Recent Why SERVPRO Posts
Embracing Our Struggles
9/19/2022 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell at 641-672-0872 and our team will gladly assist you!
When you are a Family of Franchises that span 2 states you are going to face growing pains. As a digital marketer, which is more brand-focused, I think that embracing the struggle is what separates our company from other restoration companies. We cheer as a team when we accomplish something but we also work to create a stronger team than the day before. Growth doesn’t stop when things are going well, growth means finding easier practices to help alleviate stress on another department.
Something that our Family of Franchises struggled with was communication especially when your furthest location is 662 miles away. As a digital marketer, I wanted to step up and help find better ways to improve our communication. We had previously implemented a chatbot that is connected to our communication software, Podium. I personally created an E-learning platform that included notes on how certain procedures needed to be addressed.
We have implemented that platform in the training checklist so that they understand our expectations before we get them on the field. I think being authentic is what made our group so successful which stems from “Embracing the struggles.”
Earth Day 2022
4/12/2022 (Permalink)
This year, Earth Day falls on Friday, April 2022! The annual, global event that supports environmental protection was first celebrated in 1970 and continues to play a role in communities and families. SERVPRO® understands the environmental impact that comes along with running a company, so it employs standards that aid in protection such as biodegradable products and a strive to restore materials instead of discarding them. Whether you want to make an effort to save the planet or celebrate Earth Day with fun activities, here is a list of things you can do:
At home:
- Explore nature with your family! Have kids collect and learn about different outdoor materials and wildlife while teaching them to be respectful of the life around them.
- Do a check on your home systems such as your faucets, to make sure they're not leaking and wasting water, and your water heater, to make sure it is not set too high and using up unnecessary power.
- Plant a locally thriving tree or flowers! Help the environment by providing it with more oxygen and get your hands dirty this Earth Day. Missouri’s state tree is a Flowering Dogwood, while Iowa’s is the Quercus Macrocarpa, or bur oak tree. Iowa’s state flower is the Wild Prairie Rose, and Missouri’s is known to be the Crataegus Punctata, or Hawthorn.
At work:
- Invest in a reusable water bottle or coffee cup to lessen the amount of single-use plastic wasted. To make it exciting, collect and add stickers to your cups for personalization!
- Host a telecommute day or carpool day to reduce carbon emissions with less employees driving to work! Personal vehicles are a large contributor to harmful emissions including carbon dioxide, ozone and carbon monoxide that affect human health and global warming.
- As a team, raise and donate funds or items to an environmental cause or organization! There are many local and national groups that work toward environmental protection, wildlife conservation and sustainability.
In the community:
- Attend a community Earth Day event! Many communities have parades, festivals, and park clean-up days to celebrate the day and improve outdoor spaces.
- Organize a group hike! Going on a group walk can promote appreciation for nature and builds community with like-minded individuals around you. This is also a great time to clean up trash and debris left outdoors!
- Build a community garden! Gather volunteers to create potting areas and plant various vegetables to become more sustainable and self-sufficient.
Be an Active Homeowner!
4/11/2022 (Permalink)
Keep your home running smooth through the Spring using SERVPRO's quick tips.
Although SERVPRO®’s focus tends to fall into the interior restoration category including fire, water, mold, and smoke damage, we also know it is very important to pay attention to the exterior of your home or commercial space. Especially with seasons changing and many days of rain to come, faulty areas in your home may allow for water to enter, leading to damage. Here are some things around the exterior of your home that should be checked regularly to keep your space running at its highest potential:
- Clean out your gutters so rain can easily flow through them and drain away from the roof. Gutters filled with leaves, sticks and other debris can become damaged or not work as well.
- Check that your gutter’s downspouts are properly attached to allow water to drain away from the home. A detached or broken spout can lead to water flooding outside.
- Make sure the sump pumps in your home are operational and have a working battery. An unexpected, failed sump pump may lead to a slew of future problems.
- Check that garden hoses are properly attached to prevent water from draining into piping.
- See if the caulking on your windows needs repair. A ripped seal in the window may allow water to enter the home.
