Preparing Commercial Properties for Winter Storms: Essential Tips for Businesses

11/2/2024 (Permalink)

Snow, ice, high winds, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on commercial properties

Winter storms can be brutal, and for business owners, the stakes are high. Snow, ice, high winds, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on commercial properties, leading to costly repairs, operational downtime, and safety hazards for employees and customers. Proper preparation before winter hits can save you from dealing with extensive storm damage later on. Here are the essential tips for protecting your commercial property from winter storms, focusing on securing roofs, preventing water damage, and maintaining backup power systems.

1. Secure Your Roof: Protect Your Building from Snow and Ice

The roof is your property’s first line of defense against winter weather. Heavy snow, ice dams, and freezing rain can cause significant damage if your roof isn’t properly secured and maintained. Here’s what you can do:

• Inspect and Repair: Before winter arrives, hire a professional to inspect your roof for loose shingles, damaged flashing, or any signs of wear and tear. Addressing these issues early can prevent leaks and structural damage caused by snow buildup or ice dams.
• Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters are a common cause of roof damage in winter. When snow melts, blocked gutters can lead to ice dams, which prevent water from draining off the roof. This water can then back up into your building, causing leaks and interior damage. Clean your gutters thoroughly and ensure downspouts direct water away from the building’s foundation.
• Invest in Roof De-Icing Solutions: Consider installing roof de-icing cables to prevent ice dams from forming. These cables can keep the edges of your roof warm, allowing snow and ice to melt and flow into the gutters rather than refreezing and causing blockages.
• Snow Removal Plans: If your area regularly experiences heavy snowfall, develop a snow removal plan. Excessive snow accumulation can strain the roof, causing sagging or even collapse. Hire a professional snow removal service to clear your roof safely and prevent damage.

2. Prevent Water Damage: Ice, Snow, and Flooding Risks

Winter storms can bring more than just cold air—they can cause serious water damage. Snow and ice that melt rapidly or storms that bring freezing rain can create major water intrusion issues. Here’s how to prevent water damage:

• Seal Windows and Doors: Inspect windows and doors for gaps or cracks where cold air and moisture could enter. Sealing these openings with caulking or weatherstripping can help keep your property dry and energy-efficient during winter storms.
• Insulate Pipes: Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage in winter. When water freezes in pipes, it expands and can cause them to burst. Insulate exposed pipes, especially in basements, crawl spaces, and areas with minimal heating. If your building will be closed during a winter storm, leave the heat on at a moderate level to prevent freezing pipes.
• Maintain Proper Drainage: Ensure that water can drain away from your property by keeping drains, gutters, and downspouts clear. If water pools around the foundation due to snowmelt or rain, it can cause flooding in basements or lower levels. Consider adding a sump pump if your building is in a flood-prone area.
• Check for Roof Leaks: After significant snowfall or ice accumulation, inspect your roof for any signs of leaks or damage. Addressing a small leak quickly can prevent costly repairs from water damage.

3. Backup Power Systems: Keeping Your Business Running

Power outages are a common side effect of winter storms, and they can bring business operations to a screeching halt. Investing in a reliable backup power system is essential for maintaining productivity and protecting critical equipment:

• Install Backup Generators: A commercial backup generator can keep your essential systems running during a power outage. This includes heating, lighting, security systems, and IT infrastructure. Choose a generator that’s powerful enough to support your business’s most critical needs and have it serviced regularly to ensure it’s ready when you need it.
• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): In addition to a generator, install uninterruptible power supplies for sensitive equipment like servers, computers, and telecommunications systems. UPS devices provide short-term power and protect your equipment from sudden power loss or surges during storms.
• Regularly Test Backup Systems: Backup generators and UPS systems need regular testing to ensure they’ll function properly in an emergency. Schedule routine checks and maintenance to avoid any unpleasant surprises when the next storm hits.
• Create a Contingency Plan: Have a written emergency plan that outlines steps to take during a power outage. This plan should include instructions for contacting your backup power provider, notifying employees, and protecting data and equipment.

4. Winterize Your HVAC System

During the winter, your HVAC system works overtime to keep your building warm and safe. Ensure your system is prepared for the cold by performing the following tasks:

• Schedule a Tune-Up: Before winter arrives, have a professional inspect your HVAC system to make sure it’s operating efficiently. Replace filters, check for leaks, and ensure the heating elements are in good working condition.
• Check for Carbon Monoxide Leaks: Heating systems that burn fuel (such as natural gas or oil) can produce carbon monoxide if they aren’t properly vented. Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your building, and have your system inspected for any leaks that could endanger employees or customers.
• Maintain Proper Ventilation: While keeping your building warm is important, proper ventilation is equally critical to ensure fresh air circulation and prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth.

5. Develop an Emergency Storm Plan

Preparation goes beyond securing your property; you also need to have a clear emergency plan in place to protect your employees and business operations. Here’s what to include:

• Communication Plan: Ensure all employees know how to get updates on closures, power outages, or safety procedures. Assign specific responsibilities to key personnel for managing the response during a storm.
• Emergency Supplies: Stock your property with emergency supplies, such as flashlights, batteries, first-aid kits, blankets, and non-perishable food. In the event of a power outage, these supplies can keep your employees safe until help arrives.
• Property Maintenance Schedule: Create a regular maintenance schedule to ensure your property remains in good condition year-round. This includes roof inspections, HVAC maintenance, and testing backup power systems.

Winter storms don’t have to catch your business off guard. By taking proactive steps to secure your roof, prevent water damage, maintain backup power systems, and prepare your HVAC system, you can protect your property and ensure your business continues to run smoothly throughout the colder months. The time and resources you invest in preparing for winter weather can save you from costly repairs and downtime later on.

If you’re unsure where to start, a professional restoration and property maintenance team can help assess your building’s vulnerabilities and implement the necessary precautions. Don’t wait for the first storm—start preparing your commercial property for winter today!

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Framingham has the advanced training and equipment needed to restore your home and business. Give us a call at (508) 370-4400

Create Your Emergency Kit Today For Your Framingham Business

6/18/2024 (Permalink)

One of the most important steps you can take is to assemble an emergency kit with essential items.

As we enter the season of potential severe weather and emergencies, it's crucial to be prepared. One of the most important steps you can take is to assemble an emergency kit with essential items. This kit should be easily accessible in case of evacuation or other emergencies.

What to Include in Your Emergency Kit:

• Water: One gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
• Non-perishable food: At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food items.
• Medications: A seven-day supply of any prescription medications you or your family members may need.
• Flashlights and batteries: To provide light during power outages.
• First aid kit: Including bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.
• Important documents: Copies of your identification, insurance policies, medical records, and other important documents in a waterproof container.

Additional Items to Consider:

• Cash: In case ATMs and credit card machines are not accessible during an emergency.
• Clothing and blankets: To keep warm in case of evacuation or loss of power.
• Personal hygiene items: Such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and sanitary products.

Keep Your Kit Easily Accessible:

• Store your emergency kit in a designated place that is easy to access in case of evacuation.
• Make sure all family members know where the kit is located.

We are here to help! 

• In the event of an emergency, we are here to assist with cleanup and restoration services.
• Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible.
• Don't wait until it's too late. Take the time to assemble your emergency kit today and ensure you and your family are prepared for whatever comes your way.

Choose the #1 Experts in Cleanup and Restoration for Residential and Commercial Fire, Mold, Water, and Storm Damage. Contact us today! We can assist with your damage and restoration needs in Sudbury MA. 

Preventing Water Damage in Commercial Buildings. Tips for Property Managers in Nobscot, MA

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Framingham is available to assist you in Nobscot, MA, with any water damage restoration needs.

Water damage can be a costly and disruptive issue for commercial buildings, leading to structural damage, mold growth, and business downtime. As a property manager in Nobscot, MA, it's crucial to take proactive steps to prevent water damage and protect your building.

