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FAQ’s About Commercial Restoration Services

Entrepreneurs can only hope to have the chance to start a business out of nothing. But you did it. Today, an unexpected tragedy has threatened your livelihood, taken away your security and assurance.

At ServiceMaster of Bux-Mont, we understand that it is difficult to reassemble the pieces of a successful company as we have assisted numerous business owners and property managers following damage of properties. Consequently, we have spent the years dealing with the commercial customers nationwide and we have a fair idea of some of the frequently posed questions. To recover the process, so that you do not have to wait around and get an answer, we have gathered a few most frequently asked questions (FAQs) so that you can review it.

You have just suffered an unexpected fire or have found out that there is mold in your office, we apply the most advanced tools and techniques to facilitate a successful restoration process. Our professional and compassionate restoration experts will take you through the procedure and guide you through virtually everything 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to be up and running in business once more. We are going to take off some of your burden and restore some much-needed certainty to the situation.

We would prefer to facilitate things and bring you to a solution in the shortest time possible. We recommend you go through our list of FAQs as listed below that we have divided into service categories so you can easily and quickly get what you want. On things that a webpage simply cannot provide you with answers, we know. In that regard, we would like to listen to you.

Get Your Property Back to Business Fast , Contact Our ServiceMaster of Bux-Mont Today.

Our team is standing by to assist you with all your needs. Give us a call today at 1-800-RESPOND.

Common Questions

Commercial Mold Remediation FAQ

What is mold?

Mold is a microscopic fungus that is part of the natural environment and necessary for our ecosystem. While it is necessary in the outdoor world, too much mold inside a structure can be dangerous and unsanitary. Mold produces spores as part of its lifecycle, and these spores float through the air both inside and outside.What is mold?

Many people aren’t aware that mold can cause structural damage to homes and businesses, which, if left undetected, can cause a property to lose value and/or require significant repairs. And if you have ever suffered from allergies, exposure to molds can often cause nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, skin irritation, or even more severe reactions.
Mold needs a moist environment, temperatures above freezing, and a food source, which can be leaves, paper, dirt, wood, or other building materials. Mold is more likely to be found in damp, dusty spaces or areas with stagnant air.
How can I tell if I have mold?

If you see mold growth or water stains, a mold test can help identify related microbial activity. You can also look for areas where water leakage has occurred, such as roofs, pipes, ceilings, or walls. Musty smells may also indicate the presence of mold.

Most experts recommend a professional remediation company when elevated mold levels are detected. Remediation professionals are specially trained to isolate and treat mold-affected areas to avoid contaminating adjacent spaces.

Sometimes you will hear terms like “toxic mold” or “black mold” used to refer to molds. While identifying the type of fungus or mold may be interesting, it doesn’t affect the course of action. If mold is present, the CDC has strongly recommended that it be removed, no matter the type.*
*Source: “Facts about Mold and Dampness.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 18 September 2012.

Common Questions

Commercial Water Restoration FAQ

How long will it take my property to dry?

Drying time is determined by a combination of factors, including the location, duration, and source of water, the types of building materials, the weather conditions, and how quickly emergency services begin. Through consistent monitoring and evaluation of the drying process, we can determine when the drying is complete. 

Your carpet may feel dry to the touch, but padding and subfloors may still be wet underneath. While there are no rules to determine how long your property will take to dry, we can tell you it may take between three and five days or more, depending on the conditions.

Proper testing with our specialized equipment is the correct way to determine if things are completely dry. Touch alone may be a false indicator.

Not necessarily. We will adjust the temperature to its optimum setting for the proper drying conditions. Please do not change the setting or shut off the HVAC system; doing so may prolong the drying process.

Wood flooring must be evaluated during the drying process. We employ specialized drying systems and dehumidifiers that enable us to create an environment where wood floors can dry more efficiently and resume their original shape. Due to the density of hardwood flooring and urethane finishes, drying may take longer. If you filed a claim, your insurance adjuster will work with you to make the final decision as to whether floors will need to be refinished or replaced.

Why did the technician leave wet carpet on my stairs?

Carpet on the stairs is generally not removed for safety reasons. Exposed tack strips or staples, especially on steps, is dangerous. However, there are situations where removing carpet from stairs is necessary to prevent damage to hardwood steps or in the case of sewage contamination. Removing tack strips is not advised, as this may damage the hardwood or the subfloor. Extreme caution must be used whenever the tack strip is exposed or when the carpeted stairs are damp. If carpet left on the stairs is unsalvageable, it will be removed when new carpet is installed.

The extent of damage and the construction of the furniture will determine if your furniture can be restored. Your furniture must be dried before damage can be adequately assessed. Unsalvageable furniture will be documented for you; and if any items need to be discarded, we will ask you to sign a customer release form before we take any action.

It is not unusual to smell odors during the drying process. Increased heat and humidity can also lead to increased odors that may be coming from the drying building materials, or dormant spill and accident areas. Do not confuse these normal odors with the odor of mold. As the drying process continues and humidity levels drop, you’ll notice these odors disappearing on their own. Deodorizers are often used to minimize these effects as well.

