Why SERVPRO Is The Best Selection for Your Restoration Needs

7/26/2023 (Permalink)

No matter what kind of damage you face, remember to call SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk Counties for all of your restoration needs.

Every restoration effort has at least one thing in common—time. The longer damage is allowed to fester in your property, the less likely you will get away with a quick and inexpensive restoration and cleanup.

So, what makes time so important when it comes to damage? It’s the things inside your home that aren’t designed to face extended exposure to the elements. Items like flooring, carpet, and any fabric or wooden furniture will suffer immediate damage when exposed to water, with more damage happening as time goes on.

To avoid costly cleanup and an extended restoration process, you can take action before damage arrives to mitigate the potential destruction. Take steps like clearing your property of dead trees before a storm to reduce impact damage or cleaning your kitchen thoroughly to reduce any fire hazards.

In addition, you should have an emergency plan that everyone in your household knows well. Thanks to the Georgia state government, we have Ready Georgia, which compiles some great information about how you can prepare for the disasters we face here.

Unfortunately, many people will suffer home or business damage during their lives, and it’s important for everyone to know why SERVPRO is the right choice for you.

You Can Rely on Us Anytime

Our team has years of experience working with both commercial and residential damage, which gives us great insight into how stressful these events can be. No kind of damage is ever expected or planned for, so it’s important for you to have someone that you can count on day or night.

This is why our experts stay ready 24⁄7. You can call at any time of the day, and we’ll provide a quick response to help you get started on the right path to restoration.

More Than Restoration

Our professionals provide more than just constant service, however; they also become an integral part of the communities we serve. Our location is locally owned and operated, which allows us to connect with the people in our region and be more than simply a restoration provider.

Aside from all this, our team is trained to handle every kind of disaster, using industry-leading technology to get your structure back in preloss condition. With years of experience, you can feel safe trusting us with your beloved property.

No matter what kind of damage you face, remember to call SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk Counties for all of your cleanup and restoration needs. Not only can you rely on us any time of the day, but you can also feel confident that we’ll have you back in your home before you know it.

When you suffer damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get restoration started faster.

What Is Mold Remediation?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

If you are trying to handle a mold infestation in your home, call SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk Counties.

When you discover a mold infestation in your home, it can be a frightening and overwhelming event—and if you are like most people, your first thought will be, “How do I get this out of my home as soon as possible?”

For this reason, many people will find themselves searching for terms such as “get rid of mold” or “remove mold from home,” because this seems to be the main goal—but when we learn about mold, we will learn why these terms are a bit of a misnomer.

Below, we will look at the characteristics of mold and outline why “remediation” is the preferred term in the mold abatement industry.

The Nature of Mold Growth

Mold growth can be quite a tricky thing. In nature, mold’s function is to aid in the decay of organic material, which means it is always present and ready to do its job. Mold spores are

transmitted entirely through the air and are always present—it is helpful to think of them as agents that are always floating around and trying to do their job.

For this reason, when mold finds an area that is hospitable to growth, it will immediately invade the area and begin reproduction.

How Mold Gets Into Homes

Because mold is airborne, it can feel like a rather insidious spore. Mold can get into homes via open windows, by hitching a ride on shoes or clothing, by coming in through your HVAC system or by attaching itself to the fur of pets.

Essentially, there is no way to keep mold out…but it is possible to stop it from growing within the

home.

How Mold Remediation Addresses Mold Problems

Because mold is present nearly everywhere, it is impossible to fully remove mold from the home. However, mold remediation will address the underlying issues that are encouraging mold

growth and remove the mold-infested materials that are breeding the spores.

While simply removing the mold may take care of the issue temporarily, it is vital to address the reason that the mold has found a hospitable home within your structure so it does not return.

If you are trying to handle a mold infestation in your home, we are the team to call. We practice mold remediation to address the underlying issues—contact us today to learn more.

Common Signs of Mold Growth

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk counties is ready 24/7 to help you fight mold.

Dealing with mold growth is something that no home or business owner wants to deal with, but unfortunately, mold can be a persistent thing. Mold spores are always present in the air so there is the threat of them finding a nice spot to land. Thankfully, mold can only grow and expand in conditions that are favorable to its needs.

One of the conditions that mold likes best is areas that are dark without a lot of airflow—and because mold spores are airborne, they can quickly find places that fit the bill. This means that mold often grows in areas that are not readily apparent or accessible, meaning it is important to be aware of the signs of mold growth so you know what to look for.

The Common Indicators That a Building Could Have Mold Growth

Persistent, Dank Odors

One of the most evident (and frustrating) signs of mold is the persistent odor it produces.

