Recent Posts

Commercial restoration in Cincinnati

7/5/2023 (Permalink)

Image depicts a white truck carrying a number of green air movers with two green trucks in the background SERVPRO® is equipped with the tools and the team necessary to get the job done, the right way.

Has your business recently been affected by water, storm, or fire damage? You’re not sure who to contract through your business insurance to ensure the job is done quickly and professionally at such a large scale…well you found us! Your local SERVPRO® in Northwest and Northeast Cincinnati, North and South Clermont Counties, and Downtown Cincinnati is equipped with the tools and the team necessary to get such a job done, the right way.

No job is too small or too large. Trust the recognized #1 franchise in the restoration category in Entrepreneur’s 2022 Franchise 500® to effectively restore your property to preloss condition and get your business back on track. We work directly with insurance companies for a smooth claims process.

Our ownership team ensures each franchise has the help it needs, should there be a large-scale loss in the area. Our crews are always ready to help 24/7 with emergency restoration needs.

Rest assured that, should your business property ever need restoration services, SERVPRO® is your one stop shop from water mitigation, smoke damage removal, mold remediation, and reconstruction!

Is Cincinnati affected by the Canadian wildfires?

6/28/2023 (Permalink)

Image depicts a cloudy haze over a city skyline The air quality on Wednesday June 28th is reading "unhealthy for sensitive groups" in Cincinnati tristate area.

The sky is hazy this morning in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky tristate areas. Smoke from wildfires in Canada is affecting the air quality in the Ohio Valley Region. These areas are reading in the orange and red zones on the Air Quality Index, which indicates that the air is unhealthy, especially for some groups like those with asthma or respiratory sensitivities.

The Southwest Ohio Air Quality Agency issued an air quality alert for Wednesday June 28th for the following counties within the tristate: Butler, Clermont, Hamilton, and Warren in Ohio; Campbell and Kenton counties in Kentucky; Dearborn County in Indiana. The Agency expects levels of ozone and PM2.5 detected on the range of the Air Quality Index.

It is advised that you limit or avoid the outdoors during an air quality alert, especially if you are part of a sensitive group such as those with asthma. To learn more, visit https://www.southwestohioair.org/187/Air-Quality-Alert.

Does homeowners insurance cover pools?

6/16/2023 (Permalink)

image depicts a flooded and damaged pool and patio area from a storm Homeowners insurance usually covers your pool within the same coverage of your home (weather-related damage, fire, etc.).

Short answer, yes. Homeowners insurance usually covers damage to your pool and pool cages attached to your home within the same risks your home is covered by (weather-related damage, fire, etc.). It also protects your liability should someone get hurt in your pool and decide to sue you for damages.

Having a pool usually increases your insurance premiums due to the added potential dangers.

Coverage eligibility and insurance requirements for your pool will vary by pool type, insurer, personal property, and other factors.

What if my pool floods?

With heavy enough rain there is a possibility that your swimming pool floods. This may be more concerning for those with inground pools close to the home. Depending on the severity of the flood, your home may be affected by water damage. This damage should be covered by your insurance policy. Be sure to document any damage due to the flooding for coverage purposes. Check the pool pump, pipes, and filter for cracks or damage.

Your insurance company should contact SERVPRO® to mitigate and restore any contents, flooring, walls, or drywall that may have been affected by flooding. A quick response to water damage will best ensure no further damage, like mold growth, occurs, which will mean more work to be done and more costs to you. SERVPRO® is always Here to Help®!

What to do if a tree falls on my house?

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

A fallen tree crashed into a home causing property damage You never know when a tree will fall on your home, but you can make sure you’re prepared.

Living in and around Cincinnati, we are prone to windy weather and thunderstorms. Sometimes the wind can be so severe, or lightning may strike, and you may end up with a fallen tree on your property. Or a rotted tree finally topples. Here’s what to do if a tree falls on your home:

First, ensure everyone is safe, including your pets. Once everyone is accounted for, you can focus on minimizing additional damage and getting the damage repaired.

