Flood Insurance - Do I Really Need It?

1/4/2023 (Permalink)

Flood insurance is an important part of your overall financial strategy.

If you live in any part of the world that regularly experiences flooding, then flood insurance is a necessity. Floods can be devastating to homes and lives, but they are not always covered by home insurance policies. If you plan on buying a home, or if you already have one and want to make sure that it is properly protected in case of flooding, then flood insurance is something you will need to purchase.

Flood Facts

You’re probably thinking to yourself, “I don't live near any rivers or lakes. I don't live in a flood zone. I don't need flood insurance." But you might be surprised to learn that floods are the most common type of natural disaster in the U.S., killing more people than any other type of natural disaster and causing more property damage than tornadoes, hurricanes and earthquakes combined. In fact, flooding is the leading cause of catastrophic damage to homes according to FEMA; over 30% of all flood claims come from homes with no history of previous flooding incidents!

The truth is most homeowners underestimate their risk for flooding because they simply don’t think it could happen to them—until it does.

How Can You Tell If You Are in a Flood Zone?

There are a few simple ways to find out if you live in a flood zone. If your home is located in a flood plain, or if you have a federally backed mortgage loan and it's located in an area that's designated as high risk for flooding, then yes—you should purchase flood insurance.

A residential property is considered to be at risk of flooding if it has been mapped by FEMA as being within the 100-year floodplain. The 100-year floodplain is the area of land where there’s a 1% chance of flooding every year.

If you have any questions about whether or not your home falls into one of these categories, contact your local FEMA office or county assessor’s office to inquire further about what type of insurance coverage would best suit your needs

Types of Flood Insurance

The first step to determining whether or not you need flood insurance is to understand what it is. Flood insurance policies are either federally subsidized or privately issued and can be broken down into two main categories:

1. National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) - This type of policy is issued through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and covers up to $250,000 in damages. They're good for flooding, fire and other disasters that meet their criteria (more on those later). The premium you pay will depend on where you live and how much coverage you want; the higher your premium, the more likely your property will be covered if something happens. If you don't have flood insurance but are at risk for floods due to river overflow or tidal surge during a storm event like Hurricane Matthew, then this may be a good option for protecting yourself from disaster losses even though it's not mandatory.

2. Flood Insurance Policy (FIP) - These policies are private-issued policies specifically tailored toward homeowners who want protection against damage caused by rising water levels during extreme weather events such as hurricanes or tsunamis; they tend also include coverage against earthquakes because many earthquakes cause flooding as well! While NFIP was designed solely around catastrophic events like major hurricanes hitting land areas without warning offshore islands nearby would still need some kind of protection plan in place before any natural disaster strikes them unexpectedly so having both options available lets people choose which one works best depending on their specific needs—but there's no reason why someone couldn't choose both types too just because they wanted more peace-of-mind about being prepared ahead of time when possible... unless there wasn't enough money left over after paying all those other bills each month!

Cost-effective Flood Insurance

If you own a home and live in a flood zone, it can be hard to know whether or not you need the extra coverage. The good news is that most insurance companies will give you the option to purchase a policy for less than $300 annually. If you're worried about rising costs due to climate change, consider adding a deductible of 10% or more. This will lower your premiums but still cover some of your losses if flooding occurs. If you already have homeowners' insurance, talk with an agent who specializes in flood protection and/or check out our state-by-state guide below for more details on what's available where you live!

The more you know about flood insurance the better you'll be able to protect yourself and your family.

If you live in a flood-prone area, flood insurance can be an important part of your overall financial strategy. It's also a good idea for anyone who has a federally backed mortgage or whose local government requires that they carry flood insurance on their property.

While it's not mandatory, many homeowners are surprised to learn that the majority of people with mortgages do not have a policy in place. If you don't have one, it's likely because you've never thought about it before—but now is the perfect time to start thinking about how having this coverage could protect both yourself and your home from significant damage if disaster strikes.

Flood insurance is an important part of your overall financial strategy. It can protect you from having to pay for damage that could result from flooding, which can be substantial and life-changing. Knowing more about flood insurance will help you make an informed decision about whether it's right for you and your family.

Prevent Your Office Roof From Suffering Leaks

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

No business welcomes a roof leak.

