How Weather Can Disrupt A Business

7/9/2024 (Permalink)

There are many different ways weather can impact your Business...

For example if an electrical storm occurs it can knock out power.  A snow storm could do the same and make it impossible to operate your business. It could also damage your building and make it necessary to shut down. You could lose business capabilities for a period of time. Thankfully, insurance will cover many of these problems.

Business Disruption Insurance is Crucial

General commercial insurance may not cover these problems if you do not include business disruption coverage. This type of insurance coverage is designed to help cover losses when weather or damages impact the operation of your business. It will help get your business get back up and running and minimize personal and businesses losses in an effective manner. As weather-related damage is considered an act of God, specific coverage like this is needed for your business.

Important Considerations

When purchasing this type of insurance, it is important to choose a type that covers all possible damage. For example, it should cover emergency repairs to your building, equipment breakdown, food spoilage, loss of power, tree damage, loss of water, wind damage, snow damage, and winter storm damage. These types of weather damage are hard to predict and must be covered as much as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Babylon/Deer Park at 631-661-3802. We are open 24/7 for your emergency service needs!

A Commercial Property Uses Coinsurance

7/9/2024 (Permalink)

Coinsurance clauses are found in a wide range of insurance policies, but serve varying purposes depending on the area of insurance. When used in the context of property insurance, coinsurance is defined as "the percentage of the value of the property that a policyholder is required to insure." Coinsurance clauses are included in commercial property policies in order to ascertain that policyholders are purchasing a sufficient limit of insurance, and penalizes those who do not. If the policyholder fails to purchase an adequate amount of the value for their insured property, then their claim payment is reduced and they may not be fully covered in the event of a disaster. When this happens, the insurer compares the policy’s limit at the time of the loss against the amount required by the coinsurance percentage to calculate what will be paid out on the claim. 

Let's illustrate this in an example: Say a building is valued at $1,000,000 and the insurance policy contains an 80% coinsurance clause. This clause would specify the policyholder insures the building for $800,000. If the policyholder were to only purchase $600,000, they would be subject to penalty in the case of a property loss.  Continuing the above scenario, if only $600,000 of property limit is purchased and a fire occurs that causes $300,000 in damage repair, the claim payout would be calculated by dividing the actual insured amount ($600,000) by the required insured amount ($800,000), or 75%.  That percentage is then multiplied against the $300,000 loss, so the policyholder would only receive $225,000 minus any applicable deductible. Insuring the property at an amount less than the coinsurance clause percentage detracts from the claim payout. 

Coinsurance does not affect you until a loss is suffered, but it is essential to be aware of the inclusion of this clause when purchasing a policy as it will directly impact the coverage you receive in the event of a disaster.  

Here at SERVPRO of Babylon/Deer Park, we are open 24/7 for emergencies. Please give us a call at 631-661-3802. "Like it never even happened."

Preventing Water Damage at your Business

6/18/2024 (Permalink)

Many restaurants in the Babylon/Deer Park area rely on dishwashers to keep business moving efficiently and ensure a regular supply of clean crockery for their customers. However, just like any appliance, a dishwasher might break down and cause water damage to your premises. A leak is inconvenient and even costly if you have to close down during cleanup.

SERVPRO® recommends all restaurant owners take the following steps to take care of their automatic dishwashers and reduce the risk of water damage from leaks.

• Tell Staff Not to over fill 
  It is tempting to put lots of crockery and cutlery in the tray to get cleaner in each load. However, instruct your staff not to crowd the rack, as an over-filled dishwasher is much more likely to leak. It is better to do a couple of smaller loads than trying to fit everything into one big load.

• Do Regular Maintenance On Doors 
  Loose hinges, misaligned door latches, or broken seals, can all cause leaks. Sometimes the problem can be fixed by simply adjusting and tightening a few screws. You could use an epoxy patch kit to remedy minor seal breaks. However, if it is not possible to right the door or seal, it is better to replace it.

• Check The Tub And Hose 
  The bathtub and hose can both develop faults over time. Constant use might corrode the tub and make a hole, and aging hoses can become unstable or cease to fit properly. Check all the components of the unit regularly and replace it at the first sign of wear and tear.

• Use The Correct Detergent 
  Make sure every staff member knows which detergent is best to use. Always use a dishwashing detergent/soap, and always follow the manufacturer instructions. The incorrect dishwashing detergent or too much of the correct cleaning agent might cause suds or even a blockage.
  
  In the event of a leak, SERVPRO’s IICRC-certified technicians are on hand to help with cleanup. We extract water from your premises and use dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the surrounding area so you can resume business as soon as possible.
  
  For help with Water Damage Remediation in Babylon/ Deer Park and surrounding areas, call SERVPRO of Babylon/ Deer Park at (631)-661-3802. We are always Here to Help® 24/7, "Like it never even happened."
   

