Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts
Are Online Reviews Important?
3/1/2023 (Permalink)
We are proud to be an active member of the Spencer community and want to do our part to make our community the best that it can be.
How many times have you looked up a local business on Google or Facebook and went straight to their customer reviews? To say that customer reviews and testimonials are powerful is an understatement. That’s because individuals find customer reviews are more trustworthy than what a local business might say about themselves.
Customer reviews enable us to continue providing the best experience possible for you, and helps others understand how we can make their home or business, “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes takes pride in making sure each customer has a pleasant experience that addresses their restoration and cleaning needs. Your feedback helps us improve our ability to provide customers with the best service possible. Your insights are incredibly valuable and will help us make sure we serve you and other amazing customers well in the future.
We encourage potential customers to check out our reviews to see what our customers have to say about us. We appreciate our customers taking the time to share their experience so we can better serve the community. Thank you for choosing SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.
Mold Removal: Why Hire a Professional
2/3/2023 (Permalink)
If you suspect you have mold in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes to set up a mold inspection 712-262-4379
When a home or business suffers from water damage, a mold infestation can begin as quickly as 48-72 hours. Mold can result in negative health effects to your family (asthma, respiratory problems, skin irritation, and even neurological issues) as well as damage to your property. Mold spores are everywhere and they only need the right conditions to grow into colonies. When these colonies start growing, you will notice black or green patches of mold on walls, ceilings, and floors.
Microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, so removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the spores become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
Our technicians are trained mold damage specialists who get started quickly to get your home or business back to normal, with specific training and certifications to handle your restoration needs. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries.
- Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
- Water Damage Restoration Technician
- Applied Structural Drying Technician
Every mold scenario is different, and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same.
Mold Remediation Process
- Emergency Contact – (712) 262-4379
- Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
- Mold Containment
- Air Filtration
- Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
- Cleaning Contents and Belongings
- Restoration
Home Fire Drill
11/4/2022 (Permalink)
If fire or water damage strikes your home or business, give SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes a call. We are on call 24/7.
Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you and your family as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarms sound. House fires can be highly dangerous and even deadly, so it’s important for everyone in your family to be aware of proper fire prevention and safety. Fire drills help prepare family members to respond quickly, calmly, and safely. Whether your home has one floor or three, it’s essential that you and your family are prepared to respond to a fire alarm.
Make an Escape Plan
- Learn two ways out of every room in your home, in case one exit is blocked or dangerous to use. A second way out can include an escape ladder for rooms on an upper level.
- Practice getting low and moving to your exits in case there is smoke.
- Choose a safe meeting place a safe distance from your home.
- Practice a home fire drill at least twice a year.
Children and Fire Safety
- Have a plan in place for young children who cannot get outside by themselves.
- Children should know what to do when they hear a smoke alarm and there is no adult around to help. Practice going to the outside meeting place.
- Make sure your children know to NEVER go back inside a burning building. Once they are out, STAY OUT!
- Teach them to stay low and crawl on the ground, where the air is less smoky.
- Teach your child to use the back of their hand to check doors for heat before opening and to use a different way out if the door is hot.
- If your child needs to use an escape ladder, show them where it is located and how to use it.
- Teach everyone in your home how and when to use 911.
Practice Home Fire Drill
- Know where to go. Go over your safe meeting place. Explain to children that when the smoke alarm beeps, they need to get out quickly and meet at the safety spot.
- Test your smoke alarms. Check your smoke alarms to ensure they are working properly. Make sure to change the batteries at least twice a year.
- Practice the drill. Practicing your home fire evacuation plan can help your family feel more confident if a house fire occurs.
House fire safety comes down to preventing, planning, and practicing. Even if you follow the best home fire prevention strategies, accidents happen….so be prepared! If a fire breaks out in your home, you and your family may only have seconds to escape. Plan and practice your escape drill to ensure you and your family have the best chance to evacuate safely in the event of a fire. If disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. We specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!
October Continuing Education Courses
11/4/2022 (Permalink)
October Continuing Education Class at Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center.
On Wednesday October 26th SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes hosted our last continuing education event of 2022 at Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center in Okoboji. We were pleased to bring back presenter Todd Davis. Mr. Davis travels form Peoria, IL where he owns and operates his own insurance agency and has years of presenting experience with SERVPRO as well as a wealth of knowledge from his experience in the insurance industry.
Each year SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes offers two classes in the spring and fall to Iowa insurance agents and adjusters who are needing continuing education credits. Continuing education, also known as CE, are state-required courses taken by an insurance agent to ensure a satisfactory level of knowledge about important topics in the insurance field. When attending these classes, you will receive a complimentary lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
If you are interested in attending any classes in the future, please email kelly@SERVPROspencer.com with any questions or for more information.
