How Can Business Interruption Insurance Help Mitigate Revenue Loss After a Disaster?

10/8/2022 (Permalink)

How Can Business Interruption Insurance Help Reduce Revenue Losses Following a Disaster?

When it comes to business insurance, there are two basic types: property insurance and business interruption insurance. If you're thinking about purchasing a new policy or upgrading your current one, it's important to understand how these two policies work together.

One of the most critical coverages any business owner needs is business income coverage. 

Business income coverage is a critical coverage type for any business owner in Gardner, KS to have. It protects you from loss of income during a period where you're unable to operate your business because of a covered loss. – for instance, if your building were damaged by fire, resulting in a shutdown that lasted longer than 30 days, and/or caused more than $1 million in damage to the property. This would likely be a covered loss under your policy—and could trigger an immediate payment from the insurer on this claim.

If no business interruption coverage is in place at the time of a disaster, your revenues could take a significant hit from necessary repairs and restoration work. In many cases where businesses do not have sufficient funds set aside for such emergencies, operations themselves can become difficult. It’s important to maintain sufficient coverage to protect against being caught in either of these situations.

For example, if there's a fire at your office and you need to shut down for months to deal with fire restoration, business income coverage would provide an income stream to help pay bills. This way, you don't have to worry about paying rent or the other operating costs associated with running your business while you're out of commission. You can also get additional benefits through business interruption insurance that may cover some of the lost revenue from having employees miss work because they were evacuated during a fire. 

Business interruption insurance can save your business after a disaster.

If you own a business and have property insurance, chances are you're covered for fire damage. However, if your business needs to shut down while repairs are made, you still need to pay the bills. Business interruption insurance can help with that. It covers lost revenues during the time when your building is being repaired or rebuilt—and it's an essential part of any business insurance policy.

Business income coverage is different than property insurance in several ways: it protects against loss of revenue rather than loss of property; it has its own policy limit (often separate from other types of coverage), and it has its own deductible (another difference).

Business income coverage is a critical component to any comprehensive business insurance strategy as it can help mitigate revenue loss after a disaster. 

Conclusion

Business interruption insurance is a critical component of any business owner’s coverage. It protects you from loss of income when your operations are disrupted because of a covered loss. Business income coverage can provide an income stream to help pay bills during this time and allow you to get back on your feet after the disaster.

What Would Mold Remediation In An Olathe Business Premises Require?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Helps with the Safe Removal of All Moldy Materials during Mold Remediation

If there is mold in your Olathe, KS business premises, you can expect unsightly patches on wall surfaces, musty smells, and other inconveniences that may interfere with your regular operations. Remediation can help address all the issues if done properly.  

Mold remediation in your Olathe business premises can take different processes depending on the areas affected or the duration of the infestation. SERVPRO helps in many ways, including setting up containment, damage assessment, air filtration, and cleaning of contents or belongings.  

The crucial steps for restoring mold include:

• Mold inspection
• Mold removal
• Black mold damage repairs

Although mold is readily visible when it develops on surfaces, inspection is essential to identify any hidden colonies. An inspection also helps reveal the level of deterioration of the affected materials. Root-like mold hyphae tend to penetrate materials searching for food, meaning that the problem is not limited to the masses on surfaces. Our SERVPRO technicians prepare to teardown all affected porous materials.

Preparing for teardown and cleanup can take various steps. Setting up containment barriers is crucial since it helps prevent moldy materials from spreading beyond initially affected areas. It also helps maintain indoor air quality. Our SERVPRO technicians use plastic sheets and metal poles to set up the necessary barriers. Setting up negative air pressure machines within the enclosed barrier helps prevent fine debris from escaping into the air. 

Other processes that help improve the remediation process include:

• Using antimicrobial products to kill spores
• Using air filtration devices to remove suspended residues
• HEPA vacuuming surfaces to remove settled spores

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley perform thorough mold remediation restoring business premises to their preloss state. Call us at (913) 782-4693. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

4 Common Issues That Can Cause Water Damage to Your Business

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

4 Problems That Can Lead to Water Damage in Your Business

Your Lenexa, KS, business is susceptible to water damage via acts of nature and preventable causes alike. Here are four of the most common water issues that affect commercial buildings and how you can treat them. 

1. Broken Pipe or Water Line
Several factors can contribute to a water line break, which ultimately results in pipe leaks and flooding. Most often, this occurs due to poor maintenance of pipes. If your business utilizes old, rusty pipes there is a higher chance of experiencing cracks or leaks in them. Routinely inspect plumbing and call a water damage mitigation company if you suspect there is a broken pipe within your building. 

2. Fire Sprinklers
Any building lined with fire sprinklers could face unexpected water damage. Whether they are set off due to fire or by faulty operation, these sprinklers can quickly soak a commercial space. Have a specialist test sprinklers regularly to make sure they work properly. 

3. Toilet Overflow
A common plumbing issue, toilet overflows can create major headaches for business owners. This issue can typically be fixed using a toilet snake or plunger to clear a clog, though experts may need to be called if those efforts don't get the job done. 

4. Leaking Roof
An extensive water repair project could take place if you have a leaking roof. Like a water line break, there can be many contributing factors to a compromised roof such as severe weather or regular wear and tear. A compromised roof can produce water damage if heavy rains leak through the building. Regular roof maintenance, as well as gutter cleaning to avoid water from collecting, can prevent these types of leaks and building damage. 

If water damage is present in your commercial property, it may likely be due to common issues such as a broken pipe, fire sprinklers, toilet overflow, or a leaking roof.   

What To Know About Fire Sprinkler Maintenance To Avoid Water Issues

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

If Your Fire Sprinklers Go Off By Accident, Here Are Five Things You Should Do.

Any business with a fire sprinkler system installed faces relief in getting unexpected flames extinguished quickly. However, improper maintenance of these sprinklers can not only have them malfunction in the event of an emergency but could set them off accidentally. Here are a few key things to know about keeping the sprinkler system in your Olathe, KS, building fully operational.

Routine Sprinkler Maintenance Is Crucial
With luck, your commercial building will never see a fire spark to set off the sprinkler system. However, if a fire were to break out, you want the system to trigger on when it needs to. This is best achieved with routine maintenance to a variety of components in the system. Steps you can take to keep the system fully functional include:

Checking water pressure on a quarterly basis
Keeping sprinkler heads clean of any grease, grime, or residue

Checking control valves weekly to make sure they are open to water flow
Hiring a fire service expert to perform an annual inspection of the whole system

These sprinkler maintenance tips can all promote proper function of the fire sprinklers, but in the event the system is activated prematurely there are a few steps you can take. 

Locate Shut Off Valve
Knowing how to access and switch the shut-off valve of the sprinkler can best reduce water damage upon accidental activation. Taking swift action here is key to limit the total losses from a faulty sprinkler.

Contact Water Damage Professionals
Facing water damage is inevitable when the sprinkler system is set off. If the building floods after an accidental activation, immediately call a water damage restoration company to handle the cleanup and begin repairs.

Performing routine sprinkler maintenance to your building's system is the best way to keep them functioning correctly. In the event that sprinklers are set off prematurely, turn the shutoff valve and contact a water damage cleanup crew.

What Is the IICRC?

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

What Exactly Is The IICRC?

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification serves as the primary certifying organization for this industry. If you are searching for a damage restoration company to do work on your business, ensuring they have a mitigation certificate from this organization guarantees that you will receive high-quality work. Here is some basic information about this organization and the rigorous standards certified firms and technicians must meet.

Stats

There are certified companies in many countries around the world. Here are some basic stats about this organization:

• Thousands of companies are endorsed
  
• Thousands of certified employees are employed in the industry
  
• Dozens of training courses are available for firms and technicians
• These workers and firms must meet over a dozen rigorous requirements outlined in the organization's standards

Standards

The IICRC is the leader in technological advancements in the restoration industry and ensures that its companies follow a certain set of standards to provide high-quality concepts, terminology, and procedures. These standards are based on the most recent scientific developments and are strictly adhered to by companies who wish to maintain their certification.

Certified Firms

There are certified firms all over the world, even in Olathe KS. These are easily identified because only IICRC endorsed companies can access designated marketing material, webinars, and the firm locator on the organization's website. Only companies with a certification from this organization are guaranteed to provide high-quality work.