Because mold’s main function in nature is to help organic matter decay, the smell it produces is dank and pungent. If you notice a persistent smell in an area that does not go away or worsens with time, it may be an indicator that mold is present somewhere in the area.

Water Damage That Was Improperly Treated

Mold loves areas that are moisture-heavy, which means water damage can often turn into a

mold problem if it is not treated properly. Water damage can soak into drywall, carpet pads and other hidden areas, and if it is not fully and properly addressed, it can lead to hidden mold growth in these unseen areas throughout the home.

Black Spots on Clothing or Fabrics

Mold can often make its home on fabrics, so if you begin noticing that clothes in your closet or upholstery on your furniture begins to attract spots of mold, that might be an indicator that there is a bigger issue elsewhere in the building. Because mold is airborne, it can travel from the main area it has set up for itself and attach to other objects as it tries to spread.

If you have questions about mold or are in need of mold remediation, we are here to help. Get in touch today to learn more about our services!

Let’s Prepare Your Emergency Ready Plan Together

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk Counties will be there

Being a business owner can seem easy—the idea of getting to pick your hours is ideal! But the reality is, you’re always on call, whether you are there or not, and you are responsible for things like employee relations, payables and safety!

Disasters or accidents can disrupt your business in only a matter of minutes. It’s actually scary to see that FEMA states 40% of small businesses will not reopen after a natural disaster, and a quarter of those that do reopen are forced to close their doors within a year.

That’s why it’s imperative to have a safety plan in place for your business. Three-quarters of all small businesses don’t have a plan in place, and now is the perfect time to make the change. We are here and ready to help you become better prepared.

We are always ready and proud to serve our local communities such as Roberta, Fort Valley, Byron and Zenith, along with so many others. Together we will work to get your Emergency Ready Plan started. Being locally owned and operated means we are all neighbors, and we will help our neighbors through the good and bad times.

When we work together, our goal is to help minimize downtime within your company, and help everyone understand what to do. We will carefully review and analyze your business needs to determine what you might need in the face of a disaster. From there, we’ll detail exactly what to do, including alternative locations to work from and data backup, so that you can react with confidence and not chaos.

Business owners have to worry about enough, and disaster planning is one thing that we can help take off your plate. Contact your local SERVPRO experts to help you prepare your Emergency Ready Plan. You can trust us to protect your business and employees!

When your business is ready to prioritize planning and safety to prevent extended downtime, contact SERVPRO to get the Emergency Ready Plan underway from the folks who know all there is to know about disaster and recovery.

SERVPRO Gives You a Seamless Recovery Process

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

We’ve got the tools and technology to handle any job. Contact SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk counties to learn more.

Doesn’t a cake sound delicious? If it didn’t before the beginning of that sentence, it probably does now.

So let’s bake one from scratch. Ready? First, we’ll go to the local poultry farmer to get some eggs, then the dairy farm for milk. Then we’ll head over to the mill for flour (unless you want to mill it at home for authenticity, and…sugar from the cane fields, maybe?

Yeah, you could go to those extreme lengths to get all your ingredients. But it’s the 21st century, and at this point most of us are looking to find one place we can go to get all the things we need for a cake, or whatever other confectionary delight you may have in mind.

Most of our shopping isn’t modular anymore, because part of what makes a great business great is that it offers a level of convenience that makes it easy to use and often decreases the buyer’s cost.

One of the many great things about being your local SERVPRO is that we can provide you with a single place to take care of every element of restoration after a disaster. Whether the nature of your damage is from water, fire, natural disaster or anything in between, we can get your home fully back to tip-top shape from beginning to end.

Need carpet dried and cleaned? We’ve got you. Drywall burned up in a fire? We can replace it, finish it, and even paint it. (You know we started as a painting business, right?)

Everything from reframing and construction to the tiniest finishing touches—we can make it happen, and you don’t have to worry about the process dragging on because multiple companies and sets of contractors have to wait on each other, communicate poorly, undo, redo and haggle with your insurance agent. From step one to done, SERVPRO has it under control.

We’ll even talk to your insurance company to simplify that process, too.

So when a heavy storm rips through the house, an unexpected flood fills your basement with water, or an electrical fire eats up your hallway, don’t call five companies—call one.

Did you hear the oven ding? Cake’s ready.

For an A to Z cleanup, recovery and restoration solution, you don’t have to worry. Your local SERVPRO has all the tools and teams necessary to finish your project, no matter how complex.

