Salvage Your Water Property in Cambridge through Commercial Water Restoration

5/12/2023 (Permalink)

Afraid your wood floors have been damaged by water? No need to stress it, Let SERVPRO fix it.

SERVPRO Uses Advanced Equipment to Restore Water-Damaged Floors in Cambridge

You can always go right if you work with commercial water restoration experts after a water damage experience. If you are a business owner, never assume that everything is okay, even if you cannot see any standing water within your premises. Some building components, such as hardwood floors, are known to retain moisture and must be inspected by a professional to prevent future damage.

The focus of our SERVPRO team during water damage mitigation in Cambridge is to ensure your hardwood floor does not warp, cup, or buckle after getting exposed to the water. It is normal for such defects to develop on wooden floors after exposure to water, and their severity is determined by the time it takes before the restoration can be done. We usually advise property owners to seek professional water cleanup services as soon as possible.

Expect us to perform the following mitigation techniques when restoring your wooden floors:

• Run air movers to reduce the room's relative humidity
• Position space heaters appropriately to increase the rate of evaporation
• Perforate floor finishes to enhance evaporation - we do this in consultation with the customer and the adjuster

There are instances where the hardwood floor may appear dry even when the subfloor is still wet. Our SERVPRO technicians never make assumptions since such issues are crucial, so we use specialized equipment to confirm. For example, we can take readings using a penetrating moisture meter to determine whether additional drying is necessary.

Given that we always consult with your adjuster before making any major demolitions, you do not risk losing your compensation. Our job is to move any items from the rooms to enhance the drying process. Where waste disposal is required, we do it as per the local and IICRC regulations.

SERVPRO of Cambridge / Belmont is experienced in water, fire, storm, and mold cleanup for commercial and residential properties. Call (617) 864-7378 to work with a team that is Faster To Any Size Disaster when an emergency comes calling.

Fast Solutions for Water Removal in Cambridge Offices

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

Let your local SERVPRO of Cambridge / Belmont professionals resolve your water damage problems.

Mitigation Tools for Effective Water Removal

Mitigation is important in commercial water repairs and recovery, especially in larger, open spaces in traditional office buildings. Our fast response to these emergencies ensures that we have the appropriate mitigating equipment deployed throughout the structure to remove standing water and protect damaged contents and building materials from irreparable harm. We prioritize extraction in several forms.

Standing Water Removal

Removing pooling from the surface of office flooring is one of the first objectives and obstacles of water removal in Cambridge buildings. Standing water threatens the entire building, spreading and migrating from the source until extraction stops this process. We have several removal tools used for this purpose, including truck-mount pumps and trash pumps that can be used with:

• Light wands
• Squeegee wands
• Carpet wands

Carpet Wand Extraction

The common use of short pile, glue-down carpeting can make the cleanup of surface water somewhat of a challenge. The thin layer of carpeting rapidly becomes overwhelmed by water, and the underlying concrete subflooring is non-porous. Preserving the carpet after surface water extraction means using carpet wands to lift out trapped moisture in the fibrous flooring.

Enough Air Movers for Large Buildings

Air movers play a critical role in regulating airflow through some of the larger, open spaces typical of office buildings. Axial units are the most effective in open areas, promoting continual air movement where needed most. Centrifugal units have an impeller to push air through at a high velocity. These units can be daisy-chained together to focus direct blasts of warm air on moist surfaces with trapped water for effective evaporation rates. 

Water removal for office buildings and other commercial structures calls upon many of the Large Loss tools in our inventory. Our SERVPRO of Cambridge / Belmont team shows We're Faster To Any Size Disaster when you call (617) 864-7378.

SERVPRO Provides Commercial Water Removal Services in Belmont

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

Water loss events come from a multitude of sources. No matter the scope, SERVPRO is always available for fast remediation.

In Belmont, We Employ Advanced Water Removal Tools

Belmont business owners routinely face the risk of catastrophic water damage. Water-related threats generally come from failures in structural elements, plumbing networks, or appliances they use in their operations. These issues are made even more troublesome because they are often unforeseeable and can impact a business anytime.

SERVPRO’s water removal teams in Belmont have saved countless local hotels, restaurants, retail venues, and other commercial enterprises. We have successfully performed water cleanup work on businesses suffering such problems as ceiling leaks, burst pipes, malfunctioning appliances, and basement flooding. Our highly-skilled technicians have employed various cutting-edge water extraction and moisture removal tools to complete these critical projects. Specifically, their professional-grade gear has included:

• Heavy-duty portable and truck-mounted extractors that can suction up gallons of standing water in a concise time
• Air circulation devices, like high-velocity box fans, air movers, and Injectidry systems, that promote the evaporation of moisture on surfaces and then push the resulting water vapor-filled air from business interiors
• High-tech refrigerant or desiccant dehumidifiers that either condense excess moisture out of the air or draw it away with desiccant materials

However, SERVPRO crews carefully inspect your facilities to locate all water-impacted areas and materials before this equipment is used. Our technicians use infrared cameras to find hidden leaks, moisture sensors to identify affected materials, and meters to determine how damaged these things are. Once these tasks have been completed, we know what needs to be done.

Remember that, as your neighbors, SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont is dedicated to helping you with your commercial water removal needs. Rest assured that we are always here and ready to assist you whenever you need us, day or night. Call us anytime at (617) 864-7378.

Cambridge Office Ceiling Water Cleanup by SERVPRO

5/15/2022 (Permalink)

Water cleanup for commercial buildings is a job for SERVPRO. We are here to help.

Water Damage Restoration Revitalizes Businesses

Water damage from plumbing damage and other concerns can happen anywhere and at any time, putting sudden, undue pressure on local businesses. While Cambridge commercial properties can take steps to prepare for damage, like installing water sensors and bringing in licensed professionals to perform maintenance, disasters can still occur at any time of the day or night.

SERVPRO water damage restoration returns Cambridge businesses to a sanitary, preloss state 24 hours a day. Restoration technicians can perform inspection, cleanup, and rebuilding according to industry standards and local regulations for commercial facilities.

How SERVPRO Can Dry Ceiling Water Leak Effects

Restoration technicians can use the following techniques to mitigate water damage from a ceiling leak, including for commercial drop ceilings:

• Technicians can inspect the area with high-end water detection equipment, including thermal imaging cameras and pinless moisture sensors that can detect moisture over an inch deep in a multitude of surfaces
• Drywall ceilings may require partial demolition in cases with more extensive damage. If the water is relatively new, techs can make small cutouts in the ceiling for ventilation during the drying
• Ceiling tiles are removable for drying but may be prone to warping and crumbling after water damage. Depending on their condition, replacement is often much more cost-effective for these tiles than repair
• Portable extractors with specialized attachments can mitigate moisture in vulnerable areas like carpeting
• Carefully-positioned air movers and dehumidifiers work together to remove remaining moisture after extraction and can be paired with polyethylene drying chambers and sheeting, more effectively forcing air into ceiling cavities

Property owners can reach SERVPRO of Cambridge / Belmont at (617) 864-7378. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster and can help businesses reopen their doors.

