Recent Commercial Posts

Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) For Your Business

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

Servpro 24/7 SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. Our ERPs are now available to access through an app for 24/7 accessibility. 

Contact our office today for a FREE Emergency Ready Profile for your business. 

Protect Your Business Holdings in Mansfield from Water Damage

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

van stacked with green air movers SERVPRO has plenty of air movers to mitigate water damage in your Mansfield workplace

SERVPRO Offers Emergency Water Damage Restoration Services to Mansfield Commercial Buildings

Even a seemingly small bathroom leak in a Mansfield business can cause significant disruption to business operations. Aside from the safety precautions you need to take to avoid falls and electrical hazards, it would be best if you also looked at the water incident and its potential repercussions. While an assessment happens, you may need to remove all people from the premises, including clients and workers, and compromise your productivity. When time is money, acting with speed and efficiency is extremely important.

To help restore your Mansfield business following water damage, SERVPRO is ready to respond to your call and take action as soon as possible. Upon arriving at your commercial establishment, be it a restaurant, an office, or a warehouse, we prioritize safety and conduct a thorough assessment of the situation to identify threats and make the space safe to work in. Whenever possible, we isolate affected areas so you can at least resume partial operations without fear of cross-contamination or secondary damage.

Our SERVPRO employees are certified to handle water damage and restoration and do so with the aid of industry-grade equipment like centrifugal air movers and the latest techniques in water remediation. Our staff discusses each job detail with you and can help in the insurance claim process. The goal is to resume regular operations as soon as possible. To dissipate the water’s impact and any potential biohazard threats, we may resort to some of the following-

  • Extractors and dehumidifiers to remove water and humidity and restore normal levels
  • Flooring removal and disposal as needed Alternatively, we may use equipment such as drying mats and wand extractors to salvage them if the situation allows.
  • Controlled demolition and drywall replacement to complete the restoration process

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield is here to help our fellow business owners. Call us at (860) 461-7194 and let us leave your space “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damage Is Harmful to Mansfield Office Buildings, but Fire Suppression Agents Can Cause Damage Too.

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

red fire alarm box on wall SERVPRO says to be prepared for possible fires in your Mansfield commercial building. Ask us about the ERP Emergency READY Profile Plan.

SERVPRO Helps Business Owners with Fire Damage and its Secondary Effects

In contrast to residential settings, commercial buildings in Mansfield are generally equipped with fire suppression systems such as sprinklers and commercial fire extinguishers. When firefighters are called into a commercial facility, they bring heavy-duty solutions to fight the flames. Once the fire is under control, owners and tenants alike must handle the restoration and devastation left behind by the flames and the chemicals used to fight them.

For a complete fire damage restoration process in Mansfield, call SERVPRO and let us design a plan that tackles the fire and its ramifications. Residual fire damage may require several specialized drying and cleaning solutions, even if it didn’t burn long. Our certified staff is ready to explore options and help you preserve valuable items such as documents, electronics, and furniture. To aid us in the process, we may suggest some of the following-

  • Move-out services to preserve undamaged items and facilitate on-site cleanup, water extraction, and drying.
  • Document restoration for irreplaceable items needing specialized drying techniques to avoid damage due to high moisture.
  • Odor removal by air scrubbers and foggers can help combat smell molecules by permeating every surface.

SERVPRO understands that each commercial fire damage cleanup and restoration is unique. We inspect, scope, and develop the proper action plan to mitigate the damage. We aim to keep your commercial enterprise functioning and your doors open for business.

Fire damage affects each space differently, and each surface requires specific steps to be cleaned up and restored. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield is ready to help as soon as you make us aware of the situation. Call us at (860) 461-7194 and place your trust in our expertise. Our job isn’t done until the workspace looks and feels “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial Cleaning

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Business Cleaners Office SERVPRO cleaners don't miss a spot when they are in commercial properties.

In addition to providing disaster recovery services for your home or business, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield also offers commercial cleaning services. Count on us for thoroughness, attention to detail and reliability to keep your office, restaurant, retail store or manufacturing facility clean, safe and looking its absolute best!

Among the workplaces we clean are:

  • small and large office buildings
  • high-rise office and residential buildings
  • small and large retail stores and big box stores
  • restaurants
  • hotels and motels
  • manufacturing and industrial facilities
  • government and military workplaces

SERVPRO’s commercial cleaning crew brings these benefits:

  • an improved business image
  • a safer environment for your workers
  • skilled personnel using industry-best equipment, products and procedures

SERVPRO will tailor our cleaning services to your needs. We even offer specialized cleaning services, including biohazard/ sewage, air duct/HVAC and odor removal.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield is here to help you keep your workplace clean, safe and productive for your employees. We’ll make your business shine!

For commercial cleaning and disaster restoration needs, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

In addition to offering commercial cleaning services, the team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

Prevent Fire Damage At Your Business

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Business Fire Commercial fires mean losing more than just equipment. It can erase years of hard work in an instant

In the hot and dry summertime, many business owners have good reason to be concerned about the risk of wildfires. The truth is, though, that a fire of any size or origin can interrupt your business, and if not caught and extinguished quickly, can be devastating not just to your property, but to the survival of your business.

According to a 2018 report from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), nonresidential buildings have experienced a 5% increase in fires over the last decade, resulting in a 36% growth in claims.

Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, a professional disaster recovery company, to help you recover quickly and completely if a fire strikes your small business. We also are experts in remediating the water and smoke damage that often accompanies a fire.

Fire Prevention 101

Follow these basic fire prevention steps, just as you would at your home.

  • Equip your building with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers as required by local and state regulations.
  • Test detectors and extinguishers regularly, change batteries annually and replace equipment if it is defective or approaching its end of life.
  • Set up evacuation procedures, communicate them and hold regular emergency drills.

Why and Where Do Small Business Fires Start?

According to the National Fire Protection Association, these are the most common sources of commercial property fires—and steps you can take to help prevent them.

Cooking Equipment (29%)

  • Clean office kitchen areas daily.
  • Prohibit the use of hot plates.
  • Have stoves, ovens and other cooking equipment serviced at least annually by a qualified technician.      

Electrical Equipment (12%)

  • Move combustible materials, such as trash cans, paper and cardboard boxes, away from outlets, panel boxes or other heat-producing electrical equipment.
  • Regularly inspect appliance cords and check light fixtures, bulbs and displays for visible signs for damage.
  • Do not use extension cords unless absolutely necessary.

Heating Equipment (11%)

  • Have heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment serviced by a qualified technician at least annually and before each seasonal startup.
  • Never use portable space heaters.
  • Keep combustible materials at least three feet from boilers, furnaces and other heating units.

Arson (10%)

  • Establish a security program that controls access to your building. Add regular guard tours if appropriate for your facility.
  • Adequately light all areas of the property, including parking lots and garages.

Smoking (5%)

  • Prohibit smoking in the building.
  • Place non-combustible containers outside entranceways for disposal of smoking materials.
  • Install smoke detection equipment in areas that may be used for unauthorized smoking, such as bathrooms and closets.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

Businesses - Prevent Water Damage

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Crew Entering The SERVPRO Crew is ready for anything!

In most cases you can prevent water damage at your business. But it requires planning and preparation. Being prepared can save you large expenses and more importantly, keep your business running so there’s not business interruption.

In general, if your commercial property fits one or more of these descriptions your building may be at higher risk for water damage:
•    20+ years old
•    High-rise with multiple tenants or units
•    Uses newer construction materials
•    Is exposed to seasonal extremes or geographic-based events
•    Has not been properly maintained
 
Your best bet for preventing water damage is to have a written, up-to-date water damage prevention program. If you need one and don’t have one, here’s a quick checklist of some items to consider:

1. Have A Plan
Have a building emergency response plan in place. Conduct annual drills.

2. Inspect The Roof
Check the commercial building’s roof for: sealants around the HVAC systems, flashing around skylights, stack vents, drains, downspouts, and other rooftop elements. Is everything in good condition? Are there pools of water? From inside the building do you see water stain marks? From inside can you see daylight where you should not see it?

Water Damage? Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

3. Inspect The Windows
Check your business’s windows annually for tightness, weather-stripping, broken or cracked panes, weak flashing, and other signs of wear.

4. Check Exterior Walls
Are all openings (plumbing, heating, lighting, fire alarms, vents, etc.) sealed against water?  Do the walls themselves need re-pointing or sealing?

5. Fix Small Issues
Repair small leaks promptly. And analyze the cause of any leaks to see if they are symptoms of a system-wide problem.

