SERVPRO of East Honolulu’s Timeline

3/15/2023 (Permalink)

We take pride in our efficient and seamless process we employ for each and every new damage. Our customers appreciate our straight-forward methods, because time is of the essence once disaster strikes your commercial property! 

This is the essential timeline that happens once we get a claim or a call 

Within the hour: After receiving the claim or the call we contact the insured and/or the residential tenants to schedule the initial assessment. This is when we gather contact information, if there is still water, what materials are damaged...etc 

The Initial Assessment: The initial canvas of your commercial property occurs, taking pictures of the damaged structures, gaining measurements of the areas that need demolition, and simply inspecting the nature of your damage. 

Insurance Pause: Within the next few days an estimate will be drafted up by one of our technicians. This estimate will be sent to your insurance companies, and we will proceed with a treatment.  

Cleaning, Demo: When everything is approved by insurance, and the restoration process is drafted up. Our technicians will swing by the commercial property to do a controlled demolition or a thorough cleaning process. Regardless of which route one pursues this step is essentially removing the remnants of damage incurred.  

Restoration: After our technicians have finished prepping for the other contractors who restore your property. Whether that is fixing parts of drywall or replacing tile, it takes 2-3 weeks. 

Final Moments: This is when we do a final inspection, just overall inspecting the progression of restoration. Retrieving materials or tools left on site, adjusting your home to its pre-damage condition. Whether that is moving your couch, or unwrapping furniture. 

SERVPRO of East Honolulu strives to be quick and efficient after all our motto is… "Like it never even happened." Regardless of the natural disaster, you are safe in our care and we are prepared!! Taking pride in our company, means we stand with values that you can see in the field. Call us (808)395-9545.

Full-Service Restoration Company

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Start Your Commercial Restoration Today! Call us at 808-395-9545

Since the start of SERVPRO of East Honolulu, we have been here for our community, serving both families and business recover from fire, water, or storm damage. Our vast knowledge on what is affecting our community most on water, fire damage and cleaning services instills a culture of change. We are constantly evolving our technique, ensuring that our customers get the best and most efficient way possible to mitigate their problems.   

"Like it never even happened."

The technicians of SERVPRO of East Honolulu are expertly trained not only in disaster mitigation but in commercial general reconstruction services. After we’ve dried your building, removed odors, and cleaned contents, we’ll transition smoothly into the commercial restoration phase of your project.

Not only are we equipped for your disaster's needs, but our technicians are also trained professionals with IICRC certifications and instilled in SERVPRO work values. Here, we get the job done as soon as possible, as transparent as possible, for your convenience. Our technicians will know how and where you need our services and equipment. From restoring flooded hotel rooms to reopening fire-damaged restaurants, our craftsmen have the expertise, training, and equipment to successfully complete any type of commercial restoration.

To ensure a smooth experience from start to finish, SERVPRO of East Honolulu works closely with our clients throughout the commercial general remodeling process.

We’ll return your property to preloss condition by creating a customized, quick, and cost-effective plan based on our range of general reconstruction services:

• Complete Debris Removal
• Structural Damage Assessment
• Repair Versus Replacement Assessment
• Building and Property Demolition
• Smoke and Fire Damage Reconstruction
• Water Damage Reconstruction

Full-Service Restoration Company

SERVPRO of East Honolulu is your one stop solution to property damage restoration. From initial response through to returning your commercial property or home to preloss condition, SERVPRO of East Honolulu, provides the following services:

• 24/7 emergency response
• Emergency Water Removal
• Mold Removal & Remediation
• Storage services
• Document Restoration
• Asbestos Removal
• Odor Removal

Start Your Commercial Restoration Today! Call us at 808-395-9545

Who you gonna call?

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to protecting your commercial property, there is nobody more trusted than the experts at SERVPRO of East Honolulu. To find out more about our commercial restoration services, just give us a call today 808-395-9545

