Your Guide to Hurricane Insurance Claims in Florida

9/17/2023 (Permalink)

Navigating the hurricane insurance claims process in Florida requires diligence, documentation, and a clear understanding of your policy.

Living in Florida offers many advantages, from the stunning coastline to a vibrant lifestyle. However, the state's geographical location also puts homeowners at risk of hurricanes and tropical storms. When the winds howl and the rain pours, having a solid hurricane insurance policy can provide much-needed peace of mind. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through essential tips for a smooth and successful hurricane insurance claims process, ensuring that your property is restored and your life gets back on track after the storm.

Understand Your Policy

Before hurricane season arrives, take the time to thoroughly review your insurance policy:

Coverage Details: Understand the specifics of what is covered and what is not, including dwelling damage, personal property, and additional living expenses.

Deductibles: Familiarize yourself with your policy's deductible and how it applies to different types of damage.

Document Your Property

Creating a comprehensive inventory of your possessions is crucial:

Photographic Evidence: Take clear photos or videos of your property, including valuable items and structural features.

Keep Records: Maintain a detailed list of possessions, including purchase dates and receipts.

Secure Property Precautions

Before a storm approaches, take measures to protect your property and minimize potential damage:

Boarding Up: If time allows, board up windows and secure outdoor items to prevent them from becoming projectiles.

Secure Documents: Safeguard important documents, such as insurance policies, in a waterproof container.

Prompt Reporting

As soon as it's safe, report the damage to your insurance company:

Timely Notification: Notify your insurer promptly, providing details of the damage and any immediate repairs you've made to prevent further loss.

Keep Records: Maintain a record of all communications with your insurer, including dates, names, and reference numbers.

Obtain Professional Assessments

Request a thorough assessment of the damage from professionals:

Claim Adjusters: Your insurance company may send a claim adjuster to assess the damage and estimate repair costs.

Contractor Estimates: Obtain estimates from reputable contractors to ensure an accurate assessment of the repair costs.

Temporary Repairs

Engage in temporary repairs to prevent further damage:

Mitigation Efforts: Document any temporary repairs you make, such as covering roof leaks or boarding up broken windows.

Retain Receipts: Keep receipts for materials and services used for temporary repairs.

Detailed Claims Documentation

When filing your claim, provide comprehensive documentation:

Evidence: Include photos, videos, inventory lists, and any expert assessments or estimates you've obtained.

Descriptions: Provide detailed descriptions of damaged items and the extent of property damage.

Be Prepared for Adjustments

Understand that the initial claim may need adjustments:

Additional Damage: If further damage is discovered during repairs, promptly inform your insurer and provide documentation.

Negotiations: Be prepared to negotiate with your insurance company if there are discrepancies in repair estimates.

Patience and Persistence

The claims process can take time, especially after a widespread event like a hurricane:

Stay Informed: Keep communication lines open with your insurer and inquire about the expected timeline.

Follow-up: If the process stalls, follow up with your insurer and stay persistent in seeking updates.

Navigating the hurricane insurance claims process in Florida requires diligence, documentation, and a clear understanding of your policy. By proactively preparing, promptly reporting damage, and providing thorough documentation, you increase the likelihood of a successful and smooth claims experience. Remember, your insurance policy is your lifeline in the aftermath of a storm, providing the support you need to restore your property and rebuild your life. With these tips in hand, you can confidently face hurricane season, knowing you're equipped to handle the challenges that may come your way.

Smoke Odor Removal: Do's and Don'ts for Homeowners

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

Smoke odor removal is essential to restoring your home back to pre fire conditions.

A fire incident in your home can leave behind more than just physical damage. Lingering smoke odors can be a persistent reminder of the traumatic event. However, with the right knowledge and approach, homeowners can effectively tackle smoke odor removal and restore a fresh and clean environment. In this article, we will discuss the do's and don'ts for homeowners when it comes to removing smoke odors.

Do's for Smoke Odor Removal

Safety First: Before beginning any smoke odor removal efforts, ensure that the property is safe to enter. Assess the structural integrity and consult with professionals if needed. Wear protective gear like gloves, masks, and goggles to protect yourself during the process.