Helping Build a Strong Community
11/4/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is a proud sponsor of youth athletics.
From football to basketball, tennis to competitive swim, the sports available in your community may differ based on your specific location, climate, and other factors. When it comes to youth sports, even though the offerings may differ, children participating is of the utmost importance. Youth sports teaches invaluable traits and skills needed throughout life such as teamwork, patience, cooperation, dedication, and team spirit.
The real meaning in life never comes from what you get, it comes from what you give. Giving back may be one of the most important principles in life. A strong community with a high quality of life means safer, healthier lives for you and those around you. Participation in sports gives kids an identity and purpose outside of school or family. Being part of a team offers a place to belong and something to look forward to. The importance of teamwork cannot be overstated.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes believes that it is our responsibility to give back to the communities that we operate in. Positively affecting kids’ lives is more than just teaching them the ins and outs of the sport, it means providing them with the opportunity to connect and engage. Successful youth sports organizations are focused on developing the complete athlete, on and off the field, ensuring that all kids in the community have access to the benefits of sports.
Look for us as we continue to sponsor great organizations such as Spencer Youth Baseball & Softball Association, Okoboji Youth Baseball & Softball, Northwest Iowa Soccer Club, Spencer Tailtwisters, and Spencer Family YMCA. We look forward to giving back to the future leaders of our community and are excited to see you next year!
3rd Annual First Responder Appreciation Golf Outing
11/4/2022 (Permalink)
Thank you for your service and sacrifice!
First responders make an extraordinary commitment and risk their lives every day. SERVPRO is honored to support them as the first line of help for people in crisis, and to celebrate them for the difficult and stressful work they do each day. The First Responder Bowl is just one way we honor these brave men and women who are always here to help. The First Responder Bowl is an NCAA post-season college football bowl game played annually in the Dallas, Texas, area. First responders to be honored include police officers, firefighters, EMS workers, correctional officers, search and rescue, dispatchers, security guards, federal agents, border patrol agents and military personnel who have specialized training and are the first to arrive and provide assistance at the scene of an emergency.
First responders’ duties bring them into harm’s way each and every day. We owe these men and women a debt of gratitude fir their service and sacrifice. It is with that thought in mind that SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes developed the First Responder Appreciation Golf Outing to show our appreciation for our local heroes. In partnership with the Spencer Municipal Golf Course, and several local businesses, 88 local first responders in Northwest Iowa were able to play and enjoy a day honoring them and their sacrifices, while winning prizes and donations back to their departments. We can’t thank our supporting businesses enough and look forward to putting together another amazing event for this incredible group of people in 2023. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor feel free to call the office at 712-262-4379 and ask for our marketing representative, or email kelly@SERVPROspencer.com with any
How "Clean" Plays An Important Role When Selling Your Home
8/15/2022 (Permalink)
You don't have to be a hoarder, for your house to need a little decluttering. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.
Selling your home quickly and for your target price requires careful planning and knowing how to prepare your space to convince buyers it is the one for them. Only 10% of homeowners keep their home as clean as it needs to be when showing it to potential homebuyers, according to the ARCSI. Frankly, this is the time to be overly critical about how clean your house is and chances are your're missing a lot!
It's hard to achieve a level of clean that makes your home look as good as new on your own, but wtih a professional cleaning team and regular sessions, you should be able to create something that looks as though it its just been built. Our technicians know how to deal with the small messes and crevices that homeowners often miss. If you really want to make a spotless impression on your prospective buyers, leave it to the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.
Our experienced professionals are trained in a variety of cleaning methods for carpets, drapery, blinds, upholstery and hardwood floors. We're backed with more than 50 years of experience in the cleaning and restoration industry and have the training and equipment to give your home a higher level of cleanliness.
Residential Cleaning Services
- Air Ducts & HVAC
- Biohazard
- Carpet & Upholstery
- Ceiling, Floors & Walls
- Drapes & Blinds
- Odor Removal
- Sewage & Toilet Overflow
- Trauma & Crime Scene
- Vandalism & Graffiti
While cleaning is one of the most important things to do before putting a house on the market, it doesn't mean you have to take on the stress of such a big task yourself. Not only is hiring a professional cleaner easy and convenient, but you will also get results that will help your house sell in no time. Call 712-262-4379 to schedule your appointment.
3rd Annual First Responder Appreciation Golf Outing
7/1/2022 (Permalink)
Photo credit: TFC Photography & Film
First responders duties bring them into harms way every day. Police officers, firefighters and paramedics put themselves on the front lines of dangerous and traumatic events, and it's common to wonder how you can thank these individuals. We owe these men and women a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice. What better way to pay that debt than to offer them a day of fun on all of us?
