HVAC Filters and Mold Damage

11/23/2023 (Permalink)

The relationship between HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) filters and mold prevention is pivotal in maintaining a healthy indoor environment. HVAC filters act as the first line of defense against airborne contaminants, including spores, which can cause serious health issues and structural damage when allowed to proliferate.

By efficiently trapping these microscopic particles, HVAC filters play a crucial role in preventing mold from entering the system and subsequently spreading throughout the building. Regular maintenance, appropriate filter selection, and proper ventilation are key aspects that underscore the significance of HVAC filters in mitigating mold-related risks. Let's dive into how HVAC systems are related to mold prevention.

Filtration of Airborne Mold Spores

HVAC filters are designed to capture various particles from the air, including mold spores. When these spores are filtered out, they do not circulate through the HVAC system and are less likely to colonize in different areas of your home.

Preventing Mold Growth in the HVAC Systems

Mold needs moisture, warmth, and organic material to grow. If your HVAC system is not properly maintained and filters are not changed regularly, dust and debris can accumulate in the system. If moisture is present due to condensation or leaks, mold can grow in the system. Once mold establishes itself in the system, it can easily spread throughout the building whenever the system is in operation.

Choosing the Right Filter

It's essential to choose the right type of HVAC filter. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are particularly effective at capturing tiny particles, including mold. Regularly replacing or cleaning filters is crucial because clogged or dirty filters are less effective at trapping and removing other particles.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance to your system, including cleaning and replacing filters, ensures good indoor air quality and that it operates efficiently and reduces the risk of mold growing. Proper ventilation and dehumidification also play vital roles in preventing mold in these systems.

Professional Inspection

If there has been water damage in your home or if you suspect mold growth, it's wise to have your system inspected by professions. They can assess the system for any mold and take necessary actions to clean and disinfect the system.

Our Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same.

Emergency Contact (917) 341-0494
Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
Mold Containment
Air Filtration
Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
Cleaning Contents and Belongings
Restoration

Common Mold Misconceptions

It's easy to understand why many people struggle to grasp the facts about health effects and issues surrounding indoor mold because sensational news stories and advertising cloud and obscure the real issues. Educate yourself with the facts about mold and learn about mold remediation. With that said, here are some facts to help you understand more about mold.

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/Heating systems. They can even hitch a ride on your clothing or a pet.
Mold thrives on moistures and can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
Mold often produces a strong, must odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold to grow.

What is Black Mold?

Black mold is a fungus that grows in warm, damp areas. Its spores may mistakenly trigger an allergic reaction to your immune system. Allergic reactions could show signs of coughing, sneezing, congestion, and irritated eyes.

However, since many types of mold can cause reactions, you should contact us regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold may exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan immediately. If you don't act quickly, it can lead to a lot more issues, including the mold spreading to many different areas of your home or business.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

Choosing SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is your best bet. Why?

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster: Mold spreads quickly through porous materials, so a minor mold infestation can quickly escalate into a major problem. We're dedicated to responding immediately when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

We're Highly Trained Mold Remediation Specialists: As water and mold damage specialists, we have the experience, the expertise, and the advanced training that enables us to get your property restored quickly and thoroughly. We come with an applied microbial remediation specialist, a water damage restoration technician, and an applied structural drying technician.

We Used Advanced Mold Remediation Techniques and Equipment: Our initial focus is to stop the source of water feeding the mold. We then isolate the affected area using a negative air pressure chamber. We invest in ongoing mold remediation training and the latest equipment to serve you better.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

We understand the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes your home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it “like it never even happened.”

Fire Safety Prevention Tips

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

Ensuring fire safety is important for the well-being of your family and the protection of your property. Fire accidents can occur unexpectedly, but many of them are preventable with the right precautions and awareness.

By implementing effective fire safety measures, you significantly reduce the risk of fire-related disasters in your home and property.

This blog presents essential fire prevention tips to help you create a secure living environment. From basic household practices to specific strategies like installing smoke alarms and having a fire escape plan, these tips are designed to empower you with the knowledge needed to minimize fire hazards.

Check Your Smoke Alarms

Regularly checking alarms is crucial for fire safety as these devices serve as the first line of defense against fire damage and potential disasters. These alarms are designed to detect the earliest signs of fire, allowing you and your family precious seconds to evacuate safely.

However, like any electronic device, they can malfunction, lose power, or have dead batteries, rendering them useless when needed the most. Conducting routine checks ensures that these alarms are operational, providing you with the early warning needed to escape a fire situation.

It's important that you check the smoke alarms on every flood of your home to ensure that they are all working properly

Watch Your Space Heaters

Maintaining adequate space around space heaters is paramount for fire safety. These portable devices, while effective at providing warmth, generate intense heat that can ignite nearby objects if placed too close.

Allowing ample space around space heaters ensures proper airflow, preventing the buildup of heat and reducing the risk of overheating.

Combustible materials like curtains, bedding, or furniture should be kept at a safe distance from the heater to avoid the possibility of a fire. It's also important to note that placing heaters on stable, flat surfaces reduces the likelihood of it accidentally tipping, which could also lead to a fire.

Plan Your Escape

Planning an escape route is paramount in fire safety as it ensures that everyone in your household knows exactly what to do in the event of a fire emergency.

Fires can spread rapidly, leaving little time to think or react. Having a well-thought-out escape plan, including multiple routes if possible, helps families exit the home swiftly and safely.

