The Importance of Roof Fireproofing: Expert Tips to Protect Your Home

12/18/2024 (Permalink)

Explore why roof fireproofing is crucial for homeowners, along with expert insights and practical tips.

When it comes to home safety in Warwick, RI, fire prevention should always be a top priority. One often overlooked aspect of fire protection is roof fireproofing. A fire-resistant roof can make the difference between minor damage and the destruction of a home during a fire. At SERVPRO®, we understand the importance of comprehensive fire protection, and in this blog, we’ll explore why roof fireproofing is crucial for homeowners, along with expert insights and practical tips to keep your home safe from fire hazards.

Why Roof Fireproofing Matters

Your roof is the first line of defense against external elements, including fire. Whether from wildfires or accidental embers from nearby fires, unprotected roofs can ignite quickly, causing flames to spread rapidly across your home. Roof fireproofing involves using materials and techniques designed to prevent or minimize the spread of fire, giving you crucial time to respond to a fire emergency.

According to UC Davis, over 50,000 structures (mostly homes) were destroyed between 2015 and 2020. Many of these homes had roofs made of highly flammable materials like wood shingles, underscoring the importance of fire-resistant roofing solutions. You can learn more about wildfire data and fire safety tips from the Insurance Information Institute.

Key Benefits of Roof Fireproofing

Fireproofing your roof offers several benefits that not only protect your home but also provide peace of mind. Here are some of the key reasons why investing in fireproof roofing is essential:

1. Protection Against External Fire Hazards

Wildfires and neighborhood fires can send embers flying through the air, which can land on your roof and ignite flammable materials. Fire-resistant roofing materials, such as metal or treated tiles, reduce the risk of your roof catching fire from external sources.

2. Slowing the Spread of Fire

Even if a fire starts elsewhere on your property, a fireproof roof can help slow the spread of flames. This gives firefighters more time to contain the fire before it reaches critical areas of your home, potentially saving the structure from significant damage.

3. Lower Insurance Premiums

Homes with fire-resistant roofing materials are often eligible for lower homeowners' insurance premiums. Fireproof roofs are less likely to ignite, which reduces the insurance company’s risk, making your home a safer investment.

4. Long-Term Cost Savings

While fireproof roofing materials may come with a higher initial cost, they provide long-term savings by reducing the need for repairs or replacements due to fire damage. Additionally, these materials tend to be more durable and weather-resistant, reducing overall maintenance expenses.

Fire-Resistant Roofing Materials

Choosing the right roofing material is a critical step in fireproofing your home. Not all materials offer the same level of fire resistance, so it’s essential to select the best option for your location and budget. Here are some of the top fire-resistant roofing materials:

• Metal Roofing: Metal roofs are highly fire-resistant and can withstand intense heat. They are also durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance.
• Clay or Concrete Tiles: These tiles are non-combustible and provide excellent fire protection. In addition, they are aesthetically appealing and can enhance the overall appearance of your home.
• Slate: Slate is a natural stone material that is highly resistant to fire. It is also incredibly durable and can provide long-lasting protection for your home.
• Asphalt Shingles (Class A Rated): Some asphalt shingles are treated to achieve a Class A fire rating, the highest level of fire resistance available. These shingles are more affordable than other fire-resistant materials and are widely used in residential roofing.

Roof Fireproofing Maintenance Tips

Beyond selecting the right fire-resistant materials, maintaining your roof is essential to ensure ongoing fire protection. Here are some expert tips for keeping your roof fireproof:

• Regular Inspections: Schedule regular roof inspections to check for damage or wear. Cracked or missing tiles can reduce the fire resistance of your roof.
• Clear Debris: Keep your roof clear of leaves, branches, and other debris, as these materials can act as fuel for a fire.
• Gutter Maintenance: Clean your gutters regularly to prevent the buildup of dry leaves or debris that can easily catch fire.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure your roof has adequate ventilation to prevent heat from building up inside your home, which can exacerbate fire hazards.

Conclusion

Roof fireproofing is a critical step in protecting your home from potential fire hazards. By choosing the right fire-resistant roofing materials and maintaining your roof with regular inspections and debris removal, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire damage. At SERVPRO, we are committed to helping homeowners safeguard their properties with expert fire prevention and restoration services. For more information on how we can assist you, reach out to our team of professionals today.

