PuroClean has been recognized as one of the World’s Best and Fastest Growing Franchises making it a great low investment franchise opportunity.
Tamarac, FL (December 20, 2010) – One of the nation’s leading property restoration companies, PuroClean is #99 on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500®, known as the world’s first, best, and most comprehensive franchise ranking.
The 300+ unit property emergency services franchise moved up in the raking from the #148 spot in 2010. This year PuroClean also secured the #56 spot among the Fastest-Growing Franchises and #26 spot among Top Home-Based Franchises named by Entrepreneur.
According to Entrepreneur, all companies, regardless of size, are judged by the same criteria: objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation. The most important factors include financial strength and stability, growth rate and size of the system. They also consider the number of years a company has been in business and the length of time it's been franchising, startup costs, litigation, percentage of terminations, and whether the company provides financing. Financial data are analyzed by an independent CPA.
The objective factors are plugged into the exclusive Franchise 500® formula, with each eligible company receiving a cumulative score. The 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500®.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
PuroClean donates $5,000 to American Red Cross
PuroClean donates $5,000 to American Red Cross: "PuroClean, American Red Cross, Broward County, South Florida Region, Lauren John Reid, Marci Kelinsasser"
Sunday, November 7, 2010
PuroClean Acquires In-House Expert in Catastrophe and Large Loss Operations
Tamarac, FL (October 29, 2010) - With more than 23 years of experience in the disaster recovery industry, Tom McGuire will play a critical new role in catapulting PuroClean to becoming the top choice for property emergency services across the nation. As the new Director of Catastrophe and Large Loss Operations, McGuire will work closely with PuroClean's recently formed Business Development Division to market the Network's ability to mobilize and help clients recover from large-scale disasters, that could require emergency water and fire damage restoration.
McGuire joins PuroClean after 16 years at Munters Corporation, a global leader in structural drying and emergency restoration services, where he served as the National Catastrophe Manager and Document Recovery Manager for North America. He was involved with managing recovery efforts for clients impacted by some of the most significant disasters in U.S. history, including the World Trade Center Bombing (1993), Hurricane Katrina, and the summer 2010 flooding of Nashville, TN.
"Tom is a natural leader and his ability to efficiently and effectively manage people and logistic in times of crisis make him a great fit for this position," said Lauren Reid, CEO and President of PuroClean. "He is an invaluable asset to our team and to the more than 300 franchise locations we support across the country."
In addition to securing large-scale emergency restoration jobs for PuroClean, McGuire will spearhead the ongoing education of the franchise network to prepare more and more offices for involvement in catastrophic clean up events. He will lead PuroClean's large-scale recovery efforts from the ground and empower franchise owners to grow their businesses by taking on more large loss projects including emergency water damage restoration and fire damage restoration.
"It was a difficult decision to leave a company where I've developed my skill set and career for the last 16 years, but after meeting with the team at PuroClean's home office, I knew that I'd be joining a group of terrific people that are truly dedicated to this line of work," said McGuire.
McGuire joins PuroClean after 16 years at Munters Corporation, a global leader in structural drying and emergency restoration services, where he served as the National Catastrophe Manager and Document Recovery Manager for North America. He was involved with managing recovery efforts for clients impacted by some of the most significant disasters in U.S. history, including the World Trade Center Bombing (1993), Hurricane Katrina, and the summer 2010 flooding of Nashville, TN.
"Tom is a natural leader and his ability to efficiently and effectively manage people and logistic in times of crisis make him a great fit for this position," said Lauren Reid, CEO and President of PuroClean. "He is an invaluable asset to our team and to the more than 300 franchise locations we support across the country."
In addition to securing large-scale emergency restoration jobs for PuroClean, McGuire will spearhead the ongoing education of the franchise network to prepare more and more offices for involvement in catastrophic clean up events. He will lead PuroClean's large-scale recovery efforts from the ground and empower franchise owners to grow their businesses by taking on more large loss projects including emergency water damage restoration and fire damage restoration.
"It was a difficult decision to leave a company where I've developed my skill set and career for the last 16 years, but after meeting with the team at PuroClean's home office, I knew that I'd be joining a group of terrific people that are truly dedicated to this line of work," said McGuire.
Leaks Can Dry Up Your Wallet - WSJ.com
Left unchecked, water leaks can be a house's worst enemy.
"Water is one of the most destructive things to a house," says David Tamny, president of the American Society of Home Inspectors. "It can account for so many things going wrong in a structure."
Water damage is the second most-common cause of damage in homes, following fires, says Scott Spencer, world-wide appraisal and loss-prevention manager for insurer Chubb Group.
"Water is one of the most destructive things to a house," says David Tamny, president of the American Society of Home Inspectors. "It can account for so many things going wrong in a structure."
Water damage is the second most-common cause of damage in homes, following fires, says Scott Spencer, world-wide appraisal and loss-prevention manager for insurer Chubb Group.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
PuroClean Franchise to Unveil State-of-the-Science Property Restoration Training Facility in January 2011
Tamarac, FL – In just three months, the nation's fastest growing franchise specializing in property emergency restoration services, PuroClean®, will unveil the newest Applied Structural Drying (ASD) Demonstration Facility in the country and only the seventeenth training center of its kind in the world.
PuroClean's new Property Restoration Training Center will include a state-of-the-science flood house, a smoke and soot simulator, and a contents cleaning room specifically designed for PuroClean's integrated contents management system.
The training center, known as the "PuroClean Academy," offers PuroClean franchise owners and their employees the opportunity to receive IICRC certification (the restoration industry's top designation from The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration) in Water Damage Restoration, Fire and Smoke Restoration, Odor Control, Carpet Cleaning, and Carpet Color Repair, in addition to other courses in business and financial management, sales and marketing. The first property restoration training class is slated to take place in mid-January.
"The launch of our new training facility and demonstration center is a significant milestone for our franchise system," said Lauren Reid, CEO and President of PuroClean. "This will provide our franchise owners with a tremendous advantage in the industry as they receive invaluable real world technical application of effective cleaning and restoration processes and procedures."
The ASD Demonstration Facility will also be used for the research and development of new equipment and demonstrations to insurance industry professionals interested in viewing PuroClean's competency and capabilities in property restoration.
PuroClean's new Property Restoration Training Center will include a state-of-the-science flood house, a smoke and soot simulator, and a contents cleaning room specifically designed for PuroClean's integrated contents management system.
The training center, known as the "PuroClean Academy," offers PuroClean franchise owners and their employees the opportunity to receive IICRC certification (the restoration industry's top designation from The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration) in Water Damage Restoration, Fire and Smoke Restoration, Odor Control, Carpet Cleaning, and Carpet Color Repair, in addition to other courses in business and financial management, sales and marketing. The first property restoration training class is slated to take place in mid-January.
"The launch of our new training facility and demonstration center is a significant milestone for our franchise system," said Lauren Reid, CEO and President of PuroClean. "This will provide our franchise owners with a tremendous advantage in the industry as they receive invaluable real world technical application of effective cleaning and restoration processes and procedures."
The ASD Demonstration Facility will also be used for the research and development of new equipment and demonstrations to insurance industry professionals interested in viewing PuroClean's competency and capabilities in property restoration.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
The IAQ Video Network produces the first in a series of public outreach videos to educate the public about indoor air quality (IAQ) issues.
The IAQ Video network released the first in a series of educational videos meant to educate the general public about indoor air quality issues. The first video is entitled “Mold – A Known Asthma trigger” and is available for viewing today.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOdDfaYp9uE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOdDfaYp9uE
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Tribune article reminds homeowners to remain vigilant regarding mold growth
I was recently interviewed by the Tribune family of companies for an article highlighting the importance of remaining vigilant regarding mold growth inside homes.
