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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Commercial Blog Posts

Streamlining Commercial Reconstruction Using Our Team in Bridgeview?

11/12/2024 (Permalink)

Two people shake hands. We manage all phases of commercial rebuilding services in Cook County. Key Words:

Over 50 percent of commercial businesses that suffer a loss never reopen their doors. Disaster can strike at any time: fires can break out, pipes can burst and cause flooding, severe weather can damage property, and mold outbreaks left unmitigated can quickly spread throughout a building.

When disaster strikes a commercial property, the road to recovery can be complex. Our local Oak Lawn team is a leader in commercial rebuilding services in Bridgeview and simplifies this process by offering restoration and reconstruction services under one roof. This integrated approach means businesses benefit from having a single qualified company handle all aspects of the project, reducing downtime and saving money. Instead of dealing with multiple contractors for various phases, we manage everything from initial damage assessment to final reconstruction to return damaged properties to preloss condition.

By consolidating the process with one company, customers avoid the stress of coordinating different trades or facing communication gaps. Our highly trained team works together to ensure each phase flows seamlessly into the next, minimizing delays and maximizing efficiency. Ultimately, this streamlined process allows businesses to return to normal operations faster and more cost-effectively "Like it never even happened."

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Bridgeview has property damage requiring reconstruction services, our local Oak Lawn team is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Crime Scene Cleanup for Commercial Buildings in Oak Lawn?

11/5/2024 (Permalink)

Crime scene tape prevents people from entering an active crime scene investigation. We are trained and certified to restore crime scenes in Cook County.

After a crime scene investigation takes place in a commercial property or home, the crime scene must be thoroughly cleaned and restored before it is safe to inhabit again. Our local Oak Lawn team is highly trained and certified to restore crime scenes with compassion and great care.

In the aftermath of a crime, the affected commercial property must undergo meticulous cleanup to ensure safety and compliance with health regulations we provide comprehensive crime scene cleanup services, including removing biohazard materials and restoring the site to its original condition.

Our highly trained technicians adhere to strict safety protocols while working efficiently to minimize disruption to your business, employees and customers.

We have established relationships with major insurance carriers ensuring  a smoother claims process, giving you peace of mind during a challenging time. Choosing us as your commercial restoration provider means your business will be operational again quickly and efficiently.

Commercial Services

  • Leading Choice in Cleanup and Restoration
  • Residential and Commercial Property Damage Restoration
  • Highly-Trained Technicians to Minimize Disruption
  • Easier Insurance Claim Process
  • Faster to any size disaster™

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Oak Lawn requires crime scene cleanup services, our local Oak Lawn team is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Eliminating Bad Odors to Keep Customers Returning to Your Business in Alsip?

10/15/2024 (Permalink)

A customer holds their nose to prevent smelling a bad odor. We are commercial property damage restoration leaders in Cook County.

Unpleasant odors can have a detrimental effect on your business, driving customers away and damaging your reputation. Whether these odors are internal or external, it's crucial to address them promptly and effectively.

As industry leaders in commercial deodorization, our Oak Lawn technicians are adept at pinpointing and eradicating the source of offensive odors. We never resort to using chemicals to 'mask' the smell; instead, we employ advanced techniques and scientific methods to identify the origin of the odor.

Our team is highly trained and certified in the latest odor removal methods, including using powerful products designed to penetrate surfaces and neutralize odors at their source. By understanding how odors interact with different materials, we can remove them entirely, often leaving no trace behind.

Odor removal is a complex process that requires a scientific approach, so it's best to rely on professionals for effective results. If your business in Alsip is struggling with persistent odors, contact us today. We'll address the problem, ensuring your commercial space is fresh, inviting, and ready to welcome customers back.

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Alsip has an unpleasant odor problem, our local Oak Lawn team is always Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Sewage Backup: A Critical Concern for Commercial Properties in Worth?

9/24/2024 (Permalink)

An out of order sign is taped to a public toilet. We are commercial water damage restoration leaders in Cook County.

A sewage backup in a commercial property is more than just an unpleasant inconvenience—it’s a severe issue that requires immediate attention. Sewage backups can occur for various reasons, including clogged pipes, aging plumbing systems, or heavy rainfall overwhelming municipal sewer systems. When sewage backs up into a commercial building, it can cause significant damage to the property, disrupt business operations, and lead to costly repairs.

The contamination from sewage backup is particularly concerning, as it can affect not only the physical structure of your building but also its contents, including furniture, electronics, and important documents. Additionally, foul odors and unsanitary conditions can make the space uninhabitable, forcing businesses to close temporarily.

