Recent Storm Damage Posts

Clearing Flood Damage in Upper West Side Properties

10/26/2023 (Permalink)

Rain water overflowing the gutter on a roof with caption: Here to Help With Storm Damage If a storm damages your Upper West Side home, SERVPRO is Faster to any size disaster™.

Quick Extraction Solutions for Flood Cleanup

To many, the Upper West Side of Manhattan is one of the city's cultural centers. Much of the region's museums and performing arts venues can be found within this neighborhood, making it a popular tourist destination. Despite it being predominantly high-rise apartment buildings dating into the turn of the twentieth century, there is much to see and do for locals and visitors alike every day of the year. This conversation begins with the massive and famous Central Park green space, home to monuments and various attractions.

Heavy rains might impact areas like Central Park and cause flood damage to Upper West Side homes quickly. Experienced restoration professionals can help, even with some of the historic landmark properties housing the neighborhood's 215,000 residents or cultural venues like the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts or Columbia University. In the Lincoln Center alone, there are twelve different performance halls ranging from the Film Society and School of American Ballet to the Vivian Beaumont Theater and the David Geffen Hall, which serves as the home of the New York Philharmonic.

Overcoming Flood Damage Fast

Much like you might learn at the neighborhood's Children's Museum of Manhattan, water is a powerful force that is as vital as it is harmful, depending on the circumstances. Flooding, in particular, can impact multiple structures simultaneously, making mitigation efforts crucial. SERVPRO® has extraction equipment to manage standing water and suspended solids to begin the restorative drying and cleaning. These include:

  • Truck-Mount Extractors
  • Trash Pumps
  • Wet Vacuums
  • High-Pressure Pumps
  • Light Wands

Flooding can devastate high-rise apartment buildings overlooking Central Park, so our SERVPRO of Upper West Side team moves fast to help. We have equipment tailored for extraction and drying areas that are challenging to access. Call us at (917) 498-1362.

Handling Storm and Flood Damage in the Upper West Side

5/12/2023 (Permalink)

Water Damaged Floor Wall Looking for a restoration company? Look no further, SERVPRO is just a call away.

Call SERVPRO 24/7 for Local Flood Cleanup Help

Once your property gets damaged from a storm and takes on floodwater, you can turn to our SERVPRO team for rapid response. Available 24/7 in the Upper West Side, we work quickly to help our customers bounce back from any natural disaster. By contacting trusted water restoration technicians (WRT), you can restore and repair versus replace, saving you time and money. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

While flood damage after storms in the Upper West Side may not be common, natural disasters happen when you least expect it. Local restaurants like Jacob’s Pickles and Mama’s Too count on water damage cleanup professionals to keep their doors open, and you can also trust SERVPRO with your property. 

We serve residential and commercial customers throughout the area, which may include vast complexes like The Avery on Riverside Boulevard to the Residences at The Mandarin Oriental on Columbus Circle. By scaling our services to meet the water mitigation and storm damage needs of our customers, our technicians can handle any size of disaster.

Taking a look at local flavor, the Upper West Side is also dotted with some incredible sightseeing opportunities to enjoy as your property gets restored, such as:

  • American Museum of Natural History
  • Central Park
  • Lincoln Center
  • St. John the Divine
  • General Grant’s Tomb

Why Call Storm Flood Damage Professionals?

Your property getting hit by a storm that results in flooding can be heartbreaking and stressful. By contacting SERVPRO, you will have our disaster response team mobilized in as little as a few hours. 

  • Rapid response and detailed mitigation help to minimize damages.
  • We develop a tailored plan to restore your living space to pre-flood condition.
  • SERVPRO features a nationwide support network.
  • We provide insurance claim support to ensure your restoration goes as smoothly as possible. 

Contact SERVPRO of Upper West Side by calling (917) 498-1362 or requesting help online. We can be there fast to begin flood damage mitigation and cleanup.

SERVPRO Performs Storm Water Cleanup in Upper West Side

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

Cabinets Post Mitigation Call SERVPRO at (917) 498-1362 for assistance from a professional remediation company.

Storm Water Cleanup in Upper West Side Demands Expertise

Even though the occurrence of storms has a degree of predictability, it's impossible to accurately predict their effects on houses. Even the homeowners who have undertaken every safety measure possible sometimes find themselves in situations where the storm is too strong to withstand. This causes the stormwater to enter the house, which has devastating effects not only on the contents that come in contact with the water but also on the structural integrity of the whole building. 

Timely intervention is crucial since giving the water more time to stand in your house worsens the damage. Upon finding yourself in such a predicament, you should contact SERVPRO to perform stormwater cleanup on your Upper West Side property. Our team comprises well-trained, equipped, and licensed technicians to handle cleanups of any size. 

Upon arriving at the scene, our initial inspection helps us determine the scope of the damage. This way, our SERVPRO team can take the best action and advise you on the costs while documenting the restoration process for easier insurance claims.

One of the pieces of equipment that SERVPRO uses during stormwater cleanup is the portable extractor. We use it when removing water from the affected house's flooring. Some of the features that make it vital are:

  • It offers easy access to restricted areas of the building. 
  • Its variable heat control system allows more effective cleaning by heating rinse and cleaning solutions.
  • A solution tank and pump allow for the effective carriage and spreading of cleaning products.
  • A vacuum system helps in removing moisture and soil from surfaces, which it collects in its waste recovery tank.

At SERVPRO, we ensure our customers are satisfied, which means we pay attention to their concerns and handle them accordingly. Our entire process is geared towards making a great impression on our clients by doing high-quality cleanup work.