In partnership with the Spencer Municipal Golf Couse, SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes will be hosting the 3rd Annual First Responder Appreciation Golf Outing on August 26th. This event has been developed for the first responders in NW Iowa to play and enjoy a day honoring them and their sacrifices, while winning prizes and donations back to their departments.
With this tournament we are looking for sponsors for area first responder departments, hole sponsors, both gift and monetary donations. Everything that is donated will be given out the day of the tournament as a donation or prize for various challenges throughout the day. If you would like more information about the different levels of sponsorship for this event please contact me at kelly@SERVPROspencer.com or call the office at (712) 262-4379. We would not be able to make this event possible without your support. Thank you from everyone at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.
April Continuing Education Courses Offered
3/1/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes offers Continuing Education Courses to Insurance Agents & Adjustors.
On Wednesday April 20th SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes will be offering our first continuing education event of 2022. The event will be held at The Shores at Five Island in Emmetsburg Iowa.
We are pleased to bring back presenter Todd Davis. Todd travels from Peoria, IL where he owns and operates his own insurance agency. Mr. Davis has years of presenting experience with SERVPRO as well as many stories of his experience in the insurance industry.
Our morning course will be a 4-hour course on Close Encounter Claims (water & mold). The course will begin at 8:00 AM and conclude at 12:00 PM.
Our afternoon course will be a 3-hour course on 50 Shades of Ethics. The course will begin at 1:00 PM and conclude at 4:00 PM.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is pleased to offer these courses to Iowa insurance agents and adjusters. We offer a complimentary lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
If you are interested in attending this course please email Kelly Brooks at kelly@SERVPROspencer.com. Please RSVP by Wednesday April 6th. Please include your agency affiliation, license number, and contact information.
We hope to see you there!
What Can SERVPRO Do For You?
12/23/2021 (Permalink)
To schedule service for your home or business, call 712-262-4379.
As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO has over 1,700 Franchises in the U.S. and Canada which allows us to respond quicker with more resources. SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes professionals have the advanced training and equipment needed to clean or restore your home or commercial property. What can SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes do for you?
Cleaning:
- Carpet, Upholstery, Drapes, and Blinds
- Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
- Air Ducts & HVAC
- Deodorization
- Biohazard & Crime Scene
- Vandalism
- Post Construction
- Dehumidification & Drying
- Windows
Restoration:
- Fire, Smoke & Soot
- Water Removal and Dehumidification
- Mold Mitigation and Remediation
- Catastrophic Storm Response
- Move Outs and Contents Restoration
- Electronics and Equipment
- Document Drying
- Contents Claim Inventory Service
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is locally owned and operated. Our team can take your crisis and help you through it from first notice of loss all the way through any potential reconstruction. Our goal is to help minimize any interruption and make your home or business look "Like it never even happened."
October Continuing Education Course
11/1/2021 (Permalink)
October Continuing Education Class at Spencer Golf & Country Club.
On Friday October 29th SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes hosted continuing education courses at Spencer Golf & Country Club for 65 local insurance agents and adjustors.
We were pleased to bring back Mr. Todd Davis as our presenter for the day. Mr. Davis comes from Peoria, IL where he owns and operates his own insurance agency. He brings years of presenting experience with SERVPRO and many stories of his time in the insurance industry.
Each year SERVPRO offers two classes each Spring and Fall to insurance agents and adjustors who are needing continuing education credits. Last week our courses covered Fraud in the Insurance Industry and Essentials of Legal Liability and Insured Status. When attending these classes you will receive a complimentary lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
If you are interested in attending any classes in the future please email kelly@SERVPROspencer.com with any questions or for more information.
Emergency Ready Profile Advantage
11/1/2021 (Permalink)
It takes just a short time to complete the profile but could save long hours of time and effort if ever needed.
You can stay a step ahead of unexpected events by having a plan of action in place before you need it with SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plan.
When disaster strikes your business, having a plan in place ahead of time for what you will do can make all the difference in whether your business survives the event. The majority of businesses that come out stronger on the other side of an emergency are the ones that pre-planned for one.
That's where SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) can help give you, your employees and customers peace of mind. You can trust that whatever might happen to disrupt daily business will only be temporary.
With our Emergency Ready Plan, your business will be ale to minimize interruption because you'll know what to do and what to expect if any-sized disaster strikes. This is important to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
Why Use the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan?
- A no-cost assessment of your facility.
- A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
- A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
- Establishes your local SERVPRO as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
- Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
- Provides facility details such as shut-off valves and locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
- Easier insurance claims process.
If you would like more information about an ERP please contact kelly@SERVPROspencer.com or call the office at 712-262-4379
Emergency Ready Profile Advantage
11/1/2021 (Permalink)
It takes just a short time to complete the profile but could save long hours of time and effort if ever needed.