Certified Technicians

Additionally, the IICRC offers certifications for technicians who are looking to further their careers. Companies that have certified employees are available in many locations and can provide exceptional work on restoration projects.
When you need a company that will provide high-quality restoration work for your business, it is important to look for an endorsement from this organization. This ensures that you are getting trained employees who use the most recent scientific innovations in the industry to provide your business with the highest quality remediation work available.

Quick Water Removal Helps Protect Commercial Buildings in Lenexa

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO we know how important it is to keep your Lenexa business up and moving. Call us today.

SERVPRO Helps Lenexa Business Owners with Water Extraction and Restoration

Regardless of the age of your commercial building in Lenexa, pipes may pose an issue. Regular wear and tear and age can leave behind leaks capable of letting water seep into carpeting, desks, inventory, and furniture within commercial establishments. Once you control the leak and the space is safe to enter, you may wonder the best route to minimize your loss and remain operational. Calling a water restoration crew immediately helps you avoid wasting precious time.

SERVPRO is Lenexa's premier water removal team, and we are a quick phone call away. We operate around the clock to be nimble in meeting our customers' needs, especially when we know every minute wasted can impact your bottom line. We can detect where standing water is hiding, even behind walls or under flooring, with our advanced technology and tools.

The presence of vinyl flooring and even wall treatments in some commercial settings can help with water damage, as they can act as a vapor barrier and prevent water from moving freely. 

Our SERVPRO team can also set up physical barriers to preserve unaffected areas and make water cleanup more efficient. Other ways in which we achieve swift and successful water removal includes-

• Using injecti-dry technology through which we drill small holes into walls and flow warm air within wall cavities
• Laying drying mats on flooring to help absorb moisture from floor materials, including hardwood floors
• Dry-wall removal as needed and replacement after water extraction is done.

The goal of our SERVPRO team is to provide rapid water removal and restoration service so that you can keep your business functioning. We focus on protecting inventory, assemblies, structural elements, and other capital equipment. Our purpose is to keep you in business.

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley are here to help your business when you need us. Just call us at (913) 782-4693 and let us work for you until it feels "Like it never even happened."

Is Demolition Part of Olathe Commercial Water Damage Restoration?

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Uses Partial Tear-Outs to Build Back Flooded Olathe Businesses Stronger

Often Olathe commercial water damage mitigation and remediation contractors recommend demolition during emergency services. The water damage itself seems to pale compared to the disruption of business operations suggested.

Why Does SERVPRO Include Demolition as Part of Water Damage Remediation Strategies?

If standing water remained static after burst pipes, ceiling leaks, or basement flooding occurs, water removal services for your Olathe Business would be straightforward -- extraction, containment, and lawful disposal of visible fluids equal a job completed. In reality, leaks and flooding spread comprehensively throughout a commercial structure. Many building materials are porous, soaking up moisture like sponges. Cracks and crevices permit water to migrate over, beneath, and behind structural components, resulting in long-term and progressive damage, leading finally to weakening and destruction:

• Woodwork, cabinets and framing swells and distorts

• Flooring and floor coverings of various types warp, buckle, detach, delaminate, and permit water percolation into a commercial building’s load-bearing substrate.

• Drywall and plaster form cavities that eventually trap so much water that they collapse, destroying other structures and placing occupants in harm’s way.

• Secondary water damage such as mold growth takes hold.

How Can Controlled Demolition Support Rapid Restoration?

Replacement or repairs of most building materials in an Olathe business facilitates quick restoration and rebuilding, “Like it never even happened.” Here are some examples:

• Sagging ceiling tiles rebound after we punch weep holes or remove (and replace) a few tiles to release water.

• Drilled or sawn holes in drywall or plaster also release water and accommodate drying equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers. 

• More significant “flood cuts” remove irreparably damaged materials and open the area for unimpeded drywall erection, mudding, and painting -- a crisp, clean way to restore the look of interior spaces.

Trust SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley to use best practices and all resources available to get your business back on track after water damage. Reach out day or night at (913) 782-4693 to schedule an assessment that considers all your options.

Cleaning Water-Damaged Carpets in Olathe Office Buildings

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

If water damage strikes in your Olathe office building, just call the experts at SERVPRO, we are Here to help!

Water Can Damage Many Installed Structural Elements of Olathe Commercial Properties. 

Whether a leak from a plumbing fixture or a malfunctioning fire suppression system, water damage in your office building can be destructive to installed materials like carpeting. Our SERVPRO team can help with mitigation and restoration solutions. 

Removing Trapped Moisture in Exposed Elements? 

Much of the success to be expected during water damage restoration of Olathe offices comes from removing water in low-pile carpeting. The less saturated and deteriorated this carpeting becomes, the easier it is to extract the moisture and dry the fibers to continue using this flooring. Some of the tools designed for removing water from carpets include:

• Carpet wands
• Weighted extractors
• Drying mats
• Wet vacuums

Thorough Cleaning for Office Carpets After Water Damage

Removing the water is often not enough to overcome the damage that burst pipes or flooding can cause exposed flooring. Our carpet cleaning technicians (CCT) prepare effective cleaning options for glue-down low pile carpeting like hot water extraction. This approach improves the look and feel of carpeting in the damaged space and makes the damage effects "Like it never even happened." 

Pulling Up Carpet and Reinstalling

When drying and extraction are not effective for restoring installed carpeting throughout the office, we lean on our general contractor license to provide controlled demolition solutions. Carpet can be pulled up from the tack strips and discarded, leaving a clean space for new flooring to be installed to the property management's wishes. 

Water damage in an office space can impact many structural elements and contents. The fast response of our SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley teams ensures that our mitigation efforts begin as soon as possible. It is our business to get you back in business - and that starts with a phone call to (913) 782-4693.

How Can Lenexa Businesses Address Fire Damage on Commercial Property?

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs set up air scrubbers outfitted with HEPA and charcoal filters to eliminate smoke odors and particles in Lenexa area businesses

SERVPRO’s 24/7 Commercial Fire Damage Service Saves Lenexa Business Owners Time, Money, and Stress

Whether the culprit is an overheated restroom exhaust motor, an office kitchen microwave mishap, or sudden ignition of an electrical outlet or light fixture, even small fires in a commercial facility can have a heavy impact on Lenexa businesses. Without professional-grade restoration, fire damage odors and residues can impact comfort and indoor air quality for customers and employees alike.

Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) accredited SERVPRO technicians can perform commercial fire damage cleanup for Lenexa properties 24/7. This firm’s commitment to constant availability minimizes business downtime as well as damages to structures and assets.

SERVPRO’s Fire Damage Cleanup Works from Ceiling to Floor

SERVPRO tools for commercial fire damage disasters are used in a highly methodical fashion. Restoration technicians start with soot and soils on the ceiling, removing light stains and dry deposits with dry cleaning sponges and gentle agitation.

HEPA-filter air scrubbers may be deployed to implement negative air pressure in the affected space. This serves multiple purposes, including:

• Preventing soot from spreading to other parts of a Lenexa business through ventilation or other openings
• Increasing ease of soot particle collection and disposal
• Significantly accelerates improvements to indoor air quality

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley aim to make disaster-affected businesses look “Like it never even happened.” Call (913) 782-4693 to begin cleanup.

What Types of Commercial Flood Damage Can SERVPRO Handle in Lenexa?

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

As an Advanced Remediation Service in Lenexa, We Can Restore Most Flood Damage.

Late spring and summer is a beautiful time of year in Lenexa, but it is also when flood risks go up substantially. Heavy seasonal rains come during these months, often flooding the Kansas River and the area’s creeks and lakes, fueling the demand for flood damage restoration services. 

The technicians at SERVPRO are experienced in successfully cleaning up and restoring most types of flood damage that Lenexa businesses are likely to ever face. As a leading biohazard cleaning company and emergency water damage services provider, we expertly handle many kinds of remediation issues.

Some flood water damage remediation work we perform is: 

• Rapid water removal services using powerful, industrial-grade extractors
• Basement flooding cleanup
• Professional sewage cleanup
• Water damage repairs, including the fixing of ceiling leaks, sagging ceilings, warped walls, destroyed rooms, and other storm/flood-related problems
• Complete facility disinfection, including the elimination of fungi that could later cause dry rot, with cutting edge foggers and EPA-approved disinfectants and antifungals
• Full deodorization of your commercial structures with industrial-strength deodorants

After our skilled experts have completed this work, it is often difficult to imagine that your business was ever impacted by flooding.

