Buying Commercial Buildings

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

If you’re purchasing a commercial property in East Mississippi, you’re probably aware of the many steps you must take before closing on the loan. Did you know that a mold inspection is recommended as part of the building inspection process? That’s because mold isn’t just a problem in and of itself, it’s an indication of water damage or other underlying issues you should address before you proceed.

What You Need to Know About Mold

Mold needs these conditions to grow: water, a nutrient source, oxygen and an environment where the temperatures are between 40-100 degrees.
Mold spores are almost always present in any environment.
The color of mold comes from its nutrient source and the age of the colony.
Mold will reoccur if its source of water isn’t removed.

Where To Look For It

The most common spaces to find mold during a mold inspection are in bathrooms, basements, kitchens and around windows or doors — wherever water is most likely to be found. In bathrooms, look for visible mold in tile grout and caulking, especially around bathtubs and showers. In basements, check the corners of the floor and ceiling, paying particular attention to outside walls. Kitchens can grow mold anywhere around the sink or stove, especially if the range hood isn’t working properly.

What Are Common Causes of Mold in Commercial Buildings?

Roof leaks
Clogged gutters
High humidity levels indoors
Leaky pipes
Poor drainage around the foundation

How To Get an Inspection Done

Hire a commercial real estate inspector that will check for mold and provide a risk assessment for potential water damage or mold problem. Inspections of this nature can be expensive; however, it is a cost worth undertaking to protect your investment. The inspector should check each unit and room of the building to provide an accurate assessment.
If your commercial mold inspection reveals existing water or mold damage, hiring a mold remediation specialist is the next step to make the building safe and sound for your new purchase.

Using a Fire Extinguisher

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher in Two Steps

Every business owner needs to train its employees on how to properly use a fire extinguisher. It is not as easy as it looks. In the event a kitchen fire breaks out in your building, you should always contact 9-1-1 so that professional firefighters in Lauderdale county and the surrounding counties, can address the situation promptly. However, you may be able to contain smaller fires and prevent more fire damage from taking place by using an extinguisher the right way.

1. Use the Right Extinguisher

Many people do not realize that there are several different kinds of fire extinguishers available. They are categorized as follows.

• Class A: Meant for paper, cloth and wood
• Class B: Meant for flammable gases and liquids
• Class C: Meant for electrical fires
• Class D: Meant for flammable metals
• Class K: Meant for grease fires and oils

You should have the proper fire extinguisher in your building meant for the type of fire most likely to break out. A majority of businesses will benefit from a Class ABC extinguisher. However, if you work out of an industrial plant, then you may need the other variations readily accessible.

2. Follow the PASS Method

PASS is an acronym to tell you how to operate an extinguisher. First, you need to pull the pin. Next, you need to aim the nozzle toward the base of the flames. Hitting the flames directly will not help. After that, you need to squeeze the trigger. Finally, you want to sweep the extinguisher from side to side to ensure complete coverage. You will only have between 10 and 20 seconds to use the device until it is out of flame retardant.

Getting your Business Ready for a Disaster

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Have you stopped to consider whether or not your business is truly ready for whatever happens?

Sure, you may have your shelves stocked and your labels printed with restock orders on the way. But do you have a plan in place for when the unexpected happens and you’re stuck with picking up the pieces?

Disasters are a natural part of life here in Birmingham. When you take into account the year, or better yet, the decade, we’ve had so far, it would be wise to consider how your business may be affected when these disasters strike. Whether it’s an unprecedented pandemic, a historic freeze that forced the whole south central region of the United States to come to a screeching halt, or your average thunder, lightning, and hail storms that seem to make a weekly appearance. In this region, anything can happen. 

You may know SERVPRO of Meridian as your go-to disaster restoration company, which we are. But do you also know that we specialize in helping your business get disaster ready as well? One of the ways we enjoy serving our community partners is by creating Emergency Ready Profiles, or ERPs, for their commercial properties. 

