Tag Archive for: Restore

How to Dispose of Your Real Christmas Tree After the Holidays

Many people wonder how to properly dispose of their Christmas tree after taking down the decorations.

While a real tree looks beautiful in December, it dries out quickly once the holiday festivities are over. If you leave it for too long, the needles will start to drop, the trunk may become brittle, and the risk of fire will increase. The best course of action is to safely remove the tree and dispose of it appropriately for your home and local area.

Many people are uncertain about what to do with a real Christmas tree after the holidays. Here are the most practical and sensible options.

1. Use your council recycling scheme

Most councils collect real Christmas trees in January. Some ask you to place your tree next to your garden waste bin, while others provide designated drop-off points. The collected trees are processed into compost or wood chippings. This process is straightforward and helps keep the trees out of landfills. Be sure to check your local council’s website for specific dates and instructions.

2. Take it to a local recycling centre

If you prefer to deal with the tree straight away, you can bring it to your nearest recycling centre. They often have a separate section for garden waste. This is useful if your council collection is later than you would like.

3. Cut it up for your own garden use

If you have enough space, you can cut the tree into smaller pieces. The branches can be used as mulch around flower beds, while the trunk can be chopped into logs and left to dry. Avoid burning wood indoors, as fresh pine produces significant smoke and sap. Instead, let it dry for outdoor use later in the year.

4. Check for local charity collections

Some charities collect real Christmas trees for a small donation, making it an easy option that supports a good cause. Many hospice organisations run these collections each January.

5. Remove it as soon as possible

A dry Christmas tree poses a fire risk. After just a couple of weeks indoors, especially in warm rooms, the needles can dry out and become more flammable. Once the holiday season is over, it’s important to move the tree outside immediately. Even a short delay increases the risk of fire, especially if the tree remains close to heaters or lights.

6. Clean the area once the tree is gone

Real Christmas trees can leave behind sap, loose needles, and dust. A quick cleanup helps prevent mould, odours, and staining. Be sure to check the floor, skirting boards, and nearby walls for any marks or moisture.

Real Christmas trees bring life and colour to the season, but they need to be handled safely once the holidays are over. Quick removal reduces fire risks and keeps your home tidy. If you spot any signs of damp, smoke staining or accidental damage after the festive period, help is available.

ServiceMaster Restore can support you with smoke, fire or water issues at any time of year. Our teams act fast and keep your home safe during winter.

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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How do ServiceMaster Restore’s Expert Leak Detection Services work?

The science behind leak detection. 

Water leaks can lead to significant problems if left undetected, no matter how small.

From mould growth to structural damage, the consequences can be dire, so property owners must identify and address leaks quickly.

But how to do this when it’s undetectable to the naked eye?

Disaster Restoration (and prevention) professionals like our teams at ServiceMaster Restore use the latest high-tech leak detection equipment to accurately and precisely pinpoint the source of a leak.

But how does it work?

This blog post breaks down the science behind how our equipment helps to detect leaks within your property.

  1. Infrared Cameras

All objects emit some infrared radiation.

Infrared (IR) cameras (often called thermal imaging cameras) detect radiation in the infrared spectrum and visualise emissions as heat maps.

These detect even the slightest temperature changes caused by water leaks.

The colour variations on the camera’s display also help visualise the presence and spread of moisture.

  1. Acoustic Sensors

When water leaks from a pipe, especially under pressure, it generates a sound.

The frequency and intensity of this sound can vary based on factors like the size of the leak and the pressure within the pipe.

Acoustic sensors, placed strategically, can pick up these sound waves, enabling us to pinpoint the leak’s source even when it’s deep within walls or flooring.

  1. Moisture Meters

When a surface or material gets wet due to a leak, its moisture content rises.

Moisture meters measure the moisture content in various materials.

They employ pin-type probes that penetrate the material or non-invasive sensors that take readings from the surface.

These allow us to detect elevated moisture levels, even if there’s no visible sign of dampness.

This is useful for checking areas prone to moisture accumulation, such as behind walls or under flooring.

The ServiceMaster Restore Response

These tools, when combined, offer a comprehensive and highly accurate method of locating even the most concealed leaks.

By harnessing the science behind these technologies, ServiceMaster Restore ensures prompt and precise leak detection, mitigating potential damage and offering homeowners peace of mind.

With these state-of-the-art tools, we ensure homes and buildings remain safe and dry, nipping potential water damage in the bud and saving you the cost, trauma and damage of restoring preventable damages.

Contact Us

If you think your property may be suffering from water leaks, mitigate potential damage today by finding your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business.