So, considering all of this, you can see why SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley are good choices for commercial flood damage cleanup services. Call us at (913) 782-4693 whenever you need assistance.

Are Water Damage Remediation Services in Olathe Expensive?

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

When water damaged this property, SERVPRO was there! We restored this property and made it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO is an Expert Water Mitigation Provider that Helps Olathe Businesses Throughout the Year

Olathe is a city surrounded by the wild American prairies that encapsulate State. The city is one of the largest in Kansas and also one of the fastest-growing. Despite its urbanization, which began in the late twentieth century, Olathe still represents its rural agricultural roots. Held monthy on each fourth Friday is a mini-festival downtown with food trucks, live music, and entertainment. The festival captures the spirit of Olathe with much of the cuisine, a family-led midwest tradition of slow-cooked barbecued meats and sandwiches. Tourists to the area can experience Olathe's agricultural past by taking a trip to the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm Historic Site. The farm offers visitors the opportunity to ride on horse-drawn carts, explore nineteenth-century farming methods and enjoy the freshly grown local produce, which rotates by season. 

Dr. John T Barton pioneered the name of Olathe in 1857, which directly translates from the indigenous language for beautiful. The region stays true to its original character, with many weekend vacationers taking advantage of the surrounding walking and hiking trails. Olathe boasts several outdoor adventure centers, with the Ernie Miller Park and Nature Center, Prairie Highlands, and the Indian Creek as just a few of its favorite spots. After a day relaxing and exploring the surrounding landscape heading back into downtown, Olathe's legendary barbecue joints are always a treat and a fun way to finish the day. Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, The J-Bar, and K-bar all offer slow-roasted midwestern cuisine on plates, in sandwiches, and straight off the grill. K-bar blends the barbecue tradition with an authentic Tex-Mex flavor.

• The Stone Pillar Vineyard is an Olathe staple that has existed in the community for over 160 years and has been passed down from generation to generation. As a winery, the farmland began producing in 2010, taking inspiration from Niagara wineries. The result is a growing business and a refined taste of Kansas. 
• The 180 Room is among the best places to eat barbecue food in Olathe, if not in America. The name is a reference to a perfect scorecard in a nationwide barbecue competition. Created by trade experts, the Stehney brothers, this packed-out dining room is among the premier places to taste mid-western grills.
• Ensor Park and Museum was originally the home of the Ensor family that has lived in Olathe since its inception. The property is full of antique furniture with many mid-century early technological antiques on display. Originally a dairy farm, the non-profit museum is a comprehensive history of the local area. 

If your Olathe Business Falls Victim to Water Damage, SERVPRO Can Help

Water migration in the commercial properties can exacerbate many issues and promote bacteria or fungi growth. Experts can help you identify the problem, correct it, and restore your belongings to their natural condition. We operate twenty-four hours a day and can help you with:

• Ceiling repairs from water damages
• Water damage restoration
• Water cleanup

Professional restoration services can repair your business to standards expected by residents. Our team is quick and proactive, using their industry-leading training to avoid high expenses and costs. 

• We can inspect and repair water-damaged tiling in your washrooms, kitchens, and other areas where supply lines reside. 
• Local technicians allow for a faster callout with a maximum four-hour wait after notification of loss.
• We can restore yellowing to appliances or other metals in your business using advanced power washing, chemical agents, and immersion cleaning techniques.

To reduce water-related damages, contact SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley for water damage restoration at (913) 782-4693.

Do You Need Commercial Water Mitigation in Olathe?

3/14/2021 (Permalink)

Business owners deal with many inconveniences, including water damage. Our skilled technicians are just a phone call away.

SERVPRO Supports Olathe Businesses

Olathe is the fourth most populous city in the Kansas metropolitan area, with a population of 125,872. When Dr. John T. Barton first rode to Johnson County in 1857, he was struck by how beautiful the landscape was. The sight of the prairie, covered in wildflowers, gave him the idea to name his settlement “beautiful.” He asked a local Shawnee interpreter how to say “beautiful” in his language, and the interpreter said “Olathe.”

Olathe has a checkered history, with much violence between abolitionists and slave traders. It also has a strong and proud history as a place for travelers to find refreshments. At different points in time, Olathe has functioned as a stop on the Oregon Trail, the Santa Fe Trail, and the California Trail. After the advent of rail, Olathe became less critical, but it has seen a resurgence in the last 100 years and is now a fast-growing city with plenty to see and do.

Explore History and Much More in Olathe

Olathe is a fantastic place to vacation with the family. There are plenty of activities, fascinating historic sites, and beautiful walking trails to explore. If you are not sure where to start your adventure, why not try one of these popular spots:

• Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm Historic Site offers historic crafts and goods from a site on the original Oregon Trail. See costumed guides and performers, shop the gift shop, learn about the American Revolution, or even catch a historical reenactment. 
• Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center has three miles of hiking trails across prairies and beside streams. Come admire the wildflowers and see why Dr. Barton named the town “beautiful.” There are exhibits and regular events for all the family to learn more about the local flora and fauna. Enjoy a family scavenger hunt for free, or book for a memorable Enchanted Forest experience.
• Kansas City Automotive Museum is a must for all car lovers! Enjoy the regularly changing exhibits of over thirty cars, or discover your own speed racer in the driving simulator.
• Heritage Park is conveniently located yet offers miles of lovely walking trails. There are relaxing water features, well-maintained pavilions, dog exercise areas, ballparks, and disk golf spaces. It is the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon outdoors.
  
  

If you need a spot of refreshment after all that outdoor exploring, Olathe will not disappoint you. Some of the most popular eateries include:

• Pour Coffeehouse where you can enjoy a fresh local brew in elegant surroundings.
• Sylas and Maddy’s offers delicious ice cream made fresh on the premises – they even make their own waffle cones.
• Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is a family-run establishment headed up by award-winning grill masters. Enjoy a fresh barbecue in their restaurant, or even order some to ship to your home.

SERVPRO Acts Quickly When it Comes to Water Mitigation

We understand that Olathe businesses need swift action. You are keen to get back to business as usual and ensure you can stay open. Quick remediation is also vital for preventing mold growth.

We will call you back within an hour of your first call and aim to arrive at your premises within four hours. We recommend signing up for a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP.) Your ERP contains information about:

• What staff should do in an emergency.
• Who to contact.
• Water shut-off points and assembly points.

You can set your preferred SERVPRO franchise so that when disaster strikes, we are only a click away, and we already have information about your business.

For reliable water mitigation, call SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley at (913) 782-4693.

Olathe Highlights Industrial Growth and Historical Heritage

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can complete fire restoration in your business after fire damage.

Recognized as one of the Best Places to Live in, Olathe Showcases America’s History and Growth in Every Corner

As one of the most populous cities in Kansas and the county seat of Johnson County, Olathe has much to offer. Dating back to 1857, when Dr. John T. Barton established Olathe, it was its beauty that first attracted Barton to the area. As a matter of fact. It is said that “Olathe” is the Shawnee translation for “beautiful,” which is how its founder described it. Although it wasn’t the first city in the County, its growth gained recognition as the county seat, which was ratified in 1859.  

Like much of Kansas, the struggle between slaves and abolitionists was felt strongly in Olathe. Often considered a precursor of the Civil War, “Bleeding Kansas” was a period in which anti- slavery activists and pro-slavery individuals clashed in violent confrontations. Raids and murders in Kansas and neighboring Missouri killed hundreds of people as the political debate ensued. The main issue of the time was whether Kansas would support or repeal slavery since the state’s senators would greatly influence the already divided U.S. Senate. In 1854 the Kansas-Nebraska Act allowed the decision about slavery to be made through popular vote.

After much conflict, Kansas eventually joined the Union in 1861 as a free state. However, the times were not peaceful. In 1862, a Confederate raid led by William Quantrill destroyed most of Olathe, and at least two others followed this raid. It wasn’t until 1865 that Confederates fully surrendered.

Aside from its role in the American Civil War, Olathe was also an essential part of the Oregon Trail. As the Oregon Trail connected the Missouri River to Oregon and its eastern portion took place in Kansas. Similarly, the California Trail also traveled from the Missouri River to California, and Olathe also became a stop on it. Not surprisingly, travelers on the Santa Fe Trail also stopped in town before continuing their travels. Being a resource for travelers, it became the city’s primary economic focus, as evidenced by the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm, which is now a historic site. Founded by James Beatty Mahaffie and Lucinda, his wife, it was the central hub for many westbound travelers who visited Olathe. Once the transcontinental railroad became an option, the once-bustling city lost its primary source of income and became a small, sleepy town.