Investing in roof fireproofing not only protects your home but also provides peace of mind knowing that you’ve taken crucial steps to prevent fire damage. Follow these expert tips to ensure your roof is equipped to handle any fire risks, keeping your home safe for years to come.

Should You Unplug Countertop Appliances to Prevent Fires?

6/4/2024 (Permalink)

If you need assistance with fire damage restoration, contact our SERVPRO of East Greenwich/Warwick/Cranston team!

In your busy day-to-day life, it’s easy to overlook simple safety practices that can prevent home fires. One common question is whether you need to unplug countertop appliances to avoid fires. The answer is a resounding yes. Taking this precaution can significantly reduce fire risks in your kitchen. Let’s explore why unplugging these appliances is crucial and how you can enhance your home’s safety with a few practical tips.

Why Unplugging Countertop Appliances Matters

Countertop appliances, such as toasters, coffee makers, and blenders, can experience electrical malfunctions even when not in use. Over time, wires and components can wear out or become damaged, increasing the risk of sparks or overheating. Unplugging these devices when they’re not in use eliminates this risk.

Power surges can occur for various reasons, including lightning strikes and grid fluctuations. These surges can damage plugged-in appliances, potentially causing them to catch fire. By unplugging appliances, you protect them from unexpected power surges.

It’s easy to forget that an appliance is still plugged in, especially if it’s not used frequently. Accidental activation or leaving it on for extended periods can lead to overheating and fires. Unplugging appliances ensure they’re completely off and not posing a hidden risk.

Practical Tips for Unplugging and Safety

1. Develop a Routine

Make unplugging appliances a habit by incorporating it into your daily routine. For example, after making your morning coffee or toast, unplug the coffee maker and toaster. Consistency will help make this practice second nature.

2. Use Power Strips

Power strips with on/off switches can make it easier to manage multiple appliances. Instead of unplugging each device individually, you can turn off the power strip to cut off electricity to all connected appliances.

3. Check Appliances Regularly

Inspect your appliances for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cords or loose plugs. Replace or repair damaged components immediately to prevent potential hazards.

4. Invest in Smart Plugs

Smart plugs can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps. They allow you to turn off appliances even when you’re not at home. Some models also offer scheduling features, ensuring appliances are off when not in use.

5. Educate Family Members

Make sure everyone in your household understands the importance of unplugging appliances. Educate them on the potential risks and encourage them to develop the same safety habits.

6. Install Smoke Detectors

Ensure your kitchen is equipped with smoke detectors. Regularly test them to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Smoke detectors can provide an early warning if something goes wrong.

7. Keep Appliances Clean

Accumulated crumbs and grease can ignite and cause fires. Regularly clean your appliances to remove any buildup that could pose a risk.

Final Thoughts

Unplugging countertop appliances is a simple yet effective way to prevent kitchen fires and enhance your home's safety. Electrical malfunctions, power surges, and forgotten devices all contribute to potential fire hazards. By incorporating unplugging into your daily routine, using power strips, checking appliances regularly, and educating your household, you can significantly reduce these risks.

For more tips on fire prevention and home safety, or if you need assistance with fire damage restoration, contact our SERVPRO of East Greenwich/Warwick/Cranston team. Our team of professionals is here to help you keep your home safe and secure from fire hazards.

The importance of annual fire safety inspections in commercial buildings

4/19/2024 (Permalink)

A fire damage job that SERVPRO took on.

As a responsible business owner, ensuring the safety of your commercial space is paramount. One key aspect that often gets overlooked is the importance of annual fire safety inspections. In this blog post, we'll delve into why these inspections are crucial for the well-being of your business and the people within it.

Why Annual Fire Safety Inspections Matter

Preventing Fire Incidents

Fire safety inspections serve as a proactive measure to identify potential fire hazards and address them before they escalate into serious incidents. Regular checks of electrical systems, heating equipment, and flammable materials can significantly reduce the risk of a fire breaking out.

Ensuring Compliance with Regulations

Compliance with local fire safety regulations is not just a legal requirement but also a crucial factor in safeguarding your business. Annual inspections help ensure that your commercial building meets all the necessary standards, preventing legal repercussions and potential fines.

Protecting Lives and Property

The safety of your employees, customers, and valuable assets should always be a top priority. Annual inspections help identify and rectify fire safety deficiencies, minimizing the potential for injuries and property damage in the event of a fire.

Maintaining Business Continuity

A fire can disrupt your business operations, leading to financial losses and reputational damage. Regular inspections help identify and mitigate potential risks, allowing you to maintain business continuity and recover quickly in case of an unforeseen event.