1. Regular inspections are essential. Check your building's plumbing, roof, and foundation for signs of leaks, such as water stains, mold, or dampness. Maintain your roof and gutters to prevent water buildup, ensuring they are in good condition and free of leaks. Clean gutters and downspouts regularly.
2. Monitor water pressure to prevent stress on your plumbing system. Install a pressure regulator to maintain a safe level.
3. Inspect and maintain sprinkler systems if your building has one, ensuring they function correctly and are not blocked or damaged.
4. Check appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, and refrigerators for leaks.
5. Seal windows and doors properly to prevent water intrusion during storms.
6. Consider installing water detection devices in leak-prone areas like basements, mechanical rooms, and bathrooms.
7. Educate tenants about reporting leaks promptly and have a water damage response plan in place.
8. Implement a regular maintenance schedule for plumbing, HVAC systems, and roofs. Address issues promptly to prevent them from becoming larger problems. Following these tips can help prevent water damage and protect your property investment.
   
   
   SERVPRO of Framingham is available to assist you in Nobscot, MA, with any water damage restoration needs.

Service Areas

Framingham, MA | Sudbury, MA | Hopkinton, MA | Ashland, MA | Holliston, MA | Nobscot, MA | Framingham Centre, MA | Saxonville, MA

The Importance of Professional Commercial Restoration Services After Disaster Strikes

3/13/2024 (Permalink)

Professional commercial restoration services are essential for businesses that have suffered damage from a disaster.

In the wake of a disaster, whether it be a fire, flood, or other unforeseen event, commercial properties often face extensive damage that can disrupt business operations and put livelihoods at risk. In such challenging times, professional commercial restoration services play a crucial role in restoring the property and getting businesses back on track in Framingham, MA. Here's why these services are essential:

• Rapid Response and Mitigation: Professional restoration companies understand the urgency of the situation and provide rapid response services to mitigate further damage. They have the expertise and equipment to quickly assess the extent of the damage and take the necessary steps to prevent additional loss.
• Specialized Knowledge and Experience: Commercial restoration requires specialized knowledge and experience. Professional restoration teams are trained in the latest techniques and technologies for restoring commercial properties. They understand the unique challenges that commercial buildings present and know how to address them effectively.
• Comprehensive Services: From water extraction and structural drying to fire damage cleanup and mold remediation, professional restoration companies offer a comprehensive range of services to address all aspects of damage. They have the resources to handle large-scale restoration projects and can coordinate with other contractors as needed.
• Safety and Compliance: Safety is paramount in the restoration process. Professional restoration companies adhere to strict safety protocols to ensure the safety of their workers and occupants of the property. They also comply with all relevant regulations and standards to ensure that the restoration is done correctly.
• Faster Recovery: With professional restoration services, businesses can recover faster from a disaster. These services are geared towards minimizing downtime and getting businesses back up and running as quickly as possible. This can help businesses minimize financial losses and resume normal operations sooner.
• Insurance Claim Assistance: Dealing with insurance claims can be complex and time-consuming. Professional restoration companies have experience working with insurance companies and can assist businesses in documenting the damage and filing claims. This can streamline the process and ensure that businesses receive the compensation they are entitled to.

Professional commercial restoration services are essential for businesses that have suffered damage from a disaster in Sudbury, MA. These services offer rapid response, specialized knowledge, comprehensive services, safety and compliance, faster recovery, and insurance claim assistance. By engaging the services of a professional restoration company, businesses can minimize the impact of a disaster and get back to business as usual sooner.

SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage. We are ready to assist businesses in Framingham, MA | Sudbury, MA | Hopkinton, MA | Ashland, MA | Holliston, MA | Nobscot, MA | Framingham Centre, MA | Saxonville, MA

Does Your Business Have a Fire Evacuation Plan In Framingham MA? 

1/3/2024 (Permalink)

Safety should always be at the forefront of your business priorities in Framingham MA.

In the fast-paced world of business, it's easy to get caught up in the daily grind and overlook crucial aspects of workplace safety.

One such critical component that often takes a backseat is a comprehensive fire evacuation plan. While we hope that disasters never strike, being prepared for the worst can make a significant difference in safeguarding your employees, clients, and assets. Learn the importance of having a fire evacuation plan for your business and the steps you can take to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

The Importance of a Fire Evacuation Plan:

• Protecting Lives and Assets: The primary purpose of a fire evacuation plan is to ensure the swift and safe evacuation of everyone in the building in the event of a fire. Lives are irreplaceable, and having a well-thought-out plan can minimize the risk of injuries or fatalities. Additionally, it helps protect valuable assets and sensitive information that are crucial for the continuity of your business.
• Legal Compliance: Many jurisdictions mandate that businesses have a fire evacuation plan in place. Compliance with local fire safety regulations is not just a legal requirement but also a moral obligation to prioritize the well-being of your employees and visitors. Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in severe consequences, including fines and legal actions.
• Maintaining Business Continuity: While the immediate concern during a fire is the safety of individuals, having a solid evacuation plan can also contribute to maintaining business continuity. A well-prepared plan ensures that essential operations can resume as quickly as possible after the incident, minimizing disruptions and potential financial losses.

Steps to Develop an Effective Fire Evacuation Plan:

• Conduct a Risk Assessment: Start by identifying potential fire hazards within your premises. This could include electrical equipment, flammable materials, or inadequate fire prevention measures. Understanding these risks is the first step in developing a targeted evacuation plan.
• Establish Clear Evacuation Routes: Designate primary and alternative evacuation routes, ensuring that they are well-lit, unobstructed, and easily accessible. Consider the specific needs of individuals with disabilities and make provisions to assist them during evacuations.
• Implement an Emergency Communication System: Establish a robust communication system to alert occupants of a fire promptly. This may include fire alarms, intercoms, or other notification methods. Regularly test and maintain these systems to ensure they function correctly when needed.
• Assign Responsibilities: Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of designated personnel during a fire evacuation. This includes individuals responsible for sounding alarms, guiding occupants to safety, and ensuring a headcount at assembly points.
• Conduct Regular Drills and Training: Practice makes perfect. Conduct fire evacuation drills regularly to familiarize employees with evacuation procedures and exit routes. Provide training on fire safety, including the proper use of firefighting equipment, to empower individuals to respond effectively in an emergency.

A fire evacuation plan is not just a document to be tucked away on a shelf; it's a dynamic and living strategy that can make a significant difference in the face of a crisis. Prioritizing the safety of your employees and visitors through a well-executed plan not only fulfills legal obligations but also reflects a commitment to the well-being of the people who contribute to the success of your business. Take the time to review and update your fire evacuation plan regularly, ensuring that everyone in your organization is prepared to respond swiftly and decisively in the event of a fire emergency.

Remember, safety should always be at the forefront of your business priorities in Framingham MA.

What are the steps for a commercial rebuild in Framingham MA?

3/5/2023 (Permalink)

We service Ashland, Framingham Centre, Framingham, Hopkinton, Nobscot, Saxonville, and Sudbury, MA

Commercial rebuilds can be an exciting and daunting undertaking for any business owner. It can be a chance to revamp your business and take it to the next level, but it requires careful planning and execution. Here are the essential steps you need to follow to ensure a successful commercial rebuild.

Step 1: Define your goals and budget: Determine what changes you want to make and why. This will help you determine the scope of the project and the budget you'll need to allocate. Be realistic with your budget and plan for unexpected expenses.

Step 2: Hire a contractor: You will need to hire an experienced contractor to help you plan and execute the rebuild. Look for professionals with experience in commercial construction, and make sure to check their references and past projects. 

Step 3: Obtain permits and approvals: Before you can start construction, you'll need to obtain the necessary permits and approvals from the local building department. This can be a time-consuming process, so it's important to start early and plan accordingly.

Step 4: Demolition and site preparation: Once you have all the necessary permits and approvals, you can start the demolition and site preparation process. This will involve removing any existing structures and preparing the site for construction.

Step 5: Construction: The construction phase involves building the new structure according to the plans created by your architect. This will include everything from framing and roofing to electrical and plumbing systems. Your contractor will oversee this process and ensure that everything is built to code and on schedule.

Step 6: Inspections and final touches: After construction is complete, your building will need to be inspected to ensure that it meets all safety and building codes. Once the inspections are complete, you can begin adding the final touches, such as flooring, paint, and fixtures.

Step 7: Move-in and reopening

Once the final touches are complete, you can move back into the building and reopen your business. 

Commercial rebuilds require careful planning, budgeting, and execution. By following these essential steps, you can ensure a successful rebuild that meets your goals and exceeds your expectations. With the help of experienced professionals, you can transform your business and take it to the next level.

