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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

Choose SERVPRO as your professional restoration company

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

What is Ozone Treatment and Odor Removal?

For some smells, traditional air fresheners and other methods are simply not enough to remove the smell entirely. Instances of fire damage, mold, and even rotten smells may be cause to get a professional ozone treatment done on your home or property.

Ozone is a colorless gas that is very reactive and that does have the ability to oxidize odors. Ozone is similar to the oxygen that we breathe save for the fact that each molecule is made up of three atoms of oxygen rather than two as in the air that we breathe.

An ozone generator is used in a professional ozone treatment to generate these ozone atoms, the atoms then attach to and react with the odor molecules to neutralize them. The machine works to break down the molecules and bacteria that are causing the smells and then breaks them down into components that do not stink.

Ozone treatments and ozone generators are highly effective and are great in cases like a house fire where there is smoke damage and difficult smells. Ozone treatments are great for just about any smell that is hard to tackle and that might not be easily removed with things like air fresheners and more.

Professional Ozone Treatments

It is important to note that it is always going to be best to have a professional ozone treatment rather than try to do it yourself for a few reasons. For starters, ozone can be dangerous in very high concentrations. An ozone machine does create high levels of ozone and can cause sickness if the machine is not properly vented and regulated. 

It is highly beneficial to have a professional ozone treatment as a means of removing tough and difficult odors to help make sure that your home is going to smell great and that there are no traces of any foul odors. Professional treatment is the most thorough and fastest way to get rid of tough odors that might be making it difficult to live in your home. A professional company is going to be able to come in and get rid of the smell quickly so that you can get back to living.

SERVPRO tips for Spring Cleaning

4/14/2022 (Permalink)

Rising temperatures, more sunshine, and blooming flowers – spring is here! It’s a season of transformation as the snow melts away and flowers start to bloom, and one that motivates many to start a home improvement project (or two).

If you’re ready to upgrade your property – inside and out -- a great first step is preparing your home for warmer weather and checking for any damage that may have been caused by the departing season’s ice and snow. This not only helps you prepare for larger projects, but it’s also a great way to fix small issues before they turn into big problems.

Not sure how to get started? We’ve broken out some tasks organized by home area.

YARD

  • Inspect sprinklers for punctures and other damage that could lead to leaking and yard flooding. A leaking sprinkler, no matter how slow, could lead to a leak that can damage your basement or your home’s foundation.
  • Remove debris and leaves that can prevent new grass from growing underneath. Removing this debris will also help prevent harm to children who may fall on sharp branches.
  • Trim bushes, trees, and other foliage that may have grown out of control. Pruning branches helps remove dead branches that may blow into your home during a wind storm.
  • Check decks and patios for boards in need of repair, then clean the boards to extend the life of the wood. A damaged patio board could lead to injury if not fixed, and could also lead to extended damage throughout the patio.
  • Clean grill to get rid of old debris and mess. Excess grease can lead to a flare up and possible fire damage to your home if it’s located near your property. Cleaning a grill also help heat the grill faster.
  • Assess the state of your lawn furniture and equipment, repairing, washing, or replacing as necessary. If lawn furniture is broken or used, replace it to avoid injury to those who use it. Chairs can wear down after being exposed to the elements, and playground equipment may need to be inspected to avoid injury to family members.
  • Take inventory of your gardening equipment to make sure you have what you need for maintenance, flower beds, etc. Lawnmowers and other gardening equipment will require maintenance to continue functioning. For example, lawnmowers need oil changes once every spring or 50 hours of use to run well for years to come.

YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR

  • Clean gutters and downspouts to remove blockage and allow water to flow properly. Having blockage could lead to overflow that can fall along the foundation of the building or lead to structural damage of buildings in certain cases.
  • Check roof for missing shingles, damaged pipes, or anything out of the ordinary. If you’re not comfortable climbing on the roof, do a once-over with binoculars. Don’t hesitate to reach out to an expert for help if you notice anything out of the ordinary or are unsure if repair is needed.
  • Inspect your driveway for cracks or damage caused by thawing ice. Ice and snow lead soil to expand, which can lead to unsightly damage to your driveway. Cracked concrete can also cause damage to cars, mold in areas connected to basements or other structures, and tripping hazards.
  • Check outside-facing walls for damage to stucco, brick, or wood. Look for stains that could indicate water damage inside the walls. Stucco damage repair and damage to walls can be fixed by professionals.
  • Look for foundational cracks that may require repair. Not taking care of these now could lead to extensive water damage if there’s a flood. The water will spill into the cracks and could cause uneven floors in your home, mold growth, and leaking water into basements.
  • Find your home’s sump pump and make sure it’s still in working order. Check to make sure that the water drains properly and away from your home by clearing debris and pouring water into the pit.