Don't let stormwater destroy your house. Contact SERVPRO of Upper West Side for help at (917) 498-1362. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

We Have the Proper Techniques to Restore Your Manhattan Home After a Flood

8/20/2022 (Permalink)

drying gear at work  on a floor SERVPRO strives to preserve and restore flood-damaged elements and contents during a Manhattan service.

Crucial Steps in Managing Flood Damage Incidents in Manhattan Involving Sanitary Water

Flooding incidents cause different categories of water loss. Category-one water loss involves sanitary water, mostly when rainwater filters into the house. Typical scenarios include winds or debris opening up holes on the roof and letting in rainwater. Alternatively, driving rain can push rainwater through gaps in doors or windows. With a few crucial steps, controlling flood damage involving clean water is possible.

Protecting Contents

When flood damage incidents in Manhattan involve sanitary water, the intrusion point is usually at an elevated point, meaning no groundwater reaches the interior. Such incidents can affect more items, so they need to be protected. Suppose we find an ongoing intrusion such as arriving when it is still raining or draining water trapped in the ceiling. In that case, our SERVPRO technicians use plastic sheets to cover contents protecting them from unnecessary exposure. We also use towels to remove excess water from items and relocate materials from the floor where most collect.

Expedited Water Extraction

Extracting the standing water left after flood damage strikes help kick start restoration of the property to its preloss state. Extracting the water requires equipment with the right lift and volume capacity. A truck-mounted water extractor helps our SERVPRO crews move significant volumes of water within a short period. For minor intrusions, portable extractors are sufficient. Sometimes the floor type might influence the extraction method. For example, using towels to remove water on hardwood floors and setting up drying mats might be appropriate in some cases.

Humidity Control

Moisture build-up in the structure is common during flooding. Although the drying process starts fully after other restoration steps, including water extraction and cleaning, there is a need for humidity control before that to prevent secondary damage caused by moisture migration. Our SERVPRO crews use different approaches to provide this control, including setting up dehumidifiers or maintaining negative pressure in some areas.

Even though flooding happens unexpectedly, it is possible to manage the outcome. Call SERVPRO of Upper West Side at (347) 970-2972 to help. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

We Discuss The Best Extraction Methods For Your Manhattan Basement Apartment

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

High-rise building living room Don't let flood damage take over your property, Call SERVPRO.

Best Extraction Methods for Manhattan Basement Apartments

Apartment water recovery after flooding can require creative solutions implemented immediately to reduce widespread structural deterioration and more expensive restoration efforts for Manhattan property owners. With some of the high-rise apartment buildings that famously make up the skyline, we need portable yet effective water removal tactics to reduce the need for significant controlled demolition and build back.

Storm systems threatening the borough can produce extreme conditions capable of breaking windows, puncturing roofs, and other scenarios that might lead to a need for flood removal in Manhattan residences. Because of how closely connected the entire apartment and its contents are, a single flooding incident can damage your entire property. Our SERVPRO professionals have multiple choices for fast and thorough extraction, and with an apartment several stories from the ground level, we must consider the best possible tools for the job.

Wet-Vacs / Light Wands

These are among the most popular options as they are the most portable options available to the team. Often these units collect water into their tanks, and those get emptied through open drains in the residence. The advantage to the units is that they do not require discharge hoses. Hence, they are a lightweight and manageable extraction tool designed to excel in smaller, confined areas.

Submersible Pumps

Another lightweight and highly mobile option for our SERVPRO team is the electric submersible pump. In most situations where standing water exceeds 2 inches in depth, these units must be used before the extraction job is finished with the light wands. These lightweight sump pumps’ discharge can be directed to sink drains and other outlets to continually extract standing water.

Specific equipment most ideal for high-efficiency extraction, like our truck-mount pumps, are challenging to use in high-rise apartments. Our SERVPRO of Upper West Side has practical solutions to rapidly dry your flooded apartment to get it back to pre-damaged condition quickly. No matter where you are, We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster. Give us a call today at (917) 498-1362.

Stormwater in Your Manhattan Unit? Just call SERVPRO--We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

contamination Barrier A Containment Barrier Decreases Treatment Area Along with Service Time.

What To Do When Flood Damage Hits Your Manhattan Home

Water damage is one of the most costly home disasters a property owner faces. When the loss situation emanates as the result of a storm, the circumstances in the home have the potential to bring further loss to both property and contents, depending on how quickly cleanup begins.

One of the first things a Manhattan homeowner facing flood damage should do is to ascertain if it is safe to remain in the home. If the water enters the house as rainwater, usually through damage to a window or roof, it is considered clean water and not hazardous as long as the structure is sound. The real issue comes when groundwater affects your home.

Safety First

If the floodwater has the potential to reach wall plugs in the home or you notice light fixtures have water in them, turn off the electricity in the house. If someone mistakenly turns on a light, it may cause expensive electrical issues that require repair, along with the endangerment of electrical shock. If appliances receive water damage, unplug them and show them to the SERVPRO technicians, who, on a case-by-case basis, can arrange for an outside expert to work on the device if it has restoration potential.

Engage Professional Restoration Services

It is essential to bring in professional restoration services that test the water, remove damaged items, and have the equipment and training to salvage as much as possible through cleaning and drying methods.

Mold Happens Fast

Most people never consider airborne mold spores are always present both indoors and outdoors. The rise in humidity inside the home after a flood allows for the germination of mold spores. Inhibiting mold or cleaning away early established colonies is key to stemming secondary flood damage. SERVPRO technicians have the training to remove infestations and apply preventative measures such as antimicrobial sealers to ensure it does not return to the treated areas.

The certified technicians at SERVPRO of Upper West Side at (917) 498-1362 stand ready to handle any flood damage to your property, using both their equipment and expertise to make the water loss "Like it never even happened."