You should also call 911 and the electrical company since there’s always a chance the fallen tree took a power line down with it, which creates a hazardous situation with increased risk of fire or deathly electrical shock.

Make sure to document everything. Take photos and videos of the damaged areas in and around your home, in multiple angles and perspectives. You can never have too many photos or videos as evidence of what was damaged and what needs replaced or repaired.

Contact your insurance company. Your homeowner’s insurance will likely cover the damage and possibly the cost of debris removal. This will open a claim and an adjuster will be assigned to look at the property and account for what will be covered.

Next, either you or your insurance company will contact a contractor to remove the tree and restore your home to pre-tree condition. Call SERVPRO of Northwest and Northeast Cincinnati!

We are your one stop shop for restoration and reconstruction needs! SERVPRO will remove the tree, tarp up your roof, replace or repair ceiling and drywall damage, and more! We work directly with insurance companies for a smooth claims process.

You never know when a tree will fall on your home, but you can make sure you’re prepared. SERVPRO is ready for whatever happens and is here to help you 24/7.

What is a Sump Pump and How Does it Work?

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

Water flowing out of a sump pump into nearby body of water A sump pump automatically directs excess water to a designated discharge area, such as a creek, pond, lake, or neighborhood drain.

You may have heard from your neighbors, friends, family, or coworkers about how their sump pump saved their home during a thunderstorm, but not have a clue as to what they’re talking about! So…what is a sump pump?

A sump pump is a kind of pump typically located in a basement or crawl space that removes excess or accumulated water to a place where it can be safely drained away, outside. The water may enter from drain backups, rainwater, or flooding. The device is equipped with valves that sense rising water levels and automatically pump out any excess water to a designated discharge area, such as a creek, pond, lake, or neighborhood drain.

Do I Need a Sump Pump?

Having a sump pump can be somewhat of a lifesaver in times of heavy rain and storms in your area. Living in and around Cincinnati, this may be a good idea due to the heavy rain and snow we get throughout the year. This can be especially helpful if your property is on a flood-prone plot, you’ve experienced water problems in the past, or if your basement is finished.

Here are some of the advantages of installing one in your property:

  • Prevent and defend your home from flooding
  • Reduce mold, mildew, and fungus growth
  • Improve indoor air quality
  • Keep the basement or crawl space drier
  • Meet a requirement for homeowners insurance coverage of basement flooding

Sump Pump Failure

Sump pumps are not a perfect preventative or protective solution to your home or business. Sump pumps do have a chance of malfunctioning, or failing, should discharge lines become clogged or frozen. The most common mechanical failure is a stuck or faulty switch, or the motor may become burnt out.

If a sump pump fails in your home causing a water backup, your homeowner’s insurance will more likely cover any damage costs due to the water damage.

As always, should your Cincinnati home or business need water damage restoration, you know who to call: SERVPRO of Northwest and Northeast Cincinnati, the disaster recovery PROs. We work directly with property owners and insurance companies for a smooth claims process. Our crews are ready 24/7 for emergency restoration services.

Sunny With a Chance of...Thunder?

5/10/2023 (Permalink)

Palm trees in a thunderstorm The National Lightning Safety Institute says, “If you can see it, flee it; If you can hear it, clear it.”

We’re all growing excited as summer fun grows closer. The kids are getting out of school, maybe you’ve got a trip coming up, and you’re already planning the family cookouts and upcoming holidays-- life is pretty good.

The season is filled with sunshine and good times, and what most of us keep on the back burner or don’t think even about when we imagine summer is the threat of severe weather and thunderstorms.

