We Can Restore Your Commercial Buildings!

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge is here and ready to help with all of your commercial restoration needs.

Need Storm Cleanup for Your Business?

If you’re a business owner in need of storm remediation, you can trust our Disaster Recovery Team to help you get back in business after a storm or flood disaster. We have elite large-loss specialists that are pre-qualified and strategically placed throughout the United States and Canada to handle any size disaster. Past industries we served have included hospitals, property management, universities, municipalities and even The Pentagon.

You can TRUST THE BRIGHT GREEN CLEAN-UP TEAM with your business restoration needs!

703-583-8484

Does My Business Need Commercial Flood Insurance?

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

A flood in your commercial property can cripple a business if they are not properly insured and aware of their options.

Most business insurance policies don't cover losses resulting from floods, and if you're located in a low-risk flood area, you might be tempted to bypass this important coverage. However, flooding can occur anywhere – it's not limited to just coastal areas or river basins. The cost of damages from a flood could submerge your business permanently.

If you've invested money in equipment or a building, flood insurance is vital to protecting your business.

National flood insurance protection

In 1968, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was established by Congress to help property owners protect themselves from the financial devastation of floods. Communities all over the United States participate in the program by practicing floodplain management to reduce potential flood risks. In return, the NFIP provides flood insurance to business owners, homeowners and renters in those communities.

Coverages and rates are set by the NFIP, and do not vary from company to company. Flood insurance rates are determined by factors such as the type of construction and age of your business property, number of floors and building occupancy, as well as your area's level of risk as determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

National flood insurance is backed by the federal government and can be purchased through your insurance agent. Once purchased, there is a 30-day waiting period (established by FEMA regulations) before your flood insurance takes effect. So, it pays to buy coverage well before water threatens to flow under your door.

Commercial Water Damage? Call us QUICK!!

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage hits your commercial building, call the experts at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge to extract & dry your space quickly! 703-583-848

Finding commercial water damage in your business can be hard to swallow, and when it's significant damage to not only your building, or to your inventory, but to both, it can be particularly challenging to grapple with. Business operations can be difficult enough to manage under normal conditions without adding unforeseen problems and emergencies. 
 
Business owners should know that we are experts in finding solutions to cleaning up and preventing commercial water damage in Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton as well as restoring buildings from top to bottom. Your inventory is important to you, and your business, so we also understand that special care must be taken to prevent any extra losses from occurring. Our experience and training can help prevent this from happening, and we will also work with you and communicate all processes while we restore your business and your inventory. 
 
Water extraction, drying, monitoring, cleaning, and restorative work are our strengths. We work as a team, so that our work is completed as quickly, but also as thoroughly, as possible. We use science to ensure your property is dried to goal range. Communication with you during the entire process is highly important to us, and we will always keep you updated on any developments that may affect your business. We're here to answer your questions, so please don't ever hesitate to ask us when you need more information. 
 
When completing work that commercial water damage requires, we often encounter problems that have remained hidden. Problems can include electrical hazards, a discovery of pest problems, mold or bacterial growths, and many other situations that we commonly find. These are often unknown to business owners when water damage has been a slowly but steadily developing problem in a building. Your safety and that of your employees and customers are important and restoring things to an acceptable condition are paramount. Defects in building materials, such as gaps in insulation (sometimes discovered when a wall is opened so that damaged paneling or drywall can be replaced) can be filled before installing the new wall, preventing heat loss. 

We strive to make things like new, and better than before the damage happened. This is why communication is so important to the entire process. Start the process by calling us, the professionals at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge. Our number is (703) 583-8484, and it's answered 24/7.

Safety in Commercial Buildings

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

ICC - International Code Council is an organization that monitors building codes & standards to provide the highest level of safety in the world.

Building Safety Month—is an initiative of the International Code Council (ICC) and their 64,000 member’s across the world, as well as their partners in building construction and design, and the safety community. Building Safety Month is an opportunity to educate insurance and commercial property professionals, as well as the general public, on “what it takes to create safe, resilient, affordable, and energy efficient homes and buildings,” according to the ICC website.  Some of the topics and tips shared throughout the month include Disaster Safety and Mitigation, as well as Fire Safety and Awareness. The general public may not be aware how codes and code officials “improve and protect the places where we live, learn, work, worship, and play,” and this month can certainly improve that awareness!

IMPORTANT TIPS FROM THE ICC Disaster Safety & Mitigation:

• If you live in a high wind or hurricane prone area and do not have tested and code-approved shutters for protection from windborne debris, consider temporarily protecting your doors and windows by mounting exterior grade, 7/16" minimum thickness plywood and fastening it into place. Visit www.flash.org for detailed instructions on how to use plywood for emergency board-up.
• Consider building or retrofitting to create a tornado-safe room in your home. Follow ICC/ NSSA 500 Standard for detailed construction information and to ensure you achieve the highest level of protection for your family.
• In wildfire prone areas, remove fine (dead grass, leaves, etc.) and coarse fuels (dead twigs, branches, etc.) within 30 feet of a building to create a survivable space in case of wildfire. Be sure to remove dry leaf and pine litter from roofs, rain gutters, decks, and walkways. Follow ICC’s International Wildland-Urban Interface Code® for detailed requirements.
• Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. Never drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet and two feet of water to move an SUV-sized vehicle.

Source: iccsafe.org

Our Commercial Services…Where No Job is Too Big or Too Small

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

Whether the damage occurs in a small business building, a senior facility, an apartment complex, or a big box store, we have the training, experience,

Cleaning and restoring commercial properties require a unique blend of training, experience, and equipment. Our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton has the resources and more than 17 years of expertise to give you excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. We can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Senior Facilities
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

Why SERVPRO?

• FASTER: With more than 1,900 U.S. and Canadian franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned throughout the nation to be faster to any-sized disaster.
• READY: SERVPRO is always ready to help when disaster strikes but also knows the importance of ensuring home and business owners are “Ready for whatever happens.”
• PROOF: Science of Drying was developed out of the need to further validate the drying process and use more precise documentation on defining when a structure is dry.
• HERE TO HELP: Communication is the most important part of the process to keep everyone informed during cleanup and restoration.  We accomplish this through the Here to Help Connection process.

Our team responds quickly to your northern Virginia fire, water, or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in a small business building, a senior facility, an apartment complex, or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation. Our network of 1,900 Franchises gives us access to trained restoration technicians and resources to respond to any size restoration emergency.

How Will I Know Which Water Restoration Firm Is Best for My Northern Virginia Business Needs?

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

As a northern Virginia business owner, when you suffer a water loss, the impact amplifies as your employees, customers, and the community absorb the consequences. At a stressful time, you may feel the pressure of many others who rely on you to make the right decision when selecting from a list of water restorers.

What Should I Focus On When Comparing Companies?

Focus on the restoration company’s training, equipment, experience, response time, and scalability when deciding which northern Virginia water restoration company you should select to help with your specific needs.

Things to consider include:

• Is their workforce trained through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the international standards-setting organization?
• Has the company invested in sufficient inventories of state-of-the-art water extraction and drying equipment, and the tools to locate trapped water that migrated from the initial loss site?
• Do the company’s management team and crew members have significant experience in commercial losses, including creative and sustainable ways to permit at least partial operations during restoration efforts?
• How quickly can the company arrive with experienced project managers, restoration technicians, and equipment to begin assessment, planning, and emergency services?
• Can the company mobilize resources with affiliated restoration firms to increase the number of work crews and the quantities of specialized equipment in the event of a catastrophic and more extensive loss than typical?