It wasn’t until well into the 20th century that I-35 was built and simplified the connection between Olathe and nearby Kansas City. Once easy travel was possible, Olathe rapidly became part of the greater metropolitan area, particularly in the 1980s. The growth of businesses and services enticed many to move to Olathe, and it’s still growing to this day. As a matter of fact, Olathe has been recognized as one of the best cities to live in the United States by reputable publications.

Not surprisingly, Olathe hosts important businesses within its industrial partners. Most notably, ALDI, Honeywell, and Garmin are some of the top employers. Curiously, Farmers Insurance Group’s largest employee concentration is in Olathe, even though its headquarters are in California. 

Accolades

Among some of the accolades received by Olathe, you can find the following:

• Insurify - Most Educated City Award in Kansas
• BackgroundChecks.org - One of the Safest Cities in Kansas
• SmartAsset - one of the Most Livable Mid-Sized Cities in the U.S.

Museums in Olathe

Olathe’s rich history is at your fingertips when you visit the area. Its role in the growth of Kansas and the history of our nation cannot be denied. To explore it, you can see the following attractions:

• Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site - it invites visitors to experience life in the 1860s, including livestock and hands-on activities for the family. As described above, this establishment played a pivotal role in the westward expansion, and it still stands as a monument to the lives of all who ventured west for a new adventure.
• The Kansas City Automotive Museum - car lovers, rejoice! Kansas City’s automotive history is on display at this museum, including driving simulators and a design studio. The museum is in growth mode and plans to expand into celebrating further Kansas’  role in the automotive industry’s growth.
• Museum of Deaf History, Arts & Culture - born out of interest for the Kansas School for the Deaf, it is a place for the public to learn more about the language, arts, and culture of deaf people. Although the facility is temporarily closed due to the current health crisis, it features artists and cultural programs relevant to the deaf.

If museums are not your preference, you can also take a guided walking tour of the Olathe Memorial Cemetery, where you can learn about famous people who played a pivotal role in the history of the town and of our country. While you’re there, make sure to take a look at the beautiful trees surrounding the cemetery grounds.

Protecting the Business Community in Olathe

Businesses in Olathe have the benefit of thriving in a place where modern structures co-exist with historical buildings. Whenever fire restoration services are required for a commercial setting, our SERVPRO team is mindful of the materials and structural specificities the site presents, and we perform our work accordingly. Our competent team has trained with the best in the industry to understand how smoke and fire travel through your space. As a result, we know precisely how to tackle the soot and smell left behind by the flames.

Cleaning fire damage is more complicated than simply wiping down with a household cleaner. Each surface requires careful attention, so the cleaning solutions; abrasive nature does not cause any further damage. Additionally, items not yet affected by the fire need to be separated as much as possible to avoid cross-contamination. Our SERVPRO crew has the wherewithal to address each of your specific needs throughout the restoration process.

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley is here to protect you when disaster strikes. Call us at (913) 782-4693 as soon as you need us and let us work for you until your business looks and feels, “Like it never even happened.”

Is It Possible to Rid a Business of a Smoke Smell?

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Can Handle Smoke Odors Throughout Olathe Businesses with Our Detailed Fire Damage Restoration Techniques.

A small fire can turn into a significant structure fire, meaning that your commercial space can be in danger of extensive damage. Calling in skilled fire and smoke restoration technicians (FSRT) gives you the confidence you need that your Olathe storefront will be free of foul smoke odors once the project is complete. Because smoke and soot particles travel and land in hard to reach spaces, it is imperative that you have SERVPRO on your side to take care of all lingering odors.

How Do You Handle Fire and Smoke Damage?

We have skilled technicians that will arrive at your place of business to begin fire damage restoration in Olathe. Our team has training through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC), letting you know that we stop at nothing to restore and repair than replace items and materials whenever possible. Once the structure is safe for entry, we perform our initial inspection to note fire damage and charring to your interior belongings and areas where smoke and soot residue may have traveled. To deal with odors after a fire, we:

• Remove all charred debris and odorous elements, such as unsalvageable contents and burnt debris. 
• Carefully clean all surfaces where odor-causing particles settled. Every room gets checked to see where odors might have penetrated.
• We can recreate the conditions that brought on odor penetration using thermal fogging machines that put out heated deodorizers. 
• Surfaces like walls ductwork can get sealed off to inhibit odors from lingering throughout your building. 

SERVPRO also takes note of all efforts made during the cleanup to have paperwork for your insurance claim. Items get inventoried when packed up to be moved off-site for cleaning and all things that get disposed of.

Call (913) 782-4693 to have SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley deploy a crew to your business for fire damage restoration.

How can we Start Water Cleanup in Olathe Restaurants?

9/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Arrives at Your Olathe Business to Begin Water Mitigation Efforts Within Four Hours or Less of Your Initial Call 

Whether you have flooding from a storm or pipe burst in your Olathe restaurant, you never want to wait too long so that secondary damage has a chance to set in. The results of a water incident can bring a costly catastrophe down on your business that you can avoid with prompt action. Once you call us, SERVPRO deploys a crew to your location to get started right away on mitigation and restoration efforts. 

How Does SERVPRO Deal with Water? 

We know that each project for commercial water mitigation in Olathe that we get called to can be different. However, we use the same proven formula to address each situation, such as: 

• We identify the source of water intrusion so that we can control it
• We determine the level of contamination before beginning repair
• We remove all standing water
• We ensure mold growth gets carefully monitored and inhibited
• We utilize equipment like dehumidifiers, fans, and air movers to evaporate moisture and lower relative humidity
• We remove and replace all materials with damage beyond repair 

We know that your business is your livelihood, so we take great pride in our commercial water mitigation services. Our crew works fast to ensure you are back up and running once again while cutting down restoration costs. We take the additional time necessary to make certain that your restaurant is free from potential contaminants by addressing your HVAC system and cleaning your air ducts to focus on airborne particulates. We also treat each surface, giving a thorough cleaning and sanitizing so that everything inside the restaurant is “Like it never even happened.” 

Your restaurant customers can feel secure when visiting by seeing the CERTIFIED SERVPRO CLEANED decal displayed on your entrance door. This decal denotes our proactive cleaning and disinfection applications completed on a rigorous schedule. 

Call SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley 24/7 at (913) 782-4693 for prompt, reliable emergency service. Within hours, you will have a crew chief on-site to handle the initial assessment.

Do Construction Materials Make A Difference for Water Mitigation?

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to Prevent or Mitigate Water Damage to Your Olathe Commercial Workplace. Our ERP Plan can help keep your doors open for business.

Olathe Business Owners Are Looking for the Best Water Damage Mitigation Service

Anyone who owns a business in Olathe knows that part of being an entrepreneur is hiring contractors for different roles. For example, you might employ a waste disposal company, an electrician, or a health and safety trainer. You might have a contract with a catering service or an office supplies store.

If you need water mitigation services in Olathe, you’ll want to hire a water damage restoration team who know what they’re doing. SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley understands the needs of the local business community. We especially appreciate the need for rapid water damage mitigation in the event of a flood or leak.

One aspect of effective water cleanup is assessing the type of construction material that comprises your premises.

Why is construction material so important?

Understanding the type of construction material is vital to any water mitigation effort because the material type affects:

• How much water the building absorbs
• The risk of materials warping or buckling due to moisture
• Which drying procedures are most likely to be effective
• Whether we need to check inside the structure for hidden mold
• How quickly we can dry your building and get you back to business

Let’s take a look at some common construction materials and how each type factors into a water mitigation project. In all cases, the degree of restoration possible depends on the category of water, which is a component our team will assess and inform you about.

Drywall, also known as gypsum, consists of gypsum material with paper on the front, back, and long edges. Some commercial buildings have more than one layer of drywall, which is critical to know as more layers mean a longer drying time. In many cases, we can save drywall if the seams are intact, and there is no noticeable swelling or signs of fungal growth.

Plaster is usually gypsum or cement-based, and the plaster is applied to wood, metal, or gypsum lath (lath is a thin strip that forms the foundation for a plaster wall.) Whether we can save plaster depends on the lath as well as the water category. The plaster requires controlled drying to ensure a precise result.