No business welcomes a roof leak. Besides soaked equipment, the inconvenience of working space rearrangements, and overall stress, you become suddenly burdened with the cost of unexpected repairs. Luckily, you can make your office in Northwest Las Vegas, NV, less likely to suffer roof-related maladies through the implementation of some easy measures.

Damage Caused by Leaks

Should leakage afflict your building, a few difficulties you can expect include:

• Wasted energy and higher utility bills
• Mold and mildew
• Compromised electrical wiring
• Wood deterioration

Fissures commonly develop from improper maintenance, rainstorms, or poor installation. Note also that roofs need to be replaced every twenty or thirty years and older coverings are more susceptible. Become proactive and curb your chances of suffering a roof leak and suddenly needing a storm repair specialist.

Preventing Leaks
Upkeep remains key to avoiding disasters. Remember that while you can always perform visual inspections yourself, there’s no substitute for the skills of a trained expert. Therefore, have a certified professional perform a complete analysis and don’t forget to schedule follow-ups as time moves on. Request that your building’s ventilation be checked along with gutters and downspouts.
Regularly sweep away debris, as stuffed drains cause harmful rainwater to flow beneath shingles. Should you ever notice torn or missing tiles, have them replaced immediately. The longer you wait, the greater the odds of problems spreading.
Violent weather is a primary culprit of roof degradation. Although wind damage can never be eliminated entirely, moving trees and bushes away from your place of business reduces potential fallout. The reason for this is that leaves and branches cause algae and rot, leading to destructive moisture. Re-landscaping may seem an unappealing option, but the price will inevitably prove lower than an extensive building restoration.
Simple precautions can help prevent a disruptive roof leak. Rather than waiting for complications to occur and then rushing to remedy the situation, invest in proper maintenance.

What To Expect After Your Building is Damaged During a Flood

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage at an office in Las Vegas, NV.

This Process Includes Three Important Stages

If you have experienced a flood in Las Vegas, NV, your building has likely been damaged in some way. A flood cleanup company can help you return it to a safe and comfortable environment. 

1. Inspection
The first thing that the emergency restoration company will do is inspect the building. This is necessary so that they know how to proceed. They will check each area of the building to determine what was affected as well as the type and severity of the damage. Once this has been done, they can start taking steps toward repairing the building.

2. Mitigation
After the inspection, mitigation can be done. This stage is usually completed much more quickly than restoration and involves taking action to reduce further damage. Excessive flood water inside the building will be removed to prevent mold growth and damage to building materials. Absorbent items such as carpeting, drywall and insulation may need to be torn out so they can be replaced. Dehumidifiers may be used to dry the building quickly.

3. Restoration
The final stage of the process is restoration. This is when all of the repairs are done. Depending on how badly the building was damaged, some areas may need major work. If the structure of the building was affected, some rooms may need to be rebuilt entirely. The flood cleanup company will also replace any materials that were removed. They may also perform smaller tasks, such as repainting the walls or replacing windows that were damaged in the storm. Furniture or other belongings that were affected by the flood may be restored at this time as well.
Water damage from a flood can cause a variety of problems in your building, from corrosion to mold, so it is important to have an inspection, mitigation and restoration done by a professional flood cleanup company as soon as possible. Starting the process sooner will also allow you to get back to work more quickly.

What Damages a Solar Panel?

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Sola panel damaged

What Causes Solar Panel Damage?

People in Las Vegas, NV with solar panels should feel confident that their investment should last and they won’t have to worry about panel damage. While the weather doesn’t always cooperate with our wishes, these renewable energy systems are designed to withstand a fair amount of what Mother Nature throws their way.

Panel Durability

Although the many photovoltaic cells that make up a panel are fragile, they are protected by a durable frame and tempered glass. Similar to cellphone screens, even if they shatter or crack, they maintain their form. The glass used is tested to provide a protective layer from hail, wind, and severe storms, as well as hold up to excess weight on them.

Common Culprits

Solar panels are designed to last up to 30 years, and may even continue working at a lower capacity after that, but they aren’t 100% resistant to the effects of nature. When general roof damage occurs, there may be a chance that there is also panel damage. The most common causes of damage include:

Falling debris – Dust, leaves and twigs may create tiny scratches that can eventually block some of the cells from absorbing sunlight. Larger branches falling have the potential to create large cracks. Maintaining nearby trees can help deter these problems.
Hail – Panels are designed to withstand hail. For people who live in areas prone to hail storms, or freak storms with larger hail, scratching or cracking can happen. While there isn’t much you can do to prevent hail damage, smaller panels can reduce overall damage.
Rain and snow – As panels age, seals can begin to deteriorate. This may allow moisture to get inside the panel and affect its components. A professional can reseal the panels to help them last as long as they should.