6. Keep The Maintenance Crew Informed
Instruct occupants, employees, and other people who regularly use your commercial building to immediately notify maintenance when any type of dripping, leakage, or clogged drains are found.

Water Damage? Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

7. Keep Pipe Records Updated
Be sure pipe diagrams or prints up to date and that they show the location of valves for all liquid carrying systems. Make certain your building maintenance staff knows where the diagrams are kept and that the diagrams are well labeled and easy to reach.

8. Check Shut Off Valves
At least once year check all shut off valves. They should be closed and reopened and lubricated as needed so you know they can be quickly closed during an emergency.

9. Train Your Staff
 Have someone available on all shifts trained to respond immediately to any leak or water damage. And have someone immediately available at all times with authorization (24/ 7) to call and bring in the professional clean up and restoration companies like SERVPRO of Manchester.

10. Do Regular Maintenance
Create a systematic maintenance schedule. Include a written plan for maintenance updates of your commercial property, the building’s equipment, and its systems. Proper maintenance prevents excessive wear and tear and helps avoid catastrophes.


We Have More Ways To Help You
The professionals at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield are commercial property water damage restoration experts. We've served clients in:

•    Bolton
•    Chestnut Hill
•    Columbia
•    Coventry
•    Ellington
•    Hebron
•    Hop River
•    Lebanon
•    Manchester
•    Mansfield
•    Mansfield Center
•    Somers
•    South Windham
•    Stafford
•    Vernon
•    Willington
•    Windham
•    Willimantic
And beyond
   
 Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) anytime, 24/7.

How SERVPRO Helps Commercial Customers

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

Shelves of products in a warehouse When your business suffers water, fire, storm, mold or biohazard damage, call on SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield to get to back to work fast.

You know how damaging it can be to have to close or scale down your business operations when a sudden facility emergency—like a flood, fire or mold issue—occurs. Well, so do we. Here at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, we are ready to respond to your emergency. We have the people, equipment, training and procedures to answer your call fast, evaluate the situation, create a plan to remediate the damage and get to work at getting you back to work!

“From start to finish, the project manager sent to work with us from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield went above and beyond and handled our crisis in the most professional and courteous way possible. She knows everything there is to know about restoration, but also is knowledgeable about the insurance and business side of things. She worked around our needs so that we could keep our lives as on-track as possible. We were so happy with how everything came out, and will be referring people to SERVPRO for sure.”—Mark in Storrs

“Whenever I have an emergency, I call SERVPRO right away. They are always reliable and ready to help. Everyone I’ve ever interacted with from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has been delightful and knowledgeable. They always get the job done and leave the place better than they found it, and always show great attitudes and manners. This makes all the difference to me. I will always recommend SERVPRO to others.”—Dennis in Amston

“We had a large commercial loss and the team at SERVPRO responded immediately. Their crew was very professional, clean, and quiet. The sewer line break caused a massive amount of sludge throughout the building and SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield prevented a lot of future damage.”—John in Marlborough

“I want to thank Brandy and her team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield for the attentiveness and courteousness they had toward us in our time of need. Thanks to you, we were able to recover from the warehouse fire, and our family business survived. Your hard and considerate work saved us. We will recommend you to anyone in need. Thank you, SERVPRO.”—Dmitri in Somers

“I was happily surprised at how fast SERVPRO’s response was to my water damage situation, even though I've never had to deal with water damage before at my business. I was impressed that they even put in the effort to find ways to make the restoration more affordable for me. All the staff were very knowledgeable and showed care for me as a customer. I would recommend them to others in need of the same services, 10/10.”—Sally M. in Willington

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Biohazard Cleanup in East Hartford

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

"Biohazard" symbol If your East Hartford commercial facility is hit with a biohazard situation, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield for quick, complete cleanup.

Ugh. The business you own or manage in East Hartford has been hit with a biohazard contamination. It could be a sewage backup, a hoarding situation, a blood spill or a chemical contamination. Whatever the source, you know you need to act fast to get it cleaned up, and follow rigorous procedures to get it completely cleaned up, prevent further contamination and protect the health of your employees and customers.

In other words, you need a skilled professional biohazard cleanup company like SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield to do the job. Our crews are trained to safely remove and dispose of biohazards according to OSHA and health regulations, using all the necessary safety gear and cleaning products.

Why SERVPRO Should Be Your First Call

The truth is, a biohazard situation is not only a challenging cleanup job, it is often a dangerous and even emotional situation. That’s why we treat your property and the people involved with respect and empathy. At SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, we've seen it all, and we can clean it all.

No matter when your biohazard situation begins or is discovered, we will be there to evaluate the problem and begin work, thanks to our around-the-clock availability. Our qualified professionals are ready to respond and turn your contaminated facility back into a clean and safe place.

In the immediate aftermath of a biohazard emergency, follow our Biohazard Emergency Tips to protect yourself and your property.

Many Kinds of Biohazards

Among the many types of biohazard situations we clean up are:

  • Sewage backup
  • Crime scenes
  • Accidental deaths, suicides and homicides
  • Bloody accidents
  • Hoarding situations
  • Animal waste and/or remains
  • Chemical spills
  • Drug labs

Sewage Backups

Sewage backups aren’t just gross, they bring harmful bacteria and viruses into your commercial facility. SERVPRO removes the sewage and contaminants and completely dries, disinfects and deodorizes your building and furnishings.

Accidents and Crime Scenes

The blood, body fluids and other contaminants often found at crime and accident scenes can pose a serious health risk—in addition to being disturbing. SERVPRO crews are pros at cleaning up swiftly, properly and respectfully to return your facility to its pre-incident state.

Illegal Drug Labs

The chemicals used to make illegal drugs, such as meth, can be extremely hazardous, so we follow federal and state guidelines to properly and completely clean all surfaces.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Avoid Water Damage and Save Money at Your Tolland Business by Maintaining Your HVAC Systems

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

A dirty HVAC duct cover Save on energy costs and avoid water and mold damage when SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield does preventive HVAC maintenance at your Tolland business.

A commercial HVAC system—which heats, cools, humidifies/dehumidifies, filters and circulates the air throughout your facility in Tolland—is easy to forget about when it’s working as it should. However, a system that leaks or allows too much humidity can create water or mold damage in your building.

Even a system that’s performing adequately can lose efficiency over time, costing you extra money in energy expenses. In fact, HVAC systems, combined with your lighting, are the biggest energy consumers in the average commercial building.

That’s why it’s important that you regularly maintain your HVAC system. With a little routine preventive service, your HVAC will be more efficient and will last longer. It’ll also be less likely to break down or leak—and that can save you lots of time, money and hassle.

Schedule Preventive HVAC Maintenance Twice a Year

Get into a routine of scheduling preventive HVAC maintenance in the spring for cooling systems and in the fall for heating systems. The idea is to tune up the systems to run efficiently throughout the subsequent heating or cooling season.

Choose a commercial HVAC professional such as SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield to perform preventive maintenance. If the HVAC pro discovers that repairs are necessary, it can be done immediately without losing any time.

During the maintenance visit, the professional should inspect, clean, lubricate, adjust or replace (if necessary) these parts of the HVAC system:

Outdoor

  • Coil and cabinet
  • Drain pans and condensate lines
  • Compressor
  • Fan motor and blades
  • Control box, switches, wiring and safety controls
  • Refrigerant

Indoor

  • Blower assembly and housing
  • Evaporator coil, drip pan and condensate lines
  • Belts
  • Burner assembly
  • Ignition system
  • Safety controls
  • Heat exchanger
  • Flue system
  • Control box, wiring and connections
  • Air filter
  • Duct system

Check Your HVAC System Throughout the Year

In addition to the twice-a-year maintenance visits, you or your maintenance staff should keep an eye on your HVAC system at more frequent intervals throughout the year.

Air Filters

Using clean, high-efficiency, pleated air HVAC filters can lower energy consumption by up to 15%.

  • At least once a month: inspect the air filters to be sure they are not clogged.
  • Every three to six months: replace the air filters.

Programmable Thermostats

  • At the start of the heating and cooling seasons: check and adjust the settings if necessary.
  • Every month: check to be sure that the thermostat is working well.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Remove Mold from Your Manchester Business

5/29/2021 (Permalink)

Mold on an interior wall Mold in your Manchester commercial building can be tough to get rid of. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield to remediate it once and for all.