We service Ashland, Framingham Centre, Framingham, Hopkinton, Nobscot, Saxonville, and Sudbury, MA

SERVPRO Of Framingham is The #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration for residential and commercial buildings’ fire, mold, water, and storm damage. 

SERVPRO of Framingham Explains Commercial Rebuilding Services

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Framingham is your one-stop shop for commercial construction. The last thing you want to worry about.

SERVPRO of Framingham is your one-stop shop for commercial construction. The last thing you want to worry about when you have a need for reconstruction is contacting and managing multiple repair crews.

We will work with your insurance company to restore your commercial property to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Our goal is to complete your commercial restoration project on time and within the budget with as little downtime to your business as possible.

We have a competent and experienced team that believes in delivering quality workmanship. Our full-service process includes: inspection and estimating, mitigation, restoration, and reconstruction. 

Why choose us:

1. Single Contact
2. Expedited Restoration Process
3. Quality Workmanship
4. SERVPRO’s Clean Build Technology
5. On-Time & On-Budget
6. Easier Insurance Claims Process

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Framingham, MA
• Sudbury, MA
• Hopkinton, MA
• Ashland, MA
• Holliston, MA
• Nobscot, MA
• Framingham Centre, MA
• Saxonville, MA
• Woodville, MA
• Hayden Row, MA

SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Framingham Helps Commercial Buildings With Restoration 

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Framingham has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial cleaning and restoration present unique challenges. You need a company that provides excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Framingham has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

We can help: 

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

We serve commercial damages in the following areas:

• Sudbury, MA
• Hopkinton, MA
• Ashland, MA
• Holliston, MA
• Nobscot, MA
• Framingham Centre, MA
• Saxonville, MA
• Woodville, MA
• Hayden Row, MA
•  Framingham, MA

SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Framingham Helps Commercial Industries

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

With more than 50 years of experience, we’ve earned the reputation as a trusted leader in the restoration industry and specialize in fire

Your commercial property says a lot about you to potential clients and customers. You want to build trust and present your business or public space as a safe, clean place to be.

With more than 50 years of experience, we’ve earned the reputation as a trusted leader in the restoration industry and specialize in fire and water damage, specialty cleaning, mold, and so much more.

Our highly-trained professionals understand your need to keep business going, even after an emergency. That’s why we offer flexible solutions, working after hours or around the clock to complete your restoration project.

In many cases, SERVPRO can clean up in a way that the damaged space can be safely isolated from functional space so that normal operations can proceed around the cleanup. This minimizes the downtime you have for your facility.

We’re Faster to any size disaster™ providing 24/7 emergency service.

SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”

Why SERVPRO of Framingham is the Restoration Company To Call

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Framingham understands that having your building damaged from mold, fire, water, or storms can leave a lasting impression.

SERVPRO of Framingham understands that having your building damaged from mold, fire, water, or storms can leave a lasting impression. 

You have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers.

We are uniquely qualified to help you get your property restored efficiently. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages.

SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with water damage. “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Framingham Responses to Emergency Claims

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Restoring your commercial property is our first priority.

Restoring your commercial property is our first priority. Your customer will appreciate the immediate response and you will feel relieved knowing you are in good hands. SERVPRO of Framingham helps with: 

• Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense: Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. 
• Claims Inventory Service: We provide an itemized loss inventory. 
• Electronic Claims Information: Our Claims Information Center provides fast, accurate information you need to make decisions, including A Complete Electronic Job File, First Notice of Loss, Detailed Estimate, Digital Loss Photos, Scanned Forms, and Paperwork, Job Cost Data, and more. 

SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”

What Are The Common Causes of Commercial Building Fires?

3/5/2022 (Permalink)

Many cases of commercial fires are the result of human error, so it is important to educate yourself to help prevent it as best as you can.

What Are The Common Causes of Commercial Building Fires?

Whenever a fire arises, it is important to take care of people such as employees first. 

Many cases of commercial fires are the result of human error, so it is important to educate yourself to help prevent it as best as you can. 

Arson: This is the leading cause of damages from a fire in a workplace setting. This is instigated by the owner for the hope of collecting insurance on a failing business. 

Human Errors: This can happen when there is poor judgment in the workplace such as leaving a cigarette unattended or even leaving the coffee pot on. It is important to take note of these items. 

Apparatus: There are strict codes regulating the installation and maintenance of water heaters, boilers, and furnaces. The mishandling of installation and the lack of maintenance can ignite a fire. 

Electrical Fires: These are responsible for many building fires and are usually the result of the misuse of an appliance. An appliance is used for a purpose than what it was designed for setting the stage for a disaster. 

SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”

Choose SERVPRO of Framingham for Your Next Commercial Construction Project

3/5/2022 (Permalink)

While running the daily functions of your business, the last thing you want to worry about is when you have a need for restoration or reconstruction.

While running the daily functions of your business, the last thing you want to worry about when you have a need for restoration or reconstruction is contacting multiple repair crews.

We’ll work with your insurance company to restore your commercial property. Our goal is to complete your commercial restoration project on time and within the budget with as little downtime to your business as possible.

Here are just a few reasons to choose us: 

Single Contact: Seamless communication is the key to any successful business restoration project. We will be there from start to finish to ensure it is done efficiently and professionally. 

Expedited Restoration Process: We are a one-stop-shop. Construction will go much quicker due to our ability to coordinate construction work at the same time we’re mitigating. 

Quality Workmanship: You will be proud of the results we deliver because our passion is to give you quality workmanship.

Clean Build Technology: We offer premium services using EPA-registered products for dust control, viral pathogen protection (including COVID-19), and other contaminants.

On-Time & On-Budget: Our professional construction service providers work with your insurance company to restore your commercial property.

Easier Insurance Claims Process: We will help you navigate the insurance claims process and coordinate the necessary paperwork for a quicker, easier experience.

SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with the restoration or reconstruction of commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.” 

SERVPRO of Framingham Helps Restore Your Commercial Property After a Fire

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Fire can do a lot of damage to businesses by far. In fact, most businesses that suffer a large fire simply never reopen their doors again.

Fire can do a lot of damage to businesses by far. In fact, most businesses that suffer a large fire simply never reopen their doors again.

Businesses may be impacted by a disaster such as a tornado or flooding, at some point or another. 

With proper clean-up and repairs, a business can open the doors and start connecting with customers again. 

Heat and smoke damage from a fire can destroy structures, and make the building dangerous and unsafe. It is vital to call experts as soon as possible, so you can restore your building in a timely and efficient manner. 

SERVPRO of Framingham has a 24-hour response team. We are able to begin work immediately, so your business time doesn’t need to be down for long periods of time. 

Our experts will assess the damage then begin work and start planning for the clean-up. This involves the smoke and fire damage; we also remove the water and foam that will have been used by the fire service to extinguish the blaze.

We will work with you to restore your commercial premises back to a fully functioning business environment as quickly and efficiently as possible. 

SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial fire damage. “Like it never even happened.” 

Top Five Things To Prepare For In A Business Disaster in Framingham

7/10/2021 (Permalink)

If you are in need of creating an Emergency Readiness Plan, contact us directly for NO CHARGE. We would be honored to help you set up your plan should

No matter what disaster your business may face, here are five simple ways you can prepare before, during, and after a natural disaster.

1. Create an emergency operations plan: If a natural disaster struck your business, what would happen in the hours that follow? Who would be in charge? Would employees be allowed to work remotely? There are so many critical questions to ask. 

You will want to create an Emergency Readiness Plan for your business. As you draft your plan, make sure it addresses the following areas:

• Outline a way to communicate and make sure the contact information you have with each employee is updated.
• If a natural disaster occurs while at work, does everyone know how to safely evacuate the building? 

2. Back up important data: No matter what your business is you will want to safely store important business paperwork. Put paperwork in an off-site location and make copies as needed. Don’t forget about the benefits of being in the cloud either. 
   
   
3. Meet with an insurance advisor:  It’s wise to meet with your insurance advisor and review your company’s existing coverage. You may find you need to invest in additional coverage depending on the area where you conduct business.
   
   
4. Maintain communication: It is important to communicate with employees, clients, and customers. Your plan should detail how communication will be maintained during the disaster and its aftermath.
   
   
5. 5. Regroup in your community: Small businesses impacted by a natural disaster generally do not come out of it as though nothing has happened. It may take business longer to rebuild. For some small businesses, a natural disaster is enough to close business entirely. If your business is back up and running, now is the time to offer a helping hand to other businesses.
   

