What to Do If You Don't Have Flood Insurance After a Flood

8/19/2022 (Permalink)

Homeowners insurance policies typically exclude damage caused by flooding. Residents of flood-prone areas should obtain a separate flood insurance policy, otherwise they will have to pay for damage restoration out of pocket or obtain relief through a federal program. Here are four types of assistance that may be available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

1. Transitional Sheltering and Temporary Housing

After the president declares a federal disaster area, Transitional Sheltering Assistance can lower the cost of staying in a hotel during the days or weeks immediately following a disaster. Homeowners can also seek Temporary Housing Assistance for a period of one month up to 18 months.

2. Grants for Cleanup and Restoration

A homeowner may want to apply for a grant to fund the restoration of a residence located on a flood plane. Grants can be used for repairing structural damage or replacing other losses.

3. Repair and Replacement Assistance

If the location of your home is declared a federal disaster area, you may be eligible for a one-time payment for Repair and Replacement Assistance. This option will not cover the costs of flood damage, and is intended to supplement a flood insurance policy.

4. Low-Interest Loans

It may be possible to obtain loans that have low interest rates to finance residential flood damage repairs. These loans are usually capped at $200,000 for a primary residence and $40,000 for property including renters' losses. Annual interest rates may be as low as 1.75 percent for a 30-year period.

After a federal declaration of emergency, homeowners may benefit from these and other services administered by FEMA. If you obtain flood insurance, you should seek an estimate from storm and water damage restoration experts and make a claim. Professional cleanup and rebuilding services can reduce the likelihood that secondary damage will result from primary flood damage at a residence.

What Is a Flood Cut and Why Is It Necessary?

8/19/2022 (Permalink)

If you have experienced flooding in your commercial building, it may be necessary for the restoration company to perform a flood cut. This is probably an unfamiliar term for most business owners, so this guide will provide a brief explanation of what it is and why it is done.

What a Flood Cut Is

When a water restoration company like SERVPRO of Lake Geneva needs to cut the drywall in your building, this is called a flood cut. The reason this is called a flood cut is that the cut is made 12-18 inches above where the flood damage stops. It is done to facilitate drywall tear-out. A flood cut may be performed in a variety of situations:

• Wall has been touched by sewage water
• Damage is too severe to save the wall
• It isn't practical to dry out the wall without removing sections
  
  

When a Flood Cut Is Necessary

Flooding sometimes causes sewer lines to back up which can lead to your building being exposed to contamination. A wall that has been contaminated by sewage can not be salvaged because the materials may contain harmful bacteria or pathogens. Additionally, a flood cut needs to be performed on walls that contain insulation, because insulation can not be dried out and still function properly as insulation.

Situations That Do Not Require a Flood Cut

If the water that damaged the wall was from a clean source, such as a pipe leak, and there is no insulation, the restoration company may be able to salvage the wall by using an injection system to dry out the inside of the wall without cutting the drywall. Most restoration companies will make every effort to salvage as much property as possible.
When a building has been damaged by flooding, restoration services will work with you to attempt to salvage your property. However, in some instances, a flood cut will need to be made to properly restore the function of your building.

When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO of Lake Geneva is ready!

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lake Geneva specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

We can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 2,000 Franchises across North America and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the Country.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 262-248-7588.

Summer Storms

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Summer storms are not rare in Wisconsin.  Some of those storms can be very severe with the threat of heavy rain, hail and tornadoes. With severe storms come flooding, power outages, and wind or hail damage.

These storms bring with them inches of rain in a short time frame. These types of summer storms are the perfect kindling for flash floods. These storms also bring with them the very real possibility of doing damage to your home or business.

Floods happen, and if our statistics are to be believed, they happen more than any other type of residential or commercial loss. The vast majority of calls we get involve water in some capacity and this is no different in the summer. When these freak storms blow through, many people are not prepared and therefore experience flooding and other water damage.

Luckily, SERVPRO of Lake Geneva is equipped for such instances. With years of experience of drying out homes and businesses, we should be the very first call you make when summer decides to get weird and start dumping water on your home or business.

Damaging effects from storms

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Storms can produce many damaging effects from high winds and heavy rainfall, to lightning strikes and flooding. Each carries its own destructive properties. Lightning strikes can be the ignition source to starting devastating fires and heavy rains could possibly produce dangerous flood waters. Some storm cells can increase in intensity and produce even stronger fronts such as tornadoes. It is important to consider each possibility and prepare for anything Mother Nature may throw at you. SERVPRO of Lake Geneva has the ability and experience to mitigate and repair any effects storm damage may incur. From fallen trees that destroy your roof to basements flooded with unsanitary water, we clean it all. The longer time passes after disaster strikes, the higher the price tag will be. Call us today at 262-248-7588.