You don’t have to have a major flooding event at your East Hartford business to end up with a major mold problem. That’s the deal with mold: all it needs is a little moisture and it can grow without you knowing about it. Then, you can be left with a persistent and treatment-resistant mold infestation. And when mold spores grow into colonies, they can produce allergens and irritants, affecting your employees’ and customers’ health. You don’t need that at your commercial building!

You may not see it, but mold is everywhere. Microscopic spores float through the air, both in and outside your commercial building. Once those inactive mold spores meet a water supply—and again, it doesn’t take much water—within 48 hours you could have a mold infestation.

But if there’s no moisture, there’s no mold growth. So, the first line of defense against a mold problem at your business is to eliminate sources of moisture.

Moisture + Mold = Trouble at Your Manchester Commercial Facility

While you can’t ignore a burst pipe or a flood caused by a storm, you may not even know about a dripping pipe, a leaking toilet or a little seepage from your roof. Even humidity that’s higher than normal (more than 45%) can lead to mold growth. Unfortunately, in these situations, a mold infestation has plenty of time to take root. 

One clue to a hidden mold problem in your Manchester commercial facility is the presence of a musty odor. If anyone in the building reports this, don’t ignore it—start hunting for mold. Do you have condensation in any part of your building? If so, your humidity may be too high. It’s a good idea to check your pipes, roof and water fixtures periodically for leaks and signs of moisture. Inspect your building’s ductwork and HVAC systems at regular intervals, too.

If you find any signs of mold, don’t wait to attack it. Remember, it just takes 48 hours for mold to grow in a moist environment. 

Need Mold Remediated for Good at Your Manchester Business? Call SERVPRO

You may be able to clean up small moisture problems and eradicate the accompanying mold by yourself. Unfortunately, if you don’t thoroughly remediate mold in your commercial facility, it may come back … and come back again. To be sure you’re attacking the mold problem once and for all, call an experienced mold remediation company like SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield. We employ highly trained water and mold damage experts:

  • microbial remediation specialists
  • water damage restoration technicians
  • structural, upholstery and fabric drying techs
  • odor control technicians

SERVPRO will first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building, then begin the remediation process. By the time we leave, your commercial facility will be restored to its pre-damage condition.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

We’re Here for You

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Protect Your East Hartford Business from Spring Flooding Damage

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

A flooded office with table and fire extinguisher Don't let your East Hartford business flood this spring! Take steps now to prevent commercial water damage.

Over the last few years, it’s become more and more obvious that extreme weather is here to stay! That brings a much greater risk of flooding for your East Hartford and central Connecticut area business. Even if you’re not located in a flood zone, you could be at real risk of getting lots of water in your business, especially during the springtime.

Simply put: flooding can occur anywhere, and with little warning. That’s why you have to be prepared to protect your building and your business operations from a sudden flood. In the spring, the cause is typically a heavy rainstorm, but it can also be a less intense storm that goes on for several days. Either way, your East Hartford business could suffer a damaged building, ruined inventory, lots of unproductive downtime and cleanup costs.

Evaluate Your Flood Risk

Even though floods can happen anywhere, it’s helpful to know if your businesses is located in a flood zone. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has a searchable flood map that lets you check. You definitely should have business flood insurance if you’re in a flood zone, but because of the unpredictability of extreme storms, consider purchasing flood insurance even if not in a flood zone. (If your business is outside the flood zone, your policy premium will be substantially lower, too.)

Another helpful government resource is the Ready Campaign, which has a number of tools you can use to create a business continuity plan. This plan to recover in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency will include identifying risks; identifying critical business functions; taking steps to protect against damage to those business functions; and testing and training to make sure you can spring into action when needed.

A key part of your continuity plan is to line up a water damage restoration specialist, like SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield. We’ll respond promptly to your emergency, remove the water and fully restore both your building and property to get you back to work A.S.A.P.

Harden Your Facility Against Floods

Because basements are the most vulnerable part of any building when it comes to floods, take these steps to keep water out of your commercial facility.

  • Check your building’s basement for signs of leaks. Seal visible cracks, route water from downspouts away from your foundation and grade the area around your building to direct water away. If you have evidence or a history of serious leaks, install a waterproof membrane to your foundation and a drainage system outside.
  • Install and maintain a sump pump, ideally with battery backup so that it works even when the power goes out.
  • Protect equipment, inventory and records by relocating them to a higher part of your building.
  • Install sewer backflow valves—nobody wants to cope with floodwater mixed with sewage!
  • If you have fuel tanks, anchor them.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Welcome Your Customers Back with a Clean and Sanitized Building

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

A Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned decal on the window of a business Reassure your customers that you have their health and safety in mind by having SERVPRO clean and disinfect your commercial building.

Business owners throughout Connecticut are gearing up to welcome back many of the folks who haven’t been shopping and dining in person as much during the pandemic. People have been deeply rattled by the anxiety and fear of living through such a challenging time, and while many are eager to resume regular activities, many consumers remain concerned about just how safe a particular business is.

To gain insight into consumer attitudes about cleanliness, SERVPRO commissioned a survey* last year asking if the way a business cleans its facilities would affect willingness to dine or shop there. The results were clear.

  • More than 80% believe businesses should clean more aggressively and thoroughly than they did pre-pandemic
  • 71% think the businesses they visit should be cleaner than their own homes
  • 76% think that the cleaner a business is, the better managed that business is
  • 70% say they try to reduce exposure to the coronavirus when out in public

Turn to SERVPRO to Meet Your Customers’ Expectations for Cleanliness

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has long provided routine commercial cleaning services as well as our specialized high-level biohazard cleanup and decontamination emergency services. That’s why you can trust us to bring a higher standard to clean to your business facility.

In 2020, SERVPRO launched Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, a new service for business and homeowners that provides deep cleaning, disinfecting and cleanup after a COVID-19 exposure. By incorporating defensive viral pathogen cleaning methods, this program far surpasses standard janitorial cleaning practices.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is based on our 3Cs:

  • Consult: We determine your business’s specific needs and create a unique cleaning service
  • Clean: Our crews use our proprietary EPA-approved hospital-grade cleaning solutions and meet or exceed CDC cleaning and decontamination standards
  • Certify: Demonstrate your commitment to having the cleanest, safest facility possible by displaying the shield in your window and using our digital emblems and other collateral in your marketing

That Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned decal isn’t just another sticker, by the way. Our survey also demonstrated that 64% of consumers are more likely to patronize a business that displays a “professionally cleaned” decal than one that doesn’t.

So now, as you get ready to welcome back your customers and greet new ones, give them the assurance they’re looking for. Show them proof that you have done all you can to create a safe and healthy environment with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

We’re Here for You

 The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire—or needs routine cleaning or deep cleaning and decontamination services—call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

*Proprietary study prepared by Message Factors, Inc. Results are based on experiences and perceptions of 1,000 consumers surveyed May 2020.

Have a Plan to Help Your Business Survive a Disaster

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Flood water covers a warehouse floor Nearly half of companies that suffer a natural, man-made or technology disaster end up going out of business. Have a plan to survive the disaster.

Natural, man-made and technology disasters often happen without notice, leaving you scrambling to restore business operations. (Natural disasters include floods, fires, biohazard contamination, hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards and other storms, while man-made disasters include accidents and acts of violence or terrorism, and technology disasters hazards include system, equipment or software failure or malfunction.)

Once the disaster has occurred, then what? More than 50% of all businesses close their doors. Help your business survive a disaster with an emergency preparedness plan. The no-cost Business Ready Plan lays out—step by step—what you need to do to quickly resume operations and save your business.

A Comprehensive Plan to Restore Your Business Operations

The Business Ready Plan is a clearly spelled-out plan of action that will help you minimize business interruption after a disaster: what to do, how to do it, how to make critical decisions, who to call on for help and how to communicate all of this to employees and resources. To create your unique plan, the Business Ready Plan experts will:

  • Evaluate your facility and normal business operations.
  • Draft a Profile Document that contains the most critical information needed to respond to an emergency.
  • Create a step-by-step plan to help you restore operations following a disaster.
  • Identify your preferred disaster cleanup and restoration provider before a disaster happens, to save you valuable time after the damage is done.
  • Develop and communicate the hierarchy of individuals who will make decisions and authorize work.
  • List key facility specifications, including location of shut-off valves, details of mechanical systems and areas of the building to be restored most rapidly.