If you are in need of creating an Emergency Readiness Plan, contact us directly for NO CHARGE. We would be honored to help you set up your plan should a disaster strike. 

SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and help you with commercial damage. “Like it never even happened.”

June is National Safety Month in Framingham

6/6/2021 (Permalink)

National Safety Month is celebrated in June. This is when people focus on how to keep their environment safe and danger-free in the workplace

National Safety Month is celebrated in June. This is when people focus on how to keep their environment safe and danger-free in the workplace. It is a time to reflect on how to create a safer environment for business owners and employees. By learning about safety methods, it can help increase pressure on employers to offer a safer working environment.

HOW TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH

Conduct a fire drill: Taking precautionary measures can prevent severe damage if a fire were to happen. It is a great time to conduct a fire drill. Select a safety point that's close to your business and test your fire alarms to perform the drill.

Update your first-aid kit: Keep an updated first aid kit and stock it with dressings, bandages, tape, ointments, wipes, aspirin, gloves, scissors, and gauze pads. 

WHY NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH IS IMPORTANT

It focuses on all aspects of employee health and safety, instead of focusing on a single workplace hazard, the National Safety Council selects four different types of health and safety issues each year.

It offers safety tips for everyday life and it teaches us to be proactive when it comes to anticipating potential disasters. This is something that you can implement at your workplace to make it safer. 

SERVPRO of Framingham is available 24/7 including holidays and weekends to assist you and get your business back to “Like it never even happened.” 

How To Fix A Commercial Toilet

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial toilets in Framingham, MA, are quite different from the ones in your home. Bathrooms meant for public use typically use a tank-less type of flushing system called a flushometer. These types tend to prevent a toilet overflow more effectively than toilets with a tank, but there are also some disadvantages.

Advantages And Disadvantages

The flushometer has some benefits compared to the tank type:

1. No time is required to fill a tank.
2. The high pressure of the water cleans the bowl better.
3. The force of the water dislodges all but the worst clogs.

One disadvantage is that it requires a larger than normal water supply line to function. Another is that it can spread germs more easily due to a phenomenon called a toilet plume. However, if they break and cause an overflow, you need a licensed commercial plumber to inspect the damage, fix the valve, and clean up any sewer water that spilled out.

How a Flushometer Works

In a typical toilet, when you depress the handle, gravity causes the tank to empty, pulling the water in the bowl down through suction. This works very well in most cases, but it does tend to clog if there is a lot of bulk in the bowl, potentially causing a toilet flood.

The flushometer system has no tank, helping to prevent toilet overflow. When the handle is depressed, it lifts a gasket that’s keeping the water pressure balanced inside the mechanism, creating a sudden, large pressure differential. This causes a blast of clean water to create the siphon necessary to flush the bowl.

How To Fix a Flushometer

If the flushometer won’t shut off, you’ll need to manually close the valve to the toilet. There will either be a slot for a flat-blade screwdriver or a hexagonal head that requires a wrench.
However, there’s also a hexagonal head on top of the mechanism. Don’t open this while trying to stop a toilet from running! The shut-off valve will always face horizontal, not vertical. Once this is turned off, you have time to call a professional who can fix the mechanism.

The flushometer system is very low maintenance and helps prevent a toilet overflow. Once you’ve learned how to shut off the water flow in an emergency, it should give you many years of trouble-free use.

Commercial Restoration for your business in Framingham, MA

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

If you find yourself in need of commercial restoration to your home or business, give SERVPRO of Framingham, MA a call.

Commercial cleaning and restoration can be very tough, stressful, and annoying. You need a company that provides excellent results while minimizing the disruption to your clients. The last thing that we want to do is take away business, we work efficiently to restore in a timely matter. 

When the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Framingham has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

We can help any commercial business such as Small Office Buildings, Apartment Buildings, Restaurants, Hotel/Motels, Small Retail Stores, Manufacturing & Industrial, and Government/Military. No matter if you need water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, or storm damage clean up you can count on SERVPRO of Framingham, MA

We are available 24 hours a day to get your Framingham business back up and running. When the dirt, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you need SERVPRO of Framingham. 

If you find yourself in need of commercial restoration to your home or business, give SERVPRO of Framingham, MA a call at (508) 370-4400, we respond faster to any size disaster. 

We Handle Any Size Disasters

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage can cause significant problems for your Framingham, MA business. from the devastating consequences of a fire disaster. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the top five causes of fires in commercial facilities are issues with cooking equipment, heating units, electrical/lighting issues, smoking materials, and intentional fire starting.  

SERVPRO of Framingham understands the function, size, and complexity differences in commercial fire losses.  We provide commercial restoration services for fire-damaged structures, affected tenants, and contents.  This includes  coordinating services among property owners and/or property managers, carrier representatives, and associated professionals engaged in the decision making process.  Our Disaster Remediation Teams are efficient at receiving timely approval of workflow through decision-makers throughout the entire project lifecycle. Equally important is having access to and using the correct tools and equipment required to successfully complete a commercial remediation project. Commercial losses can require large-format desiccant dehumidifiers, portable dehumidifiers, and various heating and cooling units.  This type of equipment is used to focus on temperature and humidity control.  In addition, it may be necessary to use various extraction units, generators, power distribution devices, lighting, air movers, and air filtration devices. Additionally, the use of monitoring, cleaning, and deodorization devices are critical due to the size and scope of most commercial remediation projects.  In some cases, aerial work platforms, scaffolding, and material handling equipment may be required.

Regardless of the size and scope of your commercial remediation needs, the Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are here to help. Contact the commercial remediation experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400!  We have the resources to make it, "Like it never even happened."

Flooding In Your Store

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

A pipe bursting in the bathroom of your Hopkinton, MA retail shop can have a significant impact on your business. If the pipe burst outside regular business hours, it may be some time before you become aware of the issue. It is crucial to work immediately to mitigate as much damage as possible. 

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham move quickly to restore your  commercial property after water damage occurs. If it is safe to do so you should shut off the water main and begin to mop up whatever water you can. Mopping is especially essential to minimize the risk of secondary damage, such as loose floor tiles or hazardous mold infestations. 

Our Disaster Remediation Teams are on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including holidays so we are truly, "Faster To Any Size Disaster"! Once onsite our project managers will assesses the damage to the structure, materials, and merchandise within your store. Then, they will develop a plan for fast and effective removal of all excess moisture from within the establishment while ensuring minimal disruption to your normal business operations.

Our certified technicians will remove the merchandise from impacted areas to ensure that excess moisture and humidity do not damage items that sustained no initial damage. These undamaged items should be kept in a safe, dry place. Damaged items should be inventoried with details for insurance purposes before removal. 

They will place high-velocity air movers and industrial-strength dehumidifiers throughout the impacted area. These tools pull excess moisture from the materials, contents, and air within the room. The dehumidifying process stops when RH levels are under 60 percent, and the contents are dry. The water damaged areas will and the relative humidity (RH) will be restored to preloss conditions.

Regardless of the size and scope of your commercial remediation needs, the Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are here to help. Contact the commercial remediation experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400!  We have the resources to make it, "Like it never even happened."

Sprinklers Save Lives But Also Cause Water Damage

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Sprinkler systems are required to be installed in commercial and industrial buildings. During a fire disaster they save lives and help to limit the damage to the structure. Unfortunately they also cause significant water damage when putting out the fire or should the system malfunction.

When working properly, they are activated by heat. When the heat from a fire reaches between 135 and 165 degrees the mercury liquid filled bulb bursts allowing the water to flow through the sprinkler head. Sometimes the bulb or head malfunctions, burst allowing the flow of water through the system even without a fire raging. Failures occur with sprinkler heads commonly when the line freezes from cold weather or the head gets hit or pulled on by something.

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are here to help. Whatever the cause of your sprinkler system activating, contact the commercial remediation experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400!  We will make it, "Like it never even happened."

We Fix Roofs

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

High winds can kick up loose debris, creating holes in a rooftop or loosening shingles. When that happens, water penetrates and a roof leak becomes a serious problem. When the roof of your Bellingham, MA commercial property is in need of repair call the full service experts at SERVPRO of Framingham. 

