5 Ways Storms Can Damage Your Home

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

Help protect your home from water damage during a storm with these helpful tips from your local water damage experts.

If you live in an area that is prone to heavy rainstorms, hurricanes, or flooding, you may already be familiar with the risk to your home of flooding and damage. If you are unsure of how to remedy these issues, we've got a list of top tips for you. 

1. Wind Damage

Flying debris can be a major hazard, capable of injuring or killing anyone caught outside. It can also smash windows or crack roof tiles, therefore potentially allowing water leakage into your home. When warned of an incoming storm, make sure that all outdoor items are secured to prevent them from becoming missiles. 

2. Water Damage

Heavy rain will find its way through any cracks and result in damage to your home. If you find the water coming into your basement from the ground, it is likely you have a crack in your foundation. Faulty guttering and downpipes can lead to damp interior walls and leakage, windowsills may also be a source of leaks if not properly sealed.

3. Roof Damage

As we touched on above, your roof can be damaged in a storm, either by the force of wind pulling away tiles or from tiles becoming cracked after being hit by debris. In particularly windy conditions, heavy rain can also be blown in through roof vents. However the water may enter your property, it can cause a large amount of damage and effect multiple levels of your home as the water seeps downwards. 

4. Displaced Pests

Anyone and anything experiencing a flood will seek safer ground. As such, heavy rainfall can drive pests like snakes, rodents, spiders, and bugs, to leave their flooded homes and enter yours. Sealing and checking ground-level access routes for small animals by sealing holes and placing fine grills over vents will minimize the impact of pests.

5. Tree damage

Heavy rains can cause trees to fall and strike your home, resulting in structural damage or personal injury. We recommend working with your neighbors to ensure any at-risk trees are removed, or reduced, to ensure they are safe when a storm hits your area. 

Contact SERVPRO today to learn how our team can help you recover from unexpected storm damage quickly!

The Steps of Water Damage Restoration | SERVPRO of Los Angeles

10/5/2021 (Permalink)

The water damage here is obvious but can you spot it in your home?

We all know that water damage is a nightmare, but it's also one of the most common home-related disasters. Water damage is often caused by burst pipes, overflowing toilets, and other plumbing problems. No matter the cause, water damage can lead to mold, mildew, and costly repairs to your home.

If you are in need of water removal or restoration, here are the steps you should take immediately:

1. Shut off the water source immediately if possible
2. Remove standing water and dry out wet spaces
3. Purchase a dehumidifier for the damaged area
4. Remove or repair broken windows, walls, and furniture to prevent mold
5. Clean carpets, drapes, and upholstery
6. Repair or replace damaged items and structures
7. Call your insurance agent to file a damage claim
8. Hire a professional water removal team to help you with the restoration process of water damage
9. Set up mitigation efforts to stop future water damage issues

Don't let water damage ruin your belongings. Call the water restoration experts at SERVPRO to find out how to put an end to your water woes today!

How Does Water Damage Lead To Mold? | SERVPRO of Los Angeles

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know how quickly water damage can turn to bacterial growth? Act quickly!

Dealing with water damage is challenging enough - it's another thing entirely to have to deal with mold as a result. Mold can be a nightmare for all involved - from your family to employees and even those who you hire for mold mitigation or removal!

Mold mitigation is one of the most complex parts of water damage cleanup to tackle because it can proliferate inside homes:

1. Any water that has made its way into your home seeps behind walls and through the floorboards.
2. Wherever water often collects, such as in bathrooms, mold can thrive. This is how black mold in showers becomes a common issue.
3. When water sits in one place for long periods, it becomes the perfect breeding ground for mold on the surfaces. 
4. Wet materials release spores as they begin to break down – these spores are the beginning of mold. Mold spores are microscopic, and their size allows them to spread through your home with ease.

These four factors make it easy for water damage to lead to mold in your home, which is why you should trust SERVPRO -the leading mold killer company in the area. Contact SERVPRO today to learn more about mold mediation and water damage repair.

Storm Water Damage Dos and Don’ts

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

When unexpected water damage strikes, know that our teams are here to help!

