Archived Commercial Blog Posts
Commercial Emergency Preparedness
2/23/2022 (Permalink)
Crew of workers being briefed on a project
If you or someone you know works in a large commercial building, you may benefit from preparing a workplace emergency preparedness kit! SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is passionate about preparedness, and as we operate out of a large commercial space, we know how beneficial a kit could be in the event of an emergency.
As you’re building a kit, whether it’s generally applicable and stored in a shared office space, or specific to you and kept at your desk - it’s important to choose the right storage material and to keep your kit updated. Using airtight, water-proof bags and containers to store a kit could keep your supplies in working condition. Additionally, consider transportable containers, such as a backpack.
Whether general or specific, consider the following items to include in your kit:
- A large flashlight and extra batteries.
- A first aid kit.
- Surgical masks or dust masks.
- Water purification tablets.
- Prepackaged foods. Emergency survival food ration bars are ideal for storage and consumption.
- Mylar emergency blankets.
- Bottled water - plan for one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for both drinking and sanitation.
- An emergency whistle attached to a lanyard.
- Maps of your local area.
- Duct tape.
- Work gloves.
- Hand warmers.
- Hand sanitizer and moist towelettes.
- Plastic garbage bags.
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers.
- Contact lens solution.
- Matches.
It’s important to pack supplies for three to seven days. If your commercial workplace ever experiences a large loss, or a disaster, while you are at work, know that making a kit like this could help keep you and your coworkers safe.
Preparing your business
2/10/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO vehicle for Water Mitigation Equipment
When flooding or water damage occurs at a commercial property in Portland, many complex scenarios can become a factor, requiring an informed and discretionary reaction. Regardless of the size of the storm or water intrusion, the team at SERVPRO of NW Portland will assess each situation on an individual level with expedience and expertise to identify and isolate the damage. Many times, business can continue in a transitory space while restoration efforts continue at your facility.
Commercial Property Restoration Can Pose Unparalleled Situations
The staff at SERVPRO of NW Portland has received expert training in areas of legality as well as common environmental concerns. Our goal is to perform the restoration work within or as close to your budget as possible. We operate under the understating that time spent restoring your property is time lost for your business and productivity. It is rare to anticipate a business closing disaster, but you can be assured that when and if the time comes, SERVPRO of NW Portland will be your partner on the road to recovery.
SERVPRO of NW Portland is your local commercial and residential water restoration specialist. Our staff is specifically trained in the science of 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. Keep this number handy. 503-283-3658
Cause of commercial water damage
11/22/2021 (Permalink)
Water Mitigation equipment
When a business owner imagines water damage, their mind might immediately go to a catastrophic storm that takes down trees and power lines, closes blocks of infrastructure and causes business closure. It is true that a good percentage of commercial water loss is caused by heavy rains and storms, particularly here in the wet climate of Portland, but that is far from the only cause of commercial water loss. Here at SERVPRO of NW Portland, we see the full spectrum of water damage on a daily basis. Below are a few common causes of water damage that we’ve seen that can affect your business.
Improperly Functioning Sprinkler System
As buildings age, their fire protection systems can become outdated and worn out. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), your sprinkler system’s internal piping system should be checked every 5 years. NFPA 25 outlines an industry standard inspection schedule. A fire protection system is crucial to any commercial building, but a malfunctioning system can cost your business in both damages, as well as business closures.
Broken Appliances or Equipment
This poses an issue in restaurant or catering industries, but can also affect any facility that uses appliances or tools that utilize water. A failing appliance can cause substantial damage, particularly if it fails on the off hours while your business is closed. A regular inspection of your appliances can save your business a lot of time and money.
Pipes & Plumbing
As in any building, broken and failing plumbing can result in water damage. Older buildings tend to be more susceptible to this sort of damage.
Sewer Line Back Up
We have previously covered some of the causes of sewage back up here. Sewage and other “Black Water” accidents can wreak havoc on your building and the products and furnishings therein. Special equipment and training is necessary when dealing with this sort of commercial water damage. Do not attempt to clean this sort of damage yourself.
If your business has encountered any of these scenarios, especially one that involves Black Water, call the professionals at SERVPRO of NW Portland today. Our team is IIRC certified and can get your business back up and running fast.
Water damage in restaurants
11/22/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO water mitigation equipment
Restaurants typically have the highest water consumption of any class of business, leading not only to increased bills but also greater risk of water damage.
Portland restaurants experience small-scale water damage on a much more frequent basis than other local companies, causing minor but still troublesome headaches for the unprepared. While SERVPRO can help with mitigation and restoration services to keep the real impact on your business to a minimum, you should be prepared for the most common issues you may find yourself facing.
Clogged Drains
Whether it is in the restroom or the kitchen, clogged pipes and drains have the potential to cause a lot of water damage to your Portland restaurant very quickly. While establishments with timed faucets are typically resistant to these disasters, troubles can still arise due to carelessness or malfunction. Overflowing sinks and drains spill high volumes of water on the floor, causing permanent damage to flooring materials if not properly drained or cleaned up. Should this issue arise, be sure to shut the water off quickly to prevent further harm.
Burst or Torn Water Lines
Whether the water line is in the structure or an appliance, rips, and holes in pipes and tubes commonly create uncontrollable disasters. While aging kitchen equipment tends to be at the greatest risk, accidents can happen to even the newest and most premium appliances. Be sure to have sealant on-hand to patch up leaks quickly, and contact SERVPRO or an equipment technician as needed for further fixes.
Flooding
Serious flooding can happen to restaurants either from natural disasters or major water leaks, such as a busted water main. When this happens, a fast call to SERVPRO is critical, as calling us without delay ensures that we can find and repair the issue in a timely fashion and mitigate as much damage as possible. These cases typically develop into lengtheir, more challenging restoration processes, especially if we experience additional delays in the mitigation process. Our ERP, Emergency READY Profile Plan can help prevent, or at least mitigate, fire or water damage from closing your restaurant.