YOUR HOME’S INTERIOR

  • Look for leaking around windows. This means caulking and weather stripping may need to be replaced. If you see cracks, it might be time for new windows. Failing to do so could mean your home will take longer to heat or cool, which could be a costly mistake.
  • Clean your windows and replace the mesh if needed. The mesh prevents debris from entering your home, and can help protect your home from unwanted insects.
  • Think about areas of your home that are typically neglected, like the blinds, rails, cabinets, drawers, and closets. Give them a good cleaning by using the appropriate products for the material type.
  • Check the A/C unit and clean air ducts to ensure your home stays cool during the hot summer months. Cleaning your home’s air ducts protects your HVAC system and ensures it continues to function throughout the year.
  • Inspect your attic for signs of rodents or other intruders. Their droppings could lead to wood rot in your attic and harmful health risks to your family.
  • Look for damp insulation or leaks caused by melting ice dams. During winter months, ice dams will need to be removed since they may lead to leaks in your attic which could cause mold in your insulationWater damage may also occur as it leaks into your home’s walls.
  • Check your basement for dampness which could indicate a leak or potential flooding if heavy rain occurs. If you need basement water removal, rely on an expert to help you out, doing it alone may mean that you’re not properly dehumidifying your basement.
  • Go over all walls and ceilings for signs of water damage. If you see some signs of water damage, reach out for water damage restoration services to help address the issue.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SPRING CLEANING

These are simple actions that have long-lasting payoff, so make sure you’re going through them on an annual basis. Failing to do so could result in costly damage to your home that will require home restoration services. The small cracks and issues you see today can create much larger problems, especially if severe weather hits your area.

But remember that you don’t have to tackle all home projects on your own. If you have extensive water damage, mold, or other property damage, the experts at SERVPRO of Madison County are here to help. We’ll work with you to address the problems you may have found during your inspection and make sure that your home is safe from damage. 

Can Commercial Tenants Purchase Flood Insurance?

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

Insurance Paperwork Call your local agent to see if you are covered!

Flood Insurance

Renter’s insurance covers the contents of a space rented by a commercial tenant. A lessee can obtain insurance coverage that specifically applies to damage caused by flooding, which is often excluded from general commercial renters policies. The availability of National Flood Insurance Program policies varies based on the location of rented property in Huntsville, AL.

Renters Policies May Exclude Flood Damage
Renters policies for commercial structures tend to cut out damage caused by flooding. Exposure to contaminated water can damage or destroy any of the following high-value contents:

  • Appliances and devices
  • Fixtures
  • Inventory

While a property owner and lessor is responsible for restoring a structure damaged by flooding, a tenant or lessee is responsible for replacing damaged contents. For this reason, it can be helpful to seek out dedicated flood coverage for commercial renters.

The NFIP Offers Renters Insurance
The NFIP is administered by FEMA. While this program does offer renter's insurance, a tenant must see whether the NFIP is available in the area in which a property is located. In general, the NFIP is more likely to be an option in designated flood zones.

Private Insurers Provide Flood Policies
If the NFIP does not offer policies that cover a rented commercial space, a business owner may want to obtain a flood policy through a private company. Check the limits and terms of any policy to ensure that it covers the costs of replacing ruined commercial contents. It may be possible to obtain a rider on a general commercial property insurance policy for rented premises or a business may have to obtain a separate policy.
Flood insurance coverage may be available through the NFIP for business owners who rent property located in a flood zone in Huntsville, AL. If an NFIP policy is not available, a private insurer may offer renter’s insurance for flooding in addition to general commercial insurance.