SERVPRO Has the Expertise to Handle Your Cleanup and Recovery

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk counties has your back.

Have you heard of the 10,000 Hour Rule? It’s an idea popularized by author Malcom Gladwell that says, essentially, it takes 10,000 hours to master one’s craft and become an expert.

Noted achievers like Bill Gates in the tech world and Alex Rodriguez in sports and entrepreneurship subscribe to the idea that it takes concerted effort over a long period to be able to truly call yourself one of the best in a given field.

If the 10,000 hour rule holds true, then you can only imagine the level of expertise you can expect when you call your local SERVPRO to help you after a disaster in your home or business. Think about it—1,800 SERVPRO teams nationwide, doing business over the span of a half-century? We tried to do the actual math, but it just made us go cross-eyed.

The point is that when you call SERVPRO, you can be absolutely certain that you’re calling a reputable team of true experts, highly trained and heavily equipped for any home recovery need you may have.

Every SERVPRO franchise owner goes through complete training at the SERVPRO National Training Center, and every team member sits under them to extend that knowledge. We actually have a training house that we flood, set on fire and otherwise destroy, so that our teams can learn firsthand the latest techniques for restoring and repairing damaged homes, furnishings and more.

Expertise matters. And in an age where anyone can get on social media and crown themselves an expert, having a proven track record is what can set one service apart—and nobody has the track record of SERVPRO. For more than 50 years, we’ve satisfied literal millions of home and business owners with quality service and outstanding care.

When you call SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk Counties, you can rest assured you’re getting in touch with teams that know what they’re doing because they’ve been doing it for a lot of people, for a very long time. We’ve put in our 10,000 hours as a company many times over.

When you need thorough, expert home cleaning or restoration, you know who to trust. Contact SERVPRO when disaster strikes, and let the pros handle it.

Trust SERVPRO for Your Remodel

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

When you call SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk counties, rest assured you’re getting in touch with the best restoration team in the business.

We talk a lot around here about recovery, damage from storms and fires, that sort of thing—and we should. A great deal of what we do revolves around helping families and business owners who are struck by sudden situations and find themselves in need of a trustworthy service company to help them restore their damaged homes and business.

That’s a role we’re proud to fill for millions of customers nationwide, and it’s gained us the industry-leader reputation we’re honored to have earned.

But it doesn’t take a tornado for you to take advantage of SERVPRO’s expertise.

Our highly trained construction teams can help you beautify, add on or remodel your home for no other reason than it being something you want to do. No disaster required.

Recent studies show that as many as 90% of homeowners plan on remodeling their homes at some point, and almost four out of 10 plan on doing it in the next year. If you’re one of these millions of homeowners, call SERVPRO of Conyers/Covington when you’re ready to make it happen, and you can trust the same expert teams who rebuild countless homes after disasters to give your kitchen, basement or whole home the facelift you’ve always dreamed about.

We cover the whole process, top to bottom—from inspection and gathering estimates, to mitigating any hazards or other difficulties that may hinder or interrupt the process, to full-service rebuilding and construction.

We can even go the extra mile and help you with dust control, contaminant protection and more with our premium services and EPA-registered preventive healthcare solutions.

You’ll love your new remodel, and you’ll love how easy the process is when you can trust one team to get your work done, instead of a rotation of multiple repair crews slowing down the job and struggling to communicate with each other.

You don’t have to wait for a flood, fire or natural disaster to take care of the expert construction services SERVPRO offers. We can help you build, rebuild or remodel your home and get the dream look you’ve always wanted.

If a remodel is in your future, you owe it to yourself to check with SERVPRO and get a quote. Call us today and get a local team of experts invested in your project.

Whatever Your Restoration Need, We’ve Got You Covered

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk counties to get the job done.

If you pass by a home or business that is up in flames, your heart truly goes out to those people. But when you see that green SERVPRO truck pull up, you know they are being well-taken care of.

At SERVPRO, we provide full-service cleaning, restoration and reconstruction services. So we will fix or clean things from top to bottom, and we will do it in a timely and efficient way.

Here’s a breakdown of SERVPRO services you can benefit from:

Water damage recovery. Whether you have encountered a flash flood that made its way into your home or you had a pipe that has busted, you can be certain that we will take care of you. When it comes to water, it doesn’t take much to do damage, and that’s why you should call us.

Fire damage recovery. A fire is reported every 23 seconds here in the United States. Fires, and the things used to put them out, can do a lot of damage, which requires lots of cleanup. That’s why we bring out all the help we can get.

