Tag Archive for: ServiceMaster Restore

The Thunderstorms Are Here: Why Fast Flood Restoration Matters

After weeks of hot, dry weather, thunderstorms and heavy rain are now impacting parts of the UK.

For homeowners and businesses, this has increased the risk of flash flooding and water damage.

Preparation is key: clear drains, check gutters, and move vulnerable items off the ground.

However, if water enters your property, what you do afterwards is equally important. This is where professional flood restoration services play a crucial role.

Why Flood Damage Spreads So Quickly

Floodwater rarely remains confined to its initial location.

It can seep underneath floors, behind skirting boards, into plaster, insulation, and wall cavities.

In commercial properties, it might also affect stock, equipment, documents, and electrical systems. The visible water is just one aspect of the issue.

Even if a room appears much improved after standing water is removed, moisture can still be trapped within the structure. Leaving moisture inside increases the risk of mould, damaged plaster, warped flooring, and other secondary damages.

Water Extraction Is Only the First Step

ServiceMaster Restore employs specialist water extraction equipment to remove standing water from affected properties as quickly as possible.

However, this is only the first stage of the restoration process. Once technicians remove the visible water, they assess how far moisture has travelled and which materials have absorbed it.

Water can move beneath flooring and screed, soak into plaster and timber, enter wall cavities, affect insulation, and remain trapped within subfloors or other hidden areas.

Identifying these moisture pockets is essential because a surface can look dry while the structure underneath is still holding water.

By understanding exactly where moisture remains, the drying process can target the affected areas properly rather than relying on guesswork.

Why Professional Drying Matters

Opening windows and increasing the heating can make a room seem drier, but it doesn’t necessarily mean the property is dry.

Professional flood restoration employs controlled drying tools like air movers and dehumidifiers, combined with moisture monitoring, to effectively extract water from building materials.

This process is crucial after flash flooding, as water can quickly seep into hidden areas. Proper drying minimises mould growth and reduces the need to replace affected materials.

What About Contaminated Floodwater?

Floodwater that enters from outside might carry dirt, bacteria, sewage, or other pollutants.

Drying the affected materials alone may not render them safe.

ServiceMaster Restore can evaluate the contamination level and determine whether specialist cleaning, decontamination, or removal is necessary.

Carpets, soft furnishings, and other porous items can absorb contaminated water rapidly, making early assessment crucial.

Why Dry Ground Can Increase Flash Flooding

After an extended period of hot, dry weather, the ground often becomes hard and compacted.

In certain conditions, very dry soil may even develop a water-repellent layer.

When heavy rain occurs suddenly, the soil struggles to absorb it quickly, causing the water to flow over the surface toward roads, drains, driveways, and low-lying areas. If drainage systems are already overwhelmed, water can accumulate rapidly.

This is why intense storms following a heatwave significantly increase the risk of flash flooding.

Protecting What Can Be Saved

Flood restoration isn’t always about completely stripping everything and starting over.

Acting swiftly can help preserve flooring, furniture, documents, stock, and other materials that might otherwise require replacement.

Professional drying also reduces the need to remove plaster, timber, and flooring unnecessarily.

For homeowners, this results in less disruption. For businesses, it can mean safeguarding stock, equipment, and crucial areas to maintain operations.

Flood Restoration for Commercial Properties

For businesses, water damage introduces a secondary challenge: downtime.

A flood in a warehouse, office, retail store, or healthcare facility can rapidly impact staff, customers, inventory, and daily operations.

ServiceMaster Restore supports commercial properties with water extraction, drying, dehumidification, building stabilisation, and comprehensive restoration services.

When feasible, affected sections can be isolated to allow safe areas to remain functional. This approach can be crucial when shutting down the entire building is not a practical option.

Support Beyond Drying

Flood damage recovery extends beyond simply removing water.

After drying the property, repairs might be needed for flooring, electrical systems, plumbing, roofing, etc.

ServiceMaster Restore can assist throughout the entire recovery process and collaborate with insurers, brokers, and loss adjusters as needed. This ensures clear communication and helps progress restoration efforts without the property owner having to manage each step alone.