When extreme and violent weather strikes

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme and violent weather can unfortunately happen when we least expect it. Heavy rains or strong winds have the capability of causing thousands in damages. Once the storm is over and it is safe to walk the grounds, you may notice cosmetic issues such as patio furniture that has been knocked over. But you must take a closer inspection of the areas that matter most and can result in more costly repairs. Ensure windows are intact with no cracks, damaged frames or broken panes. Look for any shingles that may have been lost during heavy winds. Clogged gutters can also be an issue to focus on. Check to ensure no items had gotten lodged during the storm. Lastly inspect to be sure that your siding, paint or brick exterior shows no signs of wear, as each is susceptible to high velocity storm fronts. By doing these steps soon after storm damages occur can save you time and money and may avoid further problems.

Fast Response to the Storm

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage.

SERVPRO of Lake Geneva specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained to the standards of the IICRC and we use specialized equipment to dry out your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Our crews are able to respond quickly since we are locally owned and operated.   A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Lake Geneva and Walworth County we are prepared to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of more than 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.  We are here to help you weather the storm.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 

262-248-7588

Securing for the Storm

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Securing for the Storm

Storm weather can bring a wide variety of issues. From hail to ice damns, you must be prepared for whatever may occur. Your home or business can suffer major losses if not properly secured for an impending storm. Some damages can be completely avoidable if small simple steps are taken prior to the storm's arrival. 

• Replace Missing or Damaged Shingles.
• Repair Loose Siding.
• Keep Your Gutters Clear.
• Keep Your Sump Pump in Working Order. 
• Ensure Proper Sealing of Doors and Windows. 
• Check for Loose Fence Posts. 
• Trim Your Trees if time permits.

By doing these steps in preparation before a storm hits can save you time and repair costs. When damages does happen to occur, call SERVPRO at your soonest availability. The faster we can arrive on scene the more quickly we can get you and your property back on your feet.

SERVPRO of Lake Geneva

262-248-7588

Are you Prepared for the Storm?

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

If a community is not prepared for a severe storm, the results can be devastating. SERVPRO® of Lake Geneva wants to share some of the following tips to keep in mind while putting together an emergency kit in the event of a severe storm approaching. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has stated emergency kits should include some of the following:

• First aid kit
• Any medicine currently being taken
• Extra change of clothes and shoes
• Pet supplies if you are taking care of an animal
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Emergency food and water

Do you have items on your list that we have not listed?  You can always add whatever else you may need. There should be an emergency kit in every residential building as well as all commercial buildings if possible. Aside from having an emergency kit ready, a plan should also be in place. If there is a designated storm area inside the office, occupants should head there with the emergency kits. Severe storms cannot be avoided, but with the right tools and resources they can be easier to deal with.  SERVPRO of Lake Geneva wants to make sure you are prepared!

Flooding Due to Heavy Rain Storm

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding is a huge problem for home and business owners. Beyond the obvious water damage you’re contending with, there will also be hazardous bacteria and pathogens that can threaten your health. Due to the nature of flood damage, you’ll need to hire a professional flood damage cleanup company that specializes in flood restoration services.

SERVPRO of Lake Geneva answers your call, providing 24/7 flood water extraction, flood damage restoration, and flood damage repairs in all of Walworth County. Not only do we generate a flood restoration services plan, we will work and coordinate with your insurance company to ensure your claim is fairly covered. Our efficiency allows for quick flood restoration services that make your property habitable again. Call SERVPRO of Lake Geneva today to schedule an inspection of your flood damage restoration needs.

Storm Damage Restoration

2/25/2021 (Permalink)

The effects of storm damages can be devastating and leave a lasting effect on your home or business. With weather occurrences, multiple types of damages may occur. When strong winds are present, uprooted trees or loose flying debris may cause damage to the structures on your property. If heavy rains arrive, you may be faced with water damages from your floor to your ceiling. Water can become a daunting task, as mold is an almost immediate issue and may cause health issues and further damage if not properly treated and removed. Toxic water may also become a problem if heavy waters over power your sump pump creating a dangerous and possibly bio hazardous situation. SERVPRO has the tools needed and decades of experience dealing with storm damages and are able to repair and restore your property faster. Call us today! 

