Recent Posts

Cooking Up Safety: SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu's Guide to Avoiding Stove Top Fires

11/9/2023 (Permalink)

Burnt and damaged stovetop that caught on fire in a Central Honolulu home. Stovetop fire in a Central Honolulu home.

We at SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu are aware of the havoc that fire damage can cause to establishments, both commercial and residential. Stovetop accidents rank among the most frequent causes of home fires, with potentially crippling emotional and financial consequences.

We'll discuss the dangers of cooktop fires, the damage they may cause to your home, and—most importantly—how to protect your kitchen from these catastrophes in this blog post.

The Risks of Stove Top Fires: 

A typical dinner preparation can quickly become a disaster due to stovetop fires, which can occur in an instant. The first line of defense against such occurrences is awareness of the possible threats.

These are a few typical reasons:

Cooking While Unattended: Leaving your stove unattended is a surefire way to go wrong. Cooking while distracted or running errands is a major contributor to cooktop fires.

Grease Buildup: Grease buildup in the exhaust hood or on the stovetop is extremely combustible. It takes frequent cleaning to stop this flammable accumulation.

Flammable Materials: Keeping dish towels, paper goods, or other combustible materials too near the stove raises the possibility of a fire spreading swiftly.

Appliance flaws: Broken electrical parts or broken stovetops can be a major fire hazard. Inspections and routine maintenance are essential.

Preventive Advice from SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu:

Remain in the Kitchen: When cooking, never leave your burner unattended. Turn off the stove if you need to leave.

Clean Frequently: Avoid letting oil and food particles build up on your stovetop, oven, and exhaust hood. Frequent cleaning lowers the chance of an ignition.

Keep a Safe Zone: A clear area should be around the stove. Maintain a safe distance between combustible objects like dish cloths, potholders, and paper goods.

Safeguarding your belongings is not the only reason to prevent cooktop fires—it's also about protecting the people you care about. You may lessen the chance of kitchen fires and enjoy your home's heart without concern by putting these preventative suggestions from SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu into practice. If something unforeseen occurs, you may rely on SERVPRO of Central Honolulu to revive your property. After all, restoration and safety go hand in hand, and we're here to help you at every turn.

Mold Safety in Central Honolulu: Protecting Your Home and Health

10/4/2023 (Permalink)

Restoration Company-Water Damage I Mold Mold on white leather couch in Central Honolulu.

Given our tropical climate, mold is a problem that many Central Honolulu residences frequently encounter. While mold growth could initially seem unproblematic, if left unattended it can pose serious health hazards and harm to your property. 

We at SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu are committed to assisting you in maintaining a safe and healthy living space. We'll give you important mold safety advice in this blog post so you can safeguard your house and well-being.

Determine and Fix Moisture Issues

Since mold prefers moist, humid environments, it's crucial to spot and take care of moisture problems as soon as possible. Leaks, plumbing issues, and inadequate ventilation are typical sources of dampness. Regularly check your home for any indications of water damage, and remedy them right away. By taking preventive measures, mold growth can be stopped in its tracks.

Keep the Humidity Levels Low

Environments with high relative humidity support the growth of mold. To keep track of indoor humidity, make an investment in a humidity meter. The ideal indoor humidity level is lower than 50%. Use a dehumidifier to lower moisture levels and produce an atmosphere that is unsuitable for the formation of mold if you observe an increase in humidity.

Maintain Good Ventilation in Your House

In order to lower interior humidity levels and make conditions less suitable for the growth of mold, proper ventilation is essential. Make sure your home has enough ventilation in damp areas like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. To promote air circulation, think about turning on exhaust fans and opening windows, especially after cooking or taking a shower.

Quickly Clean and Dry Spills and Floods

Accidents can happen, as well as spills or floods. When they occur, the afflicted area needs to be cleaned and dried as soon as possible. In the correct circumstances, mold can start to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours. To fasten drying, use fans, dehumidifiers, and absorbent materials.

Cleanup After Mold Properly

It's critical to treat mold in your house in a safe and efficient manner if you find it there. Because it can spread spores into the air, don't touch or disturb the mold. Instead, to safely remove and cure the mold issue, call a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO of Central Honolulu.