Is Preplanning for Commercial Disasters Available and Recommended?

Our marketing team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton urges commercial customers to reach out to us long before water restoration is needed.  We can work with you to develop a collaborative plan that permits our team to hit the ground running in reaction to a water loss event at your facility. Our Emergency READY Profile and Plan (ERP) enables us to gain a critical understanding of your layout and operations, ensuring our response is individualized and swift.  We are prepared to help commercial customers of any size with water restoration concerns before a crisis and after the worst occurs. Call us at 703-583-8484 to explore how we can work together to get you back in business as quickly as possible.

COMMERCIAL CRIME SCENE, VANDALISM AND BIOHAZARD CLEANUP

2/14/2022 (Permalink)

While being recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton professionals also offer fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup and restoration services to commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

Our team is trained to remove biohazardous substances safely and effectively, and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, state, and local health regulations.

Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, we help turn unsafe environments into clean, safe places of business.

We can help with the following issues:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation  

Contact our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton today for 24-hour emergency service. 

HOW SMOKE DAMAGE IS HANDLED DURING FIRE RESTORATION

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

Whether you are an owner or the manager of a commercial building, you need to ensure restoration gets adequately handled after a fire. The last thing you want is for the consumers visiting your northern Virginia place of business to get a hint of lingering smoke odors. The good news for a commercial property owner is that soot and smoke odors are part of our fire damage restoration process. SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton features a team of restoration technicians specifically trained in odor control to locate and eradicate all sources of pungent odors post-fire.

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a major factor in running a space where employees and outsiders frequent. We take smoke and odor control seriously, including measures such as:

• Identifying the location and cause of the odor
• Determining the exact conditions where soot and smoke settled on various surfaces
• Formulating the best course of action for odor removal 
• Ensuring that pack-out services commence, if necessary, to clean and deodorize items off-site

There is a science to first identifying smoke odors and then working on eliminating them. We use EPA-registered deodorants, thermal fogging techniques, and industrial-grade equipment to ensure the job gets done right the first time, allowing you to return to regular business operations as soon as possible.

Call our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton to learn more about our fire damage restoration techniques. We are available 24/7 at 703-583-8484 and are always here to help!

Even Small Businesses Need a Disaster Plan

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Many small business owners in Northern Virginia are caught off guard when disaster strikes. They fail to have a plan in place for their business, thinking that it would never happen to them or never even considering the possibility of a disaster. Unfortunately, once disaster strikes, it’s often too late. Afterwards, many businesses are forced to close permanently because they were not prepared.  With Hurricane season only a short time away once more, please take the time to protect your business with a few ideas from below.   

According to foxbusiness.com, there are 7 steps you can take if you are a small business owner to help protect your business from disaster.

Risk Assessment: Determine what types of emergencies are most likely to affect your company and then evaluate your level of preparedness. Check in with your insurance company, make sure employees are trained for emergencies, have data backed up and stored at a safe location.

Review Your Insurance Coverage: Talk with your insurance agent to make sure your business is covered if hit by disaster. After determining what types of emergencies your business is most prone to, make sure your policy covers those types of situations. Ask about business interruption insurance which helps business owners continue to pay on-going bills while operations are shut down during disaster recovery.

Create a Contingency Plan: Review your business operations and determine which are most important for the survival of your business. Form a process to manage these functions in the event of a disaster. Determine an alternate business location where business operations can continue during the recovery process.

Create a Communications Plan: Disasters create chaos and having a communications plan in place in advance will help minimize panic.

Back Up Your Data: Making sure all your data is backed up and stored in a safe place is critical. Cloud-based data solutions are best as they stay safe during disasters and can be accessed from any location.

Build an Emergency Kit: Have an emergency kit available onsite including items like water, flashlights, fire extinguishers, etc.

Review and Rehearse You Plan: Once your plan is in place, make certain your employees know the plan and have practiced implementing it.

While disasters can be devastating to a business, preparation can certainly help in the recovery process. By taking time to prepare before disaster strikes and getting a plan in place, business owners can help protect their business in times of emergencies. If you would like further information on how our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton may help you prepare your business, simply give us a call at 703-583-8484.  We’re always here to help!

Different Levels of Fires at Commercial Properties

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

There are so many factors that can contribute to commercial damage occurring such as fires due to unforeseen circumstances, facility usage which puts wear and tear on your property, down to the most basic water damage. No matter the source of the damage, this downtime can be costly both to your business in Northern Virginia and your customers.  When damage at your commercial property happens, how do you know to what level and extent?  At SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton we have a grading system we use to determine the level of which your property is assessed and categorized to begin mitigation.  

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are typically multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.” Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

If you have damage at your Northern Virginia Commercial property, call our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton at 703-583-8484.  Our team of highly trained professionals will be on the way and is available 24/7/365.

Microbial Growth in Commercial Buildings

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Old food storage containers are a perfect breeding ground for mold.

Why should you be worried about mold in your Northern Virginia building? According to OSHA, some mold, over time, may cause structural damage to wood along with damage to furnishings and finishes. Use the recommended tips below to help prevent microbial growth in your business.

Clean Out The Refrigerator

It can be difficult to keep track of shared refrigerators. Some people will always remember to clear out their leftovers, others will not. Old food storage containers are a perfect breeding ground for mold. Over time, mold can travel to the shelving and even outside the refrigerator. Consider instituting an office refrigerator policy. If something is left in the fridge by a certain time each week, it goes in the garbage.

Look For And Repair Leaks

Leaks from plumbing, windows, roofs, and more can lead to significant water damage in your business as well as an increased risk of mold growth. If you are not regularly inspecting your property, it’s easy for these leaks to go unchecked until they create a larger, more costly problem. Watch for telltale signs of a leak such as lower water pressure; wet spots on the floors, ceilings, or walls; and condensation around windowsills and in attic spaces.

Keep It Clean

It’s easy for anyone to get caught up in work and let clutter take over his or her workspace. However, clutter creates lots of hiding spots for crumbs and dust, which are both great food sources for mold. Make sure to clear the clutter and wipe down hard surfaces regularly. Make sure to promptly clean all spills as well. Clean and sanitize break rooms and bathrooms frequently. Both rooms provide ample opportunity for mold growth. These rooms should be cleaned at least weekly depending on how regularly people use each room.

Turn On The AC/Dehumidifier

Leaks are not the only way for moisture to accumulate in your business. High humidity levels can lead to moisture and mold as well. On hot days, fans can cool you off, but they don’t do much for humidity levels. Run your AC or a dehumidifier to cut down the humidity in the building.

Clean Out Trash Cans

While you might switch out the liners regularly, can you remember the last time you washed out the trash cans? It’s easy for bits of food and condensation to sneak beneath liners into the can, which is all mold needs to grow. Try washing office wastebaskets about once a month to prevent mold growth.

Take Care Of Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system can quickly distribute mold spores throughout your building if there is a problem. Make sure your HVAC system receives regular inspections. Sometimes moisture condenses inside air ducts or leaks drip onto ducts from ceiling tiles, which can lead to mold growth inside the ducts. Make sure to keep the HVAC drip pans clean and unobstructed. Additionally, replace your filters as needed.