It's crucial to identify primary and alternative escape routes from different rooms in the house, especially bedrooms. Designate a meeting point outside, a safe distance from the home, where everyone can gather after evacuating.

It's also important that you include pet rescue in your escape plan, if possible. If you or other family members are able to grab the dogs/cats, etc., you're not only saving your own life, but your fluffy loved ones as well.

Watch Burning Candles

Leaving burning candles unattended poses a significant fire hazard and should be strictly avoided. Candles, while providing a warm and ambient atmosphere, are an open flame source, making them capable of igniting surrounding objects if left unsupervised.

Accidents such as a gust of wind, a pet's tail, or a flammable item accidentally getting too close can quickly turn a peaceful setting into a dangerous fire cleanup situation.

Watch While You Cook

Watching what you're cooking is important for fire safety reasons. Cooking-related fires are a leading cause of home fires, often resulting from unattended stovetops or ovens.

Even a momentary distraction can lead to a dangerous situation. A plan left on the stove too long, grease reaching its smoking point, or flammable materials too close to the burners can quickly ignite.

Fire Damage Emergency Tips

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

Is it safe to stay in the house?
Is everyone safely out of the house?
Careful around the perimeter of the house as you are exiting.
Do not try to take items with you.
Only partake in activities that are safe and low risk.
Do not try to lift wet materials.
Try breathing techniques to remain calm.

We understand that fires leave individuals feeling lost, helpless, and devastated. We want you to know that these are the range of human emotion and it is ok for you to feel this way. We are here to help get your life back.

What To Do After A Fire:

Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
Keep hands clean to not further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
Change the HVAC filter.
Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What Not To Do After A Fire:

Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet/upholstery without contacting us.
Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to the fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
Don't use any canned or packaged goods or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water.
Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odors.

Why SERVPRO?

Fire and smoke inflict significant destruction, often accompanied by water damage due to firefighting efforts, impacting your Manhattan property. Our expertise lies in fire and water damage restoration, forming the core of our full restoration services.

Equipped with specialized tools, rigorous training, and certifications, we can restore your home to its preloss condition.

Recognizing the confusion, stress, and vulnerability you might be experiencing, our technicians approach your situation with empathy and handle your home with utmost care.

We have a specific fire restoration process that includes restoring your home, construction, smoke damage cleanup, debris removal, soot removal, odor removal, and even tarp services for your roof if necessary.

If your home deal with a structure fire of any size, whether it be a small fire or a large one, we can help. We have the tools and the technicians that are skilled and ready to help when you need it the most.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

Fall Water Damage Prevention Tips

10/23/2023 (Permalink)

As the vibrant hues of fall begin to grace our landscapes, it's also the time to prepare our homes for the challenges that the fall season can bring. One of the most pressing concerns during this transitional period is the potential for water damage. The combination of falling leaves, heavy rains, and fluctuating temperatures can create the perfect conditions for water infiltration into your home.

To help navigate this season with confidence, we've compiled a comprehensive list of water damage prevention tips. From safeguarding your roof to fortifying your basement, these strategies will empower you to protect your home and enjoy the beauty of autumn without worrying about its potential pitfalls.

Leaves and Debris

Falling leaves can accumulate into your gutters and downspouts, causing blockages. When heavy rain comes, water can overflow and seep into your home's foundation or walls. So, before those leaves really start to fall, it's important to make sure that your gutters are cleaned out from any debris. Once the leaves do start to come down like a bad leafy storm, it's crucial to continue to check the gutters throughout the fall season.

Heavy Rainfall

Fall often brings an increase in rainfall, and it's of course known as hurricane season, which can lead to flooding - especially if your home is in a low-lying area or lacks proper drainage. If you've lived in an area where you see a lot of rainfall during this season for a while now, you probably know when it's time to prepare your home for hurricanes and bad rain storms.

These preparations include boarding windows if the storm coming is a bad one, checking all of your window and door seals so water cannot come through, and if there is a chance for flooding, prepare the outside of your home with sandbags to help deter the water away from the foundation of your home.

Freezing and Thawing

Living on the east coast, we all know too well about the fluctuating temperatures in the fall. Water can seep into cracks and crevices and freeze and expand, causing structural damage. It's important to pay attention to the weather changes so this doesn't affect your home or business.

Roof Damage

Strong winds and storms in the fall can damage shingles or other roofing materials, creating vulnerabilities for water to enter your home. If you suspect any kind of roof damage after a storm, contact a professional restoration company immediately so they can check for water damage and any mold growth that may have started.

Mold Growth

Speaking of mold, if water damage is not restored in a timely fashion, there's a huge risk of mold that can develop in your home. Not only is this unhealthy for the structure of your house, but for those living inside of it. If you suspect any mold or have water damage, please call SERVPRO or a restoration specialist to assist. They'll be able to detect moisture and mitigate any existing water as well as locate and remediate mold.

Properly Sealed Windows and Doors

As mentioned before, it's important that you properly seal the windows and doors of your house or business. This ensures that water cannot sneak into the building, helping prevent water damage. If they are not properly sealed, water can get in and damage floors, walls, ceilings, appliances, and more.

Types of Water Damage

We use a rating system to decipher whether the water that is in your house is clean or contaminated. How we do this is by breaking it down by clean water, gray water, or black water. Now, this rating system has nothing to do with the actual color of the water, this just gives us an idea of the steps we need to take during the restoration process.