If you have any mold concerns, take a moment to read the article
http://www.triblocal.com/Park_Ridge/detail/209378.html
If you have any mold concerns, take a moment to read the article
http://www.triblocal.com/Park_Ridge/detail/209378.html
Friday, July 16, 2010
Top 5 Causes of Water Damage in the Home
1. Broken pipes & hoses – burst water main, aging old pipes, washing machine supply hoses and ice maker hoses that fail: Remedy – Buy the metal braided washing machine lines and copper pipes for ice makers. Have a plumber come in and inspect pipes in old homes and replace them with PVC if necessary. A few dollars spent now is worth thousands later!
2. Accidents: Overflowing bathtubs or broken toilets. The most common cause: children! Anyone reading this post who has small children can relate – probably with a smile and a story of your own. Remedy - Watch kids! Water is fascinating – especially when it's flowing over the tub and toilet rim!
3. Sewer back up: Presents a health hazard, smells bad, looks worse. Most common cause: Tree roots invading and clogging drain lines – trees like the readily available fertilizer and water! Remedy: Call your plumber and ask them about enzyme drain treatments that can be flushed on a monthly basis during Spring and Summer months when tree roots grow most prolifically.
4. Long term basement humidity. The most common cause: hydrostatic pressure and aging infrastructure. The simple solution: install a dehumidifier. However, that's a symptomatic fix and only works for a small amount of water. For large scale water intrusion, contact the experts to get an assessment. Once you receive the report, and ONLY then, contact a basement waterproofing expert and make sure you get THREE quotes.
5. Flash flooding: This is the rarest type of water intrusion in the home. It occurs when you least expect it and in areas that traditionally don't expect flooding. Remedy – Always purchase flood insurance if available!
Remember: With any kind of water damage in the home, time is of the essence! Drying the home in three days or less prevents growth of potentially dangerous mold.
2. Accidents: Overflowing bathtubs or broken toilets. The most common cause: children! Anyone reading this post who has small children can relate – probably with a smile and a story of your own. Remedy - Watch kids! Water is fascinating – especially when it's flowing over the tub and toilet rim!
3. Sewer back up: Presents a health hazard, smells bad, looks worse. Most common cause: Tree roots invading and clogging drain lines – trees like the readily available fertilizer and water! Remedy: Call your plumber and ask them about enzyme drain treatments that can be flushed on a monthly basis during Spring and Summer months when tree roots grow most prolifically.
4. Long term basement humidity. The most common cause: hydrostatic pressure and aging infrastructure. The simple solution: install a dehumidifier. However, that's a symptomatic fix and only works for a small amount of water. For large scale water intrusion, contact the experts to get an assessment. Once you receive the report, and ONLY then, contact a basement waterproofing expert and make sure you get THREE quotes.
5. Flash flooding: This is the rarest type of water intrusion in the home. It occurs when you least expect it and in areas that traditionally don't expect flooding. Remedy – Always purchase flood insurance if available!
Remember: With any kind of water damage in the home, time is of the essence! Drying the home in three days or less prevents growth of potentially dangerous mold.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Top 5 Causes of Water Damage in the Home
Top 5 Causes of Water Damage in the home
1. Broken pipes&hoses – burst water main, aging old pipes, washing machine supply hoses and ice maker hoses that fail: Remedy – get Thee to Home Depot or Lowes and buy the metal braided washing machine lines and copper pipes for ice makers. Have a plumber come in and inspect pipes in old homes and replace them with PVC if necessary. A few dollars spent now is worth thousands later!
2. Accidents: Overflowing bathtubs or broken toilets. The most common cause: children! Anyone reading this post who has small children can relate – probably with a smile and a story of your own. Remedy - Watch kids! Water is fascinating – especially when it's flowing over the tub and toilet rim!
3. Sewer back up: Oooo, nasty! Most common cause: Tree roots invading and clogging drain lines – trees like the readily available fertilizer and water! Remedy: Home Depot and Lowes both sport "enzyme" drain treatments that can be flushed on a monthly basis during Spring and Summer months when tree roots grow most prolifically.
4. Long term basement humidity. The most common cause: hydrostatic pressure and aging infrastructure. The simple solution: install a dehumidifier. However, that's a symptomatic fix and only works for a small amount of water. For large scale water intrusion, contact the experts – home inspectors first – to get an assessment. Once you receive the report, and ONLY then, contact a basement waterproofing expert and make sure you get THREE quotes.
5. Flash flooding: This is the rarest type of water intrusion in the home. It occurs when you least expect it (like Monty Python's Spanish Inquisition) and in areas that traditionally don't expect flooding. Remedy – Always purchase flood insurance if available!
Remember: With any kind of water damage in the home, time is of the essence! Drying the home in three days or less prevents growth of toxic mold.
1. Broken pipes&hoses – burst water main, aging old pipes, washing machine supply hoses and ice maker hoses that fail: Remedy – get Thee to Home Depot or Lowes and buy the metal braided washing machine lines and copper pipes for ice makers. Have a plumber come in and inspect pipes in old homes and replace them with PVC if necessary. A few dollars spent now is worth thousands later!
2. Accidents: Overflowing bathtubs or broken toilets. The most common cause: children! Anyone reading this post who has small children can relate – probably with a smile and a story of your own. Remedy - Watch kids! Water is fascinating – especially when it's flowing over the tub and toilet rim!
3. Sewer back up: Oooo, nasty! Most common cause: Tree roots invading and clogging drain lines – trees like the readily available fertilizer and water! Remedy: Home Depot and Lowes both sport "enzyme" drain treatments that can be flushed on a monthly basis during Spring and Summer months when tree roots grow most prolifically.
4. Long term basement humidity. The most common cause: hydrostatic pressure and aging infrastructure. The simple solution: install a dehumidifier. However, that's a symptomatic fix and only works for a small amount of water. For large scale water intrusion, contact the experts – home inspectors first – to get an assessment. Once you receive the report, and ONLY then, contact a basement waterproofing expert and make sure you get THREE quotes.
5. Flash flooding: This is the rarest type of water intrusion in the home. It occurs when you least expect it (like Monty Python's Spanish Inquisition) and in areas that traditionally don't expect flooding. Remedy – Always purchase flood insurance if available!
Remember: With any kind of water damage in the home, time is of the essence! Drying the home in three days or less prevents growth of toxic mold.
Monday, July 12, 2010
8 Tips to Prevent Mold Growth in the Basement
1. Keep the humidity levels in check: Ideal humidity levels in your basement should be below 45% To do this, use a dehumidifier.
2. Do not grow plants inside the basement.
3. Keep your basement clutter free! Clutter disrupts the free flow of air in your basement and increases humidity - creating the perfect breeding ground for mold.
4. Use only plastic storage boxes&bins. Cardboard provides the perfect growth medium for mold!
5. Say ‘No' to wood - Make sure that you are not storing wood in your basement. Wood makes for an ideal habitat for the mold to grow.
6. Use an exhaust fan to vent out and stale and humid air and let fresh air in.
7. Insulate water pipes - cold water pipes cause condensation of moisture on the exterior of the pipes .
8. Use extensions to drain gutter water away from the foundation of the house
.
2. Do not grow plants inside the basement.
3. Keep your basement clutter free! Clutter disrupts the free flow of air in your basement and increases humidity - creating the perfect breeding ground for mold.
4. Use only plastic storage boxes&bins. Cardboard provides the perfect growth medium for mold!
5. Say ‘No' to wood - Make sure that you are not storing wood in your basement. Wood makes for an ideal habitat for the mold to grow.