Slope The Ground Away From The Foundation

If the ground around your building slopes toward the foundation, water can accumulate and weaken your building’s structure. Additionally, it provides an ideal environment for mold to grow. The ground should slope away from the building. You should also make sure your building follows the local building codes for drainage. Mold is persistent. Even if you follow all the right steps, it’s still possible for mold to grow and spread in your building. Fortunately, at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton, we have the right experience in mold remediation to make your place of business “Like it never even happened.” Unfortunately, mold doesn’t stay put, it grows quickly. You’ll want to give us a call as soon as you notice it, so we can start the remediation process. Our team has the training, equipment, and knowledge necessary to help locate and remediate mold efficiently. If you find mold in your place of business, call SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton at 703-583-8484.  We’re always here to help!

Commercial Fire Causes in Northern Virginia Businesses

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage to your commercial business in Northern Virginia can be catastrophic. It does not matter the nature of your business, it can mean downtime, loss of goods, costly equipment loss, loss of property, or worse. A fire can quickly spread through a building and even put your team at risk. If you are not prepared it can be a situation that escalates faster than you are ready to handle. Good planning can help ensure that a fire does not happen or, if it does, how it can be handled quickly and effectively. Find below, the United States Fire Administration’s list of the top five leading causes of a commercial fire. 

Top causes of fires in commercial buildings

According to data from the United States Fire Administration, between 2006 and 2015, the top causes of fires in commercial buildings were: 

Cooking

Cooking is a huge danger, and it was a culprit behind 30,900 fires within the past decade. Therefore, it is so important to install fire alarms and a sprinkler system in your kitchen to prevent against the worst! 

Unintentional and Careless Behavior

This is a broad category. Unintentional and careless behavior, better known as accidents, caused more than 10,900 fires. While it’s hard to stop people from being careless, business owners and property managers cannot afford to be. 

Arson

Intentionally set fires represented 9,800 of the total fires in these properties. 

Electrical malfunction

Problems with the electricity or wiring in a building caused around 7,000 fires in the past decade. 

Heating problems

Problematic HVAC systems are the culprit behind about 6,000 commercial fires nationwide. 

Trust that our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton keeps in mind that time down for your business, is money lost. Our team will work around the clock to make sure it is “Like it never even happened,” and your business is back up and running! 

Causes of Fire Damage in Commercial Properties

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial cooking is an enormous danger, and it was a culprit behind 30,900 fires within the past decade.

Fire damage to your commercial business in Northern Virginia can be catastrophic. It does not matter what your business entails, it can mean downtime, loss of goods, costly equipment loss, loss of property, or worse. A fire can quickly move through a building and even put your team at risk. It can be a situation that escalates faster than you are ready to handle if you are not prepared. Good planning can help ensure that a fire does not happen or if it does, how it can be handled quickly and effectively. Listed below are the top five leading causes of a commercial fire, between 2006 and 2015, according to the United States Fire Administration. 

Cooking

Cooking is an enormous danger, and it was a culprit behind 30,900 fires within the past decade. Therefore, it is crucial to install fire alarms and a sprinkler system in your kitchen to prevent against the worst! 

Unintentional and Careless Behavior

This is a very broad category. Unintentional and careless behavior, better known as accidents, caused more than 10,900 commercial fires. While it is a challenge to stop people from being careless, business owners and property managers cannot afford to be. 

Arson

Intentionally set fires represented 9,800 of the total fires in these properties. 

Electrical malfunction

Problems with the electricity or wiring in a building caused around 7,000 fires in the past decade. 

Heating problems

Problematic HVAC systems are the culprit behind about 6,000 commercial fires nationwide. 

Trust that our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton keeps in mind that down time for your business is money lost. Our team will work around the clock to make it “Like it never even happened,” and ensure your business is back up and running as quickly as possible! 

DO NOT WAIT FOR A DISASTER TO HAPPEN. PREPARE A PLAN FOR YOUR BUSINESS!

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has created a program that allows one of our trained professionals to come to your business and create an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP).

Does your business have an emergency plan in case a disaster takes place? Half of the companies that face a disaster end up having to close following the event. Planning is a big part of what allows companies to offer peace of mind to their customers, and employees.

Without a plan, will you be prepared in the event of an emergency at your business?  Do you know where each of your electrical sub-panels are located?  How do you shut off the water supply to your building?  These are the questions that our team asks every day at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton.

Building emergencies can happen to anyone at any time.  Creating a contingency plan for when that happens is critical to getting back in business and recovering from setbacks as quickly as possible.  SERVPRO has created a program that allows one of our trained professionals to come to your business and create an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). Our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton is here to help with that burden through our free service of developing an Emergency Ready Profile for your business. Having a profile of this caliber minimizes the disruption your business would face if an emergency should occur.

Our ERPs document specifics of your building including the most critical areas, electrical shutoffs, water mains, fire extinguishers, and much more.  We see the ERP as a living document because of the ease of access and ability to make changes at any time and from any of your devices. It’s shareable with your key employees, providing easy communication.

What an ERP includes:

• A no cost assessment of your Facility.
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

If you are interested in the ERP program and would like to have one of our team members meet with you to discuss your needs, please contact us and we will be happy to help you!  Preparation is the first step to recovery.  Guard your business and give us a call at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton today 703-583-8484!

Commercial Carpet Cleaning for Your Northern Virginia Business

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Professional cleaning on a regular basis of your Northern Virginia commercial flooring will extend its life.

When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial services it is time to call in the professional services of our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton.

Our certified technicians can work around your operational schedule to clean your company’s carpets.

Vacuuming the carpets in your commercial property is a good way to limit accumulation of debris from taking root in commercial flooring. However, for those deep cleans its’ best to set up a carpet cleaning schedule. Offices with heavy foot traffic may need a professional cleaning twice a year, whereas offices with lighter foot traffic may only need a professional cleaning once per year. Unfortunately, flooring in a commercial setting is often better at hiding soiled areas for longer periods of time than a residential carpet. There are benefits to having your commercial carpet professionally cleaned:

First Impressions

A business with daily vacuumed and regularly cleaned carpets looks and smells fresh. This leaves a positive impression on any visitors that many come to the office, and lets employees, clients, and stakeholders know you care about your property.

Extending the Life of the Flooring

Having your commercial flooring regularly cleaned will help extend the lifespan of the carpets. When debris is left to stay in the flooring it breaks down the fibers leading to permanent staining. Keeping the flooring clean will limit the amount of time contaminants are in the carpets.

Indoor Air Quality Improvement

Carpets collect a variety of compounds over time. Each time someone walks on the carpet their footsteps kick the soil in the carpet into the air, representing a breathing risk. This is one of the contributors to poor indoor air quality. Only one of the reasons regular maintenance is recommended.

If your commercial flooring needs a professional cleaning, call our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton to schedule an appointment with one of our certified carpet cleaning technicians today.

PREVENTION OF WATER DAMAGES DURING COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATIONS

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

New commercial construction or renovation carries with it risks of water damage.