ONE TEAM

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ONE TEAM

Whenever and wherever a disaster may be, SERVPRO will be there. With over 1,900 SERVPROs nationwide, we are quickly able to rally troops together creating an unstoppable force that is here to help.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Storm Damage Restoration?

All 1,900 SERVPROs are strategically placed throughout the U.S. so that when disaster strikes, we can most efficiently and effectively come to alleviate those affected.

Take Winter Storm Uri for example. When the south-central region of the United States experienced below-freezing temperatures, residential and commercial properties experienced burst pipes followed by severe levels of water damage. The moment there was a cry for help, SERVPRO of South Madison County began stocking up our trucks with air movers, dehumidifiers, moisture meters and driving cross-country with one goal in mind- to help those who need us most!

Within days thousands of hands were on deck working together as one cohesive unit to help mitigate the water damage that had occurred. The wonderful thing about choosing SERVPRO of South Madison County as your trusted restoration and reconstruction company, is that you not only work with a highly trusted name, but you gain access to all 1,900 franchises nation-wide who are willing to travel wherever they are needed when the time comes to take care of your mold, water, fire or storm damage.

Another beautiful thing about working with SERVPRO is that each franchise lives by the same service standards. We all are locally owned and operated, provide 24-hour emergency services, are highly trained and IICRC certified, have access to the most advanced technology in the restoration industry, and we are all familiar and experienced when it comes to insurance requirements.

Whether you experience tornadoes, floods or winter damage in Huntsville, Alabama, SERVPRO of South Madison County is here to help and so are our neighboring SERVPRO franchises.

Call us anytime, we are your local experts!

Salvage more with the SERVPRO experts

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Water technician using moisture meter SERVPRO trained technician using a meter to determine current moisture levels after a water damage.

Pretesting, Innovative Tools Help Salvage More Damaged Property, Belongings

If your commercial property in Huntsville, AL, sustains a water loss, the initial scene can be overwhelming. While it may seem like little is salvageable and your insurance claim will be over the top, a certified mold and water damage and restoration company will have the tools and expertise to perform pretesting and make a restoration plan to minimize claims and get your property back to “Like it never even happened.”

Inspection
Even though you may already have damage, a key to minimizing costs is ensuring it doesn’t spread. After calling a professional, they will quickly respond to start the saving process.

Within four hours, a technician will arrive on-site to assess the damage and develop a mitigation plan.
The professional will clearly explain the assessment and plan, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the process.
After the on-site visit, the professional will communicate the scope of the project with your insurance agent or claims adjuster.
Pretesting will be done to determine if items can be restored.

Restoration
Once the cleanup and restoration process begins, certified professionals have an arsenal of tools and techniques to clean, repair and restore the structure and many of the items within it. These include:

Moisture Detection: This is used to measure and monitor moisture levels, including detecting hidden water.
Water Extraction: To speed up the drying process, portable or truck-mounted extraction equipment will be used to pump out high levels of water.
Drying: Industrial-strength humidifiers and air mover are used to eradicate leftover moisture from throughout the structure.
Cleaning and Deodorizing: Salvageable belongings will be removed and taken to a secure location to clean and remove odors. Different methods will be used depending on the item, such as dry, immersive, or wet cleaning. Air scrubbers, thermal foggers and anti-microbial treatments are used in the property to eliminate odors and sanitize.

A water loss may seem like a difficult situation to get out of, but taking quick action and pretesting damaged items ensures more can be restored instead of replaced.

SERVPRO is ready to help this Spring!

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

With new flowers blooming, warmer weather walks in the park, and so on we welcome Spring. On the other hand, things like allergies, bee stings, flood warnings, and tornadoes we don't miss. Did you know our tornado season peaks during the months of March, April & May! Well, you know now! Let’s make sure your business is prepared in the event of a tornado.

  • KNOW WHERE TO GO: during a storm, you’re in panic mode so it’s best to have your designated storm area predetermined and known by all of your staff. This room should be reinforced by a professional to provide extra protection during severe storms. 
  • PREPARE YOUR SAFE ROOM: important documents, non-perishable foods, batteries & a flashlight, first aid kit, and so on should be in that area with easy access for you and your staff.
  • ADDED PROTECTION: Provide extra protection to prevent their bodies from direct contact with debris.