How to Prepare for a Winter Storm Advisory

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

When heavy snows and plunging temperatures are on the forecast there are a few vital courses of action to take in order to stay safe. Storms can be unpredictable and last for days. It is important to stay prepared for whatever may occur. Staying off the roads and indoors during winter storm warnings can prevent issues from arising. Be prepared for power outages and dress warmly. If using a generator in the event of a power outage, it is essential to have it run outside and away from enclosed areas. having an emergency supply of food, water and medical equipment on hand prior to inclement weather can better help prepare you to 'shelter in place' if road conditions prevent entry or exit. Following these few guidelines can keep you and those you love safe.

Ice Storm Damages

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Freezing rain poses far more issues than one may anticipate. Encasing the landscape in a layer of ice, storms of this nature can reek havoc on your home and property. Ice storms can cause expensive damages. Ice that has formed around tree branches can increase their weight by up to 30 times creating a dangerous situation. Snapped branches and downed power lines can contribute immensely to the cost of damages after an ice storm. In the United States, ice storms occur more often during the months of December through January. Having your landscape well maintained by removing dead trees and keeping their branches manicured. It is vital to stay off the roads during any type of weather which could potentially cause dangerous driving conditions. Ice storms can create a deadly scenario when using any form of transportation. It is always best practice to stay and home and weather the storm safely. 

The Many Faces of Storm Damage

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Storm damage takes many forms and leaves behind an extensive list of potential problems. Living in the Midwest we are faced with multiple types of mother nature related events in most every season of the year. Heavy snowfalls in the winter creates the atmosphere for blizzard like conditions, piling snow on top of snow in a short period of time. Hail storms in the spring and fall can cause a considerable amount of damage to your property. Torrential rains in the summer can be the perfect recipe of flooding conditions. When the ground has been deprived of water, preventing it from being absorbed as quickly as it falls. Lightning has the potential to strike in most any season and has the ability to be the ignition source to extremely dangerous fires. It is important to always be aware of the weather around you and never take for granted how quickly conditions can take a turn. Always hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. 

Stormy Weather: Storm Damage

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Storms can produce many damaging effects from high winds and heavy rainfall, to lightning strikes and flooding. Each carries its own destructive properties. Lightning strikes can be the ignition source to starting devastating fires and heavy rains could possibly produce dangerous flood waters. Some storm cells can increase in intensity and produce even stronger fronts such as tornadoes. It is important to consider each possibility and prepare for anything mother nature may throw at you. SERVPRO has the ability and experience to mitigate and repair any effects storm damage may incur. From fallen trees that destroy your roof to basements flooded with unsanitary water, we clean it all. The longer time passes after disaster strikes, the higher the price tag will be. Call us today ! 

When All Other Lights Go Out. (Power Outage)

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

Power outages can cause an extensive list of issues that can carry a heavy price tag. When strong winds or heavy rains damage an nearby transformer, it could mean lights out and power off. Its important to take into consideration how many items in your home will no longer function without a power source. 

1) No air conditioning: Without a power source, your air conditioning will no longer function, in the summer months this raises the risk of heat related illness.

2) No heating either: Furnace blowers and electric heating units will no longer work during a power outage. In the winter months this could carry the possibility of your pipes freezing. Have your faucet set to a slow drip to avoid the danger.

3) Water: If your home runs on a well, you can find yourself without access to a water source. Keeping a supply of fresh water bottles available is one way to provide your family with water until electricity s restored.

Fridge/Freezer Woes: Perishable food in your refrigerator or freezer should remain cool enough for the following 24 hours after power loss. After that point it is important to inspect any food items and discard all that has spoiled.

Having emergency ready kits located in your home is a huge benefit in times like these. Be sure to add medical and medicinal items to have on hand as well.

When Water Arrives

2/26/2020 (Permalink)

In any location at any given times, flooding is a risk. Because of this, it is important to know ahead of time what your insurance company will cover. Not all water damages are the same, and more often than we would like, claims can be denied and you can be left with a hefty bill to cover. There are a few preventative measures you can take in advance to be sure that water damages do not occur. Always be sure to check windows, doors and any other access points to your lowest level of your home or business. Having poorly sealed windows or door frames can allow moisture and naturally occurring water to enter your home. Make sure that your sub pump is functioning properly as it can cause massive damages if it fails during severe weather. SERVPRO has the tools needed to remove excess water from your home and begin the restoration process, saving you from weathering further damages. 