You can stay a step ahead of unexpected events by having a plan of action in place before you need it with SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plan.
When disaster strikes your business, having a plan in place ahead of time for what you will do can make all the difference in whether your business survives the event. The majority of businesses that come out stronger on the other side of an emergency are the ones that pre-planned for one.
That's where SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) can help give you, your employees and customers peace of mind. You can trust that whatever might happen to disrupt daily business will only be temporary.
With our Emergency Ready Plan, your business will be ale to minimize interruption because you'll know what to do and what to expect if any-sized disaster strikes. This is important to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
Why Use the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan?
- A no-cost assessment of your facility.
- A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
- A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
- Establishes your local SERVPRO as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
- Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
- Provides facility details such as shut-off valves and locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
- Easier insurance claims process.
If you would like more information about an ERP please contact kelly@SERVPROspencer.com or call the office at 712-262-4379
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
11/1/2021 (Permalink)
Get your home ready for the holidays by scheduling carpet cleaning with SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.
Your home's carpets get the most use and abuse of any surface in your home. You can keep your carpet looking good for years with the carpet cleaning services of SERVPRO.
A professional carpet and upholstery cleaner can remove deep-seated dirt and grime to keep your carpet and rugs looking their best and extend their lifespan. Even the most high-quality items can become soiled with dust, dirt, pet hair and the daily traffic of family life. SERVPRO applies its more than 50 years of knowledge and experience in restoration to carpet and upholstery cleaning projects of all sizes. We use a variety of cleaning methods depending on your situation. Our goal is to clean carpets, rugs and upholstery to your satisfaction to restore them to their original appearance.
Our professionals are trained to the highest standards and are backed by state-of-the-art equipment. Call 712-262-4379 to schedule an appointment.
First Responder Appreciation Golf Event
8/19/2021 (Permalink)
Thank you for your service!
We are only a week away from our 2nd Annual First Responder Appreciation Golf Outing. We are honored to host this event locally to show our appreciation and gratitude for First Responders.
These men and women give thoughtfully to each and every one of us putting their lives on the line, taking time away from their family and friends to ensure our safety each and every day.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes has partnered with numerous businesses to give these local heroes the opportunity to have some fun while winning prizes and donations back to their respective departments.
In partnership with the City of Spencer & Spencer Municipal Golf Course we are pleased to offer an opportunity for our First Responders to play a round of golf, with a cart, and meal at no charge on August 27th.
Keep an eye on our social media pages to see photos from the First Responder Appreciation Golf Outing. A huge thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible!
Hey, Coach!
7/8/2021 (Permalink)
2021 SERVPRO Cap League Team
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is a proud supporter of youth athletics in the surrounding communities. This year our owners, Ryan and Kristine Brooks, coached with Bridget Bailey, the boys 3rd and 4th grade Cap League team. In addition to this team we were proud to sponsor Okoboji's boys Major League and Spencer's boys Babe Ruth.
Getting kids involved in youth sports benefits their health, improves coordination, allows them to make friends, show them the value of good sportsmanship, educates them about respecting authority, teaches them to work as a team, and above all else, it's fun!
Baseball is one of the most loved and popular sports in the US. Looking forward to games, watching your child's talent improve, and quality family time are all fantastic reasons to be part of a team. Little league stays with you. The friendships, the mentors (hey, coach!), the victories, and the losses. They are memories with intense staying power for every player.
2021 Insurance Continuing Education Courses
3/15/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes offers Continuing Education Courses to Insurance Agents & Adjustors.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes always enjoys the opportunities to work with all our area agents and adjustors. While our team of Brand Ambassadors makes monthly rounds to try to chat with each of them and help troubleshoot any potential issues, one of our favorite ways to do this is by offering Continuing Education Courses to all insurance agents and adjustors.
While the coronavirus has posed its challenges and deterred some of you from attending, we are again offering courses in 2021. Our first course will be held on Friday April 30th, 2021 at The Shores at Five Island in Emmetsburg, IA. We opted to change the location of our event this year to help do business in communities that also do business with us. This facility is fantastic and offers a great view of Five Island Lake.
With safety in mind, we will have sanitizer available throughout the course of the day and do our best to socially distance tables.
In addition to the change in venue, we are also now charging a $10/course filing fee. As cost for these events continue to rise, this is one way to help ensure we are able to continue offering these opportunities.
We are also pleased to have Mr. Todd Davis from the Davis Insurance Agency presenting again. He has worked with us for a number of years and we couldn't be happier to have him back for another. He has a wealth of knowledge and keeps the day entertaining and moving quickly, many past attendees have raved about how his presentation and his ability to forget about time throughout the course of the day.
Details are still being determined for our second course which will be on Friday October 29th, 2021. Keep an eye on our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/SERVPROofspencer, for more details.
