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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

Why choose your local SERVPRO? | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

green SERVPRO van parked outside a job site Call us 24/7/365 for any of your emergency restoration needs – SERVPRO is here to help.

Why choose your local SERVPRO? | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

Our “Restore First” mentality is best for our customers

If your business or home sustains damage for any reason, it can be a frustrating and fraught time for your entire staff or family. There are many emotions that people will cycle through after a fire or other disaster and having to go through the process of handling the damage can further complicate the recovery.

While there are always difficulties to consider throughout the recovery period, having a good restoration company on your side can truly make all the difference.

We will work with you and your insurance company to make the entire procedure as seamless as possible and with our restoration-first mentality, we will do our best to preserve your belongings so you do not have to replace them.

We can help you save money on your insurance

Most homeowners and business insurance are designed to help you cover the cost of losses from many types of damage but filing a claim can also raise your premium tremendously. We can help lower the cost of your claim to your insurance by restoring items where possible instead of replacing them.

We can protect your essential and sentimental items

We have invested in some of the most advanced restoration equipment available, which is what enables us to save items that may seem like a lost cause. In the past, we have been able to restore irreplaceable objects such as family photos, documents and art, as well as valuables such as electronics. Some things can’t be replicated, which is why we do our best to keep these essential and sentimental objects intact.

We do our best to make it “Like it never even happened”

As we have helped many people in the community with losses and damage, we understand all the complex emotions involved. To help make the return to work or home easier, we focus primarily on restoring your property to its pre-damaged state and placing your belongings just how they were before the damage occurred. This will help your property feel like normal again so your staff or family can focus on healing and returning to a routine.

If you have damages and are feeling overwhelmed, we are here to help. You can call us anytime you need to begin the restoration process. Contact SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills today to learn more.

SERVPRO Has the Restoration Experts You Can Trust | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

two SERVPRO employees unloading cleaning equipment out of a green van No matter the damage sustained, SERVPRO Cedar Mill/Oak Hills has the tools and team to help your home return to a normal state quickly.

SERVPRO is about much more than ordinary cleaning, repair and construction. We’re here to assist you in the event of even the worst natural or manmade disasters.

Consider the sorts of events that may occur in the Beaverton and Portland area.

Water Damage

Flooding can occur at any moment and can cause significant damage regardless of whether it’s an inch or a foot deep and causes more than $10 billion in damages annually.

If you own a home or business, you may face flooding concerns over your lifetime, particularly in Portland. In fact, there is a 75% chance that the Portland region will see at least one flood above four feet between now and 2050.

If flooding occurs in your home or at your business, SERVPRO is equipped to handle the damage. We’ll assist you in determining the extent of the damage so that you can choose the best repair decision.

We have the technologies necessary to identify and extract hidden moisture. Additionally, we’ll work with you to build a water damage restoration strategy that will guarantee your house is clean, dry, and returned to its preloss state.

Fire Damage

A fire department in the United States reacts to a fire every 23 seconds, and in 2020, there were around $8.1 billion in property damage nationwide. If your property or business has been damaged by fire, we’ll immediately begin the restoration process using our seven-step restoration method.

This process begins with an examination and damage assessment and includes all essential in-between procedures prior to beginning repairs and construction.

Storm Damage

Storms may bring flooding and wildfires, as well as tornadoes, hurricanes, dangerous winds and blizzards. Our objective is to re-establish you in your freshly restored property as quickly as possible.

Storm and flood damage may wreak havoc on not just the structure of your house, but also on your personal items. SERVPRO specializes in content and document restoration, with a philosophy that emphasizes reusing rather than replacing.

Dry cleaning, wet cleaning, foam cleaning and abrasive cleaning are a few of the services we provide. If your property needs a more thorough clean, we can provide move-out services to quickly restore your property to preloss state.

What Makes SERVPRO Unique?

We are there when you require assistance. You can call a SERVPRO specialist 24 hours a day, seven days a week through our 247 Emergency Line and receive immediate help.

Our professionals are members of the nation’s No. 1 cleaning and restoration team, with over 50 years of expertise. We are independently owned and run, but we are also backed by a network of over 1,900 locations throughout the United States, so you can be certain that we will promptly restore your home or business to “Like it never even happened” condition.

Regardless of the type of damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when you need a dependable team to help you rebuild your life.

Why Our “Restore First” Mentality Is Best for Customers | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

road sign in front of dark storm clouds If you’ve experienced damages of any kind, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills today to get the restoration process started.

If your home sustains damage for any reason, it can be a frustrating and fraught time for your entire family. There are many emotions that people will cycle through after a fire or other disaster, and having to go through the process of handling the damage can further complicate the recovery process.

While there are always difficulties to consider throughout the recovery period, having a good restoration company on your side can truly make all the difference.

We will work with you and your insurance company to make the entire procedure as seamless as possible, and with our restoration-first mentality, we will do our best to preserve your belongings so you do not have to replace them.