• 24/7 Emergency Services – With expert coordination and professionally trained crews, we will respond to your business emergency ASAP!
• Water Damage – From a simple condo bathroom to a completely flooded hotel, we are equipped to deal with water damage of any size.
• Mold Removal – Mold is tricky and can be expensive if not dealt with correctly. We have done some of the state’s largest and most complicated mold remediation jobs. Trust in us, not just to get rid of existing mold, but also to make sure that new mold won’t develop.
• Fire & Smoke Damage – A fire of any size can bring your life or business to a halt. Minimize the impact to your world with our highly efficient fire and smoke damage services.
• Structural Drying – We use state of the art equipment to thoroughly dry complex commercial structures from the inside out!
• Content Storage Services – SERVPRO of East Honolulu offers complete packing, inventory, and relocation services for our commercial customers during the repair and mitigation process.
• Document Restoration – Our highly-trained staff provides premier restoration services for documents damaged by water, smoke, or sewage.
• Reconstruction – SERVPRO of East Honolulu’s inclusive reconstructive services, you will never have to wonder who will finish the job.
• Air Duct Cleaning – Eradicate odors, allergens, and microbial hazards with professional air duct cleaning and treatment.
• Temporary HVAC – SERVPRO of East Honolulu offers temporary engineering controls to supplement or replace the existing HVAC in your building.
• Odor Control – We don’t cover up odors – we eliminate them with our forensic identification process and safe, efficient remediation services
• Dehumidification Services – Prevent future issues from water damage with our extensive dehumidification services.
• Asbestos Abatement – In the last 20 years, SERVPRO of East Honolulu has completed many restoration and reconstruction projects that had been interrupted or were at a standstill due to asbestos removal problems.

Tips on reopening your business after a natural disaster

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

A natural disaster can occur at a moment's notice. Within seconds, your business can be damaged or destroyed, forcing you to close your doors until you can get back up and running. Unfortunately, businesses that haven’t implemented a disaster recovery plan before the unthinkable happens may likely be unable to reopen their doors after a loss. In fact, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), up to 40 percent of small businesses never reopen their doors after a natural disaster strikes. With lack of planning for financial damages, property destruction, loss of essential business documents and equipment, and taking care of staff needs, it can be difficult for business owners to rebuild when disaster strikes.

Luckily, the experts at SERVPRO of East Honolulu are here to help. Use these tips to get your business back on its feet as soon as you can after disaster strikes.

CREATE A DETAILED NATURAL DISASTER PLAN

• Which disasters are likely to impact your business, depending on where it is located
• Locations suitable for employee evacuation
• How to stay in contact with all staff members
• Emergency contact information for each employee
• Plans to protect and/or access vital business records and information
• If there will be an off-site location from which employees need to work until doors reopen
• Contact information for the business’s insurance company, financial institutions, and a reputable disaster restoration company

If you need help creating your plan, print out FEMA’s business continuity and disaster preparedness plan, fill in your company’s information, and ensure key employees are aware of its details.

KEEP LINES OF COMMUNICATION OPEN

As soon as you can, keep your customers and staff informed about what's happening with your business. Provide an estimate of when you'll be able to reopen for business. If excessive damage forces you to temporarily relocate, let others know how to find you. Keep in mind that your ability to recover from a natural disaster might largely depend on how quickly your employees are able to return to work. Reach out to your team, and work with them to make scheduling changes if necessary so everyone can get back to normal as soon as possible.

SEEK OUTSIDE HELP

While FEMA provides financial assistance to businesses that are located in a federally declared disaster area, the process of receiving aid can take some time, especially when an astronomical number of claims are being filed. Have a backup plan in place to ensure you're able to cover the costs of repairs in a punctual manner.

Consider purchasing a flood insurance plan that specifically covers natural disasters. The Small Business Administration (SBA) may also be a good place to turn for help. Through the organization's Office of Disaster Assistance, businesses that are located in declared disaster areas can apply for low-interest, long-term loans to make repairs and replacements.

SET YOUR BUSINESS UP FOR A QUICK RECOVERY

Even just one act of nature can cause a major interruption. Businesses that recognize the importance of having a detailed plan in place to recover after a natural disaster may have a greater chance of survival. Start listing out your steps to rebuilding before disaster strikes to increase your chances of recovering.

If the unexpected does happen, remember that you’re not alone. Count on the experts at SERVPRO of East Honolulu to guide and support you throughout the recovery process and help get your business back up and running again as quickly as possible.

Creating a Business Response Plan

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Those initial few moments after a water damage emergency happens in your business are critical. Do you know what to do? Does your team know what to do? Do you know who to call? Those are just three of hundreds of questions we can ask ourselves about emergency preparedness in a water damage emergency such as a flood.

Ready.gov strongly encourages all businesses to have a disaster response plan in place, just in case. Not just for floods but for anything that requires quick action. The better people are prepared for the worst, the more likely it will be that everyone gets out safely and that the appropriate steps are taken quickly to correct the situation.