Wood frames are commonly made from pine, fir, spruce, or a wood composite. Wood warps and bulges when exposed to too much water. In many cases, we can restore wood framing even if some warping and buckling have already occurred. Wood requires controlled drying to manage the temperature and drying speed, thus preventing further cracking or damage.

Metal frames are resistant to water, although they must be well dried to prevent rust formation. Metal frames can be restored regardless of the amount or category of water. However, if the water is contaminated, we will clean and disinfect metal frames to ensure they are hygienic.

A thorough assessment is the first step in any SERVPRO project. During the assessment phase, we note which materials are present and the extent of the damage. We have a variety of moisture meters, thermal hygrometers, and sensors on hand to assess both external and internal water damage.

What else can SERVPRO do to help with water mitigation?

Once we have ascertained which materials are present, and the extent of water damage, we draw up a restoration plan that is unique to your business.

We also take care of:

• Vacuuming and pumping away excess water
• Cleaning damaged textiles and furniture
• Spot cleaning stubborn stains or delicate fabrics
• Mold treatments if necessary
• Drying and deodorizing your business to leave it “Like it never even happened.”

Is there anything I can do to prepare?

You cannot always predict when a flood, appliance leak, or structural damage will cause a problem. However, you can prepare for potential disasters and make sure all staff knows what to do when a problem occurs.

One way to prepare is by using our free Emergency READY Profile Plan (ERP). Start by downloading the free app and using a laptop, smartphone, or PC to create an online account. Now you are ready to start a thorough assessment of your business facility. The app guides you through what to look for, what to take note of, and even where to stop and take photographs. You can use the information to build a thorough damage response plan for all staff. You can include the chain of command, emergency contacts, SERVPRO details, and instructions for shutting off water mains or evacuating staff members. Call us to set up an appointment for the ERP.

Now everybody knows what to do and can act quickly when needed.

For help with water mitigation in your business, call SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley at (913) 782-4693.

Can Long Term Water Damage Be Dried Out, Safe for Continued Business in Olathe?

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

The Broad-Based Training SERVPRO Technicians Bring to Every Project Supports Success in All Types of Water Damage Repair for Olathe Businesses

Providing a unique and comforting ambiance underlies your approach to operating a bed-and-breakfast in Olathe. Aging plumbing and nooks and crannies that can hide water loss can turn a simple broken pipe into a vast repair project. Undetected water damage uncovered, and deterioration and odors discovered mean you need more than new plumbing.

How Do Professionals Find Hidden Water and Its Damage?

When you suspect you need water damage repair in your Olathe inn, you want it assessed and wrapped up in a single plan, with immediate implementation. Because water is a progressive and corrosive risk to building materials, we agree, and make every effort to discover all moisture and previous damage in one go. To track the migration of water damage we use

• Moisture detectors
• Moisture Meters
• Thermal imaging

Will My B and B Need to Be Torn Apart to Fix Water Damage?

Although SERVPRO cannot predict the future, we do have our training and experience upon which to base opinions. We have many ways to access the moisture and microbial activity that can follow a long-standing leak that still respects your cozy ambiance. We use innovative equipment and methods that require small access points to reach into and extract water and dry out spaces. A system that uses a series of small holes drilled into the base of a wall can suction water with negative air pressure and blow in dry air with positive pressure. Base and bead boards pry off to permit the drilling and then reattach to hide the minimal damage. Heaters and air movers, teamed up with dehumidifiers, positioned adjacent to or beneath a wet area can manipulate the environment enough to achieve appropriate drying.

Give SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa and SERVPRO of Blue Valley a chance to show how we use modern equipment with respect for your historic building’s past to repair water damage. Call us at (913) 782-4693 to schedule a consultation to save your business and its reputation.

See more about Olathe.

Who Can I Call for Water Cleanup in my Rental Units?

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO help your Lenexa office through the water.

SERVPRO Helps Landlords Across the Nation When There is Water Damage to Their Rental Properties

Real estate can be an excellent investment to generate a steady stream of income. Some landlords are lucky to experience virtually no problems with their tenants or the property itself. However, it is not uncommon for leaks to spring in one of your rental units, leaving you in need of a professional service.

Property owners with water damage in Lenexa can reach out to us at SERVPRO to alleviate the situation and successfully perform a water cleanup job. Our staff understands the needs of tenants and landlords, and we strive to restore the property promptly and with minimal disruption. To respond to your sense of urgency, we make ourselves available around the clock through our emergency hotline.

Can I wait until the tenant moves out to remove water damage?

Coordinating with a renter can be cumbersome but acting quickly after water seeps into your floors and cabinets is a priority. If you decide to wait until the rental unit is vacant, you run the risk of finding mold and bacteria growing in your property. Furthermore, our SERVPRO team can tell you whether structural elements are also at risk due to excess humidity. Our state-of-the-art technology grants us measuring tools to detect water accumulation in wall cavities, subfloors, and behind cabinets. When we detect water, we can use one of several techniques to remove it from your home, including the following-

• Air movers- we increase airflow and circulation to stimulate evaporation
• Injecti-dry- we poke small holes in your baseboards to inject air into wall cavities and restore moisture levels
• Extraction wands- these allow us to access corners and other hard to reach crevices to extract water

We understand the need to be mindful of your tenant's privacy and time. You can trust SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa to carry out the job professionally and efficiently. Call us at (913) 782-4693 and let us leave your property "Like it never even happened."

To find out more about Lenexa, click here.

How SERVPRO Removes Water From Kansas City Commercial Properties

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Carpet and padding quickly feel the effects of water damage. SERVPRO has the expertise to restore your water damaged office.

Commercial Water Removal in Kansas City Office Building 

A half-an-inch of water does not sound like it could do much in the way of commercial water damage. That is until it is spread over an entire office, saturating the carpet.  

The property owner of an office building in Kansas City contacted SERVPRO for commercial water removal. A pipe burst overnight and dumped water onto the floor throughout the property until the morning when the manager opening walked in on this scene and immediately shut off the water to the building.  

Scoping the Water Loss 

Upon arrival, SERVPRO techs scoped the water migration and found nearly half an inch of water throughout the office. This water extraction job was more significant than using portable pumps. The techs used a truck-mounted pump to pull the water off the floor quickly to expedite the removal. Other techs followed up using portable pumps with weighted extractor heads to push the water out of the carpeting and lessen drying time needed.  

Office by Office Inspection

Because the flooring received the effects of the water loss throughout the facility, the techs inspected each office and removed items off the floor and placed desks up on blocks for drying in place. Electronics exposed to excessive moisture should always get tested before using. Wherever the techs discovered computer CPUs on the floor, they got removed for inspection due to their exposure in the vicinity of the water loss. Fortunately, the industrial rubber coated baseboards did not allow any wicking of water into the sheetrock. 

Large Scale Drying Plan

SERVPRO technicians have extensive training in the science of psychrometry, the study of air, and controlling moisture contents. For drying needs this broad, it requires a large number of air movers and dehumidification equipment used in tandem to rapidly bring down interior humidity levels resulting in an expedited drying process. Each office received the same detailed setup to ensure the property dried according to preset drying times and air quality goals. 

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa at (913) 782-4693 arrives quickly for commercial water removal in local properties. Through the use of advanced restoration methods and state-of-the-art equipment make the water loss, "Like it never even happened." 

More about Kansas City.

We Get You Back In Business In Kansas City After A Water Damage Disaster

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

We are ready to respond to any size commercial loss. If you experience a water loss, big or small, in your commercial business, call us right away.

Commercial Water Damage Cleaned Up With Little Disruption to Kansas City Business

Speed never matters more than after commercial water damage. The longer the building materials, furnishings, or stock receive exposure to moisture, the more the loss piles up.

SERVPRO technicians arrive quickly to cleanup commercial water damage in Kansas City properties to lessen the loss. The goal is always to limit the replacement of building materials and contents through their advanced restoration methods.

Get Reopened Quickly

The time a business remains closed during cleanup can force regular patrons to frequent a competitor. Potential clients may take their business elsewhere. SERVPRO techs work to extract water quickly and dry the property so the company can get back to normal day-to-day activities as soon as possible.

Water Extraction Equipment

SERVPRO uses portable pumps with the power to pull moisture out of both carpet and padding as well as specialized attachments for behind the baseboards on a commercial property. Floor tiles and removed materials always receive an inspection for their potential for reuse after cleaning to save the property owner the cost of replacement.