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland helps local businesses to survive and overcome even the worst disasters and damages. To enlist our aid, call us around the clock at (503) 283-3658.
Is your property ready?
11/22/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Team
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is a 24/7 emergency service provider. When fire, water, or mold damage affects your home or business, our crews respond promptly to restore your property to preloss condition. But what can you do to prepare for property damage?
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is committed to providing our community with resources to prepare for disaster. One way we help facilitate preparedness is through our Emergency Ready Profile, or an ERP. Whether you own a home, a business, or both – our ERP preparedness folder gathers important information, resources, and photos that are tailored to you and your property, which can be crucial when responding to a restoration emergency.
No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be “Ready for whatever happens.” Our ERP service is at no cost to you, and includes a walkthrough of your property with one of our restoration professionals. When as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, are you prepared to beat those odds? Let SERVPRO of Northwest Portland help!
Preparing for a business disaster
9/15/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Water Equipment
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is a 24/7 emergency service provider. When fire, water, or mold damage affects your home or business, our crews respond promptly to restore your property to preloss condition. But what can you do to prepare for property damage?
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is committed to providing our community with resources to prepare for disaster. One way we help facilitate preparedness is through our Emergency Ready Profile, or an ERP. Whether you own a home, a business, or both – our ERP preparedness folder gathers important information, resources, and photos that are tailored to you and your property, which can be crucial when responding to a restoration emergency.
No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be “Ready for whatever happens.” Our ERP service is at no cost to you, and includes a walkthrough of your property with one of our restoration professionals. When as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, are you prepared to beat those odds? Let SERVPRO of Northwest Portland help!
Commercial Disasters
2/22/2021 (Permalink)
Commercial building cleanup
As a business owner, your office is one of your company’s most valuable assets. Most companies cannot afford to close for even a few days, so what do you do if your office or storefront is hit with a flood or a fire? Your friends at SERVPRO of Northwest Portland deal with these type of scenarios on a daily basis, and they are your first line of defense in the event of an unfortunate disaster at your place of business.
Here are a few of the services offered by SERVPRO of Northwest Portland:
Water Extraction & Restoration – Water can come in from many sources; a broken pipe, heavy storm, sewer back up and even water used to extinguish a fire.
Mold Remediation – Where there is water and moisture, there is always potential for mold growth. The professionals at SERVPRO are always mindful of this and can help reduce the potential for a mold outbreak in your Portland business after a water loss.
Fire Restoration – A fire in your place of business can be devastating. Beyond what the fire consumes, it also leaves caustic side effects of smoke damage throughout the surrounding area. After the fire department has extinguished the fire, call us immediately. Our team of experts are ready to help bring your Portland area business to a preloss state, minimizing the time you have to close your doors.
If your business has suffered a fire or water loss or you have a janitorial need, give us a call today. We are always here to help, 24/7! 503-283-3658
Commercial Restoration: How desiccants work
2/10/2021 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Northwest Portland, our Commercial Large Loss Division handles commercial losses on a regular basis. One of our most important pieces of equipment, a desiccant, can make a huge difference in the restoration timeline when a commercial property has multiple affect rooms, floors, or buildings. To understand how a desiccant works, continue reading below:
Large format desiccant dehumidifiers are a crucial part of commercial large loss restoration because they can provide drying economy and scale. Considering the conditions of a job can help a Project Manager determine the proper equipment needed, such as building size, environmental conditions, accessibility, use, construction, and availability of power.
One of the most important pieces of equipment is the desiccant, which is a large scale dehumidifier. Desiccants operate differently than your average dehumidifier - they use chemicals to create different drying conditions that improve moisture absorption.
As process air enters the dehumidifier, desiccant material (typically silica), which has a high affinity for water, absorbs moisture from the air. To see a diagram of this process, refer to the image attached to this blog.
Air leaving a desiccant dehumidifier is warm, very dry, and has a high velocity. These three essential ingredients are necessary for increased drying rates. Desiccant dehumidifiers can lower the humidity ratio (measured in grains per pound or gpp) much lower than refrigerant dehumidifiers. This dry air produced by the desiccant can be easily ducted to where the drying is needed most in the commercial property, thus creating an efficient drying system.
Inside the desiccant dehumidifier, heated air (called reactivation air) is passed across the desiccant material, causing it to release the water it contains. This moisture-laden air (or wet air discharge) is released outdoors.
Aside from the substantial water removal efficiency of these units, they also operate between zero degrees to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, with best efficiency ranging from 40 degrees to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Since desiccants do not rely on the condensation process used by refrigerants, they require no drain. Desiccants simply process the air.
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland has the equipment necessary to handle large commercial restoration projects. Our desiccant is trailer mounted and travels all across the Portland Metro Area, delivering dry air where needed. If you experience a large commercial loss, know that our Commercial Large Loss Division (CLLD) is ready to assist you.
Risk assessment resources for Portland area commercial properties
11/24/2020 (Permalink)
For commercial property owners, managers, or leaders, it’s important to dedicate strategic planning to preparedness for unforeseen events, to protect occupants and the property itself. As restoration professionals, SERVPRO of Northwest Portland understands how being prepared prior to property loss can make a difference in recovery.
If operating a commercial property or a small business, SERVPRO recommends working on Business Impact Analysis, which is a part of risk assessment. A business impact analysis (BIA) predicts the consequences of disruption of a business function and process and gathers information needed to develop recovery strategies. There are many possible scenarios which should be considered during this process!
To learn more about BIA reports and risk assessment, visit Ready.gov.
Whether you’re starting your risk assessment journey or just looking in to it, the following resources may be helpful.