6. Use an exhaust fan to vent out and stale and humid air and let fresh air in.
7. Insulate water pipes - cold water pipes cause condensation of moisture on the exterior of the pipes .
8. Use extensions to drain gutter water away from the foundation of the house
.
8 Tips to Prevent Mold in the Basement
1. Keep the humidity levels in check: Ideal humidity levels in your basement should be below 45% To do this, use a dehumidifier.
2. Do not grow plants inside the basement.
3. Keep your basement clutter free! Clutter disrupts the free flow of air in your basement and increases humidity - creating the perfect breeding ground for mold.
4. Use only plastic storage boxes&bins. Cardboard provides the perfect growth medium for mold!
5. Say ‘No' to wood - Make sure that you are not storing wood in your basement. Wood makes for an ideal habitat for the mold to grow.
6. Use an exhaust fan to vent out and stale and humid air and let fresh air in.
7. Insulate water pipes - cold water pipes cause condensation of moisture on the exterior of the pipes .
8. Use extensions to drain gutter water away from the foundation of the house.
2. Do not grow plants inside the basement.
3. Keep your basement clutter free! Clutter disrupts the free flow of air in your basement and increases humidity - creating the perfect breeding ground for mold.
4. Use only plastic storage boxes&bins. Cardboard provides the perfect growth medium for mold!
5. Say ‘No' to wood - Make sure that you are not storing wood in your basement. Wood makes for an ideal habitat for the mold to grow.
6. Use an exhaust fan to vent out and stale and humid air and let fresh air in.
7. Insulate water pipes - cold water pipes cause condensation of moisture on the exterior of the pipes .
8. Use extensions to drain gutter water away from the foundation of the house.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Tips to Reduce Losses from Water and Storm Damage
Water damage is a real threat for property owners. In fact, according to the Insurance Information Institute in the last year, 22 per 1,000 households have entered a claim for water related damage. Water damage can often result from weather, such as storms or melting snow, or more often, from common household malfunctions such as pipe leaks, washing machine malfunctions or other plumbing problems.
Follow these guidelines to help minimize the loss and prevent further damage:
Insurance
> Call your agent.
> Take photographs of the damage.
> Keep all receipts from hotel stays, home repair materials, etc.
Plumbing
> Check pipes on well pumps and irrigation systems annually.
> If sewage is backing up in the shower or under the toilet, your whole system is backed up. Call a professional and don’t use other sinks or toilets.
Roofing
> If the neighbor’s roof is missing shingles after a storm, you can assume that yours probably is also missing shigles.
> If it is safe to do so and only a few shingles are gone, try to cover the area with a plastic garbage bag.
> If it is safe to do so and you have a large area of ripped tar paper or wood, cover it with a tarpaulin.
> Call a roofer immediately.
Electric
> Most damage to electrical systems comes from water.
> Appliances exposed to water should be serviced before being used again.
> Check for sparks or frayed wires if wires are exposed call an electrician and do not turn on the power.
> If it appears that water has infiltrated your breaker box, call an electrician.
> Avoid fallen and dangling wires.
> If a limb has fallen on a power line, turn off the power and call the utility company.
> If a fallen limb touches your property do not attempt to clear them as they may be tangled in power lines. Call an electrician and a tree service company.
Flooding (Take these steps to minimize damage before the restoration professional arrives.)
> Throw out all food, including canned goods, medicines and cosmetics that have been touched by flood water.
> Keep a photographic inventory of anything that must be thrown out.
> Don’t take pets into a flooded area and never let them drink standing flood water.
Miscellaneous
> Turn on air conditioner if damage occurs in summer.
> Move valuable paintings, art objects and photos to a safe, dry place.
> Open closet doors, furniture drawers and luggage to aid in drying.
> Remove any wet fabrics and dry immediately.
> Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
> Stay out of any rooms where the ceiling is sagging from trapped water.
> Turn off the breaker before unplugging appliances.
Follow these guidelines to help minimize the loss and prevent further damage:
Insurance
> Call your agent.
> Take photographs of the damage.
> Keep all receipts from hotel stays, home repair materials, etc.
Plumbing
> Check pipes on well pumps and irrigation systems annually.
> If sewage is backing up in the shower or under the toilet, your whole system is backed up. Call a professional and don’t use other sinks or toilets.
Roofing
> If the neighbor’s roof is missing shingles after a storm, you can assume that yours probably is also missing shigles.
> If it is safe to do so and only a few shingles are gone, try to cover the area with a plastic garbage bag.
> If it is safe to do so and you have a large area of ripped tar paper or wood, cover it with a tarpaulin.
> Call a roofer immediately.
Electric
> Most damage to electrical systems comes from water.
> Appliances exposed to water should be serviced before being used again.
> Check for sparks or frayed wires if wires are exposed call an electrician and do not turn on the power.
> If it appears that water has infiltrated your breaker box, call an electrician.
> Avoid fallen and dangling wires.
> If a limb has fallen on a power line, turn off the power and call the utility company.
> If a fallen limb touches your property do not attempt to clear them as they may be tangled in power lines. Call an electrician and a tree service company.
Flooding (Take these steps to minimize damage before the restoration professional arrives.)
> Throw out all food, including canned goods, medicines and cosmetics that have been touched by flood water.
> Keep a photographic inventory of anything that must be thrown out.
> Don’t take pets into a flooded area and never let them drink standing flood water.
Miscellaneous
> Turn on air conditioner if damage occurs in summer.
> Move valuable paintings, art objects and photos to a safe, dry place.
> Open closet doors, furniture drawers and luggage to aid in drying.
> Remove any wet fabrics and dry immediately.
> Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
> Stay out of any rooms where the ceiling is sagging from trapped water.
> Turn off the breaker before unplugging appliances.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Untreated Water Damage to a Property Can Lead to Mold Hazards & Health Concerns
Water damage is any damage done because of water. You can even refer to water spilled on your handwritten notebook as water damage, if the content in the book was damaged or destroyed.
Almost everyone has faced water damage at sometime. Water damage to a property is caused by so many reasons; it could be because of leaking roofs, leaking pipes, leaking faucets, floods, storms and rains.
With so many causes of water damage, these require adequate care to be taken to avoid the water damage occurring in your residence or business. Your plumbing system should be checked on an annual basis. Have a licensed plumber check your sump pump, lift pump, battery back-up system, and your sewer system that takes water from your home or business to the outside sewage system.
Inevitably, water damage seems to creep its way into people's lives and properties at some point in time. Water tends to create major damage to anything that is in its way. Carpets, books, wood, electronics, almost everything we have inside a home or office has the potential to get damaged by water. Water damage can be managed if the property owner takes action in a timely manner.
PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists specializes in restoration after water damage and provides emergency services; it is PuroClean's responsibility to dry, clean the premises, and also leaving it mold free. Being careful and prompt is what is required when controlling water damage and protecting your property and possessions from the potential effects of water damage.
In the past mold damage was a covered insurance loss when it resulted from a covered peril, such as a broken pipe, a storm, or fire suppression efforts, but not when it occurs gradually over time due to wear and tear, or after untended to water damage.
Public awareness and scientific knowledge of the health hazards of mold have
increased dramatically over the past several years. Techniques for cleaning mold have also become more sophisticated and can be expensive. Today, most insurance companies do not cover mold claims under existing policies and are rewriting their policies to exclude all coverage for mold, regardless of origin.
The best medicine for mold is prevention. If your property sustained recent water damage, it is vital to have the water removed and the structure dried immediately to prevent mold from growing. Our system is designed to remove moisture from your building before mold can begin to grow. Our emergency response team will help determine the cause, the best method of removal, and the necessary steps to help prevent it from recurring.