Why I Decided To Join The SERVPRO Team: Jacob, Digital Marketing Coordinator
3/21/2022 (Permalink)
A Fun Fact about myself is that I am a National Award-Winning Blogger.
Hello Ottumwa & Grinnell!
I am the voice that helps get the SERVPRO message into the digital space. My name is Jacob, and I’ve been a part of the SERVPRO family since October 2021.
After college, I gained experience as a digital marketer by getting my foot-in-the-digital space with a few digital marketing positions. In August 2021, I worked as a part-time server at a local Tap + Eatery when it experienced a small kitchen fire. SERVPRO created an accurate timeline that helped my coworkers and me plan how many days we would be out of work. Sure enough, by the time they said the crew had the project completed, I was able to return to work.
I know the relief feeling that SERVPRO provides home/business owners, and I knew I wanted to market for such a great company. This job has taken me to an array of different levels of restoration needs, and it is sad to see our clients at what could be considered a darker time for them. Our team will work their tails off to get the project done so our clients can quickly move to pass the disaster. I am proud to work for a company that constantly strives to provide the best service in the restoration industry.
If this has interested you in working for our SERVPRO of Ottumwa & Grinnell location, please send your resume to jbrecht@SERVPRO.me.
Frost Bite Season!
1/4/2022 (Permalink)
By wearing multiple layers, you ensure that all heat is being kept internally to prevent being exposed to the cold temperatures,
Many people don't wear the proper amount of layers to help protect themselves from unsafe weather conditions. It only takes 30 minutes of being exposed to low temperatures to develop frostbite, with severe consequences.
Frostnip
Frostnip is a mild form of frostbite, which will quickly develop into a more severe type of frostbite if kept in cold temperatures. If left out in the freezing temperatures, it will progress into a complete numbness in the affected area. When dealing with frostnip, you need to take immediate action, which comes from the reheating of the skin. The sigh of relief is when you can feel a slight tingling pain, which means blood flows throughout the affected area.
Frostbite
Often, frostbites are pointed out by someone unaffected because the affected person lacks the feeling in their body. When you notice a slight discoloring on someone's skin is when you should seek immediate medical assistance. There are two stages of frostbite, superficial and deep, different.
Superficial Frostbite
The first indicator that its frostbite and not a frostnip is when you notice a slight discoloring of the skin. If caught early on, you can reheat the skin, but it might have a mottled look with the possible stinging pain. When the skin is reheated, you shouldn't freak out if liquid blisters form 12-36 hours after reheating.
Deep Frostbite
Deep frostbite is when all layers of the skin and tissue are either damaged or dying. Bold discoloring is a good indicator of this type of frostbite, but the primary symptoms are losing all sensation of cold or discomfort in the area. Large blisters are expected to form 25 to 48 hours after rewarming. The biggest concern is if the joints and muscles stop working, which indicates that they are drying.
Knowing What To Look For
If you are anyone notices any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention:
- Increased pain, swelling, inflammation in the affected area.
- Fever.
- When the skin is brutal, cold, or blotchy.
- In severe cases, you have a higher chance of developing hypothermia, with the symptoms being intense shivering, slurred speech, drowsiness, and the loss of coordination.
We at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Pella want you're to stay warm during these chilly times. If you are spending a lot of time outdoors, ensure you return to the warmth to prevent getting frostbit.
You Are Loved!
1/4/2022 (Permalink)
If you or someone you know shows signs of wanting to end their life, please reach out to one of the resources listed.
We have seen an increase in the suicide rate, 25x more significant than the general public for individuals with serious mental illness and mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder. Many people suffer in silence, often putting on a fake smile to ensure no one can see their depression. Knowing these warning signs can ensure that you can provide resources to help those who want it.
Warning Signs of Suicide
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having a lack of wanting to live.
- Talking about being a burden to others.
- Displaying extreme mood swings.
- Losing interest in things or losing the ability to experience a pleasure.
- They are withdrawing or feeling isolated.