How Our Restoration-First Mentality Helps Our Clients

We can help you save money on your insurance. Homeowners insurance is designed to help you cover the cost of losses in case of many types of damage, but filing a claim can also raise your premium tremendously. In the event of water damage, for example, the average claim is over $10,000. We can help lower the cost you have to claim with insurance by restoring objects where possible.

We can protect your sentimental items. We have invested in some of the most advanced restoration equipment available to us, which is what enables us to save items that may seem like a lost cause. In the past, we have been able to restore irreplaceable objects such as family photos, documents and art, as well as valuables such as electronics. Some things can’t be replicated, which is why we do our best to keep these sentimental objects intact.

We make sure your home feels like home again. As we have helped many people in the community with losses and damage, we understand all the complex emotions involved. To help make the return home easier, we focus primarily on restoring your house to its pre-damaged state and placing your belongings just how they were before the damage occurred. This will help your house feel like home again so your family can focus on healing.

If you have damages and are feeling overwhelmed, we are here to help. You can call us as soon as you need to in order to begin the restoration process. Contact us today to learn more.

Restoration and Recovery of Every Conceivable Kind | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

a green SERVPRO van parked in a warehouse full of equipment When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills to get the job done.

If you’re a home or business owner, you’re likely aware by now that life is full of surprises, and those surprises affect your property in a host of less-than-fun ways. But whenever those things happen, and whatever havoc they may wreak, always remember that SERVPRO is right here in Cedar Mill to ensure your property is restored and all signs of damage are undone.

We cover almost every conceivable incident, including:

Water damage recovery. Floods come, pipes burst and water heaters explode. All this and more can happen to flood your home with the wet stuff, but we can get you dried and restored.

Fire damage recovery. Despite decades of fire safety awareness campaigns and a downward trend overall, fires still occur in U.S. households every 23 seconds. We make all necessary repairs, and we restore soot and smoke damage to get you set right again.

Mold removal. Water damage or high moisture conditions can allow mold to thrive, and when it does, it can weaken your home’s structure and cause illness among the inhabitants of your home. Only professionals can safely deal with a mold infestation, but that’s exactly why we’re here.

Storm recovery. Everything from winter blasts to thunderstorms and tornadoes can wreck your home. But no matter the cause or size of the damage, we’ve got the teams, tools and skills to totally restore your home.

Commercial needs. Homes aren’t the only places that damage occurs. We know businesses need restoration from storms, fires and water, too, and we can handle the job of dealing with all of those, plus we can provide world-class cleaning services.

General cleaning. Even when you simply have a need to get carpets, furniture, drapes and other surfaces cleaned at home, we’ve got you covered. You can call us anytime, with or without a disaster as the cause.

Specialty cleaning. From the general to the unique, we can clean anything. Urban areas, crime scenes, biohazard situations—all of it is well within our skillset, because we’ve spent a lot of time pioneering techniques to fit all situations.

Construction. Extreme situations can cause large amounts of damage, which may require sections of your home or business to be reconstructed or rebuilt. Never fear—we have this handled, too. No matter the size of the damage, we can take care of every step.

Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done.

Working Around the Clock | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

a small interior room showing extensive damage from a recent fire If a fire issue pops up this winter, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry, SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills.

With life so busy these days, most people appreciate a notice of some kind before you drop by their home. Most people want to ensure their homes are tidied up and ready for company.

However, disasters or accidents don’t typically pick up the phone and let you know when they’re coming! They show up when it’s convenient for them, not you. And of course, it’s not in your preferred time frame.

So when these things happen to your home or business, you need to be able to call someone who can help you restore your place in a hurry. Here’s why:

After a fire. The flames of a fire can destroy a lot in very little time, but there are many other side effects that can destroy your things as well. Things like soot or smoke that can bake into the fabrics or structure of your home or business.

And these things don’t go away on their own, it’s something that will take professionals to come in and remove it. The faster they act, the less intensive the removal and restoration process will be.

After water damage. Once you’ve extinguished the flames, you realize your place has now been drenched in water! And water damage, no matter the cause, has to be dealt with immediately.

It only takes 48 hours before it can turn into a much bigger problem for you—mold. Sometimes it doesn’t even take that long, which is why quick action is necessary.

And if that’s not enough to make you immediately want to clean up after an accident or disaster, you should know that you can also run the risk of adding to the damage.

Because we deal with home and business restoration regularly, we know that you don’t have time to wait! We are here to provide you with quick and quality service. And we will not stop until you are satisfied.

When you need help after a home or business disaster, fast service is a priority, and there’s nobody faster or more prepared than SERVPRO. Call us anytime to take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service.

Know Who You Can Trust as a Restoration Partner | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

three green SERVPRO trucks lined up on a side street You can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line, SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills.

Life happens. Sometimes Mother Nature comes in and takes a swing, or a freak accident happens and causes a major life change.

Whether it affects your home or your business, you will need restoration or cleanup services—and you will need them quickly, so it helps to determine where you’d turn for restoration in advance of a disaster.

There are a few important things you need to remember when you are considering working with a service company:

Are They Legit?