Quick and professional intervention is crucial when dealing with a sewage backup. Our local Oak Lawn team responds to commercial water damage emergencies in Worth 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our highly trained water damage restoration technicians are equipped to handle these emergencies, providing water extraction, decontamination, and thoroughly cleaning the affected areas. By acting swiftly, you can minimize the damage and get your business back to normal operations as quickly as possible, ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Worth has water damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Commercial Water Damage can Happen Even on Weekends

9/5/2022 (Permalink)

Usually, many office buildings are unoccupied over the weekend.  A water leak that happens on a Friday, that no one notices, can turn into a huge flooding problem my Monday morning. 

Recognizing a Water Leak

Faulty toilets or leaking pipes can escalate into something more serious if they are not noticed or repaired in time.  Here are a few tips to identify signs you may have leaking water:

  • Listen carefully for sounds of dripping or water coming from faucets or toilets.  If the water has been shut off and you are still hearing dripping, this may be a sign of a faulty and time to call a plumber. 
  • Have your employees do a quick check of the ceilings and floors in their work areas.  Wet carpet maybe a sign of a plumbing leak. 
  • If you notice a drop in water pressure, this may also be a sign that there is water leaking somewhere in the building.  
  • Check toilets regularly for any faulty supply lines. 

A water leak in your place of business if left untreated can cause substantial damage.  By catching leaks early, you can protect your business better.  If you do encounter water damage, call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn today. (708)239-1444

Why SERVPRO? We are here to help when your commercial property is damaged

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Oak Lawn commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Oak Lawn

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

SERVPRO Can Handle Any Emergency

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

The customer had the cities water company clearing out the pipes and the water company accidentally sent all of the sewage into the customers home.

SERVPRO arrived on scene quickly and started extracting and cleaning the areas affected.  There was some demo was necessary in the basement which was taken care of right away as well. Luckily for the customer it was an unfinished basement so they didn't have any contents that needed to get thrown out due to the category of the water damage. 

SERVPRO can handle any emergency that you run into in your life. Not only do we do water, fire, and mold remediation, but we also do biohazard cleanup, reconstruction, and many more services to take care of any need or emergency. Ready to make anything "Like it never even happened."

Water Damage Restoration For Commercial Buildings

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

 

Take the proper steps in removing water from your business by trusting a locally owned and operated industry leader to perform the water extraction process. We have the equipment and experience available to do the job right the first time and return your property to a quality pre-damage condition.

Our technicians can efficiently remove water caused by floods or leaks on your property. We'll go out of our way to ensure proper removal of any moisture that may affect your merchandise that is stored by responding quickly and assisting you with getting operations back to normal as fast as possible. Our SERVPRO technicians have the training and experience needed to put our quality equipment to work immediately to tackle your large commercial flooding or water damage emergency. We work hard to mitigate the damage and manage your entire restoration process.

SERVPRO highly recommends that you remain safe while waiting for our expertly trained staff to arrive. Pay specific attention to possible electrical, or slip & fall hazards that may be present at the site. Never perform any activities that may be unsafe, wet materials are far heavier than you think they are; be careful.

The faster SERVPRO receives a call from you, the better chances we'll have to mitigate the damages to your commercial property and any stock that you may have on hand. We use specialized equipment to find hidden water and advanced drying techniques to ensure everything receives the proper drying time. We also use air moving equipment to help reduce drying time and eliminate moisture from the air with dehumidifiers. These processes assist with removing and absorbing moisture from wet materials and enhance evaporation at the surface levels.

Within eight hours of our onsite arrival, you will have a complete understanding of the scope of work that is required to restore your property and we'll have started to regain control of your property efficiently. We always provide you with a complete final walk-through to ensure your satisfaction with the job performed.

Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn today (708) 239-1444.

SERVPRO Commercial Restoration Services

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

When your Oak Lawn business suffers from a disaster event like a fire or flood, you will have to think about many different details at the same time.  Your clients may need to be notified, shipping may have to be delayed or canceled, customer support will have to be increased, employees may be displaced but still need to work, and so on. 

A disaster event will undoubtedly be a trying time, and it is important to figure out what should take priority and what can be delegated to others so you can focus on getting your business back to full speed as soon as possible.  

Depending on what type of business you own, the equipment, technology, and the items that can be salvaged or stored from inside your building might be some of the most important assets to your business.  You will need someone who can help you track and manage those items for you, so you can focus on the other tasks at hand.  

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn provides content storage services along with our disaster restoration efforts.