Suppose you recognize any of those symptoms in a friend or family member. In that case, we advise getting that person in contact with one of the following resources:
Resources:
- Southern Iowa Mental Health Center
- Crisis Line: (641) 682-8772
- River Hill’s Community Health Center
- Crisis Line: (641) 856-4400
- Your Life Iowa
- Veterans Crisis Line
- Crisis Line: (800) 273-8255, Press #1
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- 911 or emergency services
SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnel wants you to know that you aren’t alone, and yes, things might be difficult in the current moment, but things will turn around. You are loved! If you or someone you know is struggling, please provide them with the listed resources above.
Let Us Help You During The Hard Times...
12/7/2021 (Permalink)
We will clean up a job to ensure our clients won't have to think about it.
One of the services we offer here at SERVPRO is cleaning that involves sensitive situations. We have the most professional staff working to help our clients when their focus needs to be elsewhere for many different reasons.
Homicide/Suicide Clean-up
There are specific topics that are very sensitive to talk about, and this is one of them. We understand that our clients will need us for a homicide or suicide clean-up, and we want to take this one thing off the list. We will remove any potentially pathogenic substances remaining on the job site, which provides a safe and clean area for our clients to grieve the loss.
Hoarding Clean-up
Hoarding is when a client may struggle to let go of a mass amount of content due to their rationalizing feeling. This type of clean-up is complex because our client feels that each item will fulfill a particular need later in the future. They may struggle with letting go of the article, so our team of professionals will ensure that the job is completed so that our client understands that they are being heard. Animal Clean-up should be considered for severe hoarding cases where a client may not remember the last time they saw a pet.
To read more, feel free to call our office to speak with one of our trained professionals or visit our Biohazard and Clean-up Restoration page.
Joining Local Organizations
11/12/2021 (Permalink)
Mallery Atkins, Pella's Sales and Marketing Representative
SERVPRO takes pride in our team member’s desire to become involved in organizations within their local communities. Being involved in various organizations gives our team the opportunity to network, welcome new businesses to town, and assist in planning community events. As a member of the Poweshiek Leadership Program, Mallery Atkins, our Sales and Marketing Representative in our Grinnell/ Pella franchise location, recently had the opportunity to tour the Iowa State Capitol Building in Des Moines.
During this visit, Mallery and the rest of the Poweshiek Leadership Program took part in a mock House debate on current topics, discussed the district mapping process, and took a tour of the Capitol building itself.
Before moving the Capital from Iowa City to Des Moines, the Capital was in Burlington, before Iowa was a state. Many fires destroyed the Capitol buildings before what we have now, and sadly there were no restoration companies to help at that time. Our Des Moines Capitol Building also has the largest gold dome of all the states and is covered in 23.7 karat gold leaf.
Inside the Capital is 136 years of paint and restoration. Instead of following a modern approach or leaving the walls white, Iowa’s Capital has referred back to some original looks. Not a single room has wallpaper, everything is hand-painted, and the same gold leaf covering the dome outside can be seen in bordered designs on the rooms inside.
If you ever get the opportunity to tour the Iowa Capitol Building, don’t walk; run.
What is a HEPA filter?
9/20/2021 (Permalink)
- What is a HEPA filter?
HEPA is a type of pleated mechanical air filter. It is an acronym for "high-efficiency particulate air [filter]" (as officially defined by the U.S. Dept. of Energy). This type of air filter can theoretically remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns (µm). A micron is one-millionth of a meter or approximately 1/25000 of an inch. The diameter specification of 0.3 microns responds to the worst case; the most penetrating particle size (MPPS). Particles that are larger or smaller are trapped with even higher efficiency. Using the worst-case particle size results in the worst-case efficiency rating (i.e. 99.97% or better for all particle sizes). Source: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/what-hepa-filter-1
How to Handle a Burst Pipe
5/18/2021 (Permalink)
No one wants to deal with a burst water pipe. How long it takes for your pipes to freeze and cause problems also depends on your homes insulation and where the pipes are located. General rule of thumb for water to freeze in your homes pipes the temperature outside would need to below 20 degrees Fahrenheit for a total of six hours or longer. Below are a few good precautionary steps you can take to prevent your water pipes for bursting.
- Disconnect your hoses from you outside faucets.
If your hose is connected to your outdoor faucet the water is not able to drain out causing the water in the water pipe to freeze leading to a potential bursting pipe.