24/7 Help When Flooding Happens

Storms and floods can occur unexpectedly.

ServiceMaster Restore offers round-the-clock emergency response for flood and water damage, available 24/7, year-round.

Our teams assess damage, extract water, detect hidden moisture, initiate professional drying, and work to prevent further issues.

The Storm Has Passed. Should You Still Call?

Yes, if you suspect water has entered your property.

Look out for:

  • Damp or musty smells
  • Water marks
  • Bubbling paint
  • Warped flooring
  • Damp skirting boards
  • Changes to plaster
  • Mould appearing after the event

Don’t assume the problem has gone away just because the visible water has disappeared.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

ServiceMaster Restore specialises in flood damage restoration for homes and businesses throughout the UK.

Our team handles everything from initial assessments and water extraction to professional drying, decontamination, mould prevention, claims assistance, and repairs, supporting you throughout the recovery process.

After a flood, removing visible water is only the first step.

Next, we ensure your property is dried, safe, and restored to its normal condition. If your home or business has been affected by flooding, contact ServiceMaster Restore at 0800 021 3970. We are available 24/7, year-round.

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

Lithium-Ion Battery Fires: How to Stay Safe

Lithium-ion batteries have become part of everyday life. They power our phones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, and countless other devices that make modern life more convenient.

Most of the time, they are perfectly safe.

However, when something goes wrong, the consequences can be severe. Fire and rescue services across the UK are responding to an increasing number of lithium-ion battery fires each year, particularly those involving e-bikes and e-scooters. These fires develop rapidly, burn at extremely high temperatures, and can cause significant damage to homes and commercial properties.

Understanding the risks is the first step towards preventing them.

Where Are Lithium-Ion Batteries Found?

Many people only think about the battery in their mobile phone, but lithium-ion batteries are now found in a wide range of products.

Common examples include:

  • Mobile phones
  • Tablets
  • Laptops
  • Smart watches
  • Power banks
  • Cordless vacuum cleaners
  • Cordless power tools
  • E-bikes
  • E-scooters
  • Electric wheelchairs
  • Garden equipment
  • Drones
  • Cameras
  • Electric vehicles

Many homes and businesses now have dozens of lithium-ion batteries charging every day without giving them a second thought.

Why Are Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Different?

Unlike many other types of fire, lithium-ion battery fires generate their own fuel as they develop.

When a battery becomes damaged or overheats, it can enter a state known as thermal runaway.

This is a rapid chain reaction inside the battery. Heat causes the internal components to break down. As they do so, they release more heat, which causes further breakdown.

The process accelerates quickly.

Some lithium-ion battery fires can exceed temperatures of 1,000°C, making them extremely difficult to control.

Unlike many fires, they can continue burning because chemical reactions inside the battery release oxygen. This means the fire does not rely entirely on oxygen from the surrounding air to sustain itself.

What Causes Lithium-Ion Battery Fires?

Several factors can trigger thermal runaway.

These include:

  • Physical damage after being dropped
  • Punctures or crushing
  • Manufacturing defects
  • Overcharging
  • Using incompatible chargers
  • Poor-quality replacement batteries
  • Exposure to excessive heat

In many cases, the warning signs appear before the fire starts.

Signs a Battery Could Be Failing

It is worth paying attention if a battery starts behaving differently.

Warning signs include:

  • Swelling or bulging
  • Excessive heat while charging
  • Strange smells
  • Hissing or popping noises
  • Smoke
  • Leaking fluid
  • Reduced battery performance

If you notice any of these signs, stop using the device immediately and move it to a safe location if it is safe to do so.

Never continue charging a damaged battery.

Why Lithium-Ion Battery Fires Are So Dangerous

The flames themselves are only part of the risk.

These fires can produce toxic gases, including carbon monoxide and hydrogen fluoride, which pose serious health hazards.

They can also reignite. Even after the visible flames have been extinguished, heat trapped within the damaged battery can trigger another fire hours later.

This is one reason why professional assessment following a lithium-ion battery fire is so important.

How to Reduce the Risk

While lithium-ion batteries cannot be made completely risk-free, simple precautions significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire.