In your time of need, consider the benefits of working with us to keep your items safe:

  • Saved time – Instead of attempting to move your important items yourself, you can simply work with us. We’ll already be on site to provide any type of disaster restoration service you need, and we’ll begin the content storage process at the same time.
  • All-in-one service – You won’t have to spread yourself thin calling all over the place finding different companies to provide different services. We provide disaster restoration, content storage, and full project management services.  You’ll only have to make one call to have all of your needs handled.
  • Meticulous environment – We will log each and every one of your items into inventory so you know exactly what’s being stored. We also use a climate controlled storage facility that will provide a stable environment for your precious technology and equipment. Instead of having to wonder what’s been taken care of and what’s being restored or salvaged, you’ll have a detailed picture of everything you need to know.

As a business owner, you have probably had to learn how to delegate important tasks to other people.  That is what great leaders do, focus on the essentials and rely on other reliable professionals to fill in the gaps. 

Let SERVPRO of Oak Lawn handle your tricky situation of disaster restoration.

CALL US TODAY (708) 239-1444

SERVPRO Can Help Mitigate Water Damage That Has Occurred In Your Business

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee cleaning SERVPRO has the equipment, training, and expertise to dry out your building, repair material damage, clean, and sanitize your business.

Some commercial business owners treat property issues as part of doing business, but dealing with Oak Lawn flood damage can be sometimes problematic.  Flood damage can destroy inventory, stock, supplies, office furniture, documents and electronic equipment as well as cause structural damage. SERVPRO suggests the following to help mitigate water damage to your business facility. 

In many cases, flood damage results from the effects of a storm.  There are several types of water damage that can result from storm surges. Some of them include:

  • Building displacement or damage
    • Mold growth in commercial properties within walls or HVAC systems
    • Damage to coastal rail lines, highways, or roads resulting in less accessibility for transportation
    • Loss of business, closed doors means lost commercial cash flow, less rent, and loss of customer traffic 

How to Save on Flood Damage Restoration


Have a flood insurance program. By purchasing business interruption insurance, you can gain reimbursement for a claim and lessen the impact of no revenue stream and thus lower your total costs. SERVPRO is recognized as a preferred vendor by many insurance and management companies. We can help speed the process of water damage restoration. The best way to reduce or prevent damages generated by storm surges is to implement strategies before the onset of hurricane season. Here are some strategies you should implement:

  • Build higher. If you own your commercial building, consider the value of finding the property's base flood elevation and building above it. Hire a structural engineer to offer a plan to reinforce your commercial property.
    • Place valuables higher. If your building contains more than one floor, be sure to move valuable assets, technical equipment, and computers to the second floor.
    • Invest in preventative installations. Be sure to install some back-flow valves in the property's sewer lines. These valves will prevent city sewage from flowing into your property in the event of a storm surge. Have available access to water surge barricading materials such as sandbags. Also, be sure to elevate electrical systems such as extension cords above the region's flood level. You can also utilize cinder blocks to raise your appliances and most valuable assets above anticipated flood levels.
    • Select fast-drying material. Carpeting and wet drywall are susceptible to damage from mold. These porous-surfaced building materials normally require discarding after flooding due to contaminants and mold growth. Build or replace with stone products, tile and noncardboard backed gypsum materials. 

To ensure your Oak Lawn commercial property can withstand water damage resulting from floods be sure to implement the strategies outlined above.  Post flooding, the most urgent action is to extract the standing water from the premises. Our company has the equipment, training, and expertise to dry out your building, repair material damage, clean, and sanitize your business. Our IICRC-certified professionals are skilled in thoroughly restoring your property to its previous safe, sanitary condition. "Like it never even happened." Let's get you open for business.

Ask The Experts: How Can I Keep My Commercial Building Free From Mold?

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes your office or commercial building, the results on your bottom line can be devastating. What can be worse though, is not having the water cleaned up effectively, which can lead to mold.

So what are some great ways to keep mold from happening in your office or commercial building? Today we will look at 2 things you can do!

1. Thoroughness is Key!

Mold spores can travel quickly through your HVAC system, so a great place to start is here! Getting it cleaned, changing or cleaning the filters, and keeping it in the great form will help stop the spread of mold spores. It is also vital to clean and maintain the vents as well to make sure you are doing all you can to keep the mold from spreading.

2. Humidity <3 Mold!

Commercial buildings tend to usually have a LOT of people, and people cause condensation, so it is important that you dehumidify.