Or, in a crisis, call 0845 762 6828 for 24/7 professional disaster restoration response.

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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.

Claims Made Easy: Who benefits from ServiceMaster Restore Plus?

Examining how each link in the insurance chain benefits from the support of ServiceMaster Restore Plus.

Restore Plus from ServiceMaster Restore is a comprehensive addition to any existing cover that has unparalleled benefits for everyone in the claims process (yes, everyone).

With disaster restoration, time is money, so saving time means saving costs.ServiceMaster Restore Plus is a hassle-free addition to your existing coverage. It caters to the diverse needs across sectors to ensure guaranteed same-day callouts, exceptional service, specialised solutions for disaster restoration, and cheaper claims costs.

But how does everyone benefit from this one-stop shop?

Benefits for Insurance Brokers

We know that for Brokers, the main priority is the satisfaction of your policyholders. Brokers are the vital link in the insurance chain, and Restore Plus is designed to strengthen that connection and offer unrivalled customer care.

Our service equips brokers like you with a reliable emergency solution to offer clients, ensuring rapid, cost-effective property recovery in just a few clicks. With this free addition to your policyholder’s existing cover, we give brokers the tools to enhance your service portfolio and client trust, setting you apart from your competition. And what’s even better is that it costs you nothing to offer it to your policyholders as additional cover.

Benefits for MGAs

Navigating the complexity of underwriting and claims management, MGAs also play a crucial role in the supply chain for your policyholders. Supporting every link in the chain, Restore Plus provides a strategic advantage for all, offering MGAs a robust response mechanism that aligns with their commitment to excellence.

Our partnership ensures that MGAs can deliver on the promise of swift, efficient recovery, bolstering their reputation for great client service. This means that they have a boost to their operational efficiency and a reduction in costs through automation, leading to faster resolution times and improved customer satisfaction.

Benefits for Policy Holders

This is not to mention the value for policyholders themselves! The flexibility of directly appointing Restore Plus for their property recovery needs can be a game-changer. Especially when faced with lengthy delays, having the option to obtain quotes and immediate action from us ensures they can take the necessary steps to prevent further damage swiftly.

Additionally, policyholders might choose our services to ensure proper mitigation is in place before deciding to proceed with a claim, offering them control over the claims process and potential costs. We always work with empathy and integrity, understanding that this time can be stressful for your policyholders. That’s why we offer a stress-free solution to both restoring your space after a disaster and the claims process from start to finish.

How Restore Plus supports those in need

Let’s examine some of the ways that Restore Plus makes every link in the chain better-equipped to handle a crisis for policyholders and everyone throughout the entire claims process.

  1. Designed with Insurance Brokers In Mind

Restore Plus is free and can be added to any property scheme or package, offering a distinct advantage to you and your team within the claims space, as well as entitle brokers, MGAs and policyholders to a local priority callout. This expands our entire specialist service portfolio to all policyholders, both locally and nationally.

  1. Streamlining the Claims Process

Restore Plus is all about retaining client value. Eradicating lengthy phone calls, confusing back-and-forth conversations that only delay action, and claims processes, ensuring a restoration expert can be on-site on the same day.

  1. Same-Day Attendance

As a Restore Plus customer, clients receive priority service to start mitigation and recovery fast. With local restoration experts and UK-wide coverage, we guarantee same-day callouts for policyholders in a crisis.

  1. Communication

With Restore Plus, you will be in direct contact with your local ServiceMaster Restore Office, ensuring everyone is informed and updated at every step.

  1. Real Solutions to your Problems

You get reliable support if there is an issue with any claim through Restore Plus.

See the value of a comprehensive restoration service

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 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 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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Why you need professional leak detection services from ServiceMaster Restore

What is leak detection, and why do you need it?

At ServiceMaster Restore, we have over 65 years of expertise in working with both residential and commercial clients to provide expert damage restoration services.

Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, loss assessor or adjustor, service provider or a commercial premises, we are here to help you deal with the fallout and recovery from incidents that have damaged your property, be it fire, flood, mould or a burst pipe.

We offer professional leak detection services to people and properties across the UK.

But what is leak detection?

Leak detection is the process of using non-invasive and market-leading technology to locate and address leaks in a property, therefore mitigating potential damage, stress, and repair costs.

When might you need leak detection services?

Leak detection is a crucial way to prevent unnecessary costs and damage to your property.

If you’ve noticed things like:

  • Unexpected increases in your water bill
  • Damp spots or discolouration on walls, ceilings and floors
  • The sound of running water when all faucets are off

You may have a leak that you can’t see.

If you suspect a leak in your property, please contact us immediately for a professional and non-invasive inspection.