Extreme weather can strike at any time, and it’s important to be prepared in such instances, even when times seem sunny-side-up. Here are some tips, reminders, and refreshers for Summer Storm Safety:

Being Prepared is Being Smart, and Being Smart is Being Safe

Swimming

  • If a storm hits while you’re swimming in a pool or ocean, lying on the beach, or playing at a water park, remember the 30/30 rule: Go inside or seek shelter if you cannot count to 30 between seeing a lightning strike and hearing a thunderclap, and don’t go back out until 30 minutes have passed since the last thunderclap.
  • You may be able to swim in an inside pool during a thunderstorm if it does not connect to an outside pool.
  • Pool owners: don’t drain or cover your pool. Covers can become flying hazards. Keeping the pool full keeps it heavy and less apt to move. Clear away toys, umbrellas, furniture, and other items that can be damaged or cause damage in the event of a storm.

Camping

  • Have alternatives for shelter. A tent will keep you dry from rainfall but serves no protection against lightning. If you can, get in your vehicle or campsite resident building. Your tent should be a last resort.
  • Know the terrain. Thunderstorms in mountainous areas are the most dangerous due to higher elevations. Desert terrains with box and slot canyons can also be very dangerous.
  • Choose your campground wisely. If you’re looking to make camp with protection from potential severe weather in mind, try to avoid these spaces: open areas where you may be vulnerable to a direct strike, near isolated trees where you may be vulnerable to side flashes, bodies of water, high or exposed terrain.
  • Invest in a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) radio. This is especially helpful should the weather turn in your sleep, as the device sound an alarm if there is severe weather nearby.

The National Lightning Safety Institute says, “If you can see it, flee it; If you can hear it, clear it.”

Preparedness

  • In any season, it’s important to have a storm prep plan in place. Even on vacation! A checklist of items to keep on hand or in your vehicle include bottled water, flashlights, first aid kit, nonperishables, whistle (or item that can be a signal for help).
  • Before going away, depending on the duration of your stay, it can be a good idea to check on your home’s insurance policy in case of storm or non-storm related property damage and update where necessary.
  • Prior to leaving your hotel or room, be sure to check your location’s weather daily and plan your activities accordingly! It’s better to be safe than sorry.

After a Storm

  • Even after a storm has settled, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that still linger: Stay away from downed power lines; Never drive through a flooded roadway; Keep clear of areas badly affected as there is risk of falling debris.
  • Only leave your house/resort/hotel once it’s officially OK to do so!

Stay Safe, Stay Smart, and Have Fun This Summer!

Your Local Disaster Recovery PROs

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO office parking lot with rainbow overhead Your local SERVPRO is Here to Help.

SERVPRO initially started as a small, family-owned painting company more than 50 years ago and has grown into the #1 choice in the cleaning and restoration industry with over 2,000 franchise locations across North America.

Faster to Any Size Disaster

With so many independent locations, you can rest assured that there is a SERVPRO just a phone call away for emergency disaster recovery needs, should you ever need it. All franchises are locally owned and operated, with people who actively live in your neighborhood.

Award-Winning Leaders

SERVPRO receives regular recognition for excellence in a variety of fields, including the 2021 Entrepreneur Award, recognized as the #1 franchise in the category and #1 in the Restoration Services Category since 2003.

Residential and Commercial Services

We proudly serve home and business owners with quality expertise in the restoration industry by working efficiently with insurance companies and individuals for a speedy recovery process. There is no job too small or big – SERVPRO is Here to Help!

Provided Services

Professional cleaning, crime scene clean-up, vehicle deodorization, mold remediation, water mitigation, contents cleaning, roof tarp-ups, fire restoration, you name it! SERVPRO specializes in many areas of restoration and cleaning. Your local franchise is ready 24/7 for emergencies.

Got a situation you’re not sure about? Just give us a call at 513-541-3200. SERVPRO is ready for whatever happens.

Fire Safety Tips and Reminders for Spring

4/7/2023 (Permalink)

Diverse family having a cookout, smiling at each other Practicing these safety precautions will ensure your spring cookouts end with s'mores, not fire damage.