Our Partners for Cleanup and Restoration

Business Ready Plan partners with established local pros to complete the job of returning your business to full operation. These reliable experts will mitigate the damage to your facility and restore it to its before-disaster condition.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield specializes in commercial property damage cleanup, with deep experience in cleanup of fire and water damage (including electronics restoration and document drying), and mold mitigation and removal. For large commercial disaster recovery projects, we call on SERVPRO’s Large Loss Division.

SANTE Property Damage Restoration are experts in restoring property after a disaster. They respond quickly to evaluate the damage and protect your building from further damage or intrusions. SANTE then restores your building to its preloss state, returning you to full operability.

Minimize business interruption and maximize your odds for survival with a Business Ready Plan. Be ready for the unexpected by calling (800) 345-4552 for your FREE Business Ready Plan.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Prevent a Fire at Your Small Business

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

A burned desktop computer and monitor Learn where and how commercial fires often start—and the common-sense steps you can take to prevent one at your small business.

In the hot and dry summertime, many business owners have good reason to be concerned about the risk of wildfires. The truth is, though, that a fire of any size or origin can interrupt your business, and if not caught and extinguished quickly, can be devastating not just to your property, but to the survival of your business.

According to a 2018 report from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), nonresidential buildings have experienced a 5% increase in fires over the last decade, resulting in a 36% growth in claims.

Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, a professional disaster recovery company, to help you recover quickly and completely if a fire strikes your small business. We also are experts in remediating the water and smoke damage that often accompanies a fire.

Fire Prevention 101

Follow these basic fire prevention steps, just as you would at your home.

  • Equip your building with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers as required by local and state regulations.
  • Test detectors and extinguishers regularly, change batteries annually and replace equipment if it is defective or approaching its end of life.
  • Set up evacuation procedures, communicate them and hold regular emergency drills.

Why and Where Do Small Business Fires Start?

According to the National Fire Protection Association, these are the most common sources of commercial property fires—and steps you can take to help prevent them.

Cooking Equipment (29%)

  • Clean office kitchen areas daily.
  • Prohibit the use of hot plates.
  • Have stoves, ovens and other cooking equipment serviced at least annually by a qualified technician.      

Electrical Equipment (12%)

  • Move combustible materials, such as trash cans, paper and cardboard boxes, away from outlets, panel boxes or other heat-producing electrical equipment.
  • Regularly inspect appliance cords and check light fixtures, bulbs and displays for visible signs for damage.
  • Do not use extension cords unless absolutely necessary.

Heating Equipment (11%)

  • Have heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment serviced by a qualified technician at least annually and before each seasonal startup.
  • Never use portable space heaters.
  • Keep combustible materials at least three feet from boilers, furnaces and other heating units.

Arson (10%)

  • Establish a security program that controls access to your building. Add regular guard tours if appropriate for your facility.
  • Adequately light all areas of the property, including parking lots and garages.

Smoking (5%)

  • Prohibit smoking in the building.
  • Place non-combustible containers outside entranceways for disposal of smoking materials.
  • Install smoke detection equipment in areas that may be used for unauthorized smoking, such as bathrooms and closets.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

How a Small Business Can Recover from a Hurricane

5/31/2020 (Permalink)

A sign says "Hurricane Season" against a background image of a hurricane. You'll get your small business up and running more quickly if you make a plan and gather information before a hurricane hits.

As we enter hurricane season, small business owners know that a damaging storm may cause facility and property damage that forces them to halt operations. It’s impossible to stop a hurricane, but you can prepare for the worst. In a commercial disaster situation, it can really pay off to have done your planning ahead of time:

  • What resources can you turn to?
  • What steps will you take to return your business to operation?

You’ll be grateful, when your facility may be flooded and damaged by wind, if you have already made a plan and gathered information on key resources that can help you get back on your feet and get back to business!

Before the Storm

Before a storm is even in the forecast, there are several things you should do to position yourself to recover faster.

  • Do an inventory of your commercial facility and property, ideally including photos. This should be stored offsite or digitally in the cloud. Having this documentation will give your insurer the information they need to process your claim faster.
  • Identify local contractors, like SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, who are reliable experts in restoring commercial property after storm and other damage. SERVPRO will even do an evaluation of your business at any time, so that you can be as prepared as possible for a natural disaster.
  • Gather (and store remotely) contact information for FEMA, SBA, your insurance agent, local fire and police, your local government, chamber of commerce, preferred contractors, employees and key customers.

After the Storm

Contact Your Insurer

Contact your insurance agent immediately after the storm blows over, to file a claim for your business, says the Insurance Information Institute (III). The sooner you start the process, the sooner your claim is likely to be paid.

Line Up Financial Aid

You can apply with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for federal aid to start rebuilding. Submit a request by calling FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 or applying online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Also consider applying for unemployment if you and your employees are out of work because of the hurricane.

An affordable disaster loan from the Small Business Administration (SBA) can help cover expenses due to uninsured or underinsured hurricane-damaged property. Apply for a loan by mail, online or by visiting a local SBA disaster recovery center.

Get Local Business Counseling

Post-hurricane, you’ll have to make some important decisions on the fly. The SBA and your local government office and chamber of commerce can provide information and guidance.

Find Reputable Contractors

After a hurricane strikes, area contractors are often in high demand. If you haven’t lined up contractors pre-storm, talk to several contractors and get written estimates to compare.

Look out for scams during this time. Requesting money upfront or wanting to sign a contract immediately are red flags. Consider contacting the Better Business Bureau to help confirm the contractor is reputable.

Keep Employees and Customers Informed

Check in with your employees to make sure they’re okay. As you determine a realistic timeframe for reopening, you’ll need to communicate that directly to your employees.

Keep in touch with your customers via email or social media so that they know when you’re ready to resume operations, too.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

In addition to offering commercial cleaning services, the team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

How to Reopen Your Commercial Building After It’s Been Closed

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Workers wearing personal protective equipment clean a business As you plan to reopen your business, it's essential to make customer and employee health and safety a priority.

The COVID-19 pandemic has temporarily shuttered the doors of many businesses across the nation. As states reopen in stages, the top priority for business owners is to take all necessary precautions to protect the health and safety of employees and customers. That will require both ensuring that your facility is cleaned and disinfected, but also that you have procedures in place to keep it that way once your business resumes operations.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Building

You should follow your state’s and the CDC Covid-19 guidelines on commercial cleaning and disinfecting. To do your own cleaning, you’ll need to have the right equipment, supplies and PPE for your staff. You’ll need to identify the high-touch surfaces and heavy-use areas of your facility. And you’ll need to develop clear procedures and training for your staff so that they stay safe and can continue keeping your building clean and disinfected as business operations ramp up.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield offers proactive pathogen cleaning for commercial facilities. With decades of biohazard cleanup experience, we are ready with the equipment, staff and knowledge to thoroughly clean and disinfect your building for your employees’ and customers’ safety. Our Cleaning Protocol Specialist will evaluate your needs and create a tailored program for your property. We even certify your facility as SERVPRO-cleaned.

General Reopening Tasks

While safety remains everyone’s top priority, it’s also important to evaluate your business property and determine how to effectively reopen. Although some businesses such as restaurants and medical facilities may require special reopening tasks, these steps will help the return go smoothly for most businesses.

1. Assess Your Property

Designate a key employee to return to the facility before reopening to assess conditions, document damages and report back to management. 

  • Inspect the property’s perimeter for signs of trespassing and damage to the property and structure.
  • Look for signs of rodent and insect infestation.
  • Inspect the plumbing and turn on the water supply line to individual fixtures such as sinks and toilets.
  • Check HVAC air filters and replace if necessary.
  • If there were any severe weather events during the temporary closure, inspect the roof for signs of damage or pooling water.
  • Ensure that the fire protection system (smoke detectors, sprinklers) is in proper working condition.

  2. Address Any Damage

  • Report damage and/or related expenses to your insurance company.
  • Hire a licensed contractor to repair any damage.

3. Notify Service Providers and Partners That You Are Reopening

  • Fire and security alarm monitoring companies
  • Police department 
  • Insurance company
  • Cleaning and landscaping services
  • Customers and clientele

4. Upon Reopening

  • Review equipment/machinery startup plan with all employees.
  • Instruct employees to inspect their workspaces, tools, equipment and/or machinery used in their daily routine and report any damage to management.
  • Meet with all staff to review the reopening and compile a log of actions to be taken. 

Help Is Here

In addition to offering commercial cleaning services, the team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

If your commercial property is hit by a water, mold, fire, storm or biohazard disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your commercial property is hit by a water, mold, fire, storm or biohazard disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

How Would Your Business Handle a Natural Disaster? (Part 2)

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

A business is flooded You can't stop a natural disaster from happening, but you can be prepared for it. Here's how to get your business ready.