Preparing for natural hazards:
Preparing for human-cause hazards:
Preparing for technological hazards:
If your commercial property does experience a loss, know that a quality restoration company is part of risk management. Our process is specially designed to minimize interruption to business, and our project managers are experienced in working with our property owners to find creative ways to keep them operating while we address the property damage in the building.
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is the premier restoration company to handle commercial property damage, and we’re available at 503-283-3658 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Board-Up services for Portland commercial properties
11/2/2020 (Permalink)
For commercial properties, a sudden interruption to regular operations can be devastating. SERVPRO of Northwest Portland offers critical emergency restoration services so that no matter the property damage, your commercial property can get back to business.
The first step to emergency restoration and secondary damage protection is securing the property. Our professionals provide Board-Up services for any properties who have compromised entries or openings after damage occurs.
Board-up services can be needed after a variety of property damage events, such as:
- Weather events like storms, tornadoes, floods, or high winds
- Vandalism, theft, or break-ins
- Rioting, demonstrations that may become unruly, or unrest
- Fires
- Vehicle impacts
For commercial properties, time is of the essence. That is why fast response is a top priority for SERVPRO of Northwest Portland. Emergency Board-Up services are performed by our Priority Response Team, a department that operates on-call 24/7 so that someone is ready and available to provide EMG Restoration Services at any time, any day.
If your commercial property experiences intrusive property damage, call SERVPRO of Northwest Portland at 503-283-3658 as soon as practical.
Preparing your business for winter weather with SERVPRO
11/2/2020 (Permalink)
As the temperature grows colder, the Portland Metro and our surrounding communities are preparing for winter weather. During this time, Portland area businesses should be thinking of contingency plans for wintery conditions and reviewing them with their employees. SERVPRO of Northwest Portland recommends that businesses also include an Emergency Response Profile (ERP) in their winter weather preparedness plans.
An ERP is a profile of a business’ essential details, which can be useful to have in one location in the event of a burst frozen pipe, sudden fire, or winter weather storm damage.
In an ERP, we compile information such as:
- Utility shut off location
- Utility company emergency and non-emergency contact numbers
- Fire extinguisher, fire exit, and evacuation route information
- Chain of command contact information
- Local emergency and non-emergency contact information for Fire, Policy, and Health agencies
- First aid kit locations in the building
- Crucial tips on how to respond to property damage events before professionals arrive
Each ERP survey is provided for free and conducted by a SERVPRO professional, like members of our Priority Response Team. We work with you to collect the necessary information and walk the business with your representative so that nothing is missed. If you would like an Emergency Response Profile (ERP) for your business, call SERVPRO of Northwest Portland today at 503-283-3658.
We are experts at Commercial Property Restoration
9/9/2020 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Northwest Portland at 503-283-3658.
A commercial loss has different project needs than your average residential water loss, and we understand these distinct differences at SERVPRO of Northwest Portland. It’s why we developed our new department, the Commercial Large Loss Division (CLLD), where our CLLD team is dedicated to our commercial clients.
Comprising six core team members, our CLLD team focuses only on commercial work, which separates them from our residential water team. Having two teams, one for residential and the other for commercial, enables our crews to better optimize their work.
When it comes to commercial property loss, time is of the essence. If the property loss causes an interruption to business, that interruption could cost our commercial clients a considerable amount of revenue. This is why Fast Response is our CLLD team’s first priority.
Our Commercial Large Loss Division’s second priority is to maintain effective communication. A commercial property loss has a lot of moving parts and various individuals that need to be briefed throughout the process. Our team has years of experience handling commercial property restoration work and we understand the value of keeping every party informed, from start to finish.
If your commercial property experiences a significant property loss, whether from water, mold, or fire - you can trust that SERVPRO of Northwest Portland and our Commercial Large Loss Division is ready to respond quickly and efficiently so that you can get back to full operation as soon as possible. Call us at 503-283-3658 if you discover damage in your property!
Emergency preparedness is risk reduction for Portland commercial properties
2/20/2020 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Northwest Portland NOW at 503-SERVPRO if you have water, fire, or storm damage in your home or business!
STOP! If you have water or fire damage in your property right now, call us at 503-SERVPRO RIGHT NOW. Don’t wait to mitigate - the longer damage sits unattended, the more likely it will develop secondary damage. Call us at 503-SERVPRO now.
When it comes to large commercial losses, safety is always top priority for SERVPRO of Northwest Portland. For property managers and owners operating out of a large commercial space, emergency and disaster preparedness can be a crucial aspect to ensuring personnel safety in the event of hazardous property damage incident.
As an owner or operator of a commercial property, there are a few actions you can take to help prepare for the worst case scenario. The first step is assessing the vulnerabilities in your property.
According to OPB, “a magnitude 9.0 earthquake off the Pacific Northwest coast could hit at any time.” If you visit their website, they have a tool that allows you to enter your property address and receive information about how a 9.0 earthquake on the Oregon coast could affect your building.
Experts suggest that individuals have 2 weeks of supplies per person, 14 gallons of water per person, and 42 meals per person. Here at SERVPRO of Northwest Portland, we also suggest that you encourage employees to keep a mini survival preparedness kit at their desk. To learn what essential tools and supplies to include in a commercial desk kit, read out previous blog here.
We encourage you to enter your property address in the OPB Aftershock simulation tool. Here at SERVPRO of Northwest Portland, we’re working on preparing our office for the potential of disaster.
If your property experiences water, fire, storm, or mold damage, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Northwest Portland at 503-283-3658 as soon as possible to assist in the restoration of your commercial property!
Be prepared for a commercial loss in your Portland workplace
2/18/2020 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Northwest Portland NOW at 503-SERVPRO if you have water, fire, or storm damage in your home or business!