Whether you are preparing for a renovation in your commercial building or the new development of a large facility, the prevention of water damage is necessary. An unexpected storm or a neglected water pipe repair can lead to significant inconveniences during the construction process:

• Property damage
• Rework
• Debris removal
• Delays
  

Therefore, before starting any new build or renovation, make certain there is a plan in place for any potential water issues. These preparations should focus on four vital aspects of the construction project: pre-planning, administrative responsibilities, organization of project materials and inspections and controls.

Pre-planning

While a possible broken pipe is one concern during construction, there are many others, including weather, property grading, exposed pipes, etc. Therefore, speaking with experienced contractors and remediation specialists in Northern Virginia such as our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton, is likely beneficial during the planning phase to reduce water loss risks.

Administrative Responsibilities

A needed water pipe repair should not result in significant setbacks during the construction project. These issues should never reach the point of causing severe damage. The best way to avert these crises is to assign responsibility and oversight to a team lead.  Ideally, it is best to also have water mitigation experts in place before beginning construction.

Organization of Deliveries and Storage

Beyond pre-planning and assigning administrative responsibility, someone needs to oversee material delivery and storage. If materials are ordered all at once and stored in a low area, such as a basement, then there is a risk of severe loss. A flooded basement or storage space can cost a company thousands of dollars in material replacement and time. Therefore, do not order all materials at once and make certain they have a high and dry place to wait for use.

Inspections and Controls

No amount of preparation or intelligent storage will eliminate water damage risks. Therefore, mandatory inspections and water controls should take place from day one to identify and resolve potential problems quickly and without incident.

New commercial construction or renovation carries with it risks of water damage. However, with diligence and inspections for needed water pipe repair work, a project can significantly reduce those risks. Consult a remediation and construction expert to identify potential problems before work even begins.  Our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton are here for your commercial water mitigation needs 24/7/365.

Bleach and Anti-Mold Efforts on Commercial Properties

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Bleaching not only fails to cleanup mold, it also increases the damage to your commercial location.

When you think about cleaning, does your mind immediately go towards bleach? You are not alone. Bleach is a product that can effectively remove most dirt and contaminants when used appropriately. However, the fungus cleanup operation in your Dale City, Lake Ridge, Woodbridge or Lorton business is not one of those times. Continue reading and learn why bleaching can prove to be senseless towards your anti-mold efforts.

Ineffective in Porous Surfaces

Bleaching products are meant for use in non-porous places. It would not be effective if the mold's roots grow and develop in various porous surfaces such as

• Wood
• Carpet
• Drywall
• Ceiling tiles
  

Unlike chlorine, the bleaching agent's water component can penetrate the pores. This specific reaction feeds the roots and encourages further growth. Bleaching not only fails to cleanup mold, but it also increases the damage to your commercial location.

Toxic to the Business's Environment

The use of bleach in your fungus cleanup can also leave behind a dangerous aftermath. This substance releases toxic fumes that can cause harm to your employees, your clients and the overall environment. Misuse of this agent can also discolor and damage certain parts of the building. In contrast, mold remediation technicians use safety equipment and tools to keep more effective cleaning measures away from other people and the greater area.

Weakens Over Time

One final drawback with bleaching solutions involves their temporary effects. Chlorine tends to evaporate quickly, even when the product has not left its plastic container. The decrease in chlorine from the cleaner can lead to the chemical's potential failure to eradicate mold incidents. In addition, the leftover water can create greater problems, feeding the fungus you are trying to eliminate.
While bleaching your business's affected location may seem like a good idea for a fungus cleanup, it does not apply to this specific situation. A mold removal specialist, such as our team at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton, can provide you with alternative products to bleaching that are more efficient, cause less damage and endanger fewer lives.

Commercial fire and water damage, Dale City/Lake Ridge and Woodbridge/Lorton

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Our vans are always loaded with equipment so that we can be there when you need us!

Keeping your business’ doors open is essential for any business.  Hundreds and possibly thousands of co-workers rely on the business being open and fully operational every day.

Response time is essential when a water or fire damage happens at a place of business.  Not only is it essential in mitigating the damage but it is key to limiting the impact of the business’ day to day operations. 

SERVPRO owners, managers and employees are trained to respond to a business’ needs in these situations.  During the initial contact, either by phone or face to face, we are trying to evaluate the severity of the loss and the most essential needs that a business may have.  Often, through our multiple years of experience, combined with the aspects of the loss, we are able to create intermediate action plans that will allow the business to continue operations during the mitigation and restoration process.

Call SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton when your commercial property or business suffers damage from fire or water. 

Commercial Water Loss, Providing the right amount of equipment

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

If you own a commercial building, or even if you run a business out of a commercial property, you understand and know that money is lost every wasted minute or hour your business is stopped during a disaster. SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO of Woodbridge/Lorton knows how you feel because we are constantly helping businesses get back up as soon as possible after a disaster. SERVPRO knows that most commercial water disasters require a lot more equipment, mainly because of the size, and we also know that most of the time other restoration companies cannot set the right amount of equipment because they do not have enough outlets and they also fear breakers will begin to pop. This photo shows a spider box.  Basically, spider boxes allow SERVPRO to set the correct amount of equipment and keep the breakers from popping. In this scenario the building owner was very impressed by this piece of equipment and had a peace of mind knowing that his property was properly being taken care of.

Evacuation Drills in the Workplace

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Does your business have an emergency plan? Do you practice your Evacuation routes?

Workplace emergencies can happen, and employees should know how to handle them. If they do not then chaos could happen, putting people at risk of injury. Holding a fire drill is not just for kids, adults need it as well, identifying the most efficient and safest pathways to take. After all, fire restoration companies can repair a building, however they cannot give back a life. Thus, managers and business owners in the Dale City, Lake Ridge, Woodbridge and Lorton areas should do three things to prepare workers for these occasions, giving them needed information.

1) Create a Plan

Employers should start thinking about possible trouble. Are you prepared for a fire? Do you know how to handle violence? What would you do in the case of flooding? These situations pose physical threats and should be taken seriously. After all, you cannot predict these occasions. They just happen. Sit down with a team, thinking about your facility and how you could leave it quickly and securely. Then organize your concepts in a portfolio, available for annual review. Make sure you include the following:

• Safety protocols
• Evacuation maps
• Emergency contact numbers
• Medical notes
• Relocation spots

2) Share Information

With a blueprint in hand, hold a meeting with your team. Review your expectations. How should people report an incident? Who has chain of command? Where are accessible exits? You do need multiple paths in case one becomes cut off. In addition, assign one or two people with medical responsibilities, capable of assisting those who may get hurt or need extra attention. Disseminate the fire drill information at least once a year, asking for feedback and questions.

3) Practice Procedures

During a major event, people sometimes panic. Have a run-through once a year, if not more. This could give people the security they need to avoid craziness. Initiate the event by sending out your warning. You will need to know if everyone receives the alert. Then, time how long it takes for everyone to leave. When all is done, reassess and make amendments as needed.
Brainstorm ways to best save lives; then, hold a fire drill. Be patient, and work through any complications. Just remember that safety is key.

Winter Storm season and your business!

11/28/2019 (Permalink)

Winter is quickly approaching here in the Dale City/Lake Ridge and Woodbridge/Lorton areas. A winter storm can interrupt and even stop business operations completely. Preparing for winter storms is crucial to your business and your employees’ safety. 