In 2005 the United States was devastated by Hurricane Katrina, one of the deadliest hurricanes to ever hit our great country. During this horrific natural disaster, approximately 1833 people died while millions of others were left homeless with their entire lives destroyed by the high winds and significant flooding. This Disaster was the costliest storm in modern-day history causing approximately $108 billion dollars worth of damages. This number means nothing when compared to the number of individuals who lost their lives and to those individuals and families we continue to send our hearts and condolences.
While there are certain situations in life that we simply cannot fully prepare for, here are a few do's and don'ts for flood survivors:

• DO - Register for FEMA disaster assistance at disasterassistance.gov.
• DO - Report any flood damage to local officials and file a claim with your insurance company.
• DO - Throw away wet contents such as bedding, carpet, and furniture as these items may become a health hazard due to mold.
• DO - Inspect your building for structural damage before re-entering your home.
• DON’T - Wait for your insurance before cleaning up flood damage or starting repairs.
• DON’T - Worry that Federal Disaster Assistance is money that needs to be repaid.
• DON’T - Enter a building that may have electrical hazards or structural hazards that could cause secondary damage or could harm an individual.

All-in-all, we hope to never see another disaster like this again in our lifetime. However, know that wherever disaster may strike, the SERVPRO of Park la Brea team will be here to respond and to assist, 24/7, 265! Our expert water damage restoration team and mold damage restoration team are always here to help! 

Mold Damage Forms Quickly After Water Damage

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Any Los Angeles, CA home or business in need of services can rely on SERVPRO 24/7, 365!

SERVPRO of Park la Brea is always ready to respond and provide services wherever needed. For example, our team has traveled to North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and all over California to respond to wildfires, hurricanes, and other storm damages. 

One thing that we notice when we travel is the more you prepare today the better you will be in the event of an unexpected storm emergency. In many cases, we see homes severely damaged by water damage and because of local restrictions preventing them from returning home, this water damage quickly becomes extensive mold damage. 

However, we are equipped to handle all types of damages and specialize in mold damage removal work! 

With our advanced technology and 500+ completed mold remediation jobs, we are confident handling any size loss.

We have a great resource page that discusses the Dos and Don’ts of Storm Damage, regardless of your location. 

We are always here to help any home or business in Los Angeles, CA overcome any type of damage or become better prepared for the possibility of future damages. Call SERVPRO of Park la Brea today - 323-552-5600!

Storm Damage Can Quickly Become Mold Damage

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

While our team is based in Los Angeles, CA, our resources are nationwide!

In 2018, Hurricane Michael became the first category 5 hurricane to pummel into the United States since Hurricane Andrew in 1992. During this disastrous storm, there were 74 reported deaths, $25.1 billion in damages, and over $100 million in economic losses in central America (Wikipedia, 2018). Shortly after the storm passed, SERVPRO teams from across the country began preparing for their opportunity to assist a community in need. More specifically, our disaster team at the SERVPRO of Park la Brea, located in Los Angeles, CA, packed and departed for their 3-day journey to assist with the storm damage relief.

While Hurricane Michael brought strong winds, heavy rains, and caused immense structural damage, the true battle was against the bacterial growth that would soon follow. 

According to FEMA, “Mold growths, or colonies, can start to grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours.” Fortunately, our teams were prepared with advanced equipment, expert mold remediation staff, and compassionate leadership members to assist with overcoming the many disturbances that came with Hurricane Michael. To learn more about our efforts in assisting with storm damage relief, check out some of our other blogs. 

SERVPRO in Los Angeles, CA can help you be prepared.

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Los Angeles homes can prepare today for a safer tomorrow!

Mother nature can be extremely unpredictable. In 2018, wildfires in the United States caused $16.5 billion worth of fire damage, slightly above the $16 billion in water damage from Hurricane Michael. While some prevention is possible, some situations are simply so unexpected that the damages are unavoidable. 

However, with the assistance of Ready.Gov, you can become better prepared for the unexpected. Here are a few ways you can be best prepared:

• Make a Plan - Establish an evacuation plan, determine a ‘meeting point’, and rehearse your evacuation plan annually.

• Build a Kit- Create an ‘emergency supply’ bag for quick departure in the event of an emergency. These typically include shoes, clothing items, and non-perishable foods.

• Business Preparedness - Create a Readiness Plan for your business to allow for quick response by all staff members. This includes water shut off valve, gas shut off valve, etc. Consider contacting SERVPRO for a FREE Emergency Ready Plan. 

• Emergency Alerts - Look for an Emergency Alert Program in your local state or county. These provide alerts before disaster strikes to allow time to take cover and prepare.

• Pet Preparedness- Pets are family! Have a plan prepared to assist with the evacuation of all Pets at your premises. 