Even with that knowledge, your business is not protected, so know that as leaders in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise and we’re here to help. When a major storm hits, it may overwhelm local restoration companies. We want you to know we can scale our resources by accessing the equipment and personnel of 1,700 Franchises. We can also access Disaster Recovery Teams that specialize in major storms and catastrophic events. So never fret! 

Anywhere you may live in Madison County, AL, we are proud to operate in your community. Give us a call at 256-533-5335 to learn more!

Secondary Damage after a Flood

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

A flood, fire or any disaster that involves the quick spread of large amounts of water can quickly lead to further damage from black mold formation at your home in Huntsville, AL or Madison, AL.

What Is Secondary Damage?

This type of damage begins to take hold soon after the threat of the original disaster is under control. It is often due to:

  • Improper sanitization measures
  • Delay in drying efforts
  • Insufficient repairs
  • Poor ventilation

Mold is among the most prevalent causes of damage in the aftermath of a flood. It can quickly form and spread in various circumstances, such as after using a fire hose to extinguish flames, when plumbing pipes freeze and break or when water enters a home through cracks or a faulty foundation during a severe storm.

What Is the Best Way To Prevent Black Mold After a Flood?
The most reliable way to avoid mold following a flood is to dry out your space immediately. When dealing with large volumes of water, it is best to contact a professional disaster restoration service to apply urgent and rigorous mold prevention measures. Flood recovery teams can use industrial-strength water extraction machines to reduce high humidity quickly and efficiently remove excess water before it leads to mold.

What Are Some Ways To Manage Mold After It Starts To Form?
If mold has already taken hold, professional restoration services can undertake mold remediation to prevent it from spreading. For example, air filtration and ozone treatments can remove hazardous mold spores and their musty odors from the air. When water saturates walls or ceilings, removing and replacing mold-infested drywall can prevent more severe structural problems. Immediate action can mitigate damage after a flood and may raise the chances for a successful insurance claim to defray post-flood expenses.
Secondary damage from black mold formation is avoidable if you take immediate steps to control high humidity and dry your space after a flood in Huntsville, AL. When in doubt, contact a professional flood restoration service for sound advice.

Rapid Response to Fire Damage

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Performs Rapid-Response Fire Restoration

Fire damage is an unfortunate risk in many businesses, particularly restaurants. Kitchen appliance mishaps and electrical failures are among the many causes of this. Sprinklers can mitigate the spread of flames, but the damage requires cleanup by trained professionals.

SERVPRO performs fire restoration services for Huntsville, Alabama businesses that have been affected by fire damage. Services are performed per Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) guidelines and local regulations.

Our team responds extremely rapidly getting trained inspectors on-site to conduct an analysis of the damage and to formulate a plan! 

We are always here to help!

How Do Technicians Determine What Cleaners to Use for Fire Damage?

  • Are surfaces porous or nonporous? Porous surfaces, like wood and fabric, can absorb soot. These surfaces require different cleaning methods compared to nonporous surfaces like metal, glass, or plastic.
  • Are soils hydrophilic or lipophilic? A surface otherwise unaffected by water-based cleaners might require a dry solvent to remove sediments.
  • Is wet cleaning or dry cleaning more effective? Many soils are addressed through wet cleaning, but dry-cleaning sponges, alkaline solutions, and solvent cleaners all play essential roles during mitigation.

SERVPRO of South Madison County can be reached at (256) 533-5335 for 24/7 commercial fire restoration.

We Are The Cleaning Experts

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Coronavirus cell Don't forget to wear your mask!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of Coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

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 that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

  • Kitchen/Food Areas

  • Bathrooms

  • Schools/Classrooms

  • Offices

  • Retail Spaces

  • Water Fountains

  • Shelving/Racks

  • Sales Counters

  • Carpets and Rugs

  • Stair Handrails

  • Elevator Cars

  • Playground Equipment

  • Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the Coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the Coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today –SERVPRO of South Madison County, 256-533-5335

Why Realtors Should Choose SERVPRO® of South Madison County

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

The Huntsville real estate market is on fire! Houses are receiving multiple offers and some even going for over listing price. When listing a home for sale, sellers have hundreds of real estate professionals to choose from. Want to provide a unique service to your sellers and stand out above the rest? Here at SERVPRO® of South Madison County, we know how your listing appears in photographs is extremely important. This is the first time a potential buyer will view the home, and the photographs can make or break a potential showing, and ultimately, a potential sale. From a general cleaning to make your listing shine, to treating water damage...even a hoarder cleanout, our team can help in a range of ways. Contact us today! A SERVPRO® of South Madison County professional would be happy to attend your next sales meeting to discuss our services and how we can help you.