Introducing the Simple Way to Achieving Flood Damage Remediation Success in Manhattan

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded Room Flooding that affects your condo or apartment needs to be taken seriously because often it's not just your unit that is involved. Call SERVPRO.

Call the Professionals for Flood Removal in the Manhattan Area

The population and business density of the Manhattan area make it an exciting and vibrant place to live and work. When living spaces experience significant water incursion in the city, density and the residential building configurations offer many challenges. Our highly-qualified team of flooding mitigation professionals has the training and the specialized equipment to get the job done right and fast.

When flood removal in the Manhattan area is needed because of broken water mains or overflowing sanitary sewers during heavy rains, garden-level condos and apartments suffer the most. Although all spaces in a multi-story residential property can have issues when lower levels are flooded, living at or below the street targets those units for rapid emergency response. Our crews arrive ready to assess the situation and begin restoration efforts immediately.

Each SERVPRO service vehicle carries a full complement of water removal and structural drying equipment. We can pump and extract water from your home even if the electricity service is interrupted. Our gas-powered and truck-mounted tools prevent delays that could mean progressive damage to your property and serious secondary concerns like mold growth. We employ thermal scanners to locate hidden water migrating into cavities after a flood to ensure all fluids are contained and removed.

Expert flood recovery needs an accurate measurement of moisture levels throughout the process. During IICRC training, SERVPRO technicians study the science of psychrometrics and the principles behind applied drying techniques. Establishing drying goals based on reliable moisture measurements is vital. We use meters and probes to fix baselines and revisit those levels to assess how well the air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers we position in your space are reducing moisture in the structural components of your home.

To attend better to the requirements of your furnishings and personal possessions during flood removal, SERVPRO might recommend a pack-out of some items. At our production facility, we can clean and dry out articles you fear were ruined using advanced technologies such as freeze and thermal drying. We use a Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) protocol to create and maintain an inventory and track restoration attempts. This documentation helps us work with your insurer as well.

SERVPRO of Upper West Side is ready to help when your apartment or condo is afloat in floodwaters. One call to (917) 498-1362 can line up water removal, structural and contents drying, and assistance with your insurance claim process.

Quick and Efficient Storm Damage Remediation in Manhattan With SERVPRO

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Flood with Stairs The first step to resolving storm damage is calling your local trained professionals at SERVPRO of Upper West Side at (917) 498-1362.

Risks that Can Complicate Restoration of Flood Damage in Your Manhattan Home 

After flooding incidents unfold, you need to respond fast to mitigate the damage and destruction left behind. While doing so, you need to be aware of the risks that you might be exposed to because some can lead to bodily harm. Hiring a professional restoration team to handle the entire process of restoring flood damage can help you avoid such risks.

When cleaning up or removing materials affected by flood damage in your Manhattan home, you should consider the danger of electrical shocks. The pooling water can relay electricity from exposed cables or electrical outlets, shocking anyone wading into the water unprotected. You can avoid such risks by turning off the mains before taking other mitigation steps. In case of flooding after a storm, the risk may persist because of downed power lines. Our SERVPRO technicians can work safely, even in such circumstances, because we have the right PPE, Personal Protective Equipment. Among the safety equipment we have, include: 

  • Rubber Boots 
  • Heavy Duty Gloves 
  • Electrical Circuit Testers 
  • Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters 

Flooding leaves properties murky from the combination of soils dragged from outside the structure and debris from damaged items within the house. As you prepare to clean the murk, restoring the property to its pre-damaged state, you should be aware of the contamination risks flooding can present. The groundwater swept into your home may include hazardous contaminants such as raw sewage and chemicals. Our SERVPRO technicians spray EPA registered disinfectants into the water to neutralize the contaminants and wear protective gear. We also bring shovels to remove silt and sludge conveniently. 

Wicking water can reach confined spaces such as subfloors and structural supports such as frames and joists. If left unchecked, it can trigger rot and other forms of deterioration that weaken them, posing a risk to the house occupants in the future. Our SERVPRO technicians can trace wetness even in hidden sections. We use moisture sensors with probes to check the levels of wetness in materials such as wooden floorboards. We also have FLIR thermal cameras that reveal wetness in concealed areas. 

You can deal with flood damage incidents safely with professional assistance. Call SERVPRO of Upper West Side at (917) 498-1362 to help. Our combined resources can help restore the damage "Like it never even happened."

How Much Flood Damage Can a Leaky Roof in an Upper West Side Property Do?

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

thermal camera pointing at a wall SERVPRO discovers moist walls and ceilings using a thermal imaging camera. Very important for Upper West Side multi-unit structures

SERVPRO Techs Support the Upper West Side with All Kinds of Water Damage Restoration Services

Many of the Upper West Side properties are multiple family housing units, and when there is storm damage, what affects one home can affect other residences. A wind-damaged roof can allow water to enter the property, which can migrate to other areas and affect additional units.

SERVPRO techs routinely handle flood damage cleanup in Upper West Side homes and businesses. The technicians undergo extensive, continuing training to stay up to date on the latest advancements in the restoration industry. The preliminary actions by the techs set the tone and pace for the restoration service, such as:

  • Tarping over damaged areas on roofing to halt water entrance
  • Using sensitive equipment to determine migration paths of water
  • Getting to work extracting the water immediately

Water migration can be a problem

Usually, in the case of water entering through a roof leak, the water does not pool or stand. It travels rapidly into carpet, padding, and wicks into walls. Ceilings and insulation can become saturated, and, ceilings can present a safety hazard if they are sagging. SERVPRO technicians know how to ascertain if the structural integrity is compromised in a wall or ceiling and how much should be removed to halt moisture absorption. In multi-unit buildings, we can also check with neighbors who may have a water intrusion from the flooding.