Having a dehumidifier in areas where you have high concentrations of people for long periods of time and in other areas where moisture is prevalent can make a huge difference in reducing the moisture in a building, which will also make the environment less conducive for mold to thrive.

If you find mold in your commercial building, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Oak Lawn! We have the experience, expertise, and equipment to get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Commercial Emergency Restoration In Chicago Ridge

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Water in break room When flooding or fires happen, they may occur at your office or business. Who do you call? SERVPRO!

 

Commercial Building Restoration Services

When flooding or fires happen, they may occur at your office or business. Who do you call? Being prepared is the first step and may score you brownie points with your boss if you know the right company to call in an emergency. 

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is available 24 hours a day to restore your Oak Lawn commercial property and get you back to business. We have the expertise, equipment, and highly trained personnel to handle your commercial water, fire, or mold damage. We can also access the resources of our national network of 1,650 Franchises to handle large commercial projects and major storm events. Learn more about our commercial restoration services:

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration In Chicago Ridge

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage One of the most common issues that many business owners face is fire damage

What to know about Chicago Ridge Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

For many small business owners, their small business is their livelihood. Any disaster that happens to hurt the company can be detrimental the owner’s finances in a huge way. One of the most common issues that many business owners face is commercial fire damage . There are many ways in which fire can affect your business. However, there are steps that a company can take both before and after fire damage occurs to mitigate any damage that a fire may cause.

Fire Prevention

Although it seems obvious, being able to prevent fire damage from occurring is the best defense against fire.  There are many things that a business can do to increase their first line against fire issues.  First, always use the highest quality building materials possible. Many new building materials are much more fire resistant and can end up saving a lot of money.  They may be more expensive to put in, but if a fire occurs, they can help save thousands of dollars in repairs.  Also, if your facility has a lot of employees, be sure to have safety meetings and discuss the ways they can reduce the likelihood of a fire taking place.  For example, a cigarette should be disposed of properly rather than just throwing it on the ground or in a trash can.  These steps can go a long way in reducing the chances of a fire.  However, at the end of the day even if a business takes the necessary precautions, a fire may still occur.  It is important to have a good plan in place and a company that you trust to help clean up the fire damages.

Fire Damage

Some business owners may thing that fire damage is something that will easily be cleaned up.  However, there are often several layers of issues that the small business owner faces in the aftermath.  Flames in a fire can cause damage to the exterior and the interior of the building.  Sometimes there may even be structural damage as well.  The damage caused by fire and smoke are a significant issue.  Many people may feel as though the smoke just smells bad but it can cause long term damage as well.  It is important that you work with a quality experienced restoration company to restore the building that was damaged.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration In Chicago Ridge

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire One of the most common issues that many business owners face is fire damage

What to know about Chicago Ridge Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

For many small business owners, their small business is their livelihood. Any disaster that happens to hurt the company can be detrimental the owner’s finances in a huge way. One of the most common issues that many business owners face is commercial fire damage . There are many ways in which fire can affect your business. However, there are steps that a company can take both before and after fire damage occurs to mitigate any damage that a fire may cause.

Fire Prevention

Although it seems obvious, being able to prevent fire damage from occurring is the best defense against fire.  There are many things that a business can do to increase their first line against fire issues.  First, always use the highest quality building materials possible. Many new building materials are much more fire resistant and can end up saving a lot of money.  They may be more expensive to put in, but if a fire occurs, they can help save thousands of dollars in repairs.  Also, if your facility has a lot of employees, be sure to have safety meetings and discuss the ways they can reduce the likelihood of a fire taking place.  For example, a cigarette should be disposed of properly rather than just throwing it on the ground or in a trash can.  These steps can go a long way in reducing the chances of a fire.  However, at the end of the day even if a business takes the necessary precautions, a fire may still occur.  It is important to have a good plan in place and a company that you trust to help clean up the fire damages.

Fire Damage

Some business owners may thing that fire damage is something that will easily be cleaned up.  However, there are often several layers of issues that the small business owner faces in the aftermath.  Flames in a fire can cause damage to the exterior and the interior of the building.  Sometimes there may even be structural damage as well.  The damage caused by fire and smoke are a significant issue.  Many people may feel as though the smoke just smells bad but it can cause long term damage as well.  It is important that you work with a quality experienced restoration company to restore the building that was damaged.

Not One Single Day Of Classes Missed - SERVPRO Is Fast With The Help You Need!

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

School Water Damage The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether it’s a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood.

