# UnlimitedRestoration > Unlimited Restoration's blog offers informative guidance on disaster planning, emergency response, restoration and reconstruction of commercial properties. --- ## Pages - [Giveaway](https://www.urinow.com/giveaway/): We provide disaster damage mitigation, commercial restoration and emergency response giveaway to keep your business up and running. Contact Us Today! - [Asbestos Abatement](https://www.urinow.com/services/uri-environmental-services/asbestos-abatement-services/): Effective removal or containment of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within commercial and industrial facilities is critical. Learn about URI's asbestos abatement services here! - [Job Site Protection Services](https://www.urinow.com/services/uri-environmental-services/job-site-protection/): Safeguarding commercial/industrial properties and minimizing disruptions are crucial. Learn about URI's Job Site Protection services here! - [Environmental Services](https://www.urinow.com/services/uri-environmental-services/): URI has expanded our in-house service offerings with a new Environmental Division. Protecting properties and preserving health - We’re On It! - [West Palm Beach, FL](https://www.urinow.com/locations/west-palm-beach-fl/): Unlimited Restoration is your partner for emergency response, disaster management planning, and damage restoration in West Palm Beach, FL. Schedule your appointment today! - [Continuing Education Resources - The Peterson Companies](https://www.urinow.com/continuing-education-resources-the-peterson-cos/): URI is proud to offer continuing education resources designed for Facility Managers, Property Managers, Building Owners, and more! - [Commercial Real Estate](https://www.urinow.com/industries-commercial-real-estate/): URI is proud to partner with property managers to provide 24/7 emeregncy response and restoration support to commercial offices. - [Senior Living](https://www.urinow.com/industries/seniorliving/): URI proudly offers 24/7 Emergency Response & Full-Service Restoration for Senior Living facilities. Learn more here! - [Training Resources from URI](https://www.urinow.com/about-uri/training-resources/): Discover a wealth of training resources at URI. From expert-led courses to in-depth guides, empower yourself with knowledge. Explore our training offerings now. - [URI Emergency Response Plan - Questionnaire](https://www.urinow.com/uri-emergency-response-plan-questionnaire/): Prepare your business for any disaster with URI's Emergency Response Plan Questionnaire. Proactively assess your needs, protect your commercial property, and ensure business continuity. Get started on safeguarding your assets and operations today. - [Government](https://www.urinow.com/industries/government/): When the unexpected occurs at a government property, a comprehensive recovery plan needs to be in place. Learn more today! - [Commercial Renovation Services](https://www.urinow.com/services/specialized-services/renovation-services/): URI is proud to offer complete renovation services for commercial, industrial and multi-family residential properties. Learn more here! - [Request An Emergency Response Plan](https://www.urinow.com/request-an-emergency-response-plan/): URI is prepared to respond nationwide for customers experiencing catastrophic commercial property losses. Request An Emergency Response Plan Now! - [Floodwater](https://www.urinow.com/services/water-damage-restoration/floodwater/): When flooding impacts your business, quick action is crucial to mitigate damage. URI is available 24/7 to provide disaster recovery services. Get Help Now! - [Contact Us Today](https://www.urinow.com/contact-us/): Contact URI for fast 24/7 immediate assistance and dependable emergency response in Delaware, Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania & Washington, DC. - [Join Our Team](https://www.urinow.com/about-uri/join-our-team/): URI offices in Philadelphia, Baltimore, DC, Orlando, and Tampa are always looking for top talent - view all of the current job openings available now! - [Testimonials](https://www.urinow.com/about-uri/testimonials/): 25+ Years of quality service in emergency response and disaster restoration services for commercial & industrial buildings. See why our customers love us! - [Multi-Family Residential](https://www.urinow.com/industries/apartment-restoration-services/): URI has extensive experience providing multi-family apartment emergency response, restoration and recovery operations to property owners. Contact Us Today! - [Education](https://www.urinow.com/industries/education/): We offer free school emergency preparedness plans for fast and professional disaster restoration services at your educational property. Learn More! - [Healthcare](https://www.urinow.com/industries/healthcare/): Contact URI for disaster preparedness plans and restoration services, incl. cleanup, containment & decontamination in hospitals & health care facilities. - [Hospitality](https://www.urinow.com/industries/hospitality/): We provide crisis management plans for hotels that can be used in emergencies to reduce losses and help speed up the recovery process. Find Out More Today! - [Industrial](https://www.urinow.com/industries/industrial/): We develop emergency response programs for industrial companies, assist with disaster repair, restoring equipment and inventory. Contact URI Today! - [Retail](https://www.urinow.com/industries/retail/): At Unlimited Restoration, we provide complete disaster planning and management solutions for retailers and commercial property managers. Find Out More! - [Philadelphia, PA](https://www.urinow.com/locations/philadelphia-pa/): Whether you have an emergency or want to start planning, Unlimited Restoration is your solution for disaster restoration in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. - [Baltimore, MD](https://www.urinow.com/locations/baltimore-md/): At URI, we help you overcome these challenges with professional disaster planning services & expert damage restoration in Baltimore, Maryland. Learn More! - [Washington, D.C.](https://www.urinow.com/locations/washington-d-c/): At URI, we help you recover after a natural or accidental disaster with business disaster planning and 24/7 emergency response services in Washington D.C. - [Tampa, FL](https://www.urinow.com/locations/tampa-fl/): URI provides disaster response, recovery and emergency restoration services for Tampa, Florida business owners & commercial property managers. Learn More! - [Orlando, FL](https://www.urinow.com/locations/orlando-fl/): Unlimited Restoration is your partner for emergency response, disaster management planning and damage restoration in Orlando, Florida. Learn More! - [Emergency Stabilization](https://www.urinow.com/services/emergency-stabilization/): When a URI response team arrives, technicians quickly create an action plan for emergency stabilization, to prevent further damage. Learn More! - [Weatherproofing](https://www.urinow.com/services/weatherproofing/): When you trust your emergency weatherproofing to URI, you can count on a fast response to prevent further damage and limit your losses. Contact Us Now! - [Power & Distribution](https://www.urinow.com/services/power-distribution/): You can depend on URI for 24/7 commercial emergency power and distribution services, including on-demand emergency generator power. Learn More! - [Heating & Cooling](https://www.urinow.com/services/climate-control/): Whether you are in need of temporary heat or air conditioning, we are fully equipped and able to provide complete climate control services. Learn More! - [Debris Removal](https://www.urinow.com/services/debris-removal/): Our hazardous demolition and emergency disaster debris removal team provides a safe, controlled and thorough cleanup process. Speak to an Expert Today! - [Selective Demolition](https://www.urinow.com/services/selective-demolition/): For partial property damages, selective demolition is a cost-effective way to restore the building and keep your business running. Learn More! - [Machinery & Electronics Cleaning](https://www.urinow.com/services/specialized-services/machinery-electronics-cleaning/): Contact our recovery specialists for more information about our machinery and electronics cleaning, repair, refurbishment and restoration services today! - [Soot Damage](https://www.urinow.com/services/fire-damage-restoration/fire-soot-restoration/): Commercial soot damage restoration is crucial for keeping you, your employees and your business safe. Contact URI for Smoke Damage Restoration Services! - [Soda & Sponge Blasting](https://www.urinow.com/services/fire-damage-restoration/soda-and-sponge-blasting/): Our teams use soda and sponge blasting equipment for gentle, cost-effective fire damage restoration. Contact Us Today To Learn More About Our Services! - [Commercial Odor Removal](https://www.urinow.com/services/fire-damage-restoration/odor-control/): Our certified technicians have the expertise and equipment required to test, identify & eliminate the originating source of undesirable odors. Learn More! - [Duct Cleaning](https://www.urinow.com/services/uri-environmental-services/duct-cleaning/): URI provides HVAC cleaning services for improved efficiency, less energy usage and cleaner air. Contact URI Today for Your HVAC Cleaning Needs! - [Consultation & Loss Assessment](https://www.urinow.com/services/specialized-services/consultation-loss-assessment/): URI consultants assess complex damages and formulate a recovery plan designed around expediency, and cost effectiveness. Contact URI for Help Now! - [Decontamination Services](https://www.urinow.com/services/specialized-services/decontamination-services/): Decontamination of hazardous materials like mold, dust, residue & chemicals should be safely done by disaster restoration pros like URI. Learn More! - [Emergency Response Planning](https://www.urinow.com/services/emergency-response-planning/): Developing an emergency response plan gives you priority in emergencies and access to a dedicated 24/7 emergency hotline. Request Your Free URI ERP Today! - [Corrosion Control](https://www.urinow.com/services/specialized-services/corrosion-control/): We have experience treating corrosion after property damage from floodS, fires and other disasters. Contact Us Now For Corrosion Control Services! - [Reconstruction](https://www.urinow.com/services/specialized-services/reconstruction/): We assist with disaster planning, work with your insurance and oversee every aspect of reconstruction following disaster restoration. Contact URI Today! - [Mold Remediation](https://www.urinow.com/services/mold-remediation/): If you suspect you have mold in your building, our mold remediation services can help. Contact URI today for fast mold and mildew restoration! - [Containment](https://www.urinow.com/services/mold-remediation/containment/): Containment services for commercial and industrial properties including lead, asbestos, mold & more. Resume Business Operations Sooner With URI! - [Air Quality](https://www.urinow.com/services/mold-remediation/air-quality/): Air duct cleaning services can improve your air quality and prevent mold in you commercial facilities environment. Speak to an Expert at URI To Learn More! - [Structural Drying & Dehumidification](https://www.urinow.com/services/water-damage-restoration/structural-drying-dehumidification/): Structural drying, dehumidification & flood cleanup procedures are crucial for commercial property water damage. Contact URI for Immediate Help Today! - [Leaking or Burst Pipes](https://www.urinow.com/services/water-damage-restoration/burst-pipes/): If leaking or burst pipe water damage is impacting your business, URI is available 24 hours a day to assist you with our water restoration services. - [Roof Leaks](https://www.urinow.com/services/water-damage-restoration/roof-leaks/): Commercial roof leaks are often a sign of more significant water or structural damage and require immediate attention. Contact URI for Assistance Today! - [URI Leadership](https://www.urinow.com/about-uri/uri-leadership/): Rodney ONeal, Founder & Principal, and Mike Feulner, Chief Executive Officer, serve as leaders of Unlimited Restoration, Inc. Meet the Rest of the Team! - [Blog](https://www.urinow.com/blog/): Unlimited Restoration's blog offers informative guidance on disaster planning, emergency response, restoration and reconstruction of commercial properties. - [Homepage](https://www.urinow.com/): Unlimited Restoration offers emergency response and restoration to commercial properties affected by fires, water damage, storms and other disasters. - [Site Credits](https://www.urinow.com/site-credits/): WebFX is an Internet Marketing Company that completed our website redesign and provides us with SEO services. To learn more, visit online. - [Sitemap](https://www.urinow.com/sitemap/): URI specializes in preparation for catastrophic events, emergency response and restoration for commercial and industrial properties. Learn More! - [About](https://www.urinow.com/about-uri/): We’re the commercial & industrial property restoration experts, offering emergency response and restoration services. Contact URI Today! - [Services](https://www.urinow.com/services/): We provide disaster damage mitigation, commercial restoration and emergency response services to keep your business up and running. Contact Us Today! - [Industries](https://www.urinow.com/industries/): URI provides disaster restoration services to the education, healthcare, hospitality, industrial, multi-family residential and retail industries. - [Projects](https://www.urinow.com/our-projects/): When unexpected property disasters occur, you can rest assured with Unlimited Restoration, Inc.! View our portfolio of select projects to see for yourself. - [Locations](https://www.urinow.com/locations/): URI operates in many locations including Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington DC, Tampa and Orlando, providing prompt, reliable emergency response. - [Emergency Response and Restoration](https://www.urinow.com/services/emergency-response-restoration/): URI provides emergency response and restoration services, helping businesses recover from even the most severe disasters. Contact Our Team Today! - [Fire & Smoke Damage](https://www.urinow.com/services/fire-damage-restoration/): We apply a proven fire and smoke restoration process to address the damage and get your business back up and running. Contact Our Team at URI Today! - [Specialized Services](https://www.urinow.com/services/specialized-services/): URI's specialized services include HVAC cleaning, consultation & loss assessment, decontamination, corrosion control and machinery & electronics cleaning. - [Water Damage](https://www.urinow.com/services/water-damage-restoration/): URI provides the solution with comprehensive water damage restoration services, including emergency planning and response. Speak to An Expert Today! - [Privacy Policy](https://www.urinow.com/privacy-policy/): This Privacy Policy governs the manner in which Unlimited Restoration, Inc. collects, uses, maintains and discloses information collected from users. --- ## Posts - [2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season Guide Presented by URI](https://www.urinow.com/blog/2025-atlantic-hurricane-season-guide-presented-by-uri/): Stay prepared with URI’s 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season Guide. This blog post covers expert forecasts, preparedness tips, and risk management strategies to help protect your property and people during hurricane season. - [Understanding Shoring: A Critical Service in Commercial Property Restoration](https://www.urinow.com/blog/understanding-shoring/): What does "shoring" mean, and why is it an important part of commercial property restoration? Learn more from URI here. - [Preventing Frozen Pipes: Identifying Risk Areas in Commercial and Industrial Properties](https://www.urinow.com/blog/preventing-frozen-pipes/): Learn important tips on preventing frozen pipes and how you can pinpoint vulnerable areas in your facility as the temperatures drop URI. - [Healthcare Property Restoration: Why You Should Never See Air Movers Used](https://www.urinow.com/blog/why-you-should-never-see-air-movers-used-in-healthcare-property-restoration/): Healthcare FMs: Learn why you should never see air movers used in Healthcare property restoration in URI's latest blog post here. - [Snow Loads for Commercial Roofs](https://www.urinow.com/blog/snow-loads-for-commercial-roofs/): Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI) explains the importance of understanding snow loads to safeguard your commercial property this winter. - [Closing the Year Strong: Year-End Tips for Property and Facility Managers](https://www.urinow.com/blog/closing-the-year-strong-year-end-tips-for-property-and-facility-managers/): URI shares five practical year-end tips to help property and facility management professionals close 2024 strong. Learn more here! - [Holiday Decorating Safety Tips for Facility Managers](https://www.urinow.com/blog/holiday-decorating-safety-tips/): URI created this round-up of Holiday Decorating Safety Tips for Facility Managers. Check it out here and have a Happy Holiday Season! - [October is National Fire Prevention Month: Essential Tips for Commercial, Industrial, and Multi-Family Residential Properties](https://www.urinow.com/blog/essential-fire-prevention-tips/): October is National Fire Prevention month. URI compiled the top fire prevention tips for commercial, industrial, and multi-family residential properties. - [Seasonal Duct Cleaning for Improved Air Quality](https://www.urinow.com/blog/seasonal-duct-cleaning/): Learn more about seasonal duct cleaning for improved air quality at your facility from the latest URI blog post here. - [The Price of Being Unprepared: White Paper by URI](https://www.urinow.com/blog/the-price-of-being-unprepared-white-paper-by-uri/): Do you know the price of being unprepared? Learn more from the latest URI white paper here. - [Budgeting for a Water Damage Event at a Condo Property](https://www.urinow.com/blog/budgeting-for-water-damage-in-condos/): Budget season is almost here! Learn how to budget for water damage events at your condo with the help of URI here. - [2024 Water Intrusion Damage Guide Presented by URI](https://www.urinow.com/blog/water-intrusion-damage-guide-from-uri/): With an increase of severe storms this Spring, URI created the 2024 Water Intrusion Damage Guide to help you prepare for a weather event at your property. - [Extreme Heat and Its Impact on Commercial Properties: Risks, Precautions, and Adaptation](https://www.urinow.com/blog/extreme-heat-and-its-impact-on-commercial-properties-risks-precautions-and-adaptation/): URI explores the recent trend of extreme heat and its impact on commercial properties in our latest blog post. Check it out! - [Specialty Containment in Commercial Property Restoration](https://www.urinow.com/blog/speciality-containment-in-commercial-property-restoration/): Explore specialty containment in commercial property restoration in this blog post from URI, the commercial property restoration experts! - [Exploring Specialty Containment in Healthcare Property Restoration](https://www.urinow.com/blog/exploring-specialty-containment-in-healthcare-property-restoration/): Restoration contractors play a pivotal role in implementing specialized containment solutions tailored to the unique needs of healthcare facilities. Check out some examples of speciality containment here! - [2024 Tornado Guide Presented by URI](https://www.urinow.com/blog/2024-tornado-guide-presented-by-uri/): With an increase of severe storms this Spring, URI created the 2024 Tornado Guide to help you prepare for a weather event at your property. - [10 Steps to Ensuring Property Resilience this Hurricane Season](https://www.urinow.com/blog/10-steps-to-ensuring-property-resilience/): Follow these 10 steps to ensure property resilience this hurricane season, brought to you by Unlimited Restoration, Inc. | URI! - [2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season Guide Presented by URI](https://www.urinow.com/blog/2024-atlantic-hurricane-season-guide-presented-by-uri/): Atlantic Hurricane Season kicks off June 1st. Prepare in advance to minimize disruption at your property with the 2024 Hurricane Season Guide from URI. - [URI Recognized with Gold Safety Award from Highwire](https://www.urinow.com/blog/uri-recognized-with-gold-safety-award/): URI is proud to be announced as a Highwire Gold Safety Award Winner. Learn more about this prestigious recognition here! - [Water Damage 101](https://www.urinow.com/blog/water-damage-101-understanding-the-basics/): Learn what what URI considers "Water Damage 101" to help property or facility management professionals identify and respond to water damage effectively. - [Vetting & Hiring New Vendors: How-To Guide for Community Association Managers](https://www.urinow.com/blog/vetting-and-hiring-a-new-vendor-guide-for-cams/): Vetting and hiring a new vendor for your community can be a daunting task if you don’t know where to start. Learn more from URI here! - [Frozen Pipes? Prevention, Tips, and Tricks for Facility & Property Managers](https://www.urinow.com/blog/frozen-pipes-prevention-tips-and-tricks/): This guide from URI provides facility and property managers tips and tricks on frozen pipes to safeguard your property this winter. - [URI Expands Footprint with the Opening of URI West Palm Beach](https://www.urinow.com/blog/uri-expands-into-west-palm-beach-fl/): URI proudly announces the opening of its sixth office in West Palm Beach, FL. Learn more about the expansion here. - [René Carter Announced as IREM West-Central Maryland Chapter 92 Volunteer Industry Partner of the Year](https://www.urinow.com/blog/carter-announced-irem-92-volunteer-industry-partner-2023/): URI employee been announced as Volunteer Industry Partner of the Year for 2023 by the IREM West-Central Maryland Chapter 92. Read more! - [Understanding Winter Heating Smells: A Guide for Florida Property Managers](https://www.urinow.com/blog/understanding-winter-heating-smells-guide-for-property-managers/): The use of heaters during cooler months can lead to peculiar odors that Florida tenants or building occupants might find disconcerting. Learn more from URI here. - [Winter Weather Safety Tips for Commercial Properties: A Guide for Facility and Property Managers](https://www.urinow.com/blog/winter-weather-safety-tips-for-commercial-properties/): The commercial restoration experts at URI have put together a Complete Guide for Winter Weather Safety Tips for Commercial Properties here! - [René Carter Announced as CREWBaltimore 2023 Circle of Excellence Award Finalist](https://www.urinow.com/blog/uri-team-member-announced-as-circle-of-excellence-finalist/): René Carter, Senior Account Executive at Unlimited Restoration, Inc., has been acounced as a finalist for the 2023 CREWBaltimore Beacon Awards Gala Circle of Excellence award. - [Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI) Named MACUHO 2022-2023 Business Affiliate of the Year](https://www.urinow.com/blog/uri-named-macuho-2022-2023-business-affiliate-of-the-year/): URI is proud to have been named as the MACUHO 2022-2023 Business Affiliate of the Year at the 2023 MACUHO Conference in College Park, MD. - [Empower Your Career: Gain Facility Management Credentials for Success](https://www.urinow.com/blog/facility-management-credentials-to-help-further-your-career/): URI explores two popular facility management credentials to help further your FM career in our latest blog post. Learn more here! - [Protecting Your Commercial Property: Fire Prevention Tips for Facility Managers](https://www.urinow.com/blog/protecting-your-commercial-property-fire-prevention-tips-for-facility-managers/): In commemoration of National Fire Prevention Month and Week, URI shares tips for commercial property and facility managers. Check it out! - [Ensuring Business Continuity: National Preparedness Month for Commercial Properties](https://www.urinow.com/blog/ensuring-business-continuity/): URI explores the importance of National Preparedness Month and provides insights into partners that can help in ensuring business continuity. - [Setting Wireless Emergency Alerts on Your Cell Phone](https://www.urinow.com/blog/setting-weas-on-your-cell/): URI shares a critical hurricane preparedness tip: setting up wireless emergency alerts on your cell phone for Apple and Android users here! - [Preparing Your Property for Atlantic Hurricane Season: A Comprehensive Guide for Property and Facility Managers](https://www.urinow.com/blog/preparing-your-property-for-atlantic-hurricane-season-a-comprehensive-guide-for-property-and-facility-managers/): A comprehensive guide for property and facility managers on preparing for the Atlantic Hurricane Season at their property from URI. - [Rainy Day Preparedness: Tips for Protecting Your Commercial Property from Heavy Rain](https://www.urinow.com/blog/rainy-day-preparedness/): Heavy rain can cause significant damage to commercial buildings, resulting in costly repairs and downtime. Rainy day preparedness is key! - [The Environmental Impact of Property Restoration: How Restoration Contractors are Helping the Planet](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-restoration-contractors-are-helping-the-planet/): Discover how restoration contractors are helping the planet with environmentally-concious efforts and programs. - [6 Commercial Mold Prevention Methods](https://www.urinow.com/blog/6-commercial-mold-prevention-methods/): Have you been noticing a musty smell or seen evidence of mold in your commercial building? Check out six methods to prevent mold in your building and stay safe! - [Water Pumps to Prevent Flooding: What You Need to Know](https://www.urinow.com/blog/water-pumps-to-prevent-flooding-what-you-need-to-know/): A commercial sump pump can protect your property from severe flooding and potential damage. Learn more about sump pumps and how to protect your property. - [10 Mold Myths: Debunking With Your Restoration Provider](https://www.urinow.com/blog/10-mold-myths-debunking-with-your-restoration-provider/): Property owners and managers should become familiar with common mold myths and the truth behind those beliefs. Read more here about debunking mold myths. - [Protecting Your Commercial Property From a Spring Thaw](https://www.urinow.com/blog/protecting-your-commercial-property-from-a-spring-thaw/): Learn how to protect your commercial property from water damage and flooding caused by a spring thaw. Trust Unlimited Restoration for all your restoration needs. - [How to Thaw Frozen Pipes in a Commercial Property](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-thaw-frozen-pipes-in-a-commercial-property/): Identifying and thawing your commercial property's frozen pipes is crucial to protecting your building. Learn how to prevent frozen pipes from bursting. - [How to Keep Pipes From Freezing](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-keep-pipes-from-freezing/): Discover the temperature at which pipes freeze and some tips for preventing pipe freezing this winter. Get more answers to typical URI problems right now! - [What Is Black Ice? Understanding the Dangers of Winter](https://www.urinow.com/blog/what-is-black-ice-understanding-the-dangers-of-winter/): Examine the risks related to wintertime black ice. To help you navigate this dangerous situation, Unlimited Restoration offers an in-depth guide. - [How to Prepare for a Winter Storm](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-winter-storm/): Winter storms are an unfortunate part of doing business in most areas of the US. Learn all about how you can protect people and property this winter with URI. - [Mold vs. Mildew: What's the Difference?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/mold-vs-mildew-whats-the-difference/): Mold vs. Mildew: What's the difference? Are they dangerous? Which is worse? Discover how mold and mildew differ in this guide from Unlimited Restoration! - [Tips to Prevent a Fire at Your Commercial Property](https://www.urinow.com/blog/tips-to-prevent-a-fire-on-your-property/): Preventing a fire on your commercial property can minimize damage and help reduce the chances of injury during a crisis. Read more tips from URI here! - [A Property Manager's Role in Insurance Claims and Restoration  ](https://www.urinow.com/blog/a-property-managers-role-in-insurance-claims-and-restoration/): A property manager may help negotiate a restoration claim and restore the building. Read more about the role of property managers in disaster relief here. - [The Restoration Process After a Disaster](https://www.urinow.com/blog/the-restoration-process-after-a-disaster/): Navigate the disaster recovery process for your business. Learn essential steps for restoration, from pre-planning and mitigation to immediate actions and building resilience. Discover how to protect your commercial property and aid community recovery. - [11 Types of Mold — What to Look For](https://www.urinow.com/blog/common-types-of-mold-what-to-look-for/): Do you want to protect your business and employees from mold growth? Click here to learn common mold types and preventative habits with URI today! - [Ceiling Water Damage: A Complete Guide](https://www.urinow.com/blog/ceiling-water-damage-a-complete-guide/): If your company is aware of the warning signals and ensures that your roof is correctly sealed, ceiling water damage can be prevented or reduced. For more, see this instructions! - [Commercial Property Maintenance Tips for Summer](https://www.urinow.com/blog/commercial-property-maintenance-tips-for-summer/): Preventative maintenance for commercial properties is critical in minimizing the cost, time and effort involved with projects that will inevitably arise. - [Ice Dam Prevention for Commercial Buildings](https://www.urinow.com/blog/ice-dam-prevention-for-commercial-buildings/): Protect your commercial building from damaging ice dams! Learn how to prevent them, safeguard your roof from harm, and avoid costly repairs. Get expert tips on insulation, snow removal, and air leak fixes to keep your property safe. - [How Does Flood Risk Affect Your Property Value?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-does-flooding-affect-your-property-value/): Knowing your area's flood risk and ways to prevent damage helps protect your commercial property from floods. Learn how flood risk impacts property value! - [Prepare for Hurricane Season with the URI ERP](https://www.urinow.com/blog/prepare-for-hurricane-season-with-the-uri-erp/): Unlimited Restoration offers a new way to prepare your commercial or industrial property for the upcoming 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Learn more here! - [7 Steps to Take After Heavy Water Damage](https://www.urinow.com/blog/7-steps-to-take-after-heavy-water-damage/): Read more about seven essential steps to take after commercial water damage. Contact Unlimited Restoration To Learn About Our Water Restoration Services! - [Commercial Property Maintenance Tips for Winter](https://www.urinow.com/blog/commercial-property-maintenance-tips-for-winter/): Don't let winter sneak up on you and your business. Get ready for the cold with these commercial property maintenance tips. Learn more here! - [Is Global Warming Increasing the Risks of Wildfires?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/is-global-warming-increasing-the-risks-of-wildfires/): Global warming is fueling more intense wildfires at higher elevations, putting businesses and communities at risk. Learn the causes, trends, and how Unlimited Restoration, Inc. can help with fire damage recovery. - [How to Prepare Your Business for Drought Risk](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prepare-your-business-for-drought-risk/): Is your business prepared for drought? Learn 3 essential tips to reduce risk and maintain operations during water shortages. Explore expert drought planning support from Unlimited Restoration, Inc. - [Can AI Predict Natural Disasters?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/can-ai-predict-natural-disasters/): Predicting natural disasters with artificial intelligence increases response times and save lives. Read About the Advantages and Limitations of AI Today! - [Are Natural Disasters Increasing?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/are-natural-disasters-increasing/): As climate change continues, the number of natural disasters increases every year. Learn more about climate change, natural disasters and how URI can help! - [The Complete Guide to Asbestos](https://www.urinow.com/blog/complete-guide-to-asbestos/): Searching for info on asbestos? Check out this complete guide from the experts at Unlimited Restoration. Read more and contact us for asbestos solutions! - [Business Continuity Plan vs. Disaster Relief Plan](https://www.urinow.com/blog/business-continuity-vs-disaster-relief-plan/): A business continuity plan (BCP) is a comprehensive plan outlining how a company will continue to operate in the event of a natural disaster. Learn More! - [12 Days of Restoration](https://www.urinow.com/blog/12-days-of-restoration/): Join Unlimited Restoration, Inc. in celebrating the 12 Days of Restoration highlighting our commercial and industrial restoration processes! - [René Carter Announced as CREWBaltimore 2021 Circle of Excellence Award Finalist](https://www.urinow.com/blog/carter-award-finalist/): René Carter, Senior Account Executive at Unlimited Restoration, Inc., announced as CREWBaltimore 2021 Circle of Excellence Award Finalist. Learn More! - [What Are Pinhole Eye Hurricanes?