8 Step Plan for your Business

12/28/2023 (Permalink)

There are unfortunate times some businesses are forced to close due to a disaster or emergency and are not able to reopen. Small businesses are especially vulnerable because they do not usually have the means to continue paying expenses when income is interrupted. By planning ahead your business can greatly reduce the chances of a disaster becoming a death sentence for your business.  Here are a few things that should be in place. 

Step 1.

Identify which natural disasters are most likely to occur in your area. Recognize that some disasters can be very localized like a tornado or brush fire and others can affect a wide area like hurricanes or floods. You will need a plan flexible enough to deal with both situations.

Step 2.

You should review your insurance protection. First, it is best to understand what is covered and what is not covered. For instance, while many business insurance policies cover loss of income that only applies to causes of loss specified in business insurance policies. Flood, earthquake, and acts of terrorism are often excluded as covered causes of loss. More so, when a disaster does not affect you directly, even if the cause of loss is covered, you would not be compensated for lost business income. Scenarios like this include a major supplier suspending operations or a significant part of your customer base being forced to evacuate due to flood or fire.

Once you understand what is covered you need to review the amounts of insurance that you  might need. You should confirm that your insurance protection will be enough to see you through a transition period and get your business up and running again.

Step 3.

Your employees should be assigned key responsibilities and make sure everyone knows who is responsible for what in the event of a disaster. Typical responsibilities include deciding whether to implement the emergency plan, contacting employees, setting up temporary operations, etc.

Step 4.

Make sure all employees have a copy of your emergency contact list which includes names, addresses, cell phone numbers, and email addresses.  Contact list should also include local fire, police, and federal authorities like FEMA and the SBA. You should also compile a list of your largest and most important suppliers and customers.

Step 5.

Back up your latest data of all important records and computer information. Your business will be up and running faster with up to date insurance. Few businesses can run for very long or recover very easily without the information that is the lifeblood of commerce.

Step 6.

Identify alternative business locations for the short and long term. Your business may have the meant to have employees work from their homes if your business location becomes inaccessible. But you may need to make provisions for temporary office space in the event that is not possible. Likewise, you may want to identify a facility where you could set up operations or outsource work during a recovery period. Always have a backup plan.

Step 7.

Have your inventory of business property and equipment including serial numbers.  Include the price, when bought, and vendor or retailer. You will need this information for insurance reimbursement and tax purposes should the business property become damaged or destroyed.

Step 8.

Walkthrough plans. Make sure you have a plan in tact what works! What looks good on paper often breaks down in practice. Consider different scenarios. For instance, if you will rely on cell phones for short-term communication what happens if the cellular network is down or overloaded? How will you let employees know what to do?

SERVPRO of Babylon/Deer Park for a free Emergency Ready Profile at 631 661-3802

We are always here to help 24/7 for emergency services.

"Like it never even happened."®

Commercial Fire Restoration

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

Getting a place of business up and running after a fire is always a difficult and time consuming task. Restoring a place of business is a hard task. Even a small fire can cause damage and immerse the surrounding areas with soot and a smell that will linger permanently if not treated correctly. SERVPRO of Babylon/Deer Park has an experienced recovery team with certified technicians.

SERVPRO of Babylon/Deer Park has decades of combined experience amongst our ranks and we extensively train each and every new crew member to utilize proven techniques and to optimally manage all drying equipment. Since we are a SERVPRO® Franchise we have access to new technology, equipment, and methods that are backed and tested by the nation's most reliable disaster relief franchise. Hopefully, you will never need our services, but if your commercial properties ever experience a fire we will be there when you call. Trust us!

Please give us a call at 631-661-3802 for any questions or issues. We are here 24/7 for emergency services. We are always here to help. "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO is here to help with Commercial Water Damage

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage 

Flooding and water damage events throughout Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk County) commercial properties are often complex, with numerous problems that require knowledgeable and flexible responses.  

Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, SERVPRO of Babylon/ Deer Park works quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges, but what doesn't? We know how to handle it.  

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. SERVPRO of Babylon/ Deer Park understands that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need, 631-661-3802

About SERVPRO of Babylon/ Deer Park 

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

SERVPRO of Babylon/ Deer Park is available 24/7 to help with Commercial Water Damage Events to make it "Like it never even happened."  Again, please give us a call at 631-661-3802 for any issues you may have. We are open 24/7.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, IICRC, offers numerous certification programs for industry professionals, including those specializing in industrial carpet cleaning.

Established technicians and novices alike can reap significant benefits by obtaining Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician (CCMT) certification through one of 66 IICRC-approved schools located around the United States and internationally.