Use the Correct Charger

Always use the charger supplied by the manufacturer or one specifically approved for the device.

Cheap, untested chargers may not regulate power correctly.

Avoid Overcharging

Unplug devices once they are fully charged where possible.

Avoid leaving batteries charging overnight unless the manufacturer specifically states this is safe.

Charge in a Safe Location

Keep charging devices away from escape routes, soft furnishings, combustible materials, and direct sunlight.

Avoid charging e-bikes or e-scooters in hallways or near front doors, where they could block an escape route if a fire starts.

Protect Batteries from Damage

Dropping a battery-powered device does not always cause immediate failure.

Damage inside the battery may not become obvious until later.

If a battery has suffered a significant impact, inspect it carefully before continuing to use it.

Buy Quality Products

Choose products that meet recognised UK safety standards.

Counterfeit batteries and chargers often lack the protection systems found in genuine products.

What Should You Do If a Battery Starts Smoking?

If a battery begins smoking, hissing, or catching fire:

  • Move away immediately if it is safe to do so.
  • Evacuate the building if necessary.
  • Call 999.
  • Do not attempt to dismantle the battery.
  • Warn others to stay clear of the area.

Do not assume the danger has passed once the flames are out. Lithium-ion batteries can reignite without warning.

Fire Damage Doesn’t End When the Fire Is Out

A lithium-ion battery fire can cause extensive damage in a short space of time.

Smoke and soot spread rapidly throughout a property. The heat generated can damage nearby materials, while firefighting efforts often cause significant water damage.

Professional restoration helps address these issues, including smoke contamination, water damage, odour removal, structural drying, and cleaning affected areas.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

If your home or business has been affected by a lithium-ion battery fire, ServiceMaster Restore is here to help.

Our experienced restoration teams respond quickly to assess the full extent of the damage, including fire, smoke, soot, and water damage caused during firefighting efforts. We use specialist equipment to clean, deodorise, dry, and restore affected areas, helping to prevent secondary damage and return your property to a safe condition as quickly as possible.

We also work closely with homeowners, businesses, insurers, brokers, and loss adjustors, providing clear communication and expert support throughout the restoration process.

If your property has been affected by fire damage, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help.

Why Professional Drying Is Essential After Water Damage

After a leak, flood, or escape of water, it is natural to think that opening windows, turning up the heating, and waiting will eventually dry the property.

It might look like it is working.

The carpets may feel dry. The walls may look normal. The obvious water may have disappeared.

Unfortunately, that does not always mean the problem has gone.

Water can remain hidden beneath floors, behind walls, inside insulation, and within the structure itself. Without proper drying, this trapped moisture can continue causing damage long after the original incident.

According to Geoff Hayman, restoration expert at ServiceMaster Restore Worcester, this is one of the biggest misunderstandings after water damage.

“People often think that if they can’t see water anymore, the property is dry. The reality is that moisture can remain hidden for weeks or even months. That’s when secondary damage starts to become a real problem.”

Why Natural Drying Is Not Always Enough

Natural drying relies on open windows, airflow, warmth, and time. While this method may help with surface moisture, it does not create the controlled conditions necessary for effectively drying a building.

In the UK, this challenge is amplified by frequently changing weather conditions. High humidity levels can slow down the drying process, and in some cases, opening windows can introduce even more moisture into the property.

“Properly drying a building requires control,” explains Geoff. “You need to achieve the right balance of temperature, airflow, and moisture removal. Relying on the weather means leaving much to chance.”

How Professional Drying Works

Professional drying is a controlled process.

Specialist equipment is used to quickly and safely remove moisture from affected materials.

This can include:

  • Air movers to increase airflow across surfaces
  • Dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air
  • Moisture monitoring equipment to track progress
  • Specialist drying systems for trapped water within floors and walls

It is not simply about making a room warmer. The aim is to create the right environment for moisture to leave the structure.

Heat alone is not enough to properly dry a property. Moisture needs to be drawn out of affected materials and removed from the environment. Without the right drying process, moisture can remain trapped or move into other areas of the property.

Professional Drying Reduces Recovery Time

One of the biggest advantages of professional drying is its speed. Building materials can take a long time to dry naturally; for instance, some floor screeds might take weeks or even months to reach acceptable moisture levels without assistance. During this prolonged drying period, repairs can be delayed.