Drying in Place or Packout If Needed

They avoid moving desks and other furnishings by raising them on blocks and dry them in place whenever possible to limit disruptions. In cases where a company has equipment or stock stored on-site. The excessive moisture has the potential to cause damage through water damage or mold. In these cases, when containment is not enough, the techs perform an organized pack-out to a secure area until the cleanup efforts complete.

Organized Setup

Afterward, SERVPRO returns the items to their exact locations, so the property owner does not have to worry about finding things or accounting for stock items. The techs use their exclusive Contents Claim Inventory System (CCIS) to keep track of all items removed, the condition, and return to the property.

When you need fast, efficient commercial water damage mitigation, contact SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa at (913) 782-4693. The certified techs are available 24/7 for any size loss and make it "Like it never even happened."

See more about Kansas City.

Don’t Struggle With Making a Remediation Decision After Water Damage in Your Overland Park Commercial Space - Call SERVPRO

12/8/2019 (Permalink)

Water Cleanup Challenges in Overland Park Retail Spaces

Retailers, large and small in Overland, choose to share space in shopping centers, malls, and strips. A convenience for shoppers and business owners alike, the benefits, unfortunately, are also balanced by the potential for communal disasters. If your neighbor experiences a water loss, you might suffer the same or even more severe consequences as the water migrates. Water frequently pools between common walls or seeps through flooring to drip onto lower levels.

Potential Plumbing Problems Intersect

Whether your business focuses on clothing, gifts, furnishings, or food, emergency water cleanup in your Overland Park space can be needed because of a burst supply pipe or clogged waste drain. As the temperature dips, any pipes running near exterior walls are particularly vulnerable to cold weather, the water remaining within prone to freezing, swelling, and breaking. Restaurants produce significant amounts of wastewater and the potential for backups during food preparation and cleanup. Hair salons risk clogs when shampooing, dyeing, clipping, and styling. Any business with a restroom or water fountain can expose itself and adjacent retailers to water damage.

Water Mitigation and Remediation Can Backfire

Some of the strategies used by restorers to release hidden water and dry spaces can produce unintended consequences. For example, the vinyl baseboards in many commercial settings easily peel back to permit the drilling of holes to allow water to flow out. The SERVPRO team exercises considerable caution when using this method as the openings must not pierce both sides. Water unexpectedly dripping into the next store or a vacant space can cause severe damage as that outcome is not prepared for nor expected by the neighboring tenant.

Drying Techniques Require Care

SERVPRO technicians position air movers within damaged spaces after water cleanup to reduce the moisture readings of saturated building materials to normal levels. Holes drilled into one side of a shared wall permit us to force warm air from a mover via hoses into the building cavity as a drying method. Outside of the wall, air movers encourage evaporation as long as they are directed at a 45-degree angle to a vertical surface. Facing the wall directly could increase the saturation of the common barrier by blowing humid air into porous materials. Dehumidifiers must run continuously to remove the water vapor loaded into the air by the movement.

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa is up to the challenge of water cleanup and drying in shared and separate retail spaces. Call us at (913) 782-4693, whether your space is the source or the recipient of commercial water damage.

Click here for more information about Overland Park.

Where to Get Started While Waiting for Professional Flood Cleanup

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage on carpet

Where to Get Started While Waiting for Professional Flood Cleanup

After experiencing a commercial flood in Edgerton, KS, you may feel overwhelmed by the amount of water and cleanup that is left behind. Whether you've taken a hit from a large storm or have experienced a pipe burst, the wait time given by a professional flood restoration company may vary based on the amount of affected properties in your area. The following damage tips will help you get a quick start on your cleanup efforts while you wait, and may prevent more serious damage from occurring.

1. Watch For Safety Hazards

When dealing with post-flood damage, safety should always be your primary concern. Never self-attempt flood cleanup if you believe any of the following may be true:

• Electric currents may be in contact with sitting water
  
• Mold or mildew have started forming in the affected area
  
• Flood waters have been contaminated by sewage or chemical spills
  
  

2. Ventilate

Once you believe the flooded area is safe to enter, flood damage tips will tell you to start by ventilating the area. Open windows to allow fresh air to enter and consider using ceiling fans or industrial blowers to begin the drying-out process.

3. Toss Upholstered Furniture

A professional flood restoration team may be able to restore many of your commercial furnishings, but others aren't worth keeping. In general, furniture or draperies made of cloth and upholstery should be thrown out, unless they are machine washable by manufacturer standards.

4. Pull-Back Carpet and Padding

Once sitting water can be removed or dried up, most flood damage tips suggest pulling back carpeted flooring. This will allow padding and sub-flooring to dry completely and professionals can evaluate if it is salvageable upon arrival.

Professional Evaluation

Whether your commercial flood is minor or significant, be sure to have a professional come out and evaluate the full restoration needs of your facility. In the meantime, these cleaning tips should help you avoid further damage while your wait for sanitation and repairs.

What To Expect During Fire Damage Restoration

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration

After a fire in your Edgerton, KS, building, you will likely need to have some work done. The process can contain many steps, and you may not know quite what to expect. The following are some of the things that may be done during fire damage restoration.

1. Mitigation

After the building has been inspected, the first step is to mitigate the damage. This is done to prevent damage from worsening before repairs can begin. It will often include placing tarps and boards to cover missing walls or roofing as well as blocking off affected areas so that damage does not spread.

2. Water Removal

Depending on the severity of the commercial fire, it may need to be put out with a hose. If this happens, you will likely end up with water damage on top of everything else. Before restoration can begin, any excess water will need to be removed from the building.

3. Cleanup and Sanitation

The next step is to clean and sanitize the area. Much of this will be soot and smoke cleanup. Smoke travels through the air and can create a film on the surface of walls, floors and objects. It can damage electronics and other items, so it is important to have them cleaned quickly.

4. Rebuilding and Repairs

Once everything has been cleaned, then repairs can begin. In some cases, large areas may need to be rebuilt. Fire damage restoration will also include minor repairs like replacing carpets and repainting walls.

5. Odor Removal

Sometimes, even after repairs have been made, a fire can create a lingering odor. This is often due to smoke particles becoming trapped in porous materials, though it may also be that they are still in the air. During restoration, an air purifier may be used to remove these particles and the resulting smell.
If you have experienced a fire in your commercial building, a fire damage restoration company will be able to help. They can clean up the area, make repairs and have your property looking great again as soon as possible.

What Businesses Should Know About Cleaning After a Flood

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded office space in Edgerton, KS

Seeing your flooded company can be stressful, especially if many items in your business in Edgerton, KS, have been damaged. Cleaning is often one of the first steps in the restoration process, and learning about cleaning after a flood can accelerate the cleanup process.

What Type of Damage Commonly Occurs?

Water from a broken pipe versus water from an outside source can cause different types of damage to your business, and the amount of water in your building can also affect the extent of the damage. However, regardless of the source and the amount of water in your building, the following issues commonly occur in businesses after a flood:

• Structural damage to your building's walls, ceilings and foundation
  
• Warped vinyl flooring
  
• Mold growth on a variety of surfaces
  
• Damage to electrical systems
  
  
  

What Can You Clean Easily?

When it comes to your flooded company, you likely will want to know what items you can effectively and safely clean on your own. Items that aren't particularly delicate and that have not been sitting in water for a long period of time are generally easy to clean. Additionally, wood floors and furniture with real wood can normally be saved and will not sustain major damage if the water is quickly removed from the wood surface and the surrounding area remains dry.

How Do You Know if Professional Cleaning is Necessary?

Although it's often possible to clean certain items on your own, particular treatments, tools and pieces of equipment are necessary to clean some items. Instead of purchasing costly pieces of equipment, it can be helpful to employ emergency water damage restoration services. Professionals can use a variety of methods, including dry cleaning and immersion cleaning, to appropriately sanitize and restore different items.

Although a flooded company can lead to a major headache, knowing how to begin the cleanup process can help to alleviate some of your stress. Knowing what damage can occur after a flood, what you can likely clean easily and when to seek out help from professionals can make cleaning up after a flood easier.

Property Owners Can Be Sued Because of Mold Damage

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

One issue that is too often ignored is the problem of mold and the damage it can cause.