Ventilate the Area: Open windows and doors to improve ventilation and allow fresh airflow into the space. This helps in reducing smoke odor concentration and expelling it from the premises.

Deep Cleaning: Thoroughly clean all surfaces using appropriate cleaning agents, such as mild soap, vinegar, or specialized smoke odor neutralizers. Pay close attention to walls, ceilings, floors, furniture, and other surfaces where smoke particles may have settled.

Wash Fabrics and Textiles: Launder all washable fabrics, including clothing, curtains, bedding, and upholstery. Use hot water and a quality detergent to eliminate smoke particles trapped in the fibers. Consider professional dry cleaning for delicate or valuable items.

Replace Air Filters: Check and replace the HVAC system air filters, as they can trap smoke particles and contribute to lingering odors. Consider using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to improve air quality.

Ozone Treatment: Ozone generators can be effective in neutralizing smoke odors. However, this technique should be used with caution and preferably by professionals due to potential health hazards. Evacuate people and pets from the treated area during ozone treatment.

Don'ts for Smoke Odor Removal

Avoid Masking Odors: Don't try to simply cover up smoke odors with air fresheners or strong perfumes. These methods may temporarily mask the smell, but they won't address the root cause.

Don't Paint Over Smoke-Damaged Surfaces: Painting over smoke-damaged surfaces without proper cleaning and preparation will not eliminate the odor. The smoke particles can still penetrate through the paint, resulting in persistent odors.

Avoid DIY Smoke Removal Techniques Without Proper Knowledge: Some DIY remedies, such as using white vinegar or baking soda, may work for mild smoke odors. However, for severe cases, it's best to consult professionals who have the expertise and specialized equipment to handle the situation effectively.

Don't Delay Smoke Odor Removal: Acting promptly is crucial when it comes to smoke odor removal. The longer the smoke odor lingers, the more difficult it becomes to completely eradicate it. Immediate cleaning and restoration efforts can prevent odor penetration into porous materials.

Smoke odor removal can be a challenging task for homeowners, but with the right approach and techniques, it can be successfully accomplished. Remember to prioritize safety, ventilate the area, thoroughly clean surfaces and textiles, replace air filters, and consider professional ozone treatment if necessary. Avoid masking odors, painting over smoke-damaged surfaces without proper cleaning, and attempting complex smoke odor removal without professional guidance. By following these do's and don'ts, homeowners can effectively eliminate smoke odors and restore their homes to a clean, fresh, and odor-free state.

Clearing a Clogged Pipe: A Step-by-Step Guide for Quick and Effective Results

7/13/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with a clogged pipe can be a frustrating and inconvenient experience. However, knowing how to properly clear a clogged pipe can save you time, money, and the hassle of hiring a professional plumber. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to tackle a clogged pipe effectively, ensuring a smooth flow of water and preventing future blockages.

Assess the Severity of the Clog

Before diving into clearing the clogged pipe, assess the severity of the blockage. Is it a minor or major clog? This will help determine the appropriate method to employ. For minor clogs, you can try simpler solutions, while major clogs may require more advanced techniques or professional assistance.

Use a Plunger

For minor clogs in sinks or toilets, a plunger can be your first line of defense. Ensure there is enough water to cover the plunger's rubber head and create a tight seal over the drain. Plunge vigorously, pushing and pulling to create suction and dislodge the clog. Repeat the process several times if needed. After plunging, run water to check if the clog has cleared.

Try a Natural or Chemical Drain Cleaner

If the plunger doesn't work, consider using a natural or chemical drain cleaner. Natural options include pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, followed by hot water. Alternatively, you can use a commercial drain cleaner, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Keep in mind that chemical drain cleaners can be harsh and should be used sparingly and with caution.

Implement Mechanical Methods

If the clog persists, mechanical methods can be effective. A drain snake or auger is a flexible tool that can reach deep into the pipe and dislodge the clog. Insert the snake into the drain and rotate it clockwise while pushing forward. When encountering resistance, rotate and push to break up the blockage. Slowly pull the snake out, ensuring the clog is cleared. Remember to clean the snake thoroughly after use.