Most people won’t need to worry about panel damage for years to come. A few small steps, like keeping panels free of debris, can easily be added to your spring and fall home maintenance checklist.

Basic Information on Storm Damage and Tax Deductions

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

Flood damage at an office in Las Vegas, NV.

Storm Damage and Tax Deductions: Basic Information

When your company in Las Vegas, NV, encounters major storm damage, it will likely look at all of its options to save money and survive a devastating event. The strategies and solutions for dealing with a disaster include many possibilities. Perhaps the first is relying on a primary insurance policy that covers damage caused by storms. This can result in claims payments for such things as a damaged roof, saturated contents and destroyed electrical systems.
The next step is often working with a professional storm remediation company in your area. A quality team of technicians can come to your building and perform an efficient restoration of the property. Help also might be available from one surprising source: the taxman.

The Ability To Deduct Storm Damage
Under certain circumstances, your company might be able to write off the expenses related to a storm. Not all losses will be tax-deductible, but the following costs could lower your overall tax liability:

• Expenses that are not paid for by insurance
  
• Expenses that qualify as losses to your company
  
• Expenses for restoration services not covered by insurance
  
• Deductibles you must pay before insurance kicks in
  
  

Tax laws are complicated and change frequently. Rules vary in federal, state and local jurisdictions. It is always best to rely on the advice of a tax professional.

The Strength To Recover Quickly
A powerful storm can do a number on your company and disrupt operations as well as cause all sorts of damage. It is best to consider all of your options. The expenses can become overwhelming. Also, when you are in need of restoration services, it is crucial that you partner with a franchise that has a proven track record. This will ensure the work will be done according to the highest industry standards.
Dealing with storm damage can be a trying time for your company. It could require the help of many professionals to recover.

After the Flood: 3 Content Cleaning Tips

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding can cause serious damage to your Fremont Street, NV, home and its contents.

3 Content Cleaning Tips After the Flood

Flooding can cause serious damage to your Fremont Street, NV, home and its contents. After a flood, it can be difficult to know how to salvage items such as photo albums, important documents and your children’s toys. Knowing how to restore these belongings and what is safe to keep for content cleaning can help you save time and money, both of which might be in short supply after serious flooding.

1. Retrieve Items in Safe Areas Only

Not all types of floods are the same, and the grade of water can have a significant impact on your belongings. For example, Flooding caused by a broken sink pipe in your kitchen may be less damaging than one that originated from a broken sewer or flooded toilet. Category 3, or black water, is usually the result of such floods, which may make items more difficult to sanitize and restore. As such, it is wise to avoid retrieving any belongings that have been soaked by contaminated flood water.

2. Lower Humidity in Affected Areas

After flooding, indoor humidity levels can rise considerably. This can affect important paper documents, books and photographs. To prevent curling and warping of paper products, turn off your home’s ventilation systems, open the windows and turn on floor and ceiling fans. This can help reduce humidity until you are able to move these items to a safer area.

3. Ask a Flood Damage Service for Advice

Calling in a flood damage and restoration service to help you with content cleaning may help you feel more confident about the choices you make regarding your damaged items. For example, flood technicians can help you understand the difference between porous items, such as plastic toys and fabrics, and non-porous belongings, like those that are made of metal or glass. Porous items may have to be discarded if they were soaked with contaminated flood water.

Content cleaning can be challenging after flooding affects your Fremont Street, NV, home. Understanding how certain types of floods might affect your belongings can help you make the best decisions possible when it comes to salvaging them.

Understanding Black Water Risks

11/26/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded building in Las Vegas, NV.

What Makes Water a Threat?

If you own a business that experienced flooding, you’ve probably heard of the term black water. Alongside water damage, it is one of the highest risks poses by flooding. But just what is it about this mucky water that makes it so dangerous? And how does a business owner in Las Vegas, NV, go about cleaning it up if it’s so unsafe? Read on to learn more about what makes the water a threat and what you can do about it.