 50% of businesses that suffer a loss may never recover. Could you imagine suffering a loss and then not being able to resume business? Small businesses are particularly vulnerable to disasters. Unlike large companies, small businesses have less capital and fewer personnel available to resume operations and recover losses. It is vital to the continuity of a small business to have a disaster plan in place and be prepared, as it can make the difference between staying open or shutting down.

The most important asset to any business is its people. Businesses cannot recover from a disaster without their people, and people cannot recover without a job to return to. In order for employees to be able to focus on their work after a disaster, they need to be personally prepared for emergencies.

Encourage your employees to:

1. Sign up for local text alerts and warnings and download weather apps to their smartphone.
2. Gather important documents and keep them in a safe place.
3. Create an emergency supply kit.
4. Develop a family emergency communication plan.
5. Know the facts on how to prepare for a winter storm.

Working with SERVPRO® of Dale City/Lake Ridge and SERVPRO® of Woodbridge/Lorton we can provide you a FREE Emergency Ready Profile for your business. Our ERP provides a plan that is accessible from anywhere you are and can be the difference between your business reopening or remaining closed.

Call Janét at our office today to schedule your FREE Emergency Ready Profile- 703.583.8484!

Is Your Business Prepared For Whatever Happens

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

You can download the ERP app through the Apple Stote or Google play to multiple electronic devices including phones & tablets.

At SERVPRO we care about our commercial clients and encourage all of them to be prepared for whatever happens.  If you were to open the doors to your business and discover water everywhere, would you know exactly what to do and who to call?  During an emergency is not the time make these decisions…we can help you be prepared with a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP).

Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation.  Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.  The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and your most crucial areas.  It’s also accessible online using your smartphone, tablet or computer.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile Advantages

• A no-cost assessment of your facility
• A concise profile document that contains the critical information needed in the event of an emergency
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing remediation work to begin
• Provides important facility details such as shut-off valve locations, critical areas and priority contact information

If you would like further information or to schedule with us to have a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile completed on your facility, please give Janét a call at our office.  We’re always here to help.

Would your Business Survive a Disaster?

6/26/2019 (Permalink)

Choose to be a business that could recover from a fire! Let our amazing marketing team help you build a facility's emergency evacuation plan!

It’s time to check your facility’s emergency and evacuation plans to make sure they are accurate and up to date!  Don't have an emergency and evacuation plan?  Let us help you make one!

A BUSINESS PLAN…For Fire Emergencies

An emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses; however, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), recommends building an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business during an emergency.  OSHA suggests the following steps when developing such a plan.

• Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans. You may wish to select an individual or team of individuals to lead and coordinate your emergency plan.
• Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees. Ensure all exits and routes are clearly marked and well lit, (wide enough to accommodate the number of evacuating personnel) and unobstructed and clear of debris at all times.
• Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Designate a safe spot outside of the facility where employees can regroup, recover, and conduct a head count.  Once completed, evaluate how well the plan worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you are “Ready for whatever happens.” In the event of any emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.  The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations and priority areas.  This is a no cost community outreach program we offer.  Give us a call at 703-583-8484 if you’d like us to establish an ERP for your facility or if you would like further information.

As always, we’re here to help make it “Like it never even happened."

Are you ready for a disaster?

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

How quickly your company can get back to business after a tornado, fire or flood often depends on the emergency planning done today.  The regular occurrence of natural disasters demonstrates the importance of being prepared for any emergency.  While each situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place, and practice for all kinds of emergencies.  The following are common sense measures business owners and managers can take to start getting ready.  A commitment to begin planning today will help support your employees, customers, the community, the local economy, and even the country.  It also protects your business investment and gives your company a better chance for survival.  Review the following questions to learn if your company is prepared.

Be informed.

Do you know what kind of emergencies might affect your company?  Do you know what you will do in an emergency situation? 

Develop a Business Continuity Plan

Do you know which staff, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep operating?  Do you have back-up plans for those operations? Do you know what you will do if your building or plant is not accessible?  Do you know what you will do if your suppliers are impacted by a disaster?  Are you ready for utility disruptions?

Prepare your Emergency Plan. 

Do you have an evacuation and shelter-in-place plan? Do you have a plan to communicate with employees before, during and after an incident?   Do you have copies of building and site maps with utilities and emergency routs marked?  Are your employees trained for medical emergencies?

Practice the Emergency Plan.

Have you practiced your plan recently?  Do you practice and coordinate with other businesses in your building or industrial complex?  Have you reviewed your plans in the last 12 months?

Review Insurance Coverage. 

Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you’re covered in a disaster?

Secure Your Facility and Equipment. 

Have you secured all the ways people, products and supplies get into your building?  Have you conducted a room-by-room walk through to determine what can be strapped down?

Improve Cyber Security. 

Do you regularly install patches to your software?  Have you installed a firewall on your computer?  Do you regularly update your antivirus software?

Promote Family and Individual Preparedness.

Do you encourage employees to have a personal emergency supply kit and a family communication plan? 

If you answered “NO” to any of the questions, visit ready.gov and learn how to better prepare your business and call SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge at 703-583-8484 so that one of our Marketing Professionals can help you and your company develop an Emergency Ready Program.

Do Not Let Business Stop Because of an Emergency

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

Finding commercial water damage in your business can be hard to swallow, and when it's significant damage to not only your building, or to your inventory, but to both, it can be particularly challenging to grapple with. Business operations can be difficult enough to manage under normal conditions without adding unforeseen problems. 
 
Business owners should know that we are experts in finding solutions to cleaning up and preventing commercial water damage in Dale City/Lake Ridge, as well as restoring buildings from top to bottom. Your inventory is important to you, and your business, so we also understand that special care must be taken to prevent any extra losses from occurring. Our experience and training can help prevent this from happening, and we will also work with you while we restore your business and your inventory. 
 
Water extraction, drying, cleaning, and restorative work are our strengths. We work as a team, so that our work is completed as quickly, but also as thoroughly, as possible. Communication with you during the entire process is highly important to us, and we will always keep you updated on any developments that affect your business. We're here to answer your questions, so please don't ever hesitate to ask us when you need more information. 
 
When completing work that commercial water damage requires, we often encounter problems that have remained hidden. Problems can include electrical hazards, a discovery of pest problems, mold or bacterial growths, and many other situations that we commonly find. These are often unknown to business owners when water damage has been a slowly but steadily developing problem in a building. Your safety and that of your employees and customers are important and restoring things to an acceptable condition are paramount. Defects in building materials, such as gaps in insulation (sometimes discovered when a wall is opened so that damaged paneling or drywall can be replaced) can be filled before installing the new wall, preventing heat loss. 

We strive to make things like new, and better than before the damage happened. This is why communication is so important to the entire process. Start the process by calling us, the professionals at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge. Our number is (703) 583-8484, and it's answered 24/7.

Building Safety Month

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

Building Safety Month— in its 37th year—is an initiative of the International Code Council (ICC) and their 57,000 member’s across the world, as well as their partners in building construction and design, and the safety community. Building Safety Month is an opportunity to educate insurance and commercial property professionals, as well as the general public, on “what it takes to create safe, resilient, affordable, and energy efficient homes and buildings,” according to the ICC website. The theme for 2017 is Code Officials— Partners in Community Safety and Economic Growth and highlights managing disasters, specifically natural disasters, in week three of this year’s campaign. Some of the topics and tips shared throughout the month include Disaster Safety and Mitigation, as well as Fire Safety and Awareness. The general public may not be aware how codes and code officials “improve and protect the places where we live, learn, work, worship, and play,” and this month can certainly improve that awareness!