- Keep your water faucets running
In extreme cold weather it is sometimes a good idea to leave your faucets on a small drip to prevent the water in your pipes from freezing.
- Install heat tape
Heat tape or wrap is used to go around your pipes and is used to maintain proper temperature to prevent a busted pipe.
- Check for air leaks around your home
keep the colder air out.
- Maintain proper temperature in your home
Keep temperatures for dropping to 32 degrees in areas of your house where pipes are located.
- Leave cabinet doors open
If your sink pipes are on an outside wall keep your cabinet doors open to allow warm air to enter your cabinets to prevent a frozen pipe.
Keep That Gutter Clean!
4/26/2021 (Permalink)
Make sure to keep those gutters clean to reduce an potential damage to your home. If you have any questions or you need assistance then call today.
SERVPRO is here to help. It is important to take time and reduce damage to your property by keeping your homes gutters cleaned out from debris to prevent excess water from building up. During the fall months is when most gutters become clogged due to all the leaves falling and when left clogged though out the winter months can cause ice dams to build up leaving you with potential for severe roof damage. In the spring and summer when gutters are left with debris from previous months can cause the gutter to detach from your house causing roof, soffit, and foundation problems by letting water seep in. If let go for long periods of time the water sitting in your gutters during the warmer months can become a breeding ground for insects, mold, and weeds on your homes roof. With routine seasonal cleaning you can prevent multiple gutter issues and if you’re looking for better protection you can simply install gutter guards which are a screen that locks inside your gutter and allows water to enter and keeps the unwanted debris out allowing water to flow freely away from your house.
Our SERVPRO Services
4/23/2021 (Permalink)
This is Rick Isaacson and he is the CEO of the 1,800 SERVPRO franchises over the U.S. He is committed to helping others!
Our SERVPRO team specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. Our SERVPRO franchises can also mitigate mold and mildew from your home or business.
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. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for us. Along with our current certifications listed, we are also advanced certified water damage restoration technicians. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened." We celebrated our 10-year anniversary as a SERVPRO area franchise in 2020. We have valued your business over the years and will continue to value it for the many years to come.
Laundry Safety
3/12/2021 (Permalink)
Laundry can easily pile up, but it is essential to practice basic safety techniques to protect your home.
Not clearing your filter after each use can be dangerous. It is reported that there are over 17,000 fires related to home dryers each year.
Here are a few simple tips to follow to help prevent a clothes dryer fire.
-Clean the filter screen after each load to prevent lint buildup.
-An adult should be at home whenever the dryer is in use and the home should have working smoke alarms.
-Clean the vents outside twice a year to clean out any accumulated dust and lint.
-Commercial dryers should be cleaned out regularly because of their frequent use and shared venting system.
-Don't dry mop heads in the dryer. The dryer's heat can ignite the chemical residue on mop heads.
-Keep the surrounding area clean. The dryer's heat may ignite anything left too close to the dryer.
-The safety of your family is important to us and we hope that you don't encounter such a fire. Be sure you follow these steps to avoid a fire in your home.
Mold Remediation on a Roof Ice Dam
1/28/2021 (Permalink)
If you ever experience an ice dam and it has affected your property, we can be there to help you clean up and do any mold remediation.
In the case of an ice dam, we are able to help with drying water damaged walls and floors and we can remove and clean up affected insulation. This image shows how an ice dam can lead to potential water damage. If the water goes untreated then it can produce mold spores that can continue to spread. We start by properly removing all saturated and affected insulation then the area can be treated and dried out if necessary. When working in older homes, we make sure to test for lead and asbestos per OSHA expectations. The goal of a mold remediation project is to return the indoor environment to a clean, safe, livable condition. With the build up of ice on the roof and gutter, the ice melts and can seep through to the dry wall and insulation. This can then be a source for mold. If you are in need of help, call our office and we will he there to make it "Like it never even happened."
Ew! What's that smell?
1/19/2021 (Permalink)
We are prepared to be there for you, and we can help you with any mess or smelly situation, no matter how bad.