While some disasters are inevitable, the actions you take today could prevent further damage in the future. Contact us today as SERVPRO is always available to assist with all preparedness plans in the Los Angeles area. 

Los Angeles Storm = Wildfire

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

Thank you to all the First Responders of our Community!

Do you know how long the Kincade fire burned for? This fire damage burned down 77,758 acres of land in October of 2019. Luckily in California we have an amazing fire department that successfully contained the fire in 13 days! While SERVPRO does not directly combat the fires, we do act as ‘secondary responders’, coming in to assist after the ‘first responders’ have completed their job. When the SERVPRO experts arrive for any fire damage restoration service, which can include deodorization, smoke damage, ash damage, or all of the above, we always ensure that the area and structures are safe to enter. Using advanced technology, we are able to mitigate the damage in record time! Unlike our competitors, we do not require any deposit for any of our services. We understand the stress that comes with fire damage and will always be here to help. 

Our promise to you:

• We will always answer our phones and have a live person on the other end. 
• We will never leave a job until you are 100% satisfied.
• We will never ask for any funds upfront on any insurance loss. 
• We will treat your home as though it is our own. 

All in all, SERVPRO is the premier choice when seeking a fire restoration company. SERVPRO of Park la Brea will continue to keep our promise to our community and valued customers.

Los Angeles Restoration Team, National Support. Remediation Experts Across the Nation!

6/20/2020 (Permalink)

When restoration doesn't seem possible, SERVPRO is here to help.

SERVPRO of Park la Brea is an independently owned and operated woman-owned business providing restoration services to the residents of Los Angeles, CA. While we are a local team, the SERVPRO brand ensures that we have national support unmatched by our competitors. In the event of a large disaster, SERVPRO crews are dispatched (sometimes in minutes) from all over the nation to assist in restoring the damaged community.

Over the past year, our team has traveled out of state to assist with many storm events including the Caroline Floods in 2015 and Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Each time our crews travel we ensure that we are highly equipped to handle any type of loss. If there is any loss our team cant handle, we can call for support from the SERVPRO Large Loss division to ensure we have the tools, team members, and resources to manage the loss.

With 1,700 franchises https://www.SERVPROparklabrea.com/storm-flooding-restoration around the nation (and growing), we are confident that our teams can help any community in their time of need.

Storm Water Damage Restoration in Los Angeles, CA can happen!

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

There are certain things that we are unable to control in this world and Mother Nature is truly one of them. Being prepared is our only true weapon against any kind of natural disaster and having SERVPRO of Park La Brea by your side is always going to be the best alternative when searching for the most optimum restoration team. SERVPRO Of Park La Brea professionals are prepared for the unpredictable, whether you ’re dealing with:

• Flooding caused by heavy rains
• Hurricanes and tidal surges
• Tornadoes and wind damage
• Wildfires

Our team is available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Your home protects you from the elements, but heavy rains can weaken that protection. With SERVPRO of Park La Brea maintenance team and a lot of vigilance, it’s not hard to stay safe and dry. Water damage restoration isn’t easy, but SERVPRO is here to help! SERVPRO of Park la Brea is the water damage team to call! Very Highly trained technicians for water damage restoration needs are available 24/7. When too well, well Water damage of any sizes are welcomed!

Hurricane Michael Strikes In Florida

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Michael was the first Category 5 hurricane to strike the contiguous United States since Andrew in 1992, these types of hurricanes cause complete roof failure on many residences and industrials buildings. Local SERVPRO Storm teams were dispatched to Panama City, FL in response to Hurricane Michael.

We at SERVPRO of Park la Brea were compelled to extend our services in solidarity to our team in Florida. When disaster strikes an area of our country, we have the ability to dispatch members of our own highly trained & experienced Storm Team to help with the cleanup & restoration from devastating storm damage. We recognize the importance of being able to return to your own home after a storm and here at SERVPRO Park la Brea we treat each home as though it is our own. Only Highly trained technicians for water damage restoration needs are available 24/7. All Water damage of any sizes is welcomed!

Unusual Stormy Weather in Los Angeles

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Spring season got off to a wet start in Southern California which included torrential downpours, thunderstorms, lightning, and hail. Los Angeles experienced widespread flooding which shut down roads and caused damage to different commercial properties. Here at SERVPRO Park la Brea we are the specialists to call for any of your water damage and water damage restoration needs.