So, clean water is basically just from a broken appliance, faulty sprinklers, burst pipe, or rain water. Although this type of water damage isn't dangerous, if it's not treated correctly, mold could develop from excess water - causing it to become a danger.

Gray water damage is considered unsanitary due to the source or the amount of time it has been stagnant. This standing water is usually caused by a broken toilet, washing machine, or anything that could leak hazardous material.

Black water damage is the most hazardous. It comes from natural disasters or sewage problems. This water is considered to be very contaminated, so do not touch or go near it. A professional will come out and mitigate this water for you.

Why Prepare Your Home?

Preparing your home for water damage is a of paramount importance, as the consequences of water infiltration can be both financially burdensome and emotionally taxing. Water damage has the potential to wreak havoc on your property, leading to structural deterioration, mold growth, and the loss of valuable possessions.

The disruption and upheaval caused by water-related emergencies can be emotionally distressing and highly inconvenient. By taking proactive steps to safeguard your home against water damage, you not only protect your investment but also provide peace of mind, ensuring that your home remains a safe and comfortable haven for you and your family. Prevention is not only cost-effective, but also a wise and responsible approach to maintaining the integrity and value of your property.

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

Every water damage event is a little different and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. Check out our process by reading the list below:

Step 1: Emergency Contact - The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources.
Step 2: Inspection and Water Damage Assessment - We determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.
Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction - The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mildew.
Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification - We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. our professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.
Step 5: Cleaning and Sanitizing - We clean all the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using a number of techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.
Step 6: Restoration - Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster. We're here day or night, at any time of the day because storms and other disasters don't wait for a convenient time to come, and we understand that. Not only do we have the right professionals to do the job, but we will walk you through the entire process, discuss anything with your insurance company, and make sure that your home or business is back up and running as fast as possible.

So, if your home or business falls victim to water damage due to the season or any other reason, you know who to call.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

Commercial Services for Your Lower Manhattan Business

10/4/2023 (Permalink)

When it comes to your commercial business, you cannot afford any type of damage to be done to your building. Whether that is water damage, fire damage, mold damage, storm damage, or anything else - it interrupts the workflow, causing loss of money, time, and creating frustration for any business owner.

Storms and other interruptions usually don't wait for the end of the work day and neither do we. You can rely on SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan any day, any time. With that said, let's get into the commercial services we provide to help keep your business running and prevent further damage at the same time.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

Water damage can strike without warning, posing a significant threat to commercial businesses that goes far beyond the visible signs of destruction. It can disrupt operations, compromise the safety of employees and customers, and incur substantial financial losses.

This is where water damage restoration and repair services become invaluable for commercial businesses. Rapid response and expert restoration not only mitigate immediate damage but also prevent long-term structural deterioration and the growth of harmful molds.

By swiftly restoring normalcy to the business environment, these water mitigation and services minimize downtime, ensuring that companies can continue to serve their clients and protect their reputation.

In essence, water damage restoration services are the guardians of a business' resilience, ensuring that it can weather the storms, both literal and figurative, and emerge stronger on the other side.

SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial flooding or water damage emergencies. Whether your water emergency occurs in a small office building or a big box store, we will respond quickly to perform water removal and manage the restoration project through to its completion. We come with:

Water Damage Restoration Technician
Applied Structural Drying Technician
Odor Control Technician
Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Fire damage is a devastating event that can have terrible consequences for commercial businesses. Beyond the obvious destruction of property and assets, fires can disrupt operations, jeopardize the safety of employees and customers, and inflict significant financial setbacks.

This is where fire damage restoration services play a crucial role. They go beyond mere fire cleanup alone, offering a lifeline to businesses by swiftly assessing and mitigating the damage, salvaging valuable assets, and restoring the affected property to its pre-fire condition. This also includes the cleanup and restoration of smoke and soot damage in your building as well.

In doing so, they enable businesses to minimize downtime, reduce financial losses, and get back to serving their clients while preserving their hard-earned reputation.

Fire damage restoration services are, in essence, the catalysts for a business' recovery, providing hope and a path forward in the wake of one of the most destructive events a commercial enterprise can face.

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive. In many instances, your Manhattan property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. We specialize in fire and water damage restoration process; it's the cornerstone of our business.

We have specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us to restore your home to preloss condition.

When we come to your business to perform our fire restoration and damage restoration process, we come with:

Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician
Odor Control Technician
Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
Water Damage Restoration Experts

You can also check out how our fire damage restoration process works by following this link!

Commercial Mold Remediation

Mold remediation services are vital for commercial businesses, due to the multifaceted threats that mold poses. Beyond its unsightly appearance, mold can severely compromise indoor air quality, leading to health issues for employees and customers alike.

Mold can silently erode the structural integrity of a building, potentially causing extensive and costly damage over time. Commercial enterprises cannot afford to underestimate these risks. Mold damage remediation services not only eliminate visible mold growth but also address the underlying moisture issues that fuel its life.

By doing so, these services ensure a healthier and safer environment for all occupants while safeguarding the long-term stability of the property.

Besides causing a major business interruption, a mold problem can present a serious health risk for people exposed. Mold infestations can be caused by minor water intrusions, like a slow roof leak or loose plumbing fitting. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.

Note that mold can spread quickly through a property if left untreated. We can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building.

Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition. We will come with:

Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
Water Damage Restoration Technician
Applied Structural Drying Technician
Odor Control Technician
Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician

Commercial Storm Damage Restoration

Storm damage restoration services are very important to commercial businesses, as they provide a lifeline in the aftermath of nature's doing.