A few reasons your carpet may not be salvageable: 

– Delamination (occurs when the backing separates from the carpet fiber) 
– Loss of adhesion (may be caused by prolonged exposure to water or age of the carpet) 
– Permanent stains 
– Condition of flooring under carpet (if carpet covers wood flooring, it may need to be removed to salvage the wood flooring) 
– Sewage contamination Non-porous flooring can trap water and prevent it from drying properly.
Common Questions

Commercial Fire Restoration FAQ

HOW LONG WILL THE RESTORATION PROCESS TAKE?

Because there are many variables and many services involved in fire and smoke restoration, it is difficult to predict exactly how long the complete restoration will take. Consult with your ServiceMaster Restore restoration technician as to the estimated dates and phases of your restoration project.

We suggest that you do not attempt any “do-it-yourself” cleaning methods without consulting your ServiceMaster Restore restoration technician. Pretesting, using the right cleaning agent for the particular item, mixing deodorizing agents with cleaning solutions, and using correct dilution rates are just some of the ways a fire restoration technician expertly controls the results. Professional cleaning systems and products used by experienced, trained ServiceMaster Restore Restoration Technicians give you the best chance for complete restoration of your belongings.

At ServiceMaster Restore, occupant and worker safety are a top priority. During the initial inspection, safety hazards are identified and addressed, including debris removal, air quality, electrical hazards, slip and trip hazards, etc. Burnt electrical cords and appliances are separated out for disposal, and questionable electrical appliances are unplugged and tagged for evaluation of safe operation. Electrical power may be turned off and kept off until evaluation by a licensed electrician.

We recommend that you not turn on your furnace or air conditioning unit without clearance from the HVAC contractor.

For insurance purposes, we recommend you make a list of items (including food items) deemed nonrestorable.
Do I need general contractors?

Some items may require general contractors such as drywall/painting; electrical; plumbing; roofing; framing/finish carpentry; flooring/carpet; installation of doors, windows, cabinets, post-construction cleanup, etc.

Depending on the source, nature, and extent of the fire, it may be best to remove all belongings to a secure facility for cleaning, storage and to make room for restoration or construction. ServiceMaster Restore will work with you and your insurance claims representative to manage this process.

Yes, with advance notice we can schedule a time for a ServiceMaster Restore Restoration Technician to meet with you and provide access to your requested items. A service charge may apply.

Some high-value items require restoration by a specialist. Working with your insurance claims representative, we can help you identify these and locate a qualified restorer.

Prior to work being started, all responsible parties will need to sign a form authorizing payment for the restoration services. If this is an insurance claim, ServiceMaster Restore generally collects only the deductible amount from you and bills the balance to your insurance provider as a service to you. If your claim is not covered or you decide not to file a claim, you will be expected to pay in full at the time of service.

Common Questions

Commercial Air Duct Cleaning FAQs

Is air duct cleaning expensive?

The cost of the service varies and depends on factors such as the location of your business, how dirty your system is, how easy it is for the contractor to access the ducts and what your ducts are made of. However, our expertise, training, and satisfaction guarantee are built into the price of service.

The amount of time it takes to clean a commercial HVAC system can vary depending on the complexity of the system. Once a skilled and trained technician arrives, he should be able to give you an estimate of how long it will take. For standard purposes, we ask for at least several hours to get the job done right and to your satisfaction.

The local ServiceMaster franchise owner can work to schedule a time that is most convenient for your business during non-business hours to complete the job. Depending on the magnitude of the job, we should have you up and running by the next business day if the job is completed during non-work hours.

Most facilities may require air duct cleaning every three to five years. According to the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), it is recommended to have your HVAC system inspected annually.

Is there anything I can do to help maintain clean air ducts?

In a commercial facility, filter maintenance and replacement schedule should be established, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations, the environmental conditions of the facility, and the type of facility and industry. Regular vacuuming will also help reduce airborne dirt and debris.

For safety, the technician should be shown where the fire extinguisher and first aid kit is located. Also, it is best to provide them with any emergency contact information. Duct cleaning can be noisy. It is best to do it during non-work hours. Clear work areas. Ask your technician how much space is needed around the furnace, the air-conditioner, and each air vent register. It is best to have these areas cleared beforehand. Make sure all personnel are aware that the ducts are going to be cleaned and that all offices and rooms that are serviced remain open and unlocked. Perform a walk-through of the facility to go over where protective coverings such as drop cloths and corner guards will be placed. Also, it is necessary to go over the HVAC, how it will be cleaned, and the accessibility of it. Coordinate with Building Engineer or Superintendent to go over specifics of building layout and safety.

Air duct cleaning helps: 

Reduce energy costs in your business Reduce the potential for mold growth, bacteria, allergens, dirt, and debris Improve indoor air quality Increase air circulation and flow Increase your commercial system performance Lengthen the lifespan of your HVAC system
Get in touch

Need Restoration Help?

Whether you’re facing an unexpected emergency or planning ahead for restoration services, our dedicated team is here to provide fast, professional, and reliable assistance. From water and fire damage to mold, odor, and specialty restoration, we handle every project with care and expertise. 

127 S 3rd St Suite 1, Perkasie, PA 18944, United States

service@servicemasterbuxmont.com

(215) 857-9754

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Contact ServiceMaster of Bux Mont