When our dedicated, local SERVPRO Representatives meet with local business owners and facility managers, we gather important materials such as building information, utility shut off locations, and key contacts. Not only is this information important as it pertains to the daily tasks of a facility manager, but it’s also pertinent in the event of an emergency or disaster when time is of the essence. 

One of the key benefits in setting up an ERP with our team is having all of your essential property information in one place. In addition to keeping such relevant information organized, your local SERVPRO representative will contact you periodically to update any changes to your profile. 

Becoming disaster-ready is a process and our team is eager to help you get started! To set up your free Emergency Ready Profile, call our office today to speak to one of our representatives and ensure that your business is "Ready for whatever happens", just like SERVPRO. 

Cleaning Tips for Ciommericial Businesses

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Spring  & Summer time has become a great time of year to undertake deeper cleaning projects.  Although spring cleaning is commonly associated with residential homes, it is just as much needed for commercial places as well.  The cold winter months keep everyone cooped up inside and bacteria & messes start to grow.  A good cleaning helps to give workers a more open and less hectic environment; additionally, a clean and welcoming place of business helps to attract customers. Here is a list of some important areas to inspect during your deep cleaning cleaning:   

OUTSIDE

• Windows

Windows are one of the simplest yet crucial areas to keep clean.  Beyond making sure you have squeaky clean windows, check to make sure they have tight seals.  Small gaps in window seals can cause cool air to seep out (and warm air in the winter months), as well as allowing water to trickle in. Checking caulking and weather stripping remains intact and up to par can save you money in the long term. 

• Landscaping

This is very important for the presentation of your business.  Now the grass, flowers, weeds and other plants are starting to grow, it’s important to start grooming your landscape.  Don’t wait till your plants get out of control, hire someone now or take some time yourself to pull the weeds, mow the grass, and trim any trees or bushes.  Additionally, this is a great time to plant some flowers if you want to spruce up your place of business. 

• AC/HVAC

When converting your buildings air flow system from heating to air conditioning now is the best time to quality check your system.  Test your system by running it for a while to make sure it’s working properly, check any old or out of date parts that might need replacing.  Clean out the ventilation system by removing dust particles and any other debris lying inside.  Ventilation systems are rarely cleaned, which is why lots of building owners tend to find pest infestation or mold problems when cleaning their vents/ducts.  It’s best to take these precautions while the temperature is in a transitioning period.  

• Pest Maintenance

Along with the re-birthed trees and plants, spring also brings back hordes of pests.  Ants, spiders, termites, mosquitoes, and even bed bugs can become a problem.  It’s best to take preventative measures to ward off pests instead of being forced to shut the business down for a couple weeks in order to fumigate for pests. Lastly, if you are continually having the same pest problems each year, try to identify exterior factors that might be attracting those pests and any defects in your building that might be letting them in. 

INSIDE

• Dusting

Simple and effective.  Even if you already dust on a regular basis now’s a good time to dust those harder to reach, and often ignored, areas.  

• Flooring/Carpets

As people come in from the rainy times and wipe their feet on your carpets, dirt begins to build up.  Don’t let this grime buildup in your building; buy some strong cleaning products for your floors and a top quality vacuum for carpets. In addition to constantly maintaining floors and carpets, now is a great time to hire a professional carpet and floor cleaner to give your floors a deep clean. 

• Reorganization

Reorganizing comes in two parts.  The first is the organizing of all the previous years files into a consolidated area for ease of access.  Best practice is to do this at the beginning of every year so that your files are neatly organized and easy to find when needed.  The second is the reorganization of the office itself. Ideally, this is a continuing process year round.  If the office has gotten out of hand this can be a good time of year to tidy up and breathe some fresh air into the workplace.  Depending on your type of business will help determine what type of cleaning takes priority. If you need extra help or an even deeper clean call SERVPRO to help!

Cleaning Smoke Damaged Electronics

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Can Electronics Be Salvaged After A Fire?