With little to no warning, a sudden disaster—like a storm, flood, pandemic or wildfire—can hobble your operations and threatening the very survival of your business.

Part 1 of this series walked you through evaluating areas of risk. Now you’re ready to create the necessary plans to follow when disaster strikes. Your effort now will help you and your employees get through the immediate disaster, communicate to your customers, retain your data, minimize costly downtime—and get back to work.

4. Develop Your Emergency Response Plan

An emergency response plan spells out how you will protect employees and customers during the disaster, what you will take with you in an evacuation, where you will go, how you will communicate, and how you will continue to operate your business during and after the disaster. Share this plan with your employees and practice it—before a disaster strikes.

Before the disaster is also the best time to line up an experienced disaster remediation company like SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield to repair and restore any commercial damage to your building and property.

5. Plan to Communicate

How will you keep in contact with employees and customers? Spell it out in your crisis communications plan. Identify a spokesperson for employees and customers (this may not be the same person). Take the opportunity now to prepare key boilerplate messages.

6. Guard Against Data Loss

Your business’s financial and other essential data, such as customer records, are at risk during a natural disaster. Prepare for it by regularly backing up your data, both onsite on a physical drive and offsite in the cloud.

Consider adding data compromise coverage to your business insurance policy to help with the financial or legal burden of date that is lost, stolen or accidentally released.

7. Create a Continuity Plan

Outline how your business will continue to operate after a natural disaster, including recovering lost data, communicating with customers and suppliers, and fulfilling orders and service contracts.

This plan may include obtaining business property insurance to cover substantial losses in the event of a covered claim and business interruption coverage  if you’re temporarily unable to do business after a covered loss.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

In addition to offering commercial cleaning services, the team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

How Would Your Business Handle a Natural Disaster? (Part 1)

4/10/2020 (Permalink)

A firefighter stands in front of a burnt building Disasters happen suddenly, but if you have created a disaster recovery plan, your business will have a better chance of surviving.

You have put in years of hard work and dedication to build and maintain your business. You likely have a plan for growth. But do you have a plan for a natural disaster—flood, hurricane, fire, blizzard, pandemic—that suddenly damages your property, puts your employees at risk and/or puts your company out of business for days or weeks or even longer?

Unfortunately, in 2020, countless businesses in America face a sudden disaster in the form of the coronavirus outbreak. While the disruption caused by this disaster would challenge any commercial venture, those businesses that already had a disaster plan in place are better positioned to survive.

Follow these steps to develop a realistic—and potentially business-saving—emergency response plan. A natural disaster is unavoidable, but the more advance planning you do, the more likely it is that your Manchester business will survive and thrive after the disaster.

1. Determine Your Risks

Which natural disasters are most likely to hit your area: tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, floods? Identify the most likely threat and start planning for that, then work your way down the list.

2. Learn from Experts

Visit reputable sources of planning information, such as Ready.gov , FEMA and the American Red Cross. The Red Cross’s Ready Rating program offers free online disaster preparedness planning, and many of their chapters also provide free CPR and first-aid training for small businesses.

3. Project the Impacts on Your Business

Next, conduct a business impact analysis (BIA), which will help you develop and refine plans for emergency responses, crisis communications and business continuity. Explore the potential effect a disaster could have on your business, including lost or delayed sales and income or increased expenses from repairs. Review and build upon your existing customer communication, inventory management and record-keeping practices.

Next: Create the Disaster Recovery Plan

Once you have completed researching and analyzing risks and the potential impacts of a disaster, you can draft a series of plans to help you respond if a natural disaster hits your business. Your plans will cover these areas:

  • Emergency response
  • Communications
  • Data management
  • Business continuity

See Part 2 of this series for guidance on creating and implementing these plans in the event of a pandemic, fire, flood or storm disaster.

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If your business is hit by a natural disaster, like a flood, wind storm or wildfire, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836

Commercial Cleaning by SERVPRO

8/20/2019 (Permalink)

Carpet Wet Vacuum SERVPRO doesn't just do disaster cleanup. With our commercial cleaning services, we'll keep your workplace looking its best year-round!

In addition to providing disaster recovery services for your home or business, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield also offers commercial cleaning services. Count on us for thoroughness, attention to detail and reliability to keep your office, restaurant, retail store or manufacturing facility clean, safe and looking its absolute best!

Among the workplaces we clean are:

  • small and large office buildings
  • high-rise office and residential buildings
  • small and large retail stores and big box stores
  • restaurants
  • hotels and motels
  • manufacturing and industrial facilities
  • government and military workplaces

SERVPRO’s commercial cleaning crew brings these benefits:

  • an improved business image
  • a safer environment for your workers
  • skilled personnel using industry-best equipment, products and procedures

SERVPRO will tailor our cleaning services to your needs. We even offer specialized cleaning services, including biohazard/ sewage, air duct/HVAC and odor removal.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield is here to help you keep your workplace clean, safe and productive for your employees. We’ll make your business shine!

For commercial cleaning and disaster restoration needs, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

In addition to offering commercial cleaning services, the team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration services, biohazard cleanup and natural disaster prevention and cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how you can protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

For commercial cleaning and disaster restoration needs, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Caring for Your Commercial HVAC System

7/11/2019 (Permalink)

HVAC Unit Regular maintenance in the off-season can save you from an inconvenient and expensive HVAC repair.

Too many businesses ignore their HVAC system until it breaks down and becomes both a major inconvenience and a major expense.

Once or twice a year in the off-season, hire a professional such as SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield to inspect your HVAC system and clean your unit’s wiring and mechanisms. If maintenance is needed, it can be done right away without inconvenience to you or your employees. Routine HVAC maintenance will also save you money by improving energy efficiency throughout your building.

What You Can Do

Performing several simple maintenance chores will prolong your system’s life, increase its efficiency and potentially save you from a major breakdown at the wrong time:

  • Install a high-efficiency, pleated air filter
  • Keep your heating and AC units free of pollen, leaves and grass
  • Keep two feet of space clear around your outdoor AC and heating units
  • Inspect refrigerant lines for leaks or cracking every month
  • Replace air filters every 90 days
  • In the summer, turn off the water running to the furnace humidifier
  • In the fall, replace the humidifier filter and turn the water back on

For HVAC, cleanup or disaster restoration needs, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield is highly trained in HVAC building services as well as property damage restoration. We study IICRC standards and best practices in cleaning and restoration. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how Manchester and Mansfield residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
We serve Amston, Andover, Bolton, Columbia, Coventry, Hebron, Manchester, Mansfield and Storrs, Connecticut.

53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

For HVAC, cleanup or disaster restoration needs, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Mold Remediation Checklist for Commercial Buildings (Part 1)

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Mold in wall Clean any water or moisture up within 48 hours to prevent mold damage at your commercial building.

If you suspect your commercial building harbors mold, follow these steps to determine the nature and scale of the problem. As you work, keep your building occupants informed about your mold remediation process. And if you have a medium- or large-size mold problem, select an experienced remediation manager such as SERVPRO Mold Removal.

Ask:

  • Does your building have a history of moisture problems?  Are there hidden sources of water? Is the humidity high enough to cause condensation?
  • Are building materials or furnishings visibly damaged? Have building materials been wet more than 48 hours? 
  • Have building occupants reported musty or moldy odors or health effects?

Investigate:

  • Check any signs or reports of mold. Clean up small mold problems and fix moisture problems before they become large problems.
  • Identify any and all sources or causes of water or moisture. Note the type of water-damaged materials (wallboard, carpet, etc.) and measure the size of the affected area.
  • Check inside your commercial building’s air ducts and air handling units.

Read Part 2 of this article for the best ways to eradicate mold in your commercial building.

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized mold remediation training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building or property. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how Manchester and Mansfield residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
We serve Amston, Andover, Bolton, Columbia, Coventry, Hebron, Manchester, Mansfield and Storrs, Connecticut.

53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Noemi Garcia
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If you suspect mold contamination at your commercial building, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Mold Remediation Checklist for Commercial Buildings (Part 2)

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Inside House Medium or large mold problems should be handled by an experienced mold remediator like SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield.

Now that you have evaluated the mold problem in your commercial building and decided to tackle the job, follow these steps to eradicate the mold.

Dry out any wet materials within 48 hours to prevent mold growth.