Some people find this out the hard way, but after an emergency, there always seem to be people who show up offering help, which can be great, but it’s vital that you know not everyone has your best interest in mind. Sadly, after disaster situations scammers tend to show up and take your money when you’re the most vulnerable.

As for us, we are not new to this scene. We have been a part of this landscape for over 50 years, and because of that, we have earned a good reputation. We put in the necessary work so that our customers are satisfied, and we won’t stop until they are.

As if this isn’t enough, it’s important to share that we are trusted by national brands, like the PGA Tour, which only accepts high-quality services.

Can You Count on a Quick Response?

When something happens and wreaks havoc on your daily life, you need to know that you can call someone immediately to get help.

We stay on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week because life doesn’t always work within “business hours.”

Can They Access Added Support?

SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills is locally owned, and we will always have a team right here in town to help you when disaster calls. If at some point a major storm or other disaster strikes our area, you can rest assured that we are backed by the nationwide network of other SERVPRO franchises - so if mass chaos happens, we can access even more highly trained technicians with powerful tools. Our technicians will come in ready to work so that every homeowner gets the service and quality services that they need.

When you call SERVPRO, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got a trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line. When disaster hits home, contact us to get our local experts and nationwide network on your side.

Understanding What Makes SERVPRO Different | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

damaged furniture and other home items sitting outside of red brick house When you are dealing with any damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills is your local restoration expert.

Understanding What Makes SERVPRO Different | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent or you run a fortune 500 business, the work you do can be tough and time-consuming.

So when disaster strikes, it can get nearly anyone’s morale down. Normal, daily duties get thrown to the back burner so that you can focus on the emergency at hand.

It seems that now, along with normal responsibilities, you are now in full-on “recovery” mode for your people and yourself! We want to help relieve you of some of this stress.

How? We thrive in the disaster recovery world, it’s our job! Let’s look at why you can trust us.

We Are in Go Mode

We have technicians available to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. At a moment’s notice we can rush to get your place back to normal. Who has time to waste when the house is full of water or there’s a fire in the office?

When disaster hits, we stay ready and available so that you don’t have to.

We React Quickly

As a recovery business, we know that in a disaster situation, every second counts.

Every minute that passes causes more mold growth, more fire damage or more water cleanup. A fast response is crucial, and with us located right here nearby, you will see exactly how quick and responsive our team is.

We Can Restore Both Homes & Businesses

Disasters strike without favor to anyone or anything. Whether it’s your home or your business, damage to either can be extremely impactful.

With highly trained technicians who stay up to date and have access to the most advanced technology, we work to have your place back to normal in no time.

We’re Committed Until the Job Is Finished

There’s no greater satisfaction than to know we have helped a family or business “fix” their place as if a disaster never happened. We work hard in recovery and restoration because your satisfaction is what matters most.

We Evolve When Needed

In this day and time, disease prevention is more highly valued than ever before, so keeping that in mind, we now offer cleaning services that go above and beyond your normal janitorial services.

Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program allows you to offer a safe work environment and also provide customers and employees with peace of mind at the same time.

Disasters or accidents happen. Whether it’s a busted pipe, faulty appliance or a lightning strike that set the house on fire, SERVPRO is here and ready to take it on.

Regardless of the what, where or why, SERVPRO has the tools, technicians and training to get your situation under control. When you’re ready to let us tackle the hard stuff, get in touch with SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills.

Why SERVPRO®? Let's Look at Our Advanced Technology | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oaks Hills

4/21/2021 (Permalink)

house with debris pile in front At SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills, our cleaning and restoration services are powered by advanced technology. Contact us today to learn more.

What does advanced technology have to do with restoration and cleaning? Quite a lot, actually. When we at SERVPRO show up to a job, yes, we do apply a lot of old-fashioned elbow grease. But, equally important, we deploy advanced devices and products to create a safe, healthful environment for you.

Let’s look at some of the technology SERVPRO draws on when we’re cleaning and restoring your structures and contents.

Soggy Business

Water damage can be a real bear to deal with. First, there’s getting rid of standing water. Then, there’s locating hidden dampness and addressing it as well.

If anything’s missed, it can result in damage down the road. Luckily, SERVPRO has tools to help us find and conquer moisture of all kinds.

Moisture Meters. Water can lurk below floors, in carpets and drywall, even above ceilings. To locate hidden water, we use devices like a hygrometer to measure the humidity in a space. Another device for finding remaining dampness is an infrared meter. Yes, that’s the same meter that shows nifty heat maps. It works for finding water because wet spots tend to be cooler than dry ones.

Industrial Drying Equipment. After we find any hidden water, SERVPRO uses industrial-grade technology to get rid of it. For instance, we might use high-powered dehumidifiers and fans to draw water out of air and porous surfaces. A thorough drying can prevent mold growth in the future, as well as stopping material such as wood from warping and losing their shape.