If you would like to attend our April event please find the registration form on Facebook or email jlindsay@SERVPROspencer.com to request a form.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Law Enforcement Appreciation
1/8/2021 (Permalink)
To our local law enforcement officers, THANK YOU!
As marketing reps for SERVPRO we get the opportunity to work with people from all walks of life from home owners to business owners, hospitals to auto shops, and even our first responders.
This past year has given us the opportunity to really get to know some of our local first responders especially our local law enforcement officers, thankfully not because we were being pulled over! Once coronavirus caused the shutdown of businesses and put everyone on edge, SERVPRO responded by helping our local law enforcement sanitize their vehicles to help ensure their safety while they work to protect us.
Later in the year we hosted the first of hopefully many First Responder Appreciation Golf Events. SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes marketing reps helped raise funds and find prizes to give back to their local departments.
With National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day right around the corner we want to extend another Thank You! We appreciate everything you do to keep our communities safe and putting your lives on the line each and every day.
Team Building Welcoming in New Faces
11/2/2020 (Permalink)
Take time to build as a team. The more unified your group is the better they will perform and meet expectations.
Throughout the last couple months at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes we have had the opportunity to welcome new faces, unfortunately that meant saying goodbye to a few as well. We took that opportunity to create a day to spend as a team and get to know one another.
Our management team firmly believes in the fact that oftentimes we spend more time with our work family than we do our own at home, so why not spend the time to grow as a family too? We decided to take an afternoon off and play a few games having members of our management team, our construction team, and our production team intermix and work together on our communication skills.
One game we had was a "know your equipment" relay, as we all eventually work a different job throughout the course of the year we felt that it was a great opportunity to ensure everyone knew what each piece of equipment did.
The second game we did a load the truck challenge, some days get hectic and we need all vans prepped and ready to go and this challenge helped remind everyone where everything was and what equipment was needed in the event of a major water loss.
The final game was Hammerschlagen, which gave a little favor to our construction crews but was a team effort as everyone competed to be the first to sink their team's nail into the log.
Overall it was a fantastic day with plenty of laughter and appreciation for one another. Here at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes we believe we are One Team with One Mission.
Proud Sponsor of Youth Athletics
11/2/2020 (Permalink)
We are proud sponsors of youth athletics in the region. We have faithfully sponsored teams throughout Clay and Dickinson Counties.
At SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes we believe that it is our responsibility to give back to the communities that we operate in. We understand the impact of and importance of sports for our youth. Team sport participation promotes health and wellbeing, builds confidence, and can help maintain mental health. Sports help kids to develop self-control, persistence, and accountability. Communication, social, and emotional skills are strengthened when children learn to work as a team. Physical activities provide young people healthy opportunities to learn skills, take risks, and achieve goals.
This spring we were able to sponsor one of the boys little league teams, which won the season championship….good job boys!! This fall we were the proud sponsor of the NWISC boys U10 team. The boys showed a lot of improvement throughout the season! Part of our crew was able to go cheer on the Spencer Tiger football team as the Game Day Sponsor a few weeks back.
Each year we look forward to giving back to the future leaders of our community. Your hard did not go unnoticed, and we are excited to see you all again next season!
It's Not Clean Until It's SERVPRO Clean
11/2/2020 (Permalink)
Remember...it's not clean unless it's SERVPRO clean! 712-262-4379
Did you know that SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes offers residential and commercial cleaning services? Our team of professionals have the expertise to provide a deeper clean to leave your home or business looking its best!
Having family over for the holidays? Carpets not looking their best? Pets causing an unpleasant odor? Don’t worry we got you covered! With over 40 years of experience and professionals trained to the highest standards we will have your home ready to greet your family and friends in no time!
Throwing a company party? Don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that soils your office? Our cleaning experts will have your business shining from top to bottom.
Have you heard of Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned? It is our new defensive pathogen cleaning program that goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. We have over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination.
To get a free quote or to learn more about all the services that we offer feel free to give our office a call at 712-262-4379.
First Responder Appreciation Golf Event
8/20/2020 (Permalink)
A huge shout out to our sponsors. Without you this event would not be happening!
We are only a week away from our 1st Annual First Responder Appreciation Golf Outing, which is hard for us to believe. Through months of closed businesses and folks not in their offices to everyone in our office stepping up, there has been many hours put into this planning process. We could not be more honored than to create an event locally that helps show our gratitude and appreciation for first responders.
In our inaugural year, we were blessed with 45 area individuals and business owners who helped donate prizes and take advantage of multiple sponsorship opportunities. These folks helped us raise nearly $10,000 in donations and prizes to be given out the day of the event.
Keep an eye on our social media pages next week to see photo's from the First Responder Appreciation Golf Event.
