Rainwater Damage

2/19/2024 (Permalink)

Water Damage Dry out after flood water runoff entered a home in Chappells, SC

Heavy Rains across our area over the past few months has taken its toll on many homeowners. Rainwater can cause septic issues, soil erosion and foundation issues to your home. Evan a small leak can cause a significant amount of water to enter your home and cause major damage especially the lower levels.  This family in Chappells, SC experienced it firsthand when rainwater damage entered the downstairs area of their home causing severe flooding. SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties was onsite quickly to access the damage – extracting the water and removed the flooring to start the drying process quickly to get this home back in order.  If you should experience water damage, give us a call – we are here to help you no matter how severe the damage may be,  you are not alone!

Winter Rains and Your Septic System

1/11/2024 (Permalink)

Homeowner having their septic tank pumped.

It is well known that our area has seen more rain over the past couple of weeks than most see in months. Heavy rains, severe storms have covered our area. With that, flash flooding has been put a toll on homeowners with a septic system. If you have an older system, the strain from the rain has put your system is even more stressful.

Most septic systems are designed to manage substantial amounts of rain, heavy downpours in a small amount of time can overwork our septic and cause overflow. If your septic is not regularly maintained can cause damage and long-term problems.

• Schedule Regular Maintenance – Regular inspections and having your system regularly pumped by a professional will catch potential issues before they arise.
• Drain usage – There are distinct items that should not be flushed down your drain. Avoid grease, fats, excessive food products and chemicals down your drain.

SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties cannot predict the weather or stop the rain from falling but we will be here for you if you experience water damage or a septic overflow in your home! We got you covered!

Prepare your Pipes

1/4/2024 (Permalink)

Busted pipe after a winter freeze

Winter temperatures are unpredictable in the South – one day it’s warm and you’re washing your car, but 24 hours later you could be dealing with freezing temperatures. Making sure you are being proactive when it comes to freezing pipes can save you from water damage when the temperatures change quickly.

• Allow your water to drip from your faucets during extreme cold temperatures.
• Make sure you unhook all water lines during the winter months.
• Insulate pipes in unheated areas of your home.
• Open cabinets where water lines are located inside your home to warm your pipes.
• Keep your thermostat above 55 degrees.
• Make sure you know where your shut off valve is located in the event of an emergency.
• Utilize heat tape or heat cables and seal any leaks you may have.

Water damage can cause extensive damage no matter what season- being prepared is your first line of protection.

The Silent Secrets of Mold

3/2/2023 (Permalink)

Homeowner found their subfloor in this condition after removing old vinyl flooring.

We have had a some wild winter weather here in the south for the past several weeks – one day its summer temperatures and then winter will run around the corner and come out of nowhere.  These temperatures are pretty standard in early Spring  but we have had a very mild winter. Mold can grow at any time of the year – but it can multiply in changing temperatures in and outside your home. Mold grows from moisture – almost anywhere. Controlling mold growth requires maintaining proper humidity levels in your home or business.

It looks like mold but is it really mold? This homeowner in Hickory Tavern, SC were prepping their laundry room floors for new tile. When the homeowner pulled up the vinyl flooring they were shocked and very concerned at what looked like life mold covering their sub floor.  They immediately called SERVPRO and the technicians came out and tested the flooring.  There was no live mold , this was an old water damage that happened prior to the homeowner purchasing the home.  The sub floor was cleaned and prepped for the new tile to be installed.  If you are unsure if you have a problem with mold or not, let SERVPRO ease your mind and check your home prior to any home renovations.

Excessive Rain and your Septic System

1/29/2023 (Permalink)

A sure sign you need your septic pumped

The winter season has definitely not been pleasant to us this year. The rainfall we have experienced in our region has been above the normal and taken its toll on those who have a septic system. The normal schedule for a septic system to be pumped is on average every 3-4 years but if you have been experiencing problems – you may need to call the professional for service earlier.