The Chemistry of Clean

When we turn to cleaning and disinfecting, SERVPRO selects devices and disinfecting products that can effectively purify air and surfaces. After fires, floods or other disasters, we use industrial scrubbers to remove mold, smoke and other odor-causing contaminants from the air.

For surfaces, we select from OSHA-approved cleaners and disinfectants to destroy bacteria, fungi, molds and other contaminants. We’re always looking to stay at the cutting edge of disinfection science. For instance, in 2020 we addressed the new threat of the COVID-19 pandemic by deploying EPA-certified disinfecting products.

From emergency cleaning and restoration to routine disinfection, we’re there for you. Contact us at any hour for a consultation or immediate assistance.

Choose a Restoration Company That Values Excellence | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

insurance document, pen and blue book sitting on black tabletop Contact SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills today. We work with you and your insurance company to get things back to normal quickly.

What do you think about when you’re planning for spring and summer seasons? Those future plans likely include a vacation, some gardening projects or maybe going through your child’s seasonal sports obligations and creating a family schedule.

If you’re lucky, you may even get to pencil in some time at the pool, too.

One thing most homeowners don’t plan for is a natural disaster or accident that damages their homes.

These plans aren’t fun or interesting, but they are vital. And they are needed more often than you would think.

Millions of Claims Are Filed Every Year

The Insurance Information Institute reports that about 1 in every 20 homeowners will file a claim this year.

Those statistics include every type of claim filed. But certain types of home damage culprits are more common than others.

About 1 in every 350 American homeowners will file a fire claim for issues ranging from lightning strikes to appliance fires. Water damage happens even more frequently than that. Estimates show that about 1 in 50 homeowners will file one of these claims for reasons like appliance leaks, flooding and rain damage.

Service You Can Depend On

Our highly trained expert technicians set us apart. Our technicians receive certifications through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. This non-profit group provides various certifications to ensure restoration and cleaning technicians can use the latest proven techniques when restoring your home.

And when you choose your local SERVPRO, these restoration experts will take the knowledge they’ve gained through our intensive training programs and use it to restore your home.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available 247 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

If Your Home Needs Restoration Services, We’re Here to Help | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

black glasses and pen sitting on top of white insurance policy If your home is damaged due to a disaster, Contact SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills. From start to finish, we will be here to help.

There’s no such thing as two identical homeowners insurance claims, and that’s especially true when it’s your home that’s damaged.

Every claim that’s made is as different as the homeowners themselves. The reasons can include severe weather issues, like wind, hail and rainAccidents and appliance malfunctions are also common home damage culprits.

Regardless of how different these claims seem, they all have one thing in common. What is it? The importance of beginning the restoration process quickly and efficiently to minimize damage to the home.

A Team of Experts In Your Corner, Fast

When your home is damaged, the most important thing is to start the restoration process quickly so that you can minimize the damage to your home and the property inside it. The damage process can move fast, with signs of damage to wood becoming visible within days. And the mold and mildew process can begin within a few hours.

We understand that minutes matter when you’re dealing with damage to your home. That’s why our teams are available at any time to help you. We’re available 247, including nights, weekends and holidays. If you ever need us, all you have to do is call our team. We’ll answer and get the process started.

We’re always here, but there are other good reasons to choose SERVPRO, too. Here’s what makes us different:

Our team members are knowledgeable, highly trained experts in their field. Working with SERVPRO means the team that comes to your home to evaluate the damage and begin the restoration process knows the latest techniques and strategies in restoration work. They’ll create a customized plan just for your home.

We use the latest technology on all the homes we restore. We have SERVPRO’s backing and access to their technology. We will use that leading-edge technology when we work on your home if you ever need our services.

This SERVPRO location is a locally owned and operated business. When you reach out to us, you’re calling friends and neighbors who want to serve your community and help those who need restoration services. We take pride in the way we’re able to serve our communities.

If your home is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available 247 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Why Choose SERVPRO? We Hit the Sweet Spot. | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

If you’re reading this, you may be a small or mid-size business looking for a cleaning and restoration partner. Since that’s not a choice you make very often, let us tell you a little about why SERVPRO makes great sense as a partner for your business.

A National Organization…

Unlike some cleaning and restoration firms, we’re more than just a mom-and-pop enterprise. Our national network ties us into the latest cleaning standards, new products and practices, and updates on any environmental or chemical threats that might be out there. Because we’re part of a wider network, we’re always prepared for when the latest national issue hits.

…Made Up of Local Neighbors

While we draw on national expertise, our local team knows and understands the Cedar Mill, Oak Hills, and Beaverton areas. We hire locally and we’re tight-knit, meaning that your disaster response team will likely be made up of your neighbors. You might even see a friendly face.

Local knowledge extends to more than manpower. Since we’re all in the same environment, we have the inside scoop on the kinds of issues our neighbor businesses may be dealing with. For instance, we tend to be pretty damp, especially in the winter. Flooding and mold can become problems. Since we’re right here with you experiencing the same trends, we know exactly what to expect. That makes it easy to be prepared.

…Dedicated to Serving YOU!