Good news! We are able to deodorize your home whether it's a water job or fire job or it's merely animal smells. We have the equipment to get the job done. Our team of professionals will use Ozone generators to remove any odor after the source is removed. Ozone gas (O3) is very effective in eliminating odors. When the Ozone generator is on, plants, animals and the team member need to get out of the area that is being treated, because ozone can be toxic when inhaled at significant levels. It is meant to make O2 turn to O3 as it is an olfactory desensitizer. Ozone works slowly, but is very effective. Depending the disaster, the ozone generator can do the trick, or it can a necessary deodorization step.
Homemade Cleaners Around The Home
12/3/2020 (Permalink)
If the mess can’t be cleaned then make sure to call the professionals. Our SERVPRO team is here to help!
Home Made Glass Cleaner
*Mix 1 part Vinegar with 2 parts water
*Add ½ teaspoon dish soap for every cup of water
*Shake to mix
ALL-Natural Homemade Floor Cleaner
*1 part water
*1 part white vinegar
*1 part 70% Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
*A few drops of liquid dish detergent
*1/4 part lemon juice
DIY Upholstery & Carpet Cleaner (If you have animals this can be a life saver)
*¼ cup of baking soda
*¼ cup of white vinegar
*3/4 cup of warm water
*1/2 tablespoon of dish liquid soap
Homemade Deodorizing Spray
*2 cups fabric softener
*2 cups baking soda
*4 cups of warm water
Homemade Garbage Disposal Cleaner
*3/4 cup baking soda
*1/2 cup salt
*1/2 teaspoon liquid dish soap’
*1 lemon
After first 3 ingredients are mixed, grate lemon peel into mixture. Then cut lemon the lemon in half and remove the seeds. Squeeze both halves into the mixture until lemon is fully incorporated. Grab a sheet pan, spoon and some parchment paper. Cover the sheet pan with parchment paper, use the spoon to mold in half rounds, and then tap them out onto the pan. Allow the tablets to dry overnight. Place dried mixture into a sealable container.
This information was compiled from various on-line sources. SERVPRO is not responsible for any and all claims made by these sources.
WINTER CHECKLIST FOR YOUR HOME
11/20/2020 (Permalink)
The colder months are quickly approaching and we are ready to help assist if you experience any damages this winter.
WINTER CHECKLIST FOR YOUR HOME
Winter weather can wreak havoc on your home if you are not prepared. Here is a list of tips and tricks for the winter months.
DRAINS
*Cover outside faucets with an insulated cover if not frost free.
*Unhook hoses and drain them before putting them away.
HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
*Cover air conditioner with a protective cover.
*Replace air filter in furnace.
*Check duct work in attic and or basement for any leaks.
*Inspect Chimney flue for cracks, creosote and soot buildup before starting a fire. Also, check damper to see if it is working properly and not rusted, or warped. This could help avoid a fire hazard.
ROOF
*Check for deteriorating flashing around vent pipes, chimney and sky lights. Seal or replace where water could seep in.
*Check for any roof damage which could create water damage from snow or ice melting on roof.
SERVPRO Green
10/30/2020 (Permalink)
We have whatever equipment and vehicles are needed to get the job done. We make sure that the Green SERVPRO vehicles are ready to go.
Green is on the Scene with our many different types of vehicles. During emergency water and fire calls we respond with our trucks all ready to go! Thanks to some of our amazing staff these trucks keep stocked.
We have a water truck that we bring to the job site to extract water right on the premises. This helps to ensure that the drying process can start quickly so your water emergency can get cleaned up. We also have other vehicles that are designated for large loss jobs and removing your affected content for cleaning at our shop. When you see the green SERVPRO vehicles you know we are helping you, your neighbors, and your local businesses get back to everyday life quickly and efficiently.
What is the IICRC?
9/17/2020 (Permalink)
We are trained and prepared for any situation, so we can help you no matter the incident at hand.