•    Graduates earn the right to display the CleanTrust™ logo, an outward indicator of technical proficiency, professional conduct and expertise, and highest ethics. This symbol lends credibility to the technician (or firm), and can serve as a marketing tool that lifts the bearer above the competition.
•    Upon completion of the basic CCMT course, graduates are eligible to further their education by enrolling in advanced classes in pursuit of Journeyman or Master designations in the fields of fire and smoke restoration, water restoration, and more.

The CCMT course itself consists of 14 hours of onsite classroom instruction over the course of two days. This is an entry level course that — unlike  courses for continuing education credits — cannot be taken online. Students will learn the fundamental methods and techniques regarding soil removal from commercial textile flooring, basic carpet composition, standards, and safety procedures. The course concludes with an onsite exam. Students who do not pass the test or are unable to take the exam upon completion of the course must contact an exam monitor in their area. The test can be taken or retaken within 90 days of the end of the class.

The IICRC offers a support manual that guides industrial carpet cleaning professionals through applications in the field. The 2011 IICRC S100 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Cleaning of Textile Floor Coverings serve as a reference book for technicians, outlining the five most common soil removal methods and other useful information. Here at SERVPRO of Babylon/Deer Park we strive for all our employees/crew to have the proper certification and training for any sort of carpet cleaning. Please call us at 631-661-3802

Commercial Cleaning Should Only Be Done With Professionals

12/18/2017 (Permalink)

This carpet has not been professionally cleaned and deodorized in over 5 years.

Regular commercial carpet cleaning, office flooring remains in excellent condition for many years and easy to obtain. Any professional brought in to treat the carpet should have proper certification by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), as the IICRC offers the most modern training and best practices to technicians in the industry. Among the IICRC’s courses are odor treatment and color repair techniques, giving professionals a full range of treatment knowledge and expertise. 

Commercial carpet cleaning consists of deep vacuuming to remove any soil that has worked its way into the fibers. Regular vacuuming is very important and will greatly extend the life of the carpet. However, deeper treatment is needed periodically. This consists of cleaning near the entry points of the building, and any other high traffic areas. Regular maintenance should also include complete cleaning at least twice a year. Professionals may use dry foam, encapsulation or hot water extraction for this process, and an IICRC-certified technician will determine the best technique for optimal results.

A professional can obtain certification and learn proper treatment techniques through an IICRC-approved school. During the coursework students will learn from the IICRC’s S100, an extensive document that demonstrates the five most common methods of commercial carpet treatment. Students will also obtain a basic understanding of various carpet construction, and will be exposed to a variety of soiling conditions, providing a wealth of experience and knowledge for the technician. We are here to help, please call SERVPRO of Babylon/Deer Park at 631-661-3802

Medium sized Business Insurance Basics

7/18/2017 (Permalink)

We've said it before: the distinction between a small and large business is somewhat arbitrary. At what point in the business growth life cycle do you cross over? One way to answer the question is when your business no longer qualifies for a Business Owners Package Policy. The BOP bundles up several kinds of insurance protection in one policy. But as business become larger the risks they pose become more varied and difficult to address in one policy.

Medium sized businesses can still purchase bundled coverage, like the Commercial Package Policy (CPP), which is roughly analogous to the Business Owners Policy (BOP). The CPP combines Commercial Liability and Commercial Property and some additional policies designed for specific industries like churches, heavy manufacturing or health care providers. Additional policies found in some Commercial Package Policies include Commercial Auto, Boiler and Machinery and Inland Marine. Again, the CPP is usually designed to fit most businesses within a specific industry. But if your business faces special risks or doesn't fit neatly within a generic industry definition, a CPP may not give you the necessary flexibility to address unique needs.

An alternative is to start with the foundation policies, Commercial General Liability (CGL) and Commercial Property. These policies can be obtained through different insurance carriers and modified separately to meet the needs of many complex businesses.

Commercial Property will provide coverage for any building you own or lease, including improvements and permanent fixtures and equipment, business property on premises and personal property of others in your 'care, custody or control'. Depending on your business you may need to add coverage for goods in transit, buildings under construction, business income (interruption expense), data loss, loss due to flood, employee theft and embezzlement among others.

Just to add to the variety, Commercial Property insurance comes in three forms: Basic Form, Broad Form and Special Form. The first, Basic, provides protection against loss from the more common causes like fire, lightning and wind storm. The Broad Form extends protection to additional perils like water damage and structural collapse. The Special Form protects against all perils unless specifically excluded. Some commonly excluded perils include flood, earthquake, terrorism, wear and tear and insects and vermin.

Commercial General Liability provides an insured business protection for lawsuits, bodily injury or property damage arising chiefly from these areas: ownership or use of a business premises, business operations, contractual agreements, completed operations, personal and advertising injury and products made, sold or distributed.