Reducing Insurance Premiums

Many insurance providers offer discounts to businesses that invest in proactive risk management, including regular fire safety inspections. By demonstrating a commitment to safety, you may be eligible for lower insurance premiums, ultimately saving your business money.

How to Conduct Effective Annual Fire Safety Inspections

Engage Professional Services

Hire qualified professionals, like SERVPRO®, to conduct thorough fire safety inspections. Trained experts can identify hidden hazards and provide comprehensive recommendations for improvements.

Inspect All Key Areas

Ensure that all critical areas of your commercial building are inspected, including electrical systems, heating and cooling equipment, emergency exits, fire suppression systems, and flammable material storage.

Develop and Implement a Maintenance Plan

Use the insights from the inspection to create a robust maintenance plan. Regularly update and implement this plan to address any issues promptly and ensure ongoing compliance with fire safety standards.

Investing in annual fire safety inspections for your commercial building is a proactive step toward protecting your business, employees, and assets. By prioritizing safety and compliance, you not only prevent potential disasters but also contribute to the overall resilience and longevity of your business. Remember, a safe business is a successful business.

Battling Beyond Flames: The Impact of Smoke Damage on HVAC Systems

11/21/2023 (Permalink)

When a fire strikes, the immediate impact of flames on a property is evident. However, there is another unseen adversary that can cause long-term damage – smoke. Smoke can permeate every nook and cranny, including your HVAC system. In this blog, we will dive into the detrimental effects of smoke on HVAC systems, and the importance of professional smoke damage restoration to safeguard your indoor air quality.

Smoke Contamination

Smoke can infiltrate your HVAC system through intake vents, ductwork, or even open windows. As the smoke circulates within the system, it leaves behind soot, ash, and harmful residue on various components. This contamination can affect the system's efficiency, air quality, and overall performance.

Reduced Indoor Air Quality

HVAC systems play a critical role in ensuring clean and healthy indoor air. However, smoke damage compromises this function. Smoke particles, including carcinogens and toxins, can settle within the HVAC system and contaminate the circulated air. This can result in respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems for occupants if left unaddressed.

Damaged Components

The acidic nature of smoke and soot can corrode and deteriorate HVAC components over time. Critical elements such as the air filters, coils, blower motors, and fan blades can suffer damage, leading to reduced efficiency and increased energy consumption. Failure to address smoke damage promptly may result in expensive repairs or even system breakdowns.

Lingering Odor

Smoke damage can leave behind a persistent, unpleasant odor within the HVAC system. The smell can reoccur every time the system operates, spreading throughout the property and affecting occupants' comfort. Proper smoke damage restoration includes thorough cleaning techniques designed to eliminate odors, ensuring a fresh and pleasant indoor environment.

Fire Hazards

Smoke residue and soot within the HVAC system can pose a fire risk. The build-up of flammable particles near heat sources, electrical connections, or motor components can potentially ignite and lead to a secondary fire. Taking immediate action to clean and restore the HVAC system after a fire is crucial to minimize fire hazards.

Professional Smoke Damage Restoration

Due to the complexity of HVAC systems, it is highly recommended to seek professional smoke damage restoration services. Trained technicians possess the expertise, tools, and specialized cleaning techniques required to thoroughly inspect and restore the HVAC system. They can address all smoke-related issues, from cleaning ductwork to replacing filters and deodorizing the system.

Ongoing Maintenance

Once the HVAC system has undergone smoke damage restoration, incorporating regular maintenance practices becomes essential. Regular inspections, filter changes, and professional cleaning help maintain the system's efficiency and prevent long-term damage caused by residual smoke and soot.

In conclusion, the impact of smoke damage on HVAC systems can be significant and far-reaching. Immediate attention and professional smoke damage restoration are imperative to safeguard indoor air quality, prevent further damage, and ensure the longevity of the HVAC system. By addressing smoke damage promptly and maintaining a clean system, you can restore a healthy, comfortable living environment for you and your loved ones.

Smoke Odor Cleanup: DIY Remedies vs. Professional Solutions - How to Choose the Best Approach

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with lingering smoke odor after a fire or other smoking-related incidents can be frustrating and challenging for homeowners. While some may turn to DIY home remedies to tackle the problem, others opt for the expertise of professional smoke odor cleanup services. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of home remedies and professional solutions, helping you make an informed decision on the best approach to eliminate stubborn smoke odors from your home.