The flood cuts are a crucial part of the restoration process. Often referred to as "controlled demolition" actions, these work in favor of the property owner, limiting the damage from the water to the walls or ceilings. The techs measure above the water line and only remove the damaged portion, making repairs easier as it only needs patching rather than replacing an entire wall or ceiling.

SERVPRO of Upper West Side at (917) 498-1362 brings professional flood damage cleanup services to Upper West Side properties. The certified techs are available 24/7 to make the water damage, "Like it never even happened."

Do I Need a Special Kind of Disaster Recovery Company to Help Me with Flooding Affecting My Upper West Side Apartment?

10/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo over kitchen SERVPRO storm and flood damage restoration are in line with all health regulations. Call now for fast and immediate service.

Your Local SERVPRO Adapts to Meet Your Needs Where You Live -- When You Reach Out for Flood Damage Assistance on the Upper West Side, We Will Be Ready

Single-family homes are not the norm on the Upper West Side, so reputable flooding recovery firms must invest in training and equipment that deliver results in densely populated, multi-family, multi-story home buildings. The research-based theories and best practices taught by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) apply to damage in a high-rise. Still, the approach must consider the challenges of removing water and drying out the property when there are equipment accessibility hurdles.

I Live Many Stories Above the Street -- What Kind of Flood Damage Will I Reasonably Have?

You might feel impervious to flood damage on the Upper West Side, but you will feel the flooding effects even if it does not flow directly inside your apartment or condo. Many systems that provide heating, cooling, plumbing, and transport (elevators) base their operations in the lower levels of your multi-level building. If contaminated water interferes with these systems' workings, you and your neighbors experience immediate cessation of electricity and climate controls. Elevators cannot run without electricity, so you are either stuck in your unit or forced to use stairways that can have flooding issues of their own the closer you get to the bottom.

What About My Storage Areas? Will They Flood?

Suppose you use assigned rooms or containers in the lower levels of your apartment, condo, or brownstone. In that case, unfortunately, the chances are excellent that your belongings will absorb floodwater in the Upper West Side. One of the benefits of hiring SERVPRO to manage that crisis is our ability to pack out items and evaluate and restore them away from the confusion caused by many other residents dealing with similar issues. We use a system that provides a digitized record of the items we pack out -- the Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS). We track articles through:

  • Written lists
  • Digital photos
  • Barcoding

The records are saved to a digital file and permit our specially trained contents technicians to document the process from assessment through mitigation and remediation interventions, arriving finally at either an acceptable return to function and appearance or a decision to discard an item because of intractable damage. Our documentation helps when you seek coverage from your insurance company. Restoration interventions found at our production facility include:

  • Industrial wash and drying systems for textiles and soft items
  • Freeze-drying technology for papers and photos
  • Immersion and ultrasonic tanks to loosen grime and pathogens carried by the floodwaters and now coating loose items
  • Small drying chambers for electronics and furnishings where we can monitor and manipulate air movement, temperature, and humidity
  • EPA-registered cleaning and disinfection products 
  • Deodorization products and innovative equipment that can eliminate persistent odors 
  • Ozone machines
  • Fogging machines
  • Hydroxyl generators

What If Exterior Storm Damage Makes Its Way Inside, Even Many Stories Above the Street?

Broken windows and poorly configured or damaged drainage systems can offload torrential rains into your living space. Leaks around windows and exterior doors leading to balconies or decks can cause significant damage even if the glass remains intact. How can we help with this challenge?

  • A project manager arrives to assess for any safety issues
  • We are on the lookout for water in ceiling or wall cavities which can cause structural collapse
  • If found, we use controlled demolition techniques like punching weep holes or cutting holes into or taking sections of walls out to access trapped water
  • If you live on the first three floors, truck-mounted extractors can remove water
  • Higher elevations require our technicians to use one or many portable (backpack) extractors to remove fluids
  • One of our highly trained technicians uses detection and metering devices to trace the perimeter of the water incursion and test materials for water absorption levels.
  • The moisture measurements inform our drying goals
  • Air movers and dehumidifiers facilitate the evaporation of moisture from building materials and into the air, where we capture it for disposal

Flood damage in your apartment or condominium building affects your life in ways you might not expect. The scenario is tricky to mitigate and remediate, but SERVPRO of Upper West Side has the skilled technicians and equipment to get it managed quickly and successfully. Give us a call at (917) 498-1362 to discover what we can do to help you during this difficult time.

Is Professional Flood Damage Restoration Important for Upper West Side Residents?

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment at work. SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified and trained for any size storm damage restoration service needed for your home. Call now!

SERVPRO Flood Damage Response Teams Can Help Return your Home to a Safe and Sanitary Environment

Flooded properties are usually full of highly contaminated materials and substances. It is vital to avoid contact with floodwaters as they are often full of pathogens, which can make you sick. The fastest way to get your home back to a sanitary state is by using a dedicated and certified restoration team. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certifications body (IICRC) provide essential biohazardous waste removal qualifications. IICRC technicians can help with:

  • Biohazardous waste disposal
  • Flood restoration
  • Sanitizing

Contamination is often present in flood damage for Upper West Side residents. The key to controlling a site with contamination is through clear communication as well as through physical containment. It is usual for SERVPRO technicians to allocate spaces for decontamination rooms, storage for non-affected items, and clean rooms. We provide our technicians with personal protective equipment, and each team member is carefully vetted for their skillset and experience in dealing with the urgent emergencies presented by flooding. 