When your business endures a fire in East Mississippi, you may suspect everything, especially the electronics, are unsalvageable. Whether an electrical fire or another kind, there's a chance you can clean some of the damaged electronics to salvage them.

1. Remove the Memory
   You probably can't determine if the equipment is salvageable or not until quite a bit later. Still, you should remove the device's memory to ensure your data stays as safe as possible. Computer hard drives and camera memory cards may be protected from smoke damage.However, they need to be removed and stored safely until someone can inspect them. Even if the equipment itself can't be repaired, you can hopefully retain the critical data.
2. Unplug
   Next, you'll need to unplug your electronic equipment. Electronics that have been exposed to smoke run the risk of starting an electrical fire. Unplugging these devices also reduces the risk of incurring more damage before cleaning.
3. Check Warranties
   Keep all your warranties in a safe and accessible place. Some of your equipment may still be under warranty, as many warranties cover smoke damage.
4. Clean
   It's better to leave cleaning up to fire damage restoration professionals, but you can try it yourself. Similar to computer cleanup, most devices require the removal of the outer casing. Once you inspect the inside, you can see the extent of the damage. You may find damage or just smoke and soot residue. Spraying the area with compressed air could get rid of the contaminants. Also, wipe down all non-electronic areas, such as vents, with a damp cloth.
5. Air Out
   Airing the device out can help dry out any moisture and remove smoke odor. Let it air out for a few days, if possible.
   If your business suffers fire damage from an electrical fire, it's crucial to take precautions when handling your affected possessions. Electronics require extra care, so now you know how to clean them.

Call SERVPRO of Meridian at 601-693-7300 for any fire disasters!

Stopping the Spread of Mold in Businesses

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Mold Issues?

Black mold is hazardous when it interacts with water and organic material. The three factors combined kick off the spores' reproduction, allowing them to multiply swiftly. Within one to two days, the fungus may move throughout the room and possibly inhabit other business spaces. It's important that business owners in East Mississippi, promptly react to water damage to avoid creating a major cleanup process. The following steps may mitigate the harm, so proprietors should implement them right away.

1. Remove the Moisture
Water feeds fungal spores, so shut down the supply at the beginning of mold cleanup. If a pipeline is involved, turn off the valve, preventing more moisture from entering the premises. Once that is accomplished, have the source of the trouble repaired. Finally, use a wet vacuum and towels to pull up puddles and run industrial dehumidifiers to suck up the dampness from the walls and air.

2. Inspect the Premises
Because the wetness hides inside of drywall and under the floor, have professionals with a water remediation company evaluate the problem's extent. They can assess for black mold in the air and within the structure, dictating how much work is required to restore the building.

3. Refrain from Using the AC
If the moisture problem also involved the air conditioner unit, the spores may have entered the system. Inspect the vents and covers, looking for signs of infestation. If you still aren't sure, have experts look it over as well. Do not run the air until it's been cleared. The cool air feels good, but it moves the spores from room-to-room, creating a much larger contamination concern.

4. Extract Soggy, Porous Materials
Bleach and other chemicals work well to kill surface fungus; however, they do not guarantee internal sanitation; therefore, remove drenched belongings and materials such as drywall and flooring to lower the spore count.
Proactive approaches to black mold may minimize repair costs and damage. Business owners should take any sign of moisture exposure seriously, working with professionals to dry and mend the building.

Winter is Coming

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare your business for winter weather!

-Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries. 

-Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential. 

-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.

-Ask your SERVPRO Professional about starting an Emergency Ready Profile for your business. 

What is an Emergency Ready Profile?

It is a "snapshot" of each building owned/managed by a business, that provides critical information for emergency preparation. 

Call SERVPRO of Meridian 601-693-7300 to schedule a time to start an Emergency Ready Profile.

SERVPRO of Meridian is in the fight against COVID-19!