STOP! If you have water or fire damage in your property right now, call us at 503-SERVPRO RIGHT NOW. Don’t wait to mitigate - the longer damage sits unattended, the more likely it will develop secondary damage. Call us at 503-SERVPRO now.
If you or someone you know works in a large commercial building, you may benefit from preparing a workplace emergency preparedness kit! SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is passionate about preparedness, and as we operate out of a large commercial space, we know how beneficial a kit could be in the event of an emergency.
As you’re building a kit, whether it’s generally applicable and stored in a shared office space, or specific to you and kept at your desk - it’s important to choose the right storage material and to keep your kit updated. Using airtight, water-proof bags and containers to store a kit could keep your supplies in working condition. Additionally, consider transportable containers, such as a backpack.
Whether general or specific, consider the following items to include in your kit:
- A large flashlight and extra batteries.
- A first aid kit.
- Surgical masks or dust masks.
- Water purification tablets.
- Prepackaged foods. Emergency survival food ration bars are ideal for storage and consumption.
- Mylar emergency blankets.
- Bottled water - plan for one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for both drinking and sanitation.
- An emergency whistle attached to a lanyard.
- Maps of your local area.
- Duct tape.
- Work gloves.
- Hand warmers.
- Hand sanitizer and moist towelettes.
- Plastic garbage bags.
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers.
- Contact lens solution.
- Matches.
It’s important to pack supplies for three to seven days. If your commercial workplace ever experiences a large loss, or a disaster, while you are at work, know that making a kit like this could help keep you and your coworkers safe.
Safety comes first, but when it’s time to restore and rebuild - call SERVPRO of Northwest Portland at 503-283-3658.
Mitigating Portland commercial spaces can be a quick process!
2/4/2020 (Permalink)
For large commercial losses, our team brings trailer-mounted generators to power the other equipment.
STOP! If you have water or fire damage in your property right now, call us at 503-SERVPRO RIGHT NOW. Don’t wait to mitigate - the longer damage sits unattended, the more likely it will develop secondary damage. Call us at 503-SERVPRO now.
When water flows through four floors of commercial space, it doesn’t have to take a long time to mitigate the damage. SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is a large commercial loss capable restoration company - we have years of experience handling situations like these, and you might be surprised with how quick and efficient mitigation can actually be!
Planning the mitigation roadmap after first notice of loss is crucial to being an efficient restoration professional. Our Project Managers work closely with property owners and insurance adjusters to develop a mitigation plan as soon as possible that will get the property back to business.
Next, equipment becomes the key detail. We will bring in large amounts of air movers, dehumidifiers, generators, and desiccants to optimize all hours of the day. If tenants are still operating out of the space, we work with them to ensure the equipment is not disturbed.
Depending on the side of the affected area, a large commercial loss like the one described above can sometimes take no longer than 14 days!
Our goal, as premiere restoration professionals in the Portland Metro Area, is to provide quality service to our customers in a timely manner, so that they can get back to business.
If your home or business experiences water or fire damage, call SERVPRO of Northwest Portland as soon as possible - we can help you get your property restored to preloss condition. Don’t wait to mitigate - call us as soon as you see storm damage on your property: 503-283-3658.
Being safe on a Portland commercial loss is critical
10/9/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Project Manager, Josh Laulile, leads a safety meeting at a commercial loss job site.
Here at SERVPRO of Northwest Portland, job safety is a top concern. When it comes to restoring a large, commercial property after a fire or water damage, making sure our crew and vendors are safe while on the job in important.
When our team takes on a commercial loss, there are key safety precautions we take. Since commercial jobs require larger crews, conducting morning safety meetings on a daily basis is crucial. It’s imperative that each person on the site wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), even if they are visiting and not necessarily working. Proper PPE for a large, commercial job site included work boots, face mask or respirator if necessary, safety glasses, a hard hat and a reflective safety vest.
In the photo to the right, you can see our Project Manager Josh Laulile leading a safety meeting to a crew of workers ready to restore a property to its preloss condition. SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is ready for any size disaster, and you can rest assured that our restoration professionals can handle your loss properly. If you have any issues with fire, water, or mold damage – don’t wait to call us at SERVPRO of NW Portland.
SERVPRO of NW Portland can take on any commercial loss
10/8/2019 (Permalink)
A SERVPRO technician sets up two trailer mounted generators to power lines that feed into the building, as well as to the desiccant (middle).
When a large, commercial loss occurs in the Portland area, there are many moving parts that can complicate the restoration. As a Large Loss Certified SERVPRO Franchise, SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is equipped to handle these complications. We have the necessary experience, warehouse space, and equipment to restore a large commercial space to preloss condition.
After the property has been tested for asbestos and lead, workers can begin to remove debris and demolish ruined structures. Crews will extract any sitting water where it is needed, and set up drying equipment around the property.
One crucial piece of equipment necessary when taking on a commercial loss is a trailer mounted desiccant. A desiccant is a large scale dehumidifier that can extract up to 295 gallons of moisture per day. Using a trailer mounted generator to power the desiccant, SERVPRO is able to dehumidify and dry out a commercial property in a reasonable amount of time.
Keep your Portland Business open after water or fire damage strikes
9/5/2019 (Permalink)
September is National Preparedness Month and we here at SERVPRO of NW Portland are committed to making sure that you are prepared and ready should disaster strike your home or business in the Portland Area. Nearly 50% of businesses do not reopen after disasters and we don’t want you to be part of that statistic.
As a customer you have the right to choose who helps with your fire, water, or mold damage clean up. SERVPRO of NW Portland has been a long time trusted restoration professional in the Portland area. We understand that when disaster strikes your business, it can overwhelm your day-to-day operations. This is why we’re “Faster to Any Size Disaster.” Our well trained crews will work with you and your insurance company to take care of the documentation and record keeping to ensure that the claim will go smoothly so that you can get back to work.