Mold removal. Mold damage can creep up on you without you ever seeing it and can threaten the structure of your home. Once it’s established in your home or business, mold can spread quickly and easily, so call in the pros.

Storm recovery. Storms of any kind can cause damage, and no matter the size of damage it causes, you can count on us to help you restore your home or business.

Commercial needs. If you’re a business owner, have peace of mind in knowing we offer you all the same services we offer homeowners, plus a few extra!

General cleaning. Cleaning can be a headache for some, but for us here at SERVPRO, it’s pretty simple. We will provide your home or business cleaning services, including carpet or curtain cleaning and more.

Specialty cleaning. Sometimes you have cleaning needs that go beyond the basics. If you need specialized services such as document restoration or biohazard cleanup, we’re here to help.

Construction. Sometimes, damage can be severe and restoring your place is out of the question. The good news is you don’t have to find another company to help you—SERVPRO can reconstruct your home or business and get it looking “Like It Never Even Happened.”

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.

Why SERVPRO Should Be Your Top Choice for Water Damage Restoration

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk counties is ready 24 hours a day to respond to your emergency water damage.

Having water damage your home is something that can feel extremely overwhelming. Whether you have a leak, a flood or other type of water-related issue, water damage can be disruptive to your life and your routine. And if you are unsure of how to handle it, it can be more disruptive than you imagine.

No matter where you live, it is important to understand your risk for flooding and other types of water damage—especially because one in 10 properties in the United States are at risk for flooding—so you can plan ahead for it. Water damage can come about suddenly, but having a plan in place for who to call can help you handle it quickly and efficiently.

Why to Choose SERVPRO for Water Restoration at Your Home

**We respond quickly to your call.** Water damage is not something that you want to leave unattended for any length of time. Mold and mildew growth can start quite quickly after water damage, but the faster it is addressed, the less likely this is to be an issue. With our 24/7 emergency line, you can be confident that you can get in touch with us whenever you need us.

**We understand the intricacies of water damage.** Water damage is rarely a simple issue, and oftentimes, it is a rather complex one. Water can seep into many places that are not supposed to be wet, and when these areas are hidden, it is impossible to know the scope of the issue. Because we understand the intricacies of water damage, we monitor impacted areas to find any areas with hidden moisture to make sure any water damage is fully addressed.

**We have a national backup plan.** If there is a widespread issue that causes water damage, such as flooding, resources in the local area can be spread quite thin. We combat this issue by having the backing of our national brand—because there are SERVPRO locations across the nation, we can scale up resources, equipment and technicians as needed, so you can expect the same level of service even when there is an extreme need.

*If you need assistance with water damage in your household, you can count on us to be there for you. Get in touch with us at any time to learn more about our water restoration process.*

Why Choose SERVPRO for Your Fire Restoration Needs?

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk is ready 24 hours a day to respond to your Fire Restoration needs!

A house fire is something no one would like to experience, but unfortunately, they are a more common occurrence than most people realize. Every year, around 358,000 structures will have a fire event in them, causing billions in property damage across the United States.

House fires can lead to significant property damage as well as pose risks for injuries and deaths, so preparing as much as possible is a must for mitigating their impact.

Focusing on fire prevention is the best thing to do to keep your household safe, but it is also important that you have a plan for the aftermath of a fire just in case. Because smoke and soot can permeate rooms in the home that were not even impacted by a fire, it can be quite disruptive to your daily life—which is why we are here to guarantee a rapid response when you call us.

Why to Choose SERVPRO When You Need Home Fire Restoration

**We will get to you quickly.** Experiencing a house fire is a frightening thing, and if you have damage to your home, it is understandable that you will want it taken care of as quickly as possible. That is why we are here for you 24/7, 365 days a year. We always provide a rapid response when you call us, no matter the hour.

**We understand fire damage.** Fire damage is a complex thing. Not only is there the damage from the actual flames, but there is also smoke, soot and often moisture damage to consider. We approach fire damage with this in mind, and have the knowledge to tackle the entire spectrum of fire damage so it is "Like it never even happened."

**We have expert fire restoration technicians.** Because we always want to provide you with the best restoration service possible, we take our training programs very seriously and ensure that our technicians are well-versed in the world of fire restoration. Between third-party certifications and our own SERVPRO training that our technicians complete, you can be confident that the technicians assigned to your job know exactly what to do.

*If you are in need of fire restoration, let us be the team you call. Get in touch with us at any hour to learn more or to report your fire damage.

Why SERVPRO Is Your Go-To for Any Restoration Needs

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk counties is ready 24 hours a day to help you with your restoration needs.