  • Wastewater can be pumped out of a building using specially designed electric pumps capable of transporting solid waste. 
  • Porous materials in the home can be disposed of at designated waste facilities or, if not contaminated, can often be restored.
  • Drywall, insulation, and other porous materials used in a structure must be replaced with clean materials. Often the framework, the structural basis for a building assembly, can be salvaged following floodwater intrusion. 

Floodwaters can be dangerous. Contact SERVPRO of Upper West Side for flood damage at (917) 498-1362.

SERVPRO Mitigates Flooded Properties in Manhattan

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

a person standing in a room with water covering the floor Flooding can affect both the structure and the contents of your home. Handle the situation by calling SERVPRO 24/7 365 days a year.

Drying Flood-Damaged Manhattan Townhouse Basements

Your Manhattan townhouse often has livable space in the basement area with finished construction. While this can be a welcomed addition to the layout of your home, it also poses risks when disasters like flooding strike. As the lowest levels of your property are often the first to succumb to the spreading floodwater, your finished basement requires professional IICRC-certified restoration technicians. They respond quickly to this emergency to provide real-time mitigation solutions designed to protect your belongings and dry up the damaged area.

When flood damage occurs in Manhattan, there is often no avoiding the need for controlled demolition and reconstruction. The amount of this removal effort required depends on the response of restoration technicians to the scene to begin mitigation tactics to prevent the spread of water damage throughout this area of the property. Our SERVPRO technicians are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies and provide immediate attention to damaged homes.

Basement Flooding Cleanup

Before we can get to the necessary drying efforts that your basement requires, our contents department can begin removing at-risk items from this lower level of your property. In many cases, with focused drying, disinfection, and cleaning, your belongings in this affected area can get restored entirely and returned to the property once restoration completes.

Drying is a vital component of the restoration and mitigation process following a flood. These efforts can help preserve structural elements like studs and framework to prevent costlier reconstruction bills once the area is thoroughly dried, disinfected, and cleaned. Our controlled demolition techniques can help make the transition between mitigation and reconstruction smooth and efficient, limiting the overall restoration process. 

As traumatic as flood damage might be to your home and your family, knowing the right team to call when disaster strikes can save you time and money in restoring the damages. You can count on our SERVPRO of Upper West Side to provide a fast response with industry-leading equipment to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call anytime at (917) 498-1362.

Handling Flood Damage in Properties of the Upper West Side

5/31/2021 (Permalink)

a flooded laundry room with items floating everywhere Recent flooding from a storm can wreak havoc on your living situation. Stay calm and contact our SERVPRO team for flood damage remediation efforts.

SERVPRO Handles Flooding and Storm Damage in the Upper West Side Using Multiple Tools and Methods

You may not always associate the Upper West Side with flooding and storm damage, but are you prepared to address it in the event of an emergency? Storms are unpredictable, and if you end up with groundwater flooding, you need to have emergency services water damage technicians onsite and ready to work as soon as possible.

Calling SERVPRO to the Upper West Side for flood damage means you have a skilled, dependable crew and the equipment necessary to facilitate water removal services. We act fast to help limit the loss and the length of time it takes to restore your property to pre-flood condition.

We make it “Like it never even happened,” by way of several essential steps, which may include:

  • Water clean up with the help of pumps and powerful extractors to handle hundreds of gallons of water, even if debris is present
  • Sewage cleanup and treatment of contaminated water to eliminate the onset of potential health hazards
  • Water damage remediation with industrial-strength fans, Injectidry cavity-drying technology, air movers, and dehumidifiers
  • Total deodorization and sanitization with safe, effective, EPA-registered products 
  • Water damage repairs and controlled demolition, including assistance if you have a leaking roof from storms

The blow from a storm that results in flooding can be overwhelming, but SERVPRO is also here to assist with detailed documentation and filing of your insurance claims. We want our clients to be safe and have peace of mind that they hired the right flood restoration team for the job! Call SERVPRO of Upper West Side at (917) 498-1362 for an emergency response!

Flood Damage Biohazard Remediation in Upper West Side Homes

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Biohazard sign Flood damage from a storm may cause extreme damage, especially to water sources. SERVPRO uses the experience and knowledge of its techs for the job.

Why is biohazard remediation and disinfection so necessary after a flood?

Floodwaters are saturated with dirt and debris. Dirt and debris are left inside homes as the water subsides and must be removed and cleaned. Hidden in the soil and water are many biohazards and chemicals that can be hazardous to human health and our pets.

SERVPRO provides flood damage cleanup and biohazard remediation in Upper West Side homes and businesses. Our highly trained team is experienced in dealing with biohazards of all types. We take all of the necessary precautions to protect your family and our employees from dangerous chemicals and biohazards carried into your home.

There are many substances often picked up by floodwaters.

These include:

  • Sewage
  • Viruses and bacteria
  • Human waste
  • Gasoline and oil
  • Chemicals from various containers damaged by the floodwaters

Our flood restoration includes removing the debris, the water, the dirt and cleaning all surfaces using disinfectants to ensure a safe return to your home once everything is dried and repaired.

Contact SERVPRO of Upper West Side for flood damage services in Upper West Side and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (917) 498-1362.

The Upper West Side Showcases Architectural Treasures

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo If you need professional storm damage remediation services, don't hesitate to reach out for help. Call SERVPRO at (917)-498-1362.

Flood damage to Upper West Side buildings threatens their history



The Upper West Side of Manhattan is where movies are made, and people aspire to reside. On the east, Central Park serves as its border, and the Hudson River borders the west. An affluent area, many residents work, play, and live in Midtown and Lower Manhattan. In the late 19th century, the Upper West Side's riverfront portion centered around manufacturing and shipping activities. As Central Park was being built in the 1850s, the area became the home of squatters and borders. It wasn’t until the opening of the first subway line in 1904 that residential construction prospered. The subway, the advent of the elevator, and newer construction techniques made the area affordable and practical for the middle class.