Mold Damage Remediation in Belmont Is a Hazardous Business

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

We aim to restore your property as quickly as possible, “Like It Never Even Happened.”

Safe Mold Damage Remediation in Belmont Requires Specialized Precautions and Gear 

As a frugal Belmont business owner, you may be tempted to handle mold-related issues yourself. This mindset, however, can often cost you more time, money, and overall grief in the long run. So, enlisting the aid of trained mold remediators who know what safety precautions to take and have the right gear for the job is the prudent thing to do.

Only professional remediation firms like SERVPRO know how to best clean up and restore commercial mold damage in Belmont. This truth results because companies like ours are immersed in this type of work. Our highly-trained mold specialists perform mold inspection, mold removal, and black mold damage repairs daily, so they usually know what needs to be done to complete their work as safely and effectively as possible. When performing their restoration tasks, SERVPRO’s technicians:

• Inform occupants to talk to their doctors if they have any mold-related health concerns
• Devise and follow safety plans specially designed for each site and situation
• Come equipped with the necessary remediation equipment for each particular job, like N95 filter respirators for small mold outbreaks, half-mask breathing devices for use in more significant contaminated places, full-face respirators, Powered Air Purifying Respirators, and full-body protective suits for more thoroughly impacted structures.
• Always wear chemical-resistant gloves and appropriate eye protection for each job.

Keeping all of this in mind, remember that your extensively experienced, helpful neighbors at SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont are always here and ready to assist you with all of your mold damage remediation needs. We have the expertise and gear to get your job done right the first time. So, whenever you need us, pick up the phone and call (617) 864-7378.

Cambridge Businesses Deserve Professional Water Damage Restoration

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians have the water damage restoration knowledge and services needed for your home. We are here to help.

Water Damage Cleanup and Repair with SERVPRO in Cambridge Is Best

Many business owners feel that just their maintenance staff or cleaning crew can handle a spill or water damage. However, multiple factors play with water-related damage to your business. Not only do you have to think of areas where water migrated for secondary damage, but there is also the potential for health effects from the onset of black mold. Getting everything addressed at your Cambridge business by skilled IICRC-certified professionals at SERVPRO gets you the results you deserve!

Did you know that contacting SERVPRO’s water restoration technicians (WRT) whenever you notice water damage in Cambridge ensures you get a rapid response? We arrive at your commercial property within hours of the initial call so we can begin the assessment and formulate a plan of action for water removal services. 

Moisture Detection is Crucial for All Water-related Calls

There can be numerous spaces and building materials within your business harboring hidden moisture. SERVPRO’s Green Fleet is packed with restoration tools and equipment, including a full selection of moisture detection tools like meters, sensors, and infrared camera technology. Our skilled technicians know how to follow the natural path of the water’s migration while using tools to help us check moisture levels throughout the impact zone. 

• We may perform flood cuts where we remove wall materials a few inches above the waterline. This allows us to dry the area behind the wall before replacing saturated materials with all new materials – “Like it never even happened.”
• Depending on the project, we may perform other controlled demolition techniques to remove ceiling tiles, baseboards, and panels. However, we always work using the restore versus replace mentality to save you time and money on your water restoration project.
• Any areas of your business that have impacted flooring, we can remove and replace carpets, carpet padding, subfloor, etc.

Trust your business to our locally owned and operated SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont franchise. You can contact us 24/7 for water damage assistance by dialing (617) 864-7378.

SERVPRO Knows How to Clean Up Commercial Fire Damage in Belmont

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont understands how important your business is. Let us help you out.

Our Belmont Fire Damage Experts Are Skilled at Remediating Your Fire-Related Issues 

Effective remediation of fire-related issues at Belmont businesses requires knowing how to locate, correctly identify, and remove different types of residues. Moreover, the proper training, skills, and equipment are needed to complete this process successfully. Fortunately, SERVPRO technicians possess all of these essential attributes. 

SERVPRO, a commercial fire damage firm in Belmont, routinely inspects, cleans up, and restores local fire-impacted businesses. A key effort of our smoke remediation and fire restoration services is residue removal. In performing this work, our skilled fire damage restoration professionals do the following things:

• Carefully examine your facilities, starting from the origin of the blaze to the furthest reaches of the fire and smoke damage, to determine the location and extent of residue deposits around your shop, restaurant, hotel, or other enterprises.
• Inspect and classify residues once they have been located to select the best method to clean them up 
• Identify the type of surface the residue is on so that appropriate cleaning measures can be taken to preserve the material this fire and smoke waste covers.
• Use dry, wet, abrasive, or innovative techniques to remove fire-related coatings from impacted surfaces.
• Expertly dispose of any fire and smoke wastes according to government and industry-approved safety guidelines. 

Four Main Factors Affecting Residue Cleanup

Our technicians remain mindful of the factors affecting the rate and effectiveness of residue cleanup efforts. They understand that:

• A certain amount of time is required for cleaning and deodorizing products to work
• Agitation helps to dislodge residue particles faster
• Different chemical actions, like dissolving or bleaching, are best for each situation
• Heat speeds up chemical reactions.

With all of that said, if you ever need fire damage remediation at your business, don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont. We are always ready for your call at (617) 864-7378.

Cold Weather Season - Always Ready

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Let us help you get through the winter season!

Get Cold Weather and Freeze Alert

Keep your heating systems operating

Keep your building and equipment warm. Heating systems are the lifeline of your business during cold conditions. If they fail, disaster could strike.

Immediate action required:

• All piping must be insulated. Install new and replace damaged insulation and don’t forget to examine your sprinkler system.
• Inspect all outside dampers for proper operation.
• Clear and protect all outside vents from ice and snow accumulation.
• Heat requires power. If generators are unavailable, make arrangements to obtain an electrical portable heating during outages.

Safeguard business equipment during power outages

Voltage surge protection is necessary at all times – especially during cold, freezing conditions. Severe weather can cause power loss and downed wires, disrupting your business’ power supply. When electricity is restored, the sudden surge of power can literally destroy the modem, high-tech equipment

Your business relies on.