If you find your business affected by a fire, water, or mold damage incident – don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of NW Portland at (503) 684-5829.
Is your Portland property prepared for disaster?
8/5/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is a 24/7 emergency service provider. When fire, water, or mold damage affects your home or business, our crews respond promptly to restore your property to preloss condition. But what can you do to prepare for property damage?
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is committed to providing our community with resources to prepare for disaster. One way we help facilitate preparedness is through our Emergency Ready Profile, or an ERP. Whether you own a home, a business, or both – our ERP preparedness folder gathers important information, resources, and photos that are tailored to you and your property, which can be crucial when responding to a restoration emergency.
No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be “Ready for whatever happens.” Our ERP service is at no cost to you, and includes a walkthrough of your property with one of our restoration professionals. When as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, are you prepared to beat those odds? Let SERVPRO of Northwest Portland help!
Who is responsible for rental property damage?
2/21/2019 (Permalink)
When a rental property floods, who is responsible for the repair? The tenant or the owner?
Water damage can strike both renters and property owners alike. A large water related disaster can render a property uninhabitable and cause permanent damage to the resident’s personal belongings. When water damage strikes an apartment, who is the responsible party? The owner or the tenant?
Tenant Rights
Generally speaking, the responsibility of property maintenance falls on the landlord. If a landlord refuses necessary repairs or fails to address them in a timely fashion, and his negligence results in damage to the tenants property, (such may be the case with mold) they may be liable for the cost of replacing the affected items. Although details can vary from state to state, there are certain basic principals in place that outline the liable party. If in doubt, check with your local housing authority.
Keep Lease Current
It’s a good idea to be aware of the terms laid out in your rental agreement/ lease as it pertains to property damage. Rental properties generally have property insurance and the lease agreement should specify what is covered and what is not.
Rental Insurance
It is a good idea to have a rental insurance policy in the event of an accident. Many property managers require rental insurance. Coverage can vary from policy to policy. Some policies cover property damage, theft, personal belongings and even lodging in the event of a displacing emergency. It’s a good idea to look into obtaining a rental insurance policy, and if you already have one, it’s good to be familiar with what is and what is not covered.
Property management/ owner duties
Any landlord is responsible for keeping the apartment maintained to an acceptable level of livability. Basic plumbing, appliance and electrical maintenance is the responsibility of the landlord, as is basic property upkeep. The landlord can be held negligible for damage incurred due to failing to perform these basic functions.
Damage to personal property
Damage to the building itself, as well as utilities and appliances should be covered by the property owner’s insurance policy. Damage to personal property falls under the responsibility of the party who caused the damages, which may or may not be the tenant.
We’re always here to help
When rain hits the Portland metro, SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is on standby to help our local residents and businesses with their water damaged homes, apartments and businesses. If recent storms have caused flooding or a pipe has burst, our highly trained technicians are ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your Portland property. We have the experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and properly. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment to find the water and remove it as quickly as possible. Our local technicians will closely monitor and document the drying process to ensure your property is back to normal. Call us today. 503-283-3658
The Qualities of a Reliable Commercial Restoration Service
2/19/2019 (Permalink)
Make sure to investigate your commercial fire and water restoration contractor!
Certain items such as a leaky faucet, small hole in the wall or a broken pipe can fall under the “DIY” category and can be handled by anyone with a basic set of tools and a little know how, but what if you are facing much bigger issues? A flooded basement, severe mold infestation or persistent smoke infiltration? There is no shame in admitting you may need to call in a restoration professional to get you out of a jam. Before you enter into an agreement with restoration contractor, there are a few things you may want to consider. You need to remind yourself that you will be allowing workers into your place of business to perform the work. It would be desirable to find a company that employs trained professionals with substantial experience in the work they are performing. Just because a contractor has made the claim that they are qualified to do the work, does not mean they actually are. In the modern era, it is very easy to falsify information via advertisements and create decoy internet sites. Do your homework.
Is their website legitimate?
We have all heard horror stories about scammers on the internet and people misrepresenting themselves, but the internet has come a long way and it is also the fastest way to find most services, including restoration contractors. One way to quickly determine if the company’s site is legit is to see if includes informative links to the services they provide. Most reputable commercial restoration contractors will offer the following services:
After you have clicked on these links, they should take you to pages that offer informative insight into the type of work this company provides. You also may want to check to see if this company has an online presence with Yelp, Facebook and Google. These sites are a bit harder to falsify.
Read reviews and testimonials
The majority of modern companies have a link on their website that leads to client testimonials. What better way to ascertain if this is the right company for you than reading other clients reports? Also, as mentioned above, most companies have reviews available on Yelp, Facebook and Google. Take a look at these as well. Another thing to look for is if they provide examples of their work.
Give them a call. Ask Questions!
Any professional service provider should know what they are talking about. They will know their company’s history and should be able to answer basic questions about the service they provide.
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is a locally owned and operated franchise. We take pride in our involvement in our community, as well as being a part of an elite nationally recognized restoration service.
We welcome scrutiny and invite you to investigate our claims. If you are needing a reputable and honest fire or water restoration contractor, give us a call today. We would be happy to answer all of your questions and concerns. 503-283-3658
Helping Your Portland Business after a Disaster
2/5/2019 (Permalink)
Until there is a magic button, SERVPRO of NW Portland is here to help your business after a disaster!
As a business owner, your office is one of your company’s most valuable assets. Most companies cannot afford to close for even a few days, so what do you do if your office or storefront is hit with a flood or a fire? Your friends at SERVPRO of Northwest Portland deal with these type of scenarios on a daily basis, and they are your first line of defense in the event of an unfortunate disaster at your place of business.