SERVPRO is dedicated to making any disaster scene “Like it never even happened,” and that goes for everything from your physical facility to your paperwork. On a job site, we take pains to identify and correct even hidden problems. And when it comes to filing insurance claims and getting payments, we take as much work as possible off your hands. That’s why SERVPRO is the logical choice for your cleaning and restoration partner.

From fire to storm to flood, disaster can strike a business at any time. To discuss a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, contact us at any hour for assistance.

Why Choose Us for All Your Restoration Needs | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Why Choose SERVPRO - image of small house with Band-Aids over it SERVPRO is always here when you need us 24 hours a day!

Sustaining damage is a frightening thing and determining how to recover can feel like an impossible process. Not only are there safety and emotional considerations to take into account, but there is also the damage that can occur to your home or business to contend with, too. Thankfully, if you experience damage, we are always here to help you. Deciding what restoration company to work with can be a difficult process, but we hope that you will consider us to take on the task so you can return home or to work in a timely manner. Read on to learn more about what makes us different.

We Will Respond Quickly Regardless of the Time

When you discover any type of damage to your home or office, you will want things to be remedied quickly so you can regain a sense of normalcy in life —which is why we are always here when you need us. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year, so regardless of if you discover damage on a weekend, on a holiday or in the middle of the night, you can still be certain we will respond rapidly to your call.

We Can Access Extra Resources if Necessary

We are proudly owned and operated locally, but since we are attached to the SERVPRO® brand, we have far more resources at our disposal. Nationwide, there are hundreds of other locations that can provide assistance and extra resources to our community if need be. That means if a large storm or other catastrophic event comes through that damages many buildings in the area, you will still receive exceptional, timely service from us.

We Are the Best at What We Do

We take pride in the restoration work that we do, and we make sure that every task we perform is done exceptionally well. Our technicians are trained extensively when they are hired and are provided with many growth opportunities throughout their careers, so you can be certain that your restoration job is in good hands when you give us a call.

When you need restoration for your home or business, we hope you will trust us with the job. If you need to report damage or just want more information, give us a call any time to learn more.

What to Look for in a Storm Restoration Company | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

large downed tree laying on top of light brown house Choosing the right restoration company is crucial to getting things back to normal. Call SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills to set up an appointment.

When it comes to experiencing severe weather, the event itself is frightening enough—and if you receive storm damage to your property, it can be even worse. Damages caused by storms have gotten more and more severe in recent years, so it is best to make sure you know what to do should a storm damage your property.

Choosing a company to work with for the restoration of your property is a difficult task, but also an important one. Working with a company you can trust makes all the difference—you are trusting them with your building and your belongings in many cases, and knowing your things are in good hands provides invaluable peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Restoration Company for You

Consider their reputation in the area and industry. After a severe storm, it is not uncommon to have people contacting you day or night to offer restoration services—but unfortunately, many of these companies are not trustworthy ones due to the rise in post-disaster scams. Making sure you find a company that is active in the community and considered a restoration industry leader will ensure you do not get taken advantage of.

Make sure they can handle large-scale damage. If a major storm hits an area, there will be many people who are seeking to get restoration work done on their home as soon as possible—and that is where we come in. When large storms happen, we can call on SERVPRO® partners across the nation to make sure everyone receives the exceptional service levels we are known for, regardless of how much damage the disaster has caused

Ensure you can call them whenever you need to. There is no telling when severe weather may strike and cause damage to your home, which is why we are here at any hour to provide you with a quick response. You can give us a call at any time and receive exceptional, fast service. We will get all the pertinent details and begin assembling a team right away to respond to your damages.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

How Our 6-Step Water Damage Restoration Process Works | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

interior wood floor partially submerged in water When dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. Contact SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills for prompt & dependable service.

Discovering water damage can be an overwhelming thing, but acting immediately is the best thing to do. That is why we are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week—you can always call us to set our six-step restoration plan in motion right away.

Here is how it works:

6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

  1. Initial Emergency Contact
    Our emergency line makes it so that you can call us at any time you discover damage, day or night. Our trained staff will ask you important questions to assess the damage and dispatch a team and equipment straight to you as quickly as possible.
  2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
    When our team of technicians arrives, they will first stop any water that continues to leak and check the area for dangerous safety hazards. They will then do a complete inspection of the area and create a comprehensive damage restoration plan for you to review.
  3. Moisture Extraction
    Extracting any excess moisture is the most pertinent aspect of water damage restoration, which is why we invest in equipment that allows us to remove hundreds of gallons of water at a time. We can also help you with move out services so you can stay somewhere safe during restoration.
  4. Dehumidifying and Drying
    Once the standing moisture is gone, we will turn our efforts to the surfaces of the building that may have absorbed water, like drywall and wood. These surfaces must be fully dried out for the longevity of your building and to prevent mold growth and mildew from taking hold.
  5. Cleaning and Repair
    Once the standing water and the absorbed moisture has been removed, we will do a cleaning and odor removal treatment on impacted areas of the home. This way you will know that all your surfaces are no longer contaminated and have no risk of your home developing a musty odor.
  6. Restoration
    Our restoration process is full service, meaning we will restore your building completely to its original condition from before the damage. This means we will handle repairs to structures and drywall, as well as repaint and refinish if needed to make sure you are thrilled when you walk back through the door.