IMPORTANT TIPS FROM THE ICC Disaster Safety & Mitigation:

• If you live in a high wind or hurricane prone area and do not have tested and code-approved shutters for protection from windborne debris, consider temporarily protecting your doors and windows by mounting exterior grade, 7/16" minimum thickness plywood and fastening it into place. Visit www.flash.org for detailed instructions on how to use plywood for emergency board-up.
• Consider building or retrofitting to create a tornado-safe room in your home. Follow ICC/ NSSA 500 Standard for detailed construction information and to ensure you achieve the highest level of protection for your family.
• In wildfire prone areas, remove fine (dead grass, leaves, etc.) and coarse fuels (dead twigs, branches, etc.) within 30 feet of a building to create a survivable space in case of wildfire. Be sure to remove dry leaf and pine litter from roofs, rain gutters, decks, and walkways. Follow ICC’s International Wildland-Urban Interface Code® for detailed requirements.
• Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. Never drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet and two feet of water to move an SUV-sized vehicle.

Source: https://www.iccsafe.org/advocacy/building-safety-month/safety-toolkit/

Are you winter ready?

11/30/2018 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for the coming cold weather? Cold weather can have a huge impact on your home or business if you are not ready for it. From heavy rain and freezing temperatures to damaging winds, sleet or snow, all can cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to be prepared and help take the sting out of winter weather.

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before colder weather hits.

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to help ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate a potential flood hazard.
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.

Ask your local SERVPRO® of Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals about completing an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment of your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business faster following a disaster. When winter weather strikes, call your local SERVPRO® at 703-583-8484 to strike back.

Workplace Fire Damage

11/8/2018 (Permalink)

Your workplace just had a fire, now what?!?!  Having a solid understanding of the process, will help ensure you protect your own interests in the commercial fire damage claim.

Below are 8 important points to consider:

1. Normally for water damage you send the insurance company documentation of the damages. But how do you do this for items or property that has been destroyed by fire damage? Are there good “before” pictures of the same space, on your phone or website that you can compare with the “after” photos of the damage? Does your bank have record of the blueprint from when they helped you finance the property?

Does your business account have record of furniture, equipment, etc. that you purchased for the space? These would be good places to start, but you’ll want to ask your adjuster/agent for more specific protocol and requirements.

2. Is it a good idea to make repairs and restorations yourself? Your insurance company will pay less, but your premium may not increase as much. Weigh the costs and benefits of each option.
3. How did smoke or water from fighting the fire affect your electronics, equipment, and structural integrity? How do you claim those damages to trigger better coverage?
4. When making repairs, make sure your insurance company does not cut corners by using companies or contractors that repair with materials containing lead and asbestos. That could lead to greater costs and health risks down the line
5. Find out how your policy addresses code coverage and Green building upgrades.
6. If your coverage is limited, what can you do about it? How can your agent or a public adjuster help?
7. During the claims process, your insurance provider may engage a forensic accountant. Find out their role, which financial statements you are required to produce, and why. You should also ask if you can, and should, recast your financial statements. Don’t hesitate to get input from an accounting professional you trust, as well as your agent.
8. Find out what can be included as extra and expediting expenses, and what the difference is.

Having commercial fire damage is stressful enough, you don’t want the claim and repair process to add to the frustration (and we don’t either)! Let us know what questions you have about your policy, the restoration process, and how to get the most trusted repairs the most efficiently. Our team of caring professionals is ready, willing, and able to help.

Fire Prevention Month!

9/27/2018 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month—a perfect time to examine emergency preparedness plans for your home and business, including your fire escape plan. Do you have a fire escape plan? Have you changed your smoke alarm batteries within the last year?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) designates a week each October to focus on fire prevention awareness. The 2018 theme is “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere.™” This theme hopes to create awareness in the steps necessary to reduce the chance of a fire and how to react in the event a fire does happen. The NFPA states the following:

“LOOK” for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home. Identify potential fire hazards and take care of them.

“LISTEN” for the sound of the smoke alarm. You could have only minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Go to your outside meeting place, which should be a safe distance from the home and where everyone should know to meet.

“LEARN” two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter.

Stay safe and prepare now to help ensure you are ready for any disaster. Find additional safety tips in this issue of the Restoration Newsline. If you don’t already receive the Restoration Newsline contact one of our awesome marketing reps to start receiving one by emailing office@SERVPROdalecity.com.

Why the Emergency READY Profile®?

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Be Ready with an ERP!

National Preparedness Month is the perfect opportunity to share the benefits of having a readiness plan in place with your customers, business and family.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO’s free Ready Plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.

The ERP establishes your local SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 50 years’ experience and a System more than 1,700 Dale City/Lake Ridges strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it.

The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future. Call your local SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge Professional to establish your Emergency READY Profile®.

Contact our office at 703-583-8484 to arrange for one of our trained staff to come talk to you about setting up and ERP!

Let us help with your cleaning needs!

6/27/2018 (Permalink)

Let us help with your spring cleaning needs!

April showers bring May flowers, and also a good chance to get in some spring cleaning! Spring is a great time to sweep those winter blues away and freshen up your environment. Your local SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals can help.

In addition to air duct and HVAC cleaning, SERVPRO® Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals are trained to use state-of-the-art equipment to remove soils hiding deep within your carpet, as well as focused stain removal. Other services to help with your spring cleaning include upholstery and drapery cleaning, hard floor cleaning and care, and deodorization.

A clean environment is a healthy environment. Improve your living and work spaces this spring. If you need a little help, don’t worry! Your local SERVPRO® has all the tools to make your home or business sparkle in no time!  Call us at 703-583-8484 so one of our Professionals can provide an estimate.

Be Ready!

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Give your business the peace of mind that if you ever need cleanup or restoration services, you have access to provider that will be there for you!

National Preparedness Month is the perfect opportunity to share the benefits of having a readiness plan in place with your customer, business and family.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.  The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including: Emergency Contact Information, Shut-off Valve Locations and Priority Area.  The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or table; download SERVPRO’s free Ready Plan app to access this information anytime using your smartphone or table.

The ERP establishes SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 40 years’ experience and a System of nearly 1,700 Franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation.  Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood.  The best time to plan for such evens is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.  No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it.

The ERP is a no cost assessment, all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future.  Call SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge at 703-583-8484 to establish your Emergency READY Profile or get more information.

We help business get back up and running quickly!

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Local business had a broken water pipe, our Professionals had them up in running in no time.

Finding commercial water damage in your business can be hard to swallow, and when it's significant damage to not only your building, or to your inventory, but to both, it can be particularly challenging to grapple with. Business operations can be difficult enough to manage under normal conditions without adding unforeseen problems. 
 
Business owners should know that we are experts in finding solutions to cleaning up and preventing commercial water damage in Dale City/Lake Ridge, as well as restoring buildings from top to bottom. Your inventory is important to you, and your business, so we also understand that special care must be taken to prevent any extra losses from occurring. Our experience and training can help prevent this from happening, and we will also work with you while we restore your business and your inventory. 
 