Natural disasters can wreak havoc on commercial properties, causing structural damage, water intrusion, and power outages that disrupt operations and revenue streams. Without swift and professional intervention, the financial and logistical consequences of property damage can be severe.

Storm damage restoration offers a rapid response to assess and mitigate damage, initiate cleanup and repairs, and restore the facility to operational status as quickly as possible.

This not only minimizes downtime and financial losses but also demonstrates a business' commitment to its clients and community.

SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan will respond with immediate assistance to the storm or flood event affecting your commercial property, regardless of the size or scope of the damage.

We are part of a network of over 2170 franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large scale events and disasters.

Commercial Cleaning Services

Commercial cleaning services are indispensable to the success and well-being of commercial businesses for several compelling reasons.

First, maintaining a clean and sanitary workplace is essential for the health and productivity of employees and the safety of customers. A clean environment promotes a positive atmosphere, reduces the risk of illness, and enhances overall comfort.

A well-kept business facility reflects positively on a company's image and professionalism, leaving a lasting impression on clients and partners.

Beyond aesthetics, regular cleaning preserves the longevity of assets, preventing wear and tear that can lead to costly repairs and replacements.

SERVPRO offers cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include the following:

Air Ducts and HVAC
Biohazard and Sewage
Trauma and Crime Scene
Carpet and Upholstery
Drapes and Blinds
Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
Odor Removal and Deodorization
Vandalism

Overall

When it comes to your commercial property, we mean business. You need a company that can minimize the disruption to your clients while delivering superior results. Whether you need professional cleaning to make your business shine, or emergency water restoration services, SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan has the training and expertise to make it "Like it never even happened."

We offer all of our commercial services to small office buildings, large office/high-rise buildings, apartment buildings, restaurants, hotels/motels, small retail stores, large retail/big-box stores, high-rise residential, manufacturing and industrial, and government/military.

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster. We're here day or night, at any time of the day because storms and other disasters don't wait for a convenient time to come, and we understand that. Not only do we have the right professionals to do the job, but we will walk you through the entire process, discuss anything with your insurance company, and make sure that your business is back up and running as fast as possible.

So, if your business falls victim to water damage due, fire damage, or anything els, you know who to call.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

The Causes of Odor and How We Can Help

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

The Causes of Odor and How We Can Help

Odors are... well, smelly, and there are many reasons why your home or business can develop a strong odor. As experts in deodorization, we are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors. These odors can come from a number of sources both inside and outside a structure. So, let's talk about the causes of odors and what we can do to help get rid of them.

Water Damage

Water damage is one of the biggest causes of odors. If your home or business deals with any kind of water damage whether it be from a storm causing flooding or a leak somewhere in the building, water will cause a very stagnate, musty smell.

The smell will get worse as the time goes by, so it's important to get your water damage dried out and restored right away. You don't want to have to live with a musty smell in your basement, living room, kitchen, or anywhere in your home.

If you suffer from any kind of water damage, give us a call. We're water damage restoration specialists and we're here to help. We'll be sure to examine the area, figure out the water source if you're not aware of it, and dry your home or business out successfully, followed by any type of structural damage restoration needed.

That's why you can trust SERVPRO. We will identify the water source and determine the situation to take the proper steps to restore drywall, floors, ceilings, walls, etc. when they fall victim to water damage.

Mold Damage

Mold damage is another source of bad odors. If there were any type of water damage that was not taken care of quickly, your chances of mold growth are much higher. Also, higher than normal humidity levels will cause mold growth as well as any kind of condensation or excessive moisture. If you're not able to physically see the mold, you'll know it's there by its smell.

If you have any kind of inkling that you may have a mold problem in your home or business building, please reach out ASAP. Mold is not safe to live with and can cause a lot of health problems down the road. We will properly remediate the mold so you don't have the smell around anymore, as well as the mold itself.

To help you understand mold a bit more:

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, AV/heating systems, or even hitch a ride on your clothing or pet.
Mold spores thrive on moisture and can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water but be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45%.

Sewage Cleanup & Restoration

Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is very unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination.

Not only is it very unsafe, but the odor it gives off is awful, especially if it's gray water or black water. What's the difference?

Gray water is considered "category 2 water." This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for this include washing machine overflows, toilet overflows with some urine, or dishwasher overflows.

Black water is very unsanitary and can cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact must be avoided. The source for this type of water includes flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing surface water that has begun to support microbial growth.

Egg Rot

No, we don't mean the eggs that you cook and may have left overnight. The smell of egg rot or sulfur is definitely not pleasant and is a sign that something is seriously wrong. It usually means your either have an electrical problem or a gas leak. Manufacturers of natural gas are mandated to add a special chemical named mercaptan inside so that it is easier to perform leak detection. When this additive isn't present, it won't be possible to smell, taste, or see natural gas. So, if you detect the infamous rotten egg smell, the first thing you want to do is check with your gas company.

Aside from gas leaks, the smell of rotten eggs can also result from faulty electrical systems. If you've checked for a gas leak and none is present, the next thing you'll want to do is try shutting down your circuit breaker. Additionally, the smell of rotten eggs might come from running out of hot water. This is because you probably have an aging anode rod that needs to be replaced. Experts recommend replacing anode rods once every five years or so, otherwise, corrosion can occur, but many property owners are busy, and getting a replacement is easy to forget.