Prevent Future Clogs

Prevention is key to avoiding future clogs. Implement simple measures such as using drain strainers to catch debris, avoiding pouring grease or oil down the drain, and regularly flushing drains with hot water. Also, be mindful of what you flush down toilets, as items like sanitary products or wipes can lead to clogs. Regular maintenance, such as snaking the drains or using enzymatic cleaners, can help prevent buildup and maintain smooth-flowing pipes.

Clearing a clogged pipe doesn't always require professional assistance. By following these steps to assess the severity of the clog, using a plunger, trying natural or chemical drain cleaners, employing mechanical methods like a drain snake, and implementing preventive measures, you can effectively clear clogs and maintain the proper functioning of your plumbing system.

Understanding Tax Deductions for Natural Disaster Damage: What You Need to Know

6/17/2023 (Permalink)

When natural disasters strike, the financial impact can be overwhelming. However, it's essential to explore potential avenues for relief and recovery. One question that often arises is whether you can deduct natural disaster damage from your taxes. In this blog, we will delve into the topic of tax deductions for natural disaster damage, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the guidelines and requirements. Understanding the potential tax benefits can assist you in navigating the financial aftermath of a natural disaster.

Governmental Declarations and Eligibility

To qualify for tax deductions related to natural disaster damage, it is generally necessary for the area to be declared a federal disaster area. This declaration triggers special provisions that may allow you to claim tax benefits. These benefits can include deductions for property damage, casualty losses, and additional expenses incurred due to the disaster. It is crucial to consult the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website, publications, or a tax professional to determine if your location qualifies and understand the specific eligibility criteria.

Deductible Losses and Documentation

In the event that your area qualifies for tax deductions, you may be eligible to deduct certain losses resulting from the natural disaster. This can include damage to your property, personal belongings, and even vehicles. However, it is essential to provide thorough documentation to substantiate your claims. Keep detailed records of the damage, repair expenses, insurance reimbursements, and any other relevant information. Photographs, receipts, repair estimates, and insurance documentation will serve as critical evidence during the tax filing process.

Calculating Casualty Losses

Calculating casualty losses for tax purposes involves determining the decrease in your property's fair market value due to the natural disaster. You may also need to subtract any insurance reimbursements or other forms of compensation received. The IRS provides guidelines and worksheets to assist you in calculating these losses accurately. It is advisable to consult with a tax professional who can guide you through the process, ensuring compliance with the IRS requirements and maximizing your eligible deductions.

Insurance Reimbursements and Taxation

In situations where you receive insurance reimbursements for your natural disaster losses, it is important to understand the tax implications. Generally, if the reimbursement does not exceed your total casualty loss, it may not be taxable. However, if the reimbursement amount exceeds your loss, it could be considered taxable income. It is recommended to consult with a tax professional or refer to IRS publications to accurately determine the taxable portion of insurance reimbursements and adhere to the reporting requirements.

While tax deductions for natural disaster damage can provide some financial relief, navigating complex regulations is essential. Understanding the eligibility criteria, documenting losses thoroughly, calculating casualty losses accurately, and considering the taxation of insurance reimbursements are all crucial aspects to maximizing the benefits available to you. Consulting with a tax professional will ensure compliance with IRS guidelines and help you make the most of potential tax deductions during the recovery process.

Top 5 Places to Find Hidden Mold in Your Home or Business

5/17/2023 (Permalink)

Mold growth can be a serious problem in homes and businesses, and it's important to be proactive.

Mold is a common problem in homes and businesses, and while it's often easy to spot mold growth on visible surfaces like walls or ceilings, it can also grow in hidden or hard-to-reach places. Here are the top 5 places to find hidden mold in your home or business.

Underneath carpets or flooring

Mold can thrive in damp or humid environments, and if your carpet or flooring has been exposed to moisture, it can provide an ideal breeding ground for mold. Be sure to check for mold growth underneath carpets and other types of flooring, especially in areas that are prone to moisture, such as basements or bathrooms.