For homeowners, this means longer disruptions. For businesses, it can lead to extended downtime and lost revenue.

The quicker a property is properly dried, the sooner the restoration process can continue. Decoration, repairs, and returning people safely to the building all depend on achieving the correct moisture levels.

Preventing Secondary Damage

The first water incident is often only part of the problem.

The damage that follows can sometimes be worse.

When moisture remains trapped, it can lead to:

  • Mould growth
  • Damaged plaster
  • Warped timber
  • Flooring failure
  • Odours
  • Deterioration of building materials

Mould can begin developing within 24 to 48 hours when conditions allow, so early action matters.

Secondary damage is one of the main risks after water damage. A small incident can quickly become a much larger restoration project if moisture remains trapped inside the property.

Finding the Moisture You Cannot See

One of the biggest challenges following water damage is determining the path of the water. Water tends to move along the easiest route, which can include travelling under flooring, into wall cavities, and through various materials without leaving obvious signs of its presence.

Professional restoration teams utilise specialised equipment to detect moisture levels and pinpoint affected areas. This approach allows for targeted drying instead of unnecessary removal and replacement of materials.

“Guesswork is expensive,” says Geoff. “It’s crucial to understand precisely where the moisture is and how the building is responding.”

Why Professional Drying Can Reduce Overall Costs

Professional drying may seem like an additional step, but it can significantly reduce the overall cost of restoration.

Removing moisture early can prevent unnecessary material replacement and reduce long-term damage.

Leaving a property to dry naturally may seem cheaper at first, but if mould develops or structural materials fail, the final cost can be much higher.

“The aim is always to restore where possible,” says Geoff. “Controlled drying gives us the best chance of protecting the property and reducing unnecessary disruption.”

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

When water damage affects your home or business, drying needs to start quickly.

ServiceMaster Restore provides professional drying and water damage restoration services across the UK. Our teams use specialist equipment, proven drying methods, and ongoing monitoring to remove moisture safely and effectively.

We work with homeowners, businesses, insurers, brokers, and loss adjustors to reduce disruption and restore properties as quickly as possible.

If your property has suffered water damage, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

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Standing with Worcester, On and Off the Pitch

Standing with Worcester, On and Off the Pitch

Cricket season is in full swing at New Road, and ServiceMaster Restore Worcester is proud to continue supporting Worcestershire County Cricket Club as a club partner.

It is a partnership that feels particularly relevant here in Worcester. New Road sits beside the River Severn and has faced serious flooding over the years. Many homes and businesses across Worcester, Malvern, Droitwich, Pershore, Evesham and the surrounding areas understand how quickly heavy rain and rising water can cause disruption.

A busy summer at New Road

Worcestershire recently secured a memorable five-wicket County Championship victory over Gloucestershire at New Road. The summer schedule now continues with Vitality Blast and One Day Cup fixtures, bringing supporters and businesses into the city throughout June and July.

As a local business, we are pleased to play a small part in supporting the club and the wider Worcestershire community during another busy season.

Local flood damage support in Worcester

Floodwater can damage flooring, walls, furniture and personal belongings within hours. Even after the visible water has gone, trapped moisture can lead to odours, mould and further property damage.

ServiceMaster Restore Worcester provides professional flood damage restoration for homes and businesses across Worcestershire. Our local team can help with:

  • Emergency water extraction
  • Structural drying and moisture checks
  • Flood-damaged carpet and flooring restoration
  • Cleaning and sanitisation
  • Mould and odour treatment
  • Support for domestic and commercial properties

Here when Worcester needs us

Our sponsorship of Worcestershire County Cricket Club reflects our commitment to the area we serve. Whether we are supporting the team at New Road or helping a local property recover after flooding, we are proud to stand alongside the Worcester community.

For help following flooding, water damage, fire or another property emergency, contact ServiceMaster Restore Worcester on: 0800 021 3115 or enquire online: https://servicemasterrestore.co.uk/worcester/.  With no call out charges in and around Worcester and same day response- let us be your first port of call when disaster strikes!