Home Remedies: The DIY Approach

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar: Baking soda and vinegar are popular household remedies for neutralizing odors. Sprinkling baking soda on affected surfaces and using a vinegar solution to clean can help absorb and mask smoke odors. However, these remedies may not be effective in completely eliminating deeply embedded smoke smells.
2. Charcoal and Coffee Grounds: Placing bowls of activated charcoal or coffee grounds around the house is believed to absorb odors, including smoke. While they may provide temporary relief, their effectiveness may vary based on the severity of the smoke odor and the size of the area being treated.
3. Opening windows and using fans to increase ventilation can help remove smoke odors from the air. While this is a simple and cost-effective approach, it may not be enough to eliminate odors trapped in porous materials or hard-to-reach spaces.

Professional Solutions: The Expert Advantage

1. Thorough Assessment: Professional smoke odor cleanup services start with a comprehensive assessment of the affected areas to identify the source and extent of the odors. This ensures a targeted and effective cleanup plan.
2. Advanced Equipment and Techniques: Professionals have access to specialized equipment and cutting-edge techniques designed to neutralize and eliminate smoke odors at the molecular level. These methods penetrate porous surfaces and hard-to-reach areas, leaving no trace of smoke odor behind.
3. Safe and Environmentally Friendly Products: Reputable smoke odor cleanup companies use eco-friendly cleaning products that are safe for both residents and the environment. They ensure that the removal process doesn't introduce harmful chemicals into your home.
4. Efficiency and Time-Saving: Professionals are trained to efficiently handle smoke odor cleanup, minimizing the time it takes to restore your home to a fresh and odor-free state. This saves you the hassle and potential frustration of experimenting with multiple DIY remedies.
5. Long-Term Results: Unlike temporary home remedies, professional smoke odor cleanup offers long-lasting results. The experts aim to completely eliminate smoke odors, preventing any reoccurrence and providing peace of mind for homeowners.

The Right Choice: When to Choose Home Remedies or Professional Solutions

If the smoke odor is mild, localized, or non-pervasive, home remedies may provide a quick and cost-effective solution. However, for more severe or widespread smoke odor issues, professional services are often the best choice.

For significant smoke odor problems, persistent smells, or extensive damage, enlisting the help of professionals is the wisest decision. Their expertise, advanced equipment, and commitment to thorough cleanup ensure the most effective results.

Eliminating smoke odors from your home requires the right approach. While DIY home remedies may work for minor smoke odors, professional solutions offer the expertise, equipment, and efficiency needed to tackle more challenging scenarios effectively. Consider the severity of the smoke odor and the extent of the damage before making a decision. By choosing the best approach, you can restore your home to a fresh, odor-free environment, ensuring a safe and comfortable living space for you and your loved ones.

Electronics After the Fire: How SERVPRO Can Help with Cleaning and Restoration

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

Fire is one of the most dangerous and destructive forces in nature. It can cause severe damage to your home, business, and possessions. Fire can also damage electronics, causing them to stop working or even become unusable. 

What Fire Can Do to Electronics

Fire can have a direct and indirect effect on electronics. Directly, fire will damage the internal components of your device, such as the motherboard or hard drive. Indirectly, it may cause corrosion or other damage to the outer casing of your electronic device that can make it more susceptible to breaking down over time. 

If you're not sure what kind of damage has been done by fire and smoke exposure in your home or business, the trained technicians on our team can help identify what needs cleaning and restoration services at no cost to you!

How Our Team Can Help

Here at SERVPRO of East Greenwich/Warwick/Cranston, we can help you with your electronics cleaning needs. Our team has the expertise to safely and effectively clean all manner of electronic devices, including computers, televisions, and gaming consoles. The process begins with a thorough inspection of your device to determine the extent of damage caused by smoke or fire. Once we understand what needs to be cleaned and restored, we'll begin working on it right away!

Our technicians use specialized equipment that allows them to remove soot from inside components without damaging them further. This allows us to restore many electronics back to working condition so they can be used again.

Tips for Electronics Cleaning After a Fire

When cleaning electronics after a fire, it's important to wear protective gear. You should also be aware of the proper way to clean your electronics and what materials to use. The first step in cleaning an electronic device is removing any debris from its exterior. You may need to use tweezers or other tools for this task, depending on what kind of damage has occurred. Once you've removed any visible dirt or debris from the outside of your device, wipe down its surface with a soft cloth dampened with distilled water (or another appropriate cleaning solution). This will remove any remaining soot or ash residue that might have been left behind by firefighters during their efforts at extinguishing the flames around your home or office building.