Use personal protection equipment (N-95 respirator, gloves and goggles) to fully protect workers. Use containment equipment to protect your building and its occupants.

Use the most appropriate cleanup methods. The Environmental Protection Agency suggests:

  • Method 1: Wet vacuum. Steam cleaning may be an alternative for carpets and some upholstered furniture.
  • Method 2: Damp-wipe surfaces with plain water or a water-detergent solution (use wood floor cleaner on wood); scrub as needed.
  • Method 3: After the material has been thoroughly dried, use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum. Dispose of the HEPA vacuum contents in well-sealed plastic bags.
  • Method 4: Remove water-damaged materials, seal in plastic bags and dispose. HEPA-vacuum area after it is dried.

If the job is too big or complicated for you to complete safely and effectively, hire a professional remediation company, such as SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, who has the experience and training to fully restore your commercial mold damage.

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized mold remediation training and experience to quickly clean up and restore your commercial building or property. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how Manchester and Mansfield residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
We serve Amston, Andover, Bolton, Columbia, Coventry, Hebron, Manchester, Mansfield and Storrs, Connecticut.

53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

If you suspect mold contamination at your commercial building, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Call on SERVPRO for Commercial Restoration

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Drying Fans From the first sign of trouble to getting you back to work, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield can handle your commercial disaster remediation.

If your business has suffered a water, fire, smoke, mold, storm or other disaster, one call to SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield will get you back in operation as soon as possible. We have the training, experience and equipment to handle large commercial emergencies. Regardless of your property type or size, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield will respond quickly to clean your property and manage your restoration project through to its completion.

Avoid Downtime and Lost Revenue

Every hour spent cleaning up your commercial business site is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. We act fast with the right resources, staff and training to minimize your losses and get you back in action ASAP.

Commercial businesses depend on us because:

  • we provide 24-hour emergency service
  • we offer immediate, appropriately-scaled response to any size of commercial disaster
  • we are able to call on the resources of our owner’s two additional local franchises (SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield and SERVPRO of Glastonbury/Wethersfield), including 1,000+ pieces of equipment and 100+ skilled professionals
  • we handle all aspects of the remediation job, from inventory and pack-out through coordination of your insurance claim process

When your commercial facility suffers a water, fire, storm, smoke or mold disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Emergency Building Services

Once the initial damage to your commercial facility has been evaluated and remediated, count on SERVPRO of Mansfield/Manchester to get you back to work fast. One of your first concerns may be temporary protection to prevent the initial damage from growing worse.

We will make temporary fixes, like placing tarps over a damaged roof or boarding up a broken window, while you plan the permanent repairs. With our emergency building services, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield can help prevent and reduce damage and get your property restored faster.

No Job Too Big

No job is too big for the SERVPRO team, thanks to our SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division. These elite large-loss specialists are strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. Every large loss is supervised by a commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

SERVPRO has handled large business losses for many types of commercial clients, including:

  • the hospitality industry
  • property managers
  • universities
  • municipalities
  • The Pentagon

When your commercial facility suffers a water, fire, storm, smoke or mold disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage remediation, fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how Manchester and Mansfield residents and business owners can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
We serve Amston, Andover, Bolton, Columbia, Coventry, Hebron, Manchester, Mansfield and Storrs, Connecticut.

53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

When your commercial facility suffers a water, fire, storm, smoke or mold disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Keeping Your Commercial Roof Drainage System in Tip-Top Shape

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Rain Storm on Building Keeping your business's roof drainage system in good condition will help prevent water damage.

Maintaining the roof of your business—specifically, its water drainage system—is an important key to avoiding costly damage to your building and property.

Your roof drainage system may include gutters, downspouts, interior drains and scuppers (outlets through a roof’s raised edge that allow water to drain). A well functioning system removes water from your roof efficiently during rainstorms; during the winter, it also allows melted snow and ice to safely drain.

Check It Twice

At least two times a year, in the spring and fall, do a thorough inspection and basic cleanup of your business’s roof. If you discover that routine maintenance is needed, this is the time to make repairs.

  • Clear the roof of any loose debris or objects, such as leaves or twigs
  • Trim trees away from the roof
  • Ensure that downspouts channel water away from your building’s foundation
  • Check all parts of the drainage system for leaks, and repair or replace if necessary

When you need water damage repaired fast at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Time for Some Gutter Talk

During your twice-yearly inspection, pay close attention to the condition of your gutters.

  • Clear gutters of any washed-down roofing granules
  • Check for standing water in the gutters. If caused by a blockage, clear out the debris. But if there is no blockage, your gutter may not be properly sloped to the downspouts
  • Make sure your gutters are made of non-combustible metal (to resist fires) and are securely anchored by gutter straps (to resist wind)

A well functioning rooftop drainage system is one of those building features you hardly notice until it malfunctions. Paying a little attention on a regular basis can prevent serious and expensive water damage to your commercial property down the road.

SERVPRO Can Help You Prevent Roof Trouble

Consider entering into a Priority Service Agreement (PSA) with SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield, which includes these services to prepare your business for disasters and help you avoid them:

  • OSHA 10-hour training
  • Water and fire training
  • Construction evaluations
  • Disaster planning seminars
  • Emergency Ready Profile (for all your business locations)
  • Ice dam evaluations
  • Lead paint certification
  • Mold evaluations

Help Is Here

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in water damage remediation, fire restoration services, natural disaster prevention, chemical cleanup, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

When you need water damage repaired fast at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Other Helpful Blog Posts from SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how Manchester and Mansfield residents can protect their homes and businesses from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, storm and other damage.

More Helpful Information from SERVPRO

You may be interested in these articles from SERVPRO of Bloomfield/Enfield and SERVPRO of Glastonbury/Wethersfield.

We’re Here for You

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
We serve Amston, Andover, Bolton, Columbia, Coventry, Hebron, Manchester, Mansfield and Storrs, Connecticut.

53 Slater Street, Unit 2, Manchester, CT 06042
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro 
Certified SERVPRO technicians
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

When you need water damage repaired fast at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

Business Owners: Do A Size-up After A Natural Disaster

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

To-Do List Businesses that do well after a natural disaster strikes are those that have prepared well for emergencies

If a fire, storm, flood, or other natural disaster hits your commercial property don’t panic. Don’t waste time considering what you should do. Have an emergency plan in place and do your own size-up.


What’s a Size-Up?
Some firefighters and emergency medical technicians recommend you get an overall perspective of the emergency, disaster, or situation. It’s too easy for business owners to be totally consumed by the visual impact of the natural disaster on the commercial property. Whatever appears to be worst to the naked eye is often accepted as the worst of the damage. This aspect of human nature comes into play after and during emergencies. It’s like coming upon a car accident and immediately attending to a person yelling for help because their foot is trapped underneath the car without first noticing that another person is unconscious inside the car and bleeding from a head injury. Staying clear-minded, being objective, and taking in the entire scene is tough but necessary. Before you act, gather as much information as you can.
 
Ask yourself three questions:
    1. What has happened?
    2. What is happening now?
    3. What is going to happen?

You can respond with more appropriate action if you fully understand what’s happened. You need to consider your own health and safety in the current situation and what may happen next.

Use More Than Your Eyes and Ears

Don’t rely only on your eyes and ears. Gather information from all five of your senses plus your instinct. What do you see? What’s the extent of the damage? Is anyone yelling for help? Can you hear a dangerous sound like gas leaking or water running? Do you smell smoke or anything suspicious? Is something hot to the touch or cold or abnormal? Is there an odd taste in your mouth (that could mean you inhaled an irritant)?

We’re Ready to Help Businesses Prevent Disaster or Respond to Disaster. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield 24/7 at 860.649.0836  

Trust Your instincts

Even if you don’t have obvious evidence to take a course of action, many experts suggest that if it feels like you should do something (leave the area, get on higher ground, shout out for others, etc.) it might be wise to follow that gut feeling.

How To Do A Size-up

Here are some steps for doing a size-up:
1. Gather facts.
What happened? Where are people and are they safe? Does anyone need help? Is the danger over?

2. Assess damage.
How extensive is the damage? Which parts of your business are damaged? Could there be other damage you can safely check for in another area of the building or business?

3. Consider probabilities.
What’s likely to happen next? How can your actions positively affect the outcome? Are there steps you can safely take right now that could prevent more damage (like shutting off the power or pulling the fire alarm).  

4. Assess your abilities to handle the situation.
Are you safe where you are or should you move? What are you trained and equipped to do? Who do you need to call to get the right type of help?