Immediate action required:

• Unplug it. Anticipate voltage surges during severe weather. The best solution is equipment isolation – turn it off and unplug it. If you need to keep equipment running, installing surge protectors can provide protection.
• Inspect building. Close all windows, doors and outside dampers. Schedule regular building checks during storms and cold weather. Arrange for snow and ice removal, including the roof.
• Who’s responsible? Ensure accountability by designating personal responsibility for loss prevention. Business and building owners must work together with facilities and maintenance people.
• Provide emergency telephone numbers. Collect and distribute a list of emergency phone numbers and contacts, such as snow removal, heating system Repair Company, utility company, and the weather bureau.
• Anticipate flooding. Severe and cold weather can cause flooding. Move susceptible equipment or stock to an alternate location, where water cannot reach it.
• Always have cold-weather gear on hand. – Have plenty of gloves, hats, emergency blankets and flashlights available.

If you have water or fire issues, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378

When Disaster Strikes, Choose SERVPRO | SERVPRO® of Cambridge/Belmont

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with any damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont is your local restoration expert.

Homeowners, business owners and property managers, it’s your job to make sure operations run smoothly. Keeping morale high and the family happy is a priority.

When something like a disaster strikes, the status quo is upset! All of those responsibilities take a back seat, and you now have a new focus. You may have never managed a crisis before—and that’s why we’re here.

Managing and handling a crisis is our job, not yours! Let us handle the pressure, we do it for a living.

When life tries to get a fast one by you, trust SERVPRO to take over and get you back to normal.

Equipped, Qualified & Ready

Our job is to be ready when needed. When you call, we’ll be on the way in a moment’s notice. We understand there is no time to spare when fire damage, flooding or a natural disaster is at hand.

When a crisis happens, we’re queued up and ready to go.

Being Faster to Any Disaster Is What We Do

When a disaster hits, we understand that we need to drop everything and come running. After all, in a disaster situation, every second counts.

For every minute that passes, mold can grow, and you can have more smoke or water damage. A fast response is critical, and with a local office right here nearby, you’ll be the beneficiary of a local company with national resources.

We Know the Best Disaster Recovery Techniques

Disasters don’t care where or when they strike, and homes and businesses can suffer accidental or natural damage.

We have custom plans for many situations, and we’re prepared to get your home or business back to normal ASAP!

Our Expertly Trained Techs Restore Your Property "Like it never even happened."

We’re not a “here today and gone tomorrow” type of operation. SERVPRO is an expert in the recovery and restoration business because we care about your satisfaction enough to ensure your property is restored to its original condition.

We are committed to ensuring your restoration is exceptional from start to finish.

We Modify Our Approach When New Disasters Arise

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, illness prevention is high on the priority list. With that in mind, we now offer sanitization and disinfecting services that go beyond normal office cleaning.

If you want your customers to feel safe and welcome, we can give you that ultra-clean space and ease the worries of your customers and employees at the same time.

Fires burn, storms rage, pipes leak—it happens. Your local SERVPRO is ready to take on the challenge so you can get back to life.

Regardless of why you need cleanup or disaster recovery, SERVPRO has the tools, the technicians and the training to get your situation under control. When you’re ready to get help from the best, get in touch with SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont.

Keeping Your Business Open

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

Call us when you need us!

This past weekend a pipe broke in the middle of the night causing water to pour into the 2 retail businesses. At 5:30 Am the commercial property owner was notified and he immediately called SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont.  SERVPRO’s crew arrived and immediately began to extract the water. The business owner was hoping to be open for business at his usual 9:30 AM opening time. Additional crews were dispatched to take care of the 2 other business affected.  The crews worked feverishly to ensure that both businesses could open at their usual time.  The SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont project manager using a moisture detector and infrared camera created a moisture map to determine all affected floors, walls and ceilings. The project managed related this information to the crews so that they could strategically place the necessary drying equipment. The equipment was set up and the businesses were open at their usual time. If your home or business has undergone water damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you.

Mold and Your Business

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings are affected by mold growth too. Make sure you resolve to prevent lost business days.

Mold can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on.

Many types of molds exist. All molds have the potential to cause health effects. Potential health effects are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate/clean up any existing indoor mold growth.

Since mold requires water to grow, it is important to prevent moisture problems in buildings. Moisture problems can have many causes, including uncontrolled humidity. Some moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in building construction practices during the 1970s, 80s and 90s. Some of these changes have resulted in buildings that are tightly sealed, but may lack adequate ventilation, potentially leading to moisture buildup. Building materials, such as drywall, may not allow moisture to escape easily. Moisture problems may include:

• Roof leaks
• Landscaping or gutters that direct water into or under the building
• Unvented combustion appliances
• Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance are also associated with moisture problems in schools and large buildings

Moisture problems in portable classrooms and other temporary structures have frequently been associated with mold problems. When mold growth occurs in buildings, health effects may be reported by some building occupants. Remediators should avoid exposing themselves and others to mold-laden dusts as they conduct their cleanup activities. Caution should be used to prevent mold and mold spores from being dispersed throughout the air.

If you are a facilities manager, maintenance supervisor or property manager and you have a mold issue; please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378

Maintaining Your AC Unit

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Call us because we are faster to any size disaster!

Overtime, in commercial buildings A/C units can slowly take a turn for the worse.  There can be many complications that can lead to colossal damage. A/C units should be checked for leaks and serviced every year, preferably in the spring, to make sure an incident does not happen in the future.  As your A/C system runs, over time it accumulates dust and dirt in key areas that affect its efficiency. Leaving your A/C unchecked unit can make for your A/C unit to lose five percent of its operating efficiency each year.

In Watertown, Monday morning, SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617-864- 7378) responded to a call from a customer saying that there A/C unit had finally broken and there were leaks coming through the ceiling because the A/C unit was located on the second floor. There was not only water damage to the ceiling but also to the merchandise that was located on the first floor. This is a situation that could have been prevented and also could have saved the company a lot of money and headache by having there A/C unit checked each year.  

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617-864- 7378) took the job and were quick, very reliable, and trustworthy. This job was taken care of in just one short day.  For any commercial needs call us we are here at your convenience 24/7, 365 days a year. Let us be the company that gets your business back to “Like it never even happened.”

Floods in Commercial Properties

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

We specialize in water remediation so you can get back to business faster

Flooding and water damage events at City of Cambridge commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work 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.

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. We understand 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.

About SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont 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. If you are a property of facilities manager in Cambridge or Belmont and you have questions regarding our services, please call (617) 864-7378

Prep Your Business for Cold Weather

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure your business is always ready for cold weather

Get Cold Weather and Freeze Alert

Keep your heating systems operating

Keep your building and equipment warm. Heating systems are the lifeline of your business during cold conditions. If they fail, disaster could strike.