What is the IICRC? It is the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification and is a nonprofit organization for the cleaning and restoration industry. It is an asset for our team members to be fully trained under the IICRC. Our technicians to our office members are encouraged and supported to take classes and expand their knowledge beyond what is expected of them. Our SERVPRO team members study IICRC best practices guidelines for fire damage, water damage restoration, and mold remediation. It is a certification and standard-setting organization. IICRC standards are developed to provide the highest quality concepts, terminology and procedures recognized in the cleaning and restoration industry. There are many certifications that our team members earn and our SERVPRO team of franchise professionals make sure to keep up with the certifications as technology and material changes. Our team members take the certifications to be prepared for any situation and to properly address the problem and apply efficient and thorough mitigation.
Is it essential that our team is trained properly so that we can help your business quickly, efficiently, and professionally no matter the day.
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - a defensive cleaning program
5/18/2020 (Permalink)
Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.
Let us help you get back to business
As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.
Extensive training and specialized products
As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.
From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.
3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify
When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.
- Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
- Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for the cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials. In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible.
- Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.
Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation
We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.
Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell today for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.
* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience. Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.
We are Here for You
4/23/2020 (Permalink)
We offer our services every day of the year, 24/7, no matter the size of the disaster.
We know these times have been trying for each and every one of us. There are many unknowns and we want to help provide peace of mind. We are still open 24/7, helping with any disaster that hits your home or business. We, here at SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville, want to help you no matter the size of the disaster. We are IICRC trained and ready with whatever is needed for fire, water, and mold damage. Our team has 24 Hour Emergency Service for when problems need to be dealt with immediately. With this time of uncertainty, we are continuing our cleaning and sanitization services. We offer a ULV fog to disinfect service as it quickly and efficiently covers surfaces. The product’s dwell time is only 10-15 minutes, but we recommend that you are out of the facility for four hours to let the product settle and have the scent dissipate since it is a cleaning product that is dispersed all throughout the property. We also offer sanitizing services for porous surfaces such as carpets/rugs, and we offer disinfection services for nonporous surfaces. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Our SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfecting by calling 844-965-0001We know these times have been trying for each and every one of us. There are many unknowns and we want to help provide peace of mind. We are still open 24/7, helping with any disaster that hits your home or business. We, here at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell, want to help you no matter the size of the disaster. We are IICRC trained and ready with whatever is needed for fire, water, and mold damage. Our team has 24 Hour Emergency Service for when problems need to be dealt with immediately. With this time of uncertainty, we are continuing our cleaning and sanitization services. We offer a ULV fog to disinfect service as it quickly and efficiently covers surfaces. The product’s dwell time is only 10-15 minutes, but we recommend that you are out of the facility for four hours to let the product settle and have the scent dissipate since it is a cleaning product that is dispersed all throughout the property. We also offer sanitizing services for porous surfaces such as carpets/rugs, and we offer disinfection services for nonporous surfaces. We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Our SERVPRO of Iowa City/Coralville can perform a proactive cleanup that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfecting by calling 844-965-0001
We Are Cleaning Experts
3/18/2020 (Permalink)
We are "Ready for whatever happens" and can come anywhere to help.
SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need
During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.
Specialized Training
We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:
- Kitchen/Food Areas
- Bathrooms
- Schools/Classrooms
- Offices
- Retail Spaces
- Water Fountains
- Shelving/Racks
- Sales Counters
- Carpets and Rugs
- Stair Handrails
- Elevator Cars
- Playground Equipment
- Fitness Equipment
Specialized Products
The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning
If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell, 844-965-0001
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html
We Are Ready Any Time, Any Day
1/31/2020 (Permalink)
Our team is ready for any situation.
We maintain a promise to our clients: we are ready and prepared at all times. We have staff on call at night and on the weekends to make sure that when we are needed we are ready as we aim to be “faster to any size disaster.” We are available 24 hours a day, any day of the year which includes holidays. We have different size vehicles all stocked and fueled ready to leave at a moments notice. We even have a new semi trailer available for any large losses. No matter the size, we can help with the emergency. We have a mobilized fleet accessible for your emergency. We have a highly trained staff with crew leaders with over 90 years of combined experience in the mitigation and restoration business. Our team at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell maintains certifications in residential and commercial approved structural drying, fire and smoke restoration, odor control, water damage restoration, carpet and duct cleaning, and biohazard. We also keep updated on materials and new methods to ensure we are giving you the most efficient and effective solution for your situation. Our team is ready to help you.