A huge thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes
712-262-4379
Join Us for the 1st Annual SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes First Responder Golf Outing
6/18/2020 (Permalink)
Join Us for the 1st Annual SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes First Responder Golf Outing at the Spencer Municipal Golf Course
This past year has shown us more than ever that our communities are littered with more hero's than we imagined. From the local fire departments who are there at a moments notice when a disaster strikes at your home or business. The local law enforcement keeping our communities safe from harm. The local EMS crews who work countless hours saving those in need. We owe these men and women a debt of gratitude for their service and sacrifice. What better way to pay that debt than to offer them a day of fun on all of us.
It is with that thought in mind that SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes has planned the 1st Annual First Responder Golf Outing, I know the name needs some originality and we are certainly open to suggestions.
The golf outing is designed slightly different than your traditional golf outing in the fact that we are not asking for businesses or individuals to come play in the event, instead we are asking for businesses or individuals to donate prizes and allow the first responders themselves to golf in the event. This is where we are asking you for help in making this event as memorable as possible for these folks. If you are interested in donating a prize or even monetary donation to the event please contact any of our marketing department to see how.
With this tournament we are looking for sponsors for area first responder departments, hole sponsors, both gift and monetary donations. Everything that is donated will be given out on the day of the tournament as a donation or prize for various challenges throughout the day. We want your gifts going back to the people who deserve them the most, the first responders.
Any donation needs to be received by August 14th, 2020 as the event will be held on August 28th, 2020 at the Spencer Municipal Golf Course. Hole sponsors are able to set up a tent or table at their respective hole if they choose to go that route. If you wish to sponsor a hole but not attend we will provide signage letting folks know you were the sponsor.
For more information contact the SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes marketing department:
Jason Lindsay - Sales & Marketing Manager
jlindsay@SERVPROspencer.com or 712-262-4379
Kelly Brooks - Sales & Marketing Representative
kelly@SERVPROspencer.com or 712-262-4379
We are Cleaning Experts
3/17/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes, trained in all cleanup & bioremediation in accordance with CDC guidelines. Call 712-262-4379 for more info.
SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need
During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.
Specialized Training
We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:
- Kitchen/Food Areas
- Bathrooms
- Schools/Classrooms
- Offices
- Retail Spaces
- Water Fountains
- Shelving/Racks
- Sales Counters
- Carpets and Rugs
- Stair Handrails
- Elevator Cars
- Playground Equipment
- Fitness Equipment
Specialized Products
The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning
If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes
712-262-4379
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes Takes Time For Team Building
10/31/2019 (Permalink)
During a team building event, even Ryan was prepared for his challenge.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes owners, Ryan & Kristine Brooks, believe the key to their long-term success is the strength of their team and having everyone invested in their philosophy of "Work Hard/Play Hard". Recently the two led a team building activity to encourage the mindset that we will succeed as a team and to remind everyone that each member of our crew has a role in the success of the business.
Ryan took his place as grill master and cooked up a meal fit for his army. Afterwards the team broke out into smaller groups for a little friendly competition. Teams competed in an architecture challenge with spaghetti noodles and marshmallows, a water bottle challenge with a nylon hat and tennis ball, and a friendly game of heads up. The overall winners of the challenges were able to take an afternoon off on Ryan & Kristine.
At the end of the day everyone had fun and was able to relax rather than focusing on the next job. Ryan & Kristine felt that it was a great time to bring everyone together after the recent transition of ownership and ensuring that everyone remained on the same page and remained invested in the common goal.
Mold Removal Versus Mold Remediation
10/31/2019 (Permalink)
This homeowner found multiple mold colonies growing behind their trim-work after multiple water damage events.
Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, due to the nature of mold growth there is simply no guarantee that the mold will be removed in its entirety.
A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. The team at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes has the training and expertise to remediate the mold issue in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.
Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process remains the same. After the levels have reached a more natural level the key is to control the moisture levels and air flow in that area to prevent more colonies from growing.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, water, or mold damage event.
If you suspect mold in your home or business call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. 712-262-4379
SERVPRO Trains to be the Best Ahead of the Rest
10/31/2019 (Permalink)
In addition to staff training, SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes also offers CE training throughout the year.
SERVPRO stands as one of the leaders in fire and water restoration with locations to assist across the country. What makes SERVPRO continue to be a leading restoration vendor is our commitment to extensive training and certifications in regard to the services we offer northwest Iowa and southwest Minnesota.
On-going training is a vital piece of this industry where personal belongings, homes, and businesses are being dealt with. The team stays up-to-date on not only requirements but also the newest technology and software programs.
The SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes team maintains several certifications under the Institute of Inspection Cleaning Restoration Certification (IICRC). These include
- Water Removal Technician
- Odor Control Technician
- Fire and Smoke Technician
- Carpet Cleaning Technician
- Health and Safety Technician
- Amongst many others
This allows the team to be fully prepared for any scenario, highlighting our ability to assess the disaster to make it “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO has been able to tailor products and cleaners for a multitude of scenarios by staying ahead of the competition with our technology and training.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is committed to a solutions-based mentality and continuing to grow our knowledge and certifications to help when the need arises.
Remember, if disaster strikes call 712-262-4379
Meet the new/old faces!
8/20/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes owners
Ryan & Kristine Brooks
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes has had an interesting few months here. As many of you have heard former co-owners Lathe & Nicole Toft moved south to the Omaha area and opened their own SERVPRO franchise in that market which made way for other co-owners Ryan & Kristine Brooks to take over sole ownership of SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.
Ryan & Kristine are both excited for the opportunity to continue the great work that has always been done out of these offices and will continue to provide all the same services and cover the same footprint as they always have.
The two still have plans to build a new facility in southwest Spencer in addition to bringing in new equipment which will allow for better and more efficient restoration after your disaster.
During this transition, Ryan & Kristine also took over sole ownership of Boji Builders LLC, the reconstruction branch of SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.
Please take a moment to congratulate the two and remember to call the team that's Faster to any Disaster, SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.
712-262-4379
November Continuing Education Courses Offered
8/2/2019 (Permalink)
Presenter Todd Davis leads a course during our June 13th CEC Event.
On Thursday November 14th SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes will be offering their last continuing education event of 2019. The event will be held at the beautiful Waterfront Grille in Arnolds Park, IA.
We are pleased to bring back presenter Todd Davis. Todd comes from Peoria, IL where he owns and operates his own insurance agency as well as a variety of other jobs. He brings with him years of presenting experience with SERVPRO but also many stories of his time in the insurance industry.
Our morning course will be a 4-hour course on Unusual Claims to Never Want to See. The course will begin at 8:00 AM and conclude at 12:00 PM. During this course there will be discussions on a variety of issues including biohazard, hoarding, etc. We ask that you please participate during the discussions to help progress the content along.
Our afternoon course will be a 3-hour course on the Basics of E&O Loss Prevention. The course will begin at 1:00 PM and conclude at 4:00 PM.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is pleased to offer these courses to insurance agents, adjusters, and others needing continuing education credits at no charge to you. In addition to the free courses, we also offer a complimentary lunch and refreshments throughout the day.
If you are interested in attending this course please email Stephanie Guthrie at sguthrie@SERVPROspencer.com. Please RSVP by Thursday October 24th and in your email include your agency affiliation, license number, and contact information.
We hope to see you there!
The Emergency Ready Profile Advantage!
8/2/2019 (Permalink)
Call today to set up your Emergency Ready Profile. 712-262-4379
As the sales and marketing representative for SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes, one of my key targets each month is to help businesses be prepared in the event of a disaster. One way in which we do that is through our Emergency Ready Profile program.
The Emergency Ready Profile, or ERP, is a free service provided by SERVPRO in which we help area businesses with such things as locating their emergency shut offs for their electrical systems, water, and gas. We also compile information on their key contacts in the event of any emergency so the business is prepared and can calmly work through the situation. Since this is a free service, there are no contracts to sign and no obligations to purchase any products. Our only request is, if your business does suffer from a disaster to give us an opportunity to make it Like it never even happened.
The ERP also contains tips and suggestions that the business can do before help arrives and provides somewhat of a roadmap helping them get back into their business more quickly and ultimately minimizing the interruption.
As I continue to grow the number of businesses in our coverage area that have an ERP set up, it was a few months ago that we had the opportunity to truly see the power of the plan in action. A local business suffered a frozen pipe on the third story of their building reaching numerous rooms within the facility. With this plan, the building contact knew exactly who to call and within hours our team was on site helping them to restore function to nearly 50% of the rooms affected by the end of day 1. The other rooms required more drying time, but they were able to recover a fair amount of potential lost income by simply having a plan in place and knowing what to do prior to help arriving.
The best part of the ERP process is the amount of work the business owner or manager must do to get this set up is minimal. A sales and marketing representative will come to your business and take the necessary photos and information, then finish putting the document together at the office. This process usually only takes 30 minutes or less and the business owner can proof and edit the document as often as they would like. When approved, the business will receive both a hard copy and a digital copy through our ERP app.
For more questions or to set up an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, call SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes at 712-262-4379. You can also email our Sales & Marketing Representative, Jason Lindsay, at jlindsay@SERVPROspencer.com.
Continued Training Leads to Better Customer Experience
10/29/2018 (Permalink)
Owners Lathe Toft and Ryan Brooks host a training session focused on improving customer experience.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is a firm believer in investing in continued training for every member of our team. Recently owners, Lathe Toft & Ryan Brooks, held a training session for the crew to touch on points to help increase the customer experience in an already tough situation.