Our Rebuild Team will repair your roof before further damage to your commercial property happens. We will:

Evaluate the Situation

We will assess the situation to determine first, if unknown, the cause of the damage. Our skilled craftsmen will determine the high risk areas in need of immediate attention. If necessary we will tarp the area to prevent any further damage. We will also test for any signs of internal water and mold damage.

Attend to the Found Issues

If we determine that water and/or mold damage exists our Disaster Remediation Team will work alongside of our Rebuild Team to remove all wet material. because it harbors germs. This includes carpeting, baseboards, drywall and ceiling tiles. If necessary drying equipment will be installed to completely dry the affected areas. Lastly, we will apply antimicrobial spray.

Replace Ruined Materials

Once again our teams will work together to identify all damaged to the structure and reinforce the damaged roof area. You will have the piece of mind knowing that not only has the damage to your roof been properly repaired, but also, all secondary water or mold damage has been professionally removed too! 

Before the damaged roof of your Bellingham, MA commercial property causes costly irreplicable harm to your business call the full service experts of SERVPRO of Framingham at (508) 370-4400 today!

Helping Business Reopen

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

The COVID-19 pandemic has temporarily shuttered the doors of many businesses across the nation. As states reopen in stages, the top priority for business owners is to take all necessary precautions to protect the health and safety of employees and customers. That will require both ensuring that your facility is cleaned and disinfected, but also that you have procedures in place to keep it that way once your business resumes operations.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Building

You should follow your state’s and the CDC guidelines on commercial cleaning and disinfecting. To do your own cleaning, you’ll need to have the right equipment, supplies and PPE for your staff. Identify the high-touch surfaces and heavy-use areas of your facility. Also, you will  need to develop clear procedures and training for your staff so that they stay safe and can continue keeping your building clean and disinfected as business operations ramp up.

SERVPRO of Framingham offers our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned for commercial facilities. With decades of biohazard cleanup experience, we are experts at following CDC protocol. We are ready with the equipment, staff and knowledge to thoroughly clean and disinfect your building for your employees’ and customers’ safety. Our Cleaning Protocol Specialist will evaluate your needs and create a tailored program for your property. We even certify your facility as Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

General Reopening Tasks

While safety remains everyone’s top priority, it’s also important to evaluate your business property and determine how to effectively reopen. Although some businesses such as restaurants and medical facilities may require special reopening tasks, these steps will help the return go smoothly for most businesses.

Assess Your Property

Designate a key employee to return to the facility before reopening to assess conditions, document damages and report back to management. 

• Inspect the property’s perimeter for signs of trespassing and damage to the property and structure.
• Look for signs of rodent and insect infestation.
• Inspect the plumbing and turn on the water supply line to individual fixtures such as sinks and toilets.
• Check HVAC air filters and replace if necessary.
• If there were any severe weather events during the temporary closure, inspect the roof for signs of damage or pooling water.
• Ensure that the fire protection system (smoke detectors, sprinklers) is in proper working condition.

Address Any Damage

• Report damage and/or related expenses to your insurance company.
• Hire a licensed contractor to repair any damage.

Notify Service Providers and Partners That You Are Reopening

• Fire and security alarm monitoring companies
• Police department 
• Insurance company
• Cleaning and landscaping services
• Customers and clientele

Upon Reopening

• Review equipment/machinery startup plan with all employees.
• Instruct employees to inspect their workspaces, tools, equipment and/or machinery used in their daily routine and report any damage to management.
• Meet with all staff to review the reopening and compile a log of actions to be taken. 

While the administration continues to work with communities to implement best practices and protocols we will continue to share with you guidance from the CDC, FDA, OSHA and the Governor's office to follow as we prepare for reopening. Also, we at SERVPRO of Framingham know that not every business has access to the resources necessary to meet these strict guidelines. For those businesses, we are here to help!

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Framingham are specialists in cleaning services and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work of "normal, everyday cleaning". Call SERVPRO of Framingham today for a free consultation - (508) 370-4400.

All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!

Here To Help

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

These are difficult times we find ourselves in. The impacts to our clients and communities are unprecedented! The best course of action for us all to take is to be as informed as we can at this time. We at SERVPRO of Framingham plan on doing our part to keep our clients and communities informed. 

According to the CDC, at this time, "The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus." The CDC recommends the following steps to take to protect yourself;

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19 is spreading in your community. This is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.

For more information on COVID-19 and how best to protect yourself and others around you visit the Centers for Disease Control website. 

All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together!

OSHA COVID-19 Guidance

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO of Framingham understand the severity of our current situation and the impact it has had to our lives. Our daily reality has been turned upside down and sideways. Parents and school administrations have united to ensure that our children remain safe and continue to learn outside of the classroom. The need for social distancing has forced communities, governments and businesses to make difficult, but necessary decisions.  For businesses those decisions range from temporarily closing their doors to working virtually. However, there are essential businesses, like supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, where temporarily closing and working virtually are not options. It is paramount that employers in such businesses take the necessary steps to ensure both customer and employee safety. To help create safe environments OSHA has created guidelines for preparing workplaces for COVID-19. Along with information on COVID-19 itself and how an outbreak could affect the workplace OSHA has classified the levels of risk inherent to various jobs and the steps to take to protect your constituents. Click, here, to download a copy.

For more information on COVID-19 and how best to protect yourself and others around you visit the Centers for Disease Control website. 

If your residential or commercial property needs preventative deep cleaning services, call the experts at SERVPRO of Framingham today – (508) 370 - 4400

All of us here at SERVPRO of Framingham want you and your loved ones to stay safe and know that we will make it through this together! 

Protecting Your Commercial Assets

2/5/2020 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes are a leading source of Framingham, MA commercial property damage during severe winter weather. If a pipe freezes and then bursts in your office, restaurant, warehouse or other commercial building, your business can suffer water damage costing tens of thousands of dollars—which can put you out of operation for days or weeks. According to Disaster Safety business owners can reduce your risk of winter water damage by taking these eight steps.

1. Keep the Cold Out

Seal windows, doors and other openings on exterior walls with caulk or insulation to prevent cold air from penetrating the wall cavity.

Seal all wall cracks and penetrations including domestic and fire protection lines, electrical conduit and other utility service lines.

Insulate and seal attic penetrations, such as partition walls, vents, plumbing stacks, and electric and mechanical chases.

Insulate recessed light fixtures in the ceiling to reduce heat entering the attic. Look for visible light inside the attic, and if present, insulate or seal. (If the space above a suspended ceiling is conditioned, there is no need for added insulation or sealing.)

2. Keep Your Pipes Warm

Insulate the pipes most vulnerable to freezing by using foam pipe insulation that wraps around them.

3. Install an Automatic Excess Flow Switch

Install an automatic excess flow switch on the main incoming domestic water line to monitor and provide early detection of a broken pipe or valve. Use wireless sensors near water sources.

4. Monitor Your Sprinkler Systems

Monitor your building’s sprinkler systems using a central station to provide early detection of a pipe failure. Heat your sprinkler control rooms.

5. Provide Backup Power

Install a reliable backup power source, such as a stand-by generator, to ensure continuous power and heat to your building. When a winter storm or cold spell is on the way, stock up on fuel for the generator.

6. Install a Temperature Monitoring System

Install a monitoring system that will notify you if the building’s temperature drops below a certain temperature. Set your thermostat to 55 degrees F or above.

7. Have a Disaster Recovery Expert on Call

Before a water disaster happens is the best time to research local companies, like SERVPRO of Glastonbury/Wethersfield, who will respond immediately and handle your building’s damage remediation from start to finish—getting you back to work as soon as possible.

8. Keep Water Running During a Deep Freeze

Set your faucets to drip during extreme cold weather. This will help prevent freezing of the water inside pipes, and if freezing does occur, will relieve pressure in the pipes between the ice blockage and the faucet.

If your business suffers a water disaster from a frozen pipe that bursts, call SERVPRO of Framingham today at 508-370-4400

Cost of Flood Insurance is a Drop in the Bucket

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

As we are entering Hurricane season, here are a few things Commercial Property owners should keep in mind.  Even if your property is not located in a flood zone, it could still be vulnerable to water damage.

Always opt for flood insurance.  Whether your business or property is large or small, on the coast or inland, water will always find a way!  According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, more that 20% of flood claims occur outside the high-risk flood zones.