Here are a few of the services offered by SERVPRO of Northwest Portland:
Water Extraction & Restoration – Water can come in from many sources; a broken pipe, heavy storm, sewer back up and even water used to extinguish a fire. Our crew is highly trained in time honored, IICRC certified drying techniques that are highly regarded throughout the restoration industry.
Mold Remediation – Where there is water and moisture, there is always potential for mold growth. The professionals at SERVPRO are always mindful of this and can help reduce the potential for a mold outbreak in your Portland business after a water loss. You can read more about the different types of mold and its causes HERE.
Fire Restoration – A fire in your place of business can be devastating. Beyond what the fire consumes, it also leaves caustic side effects of smoke damage throughout the surrounding area. After the fire department has extinguished the fire, call us immediately. Our team of experts are ready to help bring your Portland area business to a preloss state, minimizing the time you have to close your doors. Fire restoration is serious business. You can read more about our processes HERE.
Commercial & Residential Cleaning Services
SERVPRO may not be the first name you think of when it comes to cleaning your business, but we employ a full staff of experts who do just that! Our carpet cleaning methods and state of the art equipment is some of the best in the industry. SERVPRO of Northwest Portland is the official cleaning crew for the Portland Timbers and our excellent crew cleans Portland’s iconic Providence Park after every event. We take pride in our cleaning service and it shows.
If you have been putting off that carpet cleaning, give us a call. We’d be happy to make your business sparkle!
This list is not intended to be exhaustive. We also offer bio clean up after a traumatic event as well as garment and document restoration.
Another service that we offer is our Emergency Ready Profile (ERP), which is a free service. You can read more about how this outstanding and intuitive program could protect you and your business HERE.
If your business has suffered a fire or water loss or you have a janitorial need, give us a call today. We are always here to help, 24/7! 503-283-3658
Portland Area Contractors Can Benefit From Our Cleaning Services
10/2/2018 (Permalink)
Got debris? Let SERVPRO of NW Portland take that off your 'to do' list so you and your company can stay busy!
The housing market in the Portland metro area is showing no signs of slowing and new construction has become a constant in the area. Many homeowners are remodeling or rebuilding and new housing is being created at a rapid rate in the city. Contractors have been benefiting greatly by the current state of the housing market in Portland.
Construction and remodeling projects create a lot of debris and the work area may be a dusty and dirty mess after the project has been completed. With everything else on their plate, thoroughly cleaning a job site may be the last thing a busy construction company needs to deal with. This is where SERVPRO of NW Portland can help.
This work can involve much more than cleaning. All debris, boxes, nails, tape and boxes need to be removed. Construction dust will need to be removed and all surfaces thoroughly cleaned. New appliances will then have their protective labels removed and stainless steel surfaces will be polished.
If you are a contractor with a busy schedule and places to go/ people to see, let SERVPRO of NW Portland take cleaning your jobsite off your ‘to do’ list. Give us a call today to discuss our construction cleaning services. 503-283-3658
Restoring your business's documents after a water loss
8/31/2018 (Permalink)
Some of your business's most important documents can be recovered after a flood or water loss! Call SERVPRO of NW Portland today to find out how.
After a water loss disaster, many of your businesses most valuable documents, books, photos and other paper goods are at risk to be lost permanently. SERVPRO of NW Portland can help you restore your most valuable documents using years of experience and state of the art technology. Our franchise has access to one of the best document restoration facilities in the country.
Our Document Restoration Facility:
- Innovative: we use the latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing
- Secure: managed by HIPPA Master-certified technicians, under 24/7 surveillance
- Digital: we use a computerized inventory system for digitizing your documents
- Flexible capacity - we can accommodate large commercial losses or small residential jobs
- Full Service: we offer a range of services including drying, cleaning/disinfecting, re-jacketing, digitizing, and deodorization
Our Technology
Then SERVPRO document restoration team uses innovate vacuum freeze-drying techniques; in fact, we use the same freeze-drying methods used by the Library of Congress to dry valuable historic documents and books. Our vacuum freeze-drying process is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and the General Services Administration (GSA).
Types of content:
- paper documents
- books and magazines
- manuscripts and files
- photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
- x-rays
- blueprints and maps
- parchment
Document Cleaning and Disinfecting
In many water damage situations, like sewage or flood water, documents will be exposed to bacteria, viruses, pesticides, or other harmful chemicals. Our team uses a gamma irradiation process to safely and effectively sterilize your documents.
Digitizing Services
In the digital age, converting your paper files and photos to digital formats can have an invaluable impact on your business or home. With the help of SERVPRO’s restoration professionals to digitize your documents, you can save storage space and have access to your records at the touch of a button. And perhaps most important of all, you’ll have digital copies of your valuable documents that can’t be lost in a flood or fire.
SERVPRO of NW Portland will get the job done right. For document restoration backed by state-of-the-art equipment, over 40 years of experience and Professionals trained to the highest standards, call us today. 503-283-3658
Is Your Portland Business Prepared For Water Damage?
8/3/2018 (Permalink)
Avoid panic by implementing a plan in the event of a water damage emergency!
Dealing with a water damage disaster at your Portland business is never convenient. SERVPRO of NW Portland understands the urgency and sensitivity of this situation. When faced with a potentially door closing flooding disaster, it is important to stay calm, use clear judgment and act FAST. We have put together a few tips that can be helpful in this stressful situation and make the process of restoration go a lot more smoothly.
Stay Prepared
Broken plumbing, sewage backups, and heavy rains can strike at any time. If you have a plan in place for such unfortunate events, it will greatly reduce the panic, stress and pain for everyone involved. Investing in sandbags, air brick protection and back up water pumps could help your business save a lot in the long run. It almost goes without saying, but making sure your insurance policy is up to date is absolutely crucial.