Why Summer Is Peak Season for Water Damage Claims

Most people associate water damage with winter. Frozen pipes, heavy rain, and storms tend to attract attention.

Yet many property owners are surprised to learn that summer can be one of the busiest times of year for water damage claims.

The causes differ, but the results are often the same. Damaged floors, stained ceilings, mould growth, and expensive repairs.

Understanding the risks can help you spot problems early and reduce the likelihood of serious damage.

Why Does Summer Water Damage Happen?

Summer brings a unique set of conditions that increase the risk of water damage.

Properties are often left empty while people go on holiday. Sudden thunderstorms become more common. Plumbing issues can go unnoticed for longer periods.

Unlike in winter, when damage often develops due to freezing temperatures, summer water damage frequently results from problems that are simply not discovered quickly enough.

Empty Properties Mean Delayed Discovery

One of the main causes of summer water damage is absence from home.

A small leak under a sink might seem minor initially, but if no one is there for a week or two, it can turn into a major issue.

When someone returns, water could have soaked into the flooring, walls, and furniture. This is why insurance claims often rise during holiday seasons.

Summer Storms Can Cause Significant Damage

The UK has seen more episodes of intense rainfall and localised flooding in recent years.

Summer storms often arrive suddenly and bring:

  • Heavy rainfall
  • Strong winds
  • Flash flooding
  • Roof damage

Water can enter properties through damaged roofs, blocked gutters, and poorly maintained drainage systems.

Many homeowners do not realise there is a problem until damp patches or stains appear days later.

Air Conditioning and Cooling Systems

Commercial properties often rely on air-conditioning systems throughout the summer months.

If these systems are not properly maintained, they can develop leaks or condensation.

Over time, moisture can damage ceilings, walls, and flooring without being immediately visible.

This is a common cause of summer water damage in offices, retail units, and commercial buildings.

Outdoor Plumbing Problems

Summer often brings increased use of outdoor taps, irrigation systems, and garden equipment.

Damaged hoses, leaking connections, and faulty outdoor plumbing can all cause water to escape where it should not.

Because these areas are outside, problems are sometimes overlooked until significant damage has occurred.

The Hidden Risk of Warm Weather

Many people assume that warm weather helps prevent water damage.

In reality, it can sometimes mask it.

Moisture evaporates more quickly from surfaces, making areas appear dry even when water remains trapped underneath.

This creates ideal conditions for mould growth and hidden structural damage.

By the time visible signs appear, the issue may already be widespread.

Signs of Summer Water Damage

Look out for:

  • Damp smells
  • Water stains on ceilings
  • Peeling paint
  • Bubbling plaster
  • Warped flooring
  • Unexplained mould growth

These signs often indicate the presence of moisture somewhere in the property.

The sooner the source is identified, the easier it is to resolve.

How to Reduce the Risk

Simple preventive measures can make a big difference.

Before going away:

  • Turn off the water supply if possible
  • Check for existing leaks
  • Ask someone to inspect the property
  • Clear gutters and drains
  • Inspect roofs and external areas

For commercial properties, regular maintenance of air-conditioning and plumbing systems is equally important.

Why Quick Action Matters

Water damage spreads quickly.

What starts as a minor leak can affect multiple rooms in a short time. The longer moisture remains, the greater the risk of mould, structural damage, and costly repairs.

Acting quickly helps limit both disruption and expense.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

ServiceMaster Restore provides professional water damage cleaning and restoration across the UK.

Our teams respond promptly to identify the source of the problem, carry out specialist drying, and restore affected areas before secondary damage occurs.

We also work with insurers and loss adjustors to help make the claims process as smooth as possible.

If your property has suffered water damage, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

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How Changing Weather Patterns Are Increasing Summer Fire Risks Across the UK

For many years, fire risk in the UK was largely associated with accidents inside buildings. Electrical faults, cooking incidents, and heating appliances were often the main causes of concern.

Longer dry spells, higher temperatures, and more frequent extreme weather events are creating new fire risks across the country. From garden barbecues and dry grass to commercial waste storage and woodland areas, the conditions that allow fires to start and spread are becoming more common.