“At the very least, every facility should develop and implement an emergency plan for protecting employees, visitors, contractors and anyone else in the facility. This part of the emergency plan is called “protective actions for life safety” and includes building evacuation (“fire drills”), sheltering from severe weather such as tornadoes, “shelter-in-place” from an exterior airborne hazard such as a chemical release and lockdown. Lockdown is protective action when faced with an act of violence.”
– Ready.gov –

First, start by creating a plan of action for when the incident first happens. At SERVPRO of East Honolulu, we would love to be involved in the full process of creating this plan. We can help you pinpoint possible issues within your building that could cause significant problems in case of a flood, and also have a copy of your disaster response plan in our files just in case you ever need us. This is also actually a critical component for first responders in Indianapolis to have on file as well. Giving first responders, and your restoration company of choice, blueprints of your property and copies of your disaster plan will help greatly with the initial response.

Once you identify particular risks in your building, and in your region (such as potential severe weather like tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, etc. depending on the region of the U.S. in which you operate), you can start putting together a plan to include (but not limited to):

• Evacuation procedures
• Meeting places
• Lockdown procedures
• Important numbers
• Plan of action for who in upper leadership is in charge of what during an emergency
• Communication during and after the event

Once you have your plan in place and delivered to the right people, there are a few other things to think about. For example, is anyone in your company CPR-certified? During severe weather outbreaks and disaster situations, first responders will be flooded with calls for help, meaning response times could increase. Taking a simple CPR class on a Saturday morning could mean the difference between life and death for those around you during a disaster. There are also a number of first response teams in communities across the country that are always looking for volunteers to help during disasters. If you want to help, reach out to your local government offices and they can point you in the right direction.

Owning Commercial Property in Eastern Honolulu

10/31/2021 (Permalink)

It is a huge undertaking to own a commercial property, especially to make sure that it is maintained and operating properly. Some hotels and malls use $30,000 worth of electricity a day, and it is not always a given for the businesses to consistently make rent every month. Business owners and commercial property owners share similar anxieties about infrastructural needs or happenings. It is no one's intention to ever create a problem down the line by negligence but it indeed occurs. 

This list is important to keep in mind, before you buy a commercial property. Not everyone is an honest business man and there may be future finances after purchasing that you have not known about. This prevents mostly anything like that from happening. 

Check to see if the following structures have sustained or any damage to them: 

• Roof  
• Pipes 
• Foundation
• Plumbing 
• Drain System 
• HVAC 
• Ceilings for previous water damage 

Issues with these structures can be out of the control of any person’s hands. Making sure that these areas are not already damaged though when looking at properties in the Eastern Honolulu community is important to a great start as a business or property owner!  

It is easy to get an appointment with us, SERVPRO of East Honolulu is inspecting your building or property for any damage. We also do a free of cost evaluation for your property- this keeps imperative information on your property in our database, so if anything happens we can run over there and clean it up… "Like it never even happened." Call us with any questions, comments, or concerns at (808)395-9545.

Commercial Businesses Trust SERVPRO of East Honolulu For a Professional Clean

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Honolulu has numerous services to offer to our local retail businesses. Being specialized in all kinds of cleaning and restorative methods; we clean any and all commercial properties like: 

• Small coffee shops 
• Chain Stores 
• Specialty Retailers 
• Malls 
• Department Stores 
• Supermarkets 
• Grocery Store  

Commercial Properties take an innumerable amount of damage like water or fire loss, vandalism, smoke stains, regardless of the issue you need help quickly. And every hour that you are not open to the masses means an hour of lost revenue. We don’t like that feeling and neither do you, SERVPRO of East Honolulu works hard to ensure you are up and running with our experienced technicians manpower through all jobs. These types of experience include: 

• Mold Removal 
• Odor Removal 
• Document and Record Recovery 
• Total Overseeing of Remediation and Restoration 
• Facilities Cleaning and Restoration 
• Inventory Documentation and Packing 
• Vandalism Cleanup 
• Equipment Restoration 
• Water Drying 

You can trust the restoration process when you partner with SERVPRO of East Honolulu and consequently our technicians. 

We will help your business get up and running. "Like it never even happened." 

Call at any time for all kinds of emergencies at (808)395-9545, and email us with comments or questions at SERVPROehonolulu@aol.com

Choosing SERVPRO of East Honolulu

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of East Honolulu we offer an array of services, with a vast amount of equipment, cleaning materials, and chemicals, we make the cleaning or restoring process a quick and efficient as possible. 

We also specialize in commercial services for our local businesses, we especially take pride in our commercial cleaning services. 

What are our commercial cleaning services? 

We are not exclusive to whom we offer our services to whether you own a grocery store, commercial property, office space, or restaurant. We commercially clean to increase your spaces appearance and overall its functional use. Our services range from water cleanup, air duct cleaning, mold remover, and overall cleansing with EPA approved chemicals that instantly kills bacteria. 

• Water cleanup: 

From major to minor water damage, we are here for all those needs. Our water damage restoration aims to appease our customers in the most economically efficient way possible. Damage can occur from the simplest issues of a faulty air conditioner, continuous droplets of water from leaky pipes or bursting pipes. 