Flooded Basement? We Can Fix That.

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Anyone who has experienced a sub pump failure during storm season knows first hand what follows. When pump failure occurs, there is no means for water to be removed from subterranean levels, meaning water collects quickly and damages are close to follow. Flooding in your home or business can have multiple issues that may arise. From damaged floors and walls, to the possibility of mold forming, it is essential to have water removed as quickly as possible. Our experts at SERVPRO have seen it all, and know the most direct and precise method to tackle whatever water issue you may be facing. We have the tools needed on demand to arrive quickly and get the situation under control. The faster damages can be treated and water be removed, the less cost you will face for repairs. Give us a call today with any questions you may have. We'd be happy to help!

When the Storm Passes: Inspecting Property Damages

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Extreme and violent weather can unfortunately happen when we least expect it. Heavy rains or strong winds have the capability of causing thousands in damages. Once the storm is over and it is safe to walk the grounds, you may notice cosmetic issues such as patio furniture that has been knocked over. But you must take a closer inspection of the areas that matter most and can result in more costly repairs. Ensure windows are intact with no cracks, damaged frames or broken panes. Look for any shingles that may have been lost during heavy winds. Clogged gutters can also be an issue to focus on. Check to ensure no items had gotten lodged during the storm. Lastly inspect to be sure that your siding, paint or brick exterior shows no signs of wear, as each is susceptible to high velocity storm fronts. By doing these steps soon after storm damages occur can save you time and money and may avoid further problems.

When lightning strikes

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning strikes are on the rise which could mean big trouble in the future if you are not covered. Electronic devices are especially susceptible to damage during a lighting strike. A common occurrence during an aggressive strike is for the surge to enter your home through pipes or wires from nearby utility poles. It is not as powerful as a direct hit, but is more common and brings with it its own set of issues. Your home or business most vulnerable port of entry is its electrical panel. Be sure to equip your building with a ‘whole house surge protection device’. It will halt the surge in its tracks. If the surge does not stop at the electrical panel, it has the ability to travel over wire surfaces in your home causing major damages such as fires. It is important to be aware of the threat that inclement weather poses and to prepare for any situation.

It's a Twister!

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

Sudden and severe weather poses a risk to anyone in the immediate area. With unpredictable weather patterns, you might find yourself in immediate danger with little time to react. Having a preset plan of action could mean the difference between life and death. An uncommon but not unheard of occurrence in Wisconsin are the possibility of being caught in the path of a tornado. Discuss with your family prior and have a location in your home you can all gather in case of sudden weather. Have emergency kits with first aid items, along with non perishable food and bottled water prepared ahead of time for use on demand. A fire extinguisher is another vital item to have and can be used in multiple ways for survival. Be sure your family is trained in the basics of rendering first aid, as well as knowledge on how to properly use the fire extinguisher. It will all be vital should a tornado strike. 

The Quiet After the Storm

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Unexpected weather related events can occur at any given moment and can leave you scrambling to recover. Heavy rainfalls and aggressive winds can cause excessive damage to your home and property. Trees can be the cause to multiple issues. Top heavy or improperly pruned landscaping can turn your yard into a battle ground. From downed power lines and destroyed roofs, trees can cause thousands in damage. It is important to know the steps to follow immediately after the damage has occurred.

Step One: Photograph the aftermath. Cell phones are a very useful way to document and share proof of property damage. Your insurance company will need this to ensure you get the proper compensation.

Step Two: Notify Insurance Company. You do not want to put too much time between the storm event and contacting your insurance company. They will need the basic information on the situation and will send an adjuster to gage damages. Ultimately, they will determine the payments needed for repairs to be done

Step Three: See if you qualify for Federal Disaster Assistance. During major storm events, the federal government may make low cost loans available to those in the affected areas. 

Although storm damage can be overwhelming, these few and true steps will make the recovery after the storm easier. 

Water, Water All Around: Winter Flood Awareness

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Wisconsin has become a notorious swinging pendulum of back and forth weather patterns. From mild weeks spanning December, to biting cold and heavy snow fall in January, it’s hard to predict what could be headed our way. Naturally in the winter, flooding would be the last concern on our list of worries. But surprisingly, flooding can happen at any time of year, particularly in the cold months. There are numerous reasons as to why an area can flood during winter. Broken water pipes are a known culprit in the freezing temperatures. Sudden snow thaws can lead to a rapid amount of excess of bodies of water looking for a location to settle. Because the ground might still be in a frozen state, the water cannot be absorbed and will run off until it finds a stream or lake that can withhold its mass. When this happens, flooding is almost always a side effect. There are a few steps that can be taken to be better prepared for these types of storm disasters.