When the flood strikes
There are a number of safety measures you may be able to take during the storm. Floodwater can be very powerful and has the ability to cause bodily harm. Do not attempt to walk through flowing floodwater. Assess the situation and insure that no water has the potential to come in contact with electricity. If it is safely accessible, turn off your main power breaker. Rubber gloves and boots are also a good idea in this situation. If you are not sure of the safe way to proceed, wait for a trained professional to arrive and take the proper measures.
As mentioned before, electricity should be turned off. Additionally, you should be aware of where you main water shut off is located. This will be crucial if the flooding is due to an internal plumbing failure.
After these steps are taken, you should contact your insurance provider and then a reputable and trustworthy restoration company. SERVPRO of Northwest Portland specializes in the cleanup and restoration of both residential and commercial property after a water disaster. 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. Our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. If a water disaster strikes your business, trust the damage restoration industry leader. 503-283-3658
Causes of Commercial Water Damage
3/6/2018 (Permalink)
We hope you never come to work to find this kind of scenario! If you do, you know who to call! SERVPRO of NW Portland. 503-283-3658
When a business owner imagines water damage, their mind might immediately go to a catastrophic storm that takes down trees and power lines, closes blocks of infrastructure and causes business closure. It is true that a good percentage of commercial water loss is caused by heavy rains and storms, particularly here in the wet climate of Portland, but that is far from the only cause of commercial water loss. Here at SERVPRO of NW Portland, we see the full spectrum of water damage on a daily basis. Below are a few common causes of water damage that we’ve seen that can affect your business.
Improperly Functioning Sprinkler System
As buildings age, their fire protection systems can become outdated and worn out. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), your sprinkler system’s internal piping system should be checked every 5 years. NFPA 25 outlines an industry standard inspection schedule. A fire protection system is crucial to any commercial building, but a malfunctioning system can cost your business in both damages, as well as business closures.
Broken Appliances or Equipment
This poses an issue in restaurant or catering industries, but can also affect any facility that uses appliances or tools that utilize water. A failing appliance can cause substantial damage, particularly if it fails on the off hours while your business is closed. A regular inspection of your appliances can save your business a lot of time and money.
Pipes & Plumbing
As in any building, broken and failing plumbing can result in water damage. Older buildings tend to be more susceptible to this sort of damage.
Sewer Line Back Up
We have previously covered some of the causes of sewage back up here. Sewage and other “Black Water” accidents can cause health effects and wreak havoc on your building and the products and furnishings therein. Special equipment and training is necessary when dealing with this sort of commercial water damage. Do not attempt to clean this sort of damage yourself.
If your business has encountered any of these scenarios, especially one that involves Black Water, call the professionals at SERVPRO of NW Portland today. Our team is IIRC certified and can get your business back up and running fast. 503-283-3658
Obtaining an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for your business
2/22/2018 (Permalink)
Is your business prepared for a disaster? Call SERVPRO of NW Portland TODAY to schedule a free assessment of your building. 503-283-3658
Is your Portland business ready for a water or fire damage emergency? The moments immediately following a fire or a flooding or water damage event are the most crucial. Putting an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) into place can make the all the difference. Did you know that SERVPRO of NW Portland can help you put together an ERP free of charge?
Here are a few advantages of the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP):
- This service is provided to you free of charge.
- A compact electronic document containing the critical information necessary in the event of an emergency.
- A guide to help you obtain entrance into your building proceeding a disaster.
- Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration specialist.
- Identifies the line of command for authorization of commencement.
- Provides personnel and staff with pertinent details about the building, such as the location of water and gas main shut of valves, electric breakers as well as emergency contact information.
Contact SERVPRO of NW Portland today to find out more about scheduling an appointment at your facility with one of our qualified representatives. This complimentary assessment of your building will help you and your staff save crucial time in the event of an emergency and establish SERVPRO of NW Portland as your fire and water mitigation provider. 503-283-3658
We Can Restore Your Downtown Portland Business After Water Damage
2/9/2018 (Permalink)
When water disaster strikes your business, call the experts at SERVPRO of NW Porland to make it "Like it never happened."
When flooding or water damage occurs at a commercial property in Portland, many complex scenarios can become a factor, requiring an informed and discretionary reaction. Regardless of the size of the storm or water intrusion, the team at SERVPRO of NW Portland will assess each situation on an individual level with expedience and expertise to identify and isolate the damage. Many times, business can continue in a transitory space while restoration efforts continue at your facility.
Commercial Property Restoration Can Pose Unparalleled Situations
The staff at SERVPRO of NW Portland has received expert training in areas of legality as well as common environmental concerns. Our goal is to perform the restoration work within or as close to your budget as possible. We operate under the understating that time spent restoring your property is time lost for your business and productivity. It is rare to anticipate a business closing disaster, but you can be assured that when and if the time comes, SERVPRO of NW Portland will be your partner on the road to recovery.
SERVPRO of NW Portland is your local commercial and residential water restoration specialist. Our staff is specifically trained in the science of 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. Keep this number handy. 503-283-3658
Meet our staff!
Plan Ahead For Leaks And Prevent Mold Damage In Your Portland Coffee Shop
10/3/2017 (Permalink)
Portland coffee shops are at risk from leaking appliances such as dishwashers, seepage from windows or roofs, or burst pipes.
Prevent Mold Damage
Leaks can happen in any business. Portland coffee shops are at risk from leaking appliances such as dishwashers, seepage from windows or roofs, or burst pipes. After a leak, there is a genuine risk of mold damage, which is something no business owner wants. In particular, there is a risk of mold growing in food storage spaces which could lead to spoilage and the costly loss of your stock. That is why it is important to plan to prevent leaks and therefore mold damage in your business.