 

At SERVPRO of Oak Lawn, we believe learning shouldn't be paused or canceled, even in the face of disaster.  Disasters at an educational facility are highly complex and require a knowledgeable and flexible response.  Whether we're dealing with a small school or a campus of higher education, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area so that normal operations can continue while we restore your facility.  Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area.  Your job is to provide valuable lessons and information to the students; ours is to make sure you have a safe place to do so. 

Our experience in handling educational facilities cleanups has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following educational facilities: 

  • K-12 Schools
  • Colleges & Universities
  • Dormitories
  • Event and Sporting Arenas
  • Libraries
  • Day Care / Pre-K Facilities

When Water Damages Your Business, SERVPRO Can Help With The Aftermath!

7/18/2021 (Permalink)

hallway of water SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is here to help 24/7 with your commercial water damage.
 

As most of us know, July weather can be very unpredictable in our area. Today it is 72 degrees and sunny and the forecast is calling for rain and snow on Wednesday along with 60 degree temperatures! Bring on the warm weather already! 

Sometimes, with this type of weather we can end up with rain for days on end which can cause flooding. Being prepared is the key. Some commercial business owners treat property issues as part of doing business, but dealing with flood damage can be problematic.  

Flood damage can destroy inventory, stock, supplies, office furniture, documents and electronic equipment as well as cause structural damage.  This can lead to a loss of business and closed doors means lost commercial cash flow and loss of customer traffic. 

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is here to help. We are ready 24/7 to assist with your small or large commercial water damage situation. 

Call us today (708) 239-1444

SERVPRO Is Your #1 Commercial Fire Damage Emergency Services

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Men Cleaning Wall Flames in a fire can cause damage to the exterior and the interior of the building. Call SERVPRO any time - any day!
 

For many small business owners, their small business is their livelihood. Any disaster that happens to hurt the company can be detrimental the owner’s finances in a huge way. One of the most common issues that many business owners face is commercial fire damage . There are many ways in which fire can affect your business. However, there are steps that a company can take both before and after fire damage occurs to mitigate any damage that a fire may cause.

Fire Prevention

Although it seems obvious, being able to prevent fire damage from occurring is the best defense against fire.  There are many things that a business can do to increase their first line against fire issues.  First, always use the highest quality building materials possible. Many new building materials are much more fire resistant and can end up saving a lot of money.  They may be more expensive to put in, but if a fire occurs, they can help save thousands of dollars in repairs.  Also, if your facility has a lot of employees, be sure to have safety meetings and discuss the ways they can reduce the likelihood of a fire taking place.  For example, a cigarette should be disposed of properly rather than just throwing it on the ground or in a trash can.  These steps can go a long way in reducing the chances of a fire.  However, at the end of the day even if a business takes the necessary precautions, a fire may still occur.  It is important to have a good plan in place and a company that you trust to help clean up the fire damages.

Fire Damage

Some business owners may thing that fire damage is something that will easily be cleaned up.  However, there are often several layers of issues that the small business owner faces in the aftermath.  Flames in a fire can cause damage to the exterior and the interior of the building.  Sometimes there may even be structural damage as well.  The damage caused by fire and smoke are a significant issue.  Many people may feel as though the smoke just smells bad but it can cause long term damage as well.  It is important that you work with a quality experienced restoration company to restore the building that was damaged.

Don't Forget To Plan For the Unexpected!

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile SERVPRO is here and ready for whatever happens 24/7!

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it's a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood.  The best time for planning for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.  No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it.  Now is the time to ask yourself, "Are you ready for whatever happens?"

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a start up approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services.  It is designed to serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information.  By working with SERVPRO's ERP, your business can receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster.  SERVPRO is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order. 

Ask The Experts: Do I Need A Professional When It Comes To Cleaning Biohazards?

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding, or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Specialized training and experience are key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances.

We provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. Biohazard contaminants should be considered very dangerous as they can pose a serious health risk. Sewer backups and flood water are two common biohazard scenarios that can affect homes and businesses. SERVPRO of Oak Lawn has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore this type of contamination.

After any biohazard or sewage contamination in your home or business, your primary focus should be safety:

  • Is it safe to stay in the business?
  • Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences.
  • Flood water can contain sewage, pesticides, and other contaminants.
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.

What to Do After a Contamination

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening.
  • Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
  • Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.

What Not to Do After a Contamination

  • Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
  • Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
  • Don’t use your vacuum to remove water.
  • Don’t use television or other household appliances.
  • Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Biohazards like flood water or sewer backups should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of Oak Lawn has water damage restoration specialists and has specific training and expertise to safely remediate biohazard contaminants.