Inside walls

Mold can grow inside walls when there is moisture present, such as from a leaky pipe or a roof leak. This can be difficult to detect, but if you notice a musty smell or discoloration on your walls, it's worth investigating further to see if mold is present.

In air conditioning and heating systems

Mold can grow in HVAC systems if there is moisture present, which can spread mold spores throughout your home or business. Be sure to have your HVAC system inspected regularly to ensure that mold isn't growing inside the ductwork.

Behind wallpaper

Wallpaper can provide an ideal environment for mold growth, especially if it's located in a damp or humid area. If you notice peeling or bubbling wallpaper, it's worth checking to see if there is mold growth behind it.

In crawl spaces or attics

Crawl spaces and attics are often damp and poorly ventilated, which can provide a breeding ground for mold. Be sure to check these areas regularly for mold growth, especially if you notice a musty smell or see signs of water damage.

What to do if you find mold or suspect you have mold

If you find mold or suspect you have mold in your home or business, it's important to take action to address the problem promptly. The first step is to identify the source of the mold and address any underlying moisture issues that may be contributing to mold growth. Once the source of the mold has been addressed, it's important to thoroughly clean and disinfect the affected area. If the mold growth is extensive or you're unsure how to handle it, it's best to contact a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO of Punta Gorda to ensure that the mold is properly removed and the affected area is restored to its pre-damage condition.

Mold growth can be a serious problem in homes and businesses, and it's important to be proactive in identifying and addressing mold growth before it becomes a bigger issue. By checking these top 5 places for hidden mold growth, you can help ensure that your home or business is mold-free and safe for everyone who enters it. If you do find mold growth, it's important to address it promptly and thoroughly to prevent it from spreading and causing further damage.

Maintaining Fire Safety: A Guide to Inspecting Your Commercial Building's Fire Sprinklers

4/9/2023 (Permalink)

Here's a guide on how to inspect the fire sprinklers in your commercial building.

As a business owner or manager, the safety of your employees and property is of utmost importance. One crucial aspect of safety in a commercial building is the proper functioning of fire sprinklers. Fire sprinklers can prevent small fires from turning into large ones, potentially saving lives and property damage. However, fire sprinklers are not a "set and forget" system. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Here's a guide on how to inspect the fire sprinklers in your commercial building:

Check the fire sprinkler system documentation

Before inspecting the fire sprinkler system, make sure you have access to the system documentation. This documentation should contain the installation drawings, hydraulic calculations, and specifications of the system. If you don't have this documentation, contact the company that installed the system or a licensed fire protection contractor to obtain it.

Look for visible signs of damage or obstruction

Inspect the fire sprinklers and look for any visible signs of damage, such as dents, cracks, or corrosion. Check for any obstructions that could prevent the sprinklers from discharging water in the event of a fire. Obstructions can include storage items or debris, such as dust or cobwebs, that may have accumulated over time.

Check the control valves and alarm devices

Make sure the control valves and alarm devices are in proper working condition. Test the alarm devices, such as the fire alarm and flow switches, to ensure they are working correctly. Check the control valves to ensure they are open, allowing water to flow through the system.

Inspect the pipes and fittings

Inspect the pipes and fittings that connect the fire sprinklers. Look for any signs of leaks, rust, or damage. Check the pipe hangers and supports to ensure they are secure and not damaged. Make sure the pipes are properly labeled and identified for ease of maintenance and inspection.

Test the water supply and pressure

The water supply and pressure are critical to the operation of the fire sprinkler system. Test the water supply and pressure to ensure they meet the specifications outlined in the system documentation. This testing should be performed by a licensed fire protection contractor, and the results should be recorded for future reference.

Schedule regular inspections and maintenance

Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure the fire sprinkler system continues to operate correctly. Schedule annual inspections with a licensed fire protection contractor to check the system for any issues and perform any necessary maintenance. Additionally, perform visual inspections of the system regularly to identify any visible issues that require attention.