PuroClean works with Environmental Hygienists and Laboratories in an effort to protect you and your family from potentially dangerous mold situations. If mold is detected, your first step is to call professionals like PuroClean who know how to safely and completely deal with mold. PuroClean has:
> Inspection & Testing Procedures & Tools
> Professional Drying with the Best Equipment
> Mold Remediation with Customer Satisfaction Guarantee
> Professional Deodorization
> Cleaning & Sanitation of Structure, Fixtures & Contents
> Containment and Removal in Affected Area
> HEPA Negative Air Filtration and Vacuuming
Almost everyone has faced water damage at sometime. Water damage to a property is caused by so many reasons; it could be because of leaking roofs, leaking pipes, leaking faucets, floods, storms and rains.
With so many causes of water damage, these require adequate care to be taken to avoid the water damage occurring in your residence or business. Your plumbing system should be checked on an annual basis. Have a licensed plumber check your sump pump, lift pump, battery back-up system, and your sewer system that takes water from your home or business to the outside sewage system.
Inevitably, water damage seems to creep its way into people's lives and properties at some point in time. Water tends to create major damage to anything that is in its way. Carpets, books, wood, electronics, almost everything we have inside a home or office has the potential to get damaged by water. Water damage can be managed if the property owner takes action in a timely manner.
PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists specializes in restoration after water damage and provides emergency services; it is PuroClean's responsibility to dry, clean the premises, and also leaving it mold free. Being careful and prompt is what is required when controlling water damage and protecting your property and possessions from the potential effects of water damage.
In the past mold damage was a covered insurance loss when it resulted from a covered peril, such as a broken pipe, a storm, or fire suppression efforts, but not when it occurs gradually over time due to wear and tear, or after untended to water damage.
Public awareness and scientific knowledge of the health hazards of mold have
increased dramatically over the past several years. Techniques for cleaning mold have also become more sophisticated and can be expensive. Today, most insurance companies do not cover mold claims under existing policies and are rewriting their policies to exclude all coverage for mold, regardless of origin.
The best medicine for mold is prevention. If your property sustained recent water damage, it is vital to have the water removed and the structure dried immediately to prevent mold from growing. Our system is designed to remove moisture from your building before mold can begin to grow. Our emergency response team will help determine the cause, the best method of removal, and the necessary steps to help prevent it from recurring.
PuroClean works with Environmental Hygienists and Laboratories in an effort to protect you and your family from potentially dangerous mold situations. If mold is detected, your first step is to call professionals like PuroClean who know how to safely and completely deal with mold. PuroClean has:
> Inspection & Testing Procedures & Tools
> Professional Drying with the Best Equipment
> Mold Remediation with Customer Satisfaction Guarantee
> Professional Deodorization
> Cleaning & Sanitation of Structure, Fixtures & Contents
> Containment and Removal in Affected Area
> HEPA Negative Air Filtration and Vacuuming
Thursday, April 22, 2010
U.S. EPA Renovate, Repair, and Painting Rule
Approximately 34 million pre-1978 housing units contain paint that meets the Federal definition of “lead-based paint” (Source: American Healthy Homes Survey: Draft Final Report for Peer Review: Lead and Arsenic Findings, October 7, 2008).
EPA’s RRP Rule assumes that any house built before 1978 contains lead-based paint, unless the house has been tested for lead-based paint and the results indicate that the house does not contain lead-based paint.
Components most likely to be coated with lead-based paint include windows and doors (interior and exterior), as well as exterior walls and porches.
Year House was Built % of Houses with Lead Based Paint
Before 1940 86%
19040 - 1959 66%
1960 - 1978 25%
All Housing 35%
EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting Final Rule:
Published April 22, 2008, under the authority of the Toxic Substances Control Act (section 402(c)(3) of TSCA).
After April 22, 2010, the final rule addresses lead-based paint hazards created by renovation, repair and painting activities that disturb lead-based paint in “target housing” and “child-occupied facilities.”
Target Housing is a home or residential unit built on or before December 31, 1977, except:
Housing designated for the elderly or persons with disabilities (unless any child who is less than 6 years of age resides or is expected to reside in such housing).
Any zero-bedroom dwelling (e.g. studio apartments, hospitals, hotels, dormitories, etc).
A Child-Occupied Facility is a pre-1978 building that meets all three of the criteria below:
> Visited regularly by the same child, under 6 years of age.
> The visits are on at least two different days within any week (Sunday through Saturday period), provided that each day’s visit lasts at least 3 hours.
> Combined weekly visits last at least 6 hours, and the combined annual visits last at least 60 hours.
Child-occupied facilities may be located in a public or commercial building or in target housing. These facilities include schools, child care facilities, and daycare centers.
State Authorization: EPA may authorize states, territories and tribes to enforce all aspects of the RRP Rule. Such states are called “Agreement states.” EPA enforces the Rule in non-Agreement states.
The RRP Rule requires that an individual Certified Renovator be responsible for the renovation job regardless of the level of training and certification of the other persons working on the job. This individual Certified Renovator has the following responsibilities.
> Perform work and direct the work of non-certified renovation workers.
> Train all non-certified workers on-the-job in lead-safe work practices.
> Maintain copies of initial and/or refresher training certifications onsite.
> Conduct testing for lead-based paint using EPA-recognized test kits and report findings.
> Remain onsite during the sign posting, work area setup, and cleanup phases of work.
> When not on site, be available by telephone or pager.
> Make sure that the containment is maintained in a way that prevents the escape of dust and debris. This responsibility implies a need to determine which work practices should be used to minimize dust.
> Conduct the cleaning verification procedure to make sure that the work is complete and that the work area is ready to reoccupy.
> Prepare a summary of the work, maintain training and certification records, and certify that all work was done in a lead safe manner.
On the Job Records
The Certified Firm must designate (in writing) a Certified Renovator to be responsible for each renovation job in target housing or a child-occupied facility. This is the logical person to organize and maintain on-the-job records during the work. On the jobsite, the records should be kept in a safe, secure, clean and dry place. Once the project is complete, some records can be filed with other firm records while others may need to be moved to the next job site.
Records to be maintained on site include:
> Copy of Certified Firm and Certified Renovator(s) certifications.
> Non-certified worker training documentation.
Records to be maintained to document the job:
>Copy of Certified Firm and Certified Renovator(s) certifications.
>Non-certified worker training documentation.
>Designation of a Certified Renovator to the job.
>Information on and results of use of EPA-recognized test kits provided by a Certified Renovator who acted as the representative of the Certified Firm at the job site and who conducted testing for the presence of lead-based paint on surfaces to be affected by the renovation.
> Lead-based paint inspection reports provided by a Certified Lead Inspector or Certified Lead Risk Assessor, if applicable.
> Proof of owner/occupant pre-renovation education
Opt-out certification by owner-occupant, when they qualify to, and decide to, opt-out of lead safe work practice requirements.
> Any other signed and dated documents from the owner(s) and/or residents regarding conduct of the renovation and requirements in the EPA RRP Rule.
> All reports required from the Certified Firm and the Certified Renovator by the EPA RRP Rule.
Resources:
EPA Renovate, Repair, and Painting
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/pubs/renovation.htm
Information for Property Onwers of Rental Homes:
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/pubs/renovation.htm#owners
Information for Property Managers and Realtors
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/pubs/renovation.htm#realtors
EPA’s RRP Rule assumes that any house built before 1978 contains lead-based paint, unless the house has been tested for lead-based paint and the results indicate that the house does not contain lead-based paint.
Components most likely to be coated with lead-based paint include windows and doors (interior and exterior), as well as exterior walls and porches.