If your home has been water-damaged, you can count on us to help. Call us 247 to get the process started.

IICRC Certification & Why It’s Important | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Who is the IICRC?

The IICRC is the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification and it was established as a non-profit organization in 1972. They set the standards for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. They also offer certifications that are considered the highest quality in our field of work.

Why are Certifications Important?

To put it simply, certifications do the legwork for you. When you’re in an emergency situation, certifications allow you to have confidence that the people you’re hiring are competent and able to complete the work they’re being hired to do. Here at SERVPRO, we highly value continuing education and keeping our standards up to par with the IICRC’s expectations. That way, we know we are providing the best service possible to our customers. 

What are Our IICRC Certifications at SERVPRO Cedar Mill?

We hold a number of certifications from the IICRC, including:

  • Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) – The WRT certification is the gateway to other IICRC certifications. This course gives residential and commercial maintenance personnel the background to understand the procedures necessary to deal with water losses, sewage backflows, and contaminations such as mold.
  • Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) – The AMRT certification covers mold and sewage remediation techniques. Emphasis is placed on teaching mold and sewage remediation techniques and graduates will be adequately equipped to perform remediation services while protecting the health and safety of workers and occupants.
  • Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD) – The ASD certification is designed to teach effective, timely and efficient procedures for drying water-damaged structures and contents.
  • Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician (FSRT) – The FSRT certification concentrates on the technical procedures for successfully completing the restoration of a fire and smoke damaged environment.
  • Odor Control Tech (OCT) – The OCT certification course covers olfaction and odor, odor sources, detection process, the theory of odor control, equipment, chemical options, and applications.
  • Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) – The TCST certification program provides specific information for the proper maintenance and cleaning of trauma and crime scenes.

What Does This Mean for You?

The types of situations we handle on a daily basis are unpredictable in every sense of the word. Losses happen in homes and commercial buildings, where loved ones and the general public are the ones at risk by not putting forth the best quality work and maintaining the highest standards. IICRC certification can be that peace of mind; for us to know we have up to date education and that we have done the best possible job, and for you to know that you are safe anywhere SERVPRO Cedar Mill has performed services.

When you have an emergency, you can be certain that you're safe with SERVPRO Cedar Mill. Give us a call today at 503-619-6198!

For more information on the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, go to www.IICRC.org.

Our 1-4-8 Service Response Policy | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

two men in uniforms holding drying equipment outside of a green SERVPRO van Our team is committed to being ready when your disaster hits.

At SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills, we completely understand the importance of timeliness when your home or business disaster occurs. Having a team ready for a quick response helps alleviate your stress as soon as possible and helps mitigate further damage.

Our 1-4-8 Service Response Policy dictates: 

  • Within one (1) hour from the notice of loss, a SERVPRO Professional will contact you to arrange for service.
  • Within four (4) hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services (if necessary).
  • Within eight (8) business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person. 

*Exceptions may apply under certain conditions, such as a local catastrophic event or storm situation.

Having a quick response expectation and protocol helps our team get to your property and help reduce the damage of your loss. In order to minimize further damage like mold, or further structural issues our team is committed to getting your property back to “Like it never even happened.”

If you are in an emergency situation give us a call at 503-619-6198 and we will coordinate our team to mobilize and get your home or business back in order!

Responding to COVID-19 | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

man in SERVPRO uniform and a man in a suit jacket stand behind a model of an office, large orange letters say 'Here to Help' In these unprecedented times, we remain steadfast in our commitment to helping our customers.

We must adjust our operations to some extent. At SERVPRO of Cedar Mill, we have begun screening calls for COVID-19 symptoms or situations. Even if we have a simple water loss, we ask if they understand the 3 levels or Categories of COVID-19 

We are asking about symptoms such as cough, fever or shortness of breath. If that information is obtained, we then relay to our responding units to don appropriate PPE.

We’ve adjusted our response matrix and how we approach damage restoration calls. For the time being, we send in the minimum required number of personnel to assess the situation. If additional help is needed, that crew radios outside to the crew leader to bring in further equipment or personnel. Ideally, if the insured is able to safely do so, have them walk outside to meet our crews. Naturally, this is not always possible, and we must remember to put our customers first.

If COVID-19 symptoms are suspected or confirmed crews don the recommended PPE from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). PPE for COVID-19 is a disposable gown to stop droplet transmission to our duty uniforms, gloves to prevent germ transmission to our hands, eye protection to prevent droplets entering our eyes and mucous membranes, and a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator for respiratory protection. If there is low suspicion of infection, then this level of PPE is not needed. We remain cautious, though, depending on where we are responding. For instance, if the responding area has commercial office buildings, hotels or multifamily dwellings, we will consider placing a surgical mask on yourself with eye protection and gloves prior to entering these facilities. Maintain a distance from your customers and limit contact with them as best as possible. Consider placing a surgical mask on them as well to add additional barriers of protection. 