Common signs that your septic tank is full:

• Standing water over your septic system
• Smelling sewage when you in your yard
• Drains in your household are not draining properly.
• Your pipes are making unusual sounds (gurgle) when you flush the toilet
• You find sewage backup in your tubs and sinks
• You smell sewage when running your washing machine

If you have had your septic pumped and begin to have issues you may have a clogged or broken drainage pipe or your stack pipes on the roof of your home may be clogged. Having this inspected early can help you from having sewer back up into your home.

Sub zero temps = Busted Pipes in Clinton, SC

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

When the pipes burst the ceiling fell at this business in Clinton, SC

Winter officially arrived on December 21^st and everyone here in the South wasn’t particularly welcoming of the season. We typically have mild to almost warm weather over the Christmas season, but Mother Nature had different plans this year. Below zero temperatures in the South is almost unheard of but they were here, and the havoc caused has been catastrophic for many home and businesses owners. The damage in many local business and homes were some of the worst we have seen. Frozen pipes that burst, along with power outages that didn’t help any situation. Christmas was different this year for many, but SERVPRO was there and will continue to be there not matter what the circumstances may be. This winter storm was an Historic Event, and we will be there for our community, now and in the future.

Protect your pipes

12/22/2022 (Permalink)

Frozen water line to an outside faucet

If you haven’t prepared for the freezing temperatures that will banket our area over the next few days, then today is the day to prepare.

• Disconnect outside hoses
• Insulate outdoor pipes
• Let your faucets drip
• Open your cabinet doors under sinks
• Turn up your heat inside you home

These are dangerous temperatures and when you factor in the wind, we are looking at below zero temperatures.  If you are leaving your home or closing your business, you want to make sure you follow the above tips.  Please take all necessary precautions to prevent water damage from freezing pipes.

Prevent Water Damage

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage from a broken toilet supply line at a home in Newberry, SC

Checking water supply lines in your home or business is at the bottom of the list of maintenance items - if on there at all, but it should be high at the top. Toilet water supply lines can cause major water damage if not installed properly and by a licensed plumber. The length of the supply lines is important and should be measured accordingly to the space. Example: You would not want a 10-inch supply line in a 6-inch space. Toilet supply lines can be the silent disaster starting out with a drip that can lead to a burst and the time when no one is at home. This customer in Newberry, SC experienced this the hard way. The supply line had burst and caused water damage throughout the home. But you can trust that SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties got the situation under control fast!

Keep Your Gutters Cleaned

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

Debris and leaves preventing rain water to flow through the gutters

Keep those Gutters Clean

Spring weather is in the air and along with the warmer temperatures we are seeing the signs of April showers and May storms. You never know what kind of weather to experience in March – seems mother nature just throws what she feels like, and we must roll with it! When heavy rains happen, your gutters can overflow. Clogged gutters prevent heavy rainwater from running smoothly through your down spouts. If not cleared of debris – you could experience damage to your roof and water damage inside your home. When you experience heavy rainfall like we have had here in the South over the past few days, make it a point to check the gutters on your home. You may find the remnants of fall leaves and debris left over.

Your Gutters Can Cause Water Damage!

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Clean your gutters to avoid water damage.

We have officially entered to month of Spring – before long we will have that extra daylight time in the evenings to get out and start preparing your home for warmer weather. We associate Spring with cleaning – from windows to walls we are all ready to get our home clean after a long cold winter. But don’t neglect your gutters. You would be surprised what your gutters can fill up with in the winter months. Be sure to remove leaves and debris from your gutters on a regular basis.  Something as simple as a heavy rainfall that comes with Spring can get backed up and cause severe and unnecessary water damage when it has no way to drain from your roof! Clogged gutters and the weight from heavy rainfall can also rot the fascia boards and pull the gutter from the roof structure causing water to enter your home and damage your ceilings, walls and attic space. Overflowing gutters saturates the ground and forms pools of water that penetrate cracks in the concrete and deteriorate the foundation which can result in water damage to basement walls. If you experience any kind of water damage -  give us a call! We are here to help!

Ice Makers - The silent water damage maker!