Needing restoration on your home is something that can feel rather overwhelming, but eventually, it is likely to happen. From damaging severe weather incidents to leaks or kitchen fires, there are many ways that a home can sustain damage, but fortunately, there are comprehensive solutions that can help ease the complications of restoration.

To better prepare your household to deal with damages that need restoration, it is best to think ahead regarding what company you would like to use. That way, when you discover damage, you can make the call immediately to begin the restoration process.

In most cases, it is vital that restoration happens quickly—so below, we have outlined a few reasons why we are here to be your go-to.

Why to Choose SERVPRO for Your Restoration Needs

**We understand that each scenario is different.** While incidents that require restoration are quite common, every scenario is still different. For example, in spite of the fact that house fires impact more than 350,000 families each year, every fire causes damage that varies in its scope. That is why we make sure that we have the expertise to deal with damages of any type, so you can always feel confident when you call on us.

**We provide a response 24 hours a day.** When it comes to damage restoration, it is important to act fast. This is vital not only for helping your household get back to its usual state, but it is also a must to prevent further issues from arising, such as mold and mildew growth after water damage. For this reason, we are here to respond to your call 24/7, 365 days a year.

**We do more than damage restoration.** In addition to simply restoring the damage an incident has caused in your home, we also help with every aspect of the process. From helping you pack things up to dealing with your insurance agent to get the most for your claim, we aim to provide assistance in any way we can throughout the process.

*If you are in need of a go-to partner for residential restoration, you can count on us. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our process or to receive a rapid response to your damage.

Winter Car Emergency Kit

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Don't get caught in the cold this winter. Make sure your car is fully stocked for any mishaps that could occur.

When you hear the phrase “emergency kit,” do you think of a first aid kit? A collection of supplies nestled in a closet somewhere, just in case they are needed? What about an emergency kit for your vehicle? Do you have one? Do you know what to put in one, should you decide to make one?

The NSC (National Safety Council) recommends including: 

• Nonperishable, high-energy foods

• Drinking water

• Reflective vest in case you need to walk to get help

• Car cell phone charger

• Jumper cables

• Fire extinguisher

• Duct tape

• Rain poncho

• Compass

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• Cold weather items: snow brush, shovel, windshield washer fluid, warm clothing, cat litter for traction

• A properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench, and tripod jack

• A Tool kit and/or multipurpose utility tool

• Reflective triangles and brightly colored cloth to make your vehicle more visible

• First aid kit with gauze, tape, bandages, antibiotic ointment, aspirin, a blanket, non-latex gloves, scissors,  hydrocortisone,  thermometer,  tweezers, and  instant cold  compress

When assembling your emergency kit, though we’re specifically focusing on prepping for the holidays,  do consider what you might need on a regular  basis, and assess what you should add or remove, depending on your destination, weather conditions, or the duration of your trip. You should check your emergency kit at least every six months, and restock items that you use or that have expired.

*Source: https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/emergency-preparedness/emergency-supplies-for-car

*Courtesy of Restoration Newsline Vol 32, Iss 12

Thank You First Responders!

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Thank you to all of our first responders. You are all heroes!

SERVPRO is set to host the fourth annual SERVPRO First Responder Bowl, a great college football game honoring the everyday frontline heroes in towns and cities across the nation. This year’s game will be played Tuesday, Dec. 28, at SMU’s Gerald J. Ford Stadium, located on the campus of Southern Methodist University (SMU) in University Park, Texas. Kickoff for the contest is set for 2:15 p.m. (CT) on ESPN. 

Each year, SERVPRO asks their franchisees nationwide to submit the name of a first responder in their local community to be considered for special recognition at the game. SERVPRO selects one first responder from this group of nominees to be honored with an award. 

In previous years, through the generosity of corporate partners, the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl has been able to provide thousands of free tickets for first responders to attend the bowl game with their families. 

“SERVPRO professionals deal with the aftermath of the unexpected every day,” said Rick Isaacson, CEO of SERVPRO Industries, LLC, “but first responders deal with the unexpected when it’s happening. They are first on the scene, putting themselves in harm’s way to protect people and property. The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is our opportunity each year to say ‘thank you’ on a national stage to these brave men and women – and their families – who set an example of courage and sacrifice for all of us.” 

Family Fire Escape Plan

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Take all the necessary steps to prepare your family for a potential fire. Minutes of preparation now can save a life when it matters most.

Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds.

To make the most of what little time you have, be proactive and establish a fire escape plan.  Having a plan in place and practicing that plan will ensure everyone knows where to go when disaster strikes.