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/what-are-pinhole-eye-hurricanes/): While the eyes of these hurricanes are still quite calm, pinpoint eye hurricanes have historically been among the most intense and destructive. - [Disaster Preparedness Checklist](https://www.urinow.com/blog/disaster-preparedness-checklist/): Make sure you're protecting your business and employees by considering this disaster preparedness checklist. Contact URI for Disaster Planning Services! - [How to Choose a Quality Restoration Company ](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-know-the-quality-of-a-restoration-company/): Picking the right restoration company is crucial to your business's success after a disaster. Discover how to choose a quality company with this guide! - [How to Clean a Commercial Fridge After a Hurricane](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-clean-a-commerical-fridge-after-a-hurricane/): Learn how to clean a commercial fridge after a hurricane with this guide. Contact Unlimited Restoration for Further Details About Emergency Response. - [When Are You at Most Risk of Hurricanes?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/when-are-you-at-most-risk-of-hurricanes/): Discover when you are at most risk of hurricanes so you won't be caught off guard. Contact URI To Create a Hurricane Relief Plan For Your Business Today! - [Educating Children About Natural Disasters](https://www.urinow.com/blog/educating-children-about-natural-disasters/): Educating children about natural disasters helps prepare them for all scenarios and know how to react in an emergency situation. Contact URI to learn more! - [What's That Smell? 3 Hurricane Odors Explained](https://www.urinow.com/blog/whats-that-smell-3-hurricane-odors-explained/): What does it smell like after a hurricane? Learn about common hurricane odors and why they appear. For More Information, Contact Unlimited Restoration! - [5 Signs You Have a Hidden Mold Problem](https://www.urinow.com/blog/5-signs-you-have-a-hidden-mold-problem/): Wondering if you have a hidden mold problem in your building? Learn common signs of mold, how to detect mold in walls and solutions for mold growth. - [Why Find a Restoration Company Before a Disaster?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/why-find-a-restoration-company-before-a-disaster/): Preparation is crucial for minimizing damage and preventing interruptions to your business’s operations. Speak to a Disaster Planning Expert Today! - [Commercial Safety Guidelines and Maintenance Schedules](https://www.urinow.com/blog/commercial-safety-guidelines-and-maintenance-schedules/): Know how to respond to damage to your commercial property before disaster strikes. Refer to our checklist at URI and contact us for restoration aid. - [How You Can Support a Business Post-Disaster](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-you-can-support-a-business-post-disaster/): Do you know the best way to help a business recover after a disaster? Trust us! At Unlimited Restoration, we have support services for all businesses. - [How to Prepare Your Employees for Disasters](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prepare-your-employees-for-disasters/): Prepare for any natural disaster with an emergency plan. You can also contact Unlimited Restoration, and we'll help you get back to work quickly! - [The Ultimate Guide to Earthquake Preparation ](https://www.urinow.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-earthquake-preparation/): Before an earthquake strikes, there are a few steps you can take to prepare. At URI, we can help you be more prepared with our disaster planning services. - [How to Remove Tobacco Smoke Odor](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-remove-tobacco-smoke-odor/): You most likely need an expert services from URI if you've tried to get rid of cigarette odors in a room but it's still there! - [The Benefits of a Dehumidifier](https://www.urinow.com/blog/benefits-of-a-dehumidifier/): Reducing high humidity levels will pay off. Read our post about the benefits of a dehumidifier and see why one could be a good investment. Learn More! - [How to Deep Clean a Dishwasher](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-deep-clean-a-dishwasher/): Keeping commercial dishwashers clean is essential to avoid fires or flooding. Read our blog on how to deep clean a dishwasher. Learn More! - [Tips for Preventing Grease Fires](https://www.urinow.com/blog/tips-for-preventing-grease-fires/): Learn how grease fires start, how to extinguish them and tips to prevent them in the first place. Contact Unlimited Restoration for more information. - [Warning Signs: When to Know There Is a Mold Problem](https://www.urinow.com/blog/warning-signs-when-to-know-there-is-a-mold-problem/): Concerned about mold in your commercial property? Learn common warning signs and ways to prevent mold from growing. For Help, Contact URI. - [Floor Restoration After a Flood — Repair or Replace?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/floor-restoration-after-flood/): After a rainstorm or leak has flooded your commercial space, you need a game plan for restoring or replacing your flooded floors. Contact URI Today! - [A Complete Guide to Water Restoration (and Our Step-By-Step Process)](https://www.urinow.com/blog/water-restoration-guide/): Learn professional advice & techniques for restoring water damage. Unlimited Restoration provides comprehensive instructions for successful water restoration. - [How to Remove Mothball Odor](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-remove-mothball-odor/): If you have ever opened a closet or storage space and encountered a pungent and sour smell, it probably contained mothballs. - [When to Call Mold Removal Services](https://www.urinow.com/blog/when-to-call-mold-removal-services/): Mold growth is a common problem for homes and businesses. But how do you know when it's time to hire professional mold removal services? - [Severe Thunderstorm Watch, Warning or Advisory: What's the Difference?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/severe-thunderstorm-watch-warning-advisory/): When severe thunderstorms are in the forecast, you know you are in store for extreme weather. - [How to Change Your Cleaning Routine for COVID-19](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-change-your-cleaning-routine-for-covid-19/): A regular cleaning routine is essential to any business. With high-touch areas needing more care than usual due to the current COVID-19. - [6 Netflix Movies About Disasters](https://www.urinow.com/blog/6-netflix-movies-about-disasters/): Believe it or not, some disasters can be fun and entertaining — as long as they happen on the big screen (or your TV screen) and not in real life! - [How to Prevent Disasters for Stress-Free Holidays](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prevent-disasters-for-stress-free-holidays/): These tips can help you experience a joyous, stress-free holiday season. Contact Us Today for More Helpful Advice for Avoiding Holiday Disasters! - [How to Prepare for a Blizzard](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-blizzard/): Stay ahead of the blizzard's path and severity by listening to or watching the news or receiving weather alerts on your mobile device. Read More! - [How to Prevent Bursting Pipes](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prevent-bursting-pipes/): When pipes burst, they release water that can damage your floor and walls and, on multilevel structures, leak through to the lower rooms. Learn More! - [6 Steps for Hotel Flood Prevention](https://www.urinow.com/blog/6-steps-for-hotel-flood-prevention/): A flood can have devastating financial consequences for a hotel. Contact Us To Learn More About What You Can Use To Prevent Flooding at Your Hotel. - [The Do's and Don’ts of Hospital Fire Safety](https://www.urinow.com/blog/the-dos-and-donts-of-hospital-fire-safety/): Fires are destructive for any business, but the response becomes much more involved in hospitals. Moving patients may pose severe risks to their health. - [How to Prevent Flooding in Restaurants](https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prevent-flooding-in-restaurants/): From broken water pipes to full-blown hurricanes, many things can cause flooding in your establishment. Learn How We Can Help You Amid a Disaster. - [4 Common Disasters Faced by Businesses (and How to Avoid Them)](https://www.urinow.com/blog/4-common-disasters-faced-by-businesses-and-how-to-avoid-them/): An emergency preparedness plan for the workplace is the key to a quick recovery. Unlimited Restoration is here for you 24/7/365. Contact us today! - [6 Common Causes of Water Damage](https://www.urinow.com/blog/6-common-causes-of-water-damage/): Controlling water damage sources helps you create a safer work environment. Unlimited Restoration will assist with water extraction and drying. Contact us! - [Why You Shouldn't Conduct Your Own Water Damage Restoration](https://www.urinow.com/blog/why-you-shouldnt-conduct-your-own-water-damage-restoration/): Does your facility need water damage repair? Conducting your own water damage restoration can be hazardous. Trust URI to Repair Your Building! - [Why You Shouldn't Remove Mold Yourself](https://www.urinow.com/blog/why-you-shouldnt-remove-mold-yourself/): Need to know how to get rid of mold in your building? DIY mold removal isn't the answer! URI has mold removal experts who can eliminate the problem safely. - [Best Practices for Addressing Disasters on Social Media](https://www.urinow.com/blog/best-practices-for-addressing-disasters-on-social-media/): It's essential to have a plan for addressing natural disasters or any emergency that involves social media engagement. - [Why Find a Restoration Company Before a Disaster?](https://www.urinow.com/blog/find-restoration-company-before-disaster/): Disasters can strike at any time, so sign up for a restoration plan to mitigate the effects and get your business back to work. Contact URI today! - [The 3 Different Types of Water Damage](https://www.urinow.com/blog/different-types-of-water-damage/): Learn about the different types of water damage - there are 3 categories. Contact Us Today To Learn More About Our Water Damage Restoration Services! --- ## Projects - [Water Damage Emergency Response - Condo](https://www.urinow.com/projects/water-damage-emergency-response-condo/): URI provided water damage emergency response services to a multi-family residential condo property in West Palm Beach. Learn more here! - [Water Damage Mitigation – University Building](https://www.urinow.com/projects/water-damage-mitigation-for-university-client/): URI provided water damage mitigation services to a DMV-area university, minimizing disruption for students, faculty, and staff. Learn more here! - [Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration - High-Rise Student Housing](https://www.urinow.com/projects/fire-and-smoke-damage-restoration-high-rise-student-housing/): URI provided fire and smoke damage restoration services to a Philadelphia university, minimizing disruption for their student residents. - [Specialty Containment – Infection Prevention & Control](https://www.urinow.com/projects/specialty-containment-infection-prevention-control/): Learn about a recent project where URI provided specialty containment construction for the purpose of Infection Prevention & Control. - [Temple University Water Damage Restoration](https://www.urinow.com/projects/university-water-damage/): 19 floors of a high-rise university student housing building in Philadelphia, PA were impacted by large-scale water damage. Learn about URI's response here. - [Continuing Care Retirement Community Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration](https://www.urinow.com/projects/fire-smoke-damage-restoration-ccrc/): URI recently provided fire and smoke damage restoration services to a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) client in Annapolis, MD. - [Education Facility Water Damage Response](https://www.urinow.com/projects/recent-projects-education-facility-water-damage-response-case-study/): Unlimited Restoration provided an education facility emergency water damage response to minimize disruption. Learn more in this case study! - [Temporary Boiler Installation and Maintenance](https://www.urinow.com/projects/recent-projects-temporary-boiler-installation-and-maintenance-case-study/): Learn how Unlimited Restoration provided multi-family residential clients temporary boiler installation and maintenance services. - [Contents Relocation of Significant Collections](https://www.urinow.com/projects/content-relocation-of-significant-collections/): Unlimited Restoration provides contents relocation services for significant anthropological collections at a University. - [Port Arthur School District](https://www.urinow.com/projects/port-arthur-school-district/): Discover how URI helped the Port Arthur School District recover after Hurricane Harvey. See our emergency restoration efforts, including debris removal and specialty drying equipment, that got their schools ready to rebuild and reopen. - [Howard University](https://www.urinow.com/projects/howard-university/): A steam plant malfunction caused multiple pipes to break at Howard University, affecting several buildings. Find out how URI dried and restored them. - [Electronics Recycler](https://www.urinow.com/projects/electronics-recycler/): 100,000 Sq. Ft Production Facility suffered smoke damage from a fire. With URI's help, they were able to resume operation in less time, saving thousands! - [Molten Salt Baths - Explosion](https://www.urinow.com/projects/molten-salt-baths-explosion/): Failure of a mechanized gantry system caused the explosive release of over a ton of molten salt. URI provided disaster recovery services. Find Out More! - [Pit Installed Gym Floor](https://www.urinow.com/projects/pit-installed-gym-floor/): Unlimited Restoration was called in to handle specialized drying of a “pit installed” gym floor that had been affected by flood damage. Read More. - [Fiberglass Tank Manufacturer](https://www.urinow.com/projects/fiberglass-tank-manufacturer/): In April 2011, a fiberglass tank manufacturer sustained tornado damage to 5 buildings in Alabama. Find out how URI provided effective disaster response! - [The Villages at Pine Valley](https://www.urinow.com/projects/the-villages-at-pine-valley/): URI was called to respond to a fire on the 4th floor of an active adult senior living condominium complex in PA, to prevent further damage. Find Out More! --- ## Testimonials - [Allison Waldman - Portofino Condominium - Condo - WPB](https://www.urinow.com/testimonial/condo-water-damage-mitigation-testimonial/): A Community Association Manager in West Palm Beach, FL provides a testimonial for partnering with URI during a water damage emergency! --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages > We provide disaster damage mitigation, commercial restoration and emergency response giveaway to keep your business up and running. Contact Us Today! - Published: 2025-04-14 - Modified: 2025-05-07 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/giveaway/ Restoration Services Disaster can strike your property at any time. Fires, floods and emergencies can cause severe damage, putting your business activities on hold and affecting the lives of your employees and the customers who rely on you. When your business or property faces a disaster, you want to limit your downtime and get back You’ve Earned a Vacation — Let URI Get You There! Enter to win a travel voucher. Land, Air, or Sea we’ll get you there. Valued up to $899, this travel credit can be used for land, air, or sea adventures through The Travel Store. How to Enter: Fill out the form below on this page Keep an eye on your email to see when we announce the winner! The winner is announced Monday May 12th What You’ll Receive: A travel credit valued up to $899 Flexible redemption options — cruise, resort, flights, or more Your next vacation planned... on us! Important Notes: The $899 prize is issued as a travel credit or gift certificate, redeemable for most major cruise lines, airlines, and resort destinations through The Travel Store. Final booking prices may vary depending on the chosen dates and destinations. URI will cover travel expenses up to the awarded amount. Any additional costs are the responsibility of the winner. Ready to escape the office? Enter now and start packing! First Name* Last Name* Email* Phone* Company* Job Title* Property Address* This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. --- > URI is proud to offer continuing education resources designed for Facility Managers, Property Managers, Building Owners, and more! - Published: 2023-08-11 - Modified: 2023-08-11 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/continuing-education-resources-the-peterson-cos/ Mitigation vs. Restoration for Water Damage This content is password protected. To view it please enter your password below: Password: --- > Prepare your business for any disaster with URI's Emergency Response Plan Questionnaire. Proactively assess your needs, protect your commercial property, and ensure business continuity. Get started on safeguarding your assets and operations today. - Published: 2022-10-03 - Modified: 2025-06-19 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/uri-emergency-response-plan-questionnaire/ *Disclaimer: All information is securely collected and confidential. --- > URI is proud to offer complete renovation services for commercial, industrial and multi-family residential properties. Learn more here! - Published: 2022-05-27 - Modified: 2023-05-12 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/services/specialized-services/renovation-services/ As a full-service commercial and industrial property restoration contractor, Unlimited Restoration is equipped to handle the reconstruction or repair for buildings damaged by water, fire, mold, storms or other disasters. Unlimited Restoration also offers construction services for projects not directly related to disaster recovery efforts, ranging from ranging from rehabilitation/development upgrades or modifications and remodeling function get_style { return "none"; } function end_ { document. getElementById('open-tab-2'). style. display = get_style; } In addition to our extensive expertise in commercial construction, we understand the importance of ensuring a safe and healthy environment for all project stakeholders. With clients often managing their own health needs, we’re committed to accommodating specific requests that promote wellness on the job site. For example, team members and clients alike who rely on medications, such as Rybelsus 3 mg and 7 mg for diabetes management, can trust that our workspaces are designed to support convenient and secure medication access throughout the day. This approach not only ensures a productive work environment but also promotes a culture of inclusivity and consideration. Our Total Project Management philosophy extends to health and safety considerations, allowing us to address individual needs comprehensively. By integrating wellness into our project planning, we create spaces that support both physical and operational well-being. end_; --- > URI offices in Philadelphia, Baltimore, DC, Orlando, and Tampa are always looking for top talent - view all of the current job openings available now! - Published: 2021-12-30 - Modified: 2024-10-08 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/about-uri/join-our-team/ Our Core Values Values Statement With truth and accountability in our actions and communication, we work towards a common goal, growing together and persevering in all that we do. If you agree with our values, APPLY today! Truth Truth Truth Courageous conversation; speaks openly; minimizes politics; willingness to disclose; truth controls action. Close Direction Direction Direction Meet the Corporate Team Rodney ONealPrincipalOffice Location: BaltimoreMike Feulner, CPACEOOffice Location: TampaKen KummererCFOOffice Location: PhiladelphiaShavona BoykinAccounts Receivable ManagerOffice Location: RemoteCarlos CatalaniRegional DirectorOffice Location: OrlandoEric HowardLarge Loss Operations ManagerOffice Location: West Palm BeachJacob KlippHealthcare, Environmental Operations ManagerOffice Location: PhiladelphiaErin NickersonDirector of Sales - FLOffice Location: West Palm BeachGail PhillipsAccounts Payable ManagerOffice Location: Philadelphia --- > 25+ Years of quality service in emergency response and disaster restoration services for commercial & industrial buildings. See why our customers love us! - Published: 2021-12-30 - Modified: 2025-05-12 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/about-uri/testimonials/ “Our business interruption was kept to a minimum, which we really appreciate. In the year that I have done business with your company, I have had nothing but great results.” – General Manager, Management Company, Pennsylvania State University “Our business interruption was kept to a minimum, which we really appreciate. In the year that I https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=A0e67bN4B8k --- > We offer free school emergency preparedness plans for fast and professional disaster restoration services at your educational property. Learn More! - Published: 2021-12-21 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/industries/education/ 888.327.9664 Disaster Management for Educational Properties From small, private schools to sprawling universities with multiple campuses, educational properties take many sizes and forms. These institutions are necessary for community strength, learning and morale and must overcome in the event of an emergency. If your school or campus sustains damage from a disaster, you need to https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=A0e67bN4B8k --- > Rodney ONeal, Founder & Principal, and Mike Feulner, Chief Executive Officer, serve as leaders of Unlimited Restoration, Inc. Meet the Rest of the Team! - Published: 2021-12-14 - Modified: 2023-12-01 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/about-uri/uri-leadership/ Leadership Team The URI Leadership team consists of Founder and Principal, Rodney ONeal and Chief Executive Officer, Mike Feulner. With over 35 years of experience in the emergency restoration services industry between the two and their “hands-on” management styles, they are enthusiastically involved in the day-to-day URI restoration operations. Rodney ONealFounder & PrincipalOffice Location: BaltimoreMike Feulner, CPAChief Executive OfficerOffice Location: TampaKen KummererChief Financial OfficerOffice Location: Philadelphia --- > We apply a proven fire and smoke restoration process to address the damage and get your business back up and running. Contact Our Team at URI Today! - Published: 2021-12-02 - Modified: 2024-12-31 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/services/fire-damage-restoration/ Contact Our Team Professional Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Fires of any size cause immediate and visible damage, but once the flames are extinguished, the costly losses can start to add up. If your business has a fire, you lose the capacity to operate until you have the damage addressed by a professional restoration company. function get_style { return "none"; } function end_ { document. getElementById('ls-md-cf-3'). style. display = get_style; } In addition to the immediate concerns following a fire, business owners may also face challenges related to employee health and wellness. For instance, disruptions in access to essential medications, like Cialis, can become an unexpected concern for employees managing ongoing health needs. At URI, we recognize the importance of supporting your workforce during such disruptions, whether through streamlined solutions for accessing prescriptions or providing guidance on temporary healthcare adjustments. Fire restoration goes beyond rebuilding walls; it’s about re-establishing a safe and supportive environment for everyone affected. By partnering with us, you can be assured that we prioritize both structural and human elements in recovery. Ensuring access to medications and health support helps maintain employee stability and well-being during challenging times. This holistic approach is part of what makes our restoration process comprehensive and effective. end_; --- > URI provides the solution with comprehensive water damage restoration services, including emergency planning and response. Speak to An Expert Today! - Published: 2021-12-02 - Modified: 2024-11-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/services/water-damage-restoration/ Contact Us Water Damage Restoration Whether from a flood, storm or other disaster, water damage represents one of the top liabilities for business owners and property managers. Leaks, standing water, flooding and more cause damage that spreads fast, destroying property and creating a haven for mold. URI provides the solution with comprehensive water damage restoration In situations where water damage leads to extended downtime, the well-being of employees and management can also be affected. For individuals relying on medications like Cenforce, prolonged disruptions can lead to challenges in accessing their needed treatments, especially if local pharmacies are impacted. At URI, we understand the importance of restoring not just the physical workspace but also supporting the health of those affected. We offer guidance to our clients on maintaining access to medical needs, from prescription support to referrals for nearby resources. By addressing both the structural and human aspects of recovery, we help businesses resume normal operations smoothly. In doing so, we prioritize a holistic restoration that keeps the well-being of everyone in mind. This comprehensive approach is why so many clients trust us with their recovery needs. --- --- ## Posts > Stay prepared with URI’s 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season Guide. This blog post covers expert forecasts, preparedness tips, and risk management strategies to help protect your property and people during hurricane season. - Published: 2025-05-29 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/2025-atlantic-hurricane-season-guide-presented-by-uri/ - Categories: Emergency Response Planning, Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, industrial property restoration The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, 2025. Early forecasts from both NOAA and Colorado State University project an above-average season, with 13–19 named storms, 6–10 hurricanes, and 3–5 major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher). Contributing factors include unusually warm Atlantic sea surface temperatures, ENSO-neutral conditions, and reduced wind shear—all of which support increased tropical activity across the Atlantic basin. Preparation is essential to protect yourself, your loved ones, your tenants, and your property. That’s why we’ve created this updated guide filled with practical resources to help you get ready. Whether you manage properties, oversee facilities, or are preparing your own home, this guide is built to support your planning. We’re On It! At Unlimited Restoration, “We’re On It” isn’t just a tagline—it’s our culture. It means you can count on our team to respond quickly, work safely, and communicate clearly when disaster strikes. We stand by our commitment to dependable service and real results. We hope you find the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season Guide helpful. Download your copy here. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at 888. 327. 9664 or info@urinow. com. --- > What does "shoring" mean, and why is it an important part of commercial property restoration? Learn more from URI here. - Published: 2025-02-05 - Modified: 2025-02-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/understanding-shoring/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, industrial property restoration When disaster strikes, whether through fire, flooding, or storm damage, the primary goal of any commercial property restoration contractor is to return the property to a safe, functional, and operational condition. One key term you might hear in the restoration process is "shoring. " But what does this mean, and why is it an important part of property recovery? What is Shoring in Property Restoration? Shoring refers to the critical initial step in the restoration process where the affected property is made safe and stable after an emergency. Shoring services ensure the structure is no longer at risk of further damage, vandalism, or exposure to the elements, providing temporary or permanent solutions to mitigate potential hazards. For example, after a major storm or fire, windows might be shattered, walls weakened, or the roof compromised. Shoring involves boarding up windows, reinforcing structural elements, or covering roofs with tarps to prevent further damage until more permanent repairs can be made. Without shoring, properties are left vulnerable, which could escalate damage or delay restoration. Why Shoring is Crucial Shoring goes beyond physical repairs—it's about preventing additional damage and ensuring safety. After an event like a flood or fire, the property may be unstable. A weakened structure can collapse or expose the interior to weather damage. Moreover, properties left unsecured can become targets for theft, vandalism, or trespassing, which could increase liability risks and result in further property damage. Here are a few key reasons why shoring is such an essential service in the... --- > Learn important tips on preventing frozen pipes and how you can pinpoint vulnerable areas in your facility as the temperatures drop URI. - Published: 2025-01-21 - Modified: 2025-01-21 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/preventing-frozen-pipes/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, industrial property restoration Winter is a challenging season for property and facility managers of commercial and industrial properties, with frozen pipes being one of the most common seasonal issues. When a frozen pipe thaws, it can burst, resulting in water damage, costly repairs and disruption normal business operations. The good news? Many frozen pipe incidents are preventable with proactive risk identification. Learn how you and your teams can pinpoint vulnerable areas in your facility as the temperatures drop. Key Areas to Watch for Frozen Pipes Unheated Spaces Risk Zones: Basements, crawl spaces, attics, and storage rooms that lack proper insulation or heating. Prevention Tip: Add insulation to exposed pipes in these areas and consider portable heating solutions if feasible. Exterior Walls Risk Zones: Pipes located along outer walls or in poorly insulated building sections. Prevention Tip: Seal gaps or cracks in walls to block cold air and wrap pipes in heat tape or insulation. Loading Docks and Garage Areas Risk Zones: Overhead doors often create drafty environments where pipes may be exposed. Prevention Tip: Use weather stripping and ensure these areas remain above freezing. Under-Used Facilities Risk Zones: Vacant units, storage facilities, or rarely accessed parts of the building. Prevention Tip: Maintain minimum heat levels and conduct regular inspections to ensure pipes are safe. Roof and Ceiling Spaces Risk Zones: Pipes running through under-insulated ceilings or areas exposed to extreme cold via the roof. Prevention Tip: Inspect insulation and monitor roof integrity to minimize temperature fluctuations. Sprinkler Systems Risk Zones: Fire suppression systems... --- > Healthcare FMs: Learn why you should never see air movers used in Healthcare property restoration in URI's latest blog post here. - Published: 2025-01-09 - Modified: 2025-01-09 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/why-you-should-never-see-air-movers-used-in-healthcare-property-restoration/ - Categories: Healthcare Property Restoration - Tags: commercial property restoration, fire and smoke restoration, healthcare property restoration When disaster strikes a Healthcare facility, time and precision are of the essence. Whether it’s water damage from a burst pipe or an unexpected storm, the primary goal is to restore the affected area quickly, safely, and with minimal disruption to patient care. However, achieving this requires specialized knowledge of Healthcare environments, and not all restoration tools are appropriate for these settings. One tool that should never be used during a Healthcare property loss is the standard air mover. While air movers are a staple in the restoration industry for their efficiency in drying spaces, they pose significant risks in Healthcare facilities. The Risks of Air Movers in Healthcare Property Restoration Cross-ContaminationAir movers operate by forcefully circulating air to expedite drying. In a Healthcare facility, this can inadvertently spread contaminants, including mold spores, bacteria, and other pathogens, to clean areas. Hospitals, clinics, and laboratories are highly controlled environments where infection control is paramount. The unintended dissemination of contaminants can endanger patient health and compromise sterile zones. Disruption of Airflow SystemsHealthcare properties are equipped with complex HVAC systems, often designed with pressurization zones to maintain specific airflows. For instance, operating rooms, isolation rooms, and clean rooms rely on positive or negative air pressure to prevent the spread of airborne particles. Introducing an air mover can disrupt these delicate balances, undermining infection control protocols and regulatory compliance. Regulatory Non-ComplianceRegulatory agencies, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Joint Commission, set strict standards for infection control and environmental safety... --- > Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI) explains the importance of understanding snow loads to safeguard your commercial property this winter. - Published: 2025-01-06 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/snow-loads-for-commercial-roofs/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration Every roof has a dead load and a snow load that depends on its structure and materials. It's essential to know your commercial roof's snow load and continually monitor for signs of collapse during and after winter storms.   