Keeping your Central Honolulu homes safe from mold should be your first priority. You can safeguard the health of your family and your home by adhering to these mold safety recommendations. 

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (808) 744-2730

The Significance of Contents Cleaning - SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu

10/4/2023 (Permalink)

Contents being brought into our warehouse for cleaning. Contents being brought into our warehouse for cleaning.

For homeowners in Central Honolulu, disasters such as fires, floods, or mold infestations can be catastrophic. They not only interfere with daily living but can endanger your most prized possessions. 

We at SERVPRO of Central Honolulu are aware of the strong emotional attachment you have to your possessions. In this blog post, we'll discuss the importance of content cleaning and how our expert services may assist you in recovering and restoring the things that are most important to you.

The Emotional Worth of Your Possessions

Your belongings are more than simply things; they also hold sentimental value and memories. Your home may sustain physical damage during a crisis, but you are also worried about losing these priceless possessions. The secret to keeping the sentimental value that these objects hold is to clean the contents.

Family Heirlooms: Family heirlooms frequently contain years' worth of tradition and history. These priceless artifacts can be restored with the aid of contents cleaning, assuring they can continue to be passed down through the family.

Images and Keepsakes: Images capture specific moments in time, whereas mementos preserve the essence of experiences. These objects may be salvaged by our contents cleaning services, protecting your memories and the tales they contain.

Art and Collectibles: Expensive works of art and memorabilia are more than simply wise financial decisions; they are a representation of your hobbies and passions. You can keep the sentiment and value attached to these products by cleaning the contents.

The Benefits of Contents Cleaning in Real Life

Beyond the sentimental factor, there are several reasons for why contents cleaning is crucial:

Cost-Efficiency: Replacing all of your damaged possessions can be expensive. A cheap solution that might help you save money by recovering materials you thought were lost is content cleansing.

Faster Recovery: As soon as a tragedy hits, you want to get back to business as usual. Professional contents cleaning shortens the time it takes to replace lost possessions and reduces stress by saving important items.

Maintaining History: The things you own have a backstory and contribute to your history. Contents cleaning aids in preserving both your home's own personality and your personal history.

We are aware of how important your items are to you at SERVPRO of Central Honolulu. We offer cleaning and restoration services to help you recover and protect the things that are most important to you. When tragedy occurs, you can rely on us to restore your priceless possessions and provide you peace of mind throughout the recovery process. To find out more about how we may help you restore your home and its contents, get in touch with us right now.

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business has damage, our team in Central Honolulu is Here to Help®. Call us today at 808-744-2730. Mahalo.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Three Essential Fire Prevention Measures - SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu

10/4/2023 (Permalink)

Ceiling of Central Honolulu home ruined by fire damage. Fire Damage in Central Honolulu Home.

In Central Honolulu, where the risk of fires can be influenced by a variety of elements including the environment, electrical systems, and more, fire safety is a top concern for residents. The best defense against a fire's destructive effects is prevention for your house and for the safety of your loved ones. 

In this blog post, we'll discuss three crucial measures you can take to safeguard your home against fire and create a safer living space.

Electrical Safety

Electrical and wiring problems can be a serious fire hazard. To guarantee electrical safety:

  • To evaluate and maintain the electrical system in your home, hire a skilled electrician.
  • To safeguard expensive equipment from surges, don't overload circuits.
  • Repair damaged outlets, wires, and plugs as soon as possible.
  • Keep space heaters and other electrical appliances away from flammable materials.

Store flammable materials safely

Many everyday things should be stored safely to avoid fires because they are highly flammable:

  • Keep gasoline, propane, and other flammable liquids out of the path of heat sources in well-ventilated locations.
  • Keep children away from lighters and matches.
  • Paint and old, unused chemicals should be disposed of carefully.

Upkeep of smoke alarms

Your first line of defense against flames is a smoke alarm. Make sure your home is equipped with functional smoke alarms, especially in the bedrooms, hallways, and common areas. Every month, check them, swap out the batteries once a year, and replace the whole thing every ten years. Early warnings from smoke alarms can help you and your family move quickly in the event of a fire.