Mold damage is unsightly, and naturally, you want to take all the steps you can to prevent it happening in your Portland coffee shop. One way you can plan is by carrying out a risk assessment and putting guidelines in place for what to do in the event of a leak. The sooner you deal with water in your premises, the less chance there is of damp settling in and giving mold a place to grow.
The first step is a risk assessment. SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Profile app is perfect for carrying out a risk assessment. Emergency Ready Plan is free and makes it easy to go through your business and highlight potential risks and problems, and then draw up a plan for what to do in an emergency.
Take a look at all the places water could enter, or leak or spill: Appliances, windows, doors, the basement, sinks, and faucets. Check for leaks or damage, and get necessary repairs done as soon as possible. Get your staff into the habit of cleaning up spills immediately.
Check out where your food is stored and make sure it is dry, so mold cannot form (the spores need moisture to grow). Plan how to keep food safe from damp in the event of a leak, perhaps by moving it to a different location in your store, or even to another location in the area.
SERVPRO is on hand to help dehumidify and dry your premises before mold has the chance to grow. Our IICRC-certified technicians use moisture probes and penetrating moisture meters to look for hidden patches of damp and make sure your premises is thoroughly dry. For help with mold prevention in Concordia, Kenton, Portsmouth, Piedmont and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Northwest Portland at (503) 283-3658 today.
To learn more about the city of Portland visit https://www.portlandoregon.gov/.
Why Portland Restaurants Take on More Water Damage than Other Businesses
9/3/2017 (Permalink)
The ERP Plan Can Reduce Water Damage and Closings for Portland Area Restaurants and Other Businesses
Water, Restaurants, and Damage? Call SERVPRO
Restaurants typically have the highest water consumption of any class of business, leading not only to increased bills but also greater risk of water damage.
Portland restaurants experience small-scale water damage on a much more frequent basis than other local companies, causing minor but still troublesome headaches for the unprepared. While SERVPRO can help with mitigation and restoration services to keep the real impact on your business to a minimum, you should be prepared for the most common issues you may find yourself facing.
Clogged Drains
Whether it is in the restroom or the kitchen, clogged pipes and drains have the potential to cause a lot of water damage to your Portland restaurant very quickly. While establishments with timed faucets are typically resistant to these disasters, troubles can still arise due to carelessness or malfunction. Overflowing sinks and drains spill high volumes of water on the floor, causing permanent damage to flooring materials if not properly drained or cleaned up. Should this issue arise, be sure to shut the water off quickly to prevent further harm.
Burst or Torn Water Lines
Whether the water line is in the structure or an appliance, rips, and holes in pipes and tubes commonly create uncontrollable disasters. While aging kitchen equipment tends to be at the greatest risk, accidents can happen to even the newest and most premium appliances. Be sure to have sealant on-hand to patch up leaks quickly, and contact SERVPRO or an equipment technician as needed for further fixes.
Flooding
Serious flooding can happen to restaurants either from natural disasters or major water leaks, such as a busted water main. When this happens, a fast call to SERVPRO is critical, as calling us without delay ensures that we can find and repair the issue in a timely fashion and mitigate as much damage as possible. These cases typically develop into lengtheir, more challenging restoration processes, especially if we experience additional delays in the mitigation process. Our ERP, Emergency READY Profile Plan can help prevent, or at least mitigate, fire or water damage from closing your restaurant.
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland helps local businesses to survive and overcome even the worst disasters and damages. To enlist our aid, call us around the clock at (503) 283-3658.
Visit the Oregon Zoo for a great day, click.
Freeze Drying Restores Paperwork After Water Damage To Your Portland Law Firm
8/4/2017 (Permalink)
Water damage is one thing no law firm wants to handle.
Water Damaged Documents
Water damage is one thing no law firm wants to handle. It only takes a spell of severe weather, a burst pipe or even a leaking roof to leave your legal firm facing a costly cleanup operation. Even though so much work is performed by computer these days, many law firms still have lots of old paperwork and books that are not in digital form.
When the worst happens, and the books and archives of your Portland law firm suffer water damage, you might think that there is no way to restore them. However, that is not necessarily true. Swift action may be enough to save your valuable documents. That is why we recommend calling SERVPRO immediately, as time is of the essence when dealing with waterlogged paper items.
The first thing our IICRC-certified team does is freeze water damaged paperwork as quickly as possible. Fast freezing prevents further damage and gives the water damage restoration process the greatest chance of success. Next, we ship the books and papers to our restoration facility. We ship them in climate controlled conditions, and carefully log each item so you can relax knowing that your beloved items are in good hands.
We use our freeze drying chamber to carry out water damage restoration on your books and archives. The method is innovative and yet surprisingly simple. We use a powerful vacuum to draw any air out of the chamber. Meanwhile, we heat the chamber slowly to the correct temperature (below 32F). SERVPRO uses the right combination of pressure and temperature to dry materials using a process known as sublimation. We remove the frozen water as gas without it passing through a liquid phase, which means there is no further distortion or water damage to the paper. Freeze drying often eliminates the need for expensive re-binding of books. The process of freeze drying also brings dirt such as mud to the surface and makes it much easier to clean the paper.
Do not despair if your law library or client files are water damaged. Swift action and state of the art freeze drying can save your papers and books and restore them “Like it never even happened.” For help restoring damaged books, call SERVPRO of Northwest Portland at (503) 283-3658 today.
Click here for more about the city of Portland.
Restoring Your Portland Area Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event
9/8/2016 (Permalink)
Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges
Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties in the Portland Area 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. #SERVPRONWPortland #SERVPROLakeOswego #SERVPRO #HereToHelp #LikeItNeverEvenHappened
About SERVPRO of Northwest Portland
SERVPRO of Northwest Portland 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 Friendly and Professional Crew
Certifications
- IICRC Certified Firm
- WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
- ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
- SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
- AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
- RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
- UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
- ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
- CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
24/7 Emergency Service