What Is a Snow Load? Snow load is the pressure exerted on your roof after a snowfall resulting from the weight of the compacted snow. There's your roof's dead load, which is the normal, permanent pressure exerted on your roof from its fixtures and materials — and then there's live load. Live load is ever-changing, and it depends on the density of the snow. The force exerted onto your roof from the collected snow and ice can differ depending on the snow's moisture content as well. The structure of your roof, the moisture content of the snow, the amount of accumulation and its distribution impact your roof's ability to bear the snow load. Structure and Materials Determine Commercial Roof Snow Loads  Your roof's structure and materials play critical roles in supporting heavy snow loads. Naturally, low-sloped roofs are more likely to collect snow than pitched roofs. A low-sloped roof made of a nonslip material like asphalt shingles is even more likely to hold onto snow than a metal pitched roof. Flat, saw-toothed and stepped roofs with valleys between slopes can also collect more snow than other roofs. Warning Signs of a Dangerous Roof or Potential Collapse If your commercial property is older — or was built before the enforcement of building... --- > URI shares five practical year-end tips to help property and facility management professionals close 2024 strong. Learn more here! - Published: 2024-12-06 - Modified: 2025-01-06 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/closing-the-year-strong-year-end-tips-for-property-and-facility-managers/ - Categories: Emergency Response Planning, Facility Management Topics, Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, emergency response planning, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration As the end of the year approaches, property and facility managers face a critical time to wrap up projects, address outstanding maintenance issues, and plan for the coming year. A well-executed year-end strategy can not only ensure smooth operations but also set the stage for a successful year ahead. Here are five practical year-end tips to help you close 2024 strong. 1. Conduct a Comprehensive Year-End Inspection Schedule a walk-through of your property or facility to identify any issues that need immediate attention. Focus on: Structural Integrity: Look for cracks, leaks, or other signs of wear and tear that could worsen during the cold winter months. HVAC Systems: Test and service heating systems to ensure they’re running efficiently. Exterior Areas: Check parking lots, sidewalks, and landscaping for damage or hazards caused by seasonal changes. Document findings and prioritize urgent repairs to avoid costly surprises. Have you heard of our URI ERP? It can help organize your property-specific data all in one easy to use app right on your phone! Learn more here. 2. Review and Update Maintenance Records Ensure that all maintenance logs are up-to-date and organized. A clear record of completed tasks, inspections, and repairs helps: Track recurring issues. Demonstrate compliance with safety regulations. Simplify planning for next year’s maintenance schedule. If any records are missing or incomplete, now’s the time to fill those gaps. 3. Tackle Deferred Maintenance Sometimes, year-end budgets allow you to address deferred maintenance tasks. Consider investing in: Roof repairs or replacements. Elevator inspections and... --- > URI created this round-up of Holiday Decorating Safety Tips for Facility Managers. Check it out here and have a Happy Holiday Season! - Published: 2024-11-21 - Modified: 2025-01-06 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/holiday-decorating-safety-tips/ - Categories: Uncategorized Facility managers often play a crucial role in creating festive, welcoming environments for employees, tenants, and visitors during the holiday season. While decorations enhance the holiday spirit, they can also introduce potential safety hazards if not planned and executed carefully. To keep your facilities safe and festive, here some holiday decorating safety tips for facility managers Holiday Decorating Safety Tips for Facility Managers 1. Start with a Safety Plan Before any decorating begins, conduct a risk assessment. Identify areas where decorations could obstruct exits, interfere with equipment, or create fire hazards. Share safety guidelines with your team or contractors involved in decorating. Clear communication ensures everyone understands how to prioritize safety without compromising the holiday cheer. 2. Choose Safe Decorations Flame-Resistant Materials: Opt for decorations labeled as flame-resistant or flame-retardant, particularly for items near lights or electrical outlets. Shatterproof Ornaments: If using ornaments, select shatterproof varieties to avoid injury risks, especially in high-traffic areas. Artificial Trees: If you’re using a tree, artificial options with fire-resistant certification are safer than real ones, which can dry out and become fire hazards. 3. Mind Electrical Safety Inspect Before Use: Examine lights and electrical decorations for frayed wires, damaged sockets, or loose connections. Replace any defective items. Limit Outlet Use: Avoid overloading outlets or circuits by using extension cords rated for your decorations’ wattage. Utilize surge protectors for added safety. LED Lights: Switch to LED lights—they’re energy-efficient, produce less heat, and reduce the risk of overheating. Outdoor Equipment: Ensure all outdoor decorations are rated... --- > October is National Fire Prevention month. URI compiled the top fire prevention tips for commercial, industrial, and multi-family residential properties. - Published: 2024-09-23 - Modified: 2024-12-06 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/essential-fire-prevention-tips/ - Categories: Uncategorized October is National Fire Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about fire safety and the steps property owners and managers can take to protect their buildings and tenants. Whether you oversee a commercial office building, an industrial facility, or a multi-family residential property, implementing fire prevention measures can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related damage and injuries. As a commercial property restoration contractor, we see firsthand the devastation fires can cause. While we are here to help in the aftermath, our goal is to assist property managers in preventing these disasters in the first place. We have compiled the following essential fire prevention tips for different property types. Fire Prevention Tips for Commercial Properties Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Ensure all fire alarms, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems are inspected and maintained regularly. These systems are the first line of defense in case of a fire. Fire Drills and Evacuation Plans: Conduct regular fire drills for employees and visitors. Having an up-to-date evacuation plan posted in highly visible areas helps ensure everyone knows how to exit the building safely. Proper Storage of Flammable Materials: Store flammable liquids, chemicals, and other combustible materials in approved containers away from heat sources. Make sure storage areas are well-ventilated and equipped with fire suppression systems. Electrical Safety Checks: Schedule routine inspections of electrical systems, wiring, and equipment to identify any potential fire hazards, such as overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. Fire Prevention Tips for Industrial Properties Hazardous Material Handling: In industrial settings, proper handling... --- > Learn more about seasonal duct cleaning for improved air quality at your facility from the latest URI blog post here. - Published: 2024-09-12 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/seasonal-duct-cleaning/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, commercial water damage philadelphia, emergency response planning, fire and smoke restoration, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration Air quality plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy, efficient, and safe environment. Whether you're responsible for an office complex, warehouse, or industrial plant, air quality can significantly impact the well-being of tenants or employees, and the longevity of equipment found within these properties. One often overlooked factor in maintaining optimal air quality is regular duct cleaning. Why Duct Cleaning Matters Air ducts in commercial and industrial facilities accumulate dust, allergens, mold, and other contaminants over time. These particles can circulate through your HVAC system, reducing indoor air quality, causing health concerns, and increasing energy costs. Seasonal duct cleaning is a proactive measure to address these issues and ensure your facility remains a healthy place to work. 1. Improved Indoor Air Quality Dust and debris that collect in air ducts can become breeding grounds for mold, bacteria, and even pests. When air circulates through contaminated ducts, it carries these pollutants into every corner of your building. This can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems for your employees and customers. Seasonal duct cleaning helps remove these contaminants, promoting cleaner air and healthier working conditions. 2. HVAC System Efficiency A dirty HVAC system works harder to maintain the desired temperature in your facility, which increases energy consumption and shortens the system's lifespan. Dust and debris clog filters and reduce airflow, forcing your system to use more energy to keep the environment comfortable. By scheduling regular duct cleaning, you improve the system’s efficiency, lowering operational costs and extending the... --- > Do you know the price of being unprepared? Learn more from the latest URI white paper here. - Published: 2024-09-05 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/the-price-of-being-unprepared-white-paper-by-uri/ - Categories: Commercial water damage, Emergency Response Planning - Tags: commercial property restoration, commercial water damage philadelphia, emergency response planning, hurricane preparedness, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration Do you know the price of being unprepared? September is National Preparedness Month, an annual observance to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. In the world of property management, few things are more devastating than being caught off guard by a disaster. Whether it's a fire, flood, or severe storm, the lack of pre-loss planning can lead to significant financial and operational losses. The multi-family property restoration experts at Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI) put together a white paper that explores the high cost of being unprepared and highlights the importance of proactive pre-loss planning for multi-family residential apartment properties. We hope you find this white paper informative and helpful. Download your complimentary copy today here. Should you have any questions, please reach out at: 888. 327. 9664 or info@urinow. com. --- > Budget season is almost here! Learn how to budget for water damage events at your condo with the help of URI here. - Published: 2024-08-13 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/budgeting-for-water-damage-in-condos/ - Categories: Uncategorized Water damage is a common and potentially costly disaster that can affect condo properties. Properly budgeting for such events can mitigate financial strain and ensure swift restoration, minimizing disruption for residents. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help community association managers prepare for and budget effectively for water damage incidents. 1. Assessing Risk and Potential Damage Identify Vulnerable Areas: Start by identifying the most vulnerable areas in your property. Common sources of water damage include plumbing failures, roof leaks, and natural disasters. Evaluate the Property's Condition: Regular inspections by qualified professionals can help identify potential risks. Pay attention to aging plumbing systems, roof conditions, and drainage systems. Consider the Building’s Layout: Multi-story buildings can suffer extensive damage if water cascades from upper floors to lower levels. Understanding your building’s layout can help in planning effective containment strategies. 2. Creating an Emergency Fund Estimate Potential Costs: Based on your risk assessment, estimate the potential costs of water damage. Include expenses for immediate response, professional restoration services, and potential temporary relocation of residents. Review the average financial spend over the last 3 years in emergency plumbing repairs, unit owner/tenants causing damage to the property, restoration contractor expenses, and drywall repairs. This will show you what your approximate budget should be early that you have been spending over time. Set Aside Funds: Create an emergency fund specifically for water damage incidents. A common recommendation is to set aside at least 3-5% of your condo association's annual operating budget for emergencies. 3. Insurance Coverage Review... --- > With an increase of severe storms this Spring, URI created the 2024 Water Intrusion Damage Guide to help you prepare for a weather event at your property. - Published: 2024-07-12 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/water-intrusion-damage-guide-from-uri/ - Categories: Commercial water damage, Uncategorized, Water Damage Restoration - Tags: commercial property restoration, commercial water damage philadelphia, emergency response planning, hurricane preparedness, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration DID YOU KNOW? Every day, 14,000 people in the United States experience a water damage emergency at home or work. Many consider flood or storm damage as their most significant water-related risk. Yet, weather phenomena are not the leading cause of water damage. Most water damage is more subtle and occurs during everyday routines without warning. The commercial property restoration experts at Unlimited Restoration, Inc. | URI put together a 2024 Water Intrusion Damage Guide full of resources to help you better understand, prepare for, and respond to any water intrusion damage that you may experience at your property. We hope you find this 2024 Water Instrusion Damage Guide useful. Download your complimentary copy today here. Should you have any questions, please reach out at: 888. 327. 9664 or info@urinow. com. --- > Explore specialty containment in commercial property restoration in this blog post from URI, the commercial property restoration experts! - Published: 2024-06-11 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/speciality-containment-in-commercial-property-restoration/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, commercial water damage philadelphia, emergency response planning, fire and smoke restoration, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration Commercial property restoration often presents unique challenges due to the scale and complexity of the structures involved. One crucial aspect that plays a significant role in the restoration process is specialty containment. This technique is essential for managing hazards, ensuring safety, and facilitating efficient restoration work. Let’s dive into what specialty containment is, its importance, and how it's utilized in commercial property restoration projects. What is Specialty Containment? Specialty containment refers to the use of physical barriers and control measures to isolate and contain specific areas within a commercial property. This is typically done to prevent the spread of contaminants, dust, and debris during restoration or remediation activities. These barriers can be temporary or semi-permanent structures, and they are designed to protect both the work environment and the building's occupants. Importance of Specialty Containment 1. Health and Safety A primary reason for using specialty containment is to protect the health and safety of workers and building occupants. During restoration projects, particularly those involving mold, asbestos, lead, or other hazardous materials, containment prevents these substances from spreading to other areas. This minimizes exposure risks and ensures a safer working environment. 2. Compliance with Regulations Regulatory bodies, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), have strict guidelines for handling hazardous materials. Specialty containment helps restoration companies comply with these regulations, avoiding legal issues and potential fines. 3. Minimizing Business Disruption For commercial properties, especially those that need to remain operational during restoration, specialty containment... --- > Restoration contractors play a pivotal role in implementing specialized containment solutions tailored to the unique needs of healthcare facilities. Check out some examples of speciality containment here! - Published: 2024-06-04 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/exploring-specialty-containment-in-healthcare-property-restoration/ - Categories: Healthcare Property Restoration - Tags: commercial property restoration, healthcare property restoration, industrial property restoration, speciality containment In the intricate landscape of healthcare property restoration, ensuring containment is a critical aspect. Containment measures not only safeguard patients, staff, and visitors but also protect the integrity of the overall healthcare environment. Restoration contractors play a pivotal role in implementing specialized containment solutions tailored to the unique needs of healthcare facilities. Let's review various types of specialty containment utilized in healthcare property restoration. Types of Specialty Containment in Healthcare Property Restoration Infection Control Barriers: In healthcare settings, preventing the spread of infections is of the utmost importance. Restoration contractors employ specialized barriers designed to isolate affected areas, minimizing the risk of exposure and cross-contamination. These barriers often require strategic coordination and continuous maintenance to adhere to life safety standards and stringent infection control protocols to maintain a safe environment for patients, staff, building occupants during restoration or other construction activities.   Negative Air Pressure Enclosures: Negative air pressure enclosures create controlled environments by ensuring that air flows from clean areas to contaminated ones, preventing the spread of airborne contaminants. Restoration contractors deploy these enclosures strategically to contain hazardous materials, such as mold spores or airborne pathogens, during restoration processes. HEPA Filtration Systems: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filtration systems are integral to maintaining air quality in healthcare facilities undergoing restoration. These systems capture microscopic particles, including mold spores, dust, and allergens, ensuring that the air circulating within the containment area remains clean and safe for occupants. Chemical Containment Measures: Some restoration projects in healthcare properties involve the removal of hazardous... --- > With an increase of severe storms this Spring, URI created the 2024 Tornado Guide to help you prepare for a weather event at your property. - Published: 2024-05-09 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/2024-tornado-guide-presented-by-uri/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, commercial water damage philadelphia, emergency response planning, hurricane preparedness, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration Tornado season usually refers to the time of year the U. S. sees the most tornado activity. The peak “tornado season” for the southern Plains (ex: Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas) is from May into early June. On the Gulf coast, it is earlier in the spring. In the northern Plains and upper Midwest (ex: North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota), tornado season is in June or July. But, remember, tornadoes can happen at any time of year. Planning and preparation are key to ensuring the safety of yourself, loved ones, your tenants, and your property, which is why we put together this guide full of resources to help prepare you for any potential storm activity. We’ve compiled resources that are applicable for property and facility management professionals, as well as for your tenants or yourself as a homeowner/renter. We’re On It! “We’re On It” is not just a tagline used in our marketing. It’s at the core of who we are and what we do each and every day. It’s our company culture. That’s why when we say: when the unexpected occurs, you can rest assured with Unlimited Restoration - We’re On It! You can trust the URI Team to deliver on our brand promise of response, execution, safety, and transparency. We hope you find this 2024 Tornado Guide useful. Download your complimentary copy today here. Should you have any questions, please reach out at: 888. 327. 9664 or info@urinow. com. --- > Follow these 10 steps to ensure property resilience this hurricane season, brought to you by Unlimited Restoration, Inc. | URI! - Published: 2024-05-07 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/10-steps-to-ensuring-property-resilience/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, emergency response planning, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration Property, Facility, Community, and Association Management Professionals all play a pivotal role in safeguarding the assets and well-being of those under your care. With an anticipatedly active Atlantic Hurricane Season looming, it's crucial to take proactive measures to prepare your properties, facilities, and communities. Here are 10 essential steps to ensure both resilience and readiness this hurricane season: 1. Develop a Comprehensive Plan: Begin by crafting a detailed hurricane preparedness plan tailored to your specific properties, buildings, and even tenants. This plan should encompass evacuation procedures, communication protocols, emergency contacts, and strategies for securing vulnerable areas. 2. Conduct Regular Inspections: Regular inspections of the property's infrastructure can help identify weak points that may exacerbate damage during a hurricane. Pay close attention to roofs, windows, doors, and drainage systems, ensuring they are structurally sound and free of debris. 3. Reinforce Structures: Strengthen the building's resilience by reinforcing vulnerable areas such as windows and doors with impact-resistant materials. Consider installing hurricane shutters or plywood panels to shield windows from flying debris, minimizing the risk of breakage. 4. Trim Trees and Shrubs: Overhanging branches and untrimmed foliage pose a significant hazard during hurricanes, potentially causing damage to buildings and power lines. Trim trees and shrubs regularly to reduce the risk of debris and ensure they won't become projectiles in high winds. 5. Secure Loose Objects: Loose objects around the property, such as signage, outdoor furniture, and equipment, can become projectiles in strong winds, causing significant damage. Secure or store these items indoors before... --- > Atlantic Hurricane Season kicks off June 1st. Prepare in advance to minimize disruption at your property with the 2024 Hurricane Season Guide from URI. - Published: 2024-04-29 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/2024-atlantic-hurricane-season-guide-presented-by-uri/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, commercial water damage philadelphia, emergency response planning, hurricane preparedness, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration The 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season officially begins on June 1, 2024 and ends on November 30, 2024. Early forecasts are indicating a super-charged season could spawn a near-record number of storms in the Atlantic this year, and forecasters may even run out of names for storms amid a frenzy of tropical systems. Planning and preparation are key to ensuring the safety of yourself, loved ones, your tenants, and your property, which is why we put together this guide full of resources to help prepare you for the upcoming storm season. We’ve compiled resources that are applicable for property and facility management professionals, as well as for your tenants or yourself as a homeowner/renter. We’re On It! “We’re On It” is not just a tagline used in our marketing. It’s at the core of who we are and what we do each and every day. It’s our company culture. That’s why when we say: when the unexpected occurs, you can rest assured with Unlimited Restoration - We’re On It! You can trust the URI Team to deliver on our brand promise of response, execution, safety, and transparency. We hope you find this 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season Guide useful. Download your copy today here. Should you have any questions, please reach out at: 888. 327. 9664 or info@urinow. com. --- > URI is proud to be announced as a Highwire Gold Safety Award Winner. Learn more about this prestigious recognition here! - Published: 2024-04-05 - Modified: 2024-06-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/uri-recognized-with-gold-safety-award/ - Categories: Press Releases - Tags: commercial property restoration, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration BURLINGTON, MA: Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI) has received the Gold Safety Award from Highwire, a contractor success platform for builders and owners of capital projects, as part of its prestigious Annual Safety Awards. The Gold Safety Award is presented to companies who score between 85-94 on the Safety Assessment administered by Highwire, an achievement that less than 20% of participating contractors achieve annually. "Management systems are critical to any company's ability to deliver successful outcomes and, most importantly, to keep their employees safe. Unlimited Restoration, Inc. has done a remarkable job implementing a strong safety management system resulting in exceptional safety performance and results," says David Tibbetts, CSP, Highwire’s Chief Safety Officer. Highwire’s Safety Assessment reviews a company’s historic and current safety performance. The program provides a thorough, objective, and consistent evaluation of company performance so clients and contractors can identify, monitor, and mitigate risks more effectively. The results provide a strong indicator of how a contractor values safety and serve as a reliable predictor of future performance. “Safety is one of the four core pillars of our Brand Promise at URI, and arguably the most important” said Mike Feulner, CPA, CEO at Unlimited Restoration, Inc. “It is at the forefront of every job to safeguard our clients, their tenants, and our team. ” Gil Ortiz, Safety & Training Manager at Unlimited Restoration, Inc. went on to say, “It’s exciting to be recognized as part of this elite group of contractors, but the job is never done. We continuously look... --- > Learn what what URI considers "Water Damage 101" to help property or facility management professionals identify and respond to water damage effectively. - Published: 2024-03-14 - Modified: 2024-06-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/water-damage-101-understanding-the-basics/ - Categories: Commercial water damage - Tags: commercial property restoration, commercial water damage cleanup philadelphia, commercial water damage philadelphia, emergency response planning, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration, water damage greater philadelphia, water damage philadelphia Water damage can cause significant harm to commercial, industrial, and multi-family residential properties, leading to costly repairs, disruption to normal business operations, and even potential health risks. To effectively address and mitigate water damage, it is crucial to understand the various categories and classes that define its severity and potential hazards. In this post, we will cover what URI considers Water Damage 101 and explore the different categories and classes of water damage, helping you as a property or facility management professional identify and respond to water-related issues more efficiently. Categories of Water Damage: Water damage is typically categorized into three main categories based on its level of contamination: 1. Category 1: Clean Water Category 1 water damage refers to water that originates from a clean source, posing minimal health risks. This may include water from broken supply lines, sink overflows, or rainwater. While Category 1 water damage is not immediately harmful, it can escalate to more severe categories if left untreated. 2. Category 2: Gray Water Gray water damage involves water that is contaminated to some extent. This water may contain chemicals, microorganisms, or other pollutants, posing a moderate health risk. Examples of gray water sources include dishwasher or washing machine overflows, toilet backups (with no solid waste), or water discharge from sump pumps. 