Every homeowner in Central Honolulu should treat fire prevention seriously. You may drastically lower your home's fire risk and guarantee the security of your loved ones and your belongings by following these three crucial procedures. Keep in mind that fire prevention demands continual attention to detail and a dedication to sustaining a secure living environment.

Experienced fire damage in your home or business? Call SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu today to get your restoration completed faster.

Swinging for a Cause: SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu at the CCIM Golf Tournament

10/4/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Central Honolulu team members at CCIM Golf Tournament. Julie and Dana, SERVPRO of Central Honolulu Team Members at CCIM Golf Tournament.

We at SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu think it's important to get involved in our community. We recently enjoyed taking part in the CCIM 12th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. We are thrilled to discuss the value of community engagement in this blog post and to share our experience at this wonderful event.

The CCIM Golf Tournament offers professionals the chance to network, form relationships, and support charities in addition to a day of golf. The event was held at the stunning Pearl Country Club, providing the ideal setting for a day of friendship and friendly competition.

Potential Networking Contacts

The CCIM Golf Tournament's main objective is to promote networking among business professionals. Participants can interact with peers, talk about industry trends, and investigate prospective business opportunities in a laid-back and entertaining setting. Many bright people who share our dedication to the Central Honolulu community were introduced to our team.

Taking Part in a Cause

The tournament has a bigger goal in addition to networking and golf: it helps the community. This event's revenue went to Maui Relief Support and Surfrider Spirit Sessions. It's touching to see how this occasion mixes good times and charitable giving, which is consistent with SERVPRO of Central Honolulu's principles.

Our Dedication to our Community

We show our commitment to the Central Honolulu neighborhood by taking part in occasions like the CCIM Golf Tournament. Whether they are business-related or charity, we think it's critical to be actively involved in local events if you want to forge meaningful relationships and leave a lasting impression.

The CCIM Golf Tournament was more than simply a day on the course; it was a chance for us to forge stronger ties with our neighbors and other businesspeople. We look forward to continuing our involvement in Central Honolulu and are honored to have been a part of this event. You can rely on SERVPRO of Central Honolulu to be a trustworthy partner as we go forward, both on and off the golf course.

Why SERVPRO of Central Honolulu is Your Packout Partner: Choosing Peace of Mind

8/29/2023 (Permalink)

Restoration Company - Cleaning | Packout One of our SERVPRO of Central Honolulu team members doing a packout.

For Central Honolulu residents and businesses, having to secure their possessions while repairs are being made adds to the stress of a disaster. However, SERVPRO of Central Honolulu's quick and expert packout services provide a solution that will be covered in this blog, ensuring a smooth experience during trying times.

Disasters can happen at any time, leaving a path of devastation and turmoil in their wake. The last thing you need when your Central Honolulu home or place of business is additional stress from trying to figure out how to secure your possessions during repair. That's where SERVPRO Central Honolulu's prompt and competent packout services come in. We'll walk you through the crucial procedures of a packout.

Step 1: Inventory and Evaluation

The process starts with the SERVPRO Central Honolulu crew performing a comprehensive examination of the damaged area. The items that need to be packed out will be noted, and an inventory will be taken to note each item's condition. This thorough procedure makes sure nothing is lost during the packout and helps create a record for insurance claims.

Step 2: Sorting and Packing: 

Following the completion of the inventory, goods are classified according to their worth, fragility, and degree of damage. Items that are valuable or delicate are handled carefully to prevent further damage while being transported. Each item is meticulously wrapped and packaged by the SERVPRO Central Honolulu team using the proper materials to protect it from moisture, impact, and other potential risks.

Step 3: Secure Transportation: 

After everything has been boxed and tagged with care, it's time to transport your things to SERVPRO's secure facility. Their skilled employees drive specialized vehicles made to reduce movement and guard against damage while in transportation. To guarantee the security of your belongings in transit, the crew adheres to industry best standards.