Understand the policy and your risks!  It is so important to know exactly what you’re covered for and what will be deemed as out of pocket.  Read carefully through the policy now and not during a time of crisis.

Take action.  The longer you wait, the more likely there will be damage.  Don’t wait for insurance adjusters to arrive.  Call SERVPRO of Framingham 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.  We’ll take the proper and immediate action to restore your property “Like it never even happened.”

Blackstone Acquires Majority Stake in SERVPRO

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO and Blackstone (NYSE:BX) announced today that private equity funds managed by Blackstone (“Blackstone”) have recapitalized SERVPRO, a leading franchisor of residential and commercial property damage restoration services. Blackstone is acquiring a majority stake in SERVPRO as part of Blackstone’s Core Private Equity strategy, which is designed to hold investments for longer periods of time than traditional private equity. The Isaacson family will be re-investing alongside Blackstone and will continue to be significant shareholders in the business going forward.  Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 1967 by the Isaacson family, SERVPRO is a leading national franchisor, providing services in both residential and commercial property mitigation, restoration and reconstruction following damage related to water, fire, mold or storm activity. Since its founding, SERVPRO has now grown to over 1,700 franchisees in the United States and Canada. 

Rick Isaacson, SERVPRO CEO, said, “We are thrilled about this long-term investment from Blackstone and the strategic benefits its global platform can provide the company, our franchisees, and our customers. SERVPRO was founded over 50 years ago with the vision of becoming the premier cleaning and restoration company, and we believe this partnership with Blackstone is a vital next step towards this goal.”

Peter Wallace, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone, said, “We are excited to make this investment and join together with the Isaacsons and the SERVPRO team as long-term growth partners. We believe the additional capital and extensive network of relationships that Blackstone can bring to bear will benefit not only SERVPRO, but its more than 1,700 franchisees and its customers.”

David Kestnbaum, Managing Director at Blackstone, said, “SERVPRO is a high-quality company with a strong management team and great long-term prospects. We look forward to working with SERVPRO and its franchisees to help fuel the business’ next phase of growth.  As one of the largest owners of residential, office, retail, hotel, and industrial real estate in the world, Blackstone has unique expertise and insights into a broad array of properties that are relevant to SERVPRO.”

Harris Williams is acting as financial advisor to SERVPRO with respect to the transaction and Bass, Berry & Sims PLC is acting as SERVPRO’s legal counsel. Jefferies, Credit Suisse, and Deutsche Bank Securities provided debt financing for the transaction and served as financial advisors to Blackstone. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett is acting as Blackstone’s legal counsel. 

Maintaining Your Commercial Property

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

With yearly returns falling between 6-12% of purchase price, commercial property is one of the best investments available today. An investment that profitable commands an extremely high time commitment. Moreover, if you own multiple properties, the time it takes to maintain all of those properties is all but impossible for one person to handle alone. At best, it’s like adding an additional full-time job to your current list of time commitments. At worst, it will completely overrun your life. Here’s some of the best and most time-effective ways to maintain the value of your commercial property.

1: Keep Your Tenants Happy

Tenants are the single most important aspect of your commercial property investment. A property without tenants is always doomed to lose money. It stands to reason, then, that keeping your tenants happy is the first step towards a successful investment.

2: Keep the Building Safe

Keep communication channels with your tenants open. If tenants always know that they can get a hold of you when something goes wrong, they will be more confident doing business with you.

3: Keep It Clean

Nothing will ruin someone’s opinion of a property faster than filth and clutter. Your property is likely the face of your tenants’ businesses. If it’s messy and poorly maintained, their clients will become dissatisfied, which will ultimately fall back on you.

4: Maintain and Upgrade Your Property

Commercial property maintenance involves more than just vacuuming floors and wiping down windows. In fact, there are hundreds of things that you must do to keep a building maintained: check the roof for leaks, ensure that all fire and emergency equipment is functional and up to code, keep the air intake clean, and much more.

5: Invest in Efficiency

Making your building more green both maintains and increases its value. The gold standard for green buildings today comes from LEED certification. LEED stands for “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.” Buildings that are LEED certified demonstrate more environmental consciousness and energy efficiency than normal buildings.

Commercial Fire Alarm Systems

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial properties are held to a high level of maintenance to ensure safety of all occupants. These buildings include:

• Office Buildings – including serviced offices.
• Industrial Buildings – warehouses, distribution centers and garages.
• Retail/Restaurants – includes shopping centers, leisure facilities and pubs.
• Other non-residential properties such as entertainment venues, hotels, nursing homes, medical and self-storage complexes, as well as many more

Legal requirements for commercial fire alarm systems

As you can imagine, there is a lot more legislation concerning the installation, placement, testing and maintenance to regulate fire alarms in commercial premises than in residential buildings. British Standards provide guidelines that should be complied with and failure to do so is seen as a breach of a responsibility towards safety and can be punishable by law.

Fire alarms systems play such a key safety role in commercial buildings and there are a lot of lives potentially at steak. If the fire alarm systems are not sufficient then harsh penalties can be given, including hefty fines and in the case of extreme negligence, this can even result in imprisonment if lives are lost as a result of an ineffective approach to fire safety.

In addition if a fire does occur on a commercialproperty,insurance policies may be voided if it can be proved that the fire alarm and smoke detectors were ineffective. Be sure to test your alarms!!

How Does Commercial Insurance Work?

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Your insurance policy will cover certain perils, which are causes of damage such as fire or theft. Coverages included in your policy are called inclusions, whereas perils not covered in your policy are called exclusions. It’s important to know what is covered in your policy and what is not covered.

Here are some of the primary items covered in a commercial property insurance policy due to loss from a covered peril:

• The building, owned or leased
• Business equipment loss
• Damage or loss due to wind, hail, fire or theft
• Accidental damage of property
• Business Interruption (lost business income)
• Electronic data
• Interruption of computer operations
• Valuable papers and records
• Forgery or alteration
• Accounts receivable

Of the covered items in a commercial property insurance policy, the most important items to cover are the building and the business’ assets contained within it. Business interruption, which covers a loss of income when your business is forced to suspend operations due to a covered event, is also necessary coverage in the property insurance policy.

For more information, reach out to your local insurance provider.

How to Prevent Commercial Fire Sprinklers from Freezing

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

Mineral fiber insulation is one of the primary ways to reduce the risk of sprinkler system from freezing. Although insulation alone may not prevent freezing when temperatures are cold enough for an extended period, properly installed insulation can significantly reduce the chance of sprinkler systems freezing.

A basic knowledge of heat flow will make clear how insulation is used to reduce the chance of sprinkler pipes freezing, according to the Insulation Institute.

How Heat Flow Works

Heat moves from warm areas to cold areas, and insulation slows the flow of heat. Insulation does not stop heat flow, so it is important that the pipes are installed in areas within or close to the heated part of the building and insulation is placed between the sprinkler system pipes and the colder outside.

Insulation’s property to slow heat flow is expressed as R-value. The greater the R-value the greater the ability to slow heat flow. It is important that the heating system remains on to supply heat to the building. If the heating system fails and the temperature goes below freezing for a long enough time the heat in the water will move to the colder areas and the pipes may freeze.

Another strategy to reduce the chance of pipes freezing is to use “heat tracing,” which is a flexible electric resistance heating element typically controlled by a thermostat, which is wrapped around the pipe to supply heat when needed, but this will not help when the electric power is out.

Options for Using Insulation to Reduce Freezing

Properly installed mineral fiber insulation is a practical method to reduce the chance of wet pipe systems (or those that always contain water) from freezing. Below are illustrations to show some possible designs for insulation systems for fire sprinkler systems which contain water. Note there are many other acceptable systems which will reduce the chance of sprinkler systems freezing and the systems shown are not guaranteed to prevent pipes from freezing.

Why Should you have your Commercial HVAC System Cleaned?

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Why should you have your HVAC system cleaned?

NADCA addresses this question in a short simple answer: because they get dirty over time and they have the potential to contain large amounts of dust and particulates.

Energy Savings

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling is wasted. Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause it to work harder and shorten the life of your system. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through normal use. When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-

Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is one concern that building managers and building inhabitants have when they decide to investigate HVAC system. Through normal occupation in a building, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants, such as dander, dust, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this re-circulation causes a build-up of contaminants in the ductwork.