• Air duct cleaning:

Cleaning your air ducts helps facilitate healthy air flow and pollutant free breathing. We use HEPA filter that molecularly filter out pollutants, mold spores and decreases water moisture in the air. 

•  Mold remediation:  

Microbial growth of mold and other pollutants can happen anywhere at anytime. With excess water and humid areas in your commercial area left untreated can cause health effects and can spread rampantly. Here at SERVPRO of East Honolulu we specialize in mold remediation and follow thorough guidelines to ensure mold growth is not an issue for you.  

Our commercial building restoration services:

Whenever disaster strikes the biggest concern- after safety- is the structural damage from the event of water, storm, or fire damage. Our services offered to repair, and rebuild after natural causing damage ranges from drywall removal, to carpet repairing/replacement, painting, and so much more.  

Why Hire us, a Professional Commercial Cleaning Company:

SERVPRO of East Honolulu employs professionals who are knowledgeable in the latest uses of science and technology in the cleaning industry, not to mention also in the restoration business. With years of commercial cleaning under our belt we can say that our team is a well-trusted group of individuals here in the East Honolulu Region.

We know that disaster can strike any time, and for your convenience we are available for any emergency  24/7 

For your commercial needs do not hesitate to call us:  

(808) 395- 9545

Preventing Mold Growth on your Commercial Property

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning carpeted areas on commercial property is a simple and cost-effective way of preventing mold.

Preventative Measures are crucial for preventing Mold Growth

Here in East Honolulu it gets pretty humid compared to other regions in the Hawaiian Isle. There are many business and personal properties that have to bear with continuous growth of mold because of how suitable Hawaii's innate climate properties is to allow for growth. Mold tends to float in the air and slowly finds other mold spores. Here are some tips  to help prevent mold especially for commercial properties. 

1. Preventative Tools 

Everyday cleanliness really helps minimize the growth of mold, and bacteria spores. Not to mention, that taking preventative actions also leads to more bang for your buck; not only does it save you money but it saves you from issues. Like using floor mats, cleaning water moisture immediately after a spill, or even using a floor mat in one’s office space. Carpet cleaning frequently stops mold growth and the build up of inactive spores which exist for more than a year. Ensuring that your employees clean water access or liquid spills will be imperative to a cleaner commercial property.

1. Air Duct Cleaning  

Because of the extreme durability of mold spores, they can exist “inactivated” until water moisture, or if it finds a colony of mold. Which can be microscopic and exponentially increasing as the humid Hawaiian day trolls on. Cleaning your air ducts helps circulate the air better and keeps your property’s air healthy. Air ducts tend to have a build up of bacteria, mold spores, and dust… all pollutants. Regularly cleaning air ducts facilitates a lower chance of having a mold issue. Cleaning your air ducts also increases office air health!

1. Carpet Sanitation  

Here in East Honolulu, having carpet can occasionally get hard. The moisture in the air wicks more the fuzzy material and can cause a rampant breeding ground for mold to exist in. Sanitizing your carpets has numerous benefits such as prevention of mold, dirt removal, and even the removal of feet oils that tends to really bond with the carpet. Cleaning carpets as soon as any liquid spill happens prevents any issue to happen from the spill.  

SERVPRO of East Honolulu is full of equipped and licensed individuals who can easily and efficiently clean carpets of mold issues or general cleaning. We also have state of the art technology that allows us to detect any hidden growth of mold behind walls, also finding moisture pockets in ceilings and roofs from I.R scanners.

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Meet, Lorenzo, owner of SERVPRO of East Honolulu. Call us today at 808-395-9545

Flooding and water damage events in Oahu commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of East Honolulu

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

For Immediate Service in Oahu, Call SERVPRO of East Honolulu

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

We provide immediate service day or night! 

SERVPRO of East Honolulu provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Oahu. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – (808) 395-9545

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Oahu commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: 

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation 

Commercial Building Cleaning Services

Every commercial property experiences wear and tear, including dirt and grime that accumulates from ordinary use. You can count on SERVPRO of East Honolulu to make your workspace look its very best. Professional cleaning helps to protect your carpet and upholstery and increase its life-span. Learn more about our commercial cleaning services:

• Commercial Cleaning Services

Major Causes of Commercial Water Damage

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

Air condition leak caused mold in the ceiling

Major Causes of Water Damage
Did you know that a leaking faucet can cost you more or less 250 gallons of water each month? Below are the 6 most common causes of commercial water damage.