Water extraction, drying, cleaning, and restorative work are our strengths. We work as a team, so that our work is completed as quickly, but also as thoroughly, as possible. Communication with you during the entire process is highly important to us, and we will always keep you updated on any developments that affect your business. We're here to answer your questions, so please don't ever hesitate to ask us when you need more information. 
 
When completing work that commercial water damage requires, we often encounter problems that have remained hidden. Problems can include electrical hazards, a discovery of pest problems, mold or bacterial growths, and many other situations that we commonly find. These are often unknown to business owners when water damage has been a slowly but steadily developing problem in a building. Your safety and that of your employees and customers are important and restoring things to an acceptable condition are paramount. Defects in building materials, such as gaps in insulation (sometimes discovered when a wall is opened so that damaged paneling or drywall can be replaced) can be filled before installing the new wall, preventing heat loss. 

We strive to make things like new, and better than before the damage happened. This is why communication is so important to the entire process. Start the process by calling us, the professionals at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge. Our number is (703) 583-8484, and it's answered 24/7.

Are you prepared?

1/25/2018 (Permalink)

How quickly your company can get back to business after a tornado, fire or flood often depends on the emergency planning done today. The regular occurrence of natural disasters demonstrates the importance of being prepared for any emergency. While each situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place, and practice for all kinds of emergencies. The following are common sense measures business owners and managers can take to start getting ready. A commitment to begin planning today will help support your employees, customers, the community, the local economy, and even the country. It also protects your business investment and gives your company a better chance for survival. Review the following questions to learn if your company is prepared.

Be informed.

Do you know what kind of emergencies might affect your company? Do you know what you will do in an emergency situation?

Develop a Business Continuity Plan

Do you know which staff, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep operating? Do you have back-up plans for those operations? Do you know what you will do if your building or plant is not accessible? Do you know what you will do if your suppliers are impacted by a disaster? Are you ready for utility disruptions?

Prepare your Emergency Plan.

Do you have an evacuation and shelter-in-place plan? Do you have a plan to communicate with employees before, during and after an incident? Do you have copies of building and site maps with utilities and emergency routs marked? Are your employees trained for medical emergencies?

Practice the Emergency Plan.

Have you practiced your plan recently? Do you practice and coordinate with other businesses in your building or industrial complex? Have you reviewed your plans in the last 12 months?

Review Insurance Coverage.

Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you’re covered in a disaster?

Secure Your Facility and Equipment.

Have you secured all the ways people, products and supplies get into your building? Have you conducted a room-by-room walk through to determine what can be strapped down?

Improve Cyber Security.

Do you regularly install patches to your software? Have you installed a firewall on your computer? Do you regularly update your antivirus software?

Promote Family and Individual Preparedness.

Do you encourage employees to have a personal emergency supply kit and a family communication plan?

If you and “NO” to any of the questions, visit ready.gov and learn how to better prepare your business or call SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge at 703-583-8484 so that one of our Marketing Professionals can help you and your company develop an Emergency Ready Program.

Be Ready with SERVPRO ERP!

9/27/2017 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month is the perfect opportunity to share the benefits of having a readiness plan in place with your customer, business and family.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.  The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including: Emergency Contact Information, Shut-off Valve Locations and Priority Area.  The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or table; download SERVPRO’s free Ready Plan app to access this information anytime using your smartphone or table.

The ERP establishes SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 40 years’ experience and a System of nearly 1,700 Franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation.  Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood.  The best time to plan for such evens is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.  No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it.

The ERP is a no cost assessment, all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future.  Call SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge at 703-583-8484 to establish your Emergency READY Profile or get more information.

SERVPRO Helps Businesses too!

8/2/2017 (Permalink)

After a water emergency strikes in a commercial building, you own your immediate concerns involve both personal losses along with the added stress and responsibility to get all of your tenants back in business or living comfortably in your units again. SERVPRO offers the resources locally and on a national level to rehabilitate even a complex commercial water damage scenario. We exceed your needs both to repair your property and also to restore the trust the companies and individuals have invested in your professional commercial management.

Although burst pipes or a roof leak may start in a confined area of your office building, apartment complex or warehouse space, the resultant flood and seepage of water can spread far from the original breach. Many if not all of the businesses or residents renting from you are in peril of losing personal and professional property as well as their means to make a living if you do not take immediate steps to solve your Orlando commercial water damage. Even if the water overflow can be traced to the negligence of a tenant, you as the owner are charged with the task of protecting your building and fixtures and ensuring that all those who live in or operate a business within your commercial property have the use and quiet enjoyment of their leased premises quickly restored.

SERVPRO understands how important it is to limit the downtime of your and your tenants’ business operations. We make every effort to clean and dry the structure quickly, staging the restoration process with an eye to reestablishing business operations even before the entire remediation is accomplished if appropriate and safe. Preventing secondary damage from contaminated water is a major goal, made more attainable if we are involved as soon as possible in the process. Our services for you and your tenants can also include a pack out and detailed inventory of documents soaked by the water. We follow up with our state of the art procedures for saving and drying paperwork, books, pictures and other crucial work products you and your lessees may have feared would be lost due to the water infiltration.

If your commercial property has suffered water damage, call SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge immediately. We can be reached at (703) 583-8484 twenty four hours a day every single day of the year, our technicians eager to return you and your renters to business as usual swiftly as possible.

Commercial Fire Damage

7/17/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge for Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Services

The word “fire” strikes anxiety in the hearts of most people and for good reason. Whether it’s your home or business it can bring life, as you know it, to a screeching halt.

If your business or commercial property or your neighboring unit caught on fire, don't panic. Instead, call the professionals of SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process, and choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition, so call us now at 703-583-8484.

Knowing which steps to take in the face of a commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle fire damage successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

Call the Insurance Company Immediately.

Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

Contact A Fire Remediation Expert.

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your business may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts.

Assemble Your Records.

In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

Get Permission to Reenter the Building.

Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, a fire can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees

SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your business to pre-fire condition. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you at risk of injury and illness.

MAY IS NATIONAL BUILDING SAFETY MONTH

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Be Safe!

Building Safety Month— in its 37th year—is an initiative of the International Code Council (ICC) and their 57,000 member’s across the world, as well as their partners in building construction and design, and the safety community. Building Safety Month is an opportunity to educate insurance and commercial property professionals, as well as the general public, on “what it takes to create safe, resilient, affordable, and energy efficient homes and buildings,” according to the ICC website. The theme for 2017 is Code Officials— Partners in Community Safety and Economic Growth and highlights managing disasters, specifically natural disasters, in week three of this year’s campaign. Some of the topics and tips shared throughout the month include Disaster Safety and Mitigation, as well as Fire Safety and Awareness. The general public may not be aware how codes and code officials “improve and protect the places where we live, learn, work, worship, and play,” and this month can certainly improve that awareness!