3. Category 3: Black Water Black water damage is the most severe category and poses significant health risks. It contains highly contaminated water that may include sewage, chemicals, pathogens, or other hazardous substances. Floodwater, sewage... --- > Vetting and hiring a new vendor for your community can be a daunting task if you don’t know where to start. Learn more from URI here! - Published: 2024-02-09 - Modified: 2024-06-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/vetting-and-hiring-a-new-vendor-guide-for-cams/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration Vetting and hiring a new vendor for your community can be a daunting task if you don’t know where to look or what skills to looks for. It is also important to maintain a good relationship with your vendor to make sure all projects and transactions go smoothly to minimize any impact or disruption for your community residents. The following how-to guide provides Community Association Managers tips and tricks on what to look for to find the best possible vendor-fit for your community. Do Not Just Settle on the Price When selecting a vendor, a lot of people will just choose the cheapest option, but the cheapest option is not always the best value. It is important to read all details and see what each bid is really offering within their contract. Experience One thing that is very important to consider when looking for an HOA vendor is their level of experience. This not only includes how long they have been in business, but it also encompasses what types of projects they have completed in the past and how they performed. It may be safer to go with a company that has already completed projects that were a similar size and required level of skill. Reputation The reputation of a vendor is another aspect that needs to be considered when making such a choice. The best way to determine whether the vendor has a good or bad reputation is to ask past clients to see whether or not they were... --- > This guide from URI provides facility and property managers tips and tricks on frozen pipes to safeguard your property this winter. - Published: 2024-01-09 - Modified: 2024-03-15 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/frozen-pipes-prevention-tips-and-tricks/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration Winter is a busy time of year for many people and companies. Holidays, cold weather, and the presence of Spring right around the corner can all keep us distracted from the threats that the winter season poses on properties and more specifically the piping networks within them and the risk of frozen pipes. The following guide will provide facility and property managers some tips and tricks on which types of pipes and temperatures to be concerned about as well as preemptive measures you can take to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. How do pipes freeze and why are frozen pipes a problem? Pipes of all different materials are at risk of freezing as they transport water all throughout our properties. Since water freezes at 32°F, you should start to be concerned when the temperature drops significantly below this for a long period of time. Generally, if the outside temperature drops below 20°F for a period of 6 hours or longer, pipes will begin to freeze. That being said, some pipes are more susceptible to freezing than others, which will be discussed in a later section. Why are pipes freezing something to be concerned about? One thing to keep in mind about water is that when it freezes, it expands and takes up more volume. In the case of pipes, when the water freezes and expands in a confined area, it pushes up against the walls of the pipe causing it to break or burst. Once the water unfreezes, it... --- > URI proudly announces the opening of its sixth office in West Palm Beach, FL. Learn more about the expansion here. - Published: 2023-12-04 - Modified: 2024-06-11 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/uri-expands-into-west-palm-beach-fl/ - Categories: Florida, Press Releases - Tags: commercial property restoration, emergency response planning, fire damage restoration west palm beach, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration, storm damage cleanup west palm beach, water damage restoration west palm beach PHILADELPHIA, PA – Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI), a leading commercial and industrial property restoration company, proudly announces the opening of its sixth office, URI West Palm Beach. This strategic expansion marks URI's commitment to providing unparalleled emergency response and full-service restoration services to commercial, industrial, and multi-family residential property clients across Florida. With a proven track record of excellence in property restoration, URI has become a trusted partner for businesses and property owners facing the challenges of fire, water, mold, and storm damage. The opening of URI West Palm Beach further solidifies the company's presence in the Southeastern Florida region and enhances its ability to deliver timely and efficient restoration solutions to clients in that region. "We are thrilled to announce the establishment of URI West Palm Beach, our sixth office, as part of our ongoing commitment to serving the needs of our clients in Southeast Florida," said Mike Feulner, CEO of Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI). "This expansion reflects our dedication to providing top-tier commercial and industrial property restoration services with a focus on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction. " URI West Palm Beach will offer a comprehensive range of restoration services, including but not limited to: Water Damage Restoration Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Mold Remediation Storm Restoration 24/7 Emergency Response Services Full-Service Reconstruction Property Renovation Services The new office is strategically located at 820 North 8th Street - 2, Lantana, FL 33462 to serve clients with properties in West Palm Beach, FL and surrounding areas, ensuring prompt and... --- > URI employee been announced as Volunteer Industry Partner of the Year for 2023 by the IREM West-Central Maryland Chapter 92. Read more! - Published: 2023-11-10 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/carter-announced-irem-92-volunteer-industry-partner-2023/ - Categories: Press Releases BALTIMORE, MD – René Carter, Senior Account Executive at Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI), has been announced as Volunteer Industry Partner of the Year for 2023 by the IREM West-Central Maryland Chapter 92. Carter’s award was announced at the IREM West-Central Maryland Chapter 92 November Dinner Meeting held Wednesday, November 8th at Pinstripes in North Bethesda, MD. The Installation of 2024 Officers and the 2023 Chapter Awards were all celebrated at the event, including a $12,000 donation to the Maryland Food Bank. URI was proud to serve as a sponsor for the event and has served as an industry partner for the Chapter for over 18 years. Thank you to JoAnn Maguire, CPM, immediate past President, for her two years of leadership and commitment to the chapter. Congratulations to Christina Martin, CPM, who was installed as the IREM West-Central MD 2024 Chapter President and to all 10 of the new Chapter Directors installed at the event Wednesday evening. Carter is a tenured member of IREM 92, having joined the group in November 2009. Her commitment to community service far exceeds her involvement with just the IREM West-Central Maryland Chapter, but she is incredibly active with volunteer opportunities associated with the chapter. This year, IREM hosted a Regional Community Action Challenge, a 3-month challenge to give back to our local communities through meaningful and fun volunteer work. Four local IREM Chapters participated in the regional event, including: IREM 8 (the DC Chapter), IREM 16 (the Maryland Chapter), IREM 77 (the Northern Virginia... --- > The use of heaters during cooler months can lead to peculiar odors that Florida tenants or building occupants might find disconcerting. Learn more from URI here. - Published: 2023-11-03 - Modified: 2024-03-15 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/understanding-winter-heating-smells-guide-for-property-managers/ - Categories: Facility Management Topics, Orlando - Tags: commercial property restoration, commercial water damage philadelphia As a property or facility manager in the Sunshine State, you're likely well-acquainted with the numerous seasonal challenges that come with managing properties. While Florida's winters may be mild compared to many other states, the use of heaters during the cooler months can sometimes lead to peculiar odors that tenants or building occupants might find disconcerting. In this blog post, we will explore the various heating smells that property managers in Florida may encounter and provide insights into their causes and solutions. Common Winter Heating Smells Dust and Musty Odors One of the most common smells associated with turning on the heating system after a long period of inactivity is the familiar scent of dust and mustiness. These odors typically arise when the heater's air ducts, vents, and radiators have collected dust and other debris over time. As the heater warms up, it can burn off this accumulated dust, resulting in a musty smell. Solution: To mitigate dust and musty odors, it's advisable to schedule regular HVAC system maintenance, including air duct cleaning and filter replacement. This can significantly reduce the buildup of dust and ensure a more pleasant living environment for your tenants. Burnt or Electrical Odors In some cases, property managers may encounter burnt or electrical odors when the heating system is turned on. These odors can be concerning to tenants and may indicate a potential issue with the heating unit itself. The source of these smells could be overheating components, electrical malfunctions, or the presence of dust... --- > The commercial restoration experts at URI have put together a Complete Guide for Winter Weather Safety Tips for Commercial Properties here! - Published: 2023-11-01 - Modified: 2024-03-15 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/winter-weather-safety-tips-for-commercial-properties/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, emergency response planning, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration As winter approaches, commercial property managers face a unique set of challenges in maintaining the safety and functionality of their facilities. Harsh weather conditions, including snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, can lead to a range of issues that may disrupt operations and put tenants and visitors at risk. At Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI), as dedicated commercial property restoration providers, we understand the importance of a proactive approach to winter weather safety. In this blog post, we will share valuable insights and essential winter weather safety tips for commercial properties to help facility and property managers navigate the winter season successfully. 1. Develop a Comprehensive Winter Maintenance Plan: A well-structured winter maintenance plan is the foundation of a safe and smoothly operating commercial property during the colder months. This plan should define roles and responsibilities, outlining tasks such as snow and ice removal, inspections, and emergency response procedures. Ensure your team is well-prepared and informed about their respective responsibilities. 2. Hire Professional Snow Removal Services: Snow accumulation is a significant concern during winter, especially in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. Investing in professional snow removal services is crucial. Timely and efficient snow removal not only prevents accidents but also safeguards your property's structural integrity by reducing the load on roofs and structures. 3. Maintain Heating Systems: Regular maintenance of heating systems is vital for tenant comfort and property protection. Prior to the onset of winter, schedule inspections and servicing for all heating units. A malfunctioning heating system... --- > René Carter, Senior Account Executive at Unlimited Restoration, Inc., has been acounced as a finalist for the 2023 CREWBaltimore Beacon Awards Gala Circle of Excellence award. - Published: 2023-10-31 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/uri-team-member-announced-as-circle-of-excellence-finalist/ - Categories: Press Releases BALTIMORE, MD – René Carter, Senior Account Executive at Unlimited Restoration, Inc. , has been nominated and chosen as a finalist for the 2023 CREWBaltimore Beacon Awards Gala Circle of Excellence award. The Circle of Excellence award honors a person in the Baltimore commercial real estate community who consistently embodies the CREWBaltimore mission and core values related to Leadership, Excellence, Influence, Advancement, and Community. The 2023 nomination marks the second time Carter has been chosen as a finalist for the prestigious award. The annual cohort of Circle of Excellence award finalists are nominated by their peers from the CREWBaltimore organization. Carter joins Terri Harrington, Managing Principal at Harrington Real Estate Services, and Kristen Ernst, Vice President at The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, as the three Circle of Excellence award finalists for 2023. Carter is a tenured member of CREWBaltimore, having joined the group in 2010 when she began working with Unlimited Restoration, Inc. in the Baltimore market. She has served on the Community Outreach Committee since joining the organization and currently leads the Philanthropy sub-committee. René also served as Director-at-Large from January 2021 – December 2022. As she approaches 14 years of active membership in the group, Carter has gained much from her participation in CREWBaltimore, most notably: “Great connections and friendships with amazing women in commercial real estate in Baltimore. I learn so much about what is happening in the area from the panelists and speakers at the luncheons and on the construction tours,” said Carter. “I highly recommend membership... --- > URI is proud to have been named as the MACUHO 2022-2023 Business Affiliate of the Year at the 2023 MACUHO Conference in College Park, MD. - Published: 2023-10-20 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/uri-named-macuho-2022-2023-business-affiliate-of-the-year/ - Categories: Press Releases - Tags: commercial property restoration, commercial water damage philadelphia, industrial property restoration College Park, MD — Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI) is thrilled to announce that we have been honored with the prestigious MACUHO 2022-2023 Business Affiliate of the Year Award. This esteemed recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to the mission and objectives of the Mid-Atlantic Association of College and University Housing Officers (MACUHO). The Business Affiliate of the Year Award is a testament to our dedication and outstanding contributions to partners within the MACUHO community, as well as our commitment to advancing the goals set forth in the MACUHO mission statement. We are deeply humbled to have been nominated for this award by Brandon Chandler in recognition of our work at Temple University, where we provided emergency response and restoration services for a critical water loss incident in 2023, among other restoration services to minimize disruption for students, faculty, and staff at the University throughout our partnership. MACUHO, with its mission to support all members by offering networking and mentoring opportunities, conducting research on contemporary topics, and providing developmental experiences focused on college and university housing, is an organization that shares our values and principles. We are proud to partner with MACUHO and serve the commercial property restoration needs of institutions within its network. The award was officially presented at the MACUHO Annual Conference, held from October 18 to October 20, 2023, in College Park, MD. This event served as a remarkable platform for professionals in the field of college and university housing to come together, share insights, and celebrate outstanding achievements.... --- > URI explores two popular facility management credentials to help further your FM career in our latest blog post. Learn more here! - Published: 2023-10-10 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/facility-management-credentials-to-help-further-your-career/ - Categories: Facility Management Topics - Tags: certified facility manager, facility management credentials, facility management partner, facility management professional, facility managers As a facilities management professional, there are a number of ways to advance in the constantly evolving FM field and a tried and true method to help further your career is through achieving facility management credentials. Let's explore two of the most popular facility management credentials offered by our friends at the International Facilities Management Association (IFMA) - the Facilities Management Professional (FMP) and the Certified Facility Manager (CFM). Which facility management credential is right for you? Both the CFM and FMP certifications equip professionals with skills that boost employability and professional mobility. They provide a solid foundation in key aspects of facility management, such as operations and maintenance, project management, finance, leadership, and strategy. Which credential would be the best fit for where you are at in your FM career? Check out the different fast facts for both the FMP and CFM below: Facilities Management Professional (FMP) Fast Facts Recommended for professionals with at least one year of experience in the FM field Designed to strengthen your hard and soft skills as an FM There are both online and in-person options to study for and complete your FMP Does not require recertification Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Fast Facts Requires a minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience in the FM field Designed to test your expertise as a facility management professional There is no required training to take the CFM exam Requires recertification every five years Infographic courtesy of IFMA. What are the benefits of achieving a facility management... --- > In commemoration of National Fire Prevention Month and Week, URI shares tips for commercial property and facility managers. Check it out! - Published: 2023-09-28 - Modified: 2023-11-01 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/protecting-your-commercial-property-fire-prevention-tips-for-facility-managers/ - Categories: Emergency Response Planning, Fire Damage - Tags: commercial property restoration, emergency response planning, fire damage restoration, fire prevention for facility managers, fire prevention for property managers, smoke damage restoration Every October, National Fire Prevention Week, observed October 8th - 14th this year, serves as a vital reminder of the importance of fire safety and prevention. For facility or property managers responsible for commercial properties, safeguarding these valuable assets against the devastating effects of fires is always a top priority. Fires can cause not only significant property damage but also pose serious threats to human lives. In this blog post, we will explore essential fire prevention tips to help property and facility managers protect their commercial properties, occupants, and investments. National Fire Prevention Week Background National Fire Prevention Week, observed in the United States during the second week of October, traces its origins back to the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. This devastating fire, which began on October 8 and raged for two days, claimed hundreds of lives and destroyed thousands of buildings. In honor of this tragic event, National Fire Prevention Week was established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to raise awareness about fire safety and prevention. Fire Prevention Tips for Facility & Property Managers 1. Conduct Regular Fire Safety Inspections Regular inspections are the foundation of effective fire prevention. Ensure that your commercial property is up to code by conducting comprehensive fire safety inspections. This includes checking fire alarms, sprinkler systems, emergency exits, and fire extinguishers. Regular inspections not only keep your property safe but also help you comply with local regulations. 2. Educate Occupants One of the most effective ways to prevent fires is to... --- > URI explores the importance of National Preparedness Month and provides insights into partners that can help in ensuring business continuity. - Published: 2023-08-15 - Modified: 2023-10-31 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/ensuring-business-continuity/ - Categories: Emergency Response Planning - Tags: commercial property restoration, emergency response planning, ensuring business continuity, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration, national preparedness month As September rolls around, so does National Preparedness Month – a time dedicated to highlighting the significance of proactive planning for disasters and emergencies. For commercial property and facility management professionals, this observance holds a critical message: being prepared isn't just an option, it's a necessity. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of National Preparedness Month for your sector and provide insights into how a commercial property restoration contractor can be your partner in ensuring business continuity. Understanding National Preparedness Month National Preparedness Month serves as an annual reminder that disasters and emergencies can strike unexpectedly, potentially causing significant disruption to business operations. Whether it's a natural disaster like a flood or a fire, or a man-made crisis such as a chemical spill, being prepared can make all the difference in how quickly and effectively your commercial property can recover. The Significance of Ensuring Business Continuity for Commercial Property and Facility Management Professionals For professionals in the commercial property and facility management industry, the stakes are high. Your responsibilities extend beyond the physical infrastructure; you're tasked with the safety and well-being of occupants, the protection of valuable assets, and the seamless continuation of operations. Disasters can not only harm the bottom line but also tarnish your reputation if not handled swiftly and effectively. Key Considerations for Preparedness Risk Assessment: Identify potential risks and vulnerabilities specific to your property. Understanding what could go wrong is the first step in preparing for it. Emergency Plans: Develop comprehensive emergency plans that... --- > URI shares a critical hurricane preparedness tip: setting up wireless emergency alerts on your cell phone for Apple and Android users here! - Published: 2023-08-09 - Modified: 2023-10-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/setting-weas-on-your-cell/ - Categories: Emergency Response Planning - Tags: hurricane preparedness, pre-loss planning Setting Wireless Emergency Alerts on Your Cell Phone Did you know that the National Weather Service and other agencies send out wireless alerts when a hurricane, tornado, flash flooding, evacuation order, or other emergency events are happening? These alerts are known as Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) and are are sent by authorized government alerting authorities such as the National Weather Service, FEMA, the U. S. Department of Homeland Security and local and state public safety agencies. The alerts are distributed to all phones within a certain radius of the emergency, so you'll receive them for whatever local area you're in - As long as you have the alerts enabled on your cell phone! Below is a step-by-step guide (for both Apple and Android users) to make sure your cell phone can get these important and potentially life-saving alerts.  Unlimited Restoration, Inc.  recommends this as an important hurricane preparedness tip as the busiest portion of Atlantic Hurricane Season continues to ramp up. How-To: Setting Wirelsss Emergency Alerts After setting up these alerts on your cell phone, make sure to save the URI 24/7 Emergency Response Hotline to keep it handy: 888. 327. 9664. Prepare for the unexpected and minimize disruption at your commercial, industrial, or multi-family residential property by having our team of restoration experts on speed dial in the face of severe weather - We're On It! --- > A comprehensive guide for property and facility managers on preparing for the Atlantic Hurricane Season at their property from URI. - Published: 2023-05-19 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/preparing-your-property-for-atlantic-hurricane-season-a-comprehensive-guide-for-property-and-facility-managers/ - Categories: Uncategorized Preparing Your Property for Atlantic Hurricane Season: A Comprehensive Guide for Property and Facility Managers Atlantic hurricane season can pose significant threats to commercial, industrial, and multi-family residential properties located across the East and Gulf Coasts. As a property or facility manager, it is crucial to be well-prepared and take proactive measures to safeguard your assets, ensure the safety of occupants, and minimize potential damage caused by hurricanes. In this blog post, we will outline a comprehensive guide to help property and facility managers effectively prepare their properties for the Atlantic hurricane season. --- > Heavy rain can cause significant damage to commercial buildings, resulting in costly repairs and downtime. Rainy day preparedness is key! - Published: 2023-05-04 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/rainy-day-preparedness/ - Categories: Commercial water damage As a commercial property owner or manager, protecting your property during heavy rain is crucial. Heavy rain can cause significant damage to commercial buildings, resulting in costly repairs and downtime. In this blog post, we will share some rainy day preparedness tips to help you protect your commercial property from water damage. Ensure Proper Drainage: The first step in protecting your commercial property during heavy rain is to ensure that your drainage system is working correctly. Clean gutters and downspouts, and remove any debris that could obstruct water flow. Regularly inspect your drainage system to identify and fix any issues before they cause damage. Inspect Your Roof: Your commercial property's roof is your first line of defense against heavy rain. Regularly inspect your roof to identify any damage, cracks, or leaks. Fix any issues as soon as possible to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage. Check Your Windows and Doors: Windows and doors are another common entry point for water. Ensure that all windows and doors are tightly sealed and in good condition. If you identify any cracks or gaps, seal them immediately to prevent water from entering. Have an Emergency Plan: Have an emergency plan in place in case of heavy rain. This plan should include the contact information for emergency services, a list of essential employees, and procedures for shutting down equipment and securing the property. The URI ERP can conveniently house all of that information in one spot! Consider Flood Insurance: Even with all the... --- > Discover how restoration contractors are helping the planet with environmentally-concious efforts and programs. - Published: 2023-04-20 - Modified: 2023-08-09 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-restoration-contractors-are-helping-the-planet/ - Categories: Uncategorized - Tags: commercial property restoration, industrial property restoration, multi-family property restoration The property restoration industry, also known as disaster restoration, plays a critical role in helping property and facility managers or property owners recover from both natural and man-made disasters at their commercial property, such as floods, fires, storm-related damage, or mold . While the primary focus of the industry is to provide emergency response and repair/restore damaged properties, it also makes a positive impact on environmental initiatives. Let's explore some ways property restoration contractors are helping the planet. Recycling and Waste Reduction Restoration contractors prioritize reducing waste and recycling as much as possible during restoration projects. By salvaging and restoring damaged materials and using eco-friendly products, they reduce the amount of waste going to landfills. Additionally, they work with waste management companies to dispose of any hazardous materials safely and responsibly. Energy-Efficient Upgrades In many cases, restoration projects present an opportunity to implement energy-efficient upgrades. Restoration contractors can recommend and install insulation, roofing, and windows that help conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This not only benefits the environment but also reduces the energy costs for the property in the long run. Use of Sustainable Materials The restoration industry is increasingly using sustainable and eco-friendly materials in their projects. For example, some companies use reclaimed wood, which reduces the need for harvesting new trees. They may also use products made from recycled materials, such as carpets and flooring made from recycled plastic. Water Conservation Water damage is a common issue that restoration contractors address. In the process of repairing... --- > Have you been noticing a musty smell or seen evidence of mold in your commercial building? Check out six methods to prevent mold in your building and stay safe! - Published: 2023-04-14 - Modified: 2023-08-02 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/6-commercial-mold-prevention-methods/ - Categories: Uncategorized With its slimy or fuzzy appearance, mold is an unwelcome visitor in any room. Besides being unsightly, mold can cause significant damage to your commercial building — and the people who work inside it. If it's left alone, mold will spread throughout your building. Eventually, once the mold starts to bury inside structures, it will affect the building's integrity. If you're a property manager or commercial property adjuster, it's important to take the necessary steps to prevent mold and control it as soon as you start seeing signs. Especially if you're dealing with toxic molds, such as black mold, you don't want to risk putting the health and safety of the building's occupants at risk. Luckily, there are many different ways to get rid of mold in a building. Where Does Mold Come From? Mold, which is a type of fungi, can be green, yellow, white or brown. It can also have irregularly textured spots. Besides its noticeable appearance, it also has an earthy, musty smell that can quickly permeate a room. Mold is commonly found in buildings with high levels of moisture. It thrives in dark, damp environments. Whether there have been heavy rainstorms or flooding in your area or there's a leak that hasn't been repaired, any level of water damage can create the perfect setting for mold spores to take over and thrive. Usually, mold grows the best in areas warmer than 70 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity. The mold spores can drop on areas like wall paint... --- > A commercial sump pump can protect your property from severe flooding and potential damage. Learn more about sump pumps and how to protect your property. - Published: 2023-03-07 - Modified: 2025-06-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/water-pumps-to-prevent-flooding-what-you-need-to-know/ - Categories: Commercial water damage Commcercial sump pumps are crucial for flood prevention, especially for properties in flood zones and areas with high groundwater levels. Understanding what types of pumps are available and what size pump you need is an excellent step toward protecting your business from flood damage. How Does a Flood Pump Work? Also known as sump pumps or water pumps, flood pumps remove water from properties to prevent flooding. A sump pump sits in a sump pit in the lowest part of a building and moves water outside in the event of heavy rain or flooding. A float switch attached to the sump pump rises when water accumulates. This switch activates the pump to automatically pump water into a discharge pipe. A commercial sump pump is more heavy-duty than a residential pump. Commercial pumps contain stronger motors to facilitate higher flow capacities, and they have larger discharge and inlet sizes. These features allow them to pump higher water volumes and handle larger solids. Types of Sump Pumps Before purchasing a sump pump, you should understand which options are available. You can choose between the following types of pumps: 1. Submersible Sump Pumps A submersible water pump sits inside a sump pit and operates underwater. Submersible pumps operate more quietly, offer more pumping power and take up less space than pedestal pumps. However, they can take on more damage from being submerged underwater. 2. Pedestal Sump Pumps Pedestal sump pumps sit above sump pits. A pedestal pump's intake device and float switch sit... --- > Property owners and managers should become familiar with common mold myths and the truth behind those beliefs. Read more here about debunking mold myths. - Published: 2023-02-09 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/10-mold-myths-debunking-with-your-restoration-provider/ - Categories: Uncategorized 10 Mold Myths: Debunking With Your Restoration Provider Many property owners or managers have concerns about finding mold on their properties. Mold misinformation is rampant due to some common myths passed down over the years. Here are ten mold myths and the truth behind them. Myth One: You Can Use Bleach to Kill Mold The most common mold myth says that you can use bleach to kill mold — however, this is not the case. While many kinds of mold require various cleaning methods and products, bleach will likely not work on porous surfaces. For the most part, the bleach will end up stripping the top layer of whatever you apply it to rather than eliminating the mold. Using bleach to kill mold could also pose health risks to those on your property. Regulations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommend using other cleaning products and avoiding cleaning mold with bleach.   A great solution is to use dish detergent and water to clean the area. While this won't kill the mold, it can create a safer environment until you can call a professional. A restoration company often has the right antimicrobial cleaners to kill the mold completely. Myth Two: You Can Clean up Mold on Your Own In most cases, cleaning mold by yourself is not a good idea. A professional repair and remediation company has the necessary tools and products to identify the cause of your mold, isolate the area and properly... --- > Learn how to protect your commercial property from water damage and flooding caused by a spring thaw. Trust Unlimited Restoration for all your restoration needs. - Published: 2023-02-03 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/protecting-your-commercial-property-from-a-spring-thaw/ - Categories: Uncategorized As a business owner or manager, you know how critical it is to vigilantly protect your property. That includes preparing for potential flooding or water damage. Use this guide to learn how to anticipate changing weather patterns and what to do if your property experiences water damage or flooding. What Is a Spring Thaw? A spring thaw happens when the temperature rises, melting any remaining snow. For businesses in snowy areas, this can be a potentially damaging time. These properties may experience flooding or other water damage if proper precautions are not in place.   