Step 4: Detailed Documentation:

Throughout the packout and storage phases, detailed documentation is maintained. Each object has a catalog, and the condition is noted. This documentation helps ensure that your belongings are returned to you in the same condition they were when they were packed and is an invaluable resource for insurance claims.

Step 5: Complete Cleaning and Restoration:

The professionals at SERVPRO Central Honolulu clean, fix, and restore your possessions to their pre-damage state once your property is ready. Due to the team's expertise and cutting-edge methods, even the most delicate things are handled with the utmost care.

Step 6: Return Safely, Unpack, and Inventory Check:

Now that your property has been repaired, it's time to move your possessions back inside. The SERVPRO Central Honolulu team ensures that everything is put back where it belongs by delivering your items and helping with unpacking. The return to your space is as easy as possible thanks to this attention to detail. A final inventory check is carried before the procedure is finished. This guarantees that everything that left your property is brought back to you, eliminating any possibility of uncertainty or worry.

It is never simple to deal with the fallout after a disaster, but having a reliable partner like SERVPRO of Central Honolulu on your side can make all the difference. Their packout procedure speeds the restoration process, protects your possessions, and permits the restoration work to be completed without interruption. By carefully following these predetermined processes, SERVPRO of Central Honolulu guarantees that your priceless items are returned to you in the finest condition possible, assisting you in rebuilding and moving on after even the most traumatic occurrences.

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business has damage, our team in Central Honolulu is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-744-2730. Mahalo.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Restoration Company SERVPRO Central Honolulu Joins Hands with Maui for Post-Fire Cleanup

8/22/2023 (Permalink)

In the aftermath of the recent wildfires that swept through Maui, the restoration company SERVPRO of Central Honolulu has emerged as a beacon of hope for the affected community. As families pick up the pieces after the devastation, SERVPRO is rolling up its sleeves to assist in the fire cleanup and rebuilding process.

When the fires raged, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints opened its doors to provide shelter for those who were forced to leave their homes. Now, as the smoke clears, it's time to rebuild. That's where SERVPRO Central Honolulu steps in, using its skills and expertise to help the community move forward.

It's heartbreaking how much destruction the wildfires have caused. Homes and communities that were once bursting with activity have been reduced to ash and debris. Historic areas like Lahaina have been severely damaged, yet despite the devastation, there is a tremendous will to recover.

Restoration company, SERVPRO Central Honolulu is on a mission to restore not just buildings, but also a sense of normalcy with a team of qualified experts and sophisticated tools. Their work involves more than just clearing away trash; it also involves providing people and businesses a fresh start.

A real illustration of people banding together during trying times is the cooperation between the Church, the neighborhood, and restoration company SERVPRO Central Honolulu. Cleaning up is important, but it's also important to demonstrate support and solidarity as the healing process gets underway. This restoration company's dedication is a reflection of the island's aloha spirit, which values friendliness and cooperation.

The influence of SERVPRO of Central Honolulu is apparent as they collaborate closely with the community. The company's commitment demonstrates that there are those willing to lend a hand even in the face of difficulty.

Despite the difficulties caused by the flames, SERVPRO of Central Honolulu stands out as a source of inspiration. It's obvious that as Maui rebuilds, the resilience of the locals and the unwavering support of all those engaged will pave the path for a better future.

Experienced fire damage in your home or business? Call SERVPRO of Central Honolulu today to get your restoration completed faster.

Water Damage Restoration in Hawaii: Simplifying the Process

6/8/2023 (Permalink)

The most common cause of damage that can occur to a property due to water damage restoration in Hawaii can vary. Water damage claims are the second most frequent insurance claim next to wind damage or hail. A frequently asked question when water damage occurs is, “what’s going to happen, where do we go from here?” Or, “what are the next steps?”

Many problems that occur during a restoration project can often be communication related. Enough information was not provided upfront, leaving the insured with many questions. Or, too much information was shared before the insured has had the opportunity to speak with their insurance company. Both instances can result in unnecessary calls and emails to your restoration contractor.

Understanding the Key Steps in Water Damage Restoration

When the process is not understood, and the expectations have not been set from the beginning, it can cause undue stress on top of an already emotional and stressful situation. In most situations, your restoration contractor is taking every necessary step to get you and your home taken care of and back to a preloss condition.