So give us a call today 708-239-1444! We are faster to any disaster and are ready to use our equipment, experience, and expertise to get you back to "Like it never even happened."

Ask The Experts: How Do I Know If It Is Mold?

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Is that mold in the corner? What about on the tile in your shower? Should you be concerned? 

Regular housekeeping and maintenance in your commercial building may include an everyday checklist of tasks-keeping bathrooms stocked, ensuring that garbage is properly disposed, and keeping things presentable and tidy. Does the checklist include checking all the nooks and crannies of the building where mold may grow? It is important to be proactive by checking areas that are not obvious for mold growth. 

1. Walls and Ceilings 

Walls can harbor mold both on the surface and internally. Check behind items that are pushed up against walls. Also, check ceilings and masonry such as bricks. These call all be the perfect areas for mold to thrive and multiply. 

2. HVAC and Air Ducts

Humid temperatures circulating through dark spaces in HVAC systems and air ducts can create condensation. This can create the perfect environment for mold growth

3. Unoccupied Rooms

Empty offices or areas that are closed up and not used or occupied on a regular basis should be checked at least once a week. There may not be adequate air circulation if vents are closed. 

If you suspect you have mold in your commercial building, call us today (708) 239-1444 we can come out and do a free inspection. We are faster to any disaster and are ready to send mold packing and get you back to "Like it never even happened."

What To Do After Sewer Backup In Your Chicago Ridge Business

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

As your commercial building in Chicago Ridge ages, pipes get older as well, and sewer lines can get backed up. Plus, employees usually do not treat facilities at work with the same amount of car as they would in their own home. Even though commercial sewer lines are made to withstand more wear and tear, they can still clog and back up. You have a staff who counts on you for a safe working environment, so if a sewer line does get backed up, acting quickly is essential.

When it comes to damage to your sewer lines in your business, time is of the essence. You need commercial water removal services as soon as possible before additional damage can occur. At SERVPRO, our staff has gone through extensive training and certification to do the job for you and do it right. We are available any time, day or night, and ensure that we return your business to its usual, safe working environment.

City sewer lines have what is known as Category 3 water, which is very hazardous to anyone who comes into contact with it. It can contain microbes, bacteria, and other microorganisms that can severely damage not only the health of you, your employers, and your customers, but can also damage the indoor air quality.

SERVPRO techs understand the dangers present with this kind of water damage, and we wear the correct protective gear to ensure the safety of our workers during restoration. We also have the right equipment and tools to remediate the areas affected quickly. SERVPRO understands that every minute you are closing costs you money, so we act fast to help you out.

When we arrive at your site, we evaluate the damages and then communicate the plan for cleanup with you before we begin any work. We can quickly return your building to safe conditions and let you and your employers get back to work.

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn works quickly to take care of the sewer backup in your business. Give us a call today (708) 239-1444. 

Keeping Your Business Ready for Customers After Water Damage

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Providing the best for your customers requires a clean environment and an inviting atmosphere. When your business has suffered from water damage it can deter customers from affecting your bottom line. SERVPRO can help remove water-damaged materials so your business can stay open and on schedule.  We also provide the services needed to restore your business after the damage takes place, ensuring that it once again looks “Like it never even happened,” and preserving your trademark look.

Trained, so they receive IICRC certifications, our technicians soon gain hands-on experience in every stage of restoration work. We do more than just the tear-outs and removal of materials. We also make sure that your establishment is ready to serve customers again. We know you must pass various inspections during the year and can help make sure water damage does not pose any obstacles.

Our Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician (FCT) makes sure that often overlooked areas receive the care and attention they require. Different flooring throughout your business can suffer from water damage in different ways. Carpeting can stretch and develop loose areas, while hardwood floors can warp and splinter, creating trip and fall hazards. Linoleum and tile can become loose and begin to disintegrate.

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is a service dedicated to helping other local businesses remain strong assets to our local economy.  Whenever water damage or other problems develop at your business call us for 24-hour services at (708) 239-1444.

Water Damage Can Mean Lost Money For Your Business

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

When a commercial property suffers from a flooding issue, the business loss isn't just measured in how much water is standing in a manager's office or covering a showroom floor. Every minute that the doors aren't open for customers is lost income and opportunity to grow that business.

Consider this; flooding on a commercial property usually happens (and isn't noticed) overnight. When your manager or employees arrive to open up, that's when they find the problem. This day and its profits are already lost. To even have a chance to reopen the next day or the one after that, you need to get a professional from SERVPRO in your workplace immediately to find and close off the source of the damage.  if you have done so, that will mitigate the secondary water damage and increase the speed of drying out the business.  Our team of trained IICRC certified technicians begins cleanup within the quickest time possible, often within the hour. 