IICRC Trained Technicians

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

IICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

  • Crew Training
  • Fire Restoration
  • Water Restoration
  • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of Madison County offers both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and Franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. Courses include:

  • Water Damage Restoration
  • Fire Damage Restoration
  • Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
  • Restorative Drying for Loss Control
  • Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)

Testimonial

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Mr. Hall, Huntsville AL - 

Fast. Professional. Friendly. Helpful. Highly recommend. [Update: it’s been several days now and I wish I could add a star. DeMarcus and his crew have been great. Myka from the front office contacted me multiple times to answer questions and help advise on the next steps. Brad, supervisor, has visited several times and provided a great understanding of the status and progress. They offer from minimal to robust levels of service, and supported my choices and provide recommendations for other services. My builder, who will handle the Reno, said right away, “Calling SERVPRO was the best decision.”

-Thank you Mr. Hall for allowing SERVPRO of Madison County to assist you on this project, it was our pleasure working with you!

Technology Advances

4/11/2020 (Permalink)

The past few decades has seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO Franchise Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

  • An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
  • Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

  • Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 
  • Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

Drying Equipment

Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

  • High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
  • Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

  • Air scrubbers
  • Thermal foggers and deodorization agents

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Anti-Microbial Treatments

The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.

  • Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
  • Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

24 Hours 365 Days a Year

4/11/2020 (Permalink)

Faster To Any Size Disaster

24 Hour Emergency Service

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Chicago Heights / Crete / Beecher 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 – (256) 533-5335

Faster to Any Size Emergency

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of North and South Madison County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
  • A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode.
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
  • Paint begins to blister.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Highly Trained Restoration Specialists

4/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North and South Madison County staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. Our crew is skilled, knowledgeable, professional and experienced to restore commercial and residential building after all types of property losses. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) industry certifications in Water, Fire, Mold, Carpet, and Upholstery, BioHazard and many more. You can rest assured and trust that our team is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property with as little disruption and demolition as possible, we work to restore your home and help to make it "Like it never even happened." Our training program includes the following:

IICRC Training and Certification

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

The Employee Certification Training is a voluntary, self-paced program designed for SERVPRO Franchise employees. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

  • Crew Training
  • Fire Restoration
  • Water Restoration
  • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Initial Franchise Training

A 21-day hands-on course at the SERVPRO Corporate Training Facility is the foundation of the SERVPRO training program. This course is primarily for new Franchise owners and covers many restoration topics:

  • Fire Restoration
  • Water Restoration
  • Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
  • Mold Mitigation

e-Learnings

All of our staff have access to web-based training. This voluntary program is designed to be an ongoing, self-paced coaching series for a Franchise's employees. Video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect.

Continuing Education Classes

SERVPRO of North and South Madison County offers both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals, and Franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. Courses include:

  • Water Damage Restoration
  • Fire Damage Restoration
  • Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
  • Restorative Drying for Loss Control
  • Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar (non-credit course)

Testimonials

4/11/2020 (Permalink)

 

I would like to thank the SERVPRO of Madison County Team for coming to my property to handle an issue. The production manager Tyrone Clinton was very nice. I would like to thank Corey for being very informative about the process! I would also like to thank Myka for keeping in touch as well. Once again thanks to everyone in my time of need. I will be recommending this company!

-Candi  Huntsville, AL

Biohazard and Crime Scene Cleanup in Huntsville

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

Recognized as a leading fire, water, and mold restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO also offers fast and reliable biohazard, vandalism and crime scene cleanup and restoration services. 

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments. 

SERVPRO of South Madison County technicians are trained to safely and effectively remove hazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA and state and local health regulations. 

Equipped with the necessary safety equipment and cleaning products, SERVPRO helps turn unsafe environments into clean, safe homes and offices. 