At the station level, we must remain vigilant and keep our areas clean. Our company has instituted a twice-a-day house chore regiment. Surfaces such as door handles and light switches are sprayed down, all surfaces are cleaned with approved cleaners. Keep in mind that the kill time for most cleaners is 10 minutes for biological agents. Spray your surfaces and let them air dry for 10 minutes. Ensure your facepieces on your reusable respirators are cleaned, common areas and rooms are disinfected, and surfaces within the service vehicles and the apparatus are wiped down.

Lastly, do not panic. I’ve heard the phrase that these are “unsettling times.” To the public at large, that is true, but for us, this is another task that we’ve been asked to handle. It is expected that we remain professional, that we hold the line, and that we educate and reduce our risk of exposure as much as reasonably possible.

One way to view this is as a gigantic hazmat run. We can reduce the contamination by limiting contact, wearing masks and respiratory protection, disinfecting and minimizing time with our customers.

Why our restoration approach is different?

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

Choosing a restoration company can be a tricky job. The company you choose will be working closely with you in a time that is fraught with emotion and is responsible for restoring your home and providing peace of mind. When you choose the right company, you can be sure that the work will be done well and your overall damage experience will be positive.

Part of the reason why the right company is so crucial is that home restoration is rarely a clear-cut issue because of how many types of damages are related to one another.

Not only does water damage seep into belongings, but it can also damage structures. Fire can release toxic soot particles into the air, causing health effects if not properly addressed. Severe thunderstorms can cause both fire and water damage in one event.

Picking a company that approaches these problems the correct way and can tackle any complications that arise is the most important thing.

What to Look for in a Restoration Company

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

A natural disaster that impacts a business puts a commercial property owner in a difficult position. FEMA reports that after a disaster, up to 60% of business owners are unable to resume operations as they are unable to fully recover from damages.

After a disaster, a company that specializes in commercial restoration can make all the difference on whether your business can reopen, but knowing how to pick the right one is key. Here are a few things to look for in a commercial restoration company:

1. A Response Time We’re Proud Of

For most damages, the longer they go untreated, the more costly and complex they are to restore. While the reassurance to know that help will quickly arrive is invaluable, the time and money saved with a quick response time is an even more tangible benefit.

Because damage does not follow a schedule, we provide around-the-clock emergency service for business owners to report the damage. This way we can begin to assemble at any hour, letting you focus on the other recovery tasks involved in reopening.

2. A Team You Can Trust

When your business is in the hand of restoration technicians, you want to know that those technicians are leaders in their field. This way you can be sure a quality job will be done.

The standards for restoration are set by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), which are the standards we adhere to when training our technicians. After the initial training, they are also provided opportunities to get additional certifications and complete supplementary trainings to ensure their knowledge is always up to date.

3. A Quality Collection of Equipment

When it comes to removing mass quantities of water or ridding the air of harmful contaminants following a fire, having the right tools makes all the difference. A company that utilizes the most technologically advanced tools is a wise choice for picking a company.

To give some guidance to commercial restoration companies, the IICRC sets standards for recommended equipment, which is what we follow when buying our own tools. Having the right tools for the job is integral to the efficiency and the effectiveness of the restoration.

If you’re in need of commercial restoration, do not hesitate to make the call so you can get your business back faster. Our trained experts are here to help 24/7 contact us at 503.619.6198.

Don't get caught up in the stress

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

One of our technicians finishing up his day after a major water loss job. Our SERVPRO vans are easily distinguished by the bright green color!

Regardless of the time of year, it's critical to make sure your home/business are well suited for any kind of disaster that strikes. We know that a flood will not only overtake a home, but it'll create a flood of emotions as well. 

When you live in the PNW area, it's an even greater risk at having to deal with mold or water damage. The heavy months of rainfall will usually test the integrity of someones house, and it's not uncommon to have a chain of events when disaster strikes. What we mean by this, is that if water damage goes left untreated - it could potentially create even further damage with microbial growth. There's always something to be cautious about when it comes to preparing your property for the worst. That's why we have trained technicians who are ready for any job that you come across! 

Water damage? No problem.

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Lately, an abundance of our emergency calls have circulated around water damage restoration issues. We've had production technician out on these calls with immediate response, and we've been doing our best to make every job seem "Like it never even happened".

We didn't receive too much snow, but the impact of high volumes of rainfall has caused many basements to get flooded. Alongside this, there's been problems with roofing. We are always available 24/7 if you notice something out of the ordinary. It's very important to note that if the water damage isn't resolved in a timely manner, then there's a substantially higher risk of microbial growth forming. Don't hesitate to get any water damage issue taken care of! We're here to fix it. 

What makes SERVPRO of Cedar Mill / Oak Hills special? (Valentines Blog!)

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

What is it that makes SERVPRO of Cedar Mill / Oak Hills stand apart from other businesses? 

We love our community. 