Immediate action required:

• All piping must be insulated. Install new and replace damaged insulation and don’t forget to examine your sprinkler system.
• Inspect all outside dampers for proper operation.
• Clear and protect all outside vents from ice and snow accumulation.
• Heat requires power. If generators are unavailable, make arrangements to obtain an electrical portable heating during outages.

Safeguard business equipment during power outages

Voltage surge protection is necessary at all times – especially during cold, freezing conditions. Severe weather can cause power loss and downed wires, disrupting your business’ power supply. When electricity is restored, the sudden surge of power can literally destroy the modem, high-tech equipment

Your business relies on.

Immediate action required:

• Unplug it. Anticipate voltage surges during severe weather. The best solution is equipment isolation – turn it off and unplug it. If you need to keep equipment running, installing surge protectors can provide protection.
• Inspect building. Close all windows, doors and outside dampers. Schedule regular building checks during storms and cold weather. Arrange for snow and ice removal, including the roof.
• Who’s responsible? Ensure accountability by designating personal responsibility for loss prevention. Business and building owners must work together with facilities and maintenance people.
• Provide emergency telephone numbers. Collect and distribute a list of emergency phone numbers and contacts, such as snow removal, heating system Repair Company, utility company, and the weather bureau.
• Anticipate flooding. Severe and cold weather can cause flooding. Move susceptible equipment or stock to an alternate location, where water cannot reach it.
• Always have cold-weather gear on hand. – Have plenty of gloves, hats, emergency blankets and flashlights available.

If you have water or fire issues, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378

Emergency Ready Profile for Your Business

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Be ready for any disaster with our Emergency Ready Profile

When accidents strike they do not care whether you are prepared or not! As a business it is vital that you know what to do, who to call, and how you will bounce back in the event of an emergency.  The fact is that as many as one in four businesses that suffer a major disaster will not reopen afterward. Do not let your business become a statistic!

Here at SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont we pride ourselves in being a resource to the businesses in our community. It is important to us that the businesses in our community and surrounding communities survive. SERVPRO has a Free Emergency Ready Profile that your business can use to help prepare you in the event of a major disaster. Studies show that the faster you can react to a disaster it lowers the damage done. The profile helps store everything you need such as contact information, locations of shut off valves, pictures and so much more to help in the event there is a disaster. The profile you create for your business is also useful to us as it will inform us of where our vehicles should park in the event of a loss. This is helpful in the event you do not want to bring public attention to the fact that your business is experiencing some kind of loss.  

We understand you may already have a facilities manager or be a facilities manager who knows the ins and outs of the building. The profile is not meant to replace a facilities manager in any way – it’s a resource for them.  Anything can happen and as a business you want to make sure whoever is nearby can pick up your profile and depending on the type of disaster know exactly who to contact and what to do if anything.

The Emergency Ready Profile can be distributed in digital form and/or hard copy. We understand that as a business too much time cannot be wasted, for that reason the profile can be completed within 30 minutes.  If you are interested in creating an Emergency Ready Profile for your business Call us today 617- 864-7378. We will set up a time for an office representative to go to your business to fill out the profile for you for free!

Flooding in your Business and Its Challenges

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

We specialize in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event

Flooding and water damage events at City of Cambridge commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work 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.

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. We understand 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.

About SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont 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. If you are a property of facilities manager in Cambridge or Belmont and you have questions regarding our services, please call (617) 864-7378

A/C Maintenance is Always Necessary

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Constant maintenance of your A/C unit could save a business thousands

Overtime, in commercial buildings A/C units can slowly take a turn for the worse.  There can be many complications that can lead to colossal damage. A/C units should be checked for leaks and serviced every year, preferably in the spring, to make sure an incident does not happen in the future.  As your A/C system runs, over time it accumulates dust and dirt in key areas that affect its efficiency. Leaving your A/C unchecked unit can make for your A/C unit to lose five percent of its operating efficiency each year.

In Watertown, Monday morning, SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617-864- 7378) responded to a call from a customer saying that there A/C unit had finally broken and there were leaks coming through the ceiling because the A/C unit was located on the second floor. There was not only water damage to the ceiling but also to the merchandise that was located on the first floor. This is a situation that could have been prevented and also could have saved the company a lot of money and headache by having there A/C unit checked each year.  

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617-864- 7378) took the job and were quick, very reliable, and trustworthy. This job was taken care of in just one short day.  For any commercial needs call us we are here at your convenience 24/7, 365 days a year. Let us be the company that gets your business back to “Like it never even happened.”

Mold Growth in Schools

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Keep indoors and surfaces moisture free to avoid possibly mold growth

Mold can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on.

Many types of molds exist. All molds have the potential to cause health effects. Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate/clean up any existing indoor mold growth.

Since mold requires water to grow, it is important to prevent moisture problems in buildings. Moisture problems can have many causes, including uncontrolled humidity. Some moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in building construction practices during the 1970s, 80s and 90s. Some of these changes have resulted in buildings that are tightly sealed, but may lack adequate ventilation, potentially leading to moisture buildup. Building materials, such as drywall, may not allow moisture to escape easily. Moisture problems may include:

• Roof leaks
• Landscaping or gutters that direct water into or under the building
• Unvented combustion appliances
• Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance are also associated with moisture problems in schools and large buildings

Moisture problems in portable classrooms and other temporary structures have frequently been associated with mold problems. When mold growth occurs in buildings, health effects may be reported by some building occupants. Remediators should avoid exposing themselves and others to mold-laden dusts as they conduct their cleanup activities. Caution should be used to prevent mold and mold spores from being dispersed throughout the air.

If you are a facilities manager, maintenance supervisor or property manager and you have a mold issue; please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378

Create a System for Evacuation Drills at Your Business | SERVPRO® of Cambridge/Belmont

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

If your business experiences any fire damage, you can count on us. SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont specializes in fire restoration.

f you own a business, it is important that you are honest about potential risks from every source—including from emergencies and natural disasters. With the possibility of commercial fires and the data behind how costly they can be, preparing for these is key to the longevity of your operations.

There are many ways to get started in fire safety planning, but we always recommend originating from a safety standpoint. Teaching your employees how to perform a fire evacuation is a key element to keeping everyone safe in case the fire alarm were to sound for real.

Teaching Your Employees How to Perform a Fire Evacuation

Consult with your local fire officials. With the internet, you have so many research options at your fingertips surrounding commercial fire safety, but do not forget about your local options as well. You can generally have your local fire officials come and provide you with personalized advice for planning your evacuation routes and boosting your fire safety.