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Getting ice from your refrigerator

Water damage inside your home doesn’t only come from faulty washing machine lines or old leaking pipes underneath your sinks or showers. The hidden but costly leak could be come from your refrigerator ice maker. We get ice out of our ice makers daily – it a well-known convenience we all take for granted until it’s damaged your flooring and you never even knew it! You had ice, right? What could possibly wrong? Small leaks can do undetected and if you have a line burst while your away, the damage could be major. Shut off your ice maker while you are away for longer periods of time and check your water supply lines often to assure you have no leaks. If your ice seems a little off – like not so frozen, you could have a problem.

Do let your pipes freeze!

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

A frozen water line that has burst due to cold weather.

Winter is back and with a vengeance. Don’t neglect your pipes – temperatures are well below freezing which can cause a disaster if your water lines are not properly insulated. Listed below are some tips to prevent your pipes from freezing during this winter season.

• Insulate pipes under your home and in the attic or wherever your water lines may be housed. Especially any outside exposed water lines.
• Install heat tape or cables to your lines
• Unhook any outside water lines after use during the winter months
• Allow your water to drip from your faucets during extreme cold temperatures
• Open cabinet doors to help circulate heat inside your home

Frozen water lines can burst and cause major damage – temperatures can change daily during the winter season in the deep south, always keep your guard up.

Warm Temps and Water Damage

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Don't forget to disconnect your water hose this season!

Mother Nature

We have certainly experienced some wacky weather over the past few weeks – one day it feels like sweet summertime and the 24 hours later the temperature is below freezing. Take the plants in and then take them out. Most of us have already prepared for the winter months ahead – firewood stacked, hoses disconnected, and water lines wrapped and ready. But let’s those temperatures get above 60 and we are all ready to wash the car and clean the deck. That’s ok- enjoy it!  However, remember those temperatures can drop overnight so make sure to check the outside water connections. If you feel the need to wash the windows or spruce up your deck on those warm days you will need to disconnect those water supply lines and drain your hoses to avoid those lines freezing and causing some major water damage. Winter is here but summer is showing her pretty face from time to time. Be a step ahead and prepared!

What’s up with my Septic Tank?

12/5/2021 (Permalink)

This is a clear indiciation of an issue with a septic tank.

During the summer months and the excessive amount of rain we usually tend to get with the summer heat and storms can take a toll on your septic system.  Now is the time to check your septic system –

Common signs that your septic tank is full:

• Standing water over your septic system
• Smelling sewage when you in your yard
• Drains in your household are not draining properly
• Your pipes are making unusual sounds (gurgle) when you flush the toilet
• You find sewage backup in your tubs and sinks

Septic systems should be pumped every 3-5 years. If you have had your septic pumped and begin to have issues you may have a clogged or broken drainage pipe.  Having this inspected early can help you in the long run.

Check your Supply Lines - All of them!

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage caused by faulty water lines

Home maintenance check list. We check our smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace the batteries as needed.  We replace our air filters, clean our gutters – this list can go on and on from landscaping your yard to home renovations but do your ever think to check your water supply lines? Your supply lines to your showers and sink can be obvious – depending on the location of you hot water heater that too can be a disaster waiting to happen – but if you think that’s bad – think again! Your water supply lines to your washing machine can make you see double water damage! Most often these lines are hidden behind your washing machine unseen. The amount of water damage these pipes can cause is almost overwhelming so if your pipes look like this – call an expert plumber before you have to call SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties.

Avoid Water Damage

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Don't let your gutters get full!

Spring is just a few days away – some of your trees may have started to bloom and some may be in full bloom – another sure sign Spring is near. As you begin your spring clean up around you home do not neglect your gutters.  Yes, the leaves of fall are long gone but some may still be lingering deep within your gutters. With Spring comes showers and plenty of them so you want to make sure your gutters are clean and clear of any debris. Something as simple as a heavy rainfall can get back up water flow and cause severe and unnecessary water damage when it has no way to drain from your roof! Clogged gutters and the weight from heavy rainfall can also rot the fascia boards and pull the gutter from the roof structure causing water to enter your home and damage your ceilings, walls and attic space.  Add this task to your spring-cleaning check list – if you do experience water damage –SERVPRO is here to help!