As experts in disaster restoration, we know that a leak can occur at any time, which is why we offer our services around the clock.

Our team is always prepared to respond immediately, ensuring a swift initiation of the leak detection and mitigation process.

For a 24/7 rapid response to leaks and property damage, think ServiceMaster Restore.

How leak detection helps you

Professional leak detection services are an investment in the future health of your property.

Ignoring a suspected leak can lead to devastating consequences, including structural damage and expensive repairs.

ServiceMaster Restore uses cutting-edge and market-leading equipment to quickly and effectively identify leaks.

Our technology is designed to cause minimal disruption to your property and allows us to locate leaks without unnecessary destruction.

In doing so, it can:

  • Prevent Expensive Repairs by detecting leaks early and mitigating further damage. Thus, it reduces the overall cost of repairs.
  • Protect Your Property: Unresolved leaks can pose a serious threat to your property’s structural integrity. Our services aim to preserve your property’s condition, thereby protecting its value and appeal.

Suspect a leak in your property?

If you suspect your property may have a leak that you can’t see, don’t delay – contact the experts and get it checked.

Choose ServiceMaster Restore for all your leak detection needs, and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your property is in expert hands.

Our combination of professional knowledge, innovative technology, non-invasive methods, and a firm commitment to customer satisfaction makes us a trusted name in disaster restoration.

If you suspect a leak, whatever the time of day, contact us on 0845 762 6828 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business now.

Our Commercial Vandalism Cleanup and Graffiti Services

Fast, Reliable Vandalism and Graffiti Removal from ServiceMaster Restore

Has your commercial property been vandalised or defaced with graffiti?

Don’t allow it to tarnish the image of your business.

Graffiti can be seen everywhere – in shopping centre facilities, on the walls and doors of commercial businesses, factories and healthcare organisations – and it is estimated that it costs the UK over £1 billion per year to clean up.

Thankfully, ServiceMaster Restore is here to quickly help you clean up. Removing graffiti or other malicious damage as soon as it appears also makes it easier to clean and reduces the risk of vandals doing it again.

What’s more, we are licensed and certified and work with major insurance companies to take charge of our efficient vandalism clean-up.

This blog post examines our solutions for graffiti and vandalism and the benefits of swift restoration from the experts.

What Vandalism Solutions Do We Offer?

We know vandalism is more than just damage to your building. Graffiti and vandalism disrupt your business, your team, and customers.

Our commercial vandalism services include:

  • Graffiti Removal
  • Boarding up
  • Packout and content management
  • Power washing
  • Window cleaning
  • Reconstruction

We’re here to restore your property with care and professionalism, so you can focus on what matters most: your business.

4 Benefits of Immediate Vandalism & Graffiti Cleaning

Have vandals affected your business? We encourage you to act as soon as possible – don’t let vandalism tarnish your business’s reputation!

By addressing the vandalism promptly, you can:

Preserve Your Brand & Company’s Image

  1. Help Deter Future Vandalism
  2. Help Minimise Financial Loss
  3. Retain Customer Trust & Loyalty
  4. Prevent Costly Long-term Damage

Your business deserves to look its best, and we’re here to make that happen. We can handle any level of damage, from minor graffiti to major structural damage. We’ll work efficiently to restore your property and protect your business.

Always Ready to Respond

At ServiceMaster Restore, we understand how your business can be disrupted by a careless act of vandalism. That’s why we work fast to clean up the mess as soon as you call. Our expertise and innovative tools and technologies quickly and efficiently remove paint and other substances from your building’s walls, windows, floors, and furnishings to help you get back in business faster.

Graffiti not only hurts the image of your business by defacing your property, but it also invites other forms of vandalism. Quick removal of graffiti can prevent additional damage and expense. At ServiceMaster Restore, we efficiently remove paint and other substances from walls, windows, floors, or furnishings.

Don’t know what to do next? We do.

Don’t let vandalism catch you off guard. ServiceMaster Restore is here to help you. With over 65 years of industry experience, you can count on us to provide you with the peace of mind you need.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business or call our 24/7 response line on 0800 021 3970 to see how your local experts can help you.

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Case Study: Rapid response to campus contamination crisis

Rapid restoration response and containing a biohazard at a university in Devon.

When a biohazard incident occurs in a public space, swift and effective action is critical. The following case study from ServiceMaster Restore Devon illustrates our specialist response to a serious sanitation emergency at a prestigious university campus, where a sudden sewer overflow threatened the health and safety of students and staff, disrupted academic operations, and put valuable infrastructure at risk.