In conclusion, inspecting your fire sprinkler system is critical to maintaining the safety of your employees and property. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and prevent potential issues before they become significant problems. By following these steps and working with a licensed fire protection contractor, you can ensure your fire sprinkler system remains in proper working condition.

Limit business Interruption when facing Smoke Damage

2/16/2023 (Permalink)

Help limit business interruption, call the professionals for help!

If your building has been affected by smoke, it’s important to know that there may be additional damage. Smoke is often not limited to just the room where a fire occurred, which can make it difficult for you to determine how far the damage extends.

What is smoke damage?

Smoke damage is the damage caused by fire and smoke. Smoke damage often causes discoloration on walls, ceilings and other surfaces. It's important to recognize signs of smoke damage so you can take steps to limit business interruption when facing smoke damage in your facility.

The most common misconception about smoke damage is that it isn’t as damaging as fire damage. If a building isn’t destroyed by a fire, people assume it wasn’t damaged at all. The truth is that smoke can spread through HVAC systems, vents and other openings in the home.

This type of damage can cause significant losses for companies who depend on their office space as part of their business operations - not only will they need to relocate temporarily until repairs are made but they could also risk losing clients who may be concerned about working in such an environment following a major incident such as this one.

Structural and Contents Damage

Smoke damage can occur if a fire, flood, hurricane or tornado damages your property. Even if the fire is extinguished, the smoke that has been released will linger in your building and cause structural damage to it as well as contents damage to any items caught up in it. In some cases, even if you have managed to contain the fire but still have smoke pouring into your space for days on end, it will still cause significant damage which may require professional cleaning services.

Smoke can spread through HVAC systems

Smoke can spread through HVAC systems, vents, and other openings in the home. Smoke damage is not limited to what you can see. You may be able to smell smoke on your possessions but it doesn’t mean that a fire occurred or that it didn’t spread beyond your immediate location. Smoke can cause damage to your property even if the fire is contained or extinguished.

If you think there has been a fire on your premises, call 911 immediately and contact us once they arrive at the scene of the incident.

Attics and Crawl Spaces

Smoke can build up in attics or crawl spaces of a home or commercial structure where it causes damage to insulation materials. The insulation materials will then become damp because they are exposed to high moisture levels from the water vapor in the atmosphere during cooler weather conditions. If the attic or crawl spaces get left untreated secondary damages may occur.

If you think your building may have smoke damage, it is important to seek out professional help as soon as possible. If left untreated, this type of damage can cause serious issues that could potentially cost thousands of dollars in repairs.

Common Types of Property Damage After a Hurricane

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

If your house or place oof business has been damaged, call a professional disaster restoration company right away!

Wind damage, water damage, fire and smoke damage, and mold damage are some of the most common types of property damage that occur after a hurricane. Here is more information about each:

Wind Damage

Wind damage is the most common type of property damage after a hurricane. Wind damage can be caused by any storm that causes strong winds, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes. Wind damage can include broken windows and roof shingles being ripped off the top of your house. In addition to causing structural problems with your home’s exterior, wind storms often cause large amounts of debris in lawns and fields that need removing before they become a safety hazard.

Water Damage

Water damage may be caused by flooding, storm surge, or broken pipes. The water can cause mold to grow, which can lead to health problems for you and your family. The water can also cause structural damage and electrical problems that make it unsafe for you to live in your home. When you have this kind of property damage after a hurricane, it's important that you get help right away so that the problem doesn't get worse and cost more money than necessary.

Fire and Smoke Damage

Fire and smoke damage are two of the most common types of property damage after a hurricane. Both are caused by a lack of electricity and ventilation, respectively. Fire damage can be prevented by having fire extinguishers in your home, but it may not help much if you don't have power to activate them when they're needed. Smoke damage can be reduced by ventilating your home once the storm has passed and before resuming use.

Mold Damage

Mold damage is the result of water and moisture beginning to grow mold in your home. Mold can spread quickly, so it’s important to get rid of it as soon as possible. The most common way for mold to grow is through leaks or water damage. If you live in a hurricane-prone area or have lived through one before, then you may have experienced some form of mold since hurricanes leave behind lots of standing water that can lead to the growth of this dangerous fungus.