Next comes drying time--but don't rush this part! It's important not only because moisture can cause further damage but also because it increases the risk of corrosion over time if left untreated long enough.

In conclusion, fire damage can be devastating, and it's crucial to act quickly to minimize the damage to your electronics. Our team can help you with the critical task of electronics cleaning and restoration after a fire. We have the expertise and specialized equipment needed to restore your devices to their pre-fire condition.

Home Fire Evacuation Plan

2/15/2023 (Permalink)

Fires are a serious threat to our homes and families. In the event of a fire, you need to know what to do. You should be prepared with an evacuation plan for your family and have an escape route that doesn't put anyone at risk. A fire can spread quickly through walls, floors and ceilings so it's important to stay out of the building if there is a fire until firefighters arrive on scene.

Draw a map of your house.

This is the most important step in creating a home fire evacuation plan, so take time to do it right. Your map should include all rooms, hallways, doors and windows in your home. Use arrows to show the direction of traffic flow (for example: if you were leaving through the front door). Use numbers to label each room and label each door or window with its number on your diagram.

Identify two ways out of each room.

You should identify two ways out of each room. If you have a window, make sure it is not blocked by furniture or other items. If you have a door, make sure it is not blocked by furniture or other items. Choose a safe meeting place outside of your home in case of fire. Make sure it is in a safe place and can be easily found by everyone in the family. If you have pets, keep them nearby so they don't get lost or hurt while trying to escape from the fire. If you are unable to get out of your home due to injury or lack of mobility, stay near a window and call 911 using your cell phone or landline.

Escape Safety Ladders.

Safety ladders are a good way to get out of a second-story window in the event of a fire. They should be installed at least one foot above the window sill, and used in pairs with one person holding onto the ladder while another climbs down.

Pick someone who is calm and can help. Make sure they know the escape plan, and that they are nearby when the fire starts. If you have children or older adults in your family, it's a good idea to pick someone who has experience helping these people out of their homes in an emergency situation.

Meeting place outside of the home

Make sure everyone knows when to go outside and where to meet. Make sure you have the phone numbers of all members of your family, including their work and cell phones, written down in case you need them during an emergency. If there are children living at home, make sure they know how to get out of the house without help. Not all children can do this by themselves as young as five years old.

Smoke Alarms

Make sure smoke alarms are installed on every level of your home and inside each bedroom. Test them once a month, if not more often. If you're hearing impaired or hard of hearing, make sure to have a backup warning system such as strobe lights or bells that can be heard through closed doors and windows.

If you have young children or older adults in your home, make sure they know how to escape the home safely. Give SERVPRO of East Greenwich/Warwick/Cranston a call if you are in need of help after a fire loss in your East Greenwich, Rhode Island home.

Workplace Fire Prevention

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

5 Workplace Fire Safety Tips

Fires are among the most dangerous events that can happen to a business. They can cause massive property damage and put employees at risk of serious injury. To prevent fires and keep your employees safe, follow these five tips for workplace fire safety:

1. Train employees on fire safety

The first step in keeping your employees safe is knowing how to react when a fire starts, and that means they need to be trained on what to do.

• Train all employees on how to evacuate the building safely and quickly.
• Cover what equipment will help them if an evacuation isn't possible. This includes fire extinguishers, smoke masks, and self-rescue devices like ladders or ropes available in stairwells, etc.
• Remind them about the importance of notifying you about any suspected hazards so that you can act immediately—and follow up with regular inspections just to be sure nothing has changed since you last checked it out!

2. Inspect fire exits and evacuation procedures regularly

Due to panic during an emergency situation, not everyone will follow evacuation procedures when there is an emergency. Therefore, it's important that you check that your staff knows what to do. A checklist can be used to ensure all fire exits are clear and the correct equipment is available.

• Make sure the fire alarm system is working correctly by testing it at regular intervals
• Check that all fire extinguishers are in good condition and regularly checked at least once a year
• Ensure that any exit signage has remained in place and hasn't become obscured by furniture over time
• Test emergency lighting systems regularly to make sure they are working properly

3. Select the right fire extinguisher for the job

The first step to choosing the right fire extinguisher for your workplace is to understand what type of fire you are most likely to be dealing with. This information can be found in the manufacturer's guidelines or on the label that comes with your particular extinguisher. 

