Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts
Here to help - no matter where!
5/30/2024 (Permalink)
With over 2,000 independently own franchises Nationwide, SERVPRO has the resources to respond to any size disaster!
November 8th, 2018, thousands of people’s lives were affected by the nation's deadliest fire on record. Paradise, California was leveled in a life-altering way. Not only were many displaced, but unfortunately, lives were also lost.
In the devastation, a few companies we called upon to assist with the disaster. SERVPRO® and other restoration companies stepped up and were joined by fire fighters, phone companies, military, and adjusters from insurance companies to provide whatever assistance we could.
SERVPRO Team McGinnis sent a crew down south to see what we can do to help, and the crew was kept very busy providing cleanup, and conducting smoke damage assessment.
Did you know that when major disasters strike, SERVPRO Corporate can put out a call to the other SERVPRO franchises, asking for additional help. That is when our local teams pack up our vans, and we go where we can help. Sometimes, it’s not even necessarily man-power that is required, just additional equipment. During our recent Ice-Storms this past January, our local SERVPRO Team McGinnis quickly ran out of drying equipment due to the sheer volume of water-loss calls. We reached out to neighboring franchises for any available equipment they could spare, and our SERVPRO family delivered!
Rest assured knowing that in the event of a major disaster, you’re locally owned and operated SERVPRO Team McGinnis has access to and the support of over 2000 other independently owned and operated SERVPRO franchises, if and when we need! You can always count on us, call us today at 541-745-2097.
What SERVPRO Stands For
5/2/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO® Team McGinnis supports the communities we live and work in. We are here to help!
Why SERVPRO®?
SERVPRO® stands for many different things, and it makes us very happy to be able to serve our community with all their restoration needs. SERVPRO® works to help people restore their damages and make the restoration process as smooth as possible. We will make your home safe for you and your whole family.
SERVPRO® Team McGinnis is all about serving our community and serving people; we want to be a resource, and to be helpful to others. That is why we do business, and the WHY we do business is the most important thing, in our minds. So, obviously people know what we do, but we want to be out in our Community. We want to be involved and to be there when people need assistance. That is our number one focus, our number one mission: to serve the people of our Community in their time of need and help restore peace of mind.
If you need help restoring damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO® today. We specialize in water, fire, biohazard, mold and so much more. We always want you to be happy with the job we do for you.
Rely on the professionals at SERVPRO® Team McGinnis to make it ”Like it never even happened.” If you have any questions please call 541-745-2097
SERVPRO® has the heart to help
12/6/2023 (Permalink)
Our team members not only assist our clients, but we take the time to give back to our Community!
SERVPRO® Salem West is a company that strongly believes in giving back to our Community. We are involved in many charitable events during the year. Our Team goes above and beyond to give back. Even after assisting customers during the business week, our team still finds time to go above and beyond when the call arises. We have even participated in two fundraisers back to back in one day! These organizations that provide assistance to those in need mean so much to our SERVPRO® family.
Our Team has proudly participated in the Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics in both Salem and Corvallis for the past few years, which benefits our local Special Olympic athletes. The event in Corvallis also combines with Run Off Your Tutu for Furniture Share, a Walk/Run 5k which helps local in-need families with beds and furniture. Both of these organizations impact our community in such a positive way. SERVPRO® is proud to participate and assist these, and many other charitable groups, as our mission is to give back whenever we can. That’s why when you're looking for a company to work on your home or business for your restoration needs, SERVPRO® has the heart to help our community!
What makes SERVPRO different?
10/18/2023 (Permalink)
The Character and Dedication of your local SERVPRO Team makes them stand out above the rest!
Whether it’s drying out a water loss, cleaning and reconstructing post a fire, or remediating mold in an attic. In our industry, dedication and character are everything. Once you begin a difficult job, it’s easy to hit a wall, get overwhelmed, feel stressed, and make the choice to throw your hands up and quit.
What is it that is going to get someone in a crawlspace full of sewage?
What is it that is going to get us to leave our warm snuggly beds at 2am, and drive across town to provide water extraction and stabilization at a loss?
What is it that drives us to voluntarily spend all day in the woods, cleaning up bio-hazardous abandoned homeless encampments?
What is it that motivates a person to put a customer, a team, and a job first?
Dedication and Character.
Dedication can be trained, learned, and achieved. It can even be faked.
Character can’t.
Character is what is going to take a person out of there bed at 2am to help someone.
Character is going to give someone the mental strength to set aside the “ew” factor, and clean up that sewage riddled crawlspace.
Character is going to take you into the woods, to piles of abandoned garbage that accumulate to tons, and it is going to give you the visualization of what those trees, moss, earth, and landscape will look like once you have finished clearing the job…and you roll up your sleeves.
Character is going to make you ask yourself questions like these:
How is my customer feeling? How can I serve this customer to the best of my ability?
How is my team working together? Am I doing my best to contribute to the success of my team?
How can I get the best possible outcome at this job for my customer? How am I going to get there?
Character: The trait that means everything.
I think it’s this trait in SERVPRO® technicians that makes them passionate and proud about the job and services they provide.
It's this trait that takes a newly hired technician from viewing restoration work as “A Day Job” or a “A Temporary Job” and gets them thinking about it as something they can be proud of for being a part of, and something they want to continue to be a part of.
The SERVPRO® values that our team is given as a standard. It sets them on a path to being a success in the industry. Character is the most valuable tool a SERVPRO® team member can have.
If you suffer a loss and your life is turned upside down, it takes a certain kind of person to navigate that loss and provide the knowledge, guidance, and dedication to serve the customer.
SERVPRO® prides itself on seeking out employees that can exemplify the values SERVPRO® is about, and add character and dedication to our team. When the need arises, call us today at 541-745-2097, and we will make it "Like it never even happened.®"
Why SERVPRO® for your Commercial Needs?
10/6/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO® has professionally trained Technicians to handle all your Commercial Loss needs!
Why choose SERVPRO?
A commercial loss is much different than a residential loss. When it comes to SERVPRO® responding and mitigating a commercial loss, we have to take into account that there are many more parties of interest involved, and documentation of the job and proper communication about job progress and emergency response efforts may have to be distributed to multiple owners, managers, and insurance companies throughout the process.
SERVPRO® has worked within commercial buildings for over 20 years. We are used to navigating the delicate balance between communications with multiple owners, while also working with multiple vendors, to bring the structure back to preloss condition.
Experience really is key to when it comes to responding to a commercial loss. We prioritize what is most important to our customers and we get to work stabilizing the building as soon as possible. Each day a commercial property isn’t operating it is costing our customer money. As a longtime restoration vendor, we know that getting the facility/structure operational as soon as possible is key for customer satisfaction.
A large part of handling a commercial loss is efficient and frequent communication with the right parties at the right time. Our team at SERVPRO® keeps communication and customer satisfaction at the forefront of our job responsibilities at all times.
So when your business or facility has a loss, you can feel confident calling SERVPRO®. We will be able to respond to the disaster and get the situation under control faster than any other restoration company in the Willamette Valley.
We have the experience, the knowledge, the connections, and the communication and dedication to see commercial restorations come to a smooth and timely completion. Give us a call today at 541-745-2097.
Why SERVPRO is the Best Choice for Customer Service in Your Community
5/4/2023 (Permalink)
When disaster strikes, it's important to have a company you can trust to help you get back on your feet. That's where SERVPRO comes in. SERVPRO is a customer service-focused company that has been helping communities for over 50 years. In this blog, we will discuss why SERVPRO is the best choice for the community when it comes to customer service.
SERVPRO has over 1,800 franchises across the United States and Canada, making it one of the largest restoration companies in the industry. With more than 50 years of experience, they have seen it all, from small water leaks to major natural disasters. SERVPRO's team of highly trained professionals has the expertise and experience needed to handle any job, big or small.
24/7 Availability
Disasters don't happen on a schedule, which is why SERVPRO is available 24/7. When you call SERVPRO, you can expect a quick response and immediate action. Whether it's the middle of the night or a holiday weekend, SERVPRO is always ready to help.
Customer Service
At SERVPRO, customer service is their top priority. They understand that dealing with a disaster can be stressful and overwhelming, which is why they strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. SERVPRO's team is courteous, respectful, and always puts the customer first. They are committed to ensuring that their customers are satisfied with the work they do.
Advanced Technology
SERVPRO utilizes advanced technology and equipment to ensure that the job is done right. They use state-of-the-art equipment to dry and restore homes and businesses after water damage. They also use air scrubbers and HEPA filters to remove contaminants from the air, making the area safe to breathe again. SERVPRO's commitment to using the latest technology ensures that their customers receive the best possible service.
Community Involvement
SERVPRO is committed to giving back to the community. They partner with organizations such as the American Red Cross to provide assistance to those in need. They also offer scholarships to students pursuing a career in the restoration industry. SERVPRO's commitment to the community goes beyond just restoring homes and businesses; they are dedicated to making a positive impact in the community.
SERVPRO is the best choice for the community when it comes to customer service! With their expertise, 24/7 availability, commitment to customer service, advanced technology, and community involvement, they are the ideal company to call when disaster strikes.
If you need restoration services, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO for the best possible service.
5 Reasons Why SERVPRO is the Best Remediation Company
5/4/2023 (Permalink)
When disaster strikes, whether it's due to fire, water, or mold, the aftermath can be overwhelming and devastating. That's where remediation services come in, and among the many companies out there, SERVPRO stands out as the best. Here's why:
Experience SERVPRO has been in the remediation business for over 50 years. They've handled all kinds of disasters, big and small, and have the expertise to assess the situation, create a plan of action, and execute it efficiently. They have over 1,800 franchises across the US, so they're never far away when you need them.
24/7 Availability Disasters don't wait for business hours, and neither does SERVPRO. They offer 24/7 emergency services, which means they'll be there when you need them most, no matter the time of day or night. Their prompt response time can help mitigate the damage and save you time and money in the long run.
Comprehensive Services SERVPRO offers a wide range of remediation services, including fire and smoke damage restoration, water damage restoration, mold remediation, and more. They have the equipment and expertise to handle any situation, big or small, and will work with you every step of the way to get your property back to its pre-disaster condition.
Advanced Technology SERVPRO uses the latest technology and techniques in the industry to provide the best possible service. They have specialized equipment for drying, dehumidifying, and cleaning, as well as thermal imaging cameras to detect hidden moisture and mold. They also use EPA-approved cleaning agents to ensure a safe and thorough remediation process.
Professionalism SERVPRO's technicians are highly trained and certified professionals who will treat you and your property with the utmost respect and professionalism. They'll explain the process to you in detail, answer any questions you have, and keep you informed throughout the remediation process.
If you're ever in need of remediation services, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO. They'll be there to help you get your life back on track.
Building Connections Through Community Involvement: The SERVPRO Way
5/4/2023 (Permalink)
As a company that specializes in restoration services, SERVPRO understands the importance of being present in the communities it serves. But for SERVPRO, community involvement is more than just a marketing tactic or a way to promote its services. It's a way to build relationships and connections with the people who make up those communities.
From sponsoring local events to volunteering time and resources, SERVPRO has made it a priority to be actively involved in the communities where its franchises are located. Whether it's supporting a local charity, helping out at a community event, or simply being a good neighbor, SERVPRO believes that community involvement is an essential part of its business.
At SERVPRO, the focus is on building relationships, not just restoring properties. By getting involved in the community, SERVPRO franchises can connect with the people who live and work there. They can learn about the challenges and opportunities facing the community and find ways to contribute to its growth and well-being.
For example, SERVPRO franchises often participate in local disaster preparedness events, providing information and resources to help people prepare for emergencies. They also support local fire and police departments, providing equipment and resources to help keep the community safe.
But SERVPRO's commitment to community involvement goes beyond just responding to emergencies. Franchise owners and their teams are also involved in a variety of other community events and initiatives. For example, they may sponsor a local youth sports team, participate in a charity walk or run, or help out at a food bank or shelter.
By being present and actively involved in the community, SERVPRO is able to build trust and establish itself as a reliable and caring partner. This can be especially important when a disaster strikes. People are more likely to turn to a company they know and trust when they need help, and SERVPRO's community involvement helps to establish that trust.
In addition to building relationships and connections, SERVPRO's community involvement also helps to raise awareness about its services. By sponsoring events and participating in community initiatives, SERVPRO can showcase its expertise and capabilities. This can help to increase brand recognition and establish SERVPRO as a leader in the restoration industry.
But for SERVPRO, community involvement is about more than just promoting its business. It's about giving back to the community and making a positive impact. By being actively involved in the community, SERVPRO franchises can help to make their communities stronger, safer, and more resilient.
Community involvement is a cornerstone of SERVPRO's business. By building relationships and connections through community events and initiatives, SERVPRO franchises are able to establish themselves as trusted partners and caring neighbors. This approach not only benefits SERVPRO's business, but also helps to make the communities it serves stronger and more resilient.
A Team that Responds Like Family!
12/12/2022 (Permalink)
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work!
Here at our SERVPRO we are often getting many kudos and heart felt welcomes. Here are a few from this past week;
Best team ever! Kesha and Cody were AMAZING! They are so friendly and were comfortable to be around and funny! Such a good team! Very willing to do anything that was needed such as moving my furniture a couple time lol THIS TEAM IS AWESOME! Awesome staff and service! SERVPRO did such a great job with communication and has an extremely kind and professional staff. They would even communicate over the weekends if we had any questions. This is the second time we used them in a disaster situation, and they were just as great as the first time. A+ service and would highly recommend them to anyone! Residential Service. Mindy and Hope were awesome! Efficient, hardworking, considerate. This SERVPRO team exceeded expectations.
This starts at our Company Culture Level. Here at SERVPRO we individually work hand in hand with each of our team members to see that they are growing and feeling their importance of contributions to our work family. We pour into them the skills and listen to their needs.
Open communication allows our crew to be AMAZING at what they do and thus has the ripple effect onto our customers. Choose the team that responds like family!
Certified: SERVPRO Clean!
12/12/2022 (Permalink)
Certified Clean Approved!
SERVPRO® of Benton County and Linn County is qualified to clean and properly apply disinfectants according to the CDC’s protocols.
Why Choose SERVPRO? We have over 50 years of experience in cleaning and disinfecting contaminants, including biohazards. We have trained professionals and the proper equipment to go beyond standard cleaning services. We also have training certifications in COVID-19 decontamination.
We clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as:
- Counters and tabletops
- Doorknobs
- Light switches
- Toilets & other bathroom fixtures (faucets, handrails, tubs & showers) ? Tablets, keyboards & other office (home or business) equipment
We also clean soft surfaces such as:
- Carpets & rugs
- Upholstered furniture
- Exercise mats
The CDC recommends cleaning and disinfecting the following areas: ? Kitchen & dining areas
- Bathrooms
- Schools, classrooms, conference rooms
- Retail spaces, including
- Sales counters
- Racks, shelves
- Hand-rails & elevator cars
- Flooring, regardless of material
- Water fountains
- Carpets, rugs
- Fitness equipment
We Can Get The Job DONE!
10/4/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Benton & Linn County knows how to not only start a job, but to finish the job as
well. With ease we can go from mitigation to reconstruction. Did you know we have an in house construction company? Our construction team is made up of several project managers, carpenter teams, and a painting crew. Each project managers walk with you through the process of reconstruction. Pulling permits, discussing changes and working hand in hand with you and your insurance company. Our team is very talented, and will ensure the job is completed to your standards. We pride ourselves in making your home look “Like it never even happened.” Whether it’s a water loss, mold, smoke or soot
damage, we can help will all of it!
Here to Help!
10/4/2022 (Permalink)
The professionals here at SERVPRO work on the firm mindset of "Here to Help"! This is why people continue to trust SERVPRO Franchises to take care of their most prized possessions and investments, their home and businesses.
We strive to make sure that our crew, production managers and all that are part of the SERVPRO Franchise trained to have the heart to help and excel in their line of work.
Our team members are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, we offer continuing education classes for all agents and property managers to learn more about our services.
As a 24/7 365 days a week service provider we are always ready to assist in you fire, water, mold, biohazard or reconstruction needs.
This is why people continue to choose SERVPRO!
“Yay! Time to call SERVPRO!” said no one…ever.
5/12/2022 (Permalink)
A property damage/loss can be one of the most inconvenient times in a customers life. We approach each job with a "How can we help?" mindset.
No property owner looks forward to having a loss in their home or business. But the reality of the situation is damages and losses happen every single day across the nation. No one looks forward to calling us. When we pick up the phone and it’s a customer calling to schedule services we never hear “I’m so excited! There is sewage all over in my house!” that is not the normal phone call we get from customers. We deal with customers every day that are experiencing one of the greatest inconveniences of their life. Some are displaced from their homes, almost all are stressed, some are angry, some are sad, but all of them need help!
That is what SERVPRO is here for.
Our work is vitally important to home and business owners throughout the Willamette valley and nationwide. We hear jokes all the time from property owners like “Well this loss is bad for me, but it’s good business for you guys!” They are right. The fact of the matter is, disaster clean-up and restoration is a huge industry and a much needed service across the nation. Yes, this is how our SERVPRO team members earn their living, but we get to help people every single day while earning our living…and that makes for a pretty spectacular job.
We strive to leave each and every one of our customers in a better place than we found them in with each interaction. We want our customers to feel comfortable and confident in their choice to use SERVPRO throughout the mitigation and restoration process. So call SERVPRO to help when the need arises, we will strive to provide comfort and peace of mind in what can be a very stressful time in a property owners life.
What Does SERVPRO Offer?
5/10/2022 (Permalink)
Let’s face it, this is an interesting line of work, Disaster Clean-Up & Restoration.
It’s not for everyone, squeezing into crawl spaces one day and responding to crime scene clean-ups the next.
I think the driving force for any employee who comes on at our franchises is an appreciation and drive for helping people.
Helping people is indeed something we do each and every single day at SERVPRO.
Also, the wide variety of services we specialize in can transfer across the board when it comes to this industry.
Someone may start at a water technician and find that they excel and enjoy being a part of the fire team more. We have employees find their passion in areas that they did not start in all the time.
In case you are curious about the kind of work we perform and the diverse services we are trained in, here is a list of our more common services:
-Water Mitigation
-Fire Restoration
-Mold Remediation
-Biohazard Clean-Up
-Crime Scene Clean-Up
-Carpet Cleaning
-Duct Cleaning
-Furniture & Contents Cleaning
-Document Drying, Recovery, and Restoration
-Reconstruction
-Complete Re-Builds
-Hazardous Materials Testing
-Commercial Large Loss
So if you are looking for a job that helps people each and every day consider joining our team of SERVPRO Heroes.
Why SERVPRO is your best choice!
5/9/2022 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO, we help people. Each and every day.
There is a reason that SERVPRO continually rates as the highest ranking restoration company in the nation. We are consistently elected the number one trusted restoration brand by consumers, and we pride ourselves on not only taking care of our customers, but taking care of our employees.
-We believe great customer service comes from happy employees. An employee that is unhappy at work, will not take as careful and caring steps during a disaster response.
-Making our workplace welcoming and fun is a top priority. SERVPRO wants to be a place that people want to work at, and can grow and achieve the success that they want at our company.
-Benefits and time off. SERVPRO offers both paid vacation, sick days, and offers medical and dental insurance coverage.
-We help people, every single day. Our company is best suited for those with a heart for service. We pride ourselves on the care and attention to detail with each loss we respond to.
-Learn valuable skills with on-the-job training. SERVPRO takes the time to train our technicians and employees so they feel confident in their skill set and have the correct methods to effectively handle a loss.
So whether you are someone with a heart of service, and you want to join a team that helps people every single day, or whether you are a property owner who has had a disaster strike their home or business, SERVPRO can help you find your way back to a fulfilling career, or a comfortable home.
Give us a call, we would love to be a part of your journey.
We are always open, always here to help, and always looking for fantastic people to work alongside us.
Snowstorms Aren’t Salem’s Norm, But Quick Response Is Still SERVPRO’s
12/29/2021 (Permalink)
This past week we have seen snow hit the Salem area and cause bridge and road closures, but what we have also seen it do is expose leaky roofs. Even roofs that are new have reported leaking. Our climate here in the pacific northwest is famous for its rain, but snow? Not so much.
Snow is more prone to cause car accidents than home damages. But we did see a loss that was due to frozen pipes…but not how you’d expect. The pipes did not indeed freeze, but they clogged. The homeowner left their faucet running due to fear that the pipes would become frozen.
This was a calculated and responsible action of the homeowner. What the homeowner did not expect was for the pipes to clog and the water to flood the home for 2 days while the homeowner was out of the house.
A loss like this can show anyone that although you are being a responsible homeowner, losses can still happen. Losses can happen in ways that you didn’t expect or prep for. We responded to this customer’s call and were out onsite within 2 hours. We then stabilized the home and set drying equipment after cleaning of the area and ventilating the walls.
If you are looking for a dependable company to turn to when all your planning and safety precautions have not been enough due to factors like the one above? Give SERVPRO a call! We respond quickly and treat each loss with the professional attention it deserves.
The importance of Locally Owned & Operated
12/16/2021 (Permalink)
As the months and years pass, many businesses here in Salem and Oregon are operated and owned by out of state investors. Many of the homes that are bought outright in cash are sold to California transplants. Our State is attracting more and more people who want to relocate here, our state is also one of the most heavily costly to live in due to people wanting to move here.
What is the importance of buying local and using local services? Have you ever wondered why the cost of goods is more costly at a small general store than at a local Walmart? This is due to the big corporate businesses like Walmart being able to buy in bulk for dirt cheap prices (because they are buying so much).
The difference between goods and services is that services tend to be along the same cost whether or not they are a large or small business. But using local services that are owned and operated within your area is highly beneficial and cost effective. Local vendors have more information on current conditions within your area, laws about services you are requesting, rules for planning the services, and locally specific management perspectives than that who are out of state owned or new to the industry. Using local vendors also helps support community within your area.
When we think about community we see small shops, banks, and grocery stores, where a mother of two can talk to Mr. Policemen on the corner, call him by name, and ask how his mother is? If you take away the local human community element…all you have is a big empty corporate suit selling you goods.
Our SERVPRO franchises (SERVPRO of Salem West & SERVPRO of Lincoln & Polk Counties) have been locally owned and operated for the past 20 years. The family that owns this company still oversees operations and shows up to work each day.
The difference between a small business and a large business is that in a small business you can usually go to the owners office and knock and enter to ask a question. You can’t do that at Walmart.
We should love buying local and sourcing local goods and services. It builds your network, encourages strength in small businesses, and is beneficial to the dying art that is small business ownership.
Plus, if something comes up that you need help with, you can call and get an answer. Rather than speaking to someone overseas after being on hold for 15 minutes.
When you see the GREEN, you know it’ll be clean!
10/6/2021 (Permalink)
A Green SERVPRO Van is shown arriving onsite at the new Salem Police Department.
When something happens to your business or home that is outside of the usual, it turns your whole world upside down. Disasters within the home or business include, but are not limited to:
-Flooding/Water Damage (caused by leaking of roof, burst pipe, accidentally leaving the faucet on, storm water intrusion, appliances with failed water lines, rodents chewing through supply lines, sewer backup, toilet overflow, and many more).
-Fire Damage (caused by electrical malfunction, wildfires, cooking, candles left burning, electronics shorting or overheating, unsafe use of matches, fireplaces, arson, and many more).
-Bio-Hazard (caused by trauma or crime scene, sewage overflow from toilet, contaminated storm water, exposure to dangerous chemicals or pathogens, bodily fluids, hypodermic needles, and more).
-Mold (caused by overly saturated structure materials that were not dried soon enough or well enough, too much moisture in a space, not enough ventilation in a space, unhealthy or unsanitary living conditions, neglected water damage, and more).
-Storm Damage (caused by high winds, fallen trees, flooded homes, snowstorms, ice storms, and more).
No matter the cause of the disruption in your home or business, when you see the GREEN, you know it’ll be clean!
Our SERVPRO Technicians are IICRC certified and trained to handle all of the above listed disasters and more!
Our crew leads, project managers, and crew chiefs are cross-trained in all facets of the restoration business.
SERVPRO of Salem West has been a staple in the restoration industry for over 20 years in the Willamette Valley. We have been family owned and operated since being founded.
If you are seeking a knowledgeable, educated, and trained response team…look no further than SERVPRO of Salem West. We also own SERVPRO of Lincoln & Polk Counties.
Homeless Encampments: Preparing for the Clean-Up!
10/6/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO team member Johanna Allen, stands amidst the chaos of a Salem Homeless Encampment Clean-Up.
People within our community are struggling. Struggling with mental health, with physical health, with addiction, and many are struggling with money. Oregon has the 4th highest rate of homelessness per capita among the United States. You may have already guessed the 3 states with higher homeless rates, they are (California, New York, and Hawaii).
If you look at the cost of living in America today, you will see Oregon is listed at number 4 on the “top 10 list of states with the highest cost of living” So what are the top 3 states with the highest cost of living? (California, New York, and Hawaii).
As the last few years have gone by, SERVPRO of Salem West has been called upon to perform Homeless Encampment Clean-Ups. These are highly contaminated jobs and physically exerting. So, Why? Why does SERVPRO take these on? The answer is simple, as needs change so does our job descriptions. We are a company that has always tackled Bio-Hazardous jobs, and homeless encampments are just that.
Preparing to take on a job like this is not only physical, but mental as well.
Physically, you need to be trained in proper pick-up and disposal of bio-hazardous materials (such as used hypodermic needles), you need to have the proper PPE (N95 or respirator, non-penetrable gloves, solid boots, long thick pants, an eye protection), you also need the right gear (sharps containers, tools for the removal of needles, industrial garbage bags, trucks or trailers for transport of waste, man power to collect garbage and get it to trucks or trailers, but the most important thing to have is a safe and steady pace.
Keeping a safe pace as you pick up garbage in a homeless encampment is a must! Due to the high amounts and piles of waste and garbage you must stay extremely vigilant and assume each handful of garbage contains something sharp within it…because often it does. “Working smarter, not faster” is a good way of viewing the clean-up of a homeless encampment.
Mentally preparing yourself for the viewing of homeless encampments is important, because they are hard to see up close. They can be disturbing and heartbreaking at the same time. Viewing a homeless camp from a distance (a street or road) only paints the picture of a group camping site…with more than average garbage. Up close, you are exposed to the severely toxic levels of rotten food, human waste, garbage, and unsanitary conditions. In each and every homeless site we have come across, we always find needles, drug paraphernalia, human feces and urine, rotten food, and most of all…garbage.
Garbage pick-up or storage is not something that is a priority or part of the day to day life at most sites. Garbage, is not a concern for a person struggling to get from one day to the next.
So preparing yourself mentally to see the level of uncleanliness in homeless encampment environments, is by far the hardest thing about cleaning these camps. You see the aftermath that comes when one of the most basic of human comforts ( keeping the body clean and sanitary)…is no longer a motivation or a priority.
There is hope, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel. It may seem like conditions and homeless populations are growing and getting worse…but statistically, that is not the case. Oregon in the year 2020, had the biggest drop in homelessness nationwide, and saw a decline of homelessness by 8%. With the many resources and amazing Organizations within the State of Oregon, this is great news. There is help, and people continue to accept it. Every. Single. Day.
The Importance of Customer Service in the Restoration Industry
5/20/2021 (Permalink)
Where has customer service gone? SERVPRO has never lost it.
Do you ever feel like customer service is a dying art? I’m not just talking about waiting on the phone for 45 minutes trying to get through the “automated system” and talk to an actual human being, I’m talking about human interactions with businesses that make you want to return to that business, and recommend that business to friends and family who inquire.
In the restoration industry, word of mouth and return customers mean the world to us. It’s not only the confidence in knowing that we cared for them the right way the first time, but it’s a customer entrusting us to care for them again…that is what really reassures us that we are doing a good job.
So when did customer service start to be less important? When did people stop caring so much about the entire experience the customer is having, and look at them as someone who they are obligated to “Take care of” or “Help” I think many customer service skills have become less important due to more and more interaction via the internet and remotely working.
At SERVPRO, we cannot do Fire Restoration, Water Restoration, Mold Remediation, and Bio-Hazard Clean-up from a remote location. We have had to stay front and center in peoples lives, always, even through a pandemic. We are very much a hands on company, both literally and figuratively.
What we hope to hear as a small business serving the Willamette Valley, is that our customers had a good experience with our services. Because when we come into a home or business that has experienced a loss, we want to leave our customers in a better mood than we found them in…at every single visit.
Here at SERVPRO of Salem West we are in the business or caring for peoples homes and businesses, and in a way we are very much in the business of caring for and helping people. There aren’t many jobs that see what we do, and we consider it a privilege to serve our customers day in and day out for the past 20+ years.
Locally Owned And Operated For Over 20 Years!
5/11/2021 (Permalink)
When people think of the SERVPRO brand they think of a large, nationwide corporation. What is largely unknown is that SERVPRO is franchised, so each location is unique and it’s own separate business. SERVPRO of Salem West and SERVPRO of Lincoln and Polk Counties are both owned by a local family here in Salem. This same family has owned these franchises for the past 20+ years. The owner still hows up each day at the office and shows passion for the business.
Some of our employees have been apart of our business for the past 15+ years. We have many people that have been here for 5-10 years. Our core team at SERVPRO of Salem West is passionate about our goals and our customers. We are always looking for good people who show interest and compassion when it comes to working with people suffering losses to their homes or businesses.
SERVPRO is more than just a brand, we are a community of dedicated technicians who live within the SERVPRO ideals and values. It usually happens pretty fast when a person decides if this job isn’t for them, it’s usually on a crawl space job, or an extra strenuous job that some people are just not cut out for. That is okay too. We are not for everybody, but it’s exciting when we find someone who truly enjoys and is passionate about working in the restoration industry.
Many come to us with no on-the-job restoration experience, that is why SERVPRO offers our training programs in-house called ECTP (employee certification training program) this is a why a new technician can learn about their industry and their responsibilities before they even set foot within someone’s home or business. If an employee passes these tests and shows enthusiasm when out in the field and has a passion for our work, many go on to attend an IICRC program to get nationally certified in the industry.
Dependability, it’s what SERVPRO is all about!
5/10/2021 (Permalink)
Let’s go over a few important reasons why dependability is so paramount in the restoration industry.
“Time.” Time is one aspect of dependability that is hugely important. Being on time and responding quickly is of utmost importance. The quicker we get to the site, the less damage the customer will have. The less damage the customer has, the better and smoother the job will go. Time is extremely important, and we are known as the company that is “Faster to any disaster” for a reason.
“People.” Being dependable is what puts our customers at ease, and communicates to the customer how much respect we have for their time and the job. Making our customers happy with our customer service is always forefront in our mind. Safety is always number one, if we aren’t safe we aren’t able to care for ourselves much less our customers.
As a disaster restoration company, being dependable when responding to a loss at a persons home or a persons business is extremely important. We need to show up, and go to work at once. Time is money for our franchise, and as our franchise is a small locally owned and operated business out of Salem, we care very much about the entire customer service experience.
If a customer cannot depend on their restoration company, they are not going to feel comfortable inviting that company into their home or business, and will question each step that the company makes along the way, this of course impedes the overall productivity and smoothness of the job at hand. It’s best to make a strong first impression and continue to impress along the way as the job progresses, because that way you will have a better chance of the customer trusting you to do what you need to without questioning each decision you make.
Dependability is an essential element to being a SERVPRO Team member, being dependable does not just mean that you are always on time, because sometimes you will not be on time. That’s ok, if you called and gave the customer a heads up that you are running late, that still shows dependability and good communication. Practice showing up and proving each day that you are someone a customer can rely on. If you do that day in and day out, you will have far superior results at the end of each job you oversee.
Why Not SERVPRO?
12/30/2020 (Permalink)
Have you ever contemplated what you would do if water suddenly started spilling out of your dishwasher onto your hardwood floors?
Most people have never dealt with a water damage, fire damage, or mold damage in their home. And dealing with one can be overwhelming and many have no idea who to call when it actually happens. Some call their insurance (a good option), a great deal of people search the internet for such services (another good option). The best option though, is having a company in mind already that you know will take care of your home.
Take a moment and imagine…imagine putting into the internet search engine, “water flooded home” it happens often, and happens more frequently than many people believe.
When choosing someone to come into your home to provide services you want a reputable company. You want a company who takes care of their customers and walks them through the process step by step. You want a company that is people oriented and compassionate. You want a company with experience and that is a licensed professional.
Here at SERVPRO of Salem West and SERVPRO of Lincoln & Polk Counties we have been family owned and operated for over 20 years. Our technicians are certified through the IICRC Institute and our team is each given training and education on the SERVPRO standard we hold so important throughout each job. At SERVPRO we are people driven and proud of it. We call each other our teammates and consider ourselves “one team.”
We celebrate and share our victories and successes. We fix, correct, and learn from our failures.
So if you are looking for a restoration company that is…professional, polite, sympathetic, educated, passionate, and reputable within the community…you don’t need to ask yourself “Why SERVPRO?” You need to ask yourself, “Why not SERVPRO?”
SERVPRO has grown over the years, our team has gotten bigger, and out name has spread throughout the community. SERVPRO of Salem West will be proud to care for your families home in your time of need. So give us a call, if you ever need us, we’re always open. We’re also always here to help!
Stormy & Blaze Story
12/16/2020 (Permalink)
Stormy & Blaze in Bobblehead form.
Stormy and Blaze are our SERVPRO Heroes. They are also a symbol and a sort of a mascot of our brand.
Stormy is a fierce female restoration technician, she has all the knowledge and know-how when it comes to water damage, storms, and all things related to disasters.
Blaze is a magnificent male restoration technician. He knows all things Fire damage related, and of course, all things disaster related in general.
Stormy & Blaze are a team. They work side by side, saving their customers from water, sewage, fire, storm, mold, bio-hazard…and many other disasters.
Together as a dynamic duo, these two restoration heroes are able to fix disasters both large and small. Whether it’s repelling down a building, preventing the spread of Covid-19, or removing toxic mold from a families home, these two never quit!
That’s why they have been deemed Heroes.
SERVPRO is a place where caring and strong people really shine, we have many men and women on our team who encapsulate what a hero really is. So as I am sitting at my desk and looking at these little bobble heads of our SERVPRO Heroes and who they represent, I think of all my teammates who are out in the field right now. Are they remediating mold? Are they inspecting a sewage drenched crawl space? Are they walking a home recently affected by a fire? The answer to all these questions, is yes. Because the SERVPRO team goes way beyond just the team at SERVPRO of Salem West. The SERVPRO team is nationwide and has thousands upon thousands of teammates.
So there is always a SERVPRO technician in a crawl space, or in an attic, or eliminating viral pathogens at a business…because we are one team. As a small business here at SERVPRO of Salem West, and as a nationwide service provider with the same values and mindset.
That’s who Stormy and Blaze are. They are each SERVPRO teammate, all across the country.
Consistency Matters!
10/28/2020 (Permalink)
Consistency in the restoration industry is of utmost importance. People need to have a restoration that they can depend on to take care of their home or their business.
What also is one of the foundations of our company’s success is handling issues and concerns as they arise and making it right again. This is paramount for a company to survive and thrive in the modern-day business world.
Consistent and well performed services are something that our customers here at SERVPRO have grown accustomed to. That is one reason that SERVPRO of Salem West, and SERVPRO of Lincoln & Polk Counties, get so many repeat customers.
From our office personnel to our account managers, from our water restoration technicians to our project managers, we all understand the importance of seeing a job through and paying attention to details along the way. That way, if a problem pops up, we can handle it quicker and more efficiently.
What we do here at SERVPRO is really a science, and a key element for science experiments to be successful time and time again is consistency.
Consistency in the way we dry wood, as opposed to drywall. Consistency in how we go about cleaning a structure affected by a fire…cleaning top to bottom to prevent recontamination of the area.
So once again, consistency matters. It builds trust, builds perseverance, and sets the standard at the right place from the beginning of a job to the finished product.
Local & Nationwide Heroes
10/28/2020 (Permalink)
As a franchise, each SERVPRO branch feels like a small community. We all pull strength and knowledge from each other in order to excel at each job we take on. Each technician is trained and tested in-office before working within the field.
Proper Training helps to set an expectation and gain a knowledge of how restoration services are performed and what the result should look like. On the job training is also a big deal, reading and taking tests can be informative, but it is different to experience a loss firsthand. That is why our new technicians accompany a skilled and experienced project manager when they first start to go out on jobs.
Each of our technicians knows that we are coming into peoples homes and businesses that have recently suffered a loss, be it water, fire, mold or any other damage…they understand that they must treat each encounter with our customers in a professional and compassionate way.
It takes a certain kind of individual with a serving heart to be a part of the SERVPRO family. Our values and ethics are instilled in us from the moment in time we choose to be SERVPRO team members, and we know from day one that we are a part of the restoration industry that exemplifies the values and standards that shine time and time again.
SERVPRO is nationwide, and the training process for our technicians is the same throughout the corporation. It is up to each individual franchise, and each individual SERVPRO Team Member to practice and uphold those core values. SERVPRO also has a Storm Team, which is who we call when a loss is so substantial it falls outside of our local resources to mitigate and return to preloss condition.
Across America, local and nationwide SERVPRO Heroes are at the ready to serve and restore. Here at SERVPRO of Salem West, we hope you don’t experience a loss…but if you do we want you to feel comfortable reaching out to us to help you return your home or business to the space you love and feel proud of.
SERVPRO’s Work On Recent Wildfires
10/28/2020 (Permalink)
In the recent weeks every single restoration company in Oregon has been swamped, busy, overwhelmed, and stretched to maximum hours and employees.
At SERVPRO of Salem West, we are fortunate to have national resources to call in for back up when disasters strike and local resources aren’t enough to care for the magnitude of homes affected. We know when we have to turn our customer over to our Storm Team.
These wildfires, and the wind storm that accompanied it, were unprecedented. Many vendors try and help as many people as possible, it’s human nature to do so. But it takes integrity and experience to know when the right time is to step aside and hand a job off to someone who can take care of the customer quicker.
At SERVPRO of Salem West it’s been an honor to take on the Wildfire jobs we have, it’s been a long and hard process. But seeing the end result has been worth every minute spent.
SERVPRO of Salem West wants to reach out and say thank you to our customers.
You have been patient while we worked with your insurance to confirm approvals of our services, you have been patient also knowing that other customers were ahead of you on our schedule…and you waited…having already waited so much.
First, you waited and prayed for rain.
Then, you waited for roads to open back up to get to your house.
Then you called us and waited for our inspection.
You waited once more for us to begin services.
You waited at your in-laws house…
You waited at your brothers apartment…
You waited in a hotel room an hour away from your home with your kids and large dog…
You waited in an RV on your property, not wanting to leave your home…
You waited and knew that disasters like this do not have easy fixes.
You waited, and while you waited, you did as we all did…and continued to live each day.
I hope it helped know you could always call if you had any concerns or questions throughout this process.
Finally, after all your waiting…you got the word from us that you could go home.
You thanked us, and we thanked you for your patience.
That is about the best feeling in the world for us at SERVPRO of Salem West.
Hearing our customers tell us how happy and pleased they are to have a safe and clean home to come back to, and after an event like this it is a great source of pride.
Thank you customers, for allowing us to help you through this disaster.
We are proud to serve you!!
SERVPRO faces the worldwide pandemic head on!
6/26/2020 (Permalink)
Community involvement and connection is so important to SERVPRO of Salem West. The community we have been a part of for the past 20 years has grown, both in size and ambitions. We have so many wonderful causes and foundations and sponsorship opportunities within the Willamette Valley.
SERVPRO of Salem West takes pride in staying community focused and engaged.
Over the years we have helped many non-profits and organizations with fundraising, volunteering, sponsorships, and donations. Our community is facing new obstacles when it comes to involvement.
Community is a word that seems almost foreign right now…but we still have community.
We are still striving to stay connected and nourish that sense of fellowship we share with other patrons of our society. Right now we all share a common goal, staying safe and healthy.
Here at SERVPRO of Salem West we continue to provide essential services to our community everyday. Whether it’s an emergency water loss, or a smoke damaged business or home, or even a confirmed COVID-19 affected structure, we are still always available.
We have taken precautions and have incorporated measures to keep our team, technicians, office, and customers safe in this time of need.
We are proud to be a part of this community. I know that we will get to the other side of this pandemic, and when we do we’ll see each other sitting across a crowded restaurant and smile, we’ll bump into each other at the grocery store and share a hug, we’ll meet for coffee and laugh and catch up, we’ll attend an event in a large crowded and joyful place, and we’ll continue to show up at your door to help you during your time of need…but maybe in the near future you will be greeted by our smile, instead of a mask.
Right now, we are staying safe and healthy, and that is what we want for our community. SERVPRO of Salem West is always here day or night for all your disaster cleanup needs. We continue to do our work efficiently, and safely. We continue to serve our community. Our community is going to get through this!
Click HERE to watch video!
When The Exterminator Leaves...
6/15/2020 (Permalink)
Critters and Creepy Crawlies are all around us. Our State of Oregon in the Pacific Northwest is full of bugs and critters of all shapes and sizes. Our home is a sanctuary from the outside world. When a family of mice, Nutria, Raccoons, Rats, spiders, fleas, etc, decides to invade a home…the effects are often catastrophic.
The first thing you do is hire an exterminator. He comes and gets rid of the critters with a trap, spraying, or with poison. So your home is once again yours…but the aftermath still exists.
~A decaying critter in the crawl space or attic causing odor.
~Damaged Insulation from where critters have burrowed and defecated.
~Mice can and often do, chew through water supply lines to your home, leaving water damage.
~Tiny Bio-hazardous rodent droppings in your home or attic can be toxic to your health.
Here is one reason why SERVPRO of Salem West is so much more than just a water and fire restoration company. We also do jobs just like this. Cleaning up after infestations is hard work, but our team has handled such losses before.
Whatever the havoc that an infestation has caused, SERVPRO can help you get your home back to being the safe and clean space it was before.
At SERVPRO we handle the aftermath of infestations in homes and businesses often, and are trained and safe at cleaning and removing the remnants of such situations.
So remember, if you are still struggling with the stress of an infestation after the exterminator has left, call SERVPRO of Salem West, we can make it "Like it never even happened."
Why Character And Dedication Are Important In The Restoration Industry
6/15/2020 (Permalink)
Whether it’s drying out a water loss, cleaning and reconstructing post a fire, or remediating mold in an attic. In our industry, dedication and character are everything. Once you begin a difficult job, it’s easy to hit a wall, get overwhelmed, feel stressed, and make the choice to throw your hands up and quit.
What is it that is going to get someone in a crawlspace full of sewage?
What is it that is going to get us to leave our warm snuggly beds at 2am, and drive across town to provide water extraction and stabilization at a loss?
What is it that drives us to voluntarily spend all day in the woods, cleaning up bio-hazardous abandoned homeless encampments?
What is it that motivates a person to put a customer, a team, and a job first?
Dedication and Character.
Dedication can be trained, learned, and achieved. It can even be faked.
Character can’t.
Character is what is going to take a person out of there bed at 2am to help someone.
Character is going to give someone the mental strength to set aside the “ew” factor, and clean up that sewage riddled crawlspace.
Character is going to take you into the woods, to piles of abandoned garbage that accumulate to tons, and it is going to give you the visualization of what those trees, moss, earth, and landscape will look like once you have finished clearing the job…and you roll up your sleeves.
Character is going to make you ask yourself questions like these:
How is my customer feeling? How can I serve this customer to the best of my ability?
How is my team working together? Am I doing my best to contribute to the success of my team?
How can I get the best possible outcome at this job for my customer? How am I going to get there?
Character: The trait that means everything.
I think it’s this trait in SERVPRO of Salem West technicians that makes them passionate and proud about the job and services they provide.
I think its this trait that takes a newly hired technician from viewing restoration work as “A Day Job” or a “A Temporary Job” and gets them thinking about it as something they can be proud of for being apart of, and something they want to continue to be apart of.
The SERVPRO values that our team is given as a standard, sets them on a path to being a success in the industry. Character is the most valuable tool a SERVPRO team member can have.
If you suffer a loss and your life is turned upside down, it takes a certain kind of person to navigate that loss and provide the knowledge, guidance, and dedication to serve the customer.
SERVPRO of Salem West prides itself on seeking out employees that can exemplify the values SERVPRO is about, and add character and dedication to our team. If you need restoration services, SERVPRO of Salem West continues to provide caring and knowledgeable help within Marion, Polk, and Lincoln Counties. Call SERVPRO of Salem West, we will get our technicians to your loss, and we will make it "Like it never even happened."
Confidence and Compassion in Your Local Restoration Company
12/15/2019 (Permalink)
Confidence and compassion are key ingredients when choosing a Restoration Company. SERVPRO is nationally known for its immediate response and fast pace.
The confidence your insurance agents and adjusters have in our company continues to grow exponentially. Each person that works in our company has their own unique connection with insurance adjusters. This connection strengthens through each disaster. Working hand in hand with your insurance company, whether locally or not there is a strong understanding on both sides.
The compassion shines through our technician’s work ethic and ability to return your property back to preloss condition. Compassion continues through our dispatchers and their ability to schedule with you, find what works and are there to take your calls 24/7/365.
SERVPRO of Salem West/Lincoln & Polk Counties will light the way down the dark tunnel of the water or fire disaster you face. By walking with you, we continue to grow the relationships with your insurance company and yourself.
Confidence and compassion are two key goals we strive for as your local Restoration Company.
We are available every day, all day long when an unforeseen disaster strikes. Make sure to call us first (503) 393-9999.
Holiday Disaster Prevention
12/15/2019 (Permalink)
The holiday season is upon us and as you prepare for your safe travels, you also want to prepare your home.
Preparing your home is not something in the forefront of your mind, but creating a checklist is a good idea. In order to prevent a disaster at home consider the following:
- If no one will be staying in your home, turn off the main water supply. This will lessen the possibility of a water supply line bursting and causing extended water damage.
- Check your exposed pipes for possible leaks. Exposed pipes tend to crack more frequently due to not being insulated or protected from the elements.
- Turn off the lights on your Christmas tree and make sure the tree has ample water. Extended heat on a dry tree poses the threat of fire.
- Talk to your neighbors and see if they can watch your home. It is always a good idea to have a set of eyes on your property while you are away.
No one wants to return home from a family trip to find the aftermath of a disaster. Remember, SERVPRO of Salem West/Lincoln & Polk Counties is your local Restoration Company and even while you are away, we are available to take care of your property.
Call us today (503) 393-9999 if you find yourself in a predicament.
Who Are You Going To Call?
11/8/2019 (Permalink)
We have some pretty amazing national TV ads. I know that the branding works as experienced last week when I was at the grocery store on my way home from work. The cashier saw my uniform and replied, "Like It Never Even Happened". The lady next to me started to sing the praises of our franchise for coming to her aid when she experienced a emergency water loss at her home the year before. Needless to say, everyone stopped and listened to our conversation! I felt proud to have been able to represent our franchise there in the grocery store. I made sure to mention our franchise name loud and clear, SERVPRO of Salem West and SERVPRO of Lincoln and Polk Counties, Ready to Help You When Needed!
Should you be faced with a water or fire damage and need service as soon as possible, be sure to call us. Here are a few more reassuring reasons to call us:
- Conveniently located
- 24/7 availability
- Professionalism
- Efficiency
- Honesty
- Experience
SERVPRO of Salem West and SERVPRO of Lincoln and Polk Counties is available day or night, 24/7/365 to serve you in time of need. We can be reached at (503) 393-9999 or (541) 265-7777
Our Team
10/22/2019 (Permalink)
Our team of highly trained and certified technicians understand the best way to reduce the amount of damage from the beginning of any mitigation or remediation clean up. Not only does our team strive in water and mold damage, we also specialize in clean-up for fire damage and biohazard.
All your restoration needs can be completed by SERVPRO of Salem West and Lincoln/Polk Counties.
Our clients choose us because of our:
- Immediate response in your time of need. Our belief is simple, the faster the response the less damage occurs.
- Work hand in hand with your insurance company. We pride ourselves on genuine relationships with our clients and their insurance adjusters.
- Advanced technology aids in the discovery of water migration and organic growth within materials that have been affected.
- Commercial and residential services. Whether you are a property management company, homeowner, business owner or tenant we are here to serve you. There is no size of services we cannot handle.
- Our community is your community. Our office is located in Salem, but our team is from Lebanon to Keizer. We live where you live and strive to make our communities great.
Returning your property to pre loss condition is our goal. Working with you, our future client, easing your fears and helping you to understand our process is our top priority. Creating a strong relationship is key.
Having concerns with water, fire, mold or biohazard concerns we are available 24/7/365. Call us at (503) 393-9999 where a friendly voice will guide you through our processes.
Inclement Weather
10/22/2019 (Permalink)
Inclement weather symbols
It is that time of year again, we all know the rains of the Pacific Northwest and how unpredictable they can be.
We are here not only to aid in the restoration of your property, but to provide some tips and tricks during the storm seasons. Our company is able to offer advice when you are looking for it.
Tricks & Tips:
- When in doubt, gather sandbags and place them at door openings
- Make sure all windows and doors are closed tight
- Clean gutters
- Have your roof inspected before the weather turns
- Soak up water that has intruded
- Turn on your heater
Here is what we can help with:
- Extracting standing water from surfaces
- Packing out your contents and properly dry them
- Removal of damaged building materials from the water
- Repairing your property
Remember SERVPRO of Salem West and Lincoln/Polk Counties if you find yourself in an unfortunate disaster. (503) 399-9999
Emphasis on Training
10/22/2019 (Permalink)
Our Heroes are you’re Heroes. Anytime, anyplace
With any water or fire loss that you might encounter, our technicians will do their best to assist you during any unexpected challenge. We like to think of our SERVPRO men and women as Heroes as they come to your assistance during those difficult times with your home.
We have a structured training system called the HeroReady Training Program. It contains a targeted learning path for our production technicians based on the roles and responsibilities for their position.
The program starts with Production Foundations which will include Orientation, General Safety, and Equipment and Facility Maintenance. From there a fork in the road would lead them to Water Restoration 101 or Fire Restoration 101 depending on the department they are assigned to.
We believe in investing into our employees all of the training that they deserve to be the best possible technician to handle most any work scenario as we take care of our high value customers.
Continuing Education Credits - Insurance Agents
1/8/2019 (Permalink)
2019 CE Class Schedule
Attention Insurance Agents:
Here we are at the start of a new year, are you in need of grabbing credits for license renewal? If so, SERVPRO® of Salem West has solidified the 2019 Continuing Education Class Schedule. Each month we off Ethics for 3 Credits as well as various 2 Credit classes.
Each class is uniquely designed to aide insurance agents in understanding what SERVPRO® has to offer as a water and fire restoration company. Come join us for free classes with lively discussions and enjoy some snacks.
If you have questions or concerns regarding CE information or general/emergency assistance call (503) 393-9999. We offer emergency services 24/7/365.
Advanced Equipment to Restore Your Salem, OR Property
12/13/2018 (Permalink)
Some of our equipment.
SERVPRO® of Salem West uses advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment to turn your loss around.
We have specialized equipment designated per category of loss. Our warehouse holds enough equipment to maintain and restore a hotel with a 45-room water loss. Not only does our warehouse contain equipment for large water losses, it also houses the various cleaning products produced by and are SERVPRO® certified. Additionally, we have various materials such as dry sponges used to remove smoke reside after your property has suffered a fire.
There are a multitude of equipment used to restore your property to like new condition that your typical cleansers and cleaning materials can not handle.
SERVPRO® of Salem West is available 24/7/365 to serve our customers. We are a highly trained water, fire, mold and biohazard restoration company with many services not typically covered by other restoration companies.
Call us today for your cleaning and restoration needs (503) 393-9999.
Cleanliness is Key - Keizer, OR Properties
12/13/2018 (Permalink)
Example of our cleaning products.
As your local restoration company, SERVPRO® of Salem West carries a variety of professional cleaning products. We NEVER use the same cleaners that you can purchase at a store. SERVPRO® has specific product formulas that are designed exclusively for our franchises.
Our core products are used to decontaminate, deodorize, clean leather & wood, general cleaning and so much more. Each of our products are labeled and specify proper cleaning use. As our customers, for your knowledge and comfort our technicians carry the Safety Data Sheets per product.
Thorough cleaning is maintained through each job because we think of your property as our own.
SERVPRO® of Salem West is available 24/7/365 to serve our customers. We are a highly trained water, fire, mold and biohazard restoration company with many services not typically covered by other restoration companies.
Call us today for your cleaning and restoration needs (503) 393-9999.
El Nino Forecasting for the Salem and Surrounding Areas
11/14/2018 (Permalink)
Weather Updates
According to the Seasonal Climate Forecast Salem, Oregon and its surrounding areas can expect to have an El Nino winter, warmer than normal. From “above-average cloud cover” leading to slightly warmer temperatures in November and December we can expect more rain than snow. Heavy amounts of rain can lead to varying degrees of water damage.
In case of water damage here is what to do:
- Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
- Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
- Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
- Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
- Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
- Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
- Gather loose items from floors.
Now, here is what no to do:
- Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
- Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
- Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
- Don't use television or other household appliances.
- Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.
For more information regarding water damage click here.
SERVPRO® of Salem West is your first call for fire, water, mold, biohazard and specialty cleaning services and restoration (503) 393-9999
Contents Management and Care – Salem and Surrounding Areas
10/25/2018 (Permalink)
Jessica, our Contents Manager will go above and beyond your expectations to recover and restore your property.
Whether it is in-house cleaning or sending it to a specialist, Jessica and her team do amazing jobs. Content management can be a tedious task, but can set you, our customer back with emotions and concerns about your property. Rest assured we handle your contents with care and precision knowing they are sentimental to you and yours.
Here is a brief explanation of the various phases that can take place after a disaster:
- When necessary, our team will safely pack up your property using the appropriate material per item. Typically, when the damage is significant enough to render remodeling such as dry wall needing replacement or flooring that is when our team will go in and protect your contents. Your contents are then safely stored the SERVPRO® of Salem West facility.
- After your contents have safely arrived at our facility, the cleaning process begins on the items that have been damaged. Items that did not sustain damage are placed in a storage unit and labels appropriately. Our team then works on drying wet items, removing odors as well as simple wipe downs. Contents that have sustained a significant amount of damage are handled with extreme care by our highly trained restoration crew. If any contents are beyond restoration, they are classified as unsalvageable. When that occurs, Jessica will communicate to you and your adjuster to see what the next steps are under your insurance coverage.
- Finally, once the restoration process is complete and your home or business is back to preloss condition it is time to return your contents. Not only do we repack your contents after cleaning, but we unpack and place the items in their original positions.
As your local SERVPRO® of Salem West, we strive for excellence with our customers as well as our employees. We offer many services that can often save you money and the hassle of subcontracting to a moving company.
We are here 24/7/365, including holidays, to better serve our community and customers in their time of need. Call us with concerns or questions (503) 393-9999.
Greeted with Compassion – Salem, OR
10/25/2018 (Permalink)
Greeted with a smile and compassion.
SERVPRO® of Salem West takes pride in our ability to greet, calm and assist you when you are faced with a fire or water disaster. Not only a disaster but the residual effect from the disaster. Our amazing office team, Stephanie, Jessica, Melinda and Leah are here to take your phone calls. Whether you are calling about an initial loss, an ongoing loss or an emergency call our team will walk you through our informational process, gathering insurance information and answer any questions you may have.
Via telephone and in person our goal is to make sure you, our customer, understand our services and schedule with you accordingly. Our ladies make connections with your insurance agent or adjuster to discuss a plan to restore your home or business to preloss condition.
When they receive a call from you, rest assured that our ladies will take care of you from start to finish and communicate updates and scheduling.
If you are faced with a damage from a disaster call your local SERVPRO® of Salem West (503) 393-9999. We have your back.
Why choose SERVPRO of Salem West??
10/24/2018 (Permalink)
We work hard and enjoy what we do.
Make SERVPRO® of Salem West your 1st call
Did you know…
- SERVPRO® of Salem West joined the Salem and surrounding area community in September of 1997.
- We have a standing A+ rating with the a Better Business Bureau and have kept that rating since 2003 when we became accredited with the BBB.
- There are 25+ amazing employees, 5 of those employees are U.S. Veterans.
- Our technicians work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. YES, that does include holidays.
- We have highly trained technicians and advanced technology to service your needs after fire or water damage.
- Our technicians get down and dirty in crawl spaces, up in attics, cleaning properties that have biohazard conditions, and so much more.
- Our Special Cleaning Services technicians work on both residential and commercial properties. They clean anything from carpets to upholstery to your ducts & HVAC to vandalism & graffiti.
- Mold is never a fun fungus to experience, with our professional cleaning products we can remediate the mold in your home or business.
- We work hand in hand with your insurance agent and adjuster when a claim has been filed. We also have many customers that self-pay for services.
- Afraid of where your personal property can be stored? We have secure vaults on site for your property and clean items that were damaged from the disaster.
No job is too small or too large for SERVPRO® of Salem West. We are part of your community, here to serve you and we are proud to be here.
If you ever find yourself in need of a professional company to help you through your crisis, remember to call SERVPRO® of Salem West 24/7/365 (503) 393-9999.