Mold will usually start growing on porous surfaces such as drywall and wood paneling where they are able to find food sources like dust particles or dead skin cells from humans living in those environments (and even pets). If there is any moisture present, then the spores can begin growing rapidly into colonies that spread throughout an entire room very quickly!

Flood Damage

Flood damage is a type of water damage that can occur when water enters a building. Flood damage can be caused by storm surge, heavy rain or snow melt, overflowing rivers and streams, or burst pipes. To avoid flood damage to your home after a hurricane:

• Keep flood insurance in place if you have it on your property. If not, consider purchasing it now before another hurricane season arrives.
• Make sure all appliances have backsplashes that direct water to the drain when they are used; this will prevent clogs in your drains and keep them from backing up into other parts of the house like walls and floors.
• Keep gutters clean so that leaves don't clog them during heavy rainstorms or hurricanes that bring high winds along with them

The aftermath of a hurricane is devastating, but it’s important to know that there are ways to recover. If you have experienced damage to your Burnt Store, FL home or business, contact an experienced disaster restoration company right away!

Fire Prevention for Your Home

12/16/2022 (Permalink)

You should have smoke alarms on every floor of your home.

Fires can be devastating to you and your loved ones. Fires start every day and they can spread quickly. A fire that starts in a kitchen is the most common type of home fire, followed by fires started by smoking materials. When you are at home, always think about what kinds of things could cause a fire in your house and make sure you take precautions to prevent them from happening.

Multi-Purpose Fire Extinguisher

You should be sure to have a fire extinguisher in your home that is rated for all types of fires. The most common type of fire extinguisher is a multi-purpose one (rated A,B,C and K), but there are other options available as well.

The most important thing is to make sure you know how to use it! You don't want to cause more damage and make the situation worse by using an extinguisher incorrectly. Make sure everyone in the house knows how to use their own individual fire extinguishers as well so that everyone can help out if there's ever an emergency at home.

It's also important to have a plan for what you will do if a fire breaks out while no one else is around. This includes knowing when it's okay or not okay to call 911 (and who goes first) and having any evacuation plans ready in case someone needs rescuing from their rooms upstairs or outside windows/doors are blocked off by flames/smoke etc.

Smoke Alarms

You should have smoke alarms on every floor of your home. In fact, you should have one in every single room. The idea is that it's better to have too many than not enough: this way, you're protected in case something goes wrong with one (or two) of them.

We also suggest installing photoelectric smoke alarms because they're able to detect smoldering fires—like those caused by cigarettes or candles—whereas ionization units only alert people to flaming fires. This type of alarm will go off when there's just smoke in the air before there are flames visible; therefore, you'll be alerted quicker and be able to take action more efficiently!

Where do we recommend installing these alarms? It's best practice for any homeowner to place them 10 feet from any area where someone sleeps (i.e., bedrooms), but some states require them within 5 feet instead. They should go up high enough so that children can't reach them; additionally, if possible try placing them away from doors inside closets so they aren't accidentally disabled when people walk through their vicinity frequently throughout daily activities like changing clothes or getting ready for bedtime!

Practice, Practice, Practice

Have an escape plan in place for your family, and make sure to practice it twice a year. Make sure everyone in the house knows the plan. Test all of your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors once a month and change the batteries when necessary (each time you change clocks for daylight savings time).

Remove Fire Hazards

The best way to prevent a fire in your home is to remove or relocate any items that could catch fire. If you have items such as clothing, blankets, and furniture on display, store them in a closet or other out-of-the-way place until they're needed.

Flammable liquids should be stored in tightly sealed containers, ideally away from heat sources. Smoking materials should never be left unattended. When cooking on the stovetop, keep an eye on the food without looking away for too long; if something catches fire or begins smoking excessively it's time to turn off your burner immediately!

Never leave heating appliances unattended while they're operating—if you walk away from it for even a few seconds it could cause serious damage to your home!