Fishy Smell

If you don't actually have any seafood in the home or in the garbage, a fishy smell often results from electrical components which are overheating. If the plastic, wiring, or other electrical devices smell like sulfur or rotten fish, this means that you potentially have a dangerous situation on your hand like arcing within a switch or outlet that can lead to a fire. As you can imagine, this is not something you want to handle on your own, as you run the risk of being electrocuted or burned. So, it is highly recommended to contact an expert immediately.

Residential Cleaning Services

Odor comes with any kind of mess, generally. We have the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service. We use special SERVPRO products that wipe out dirt and grime with ease. If you want a deeper thorough cleaning, reach out. Our residential cleaning services will ease the burden of the constant maintenance cleaning of your home, but will also alleviate any foul odors and create a safe, clean and comfortable living environment for your family.

We offer many types of cleaning that include carpet and upholstery, air duct/HVAC cleaning, odor removal - as we mentioned, sewage and biohazard cleanup, cleaning of ceilings/floors/and walls, furniture, drapes and blinds, trauma and crime scene cleanup, and more.

Commercial Cleaning Services

Let's be real, you don't have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office floors and creates odors that your employees have to live with. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the score of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan for prompt service. Whether it's removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or a carpet, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

Our services range from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and materials to get your property back to business.

Why SERVPRO?

Whether you are dealing with water damage, fire damage, storm damage, mold, or just foul odors, we can help. We have the training and expertise to restore your home or business. As for odor removal, we have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor, and determining the conditions where it contacts surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products, capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

The science of identifying and eliminating odors can be a tricky thing, so give us a call and leave the restoration to us.

Aside from that, we're highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Our training program includes:

IICRC Training
Employee Certification Training
Initial Franchise Training
e-Learnings
Continuing Education Classes

About SERVPRO Team Harvey
SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan is proudly owned by Lance and Jennifer Harvey - a husband and wife duo that owns three other SERVPRO locations, including SERVPRO of Aberdeen/Holmdel, SERVPRO of West Somerset County, and SERVPRO of Hoboken/Union City.

Learn about TEAM HARVEY: VIDEO

How to Prevent Hurricane Damage

9/7/2023 (Permalink)

How to Prevent Hurricane Damage

Hurricanes are one of the worst storms you can deal with, especially living on the east coast. We've seen our fair share of hurricanes wipe out towns from flash flooding, to high winds, resulting in a lot of water damage and other issues to your home or business. Although you can't prevent a hurricane from hitting, you can help prevent extensive damage to your home. We're here to not only help with the storm damage restoration cleanup, but with tips on how to protect your home.

Get An Annual Inspection Done

Every year, you should have an annual inspection done on your home. This will help you stay on top of flaws that your home may have that would be affected heavily by a hurricane. Hidden dangers can lurk, even if your roof seems structurally sound. Also, you'll want to make sure that your basement remains watertight to prepare for any kind of flooding.

Get Flood Insurance - If Necessary

You may not be able to stop a flood, but you should be able to insure your home against the devastation of one. Make sure you have the right kind of insurance in place if you are in an area that experiences torrential rains, tsunamis, hurricanes, and other vicious storms. This is especially necessary if you live in a flood zone, however, some homes deal with flooding if the right size storm comes to town. It's better to be protected than not.

Safety-Proof Your Property

When you hear that a possible hurricane is planning on coming through your area, you need to prepare your yard for the worst. Make sure that your grill, patio furniture, and any other objects are put away or safely secured so high winds or flooding can't cause issue to them, or blow them into your home.

You'll also want to make sure that your trees are sturdy. It's not a bad idea to have a professional come take a look at the trees surrounding your home to ensure that they are sturdy and in good shape to prevent a tree from falling onto your property, or even worse, onto your home.

Stay On Top of Your Appliances

Hurricanes don't always just bring rain and wind, they also have a tendency of creating electrical fires. To decrease electrical fire risks, unplug devices. If water starts to enter into your home, steer clear of it in case it comes in contact with an electrical source.

Prepare and Secure Your Doors and Windows

The first thing you want to do is make sure that the seal around your doors and windows are in place and working properly. Secondly, you'll want to grab some sandbags and put them in front of the exterior of your doors. If you want maximum protection, put the sandbags around the perimeter of your home.

For windows, shattering, sharp glass can be one of the most serious dangers when hurricanes hit. It can damage furniture and floors, destroy walls, and endanger your family and pets. When the forecast becomes scary-looking, you can act quickly to close window coverings referred to as storm shutters. If you don't have storm shutters, boarding up your windows on the exterior with wood will help protect them.

You should even make sure that your garage door is ready for impact. To support it, hold it down and on the door jams, place several sturdy boards. This will work well for you if you don't have garage braces.

Storms Cause Water Damage

With storm damage, comes water damage - in most cases. When your Manhattan home has water damage from flooding or leaks, we have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. The water removal and water cleanup process is completed by our highly-trained technicians who will document the drying process. This validates that your property has been dried properly and thoroughly.

Please follow these tips outlined in our Water Damage Tips-Until Help Arrives Guide, to protect yourself and your property.

To learn more about our water damage restoration process, click here!

Flood Waters and Contaminated Water

Many times during hurricanes, sewers can get backed up, mixing in with flood water that enters your home. There are three types of contaminated water, "Clean Water," "Gray Water," and "Black Water."

"Clean Water" (category 1 water) is water from a clean water source only, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 depending on factors such as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

"Gray Water" (category 2 water) has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow, toilet overflow with some urine - but no feces, or dishwasher overflow.