Property Owners Can Be Sued Because Of Mold Damage

In this modern world, there are many issues facing property owners each and every day. Between building insurance, renovation permits, work safety concerns, and angry tenant parking problems, the landowner may feel pulled in multiple directions at once. One issue that is too often ignored in Olathe, KS is the problem of mold and the damage it can cause. Not surprisingly, there have been lawsuits against businesses and contractors because of mold infestations, which is why you shouldn’t wait until you have to make mold insurance claims to address your tenant’s fungus concerns.

Liability

The courts have held that tenants, employees, and customers can hold businesses liable for damage or injury from mold. Past mold claim suits have included the liability of contractors, engineers, architects, property managers, and landlords. While it is well known that buildings can develop mold problems in the dark recesses of storage areas, machine rooms, or basements, when the building owner first becomes aware that mold is an issue, he or she can then become liable. Problems can include:

• Inattention to a potential problem
• Improper installation of materials
• Wrong materials installed
  

Even though your tenants make mold insurance claims, there are still other difficulties the landlord or property owner can face due to mold and its damage.

Habitability

The law states that your tenants have a right to expect their work or living spaces to be habitable. Although the term “habitable” can be considered a gray area, when tenants are able to see areas of rampant fungus growth, the courts say the building may not be habitable, and the landlord may be responsible for mold remediation and property reconstruction.

While placing mold insurance claims may help you recoup losses for building renovations, insurance monies are not available for lawsuits based on habitability or liability issues due to mold. Why not be proactive and have your building supervisors check for mold, leaky pipes, and mildew problems every month?

Fire Extinguishers: Understanding the P.A.S.S. Technique

1/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Extinguishers: Understanding the P.A.S.S. Technique

A fire extinguisher is one of the most essential pieces of life-saving equipment in your commercial property. While your fire suppression system is excellent for your overall facility and alarms will ensure the safe evacuation of your employees or tenants, extinguishers provide a direct line of defense and allow for immediate response to manageable fires. However, there is a four-step process known as the P.A.S.S. technique.

1. Pull

The first step is to pull the pin from the extinguisher handle. The removal of this pin will allow the handle to be fully compressed, releasing the compressed air and chemical mixture to extinguish the flames.

2. Aim

A fire extinguisher will typically have a short, flexible, rubber hose attached to the nozzle and extending away from the handle. This will allow you to aim the compressed mixture at the fire. However, be sure to avoid contact with the discharge opening as the CO2 can damage your skin.

3. Squeeze

Squeezing the handle will release the extinguishing agent. Its mixture will come out quickly and somewhat powerfully, so be prepared and keep firm aim on the blaze.

4. Sweep

You will want to use a sweeping motion, focusing the extinguishing mixture on the base of the fire. Continue this process until the fire is out. After the fire is out, watch the are and ensure that there are no remaining embers. It is possible for a fire to reignite, causing more fire damage.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the proper extinguisher technique, you can contact your local fire department or a fire remediation specialist in the Spring Hill, KS, area. These professionals should be able to instruct you on the basics of fire safety and may even offer a demonstration.

A fire extinguisher is a life-saving tool, and there may come a time when it is your only means of defense. However, most often it will be used to squelch small fires, like a kitchen fire, before they turn into more significant disasters. Either way, knowing proper technique is key.

6 Steps for Cleaning Up Sewer Damage

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Sewage restoration and cleanup in Gardner, KS

Sewage Remediation

A persistent clog or the smell of sewer gas tells you that you have a problem with the plumbing in your commercial building. If you don’t fix it, it could turn into a bigger problem that requires sewer cleanup. Sewage remediation experts are trained to complete the cleaning process from start to finish. Here are the six steps they typically follow.

1. Area Containment

Before they deal with the mess, the experts will likely take measure to ensure that it doesn’t spread to unaffected areas. This may involve sealing off the area where the sewer backup occurred and not allowing anyone to enter it who isn’t wearing the appropriate protective gear.

2. Sewage Extraction

Cleaning can’t happen until the contaminated water and detritus has been removed and disposed of safely. Technicians pump the standing water out, removing any debris or particles that came out of the flooded toilet with it.

3. Material Removal

Anything the contaminated water touches must be taken out of the building. This includes all furniture, office equipment and documents as well as walls, floors and ceiling tiles that were affected.

4. Surface Extraction

All surfaces must be thoroughly dried during sewer cleanup. The sooner this can happen, the less likely it is that your building will develop a mold problem.

5. Surface Disinfection

Using industrial-strength cleaners, technicians thoroughly disinfect every surface that came into contact with the contamination. After cleaning, the area is tested to make sure all traces of the germs from the sewer water are gone.

6. Area Restoration

The items that can be salvaged are cleaned and returned to the building. The items that cannot be saved must be replaced.

Experts in Gardner, KS, should be called at the first sign that you need sewer cleanup. Don’t ignore the signs that your building may be contaminated. A speedy cleanup process helps you get back to business.

Why Is Flood Water Called Black Water?

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Flood damage on a local brewery in Edgerton,KS

Category 3 black water refers to flood water or water that contains solid waste. This term is also used to describe stagnant water that supports the growth of bacteria. Find out what distinguishes Category 3 water from other types and why this type of water requires thorough cleaning, disinfection, and drying to reduce the risks of contagion or mold.

What Are the 3 Categories of Water?

Three categories of water can be involved in water damage.

• Category One water is clean, treated, and typically originates from a broken supply pipe.
• Category Two water or gray water may contain chemicals or microbes. This water can come from showers or appliances such as dishwashers or washing machines.
• Category Three water may contain solid waste or other dangerous contaminants. This water can cause illness when consumed, inhaled, or through skin exposure.

Is All Flood Water Considered Black?

It is safe to assume that water from flooding is Category 3. This water has a high chance of containing the following contaminants:

• Chemicals
• Heavy metals
• Pathogens
• Pesticides
• Solid waste

Any parts of a building exposed to flooding due to storm damage should be cleaned and disinfected prior to being reopened to occupants and visitors.

What Are the Risks of Black Water?

In addition to posing an infection risk for humans and animals, Category Three water also raises the risk of mold growth. Mold may begin to develop in flooded areas within only 24 to 72 hours. It is necessary to eliminate the presence of standing water and solid waste, pre-treat the area, remove porous building materials that can absorb water, and then disinfect, dry, and restore the affected area.

If flood water breaches a commercial property, contact a storm and water damage restoration service in Edgerton,KS. Trained professionals can ensure that the property is clean and safe and mitigate secondary damage such as mold.

3 Tips on Cleaning Your Business After Water Damage

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage in Olathe, KS, is a common cause of destruction to many businesses every year, and a flooded company can be difficult to clean. It costs time, money and energy to restore a business, but there are several steps you can take to make cleaning your business after water damage a less stressful, easier process.

Air Out the Space

When cleaning your business, it’s important to try to dry out as much as possible as quickly as possible. If it will not cause any further damage, opening windows can help increase the airflow in your business and will help items inside dry out more quickly. If the ceilings have not been affected by water, you can also use fans to help everything inside your building dry quickly. Clothing, however, should be removed and taken to dry cleaning.

Don’t Wait To Cleanup

As overwhelming as you may be with your flooded company, it’s important to start cleaning your business as soon as it is safe. Waiting to clean your business when it’s safe to enter can result in more damage occurring. Keep an eye out for hazards such as broken pipes and other items that may have become damaged as you start the cleanup process. The sooner cleanup begins, the sooner you can reopen your business.

Avoid Using Electrical Items

Though you may be tempted to try and see if various appliances still work, using electrical items that may have been damaged by water can be incredibly dangerous. Avoid the temptation to test out any appliances you may have and instead focus on safely moving other items. Make sure you also don’t use any sort of electrical items to try and clean up the area, as outlets in your business may be damaged.

As you clean your business, make sure you work with professionals who can help you safely make fixes. Although cleaning a flooded company may seem impossible, if you are mindful of working quickly and safely, you can quickly open your business’s doors again. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROolathelenexa.com/.

4 Steps of Commercial Roof Damage Restoration

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Water dripping from the ceiling of your Olathe, KS business property is not a welcome sight. You likely have a damaged roof that’s letting water infiltrate the premise. To treat the problem of a roof leak, these four steps are commonly followed.

1. Trace the Source of Water

The first step is to find out if the water is due to a roof problem such as missing shingles. It could also potentially come from a pipe leak or the building’s HVAC system, so they require inspection. Once the possibilities other than a damaged roof are eliminated, roof repairs can commence.