Many of us associate home fire protection with colder seasons as they are the months of space heaters, fireplaces, candles, and holiday lights. However, approaching warmer temperatures still warrants for fire safety practices and awareness of potential fire hazards. As we transition to lighter layers of clothing, backyard cookouts, and sunshine, here are some fire safety tips to be reminded of:

Grill Fire Safety

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that just under 9,000 house fires are caused by outdoor grilling annually. It is very important to keep proper maintenance of your grill, and you should ensure that each part of the grill is thoroughly checked before and during use to prevent unwanted danger.

This includes checking the propane tank, hose, and all connecting joints are assembled properly and frequently cleaned. Something to note is to only use charcoal lighter fluid on charcoal – NEVER gasoline, diesel fuel, or other flammable liquids to start a fire. Once a fire is lit, anyone with a container of lighter fluid should not be near the grill, no matter what. Keep grills located 10ft away from homes or tents, and away from overhanging trees.

Outdoor Fire Pit Safety

Like grills, fire pits are an enjoyable part of warmer seasons, but can pose a danger if proper precautions are ignored. Again, NEVER use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start a fire. There are many safe and recommended fire starters available to you! Always keep your eyes on children and pets near fire pits and have a water bucket or fire extinguisher at hand. Avoid tossing highly flammable materials such as pinecones, needles, and plastic into the pit. Keeping the pit area safe ensures that s’mores night goes smoothly!

Keep Your Home Debris-Free

With wildfires burning across the U.S. each year, there are prevention tactics people living in at-risk areas can do to minimize or eliminate the effects:

  • Dispose of and/or move branches, weeds, leaves, pine needles, grass clippings
  • Move trash, woodpiles, construction material ~30 feet away from properties
  • Remove dead vegetation and other flammable materials that are closer than ~5 feet of properties
  • Clean your gutters and under deck of leaves, pine needles, and other flammable materials

Appliance Safety

As warmer weather approaches, we may be inclined to use fans and other indoor appliances to keep cool and maintain the home as usual. Below are some key reminders for indoor appliance fire safety:

  • Major appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, washers, and dryers should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet. NEVER use an extension cord with a major appliance
  • Unplug small appliances when not in use. If the cord is cracked, damaged, or loose, replace the appliance
  • Do not overload outlets and power strips. Avoid putting cords where they can be damaged or pinched such as under a carpet or rug

Tests and Checks

It’s important to frequently check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors function properly, and to change the batteries when needed. It is also important to check your fire extinguisher. Windows should be checked to ensure they open and close properly. Keep chemicals and paints stored properly. Recycle and get rid of old newspapers, magazines, junk mail, and other materials that just pile up. Keep stairs and landings clear for safe emergency evacuations if needed.

Insurance Review

It is advised to check your homeowner's insurance policy once a year, and update your coverage needs where applicable. Reviewing your coverage in the event of a house fire will help you be more prepared and ease a little additional distress to your situation.

Why is there a wet spot on my ceiling?

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

Letting a water spot go untreated may lead to further damage such as mold growth or higher maintenance costs.

Water spots on your ceiling are caused by excess moisture that has seeped through the above drywall, and has sat there long enough to leave a mark.

And what creates this excess moisture? A common source is condensation, but water spots can also form due to roof leaks, plumbing leaks, or hard water. Condensation can form around air vents or ducts when cool air from your AC unit comes in contact with the hotter air in your home, or vice versa with your heater unit in colder temperatures. Roof leaks can be caused by heavy rain or snow. Plumbing leaks can be caused by many factors, usually a broken or clogged pipe. Heavy accumulation of chalky deposits around faucets due to hard water can eat away pipe cavities over time, leading to drips and water spots.