Year House was Built % of Houses with Lead Based Paint
Before 1940 86%
19040 - 1959 66%
1960 - 1978 25%
All Housing 35%
EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting Final Rule:
Published April 22, 2008, under the authority of the Toxic Substances Control Act (section 402(c)(3) of TSCA).
After April 22, 2010, the final rule addresses lead-based paint hazards created by renovation, repair and painting activities that disturb lead-based paint in “target housing” and “child-occupied facilities.”
Target Housing is a home or residential unit built on or before December 31, 1977, except:
Housing designated for the elderly or persons with disabilities (unless any child who is less than 6 years of age resides or is expected to reside in such housing).
Any zero-bedroom dwelling (e.g. studio apartments, hospitals, hotels, dormitories, etc).
A Child-Occupied Facility is a pre-1978 building that meets all three of the criteria below:
> Visited regularly by the same child, under 6 years of age.
> The visits are on at least two different days within any week (Sunday through Saturday period), provided that each day’s visit lasts at least 3 hours.
> Combined weekly visits last at least 6 hours, and the combined annual visits last at least 60 hours.
Child-occupied facilities may be located in a public or commercial building or in target housing. These facilities include schools, child care facilities, and daycare centers.
State Authorization: EPA may authorize states, territories and tribes to enforce all aspects of the RRP Rule. Such states are called “Agreement states.” EPA enforces the Rule in non-Agreement states.
The RRP Rule requires that an individual Certified Renovator be responsible for the renovation job regardless of the level of training and certification of the other persons working on the job. This individual Certified Renovator has the following responsibilities.
> Perform work and direct the work of non-certified renovation workers.
> Train all non-certified workers on-the-job in lead-safe work practices.
> Maintain copies of initial and/or refresher training certifications onsite.
> Conduct testing for lead-based paint using EPA-recognized test kits and report findings.
> Remain onsite during the sign posting, work area setup, and cleanup phases of work.
> When not on site, be available by telephone or pager.
> Make sure that the containment is maintained in a way that prevents the escape of dust and debris. This responsibility implies a need to determine which work practices should be used to minimize dust.
> Conduct the cleaning verification procedure to make sure that the work is complete and that the work area is ready to reoccupy.
> Prepare a summary of the work, maintain training and certification records, and certify that all work was done in a lead safe manner.
On the Job Records
The Certified Firm must designate (in writing) a Certified Renovator to be responsible for each renovation job in target housing or a child-occupied facility. This is the logical person to organize and maintain on-the-job records during the work. On the jobsite, the records should be kept in a safe, secure, clean and dry place. Once the project is complete, some records can be filed with other firm records while others may need to be moved to the next job site.
Records to be maintained on site include:
> Copy of Certified Firm and Certified Renovator(s) certifications.
> Non-certified worker training documentation.
Records to be maintained to document the job:
>Copy of Certified Firm and Certified Renovator(s) certifications.
>Non-certified worker training documentation.
>Designation of a Certified Renovator to the job.
>Information on and results of use of EPA-recognized test kits provided by a Certified Renovator who acted as the representative of the Certified Firm at the job site and who conducted testing for the presence of lead-based paint on surfaces to be affected by the renovation.
> Lead-based paint inspection reports provided by a Certified Lead Inspector or Certified Lead Risk Assessor, if applicable.
> Proof of owner/occupant pre-renovation education
Opt-out certification by owner-occupant, when they qualify to, and decide to, opt-out of lead safe work practice requirements.
> Any other signed and dated documents from the owner(s) and/or residents regarding conduct of the renovation and requirements in the EPA RRP Rule.
> All reports required from the Certified Firm and the Certified Renovator by the EPA RRP Rule.
Resources:
EPA Renovate, Repair, and Painting
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/pubs/renovation.htm
Information for Property Onwers of Rental Homes:
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/pubs/renovation.htm#owners
Information for Property Managers and Realtors
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/lead/pubs/renovation.htm#realtors
Monday, April 19, 2010
Water Damage Restoration
The primary function of a restoration contractor that performs emergency mitigation services is to handle the claim professionally, expeditiously, and cost effectively. Professional restorative contractors should understand what it means to be professional when conducting their business. They should also understand the importance of prompt response and quick action to limit the scope of the loss. However, a difficult area to institute and control is how to be cost ef-fective. This is especially true when customers are making demands and expecting quick action concerning what is happening to their home and belongings.
Water damage mitigation that is performed by using the PuroClean QuickDry System (PQDS), focuses not only on stabilizing and reducing further damage, but also includes reducing unnecessary services that increase direct costs. Direct costs are labor, time, and materials that contribute directly to the total dollar amount of sustained damage. The PQDS reduces that total dollar volume by enacting tested and proven procedures while performing water damage mitigation services.
Many water mitigators use a light wand extraction which removes some water and may involve moving all or half of the furniture from a room so that the carpet can be pulled back far enough to remove the cushion (pad). The furniture has to be re-moved from the room so that air fans can be placed under the carpet in a corner to “float” the carpet. The concept of floating the carpet with air makes the room difficult, if not impossible, to occupy. This is a major problem in bedrooms where headboards, footboards, and rails need disassembling, and mattresses and box springs need to be carried into a dry, unaffected area. That is, if any dry areas ex-ist. Under the PQDS, furniture in any affected room only needs to be manipulated enough to extract the water. Furniture is then placed on blocks and tabs to prevent the transfer of furniture stain or the development of rust marks. The time and labor saved in performing this function alone is substantial, espe-cially if multiple rooms are involved.
These PQDS procedures include a new extraction technology that enables water to be removed from the carpet and cushion (pad), simultaneously without disengagement of the installation. This extraction removes 90 to 95% of the total liquid moisture available in the carpet and pad. By removing this quantity of liquid moisture, less time is required to evaporate any remaining moisture by airflow and dehumidification. Most projects are completed on the average within three days.
Removing wet carpet from the installation is risky business. Carpets that are totally saturated are more easily damaged when wet than when they are dry. This is due to the fact that the latex binder between the primary and secondary backings is 50% weaker when saturated with water. Even with the best intentions, removing the carpet tension with a knee kicker or pulling the carpet from the tack strip can often cause rips or tears.
If the carpet is not disengaged, the pad is not removed, and the furniture is minimally disrupted, then the entire cost of new cushion, professional power stretched installation, and furniture remanipulation is not required. This results in a tremen-dous direct cost reduction.
The aggravation, frustration, and total inconvenience of the old process must also be considered as an indirect cost reduction. A non-monetary form of indirect cost is the price that one pays in stress and duress when processing a claim incorrectly which creates fear, suspicion, and distrust on the part of the customer and inevitably the insurance adjuster. The PQDS takes these issues and other factors into consideration when mitigat-ing a water loss.
Structurally, the PQDS employs many cost effective philosophies, for example, drying drywall in place. Many schools originally taught that any initial wicking of water into drywall specifically dictated the removal of baseboard molding, both vinyl and wood, as a necessity to dry the lower wall area. Technicians went so far as to poke holes in the wallboard to increase evaporation and ventilation. Some even sprayed water based antimicrobials into the holes increasing the wetness factor. These actions dictated, providing that the area dried properly, that new baseboards will need to be installed and that the entire room or rooms will require painting to correct the damage done to the surface during the demolition.
The PQDS does not initially require removing baseboards when wetness is detected. PuroClean structural dryers are deployed forcing air directly towards the wet walls drying the area in most cases without removing the molding. This direct airflow against the lower wall dries the baseboard, the wallboard, and the framing structure. Many types of insulation, for example, fiberglass batt, will dry as well. Baseboard molding removal would be necessary only if cellulose or rock wool insulation were present. These materials lose loft and respective R value when wet and compressed. Replacement is war-ranted for these materials.