Defined

Considered a serious health threat against humans and animals, this water refers mostly to pathogen-rich wastewater from toilets. It often contains feces, urine, water, and other contaminants. Sewage also is considered black, as is floodwater from rivers, streams, and ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes. Risks from this water come from:

• Ingesting contaminated water
  
• Inhaling contaminated water droplets
  
• Getting contaminated water on broken skin
  
  

Dangers

Besides water damage, disease and illness are the biggest threats posed by this water. Those can include hepatitis, cryptosporidiosis, gastroenteritis and wound infections to name just a few. These largely gastrointestinal conditions can result in stomach upset, diarrhea and life-threatening bacterial infections in some instances.

Eliminating

The threats of soiled water make it too dangerous to clean up on your own, no matter how little there is. Instead, remediation must be left to the professionals. The sooner the water can be removed and the building dried, the better. A professional water remediation firm will use multiple methods to clear this dangerous substance. Those may include water extraction, antimicrobial treatments, mold remediation, carpet cleaning and more.

Black water is one of the most threatening parts of a building flood. Don’t try to take this dangerous water on by yourself. Find a specialist in professional water damage clean-up and treatment to get rid of your contaminated water problem.

Does Drywall Always Need To Be Removed After Flooding?

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Flood cut performed to damaged drywall.

Removing Drywall After Flooding

In a vast majority of cases, water damage restoration specialists will need to perform a flood cut to handle any damaged drywall. This involves removing a section of the drywall approximately 12 inches above the flood line. Since drywall is a porous material, it can be extremely damaged by flooding, essentially becoming a sponge. However, there are a small number of situations where experts in Las Vegas, Nevada can repair the wall without having to tear out the whole thing.

1. Minimal Water Damage

Extreme levels of water brought about by heavy rainfall or a burst pipe will necessitate a flood cut every time. If your situation involves a washing machine or dishwasher overflowing and causing a small amount of water to flood the floor, then you may not need to remove drywall. The easiest way to determine this on your own is to get a moisture meter and apply it to the affected wall. If the reading is over one percent, then you will need to remove the wall because it is too compromised.

2. Clean Water

Severe flooding can cause water to pick up sewage and other pieces of debris from your home’s septic tank and bring those materials inside your house. With that level of contamination, a flood cut is highly recommended. You do not want hazardous materials to go deep inside the porous materials of the drywall.

3. Lack of Insulation

Some walls in your home have insulation, while others do not. If water seeps through the walls and enters the insulation, then that material is typically beyond salvage and will need to be removed. Experts in Las Vegas, NV will need to take out the walls to get to the insulation. This prevents further mold growth. Without insulation, the team may remedy flooding damage by drilling holes in the walls to air out the other side.

Staying Safe After a Flood

10/27/2021 (Permalink)

Shut off the main power at the breaker.

How to Stay Safe After a Flood

Experiencing a flood in Las Vegas, NV can be devastating to your life, home and property. After the flood water has receded, it’s only natural to begin the process of assessing the damage. During these times, it’s imperative that you prioritize your safety. Here are four tips to keep you safe when dealing with a flooded home.

1. Wait for Clearance to Return

Floods can wash out roads and down power lines. Never return to an area that’s been damaged by flood waters without clearance first from the authorities. Your local news, radio and the National Weather Service are great sources for updates on the affected area.

2. Wear Protective Clothing and Shoes

Any surface that’s been touched by water should be considered contaminated. Flood water may contain animal waste, chemical and industrial runoff and untreated sewage. Rubber gloves and waterproof outerwear are sufficient, but don’t neglect a durable pair of shoes. Injuries to the feet are some of the most common following a flood.

3. Ventilate Your Space

Depending on how much of your home has been exposed to water damage, a flooded home is at risk for the growth of mold. Keeping your windows and doors open as much as possible can help reduce the chance of mold taking hold in the home. If you do suspect mold, contact a local restoration specialist to assist in the mold remediation process.

4. Use Caution With Electrical Appliances

You’ll need to shut off the main power at the breaker, but first examine the area for any signs of water. Contact an electrician if you’re unable to reach the circuit breaker without standing in water. Once the power’s off, have all affected appliances inspected before attempting to operate them.

The damage done by flood water can be extensive. Work with certified restoration professionals in Las Vegas, NV to aid in the process of restoring your home.

Does This House Come With a Floaty: Understanding Flood Zones

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

If the concept of a flood zone is new to you, it can be slightly intimidating.