How to Prepare for a Spring Thaw Getting ready for a spring thaw is a best practice for businesses in every industry and size. Putting in a little extra effort to protect your property lowers the chances of you having to close down shop and lose money while you address water damage. Start preparing your commercial property for the spring thaw by following the steps below. Remove Snow in Advance One of the simplest ways to prepare for a spring thaw is to remove the snow around your property. Taking the extra time to get rid of snow near your building will save you time, effort and money in the long run. To reduce the chances of water damage to your building, you can remove the snow yourself. If you're in an area that experiences heavy snowfall, you may want to consider professional snow removal services to clear your property.   Inspect Your Entire Property... --- > Identifying and thawing your commercial property's frozen pipes is crucial to protecting your building. Learn how to prevent frozen pipes from bursting. - Published: 2023-01-24 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-thaw-frozen-pipes-in-a-commercial-property/ - Categories: Uncategorized Cold temperatures present many challenges for businesses, with frozen pipes posing a significant concern. Left unattended, the ice can cause pipes to burst, leading to extensive repairs for your plumbing system and any water damage. 3 Signs a Pipe Is Frozen Many pipes run through unheated and potentially uninsulated areas, increasing their risk of freezing. Your commercial property's pipes may be frozen if you notice: Changes in water flow: If your running water slows from a stream to a trickle, reduced flow may mean your pipes are frozen. Pipe distortion: Water molecules expand as they freeze, so the water in a frozen pipe puts pressure on the interior as it requires more room, creating bulges.   Unusual sounds: Frozen pipes may make gurgling or banging sounds due to the chunks of ice inside, and a loud popping noise can accompany a burst pipe. When to Worry About Frozen Pipes Pipes can freeze whenever the water inside them reaches 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but it's most likely when outdoor temperatures are below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. At these temperatures, pipes can freeze in as little as six to eight hours. Generally, you should thaw frozen pipes as soon as you notice them. Frozen pipes bursting is more likely as the pressure inside them builds, and water will flow freely from any cracks once they thaw. How to Thaw Frozen Pipes Thawing frozen pipes improperly — such as with an open flame or an unattended space heater — can be dangerous. Consider calling a professional or use only... --- > Discover the temperature at which pipes freeze and some tips for preventing pipe freezing this winter. Get more answers to typical URI problems right now! - Published: 2023-01-06 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-keep-pipes-from-freezing/ - Categories: Uncategorized As winter rolls in, many parts of the country can see increasingly frigid temperatures. Although we do our best to prepare our buildings for the winter months, burst pipes can cause a great deal of expensive water damage. Remembering to keep pipes from freezing can easily slip through the cracks when dealing with commercial properties.   When pipes freeze over, there's a higher chance of rupturing, and the mess left behind is something you would definitely rather avoid. Luckily, you can use several simple tricks to ensure your pipes stay intact over the chillier months.   How Do Pipes Freeze? When water freezes, it expands, so if it's inside the pipes when it freezes, ice can push against weak areas in the pipe and cause it to burst. When the water melts, there can be significant property damage, especially if it takes some time to identify the problem.   Pipes are better insulated in colder parts of the country, and the infrastructure in these areas is designed to cope with freezing temperatures. Your lines are more likely to freeze if you experience a cold snap in a warmer area, as pipes aren't as equipped to deal with that degree of cold.   What Temperature Do Pipes Freeze At? To be precise, it's not the pipes that freeze but the water inside. We're taught that water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, but the answer isn't as straightforward. As a general rule, the outside temperature has to be 20 degrees or lower for six consecutive hours before... --- > Examine the risks related to wintertime black ice. To help you navigate this dangerous situation, Unlimited Restoration offers an in-depth guide. - Published: 2023-01-04 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/what-is-black-ice-understanding-the-dangers-of-winter/ - Categories: Disaster As the weather gets colder and snow begins to fall, winter safety is a topic on many peoples’ minds. According to the U. S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, almost 70% of people in the United States live in snowy regions, defined as areas that receive over five inches of annual snowfall. Winter precipitation can bring hazards like black ice, which can cause slips and crashes on walkways and roads. When your business needs to prepare for winter weather, learning about the danger of black ice can help keep your doors open and visitors safe. What Is Black Ice? Black ice is a thin layer of transparent ice that is often more dangerous than regular ice. Whereas regular ice accumulation makes the ground look opaque, black ice is so thin that it is almost impossible to see without looking closely. This type of ice derives its name from the fact that it is nearly invisible, blending in with the dark pavement under it. The transparent appearance makes black ice difficult for drivers and pedestrians to detect it. How and Where Does Black Ice Form? Low temperatures can quickly cause snow and ice to form within the clouds and fall to the earth. However, black ice forms when freezing temperatures cause ice or water already on the ground to refreeze when melted. Since water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, melted snow or any water standing on the pavement, like rain puddles, can freeze and form black ice. This makes for dangerously icy... --- > Winter storms are an unfortunate part of doing business in most areas of the US. Learn all about how you can protect people and property this winter with URI. - Published: 2022-12-02 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-winter-storm/ - Categories: Uncategorized If your business is in the United States, winter storms should be on your radar. They can come with severe consequences ranging from operational interruptions to significant safety hazards. As we've seen, even warmer areas like Texas and Florida aren't safe from winter storms. Fortunately, preparation can go a long way. Preparing for winter storms can help keep your infrastructure in good shape, improve emergency responses and prevent expensive recovery needs like equipment replacements or construction. To help you prepare for blizzards and other cold weather threats, we put together this guide on preparing a commercial property for a winter storm. Know Your Property A winter storm has a variety of effects. It can turn sidewalks into safety hazards, flood a building with burst pipes or cut off access to essential utilities. Every business is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution for commercial winter preparedness plans. Instead, you'll need to have a comprehensive understanding of your property, including potential threats, resources and mission-critical business needs. Consider factors like: The most likely environmental threats in your region. Characteristics of the building, such as old construction or existing damage. Access to resources, like emergency services and utilities. Equipment or infrastructure that needs maintenance. Land grading, which can affect water drainage. Winter Weatherproofing Checklist for Commercial Properties Before the snow or subzero temperatures hit, spend some time checking on these aspects of your building to prep for winter storms. 1. HVAC System Your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system works hard... --- > Mold vs. Mildew: What's the difference? Are they dangerous? Which is worse? Discover how mold and mildew differ in this guide from Unlimited Restoration! - Published: 2022-11-07 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/mold-vs-mildew-whats-the-difference/ - Categories: Flood Damage Mold and mildew can harm people and damage buildings, but which is worse? How can you tell if there's mold or mildew in your building? Is there even a difference? The short answer is there is a difference between mold and mildew. Both need to be eradicated from your property as soon as possible. Knowing the difference between the two and how to handle each can save you an enormous headache, literally and figuratively.   Mold and Mildew Both mold and mildew are fungi commonly found in moist environments — both present potential danger to the occupants of a building. If left unattended in an area with uncontrolled moisture, harmful microorganisms can damage a large portion of your property. But which is worse, mold or mildew? Although they share several commonalities and are easily confused with one another, mold and mildew are not the same. Mildew is a subclass of mold — it's early-stage mold. Understanding the difference between mold and mildew and identifying each allows you to take the first steps toward eradicating it from your building.   Texture and Appearance How do you know whether it's mold or mildew? The first step is to be aware of the differences in texture and appearance: Mold is generally slimy or fuzzy and presents as irregularly textured spots in various colors, including green, brown, yellow and white. Mildew is more powdery and fluffy in texture and tends to grow in a flat pattern. This fungus tends to lie on the surface of a specific area and is usually gray,... --- > Preventing a fire on your commercial property can minimize damage and help reduce the chances of injury during a crisis. Read more tips from URI here! - Published: 2022-09-15 - Modified: 2024-02-06 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/tips-to-prevent-a-fire-on-your-property/ - Categories: Fire Damage Perhaps your employee has used an extension cord past its life span. Or maybe your building hallways are blocked with packages, boxes or products. While these practices may seem to make life easier or promote workplace efficiency, they may also be hazardous to the safety of your employees and your building itself. Understanding the common causes of fire and prevention methods will make your company safer and remind employees of the best habits. What Causes Building Fires? Some common causes of fire in buildings are linked to unintentional errors or electrical malfunctions. Familiarizing yourself with fire prevention safety tips is critical, especially if you work in an older facility with outdated equipment. This will help to prevent extensive damage to the property and minimize injuries or deaths during a crisis. Here are a few common causes of fires in commercial buildings: Kitchens Cooking-related fires are the number one cause of commercial building fires due to the errors that can occur while cooking or using appliances. Certain foods may be more likely to burn if left unattended on the stove, and placing hazardous materials into the microwave could make it short-circuit. In some cases, appliances like the stovetop, toaster or microwave may break or malfunction, causing sparks or fires. Kitchens can be extremely risky spaces for employees. To ensure the safety of the building, you should place sprinklers, fire extinguishers and smoke alarms in every room or various places throughout the facility, especially near the kitchen.   Intentional Fires Intentional fires,... --- > A property manager may help negotiate a restoration claim and restore the building. Read more about the role of property managers in disaster relief here. - Published: 2022-09-05 - Modified: 2023-02-27 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/a-property-managers-role-in-insurance-claims-and-restoration/ - Categories: Emergency Response Planning When a disaster hits, your building may require a complete remodel or have specific needs unique to your business. Whether you are looking for tips for filing insurance claims for water damage or advice on getting your insurance company to reimburse you for destroyed personal items, you'll want to review the role a property manager can take.   During the Disaster While a sudden disaster may be a time of stress and panic, it is essential to understand and complete a few necessary steps before you call your insurance provider. 1. Prioritize Safety The safety and well-being of everyone in the building is always the top priority when a disaster strikes. You should have a response plan for different types of disasters: Fire: In the case of a fire, make sure you evacuate immediately and let the firefighters take over. Never attempt to go back into the burning building or waste precious seconds trying to save specific items.   Natural disasters: Tornados will require you to seek shelter either within or close to the building, while hurricanes and floods may mean evacuation or staying put with necessary supplies. Whatever the case, it is time to call the fire department or the police station after you have responded to the emergency at hand. First responders can ensure that everyone in the building is safe and present while dealing with the damage.   In some special cases, you may be able to make some decisions yourself. For example, if a burst pipe... --- > Navigate the disaster recovery process for your business. Learn essential steps for restoration, from pre-planning and mitigation to immediate actions and building resilience. Discover how to protect your commercial property and aid community recovery. - Published: 2022-07-25 - Modified: 2025-06-19 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/the-restoration-process-after-a-disaster/ - Categories: Disaster A natural disaster can unexpectedly and suddenly devastate communities, dismantling daily lives and business activities. While recovery often takes at least a few months to achieve, your business can take pre- and post-planning steps to help bounce back and aid your community after a natural disaster. Understanding how you can reduce effects and start the restoration process can create a more resilient business that can give back to the community sooner. There are three parts of a disaster recovery plan — before, during and after. Before: Mitigation and Preparedness While many businesses focus on what they can do in the face of a natural disaster or have procedures and timelines for after, your pre-planning can be pivotal in building your resilience and community presence. These pre-planning measures will take on two forms: Mitigation techniques: These are preventative measures you put into place to reduce the risk and impact of disasters. This might mean installing fire extinguishers to prevent fire damage and hazards or following local building codes to reduce the effects of frequent flooding. Even if you experience a natural disaster for which you have mitigation techniques in place, you can decrease the impacts it has on your business. Preparedness measures: While mitigative techniques can help reduce the risk of disasters, preparedness measures ensure you have systems in place to handle them when they occur. Because natural disasters are unexpected, you need continual training and education so employees and managers understand what to do during a disaster. This might include how to... --- > Do you want to protect your business and employees from mold growth? Click here to learn common mold types and preventative habits with URI today! - Published: 2022-06-24 - Modified: 2025-06-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/common-types-of-mold-what-to-look-for/ - Categories: Water Damage Restoration Mold growth at your business can have several causes, from weather conditions to recent water damage. Mold can cause companies to close temporarily to treat the problem and address damages. Understanding the signs of mold, the different mold types and preventing mold growth can help you mitigate its effects and protect your company.   What Is Mold?   Mold is a fungus that grows in moist, humid areas around your business. The fungus produces spores, which allow mold to form and spread when it comes into contact with moisture or materials in the right conditions. You can often find mold spores in damp spaces of buildings, such as bathrooms, basements, HVAC units and between walls.   Mold relies on access to materials it can use as food. Many look for organic materials, such as wood or paper, but others can survive on the dirt and dust that builds up on synthetic materials like grout, glass, plastic, concrete and metal. Exposure to mold on wood can cause the material to rot, making it dangerous to work.   Many molds cause illnesses or symptoms. Some people can have mold allergies, causing them to sneeze and cough frequently in the presence of mold. Some mold types are toxic and may cause severe health problems for your employees.   How to Tell If You Have Mold  If you are worried your business might have mold growing somewhere, you can rest easier knowing there are some ways you can check: Sight: Molds have distinct colors and... --- > If your company is aware of the warning signals and ensures that your roof is correctly sealed, ceiling water damage can be prevented or reduced. For more, see this instructions! - Published: 2022-06-24 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/ceiling-water-damage-a-complete-guide/ - Categories: Flood Damage Water damage can become a serious issue for your business quickly. What often starts as a small problem with an easy solution quickly grows into a more serious and damaging situation. This guide will teach you what to look out for so you can more quickly catch a leak and prevent further ceiling water damage. It will also go through what you need to know once you spot a leak and how to repair both the leak and any damage the water has already done to your ceiling. How to Spot Water Damage When your business experiences water damage, ceilings will show some warning signs early, which can prevent more serious damage. Watch out for these indicators to ensure you detect a leak early.   Watermarks Watch out for watermarks or brown, rusty-looking stains on your ceiling. This is an indication that there is a leak coming from your ceiling. If your business has an attic, it is important to make it a point to periodically inspect the ceiling there for watermarks — a leak would take a while to get through to the ceiling you see every day. This is one of the most common signs of a roof leak.   Swollen Ceiling You may notice the ceiling in your business is bulging or swelling. This can be caused by moisture collecting in the wood and swelling up. The size of the bulge will depend on the severity of the leak. If you catch a small swell, you should... --- > Protect your commercial building from damaging ice dams! Learn how to prevent them, safeguard your roof from harm, and avoid costly repairs. Get expert tips on insulation, snow removal, and air leak fixes to keep your property safe. - Published: 2022-05-20 - Modified: 2025-06-19 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/ice-dam-prevention-for-commercial-buildings/ - Categories: Uncategorized Ice dams can form on the roof of any commercial building in a climate that experiences snow and ice. A large block of ice on your roofline can pose several risks for your business, so taking preventative measures is vital. Keep your roof in top shape and protect everything and everyone inside by taking steps to stop ice dams. What Is an Ice Dam? Ice dams are thick sheets of ice that form on your commercial roof's edge. If the snow on the upper portion of your roof begins to melt, it will travel downward. Without proper drainage, it accumulates at the edge and refreezes into an ice block.   The reason why snow can melt on one part of the roof and not the entire surface varies. Anything that can cause a variation in roof temperature, such as ducts, can create areas warm enough to melt the snow. However, the edge of the roof will still likely be cold enough for the water to refreeze. Why Are Commercial Building Ice Dams Dangerous? If you leave an ice dam for too long, it will continue to grow. The larger it becomes, the more water will pool on your roof. Pooling water can cause numerous issues, including: Rot: When water seeps through the roof, it can damage the materials inside and cause them to rot. Mold: If water enters your building, it can cause excessive dampness, eventually leading to mold and mildew formation. Roof damage: When water pools on the roof, it can cause... --- > Knowing your area's flood risk and ways to prevent damage helps protect your commercial property from floods. Learn how flood risk impacts property value! - Published: 2022-05-16 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-does-flooding-affect-your-property-value/ - Categories: Flood Damage, Water Damage Restoration When running a business, a natural disaster is probably the last thing on your mind. However, flooding is becoming an ever-growing issue for commercial property owners and should be taken seriously, as the effect of flooding on property value can be substantial. There are steps you can take to mitigate flood risk, and simply being aware of the risk your business is at can help. Contact URI Experts Today Understanding Flood Risk Your property's flood risk is not just dependent on how close you are to a body of water or how often it rains. There are a lot of factors that go into determining your flood risk, as floods are difficult to predict. Flood risk also goes through changes due to community development and weather changes.   Though we can't always predict exactly when or where a flood will occur or how severe it will be, there are factors that can help you understand your risk for flooding so you can put protective measures in place. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has created resources to help understand flood risk in different areas through flood maps and risk assessments. Flood Maps Flood maps are one of the ways commercial property owners can know how high their flood risk is. Mortgage lenders use flood maps to determine their insurance requirements. Community leaders use flood maps to develop plans for emergency flood scenarios and implement policies to reduce risk based on a realistic expectation of how high the flood threat is. This involves making... --- > Unlimited Restoration offers a new way to prepare your commercial or industrial property for the upcoming 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Learn more here! - Published: 2022-05-05 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/prepare-for-hurricane-season-with-the-uri-erp/ - Categories: Emergency Response Planning - Tags: business continuity planning, commercial property restoration, emergency response planning, hurricane preparedness, industrial property restoration As this year’s Hurricane Preparedness Week comes to a close, Unlimited Restoration offers a new way to prepare your commercial or industrial property for the upcoming 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season, kicking off June 1. Impact of Natural Disasters on Businesses While it’s no surprise that major hurricanes cause immediate problems for businesses, natural disasters are known to leave a lasting impact on the businesses without a continuity plan in place. According to 2014 data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the United States Department of Labor, immediately following a natural disaster, 40% of small businesses won’t reopen. A year later, 25% more small businesses will close. Looking ahead three years post-event, 75% of businesses without a continuity plan will fail. How can you prepare today to help ensure business continuity in the future? Business continuity planning is a process to create a prevention and recovery system from potential threats such as natural disasters like hurricanes. A business continuity plan is designed to protect both employees and company assets, while making sure they can function quickly when disaster strikes to minimize overall business disruption. The URI ERP A critical piece to any business continuity plan revolves around your physical property itself. At Unlimited Restoration, we call this your Emergency Response Plan or ERP. Unlimited Restoration now offers a URI ERP for commercial and industrial properties that provides a wide range of benefits for property and facility managers involved in business continuity planning. The URI ERP is available through an... --- > Read more about seven essential steps to take after commercial water damage. Contact Unlimited Restoration To Learn About Our Water Restoration Services! - Published: 2022-03-24 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/7-steps-to-take-after-heavy-water-damage/ - Categories: Water Damage Restoration Commercial properties are not immune to the dangers of flooding and pipe leaks. Unfortunately, commercial water damage occurs far too often. The after-effects severely impact infrastructure and income. When left untreated, the excess water can cause mold formation, impair building features and expose employees to dangerous contaminants. It's crucial to address water damage as swiftly as possible to prevent further harm. In the aftermath of a flood or excess water, there are essential steps you should take to protect your property. For commercial properties, it's vital to address the damage thoroughly to avoid any lost revenue. Here are some things to keep in mind after water damage occurs. What Water Damage Can Do to Your Commercial Property There are both apparent and hidden effects of water damage for commercial properties. Excess water can spread through the building, ruining features like drywall and insulation. Or, if severe enough, the damage could stop business operations altogether. While insurance can cover some costs, the financial implications could outweigh the coverage. The damage has consequences in the immediate aftermath and the long-term, especially when not appropriately addressed. Here are more short-term effects: Saturated flooring: Within minutes of exposure to high amounts of water, carpet and wood begin to absorb moisture. Carpets and padding start to stain with saturation. Destroyed documents and belongings: Certain items might become unsalvageable or impaired if the water reaches any important paperwork or documentation. Damaged equipment: Commercial properties use a variety of machinery for day-to-day operations. Anything from payment technology to product inventory... --- > Don't let winter sneak up on you and your business. Get ready for the cold with these commercial property maintenance tips. Learn more here! - Published: 2022-03-24 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/commercial-property-maintenance-tips-for-winter/ - Categories: Commercial water damage Winter can take a toll on your commercial property. Winter maintenance for your business is no small task, but you can follow these maintenance tips for commercial properties to get you ready and warm this winter. Check on Insulation and Plumbing One of the most important commercial property winter maintenance tasks is to make sure your building is well-insulated. Checking the insulation can save you money and keep customers coming back. If they feel uncomfortable and cold in your business, they will be less likely to return. You should also carefully analyze how well your plumbing is insulated. If pipes are exposed to the cold in parts of your business, get products made specifically to insulate water pipes like sleeves, heat tape and heat cables. Pipes freezing in the winter can cause them to expand and break. These pipes are typically exposed to the cold directly by being outside or are in unheated interior areas causing them to get too cold. However, pipes in walls without adequate insulation could also freeze. This increases the importance of appropriately insulating your building. You can take some steps to protect your pipes from freezing in the winter. Here are the things you should do before the weather turns too cold. Drain supply lines: If you have a swimming pool or water sprinkler outside, make sure you drain the supply lines. This is much safer and environmentally friendly than using antifreeze. Antifreeze can be dangerous for your employees and customers, as well as other wildlife... --- > Global warming is fueling more intense wildfires at higher elevations, putting businesses and communities at risk. Learn the causes, trends, and how Unlimited Restoration, Inc. can help with fire damage recovery. - Published: 2022-02-08 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/is-global-warming-increasing-the-risks-of-wildfires/ - Categories: Disaster The earth’s average temperature has increased at a rate of . 08 degrees Celsius per decade since the 1980s, but the last 30 years have seen that number jump to . 018 degrees, according to a 2020 Global Climate Report. Many wonder what effects will result from the earth warming at a faster rate, with wildfires being among the top concerns. Is there enough evidence to say global warming is causing more wildfires? What Causes Wildfires? Wildfires can happen naturally or as a result of human action. Some wildfires occur naturally due to a lightning strike during a storm or spontaneous combustion on a hot day, but humans are more often the cause. On average, human factors caused 88% of wildfires between 2016 and 2021, like unattended campfires, discarded cigarettes, illicit burnings, intentional arson and other acts. Forests — especially those in the western U. S. — are susceptible to large fires because it’s easier for the blaze to spread. Anything that can burn is considered fuel, and some fuel burns faster than others. Dead fuel, meaning materials with less than 30% moisture, burn the fastest and at the lowest temperatures. What causes materials to lose moisture? High temperatures, which is why more forest fires happen during droughts. Are Wildfires Increasing? Wildfires are not increasing in frequency. There were more wildfires in the 1990s than there have been since the turn of the century. However, wildfires are increasing in magnitude. The Congressional Research Service’s Wildfire Statistics document explains that, while there are fewer fires, they are... --- > Is your business prepared for drought? Learn 3 essential tips to reduce risk and maintain operations during water shortages. Explore expert drought planning support from Unlimited Restoration, Inc. - Published: 2022-02-08 - Modified: 2025-05-06 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prepare-your-business-for-drought-risk/ - Categories: Disaster Running a business requires a lot of water, meaning droughts can slow operations or bring them to a halt. The U. S. Drought Monitor (USDM) map shows that more than one-third of U. S. land experiences severe, extreme or exceptional drought conditions. It’s critical for businesses to know how to prepare for drought risk so that they can keep operating when water is low. 3 Tips to Help Prepare Your Business for Drought Risk URI provides emergency drought services and restoration support for businesses. We’re always there for companies with damage, but proper preparation can minimize the harmful effects. Here are our tips for businesses preparing for drought risk. 1. Practice Water Conservation Tactics Prioritizing water conservation during non-drought periods can help your company adjust to the constraints this event will impose. Your business will be used to doing more with less, meaning a drought will be slower to affect your staff. Some helpful conservation tactics to integrate include: Installing flow restrictors for faucets. Purchasing instant water heaters. Fixing leaks immediately. Allowing grass to grow higher to retain moisture. Keeping smaller lawns and cultivating natural vegetation. Using all excess water. 