Warms days can still cause Frozen pipes

2/28/2021 (Permalink)

Warmer days and a good water hose!

We all got a sneak peak of Spring today here in the south! The rain finally stopped, the sun was shining, and the temperatures rose well above 70 degrees. Maybe you got out and did some home cleaning – washed your car or cleaned out some flower beds to prepare for spring planting. However, you spent this beautiful day just be mindful that the temperature can change in an instant – so make sure you drained any water lines and hoses once you were finished.  Freezing temperatures are still among us, this time of year the weather is unpredictable – just because it may be above 70 today it can turn colder quickly and even overnight.  Keep your home safe from freezing water lines that can cause water damage later. Spring is just around the corner so hang in there and enjoy the warmer days we are given now!

Winter and Water Lines

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

The correct way to leave your outside water lines in the winter - no hose attached!

We all experienced a splash of Spring here in the South over the past couple of days – maybe you cleaned up that dirty car you have been driving around.  Did you drain that hose? Our quick trip down Spring lane was short lived as our area is back in the freeze zone.  Make sure you are following proper protocol with your outside hoses – drain and disconnect to avoid the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting.  Even if you have a “frost-free” spigot, you still need to remove the hose. Winters in the South can fluctuate on any given day. If you feel the need to pressure wash your driveway in January when the temperatures are like Spring – do your thing – just remember to drain and disconnect those hoses before the cold spell sneaks up on you again. #SERPVRO

You can't stop the flow!

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Air Dryers in action after a water damage in Ware Shoals SC

No matter what type of water damage that you may experience in your home – it is never going to be pleasant. Depending on the extent of damage it can become overwhelming.  Have you ever tried to stop the flow of water? Almost impossible but that’s when SERVPRO comes in!   No matter the damage SERVPRO will be there for you. Depending on the damage – flooring and possible sheet rock may need to be removed but our team and air dryers placed to assure the home is ready for reconstruction – we are there every step of the way to make sure your home is back to pre-damage conditions. This home in Ware Shoals experienced water damage to the extreme.  From dry out to removal our team was there to see them through!

Storm Water

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

Water ovreflow due to clogged gutters

Christmas is almost here and with it – brings heavy rain and the threat of severe weather.  Preparing for this type of weather is key to assure your home is safe from this threat.  Leaves continue to fall here in the South, and you may find yourself cleaning your gutters out weekly. Although this may be cumbersome – your hard work will pay off in the end.  Clogged gutters prevent heavy rainwater from running smoothly through your down spouts.  If not cleared of debris – you could experience damage to your roof and water damage inside your home. Temperatures are expected to drop below freezing over the next 24-32 hours thus causing the treat of even possible further water damage.  Being proactive will keep your family and your home safe – SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties is here for you 24/7 – 365 days a year!

Winter and Water Damage

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Demo and drying out at a home in Prosperity SC after a water line break from the ice maker.

It may not be officially Winter just yet – but the below freezing temperatures are saying otherwise. If you haven’t prepared your home for the freezing weather – you better get busy!  It is recommended to check your water supply lines yearly. Your entire home needs to have a leak checkup to avoid a costly repair. Inspect your water supply lines and your washing machine hoses for sign of wear and tear. Check your hot water heater and all other household appliances for any leaks. Replace the hoses as needed – it is recommended to change them every 5 years even if they look good to you! Clean and check your gutters and remove any debris. Fallen leaves and buildup in your gutter and down spouts can cause major roof and water damage to your home.

Preparing your Pipes for Winter

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Insulate your pipes before winter hits!

Warm days and cool nights are getting few and far between and winter is just around the corner. Now is the time to prepare your pipes for the freezing temperatures.  Remove and drain your outside water hoses and store them in a climate-controlled location to avoid damage. Check for any leaks inside and outside your home and repair them as soon as possible.  If you have pipes in crawl spaces, attics and basements that are not heated get them wrapped with insulation sleeves or slip on foam pipe insulation. If you have had certain pipes burst before it may be a good idea to wrap those pipes with electrical heating tape prior to insulating them with foam just as an extra precaution.  Water damage can cause extensive damage to your home no matter what the season – being prepared is your first line of defense!