Communicate and mark fire evacuation routes. After you have decided what evacuation routes suit your needs, be sure they are labeled clearly and your staff is aware of the upcoming drill. Keeping everyone looped in will create more transparency and be sure every one of your staff members are prepared when the drill begins.

Have fire drills frequently. Though taking time out of your day for a fire drill is not ideal, generally doing them once every few months is sufficient enough for everyone’s safety. Keep them on the schedule regularly enough so that everyone can remember the protocols, but not so often that they become mundane.

Run different fire scenarios. There are many ways fires start and spread throughout an office space, so your drills should reflect this to better prepare everyone for a real fire. Have your mock fire block different exit routes so your employees can see what it is like to alter their course with little notice just like they may have to if the fire alarm sounds for real.

If your business has experienced fire damage, you can count on us. We specialize in commercial fire restoration and will be here for you at any hour—contact us today.

SERVPRO to the rescue

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technician extracting water from a wet carpet

This past weekend a pipe broke in the middle of the night causing water to pour into the 2 retail businesses. At 5:30 Am the commercial property owner was notified and he immediately called SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont.  SERVPRO’s crew arrived and immediately began to extract the water. The business owner was hoping to be open for business at his usual 9:30 AM opening time. Additional crews were dispatched to take care of the 2 other business affected.  The crews worked feverishly to ensure that both businesses could open at their usual time.  The SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont project manager using a moisture detector and infrared camera created a moisture map to determine all affected floors, walls and ceilings. The project managed related this information to the crews so that they could strategically place the necessary drying equipment. The equipment was set up and the businesses were open at their usual time. If your home or business has undergone water damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you.

Commercial water and fire damage in Cambridge, MA

11/25/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO drying equipment at the jobsite

Flooding and water damage events at City of Cambridge commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work 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

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. We understand 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.

About SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont 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. If your business has water or fire damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378

The BMW Dealership

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

Extracting water from the showroom floor

Matt, a property manager, refers a lot of work to the SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont office. Matt was excited as he was scheduled to pick up his new car at a BMW dealership last Friday. When he walked into the office he saw the office manager, Traci, had boots on. He noticed that the carpet in the auto dealer showroom felt squishy to the touch. When Matt inquired what had happened, Traci informed him that the toilet had overflowed during the night. Matt asked Traci if she had called anyone to clean up the mess, Traci replied no and she added “who would I call to clean up this mess?” Matt informed her to call Sergio, the production manager at SERVPRO of Cambridge Belmont. Traci called our office and we sent a crew right out there and immediately began the cleaning and drying process. In a few days the BMW dealership was back selling cars. If your business has water or sewage damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378.

The Restaurant's grand opening

8/9/2019 (Permalink)

The hose that caused the damage

Opening night was a huge success! After the 3 month renovation project was complete, the restaurant finally opened.  The restaurant owners were ecstatic! The next morning, Angela opened the door to start her day preparing the luncheon menu, her feet felt squishy. She then noticed ceiling tiles were on the floor. Disaster had struck. The supply line to the soda machine burst overnight causing the water damage. Angela called SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont to help her. The SERVPRO crews were there in less than an hour. They removed and cleaned up the wet ceiling tiles, extracted the water from the carpet and installed drying equipment.  The restaurant dried in 3 days, the contractor replaced the ceiling tiles and by the end of the week, the restaurant was open again. If you have water or fire damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you.

Help with commercial losses in Belmont, MA

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Equipment set up at a commercial loss in Belmont, MA

Flooding and water damage events at Town of Belmont commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work 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.

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. We understand 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.

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont 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. If your business has sustained a fire or water damage, please contact SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you

Early morning surprise

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

This is what Sally saw when she walked in

On Tuesday morning, Sally arrived in the office early as usual. She was always the first one in the office. As she went to her cubicle her feet squished. She looked around & she saw that the carpet and surrounding area was completely wet. She called the office manager, Johnny. Johnny knew what to do, call SERVPRO of Cambridge Belmont. The SERVPRO crew arrived quickly and they immediately went to work. They extracted the water and set up drying equipment. The production manager monitored the loss and when he determined the area was dry, he arranged to have the carpet cleaned.  Sally requested that the carpet cleaning be done after hours so the business would not be interrupted.  Everyone at the Cambridge business was very happy when things were back to normal. If your business has water damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you.

Early AM water Damage affects three local businesses

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

This is the pipe that caused the water damage

On late July of this year a pipe broke in the middle of the night causing water to pour into the 2 retail businesses below. At 6:30 Am the commercial property owner was notified and he immediately called SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont. SERVPRO’s crew arrived and immediately began to extract the water. The business owner was hoping to be open for business at his usual 9:30 AM opening time. Additional crews were dispatched to take care of the 2 other business affected.  The crews worked feverishly to ensure that all 3 businesses could open at their usual time.  The project manager using a moisture detector and infrared camera created a moisture map to determine all affected floors, walls and ceilings. The project managed related this information to the crews so that they could strategically place the necessary drying equipment. The equipment was set up and the businesses were open at their usual time. If your home or business has undergone water damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you.

Commercial Water Damage Events in Cambridge or Belmont Present Unique Challenges

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial water loss Tech Sq Cambridge, MA

Flooding and water damage events at City of Cambridge commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work 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.

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. We understand 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.

About SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont 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. If you are a property of facilities manager in Cambridge or Belmont and you have questions regarding our services, please call (617) 864-7378

Commercial Water events create unique challenges

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Retail stores after hours

Flooding and water damage events at City of Cambridge commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work 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.

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. We understand 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.

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont 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. If your business has sustained a fire or water damage, please contact SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you

A/C Unit Ruining Your Business?

8/6/2018 (Permalink)

Ceiling after and A/C unit had been leaking though the celling.

Overtime, in commercial buildings A/C units can slowly take a turn for the worse.  There can be many complications that can lead to colossal damage. A/C units should be checked for leaks and serviced every year, preferably in the spring, to make sure an incident does not happen in the future.  As your A/C system runs, over time it accumulates dust and dirt in key areas that affect its efficiency. Leaving your A/C unchecked unit can make for your A/C unit to lose five percent of its operating efficiency each year.

In Watertown, Monday morning, SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617-864- 7378) responded to a call from a customer saying that there A/C unit had finally broken and there were leaks coming through the ceiling because the A/C unit was located on the second floor. There was not only water damage to the ceiling but also to the merchandise that was located on the first floor. This is a situation that could have been prevented and also could have saved the company a lot of money and headache by having there A/C unit checked each year.  

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617-864- 7378) took the job and were quick, very reliable, and trustworthy. This job was taken care of in just one short day.  For any commercial needs call us we are here at your convenience 24/7, 365 days a year. Let us be the company that gets your business back to “Like it never even happened.”