As a family, walk through your home and look at all possible exits, doors and windows.  Create a map of your home, so everyone can visually see two ways out of every room, a primary and secondary evacuation route.

As you develop your family escape plan, consider the following steps, provided by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside every sleeping area on every level of the home.
• Walk through your plans with the family, making sure everyone can access the exits easily.
• Set an outside meeting point for the family once they've escaped.
• Once you're out, stay out and wait for help to arrive, do not go back into the burning structure.

Once you have a plan in place make sure all your fire safety supplies are in place and up to date.   Smoke detectors need to be replaced every 10 years, also replace the batteries in your smoke detectors  every six months.  Fire extinguishers need to be replaced every 12 years.   Make sure you have fire extinguishers in the necessary areas of your home, the kitchen, utility rooms, garage, etc.

If your home has two floors, an escape ladder is a necessity for the safety of your family.  Practice setting up the ladder from a first-floor window, so everyone knows how to do it safely.  Escape ladders can be placed near the windows on the second floor, providing additional escape options. You don't want to be searching for it during a fire.

Take all the necessary steps to prepare your family for a potential fire.  Minutes of preparation now can save a life when it matters most.

*Restoration Newsline Vol 32, Iss 10

Protecting Your Property Against Vandalism

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Trust SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk Counties is ready to help you clean up should your business experience damage from vandalism.

Virtually all business properties are subject to vandalism. Vandals can strike anywhere: in cities, suburbs, and rural areas. Fortunately, there are steps businesses can take to discourage vandals from targeting their property.

What Is Vandalism?

While the definition of vandalism varies from state to state, the term generally means the intentional damage, destruction or defacement of someone's property without the owner's permission. Vandalism is a criminal act and is prohibited by state laws. It may qualify as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the amount of financial damage that's involved. Some states refer to vandalism as criminal mischief or malicious mischief.

Why and Where It Occurs

People may commit acts of vandalism for a number of reasons. Here are some of them:

• Punish a business or industry
• Express frustration
• Communicate an ideology or political beliefs
• Express hate
• Show off artistic skills
• Express gang affiliations

Vandals may target buildings, personal property or both. According to the Urban Institute, vandals typically strike in the late evening when business property is unattended. Juvenile offenders may commit acts in the afternoon after school has let out.

Vandals often target public or semi-public property like buses, train stations, and street signs. Such property is easy to access and is often poorly protected. Vandals may also hit private property that's in close proximity to public areas.

Effects of Vandalism

Vandalism can impact your business in a number of ways. First, it can damage your property. Damaged or defaced property requires time, effort, and money to repair. Secondly, vandalism may cause your business to lose income if the vandalized property cannot be used and is essential to your operations.

Thirdly, graffiti, trash, and other types of defacement can have a negative effect on your company's image. Such damage can deter potential customers from entering your premises. Fourthly, vandalism can lower the value of your property. Property that has been damaged or defaced may be unattractive to potential buyers or tenants. Finally, some types of vandalism, such as broken windows, can cause bodily injury to employees or visitors. 

Preventing Vandalism

While you cannot prevent all acts of vandalism, you can discourage vandals from striking your property by taking the steps outlined below. Additional suggestions for thwarting vandals are available from the Urban Institute's website.

• Keep property tidy. Keep your premises clean, tidy, and free of trash. Disorder attracts vandals.
• Maintain good lighting. Make sure your property is well-lit at night. Check light bulbs regularly.
• Install cameras. Install video cameras to monitor activity on your premises. When crimes have occurred, police can use your recorded video to catch the perpetrators.
• Consider shrubbery or fencing. Fencing or shrubbery can discourage vandals from entering your property. Shrubs that have prickly or scratchy leaves like holly and pyracantha can help keep intruders away.
• Consider break-resistant glass. Glass that is break-resistant or coated with security film is stronger than regular glass and difficult for vandals to penetrate.
• Don't ignore it! Vandalism tends to beget more vandalism and can encourage other types of property crimes. Thus, you should make repairs and remove graffiti promptly. Your quick response shows that you care about your property and won't tolerate its defacement.
• Contact authorities. The police department can't respond to crimes it isn't aware of. Report all vandalism to your local police department. The department may increase patrols in your area or create a hotline for reporting incidents. 
• Share information. Ask other business owners in your area if they have experienced acts of vandalism and share the information you collect with other businesses. The information may reveal patterns. For example, vandals may be striking at certain times of the day or on certain days of the week.
• Join a business watch group. Business watch groups are similar to neighborhood watch groups. Group members work to reduce crime by keeping an eye on each other's property. If no watch group exists in your area, you can start one yourself. Tips on how to do this are available from the National Neighborhood Watch website. 