IMPORTANT TIPS FROM THE ICC Disaster Safety & Mitigation:

• If you live in a high wind or hurricane prone area and do not have tested and code-approved shutters for protection from windborne debris, consider temporarily protecting your doors and windows by mounting exterior grade, 7/16" minimum thickness plywood and fastening it into place. Visit www.flash.org for detailed instructions on how to use plywood for emergency board-up.
• Consider building or retrofitting to create a tornado-safe room in your home. Follow ICC/ NSSA 500 Standard for detailed construction information and to ensure you achieve the highest level of protection for your family.
• In wildfire prone areas, remove fine (dead grass, leaves, etc.) and coarse fuels (dead twigs, branches, etc.) within 30 feet of a building to create a survivable space in case of wildfire. Be sure to remove dry leaf and pine litter from roofs, rain gutters, decks, and walkways. Follow ICC’s International Wildland-Urban Interface Code® for detailed requirements.
• Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. Never drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet and two feet of water to move an SUV-sized vehicle.

Source: iccsafe.org

Also in May:

Wildfire Community Preparedness Day

National Small Business Week

National Hurricane Preparedness Week

National Police Week

National EMS Week

National Dam Safety Awareness Day

For more information, please visit ready.gov.

Safety First!

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Building Safety Month— in its 37th year—is an initiative of the International Code Council (ICC) and their 57,000 member’s across the world, as well as their partners in building construction and design, and the safety community. Building Safety Month is an opportunity to educate insurance and commercial property professionals, as well as the general public, on “what it takes to create safe, resilient, affordable, and energy efficient homes and buildings,” according to the ICC website. The theme for 2017 is Code Officials— Partners in Community Safety and Economic Growth and highlights managing disasters, specifically natural disasters, in week three of this year’s campaign. Some of the topics and tips shared throughout the month include Disaster Safety and Mitigation, as well as Fire Safety and Awareness. The general public may not be aware how codes and code officials “improve and protect the places where we live, learn, work, worship, and play,” and this month can certainly improve that awareness!

IMPORTANT TIPS FROM THE ICC Disaster Safety & Mitigation:

• If you live in a high wind or hurricane prone area and do not have tested and code-approved shutters for protection from windborne debris, consider temporarily protecting your doors and windows by mounting exterior grade, 7/16" minimum thickness plywood and fastening it into place. Visit www.flash.org for detailed instructions on how to use plywood for emergency board-up.
• Consider building or retrofitting to create a tornado-safe room in your home. Follow ICC/ NSSA 500 Standard for detailed construction information and to ensure you achieve the highest level of protection for your family.
• In wildfire prone areas, remove fine (dead grass, leaves, etc.) and coarse fuels (dead twigs, branches, etc.) within 30 feet of a building to create a survivable space in case of wildfire. Be sure to remove dry leaf and pine litter from roofs, rain gutters, decks, and walkways. Follow ICC’s International Wildland-Urban Interface Code® for detailed requirements.
• Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. Never drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet and two feet of water to move an SUV-sized vehicle.

Source: iccsafe.org

Businesses Stay Afloat with SERVPRO' Water Damage Restoration

12/6/2016 (Permalink)

A Dale City business needing water extraction ~ Always here to help

Finding commercial water damage in your business can be hard to swallow, and when it's significant damage to not only your building, or to your inventory, but to both, it can be particularly challenging to grapple with. Business operations can be difficult enough to manage under normal conditions without adding unforeseen problems. 
 
Business owners should know that we are experts in finding solutions to cleaning up and preventing commercial water damage in Dale City/Lake Ridge, as well as restoring buildings from top to bottom. Your inventory is important to you, and your business, so we also understand that special care must be taken to prevent any extra losses from occurring. Our experience and training can help prevent this from happening, and we will also work with you while we restore your business and your inventory. 
 
Water extraction, drying, cleaning, and restorative work are our strengths. We work as a team, so that our work is completed as quickly, but also as thoroughly, as possible. Communication with you during the entire process is highly important to us, and we will always keep you updated on any developments that affect your business. We're here to answer your questions, so please don't ever hesitate to ask us when you need more information. 
 
When completing work that commercial water damage requires, we often encounter problems that have remained hidden. Problems can include electrical hazards, a discovery of pest problems, mold or bacterial growths, and many other situations that we commonly find. These are often unknown to business owners when water damage has been a slowly but steadily developing problem in a building. Your safety and that of your employees and customers are important and restoring things to an acceptable condition are paramount. Defects in building materials, such as gaps in insulation (sometimes discovered when a wall is opened so that damaged paneling or drywall can be replaced) can be filled before installing the new wall, preventing heat loss. 

We strive to make things like new, and better than before the damage happened. This is why communication is so important to the entire process. Start the process by calling us, the professionals at SERVPRO of Dale City/Lake Ridge. Our number is (703) 583-8484, and it's answered 24/7.

Be Ready with SERVPRO ERP!

9/28/2016 (Permalink)

Give your business the peace of mind that if you ever need cleanup or restoration services, you have access to provider that will be there for you!

National Preparedness Month is the perfect opportunity to share the benefits of having a readiness plan in place with your customer, business and family.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.  The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including: Emergency Contact Information, Shut-off Valve Locations and Priority Area.  The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or table; download SERVPRO’s free Ready Plan app to access this information anytime using your smartphone or table.

The ERP establishes SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge Professionals as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 40 years’ experience and a System of nearly 1,700 Franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation.  Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood.  The best time to plan for such evens is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.  No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it.

The ERP is a no cost assessment, all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future.  Call SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge at 703-583-8484 to establish your Emergency READY Profile or get more information.

Are you prepared?

8/2/2016 (Permalink)

Be aware so that you can quickly take action.

 How quickly your company can get back to business after a tornado, fire or flood often depends on the emergency planning done today.  The regular occurrence of natural disasters demonstrates the importance of being prepared for any emergency.  While each situation is unique, your organization can be better prepared if you plan carefully, put emergency procedures in place, and practice for all kinds of emergencies.  The following are common sense measures business owners and managers can take to start getting ready.  A commitment to begin planning today will help support your employees, customers, the community, the local economy, and even the country.  It also protects your business investment and gives your company a better chance for survival.  Review the following questions to learn if your company is prepared.

Be informed.

Do you know what kind of emergencies might affect your company?  Do you know what you will do in an emergency situation? 

Develop a Business Continuity Plan

Do you know which staff, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep operating?  Do you have back-up plans for those operations? Do you know what you will do if your building or plant is not accessible?  Do you know what you will do if your suppliers are impacted by a disaster?  Are you ready for utility disruptions?

Prepare your Emergency Plan. 

Do you have an evacuation and shelter-in-place plan? Do you have a plan to communicate with employees before, during and after an incident?   Do you have copies of building and site maps with utilities and emergency routs marked?  Are your employees trained for medical emergencies?

Practice the Emergency Plan.

Have you practiced your plan recently?  Do you practice and coordinate with other businesses in your building or industrial complex?  Have you reviewed your plans in the last 12 months?

Review Insurance Coverage. 

Have you reviewed your insurance coverage recently to see if you’re covered in a disaster?

Secure Your Facility and Equipment. 

Have you secured all the ways people, products and supplies get into your building?  Have you conducted a room-by-room walk through to determine what can be strapped down?

Improve Cyber Security. 

Do you regularly install patches to your software?  Have you installed a firewall on your computer?  Do you regularly update your antivirus software?

Promote Family and Individual Preparedness.

Do you encourage employees to have a personal emergency supply kit and a family communication plan? 

If you and “NO” to any of the questions, visit ready.gov and learn how to better prepare your business or call SERVPRO Dale City/Lake Ridge at 703-583-8484 so that one of our Marketing Professionals can help you and your company develop an Emergency Ready Program.