Many homeowners are not familiar with the idea of a flood zone, especially if they’ve never lived in a high-risk flooding area or an area prone to severe weather, and when searching in the Las Vegas
area they may be shocked at the necessities of these zones. As a way of minimizing the shock, it helps to understand the zoning designations and some of the necessary requirements.

1. The Four Main Zone Types

There are four Main zone types, and if you have never heard of these zones, you likely live in a minimal flood hazard area. The four zone types are:

• Minimal Flood Hazard Areas: typically designated as Zone C or X, these areas are considered low risk.
• Moderate Hazard Flood Areas: typically designated as Zone B, these areas likely experience flooding but not frequently.
• Special Flood Hazard Areas: these are the areas with the highest risk of flooding, and they are typically designated as Zone V or A.
• D Zones: these are areas that FEMA has not given a designation to yet.

2. Zone Maps

Every flood zone is designated on maps readily available through the FEMA Map Service Center. FEMA created these maps to offer valuable insights for the creation of flood management plans as well as insurance coverage by compiling information from the statistical research of river flows, storm tides, rainfall, topographic surveys, and even hydraulic analysis.

3. Zones and Insurance Requirements

While many homeowners might be irked at the idea of paying for additional insurance coverage, it is necessary to keep in mind that in specific high-risk areas the likelihood of your home succumbing to a flood is significantly increased. Therefore, FEMA, the government, and insurance companies have your best interests in mind when they require this type of coverage in high-risk areas.

If the concept of a flood zone is new to you, it can be slightly intimidating, but the reality is that FEMA designates the zones to ensure that you and your property are protected. You can check FEMA’s website, your local municipality, or you can reach out to flood and restoration specialists in your area for more information.

4 Structural Components Prone to Moisture Problems

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage at an office in Las Vegas, NV.

4 Structural Components Prone to Moisture Problems

Property owners in Las Vegas, NV, know a big storm will happen before too long. Ensuring the property is sealed and protected against rain damage is essential to avoiding black mold growing, water losses and potentially expensive repairs. While a certified water damage and restoration company will be able to get your property back to "Like it never even happened," taking preventive measures may minimize the chances of damage happening. To do that, the building envelope—structural components that separate the interior and exterior—must be maintained.

1. Roof
The roof is the main structural component protecting your property. Regular maintenance and annual inspections by a professional are vital to ensuring it does what it should. If the roof is more than 20 years old, it may be time to consider a new one.

2. Doors and Windows
These parts of a building are the most prone to damage. Ensure they always working properly and make necessary repairs as soon as possible. Items to look for include missing screws, loose hinges and worn weather-stripping,

3. Foundation
When it comes to rain damage, finding it in the lower levels of the property is common. Water easily finds its way through any tiny crack or damaged sealant as it follows its natural gravitational path. Along with repairing any damage, ensure the ground outside slopes away from the property.

4. Siding and Masonry
Any gaps, cracks or missing parts open up your property to water infiltration. Signs of siding trouble also include warping and bubbling. For structures with masonry, it may be time for a little upgrade to avoid water issues. It can be reinforced by removing ivy, replacing seals, grouting mortar joints and installing flashing.
As a property owner, you want to keep it in tip-top shape. Regularly inspecting common problem areas and making immediate repairs helps make that happen and minimizes the chances of rain damage.

The Storm Damage Recovery Process

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Roof damaged by a storm in Northwest Las Vegas, NV

Storm Damage Process

An unexpected tornado can bring wind and hail damage. Sudden hurricanes can bring flooding and water damage. Destructive blizzards can cause wind and ice damage. Natural disasters can unleash their associated damage on your home. Wind, water, and hail from storms can damage not only your structure but also your contents. After events like these, you need to know what comes next. Obviously, your first step should be to hire a remediation company. Then, let them handle the processes of securing and rebuilding your home.

Securing
After flooding, hail, or other damage, the professionals will secure your home so that it does not receive any further damage. The processes they use could include:

• Boarding up doors and windows
  
• Installing a fence
  
• Shrink wrapping the building
  
• Stationing security personnel
  
• Removing debris
  
  

The company that you choose will advise you as to what is best for your individual situation.