Happy 2020 from SERVPRO
1/24/2020 (Permalink)
Our team prepping for the new year.
I'm sharing the document with you now. So you can see more Happy 2020 from your friends at SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell. This year, we hope to prepare you for any sort of disaster that can come your way. We want to ensure that you’re ready for any unexpected situation that can affect your property whether you’re a homeowner, renter or business owner. Your property is important and this month is a great time to prepare for the upcoming months. One easy step for business owners is to create a free Emergency Ready Plan (ERP). This helps you prepare for any situation including fire and water damage that could happen to the property in the future. So, if anything does happen, all contacts and information is already gathered and ready to go for the next steps. We know how stressful unexpected disasters can be, and an emergency ready plan can alleviate some of that stress. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Grinnell encourages business owners to utilize this resource for 2020 to be “Ready for whatever happens.” SERVPRO is ready 24 hours a day every single day of the year for emergencies.
We Are Prepared for Anything
10/31/2019 (Permalink)
Our vehicles are loaded and prepared for any disaster.
SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa strives for precise attention to detail, making sure to place customer safety first. With a careful eye and thoroughness, we aim for the best preloss conditions for any situation. These elements are essential and help bolster our professionalism. SERVPRO aims to have the customer be more at ease during such stressful times. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa knows that there are numerous memories and precious items attached to every home, so we are diligent and work hard to get you back into your home. No matter the weather or scenario, SERVPRO is there to help and to work to get you the best results. Our trained staff brings with them the best materials, equipment, and chemicals in the business for any situation whether it is a fire, water, sewage, mold, post construction, or general cleaning job. SERVPRO fills the trucks with equipment for any disaster, highlighting that we are ready and prepared to make sure that the homeowner or business owner is satisfied with the results and can go back to day-to-day life.
Why We Need Training
10/30/2019 (Permalink)
Training helps to make sure that you are getting the best possible service.
Extensive training and certifications remain the backbone for building a capable team who is ready for any situation. Training is essential to not only grow our team’s knowledge base but also to reinforce skills when dealing with different situations. The SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa team maintains several certifications under the Institute of Inspection Cleaning Restoration Certification (IICRC). These include Water Removal Technician, Odor Control Technician, Fire and Smoke Technician, Carpet Cleaning Technician, and Health and Safety Technician among many others. These act as an important function to SERVPRO’s daily functions, enhancing productivity, building team spirit, promoting high morale and individual development. All these ensure that our team is bringing the best work into the residence so the team can make it “Like it never even happened.” At the end of the day, our wide range of services is a result of SERVPRO’s commitment to growth and development. SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa is committed to a solutions-based mentality and continuing to grow our knowledge and certifications to help when the time calls, displaying our outstanding customer service.
Why SERVPRO
10/8/2019 (Permalink)
When disaster strikes your home or business, Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa/ Oskaloosa.
Over the past few years, SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa has worked hard to become a leader in the restoration industry in Southeast Iowa. The team genuinely cares about each and every customer and treats them as they would want their families to be treated. When someone calls in with a disaster (fire, water, mold, biohazard), they are there to help them pick up the pieces and put them back together. They are proud and passionate about the work they do. SERVPRO provides estimates that detail all the services to be performed, eliminating unanticipated surprises. Once the estimates have been approved, trained professionals will arrive in fully stocked vehicles not only to mitigate the problem but also to protect the structure and contents. SERVPRO has a 24-Hour Emergency Service that provides help for those who need it.
With over 70 years of combined experience, SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa has the knowledge and training to provide assistance with any disaster that may occur. When disaster strikes your home or business, Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa/ Oskaloosa.