2. Learn Your Area’s Drought History Evidence links wildfires and global warming, and their increases put millions of families and businesses at Foresight is a powerful mitigation tool. Spend time learning how frequently droughts occur in your area, how long they last, which areas see the largest impact and what signs indicate a drought is coming. This information can help your business plan its... --- > Predicting natural disasters with artificial intelligence increases response times and save lives. Read About the Advantages and Limitations of AI Today! - Published: 2022-01-05 - Modified: 2023-03-13 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/can-ai-predict-natural-disasters/ - Categories: Disaster Natural disasters cause thousands of deaths and hundreds of billions of dollars in property damage every year. Finding a way to reduce the impact of these catastrophes to save lives and protect infrastructure has puzzled experts for decades. However, detecting natural disasters with artificial intelligence (AI) is a promising way forward. Using AI for disaster management can save communities, lives and livelihoods. Learn More About Storm Response Services Using AI to Predict Natural Disasters As AI improves, researchers have begun experimenting with using AI systems in natural disaster detection. Research shows that artificial intelligence can analyze mountains of information to track the patterns and intensity of weather phenomena. How Does It Work? People have used AI to assist industries ranging from healthcare to customer service for years, and the same principles apply when using this technology to predict natural disasters. Scientists provide AI systems with comprehensive and high-quality datasets based on previous events. The AI then uses these datasets with real-time seismic data, geographical information and satellite imagery to discover patterns. What Natural Disasters Can AI Predict? Currently, AI can predict four types of natural disasters, including: Earthquakes: Researchers can feed AI systems information from seismic imaging to train them. The AI analyzes the data to learn about the patterns of various earthquakes and can then predict where an earthquake and aftershock might hit. Volcanic eruptions: When researchers provide AI with seismic and geographical information, they can get accurate predictions of future volcanic eruptions. Hurricanes and tornadoes: AI systems monitor satellite... --- > As climate change continues, the number of natural disasters increases every year. Learn more about climate change, natural disasters and how URI can help! - Published: 2022-01-05 - Modified: 2023-02-27 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/are-natural-disasters-increasing/ - Categories: Disaster Climate-related disasters are on the rise across the globe. Floods, hurricanes, cyclones, earthquakes and more are affecting communities worldwide in unprecedented numbers. The number of weather emergencies increased tenfold in the past 60 years. While better reporting plays a minor role, scientists have connected the increased frequency of natural disasters to climate change. The Steady Increase of Natural Disasters Every year, we experience more frequent disasters that threaten our lives, property and sense of well-being. A single natural disaster can affect millions of people and claim the lives of thousands. In 2019, a flood in India killed 1,900 people, while an extreme heatwave in France caused over 1,400 deaths. The number of natural disasters has risen steadily since 1990, with a dramatic increase in the past century. An Ecological Threat Register report shows that the world is now experiencing ten times the number of disasters per year than in 1960. There were 416 natural disasters worldwide in 2020 alone. These events can cause billions of dollars worth of damage, with the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan leading the list at 210 billion dollars. We now experience over 400 natural disasters annually, and people worldwide are struggling to get resources and assistance when disaster strikes. Due to higher temperatures and increased rainfall, flooding is the most common natural disaster. Storms like hurricanes, tornadoes and cyclones follow close behind. As the number of natural disaster increase, scientists have been examining the link between climate change and climate disasters. The Impacts of Climate Change on Natural Disasters... --- > Searching for info on asbestos? Check out this complete guide from the experts at Unlimited Restoration. Read more and contact us for asbestos solutions! - Published: 2021-12-10 - Modified: 2023-02-27 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/complete-guide-to-asbestos/ - Categories: Uncategorized Everyone knows asbestos is a trigger word for danger, but not many people know exactly why. At Unlimited Restoration, we want to inform you about this dangerous substance so you and your crew can stay safe. If you spot asbestos on industrial property or in a building built before 1987, URI has emergency containment services to protect your people and investment. What Is Asbestos? Asbestos is a silicate mineral that naturally occurs in the form of microscopic, thin fibers. There are six types of asbestos: Actinolite Amosite Anthophyllite Chrysotile Crocidolite Tremolite Asbestos has unique properties in manufacturing since it is stronger than steel and extremely resistant to heat and chemicals. Unfortunately, asbestos is also a cancer-causing carcinogen that comes with serious side effects for humans. Products That Contain Asbestos In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allow asbestos in a product if it comprises less than 1% percent of the total product. There are some exceptions. For example, the EPA has banned asbestos in certain high-risk applications, including flooring felt, commercial and corrugated paper, special paper and rollboard. The following industrial products can contain asbestos: Adhesives Automotive parts Cement Construction mastics and gunning mix Diaphragms Duct connectors Electrical components Felt Fireproofing Gaskets Insulation Laboratory equipment Plastics Cement sheets Textiles Tiles Vinyl products Manufacturers also use asbestos in home settings with products like: Appliances Cigarette filters Potholders Ashtray coasters Wicking for gas ranges Fake snow Hairdryers Makeup Talcum powder Zonolite insulation The... --- > A business continuity plan (BCP) is a comprehensive plan outlining how a company will continue to operate in the event of a natural disaster. Learn More! - Published: 2021-12-10 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/business-continuity-vs-disaster-relief-plan/ - Categories: Disaster When running a business, you need a plan of action for when disaster strikes. Business continuity and disaster relief plans effectively minimize revenue loss and allow you to maintain good customer relations during and after unplanned interruptions. This article outlines what business continuity and disaster relief plans are and why they're a crucial part of any business's emergency preparations. What Is a Business Continuity Plan? A business continuity plan (BCP) is a comprehensive plan outlining how a company will continue to operate in the event of a natural disaster. A complete BCP includes essential information about the business, such as any equipment, supplies, services or assets that an emergency could affect or damage. A BCP also uses a checklist to keep track of any backup locations that could keep the enterprise running during and after an emergency. What Is a Disaster Relief Plan? A Disaster Relief Plan (DRP) is all about minimizing a disaster's effects on IT infrastructure and essential data. An effective DRP should include information about the primary service providers to contact, the backup IT systems, any alternative locations where work can resume and information on insurance policies. The purpose of a DRP is to find a way to get the business — and the IT it relies on — back up and running quickly. Business Continuity Plans vs. Disaster Relief Plans BCP and DRP both focus on minimizing revenue loss following a disaster. However, a BCP is a more comprehensive policy that covers multiple factors. You can... --- > Join Unlimited Restoration, Inc. in celebrating the 12 Days of Restoration highlighting our commercial and industrial restoration processes! - Published: 2021-12-10 - Modified: 2023-02-27 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/12-days-of-restoration/ - Categories: Uncategorized Each December, Unlimited Restoration, Inc. celebrates the 12 Days of Restoration which highlights tools, pieces of equipment, or procedures used in our industry-leading commercial and industrial property restoration processes. Continue reading to learn more! On the First Day of Restoration, Unlimited Restoration gave to me: 1 We're On It Profile. The We're On It Profile is a pre-loss planning document developed with an expert from URI that can aid in business continuity planning and minimize business interruption following a property loss. It is a critical piece to Unlimited Restoration's We're On It Preferred Partnership Program which was designed to provide key strategic partners the coverage they require. To learn more, visit urinow. com. On the Second Day of Restoration, Unlimited Restoration gave to me: 2 Moisture Meters.   Moisture meters allow our IICRC-trained mitigation technicians to locate and measure moisture damage and map out the drying strategy for property damage caused by a water loss. They are also used to ensure drying is fully complete before any placed equipment is removed. On the Third Day of Restoration, Unlimited Restoration gave to me: 3 Low-Grain Refrigerant Dehumidifiers Dehumidifiers are a critical piece of equipment for structural drying projects. Low-Grain Refrigerant (LGR) Dehumidifiers are one version where air enters the appliance, the double-cooling system lowers its temperature and condensation forms on the device’s coils, separating the moisture from the air. The air is then released back into the room with the humidity "removed"! On the Fourth Day of Restoration, Unlimited Restoration gave... --- > René Carter, Senior Account Executive at Unlimited Restoration, Inc., announced as CREWBaltimore 2021 Circle of Excellence Award Finalist. Learn More! - Published: 2021-11-09 - Modified: 2022-06-29 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/carter-award-finalist/ - Categories: Uncategorized BALTIMORE, MD, NOVEMBER 9, 2021 – René Carter, Senior Account Executive at Unlimited Restoration, Inc. , has been nominated as a finalist for the CREWBaltimore 2021 Crew Beacon Awards Gala Circle of Excellence award. The Circle of Excellence award honors a person in the Baltimore commercial real estate community who consistently embodies the CREWBaltimore mission and core values related to Leadership, Excellence, Influence, Advancement, and Community. The annual cohort of Circle of Excellence award finalists are nominated by their peers from the CREWBaltimore organization. Theresa Tsamoutalis, of ALLSAFE Elevator Inspections, shared this in her nomination of Carter: “René has helped many fellow business professionals such as me expand their business by making personal introductions. With these introductions, fellow members have grown their businesses and in turn helped them be successful. She (René Carter) is always so positive. Her connections are sincere, and she truly wants to help all those around her. ” Carter is a tenured member of CREWBaltimore, having joined the group in 2010 when she began working with Unlimited Restoration, Inc. in the Baltimore market. She has served on the Community Outreach Committee since joining the organization and currently leads the Philanthropy sub-committee. René also serves on the Programs Committee, Beacon Awards Gala Committee, and the Committee that plans and executes CREWBaltimore’s annual golf outing which supports the philanthropic efforts of CREWBaltimore. As she approaches 12 years of active membership in the group, Carter has gained much from her participation in CREWBaltimore, most notably: “Great connections and friendships... --- > While the eyes of these hurricanes are still quite calm, pinpoint eye hurricanes have historically been among the most intense and destructive. - Published: 2021-10-20 - Modified: 2025-07-01 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/what-are-pinhole-eye-hurricanes/ - Categories: Disaster Pinhole eye hurricanes are major natural disasters, often obtaining status as billion-dollar weather catastrophes due to their intensity. The years 2018 and 2019 each saw 14 different weather disasters reaching losses in the billions, with an estimated 91 billion in 2018 and 45 billion in 2019. The number of billion-dollar weather disasters set a new record in 2020, which included seven tropical cyclones. Because hurricanes cause so much damage, it's important to understand why they are so dangerous. Exploring the Different Sections of a Hurricane The unique atmospheric conditions leading to a hurricane, or tropical cyclone, cause distinct sections to appear in the storm. While the sections sit next to one another and sometimes overlap, the weather patterns within each area can differ drastically. The Eye The center of a hurricane is called the eye. The eye is the calmest area, featuring clear skies, low wind speeds and low pressure when over land. On average, hurricane eyes stretch between 20 to 40 miles across. It's uncommon for tropical cyclones with large eyes to become very intense, as they're an indicator of a weak or weakening storm. In contrast, smaller eyes have a higher tendency to become dangerous. The entire hurricane rotates around the eye, which is usually in the geometric center. While there may be some low or mid-level clouds, the eye generally contains very little wind and rain. So, why is the eye of a hurricane calm? As air spirals in a counterclockwise pattern toward the center, it eventually... --- > Make sure you're protecting your business and employees by considering this disaster preparedness checklist. Contact URI for Disaster Planning Services! - Published: 2021-09-29 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/disaster-preparedness-checklist/ - Categories: Disaster Preparing your business and your employees for a storm or other natural disaster requires planning and communicating. Many times, disasters happen when we least expect them. Just look at Hurricane Katrina that hit New Orleans in August 2005. No one expected Katrina would turn from a tropical depression into a category four hurricane in less than a week, but it did, and many business owners found themselves without a plan when the mega-storm hit land. You don't want to be caught unprepared and risk losing the business you've worked hard to build. Make sure you're protecting your business and employees by considering this disaster preparedness checklist. General Preparedness Disaster Preparedness for Employees Disaster Preparedness for Property Disaster Preparedness for Equipment and Assets Disaster Preparedness for Insurance Schedule a Meeting With URI to Develop Your Disaster Preparedness Planss for emergencies today. General Preparedness If the COVID pandemic has taught us anything, it's to expect the unexpected. The only way to do this is to have a plan in place. There are many types of natural and manmade disasters that you can prepare your business for. Accidents, rain and snowstorms, drought, wildfires and even terrorist attacks can greatly impact your business, and in some cases even cause you to go out of business. The best way to prepare for unexpected disasters is to have a clear plan of action in place for different aspects of your business and property. Make sure you develop a plan for employees, property, equipment and other assets... --- > Picking the right restoration company is crucial to your business's success after a disaster. Discover how to choose a quality company with this guide! - Published: 2021-09-22 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-know-the-quality-of-a-restoration-company/ - Categories: Disaster, Fire Damage, Flood Damage The Importance of Choosing the Right Restoration Company 5 Signs of a Reputable Restoration Company Restoration Company Red Flags to Avoid Rely on URI for Your Restoration Needs Choosing the right restoration company after a disaster might seem overwhelming. After a fire, flood or earthquake, the first thing on your mind is how your business can recover. Choosing the right restoration company can make the difference between your business recovering from a disaster or taking too long to reopen. You'll want to hire a commercial restoration professional to help ensure your business can get back on its feet after any incident. But you don't want to blindly trust your business's recovery in the hands of someone who isn't reliable. Make sure the restoration company you hire honestly and openly communicates with you and is focused on best serving your industrial restoration goals. Discover how to know the quality of a restoration company to choose the right partner for your needs. The Importance of Choosing the Right Restoration Company Restorations can be timely, so it's crucial you choose a quality, reputable restoration company. Because 25% of businesses don't ever reopen after a disaster, it's crucial you choose a restoration company that will best serve your business's restoration needs. After experiencing property damage, you need a quality restoration company to be there to lend you a helping hand every step of the way. Here are a few reasons why you should invest in a reputable restoration company: Proper training and equipment: Industrial... --- > Learn how to clean a commercial fridge after a hurricane with this guide. Contact Unlimited Restoration for Further Details About Emergency Response. - Published: 2021-09-16 - Modified: 2022-06-29 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-clean-a-commerical-fridge-after-a-hurricane/ - Categories: Disaster Cleaning up in the aftermath of a hurricane is an essential step toward getting life back to normal. One of the most fundamental pieces of equipment to clean after an extended power outage or flood is your commercial refrigerator. This guide will explain how to clean your fridge after a hurricane in just a few simple steps. Products Needed You may already have many of the products you will need for cleaning a commercial fridge. You can clean your refrigerator with vinegar to destroy mildew, and a mixture of bleach and water will sanitize all fridge surfaces. Detergent will help to wash the shelves and crispers. There are numerous commercial products available in grocery stores to eliminate odors, but you can also use household products such as: Baking soda Kitty litter Activated charcoal Coffee grounds These products absorb odor and are easy to clean up after sitting in the fridge for a few days. Cleaning Your Commercial Fridge Follow these steps to restore your fridge to like-new condition. Remove Spoiled Food When cleaning rotten food from the fridge, remember you can not go by appearance, odor or taste. In fact, to stay safe, you should avoid tasting anything. To determine whether a food item is spoiled or not, consider the temperature. Perishable foods that sit above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for more than two hours are no longer safe to eat. You can refreeze frozen foods that are 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below or still have ice crystals. After a power... --- > Discover when you are at most risk of hurricanes so you won't be caught off guard. Contact URI To Create a Hurricane Relief Plan For Your Business Today! - Published: 2021-09-16 - Modified: 2022-06-29 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/when-are-you-at-most-risk-of-hurricanes/ - Categories: Disaster Hurricanes are tropical cyclones with sustained winds between 39 and 73 miles per hour. Most hurricanes occur over the same period of time each year based on region, and people call this timeframe hurricane season. Understanding these natural disasters and knowing what months are the worst for hurricanes in your region can help you feel prepared to take the proper steps if one hits near you. What Is Hurricane Season? Hurricanes can occur at any point in the year, but hurricane season indicates the time of year when conditions are most favorable for hurricanes to form. Knowing when hurricanes are most likely to occur can help you prevent unnecessary damage to your property. Hurricane season can vary depending on your region. The warmer months are typically the worst for hurricanes, especially in areas with warm water temperatures. High water temperatures create pockets of low pressure, which start a pattern of air movement that eventually produces clouds and swirling air. The swirling clouds grow into a vortex and cause a thunderstorm, building up force and speed to become a full hurricane. Atlantic vs. Pacific Hurricane Season The Atlantic coast of the United States usually sees more hurricanes than the Pacific coast, although the Pacific hurricane season starts earlier and lasts longer. The Atlantic hurricane season begins in early June and lasts through November, while the Eastern Pacific hurricane season starts in May. Both hurricane seasons peak in mid-summer when temperatures are at their highest. Generally, one or two hurricanes will strike... --- > Educating children about natural disasters helps prepare them for all scenarios and know how to react in an emergency situation. Contact URI to learn more! - Published: 2021-09-16 - Modified: 2022-06-29 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/educating-children-about-natural-disasters/ - Categories: Disaster Teaching children about natural disasters at a young age helps them understand what is going on and how they should react when one occurs. Knowing what to do in the event of a disaster could save a child's life, and practicing how to react in a natural disaster can reduce fear and prevent panic during the event. Use these natural disaster teaching resources to begin educating children in your life about natural disasters. Tips for Teaching Children About Natural Disasters If you are a parent, educator or caretaker, taking time to educate children about natural disasters can help them cope if the situation ever arises, reducing their anxiety by informing them of proper ways to react in those situations. The following tips can help you effectively communicate about natural disasters with kids: Communicate at their level: Talking to kids in words they can understand will give them a better grasp of the situation and allow them to process the information, leading to deeper comprehension and a higher retention level. Make time for processing: Natural disaster education may be a new topic for many children, and they may need extra time to process the material. Set aside plenty of time so they can fully understand the information. Monitor media and limit exposure: Prevent additional causes for anxiety by limiting children's exposure to the news. The media tends to rehash harsh, attention-grabbing information that kids do not need to hear repeatedly. Listen to their concerns: Ensure children feel supported and understood by... --- > What does it smell like after a hurricane? Learn about common hurricane odors and why they appear. For More Information, Contact Unlimited Restoration! - Published: 2021-09-01 - Modified: 2022-06-29 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/whats-that-smell-3-hurricane-odors-explained/ - Categories: Disaster If you've ever experienced a hurricane, you may have noticed a strange scent in the air during the aftermath. One peculiar hurricane phenomenon is a lasting odor caused by the residual effects of the storm. Dead fish or flooded streams don't cause all of these smells. Many of these odors have complex origins related to how hurricanes affect microbial life. Common Hurricane Odors and Their Origins So what does it smell like after a hurricane? A storm as big as a hurricane stirs up many aromas in its wake. Learn more about some of the most common odors and why they appear. 1. Rotten Egg Smell A sulfuric, rotten egg aroma is common after hurricanes. This smell comes from anaerobic bacteria in low-flowing waters. Some bacteria produce hydrogen sulfide gas, which has a strong rotten egg smell. The energy from a hurricane's powerful force of water stirs up sediments in what are typically still waters, releasing this distinct hurricane odor. The influx of water may carry these deposits and organic debris to new locations, allowing the smell to spread. 2. Geosmin Geosmin is the musty, earthy scent of wetness. You can often detect this odor in the aftermath of intense storms. Geosmin is a metabolic by-product of bacteria and blue-green algae that live in surface waters. The strength of hurricanes can kill the algae on the water's surface, which releases the scent of geosmin. This aroma can taint wine grapes and drinking water, leaving a pungent, damp stench. 3. Petrichor... --- > Wondering if you have a hidden mold problem in your building? Learn common signs of mold, how to detect mold in walls and solutions for mold growth. - Published: 2021-09-01 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/5-signs-you-have-a-hidden-mold-problem/ - Categories: Disaster Mold can wreak havoc on the structural integrity of your commercial or industrial property. It can also cause health issues, including allergies and even life-threatening illnesses. Fortunately, these issues can be prevented or remediated by knowing what to look for. Signs of Mold When mold gets in hard-to-reach places, it can often go unidentified. Pay attention to these mold warning signs in your home or commercial building: Visible signs of mold growth: While mold that grows behind wallpaper and vinyl may be purple, pink or orange, mold growing in other places may be white, gray-green, gray-brown or black. You may be able to detect mold by looking for clusters of small, black spots or white, thread-like areas. Past flooding: Your building may be more likely to experience mold growth if it has suffered flood damage in the past. Water leaks: Metal pipes, windows or other areas where condensation often forms can be safe havens for mold. If water leaks occur behind hidden surfaces or walls, subsequent mold growth may be undetectable. Signs of water damage: You are likely dealing with mold-producing problems if you notice discoloration on ceilings, walls or floors. You may detect cracking, bubbling or peeling paint or wallpaper. Mold odor: While not all molds produce a smell, some give off a persistent musty odor. When to Call a Professional to Find and Remove Mold How do you know when to call a specialist to deal with mold removal? Here are a few scenarios that signal the need... --- > Preparation is crucial for minimizing damage and preventing interruptions to your business’s operations. Speak to a Disaster Planning Expert Today! - Published: 2021-09-01 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/why-find-a-restoration-company-before-a-disaster/ - Categories: Disaster A natural or human-made disaster can occur at any time — and usually when you least expect it. Floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes and electrical fires are just a few examples of the catastrophic events that can impact a business. Preparation is crucial for minimizing the damage and preventing lengthy interruptions to your business's operations. Developing a comprehensive recovery plan, which includes enlisting the services of an experienced, qualified disaster recovery company, should be a core component of your process. The Importance of Advance Disaster Planning The numerous benefits of creating a recovery plan before a catastrophe strikes include: Fast, decisive response: A sudden disaster creates chaos and confusion. A plan ensures you'll know what to do and when and how to it. You'll have a blueprint to follow to get you up and running faster. Reducing costly mistakes: Businesses that don't prepare for disasters won't know how to react when they occur, leading to expensive mistakes that make the situation worse. A plan that includes seeking help from a restoration company can significantly reduce the likelihood of errors. Lowering recovery costs: A well-formed plan that enables a fast response can reduce a disaster's immediate and long-term economic impact. You'll also waste fewer resources during the recovery process. Peace of mind: Working with a qualified disaster recovery company to craft a plan will remove the burden from your shoulders and give you one less thing to worry about. You can devote more attention to what matters the most: running your business.... --- > Know how to respond to damage to your commercial property before disaster strikes. Refer to our checklist at URI and contact us for restoration aid. - Published: 2021-08-20 - Modified: 2025-06-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/commercial-safety-guidelines-and-maintenance-schedules/ - Categories: News Managing properties requires making occasional repairs. Some repairs are necessary due to the natural aging of commercial properties. However, the need for other maintenance arises without warning in the aftermath of a natural disaster. Following a fire, flood, earthquake or storm, restoring the property falls to the site owners. This responsibility is also one of the types of property maintenance. Prepare your properties to bounce back quickly from catastrophic events with restoration help and planning. What Is Commercial Property Maintenance? How Can Maintenance Prepare Commercial Properties for Disaster? Creating a Commercial Property Maintenance Checklist When Should You Schedule Maintenance? Factors That Can Influence the Cost of Your Maintenance Other Ways You Can Protect Your Business From Disaster Contact Unlimited Restoration When Disaster Strikes to Get Our Team Right on It! What Is Commercial Property Maintenance? Property owners generally hold responsibility for maintaining their buildings' integrity. Repair and maintenance chores that ensure this may include the following: General repairs to offset natural wear and tear of components such as HVAC systems or roofing Repairs after natural disasters to restore the use of the property Maintaining the appearance of the property, if agreed upon in the lease Keeping the property and its occupants safe by maintaining safety equipment and emergency systems Of course, specifications in the commercial property's lease may require some tenants to take care of internal issues, especially those that are the tenant's fault. For instance, an occupant may need to repair a plumbing problem caused by repeatedly pouring grease... --- > Do you know the best way to help a business recover after a disaster? Trust us! At Unlimited Restoration, we have support services for all businesses. - Published: 2021-08-10 - Modified: 2022-06-29 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-you-can-support-a-business-post-disaster/ - Categories: Disaster No matter what type of disaster one of your go-to local businesses has suffered, you can help them keep their doors open with your dedication and support. Whether it's water and smoke damage or complete reconstruction, you can adapt your own habits to support your community's companies during a period of natural disaster recovery and encourage others to do the same. Share Their Posts on Social Media Social media is one of the most powerful tools for business recovery after a disaster. Sharing a local store's posts and messages on different platforms can help spread awareness of their current situation and encourage other people to lend their support in any way possible. Using platforms like Patreon is a great business opportunity after a natural disaster since people within the community can donate their funds directly to the cause. Write Positive Reviews By writing positive reviews online and sharing your positive store experience with other people in the area, the community can see how the business cares about its customers and provides a welcoming experience. People from all over the area will see your review online, and they may feel inclined to reach out and lend their help, even if they haven't visited the specific store before. Sign up for Newsletters Newsletters are a great way to support a business since they keep everyone up to date on the latest news. During a disaster recovery period, they can keep you informed about a company's current status, enabling you to visit them... --- > Prepare for any natural disaster with an emergency plan. You can also contact Unlimited Restoration, and we'll help you get back to work quickly! - Published: 2021-08-10 - Modified: 2022-06-29 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prepare-your-employees-for-disasters/ - Categories: Disaster You can be proactive about protecting your business and employees from natural disasters in plenty of ways. Even if an unexpected catastrophe happens, having an established plan can help you remain level-headed and recover quickly. One of the most important aspects of preparing for natural disasters is communicating with your employees and ensuring everyone can handle unexpected situations productively and calmly. There are multiple ways you can ensure everyone at your company understands what to do during a natural disaster, so you can feel secure at all times. Create an Emergency Preparedness Plan for the Workplace Teaching your employees how to be prepared for a natural disaster is one of the most effective ways to ensure you can handle any situation that comes your way. You can start creating a plan for your employees and company by reviewing any potential disasters that could impact your business. Ensuring everyone's safety should be your top priority, as it will make your consumers and workers feel more secure if a disaster occurred. Establish Clear Forms of Communication Although an emergency preparedness plan for the workplace is reassuring and helpful, it will only be effective if you and