When comparing the old drying procedure and philosophy to the new PuroClean QuickDry System, there is no contest. The direct cost effective savings as well as the indirect time and incon-venience reductions are obvious. Call your local PuroClean office to take advantage of the PuroClean QuickDry System to help reduce your costs when processing water damage losses today.
Water damage mitigation that is performed by using the PuroClean QuickDry System (PQDS), focuses not only on stabilizing and reducing further damage, but also includes reducing unnecessary services that increase direct costs. Direct costs are labor, time, and materials that contribute directly to the total dollar amount of sustained damage. The PQDS reduces that total dollar volume by enacting tested and proven procedures while performing water damage mitigation services.
Many water mitigators use a light wand extraction which removes some water and may involve moving all or half of the furniture from a room so that the carpet can be pulled back far enough to remove the cushion (pad). The furniture has to be re-moved from the room so that air fans can be placed under the carpet in a corner to “float” the carpet. The concept of floating the carpet with air makes the room difficult, if not impossible, to occupy. This is a major problem in bedrooms where headboards, footboards, and rails need disassembling, and mattresses and box springs need to be carried into a dry, unaffected area. That is, if any dry areas ex-ist. Under the PQDS, furniture in any affected room only needs to be manipulated enough to extract the water. Furniture is then placed on blocks and tabs to prevent the transfer of furniture stain or the development of rust marks. The time and labor saved in performing this function alone is substantial, espe-cially if multiple rooms are involved.
These PQDS procedures include a new extraction technology that enables water to be removed from the carpet and cushion (pad), simultaneously without disengagement of the installation. This extraction removes 90 to 95% of the total liquid moisture available in the carpet and pad. By removing this quantity of liquid moisture, less time is required to evaporate any remaining moisture by airflow and dehumidification. Most projects are completed on the average within three days.
Removing wet carpet from the installation is risky business. Carpets that are totally saturated are more easily damaged when wet than when they are dry. This is due to the fact that the latex binder between the primary and secondary backings is 50% weaker when saturated with water. Even with the best intentions, removing the carpet tension with a knee kicker or pulling the carpet from the tack strip can often cause rips or tears.
If the carpet is not disengaged, the pad is not removed, and the furniture is minimally disrupted, then the entire cost of new cushion, professional power stretched installation, and furniture remanipulation is not required. This results in a tremen-dous direct cost reduction.
The aggravation, frustration, and total inconvenience of the old process must also be considered as an indirect cost reduction. A non-monetary form of indirect cost is the price that one pays in stress and duress when processing a claim incorrectly which creates fear, suspicion, and distrust on the part of the customer and inevitably the insurance adjuster. The PQDS takes these issues and other factors into consideration when mitigat-ing a water loss.
Structurally, the PQDS employs many cost effective philosophies, for example, drying drywall in place. Many schools originally taught that any initial wicking of water into drywall specifically dictated the removal of baseboard molding, both vinyl and wood, as a necessity to dry the lower wall area. Technicians went so far as to poke holes in the wallboard to increase evaporation and ventilation. Some even sprayed water based antimicrobials into the holes increasing the wetness factor. These actions dictated, providing that the area dried properly, that new baseboards will need to be installed and that the entire room or rooms will require painting to correct the damage done to the surface during the demolition.
The PQDS does not initially require removing baseboards when wetness is detected. PuroClean structural dryers are deployed forcing air directly towards the wet walls drying the area in most cases without removing the molding. This direct airflow against the lower wall dries the baseboard, the wallboard, and the framing structure. Many types of insulation, for example, fiberglass batt, will dry as well. Baseboard molding removal would be necessary only if cellulose or rock wool insulation were present. These materials lose loft and respective R value when wet and compressed. Replacement is war-ranted for these materials.
When comparing the old drying procedure and philosophy to the new PuroClean QuickDry System, there is no contest. The direct cost effective savings as well as the indirect time and incon-venience reductions are obvious. Call your local PuroClean office to take advantage of the PuroClean QuickDry System to help reduce your costs when processing water damage losses today.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Clutter Can Cause Hazards in Chicago Homes and Offices
Chicago, IL March 10, 2010 – Some of us hate the never-ending task of having to tidy and organize the things in our homes and/or offices. But, according to one local property damage restoration expert, letting things pile up could lead to more than just not having a clear space from which to live or work. It can actually cause injuries and emergency hazards.
"Many may not realize that clutter can actually lead to a number of problematic situations, including falls and other bodily injuries, as well as blocking areas that can prevent one from exiting or entering a building in an emergency" said Scott Majeski of PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists. "The inability to leave a building in an emergency quickly because of cluttered hallways and door entries, or the inability to locate important items like a fire extinguisher, is dangerous. As spring cleaning becomes top of mind for those in the community, we want to offer some tips on how they can de-clutter and make their homes and offices safe"
To prevent injuries and emergency hazards, Majeski suggests the following ways local residents and business professionals can start de-cluttering their homes and offices:
• Start in small increments. When de-cluttering your home or office, it’s best to start with closets or other storage areas first. Once you’ve freed up space in those areas for storage, you can then clear rooms, corners and other open spaces and put leftover items in your now spacious closets. It is better to have items in your closets than in trafficked areas.
• Cut clutter in the kitchen. The kitchen is probably the most common place where fires start. Your kitchen should always be clear of clutter. And, you should make sure you never have flammable objects near the oven and stove area, such as billing statements, grocery lists and other paper items, as well as dish rags, sponges or other flammable kitchen items.
• Trash junk mail. Some of us have an area in our home or office where junk mail and other unnecessary papers seem to pile up. To avoid the collection of unwanted papers, and the potential of a fire hazard, discard of unwanted mail as soon as you get it. Don’t let it pile up. If you receive a lot of bills and bank statements in the mail, consider paying bills and reviewing statements online only.
• Donate, donate, donate. If you find that you have clothes in your closet that you haven’t worn in six months or longer, it’s best to get rid of them. One way to do that is by donating them. Find a homeless shelter in your neighborhood where you can drop them off. Or, consider having a garage sale to sell clothing and other unwanted items at a low cost.
• Got books? Don’t let them collect dust. Some individuals may find that they purchase many books, but end up reading them only once. Instead of letting them collect dust and use up space, have a book exchange party where you can get rid of them, or donate them to your local library. For future reads, consider borrowing books from friends or simply getting your books at your local library instead of purchasing new ones.
PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists specializes in property emergency services. PuroClean certified technicians help families and businesses overcome the devastating setbacks caused by water, fire, mold and other conditions resulting in property damage, according to Majeski.
"Our concern is the safety of the members of our community" Majeski said. "If homes and offices are clear of clutter, individuals can walk around in them safely. And, in emergency situations, they can get out of those places in a quick fashion, while also allowing emergency workers like us to enter the home without having to navigate through clutter. We hope that the tips that we have provided are helpful"
For more information about PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists, please contact Scott Majeski at 312-453-1500.
About PuroClean®
PuroClean is a leader in property damage restoration and has earned the trust of property owners, insurance professionals and home service providers throughout the United States and Canada since 2001. Backed by a national training and support center, PuroClean responds promptly to property emergencies, demonstrating a high degree of professionalism and compassion. PuroClean technicians are thoroughly screened, insured and trained in utilizing the latest in mitigation technology and procedures throughout the remediation process while operating under a strict code of ethics. In addition to serving the needs of property owners, PuroClean offers hundreds of Continuing Education classes each year to insurance professionals and property service providers nationwide.