While the UK may not experience the same wildfire conditions as some parts of Europe, recent summers have shown that fires can spread surprisingly quickly when weather conditions are right.

Why Summer Fire Risks Are Increasing

The UK’s weather is becoming less predictable.

Many areas are experiencing:

  • Longer dry spells
  • Higher average summer temperatures
  • More frequent heatwaves
  • Drier vegetation and grassland

When plants, grass, hedges, and woodland become dry, they ignite easily.

A single spark can sometimes be enough.

This does not mean every hot day creates a fire risk, but it does mean that homeowners, businesses, and land managers need to be more aware of the changing conditions around them.

Garden Fire Risks During Summer

For many people, summer means spending more time outdoors.

Barbecues, fire pits, outdoor cooking equipment, and garden parties become more common.

Unfortunately, these activities can also increase the risk of fire.

Common causes of garden fires include:

  • Disposable barbecues placed on grass
  • Barbecues positioned too close to fences or sheds
  • Fire pits left unattended
  • Hot ashes disposed of too soon
  • Outdoor electrical equipment overheating

Most garden fires start small. However, dry conditions allow them to spread much faster than expected.

The Growing Risk of Grass and Wildfires

Dry grass can become highly flammable during periods of hot weather.

Parks, fields, roadside verges, and woodlands may all be affected.

Many grass fires begin accidentally through:

  • Discarded cigarettes
  • Disposable barbecues
  • Glass bottles left in direct sunlight
  • Machinery and equipment that produce sparks

Once a fire takes hold, wind can spread it rapidly across large areas.

In recent years, several parts of the UK have experienced significant wildfires that threatened homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.

Commercial Properties Face Risks Too

Summer fire risks are not limited to residential properties.

Commercial sites often have external areas that become vulnerable in hot weather.

Facilities managers and business owners should pay particular attention to:

  • Waste storage compounds
  • Pallet storage areas
  • Smoking shelters
  • Loading bays
  • Outdoor plant and machinery

Dry cardboard, timber, packaging materials, and vegetation can all provide fuel for fire.

Regular inspections are especially important during periods of warm weather.

How Small Fires Become Major Incidents

One of the most dangerous assumptions people make is that a small fire will remain small.

In dry conditions, this is not always the case.

A barbecue ember can ignite grass.

A grass fire can spread to fencing.

A fence fire can reach sheds, vehicles, or buildings.

The speed at which fire spreads often surprises people.

This is why early detection and prompt action are so important.

Protecting Your Property During Summer

Fortunately, several simple steps can reduce fire risk.

For homeowners:

  • Position barbecues away from buildings and fences
  • Never leave cooking equipment unattended
  • Keep gardens clear of excessive dry vegetation
  • Dispose of ashes safely
  • Test smoke alarms regularly

For businesses:

  • Remove combustible waste regularly
  • Maintain external areas
  • Review fire risk assessments during hot weather
  • Inspect outdoor storage areas
  • Ensure staff understand emergency procedures

Small preventive measures can make a significant difference.

Fire Damage Doesn’t End When the Flames Are Out

When a fire is extinguished, the visible flames may be gone, but damage often persists.

Smoke can spread throughout a property.

Soot can contaminate surfaces, furnishings, and equipment.

Water used to fight the fire can cause secondary damage and increase the risk of mould if not dealt with promptly.

The full impact of a fire is often much greater than people initially realise.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

ServiceMaster Restore provides professional fire and smoke damage restoration services throughout the UK.

Our teams respond promptly to assess damage, remove smoke and soot, carry out specialist cleaning, and restore affected properties after a fire.

We work with homeowners, businesses, insurers, and loss adjusters to help properties recover as quickly as possible.

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

Summer Property Checklist: Essential Checks Before You Go Away

Summer holidays are meant to be relaxing. Whether you’re away for a long weekend or a two-week break, the last thing you want is a phone call saying there’s a problem at home.

Unfortunately, empty properties can be vulnerable. A small leak, an electrical fault, or a security issue can go unnoticed for days. By the time the problem is discovered, the damage may already be significant.

The good news is that a few simple checks before you leave can help reduce the risk.