Property Insurance

Most commercial property policies purchased by small business owners cover "all risks," meaning they cover damage caused by any peril that's not specifically excluded. These policies rarely exclude vandalism, so this peril is covered. Most named perils policies also cover vandalism.

Most all-risk policies don't define the term vandalism. This word is defined in many named perils forms. In the ISO named perils forms, vandalism means willful and malicious damage to, or destruction of, the described property.

Two perils that may occur in conjunction with vandalism are riot and civil commotion. These perils are normally covered under both named perils and all-risk property forms. When people commit violent acts during a civil disturbance, they often target business-owned property. Property that has been vandalized by rioters may be subject to looting. Looting is normally covered in conjunction with riot and civil commotion.

Vacant Buildings

Vacant buildings are highly prone to vandalism. Consequently, many property policies contain a vacancy provision like the one found in the ISO property policy. It eliminates coverage for losses caused by vandalism (and several other perils) if the building has been vacant for more than 60 consecutive days.

The meaning of vacant varies depending on whether the insured is a tenant or a landlord. If the insured is a tenant, the unit or suite rented by the policyholder is considered vacant if it doesn't contain enough business personal property for the insured to conduct its ordinary operations. If the insured is the building owner, the building is vacant if less than 31 percent of it is being used by the owner or a tenant to conduct its customary operations. The vacancy provision appears in the policy conditions.

If a building you own or rent will be vacant for more than 60 days, ask your insurer for an endorsement called a Vacancy Permit. This endorsement suspends the vacancy clause for a period of time. It may be available only if you verify that the building is adequately protected from vandals, freezing, and other perils.

Earthquake Safety Tips

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Follow these safety tips to stay safe before, during, and after an earthquake.

Before an Earthquake

• Develop a family communications plan.
• Make a Ready kit for at least three days of self-sufficiency.
• Secure cabinets, bookcases and mirrors to wall studs. Avoid installing bookcases next to beds, since heavily loaded structures could fall causing significant injury or death.
• Do NOT hang pictures over the bed.
• Strap any gas or electric water heater to wall studs. A broken gas line can cause a fire, while a knocked over or ruptured tank could cause damage or scalding.
• Store hazardous or flammable materials safely. If a container of flammable liquid spills during an earthquake, any source of flame may ignite the fluid and start a fire.
• Loss of contact with the foundation is a major source of damage in many large earthquakes. Bolt house to foundation, if possible. Houses in the Southeast are built to stand upright and may not withstand shaking.
• Consider having chimneys, roofs, and walls checked for stability. Bricks from chimneys and wall facings if not secured can fall and cause significant damage or injury.
• Keep insurance policies up-to-date and stored safely. Determine if earthquake insurance is right for you.

During an Earthquake - Drop, Cover, Hold On

• Drop to the ground fast, otherwise the earthquake shaking may knock you down uncontrollably.
• Cover yourself below a strong table or desk. Falling objects and collapsing structures cause many of the injuries and deaths during an earthquake. In addition, cover your head and face to protect them from broken glass and falling objects.
• Hold onto a table or desk and be prepared to move with it. Hold your position until the shaking stops.
• Do NOT run outside or use the stairways or elevators during the shaking. The entrance ways of buildings and homes are particularly dangerous because of falling bricks and debris.

After an Earthquake

• When tremors STOP, vacate premises immediately until it is safe to return.
• Look for and eliminate fire hazards that can cause further damage.
• Follow your communications plan to locate and connect with family and loved ones.
• Check your building for cracks and structural damage.
• Take photos to record damage before you clean up or make repairs.
• Move valuables to a safe, weatherproof location.
• Review your insurance coverage and report claims promptly.
• Collect inventory records, appraisals and photographic records.
• Use licensed professionals to conduct inspections and repair your home.
• Look for ways to better prepare your home for earthquakes as you repair or rebuild.

After the Fire: What to Do to Help Your Business Recover

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Paulding/Polk Counties is your local expert to help make sure your business reopens following a fire.

Although many of us go through great efforts to fireproof our home, we rarely bring this outlook into the workplace. While there’s no replacement for a little bit of forethought and diligence, a fire at your place of business doesn’t have to mean the end of your company altogether. In fact, approximately 60 percent of all U.S.-based businesses reopen their doors after a disastrous fire. Some companies have even gone on to achieve a great amount of success and profitability after such an event. Here are some tips to make sure yours is one of them.