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

COVID-19. It is on everyone's mind daily and the height of most people's concerns. How is SERVPRO assisting in the fight against this virus? SERVPRO of Meridian is providing proactive cleaning services to customers that want to take measures to protect themselves, their families, and their employees in this fight against Coronavirus. This is not the first time that SERVPRO has taken to the front lines in a pandemic. We have encountered everything from the common cold to the swine flu, and now Coronavirus. Our highly trained professionals have been fighting pandemics for years and adhere to all CDC Guidelines when doing it. We are a firm believer in helping the members of our community stay healthy and ahead of the curve when it comes to health hazards. 

Proactive cleaning takes many forms, all of which should be performed by a trained professional. We have many cleaning products including sterilizing and disinfecting solutions that we use to combat airborne and direct contact diseases. Some are fogged into buildings and others are sprayed directing onto surfaces and wiped off. Dwell time is the duration a product is allowed to sit on a surface in order to perform its function. We always allow for proper dwell time and cleanup of all solutions in order to provide maximum effectiveness in sterilization and disinfecting of buildings.

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities. If you or anyone you know is interested in proactive cleaning for their home or business, please contact us and we will be happy to assess your needs and provide you with some peace of mind during these trying times. 

Stay Safe. Stay Healthy.

Commericial Fire Causes

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage to your commercial business can be catastrophic. It does not matter what your business does, 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. 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. Below the United States Fire Administration has listed 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. This is why 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 can’t 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 SERVPRO of Meridian keeps in mind that time down for your business, is money lost. So, 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! 

Mold in Commericial Buildings

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Why should you worry about mold in your building? According to OSHA, some mold, over time, may cause structural damage to wood along with damage to furnishings and finishes. Use the following tips to help prevent mold growth in your business.

#1: 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 won’t. 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.

#2: 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 aren’t 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 window sills and in attic spaces.

#3: 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.

#4: Turn on the AC/Dehumidifier

Leaks aren’t 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.

#5: 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 out office wastebaskets about once a month to prevent mold growth.

#6: 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.

#7: 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 Meridian, 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 technicians have 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 Meridian at 601-693-7300

Odor in Commericial Properties

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

These issues can leave unwelcome and defiantly unwanted odors in the air. This odor is most always displeasing to customers, employees or yourself. Based on the source of the issue, we have 5 tips to help solve the problem: 

1. Ventilate the Building and Evaluate the Situation - Allows any lingering scents to disperse through a window, if possible. You can then work to identify and locate any centralized, problematic scents. If sewage loss is causing the odor, it’s best to stay away from the contaminated water and contact SERVPRO of Meridian to mitigate.

2. Dry Wet Carpeting and Flooring - Carpet holds moisture and it could be the source of the scent. A wet and dry vacuum, which can be rented if needed, can shampoo the carpet and then dry it afterward. This sanitizes the area to potentially remove some of the smell.

3. Scrub Moldy Surfaces - Mold growth left alone will continue to reproduce and spread along with its musty odor

4. Spray Furniture and Upholstery - Furniture can be sprayed and scrubbed. Porous materials are likely not able to be fully cleaned this way since the fungus settles within.

5. Consult Professionals for Extensive Cleanup - There are many instances that commercial-grade machines will need to be used to remove the malodor. An expert SERVPRO technician can help remove problems caused by floodwater and/or other water damage. When dealing with flood odors, most do-it-yourself remedies will fix only the symptom. Trust the help from SERVPRO of Meridian where we can assist you to remove most of the unwanted smells alongside any mold growth or other nuisance.

Different Levels of Fires at Commercial Properties

7/1/2020 (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 and your customers.  When damage at your commercial property happens, how do you know to what level and extent? Below we have a grading system we use to determine the level of which your property is assessed and categorized to begin mitigation.  

Level 1

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

Midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually 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

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 Commercial property, call SERVPRO of Meridian at 601-693-7300 and our team of highly trained professionals will be on the way.