The demographic of the Upper West Side has changed over the years. Even though it continues to be mostly a white neighborhood, Asians and Hispanics continue to grow, while the African American population decreases. The buildings facing Central Park continue to be some of the most coveted in the city. Riverside Drive hosts some pre-war structures, and architectural gems can be seen at every turn. Four of the most famous co-ops from the 1930s- the Majestic, the Century, the San Remo, and El Dorado- grace the Upper West Side Historic District. The American Museum of Natural History and Beacon Theater are also notable buildings in the area.

Needless to say, entertainment abounds in the Upper West Side, as it does in all of New York City. Just like Broadway is synonymous with theater and glamour, the Upper West Side caters to an arguably more sophisticated audience. Among the landmarks to visit, make sure to include-

  • The Lincoln Center- home to the most prominent performing arts organizations, including the New York City Ballet, the Metropolitan Opera, and the New York Philharmonic.
  • The Beacon Theatre- its art deco style has hosted some of the most famous names in the performing arts, including the Rolling Stones and Michael Jackson.
  • Symphony Space, comprised of two theaters, is an ongoing entertainment opportunity in dance, comedy, and music, among others.

A visit to the Upper West Side delivers much of what New York City is famous for. Central Park, a lively artistic community, and unparalleled culinary experiences surrounded by an undercurrent of wealth and power make the area like no other in the world.

Storm Damage to Upper West Side Buildings

Despite the longevity of many buildings in the Upper West Side, one cannot assume they are infallible. 

Storms and changes in the weather can easily damage structures that have withstood the test of time. When homeowners identify flood damage in their homes, they must rely on a professional service to mitigate their loss.

SERVPRO is at your service to move quickly and efficiently to control the damage caused by the elements. 

Our team is ready to arrive at your home and apply the latest techniques to its restoration, including the following-

  • Water extraction
  • Disinfection
  • Specialty drying solutions

SERVPRO of Upper West Side is available around the clock by calling us at (917) 498-1362. Do not waste precious time when disaster strikes. 

Place your trust in our certified technicians and let us leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Central Park West Residents Head to Bank of America Winter Village

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

ice skating in Central Park NYC After the storm, SERVPRO invites you to ice skate in Central Park

Ice Skating, Shopping & More – One of the Favorite Events with Central Park West Folks

Winter does not mean staying inside. Getting out into the open air is good for your mental and physical health. The Bank of American Winter Village at Bryant Park is recommending folks do just that. The main event is ice skating, and it is free. While you are there getting some physical activity, you can indulge in some rink-side snacks and hot drinks. There is plenty of local shopping as well. The walkways have been expanded to allow for less congestion. Other things to know include:

  • Rink reservations must be made online
  • Enhanced cleaning is taking place
  • Skate time is booked per timed session
  • Ice skaters must wear a mask

You can visit the Holiday Shops through January 3, 2021. Typical hours are Monday – Friday: 11 AM – 8 PM. Many stores may be open later after Thanksgiving.

SERVPRO of Upper West Side offers storm and flooding restoration services to Central Park West and the surrounding areas. Contact us at (917) 498-1362.

What Actions are Necessary to Restore Sanitary Conditions after Flood Damage Affects a Condo in the Upper West Side?

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

24 H Contact SERVPRO at (917) 498-1362, for flood damage mitigation services. We are available 24/7.

SERVPRO is Well Versed with General Cleanup and Removal of Harmful Substances from Properties after Flooding Incidents.

A flooding incident can affect any section of a condo, whether it is individual units or common areas, like the parking lot. Restoring the property to its preloss state takes several processes, including sanitizing all the areas the floodwaters reach. Sanitization may also be necessary for areas unaffected by the water since moving in and out of the facility can spread contaminated materials from the affected areas. SERVPRO helps ease the restoration of flooded condos in the Upper West Side

What does sanitization require after flood damage affects a condo in Upper West Side? 

  • Removal of dirty water
  • Removal of solid wastes like mud, silt, or raw sewage
  • Removal of affected building materials
  • Cleansing all affected materials

Flooding affects properties in different ways, including depositing harmful substances on surfaces or deep within materials. Moisture action also breaks down materials or starts chemical processes within the materials. Restoring sanitary conditions in a property is only possible after addressing all these issues. Our SERVPRO crews break down the process into groups of related tasks making it easier to handle the damage.

Is it possible to prevent contamination of a property once flooding occurs?

The Intrusion of floodwaters into a condo readily spreads contaminants around the property. The initial dispersal of such materials is limited only to sections where the groundwater reaches. Contaminants can only spread in the rest of the property through secondary transfer by foot traffic or aerosolized through the air. It is possible to prevent such secondary spreading by taking timely preventive steps.

Our SERVPRO technicians can help by setting up physical barriers to limit people and air movements from spreading materials from the affected areas to the unaffected sections. We set up the barriers using plastic sheets and other unique accessories such as spring-loaded metallic poles. It takes limited time to set up the barriers creating airtight protection around the desired sections of the condo. With this option, our technicians can: 

  • Block hallways, doors, and other access points
  • Create three-side rooms within rooms
  • Seal off sections of the property

With the temporary barriers in place, we can be sure that the areas we clean or disinfect cannot be re-contaminated by people or the other steps we take to restore the property, such as running air movers to improve the evaporation rate from wet materials.

Which resources are needed for efficient cleanup of the condo?