When dealing with any loss, we understand the stress and emotion that goes along with it. It is our goal to make your experience much easier throughout the process, from initial loss to "like it never even happened."
The training session focused on proper mapping techniques, drying procedures, cleaning procedures, as well as taking proper notes and pictures. These items alone help the communication between you, your insurance company, and SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes open and moving forward without delay. Making your experience better and quicker throughout the restoration or remediation process.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes Community Supporters
10/29/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes had the opportunity to sponsor the Spencer Tigers last home contest of the season.
Recently the team at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes had the opportunity to be the game sponsor for the Spencer Tigers football game. As a proud supporter of the Spencer Tailtwister organization, each business gets the opportunity to be showcased at a game of their choosing. We opted for this game as it was not only the last home contest for the Tigers but also their opportunity for a playoff berth.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is a firm believer in investing in the communities in which we reside and service whether that be through school sponsorship's, such as this, or recreational sponsorship's, and other organizational opportunities throughout our region. Our team believes in giving back when and where we can.
Look for us as we continue to sponsor great organizations such as the Shayla Bee Foundation, Spencer Tailtwisters, Northwest Iowa Soccer Club, and many others in the coming year.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes Announce Plans for New Facility
10/29/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes plan new location located just north of Menards in Spencer.
Recently owners Lathe Toft & Ryan Brooks announced their plans to expand their operation and construct a new facility.
The facility, to be located just north of Menards in Spencer, will allow SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes and Boji Builders Inc. to be under one roof. Boji Builders Inc. is the reconstruction division of SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes, they currently are housed out of a building in north Spencer.
The new facility, expected to break ground in spring 2019, will continue to offer climate controlled storage for clients but also plenty of office space and garage space for equipment. Also expected to be part of the plans is a laundry facility complete with machines large enough to accommodate materials such as fire suits or shoulder pads.
Keep an eye our for more details in the near future.
Save Money by Cleaning Your Carpets
10/29/2018 (Permalink)
Our team brought the shine back to these carpets.
Many home and business owners can go years without thinking to clean their carpets. Some simply justify that by saying it's normal wear and tear. By cleaning carpets at least once a year you can prolong the life of them and save money in the long run.
In most cases, depending on the size of home or business, carpets can be cleaned for under $500-$1000 which is much cheaper than replacing them frequently.
Our team of trained professionals specialize in carpet cleaning and make it a personal priority to deliver the best results bringing your carpets back "Like it never even happened."
Call today to schedule your appointment for your home or business. There is still time to book before the holiday season is here!
712-262-4379
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes Announces CE Events for 2019
10/29/2018 (Permalink)
Save the Date! March 21st, June 13th, and November 14th for CE Events hosted by Todd Davis and SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is pleased to announce that we have 3 opportunities for Continuing Education Courses already booked for 2019. We will again have presenter Todd Davis back to facilitate the events.
We are still in the early stages of the planning process, but we can confirm we have 3 dates that we will host CE Courses. The location has yet to be determined but save the date for March 21st, June 13th, and November 14th.
SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes is also planning on a golf outing that will take place sometime during the third quarter of 2019.
Once we have confirmed the details, we will send out more information on time and location. Make sure to mark your calendar now so you can attend these courses.
Please direct any questions to Jason Lindsay, Sales & Marketing Representative, by calling 712-262-4379 or emailing jlindsay@SERVPROspencer.com
Emergency Ready Profile
10/29/2018 (Permalink)
Call today to schedule your Emergency Ready Profile consultation today! 712-262-4379
As home and business owners we have a lot to think about as we keep the day to day operations going. When we are first getting established many of us make sure to have our bases covered when it comes to planning for a fire or water loss in our home or business. We make sure the fire alarms are working and that there is a fire extinguisher, that we have a sump pump and dehumidifier running downstairs. Some, thanks due in part to local fire departments, have a plan on where to go in the event of a fire. How many of us actually have an Emergency Ready Profile?
An Emergency Ready Profile, or ERP, is a plan developed by SERVPRO that helps get in depth information in the event of a disaster such as where the breakers are, where the water shut off is, where the gas shut off is. In the case of a business it is also helpful to know who the phone tree is so the appropriate service providers can be contacted.
SERVPRO believes in making sure you are as prepared and protected as possible which is why we offer the ERP as a FREE service. Homeowners can download the SERVPRO ERP app on their devices and fill it out in a step by step format. Business owners can work with the local SERVPRO Representative and have an ERP conducted on their business.
Call Jason Lindsay, SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes Sales & Marketing Representative, today to schedule your appointment.
712-262-4379
24/7 Emergency Service