Any Water damage, water cleanup, or any water remediation needs, SERVPRO of Park la Brea is here. All Water restoration and water damages are our specialties! We have a highly trained team of technicians that are available 24/7! Home Water damage restoration isn’t easy, but SERVPRO is here to help! SERVPRO of Park la Brea is the water damage team to call! Our mission is to provide the utmost best service to our community and to make sure you and your family are safe from any type of harmful damage. 

Storm Water Damage Restoration in Los Angeles, CA

6/16/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage can happen at any time and can cause serious damage to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding while the strong winds can cause roof damage to your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with the damages will help you be ready to take steps immediately after the storm. Home Water damage, water cleanup, or any water remediation needs, SERVPRO of Park la Brea is here. Home Water restoration and water damages are our specialty! Home Water damage restoration isn’t easy, but SERVPRO is here to help! SERVPRO of Park la Brea is the water damage team to call!

Water Damage From Contaminated Water

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON’T:

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness of exposed to the contaminated areas.

By following these simple Do's and Dont's, you can help prevent further damage from occurring in your home! However, don't wait too long before contacting the experts at SERVPRO of Park la Brea! Highly trained technicians for home water damage restoration needs are available 24/7.  Home Water damage of any sizes are welcomed!

Storm Water Damage Restoration in Los Angeles

6/15/2019 (Permalink)

We understand the value and importance of being able to return home after a storm or other catastrophic event. Here at the SERVPRO of Park la Brea, we approach each home as though it was our own; treating it with the utmost respect and dignity it deserves. If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO Of Park La Brea can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area in order to better assess and treat the damage. Any Water damage, water cleanup, or any water remediation needs, SERVPRO of Park la Brea is here. All Water restoration and water damages are our specialty! All Water damage restoration isn’t easy, but SERVPRO is here to help! SERVPRO of Park la Brea is the water damage team to call!  While moving outs of the affected areas are not always our first choice, sometimes it is necessary to efficiently service the area. Here are some reasons a move out may be right for you:

• A quicker remodeling processes
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When all restoration services have been completed, SERVPRO of Park la Brea can help assess the area and determine whether or not the home is safe and secure to return to. Our most important goal is making sure you and your family are safe from any type of harmful damage. You will return back into your home "Like it never even happened." Only Highly trained technicians for water damage restoration needs are available 24/7. All Water damage of any sizes are welcomed!

Storm Water Damage Restoration in Los Angeles, CA may happen one day!

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Strong winds and strong rainwater can do the most damage to the interior and exterior of your home, which can be devastating. After your home is damaged by wind or other natural elements, the storm isn't necessarily over; in fact, it might be just the beginning. Water restoration and water damages are our specialty!

Common types of damage after a storm include roof, window, and structural damage as well as exterior damage. You’ve seen it in the news. Extreme (and some not-so-extreme) weather events are leaving their mark on homes and properties across America. Storm and water damage affect not only the structure of your home but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Park La Brea understand that your home is more than a structure; your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings help transform a house into a home. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. Water damage, water cleanup, or any water remediation needs, SERVPRO of Park la Brea is here.

SERVPRO of Park La Brea professionals have the credentials, expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. SERVPRO of Park La Brea has the equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition. We use a scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup that emphasizes monitoring and documenting the drying process from beginning to end. Water damage restoration isn’t easy, but SERVPRO is here to help! SERVPRO of Park la Brea is the water damage team to call! Highly trained technicians for water damage restoration needs are available 24/7. Water damage of any sizes are welcomed!

So, when an emergency situation arises in your home or business, give SERVPRO of Park La Brea a call and they’ll be there fast with the help you need.

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

Although water traveled under this carpet, we were able to successfully dry and save it from being removed!

There are many ways rainstorms can cause excessive damage to your home. It’s not only because of the great amount of water pouring down the sky but because of all the differenttypes of damages that come with it.

• Water: Due to the massive amount of water that pours down during a rainstorm, water could not only leak through your roof, but your house could be in risk of experiences a major flood due to all the sewers and plumbing systems being over flooded.
• Lightning: Not only water can cause damage, but lightning strikes too. If a lightning strikes your house, it could damage every electronic that was puggled into an outlet, and even cause an electric failure, resulting in a fire.
• Wind: The rapid and strong winds coming from a rainstorm can easily knock trees out, shatter windows and even cause damage to your roof and ceiling.