Refrigerator Water Damage in Prosperity, SC

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Hardwood floor removal after water damage from a refrigerator leak at a home in Prosperity, SC

Do you ever think to check the water line to your ice maker? If not, then you should start. This home in Prosperity, SC experienced what damage that little hose can do when it breaks.  Ice maker burst can be caused by a clogged or frozen defrost drain, a damaged line or even a loose plumbing fitting. Supply lines should be checked regularly. Most ice makers come with a plastic line. Replacing the water line with a braided or woven steel reinforced line will be safer and last much longer. When moving your refrigerator out to clean – make sure there is enough slack in the water supply line and don’t move it out to far out as you could damage the connection. Check regularly around and underneath the refrigerator for any pools of water or leaks.  Taking the simple steps can prevent flood damage from your home.

Water Damage Demo at a home in Newberry, SC

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technician removing the flooring after a water damage in Newberry, SC.

Water Damage is no joke! The destruction it can leave behind after the water has dried up can be overwhelming for many homeowners. A water line break in the bathroom caused major water damage to this homeowner in Newberry, SC. The shower had to removed to access the problem and once the team started the demo – the issue only got worse. The water damage was seen throughout the home was not only contained to the area of the line break.  Checking your plumbing in the summer months is just as important as in the winter. Water can protrude areas that are not seen by homeowners. You can trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties to make sure the job is done thoroughly! We will see you through the damage!

Summer Heat and Water Damage

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

A leaking water hose can cause water damage and the costs could be even worse.

It Summertime we go on vacation, have cookouts, enjoy time with our family and friends not thinking of a possible water leak. Leaky pipes are not only a problem in the winter months when they can become frozen and burst.  Leaks can occur in the hot summer months just as they can in the winter months. There are many reasons leaks can occur in the summer months – high water pressure, foundation shifts, tress roots, a compromised water supply line or a simple hose bib leak.  Summertime also brings increased rainfall and sometimes severe thunderstorms. The ground can become saturated quickly causing damage to your septic system – especially older systems.

Check your foundation often for cracks – inspect underneath your home for standing water and if your water bill seems higher than usual – chances are you have a leak somewhere.

Water and Foundations

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Foundation crack to a home due to water damage.

We are over the winter slump – entering the season of Spring and with Spring comes rain and here lately in the South – A lot of rain! Heavy amounts of rain over a small period of time can cause flooding, septic and home foundation issues.  Water Damage is the number one culprit that weakens your home’s foundation which is the very core that keeps your house standing. Water damage that goes unattended can and will over time cause serious structural damage.  The best line of defense is to make sure your home has proper drainage to keep the water away from your home’s foundation.  Over time the soil around your foundation gets wet and dries out – this causes the soil to expand and contract. Soil changes can cause the foundation to crack, sag and weaken.  Check for moisture often, especially after extended periods of rain. If you see moisture damage to your foundation call a professional quickly to avoid further damages to your home.

Heavy Rains and Water Damage

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

Ground water over septic area after heavy rain

Winters in the South consist mostly of rain instead of snow. Sometimes rain can set in for days and this can impact your septic system. It is common to have septic back up after or during heavy rains making it impossible for water to flow out of your septic system. When the water has nowhere to go it will eventually back up into drains and toilets in your home that can cause water damage. Signs of stress to your septic system would be surface water is showing ponds of water in the drain area, drains inside your home are not draining as quickly as they should be, toilets are flushing slowly or making sounds. You can relieve pressure on the system by using less water and reduce water going down the drains until the drain field dries out. If you experience water damage in our home, you and trust the experienced team at SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Washing Machine Water Damage

12/18/2019 (Permalink)

Washing machine water damage!

How often do you check the water line to your washing machine? If you are like most people hardly ever until you walk in the utility room and water has covered your clean flooring.  Weather you have had a small leak over time or a complete overload of water damage, your washing machine can cause some major damage if not checked often.  Small leaks can cause mold to gown in places you cannot see. Water supply lines that are faulty will open your eyes quick!  Most washing machines are installed with a rubber supply hose connected to hot and cold faucets behind the unit. Over time, these hoses can deteriorate and cause leaks.  Inspect hoses monthly and replace if you see any signs of deterioration. Never start your washing machine if you are planning on leaving your home. If you experience water damage call SERVPRO – We are there for you!