Ready to Roll to Your Commercial Water Damage
10/5/2019 (Permalink)
We have the equipment you need for your clean up project. We have added another large loss truck to our growing fleet. This truck is stocked and ready for whatever happens. It carries over 120 air movers, 10 dehumidifiers, and 4 flood pumper water extraction units. This will be one of the first trucks to a large commercial loss followed up by our new 53’ semi trailer. Both the truck and semi trailer will allow SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa to be to your business in a moments notice with the equipment you need. We will respond with a project manager, get an understanding of the equipment needed and then dispatch these trucks to allow us to quickly get the equipment you need to your business. Being gassed, loaded and backed into our shops allows us to roll very quickly to be there to help you when you need it most. We can respond with these vehicles locally in Ottumwa / Oskaloosa as well as to any part of the state.
Fire Damage - Call a Trained Crew - SERVPRO
9/29/2019 (Permalink)
After a fire strikes your home or business affected your life you need to have a trusted company cleanup the damage properly. SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is a trusted leader in fire cleanup. We are a preferred vendor for many insurance companies making the process that much easier for you. With good communication and documentation we strive for providing our clients a good customer service experience during a difficult time. We can handle everything from pack out to overseeing reconstruction services. We specialize in Fire and Smoke restoration and spend hundreds of hours training our technicians the extensive cleaning processes. No fire is the same. Some are oxygen starved fires and some are grease fires. They are all cleaned slightly differently. We develop a full scope for clean up and get to work. We are faster to any size disaster and can make your fire loss "Like it never even happened." At SERVPRO we use a restore vs. replace mentality meaning you can get your original items back in most cases and your structure restored quicker. Call SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa if you have fire or smoke damage today! Our crews will respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
SERVPRO partners with the local Red Cross
4/22/2019 (Permalink)
We believe in prevention and preparation. It is a natural fit for SERVPRO to work with the local Red Cross chapters. Both SERVPRO and the Red Cross have the gift to be able to help people in their time of need so it is a natural fit for us to support each other. SERVPRO of Ottumwa / Oskaloosa is hosting the 2019 Sound the Alarm Campaign at our location in our Des Moines office on May 3rd. Please come out and volunteer. You can register from our Facebook page. The Sound the Alarm Campaign is a program to install free smoke detectors supplied by the Red Cross in peoples homes. SERVPRO staff and others will be going out to install these detectors. Smoke detectors save lives and we are so lucky to help with this great initiative.
Water and Fire Referral Cook Outs
10/26/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa's General Manager, Billy, knows how to turn up the heat. We enjoy cooking and thanking those that refer clients to us. When water or fire damage affects a clients home it can be a devastating experience. We have built fantastic relationships with wonderful insurance companies, realtors, fire departments, property managers, and others that will refer their friends to us when damage happens. They put their trust in us to take care of them when it matters most. We thank those that refer work to us by providing lunch. We know that they appreciate our trained staff quickly and efficiently taking care of their friends and we appreciate them for referring the work to us. We love to get behind this large grill and cook up some great food.
We Have A Cleaning Product For All Situations
10/26/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Ottumwa/Oskaloosa has a cleaning product for any cleaning situation. Weather you have a sewage job, a fire job, a mold job, a carpet cleaning job, a job that might have some blood, or a job that has graffiti. We have a product specialty formulated by our scientists at SERVPRO that will be able to help remove that stubborn situation. We are here as your premier cleaning company to make it "Like it never even happened." We have products stocked and ready on our shelves all the time and our trained technicians know how to safely and properly use these resources to treat the most stubborn of situations. We have environmentally friendly "green" products as well. We have deodorizes and air fresheners also. You can depend on SERVPRO to take care of you, your home, business, carpets, upholsteries, etc. Give us a call today with your stubborn cleaning needs.
Training Is Vital In The Restoration Industry
10/26/2018 (Permalink)
Members of our team recently received training from our Program Coordinator, Nita. Training is vital in our industry. Things are constantly changing. Our team needs to stay up on the newest technology as well as the newest information and requirements from insurance companies. She trained on the use of our proprietary software program that we utilize in the field to collect and record data in regards to clients losses. This information forms the story of the loss for insurance companies and the client for documentation. It is vital to record the information in regards to affected materials and the process of restoring the affected materials. Our team has weekly Monday production meetings to go over any thing of importance but we also do more in depth trainings like these as needed to keep us up to date on information and well informed to make sure we are always ready to help our clients with the most up to date information.
24/7 Emergency Service