Rebuilding
Whether your home in Northwest Las Vegas, NV, has seen wind damage or flooding, you are probably going to have at least some part of it rebuilt. Fortunately, the same company that helped mitigate the damage can often help you with reconstruction. This is significantly better than hiring someone who specializes in new construction because of the specific processes that must be taken to help restore your home. For instance, after a thunderstorm, the moisture level in your home will need to be lowered, then the company must find matching materials, designs, and finishes to help your home return to its pre-disaster state.
When catastrophes happen, you will need help mitigating and restoring any wind, hail, and flood damage that your home endures. The first step you should take after a disaster is to find remediation professionals that can help you. They will be able to secure your home to prevent any further damage. Then, they will be able to help you rebuild your home. The best companies will work to restore your home so it matches its pre-disaster details.

4 Things To Look For During a Building Inspection

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Whether you are expecting a storm or just keeping your building maintained, a professional cleanup and restoration service can help.

You should perform exterior maintenance on your commercial building regularly to keep it in good condition. You may especially want to do this when you are expecting a storm in Northwest Las Vegas, NV. If the building is already damaged, it will be at a higher risk during severe weather. The following are four key issues to look for.

1. Wear and Tear Around Windows and Doors

Window and door frames often deteriorate more quickly than other parts of the building, so make these areas a priority during a building inspection. Check to make sure they are sealing properly when closed. Otherwise, they will allow moisture to get inside and cause problems.

2. Cracks or Holes in the Walls

Along with improperly sealing windows and doors, you should check for problems with the walls when doing exterior maintenance. If there are cracks, rain can easily get trapped inside. If this happens, it can damage building materials like insulation or drywall and may also cause mold growth.

3. Damaged Tiles in the Roof

The roof is another important area to look at during an inspection. Loose tiles can be blown off by strong winds, leaving the roof vulnerable to further damage. This can also result in rain leaking through the roof and into the ceiling beneath it. Depending on the severity of the storm, this could cause flooding on upper floors.

4. Debris and Light Objects in the Yard

The building itself is not the only thing to look at during exterior maintenance. Certain objects, like outdoor furniture or debris, could become hazardous during a storm. If the wind blows them toward the building, it could damage the walls or break the windows.

Whether you are expecting a storm or just keeping your building maintained, a professional cleanup and restoration service can help. Professionals can inspect your building thoroughly as well as provide any repairs that may need to be done.

3 Ways Flood Damage Is Different From Other Water Damage

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Flood damaged home in Northwest Las Vegas, NV

Details To Keep In Mind While Having Restoration Done

After a storm in Northwest Las Vegas, NV, your home may be in need of repairs, particularly if there has been flooding. While there are many similarities, the damage that you encounter in this situation differs from that caused by other water sources. The following are four details that you should keep in mind when having restoration done:

1. The Process May Take Longer
Because of the source of the water damage, restoration can take longer after a flood. Unlike the water that comes from a leak or a damaged pipe, floodwater can carry debris, sewage and bacteria, among other harmful elements. It is important that any areas of your house that have been affected are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. As a result, cleanup and repairs can take longer than they would when dealing with a clean water source.

2. Items May Need To Be Thrown Out
While it is possible for many items to be cleaned and salvaged after flooding, there are exceptions. Furniture and other belongings that are made with absorbent materials can be difficult to get completely clean. These can easily hold onto bacteria and mold spores, so it is safer to throw them out and replace them.

3. Repairs May Not Be Included in Your Insurance Policy
In many cases, flood damage is not included in your basic insurance policy. If you want coverage for this kind of emergency, you usually need to purchase it separately. However, because individual policies can vary, it is best to check your plan so you know exactly what is included.
If you have experienced flooding in your home, it is important to have the damage taken care of right away. Allowing the water to sit can contribute to more problems and result in the need for more extensive repairs. A water damage remediation company can perform cleanup and repairs to both the building and your belongings to return your home to its previous condition.

What To Know About Storm Damage and Your Insurance

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Knowing what exactly is in your policy is your responsibility as the homeowner

What To Know About Storm Damage and Your Insurance

If you live in an area such as Las Vegas, NV, you may find you get a lot of storms. Heavy storms can cause a number of damage types to your home, meaning you may want to make sure you have flood insurance coverage. Storm policies can provide a number of benefits you may want to be aware of.

1. Storm Insurance May cover Many Damages

Depending on what's included in your coverage your storm Insurance may also include coverage for hail, wind, and flood damage. Secondary damage policies often include coverage for damages that occur as a result of the first type. One example of this can be mold damage. Knowing what exactly is in your policy is your responsibility as the homeowner.