Mouse Droppings?

8/6/2018 (Permalink)

Mice that can chew wires in your office.

Did you know that an office or warehouse can be like a giant playground for mice and friends? Your office makes for excellent shelter for mice, its keeps them warm in cold weather and protects them from animals that are larger.  To make matters worse, all the food that is left behind in an office and warehouse can lead to an all-you-can-eat buffet for these little critters.

Once there is one mouse, then becomes multiple...  Mice and rats can do more damage to your office than meets the eye.  

First, spread disease!

• Mice may be small animals but they can carry big diseases. 

Second, droppings.

• Mice and rats can spread diseases through their droppings. Mice have no shame and will go anywhere they please, including your keyboard and phone. That would not be a pleasant way to start a Monday morning.  

Third, urine.  

• Mice also like to urinate everywhere, especially in a new place. It lets them keep track of the places they’ve been and is a way of leaving messages behind for their friends.

Fourth, chew cables.

• Imagine coming into work one day and your computer does not turn on? Then imagine realizing that a mouse or rat had chewed through the cord to your computer…bummer.

Fifth, start fires.

• Mice chewing on wires in your office can lead to the potential to start fires.  By chewing wires under your desk, the mice leave the rubber casing open, which can lead to them short circuiting and catching alight.  Exposed wires are more prone to become in contact with water and as we all know water and electricity do not mix very well.

At the first sight of any of these things happening, make sure you call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617-864- 7378) to make sure your business is cleaned properly and prevent this problem does not happen again.  

Air Conditioning Check list

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial AC Unit

As facility-maintenance professionals prepare for summer, it is important they make sure evaporator-coil cleaning and maintenance is on their to-do list states Sergio Rodriguez from SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont.

“Not only do you want to make sure your HVAC system is running properly, but uncleaned coils can shorten the life of your equipment and force your system to work harder than it should,” Sergio said, “Dirty coils can drastically increase the cost of running your HVAC, but one of the quickest and safest ways to maintain your system is through a comprehensive coil-cleaning program.”

Citing a Southern California Edison report, Rodriguez says that while uncleaned evaporator coils decreased energy efficiency by 35 percent, dirty condenser coils caused energy efficiency to drop 60 percent, meaning much more power and money was required to cool at the same rate as a system with clean coils.

Additionally, Rodriguez says, dirty evaporator coils can become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria as airborne contaminants are filtered through the system, negatively impacting indoor-air quality.

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont recently released a checklist for effectively cleaning coils:

• Obtain the best possible access. Cleaning coils works best when a maintenance technician can get the cleaning wand close to the areas that need to be cleaned. Consider using flexible wands if access is difficult.
• Vacuum coils and fins. Before cleaning, remove dry debris from coils with a vacuum that can reach dust and dirt in tight spaces. Other options include using compressed air.
• Clear blockages. Condensate pans and lines need to be free of blockages before wet cleaning can begin, as any obstructions can cause major damage from flooding and because of HVAC-system condensate. Consider a wet/dry vacuum to remove any debris prior to cleaning.
• Use a wet cleaning process. Pressurized water forces deeply embedded dirt and debris to come loose, vastly improving the cleaning process.
• Use a powerful-yet-delicate cleaning system. High-pressure equipment can damage fins, especially on evaporator coils. The ideal system should deliver 125 to 200 psi and up to a half-gallon of flow per minute.
• Apply an alkaline non-caustic cleaning foam. Use of a non-caustic cleaner helps to protect coils from corrosion.
• Apply a mold-control agent. Adding a mold inhibitor that is U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-registered and approved for use in occupied spaces can help to keep coils clean and free of odor and allergy-causing mold and mildew.
• If you need Your Air Conditioning unit checked out, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378

Pest Prevention Tips For Your Business

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

Pest that can Take Over a Business

In order to prevent one's businesses from becoming infested with pests there are a few tips that everyone who owns a business should read about.

1. Make sure your business is constantly being cleaned and spills, or damages do not go unnoticed.
2. Make sure that garbage is taken out regularly as well as are stored in containers that are not easy to access.  
3. Make sure that all cracks throughout your business are sealed bottom to top seamlessly, especially doors.  
4. Make sure there is proper drainage going out. Pests can find their way in through the smallest cracks and places.
5. Make sure areas stay dry and if are wet are dried properly.  Certain pest thrive in cool and damp places.
6. Make sure all food being stored in sealed properly and not left out.

These six simple tips can help lead to a pest free environment. If one does find themselves in a situation where pest have infested there business give SERVPRO on Cambridge/Belmont (617-864- 7378) a call.

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

Cambridge business affected by a sewage damage

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at City of Cambridge commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work 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.

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. We understand 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.

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont 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. If your business has sustained a fire or water damage, please contact SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you

Water damage over the weekend

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

This is what the office looked like when SERVPRO arrived

On Monday morning, Shannon arrived in the office early as usual. She was always the first one in the office. As she went to her cubicle her feet squished. She looked around & she saw that the carpet and surrounding area was completely wet. She called the office manager, Johnny. Johnny knew what to do, call SERVPRO of Cambridge Belmont. The SERVPRO crew arrived quickly and they immediately went to work. They extracted the water and set up drying equipment. The production manager monitored the loss and when he determined the area was dry, he arranged to have the carpet cleaned. Shannon requested that the carpet cleaning be done after hours so the business would not be interrupted.  Everyone at the Cambridge business was very happy when things were back to normal. If your business has water damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you.

Water damage over the weekend

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

This is what the office looked like when SERVPRO arrived

On Monday morning, Shannon arrived in the office early as usual. She was always the first one in the office. As she went to her cubicle her feet squished. She looked around & she saw that the carpet and surrounding area was completely wet. She called the office manager, Johnny. Johnny knew what to do, call SERVPRO of Cambridge Belmont. The SERVPRO crew arrived quickly and they immediately went to work. They extracted the water and set up drying equipment. The production manager monitored the loss and when he determined the area was dry, he arranged to have the carpet cleaned. Shannon requested that the carpet cleaning be done after hours so the business would not be interrupted.  Everyone at the Cambridge business was very happy when things were back to normal. If your business has water damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you.

Problems over the weekend

5/9/2018 (Permalink)

If you see this, call us!

On Monday morning, Marcy came to work early as usual. As she went to her cubicle her feet squished. She looked around & she saw that the carpet and surrounding area was completely wet. She called the office manager, Johnny. Johnny knew what to do, call SERVPRO of Cambridge Belmont. The SERVPRO crew arrived quickly and they immediately went to work. They extracted the water and set up drying equipment. The production manager monitored the loss and when he determined the area was dry, he arranged to have the carpet cleaned. Johnny requested that the carpet cleaning be done after hours so the business would not be interrupted.  Everyone at the Cambridge business was very happy when things were back to normal. If your business has water damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you.