"Black Water" (category 3 water) is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

Storms Cause Water Damage, Which Causes Mold Growth

If you don't deal with water damage fast enough, it can lead to mold growth. It only takes a small water leak, or even excess humidity, for mold to form in your home. Mold can spread quickly through the property in as little as 48 hours, producing allergens and irritants, and it has the potential to cause other health effects. It's important to look for the signs of mold in your home so you can contact us right away for our mold remediation services.

To help you understand mold a little more, here are some facts:

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and float in the air. They may enter your home through windows, doors, AC/heating systems, or even hitch a ride on your clothes or pet.
Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
Let your nose lead the way. Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher than normal indoor humidity can support mold growth, so keep the level below 45%.

Our mold remediation process starts with an emergency contact from you. We then hold an inspection and mold damage assessment. We'll follow that with containing the mold so it doesn't have the chance to continue to spread. After that, we'll start air filtration with our air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread. We'll then start the mold removal on the structures of your home as well as any mold-infested materials. We will clean contents and belongings and finally, start the restoration process.

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, paint and other building materials may have been removed. Restoration may involve minor repair jobs such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet - or, it may entail major repair jobs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

However, 100% mold removal is not possible. Other restoration companies claim they perform mold removal services, but due to their microscopic form, there is no way to successfully try removing mold.

SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan Can Help with Storm Damage Restoration

If your home or business falls victim to a hurricane, we are here to help. We're faster to any size disaster, and when a storm hits, you need help immediately. Our quick response will help prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

We specialize in flooding and storm damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have extensive water damage and storm restoration training that allows us to get your home back to normal, quickly. We'll come to the rescue with our water damage restoration technicians and applied structural drying technicians.

We also have all the resources to handle storms and disasters. We can access resources and personnel of over 2160 franchises to handle major storms and disasters. We also have access to special disaster recovery teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events.

Learn about TEAM HARVEY: VIDEO

Summer Water Damage to Look Out For

8/24/2023 (Permalink)

We're in the heart of summer, which means summer storms. Living in New Jersey, we're all too familiar with how our summer storms can be - especially when it comes to water damage. We understand how devastating a flood can be, especially if it affects your home or business. Our team is full of skilled, experienced technicians that will get any job done. Let's get into the types of water damage, causes, and what to look out for.

Flash Floods

Flash floods are no joke. These warnings come every time a storm brings in a lot of rain in a short period of time. This causes the sewers to overflow, as they can't keep up, as well as brings the level of lakes, rivers, and streams up. Many times we just get a flood warning sent to our phones, but it's important to take those warnings seriously and be prepared for anything, especially if your home is located in a flood risk zone.

Coastal Flooding

Coastal flooding is more of a risk for those who live down the shore. This happens when water inundates or covers normally dry coastal land as a result of high or rising tides or storm surges. Coastal storms are dangerous, especially if a hurricane is involved. It can cause terrible flooding, power outages, and a disaster to your home. It's important to stay alert and watch the weather reports, especially during hurricane season.

Great Amounts of Rain

If your area experiences a storm that lasts longer than a few hours, there's a large chance that your home could fall victim to flooding. It's important to make sure that your gutters are clear, your trees are checked and groomed, and any of your belongings outdoors that could either break, rust, or float away are fastened.

Water Damage Causes...

Water damage causes a lot of issues to your home and if they are not taken care of right away, you're looking at dealing with further damage like mold growth, structural damage, roof problems, and more. Pay attention to your phone or the news for any warnings such as your township being under flood watch, flash flood warnings, high winds, etc.

What Can Flood Water Do to Your Home?

Following a storm, though many threats can occur as a result, one of the most likely is the danger of flood water. In fact, every year, various regions across the U.S. are devastated by hurricanes, tornadoes, severe storms, and more. Once the storm has passed, seemingly, so has any threat to your wellbeing, property, etc. That's not always the case, however. Some of the biggest dangers that can result - in addition to road closures, lack of supplies, and more - are the risks presented by standing floodwater.

While we at SERVPRO cannot legally advise you on health effects, the CDC themselves have weighed in on the topic of standing water presenting health effects. In the event of a storm disaster, according to the CDC, the threat of numerous diseases becomes more likely (think West Nile or Norovirus). Why is this? The CDC tells us that infected water can spread diseases and bacteria to everything it touches. This includes the toys your children play with and articles of clothing.

Even if a storm is not particularly severe, depending on your location, flooding can happen. With insufficient drainage, an area can be flooded with even a medium amount of rain.

There can be many different sources of water damage. In addition to heavy rains, things like broken appliances, faulty plumbing and more can cause a flood in your home. What's truly important is that you react as quickly as possible. At SERVPRO, we know time is of the essence particularly when referring to water damage from a flood.

To create a plan for water restoration after a flood, count on our team of professionals. If you have experienced flood damage, don't hesitate another moment. Fast action is crucial, and that's why we're here.

SERVPRO Team Harvey is Your Best Bet for Water Damage Restoration

We understand the importance of getting to a water damage scenario quickly. Our water damage restoration team is ready for any size job. We're available 24/7 and are faster to any size disaster. No matter the problem, we can help. If you have water damage that you need restored, we can do that. If you've found a mold problem in your home, we can stop the mold growth and help remediate that as well. Just give us a call!