Damaged sprinkler system
The law requires all commercial entities to have a sprinkler system, along with a fire alarm, installed in the building for safety purposes in case of fire. The sprinkler system should only get activated when there is too much heat from fire. However, over time, the sprinkler can get broken and malfunction. When this happens, the sprinkler can get activated even without fire leading to serious flooding within the building.

Roof leaks
The roof should protect the occupants and everything within the building from the external elements such as the heat from the sun and rain. But a leaky roof does otherwise. As the roof gets older, it also becomes more vulnerable to heavy rains, resulting in water damage in your building’s roof.

Broken HVAC system
Your business’ HVAC system is an essential part in maintaining the temperature of your building and to make its occupants comfortable. However, like any other part of your commercial building, your HVAC system can also experience issues such as clogging and leaking. An HVAC system that is not cleaned and maintained regularly can cause water damage from the excess water in the compression tanks.

Broken equipment and appliances
Sometimes, your building may have appliances such as a water heater, AC, washing machine, and others. Apart from that, there are also pipes within the building that can get damage anytime and cause water damage in the commercial space. Major problems happen if these equipment and appliances get broken and no one notices it or during off-hours as it can leak a significant amount of water.

Damaged windows
Another common cause of water damage in commercial buildings are the damaged windows. Rain water and moisture can seep through especially if the windows are not properly maintained and need re-caulking. While it may not cause immediate flooding, it can do great damage on the drywall and can encourage mold growth.

Natural disaster
Apart from the damage in your building’s foundation and roof, water damage in commercial buildings can also be caused by natural disasters like hurricanes, thunderstorms, and heavy rain resulting in flash floods. Clogged gutters can lead rainwater to flow towards the foundation of your building, making it more vulnerable to water damage.
Commercial water damage is a devastating problem that any business owner can experience. While there is no way to totally get rid of the threats of water damage on your building, knowing its most common causes will help you minimize the risk.

Mold - how long does it take to grow?

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

Mold developed from a leak in the air ducts

A leaking pipe, a damp wall, or even just moist air – all of these can cause mold in your home.

Excess water in your home can be a huge problem. Not only does it ruin furnishings and leave your home smelling musty and stale, but it can also lead to mold.

Mold thrives in damp areas and water can help it to grow. It doesn’t show up straight away though, so how long does it take for mold to grow if you’ve got a damp problem?

How Long Does Black Mold Take to Form?

If you’ve had a leak of water or even a flood in your home, you’ll first be occupied with fixing the problem and clearing the mess. After that’s sorted, you should be asking yourself how long does it take for black mold to form?

This doesn’t mean until it appears on your walls or surfaces, but how long until it takes holds in your home. At first, you won’t actually see the mold latching onto your walls, but it’ll be there. Within just 24-48 hours of damp exposure, mold will start to germinate.

If you think mold is forming, you can wipe over the area with a diluted bleach solution. This won’t always kill 100% of the bacteria, but it’s a good start.

How Long Does it Take for Mold to Grow?

Now you know how long it takes to form, let’s look at how long does it take black mold to grow? 

After 24 hours, your mold spores are likely to be germinating on your surfaces, but this can take up to 3 days. By 12 days, the mold should be present on your damp walls, floors, and surfaces, although you still might not be able to see it with your eyes.

It’ll actually take around 18 days for the mold growing in your home to be visible to your eyes. That’s quite shocking! So, even if you think you’ve solved the problem of a burst pipe or leaking roof, you might have some more cleaning up to do weeks down the line.

Once the mold has become visible to the eye, cleaning it properly will be harder. Mold tends to stick heavily to surfaces and, even if it looks like you’ve washed it off, the spores may still be there.

How Fast Does Mold Spread?

Now we’ve answered how long does black mold take to grow? its time to talk about it spreading. Mold is unlikely to stay in one spot if it remains untreated, so catching it early is essential to stop it taking over your walls.

When mold is germinating, it’s quite contained and is unlikely to spread. It’s only around 12 days when the mold colony is more stable that it’ll begin to move and grow. This is something you definitely don’t want, which is why catching mold early is so important.

Get the Right Help

So, how long does it take for mold to grow? That all depends on your situation and we can only estimate, but it’ll be germinate almost instantly after a leak and will appear visibly after around 18 days.

Precautions for Owners of Older Property

9/20/2020 (Permalink)

Older properties have a few advantages such as charm and location, but they can be difficult to maintain, especially for landlords. Plumbing issues can haunt landlords and operators of apartment complexes. Many of the systems are outdated. Obsolete pipes made of polybutylene not only frequently crack and break but they also affect the quality of the drinking water. If the goal is to avoid constant repairs and frequent complaints from tenants.

A landlord should try these solutions. 