While a contaminated HVAC system doesn't necessarily mean unhealthy air, the situation may be contributing to larger health issues or harboring contaminants that could cause serious problems for people with respiratory health conditions, autoimmune disorders or some environmental allergies.

Understanding Your Commercial Insurance Policy

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

According to the Insurance Information Institute, for small businesses without specialized risks, a Business Owners Policy—or BOP—may offer the basic property and liability coverage that you need. But if your company is growing in size and complexity—or you face specialized risks due to the nature of your business—you may want to consider purchasing a Commercial Package Policy, or CPP for short.

Customized insurance under one policy

Like a BOP, a CPP enables you to bundle various types of coverage within a single policy. However, while a BOP has limitations—it is only available for certain types of smaller businesses and covers only a few types of risk—Commercial Package Policies are available for a wide range of businesses, and can be better customized to the specific needs of your business. Most CPPs begin with:

• Property insurance- Covers damage or destruction of buildings, equipment, inventory and more.
• General liability insurance- Covers costs if someone is injured at your business or from using your product or service.

From there, you can add a range of coverages to your CPP, including:

• Business income insurance- Also known as business interruption insurance, this replaces lost revenues and covers extra expenses in the event that your business has to shut down or relocate due to fire, wind damage or other covered losses.
• Business vehicle (or fleet) insurance- Covers vehicles owned and used by your business.
• Business crime insurance- Covers losses from burglary, computer fraud, employee dishonesty and other business crimes.
• Commercial umbrella liability- Increases and broadens liability coverage, filling in gaps left by other coverages.
• Electronic data processing coverage- Covers costs associated with the loss or damage of electronic data processing media or equipment.
• Equipment breakdown—Also known as boiler and machinery insurance, this covers losses from the malfunction of heating, electrical, air conditioning, telephone systems and other equipment.
• Employment practices liability—Covers costs tied to disputes with employees over termination, discrimination, sexual harassment and other employment issues.
• Inland marine—Covers the transport of goods over water and land, providing comprehensive protection for assets that are moveable or mobile in nature, while in transit—such as from a warehouse to a store—or in storage.
• Pollution liability—Covers costs related to pollution, including clean-up and personal injury.

A range of other types of insurance—covering professional liability, supply chain risk, terrorism, farming or ranching losses, and more—can also be included in a CPP.

What a CPP doesn’t cover

A CPP can provide your business with coverage against a broad range of risks. That said, it’s important to recognize that your CPP will not include:

• Directors and Officers (D&O) liability
• Health and disability
• Life insurance
• Workers compensation

These coverages must be purchased separately; discuss your additional insurance needs with your insurance professional.

Every Minute Counts in Getting Companies Back to Business

6/7/2018 (Permalink)

Businesses will always be susceptible to fire, water, or natural disasters.  In best case scenarios, the damage may be minor, however after a devastating storm, the damage may be severe.  Subsequently disrupting business operations for days, weeks, or even months. 

Every day that the business is closed, revenue decreases, while expenses remain the same. Additionally,  there is the increased risk that if business is disrupted for an extended period of time, customers may choose a competitor for future needs. That is why it is essential that business owners and property owners throughout the Metro West area prepare for the worst-case scenario. In today’s competitive economy, a business simply cannot be over prepared for a catastrophic event.

A quick and thorough restoration of your property after a flood, fire, or other damage will help you get back to business, helping to secure your future and the loyalty of your valued customers.

While it may be tempting to save money by doing the restoration yourself, the truth is that you can lose more revenue and incur greater costs by doing so.  SERVPRO of Framingham, serves business owners and property managers across the metro west area. Our team is highly trained, equipped with the best tools, and is faster to any size disaster to help you keep your business moving forward.

We can work directly with your insurance company, freeing up your time to contact your employees, tenants, customers, and vendors. It is our goal to make the process of water damage restoration in your property as easy on you as possible.  Professional water damage restoration helps to ensure that mold infestations don’t affect hidden areas of your property requiring mold remediation and repair. Our team uses industrial dehumidifying fans to bring humidity levels back to normal levels after a flood, leaky roof, broken water pipe, or other water damage has affected your business.

SERVPRO of Framingham is ready to respond 24 hours a day when disaster strikes your commercial property. Rely on us to do what we do best – clean commercial properties throughout our surrounding communities after water, fire, smoke, and storm damage occurs. That allows you to do what you are best at – growing your business and serving your customers. Call us anytime, our water damage restoration technicians, applied structural drying technicians, and our upholstery and fabric cleaning team will respond quickly to any disaster that strikes your commercial property.  

Floods in Educational Buildings

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes an education facility it can disrupt the learning environment, costing students and their educators valuable time and resources. Cleaning up the aftermath of a flood, fire, storm or other tragic event requires an efficient, timely response. Whether you have a small school building or a higher education campus, SERVPROof Framingham professionals will work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area so that normal operations can resume while we restore your facility.

Types of Facilities:

• Early Childhood - Preshool and Nursery Schools
• Primary - Elementary and Middle Schools
• Secondary - High school and Academies
• Higher Education - College and Universities
• Athletics - Gymnasium, Sports Complex and Stadiums

Our professionals are available 24-7/365 to help remediate any damage, regardless of the cause, scale of the loss, or the size of your facility.

Have an emergency at your educationfacility? – CallSERVPRO of Framingham: (508) 370 4400

Asbestos Testing Is Mandatory

3/23/2018 (Permalink)

Thankfully asbestos used in construction and manufacturing for the most part, is a material of the past.  However many buildings today still retain traces or even large quantities of asbestos. Particularly in older buildings, testing for and identifying this asbestos is an important job, but one that is unfortunately neglected by many business owners. Failing to test for asbestos when making renovations or restorations to a building can cause long-term negative health effects for restoration professionals, customers, and even yourself, creating a legal and financial disaster large enough to ruin most businesses. There are specific Federal regulations mandated by the EPA regarding renovating buildings, and asbestos abatement. SERVPRO of Framingham provides certified asbestos testing to ensure the safety of our technicians and your customers alike.

Asbestos testing for a business is not only advisable for practical reasons, but also for legal ones. Failing to test for asbestos can lead to steep fines and regulatory penalties, regardless of whether or not the substance is present. OSHA has explicit guidelines in place regarding demolition or renovations of commercial structures, especially schools, and other municipal buildings. Furthermore, if a customer or employee gets sick as a result of untested asbestos, you may be at risk of a costly and difficult lawsuit. Federal and state authorities alike take this process seriously, which is why it is always recommended to hire a certified company like SERVPRO to complete the task. 
 
Health Reasons 
In addition to laws on the subject, testing for asbestos should be a major consideration for your health. Asbestos can cause many negative health effects, some of which can shorten your lifespan or lead to long-term illness. Asbestos is a known carcinogen.The longer you are exposed to it, the more likely many of these side effects are to manifest, meaning that valued employees and regular customers may also be at risk. Just as the removal of mold growth can help to avoid a medical emergency in your business, so too can asbestos testing prevent a host of serious medical issues. 
 
SERVPRO of Framingham is certified in asbestos testing and guarantees a fast and efficient process for your business. Call us today for our services or a quote.

Common Causes of Water Damage

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

It is crucial for business owners to make sure their property is in pristine, working condition, and that’s not just for aesthetics.  You must understand the basics of water damage and in many cases why it happens. You can improve your chances of running a business without getting negatively impacted by water damage by following these simple suggestions provided by SERVPRO. 

Common Causes of Water Damage:

1. Plumbing issues, old solder joints, eroding pipes
2. Roof or foundation failures
3. Malfunctioning appliances, especially in restaurants, and laundromats
4. Water back-up, clogged drain lines or sewage systems
5. Weather-related flooding from storms or hurricanes 
6. HVAC problems, poor circulation resulting in high moisture levels and condensation 
7. Fire extinguishing work completed by firefighters can lead to substantive water damage.

Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance will reduce your chances of water damage that was not the result of Mother Nature.  But in the event something does happen, call SERVPRO of Framingham and we’ll take care of the rest. 

Always Be Prepared

3/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Framingham wants to make sure everyone is ready for the new year! Did you know up to 50 percent of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen? For those that do survive, the majority have an emergency readiness plan available before disaster strikes. Advantages to of the SERVPRO® of Framingham Emergency READY Profile are:

· A no cost assessment of your facility

· A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency

· A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster

· Establishes us as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

· Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin

· Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster.