Many state and local laws require that walking areas affected be completely dried off before allowing employees and customers to return. It's a matter of both health and safety issues. If your business can show that there is no other damage that puts either group at risk, then an inspector will gladly allow you to start serving and supporting customers again.

Getting the doors reopened, even if the water damage is minor, can be a huge benefit for a business today. If you have suffered water damage in your business call us (708) 239-1444. 

Is Your Business Prepared If Disaster Strikes?

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

A disaster in your business, not something any owner wants to think about until they are forced to. Many owners go about their days worrying about finances but not water or fire damage. That is what SERVPRO is for right? Yes, that is true, we are definitely here to help with any disaster that comes your way, but here a few precautions that may protect your business. 

  • Teach your employees to maintain their work areas. Paper and trash can potentially fuel a fire. 
  • Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly.
  • Inspect fire extinguishers.
  • Train employees how to use fire extinguishers and make sure they know where all the emergency exits are located.
  • Have an evacuation plan and be ready for the unexpected.

If you have had fire or water damage in our business, call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn today (708)239-1444

Water Damage In Your Chicago Ridge Business

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

From the moment that our SERVPRO team arrives at your business, we work to determine the source of the water damage and get the area repaired.

The last thing any business owner needs is a water emergency that forces them to close temporarily for business.  One of the benefits of choosing a professional water restoration company is that the job will get done more efficiently.  This helps ensure your business will not be closed for long. 

From the moment that our SERVPRO team arrives at your business, we work to determine the source of the water damage and get this area repaired. This repair is the first step in restoration, as it prevents further damage to the area while drying and cleanup are underway. While more significant circumstances could warrant replacement of materials and extraction equipment, often water damage incidents only require basic cleanup techniques and high-powered drying tools.

Drying the area is a critical step of restoration.  This process implements air movers and dehumidifiers, but could also require more specialized equipment for specific areas and materials. Once the area is dried out, our SERVPRO professionals can work on deodorization before completing the project. 

If you have had water damage in your business, call us today (708) 239-1444.

Rain Rain Go Away!

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Has your business suffered water damage from all the recent rain in the Chicago area? We have taken a pounding from the recent weather, but you do not have to worry about the repairs. 

Calling your local SERVPRO is like calling a neighbor for help. Our staff assesses the situation by asking a series of pertinent questions to determine the proper amount of equipment and personnel necessary for the job. Next, we set an appointment that fits your schedule to have our technicians begin your restoration. 

Once SERVPRO technicians arrive, an onsite manager will walk you through an initial inspection, discuss the options that are available to restore your business and give you an approximate time frame for completion. They will also answer any questions that pop up throughout the restoration process and address any concerns you may have. 

We look forward to building a solid, stable history with our clients that keeps them coming back to us, should they ever need future repairs to get their businesses back on track after a natural disaster, fire, mold, or vandalism incident strikes. You can count on us to perform the services you need and get things back to normal as fast as possible. 

Knowledge Is Power! Educate Employees About Fire Safety

12/27/2018 (Permalink)

Protecting your business from a fire should begin with training your employees on how to prevent them.  Some fires can be prevented in the office kitchen just by setting some simple rules. 

It is also important to train staff on how to properly use fire extinguishers in an instance where the fire is small enough to put out without calling 911. If the fire is uncontrollable, employees should know the emergency protocols and established evacuation routes. 

Office equipment should be checked regularly. Kitchen appliances should be clean and in good working condition. This means no frayed electrical cords that can start a fire.  Proper maintenance and inspections should also be conducted on heating equipment and lighting systems to make sure they are cleaned and functioning properly. 

If you do experience a fire in your business, you can call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn to help you through every step of the process. We will help get you back up and running as quickly as possible. 

For more information on our commercial fire services:

Commercial Services or you can call us (708) 239-1444.

When Disaster Strikes Your Business

9/10/2018 (Permalink)

When your Oak Lawn business suffers from a disaster event like a fire or flood, you will have to think about many different details at the same time.  Your clients may need to be notified, shipping may have to be delayed or canceled, customer support will have to be increased, employees may be displaced but still need to work, and so on. 

A disaster event will undoubtedly be a trying time, and it is important to figure out what should take priority and what can be delegated to others so you can focus on getting your business back to full speed as soon as possible.  