Preparing your Pipes for Winter

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Prepare your pipes from freezing this winter.

Prepare your Pipes for Winter

Winter is slowly approaching and below freezing temperatures have already begun. It’s important to make sure your pipes are ready. Now is the time to implement procedures that stop pipes from freezing, which can lead to burst pipes and major water damage or flooding within your home.

• Have your plumbing inspected for any leaks or damage. During winter months the water in your pipes gets colder and is more prone to freezing which places more pressure on your pipes. Having your plumbing inspected prior to insulating your pipes.
• Get your water heater checked – in the middle of winter is not the time you want your water heater to go on the fritz. Your plumber can check to assure your water heater is running efficiently. Its also a good idea to insulant your water heater along with your pipes to prevent any additional heat loss which will also help you conserve energy.
• Adding pipe insulation is the best way to protect your plumbing during winter. Pipe insulation can prevent pipes from freezing and conserve heat loss. Pipes that run through any unheated area of your home should be covered with insulation.

Following these few precautions can cause you from a potential disaster – But you can trust knowing SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties is here if you need us!

Water Heater Damage

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

Water Heater Damage in Newberry SC - Location in Attic -

No one ever thinks about their water heater until suddenly your floors are flooded and you are trying to determine where it came from!  A leaking water heater may seem like a minor problem, but it can quickly turn into a major source of water damage in your home.  A water heater leak will not go away on its own – it will only get worse so you should not delay getting it checked.  The best way to protect your home from water damage is to install an automated emergency shut off valve to your system. This valve will stop the flow of water if a leak is detected.  A less costly alternative to contain a leak would be to install a secondary drain pan with a wet switch alarm.  Preventing water heater damage will depend on proper maintenance – Don’t neglect your water heater – check for leaks!

Water Supply Lines

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Major water damage caused by a supply line to a toliet in Clinton SC

No one ever thinks of checking their water supply lines in their home – but here is one reason why you should! Supply line leaks can be a costly and hazardous problem.  Supply lines are a part of your water system that brings water into your plumbing appliances Ex: washer, toilet, sinks etc.  When these types of pipes have leaks or even burst it is very difficult to stop the flow of water – you must shut off the water main to the house or business. The water damage can cause foundation issues, mold problems and cause major damage to the entire living spaces within your home or business. Become familiar with the supply lines in your home – know what to look for that might indicate a potential leak. Ceiling stains, rust, unexplained wet flooring are signs of a potential problem with a supply line. The sooner you address the problem the less damage it can cause. Know SERVPRO is here to help!

Clean Your Gutters

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Clean your Gutters!

Be sure to remove leaves and debris from your gutters on a regular basis.  Something as simple as a heavy rainfall or melting snow (not that we get much of the white stuff in South Carolina) can get backed up and cause severe and unnecessary water damage when it has no way to drain from your roof! Clogged gutters and the weight from heavy rainfall can also rot the fascia boards and pull the gutter from the roof structure causing water to enter your home and damage your ceilings, walls and attic space. Overflowing gutters saturates the ground and forms pools of water that penetrate cracks in the concrete and deteriorate the foundation which can result in water damage to basement walls. 

Check your gutters regularly - If you need us -SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties is here!

How To Begin the Insurance Claim Process in Newberry or Laurens County SC After Water Damage

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

An insurance policy is a document that lists the conditions, terms, and details of a contract between you and your insurance company. The contract can protect you by clearly outlining your obligations when you are ready to file an insurance claim in Newberry or Laurens Counties SC. On the other hand, the contract also clearly states the terms under which the policy becomes void, and the insurance company does not have to pay. Here are a few steps you can take to make sure you follow the terms of your contract.