This article will provide you with what you need to know, so you can learn more about water damage restoration services in Hawaii and have a clear understanding of the mitigation process and the necessary steps to restore your property.

Step 1: Initial Inspection

The first step in the water mitigation process is to reach out to a restoration contractor to perform an onsite inspection. During this time a certified technician will perform a simple inspection using moisture meters as well as an infrared camera to determine the extent of the water damage in your property. Coverage for water damage depends on the situation and the source as well as the policy the property owner has chosen. While performing the inspection the technician will determine the category and classification of the water. Water restoration companies operate per IICRC standards and guidelines within the industry.

The IICRC S500 categorizes water by the following:

  • Category 1 water damage or “clean water”. A category 1 water damage is when water originates from a sanitary water source and does not pose a substantial risk if ingested or inhaled. Examples of this include a broken water supply line such as a toilet or faucet supply line. Melting snow or ice. Falling rain water. Or, a tub or sink overflow with no contaminants. A Category 1 water damage can quickly deteriorate into a Category 3 water damage if the affected areas or materials sit for more than 48 hours.
  • Category 2 water damage, aka “grey water”. A category 2 water damage is when water contains a potential health risk that can cause sickness of contacts by humans. This typically results from a water using appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, as well as some toilet overflows that do not contain contaminants.
  • Category 3 water damage, commonly referred to as “black water”. This is the most extreme type of water damage requiring swift action to mitigation serious health risks. Examples of black water includes sewage, a flood from an exterior source such as seawater, river or ground water. In simple terms water that originates from outside your property or a sewage backup.

Step 2: Placing Equipment

After the category and classification of water has been determined, the next steps taken would be to set up any necessary drying equipment to prevent any kind of secondary damage. Although some building materials may need to be removed at this point, It’s important to first seek approval from the insurance carrier before removing materials that are not covered under the insurance policy. The last thing you need is to have building materials removed from your property, only to find out later that your insurance carrier will not cover the damage.

Step 3: Equipment Monitoring

Everyday a technician will come in and take moisture readings of the affected areas. This helps to ensure that the drying is effective and this is why technicians will show up daily to inspect.

Step 4: Scoping, Estimating, Approval

The technician will then create a scope of work to provide to the Estimator. The scope provided to the estimator will be used to create an estimate for the insured and the insurance provider of how much it will cost to restore the property. This will help the insurance carrier to see the extent of the damage and determine coverage faster.

Water damage exclusions are common in home insurance policies. This is why it is crucial for a restoration company to first verify coverage, so as not to cause unnecessary fees to a property owner that the insurance carrier will not cover.

Step 5: Secondary Services

With certain properties that were built before a specific year, testing for asbestos is required. If the test comes back as positive for asbestos, the estimate will need to be rewritten to include those services. Occasionally if the water damage is extensive, contents may need to be moved offsite which may also require additional time before the property can be properly cleaned. These items can cause a longer approval process to the initial scope provided. 

Step 6x: Completion

Once the estimate is approved, the restoration process can now begin. In most cases, this is simply following the approved and signed scope of work. The approved estimate as well as a work authorization will be sent out to the property owner for approval. Provided all parties are in agreement, the approved work can now begin.

Any water damage issue is a serious concern and should be addressed as soon as possible. A delay in the water clean up process could result in additional and unnecessary costs as well as health risks. Our experienced, certified, and licensed restoration team is here to help you navigate the challenging process of water damage restoration in Hawaii. Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to water damage, so don't delay—reach out to us now!

Protecting Your Home from Water Damage in Hawaii

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

Flood Damage Recent Flood Damage Honolulu HI

No one wants to think about the havoc water damage can wreak on a home. Even just an inch or two of water can cause extensive destruction, and insurance coverage or federal aid isn't always guaranteed. That's why it's crucial to take preventive measures seriously.

In Hawaii, the risk of flooding is a constant concern, particularly due to the narrow valleys that can lead to flash floods. The highest risk period in Honolulu typically spans from October through April.