"Many may not realize that clutter can actually lead to a number of problematic situations, including falls and other bodily injuries, as well as blocking areas that can prevent one from exiting or entering a building in an emergency" said Scott Majeski of PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists. "The inability to leave a building in an emergency quickly because of cluttered hallways and door entries, or the inability to locate important items like a fire extinguisher, is dangerous. As spring cleaning becomes top of mind for those in the community, we want to offer some tips on how they can de-clutter and make their homes and offices safe"
To prevent injuries and emergency hazards, Majeski suggests the following ways local residents and business professionals can start de-cluttering their homes and offices:
• Start in small increments. When de-cluttering your home or office, it’s best to start with closets or other storage areas first. Once you’ve freed up space in those areas for storage, you can then clear rooms, corners and other open spaces and put leftover items in your now spacious closets. It is better to have items in your closets than in trafficked areas.
• Cut clutter in the kitchen. The kitchen is probably the most common place where fires start. Your kitchen should always be clear of clutter. And, you should make sure you never have flammable objects near the oven and stove area, such as billing statements, grocery lists and other paper items, as well as dish rags, sponges or other flammable kitchen items.
• Trash junk mail. Some of us have an area in our home or office where junk mail and other unnecessary papers seem to pile up. To avoid the collection of unwanted papers, and the potential of a fire hazard, discard of unwanted mail as soon as you get it. Don’t let it pile up. If you receive a lot of bills and bank statements in the mail, consider paying bills and reviewing statements online only.
• Donate, donate, donate. If you find that you have clothes in your closet that you haven’t worn in six months or longer, it’s best to get rid of them. One way to do that is by donating them. Find a homeless shelter in your neighborhood where you can drop them off. Or, consider having a garage sale to sell clothing and other unwanted items at a low cost.
• Got books? Don’t let them collect dust. Some individuals may find that they purchase many books, but end up reading them only once. Instead of letting them collect dust and use up space, have a book exchange party where you can get rid of them, or donate them to your local library. For future reads, consider borrowing books from friends or simply getting your books at your local library instead of purchasing new ones.
PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists specializes in property emergency services. PuroClean certified technicians help families and businesses overcome the devastating setbacks caused by water, fire, mold and other conditions resulting in property damage, according to Majeski.
"Our concern is the safety of the members of our community" Majeski said. "If homes and offices are clear of clutter, individuals can walk around in them safely. And, in emergency situations, they can get out of those places in a quick fashion, while also allowing emergency workers like us to enter the home without having to navigate through clutter. We hope that the tips that we have provided are helpful"
For more information about PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists, please contact Scott Majeski at 312-453-1500.
About PuroClean®
PuroClean is a leader in property damage restoration and has earned the trust of property owners, insurance professionals and home service providers throughout the United States and Canada since 2001. Backed by a national training and support center, PuroClean responds promptly to property emergencies, demonstrating a high degree of professionalism and compassion. PuroClean technicians are thoroughly screened, insured and trained in utilizing the latest in mitigation technology and procedures throughout the remediation process while operating under a strict code of ethics. In addition to serving the needs of property owners, PuroClean offers hundreds of Continuing Education classes each year to insurance professionals and property service providers nationwide.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
What To Do When You Need to File a Homeowners Claim.
Fire or Homeowners Claims:
1. If there is damage to the building, make any necessary temporary repairs to the building to protect the property from further damage. Save ALL bills as they are a property part of the loss.
2.If there is damage to personal property, list all items that are damaged and, if possible, obtain an estimate for repairs.
3. If a theft occurs, call your local law enforcement agency immediately.
4. Do not sign ANY paper or statements unless requested to do so by a representative of your insurance company.
5. If anyone is injured, do not admit liability or fault. Discuss the accident only with a known representative of your insurance company.
Automobile:
1. Notify the police immediately.
2. Do not admit liability or fault. Discuss the accident only with a representative of your insurance company.
3. Write down names, addresses and telephone numbers of persons involved and all witnesses to the accident.
4. Write down license numbers, make and model numbers of car(s) involved.
5. Promptly notify your insurance agent.
Regardless of the type of policy you have, call your insurance agent after you have a loss. Your agent will help you make appropriate decisions and can direct you to reputable remediation experts.
1. If there is damage to the building, make any necessary temporary repairs to the building to protect the property from further damage. Save ALL bills as they are a property part of the loss.
2.If there is damage to personal property, list all items that are damaged and, if possible, obtain an estimate for repairs.
3. If a theft occurs, call your local law enforcement agency immediately.
4. Do not sign ANY paper or statements unless requested to do so by a representative of your insurance company.
5. If anyone is injured, do not admit liability or fault. Discuss the accident only with a known representative of your insurance company.
Automobile:
1. Notify the police immediately.
2. Do not admit liability or fault. Discuss the accident only with a representative of your insurance company.
3. Write down names, addresses and telephone numbers of persons involved and all witnesses to the accident.
4. Write down license numbers, make and model numbers of car(s) involved.
5. Promptly notify your insurance agent.
Regardless of the type of policy you have, call your insurance agent after you have a loss. Your agent will help you make appropriate decisions and can direct you to reputable remediation experts.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
PuroClean Breaks Ground on State-of-the-Art Training and Demonstration Facility.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL (March 1, 2010) - PuroClean Academy, the training school of the nation's fastest growing property emergency services franchise company, has earned Approved School status from The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
More than 300 PuroClean franchise owners across the country now have access to a variety of IICRC approved courses at the company’s headquarters in Tamarac, FL, where technicians can turn for IICRC approved training and certification in the categories of Water Damage Restoration, Fire and Smoke Restoration, Odor Control, Carpet Cleaning, and Color Repair.
“The IICRC S500 certification is the Cadillac of designations in the cleaning and restoration industry,” said John Capponi, CR, PuroClean’s Vice President of Operations. “Our training processes for franchise owners and technicians have always been in accordance with the industry’s highest standards, but now we're able to proudly display the official IICRC Certification Mark to represent our level of commitment to service excellence.”
PuroClean franchise owners and technicians who attain IICRC certification will be in alliance with the highest industry standards in all areas of the restoration business, from documenting and monitoring services and performance to maintaining proper invoicing procedures.
“IICRC certified professionals are highly respected by their customers and industry peers,” said Mike Reed, IICRC Instructors and Schools Committee Chairman.
In conjunction with securing IICRC approval for its training school, PuroClean will break ground in late February on a new Applied Structural Drying (ASD) Demonstration Facility. The new facility will include a classroom, as well as a state-of-the-science flood house, where all franchise owners and their employees will receive practical application of IICRC guidelines in applied structural drying and smoke and soot remediation, within a controlled environment.
The ASD facility will also be used for the research and development of new equipment and demonstrations to insurance industry professionals interested in increasing their competency and capabilities in property restoration. Construction on the facility is set to be completed later this summer.
More than 300 PuroClean franchise owners across the country now have access to a variety of IICRC approved courses at the company’s headquarters in Tamarac, FL, where technicians can turn for IICRC approved training and certification in the categories of Water Damage Restoration, Fire and Smoke Restoration, Odor Control, Carpet Cleaning, and Color Repair.
“The IICRC S500 certification is the Cadillac of designations in the cleaning and restoration industry,” said John Capponi, CR, PuroClean’s Vice President of Operations. “Our training processes for franchise owners and technicians have always been in accordance with the industry’s highest standards, but now we're able to proudly display the official IICRC Certification Mark to represent our level of commitment to service excellence.”
PuroClean franchise owners and technicians who attain IICRC certification will be in alliance with the highest industry standards in all areas of the restoration business, from documenting and monitoring services and performance to maintaining proper invoicing procedures.
“IICRC certified professionals are highly respected by their customers and industry peers,” said Mike Reed, IICRC Instructors and Schools Committee Chairman.