Depending on what type of business you own, the equipment, technology, and the items that can be salvaged or stored from inside your building might be some of the most important assets to your business.  You will need someone who can help you track and manage those items for you, so you can focus on the other tasks at hand.  

SERVPRO of Oak Lawn provides content storage services along with our disaster restoration efforts.

In your time of need, consider the benefits of working with us to keep your items safe:

  • Saved time – Instead of attempting to move your important items yourself, you can simply work with us. We’ll already be on site to provide any type of disaster restoration service you need, and we’ll begin the content storage process at the same time.
  • All-in-one service – You won’t have to spread yourself thin calling all over the place finding different companies to provide different services. We provide disaster restoration, content storage, and full project management services.  You’ll only have to make one call to have all of your needs handled.
  • Meticulous environment – We will log each and every one of your items into inventory so you know exactly what’s being stored. We also use a climate controlled storage facility that will provide a stable environment for your precious technology and equipment. Instead of having to wonder what’s been taken care of and what’s being restored or salvaged, you’ll have a detailed picture of everything you need to know.

As a business owner, you have probably had to learn how to delegate important tasks to other people.  That is what great leaders do, focus on the essentials and rely on other reliable professionals to fill in the gaps. 

Let SERVPRO of Oak Lawn handle your tricky situation of disaster restoration.

CALL US TODAY (708) 239-1444

Commercial Fire Cleaning in Chicago Ridge

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for Your Chicago Ridge Commercial Fire Damage

Commercial fire damage is one of the most devastating experiences that a business owner can experience in Chicago Ridge. In addition to doing severe damage to the structure of the building, fires can lead to excessive, standing water on the property as well as mold invasions. For these reasons and more, business leaders find it difficult to recover from a natural disaster or man-made accident. This is even the case when the business owner is an industry expert who manages the daily operations prudently. However, learning more about commercial fires and how fire damage remediation specialists can assist you is the first step towards limiting damages and preserving your equilibrium in the face of the disaster. Gather information you need regarding how to grapple with a fire by reviewing the data outlined below:

Fire Threats. There are several factors that can place a commercial property in harm’s way leading to burning and fire damage.  Some of these include:

  • lightning strike
  • electrical fire
  • blown fuse, overloaded circuits
  • an adjoining business fire

Preventing Commercial Fire Damage and Strategies You Can Use:

In addition to purchasing business interruption insurance, there are several strategies you can implement to decrease the impact of fire damage to your Chicago Ridge business. Some of them include:

  • Avoiding the storage of flammable items on site
  • Check your smoke alarms regularly to ensure they are functioning properly
  • Have your fire extinguishers in accessible areas
  • Implement a fire evacuation plan
  • Turn off appliances and machinery when no one is on site.
  • Ensure all machinery is in good condition
  • Have backup drives for computers
  • Important paperwork should be kept in a fireproof safe
  • Use a cloud for document back up storage

Call SERVPRO today for your commercial fire damage. We are here 24/7 365 days a year.

Commercial Fire Damage in Chicago Ridge

8/28/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO for Your Chicago Ridge Commercial Fire Damage

Commercial fire damage is one of the most devastating experiences that a business owner can experience in Chicago Ridge. In addition to doing severe damage to the structure of the building, fires can lead to excessive, standing water on the property as well as mold invasions. For these reasons and more, business leaders find it difficult to recover from a natural disaster or man-made accident. This is even the case when the business owner is an industry expert who manages the daily operations prudently. However, learning more about commercial fires and how fire damage remediation specialists can assist you is the first step towards limiting damages and preserving your equilibrium in the face of the disaster. Gather information you need regarding how to grapple with a fire by reviewing the data outlined below:

Fire Threats. There are several factors that can place a commercial property in harm’s way leading to burning and fire damage.  Some of these include:

  • lightning strike
  • electrical fire
  • blown fuse, overloaded circuits
  • an adjoining business fire

Preventing Commercial Fire Damage and Strategies You Can Use:

In addition to purchasing business interruption insurance, there are several strategies you can implement to decrease the impact of fire damage to your Chicago Ridge business. Some of them include:

  • Avoiding the storage of flammable items on site
  • Check your smoke alarms regularly to ensure they are functioning properly
  • Have your fire extinguishers in accessible areas
  • Implement a fire evacuation plan
  • Turn off appliances and machinery when no one is on site.
  • Ensure all machinery is in good condition
  • Have backup drives for computers
  • Important paperwork should be kept in a fireproof safe
  • Use a cloud for document back up storage

Call SERVPRO today for your commercial fire damage. We are here 24/7 365 days a year.

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