Exterior Protection

Maintain Your Gutters: One of the first lines of defense against water damage is a functioning gutter and downspout system. Regularly clear them of debris to ensure proper water flow away from your roof and home.

Garden Smartly: If you enjoy gardening, consider planting in a way that directs water away from your home. Properly designed gardens not only enhance your property's beauty but also help protect your foundation. Additionally, adding mulch around your home's foundation can aid in absorbing excess water.

Secure Propane and Fuel Tanks: If you have propane or fuel tanks on your property, ensure they are securely anchored to prevent them from washing away during flash floods. Also, consider relocating electrical outlets away from ground level and switch off electricity to flood-prone areas before an impending storm.

Interior Precautions

Foundation Maintenance: Many water issues originate from foundation cracks or waterproofing problems. Regularly inspect and promptly seal any foundation cracks you discover.

Preventing Leaks: Water damage isn't always due to external factors; it can originate from leaky pipes or appliances. Regular utility inspections can help catch small issues before they escalate.

Protect Your Valuables: Store cherished items and important documents off the ground or in a waterproof safe. Remember that while possessions can often be replaced, sentimental items and memories cannot.

Emergency Preparedness: Always keep a copy of your emergency plan stored in a safe and accessible place. Being prepared can make a significant difference in any natural disaster.

When Disaster Strikes

In the unfortunate event of water damage, don't hesitate to call professionals for help. SERVPRO of Central Honolulu is here to assist you with efficient and effective restoration services.

We understand the challenges water damage can bring, and our experienced team is ready to respond promptly, minimizing the impact on your home and life. Protect your investment, and rely on SERVPRO of Central Honolulu for all your water damage restoration needs.

3 Storm Damage Risks to Watch For | SERVPRO® of Central Honolulu

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Lightning during a storm. When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of Central Honolulu your first call.

When severe weather is in the forecast, it can make even the most experienced homeowner wary. Storms can be very strong and cause damage to your home and property!

In terms of the different kinds of damage, water, wind and impact damages are the most common. All three can cause major damages to your home.

Thankfully, just because a storm is predicted to be strong doesn’t mean that your home will suffer any sort of damage. It all depends on what kind of storm it is, where you live in town and how well your home was constructed.

In Honolulu, we mostly experience heavy rains and tropical storm threats, but we have been known to see the occasional severe thunderstorm as well. It is crucial to understand how to approach each situation in relation to protecting your home.

Wind

Wind from severe storms or tropical weather events can be incredibly strong. Reaching over 100 mph, wind can cause widespread damage to our properties.

When wind blows that quickly, it can uproot trees and overturn cars. Remain indoors during any sort of storm that is producing intense wind.

If you are alerted ahead of time for an incoming storm, take a few moments to prepare your yard. Pull your patio furniture into your garage or under your carport, and keep your landscaping free of any large rocks or dead debris.

Water

Water damage is one of the largest threats to us here in Honolulu. With our warm and moist climate, any standing water or lingering moisture in our homes can be a breeding ground for mold.

Be careful about doing any landscaping close to your home. If you do, angle any structures away from the foundation of your home to prevent water from flowing backward into your basement or lowest level. You can also incorporate a rain garden into your landscaping to help provide a place for the water to collect.

If you have gutters on your home, make sure they are free of any debris and your downspouts are pointing away from your house. Any pooling water on your roof has the potential to leak down your walls.

Impact

When it comes to impact damages, they can be very expensive and widespread. If winds accompanying a thunderstorm or tropical weather event are strong enough, they can uproot trees and throw them into your home or overturn your cars into the side of your house.

Impact damages, which occur when storms throw items into your home or property, making an impact, can be some of the most devastating.

Do your best to address any dead trees or property debris before any incoming storm and remove any yard hazards when you can to reduce your risk of suffering these types of damages.

If you do suffer storm damage, it can be hard on your wallet. In 2021, storm damage cost Americans $145 billion in damages!

At SERVPRO of Central Honolulu, we are here to make sure that the long-term effects of any damages are minimal. We will jump right into action and begin your restoration plan as soon as possible! Call us day or night, and we will be there.

When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get your storm damage restoration started faster.