Determine the Responsible Party

The first thing you should do in the wake of a fire at your business is determine the responsible party. This depends on a number of different factors, including whether you lease or own the building, the exact cause of the fire and even your specific amount of insurance coverage. Keep in mind that some insurance policies only cover the contents of the structure and not the materials used in the actual construction of the building.

Sometimes, you may need to wait until an investigation has been completed by your local fire department, police department or insurance company. If this is the case, make sure to maintain communications for further information and instructions.

Safeguard and Secure Your Remaining Property

If the fire has caused significant damage to the exterior walls, doors, windows or roof of your building, you’ll want to act quickly in order to safeguard and secure your remaining property. Smoldering remains should be fully extinguished and any large holes should be temporarily patched. Not only will this prevent vandalism after the fact, but a little bit of effort can go a long way towards minimizing the overall amount of damage caused.

Contact Anyone Who May Be Affected

Next comes the daunting task of contacting anyone who may have been affected as a result of the fire. This includes employees, board members, external partners and, in some cases, customers. If any activities or services need to be postponed or suspended, make sure to communicate that news, too. The last thing you want to do after a fire is to leave your valuable employees and business partners in the dark about the future of your company.

Furthermore, don’t forget to contact your insurance agent as soon as possible. A simple call or email will typically suffice, though large claims may require face-to-face consultation or even an on-site inspection of the damaged property.

Get Your Documentation in Order

Your insurance company will require proof regarding any claimed losses as a result of the fire, so be sure to have any pertinent documentation, including receipts, user manuals and credit card statements, at the ready. You may even want to take digital pictures or video of your property. Not only can this be used in determining your overall losses, it could serve as hard evidence in case any court proceedings should follow.

Repair and Restore Damage

If the structure isn’t a total loss, you might be able to rebuild, repair and restore your business back to its original state. Extensive smoke damage, for example, can typically be cleaned up through a number of different tools so you can go on with business as usual after the restoration.

Initiate the Recovery of Sensitive or Critical Data

Depending on your exact case, you may need to take steps to recover any sensitive or critical data that was lost in the occurrence. Damaged servers, hard drives and even personal computers can all hold data critical to the day-to-day operations of your business.

If the situation warrants, you may even consider hiring a third-party that specializes in data recovery and restoration, specifically in the event of fire. Such individuals are more likely to be equipped with the right hardware and software tools than a company that offers general disaster recovery services. Most data recovery experts will also be able to work with you in order to introduce techniques in disaster recovery planning and data loss prevention.

Getting Back to Business

Once everything has been restored to order, it’s finally time to get back to business. Make sure to outline a comprehensive fire safety plan when moving forward, just in case your business experiences another fire. You might also consider increasing your insurance coverage for the future. After all, it is better to be safe than sorry.

How Team Building Helps Improve the Bottom Line

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

Successful teams must work together wholeheartedly, not just apply the principles of effective task processes.

Teams are at the very foundation of organizational effectiveness. They work best with mutual trust and a common commitment to goals. Teams are more effective than individuals because they have more talent and experience, more diversity of resources, and greater operating flexibility. Research throughout the last decade has shown the superiority of group decision-making over that of even the brightest individual in the group. The exception to the rule is when the group lacks harmony or the ability to cooperate. Then decision-making quality and speed suffer.

Successful teams must work together wholeheartedly, not just apply the principles of effective task processes. Vanessa Urch Druskat and Steven B. Wolff (Harvard Business Review, March 2001) identified three conditions essential to a group’s effectiveness. They are: trust among members, a sense of group identity and a sense of group efficacy. Group identity is the feeling among members that they belong to a unique and worthwhile group. Group efficacy is the belief that the team can perform well and that group members are more effective working together than apart.

20 to 30 percent of business performance depends on people feeling good about working at a company, according to Goleman in Primal Leadership (2002). The link between climate and business performance has been reaffirmed by new research that spans a range of industries. For every 1 percent improvement in the service climate, there’s a 2 percent increase in revenue. Workers who feel upbeat will go the extra mile to please customers, both internal and external, and therefore improve the bottom line.

Atlanta Challenge’s experiential team building and corporate training workshops can give your company the following benefits:

• Boost employee morale
• Improve communications skills
• Develop conflict resolution skills
• Have fun together
• Enhance creative problem solving
• Help teams work together more effectively
• Develop management’s leadership skills
• Increase team efficiency
• Help employees get to know one another better
• Get your group motivated and energized towards company goals.
• Improve customer service through better understanding of customers.
• Improve sales by understanding how to communicate with customers.