Restoring Commercial Properties

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Meridian and surrounding counties commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Meridian

SERVPRO of Meridian specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Sewage in the School

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

When teachers and administrators walked into a school with nearly 4 inches of sewage, they knew exactly who to call, SERVPRO of Meridian.  Our crews quickly arrived and began emergency extraction and mitigation services.   School administrators stressed that state testing was underway, and needed the children back in school as quickly as possible.  SERVPRO of Meridian’s technicians were up to the challenge.  For day 1 technicians did nothing but extract sewage and finally at 5 in the evening were able to place equipment to start drying.   The next couple of days technicians, and even office employees, were pulled to either disinfect or dispose of damaged chairs, desk, books, etc.   With all of SERVPRO of Meridian’s staff working extremely hard and long days, the school was able to reopen to students within 4 days. 

If your school or place of business has a sewage back up call SERVPRO of Meridian at 601-693-7300.

Water Damage at a Nursing Home

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding at the funeral home.

Flooding and water damage at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues.  When the water damage is at a Nursing Home additional concerns over patients’ comfort affects the everybody SERVPRO of Meridian.    After receiving the call for help, SERVPRO of Meridian was called and onsite within 30 minutes.  SERVPRO of Meridian's, highly trained technicians quickly went to work.  SERVPRO of Meridian’s technicians loved talking to the patients who were curious about what our drying process was.   The safety of the nursing home patients, especially reducing fall risks, was the most import factor in everyone’s mind. SERVPRO of Meridian’s production manager and sales manager personally made sure every piece of equipment was placed in a way to not interfere with the nurses or patients. 

If you have any need of mitigation services at your home or business give SERVPRO of Meridian a call at 601-693-7300.  We are always available!

Local Bank Flooded

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Local Bank Flooded                        

When flash flooding affected a local bank, SERVPRO of Meridian was in the community helping drying out other structures before they even opened!  As bank employees arrived at work, they noticed water pouring out from the doors.   Luckily, SERVPRO of Meridian was already in the area due to massive flooding in the area.  SERVPRO of Meridian’s technicians, quickly began to extract flood water and place drying equipment.  In cases of floods its absolutely vital to get the water extracted as quickly as possible and start drying to prevent extremely costly repairs.  Due to SERVPRO of Meridian being onsite and the quick, professional, work of our technicians SERVPRO of Meridian was able to safely dry out the carpet and baseboards, without the bank having to replace them. 

If you experience any kind of flood or water damage be sure to call SERVPRO of Meridian at 601-693-7300.  We are available 24/7!

What's Inside Your Ducts?

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Are Your Ducts in Order?

Did you know, your ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality? Inspecting the ductwork in your facility or home should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

A routine part of SERVPRO of Meridian's Professional services is inspecting the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help save you money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO of Meridian professionals will inspect your HVAC system and ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

In some circumstances, such as after fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. In these cases, SERVPRO of Meridian professionals can often restore the HVAC system and ductwork to pre-damage condition.

If you have a fuel burning furnace, stove or fireplace, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends they be inspected for proper functioning, and be serviced before each heating season to protect against carbon monoxide poisoning.

The SERVPRO Duct Cleaning System is proven and cost efficient. Unlike the majority of duct cleaning services, SERVPRO of Meridian professionals use a portable ventilation and air duct cleaning system to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime.

• The process begins by using patented equipment including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct’s shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.

• Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.

• Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.

• As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.

• Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.

For more information on duct cleaning, or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Meridian professionals today!

SERVPRO of Meridian – (601) 693-7300

Water Damage at Commericial Properties

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, SERVPRO of Meridian’s technicians will work quickly to assess each situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when an emergency situation arises in your business, call SERVPRO of Meridian at (601)693-7300 and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

Every Business Needs a Disaster Plan

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Many business owners are caught off guard when disaster strikes. Thinking that it would never happen to them or never even considering the possibility of a disaster, they fail to have a plan in place for their business. Unfortunately, many times, once disaster strikes, it’s too late. Many businesses are forced to close permanently after disaster because they were not prepared.  With Hurricane season upon us 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.

1. 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.

1. 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 particular 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.