Rainstorms can be extremely damaging, however, there are ways to prevent these events and prepare your house for these kinds of situations. Call SERVPRO of Park la Brea to make sure you and your home are prepared for any type of storm!

I Bless the Rains Down in Africa

6/14/2018 (Permalink)

Although we had to remove drywall, we saved this property from much more damage!

Rain Storms, lightning storms, and even hurricanes can damage your home in more ways than you might think. These natural powerhouses can be extremely dangerous if you aren’t well prepared.

• They can cause floods: Due to the excessive rains and over flooded sewers it’s very likely your house could experience a flood during a storm.
• They can damage your house foundations: Water leaking through your floor, roof and walls could seriously damage your house foundations to the core.
• They can damage your electronics: Lightning strikes during rain storms could strike your house, causing all the electronics (small or big) to malfunction or even be damaged for good.
• They can damage the exterior of your house: During storms, strong winds can pick up bushes and branches, and even knock out trees that could very easily shatter your windows.
• They can cause material losses: Furniture, clothes, electronics, food… It can all be easily ruined by water.

As you might notice, nature is a force not to be reckoned with, but although we can’t control it, preparing your house for water damage, can potentially save you thousands of dollars in reparations later.

Problems Caused by Storms

11/3/2017 (Permalink)

This damaged ceiling was caused by a recent rain storm.

Strong winds and strong rainwater can do the most damage to the interior and exterior of your home, which can be devastating. After your home is damaged by wind or other natural elements, the storm isn't necessarily over; in fact, it might be just the beginning.

Common types of damage after a storm include roof, window, and structural damage as well as exterior damage. You’ve seen it in the news. Extreme (and some not-so-extreme) weather events are leaving their mark on homes and properties across America. Storm and water damage affects not only the structure of your home but also your belongings. SERVPRO of Park La Brea understand that your home is more than a structure; your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings help transform a house into a home. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience.

SERVPRO of Park La Brea professionals have the credentials, expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions. SERVPRO of Park La Brea has the equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition. We use a scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup that emphasizes monitoring and documenting the drying process from beginning to end.

So when an emergency situation arises in your home or business, give SERVPRO of Park La Brea a call and they’ll be there fast with the help you need.

Storms Are Unavoidable Events

11/3/2017 (Permalink)

Lifting wooden floor caused by water damage.

There are certain things that we are unable to control in this world and Mother Nature is truly one of them. Being prepared is our only true weapon against any kind of natural disaster and having SERVPRO of Park La Brea by your side is always going to be the best alternative when searching for the most optimum restoration team. SERVPRO Of Park La Brea professionals are prepared for the unpredictable, whether you ’re dealing with: 

• Flooding caused by heavy rains
• Hurricanes and tidal surges
• Tornadoes and wind damage
• Wildfires

Our team is available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Your home protects you from the elements, but heavy rains can weaken that protection. With SERVPRO of Park La Brea maintenance team and a lot of vigilance, it’s not hard to stay safe and dry.

Do's and Dont's on Water Damage In Your Home

11/3/2017 (Permalink)

Basement in which has been flooded by a recent storm. This water can be dangerous to your health!

Storm damage can happen at any time and can cause serious damage to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding while the strong winds can cause roof damage to your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with the damages will help you be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.

Water Damage From Contaminated Water

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON’T:

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness of exposed to the contaminated areas.

By following these simple Do's and Dont's, you can help prevent further damage from occurring in your home! However, don't wait too long before contacting the experts at SERVPRO of Park la Brea!

Interruption In Your Home Can Be Stressful

11/3/2017 (Permalink)

Your contents are not safe with a simple piece of plastic! Let us help you determine if a move out is right for you!

We understand the value and importance of being able to return home after a storm or other catastrophic event. Here at the SERVPRO of Park la Brea, we approach each home as though it was our own; treating it with the utmost respect and dignity it deserves. If your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO Of Park La Brea can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area in order to better assess and treat the damage. While moving outs of the affected areas are not always our first choice, sometimes it is necessary to efficiently service the area. Here are some reasons a move out may be right for you:

•  A quicker remodeling process
•  Protecting items from potential damage
•  Protecting contents from further on-site damage

When all restoration services have been completed, SERVPRO of Park la Brea can help assess the area, and determine whether or not the home is safe and secure to return to. Our most important goal is making sure you and your family are safe from any type of harmful damage. You will return back into your home "Like it never even happened."