The policy provides Medical Payments coverage for those injured on a business premises or job site on a no-fault basis. Policies can be issued on either a Claims Made Form or an Occurrence Form.

CGL policies are broad in nature but generally have some coverage removed by endorsement. Some additional coverage your business may need to supplement CGL protection includes Errors and Omissions Insurance (E&O), Directors and Officers Insurance (D&O), Workers Compensation and Environmental Liability.

Because of the complexity of risk medium sized and larger businesses are faced with, it is often best to sit down with an insurance professional. An independent insurance agent is armed with options from several companies and can help you understand and develop the kind of program you need for your business.

Commercial fire protection systems

7/18/2017 (Permalink)

Selecting a commercial carpet cleaner

7/17/2017 (Permalink)

Carpets had a black glue residue from an adhesive, saved company thousands of dollars to replace.

When it comes time to finally restoring that dingy floor, the first step in achieving the best results is contacting a commercial carpet cleaner. These professionals carry a wide range of tools, as well as a wide range of experience that can be invaluable when it comes to treating flooring, something that can suffer permanent damage if done incorrectly.

Aside from these obvious differences, hiring a reputable company that has undergone extensive training will shed some light on the quality of the work that will be done. For instance, vacuuming an area, especially problematic spots, prior to the actual treatment is crucial in eliminating physical residue that may have collected on the surface. This is why it’s important to not only find a well-equipped professional, but one with the experience necessary to wield these tools properly.

Some of the tools that professionals use are much pricier than any rental machines that may be available for an individual to rent or purchase. These machines typically have a much greater suction power, as well as advanced agents that are more efficient than traditional soaps. A commercial carpet cleaner will most times have soap-free agents available that are not only more efficient, but leave no residue after the job is complete.

Additionally, some of these machines may have a heating element that’s built-in, allowing professionals to heat a floor up to 200 degrees in a mere matter of minutes, helping to breakdown dirt and residue in problem areas. Corporate offices benefit from the intense storage units that each of these machines hold as well, with some able to handle an entire level of a building in one pass, making it quick and efficient.

SERVPRO of Babylon / Deer Park has the experience for all your commercial cleaning needs. Call us at 631 661-3802

Business 8 step plan

7/17/2017 (Permalink)

A town buildings generator in the back of the building in case electric fails. ERP program identifies where you need to check locations of importance

Twenty five percent of the businesses forced to close due to a disaster or emergency never reopen. Smaller businesses are especially vulnerable because they do not typically have the resources to cover continuing expenses if income is interrupted. A business can greatly reduce the chances of a disaster becoming a death sentence for you business by planning ahead. Here's what you need to have in place.

Identify natural disasters most likely to occur in your area. Recognize that some disasters can be very localized, like a tornado or brush fire and others can affect a wide area like hurricanes or flood. You will need a plan that is flexible enough to deal with both situations.

Review your insurance protection. First, you need to understand what is covered and what is not covered. For instance, while many business insurance policies cover loss of income that only applies to causes of loss specified in business insurance policies. Flood, earthquake and acts of terrorism are often excluded as covered causes of loss. Moreover, when a disaster does not affect you directly, even if the cause of loss is covered, you would not be compensated for lost business income. Scenarios like this include a major supplier suspending operations or a significant part of your customer base being forced to evacuate due to flood or fire.

Once you understand what is covered you need to review the amounts of insurance you need. Will your insurance protection be enough to see you through a transition period and get your business up and running again?

Assign key responsibilities to employees and make sure everyone knows who is responsible for what in the event of a disaster. Typical responsibilities include deciding whether to implement the emergency plan, contacting employees, setting up temporary operations, etc.

Make an emergency contact list that includes names, addresses, phone numbers and email and make sure all employees have a copy. Contacts should include local fire, police and federal authorities like FEMA and the SBA. You should also compile a list of your largest and most important suppliers and customers.

Make sure you have an up to date and accessible copy of important records and data. Few businesses can run for very long or recover very easily without the information that is the life blood of commerce.

Identify alternative business locations for the short and long term. Many employees may be able to work from their homes if your business location becomes inaccessible. But you may need to make provisions for temporary office space in the event that is not possible. Likewise, you may want to identify a facility where you could set up operations or outsource work during a recovery period.

Take an inventory of business property and equipment including serial numbers. Include the price, when bought and vendor or retailer. You will need this information for insurance reimbursement and tax purposes should business property become damaged or destroyed.

Walk through plans. What looks good on paper often breaks down in practice. Consider different scenarios. For instance, if you will rely on cell phones for short term communication what happens if the cellular network is down or overloaded? How will you let employees know what to do?

Call SERVPRO of Babylon / Deer Park for a free Emergency Ready Profile at 631 661-3802