  • Various types of water extractors 
  • A variety of cleaning tools 
  • Access equipment like ladders or cherry pickers
  • Miscellaneous tools such as shovels, pry bars, and saws

Since the soils introduced by flooding into a property vary, several types of equipment are necessary to facilitate clean up. For instance, removing floodwaters may require different extractors at different stages, including self-priming slurry pumps, which remove water containing dissolved solids like mud and silt. Regular high-capacity extractors with accessories such as extra-long hoses are also necessary to fast-track water removal if there is a considerable volume of standing water in the property. 

Deteriorated materials within the walls or floors must also be torn down because once porous materials are contaminated, it is hard to cleanse them by cleaning or other restoration procedures. Our SERVPRO technicians arrive at the loss site prepared for such tasks by bringing building tools like saws and pry bars to facilitate the removal of drywall, insulation, and other porous materials affected by the floodwaters. 

Cleaning all the surfaces, including floors and walls, is necessary to remove visible soils and invisible contaminants. Our crews apply potent cleaning agents, including EPA-registered disinfectants. The task also requires proper agitation to reach and remove all the substances from materials. Our technicians use rotating brushes or pressure washers to provide the strength needed for removing such substances. 

What are some challenges that might prevent a smooth restoration process?

Sometimes the restoration of the condo might be affected by factors beyond the damages caused by flooding. For instance, if common areas and some units are affected, it might not be clear who should shoulder the cost of restoration.  Another problem is the failure to understand the full extent of damage and especially moisture spread patterns. Identifying the problems at stake can help people make decisions faster. Our SERVPRO technicians rely on state-of-the-art equipment such as thermal cameras and thermos-hygrometers to reveal unseen problems such as water intrusion into hidden sections of the building or excessively humid air, which can lead to unnecessary microbial growth, lengthening the time taken to restore sanitary conditions.

SERVPRO of Upper West Side can help the restoration of a flooded condo. Call us at (917) 498-1362 when you need help. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Recent Storms Caused Flooding at the Ground Level of My Building, Now What?

9/12/2020 (Permalink)

infrared camera imaging a wall SERVPRO checks a wall in an Upper West Side unit after a flooding event. We leave when the place is dry, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Can Handle Emergency Calls to the Upper West Side to Begin Prompt Flood Damage Cleanup

If flooding from the street after a storm brought water into your first level, you need to act fast to limit the damage. The last thing you want is ruined items or any structural damage to your Upper West Side building, especially if you have tenants to think about. SERVPRO can be there quickly, as We're Faster to Any Size Disaster with crews available 24/7 to get to work on your restoration project.

We Feature IICRC-Certified Technicians

When you have flood damage in the Upper West Side, you can rest assured knowing that our team has been trained via the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). This means that we come armed with the skills, knowledge, and industry-proven methods to limit the loss and quickly get your building back to normal.

Available Around the Clock

Storms and devastation can happen at any time of day or night, so we provide flood services seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Once you call us, we arrive on the scene in as little as a few hours to:

  • Assess your building, locating the point(s) of entry for the flood water
  • Put a perimeter in place to limit the tracking of moisture and debris into other areas of the building
  • Begin extraction of the water and work to repair any damage where water was coming in
  • Commence drying efforts, including dehumidification to restore relative humidity levels to normal
  • Deodorize and sanitize all surfaces using cleaning products approved by the EPA
  • Restore and clean any furnishings or content that was affected
  • Ensure everything is back to pre-flood condition. “Like it never even happened.”

Call (917) 498-1362 to have SERVPRO of Upper West Side work on your flood damage needs. We address all floodwater and devastation quickly to take the burden off of your shoulders.

We Had Flooding; I Need Help to Dry My Interior

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded home with floating objects SERVPRO Leaves Your Flood Damaged Home in Upper West Side Only When It Is Dry and Ready for a Build Back

SERVPRO’s Green Fleet in the Upper West Side Comes Equipped with the Best Tools for Flood Damage Restoration

Once you know that your family is safe as flooding overtakes your Upper West Side home, you can call SERVPRO for mitigation and restoration services. Cleaning up your interior and ensuring everything is sanitized and deodorized can be challenging, but we are here to help. We are Faster To Any Size Disaster with crews available 24/7 for emergency restoration services. Once you reach out to us, we send a team to your property to begin the assessment in as little as four hours or less. 

Will All Building Materials Need Replacing?

We arrive and formulate a plan quickly to get the water removal started. In any situation involving flood damage in the Upper West Side, the longer that you wait, the more secondary damage takes hold. Things to look out for include:

  •   Saturated and weakened subflooring
  •   Soaked drywall that begins to crumble
  •   Buckling or warping of hardwood floors
  •   Warped and buckling wood framing
  •   Supports or metal fasteners that start to rust
  •   Bulging or breaking ceiling tiles
  •   Blistering or peeling wallpaper or paint

How Do You Know What Steps to Take?

SERVPRO uses a unique formula that allows us to determine the equipment we need and how many pieces of equipment can facilitate water removal, drying, and cleaning. Powerful water extraction tools allow us to remove hundreds of gallons of debris-filled water promptly. We then set up drying equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers to remove moisture from materials and the air inside the home. Moisture detection tools allow us to find any lingering pockets that require further attention. Everything then wraps up with complete sanitizing and deodorization to prevent the development of foul odors. 

Call (917) 498-1362 day or night when you need help with flood damage to your home. Our SERVPRO of Upper West Side team ensures your interior is just “Like it never even happened.”

Find out more about The Upper West Side

Are There Health Risk Concerns with Flood Damage in the Upper West Side?