Our water damage restoration process looks like this:

You call us - emergency contact!
We inspect and perform a damage assessment - we'll see what equipment is needed to take care of the damage.
We start with water removal and water extraction - we use our professional and high tech equipment to remove the water from your home.
We'll dry and start the dehumidification process - we'll ensure that your wet materials are taken care of as well as dry out the area in your home that was flooded.
We'll clean and repair - if there needs to be any repairs, such as new drywall, new carpeting, etc., we'll take care of that.
Finally, the restoration - we'll make sure to bring your home back to pre-water damage condition like it never even happened.

Learn about TEAM HARVEY: VIDEO

How to Keep Your Home Safe When Going on Vacation

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

Now's the time for vacation! If you're going away for longer than a weekend, it's important that you know how to leave your home so you're not coming home to a disaster. There are a few things you can do to avoid mold growth, water damage, fire damage, and even storm damage. In this blog, we'll cover some tips on what you can do so you're able to look forward to coming home without stress.

Humidity Levels

Many people, when they leave for vacation, turn their air conditioning off. We understand that you're saving money by not running the air while you're not home. We get it, why run something that costs money if you're not there to use it? Well, you're actually doing your home and health a favor by running it. Sure, it'll cost money, but it'll also cost you even more money to get mold growth remediated when it grows due to the humidity levels. Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold to grow, so it's best to keep indoor humidity below 45%.

To understand mold a bit more:

Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, AC/heating systems, and could even hitch a ride on your clothing or pets.
Mold spores thrive on moisture. They can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

If you do, in fact, return to mold or suspect it, you need a mold remediation team to help. DIY mold cleanup and restoration is never a good idea. It can be dangerous to you and your family. Give us call!

Water Damage

It's hard to always know if the area is getting hit with a lot of rain while you're away. We suggest that you keep in contact with a neighbor and check in to ensure your home is ok. If your home gets hit with a flood while you're away, you can come home to water damage.

Ensure that your windows and doors are properly sealed, and if you live in a flood zone, it's important to prepare your home in the event that a storm could hit. If your home ends up with water damage and you need a water damage restoration team, give us a call. Our water damage restoration process is thorough, ensuring your home is back to the way it was - like it never even happened.

Fire Damage

Fire damage is one of the most devastating events that can take place in your home. We've seen so much devastation over the years and helped so many people restore their homes back to preloss condition. Although it's tough to totally avoid fire damage, due to a faulty wire in your home or something happening outside near your home, this is where it comes in handy to stay in contact with a neighbor. Be sure to let them know that you'll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your home.

In the unfortunate case that this does happen to your home, we're the fire damage restoration team that'll be on your side from beginning to end. The fire damage restoration process is difficult to attack on your own and it may be difficult to find a reputable company that can come out ASAP, especially when it comes down to smoke damage, smoke odors, and the house fire cleanup in general. SERVPRO is your answer.

Storm Damage

Storm damage is one of the scariest things that can happen to your home and property. Storms are very unpredictable. Sure, the weather reports can call for a severe storm, but sometimes it's worse than they think. If you're going away, just make sure that your trees have been looked at to ensure that they won't easily fall on your home, make sure that your home is secure and sealed, and if there is a storm in the forecast, use sandbags around the structure of your home as a precaution.

Storm damage restoration is no easy task, especially when it comes to debris removal, broken windows, and the need for a thorough cleaning.

SERVPRO is Here for You

SERVPRO is the restoration company that will always be by your side. If you need fire damage restoration services, water damage restoration services, mold remediation, or anything having to do with restoring your property back to preloss conditions, we're your best bet.

About SERVPRO Team Harvey

What is Biohazard Cleanup and How We Can Help

7/24/2023 (Permalink)

Exposure to any biological material and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. If such substances are not removed, they can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan/Financial District is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

If you're not completely sure if your cleanup needs are considered a biohazard cleanup or not, continue reading for specific types, scenarios, and more information around this service.

Do You Need Biohazard Cleanup Services?

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

SERVPRO of Lower Manhattan provides cleanup solutions and recovery services for many biohazard situations including:

Sewage backups
Crime scene cleanup
Suicide/death accidents
Homicide cleanups
Blood cleanup
Accident cleanup
Hoarding scenes
Animal waste/remains
Chemical spills
Tear gas cleanup
Meth lab cleanup

Common Biohazard Scenarios

There are three common biohazard scenarios. These are sewage backups, bloodborne pathogens, and illegal drug manufacturing labs/meth labs.

Sewage Backups- Sewage backups and dark water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly deposits - these damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into a structure. We remove the sewage, contaminants, and moisture, and help ensure the structure is properly clean, disinfected, and deodorized.

Bloodborne Pathogens- We remove and dispose of bodily fluids, tissue, and other potentially pathogenic substances resulting from an accident, trauma, crime, or death. Trained SERVPRO franchise professionals clean, disinfect, and deodorize the structure.

Illegal Drug Manufacturing Labs/Meth Labs- SERVPRO realizes many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as "meth" are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. We follow federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Do Not Try at Home

If you believe your home or business is in need of biohazard cleaning, don't try to clean it up on your own. Bleach is only going to go so far, especially if you're dealing with sewage backups, blood, animal waste, and other bodily fluids, especially chemical spills. DIY cleaning solutions should not even be thought of when it comes to scenarios like these. You'll be putting yourself as well as anyone else that uses or lives in the structure at risk for health problems.