Insure yourself: Look into purchasing a flood insurance policy if you do not already have one in place.

Know it all: Get familiarized with what your insurance covers and what it does not

A Simple Plan: Always have a flood plan prepared which should include evacuation routes. Have important documents stored in a safe, waterproof location.

Picture This: Take photos of your possessions. It will be very useful for insurance claims should disaster strike.

Batten down the hatches: Blizzard prevention

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

Winter weather in Wisconsin is undeniably unpredictable and can potentially be deadly. With temperatures that can range anywhere across the scale, from mild and cool to subzero and catastrophic it is essential to know how to prepare for an incoming blizzard and or freezing temperatures. Listed below are steps to take in order to prevent disaster when the bitter cold is on its way.

Stock up shamelessly: When time is on your side and the winter storm has not yet hit, take that trip to the local store and stock up on the vitals. Non-perishable foods, batteries, flash lights, canned heat source, pet food and supplies, candles and medicine that you may need. Having salt to assist in ice on walkways is also a benefit. Emergency foods are a must. A few examples of survival foods:

• Crackers
• Granola Bars
• Canned fruit and veggies, tuna, soup
• Applesauce
• Boxed or canned juices
• Cereal
• Dry Milk

Roger that: Charge cellphones and spare charging units. It is also recommended you physically write down an emergency contact list in the unfortunate situation your phone may lose power. Family members, your power company and any other emergency numbers should be included on this list.

Lock it down: Storm proofing your home is another step to take when an impending storm is headed your way. Apply weather stripping to doors and windows. Covering your windows with plastic sheeting helps keep the cold at bay as well. Keep all unnecessary rooms closed off to help isolate the heat in rooms that are used. Stay indoors and restrict travel for emergency situations only.

These simple preventative measures can help you remain prepared and safe during the bitter cold months. Stay cozy out there Wisconsin!

Preemptive Measures: Unique Ways to Avoid Flooding On Your Property

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

It’s no secret that the damages of a flood affecting your home are devastating. The cleanup after such an event is almost worse than the flood itself. You are left with the remnants of beloved items. You are uprooted from your daily life and experience higher levels of stress than acceptable. Being able to avoid the catastrophic effects of flooding can restore your peace of mind, and also benefits the environment, if done correctly. Listed below are helpful tools to be used in order to prep your property for incoming water.

Plant a Rain Garden: A growing trend among homeowners is the design and installation of rain gardens. Using native plants with high water tolerance is key. They require almost no upkeep or watering between rainfalls and are helpful to our natural environment. Directing water from known flooding areas of your property, or planting directly on the location, these gardens retain and absorb excess water. Even a small addition of a rain garden has a huge impact on the water level on your property after a flood.

Heavier Mulch Will Help You Out: When mulching with lightweight materials, the odds of a misplaced mulch mess being handed to you is significantly high. Light materials are known to scatter in flooded conditions and to clog drainage ways. Hardwood mulch is heavier, making it more difficult to spread and is known for their low maintenance appeal.

Install a Green Roof: Now hear us out. It may seem excessive, or out of your budgets capabilities even, but you may be pleasantly surprised. The cost and labor needed to install these futuristic roof covers has been significantly reduced over the most recent years. As long as you have a flat or gently sloping roof you are in the clear. Not only do green roofs elongate the life of your roof, studies show it also increases insulation and reduces energy costs.

A Driveway That Drains: Second only to roofs, driveways are the biggest contributor to storm water run-off. Most commonly, swayes with drainage ports are installed on each side of your driveway, although it is not the most effective. Using spaced gravel or even grass greatly reduces the effects of flood water run-off. They are not only visually pleasing but a benefit to the environment.

Flooding can happen suddenly and with little warning. These simple and effective actions could save you a disaster on your hands. As always, SERVPRO of Lake Geneva is here to help you, when all else has gone wrong.

When Storms or Floods hit Lake Geneva is ready!

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage Lake Geneva

SERVPRO ofLake Geneva specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Lake Geneva we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 

(262) 248-7588