2. Repair the Leak and Disinfect the Area

After the leak is located, it should be patched up to prevent any further water damage to the property. With the cause of water is under control, the area is disinfected to prevent potential water deterioration leading to a more difficult cleanup.

3. Repair Building Materials Damaged by Water

Drywall is a spongey material that soaks up water. Depending on the severity of roof leak and level of damage, lesser drywall damage may be able to be scraped off instead of replaced.

If the water damage is significant, drying using fans and dehumidifiers is the next step. This will attempt to remove the water from the materials to see if they can be saved from declining. Untreated wet drywall deforms into a different shape and will likely crumble with pressure.

4. Replace Any Unrepairable Foundation

In the most severe cases, water-damaged materials will unfortunately need to be torn out and replaced. If any drywall is affected, this requires additional time since it needs a new primer and coat of paint after being replaced. Once the replacements are done, the ceiling is finally restored to how it looked and operated in its undamaged state.

A roof leak and its associated water damage can be mitigated when using proper procedure, regardless if it’s done by you, your company or a professional commercial water cleanup service. Verifying that these steps are followed ensures that the process is thorough and proper. Visit http://www.SERVPROolathelenexa.com/ for more information on commercial services. 

Flood Gates Opened

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

After demo in a church classroom so that we could begin drying

After a pipe in the sanctuary busted in the ceiling, this Lenexa church was covered in water that sat for about 24 hours before anyone knew.

Upon arriving, our crews got to work immediately. The steps in controlling large amounts of water are:

1. Stop the source

2. Extract all standing water

3. Remove all of the wet material (drywall, flooring, contents)

4. Set drying equipment

5. Monitor to ensure proper drying (typically 3-5 days)

With large losses, sometimes they require more specialized equipment but you need not worry, we have access to all of the equipment that we could ever need. There is no loss that is too large for our team of professionals. Call SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa today for all of your water cleanup needs at (913) 782-4693. We are available 24/7/365. 

How To Prepare Your Business for a Flood: 3 Helpful Hints

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

When flooding threatens your Olathe, KS, commercial building, you may worry about what kind of damage it might cause and what impact such an event would have on your investment. Floods can cause a variety of problems, from shorting out electrical systems to damaging inventory and office equipment. While this type of destruction can be costly, there are a few strategies you can use to prepare your business for a flood.

1. Have a Flood Disaster Plan in Place. 

Being prepared can keep your employees and customers safe from black water and other safety threats during a flood. Have an evacuation plan in place and post it throughout the building. Discuss flood evacuation with your employees so they can act quickly and get out of the building safely during an unexpected water disaster. You may want to have your building inspected to ensure there are enough exits for the number of people your building can hold.

2. Back Up Your Business’ Data. 

If you keep some of your records on paper and stored in your building, it is wise to have them transferred to a digital format and stored on the cloud. Not only does this give you easy access to information when you need it in the future, it can protect valuable data from suffering flood damage. If you own a medical business, transferring patient files and other information to a secure data storage system can be especially important when your building is at risk for flooding.

3. Have a Flood Mitigation Company on Call. 

Trying to find a flood damage and mitigation company during a flood may take days, during which you may lose business. Being prepared beforehand by finding a service that suits your needs can help you save time and get help right away if a flood should affect your building.

Flooding can be a worrisome issue for you as a Olathe, KS, business owner. However, being prepared can help you act confidently during a disaster and when it comes to keeping your employees, customers and building safe.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROolathelenexa.com/.

3 Types of Secondary Damage

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

After a commercial property in Olathe, KS sustains water damage, the risk of secondary damage escalates until the initial damage has been addressed. Secondary issues such as black mold can result from high humidity and other factors that persist after a plumber has addressed the source of the water damage. It is a good idea to contact a commercial restoration service that specializes in water damage quickly after a leak, as additional damage can develop quickly over the following hours and days.

1. Mold and mildew: Mold and mildew may start to develop in a commercial property affected by water damage in as little as 48 hours. A commercial damage restoration company can remove all standing water and dry out the area affected by a leak using a dehumidifier. Lowering high humidity levels can make the area less conducive to fungal growth and reduce the likelihood that any type of mold, including black mold, will develop.

2. Insect infestation: Excess moisture from a leak can give rise to infestations of insects such as roaches, silverfish, or termites. The presence of insects can make a commercial property less comfortable and sanitary and may actually undermine the integrity of the structure.

3. Structural failures: The weight of a lot of standing water can damage the structure of a commercial property over time. It is important to eliminate all standing water to prevent even more damage from taking place. If you are not aware of a leak for some time after it has occurred, you should contact a restoration service as soon as possible to limit the extent of the resulting damage.

These are only three general types of secondary damage that can occur after a water leak in a commercial property. If you are concerned about the risk of black mold, contact a certified commercial water damage restoration service near Olathe, KS.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROolathelenexa.com/.

SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa Restoring Office Spaces

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded office space in Olathe

Water line breaks, damaged roofing shingles, ill-timed sprinklers, or water used during firefighting measures can all lead to a water-logged mess. Water affects different things according to the porosity of the material from which it was made. Office complexes in our area can rely on commercial water removal services to regain control over their office’s environment once again after a disaster involving copious amounts of water has occurred. Our technicians have been trained and then given experience in mitigating water problems, in both large and small environments. At SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa, our training results in certification from the IICRC, ensuring that our technicians can provide the services required regardless of the disaster type, size, or level of complexity. Having a mess in only one secluded section of your office, if large, never is a guarantee that equipment stored elsewhere is protected from damage. Water takes three forms, and humidity travels quite easily inside an enclosed area like your office. In smaller offices, this type of damage can happen much more quickly than in a larger one. When the water came from a contaminated source, our services also include effective decontamination methods that render your shop clean and free of any pathogens or other substances that can cause harm or illness. You, your employees, and your customers deserve a non-germ environment in which to conduct business, and we can help create this for you, even if the situation seems hopeless. Water removal is the primary step in bringing a saturated location back to its original dry condition. SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa uses pump trucks for standing water, hand-held units that extract water from water-logged porous materials such as carpets and furniture, specialized pads to increase the evaporation rate of water held inside floors, and a combination of dehumidifiers, air movers, and heaters for removing the last traces of humidity from the air.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa wants to help whenever your office needs us. No disaster is off-limits for us, so don't hesitate to call. Our number (913)782.4693 anytime we answer and respond 24/7.

What Should You Do When Your Building Is Contaminated With Black Water?

1/11/2018 (Permalink)

Not all water damage is created equal, and the remediation steps you take all depend of the original source of the water that flooded your Olathe / Lenexa building. Clean water is precisely what it sounds like: water that does not pose any immediate health threats and that comes from broken water lines, toilet holding tanks, rainfall and snow melt. If not treated in time, clean water can become gray water, which is water that does contain some contaminants. Gray water can include discharge from showers, sinks, aquariums, water beds and dishwashers. Then there is black water, or floodwater. 

What Is Black water?

The water that enters a building during a sewer back up usually contains dozens of harmful contaminants, which is why it is so important to work with a professional water remediation team after an incident. Black water usually contains soil, feces, pesticides and other contaminants, natural or not. It can also contain sewage runoff, which may be contaminated by bacteria, molds, fungi, protozoans and viruses. 

Contamination can occur anytime, both during the flooding incident and afterwards. For this reason, it is imperative to your health and the health of all your employees and customers that you work with a professional water remediation team after a flood. 

Why Work With a SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa Water Remediation Team?

Water damage is one of many major concerns after your building floods. We will do everything possible to restore your building to its pre-flood condition, our main goal will be to free your building of any remaining contaminants. Don’t attempt to clean up post-flood on your own; instead, call us at 913.782.4693.

Olathe/Lenexa Commercial Water Loss

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

Any water loss to a commercial building can be critical to a business's productivity. SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa’s main goal when dealing with a commercial water loss is to get the situation taken care of as quickly as possible so that your business can resume all normal activities.

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 SERVPRO of Olathe/Lenexa a call at 913.782.4693 and we will be there fast with the help you need.

For immediate service in Olathe / Lenexa call SERVPRO of Olathe/ Lenexa

6/26/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa 913-782-4693 Here to Help

SERVPRO of Olathe / Lenexa provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Johnson 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 – 913-782-4693

Residential Services

Whether your Olathe / Lenexa 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 Olathe / Lenexa 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.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration