Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

Full Service Solutions

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO At Your Service

During a disaster or emergency, you want to know who you can count on to get your home or business back to normal. So, why choose SERVPRO?

At SERVPRO of the Dutch Fork, we offer full-service solutions as, in many cases, a disaster may mean more than one kind of issue that needs to be taken care of. Our trained professionals know how to get in and get the job done, recognizing any additional problems that have arisen, or may arise, due to a flood, leak, fire, mold, cleaning/biohazard situation, or whatever your need may be. Our team can quickly assess your particular situation and offer solutions, including repairs in most cases, to get you back to your pre-disaster condition. We have the tools and equipment necessary to be ready for just about any disaster.  We are available 24/7 for any size job from post-construction cleanup to full fire and water damage mitigation. We work with your insurance and do whatever we can to take the pressure off your already stressful and traumatic situation.

Fire damage may also bring about water damage due to exposed areas or use of fire hoses or sprinklers, even areas not seriously affected by smoke, heat, and fire. Water damage may easily bring about mold issues which can further damage woodwork, walls, ceilings, floors, and furnishings.  Conversely, mold issues may uncover a water issue that has caused damage. What may seem a simple cleaning job could expose underlying problems that, if left untreated, may cause further damage and expense.  Storm damage could easily cause water damage, structural issues, as well as potential fire damage due to compromised wiring.

 You are never just a "number" with SERVPRO. Locally owned and operated since 1998, under the umbrella of a successful, 55-year strong corporation, means you get professional, personalized, and caring service. “Like it never even happened.”

Make SERVPRO Your First Call

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

A disaster can be devastating. That’s why you should always call SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork. We have specially trained technicians that can handle your disaster, no matter how big or small. We can help you with a water leak in your home or a fire and smoke damage to your business. We can be dispatched to you usually within one to two hours after you call us. We are experienced with all kinds of disasters and we show up with our customer’s comfort in mind.

Time is of the essence after a disaster. The faster you call us for help, the faster we can help you get back to normal. Our motto is: “Like it never even happened.”

We can help you from start to finish. We can also help you file a claim with your home or business insurance company. One less stress on you. We care about you and your home or business. We are available 24/7/365.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO was founded in 1967. We have 55 years of trained and qualified professionals ready 24/7 to help you with your cleanup.  No matter what kind of disaster you have, we can help. Whether its water damage, fire and storm damage to your home. You can count on us to be there for your restoration needs.

Our team at SERVPRO always promises fast service after a disaster. You can always reach us, any time, day or night. We also work with insurance companies to expedite your disaster claim and get you back to normal, as soon as possible. One less stress for you to deal with.

All of our technicians have special training to help restore your home to its pre-disaster condition. Our professionals care about you and your property and we will do whatever it takes to get your home back to normal. “Like it never even happened.”

Call us to be there for you and your family during any damage, big or small. We are locally owned and operated. We understand that during a disaster, it is a very traumatic situation and people’s emotions run on overdrive. We want the customer to know that we can handle just about any disaster and with as little disruption as possible.

You can trust SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork!

Call SERVPRO, you won't regret it!

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

If you’ve never experienced water, fire, or mold damage, you’re likely unsure of what to expect. Rest assured, you’re not alone! Most of our clients are dealing with similar issues for the very first time.

I’ve discovered damage to my home, now what?

Your next steps are dependent on the state of your home:

  1. Water pouring through your kitchen ceiling? Find your water shut-off valve ASAP, then call a plumber.
  2. The cookies you put in the oven baked a little too long… now your house is hazy? Try not to touch or smear any soot covered surfaces until cleaning professionals arrive.
  3. Mold is covering the wall of your basement? Don’t disturb or try to remove any affected material. Avoid the area if possible until professionals arrive.

 If you’re planning to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance:

  • Call or inquire online as soon as you are able
  • Keep record of the claim number, your policy number and any adjuster’s information provided – this helps us contact them in a timely manner

What will SERVPRO do for you?

  • Our 24/7 Emergency Service Responders are ready to respond when you need them most
  • SERVPRO team members will guide you through all phases of your loss:
    • What to expect from us – our drying or cleaning processes and any equipment we place in your home
    • What we need from you – signed paperwork, access to your home to monitor progress
    • How we’ll help you make your home “Like it never even happened.”
  • We’ll contact your insurance company regarding any issues, documentation and update them on the ongoing progress

At SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork we strive to make your experience as painless as possible. If you’re in need of Cleaning, Construction or Restoration services, call the pros!

Pack Outs? Easy!

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Worried about what happens to your belongings after a fire or water loss? Have no fear, our team of SERVPRO Heroes are at your service! We’ve got the manpower and resources to pack your contents (even the fragile ones) and move them either to a safe storage space or cleaned and restored while the restoration process is ongoing.

You’d Rather Pack Your Own Belongings?

No problem! We’ll provide you with boxes, tape, and all necessary packing materials; allowing you to box up the contents of your home. Our team will move the boxes to their destination and move them back into your home once the restoration process is complete.

We strive to make the restoration process as simple for you as we can. From communicating with your insurance company, to packing up your belongings…. We’re always Here to Help!

Air Duct Cleaning

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Air ducts are typically the number one reason for poor indoor air quality. You can’t see them, so they’re often forgotten about. Regular inspection and maintenance could help prolong their lifespan and improve your air!

Air ducts move most of the air throughout your home, bringing warm and cold air from the HVAC unit to various areas. While they’re moving this air they’re collecting dust, pollen, dirt and debris, odors and other contaminants. All the pet hair you find in corners, on your furniture and under the bed? Imagine what your air ducts must look like?!

By having your air ducts professionally cleaned you can:

  1. Increase the energy efficiency of your HVAC unit
  2. Reduce the potential for mold growth
  3. Eliminate offensive odors

For your free air duct cleaning estimate, give us a call at 803-749-0178

Are You Hiring The Right People?

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or IICRC, is the organization that sets the globally recognized standards for our industry. This non-profit group works to publish materials, courses, and standards of best practices for those in the inspection, cleaning, restoration, and installation industries. They offer a variety of certifications that pertain to the restoration industry, among others. Each certification requires multiple hours of classroom style learning, followed by an exam.

Why Hire an IICRC Certified Firm?

SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork is an IICRC Certified Firm, and all our employees possess at least one IICRC Certification. By assigning well-trained, and qualified individuals to our projects, we’re able to provide peace of mind to customers. There’s no guess work when you’ve got proven facts backing the practices we put in place.

Along with certifying our staff, each member of our team is vetted with a thorough background check and required to wear a uniform. We feel this is important because of the nature of our work. We’re entering people’s homes, their businesses, we’re in the midst of their personal space and belongings. While we work, we want you to feel safe.

When disaster strikes on your property, call the IICRC Certified Professionals at SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork (803) 749-0178.

Product Highlight: SERVPROxide

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Products are formulated at our labs with our specific needs in mind. Rather than sorting through the oversaturated market of chemicals and solutions, SERVPRO Industries created their own formulas to do the jobs all our franchises tackle daily. For example, SERVPROxide™ is one of the most used products amongst our franchises.

SERVPROxide™ is a stabilized chlorine-dioxide based antimicrobial agent, it is our primary hospital-grade disinfectant. This product is registered with the EPA, also carrying the EPA’s lowest rating of toxicity. It does not contain a fragrance, only a mild cleaning odor which dissipates quickly, this is a great product for those with sensitivities to smells and chemicals as well as asthma.

It can be applied using several methods:

  • Directly with a rag or towel
  • Misting
  • Spraying
  • Electrostatic Spraying

Electrostatic Spraying allows an even application across all surfaces within a home or business, making it our first choice for our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned services. In homes and businesses that have been affected by COVID-19 or suspect contamination, we use a combination of electrostatic spraying and a thorough wipe-down of all commonly touched surfaces with SERVPROxide™. The CDC recommends the usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar characteristics of COVID-19 like feline coronavirus, canine coronavirus, staphylococcus, E. Coli, salmonella, rotavirus and swine flu. SERVPROxide™ is proven to protect against all of them!

If you would like to have your home or business sanitized and disinfected give us a call – 803-749-0178

There's Water in My Home, What Do I Do?

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most common comments we hear from our customers, after we've wrapped up the water mitigation process, is usually something along the lines of "I've never been through this, I had no idea what to do!"

They're certainly not alone! Unless you've experienced something similar before, it's likely you're unsure of the proper steps to take. At SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork we have a team of professionals available 24/7 to help walk you through the process, start to finish. We'll even handle communication with your insurance agent!

We're here for you, every step of the way. Even if that means calming you down as water pours through your ceiling at 3am (it's happened before!) 

Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to provide 5-star service to every person we come in contact with.

Church Shuts Down, Mold Arises

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Earlier this year, one of our local Chapin, SC Churches made the decision to temporarily close their sanctuary for worship. They were still able to hold services virtually and outdoors, but their historically beautiful sanctuary was not seen by any member for several weeks. Because the HVAC system was turned off, we believe the air climate changed and allowed the growth of mold on several of the wooden pews. When the time came to re-open the sanctuary for the congregation, the mold was discovered. After a brief consultation our technicians set out to wipe down each pew with a SERVPRO Product that eliminates mold and prevents re-growth. Mold is not something we recommend cleaning on your own, it’s difficult to eliminate and if not treated properly can continue to grow, affecting an even larger area than before.

In such uncertain times, we know that the additional reassurance provided by our cleaning services helped many members in their decision to return to in-person worship.  

We Stand Behind Our Promises

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

Three stories of water damaged offices were no match for SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork

Faster to ANY disaster, 24/7.

It’s our motto, our tagline, how we sell our SERVPRO brand. But how do we live up to that? We believe our customers would happily testify that we hold up our end of that bargain. We recently responded to a commercial job; a call came in for an office building in a local business park. Roof repairs were being completed when a downpour of rain popped up. With clogged gutters and an inoperable drainage system, the water had nowhere to go but down… Leaving three floors of offices affected by a great deal of water.

We loaded up our trailers with every piece of equipment we could get our hands on and began the drying process. In instances like this, the faster we react, the greater our chances of preventing further damage to the space as well as contents of the areas affected. Offices buildings are home to electronics, furniture and sometimes sensitive documents. These contents are expensive to replace and critical to the employees that work there.

Our technicians are equipped with a plethora of skills – drying out wet spaces and structures is at the top of the list. SERVPRO has equipment to dry and restore documents, books, clothing/fabric and even furniture. Unfortunately, this will not be a quick process but the property management and employees can rest easy knowing they called the right people. SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork is equipped to handle any disaster, of any size, at any time.

Why Choose SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

If you’re in need of services that we provide it’s likely you’ve done your research on companies who also provide the same services in your area. When you’re not experiencing an emergency loss or cleanup, you have time to be selective. We encourage this type of due diligence from our customers! We want you to have more than just our word when we assure you that: we offer competitive pricing, our team of IICRC certified technicians will perform tasks correctly, and our knowledgeable office personnel will make the entire process simple for you by handling all matters with your insurance provider.

We strive to be the #1 Restoration and Cleanup company in the Nation! We achieve that by setting goals to achieve superior customer service, performance and results. Each morning our office meets to go over each customer’s file – where we are, what we’ve done, and what we’re going to do. This creates fluid communication between all divisions of our office.

Our phone lines are open 24/7, 365 days a year for whenever you may need us. We’d love to make your home or business “Like it never even happened.”

Supporting The Chapin Community

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

The Chapin Police Department now has sanitized patrol vehicles.

During the COVID-19 pandemic many people were given the option or opted to work from their homes rather than in their office. A number of businesses in our community were required to shut down, allowing their employees to also remain in their homes. Our local police department was not given that option, they continue to keep our community safe and respond to anyone that needs them. While they know they face the risk of potential exposure while being in public and interacting with people, they continue to serve our community. Our technicians spent the day sanitizing their vehicles, which they spend the majority of their days in, in order to help keep them safe and healthy. SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork takes pride in our local community as do all of our neighbors; we want to support all of the men and women who risk their health to serve and protect others. If you or someone you know is in a position that places them at risk of exposure please give us a call, we’d love to help!

Reopening Safely

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

One of our sanitizing stations to help keep those hands clean!

A local neighborhood Homeowners Association contacted us regarding the reopening of their swimming pool. They were issued several DHEC guidelines they're required to follow, and they felt that regular cleaning and sanitation was one of the most important factors. With a little brainstorming we came up with the perfect solution! Not only will we be regularly disinfecting their pool furniture as well as commonly touched surfaces, we created a sanitation station for all who use the pool. Hand sanitizer spray as well as disinfectant solution to be used by neighbors after their use of pool furniture. Not only does this provide peace of mind to all pool-goers, but we're helping them create a safer and healthier environment for homeowners that spend some time in the sun! 

Basement Flooded? Check That Drain!

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

With the impressive amount of rain South Carolina has received recently, we’ve noticed an increase in flooded basements. The majority of those homeowners have linked the flooding to a clogged French Drain. During your increased time at home as of late, we’re sure you’ve done lots of cleaning – baseboards, blinds, closets you forgot you had… But have you checked on that drain that provides crucial water run-off control for your yard? If dirt and debris fill up the drain, water is unable to flow in and out. A clogged exterior drain causes water to backup and will not allow proper drainage in your yard, often forcing the water into your home. If there is a clog, you’ll need to be able to fix it, here are some steps you can take to do so:

  1. Locate an end of the French Drain: you’ll notice a hole in your yard where the drain ends and begins. If you’re unsure of its location, look to the highest point of the yard.
  2. Use a garden hose to run water through the drain: If you notice water backing up rather than flowing through, you’ve got a clog somewhere in the line.
  3. Use a pressure washer to remove the clog: Standing to the side of the drain, aim the nozzle at the bottom of the drain to force the clog out. Be sure to move the nozzle around all sides of the pipe to clean any remaining dirt or debris.
  4. Use a sewer snake on stubborn clogs: A snake can be purchased at most hardware stores and is essentially a long pipe you stick down the drain to reach the clog. Using gentle pressure, you can push the clog with the snake. If you feel that it has broken free or loosened, continue to use the pressure washer wand to push it all the way through your drainage system.

If you find yourself standing in water in your basement, be sure to call our 24/7 Response Team at 803-749-0178

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

  • Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
  • Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
  • Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork today at (803)-749-0178 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Preventative Cleanings

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Our technicians prepare to sanitize an office building affected by COVID-19

With the help of the CDC, World Health Organization and our SERVPRO Corporate Offices, we’ve been able to stay up-to-date on the latest news and discoveries regarding COVID-19. There are many unknowns surrounding this virus, questions we certainly don’t have all the answers to. What we do know is that preventative cleaning is one of the safest measures a homeowner or business owner can take right now. In addition to encouraging the washing of hands regularly, avoiding touching of faces and covering coughs and sneezes; preventative cleaning serves to do just what it says, prevent. By limiting the amounts of various bacteria and viral pathogens you encounter regularly, you may reduce your chances of contracting an illness.

Our technicians, equipped with personal protective equipment, or PPE, use EPA and CDC recommended cleaning agents to eliminate potential viruses and bacteria on hard surfaces, fabrics and commonly touched items. We use a fogger, that emits a mist into the air, distributing the cleaning agent evenly amongst all surfaces and contents within a confined area. A fairly quick process with little downtime, helps provide peace of mind and a higher sense of cleanliness for all occupants.  

We Are Cleaning Experts

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

  • Kitchen/Food Areas
  • Bathrooms
  • Schools/Classrooms
  • Offices
  • Retail Spaces
  • Water Fountains
  • Shelving/Racks
  • Sales Counters
  • Carpets and Rugs
  • Stair Handrails
  • Elevator Cars
  • Playground Equipment
  • Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of the Dutch Fork (803) 749-0178

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

People Helping People

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork, we emphasize daily the importance of connecting with our customers. Unfortunately, in our line of work we encounter people when they’re often under a lot of stress - a family that has experienced a fire in their home or water sitting in their basement with their prized possessions floating around. That makes us alter our approach when dealing with those who call on us. We understand that each person who calls our office has chosen us and instilled trust in our company to remediate the circumstances they’re facing. We also know that we must work diligently to maintain that level of trust, to reassure them and communicate with them every step of the way.

Our technicians can spend anywhere from a few hours to several months at a property working to make their home “Like it never even happened.” Spending any amount of time in someone’s personal space creates a unique connection. Our staff are encouraged to get to know the individuals they interact with on a personal level, to become more than just a logo they might recognize down the road. At the end of the day, we’re simply people helping people. We leave our franchise each day to assist those in our community that are in need. If you chose SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork, don’t hesitate to hold a conversation with any of our staff about matters other than work being done for you! We truly care about each person we come in contact with and hope that is displayed by our actions.

Call SERVPRO - You'll Be Glad You Did!

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

When you place a call to SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork you can be sure to expect a few things: friendly service, a sense of understanding, and reassurance. We strive to maintain our reputation as the trusted leader in the restoration industry! No matter if you discovered our franchise during your own online search or at the recommendation of a friend or insurance agent, we pledge to deliver the most positive experience possible.

During your initial contact you’ll be asked a series of questions to paint a picture of the situation you see on your end of the phone. These questions give us a better idea of what our technicians will need to prepare for. That could mean special equipment, protective gear or paperwork. The stress of dealing with any type of loss in your home can take its toll on you, and we certainly don’t expect you to have all of the answers at that time. If you’re able to talk through the situation in your home we ask you the following:

  • Your name and address at which loss has occurred
  • The type of loss as well as the cause
  • When the loss occurred
  • Number of rooms or areas that were affected
  • If water and electricity are currently available in the property
  • Insurance claim number if a claim has been filed

We understand that answering a number of questions is challenging when your focus is on returning your home or business to its normal condition. Our representatives are ready to help walk you through step-by-step all the while reassuring you that calling SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork was the right decision!

Faster to ANY Disaster, Guaranteed!

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Wouldn't it be nice if everything that broke or became damaged in your home or office did so at a convenient time? While not happening at all would be even better, let's be realistic.

Murphy's Law states "whatever can go wrong, will go wrong" we feel that it's necessary to add "after-hours" to the end based on our experience with water and fire damage. Luckily SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even holidays!

Reaction time is crucial in our line of work. If a customer has water standing in their home, even a small amount, it needs to be addressed immediately. The longer water sits on surfaces, the more damage it does. SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork upholds a 1-4-8 promise:

  • Contact the homeowner/customer within 1 hour of notification of a loss
  • Onsite within 4 hours of notification to begin mitigation process
  • A written and verbal estimate of the scope of work will be provided within 8 hours of notification 

If you need our services outside of normal business hours we're available by phone. Our after-hours line is answered by a human being, no phone trees or robots here! They'll ask you a series of questions to give our technicians a better idea of what they'll need to bring when responding to your loss. In order to best help you it's important to know the answers to the following:

  • Full name of the homeowners or person responsible for the property
  • Street address of the property
  • The source of the damage
  • Year the structure was built
  • Insurance coverage information
    • If you've filed a claim already please have that number available
  • Is electricity on in the structure

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork specializes in cleanup and restoration, our staff are IICRC Certified and proficient in the use of our equipment and products. It is always best to call a professional when it comes to water and fire damage, attempting to mitigate on your own can cause more damage and become more costly. We're here for you 24/7! 

Indirect Fired Heater - Our Largest Asset

7/9/2019 (Permalink)

One of our largest pieces of equipment is the Indirect Fired Heater. While it is seldom used, it can be a lifesaver when it is needed. By providing clean, dry, hot air to aid in thawing frozen job sites, increasing ambient temperature in structures and accelerating drying times, the Indirect Fired Heater is the perfect candidate for drying a crawlspace or inside a home or building.

We recently used it to dry a crawlspace in a national forest in Columbia, SC. An overflowing water heater allowed water to spread across the flooring, into the sub-floor and ultimately into the crawlspace affecting the floor joists. Mold growth is a huge issue when moisture develops in the crawlspace. We can not emphasize enough the importance of proper drying. If it is done incorrectly you're likely to see costly structural damage later on. 

The heater is set up outside the home or building, then using ducts, the air generated from the heater is pumped into the affected space causing the drying time to reduce by 50%. The high humidity levels in South Carolina making drying a challenge but the Indirect Fired Heater makes this process significantly easier! 

Not Every Project Is A DIY Project

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

There are thousands of DIY projects to be discovered on the internet - from flipping a house, to a variety of crafts! If you’d like to take on a project on your own rather than hire a professional, there is guaranteed to be a blog or video with detailed instructions out there somewhere. Home improvement projects are among the most popular DIY topics. We all want our homes to look and feel cleaner, more updated and even renovated. DIY Home Improvement projects should be prefaced with research, and lots of it. Know what you want to do, what materials you’ll need, the level of specialty skill involved and most importantly, the COST of the project you plan to take on before you even begin.

We receive numerous calls from customers with complaints about the cleanliness of their carpet or area rugs. One of the first things we like to ask them is if they’ve attempted to clean the carpet on their own in the past. If the answer is yes, we know we have our work cut out for us. All too often homeowners opt to rent a carpet cleaning machine from their local grocery or hardware store, or they’ve purchased a carpet cleaning vacuum from a big box store. Sure, you spend a fraction of the cost, but considering the long-term results that come from these machines, we would strongly advise against using them.

  • Suction Power – a rental machine does not possess the suction capability needed to remove all water from the carpet. Leaving behind excess moisture creates a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, viruses, etc.
  • Residue – the soapy water left on carpet fibers because of the lack of suction power act as magnets for dirt and grime. Your carpets might appear brand new when you’re done but in a matter of weeks, even days, you’ll see dirt accumulated in a higher concentration than before.
  • Hygiene – rental machines are used on a variety of stains and soils. Do you really want the same machine used to cleanup the aftermath of a sick animal on your grandmother’s antique rug? The machines and equipment are not cleaned on a regular basis and the chances of transferring bacteria or parasites from one home to another are high.
  • Temperature – rental machines do not heat the water used to “clean” your carpets. You’re required to heat the water up before dumping it in the machine. A professional carpet cleaner uses water at very high temperatures because that heat helps to remove soils, eliminate the source of odors and kill bacteria.

Saving money is a top priority for many of us, but often the cheaper option is not the wise option. Allow a professional carpet cleaning company to take care of those stains, footprints and hidden dangers lurking in your flooring, or you might be paying for that shortcut later! SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork has specially designed products and equipment to tackle stains, dirt and grime in your home. Our staff are trained and knowledgeable, eliminating the guesswork on your part. For a free carpet cleaning estimate give us a call at (803) 749-0178

Duct Cleaning? Who Needs That?

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

Does it feel like your home has hidden dust magnets? Join the group of countless others who endure constant dusting, vacuuming and the costly replacement of air filters. Dust is not only unsightly, it could be the reason your allergies are aggravated, you experience a lack of energy and your energy bills are higher than they should be!

Dirt, bacteria, animal dander, mold, and a number of other containments are the what makes up dust particles. These particles circulate through your air ducts and can decrease the efficiency of your HVAC system by clogging air intakes. This causes it to work much harder than it should. By keeping these systems clean you allow the unit to run more efficiently – increasing the life span of your system and decreasing the amount of money you spend on energy.

Duct Cleaning Can:

  • Kill bacteria, fungi and mold
  • Reduce the chances of mold growth
  • Cut down energy costs
  • Eliminate odors in your home


The EPA’s website states: “In the last several years, a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities. Other research indicates that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors. Thus, for many people, the risks to health may be greater due to exposure to air pollution indoors than outdoors.” Cleaning your ducts can sweep away years of dust and dirt, helping to reduce potential for damage and health risks.

In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. This includes certain odors as well. In these cases, SERVPRO can often restore the ductwork to pre-damage condition. It is also recommended that you have the ductwork cleaned after buying a home or after a renovation.  Just like carpet cleaning, having your ductwork cleaned should be part of your home maintenance routine. 

If you can’t remember the last time you had your ductwork cleaned, it’s time to call SERVPRO of The Dutch Fork!

South Carolina Franchise Owners Meeting 2019

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

This week we had the pleasure of hosting the annual SERVPRO Owners Meeting for the state of South Carolina. We were joined by more than thirty SERVPRO Franchise Owners from various regions in South Carolina, as well as special guest speakers Brian Turpin (Kennett Square, PA) and Randy Williams (SERVPRO Lenoir, NC).

This meeting provides an opportunity for our corporate office to educate franchise owners on the changes that will be implemented in our day-to-day practices. This time also allows members in leadership roles to gain insight on tips and tricks that can improve their business.

These gatherings are a reminder that we should never become complacent in the workplace, there is always room for improvement in every aspect of business. We appreciate everyone who traveled to be there!

On A Budget? Our Top Budget Renovation Tips

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

DIY Projects are becoming increasingly popular - with so many shows, blogs and the endless supply of information that is the internet, who wouldn't want to try their hand at channeling their inner Joanna Gaines? If you find yourself in search of simple ways to update or improve the look of your home check out our list of budget friendly tips to achieve the look you want without breaking the bank. If you're in need of budget efficient inspiration check out this site for 100 Smart Home Remodeling Ideas.

  1. PLAN AHEAD
    • Don't run with the first idea you see. Do some research on costs, labor and material requirements and how it will affect the surrounding space. Once you get a clear idea of what is involved with each project, choose the one that best suits your budget and timeline.
  2. SHOP AROUND
    • If you're taking on a project that requires bringing in a contractor or other vendors be sure you get the best price from a company you trust.
    • Take your time with this - Quotes don't always come in immediately.
    • Be reasonable - lowest prices does not always equate to the best quality
  3. BE THRIFTY
    • Browse several stores and shop online for the best deals. Be patient - using tip #1 - check clearance sections and scratch and dent aisles for inspiration for future projects.
    • Habitat for Humanity Restores can be a huge asset in home renovations. They have a variety of products at great discounts, plus you're helping a generous cause!
  4. CLEAN UP
    • You can make a tremendous impact on a space just by picking up clutter, organizing and eliminating items you no longer use will open up your space and give you a better perspective on the area you hope to improve.
  5. CREATE A BUDGET & STICK WITH IT
    • A $100 project can multiply quickly. Decide what you want to do, how much you're willing to spend and execute it. If you come up with ideas along the way, make a list and plan to do finish them at a later date. Renovating can become stressful the more you pile on yourself.
  6. DO IT YOURSELF!
    • There are videos and blogs for almost everything now. Most big name hardware stores offer classes for simple things too! Educate yourself and try your hand at small jobs! Always call in a professional for things you're unsure of, and beware of damaging the integrity of your home. If you're not a licensed electrician or plumber, don't pretend to be. 

Extensive Clean-Out? Not A Problem!

11/16/2018 (Permalink)

This kitchen was in need of debris removal.

A home can become overwhelmingly cluttered for any number of reasons. Typically customers reach out to us on behalf of their loved ones in need of assistance. When we receive these types of calls we approach the situation with compassion and understanding because they are often sensitive ones. The services SERVPRO has the ability to offer, create the opportunity for a new beginning for some and represent a fresh start for the homeowner. We take pride in playing a part of this process.

During a recent extensive clean-out in Columbia, SC we were able to remove a large amount of debris, organize the homeowner’s belongings and thoroughly clean all living areas that were once uninhabitable. SERVPRO is equipped to handle all of your needs!