Our services cover the following issues:

  • Bloodbourne Pathogens: SERVPRO removes and disposes of bodily fluids, tissue and other potentially pathogenic substance resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Technicians clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.
  • Methamphetamine Labs: Many chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs, are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO follows federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces. 
  • Crime Scene Residues: Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues can be cleaned from surfaces and contents to restore your property. 
  • Arson and Vandalism: After the fire trucks are gone, your home and belongings likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also extensive water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO has the specialized fire and water damage cleanup and restoration training and experience to quickly restore your home to pre-fire condition. We also have specific training and equipment for odor removal and deep cleaning of upholstery and carpet. 
  • Sewage Backups: Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination. This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.
  • Black Water Intrusions: This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.
    • May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
    • Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup
  • Mold Mitigation and Remediation: Mold can produce allergens and irritants and has the potential to cause other health effects. Mold can spread quickly through your home or business in as little as 48 hours. If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property. If mold is found, we have the training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

Spring Maintenance Musts For Huntsville Homeowners

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

Spring in Huntsville means rain and storms, and for many people that can lead to wet floors or even flooding. Intrusion of water into your home can result in mold growth, if left unattended. The best way to control mold growth is to control the moisture. Following these maintenance tips could save yourself a lot of problems down the line.

  • Check your roof for any cracks or damage. This will help prevent leaking into the upper floors of your home.
  • Clean and check your gutters. When gutters are clogged and not allowing water to drain properly, it could be coming back into your basement or crawl space.
  • If your home has a chimney, have it cleaned and examined for damage.

If these problems are left to sit, your home could be at risk for water damage and potentially mold damage. This could lead to very expensive repairs to both the interior and exterior of your home. SERVPRO of South Madison County recommends keeping up with your household maintenance before the springtime showers begin. 

If you find yourself with a soggy or soaked carpet, give SERVPRO of South Madison County a call!  We know how to handle your small water damages as well as your large water damages. If you have any questions or need assistance, just call 256-533-5335 and we will answer 24/7!

The Trouble with DIY Restoration

3/23/2019 (Permalink)

Huntsville and Madison residents take pride in their homes and properties. When disaster strikes or when you have a substantial mess to clean up, it is a common belief to roll up your sleeves and get to work to fix the problem as best as you can on your own. The trouble with DIY restoration for water incidents is that many homeowners don't get all of the problem addressed, allowing for continued damage.

While a homeowner might see a water damage situation in their Huntsville  residence as little more than a reason to break out the mop and run some fans, there is much more to water damage restoration. Ensuring that the area gets thoroughly dried requires specialized equipment and detection tools. Failure to get your home below moisture standards for a house can lead to worsening conditions that pose a threat to the structure, as well as your family.

One of the reasons that you might consider professional restoration like SERVPRO provides is our ability to respond to your situation rapidly. Even in smaller scale water incidents, fast response time is critical to mitigating loss and to get to work quickly on removing the water and drying up the affected areas.

Another reason that a homeowner should think about our SERVPRO team is our industry-leading equipment, expertise, and unique training. These facts help us quickly assess the full scope of the damage that affects your home and choose the most efficient and practical approach to eliminating the moisture and preserving the construction materials that have gotten saturated by the incident.

As much as you might be among the homeowners that seek to do things for themselves when something happens to their home, situations like water damages require professionals with the right training and equipment to ensure that the job gets done adequately. Our SERVPRO of South Madison County water damage technicians are available 24/7 for any need you might have by calling (256) 533-5335.

SERVPRO is Always Storm Ready

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Madison County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Madison County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 256-533-5335

IICRC Certified Firm

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Madison County is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of South Madison County

SERVPRO of South Madison County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

24-Hour Emergency Service

3/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Madison County provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Madison County. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service
  • Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
  • Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
  • A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
  • Locally Owned and Operated
  • Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 256-533-5335

Residential Services

Whether your Madison County home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

  • Water Damage Restoration
  • Fire Damage Restoration
  • Mold Remediation
  • Storm Damage Restoration
  • Cleaning Services
  • Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Madison County commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: click here.

  • Commercial Water Damage Restoration
  • Commercial Fire Damage Restoration