2. You Don’t Have To Wait for Your Adjuster

It's also important to know that you do not always have to wait for your flood insurance adjuster to arrive document the damages before beginning clean up. In many cases, it's important to begin to clean up as quickly as possible in order to prevent additional damages or long-term problems.

3. Your Insurance May Recommend a Restoration Company

Many insurance companies have a list of preferred vendors they recommend you work with for certain projects. This can include a local storm damage restoration service. One of the benefits of working with a professional team is that these professionals have the ability to document the damage as they begin clean up. This allows them to get the insurance adjuster any information they may need while also beginning the repair process as quickly as possible.

In addition to flood insurance, the storm coverage in your homeowner's insurance policy may cover many damage types. It's also important to know that as cleanup should take place as quickly as possible. You may not need to wait for an insurance agent to assess the damage. In many cases, they may recommend working with the local restoration service who can help document this part of the process before the adjuster even arrives.

Risks and Tips for Driving During a Flood

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

Avoid driving on a flooded street

When Mother Nature hits hard, traversing a flooded street should be carefully considered. While some situations may not allow for hunkering down, such as trying to get home or needing to pick up the kids, before hitting the road, safety should be the first consideration. Your home in Northwest Las Vegas, NV, can be restored by a flood remediation and restoration professional, but you are irreplaceable.

Flood Risks

Water itself creates added risks on flooded roads. It only takes 6 inches of water to lose control of a vehicle and 12 inches for a vehicle to be carried away. There are also hidden dangers.

Power Lines: Downed lines can create electrical currents in the water.
Road Conditions: Water can hide roads that have been damaged or washed away, which could lead to being stranded.
Hydroplaning: Excess speeds can quickly make your vehicle lose contact with road surfaces.
Visibility: A flooded street can easily have debris and other obstacles that can’t be seen.

Tips for Traveling
If it is absolutely necessary to attempt driving in a flood, consider these travel tips before and during the journey.

Stay up-to-date on news reports.
Adhere to any barricades and find an alternative route.
If safe to do so, drive down the center of the lane, which tends to have more shallow waters.
Drive slow enough that the vehicle stays in first or second gear to better maintain control.
Steer clear of standing water, which could lead to vehicle damage and being swept away.
If necessary to cross standing water, try to verify the depth and drive through it slowly and steadily.
Gently test the brakes if water rises above the rims.
Don’t get distracted by your cellphone. Keep your eyes constantly on the road around you.
If a vehicle stalls and won’t restart, immediately exit the vehicle and move to higher ground.

Although there may be numerous reasons to get in your vehicle and attempt to drive down a flooded street, safety should always come first. If you must do so, the above tips can help you traverse the situation with a safety mindset.

3 Things To Do Ahead of the Storm

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

Check that you have a generator

Implement The Three Following Strategies

As a business owner in Northwest Las Vegas, NV, you are responsible for the well-being of your employees and the company. Are you ready to handle the intensity of a winter storm? Do you have procedures in place to maintain safety and avoid chaos? If not, it's time to take action and think now about what to do when inches of snowflakes pound on the roof and ceiling. Waiting until too late, could mean an extensive closure and repair. Try to minimize your trouble and establish calm by implementing the following three strategies.

1. Prepare Early

Listen to the news carefully, keeping abreast of the latest reports and potential for storm damage. Make sure employees know a chain of command as well as have contact information. Then, determine at what point you're place would shut down, sending people home to safety. If possible, do this early, permitting them to complete tasks at home. Just in case someone stays in the location, double check that you have a generator, batteries, and water.

2. Know Your Claim

Be ready to call people once the winter storm passes. Read through your insurance policy, understanding how to use it and make contact with the agency. In addition, have on hand the phone number for a water and storm restoration team.

3. Ready the Structure

When word starts to spread of an impending threat, start looking around the property. For example, insulate your plumbing, avoiding a pipe break. In addition, if anything still seems vulnerable, move it to a better area or higher ground. Then, have a specialist walk the roof, looking for areas of concern. Replace any loose or missing shingles. Don't forget to check the flashing and gutters. You don't want ice to pile up and break them down. They should be fitted well and cleaned out. Finally, trim trees and foliage. You don't want anything falling onto the rooftop.
A winter storm is a formidable foe, capable of pounding your establishment with snow and ice. Remember you can't always beat the system, but you can stay on top of the situation, remaining cognizant of proper procedures and tasks.