We’re Ready to Help Businesses Prevent Disaster or Respond to Disaster. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield 24/7 at 860.649.0836  

5. Establish priorities.
What’s most important to do first? Second? Next?

6. Take action.
Considering all the information you have, create a plan, make decisions, and take action. But do keep safety in mind.

7. Evaluate progress.
At regular intervals stop and think about your progress. Are your goals being met?  Should you change your course of action?
 
Educational Information For Businesses  
Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters and deal with them quickly and effectively should they occur. Here are a few other blog posts you might find helpful:  



You have lots of resources on the web that can help you be prepared for a natural disaster. On the Red Cross website under “Get Help” you’ll find at least seven essays on emergency preparation. The website for the Department of Labor’s  OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) has a large emergency preparedness and response section.

Contact Us Anytime
In Manchester the team at SERVPRO has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, mold remediation, commercial services, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield anytime at 860.649.0836.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
540 N. Main Street
Manchester, CT 06042
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

Meeting Business Specialty Cleaning Needs

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

Downtown Commercial Building We provide specialty cleaning services for businesses of all types

Many commercial cleaning services do not have the equipment, training, or experience to meet commercial specialty cleaning needs. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield does. We provide specialty cleaning services ranging from cleaning air ducts and HVAC to removing biohazard contaminants and restoring your commercial business after vandalism. We have the specialized training, staff, and products to keep your commercial or business property clean, safe, and healthy.

Business Cleanliness Helps Profitability
Think of the times you visited a business for the first time and found it dirty, messy, or cluttered. Did you ever go back? Probably not. And what impression of the business did its lack of cleanliness leave you with? A business that isn’t clean communicates to people that no one cares. Physical appearance and cleanliness are important if you want to attract customers and keep them coming back. 

Keeping your business clean and looking its best means surpassing standards with unique specialty services. Your business represents you—you want it to make a positive impression. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield wants every inch of your business to sparkle and shine. From cleaning office upholstery to making storefront windows crystal clear to removing odors and deodorizing, our crews provide a range of specialty cleaning services that enhance both your working environment and your image.

Our commercial specialty cleaning services include:


•    Air Ducts and HVAC


Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems that are not maintained can circulate dust, pollen, odors, dirt, debris, and other contaminants.

Many commercial ceilings and walls are exposed to dirt and dust, pet dander, cooking oils and grease, cigarette smoke, industrial chemicals, and other contaminants. Your heating and air conditioning system can distribute these contaminants throughout your commercial property.

At first glance, hard flooring appears to be easy to clean, maintain, and restore. That’s basically true but, hard floors tend to have soil accumulate over time. Eventually you’ll need professional cleaning to remove this buildup.


•    Biohazard and Sewage

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

Questions? Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield 24/7 at 860-649-0836.

Even if your business has the highest-quality carpet and upholstery it can show soiling over time. Protect your investment. Call us to clean and maintain your carpet and upholstery.

We carefully inspect and test fabrics to determine which of SERVPRO’s five cleaning methods is best suited to the fabrics in your offices and facilities.

Questions? Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield 24/7 at 860-649-0836.


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

  Your Wealth Of Information 

Every month on our blog, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield publishes educational articles on how to prevent natural disasters, how to deal with disasters, how to protect your property with quality cleaning, and other related topics. Here are a few short educational articles on our blog that might help you and your commercial business:  

Serve You  

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield also has specialized training and experience in water damage restoration services, fire damage restoration services, mold remediation, natural disaster cleanup, specialty cleaning, and other commercial services. Call

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836  anytime--24/7/365.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
540 N. Main Street
Manchester, CT 06042
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

Manchester Area Businesses Receive Priority With A PSA

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

Large truck parked in a lot Use a Priority Service Agreement to get some SERVPRO services at no cost

It pays to build business relationships. We work with all types of  businesses and commercial properties but those that have a prior relationship with us get some bonuses.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield provides fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce your business interruption costs and your recovery costs. But if your business has a Priority Service Agreement (PSA) with us, you receive some services at no cost:

•    OSHA 10-hour training
•    Water and fire training
•    Construction evaluations
•    Disaster planning seminars
•    Emergency Ready Profile (for all your business locations)
•    Ice dam evaluations
•    Lead paint certification
•    Mold evaluations

Why Businesses Choose SERVPRO

Businesses and commercial property owners choose SERVPRO for many reasons. Here are a few:


•    Experience: 45+ years of experience as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider
•    Training: IICRC Training, Employee Certification Training, Initial Franchise Training, e-Learnings, Continuing Education Classes
•    Reach and size: We’re nearby and have 1,800 franchises nationwide
•    Speed: Being nearby and having lots of locations means we get to you faster. Faster response usually means less damage done and more of your money saved.
•    Capability: We handle jobs of all sizes. Check out our Commercial Large Loss Division and our Disaster Recovery Team.
•    Services: We provide many services other restoration and cleanup companies don’t: move outs with construction restoration, contents claim inventory, document drying, and more.


Business Ready Plan


Another free service SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield provides is a Business Ready Plan. As many as 50% of businesses that suffer a natural disaster go out of business. They never recover. The majority of businesses that survive have a preparedness plan like our Business Ready Plan before any disaster strikes.
Pre-planning serves as an “insurance policy” providing you with peace of mind. Knowing your business is ready for whatever happens can communicate trust to your clients and employees. They know that even if disaster strikes your business, they don’t necessarily have to be affected.


Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield

We’re the fire restoration, water restoration, and cleanup company that saves property and saves money for commercial properties and businesses. Whether you're in Willington or Coventry, Hebron or Tolland, Somers or Stafford, Columbia or Ellington, Mansfield or Manchester, or anywhere in between, we can help.


SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
540 N. Main Street
Manchester, CT 06042
Call 860.649.0836
24-hour emergency service

Businesses Need Clean Air

4/16/2018 (Permalink)

Lake and Mountains with Clean Air Businesses and commercial buildings can take some simple steps and have a big impact on the quality of indoor air

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) says most Americans spend up to 90% of their time indoors. Many spend most of their working hours in an indoor office. Doesn’t that make you want to assure that the air in commercial buildings and businesses is clean and healthy?


It’s a fact that indoor air quality is important to business owners, building managers, tenants, and employees. The air we breathe impacts our health, comfort, productivity, and well-being. Yet many times indoor air is more polluted than outdoor air.

Dirty Air in Buildings Increases Illnesses

EPA studies show that indoor environments sometimes have levels of pollutants that are higher than levels found outside. Pollutants in commercial buildings and other indoor environments can increase the risk of illness. The EPA, states, and independent scientific panels have consistently ranked indoor air pollution as an important environmental health problem. While most buildings do not have severe indoor air quality problems, even well-run buildings can sometimes experience episodes of poor indoor air quality.



Building Air Quality Questions? Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at (860) 649-0836


Simple Ways To Improve Indoor Air Quality

Businesses and commercial buildings can take some simple steps and have a big impact on the quality of indoor air:

•    Remove anything that block air vents or grilles
•    Comply with the office and building smoking policy
•    Decorate with plants. Water and maintain them properly
•    Dispose of garbage promptly and properly
•    Store food properly
•    Avoid bringing anything into the building that could release harmful or bothersome odors or contaminants
•    Notify your building or facility manager immediately if you suspect an indoor air quality problem

Building Air Quality Questions? Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at (860) 649-0836


Suggestions for Office Managers

Building managers and office managers have many responsibilities. Assuring indoor air quality should be one of them. Here are some ideas on how office managers and others can fulfill that responsibility:

•    Maintain a good working relationship with building management on indoor environmental issues
•    Ask tenants and employees to alert you to any air quality issues they notice
•    Place office furniture and equipment with air circulation, temperature control, and pollutant removal functions of the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system in mind
•    Work with building management whenever responsibility for design, operation, and maintenance of the ventilation system is shared
•    Establish an effective smoking policy that protects nonsmokers from involuntary exposure to secondhand smoke
•    Avoid procedures and products that can cause indoor air quality problems
•    Integrate indoor air quality concerns into your purchasing decisions
•    Make sure the building manager uses only necessary and appropriate pest control practices.  Non-chemical methods are usually preferable.
•    Work with building management and the contractor before you remodel or renovate to identify ways of keeping building occupants’ exposure to pollutants to a minimum and to ensure that the air distribution system is not disrupted
•    Encourage building management to develop a preventive indoor air quality management program following guidance issued by EPA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).                  