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Aerial view of upper west side NY Flooding in lower levels of Upper West Side Homes Require Expert Cleanup and Recovery -- Call SERVPRO

Groundwater Can Transport Various Contaminants Requiring Disinfecting

Many homeowners are not concerned about health issues associated with flood damage. These consumers are worried, rightfully so, about the damage to their homes and contents. How can their families recover after so much is destroyed? Many people may not realize that floodwaters absorb a variety of potentially dangerous elements that we should also take into consideration.

Who Offers Storm and Flood Damage Recovery?

SERVPRO provides flood damage cleanup, repair, and restoration on the Upper West Side. We have been specializing in flood, fire, water, and mold restoration services in the area for many years. Debris removal is a critical segment of cleanup and recovery after a storm.

Floodwaters absorb many different pathogens, biological materials, and chemicals and deposit these same materials as the water recedes. For example:

  • Animal waste and carcasses
  • Human waste
  • Chemicals such as oil and gasoline
  • Viruses – Norovirus, rhinovirus, feline calicivirus and many more
  • Mold spores

Does Specialized Equipment Really Help with Storm Water Removal?

The short answer is YES! However, correct placement, number, and devices chosen, when coordinated by IICRC-Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification technicians ensures optimal performance and minimum damage. The advanced equipment can be:

  • Extractors
  • Pumps and vacuums
  • Air movers
  • Dehumidifiers
  • Power sources
  • Truckload of equipment

We train our team in the use of EPA certified chemicals for sanitizing and disinfecting homes and businesses after a flood has passed through an area. We are equipped with Personal Protection Equipment to use while we remove debris from your home, clean, and dry your home so that restoration can proceed.

Call SERVPRO for assistance after a flood. We are available 24/7/365, in Manhattan, Central Park West, and the surrounding area at (917) 498-1362. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Winning Tactics of Flood Damage Remediation in Your Manhattan Home

2/11/2020 (Permalink)

looking down hallway into kitchen of apartment When water damages your apartment, SERVPRO to the rescue. W! have what it takes to remove the water and restore your home.

What Professional Flood Water Removal Offers Manhattan Residents 

Whether the flooding in your Manhattan home is due to storms or a significant plumbing or appliance breach, you need help fast. Multi-unit buildings pose real challenges to residents of our borough as the water disaster your neighbor endure can migrate into your condo, apartment, or townhouse without warning. No matter how several inches or even a foot or more of water enters your home, it is essential to remove the water. 

To accomplish flood water removal in Manhattan a restoration company needs a highly-trained and skilled team of technicians and managers as well as state of the art equipment. Often when water collects in a house, the electricity is shut off for safety reasons. This lack of power makes it essential that the responding company has power generation capabilities on their service vehicles to avoid delays that are costly in both time and money. 

SERVPRO has the qualified crews and the high-efficiency equipment needed to remove the water rapidly, including onboard power generators. Our employees complete rigorous IICRC, Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, training to master the strategies needed to extract the water, measure moisture levels in porous building materials, and implement structural drying techniques. We use thermal scanning devices to locate hidden pockets of water, employing options like flood cuts, drilled holes, and extensions for wanded extractors to reach and release the trapped moisture.   

We complete the flood water removal with a drying plan that uses air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels in structural components to normal levels. SERVPRO also takes advantage of innovations like floor drying mats and building cavity drying systems that harness the power of negative air pressure to suction residual moisture out of layers of flooring or from behind walls. 

To inhibit any potential mold growth, common after water losses, we use EPA-registered disinfectants on the affected surfaces. SERVPRO’s goal is to leave your home dry, cleaned, and refreshed after the headache of a flooding event -- “Like it never even happened.” 

Call the experts at SERVPRO of Upper West Side when you need help after a flood in your Manhattan abode. You call (917) 498-1362, and we answer 24/7.

 More about Manhattan.

Plan for the Severe Weather and Flood Damage that Can Impact Your Manhattan Apartment

6/10/2019 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO help you make a plan

Are you ready?

Hurricanes can move up the East Coast after wreaking havoc in the Caribbean or moving through the mid-Atlantic states from the Gulf of Mexico. Sandy is the named storm Manhattan residents have in mind when extreme weather occurs, but lesser and even more powerful fronts that can-do great harm to your property are possible during the season. Knowing that flood waters can visit our grid of streets, avenues, parkways, and green spaces make planning for such a possibility sensible.

Flood damage in Manhattan can be an issue even if your apartment, condo, or townhouse is located a dozen or more floors above street level. Common spaces can fill with water impacting utility services, HVAC systems, elevators, and laundry and storage facilities. Underground parking is one of the first spaces to flood, a problem if you have a vehicle. Safety and convenience suffer when inches to feet of water invade either personal or public spaces.

SERVPRO is no stranger to the chaos extreme weather flooding can bring to multiple unit metropolitan housing. Owner and tenant associations, individuals, and landlords can take the opportunity to work with us to develop personalized Emergency Ready Plans and Profiles (ERP). When we familiarize ourselves with the layouts of residential buildings beforehand, our response to the actual crisis is faster and more effective.

Experienced SERVPRO management team members assess the building layout, documenting the location of utility shut-offs, heating and cooling systems, and other configurations that impact the risk of water damage due to flooding. We identify strengths and vulnerabilities in the building as a whole and in your unit. Expect practical suggestions to help protect valuables from exposure to enhanced flood risk.

The mobile app SERVPRO developed allows customers to give further details to improve the outcome of any project we take on together. Identify your priorities, confirm that we are your preferred restoration partner, and designate family or friends to act in your stead should your plans take you out of town or make you otherwise unavailable. Preventing even a few hours of delay is crucial when responding to flood damage.

SERVPRO of Upper West Side is ready to partner with residents as individuals or groups to plan for a flooding disaster. Call us at (917) 498-1362 to set up an assessment for an ERP.

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