- Regular Inspections:Regular plumbing inspections can catch small problems before they get big and expensive. They can also prevent expensive problems with water damage that destroys flooring and creates other issues such as mold growth. Plus, an expense that is planned for is often easier to manage than a surprise bill. So you don't have to call us anytime soon :) 

- Replacing Antiquated Piping Systems: This product was popular in the 1970s and the 1980s because it was inexpensive and easy to install. Unfortunately, it doesn't belong in a rental unit plumbing system, or anywhere else for that matter, for a number of reasons. Repeated repairs will just result in more repairs. The solution is to replace the pipes with CPVC, copper, or some other suitable material. We recommend copper or plastic pipes because of its durability and inexpensiveness. 

- Partnering with a Trusted Mitigation Company: The services of a professional water remediation franchise can come in handy for a number of circumstances. Water restoration experts arrive quickly on the scene and take care of a water problem 24/7 and 365 days a year. SERVPRO of East Honolulu, is Faster to Any Size Disaster. Certified technicians have the training and equipment to handle water leaks, toilet overflows, and broken pipes mitigation services. 

- Monitor Sewer Lines: Tree roots and other obstructions can cause sewage overflows and backups. Regular maintenance can clear away dangers to sewer pipes. 

An Assessment of Your Business’ Disaster Preparedness

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

If your business has been impacted by a disaster, you can contact us 24/7 for guidance on how to begin the commercial restoration process.

There is a lot of risk management that business owners must be responsible for, especially when considering the risk that natural disasters and emergencies pose. While it can be an intimidating thing to consider, assessing how prepared you are will allow you to determine where there are gaps in your knowledge that you can fill in, ensuring you are both protecting your investment and keeping yourself safe from disaster-related harm.

Understanding how the pieces of preparedness work together to help you recover faster provides a great foundation for preparedness. Understanding your insurance coverage, your emergency planning and your restoration considerations from the get-go will help you have valuable peace of mind.

The Importance of Fire Preparedness as a Business Owner | SERVPRO® of East Honolulu

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

If your business has experienced a fire, we’re here 24/7 to respond and begin restoration. Call us 808-395-9545 today to learn how we can help you

For those who own their own businesses, you are likely well aware of the industry risks you face. However, there are other risks, too—namely, emergencies such as fires—that should be prepared for in order to keep your investment and staff safe. Planning ahead can not only decrease your liability, but it can also dramatically reduce the recovery time required to reopen your business’ doors.

Because business owners are busy, we have put together some of the top tips for increasing fire preparedness in the workplace in one convenient spot for your reference. By doing a little bit of planning on the front end, you can experience less stress should you find yourself dealing with a fire in the future.

Disasters Happen- How to Prepare Your Business and Recover

2/8/2020 (Permalink)

An estimated 25% of companies are unable to resume operations after a major disaster, according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safe

A natural disaster can often catch small businesses off-guard. In fact, it's estimated that 25 percent of companies are unable to resume operations after a major disaster, according to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety.

How quickly a company is able to recover after a disaster usually determines how succesful they are in the future. Adequate preparation creates trust among your clients and will allow your business to continue without too much damaging effects.

Here are the six ways small businesses should prepare for a natural disaster.

1. Make a reliable emergency response plan

To protect your employees and clients, business owners should know all the proper evaucation routes and make sure everyone else is informed as well. It is recommended to post escape routes and plans throughout the building and keep emergency phone numbers readily available.

2. Create a survival kit

Every business in operation should have a survival kit with disaster-ready items, such as a flashlight, plastic sheeting, garbage bags, etc. Consider storing a digital camera as well to take photos of the property damage for your insurance company.

3. Ensure that you have enough insurance coverage

Before a natural disaster is given the opportunity to blow your business away, make sure to review your insurance policies. What kind of coverage do you have on your facilities and properties? Are they enough to insure your recovery if a disaster does physically destroy your business? Small business owners should also consider business interrruption insurance in case you have to close your doors for a substantial amount of time.

4. Back-up all your electronic data

With most business transactions conducted electronically, it is crucial that files and data are backed up and saved. A company may not be able to reestablish itself without important financial and client databases. It is recommended to save all your files—including the last few years of taxes—at least two times and store one in a waterproof container at the office, and the other in an offsite facility. Anything that you are currently working on should be mailed to yourself on a Web service that can be accessed from any computer.

5. Determine a communication strategy

Plan a strategic and efficient way to communicate with employees and clients while your business operations are down. Also, make sure everyone understands their communication responsibilities. For example, who is going to be responsible for contacting the insurance company? Or who will contact clients to update them? Or who will be the spokesperson in case information needs to be relayed immediately?