These tips are from a free EPA booklet on the EPA website, "An Office Occupant's Guide to Indoor Air Quality."

Call On Us

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in commercial cleaning, fire restoration, natural disaster prevention, water damage restoration, and natural disaster cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) anytime.

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
40 N. Main Street
Manchester, CT 06042
Call: 860.649.0836
Fax: 860.216.2762
24-hour emergency service

Businesses Can Avoid Many Disasters

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Profile brochure Protect your business by having an emergency plan in place.

Saving time and money through a lack of planning doesn’t work in business. It also doesn’t work in minimizing the costly effects of natural disasters. Smart businesses do think and prepare for common disasters. Those businesses also don’t fool themselves into thinking the business property and employees are well protected when they’re not.

Emergency Plan
Most commercial businesses understand the importance of having a written emergency plan. A plan like the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile can help prevent or minimize a business disaster repair. It can keep costs down. And after disaster strikes an Emergency Ready Profile can help you get your business back in business sooner. But just having a plan isn’t enough.

Need Expert Disaster Preparation Advice? Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield At 860.649.0836

Creating a plan like the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile eliminates some risks. For example, thinking through and acting on an emergency plan might cause your business to get rid of dangerous chemicals that currently are stored on site. Or creating your Emergency Ready Profile could identify a serious flaw in your building evacuation plan or a weakness in your sprinkler system so you can correct it before damage occurs. But businesses with an emergency plan sometimes rest too easy.


Why Having A Plan Isn’t Enough
Your business needs to keep the emergency plan up-to-date. You cannot create an Emergency Ready Profile and let it sit on a hard drive or shelf somewhere without further thought. Say for example that you built a comprehensive emergency plan two years ago. Since that time your business has added new machinery housed in a new addition to your facility. The plan must be updated to take into account the new addition and machinery. Or imagine your business has grown and you’ve added 10 new employees. How will they be made aware of the emergency plan? Will the addition of new employees mean you need to adjust your emergency evacuation procedures? 

How To Keep Your Emergency Plan Effective
Here are a few things your business can do if your emergency plan isn’t current:
1. Review your plan every year. Look for gaps.
 Are all facilities covered?
 Are the phone numbers and contact information for emergency responders up to date?
 Have you made renovations that should be noted in the plan?
 Have you added or moved hazardous material or valuable equipment?
2. Conduct training for the team charged with implementing the plan.
3. Make sure all the key players know how to immediately access your business’s emergency plan. 
4. Have SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield analyze your plan.
5. Ask a new facility manager or other key employee to test your business’s emergency plan.
 Does the plan make sense to them?
 Would they add or change anything?
6. Re-evaluate who’s in charge of the plan.
 During a natural disaster you want the decision-makers to be people who remain calm.
 The disaster team should know the plan and be able to make quick decisions.
 Your team should also know how to actively engage others and give clear direction.  

Need Expert Disaster Preparation Advice? Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield At 860.649.0836

7. Run a disaster drill.
 Conduct a mock exercise around the table with all the key players.
 Or conduct a full scale mock disaster around your facility.

Plan To Prevent Or Minimize Disasters
You protect lives, save money, and guard your business best when you plan for disaster before any disaster happens. Having a complete emergency plan, including an Emergency Ready Profile; having a trained disaster team in place; and knowing the steps you will take does more than bring peace of mind. It helps protect your business and your employees from the huge personal and business costs involved in a major disaster.

Disasters Permanently Close 50% Of Businesses
When a natural disaster strikes, one out of every two businesses never returns to the marketplace. And of those businesses that do recover, half go bankrupt within three years. The commercial businesses and facilities that do survive disasters are usually those with an up-to-date and well thought out emergency plan in place before the flood, storm, fire, hurricane, or other disaster strikes.

More Home Disaster Prevention Information  
Every month on the SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield blog we publish educational articles on how you can help protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, sewage, smoke, chemical, or other damage.

Call On Us
We’re here to help you. The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in virtually all aspects of cleaning up after water, sewer, fire, smoke, wind, chemical, or other similar natural disasters. You can create your own Emergency Ready Profile with us in less than an hour. That time could save you days of business interruption and help keep the cost of any damage from a disaster down. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at (860.649.0836) anytime, 24/7.

We protect businesses and facilities in many towns including:
  Andover  Hebron
Bolton   Manchester
  Columbia  Mansfield
  Coventry  Storrs


SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield
IICRC Certified
Ralph DiCristofaro
540 N. Main Street
Manchester, CT 06042
Call 860.649.0836
24 hour emergency service

Business Emergencies In Manchester

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Downtown Manchester In Manchester and elsewhere, being prepared for a natural disaster is a huge factor in keeping the damage and costs down.

No business owner likes to think about disaster. But being prepared for a commercial natural disaster and having an emergency plan can save time, money, and even lives.

What if a storm severely damaged your business? Would you and your business employees know what to do? Would you act quickly and do the most important tasks first? For businesses in Manchester and the region, here are some ways you can become more prepared.

 An Emergency Checklist

SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has a top line action checklist built especially for events involving severe water or fire damage. Most of the items apply to many other types of storms and disaster. All of the items are designed to keep your business employees safe and help reduce business interruption (the time your company is out of business because of the results of a disaster).  

 1. Be Out In Front: Be Alert And Stay Informed

When severe weather is approaching or other potential danger is near your Manchester business, stay tuned in to those sources that give you the latest local information. Usually, that means listening to local weather reports or news reports. Think about precautions you may want to take before the emergency hits. That could include things like moving your business vehicles to higher ground, turning off utilities, disconnecting electrical equipment, sending employees home, and other steps.

2. Safety First And Always

Make your employees’ safety your first priority. That includes items like having a business evacuation plan, identifying designated meeting places outside your building, appointing team leaders who can keep track of employees, keeping all safety equipment in good order, and more.

3. Stop Damage At Its Source

A disaster may originate in your building or on your property. If so, you may be able to reduce or stop the water, fire, smoke, chemical, or other damage with fast action. For example, if a chemical leak starts a fire, shut down the source of that chemical. Stay safe and do not hesitate to call the local fire, police, or other authorities.

4. Notify Your Emergency Contacts

Have a list of the places you need to call in an emergency and call them immediately. Depending on the situation, your emergency contacts might include the Manchester Fire Department and the Manchester Police Department. The list should be readily available throughout your facility. A small team of employees should be trained in when to call, who to call, and what information to gather before making the call.

5. Call SERVPRO

Every week, sometimes every day, SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield responds to residential and business emergency situations. We know what to do to keep you, your employees, and your business property safe and minimize damage. After a natural disaster strikes, our goal is to make your business fully operational again as quickly as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield 24/7. Call 860.649.0836.

6. Notify Key Contacts

Key contacts are different than emergency contacts. Emergency contacts are community or governmental resources that will help you deal with the damage or disaster. Key contacts are people like your property manager, insurance agent, maintenance crew, and others you need to inform and who can offer restoration, clean up, repair, or other types of help after the disaster is over.

7. Secure Your Business Property

Once it’s safe to do so, secure your building and property. That might mean putting tarps over a damaged roof, covering broken windows, or doing other tasks that will protect your property from further damage.

8. Have Before Photos And Take After Photos

You will improve your ability to collect full damages from your insurance company by taking pictures of everything the water, fire, or other elements damaged. It’s also good to have pictures of how your building and property looked prior to the damage for comparison sake.

9. Write An Event Summary

Details build your case with your insurance company. Write down as many significant facts as you can: time of the damage, extend of the damage, actions you took, and more. Not only does this help advance your insurance claim, it can also help you decide what worked well and what you need to change the next time you have to respond to an emergency.

Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield 24/7. Call 860.649.0836.

10. Review Emergency Plans Frequently

Create an emergency plan and train a small group of employees in how to implement the plan. Just like fire drills are a good idea, having a mock disaster run through can help prepare people while identifying any missing elements or opportunities to improve the plan.

More Safety Information    Every month we publish educational articles on how to protect your home and business from disasters and how to deal with mold, fire, water, chemical, or other damage. 

Call On Us

The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in virtually all aspects of assessing and cleaning up after a natural disaster. Rely on the professionals. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield at 860.649.0836 anytime, 24/7. SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield IICRC Certified Ralph DiCristofaro 540 N. Main Street Manchester, CT 06042

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Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

12/9/2015 (Permalink)

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As many as 50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Contact our office today for a FREE Emergency Ready Profile for your business.