There are many possible causes of water spots around your home and on your ceiling, here’s what to do if that happens:

Taking care of water spots

Water spots are best taken care of the sooner the better. Letting a water spot go untreated may lead to further damage such as mold growth or higher maintenance costs. Do not ignore water spots! Simply painting over the damaged area will only be a temporary cosmetic fix and will not lead to long term resolve such as replacing a broken pipe, upgrading insulation, installing a water softening system, etc.

Once the issue at hand is addressed and you’re looking for a Do-IT-Yourself (DIY) remedy to hide the stain, apply a mild cleaning solution bleach solvent (one part bleach and 3 parts warm water), apply a base coat of stain-blocking primer, and a thin layer of ceiling paint. If the issue needs more than a quick fix, call SERVPRO.


Getting rid of water stains can be time consuming without professional help, especially if there is mold growth present or more serious underlying issues. SERVPRO of Northwest & Northeast Cincinnati can inspect and test the area for mold, and suggest best actions to be taken to remediate the issue. We are your one stop shop for water damage restoration and reconstruction! If you notice a water spot on your ceiling, call us today to set up your FREE estimate: 513-541-3200.

We’re Here to Help.

Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Flood Damage?

12/16/2022 (Permalink)

If you’re worried about flood damage, make sure to check your homeowner’s insurance policy.

Floods are one of the most common natural disasters in the United States. In fact, according to FEMA, floods are the nation's most costly and frequent natural disaster. The Federal Emergency Management Agency estimates that over a 20-year period, about two out of three American homeowners will experience at least one flood event costing them $1,000 or more. While homeowners insurance does not cover damage caused by flooding (with some exceptions), you may be able to purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

What To Do If Your Home Floods

When you’re faced with the prospect of dealing with flood damage, the first thing you should do is call your insurance company. Your homeowner's policy may cover some or all of this damage, but it’s important to know what rules apply.

If you don’t have flood insurance, then there are a few other things to consider: You might not be covered by your homeowner's policy if you live in an area prone to flooding, such as near rivers or streams that overflow their banks during heavy rains.  If this is the case for you, then unless there is another form of coverage (such as earthquake insurance), damage from flooding can fall on your shoulders alone and cost thousands of dollars out-of-pocket!

If you do have flood insurance in place through NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program), then here's what happens when a flood hits: Your home will most likely be covered up to its limit amount listed on your FEMA policy; however, if any repairs exceed that amount then they'll need approval before being made by FEMA itself (and maybe even require an inspection).

Consider Flood Insurance

Your homeowner's insurance policy probably won't cover flood damage, so consider getting flood insurance for your home.

Flood insurance is a separate policy that can be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and many private insurers. It covers losses from water damage due to floods, which are typically caused after heavy rainfall or snowmelt when rivers rise above their banks and overflow onto land.

Flood policies differ from standard homeowners' insurance in three important ways: they're not required by mortgage lenders, they typically offer more coverage than basic policies, and they usually carry higher premiums than other types of homeowner's coverage.

Avoiding Financial Disaster

In addition to providing coverage for the building and its contents, a standard homeowners insurance policy provides liability coverage in case you or your family members are injured by someone else.

Homeowner's insurance generally does not cover damage caused by floods. However, if you live in a flood-prone area or have been advised by your local government agency to purchase extra protection, you may be able to purchase separate flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). You can also buy flood insurance from private insurers who sell policies through the NFIP. It is important that you understand exactly what types of losses are covered under both programs before purchasing any type of supplemental flood protection policy

Mold Removal Isn’t Covered

A mold problem is a common issue after a flood. Mold can be very dangerous, and it can also ruin your property by destroying its walls, floors, and other surfaces. Unfortunately, many homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover mold removal costs.

If you’re worried about flood damage, make sure to check your homeowner’s insurance policy. If it doesn’t cover flood damage, consider getting a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for your home. Even if you don’t live in a flood zone, flooding can happen anywhere and at any time—and sometimes even outside of a high-risk season.


When you experience a flood in your Cincinnati, OH home or business, give SERVPRO of Northwest and Northeast Cincinnati a call!