Confronted with contaminated wastewater flooding both a campus bathroom and part of the university library, and with initial clean-up efforts worsening the situation, the institution urgently needed expert support. Our team was called in to contain the biohazard, restore hygiene standards, and ensure the safe, swift reopening of key university facilities.

The Problem

A sudden and severe sewage overflow occurred in a public bathroom on a prestigious university campus, with contaminated water spilling into the adjoining library. The incident posed an immediate health risk to students and staff, threatened significant disruption to campus operations, and put university property at risk of long-term damage. Initial clean-up efforts by university staff using standard wet vacuums not only proved ineffective but also resulted in further contamination of their equipment, emphasising the need for specialist intervention.

What we did

Upon receiving the urgent call, our team was on-site within two hours, and our priority was to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment and ensure that all technicians were adequately equipped with the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) before commencing any work.

We immediately coordinated with the university’s on-site drainage provider to ensure the source of the overflow was identified and remedied promptly. Once the issue was under control, our technicians moved swiftly into action.

Using our high-performance equipment, we extracted all contaminated wastewater from both the bathroom and the affected library carpet. This was followed by a thorough sanitisation process, which included deep cleaning of the entire bathroom floor, all surfaces—particularly high-touch areas—and the library carpet to eliminate any remaining contaminants and odours.

In response to the university’s additional challenge, we also collected their contaminated wet vacuums. These were transported off-site, where they underwent rigorous cleaning and sanitisation before being safely returned to campus, providing further peace of mind and practical support.

The Results

Our swift and professional intervention delivered several key outcomes:

  • Minimised disruption: Our rapid two-hour response and efficient clean-up limited downtime across vital university facilities, ensuring operations could continue with minimal interruption.
  • Ensured safety: Thorough sanitisation eliminated biohazard risks, making the affected areas safe for students, staff, and visitors to return.
  • Prompt reopening: The speed and effectiveness of our work enabled the building to reopen at the earliest opportunity, avoiding prolonged closure and academic disruption.
  • Comprehensive support: Our proactive approach to cleaning and sanitising the university’s contaminated equipment provided additional value and support, showcasing our commitment to going above and beyond.

Don’t know what to do next? We do.

If you need a restoration specialist who can respond quickly and decisively in emergencies, expertly manage complex biohazard clean-ups, and collaborate seamlessly with other service providers to deliver a safe, efficient, and comprehensive solution for our clients, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

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

How to add value for policyholders at no extra cost

How ServiceMaster Restore can support you and your policyholders when you need it most.

When your policyholders face a disaster, one of their biggest concerns is cost. As a broker, this is a concern you share. You’ll also want to minimise the cost of restoration work, no matter how complex.

Extra disaster restoration costs often arise from delays or third-party contractors. That’s why, at ServiceMaster Restore, we’ve reduced the costs of restoration work through approved networks to save you and your policyholders time and money.

Let’s see how.

ServiceMaster Restore Plus

In disaster restoration, time is money, so saving time means saving costs. Your policyholders want to know that they can return to their property as soon as possible.

ServiceMaster Restore Plus is a hassle-free addition to your existing coverage. It caters to the diverse needs across sectors to ensure guaranteed same-day callouts, exceptional service, and cheaper claims costs.

How?

Restore Plus is our network of restoration specialists. Being part of it means that with one phone call through our 24/7 Priority Line, you can arrange for someone to be on-site the same day. With Restore Plus, lengthy and costly claims processes are a thing of the past. As soon as disaster strikes, we’ve got you and your policyholders covered.

ServiceMaster Restore Connect

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

Through this network, we offer a complete end-to-end solution for restoration work. Whether for a commercial or domestic property, ServiceMaster Restore Connect is a seamless integration of our services that brings together local experts in various trades. So, no matter where you are in the country, you can trust we’ll have an expert at the door the same day.

When your policyholders contact ServiceMaster Restore UK, they’re not only benefiting from 65+ years of experience delivering premium disaster restoration services, but also from approved suppliers that allow us to support on…

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

And we’re not done. As the portfolio of approved suppliers grows, we can support our customers in more ways, ensuring all policyholders get the right help when they need it most.

Choosing ServiceMaster Restore means choosing an end-to-end solution that can mitigate damage, report and complete all restoration works. So, you can spend more time with your policyholders, knowing each client is being looked after, as Restore Plus also means they use our services risk-free. When making a claim, we work within their excess and report before an insurer has even attended the property.

Combined, ServiceMaster Restore and Connect ensure our local experts can be on hand fast to deliver professional solutions. All while making you the hero, by providing great value at a speed that saves time and money.

See the value of a comprehensive restoration service

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.