1. 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.

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

1. 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.

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

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

While disasters can be devastating to a business, preparation can definitely help in the recovery process. By taking action before disaster strikes and getting a plan in place, business owners can help protect their business in times of emergencies.

May is National Building Safety Month

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Building Safety Month is in its 38th year- is an initiative of the International Code Council (ICC) and their 64,000 members 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 2018 is Building Codes save Lives with a focus on safer communities over the five weeks in May. 

One of the topics highlighted during the third week of the month is Protecting Communities from Disasters.

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 certain improve that awareness and educate communities on this topic!

Important Tips From The ICC

• If you live in a high wind or hurricane-prone area and do not have tested and code-approved shutters for protection from wind-borne 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 (dead twigs, branches, etc.) fuels 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 or on flooded roads. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast-slowing water to sweep you off your feet and two feet of water to move an SUV-sized vehicle.

Emergency Ready Program

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Meridian utilizes the latest technology in order to expedite the mitigation process further increasing our value to our customers. The SERVPRO Ready Plan is a tool for property managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows for the creation of an Emergency READY Profile. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your home or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your home or business.

Preparation is the key to making it through any sized disaster, whether it is a large fire or area flood, or just a minor water leak.  Having an Emergency READY Plan may help minimize the time your business is inactive, and get you back in the building following a disaster.

SERVPRO of Meridian has restoration experts available 24 hours a day to get your business back up and running.  Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying.  We are also your business’s best resource for mold mitigation and removal.  

Call your local SERVPRO of Meridian at (601) 693-7300 to help with your Emergency READY Profile, and be “Ready for Whatever Happens” in 2018!

Meridian Area Commercial Emergency Restoration

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Building Restoration Services

When flooding or fires happen, they may occur at your office or business. Who do you call? Being prepared is the first step and may score you brownie points with your boss if you know the right company to call in an emergency.

SERVPRO of Meridian is available 24 hours a day to restore your Meridian area commercial property and get you back to business. We have the expertise, equipment, and highly trained personnel to handle your commercial water, fire, or mold damage. We can also access the resources of our national network of 1,650 Franchises to handle large commercial projects and major storm events. Learn more about our commercial restoration services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation
• Commercial Storm Damage Cleanup
• Disaster Recovery Team

Have Questions? Call Today (601) 693-7300

Commercial Fire Restoration in Meridian

10/30/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial fire cleanup - Look at the difference our crews have made!

Fire damage can be very devastating for a business or commercial property. In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, water damage caused by firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Every hour spent restoring your business back to pre-fire condition is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you have a fire emergency, call SERVPRO because we have the training, experience, and equipment to manage your commercial fire damage emergency. Not only will we respond quickly, but insure property is back to being business-ready quickly as well.

Local High School Vandalized

5/16/2017 (Permalink)

Our professionals will act quickly to remove graffiti and clean vandalism from home and commercial spaces.

Vandalism can range from relatively minor pranks to malicious destruction of property. Unfortunately, when a local high school was vandalized over the weekend, there was significant damage. The vandals not only discharged fire extinguishers, but also left some extensive graffiti, and broken glass throughout. But even simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed in a timely manner.

Need Vandalism and Graffiti Cleanup Services?
Call Us Today – (601) 693-7300

SERVPRO of Meridian will act quickly to remove vandalism and graffiti from home and commercial spaces. In addition to removing spray-painted graffiti from exterior walls, we can also clean driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, wood, glass, plastic, and masonry. Our highly trained technicians can offer the following services:

• General Cleaning and graffiti removal


• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning


• Odor removal and deodorization


• Debris removal


• Water damage restoration


• Mold damage restoration


• Fire damage restoration


• Contents Cleaning

About SERVPRO of Meridian

SERVPRO of Meridian specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Meet Our Crew

School Flooded by Sewage

5/5/2017 (Permalink)

collapsed sewer pipe was the likely cause of this local school to become flooded with sewage.