your team have created a communication strategy. One of the best ways to prepare for a natural disaster as a team is by establishing text alerts or alarms that your workers can identify during an emergency. After creating a warning sound, you'll also need to ensure everyone has an open line of communication, so your employees... --- > Before an earthquake strikes, there are a few steps you can take to prepare. At URI, we can help you be more prepared with our disaster planning services. - Published: 2021-07-15 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-earthquake-preparation/ - Categories: Disaster The energy created from the shifting around and breaking of the earth's subterranean rock during an earthquake can cause widespread damage and destruction. Earthquakes are, unfortunately, also very unpredictable and can strike unexpectedly. If you live or work in an area prone to earthquakes, you need to know ahead of time what you can do to contain the damage and effectively respond to and recover from it. How Can You Be Prepared Before and During an Earthquake? Before an earthquake strikes, there are a few steps you and your family can take to prepare in case of a disaster: Make an emergency earthquake kit: When making an earthquake kit list, be sure to include enough nonperishable food and water to last three days. Don't forget about other emergency essentials, including pet food, a flashlight, first-aid kit, hand-crank or battery-operated radio, can opener and phone charger. Create a family emergency plan: Everyone in your family should have a designated place to meet as well as an emergency contact person you can reach if you get separated. Practice what to do in a disaster: If you are inside your home during an earthquake, you want to "drop, cover and hold on. " Your family can practice this drill together. First, find an interior wall or sturdy piece of furniture. Try to stay away from windows if possible. Then, either get as close to the wall as possible or crawl under furniture. After you are on the ground, cover your head and neck.... --- > You most likely need an expert services from URI if you've tried to get rid of cigarette odors in a room but it's still there! - Published: 2021-07-15 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-remove-tobacco-smoke-odor/ - Categories: Fire Damage After many years of smoking in an enclosed room, the smell of tobacco can build up. Unfortunately, even after individuals have stopped smoking in the room, the scent can linger and become difficult to remove. When someone smokes a cigarette, the smoke produces a thick, sticky residue. This residue sticks to various surfaces in the room, ranging from the walls to the furniture, causing the scent to permeate the space. Carpets, upholstery and pillows also absorb this smell, creating an environment filled with thirdhand smoke. While it can be difficult and time-consuming to remove, there are some solutions you can try to get rid of the cigarette smell in a room. Long-Term Tobacco Smell Removal Solutions If you are looking for long-term solutions to get rid of cigarette smell in a room, you can try: Opening your windows to ventilate and let fresh air in. Setting up a fan to help push some of the indoor air out. Replacing your air conditioning and furnace filters. Replacing upholstery, pillows, furniture and draperies that could be harboring the tobacco scent. Cleaning and repainting the walls. Try to use cleaning products that contain either glycol or ammonia to help neutralize and remove the cigarette smell. Then, you can repaint the walls using latex paint. Cleaning the entire room from top to bottom. This means cleaning big areas such as the ceiling and any hardwood floors and carpet, as well as fixtures and blinds. Short-Term Ways to Get Rid of the Tobacco Smell There... --- > Reducing high humidity levels will pay off. Read our post about the benefits of a dehumidifier and see why one could be a good investment. Learn More! - Published: 2021-07-15 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/benefits-of-a-dehumidifier/ - Categories: Water Damage Restoration Dehumidifiers are among the most valuable appliances you can have in your business. If you're thinking about investing in a portable dehumidifier or installing something with more power, your head is in the right place. They are a smart investment that will start paying off right away and keep delivering value for years. Signs You Need a Dehumidifier Virtually all businesses should consider investing in at least one dehumidifier. In some cases, it's a critical need. Even if you have a hygrometer installed — a device used to measure humidity levels — you'll want to watch out for the telltale signs your moisture levels are too high: Damage: Excess moisture can make paint blister and wallpaper peel. It also causes wood to expand, resulting in creaky noises. Discomfort: When humidity levels reach 60% and higher, it can start to feel sticky, stuffy, hot and generally uncomfortable. Condensation: When there's too much moisture in the air, it will cool and collect on glass surfaces, forming condensation. Mold: Mold is everywhere, all the time. Keeping things dry keeps it at bay. If you see mold, there's too much water in the air. What Causes High Humidity? If you're experiencing signs of high humidity, it's important to know the origin. In some cases, high moisture levels are part of the natural climate. Other times, you could be experiencing excessive humidity due to something worse, like a leak, groundwater penetration or a previous flood. Check to make sure your building envelope is sealed, inspect... --- > Keeping commercial dishwashers clean is essential to avoid fires or flooding. Read our blog on how to deep clean a dishwasher. Learn More! - Published: 2021-07-15 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-deep-clean-a-dishwasher/ - Categories: Disaster Commercial dishwashers are one of the hardest working appliances in the kitchen. The amount of time and effort they save is incredible, so it's all the more important to keep yours maintained. A clean dishwasher is going to do a better job, but it's also going to last longer and be less likely to fail. What Happens When Dishwashers Get Dirty? If your dishwasher is overdue for a cleaning, you're risking damage. Grease, grime and scale will build up in the system, causing rust and corrosion and deteriorating components like seals and O-rings. You can also experience blockages that lead to slow drainage — or none at all. When problems like this occur, the best you can hope for is performance issues. In the worst cases, you could wind up with significant flooding, or your dishwasher could ignite. How to Deep Clean a Commercial Dishwasher As with any commercial appliance, you should always follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding maintenance and care. There may be special instructions or hazards that are unique to your system. Here are some tips to think about when working on yours: Check the nozzles: Clean the sprayer nozzles to remove food and scale, and wash the sprayer arm. Clean with care: Carefully clean the interior, door guides and any other surfaces to remove food soil. De-lime your system: Use a commercial descaling solution to remove limescale and other mineral deposits. Choose the right products: Make sure you select noncorrosive, non-damaging cleaning agents and use soft tools.... --- > Learn how grease fires start, how to extinguish them and tips to prevent them in the first place. Contact Unlimited Restoration for more information. - Published: 2021-07-15 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/tips-for-preventing-grease-fires/ - Categories: Fire Damage Grease fires are hazardous and can happen to anyone. However, with the right knowledge, you can prevent just about every one of them — and know what to do if a fire does happen. How Do Grease Fires Start? A grease fire occurs when cooking oil reaches a specific temperature. Before oil heats up to the point where it can ignite, it will pass through a series of phases — boiling, smoking and then flaring up. While animal fats like lard will start smoking around 375 degrees Fahrenheit, most vegetable oils have a smoking point around 450 degrees Fahrenheit. How to Prevent Grease Fires Taking steps to prevent a grease fire is the best safety measure. To avoid grease fires on a gas grill, stovetop, oven or another hot surface: Do not leave your cooking pan unattended, even briefly — it takes less than 30 seconds for the smoke to turn into fire. Do not cook when tired or intoxicated, and pay attention around the grill or stovetop. Before cooking, remove as much moisture as you can from the food. Never place frozen food into a pot of hot grease. Use a thermometer to monitor grease and ensure it stays at the recommended temperature. Heat oil slowly. To avoid splattering, add food to hot oil gently and slowly. Keep salt or baking soda on the counter or in nearby cupboards if you need to put out any flames. Keep a metal pot lid nearby in case of a pot fire.... --- > Concerned about mold in your commercial property? Learn common warning signs and ways to prevent mold from growing. For Help, Contact URI. - Published: 2021-07-14 - Modified: 2025-06-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/warning-signs-when-to-know-there-is-a-mold-problem/ - Categories: Water Damage Restoration Know the Warning Signs Can You Get Sick From Mold? Distinguishing Between Mold and Dirt Determining the Extent of Your Mold Problem What to Do if You Have a Mold Problem Prevention Is Key Contact Unlimited Restoration to Eliminate Mold From Your Business When left untreated, mold can become a serious health and safety risk. It's essential to know how to identify when your property has a mold problem. Luckily, you can learn what steps you can take to clean mold and, most importantly, what you can do to help prevent mold from growing in the future. Learn how to get rid of black mold and other types of mold that may contaminate your business and how to determine when to turn to a professional for help removing mold. Know the Warning Signs Mold can be dangerous for your health and the structure of your building. Knowing what to look for around your property and the possible health side effects can help you determine if you're dealing with mold. These red flags can also help you identify which type of mold is present. How Do You Know Your Building Has Mold? Mold can be hard to detect, especially if it's growing in hidden spaces. Luckily, there are some key warning signs and things to look for when determining if your property has mold. These include: Visible mold spores: The easiest way to tell if you have mold is if you can see it. Mold can be several different colors —... --- > After a rainstorm or leak has flooded your commercial space, you need a game plan for restoring or replacing your flooded floors. Contact URI Today! - Published: 2021-06-29 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/floor-restoration-after-flood/ - Categories: Flood Damage How to Take Care of Subfloors After a Flood Should Carpet Be Replaced After Water Damage? How to Dry a Wood Floor After a Water Leak Should You Restore or Replace Stone Floors After Flooding? Recovering Tile Floors from Water Damage How to Restore Linoleum Floors After a Flood Restore Your Building After a rainstorm or leak has flooded your commercial space, you need a game plan for restoring or replacing your flooded floors. Remove the excess water in your facility as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Before doing any restoration work yourself, shut off the power supply and wear protective equipment on your face, hands and feet. If you need to recover from a natural disaster, you don't have to handle this burden alone. Contact a local restoration company that is familiar with the process to save time and money. Use this guide to make wise, safe choices for moving forward after a flooded floor and bringing your floors back to good shape. How to Take Care of Subfloors After a Flood The water-damaged subfloors need as much attention as the hardwood, carpeting, linoleum, stone or tile on top of them. Since long-term water damage to the subfloor will most likely ruin them, make sure they're thoroughly dry before repairing your flooring material. Find out what type of subfloors you have in your commercial building to discover the level of care you need to give them. Types of Subfloors: Plywood subfloors: If your oriented strand board (OSB)... --- > Learn professional advice & techniques for restoring water damage. Unlimited Restoration provides comprehensive instructions for successful water restoration. - Published: 2021-06-29 - Modified: 2025-06-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/water-restoration-guide/ - Categories: Uncategorized Water Damage Categories Water Damage Classes Water Damage Causes What to Do When You Discover Water Damage Our Water Damage Restoration Process Post-Water Damage Restoration Contact URI One of the biggest concerns for business owners, property managers, or facility team members is water damage. Whether the water damage results from a natural flood, burst pipe, overflowed appliance or any other issue, its effects can be extensive. The water mitigation process requires precise action to ensure total restoration and safety. If your building has water damage, it's vital to understand the best course of action. When you come across indoor flooding, you may not know what to do next — the damage can be overwhelming. A quick reaction will help you minimize the damage and get back to normal as fast as possible. Use this step-by-step guide to help you with water damage repair. Learn More About URI's Water Restoration Services Water Damage Categories First, understand water damage categories and classifications, which indicate levels of destruction and danger. Water damage categories help building owners and restoration professionals determine the risks involved with floods. Water damage can come from many different sources, some of which are more hazardous than others. Depending on its origin, water damage can fit into one of three categories. These categories have to do with the level of danger involved with the water damage. Keep in mind, water can fit a more harmful category if left sitting for too long. Microorganisms and mold spores can reproduce at a rapid pace... --- > If you have ever opened a closet or storage space and encountered a pungent and sour smell, it probably contained mothballs. - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2023-02-27 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-remove-mothball-odor/ - Categories: Uncategorized If you have ever opened a closet or storage space and encountered a pungent and sour smell, it probably contained mothballs. While mothballs can help prevent bugs, rodents and mold from destroying your clothes, the mothball odor can be difficult to get rid of. To successfully remove the mothball odor, there are several tricks you can try. What Are Mothballs? Mothballs are small balls of chemical pesticides that are used to absorb liquid and keep moths, mice and other pests from eating clothes. They contain either paradichlorobenzene or naphthalene, which are both toxic chemicals. Mothballs release the chemicals in a gaseous form, causing the distinct mothball odor. In addition to being unpleasant, the odor can be dangerous if inhaled for an extended period. Prolonged exposure can cause severe headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea and other physical symptoms. Tips for Mothball Odor Removal One mothball alone can take up to a whole year to dissipate, so removing the odor on your own can be challenging. Try these DIY tips to help get the odor under control: Clean the area. Eliminate mothballs and then air out the room for a day or two, as fresh air and sunlight help with odor control. Spray surfaces with a solution of vinegar and lemon juice, and let it sit before rinsing it off with warm water. You can also leave baking soda out to help absorb the odor, or mix baking soda with warm water and mop the floors with it. Make sure to keep the room ventilated while... --- > Mold growth is a common problem for homes and businesses. But how do you know when it's time to hire professional mold removal services? - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2023-02-27 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/when-to-call-mold-removal-services/ - Categories: Uncategorized Mold growth is a common problem for homes and businesses. But how do you know when it's time to hire professional mold removal services? Here are some telltale signs that indicate you should reach out to a professional like URI. 1. Your Building Has Sustained Water Damage Mold growth occurs when mold spores come in contact with moisture, which causes the spores to rapidly reproduce and expand. Whether there is flooding or a broken pipe in your building, water damage is one of the leading causes of mold growth. 2. You Smell Mold Mold has a distinct musty odor. If you notice this smell and it persists despite your cleaning efforts, there is likely mold in the building. Even if the smell is faint, the mold could still be dangerous. You may also smell the mold without actually seeing it. At URI, our team has the extensive experience needed to quickly identify the mold and its source. 3. You See Mold If mold is visible in plain sight, you know you have mold growth. But how serious is it? There are many different types of mold, all with varying levels of toxicity and different appearances. While most people usually think of mold as having a green or gray color, it can also appear as red, black, brown, white and even blue and purple. The only way to know for sure what type of mold you are dealing with is to have it analyzed by a professional. At URI, we work... --- > When severe thunderstorms are in the forecast, you know you are in store for extreme weather. - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2022-06-29 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/severe-thunderstorm-watch-warning-advisory/ - Categories: Flood Damage When severe thunderstorms are in the forecast, you know you are in store for extreme weather. According to the National Weather Service, severe thunderstorms are those that have winds of at least 58 miles per hour, the ability to produce a tornado, and/or hail that is at least 1 inch in diameter, which is about the size of a quarter. To alert people to this threat, the National Weather Service may issue a storm watch, warning or advisory. But what do these classifications mean, and how should you prepare your business for each type? What Is a Severe Thunderstorm Watch? When the National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm watch, this means that the current weather conditions are favorable to the development of severe thunderstorms in your area. Watches are usually in effect for four to eight hours and are typically issued well in advance of the thunderstorms actually occurring. Because storms have not yet developed under a watch, it is a good time to review your response plans and evacuation drills. Bring in any items on the property that are not secured to the ground. If you have supplies on hand, you can also take the opportunity to reinforce doors and windows. What Is a Severe Thunderstorm Advisory? A severe thunderstorm advisory indicates that weather conditions have reached the point where they may cause significant inconvenience and you should exercise caution if you are out and about. Under an advisory, there may be high winds or heavy rain, but... --- > A regular cleaning routine is essential to any business. With high-touch areas needing more care than usual due to the current COVID-19. - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-change-your-cleaning-routine-for-covid-19/ - Categories: Uncategorized A regular cleaning routine is essential to any business. With high-touch areas needing more care than usual due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, updating your cleaning structures accordingly is critical to ensuring your safety as well as the safety of your employees and patrons. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routinely cleaning your business with soap and water and disinfecting areas with EPA-approved disinfectants to help combat COVID-19. The following tips can help optimize your coronavirus cleaning efforts. General Cleaning Tips Now more than ever, it is crucial that your building is cleaned as consistently as possible, as routine surface cleaning is proven to reduce the spread of COVID-19. When cleaning, there are several important tips to keep in mind: All surfaces should be cleaned with soap and water. Areas that receive the most frequent use should be cleaned most frequently. Any surfaces or objects available to the public, such as shopping baskets and carts, should be cleaned before each use. Special attention should be paid to high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, tabletops, desks, keyboards and faucets. Consider regular HVAC cleaning to help purify the air in your building. Disinfecting Tips After an area has been cleaned, it should then be disinfected using an EPA-approved product, if available. These disinfectants are proven to help eliminate coronavirus from surfaces when properly applied. If an EPA-approved disinfectant is not available, you can use an alternative disinfectant such as a water and alcohol solution. Although it is not recommended... --- > Believe it or not, some disasters can be fun and entertaining — as long as they happen on the big screen (or your TV screen) and not in real life! - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2023-02-27 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/6-netflix-movies-about-disasters/ - Categories: Disaster Believe it or not, some disasters can be fun and entertaining — as long as they happen on the big screen (or your TV screen) and not in real life! Here at Unlimited Restoration, we know a thing or two about the real kind of disasters. We specialize in helping businesses prepare for catastrophic events such as floods, fires and severe storms. We also provide timely emergency restoration and disaster recovery services whenever and wherever our customers need them. In our spare time, we're also big movie fans — we'd love to share our picks for some of the best disaster movies currently streaming on Netflix: World War Z: In this 2013 thriller, ex-United Nations investigator Gerry Lane (portrayed by Brad Pitt) and his family manage to survive a lethal pandemic that turns most of the human population into man-eating zombies. Lane makes it his mission to locate the source of the infection and keep it from spreading. San Andreas: Dwayne Johnson plays helicopter rescue pilot Raymond Gaines, who must deal with the aftermath of the biggest earthquake in history that occurs in San Andreas, CA. While the plot isn't much more than a generic survival and rescue story, the action is riveting and the special effects are astounding. The Day After Tomorrow: This captivating doomsday flick features Dennis Quaid as NOAA paleoclimatologist Jack Hall. Catastrophic climatic changes trigger the sudden onset of a new Ice Age. Hall must make a harrowing trek to New York City amid a global... --- > These tips can help you experience a joyous, stress-free holiday season. Contact Us Today for More Helpful Advice for Avoiding Holiday Disasters! - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2024-02-06 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prevent-disasters-for-stress-free-holidays/ - Categories: Fire Damage, Uncategorized Another holiday season is almost upon us. Before you know it, you'll be decorating your home, planning family gatherings, baking cookies and preparing scrumptious meals. While all this activity generates fun and excitement, it also increases the risk of a fire or other disaster that can take the joy out of the season. Fortunately, a little planning and careful thought can go a long way toward avoiding holiday disasters and keeping your family and guests safe. The following tips can help you and your love ones experience a joyous, stress-free holiday season this year — and every year. Keep Flammable Items Away From the Stove With all the cooking, baking and food prep, kitchen counters can get crowded during the holidays. The lack of available space may make the stove a tempting spot to store items. To avoid a fire hazard, keep anything flammable away from the stove, especially while you're cooking. Never leave the stove unattended while in use and have a fire extinguisher nearby as an extra safety precaution. Make Sure to Thaw Foods Before Cooking The National Fire Protection Association indicates that more home fires occur on Thanksgiving than any other day. Not thoroughly thawing the turkey before cooking it, especially when deep-frying, is one of the biggest culprits. When the ice contacts the cooking oil, it generates rapidly expanding steam that can cause the oil to overflow and accelerate the flames under the pot. Making sure you've thawed the turkey completely before cooking helps to avoid... --- > Stay ahead of the blizzard's path and severity by listening to or watching the news or receiving weather alerts on your mobile device. Read More! - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2023-02-27 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-blizzard/ - Categories: Uncategorized With winter rapidly approaching, it means we'll soon be hearing more of that dreaded four-letter word: snow! A blizzard can bring life to a standstill and pose a significant safety threat.  URI has developed the following winter preparedness checklist to help you ride the storm out. Be Informed The status of a winter storm can change frequently. Don't be caught off-guard. Instead, stay ahead of the blizzard's path and severity by listening to or watching the news or receiving weather alerts on your mobile device. To alleviate anxiety, have discussions with your family members about what to do during the storm. Develop an emergency plan for an extended power outage and stock up on essentials such as non-perishable food and water and flashlight batteries. Winterize Your Car The best practice during a blizzard is to stay home. But if you must travel for work or other reasons, make sure your vehicle is up to the challenge. Prepare your car for snow by upgrading the tires and windshield wipers and filling the wiper fluid reservoir. Create an emergency kit to keep inside your vehicle consisting of food, water, warm clothing, a flashlight and batteries, and a collapsible shovel and cat litter in case you get stuck. Create a List of Emergency Contacts Keeping in touch is crucial during a winter storm. Generate a written list of people and entities to contact in case you need help. Your list should include family members, friends, neighbors and the local power company. If you... --- > When pipes burst, they release water that can damage your floor and walls and, on multilevel structures, leak through to the lower rooms. Learn More! - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prevent-bursting-pipes/ - Categories: Water Damage Restoration Busted pipes are a nightmare anywhere they occur. When pipes burst, they release gallons of water that can damage your floor and walls and, on multilevel structures, leak through to the lower rooms. The good news is that a proactive approach to your pipe maintenance this winter season can help prevent this from happening. What Causes a Pipe to Burst? When water freezes, the molecules change shape. Frozen water arranges itself into patterns with microscopic pockets of air. These pockets make solid water — ice — less dense than water in its liquid state, causing the volume to increase. With nowhere to expand to, the ice creates enormous pressure on your pipes until, eventually, they burst at their weakest point. Tips on Bursting Pipe Prevention In most cases, pipes will start freezing if outside temperatures fall below 20 degrees for six consecutive hours or more. Insulation can offer some protection for pipes, but its capability will vary, and not all plumbing systems have it. If the temperature drops far enough, you're going to have to step in either way with some simple measures. Run Your Faucets Keeping one or two sink faucets running is usually enough to prevent a bursting pipe. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and you can run yours at warmer temperatures for added protection. Disconnect Your Hoses Hoses contain the most exposed water in your system. This water is the first to freeze when things get cold, and the expanding ice will travel back through... --- > A flood can have devastating financial consequences for a hotel. Contact Us To Learn More About What You Can Use To Prevent Flooding at Your Hotel. - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2025-06-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/6-steps-for-hotel-flood-prevention/ - Categories: Commercial water damage A flood can have devastating consequences for a hotel. Besides the substantial repair costs, there's also the lost revenues resulting from uninhabitable rooms. Implementing a proactive approach is the best way to prepare for a flood and mitigate the damage. Use the following flood prevention tips to guide you in forming a plan: 1. Know Your Flood Zone and Base Flood Elevation (BFE) BFE is the level where a building has a 1% chance of flooding each year. Ideally, your hotel should be at least 3 feet above the BFE in your area — just in case the floodwaters rise higher than anticipated. To determine the BFE for your hotel, consult a flood map or contact your municipality's building department. 2. Utilize Dry Floodproofing Techniques Dry floodproofing entails making a structure watertight below the level that requires flood protection. Specific dry floodproofing techniques include measures to: Maintain a supply of flood-protecting materials to divert waters from the building. Install watertight shields over windows and doors at least 3 feet above BFE. Set up interconnected water-filled barriers to temporarily protect large areas and openings. Install submarine doors, flood doors or portable flood gates where possible. You may also consider surrounding the hotel with permanent flood walls. 3. Raise HVAC and Electrical Components It's wise to relocate heating, ventilation and air conditioning units to a higher floor to limit exposure to floodwater. Consider building a floodproof wall around the equipment or even performing a rooftop installation if feasible. To minimize the risk... --- > Fires are destructive for any business, but the response becomes much more involved in hospitals. Moving patients may pose severe risks to their health. - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/the-dos-and-donts-of-hospital-fire-safety/ - Categories: Fire Damage Fires are destructive for any business, but the response becomes much more involved in hospitals. Moving patients may pose severe risks to their health. Anything you can do to prevent fires from happening in the first place will help you avoid the challenges they present. Improving Your Hospital Fire Safety Program At Unlimited Restoration, we specialize in disaster response. We've seen what fires can do to hospitals, and our experience gives us a unique perspective on prevention. Here are a few tips that can help you avoid an emergency. The Do's Plan for the worst: Fire prevention goes a long way, but disasters can still happen. When they do, having an evacuation plan ready will help ensure everyone makes it to safety while the first responders get to work. Pay attention to the kitchen: Recent data shows that kitchen and cooking equipment causes two-thirds of all hospital fires. Clean the grease traps and appliances, check electrical outlets, watch open flames and store flammables safely. Install suppression systems: Equipping your hospital with a wet sprinkler system can help stop fires from spreading. You should also work with a professional to install an appropriate number of fire extinguishers and train your staff to use them properly. The Don'ts Never mix oxygen and open flames: Carelessness around open flames can cause significant property damage and potential injuries. Oxygen, whether mobile, confined to a patient room or in storage, needs proper handling. Always avoid cigarettes or fire exposure nearby. Delay in your response: Even... --- > From broken water pipes to full-blown hurricanes, many things can cause flooding in your establishment. Learn How We Can Help You Amid a Disaster. - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2022-06-29 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/how-to-prevent-flooding-in-restaurants/ - Categories: Flood Damage No matter where you live, you should always be prepared for potential flooding. From broken water pipes to full-blown hurricanes, many things can cause flooding in your establishment.  However, you can take steps to prevent flooding, including creating an emergency action plan for your retail food establishment.  