4. Keep electronic devices and cables away from heat sources

• Keep electronic devices and cables away from heat sources.

• Don't put anything on top of electronic devices, like a laptop or a phone.
• Be careful with lighting. If you're using candles, make sure they're in sturdy holders so they don't tip over when you move around your space or try to grab something off the table.

5. Plan ahead for business continuity

Planning for business continuity can help minimize disruption to your organization, customers, and employees. In the event of a fire or other emergency, following a plan will ensure that critical operations such as communications, human resources, and financial management are not interrupted.

A business continuity plan is a document that details how you intend to continue running your business if an emergency situation occurs. It should include: who will be responsible for what tasks; how the business will continue to operate; how you'll communicate with customers, etc.

Proper training and preparation is essential

Fires are a serious concern for any business owner. A fire can cause thousands of dollars in damage and disrupt your daily operations, but with proper training and preparation, you can prevent fires and keep your employees safe!

The most important thing to keep in mind is that you have the power to protect your employees and your business. By following these tips and staying aware of potential fire hazards, you can prevent fires from happening in the first place. If you do find yourself in a situation where a fire does break out, remember that everyone needs to evacuate calmly without panicking or rushing.

Renters Insurance and Fire Damage

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

Savvy renters in West Warwick, RI, know the importance of having renters insurance. If the unexpected happens, it provides peace of mind that your belongings will be covered. Since every policy may be a little different, it is important to thoroughly understand it, especially when it comes to having to make a fire damage claim.

The Basics

In general, there are three types of available coverage:

Personal Property – Damaged belongings
Additional Living Expenses – Costs for temporary relocation
Liability – Damage afflicted to another person

In situations such as a fire, renters insurance is vital for replacing your damaged belongings. Whether the fire was accidentally started during cooking or spread from another apartment, most insurers will cover items directly affected by the fire. It’s also important to understand that any structural damage will not be covered by this policy. The property manager or landlord will have their own insurance to cover those repairs.

Additional Living Expenses
The other important reason for having your own insurance is the potential need to temporarily relocate. If the damage was significant enough, fire restoration by a fire and smoke damage restoration company may not be a quick process. If you have to live somewhere else for a while, the costs can quickly add up. Even having to stay at a hotel for a few days and eat out can result in a lot of unexpected expenses. If the damage is enough to force a permanent move, the policy may also cover costs associated with the move. Other expenses covered may include the cost of doing laundry, furniture rental, storage costs and pet boarding. Again, how much will be covered is dependent on the policy and amount of coverage you have paid for.
A lot of unknowns can happen inside and outside the home. Even if you are a renter, having renters insurance is important to more easily take on the unexpected.

Why Board Up Services Are Necessary and Beneficial

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Securing board-up services helps minimize secondary damage.

If your home in Warwick, RI, sustains a fire, there is a good chance that it has compromised areas that may provide an opening for additional damage. After it is safe to enter the property, the next step is to board up any broken windows or holes in the roof. This may involve attaching temporary boards or tarps.

Benefits of Emergency Board Up Services

While it may be easy to get lost in the loss itself, covering exposed areas is beneficial in many ways, including:

In many cases, your insurance provider will require these services. If it doesn’t happen, it means risking your insurance coverage. While every policy is different, it will cover the damage from the event and not secondary damage caused by not securing the property.
Avoiding secondary damage is essential to maximizing your claim and reducing the amount of work that will be needed. If there is a hole in the roof and it starts to downpour, that means increased odds of mold growing in your home.
Tarping exposed areas minimizes the chances of critters and people entering the home without your permission. Avoiding vandalism and property loss are key benefits of board-up services.

Fast, Professional Services
Any time your property sustains damage it comes with stress. Luckily, you can minimize that and ease the entire process by contacting a fire damage restoration company. Along with having the expertise to repair and restore the damage, they provide tarping services prior to when the work starts. Once the restoration can begin, you already have a one-stop-shop to handle all the restoration needs from fire to water and mold damage.
After a fire, securing your property is essential. Securing board-up services helps minimize secondary damage and makes it easier to get the most out of your insurance claim.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected with Business Interruption Insurance

5/21/2022 (Permalink)

Business Interruption Insurance

If a fire breaks out in your Norwood, RI, business, it has the potential to bring operations to a halt. Business interruption insurance is designed to help businesses stay afloat while a professional fire damage restoration company gets the property back to how it was before the loss.