Never leave lighters or matches out where children can find them. Teach your child about fire safety and what to do if they see a fire. If you have children under six years old, make sure that all portable electric heaters are unplugged when not in use.

Don’t Overload Outlets

It's important to not overload electrical outlets or extension cords because doing so can lead to fires. If you're going to plug something in, do so only where the outlet is designed for the item being plugged in (for example, a lamp should only be plugged into an outlet that's specifically designed for lighting).

Lit Candles

Never put lit candles near curtains, upholstery or other flammable materials.

If you are having a party or gathering, make sure everyone knows to never leave a burning candle unattended and that it is okay if they do not want candles at their table.

Candles are great for adding ambiance but, like anything else in your home, can pose fire risks if not handled properly. If you have children in the house and keep candles around, make sure they know not to play with them—and always keep an eye on them when they're nearby!

Space Heaters

Space heaters are a great way to warm up your home on chilly days and nights. But remember, they can pose a fire risk if not used properly.

• Always keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including curtains and furniture.
• Never leave a space heater unattended when it’s on or even off!
• Never use a space heater if you’re drowsy or under the influence of drugs or alcohol (especially those containing alcohol).

The most important thing is to be able to recognize the signs of a fire in your home so that you can act quickly. Having a plan is also important, but having one and practicing it regularly will ensure everyone knows what to do when an emergency does occur. If your Punta Gorda home or business does catch on fire, give SERVPRO of Punta Gorda a call! 

Why Does My Toilet Leak Every Time I Flush?

11/5/2022 (Permalink)

A leaky toilet can be fixed.

What To Do When Your Toilet Is Leaking?

If you have a leaky toilet every time you flush, your first thought may be that the toilet needs to be replaced. Sometimes this is true, but there are other factors that can cause leaks that don't involve replacing the entire system.

In this article we'll cover some common causes of leaking toilets and what you can do about them.

Issues with the tank and the toilet installation.

The tank is installed too low. The most common cause of this issue is a misaligned wax ring, which you can read about below.

The toilet is not level. This can be caused by a loose installation or an old wax ring that has become misshapen over time, and it's remedied by simply adjusting the toilet until it's level again.

The wax ring isn't properly installed or broken. A high-quality wax seal around the base of your toilet will prevent leaking from occurring, but this seal needs to be kept in good condition if you want to avoid leaks entirely—if there are cracks or tears in the old seal, then water can seep under them and leak out into your bathroom every time someone flushes their toilet!

Your toilet itself may be broken; check for any loose parts inside your tank before proceeding with any other repairs (and make sure everything looks like it should).

Your tank flange might also need replacing; if so, contact us today at (941) 575-5910 and we'll help get things flowing smoothly again!

Dry wax ring or improper installation

Sometimes a wax ring can dry out and need replacing. A wax ring is the seal between your toilet base and the floor. If your wax ring is cracked or broken, water will leak from under your toilet every time you flush it.

This can be corrected by simply replacing the wax ring with a new one. This should be done every 5-7 years, or if there has been any plumbing work done in that area of your bathroom (such as removing tiles).

Tank flange can be broken or tank not tightened

If your toilet flushes and leaks water, the problem could be that your tank flange is broken or not tightened correctly. To fix this issue, you'll need to tighten it and/or replace it if necessary.

SERVPRO of Punta Gorda

You can count on SERVPRO of Punta Gorda to be ready to respond 24/7, with emergency services available any time you need us. Whether you have a full-scale emergency or a simple plumbing leak, we’re dedicated to being fast and thorough when restoring your home. SERVPRO is the #1-rated water damage company in the U.S., and we provide professional, certified technicians using advanced equipment for the best possible outcome. We can help you with:

• Professional water removal
• Expert drying procedures
• Mold remediation

The good news is that a leaky toilet can be fixed. Whether your leak is coming from the tank or the bowl, SERVPRO of Punta Gorda can help you. We have years of experience dealing with all types of leaks and can get your home back in order quickly by using advanced water damage restoration techniques. Our team will assess the damage and provide you with a plan so that your home doesn’t suffer even more damage while we work on fixing it up!