In conjunction with securing IICRC approval for its training school, PuroClean will break ground in late February on a new Applied Structural Drying (ASD) Demonstration Facility. The new facility will include a classroom, as well as a state-of-the-science flood house, where all franchise owners and their employees will receive practical application of IICRC guidelines in applied structural drying and smoke and soot remediation, within a controlled environment.
The ASD facility will also be used for the research and development of new equipment and demonstrations to insurance industry professionals interested in increasing their competency and capabilities in property restoration. Construction on the facility is set to be completed later this summer.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
PuroClean’s New CEO Builds on Momentum; Prepares Fast-Growing Franchise for the "Big Leagues".
FranchiseWorks.com | Property Damage Restoration Franchise PuroClean’s New CEO Builds on Momentum; Prepares Fast-Growing Franchise for the "Big Leagues". Respected Restoration Industry Veteran Lauren Reid Set to Take Nation’s "Paramedics of Property Damage" to New Level.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL (February 2010) – Following a record-setting year for franchise growth and revenue, PuroClean, the nation’s fastest growing emergency services and property damage restoration franchise, took another major step forward with the appointment of Lauren John Reid to CEO.
Reid, a noted veteran with a track record of success in the restoration industry, has a clear vision and will work with the Leadership Team to develop a strategic plan to make PuroClean the No. 1 choice of insurance companies for property damage emergency mitigation services for homes and commercial businesses, as well as large-scale natural disaster and catastrophic clean up projects.
His impressive resume includes 17 years at Munters Corporation, Moisture Control Service (MCS) Division, a global leader in structural drying and emergency restoration services. During his tenure at MCS, Reid worked with Global and Regional Insurance firms, Government and Fortune 500 clients as a partner in the restoration and mitigation process. He was involved with numerous high-profile water damage and restoration projects, including the firm’s 120 projects in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
“I was attracted to PuroClean by their phenomenal leadership team and a solid foundation of best practices in franchising, training and operations,” Reid said. “They have a strong and growing group of eager, young franchisees looking to make their mark on the industry.”
Company founder Rory O’Dwyer said Reid possesses the ideal skill set, leadership qualities and restoration industry experience to help franchisees make that industry “mark” – sooner than later.
“Reid knows exactly where to focus our time and capital investments to take us where we need to be,” O’Dwyer said. “That includes solidifying best practices, standardizing training and operations, and preparing our franchisees to demonstrate to the insurance industry that they are equipped to handle major national accounts and disaster recovery.”
Last year alone, PuroClean opened 89 new damage restoration franchise locations and reported more than $90 million in revenues, up from $68 million in 2008. Most impressive were sales gains at existing franchise locations, up an astounding 31 percent from 2008 to 2009. The company also debuted a new Canadian headquarters, opened its 300th franchise location and achieved the highest customer experience performance rating in the industry, with a 93 percent Net Promoter Score®.
Reid joins PuroClean as the company embarks on another major step, the construction of an Applied Structural Drying (ASD) Demonstration Facility. The new facility, set for completion later this year, will include a classroom, as well as a state-of-the-science flood house, where all franchise owners and their employees will receive practical application of IICRC guidelines in applied structural drying and smoke and soot remediation, within a controlled environment. PuroClean Academy, the company’s official training school for franchise owners, has recently earned Approved School status from The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
Ft. Lauderdale, FL (February 2010) – Following a record-setting year for franchise growth and revenue, PuroClean, the nation’s fastest growing emergency services and property damage restoration franchise, took another major step forward with the appointment of Lauren John Reid to CEO.
Reid, a noted veteran with a track record of success in the restoration industry, has a clear vision and will work with the Leadership Team to develop a strategic plan to make PuroClean the No. 1 choice of insurance companies for property damage emergency mitigation services for homes and commercial businesses, as well as large-scale natural disaster and catastrophic clean up projects.
His impressive resume includes 17 years at Munters Corporation, Moisture Control Service (MCS) Division, a global leader in structural drying and emergency restoration services. During his tenure at MCS, Reid worked with Global and Regional Insurance firms, Government and Fortune 500 clients as a partner in the restoration and mitigation process. He was involved with numerous high-profile water damage and restoration projects, including the firm’s 120 projects in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
“I was attracted to PuroClean by their phenomenal leadership team and a solid foundation of best practices in franchising, training and operations,” Reid said. “They have a strong and growing group of eager, young franchisees looking to make their mark on the industry.”
Company founder Rory O’Dwyer said Reid possesses the ideal skill set, leadership qualities and restoration industry experience to help franchisees make that industry “mark” – sooner than later.
“Reid knows exactly where to focus our time and capital investments to take us where we need to be,” O’Dwyer said. “That includes solidifying best practices, standardizing training and operations, and preparing our franchisees to demonstrate to the insurance industry that they are equipped to handle major national accounts and disaster recovery.”
Last year alone, PuroClean opened 89 new damage restoration franchise locations and reported more than $90 million in revenues, up from $68 million in 2008. Most impressive were sales gains at existing franchise locations, up an astounding 31 percent from 2008 to 2009. The company also debuted a new Canadian headquarters, opened its 300th franchise location and achieved the highest customer experience performance rating in the industry, with a 93 percent Net Promoter Score®.
Reid joins PuroClean as the company embarks on another major step, the construction of an Applied Structural Drying (ASD) Demonstration Facility. The new facility, set for completion later this year, will include a classroom, as well as a state-of-the-science flood house, where all franchise owners and their employees will receive practical application of IICRC guidelines in applied structural drying and smoke and soot remediation, within a controlled environment. PuroClean Academy, the company’s official training school for franchise owners, has recently earned Approved School status from The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
Saturday, January 30, 2010
EPA Lead Rule: Affecting Remediation, Renovation and Remolding Projects in Chicago
In April 2008 the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) passed a rule that will significantly impact the remediation, renovation and remodeling industry. The Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP) changes how contractors can work on certain buildings constructed before 1978.
Effective April 2010, work done on a house or child occupied facility built before 1978 rule may apply regardless of who owns the facility or who is paying for the work.
The RRP requires two separate certifications and specific training.
Certified Firm: The actual company that performs the work must be a Certified Firm. This is a relatively simple administrative process.
Certified Renovator: The Certified Renovator is a named individual who works for a Certified Firm. A Certified Renovator must be assigned to each project and must be present on the job site for certain specific phases of the job. A Certified Renovator may not delegate these specific responsibilities to a non-certified person. The Certified Renovator is also responsible for training all non-certified workers who will be doing actual work on the project. However, non-certified workers may not perform the specific duties required of the Certified Renovator.
EPA's RRP website (www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm) has more information on the rule. The site also has a handbook to help contractors understand the RRP. Called the Small Entity Compliance Guide to Renovate Right, this document guides you through the RRP without having to read the actual regulation.
Effective April 2010, work done on a house or child occupied facility built before 1978 rule may apply regardless of who owns the facility or who is paying for the work.
The RRP requires two separate certifications and specific training.
Certified Firm: The actual company that performs the work must be a Certified Firm. This is a relatively simple administrative process.
Certified Renovator: The Certified Renovator is a named individual who works for a Certified Firm. A Certified Renovator must be assigned to each project and must be present on the job site for certain specific phases of the job. A Certified Renovator may not delegate these specific responsibilities to a non-certified person. The Certified Renovator is also responsible for training all non-certified workers who will be doing actual work on the project. However, non-certified workers may not perform the specific duties required of the Certified Renovator.
EPA's RRP website (www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm) has more information on the rule. The site also has a handbook to help contractors understand the RRP. Called the Small Entity Compliance Guide to Renovate Right, this document guides you through the RRP without having to read the actual regulation.
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