So we strive to ensure that not only are we caring for the damage restoration side, but also the customers we have coming to us as well. We believe that doing good things is contagious. When the holidays arrive, we want to get involved with community events to see that everyone has an enjoyable time. When people go through struggles with anything from microbial growth issues, fire damage, to even carpet cleaning... We aim to keep our customers informed and well educated from start to finish. 

Stressful times are temporary. But with SERVPRO of Cedar Mill / Oak Hills, our number one goal is to make things seem "Like it never even happened". 

Horrific weather in the Pacific NW

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can easily happen when you least expect it. Always keep a close eye on every corner of the house when there's high volumes of rainfall.

"When it rains, it pours" is what they say. For many in the Pacific Northwest, it's been record breaking conditions. Seattle received more snow than they've had in 70 consecutive years! 

Meanwhile in many parts of Oregon, the snowfall has been treacherous. School closings, dangerous road conditions, and many emergencies for the SERVPRO team to handle! 

In Cedar Mill, however, we've been getting non-stop rain that's causing flooding around the local area. This causes potential hazards to your home in a wide variety of ways. Basement flooding is prevalent, along with leaking roofs. At SERVPRO of Cedar Mill / Oak Hills, we take genuine care of our community. This also means giving the insights of weather to homeowners, and sharing advice on how to sustain the inclement weather. 

So whether it's you, or someone you know that is dealing with an emergency water damage situation - You can have the highest confidence that we'll make it seem "Like it never even happened." 

We've got the extensive knowledge and experience

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

Between our knowledge and handy equipment, we've got you covered on every aspect!

Did you know that mold can generally take only 24-48 hours to develop with optimal temperature and humidity? 

Were you aware that a household leak can waste more than 10,000+ gallons of water per year? 

We are experts in the home damage restoration business, and know some surprising facts that may help homeowners who are curious about most types of damage that people tend to face. We can go on about our certifications and extensive hands-on training... But the bottom line here is that our technicians are always happy to assist you with information that you might be wondering about. We specialize across the board with fire, water, mold, and many other services that most people will eventually need! Our goal is to make it seem "Like it never even happened."

How we handle water damage

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

We possess a variety of sizes when it comes to equipment. Whether it's a small crawl space, or open basement... We have the tools and experts needed!

SERVPRO utilizes air movers, dehumidifiers, portable heaters, and water extraction equipment of all shapes and sizes to work fast. We work to draw moisture from the surrounding environment and make every effort to prevent damages to finished products or expensive equipment, including the structure of your building itself. Our services make controlling corrosion, rot, and mold after a flood easier than ever before.

Whether you are dealing with water damage as the result of a fire or are recovering from a flood, our team is ready and willing to help. We have an entire team of trained professionals available to respond to your water extraction needs 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. No situation is too small or too large; we are trained to provide you with full-service solutions regardless of your circumstances.

Don't get scammed by "storm chasers"

11/19/2018 (Permalink)

One of our vehicles ready to deploy 24/7.
  1. Too-good-to-be-true prices. Often dubious restoration companies will offer low prices to grab your attention, but be wary of surprise costs that will hurt your wallet. Never let the price of the repairs be the sole criterion for choosing a restoration firm.
  2. Requesting upfront cash payments. While it can be a regular practice to deposit up to one-third of the estimated price on the day repairs begin, avoid paying in cash or more than the expected payment. Pay by check or credit card, and pay the final amount only after the work is finished and you are happy with the quality of the repairs.
  3. A lack of references. References are easy to check and can help you quickly identify if the company is legitimate and provides good service. Research the company online and check feedback on user-review sites such as Angie’s List or Yelp, or ask friends or business contacts if they have had any experience with the firm.
  4. High-pressure tactics. Often a “storm chaser” will arrive uninvited to your door peddling their services. If the contractor is using high-pressure sales tactics, it is best to turn them away politely and shut the door. Technicians should be courteous, thoroughly explain the scope of work and answer all questions. You should never feel pressure to accept their services.
  5. Lack of training. Professional cleaning and restoration firms require management and employees to engage in formal training in a variety of cleaning and restoration disciplines, and these educational efforts will be ongoing. Inquire about the formal training and certifications of technicians who will be working in your home or business. Look for organizations that require their technicians to hold certifications from organizations like the IICRC to ensure the work is done correctly.
  6. Inability to show credentials. Never hesitate to ask for proof. Ask to see the individual’s certification card, business license and insurance certificate. To verify a company, you can contact the IICRC which is a not-for-profit standards-setting and credentialing body for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industry. Call the IICRC at 1-844-464-4272 to confirm the certification of any company that has contacted you. You can also go to https://www.IICRC.org/IICRCFirmLocator to locate a qualified cleaning and restoration firm in your area. Immediately after a storm, a home or business owner should contact their insurance provider for a storm damage assessment by an adjuster.

You can go with SERVPRO of Cedar Mill / Oak Hills with the highest amount of confidence that we have our professional training and necessary certifications to get the job done. We always strive to make it "Like it never even happened." 

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