What Does It Cover?
While a general policy is designed to cover the property loss after a business fire or other unexpected event, interruption insurance is an additional layer that focuses on the financial side of dealing with the loss. In most cases, coverage includes:

• Potential profits lost
• Fixed operating expenses
• Temporary relocation costs
• Payroll
• Loan payments and taxes
• Other expenses incurred as a result of the loss
  
  

Like with other policies, there is a coverage limit. Businesses should work closely with their provider to determine how much coverage would be needed if disaster strikes. To maximize the coverage, it is recommended that businesses develop a contingency plan to help ensure that if an event happens that stops operations, they will be able to recover as quickly as possible. 

How Long Does Business Interruption Coverage Last?
These add-on policies typically include a restoration period. Although every policy is different, the coverage often lasts for one year. After the claim is filed, a business should expect to wait up to 72 hours before the restoration benefits start. During that year, it is imperative that a business a set plan in motion for fire cleaning and other restoration services. After the 12 months is over, the benefits will stop even if the property is still under repair.
Along with the hassle of dealing with a fire, it may also mean a business interruption that is difficult to recover from. By having an additional layer of coverage, businesses have the means to rebuild and stay in business.

What to Expect When Filing a Claim on Smoke Damage in Your Office

3/19/2022 (Permalink)

When Filing a Claim for Smoke Damage at Your Office, Here's What to Expect

When the building next door has a fire, your office in Frenchtown, RI, can experience smoke damage. Smoke isn’t just air with a charred smell to it. Ash, carbon dioxide, chemicals and carbon monoxide blend together in the smoke. The damage easily spreads beyond the fire itself. The good news is that your insurance covers damage from smoke even if the fire did not happen in your building. Here are some tips to make the claims process easier.

Covered Loss

Your insurance agent can walk you through the claims filing process. Your commercial property insurance usually covers fire. Depending on how your insurance policy is set up, the policy pays out based on the replacement cost or the actual cash value. Your insurance agent can give you further details on your specific policy and the coverages for the following damages:

• Smoke
  
• Soot
  
• Ash
  
  

Document Everything

To make the claims process easier on your business, carefully document everything. Anything damaged by the smoke from the neighboring building should be detailed. Note the time and date of the fire next door on the same paperwork. Even small amounts of soot and smoke damage should be noted. Those items may need replacement or repair.

Professional Cleaning

Inhaling smoke from a building fire is a health hazard. You do not know what chemicals were released during the fire and carried through the smoke into your building, not to mention that smoke can be difficult to remove from walls, technological devices and carpet. These items may need full replacement. An experienced commercial building restoration service can make this process smoother and faster.

Fires are destructive forces, whether started on purpose or due to an accident. The smoke damage to your business can be remedied through your insurance policy. Smoke cleaning with a professional company can eliminate the hassle to your business and make sure the building is safe to be inside.

Boarding Up After a Fire Protects You and Your Home

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure to protect your home after a fire.

Protecting Your Home After Fire Damage

Firefighters often break windows and knock holes in roofs when putting out a fire. After the flames are out, homeowners in Cowesett, RI, need to board up these openings before heading off to stay with friends or family. Consider these three factors before you leave your home.

1. Trespassers, Theft and Injury

Most people will leave a home with fire damage alone because it is inherently unsafe, but kids can see a landscape that is perfect for exploring. If they get hurt, their injuries could be a liability for you. Teens might see it as a great place for a party or some new graffiti, while adults can target a vacant home for theft or other criminal activities.

2. Mother Nature

The weather won't stop just because your home has been damaged. Performing an emergency board up of windows, doors and other openings will help keep out wind, rain and storms until your home can be repaired. Closing the gaps also keeps out branches, leaves, and pollen from trees and bushes. Make sure to board up crawl space access to keep out critters and rodents.

3. Insurance Coverage

Some insurance policies require homeowners to mitigate further property damage after a disaster hits. If you neglect to secure your property or limit access by people who shouldn't be there, your insurance might not cover the new damage or injuries. If someone gets injured inside the property due to your negligence, the insurance company could deny coverage. Even if they are trespassing, you could still be held liable.

Make sure to protect your home in Cowesett, RI, after a fire disaster by getting a professional fire restoration company out to board up holes, broken windows, burned doors and roof damage as soon as possible. Doing so can save your property from more extensive damage while also protecting you, as property owner, from additional liability.