Emergency plans created with care and attention to detail are especially useful for educating and preparing your staff for any unfortunate situations. Here are three restaurant flooding prevention tips. 1. Analyze Your Restaurant's Location and Equipment If you're looking to purchase property for a restaurant, you need to research the area around that location. When it comes to restaurant flooding prevention, tools such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) flood hazard map provide you with information on the likelihood of flooding in your area. If you see a probability for future flooding, consider looking at other locations. If you have already purchased a specific property, your next step is to pay attention to waterlines and restaurant equipment. Make sure the plumbing in the restaurant gets inspected annually. Also, ensure that utility boxes and tools such as blenders and toasters are off of the ground and unplugged when not in use. 2. Develop an Emergency Plan for Staff Although you cannot prevent natural disasters, you can take several steps to protect your restaurant and staff.  By implementing an emergency plan, you can help protect your restaurant from additional water damage. Create an emergency plan using government resources such as those from FEMA. Then, review the... --- > An emergency preparedness plan for the workplace is the key to a quick recovery. Unlimited Restoration is here for you 24/7/365. Contact us today! - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2024-03-05 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/4-common-disasters-faced-by-businesses-and-how-to-avoid-them/ - Categories: Disaster Businesses of all sizes can experience a sudden emergency. Whether your company works online or at an office, it is essential to have an emergency preparedness plan for the workplace to recover data and keep employees safe. Decision-makers often underestimate the importance of planning ahead until something unexpected occurs. Here are some examples of common business disasters and what you can do to prevent accidents during the workday. 1. Power Outages Companies rely on computers, smartphones and tablets for data keeping and communication. A sudden power outage or surge is enough to put your operations on hold for a few hours or potentially even days or weeks. This can take a serious toll on employee productivity and profit margins. A blackout can occur due to inclement weather and other factors out of your control. However, you can plan ahead by knowing where to turn for 24/7 emergency power distribution services. No matter if your electricity goes out because of a bad storm or an accident on your property, partnering with a team like Unlimited Restoration, Inc. is a proactive way to acquire a backup generator for lights, phones and anything else you rely on for success. 2. Natural Disasters Natural disasters can cause flooding, fires and other serious damage to your building, so it is important to invest in a commercial insurance plan with an appropriate level of coverage. If your business sits in an area prone to heavy winds or frequent hurricanes, meet with an insurance advisor to assess... --- > Controlling water damage sources helps you create a safer work environment. Unlimited Restoration will assist with water extraction and drying. Contact us! - Published: 2021-04-26 - Modified: 2025-04-25 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/6-common-causes-of-water-damage/ - Categories: Water Damage Restoration Severe water damage inside or around a commercial business can keep your doors closed for weeks. In some cases, finding the source of water damage can be tricky, but performing a visual assessment of your building throughout the year helps you catch problems early. Here are some common causes of water damage associated with commercial structures: 1. Outdated Plumbing Metal pipes run through walls and ceilings. As water flows through these channels, plumbing materials expand and contract due to sudden temperature changes. This can cause wear and tear on your plumbing network over time. If possible, assess main plumbing connections between seasons looking for cracks, weak seals and rust. You may notice moisture stains along architectural surfaces if a leak is present in an enclosed area. Hire an experienced plumber to repair and replace plumbing sections to prevent commercial water damage. 2. Frequent Clogs If your commercial space is equipped with break rooms or public restrooms, keep your eyes open for sink clogs. Contaminants such as grease, soap scum, hair and food can cause a blockage deep within drains. The sudden increase in pressure might be enough to compromise the structural integrity of your plumbing network. Install drain screens to catch dirt and anything unsuitable for commercial sinks. These affordable accessories are known to prevent backups that can lead to large-scale messes on the floor. 3. HVAC Connections Outdated air conditioners are frequent causes of water damage. These installations are prone to moisture pockets that get stuck within the ducts.... --- > Does your facility need water damage repair? Conducting your own water damage restoration can be hazardous. Trust URI to Repair Your Building! - Published: 2021-04-11 - Modified: 2022-11-21 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/why-you-shouldnt-conduct-your-own-water-damage-restoration/ - Categories: Water Damage Restoration If your building has recently undergone water damage, it can be tempting to try conducting your own water damage repair. However, repairing water damage is a long and complicated process, and it includes a number of potential hazards. In the vast majority of cases, repairing water damage requires professional help. There are many reasons why performing your own DIY water damage restoration can worsen the situation and lead to multiple setbacks and disadvantages in the long run. It Could Cost More Looking into water damage restoration tips may seem like you're saving yourself money. In reality, you may be costing yourself even more. Without any experience or background knowledge of water damage repair, you could compromise the building's structure by not fully correcting any issues. With that potential for further harm to the building's integrity, your DIY water damage restoration could cost you more money than hiring professional help in the first place. It's Time-Consuming Water damage repair is a complex process because of the time required to fix the damage in its entirety. It's best for water damage restoration to begin as soon as possible to minimize any further issues, such as the potential for mold development. Additionally, the process of repairing the damage is a significant time commitment, one that likely exceeds what you can devote to it on your own. Hiring a team of professionals as soon as possible fixes the problem promptly and thoroughly. It Requires Professional Equipment One of the main reasons handling water damage... --- > Need to know how to get rid of mold in your building? DIY mold removal isn't the answer! URI has mold removal experts who can eliminate the problem safely. - Published: 2021-04-04 - Modified: 2022-11-21 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/why-you-shouldnt-remove-mold-yourself/ - Categories: Uncategorized Finding mold inside commercial buildings is fairly common, so being able to identify and eliminate it is important for the safety of you and your employees. If mold is present in your building, you may be able to sense it even if you can't see it. Knowing the early signs of mold growth is important to prevent further spreading. Buildings that have experienced a leak or deal with high moisture levels are the most prone to mold growth. Mold also has a distinct odor and worsens allergies. If you find mold in your building, it's essential to know how to handle the situation. Although your first instinct may be wondering if you can remove mold on your own, DIY removal attempts can worsen the problem and place your employees' health at risk. Instead of researching mold removal tips, consult a professional to receive fast and effective results. Potential Dangers From DIY Mold Removal While trying to remove the mold yourself may seem like the quickest way to eliminate the problem, it often worsens the situation and endangers the health of everyone in the facility. There are multiple risk factors involved with removing mold on your own, such as: Feeding the mold unintentionally: Most household cleaners include water as a key ingredient. Because mold consumes water, removing it with these cleaners will only cause the mold to spread faster. Inflicting damage on the building: Using chemicals on the walls or flooring can have unknown results. These chemicals could further damage the... --- > It's essential to have a plan for addressing natural disasters or any emergency that involves social media engagement. - Published: 2021-03-22 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/best-practices-for-addressing-disasters-on-social-media/ - Categories: Disaster Whether you're dealing with a hurricane or shooting, it's never easy to prepare for a disaster. Any disaster is unpredictable, and you will only know the impact when the worst ends. Despite this uncertainty, it's essential to have a plan for addressing natural disasters or any emergency that involves social media engagement. The benefits of social media in emergency management include connecting and sympathizing with and assisting those who need help. Follow our three tips for addressing disasters on social media to approach your struggling community in the right way during any unforeseen or uncontrollable disaster. 1. Post Appropriate Content When a natural disaster occurs, the last thing you want to do is carry on as if nothing happened. People could view your social media content as inconsiderate if you're continuing to release marketing content that promotes your business or property instead of addressing the coming or recently passed natural disaster. Instead, create posts for Twitter, Facebook and Instagram that help those in need. Many individuals will turn to social media for information before a news source to receive updates about a tragic event. Use your social media accounts to act as an informational source. Update community members on the latest news from the state government, provide tips on how to stay calm and make your platform an engaging environment where people can go if they have questions. 2. Use Hashtags One useful tool for social media crisis management is hashtags. By creating a hashtag, you add to other posts... --- > Disasters can strike at any time, so sign up for a restoration plan to mitigate the effects and get your business back to work. Contact URI today! - Published: 2021-03-22 - Modified: 2025-06-17 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/find-restoration-company-before-disaster/ - Categories: Uncategorized Getting the call that your commercial property has suffered unforeseen damage is a disheartening situation. Disasters rarely pick convenient times to strike, so it's essential to plan ahead so that your business can get back on its feet quickly after a fire, flood or another catastrophe. Sign up for a restoration plan with a trustworthy company to be prepared when a disaster hits. How to Choose a Restoration Company A restoration plan can save your business a lot of money in the event of a disaster, but it's important to choose a provider that offers the best services for the investment. To find the right restoration company for your business, you should look for one that offers a few key features that can minimize damage to your property and save you money. Here are some factors to prioritize in your search: Immediate response: When a disaster strikes, there's no time to lose. Floods, fires and other emergencies can cause substantial damage to your property and put people's lives at risk, so a fast, effective response is crucial. A qualified restoration company in your area will be able to respond as soon as you need them any time of day. Inquire about 24/7 support and service. Efficient performance of disaster plan: A plan is only as good as its execution. Before signing up with a restoration company, ensure that their team is composed of experienced professionals equipped to respond to any disaster. You'll also want to ensure that restoring your property... --- > Learn about the different types of water damage - there are 3 categories. Contact Us Today To Learn More About Our Water Damage Restoration Services! - Published: 2020-08-25 - Modified: 2023-02-27 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/different-types-of-water-damage/ - Categories: Water Damage Restoration If your business has sustained water damage, you may not give much thought as to what type of water caused the harm. All you want to think about is how to get your space back to normal. In fact, the type of water that caused the damage is a critical element of creating the right restoration plan. If your floors and furniture were soaked by contaminated water, the procedures used during cleanup will differ from those used when clean water is involved. Read on to learn more about the three types of water damage a business can sustain and how they are treated. Category 1 Water Damage Category 1 water is also referred to as "clean" water. It can still do a lot of damage to your property, but there are no underlying environmental concerns when you experience flooding or leakage from clean water. What produces clean water? Sources include: Water heaters Pipes Toilet tanks Refrigerator water lines Clean water can soak through floors and damage drywall. Mold may start to form in just 24 hours, so you need to seek assistance immediately to dehumidify and dry the area. Once it is dry, you can begin cleanup. Category 2 Water Damage Category 2 water damage comes from so-called "grey water," which is no longer clean due to the presence of chemical or biological contaminants. If someone drinks grey water, they will get sick. Sources of grey water include: Dishwashers Showers Washing machines Feces-free toilet water The drying process is similar... --- > We go to the source and investigate your loss incident to make sure every detail has been considered. Speak to an Expert Damage Consultant at URI Today! - Published: 2020-08-10 - Modified: 2022-06-29 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/loss-assesment-and-consultation/ - Categories: Disaster Do you own a house or condo that's part of the Homeowners Association? If so, your payment dues entitle you to a certain level of coverage in the case of property damage or loss. The exact amount of your disaster damage coverage depends on your HOA's master policy — it's different for everybody. Likewise, if you run a business and own a workplace, you should have a specific insurance and loss coverage policy. We know this topic can be confusing, and it's likely the last thing you want to be dealing with when disaster strikes. We're here to help. Unlimited Restoration (URI) has a team of claims consultations to help you handle these details. With more than 30 years of damage assessment service, we can help break down your loss assessment claims and make a plan for how to proceed. Our goal is to make a complex topic as simple and streamlined as possible. To that end, review these big takeaways before heading into a loss consultation. Understand What's Meant by Loss Assessment Coverage Loss assessment coverage specifically covers property damage that's also covered by your home insurance policy. It likely doesn't include coverage for disasters like floods or earthquakes. Loss assessment coverage may also cover liabilities, like a guest's injury, if the liability amount extends beyond your master policy's coverage limit. Your loss assessment coverage will protect you in three specific ways: Common area damage: Loss assessment coverage can reimburse you for covered damages to common areas, as long... --- > There are many reasons why you should not attempt a DIY disaster cleanup. URI provides professional water and fire damage restoration services. Learn More! - Published: 2020-07-31 - Modified: 2022-11-21 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/blog/why-you-shouldnt-diy-minor-cleanup-tasks-after-disaster/ - Categories: Disaster When disaster strikes, the results can be catastrophic. Whether it's water damage, mold infestation or a house fire, you'll be left to pick up the pieces and decide how to proceed. You may be tempted to save the cost of hiring a professional cleaning crew and handle the cleanup yourself. After all, you scrub and sweep your home all the time — how difficult can it be? In reality, restoring a home after a disaster is no small task. You may have experience rebuilding your deck or fixing your leaking pipes, but unlike many DIY home projects, disaster cleanup requires an expert eye. Consider these six reasons that it's always best to call in a professional restoration company to handle the cleanup job. 1. You Might Be Walking Into an Unseen Hazard You know your house inside and out — but that doesn't mean you know what new dangers exist after a disaster. There may be sharp debris and obstructions hidden beneath standing water or under smoke or burned objects. You could run the risk of falling through unstable framework or flooring. If there's water damage on the floor, you could also slip and hurt yourself. Beyond the visible hazards, there may also face a variety of health issues from being in the space. Water damage after a flood could cause dangerous electrical shocks if your wiring has been impacted. Your gas lines could be damaged, leading to potentially toxic gas fume leaks. You might also be facing bacteria, mold... --- --- ## Projects > URI provided water damage emergency response services to a multi-family residential condo property in West Palm Beach. Learn more here! - Published: 2024-12-11 - Modified: 2024-12-11 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/projects/water-damage-emergency-response-condo/ "Imagine a phone call at 6:30AM from your front desk staff informing you that your 10th floor is a shallow swimming pool and every floor from the 10th to the 1st has a cascading waterfall coming through every floor lobby. One entire stack of units had water intrusion and 1/2 of the units on three other stacks all needed extraction and dry out. 28 units, main lobbies, hallways, and storage units on each floor were wet. " This is how a Community Association Manager in West Palm Beach, FL described a recent scene at her property. The Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI) Team was called in to address a severe water damage event at the multi-family residential property requiring immediate water damage emergency response. This water damage emergency response project highlights how the URI team mitigated further damage to the property and minimized disruption for staff and residents at the condominium. What is Water Damage Emergency Response? Water damage emergency response, also known as water damage mitigation, involves taking swift action to prevent additional harm to a property by removing water and thoroughly drying affected areas. The primary objective is to minimize damage and reduce property loss. This process is typically the first step following a water leak or flood. Acting promptly is crucial, as standing water can lead to escalating damage over time. Recent Water Damage Emergency Response Project Building Type: Condominium Location: West Palm Beach, FL Situation | Water Damage URI was notified of a large-scale water damage emergency... --- > URI provided water damage mitigation services to a DMV-area university, minimizing disruption for students, faculty, and staff. Learn more here! - Published: 2024-10-11 - Modified: 2024-10-11 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/projects/water-damage-mitigation-for-university-client/ Though critical for fire protection, sprinkler malfunctions account for 14% of commercial water damage loss annually, according to Chubb. Recently, a DMV-area university client of Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI) witnessed firsthand how quickly a sprinkler break can become a serious water damage event at a commercial property requiring immediate water damage mitigation. This water damage mitigation project highlights the importance of swift response and professional knowledge to mitigate further damage to the property and minimize disruption for students, faculty, and staff of the institution. What is Water Damage Mitigation? Water damage mitigation is the process of preventing further water damage to a property by removing water and drying out affected areas. The goal is to reduce property loss and minimize damage. Water mitigation is usually the first step to take after a water leak or flood. It's important to act quickly because the longer water sits, the more damage it can cause. Recent Water Damage Mitigation Project Building Type: University Science Center Location: Washington, DC Situation | Water Damage On a weeknight evening, URI was notified of a sprinkler break in a science center on a university client’s campus affecting at least three floors of the building. The affected areas of the building included laboratories, offices, classrooms, stairwells, and the basement. The university has classes currently in session, so immediate response was required to help mitigate further damage and get the building back to normal operations as soon as possible. Response by URI | Water Damage Mitigation The URI Team... --- > URI provided fire and smoke damage restoration services to a Philadelphia university, minimizing disruption for their student residents. - Published: 2024-10-08 - Modified: 2025-06-20 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/projects/fire-and-smoke-damage-restoration-high-rise-student-housing/ In a bustling student housing complex, a minor incident turned into a potentially dangerous situation when a paper towel dispenser was set ablaze in the middle of the night. What could have escalated into extensive damage was quickly controlled, but the aftermath left significant fire and smoke damage throughout the affected floor. The Unlimited Restoration, Inc. (URI) Team of commercial property restoration experts was called in to restore the property to its pre-loss condition, ensuring a safe, comfortable living space for students once again. This project showcases not only the technical expertise required for fire and smoke damage restoration in a high-rise building but also the importance of swift action in minimizing disruption to residents. Building Type: High-Rise Student Housing Location: Temple University | Philadelphia, PA Situation | Fire and Smoke Damage In the early hours of a Wednesday morning, URI was notified of an incident at a high-rise student housing property on Temple University's campus in Philadelphia, PA. A paper towel dispenser was set on fire in a communal bathroom and while it was quickly extinguished, and thankfully did burn for long enough to set off the water sprinkler systems, it left the bathroom with extensive fire, smoke, and soot damage. Thanks to the dedicated on-call team at URI, our crews were dispatched to provide 24/7 emergency response to mitigate further damage and minimize disruption to the student residents. Response by URI | Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration The URI Team provided the following services as part of the... --- > Learn about a recent project where URI provided specialty containment construction for the purpose of Infection Prevention & Control. - Published: 2024-06-24 - Modified: 2024-06-24 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/projects/specialty-containment-infection-prevention-control/ Background – What is Infection Prevention & Control? Infection Prevention & Control services involve implementing measures to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases and ensure compliance with infection control standards and regulations. While the terminology stems from the Healthcare community, many concepts and processes can be applied to achieve maximum protection and prevention in other sensitive spaces like food safe manufacturing plants, labs and occupied spaces that remain operational during an invasive project. Key components of Infection Prevention & Control include: Risk Assessment: The first step in infection prevention and control services is to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment of the facility. This involves identifying potential sources of contamination or infection, assessing their severity, and determining the appropriate control measures to mitigate the risk of transmission. Cleaning and Disinfection: URI implements thorough cleaning and disinfection protocols to remove pathogens from surfaces and prevent their spread within the facility. This includes the use of EPA-approved disinfectants and specialized cleaning techniques to target high-touch surfaces and areas with a high risk of contamination. Containment Services: URI installs, maintains, and monitors project barriers; establishes and maintains negative pressure; and ensures ICRA and interim life safety compliance. Third party inspection services are also available to supplement any existing containment resources. Indoor Air Quality Management: URI offers services to improve indoor air quality within facilities, which can help reduce the transmission of airborne pathogens. This may include HVAC system cleaning, filtration upgrades, and ventilation improvements to enhance air circulation and filtration. Recent Infection Prevention &... --- > 19 floors of a high-rise university student housing building in Philadelphia, PA were impacted by large-scale water damage. Learn about URI's response here. - Published: 2023-11-08 - Modified: 2023-11-15 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/projects/university-water-damage/ Background – Emergency Services & Water Damage Restoration Needed In May 2023, a plumbing mechanical failure let a water main supply loose in a high-rise university student housing building in Philadelphia, PA at 2AM. 19 floors of the building and 220 individual rooms, including high-end dormitory suites, common spaces, elevators, stairwells, and more, were impacted by large-scale water damage. As an existing, trusted commercial restoration partner for Temple University, URI was called to provide 24/7 Emergency Response for the event. Within an hour, URI was onsite with an extensive equipment arsenal to mitigate damage and start the extraction and drying process. There were several unique challenges faced by the URI Team of commercial restoration experts on this job, including: Location Temple University is located in the heart of north-central Philadelphia, PA, the most populous city in the U. S. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the second-most populous city in both the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions after New York City. The large-scale loss required the use of URI’s mobile catastrophe response trailers, multiple desiccants/generators, and massive amounts of equipment all that needed to be maneuvered and managed in a major metropolitan area. High-Rise Building Nearly 20 floors of the high-rise urban building were affected, and the onsite elevators had extensive damage. URI needed to ensure labor crews, equipment, and other materials were safely delivered up and down numerous flights of stairs for weeks prior to the elevators being back in use. Safety, as with every URI job, was at the top of the... --- > URI recently provided fire and smoke damage restoration services to a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) client in Annapolis, MD. - Published: 2023-07-17 - Modified: 2023-07-18 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/projects/fire-smoke-damage-restoration-ccrc/ Background - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Need In November 2022, a fire broke out in a unit on the 5th floor of a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in Annapolis, Maryland. It was the first major event the property ever had in its 25-year history under its current property/facility management structure. Over 40 units were affected, to varying degrees, with both fire and smoke damage, as well as water damage from the sprinkler system being set off by the fire. The extensive damage affected both the interior and exterior of the senior living property. There were several unique challenges faced by the URI Team of commercial restoration experts, including: Location Located directly on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay in Annapolis, MD, albeit picturesque, the area is subject to humidity and other environmental or weather-related conditions that needed to be considered during the project completion. Additionally, the property's location in Annapolis, MD finds itself very close to the United States Naval Academy Campus. Each Spring, the Blue Angels host an annual air show during Naval Academy Commissioning Week - And there is a great view for the show from the community's campus. They invite residents, their families, and even the public to attend and watch the show from their campus. When the fire broke out on the 5th floor, lots of smoke from the balcony caused damage on the outside of the building and our client wanted to ensure they put their best foot forward for the annual event.... --- > Unlimited Restoration provided an education facility emergency water damage response to minimize disruption. Learn more in this case study! - Published: 2022-12-08 - Modified: 2024-10-11 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/projects/recent-projects-education-facility-water-damage-response-case-study/ Background - Water Intrusion at School In July 2022, an education facility in New Jersey had an HVAC system malfunction, causing the unit to freeze and letting the water line loose. Unfortunately for the school’s facility and maintenance team, the water damage occurred at some point over a weekend and by Monday morning it had caused significant property damage. 17 rooms on the second floor were flooded and the water had also leaked into the ceiling on the first floor into a handful of larger classrooms, hallways, and the cafeteria.   While there’s never an opportune time for water damage to occur at your school, university, or institution; at least normal classes weren’t in session in July due to summer break, right? Think again. The main floor of the school was being used for a summer camp, requiring the damage to be addressed fast so that the school could continue hosting its normal operations.   The Unlimited Restoration, Inc. team of commercial property restoration experts was immediately called in to the education facility to provide water damage response and mitigation services by the facility manager.   Process - Emergency Response and Mitigation Within an hour of receiving the first notification of loss from the school, Unlimited Restoration was onsite to begin assessing the damage caused by the water intrusion. Two water mitigation equipped trailers and a fully staffed crew were dispatched to provide expedited emergency response. The water was extracted and drying equipment was placed to stabilize the property within... --- > Learn how Unlimited Restoration provided multi-family residential clients temporary boiler installation and maintenance services. - Published: 2022-11-11 - Modified: 2024-06-24 - URL: https://www.urinow.com/projects/recent-projects-temporary-boiler-installation-and-maintenance-case-study/ Background – What is a Temporary Boiler? Boilers are a popular choice in multi-family residential buildings, like apartment complexes, as both a heat source through radiators and generating hot water. They play a critical role in making a property hospitable for occupants. Like any other piece of mechanical equipment, boilers can experience component malfunctions or failures that could require disconnection during fixes or upgrades to the heating system. Some examples of what could cause disruption to a property’s boiler include: Routine servicing Undergoing a heating system fuel conversion (example: from oil to natural gas) Experiencing property damage from disasters like fire, flooding, or storms According to the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Licenses & Inspections, space heating availability from October through to April, and hot water availability during the entire year are basic tenant rights and requirements for muti-family residential properties. Similar rights are also requirements in other cities across the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast like Baltimore and Washington, DC. Based on these requirements, if a property’s boiler goes offline, an immediate solution is needed. A temporary boiler can be used for emergency situations and periods when there is an unexpected increase in heating demand while a permanent solution is being addressed. While an effective and expedited solution, temporary boilers do offer their own challenges to a property or facility manager. Unlimited Restoration alleviated these challenges for two recent clients faced with the burden of temporary boiler installation and maintenance at their multi-family residential property. Recent Temporary Boiler Installation and Maintenance... --- --- ## Testimonials ---