Insurance Company Requirements

The first step in protecting your interests may be to review your insurance policy and note your legal obligations. If the pipe burst damage requires a police report, speak to law enforcement officers. Most insurance companies ask for a copy of the report if the flood or water damage is a result of:

• Burglary
• Vandalism
• Theft

The next step may be contacting your insurance company to report the insurance claim. Please note that reporting a claim and filing a claim are not the same. When you report the damage to your agent, you are notifying him or her of the damage and asking for an adjustor to review the situation.

Homeowner Insurance Obligations

Protecting your interests can also include documentation. First, contact a professional water repair and remediation service to remove the water. Ask the team to document their efforts, if possible. You may want to record the damage as well. Although your policy will probably not require you to take pictures of the damage, doing so can help you establish a solid claim. 

To begin the actual claim process, fill the claim forms out and promptly return the papers to your insurance company. Make copies for yourself in case the documents get lost in the mail.

Beginning the Legal Process

Once you fill in the insurance claim forms, you are starting a legal process that is clearly defined by the terms of your insurance policy. If you fulfill the terms of the policy, the insurance company is legally required to pay. It’s the law.

Visit http://www.SERVPROofnewberryandlaurenscounties.com for more information on water damage. 

A Picture is Worth A Thousand Words

9/15/2016 (Permalink)

More times than not, when we get a call it is our client's home or business that has been impacted by flooding or fire damage. These cases become time sensitive so that our clients' lives can return back to normal.

A year ago, there was a flooding at a local daycare. Due to the damage the children had to be dispersed to other facilities. Wee were able to get the daycare back in operating condition quickly. When asked why we work so hard the following letter explains it far better than we could:

"I attached the note and drawing my son did for me. Thanks for all the help with our situation.  Just because it is your "job" and how you make a living doesn't mean you have to take extra steps to help people, but we definitely see the work you and you guys have done. So, THANKS A MILLION!"

Happy Customers

9/13/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Is the Best!

When you’ve had a plumbing disaster of epic proportions, there are only four words you want to hear. As I was about to dissolve in the three inches of standing water in my office, teary-eyed and shaking, SERVPRO of Newberry said those four words to me: “We can fix that.”

The upstairs toilet had not leaked, but spewed, through the night. The rug in the upstairs bedroom “squished” when you walked on it, and the floor was covered with water. The bedroom was directly above my office, and downstairs I discovered worse damage. It seemed to be raining from the ceiling fan, and rain was pouring from the corner. My heart sank. Old houses are hard, and we have an older home, built in 1924. The  molding around the ceiling was plaster, not wood, and it could not be replaced. The wall was plaster, too, again not easily replaced.

We called SERVPRO, fearing the worst. Still, I presented our “best case” scenario: could the house be cleaned up in a way that respected its history and the craftsmanship with which it was built. Essentially, we wanted the wall and the molding to be restored, not replaced with new materials.

Most folks would not have cared about maintaining the integrity of an old house. It would have been much easier to give us bad news, dry out the house in a couple of days, and move on. Mr. Kitchens did not choose the easy road: he listened, he researched, he monitored every day to check on how things were coming along.

We had called the plumber to fix the problem with the toilet, and the plumber said it was. After two weeks, though, Mr. Kitchens said we still had moisture in the wall. We called another plumber—and discovered the problem had not been addressed. Only SERVPRO of Newberry would have been so thorough and so caring about its customers, they would follow up and make sure our molding and our walls were protected from further damage.

SERVPRO does more than deal with plumbing disasters. They’ve also cleaned rugs for us, even eliminated pet odors and hair. “Great job,” is all I can say.

SERVPRO of Newberry knows what they’re doing. They are professionals who listen, who care, who go the extra mile to make sure the job is done promptly and beautifully. Outstanding people, outstanding work.  I would recommend SERVPRO of Newberry to anyone--even to my mother—and that means they’re the very best I know. If you want further details, feel free to call me. 803-276-6197.  

Sue Summer

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/13/2016 (Permalink)

Title: Newberry and Laurens Counties 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

Category: Water Damage

Photo Caption: SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Newberry and Laurens Counties

Body:

SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (803) 276-0290 or (864)833-4411

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Newberry and Laurens Counties

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