6. Consider temporary relocation if needed

If you can't get into your office, how do you continue business operations? Think about another location that you may work at if disaster strikes. 

Would your business be prepared in the case of a fire?

2/8/2020 (Permalink)

Whether you’re a small business owner or are in charge of a large corporation, commercial fire protection is not a step you can afford to skip.

If you’re a small business owner, your very livelihood depends on your company’s ability to function. A workplace fire can have disastrous consequences on your business — which is just one of the many, many reasons it’s important to prevent a fire before it ever starts. Not every fire can be prevented, but by following this safety checklist, you’ll be able to eliminate the majority of fire risks from the get-go. Here are some fire safety rules you should be sure to follow for your small business:

• Occupancy rating
  Buildings have specific occupancy ratings that specify how it can be used and how many people can be inside at one time. In order to reduce the chances of a fire and to be able to follow proper safety procedures in the event of one, you must comply with these rules. The occupancy rating will also outline the types of fire-resistant construction and fire protection systems that are required for that location. These are not merely suggestions; these are rules that you must implement and maintain in order to ensure safety and lawful compliance.

• Fire protection systems
  Your business and area will determine the requirements for fire extinguishers and protection systems. Typically, every 3,000 square feet of area requires one fire extinguisher. Extinguishers also have specific ratings that need to be met. In addition, your business will need a commercial fire sprinkler system and fire alarm systems. Many restaurant owners or hoteliers may also want a fire suppression and detection system, as non-chemical suppression systems operate effectively 96% of the time in commercial areas with large oven ranges. This can have a huge impact on the amount of damage a kitchen fire can do.

• Regular inspections
  Fire inspectors will typically conduct examinations for commercial buildings every two years in order to identify fire safety code violations and to educate owners on fire safety. Routine inspections have been proven to reduce fires and the losses they create. In addition, you should have your fire protection systems examined on a routine basis, especially in the event they have been recently used. Fire extinguishers need to be replaced after use and should be examined monthly.

• Evacuation plan
  The amount of businesses that have a solid plan for evacuation in the event of an emergency is inexcusably low. Out of 119 businesses surveyed, only 35% had any sort of fire evacuation plan. At a minimum, your plan needs to include a preferred method for reporting emergencies, evacuation policy and procedure, a floor plan and emergency escape route, and safety procedures during an emergency. Having a clear plan that’s accessible to all employers and employees is vital during an emergency.

Recover From Storm Damage With Our Help | SERVPRO® of East Honolulu

2/1/2020 (Permalink)

When flood warnings are issued, take them seriously.

The frequency with which storms occur can sometimes cause individuals to forget about how much danger they pose to life and property. Storms were responsible for around $2 billion in damages in 2018, and are something homeowners should prepare for and take seriously.

Putting a plan in place for storm damage restoration in advance is wise—there are many post-storm restoration scams, and it is important to choose a company you can trust. With our upstanding reputation and highly trained professionals, when storms strike, we can help you.

Small Business Fire Safety Tips

12/28/2019 (Permalink)

Are you a small business? Is your fire evacuation plan compliant?

One fire can completely destroy a company's finances and productivity. In severe instances, the risk can lead to a closure. In addition to ensuring you are compliant with all the fire safety codes, here are some tips to mitigate the threat fire poses to you business:

• Have the right equipment - make sure you have functioning smoke alarms and extinguishers in the workplace at all times. A fire suppression system is also recommended. 
• Minimize flammable material in storage - packaging materials, paper files amd batteries, as well as other common office items, can be highly flammable. Minimize the amonth of these materials kept in the workplace, and safely store those that are kept. 
• Manage electronics safely - when leaving for the day, always turn off everyting plugged into an outlet. Make sure electrical cords are not damaged as broken wires can start fired, and never allow circuits to be overloaded.
• Regularly check fire alarms - conduct monthly checks to ensure that all fire alarms, as well as the systems that monitor the building, are functioning properly. Alert employees therein to give them ample time to evacuate in the event of a fire. 
• Have a written plan - write out a plan that includes evacuation protocols, fire prevention policies, emergency phone numbers and all other matters pertaining to procedures. Make sure all employees have access to the plan.

Restoring damaged cargo

6/19/2017 (Permalink)

High-speed air movers create airflow across walls, carpets, pads, furniture, and clothing, which accelerates the evaporation of moisture.