Here’s a practical summer property checklist to work through before you lock the door and head off.

Turn Off the Water Supply

Water damage remains one of the most common causes of property insurance claims.

A leaking washing machine hose or a failed pipe connection can release a surprising amount of water in a short time.

If your property will be empty for several days, consider turning off the water supply at the mains.

It takes a few moments and could prevent a major problem.

Check for Existing Leaks

Before you leave, take a quick walk around the property.

Look for:

  • Dripping taps
  • Water stains on ceilings
  • Damp patches
  • Leaking appliances
  • Signs of mould

If anything looks unusual, investigate it before you travel. Small leaks rarely resolve on their own.

Unplug Non-Essential Electrical Items

Many appliances can be safely unplugged while you’re away.

Consider disconnecting:

  • Televisions
  • Computers
  • Kitchen appliances
  • Chargers

This reduces the risk of fire and protects devices from power surges during storms.

Keep essential items, such as alarms and security systems, connected.

Test Smoke Alarms

It sounds obvious, but many people forget.

Before leaving, press the test button on each smoke alarm.

A working smoke alarm remains one of the simplest ways to reduce the impact of a fire.

Secure Windows and Doors

Before leaving, check all windows and doors.

Pay particular attention to:

  • Ground-floor windows
  • Garage doors
  • Side entrances
  • Conservatories

Even slightly open windows can let water in during heavy rain.

Check the Roof and Gutters

You do not need to carry out a full inspection.

A quick visual check from ground level is often sufficient.

Look for:

  • Loose roof tiles
  • Overflowing gutters
  • Visible damage
  • Blocked drainage

Summer storms can arrive suddenly, and existing issues often worsen when heavy rain hits.

Ask Someone to Check In

If possible, ask a trusted friend, family member, or neighbour to keep an eye on the property.

They can:

  • Collect the post
  • Open and close the curtains
  • Check for signs of leaks
  • Report anything unusual

A quick visit every few days can provide peace of mind.

Consider Smart Monitoring

Many homeowners now use smart devices to monitor their property remotely.

These can include:

  • Water leak detectors
  • Smart cameras
  • Alarm systems
  • Temperature monitors

While they do not prevent problems, they can alert you much sooner.

Why Preparation Matters

Most property damage becomes costly because it goes unnoticed.

A leak discovered within an hour is very different from one found two weeks later.

The same applies to fire, storm, and security incidents.

Taking a little time before you leave can help protect your property while you enjoy your holiday.

How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help

If you return home to find water, fire, or storm-related damage, ServiceMaster Restore is here to help.

Our teams provide emergency response and professional restoration services throughout the UK. We assess the damage, prevent secondary damage, and help restore properties to normal as quickly as possible.

If you need support, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today.

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.

Fire Damage Doesn’t Stop When the Flames Are Out

When a fire is extinguished, it may seem like the worst is over. However, the damage often continues. While flames cause immediate destruction, smoke, soot, and water can lead to longer-lasting problems.

What Happens After the Fire

Smoke spreads beyond the area where the fire started, travelling through rooms, vents, and ceilings. Soot settles on surfaces, sometimes in unexpected places. Additionally, water used to extinguish the fire can soak into materials, creating a second layer of damage.

The Hidden Impact

After a fire, you may encounter the following issues:

  • Lingering smoke odours
  • Soot stains on walls and ceilings
  • Corrosion on metal surfaces
  • Trapped moisture within structures

These problems can develop even after the fire has been put out.

Why Quick Action Matters

The longer smoke and moisture remain, the more damage they cause. Soot can lead to permanent stains, moisture can promote mould growth, and odours become harder to eliminate. Swift cleaning and drying can significantly reduce long-term impacts.

Restoring the Property Properly

Fire damage restoration involves more than simply clearing debris. It requires thorough cleaning, deodorising, drying, and repairing affected areas. Without proper restoration, issues can persist beneath the surface.

Getting the Right Support

ServiceMaster Restore offers fire and smoke damage cleaning and restoration services across the UK. Our professional teams assess the full extent of the damage and begin work quickly to prevent further complications.

If your property has been affected by fire, call 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can assist you.

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.