When it comes to a crime scene cleanup, this is a specific scenario that is handled by law enforcement and a professional cleaning company like SERVPRO. There are many rules and state regulations that need to be followed when it comes to a cleanup like this, so don't try to just apply bleach and think it's ready to go.

When it comes to sewage backups, the flooding from this creates a contaminated area full of hazardous materials, human waste, and possible chemicals that can be life threatening if touched or if you get too close. Leave it to the professionals.

Biohazard & Sewage Emergency Tips

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

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

What to do AFTER a contamination:

Stay out of affected areas.
Call emergency service personnel if the situation is dangerous to your health.
Treat ALL bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage.

What NOT to do after a contamination:

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

SERVPRO Provides 24-Hour Emergency Service

We are available 24 hours a day with our highly trained technicians standing by. We have qualified trained professionals who are ready to respond to these incidents. We will always treat your property and the people involved with the greatest empathy and respect in the face of trying circumstances.

We don't only offer biohazard cleanup services, but also cleaning services such as air ducts & HVAC, carpet & upholstery, ceiling/floors/walls, drapes & blinds, odor removal, sewage & toilet overflow, vandalism & graffiti, building services, and all kinds of commercial cleaning services.

Causes of Water Damage in Your Commercial Facility

7/6/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can cause significant problems in both residential and commercial buildings. However, with commercial buildings, the trouble is worse since it poses threats to both clients and employees and can also disrupt business operations. So, what are the common causes of water damage in commercial facilities? Let's check it out.

Deteriorating Plumbing or Burst Pipe

Depending on the age of the plumbing system in your commercial building will give you an idea of when problems can occur. If your building is decades old, there's a big chance you'll start to sustain water damage at some point.

Pipes in particular are vulnerable to cracking and bursting, especially during the winter when the weather is cold, causing freezing temperatures to attack the pipes. Also, if they are old and rusty pipes, there's more of a chance that you'll be dealing with cracks down the line.

When pipes burst, this causes flooding and damaged materials. This is a terrible problem for residential homes, but especially for a commercial building, as there is a risk of damage to important documents, technology, and more. Plus, if it is not cleaned up and restored in a quick manner, you're looking at dealing with mold growth as well.

Severe Weather

Natural disasters are hard to predict and it's even harder to protect your building from property damage. If your commercial building is in an area that is prone to severe weather like hurricanes and tornadoes - it's smart to get the proper insurance before your building falls victim to Mother Nature.

While there isn't much you can do as commercial property owners to prevent damage that storms and flooding can cause, there are certain precautions that can be taken, like properly maintaining and cleaning gutters as well as verifying the effectiveness of the draining unit.

Roof Leaks

Roof leaks can be sneaky. They're hard to spot unless you start noticing discoloration on the ceilings or finding puddles of water where it doesn't belong. Because they are so sneaky, there's a larger chance that mold will start developing, causing more issues for both the building and the people that work inside of it. If you detect a leak, you should immediately contact a professional for assistance.

And, for prevention, it's smart to have your roof looked at annually.

Malfunctioning HVAC System

Like all machines, wear and tear is normal. If your heating and cooling systems stop operating, cracks and leaks can appear within its drains and pipes. This, in turn, will lead to the leakage of liquid outside the unit, which can get all over the floor and become a slip and fall hazard.

Again, to prevent this, annual check-ups are your best bet.

Damaged Windows

Windows should always remain sealed. Should the seal become cracked or damaged, this creates a scenario where unwanted liquid and moisture will get inside. If this happens, you're not only dealing with water damage, but mold damage as well as the humidity entering the building, along with water, will cause an infestation that is not healthy to be near.

If you notice a crack in a window seal, call a professional ASAP and get it fixed. The longer you wait, the bigger the problems will develop.

Why You Should Hire a Professional

When it comes to protecting your commercial buildings as well as the people inside of it, it's better to hire a professional to restore any water damage than it is to try to figure it out on your own.

A company like SERVPRO is full of professionals who have been specifically trained to handle these issues and because of their speed and equipment, they will get your business up and running again as soon as possible.

When it comes to our restoration process, we understand that every flood and water damage scenario is a little different. Each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. However, the overall flood water and restoration process remains the same. These steps detail our process for the typical water-damaged property:

Step One: Emergency Contact (calling SERVPRO Team Harvey once you notice something wrong)
Step Two: Inspection and damage assessment
Step Three: Water removal/water extraction
Step Four: Drying and dehumidification
Step Five: Cleaning and repair
Step Six: Restoration

Why Hire SERVPRO Team Harvey?

You probably know that there are a million different restoration teams out there. This makes it hard to choose which one you're going to reach out to in the event of water damage or any other type of damage that needs restoration services.

We'll tell you why you should hire SERVPRO Team Harvey of Lower Manhattan:

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster- Immediate action is crucial when dealing with water damage issues. With over 2,140 U.S. and Canadian franchise locations, we are strategically positioned to be faster to any size water emergency, so Manhattan residents can expect an immediate response, day or night.
We're Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists- We are water damage specialists who get started promptly to get your property dry and back to pre-water damage condition. Using advanced water removal and drying equipment, as well as scientific drying principles to get your property dried quickly, we document the drying process to validate your home or business is ready.
We Use Advanced Drying Equipment and Techniques- We invest in the latest technology and equipment in the restoration industry because it helps us restore your business quickly and to minimize cost. This equipment allows us to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water quickly and efficiently. We also utilize professional-strength cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing products to clean and sanitize the affected water damage area for your comfort and safety.

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (212) 564-6365

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