Water can damage more then just homes or buildings.
High end designer clothing and shoes were damaged while being transported through a major American airline company. Rain and moisture kept the boxes saturated for hours. Once landed and in a panic when the cargo was seen clearly wet, the first and only company that came to mind to react as soon as possible was SERVPRO OF EAST HONOLULU. 
SERVPRO of East Honolulu can respond immediately and has the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property. SERVPRO of East Honolulu uses advanced water damage inspection and extraction equipment to remove/restore it as quickly as possible. Our highly trained technicians will monitor and document the drying process so that you know your property is back to normal.

Hard wood floor drying mat system

6/1/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO OF EAST HONOLULU using the drying mat system to save the hard wood floor of a high rise Waikiki condominium

On top of the regular drying units SERVPRO OF EAST HONOLULU is readily equipped with, we also provide hardwood floor mat drying system. This is the most efficient way to extract water vapor from hard wood floors. With just a single hose connection to each mat, you can cover large areas with just a single recovery unit. 

The drying floor mat system draw out trapped water vapor from your hardwood floors; not meant to be used on laminate flooring. The gasket sides of each mat create a powerful seal for the greatest possible suction. Each mat is made from strong PVC plastic and must be cleaned with hot water and soap after each use to avoid cross contamination between jobs.

GOT HARDWOOD FLOORING? SUFFERING FROM WATER DAMAGE? NEED SAVING? CALL SERVPRO OF EAST HONOLULU 808-395-9545, we are here 24/7 Working to make it "Like it never even happened."

"Killing 2 birds with 1 stone"

6/1/2017 (Permalink)

Other than and in conjunction with water, fire, and mold remediation, SERVPRO OF EAST HONOLULU also provides cleaning services.

SERVPRO OF EAST HONOLULU has worked closely with Hawaiian Airlines for a number of years in conjunction with water damage repair, as well as mold remediation. So, when their building maintenance company contract expired, it made sense to call SERVPRO to replace them. It is because SERVPRO operates 24/7, nightly cleaning service was ideal. It’s less disruptive and gives us a chance to thoroughly clean the area(s) without interrupting day to day business.

SERVPRO OF EAST HONOLULU provides ease and efficiency by being a well-round restoration company. Call us 808-395-9545 24/7 because no job is too small nor too big for our level of expertise.

SERVPRO Expands PGA Sponsership with PGA Fantasy Golf

4/14/2017 (Permalink)

http://fantasygolf.pgatour.com/#/one-and-done

Local cleanup and restoration specialist says the season's first major golf tournament is a great time to "master" Fantasy Golf skills.

Honolulu, HI (Grassroots Newswire) March 22, 2017 - There is an old adage: "It never rains on a golf course." As the official cleanup and restoration company of the PGA TOUR, SERVPRO® knows this isn't true, but rain or shine, fans follow their favorite players' performance at PGA golf tournaments throughout the season. Recognizing the ever-growing popularity of the game, SERVPRO has expanded its relationship with the PGA TOUR by becoming the presenting sponsor of the PGA Fantasy Gold games. available at pgatour.com/fantasy

"We know people don't associate SERVPRO® with the wide-open spaces and fair weather feeling of a golf course. After all, SERVPRO® is the company you turn to when the unexpected, even the unthinkable, happens to your home or business," says Raul Natividad, owner of SERVPRO® of EAST HONOLULU. "But each SERVPRO business is also a local business, there to support the community in good times and bad. Teaming up with the PGA TOUR as the sponsor of their Fantasy Gold Suite helps us build connections within our local community. We want local home and business owners to know that we are there for them ready to respond at a moment's notice if things go wrong."

The new "One & Done" games were launched on January 3, 2017*, but the game structure allows players to join in on the fun at any point during the current season. Each week, game players select one player to earn points for them in that week's tournament. The PGA TOUR Fantasy game is based on accumulated FedEx Cup points and the PGA Tour Champions game is based on accumulated Charles Schwab Cup points . A player may select a given golfer for a tournament in each of the One & Done games only once in each season. Since some tournaments earn a pro golfer more points than others, game strategy is based on selecting the right golfers for the right tournaments.
"With the first major tournament of the season-The Masters-just around the corner, now is a great time to start our One & Done game for this year's tour," says Natividad. "If you 'master' the trick of choosing the right golfers in the right tournaments, you could jump to the top of your Fantasy league." The top finisher in the PGA TOUR game will win a new set of gold clubs, while the top prize for the PGA TOUR Champions game is a trip for two to the Charles Schwab Cup Championship at Phoenix Country Club in Phoenix, Arizona, November 6-12.

SERVPRO® OF EAST HONOLULU specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it "Like it never even happened," for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO® OF EAST HONOLULU, please contact Raul Natividad at 808-395-9545 or servnat@aol.com

*http://www.pgatour.com/company/2017/01/03/pga-tour-fantasy-one-and-done-SERVPRO-debuts.html