12 Habits of exceptional leaders

8/9/2017 (Permalink)

Aristotle

Below are 12 essential behaviors that exceptional leaders rely on every day. Give them a try and you can become a better leader today.

1. Courage

“Courage is the first virtue that makes all other virtues possible.” —Aristotle

People will wait to see if a leader is courageous before they’re willing to follow his or her lead. People need courage in their leaders. They need someone who can make difficult decisions and watch over the good of the group. They need a leader who will stay the course when things get tough. People are far more likely to show courage themselves when their leaders do the same.

For the courageous leader adversity is a welcome test. Like a blacksmith’s molding of a red-hot iron, adversity is a trial by fire that refines leaders and sharpens their game. Adversity emboldens courageous leaders and leaves them more committed to their strategic direction.

Leaders who lack courage simply toe the company line. They follow the safest path—the path of least resistance—because they’d rather cover their backside than lead.

2. Effective Communication

“The more elaborate our means of communication, the less we communicate.” —Joseph Priestley

Communication is the real work of leadership. It’s a fundamental element of how leaders accomplish their goals each and every day. You simply can’t become a great leader until you are a great communicator.

Great communicators inspire people. They create a connection with their followers that is real, emotional, and personal, regardless of any physical distance between them. Great communicators forge this connection through an understanding of people and an ability to speak directly to their needs.

3. Generosity

“A good leader is a person who takes a little more than his share of the blame and a little less than his share of the credit.” —John Maxwell

Great leaders are generous. They share credit and offer enthusiastic praise. They’re as committed to their followers’ success as they are to their own. They want to inspire all of their employees to achieve their personal best – not just because it will make the team more successful, but because they care about each person as an individual.

4. Humility

“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.” —C.S. Lewis

Great leaders are humble. They don’t allow their position of authority to make them feel that they are better than anyone else. As such, they don’t hesitate to jump in and do the dirty work when needed, and they won’t ask their followers to do anything they wouldn’t be willing to do themselves.

5. Self-Awareness

“It is absurd that a man should rule others, who cannot rule himself.” —Latin Proverb

Contrary to what Dilbert might have us believe, leaders’ gaps in self-awareness are rarely due to deceitful, Machiavellian motives, or severe character deficits. In most cases, leaders—like everyone else—view themselves in a more favorable light than other people do.

Self-awareness is the foundation of emotional intelligence, a skill that 90% of top performing leaders possess in abundance. Great leaders’ high self-awareness means they have a clear and accurate image not just of their leadership style, but also of their own strengths and weaknesses. They know where they shine and where they’re weak, and they have effective strategies for leaning into their strengths and compensating for their weaknesses.

6. Adherence to the Golden Rule +1

“The way you see people is the way you treat them, and the way you treat them is what they become.” —Jon Wolfgang von Goethe

The Golden Rule – treat others as you want to be treated – assumes that all people are the same. It assumes that, if you treat your followers the way you would want a leader to treat you, they’ll be happy. It ignores that people are motivated by vastly different things. One person loves public recognition, while another loathes being the center of attention.

Great leaders don’t treat people how they themselves want to be treated. Instead, they take the Golden Rule a step further and treat each person as he or she would like to be treated. Great leaders learn what makes people tick, recognize their needs in the moment, and adapt their leadership style accordingly.

7. Passion

“If you just work on stuff that you like and are passionate about, you don’t have to have a master plan with how things will play out.” —Mark Zuckerberg

Passion and enthusiasm are contagious. So are boredom and apathy. No one wants to work for a boss that’s unexcited about his or her job, or even one who’s just going through the motions. Great leaders are passionate about what they do, and they strive to share that passion with everyone around them.

8. Infectiousness

“The very essence of leadership is that you have to have a vision. It’s got to be a vision you articulate clearly and forcefully on every occasion. You can’t blow an uncertain trumpet.” —Reverend Theodore Hesburgh

Great leaders know that having a clear vision isn’t enough. You have to make that vision come alive so that your followers can see it just as clearly as you do. Great leaders do that by telling stories and painting verbal pictures so that everyone can understand not just where they’re going, but what it will look and feel like when they get there. This inspires others to internalize the vision and make it their own.

9. Authenticity

“Just be who you are and speak from your guts and heart – it’s all a man has.” —Hubert Humphrey

Authenticity refers to being honest in all things – not just what you say and do, but who you are. When you’re authentic, your words and actions align with who you claim to be. Your followers shouldn’t be compelled to spend time trying to figure out if you have ulterior motives. Any time they spend doing so erodes their confidence in you and in their ability to execute.

Leaders who are authentic are transparent and forthcoming. They aren’t perfect, but they earn people’s respect by walking their talk.

10. Approachability

“Management is like holding a dove in your hand. Squeeze too hard and you kill it, not hard enough and it flies away.” —Tommy Lasorda

Great leaders make it clear that they welcome challenges, criticism, and viewpoints other than their own. They know that an environment where people are afraid to speak up, offer insight, and ask good questions is destined for failure. By ensuring that they are approachable, great leaders facilitate the flow of great ideas throughout the organization.

11. Accountability

“The ancient Romans had a tradition: Whenever one of their engineers constructed an arch, as the capstone was hoisted into place, the engineer assumed accountability for his work in the most profound way possible: He stood under the arch.” —Michael Armstrong

Great leaders have their followers’ backs. They don’t try to shift blame, and they don’t avoid shame when they fail. They’re never afraid to say, “The buck stops here,” and they earn people’s trust by backing them up.

12. Sense of Purpose

“You don’t lead by pointing and telling people some place to go. You lead by going to that place and making a case.” —Ken Kesey

Whereas vision is a clear idea of where you’re going, a sense of purpose refers to an understanding of why you’re going there. People like to feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves. Great leaders give people that feeling.

Bringing It All Together

Becoming a great leader doesn’t mean that you have to incorporate all of these traits at once. Focus on one or two at a time; each incremental improvement will make you more effective. It’s okay if you “act” some of these qualities at first. The more you practice, the more instinctive it will become, and the more you’ll internalize your new leadership style.

10 places you may find bed bugs

8/7/2017 (Permalink)

Bed bugs flat shape enable them to crawl into tight spaces

You’ve heard all about bedbugs in hotels, but did you know they’re also hiding (and waiting to hitch a ride home with you) in these common public places? Bedbugs are smaller than a grain of rice, but visible to the naked eye. So be on the lookout, and check out the top 10 places to accidentally pick up bedbugs.

