

In commercial buildings or flats, water can seep through ceilings and voids. This means mould growth might start in rooms that were not directly flooded.

Early Signs of Mould After Water Damage

You might notice:

  • A damp or earthy smell
  • Dark spots on walls or ceilings
  • Peeling paint or bubbling plaster
  • Increased condensation

If mould appears within a few days of water damage, it normally indicates that moisture is still present inside the structure.

Why Quick Drying Matters

The quicker you dry a property, the less likely it is to develop mould.

Surface drying alone isn’t enough; hidden moisture can cause damage. Professional moisture-detection tools identify water trapped in walls and floors, while controlled-drying systems safely and efficiently eliminate it.

Delays raise repair costs. Once mould takes hold, remediation becomes more difficult and disruptive.

Health Risks of Mould Growth

Mould exposure can cause breathing difficulties, skin irritation, and allergy symptoms. Children, older adults, and individuals with asthma are especially at risk.

Removing moisture promptly after water damage safeguards both the building and its occupants.

What to Do After Water Damage

If you experience a leak, burst pipe, or flood:

  • Stop the water source if safe to do so.
  • Remove standing water quickly.
  • Ventilate the area.
  • Avoid relying solely on heating to dry the space.
  • Contact professionals if large areas are affected.

Time is crucial. Taking action within the initial 24 to 48 hours can stop mould from forming.

Professional Help After Water Damage

Mould growth following water damage often begins before it becomes visible. By the time you notice it, the issue may have already spread.

ServiceMaster Restore offers expert water damage restoration and mould remediation throughout the UK. Our teams identify hidden moisture, execute controlled drying, and avoid secondary damage.

If you’re asking the question, “How quickly does mould grow after water damage?” Then, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help today.

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The Difference Between Mould and Mildew

Mould and mildew are often confused. Many people use the terms interchangeably, but they are not the same. Both are linked to moisture, yet they behave differently and cause different levels of damage. Understanding the difference between mould and mildew helps you deal with the issue early and protect your property.

Mildew usually appears first. It is more visible and often easier to remove. Mould is typically more severe and may indicate a deeper moisture problem.

What Is Mildew?

Mildew is a surface-level fungal growth. It usually appears as a thin, powdery layer and is often white, light grey, or pale yellow. You frequently see mildew on bathroom tiles, window frames, and kitchen walls where condensation accumulates.

Mildew grows in warm, damp areas with poor ventilation. Because it remains on the surface, it can often be removed with household products. If mildew keeps returning, it indicates that the room’s moisture levels are too high.

What Is Mould?

Mould is more aggressive than mildew. It is used in materials such as plaster, wood, carpets, and insulation. It often appears black, green, or dark brown and typically has a strong, musty odour.

Mould spreads quickly and can damage your property’s structure if left untreated. It often develops after leaks, flooding, or long-term condensation problems. When mould becomes visible, it may already be established behind walls or under flooring.

The Key Difference Between Mould and Mildew

Mildew stays on the surface and is usually light in colour.
Mould penetrates materials and is often dark and patchy.

Mildew is easier to remove with regular cleaning.
Mould often requires professional treatment.

Mildew suggests poor ventilation.
Mould typically indicates ongoing moisture or water damage.

Health Risks of Mould and Mildew

Mildew can irritate, particularly for people with allergies or asthma. Mould poses a greater risk. Long-term exposure to mould spores may cause respiratory issues, headaches, and skin irritation.

Children, older adults, and anyone with respiratory conditions are more vulnerable. If mould continues to spread or keeps returning, it should not be ignored.

How to Prevent Mould and Mildew

Good ventilation is essential. Open windows daily where possible. Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Keep the heating consistent to prevent cold surfaces where moisture accumulates.

If your property has suffered a leak or flood, dry the area thoroughly and quickly. Moisture left behind creates the perfect conditions for mould growth.

When to Get Professional Help

If mould covers a large area, recurs, or is accompanied by musty odours or damaged surfaces, the issue is likely deeper than surface moisture. Cleaning alone will not solve the problem.

ServiceMaster Restore provides professional mould remediation and water damage restoration. Our teams identify the cause, treat affected areas, and help prevent further issues.

If you are concerned about mould or mildew in your property, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help today.

Why Condensation is Worse in Winter and How to Stop it

Condensation can become a significant issue when winter arrives. You first notice it on the windows, and then it can spread to frames, walls, and corners.

Many people wonder why condensation worsens in colder months. The answer is straightforward: warm air inside your home comes into contact with cold surfaces, which causes it to condense into water. This is why winter condensation occurs quickly and can lead to problems if left unaddressed.

You heat your home more often and keep the windows closed. Cooking hot meals and drying clothes indoors also contribute to increased indoor moisture. This moisture has nowhere to go, so it settles on any cold surfaces it can find. If this continues, you may end up with mould, damp patches, and peeling paint.

Here are a few ways to reduce winter condensation and prevent it from becoming a bigger issue.

1. Improve ventilation

Fresh air significantly impacts indoor air quality. Open windows for a short time each day, and use extractor fans when showering or cooking. If your windows have them, utilise the trickle vents. These small actions can help remove moisture before it settles.

2. Keep rooms at a steady temperature

Cold rooms attract condensation quickly. Maintaining a steady temperature is essential because warm air can retain moisture for longer. Try to prevent rooms from getting too cold between heating cycles. Even a slight increase in temperature keeps surfaces warmer and reduces moisture buildup.

3. Avoid drying clothes indoors

Drying clothes indoors adds significant moisture to the air. If this is your only option, position the clothes near an open window or an extractor fan. A dehumidifier can also help quickly reduce winter condensation.

4. Move furniture away from cold walls

Large pieces of furniture block airflow, creating cold pockets where moisture settles. To allow air to circulate, leave a small gap behind wardrobes, beds, and sofas.

5. Wipe away moisture each morning

If condensation forms overnight, wipe it off before it soaks into the frames or plaster. This simple habit reduces mould growth and maintains windows in better condition.

Condensation during winter is common, but if left unaddressed, it can cause damage to your home. If you notice damp patches spreading, strong musty odours, or persistent mould, the issue may be more than just simple moisture build-up. Hidden leaks or inadequate ventilation can often exacerbate the problem.

ServiceMaster Restore can help if you are worried about water damage or mould. Our teams assess the issue, identify the cause, and carry out the appropriate restoration steps to protect your home.

Call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.

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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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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.