Don’t wait for a disaster to strike, call SERVPRO® of Framingham to schedule your ERP (508) 370-4400

Water Tank Lets Go in Popular Hair Salon

3/5/2018 (Permalink)

A popular hair salon experienced extensive damage when their hot water heater unexpectedlyburst.The entire salon was affected, including the main area of the salon, the tanning room and in addition to the spa room. This misfortune was also significant because small business owners cannot afford to be closed due to renovations particularly when their profession is their only means of livelihood.

Water heaters have an average lifespan of 10–20 years, but that can be significantly reduced without proper routine maintenance—substantially increasing the risk of failure.

According to an IBHS study, 69% of all water heater failures result from a slow leak or a sudden burst. A residential water heater holds 20 to 80 gallons of water, which can cause significant water damage to property upon failure. On average, residential water heaters cost only $1,500 to replace, but a leaking or burst water heater typically tacks on over $3,000 in additional property damage, not including any additional living expenses that may be incurred.

The most common reason for a leaking water heater, internal rust or corrosion, often results from a lack of routine maintenance. By periodically checking the water heater for any signs of rust and performing preventative maintenance, property owners can prolong the life of their water heater and greatly reduce the risk of premature failure. Two primary causes of tank rust or corrosion are failing to replace the sacrificial anode and allowing scale to build up.

When hard water (which has a high mineral content) is heated, it creates a calcium carbonate deposit known as “scale.” Over time, these scale deposits build up on the bottom of the tank and create an insulating effect, leading the tank to overheat, which in turn slowly melts the tank’s protective glass lining. Once this lining has melted away, the exposed steel begins to corrode and weaken, eventually leading to the tank leaking at the bottom.

If the pressure inside of the water heater becomes too great, it can cause the tank to leak or even burst. Increased pressure can be caused by various conditions. The most common causes include elevated water temperatures, excessive exterior water supply pressure, and relief valve or thermal expansion tank failure.

When energy (in the form of heat) is applied to water, its particles move faster and occupy more space, a concept known as thermal expansion. Because of this phenomenon, water at 145 degrees occupies more space than the same volume of water at 125 degrees, and the water pressure increases proportionately.

If the water heater is not equipped with an expansion tank (many regions have only recently begun requiring them) or if it fails to function properly, the tank can leak or even burst.

The Importance of Sprinklers

7/31/2017 (Permalink)

According to The National Fire Protection Association, the evidence is clear that automatic fire sprinklers technology, which has been commonly used in structures for many years, is a proven way to protect lives and property against fires. Sprinklers also respond quickly and effectively to the presence of a nearby fire, and function well, without creating problems for homeowners.

Ten businesses located in Framingham Massachusetts, know this all too well, when they experienced a devastating fire in their strip mall this past spring. The swift moving fire broke out at 2 a.m. in the attic, which took three fire stations and four hours to extinguish.  Thankfully, there were no casualties as no one was onsite at the time, but the building was a total loss. 

The facility had fire sprinklers installed but regrettably not in the attic where the fire originated.  At the time the building was constructed in the early 1980’s, it was not mandatory to have sprinklers installed in the attic. 

Despite the total devastation, the business owners vowed they will rebuild.

We Are Green and Clean with Benefect

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

The consumer today has increasingly been more aware of the chemicals in their products than ever before. Now SERVPRO of Framingham is offering safe alternatives.

Benefect, the world's first government registered hospital disinfectant using the essential oils from plants.  Today their technology can be found in many products including naturally based cleaners and alcohol-free hand sanitizer.

In nature, plants produce germ-killing essential oils to protect themselves from invading microbes, similar to how our bodies produce antibodies for our protection against disease.  Benefect is a revolutionary blend of these antimicrobial extracts, particularly from the herb Thyme.  Disinfectants typically use quaternary amines, bleach, or even synthetic thymol to kill germs.  Remarkably, Benefect kills over 99.99% of germs using only food-grade plant extracts.  Benefect is a 'plant immune system' in a bottle.

• Kills 99.99% of Germs.
• No Label Warnings or Signal Words.
• Made from Plant Extracts.
• No Synthetic Ingredients.
• No Rinse or Wipe Required

ERP - Emergency Ready Profile

5/17/2017 (Permalink)

 Did you know that 50% of businesses may never reopen after experiencing flood or fire damage?  Of the ones that do survive, the majority have a preparedness plan in place.  Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at giving you that reassurance that you have an action plan in place for your company. 

Having a plan in place not only lets you know how to handle emergencies timely and efficiently but helps speak trust to your clients and employees by knowing that should your business be affected by a disaster, they don't necessarily have to be.

Advantages of having an ERP:

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

No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, "Are you Ready for whatever happens?"

Call us today at 508-370-4400 to set up a free appointment and get started.

When Your Business Experiences Water Damage

5/17/2017 (Permalink)

    If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. SERVPRO Framingham is here to help. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

    Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of unoccupied buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

Does Your Company Have an Evacuation Plan for Employees?

3/12/2017 (Permalink)

     On their website, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides important safety information as well as life saving tips for employers to share with their employees should it be necessary to evacuate a building in the event of an emergency. It is worth taking a look, you will be surprised at what you learn! Check it out.  https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/evacuation/evac.html

     And although an emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses, OSHA highly recommends that you provide an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business space during an emergency situation. Here are some tips:

     A disorganized evacuation can result in confusion, injury, and property damage. When developing your emergency action plan, it is important to determine the following:

• Conditions under which an evacuation would be necessary.


• Conditions under which it may be better to shelter-in-place.


• A clear chain of command and designation of the person in your business authorized to order an evacuation or shutdown.


• Specific evacuation procedures, including routes and exits.


• Specific evacuation procedures for high-rise buildings.




• For Employers


• For Employees




• Procedures for assisting visitors and employees to evacuate, particularly those with disabilities or who do not speak English.


• Designation of what, if any, employees will remain after the evacuation alarm to shut down critical operations or perform other duties before evacuating.


• A means of accounting for employees after an evacuation.


• Special equipment for employees.


• Appropriate respirators.

    During development and implementation of your draft plan, think about all possible emergency situations and evaluate your workplace to see if it complies with OSHA's emergency standards.

    Emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Framingham provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (508)-370-4400

SERVPRO in the Healthcare Sector

3/8/2017 (Permalink)

     We understand that time is crucial for both your operations and your patients. Our employees know how to handle regulated medical waste and undergo special training to work in operating rooms and other restricted areas, always adhering to HIPPA regulations. We also coordinate with environmental and infection control teams to monitor progress and make sure that all necessary health certifications are obtained prior to completing any job. Our number one priority is to quickly and safely take full responsibility of your cleanup needs so that you are free to focus on your number one priority: the patients.  At SERVPRO Framingham and SERVPRO Newton /Wellesley, our professionals are trained in adhering to the highest sanitation standards.

    Our experience in the healthcare industry has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following healthcare facilities:

• Hospitals


• Assisted Living Centers


• Outpatient Surgical Centers n


• Electronics and Machine Restoration


• Hospice Facilities


• Senior Living Facilities


• Medical Office Buildings


• Document Drying and Restoration

  Please visit our website: http://www.SERVPROframingham.com, for additional information.  We’re here to help!

Common Causes of Commercial Building Fires

2/27/2017 (Permalink)

Keeping Your Business Open In The Event Of An Emergency

2/13/2017 (Permalink)

  When an unexpected and often devastating storm, fire or water damage affects a businesses, statistics have shown that 1 out of every 4 businesses afflicted will never reopen.  Especially for smaller businesses that typically have all of their operations in one location.  The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety has provided a checklist on their website that allows business owners to reassess if they have everything in place in the event something catastrophic could happen. See checklist:  http://disastersafety.org/wp-content/uploads/OFB-EZ_Toolkit_IBHS.pdf

   In addition to recognizing what the potential risks (earthquake vs. tornado) it is also important for a company to outline not only their backup plan but more importantly, who to go to for help!  That’s where SERVPRO Framingham and SERVPRO Newton/Wellesley come in.  Our 24 hour service is specialized and ready to come to you for cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage, because we all know catastrophes don’t always happen during business hours.  We can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business. SERVPRO Framingham  and Newton/Wellesley’s chief goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."