Public Libraries

Crawling into bed with a good book has taken on a whole new meaning if you’re borrowing books from the public library system. Before you head home with a stash of bestsellers, check the pages and spines for bedbugs circulating from one reader’s home to the next.

Retail Stores

From clothes to furniture, bedbugs are just waiting for moving day. In the summer of 2010, retail shops around Manhattan were closed for fumigation when bedbugs were found hiding out in the goods. Investigate any possible purchases for unusual stains and shake out clothing before bringing it into the house.

Movie Theaters

You may catch more than a matinee at your local Cineplex. With cushy, upholstered seats and plenty of human hosts, the movie theater is prime real estate for bedbugs looking for a meal. Limit the personal belongings you bring with you to avoid bringing home your own critter horror show.

Planes, Trains and Buses

All kinds of people take public transportation, and bedbugs ride for free on planes, trains and buses. Bedbugs are small and hard to detect, so it’s unlikely you’ll see the pests getting cozy in your seat. However, you can take precautions when you return home -- don’t place your bags on your bed, and closely inspect your belongings when you unpack.

Daycares, Schools and Colleges

Stuffed animals, cubbies and dorms are incubators for all things gross, and bedbugs are spreading along with the rest of the germs among students and roommates. Kids in daycare share their cots and beloved toys from home. College kids bring home their laundry and bedbugs. Check in with the school director or resident advisor for reports of a bedbug invasion.

Places of Worship

Is nothing sacred? Clearly not for bedbugs who have been known to congregate in the holiest of places including temples, churches and religious meeting halls. Know how to spot a bedbug, and don’t let your guard down, even when offering up a prayer and gathering with like-minded worshippers.

Business Offices

The newest agenda item for many businesses is battling bedbugs that are just as likely to nestle into the carpet or furniture in the boardroom as they are in a bedroom. With clients and packages coming and going, bedbugs may move into an office space traveling on backpacks, briefcases, boxes, business suits or casual Friday

Business Offices

The newest agenda item for many businesses is battling bedbugs that are just as likely to nestle into the carpet or furniture in the boardroom as they are in a bedroom. With clients and packages coming and going, bedbugs may move into an office space traveling on backpacks, briefcases, boxes, business suits or casual Friday clothing.

Laundry Facilities

If you’re sorting and folding in shared spaces, there’s more to worry about than mixing your lights and darks, as bedbugs invade even the cleanest spots in town. Bedbug victims are often instructed to wash and dry infected clothing and personal belongings using extremely high heat. Avoid cross contamination in the Laundromat by keeping your dirty laundry to yourself, investigating tables and chairs, and using the hottest washing and drying temperatures possible.

Hospitals and Nursing Homes

Bedbugs don’t discriminate against the sick or the old, and to prove this point, hospitals around the country had to quarantine patient rooms and triage centers in late summer and fall 2010 to deal with bedbugs. You won’t likely have time to investigate beds and furniture if you get sick, but rest assured, bedbugs do not carry or spread disease.

Consignment, Thrift Shops and Yard Sales

Forgo the bargain-hunting and splurge on new goods to avoid bringing home bedbugs. If you just can’t pass up a sale, at least try to stay away from used mattresses, bed frames and headboards. You may save money, but professional treatment for a bedbug infestation can set you back thousands of dollars.

If you are a property or facilities manager, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you

Mold in schools and commercial buildings

8/3/2017 (Permalink)

Extensive mold on walls and ceiling

Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all molds and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on.

Many types of molds exist. All molds have the potential to cause health effects. Molds can produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions or even asthma attacks in people allergic to mold. Others are known to produce potent toxins and/or irritants. Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate/clean up any existing indoor mold growth.

Since mold requires water to grow, it is important to prevent moisture problems in buildings. Moisture problems can have many causes, including uncontrolled humidity. Some moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in building construction practices during the 1970s, 80s and 90s. Some of these changes have resulted in buildings that are tightly sealed, but may lack adequate ventilation, potentially leading to moisture buildup. Building materials, such as drywall, may not allow moisture to escape easily. Moisture problems may include:

• Roof leaks
• Landscaping or gutters that direct water into or under the building
• Unvented combustion appliances
• Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance are also associated with moisture problems in schools and large buildings

Moisture problems in portable classrooms and other temporary structures have frequently been associated with mold problems. When mold growth occurs in buildings, adverse health problems may be reported by some building occupants, particularly those with allergies or respiratory problems. Remediators should avoid exposing themselves and others to mold-laden dusts as they conduct their cleanup activities. Caution should be used to prevent mold and mold spores from being dispersed throughout the air where they can be inhaled by building occupants.

If you are a facilities manager, maintenance supervisor or property manager and you have a mold issue; please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378

Three retail businesses affected by water damage.

7/31/2017 (Permalink)

Water extraction from retail business

On late June of this year a pipe broke in the middle of the night causing water to pour into the 2 retail businesses below. At 6:30 Am the commercial property owner was notified and he immediately called SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont SERVPRO’s crew arrived and immediately began to extract the water. The business owner was hoping to be open for business at his usual 9:30 AM opening time. Additional crews were dispatched to take care of the 2 other business affected.  The crews worked feverishly to ensure that all 3 businesses could open at their usual time.  The SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont project manager using a moisture detector and infrared camera created a moisture map to determine all affected floors, walls and ceilings. The project managed related this information to the crews so that they could strategically place the necessary drying equipment. The equipment was set up and the businesses were open at their usual time. If your home or business has undergone water damage, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378 to assist you.

Fast moving storm causes damage in Cambridge

6/16/2017 (Permalink)

Cleaning up the offices

The rain came quickly and only lasted a few minutes but it created significant damage to the Cambridge/Somerville area. Paula, the office manager, arrived in her office Wednesday morning and, her feet squished from the wet carpet. The rain was so overwhelming that the roof drain overflowed causing water to pour down into the office. She made a call to SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont and explained that she needed her office to be operational as it was their busy season. The SERVPRO technicians arrived within the hour. Melvin, the crew chief, tested walls and ceilings for excessive moisture, extracted the water from the carpets and left equipment to dry the wet walls ceiling and carpet. A few days later Melvin came back, tested the areas with a moisture and he found all areas to be dry. The crew shampooed the carpet and everything was back to normal in the office. If you have water or fire damage in your business, please call SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont (617) 864-7378

Commercial Water Damage

5/2/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Restoring Your Cambridge Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges 

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Flooding and water damage events at City of Cambridge commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work 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

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. We understand 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.

About SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont

SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont 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.